DARPAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY- FEBRUARY 2026

“WE

PUBLISHERS

Gurvinder S. Hundal

Ramneek S. Dhillon

EDITOR

Ancy Mendonza Kumar

ADVERTISING AND SALES

Gurvinder S. Hundal

Ramneek S. Dhillon

Piyush Bisht

COVER Fahad Photography

PHOTOGRAPHY A Master Media

PUBLISHERS

Hello DARPAN readers,

A new year always arrives with a quiet promise—a chance to reset, to reflect, and to step forward with fresh intention. As we welcome January–February, this New Year Special edition of DARPAN is thoughtfully curated to help you make sense of the world ahead while staying rooted in community, resilience, and hope.

Our cover story is one that feels especially meaningful. Robin Bawa made history as the first person of Indian descent to play in the NHL, at a time when representation on the ice looked very different from today. His journey is not just about goals, assists, or penalty minutes; it’s about breaking barriers when few believed it was possible. This story also celebrates how far we’ve come—with a new generation of South Asian players now

stepping confidently onto the rink, carrying that legacy forward.

Inside this issue, we explore the forces shaping our lives in 2026 and beyond—from global shifts like Trump’s trade war accelerating India–Canada CEPA conversations, to deeply personal realities such as rising loneliness, online hate spilling into real life, and why so many Canadians are turning to yoga for mental wellbeing. We also offer moments of pause and perspective with our Astrology Forecast for the year ahead—a gentle guide as you chart your own path forward.

Our Spotlights shine on changemakers and trailblazers—from basketballerentrepreneur Ariya Jagpal to BM Group’s Milan Mann, Dr. Baldev Sanghera, and Shreenath Ganesh— each redefining success in their own way.

As we step into this new year, we’re also looking ahead to a night that celebrates strength, leadership, and impact, the DARPAN Power Women of Influence evening, coming up on March 21. It’s a reminder that when we uplift women, we shape futures.

Here’s to new beginnings, meaningful conversations, and moving forward— together.

WRITERS

Ancy Mendonza

Aprameya VN

Benjamin Yong

Georgia Nicols

Ish Sharma

Michele Marko

Naina Grewal

Shweta Kulkarni

CONTACT

Tel: 604-572-0199

Email: info@darpanmagazine.com 340-8140, 128 St. Surrey BC. V3W-1R1

JOIN US ONLINE! Visit: www.darpanmagazine.com @darpanmagazine

Ramneek S. Dhillon

Gurvinder S. Hundal

JANUARY - FEBRUARY

LIFESTYLE

DARPAN FEATURE

DARPAN FITNESS

32 Trump's Trade War Puts IndiaCanada CEPA Negotiations on Fast Track

50 Racism on the Rise: When Online Hate Spills into Real Life

52 2026 Astrology Forecast

60 The Loneliness Epidemic: Why Isolation Is Rising And How We Can Begin to Heal

64 Between Tradition and Tomorrow: New Year Reflections in a Desi Home

DARPAN SALUTES

68 How A ‘One-Man NGO’ Has Saved 30+ Million Liters of Water Since 2007

DARPAN RECIPES

70 My New Indian Kitchen: By Vikram Vij & Jennifer Muttoo

DARPAN STYLE

74 Aisha Rao’s Wild At Heart 2.0: A Love Letter to Nature’s Untamed Beauty

DARPAN BEAUTY

82 Meet 2026’s Hottest Hues: Your Guide to the

86 Why One in Five Canadians Is Turning to Yoga for Mental Health

DARPAN MOVIES

92 The Biggies of 2026: Films and Series Everyone’s Waiting For

DARPAN TRAVEL

96 7 Epic Hikes Every True Adventure Junkie Must Try

102 DARPAN CRUISER

DARPAN WEDDINGS

104 Hebah and Wilson

DARPAN AUTO

108 Driving Into 2026: The Five Most Anticipated Anticipated Future EVs

112 2026 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid

CANADIAN IMMIGRANTS

114 Meet the Dasgupta Family

What a delightful evening! The awards felt so thoughtfully curated, and every achiever truly deserved their moment. Polar Preet stood out brilliantly — her story gave me goosebumps. Thank you, DARPAN, for consistently bringing forward such inspiring South Asian stars and creating a space where our community can celebrate excellence together.

– Gursimrat Singh Taluja

Re: Thank you, This means the world to us — thank you for being part of that night and for sharing the love. Celebrating our community’s brilliance is at the heart of the DARPAN Extraordinary Achievement Awards, and Polar Preet’s journey is one that continues to inspire us all. We’re grateful you felt the magic of the evening the way we did.

– DARPAN Magazine

Reader's Reactions

Tag us on social media: @DarpanMagazine & #DarpanMagazine

Honestly, we can always rely on DARPAN to bring out stars like this. I knew of Bhu Chana, but reading about her life, her journey, and everything she’s poured into her craft made me admire her even more. It made me so proud to see someone from our community doing so well, while staying so grounded. Such a beautiful, heartfelt read.

– Celestina George

Re: Thank you so much for saying this, it truly means a lot. Bhu’s story stayed with us long after the interview ended, and we felt the same pride while putting it together. Spotlighting homegrown talent and sharing the human behind the success is exactly what we aim to do. We’re so glad her journey resonated with you.

– DARPAN Magazine

This was a brilliant piece. The insights were clear, balanced, and easy to understand without oversimplifying things. With everything happening around us, this story felt very welltimed. I finished it feeling more informed and a little less anxious about what’s coming next.

– Harinder Singh Chhabra

Re: That’s wonderful to hear — thank you! Our goal with pieces like this is exactly that: to inform without overwhelming and to offer clarity during uncertain times. Your feedback reminds us why these conversations matter.

– DARPAN Magazine

Congratulations on your new appointment at KPU. As you step into this role, what are your immediate priorities for the university?

Thank you! I am honored to have been asked to join this incredible institution. My priority is personal: to meet and connect with colleagues across KPU’s campuses, which span nearly 50 km from Richmond to Langley. My immediate priority is to be able to credibly retell these stories to our various external parties. KPU feels to me like British Columbia’s “best kept secret,” and I aim to become the institution’s #1 cheerleader and strongest advocate.

KPU is known for its strong focus on applied learning and career-ready education. How do you plan to further strengthen this identity in an evolving job market?

As a public education institution, we are stewards of a significant amount of taxpayer funds invested in us to do an important societal good. Hence, ensuring that our programming meets society’s needs is critically important. To that end, work-integrated learning and co-op opportunities are signature features of KPU. Practicums are another means for our students to apply their skills in the community, and you can experience this in practice across our programs. For example, the City of Surrey reached out to KPU History students to build a public-facing tour of the historic Surrey Centre Cemetery. Our programs embed real-world impact and will continue to do so.

With the federal government announcing reduced international student permit targets for 2026, how do you see this impacting KPU specifically?

While revenue declines from the loss of international students have caused financial challenges, KPU is approaching this challenge as an opportunity to set a platform for its future. We have already started a realignment of our administrative functions to empower our revenue-generating operations, while we continue to prudently manage expenses. Positioning KPU as a center of lifelong learning is another means of bringing a different type of student through our doors, those who reside locally and are looking for upgrade pathways and mid-career social mobility options.

Experts argue that international student intake should be tied more closely to housing and labor-market needs. Do you agree, and how does KPU factor these realities into its planning? Rather than debate policy, I’ll focus more on how KPU is part of the solution. Firstly, on housing, KPU’s Surrey campus will be the site of our first on-campus student housing facility. This, along with our existing partnerships with external housing providers, is ensuring students coming to KPU from afar have more accommodation options without excessively burdening the local community. Finally, I wish to recognize

DR. BRUCE CHOY PRESIDENT AND VICE-CHANCELLOR, KPU

As a public education institution, we are stewards of a significant amount of taxpayer funds invested in us to do an important societal good. Hence, ensuring that our programming meets society’s needs is critically important. To that end, work-integrated learning and co-op opportunities are signature features of KPU.”

provincial government announcement of more funding for skilled trades, which will help with waitlists in our highly sought-after KPU’s Red Seal programs and assist in meeting upcoming labor-market gaps.

For graduate students, the removal of PAL/TAL requirements in 2026 aims to simplify applications. Do you expect this to change the profile of students coming to KPU?

KPU is working on its first master's degree in the field of operations and supply chain management. Once launched, we expect it will be a draw for both domestic and international students who are looking for applied learning in supply chain management and will prepare them for the increasingly complex world of global trade.

For non-graduate international students, provincial caps mean fewer study permits. What message would you give to prospective international students?

Studying at KPU has many advantages, including a focus on applied learning that

provides students with experience in Canadian workplaces, and small class sizes that provide more interaction with instructors, which can be an important source of support for students new to the Canadian education system. In addition, B.C. is the first province in Canada to implement the Education Quality Assurance designation, a globally recognized quality standard for post-secondary education that assures institutions like KPU meet or exceed government-mandated quality standards.

With international tuition being a key revenue stream, do you foresee financial pressure on post-secondary institutions as student caps tighten?

We are unfortunately seeing the impact already. This reality underscores the need for diversification of revenue streams and building strategic partnerships to maintain sustainability.

Your background in governance, risk management, and navigating uncertainty is extensive. How will that experience shape your leadership approach at KPU?

As we design our new strategic plan to strengthen KPU’s relevance in the society of the future, it needs to be executed effectively under strong governance. This will include close management of tasks on the critical path to maintain focus on the actions that really move the dial and a robust program of contingency playbooks for if things go wrong, rather than hoping that things won’t go wrong. A risk management mindset also means actively taking risks and seeking out the reward of innovation.

How do you see KPU’s role in helping meet British Columbia’s workforce needs?

B.C. labor needs feature skilled trades as an immediate near-term shortfall, in which KPU is keen to do its part in addressing the province. Macro drivers of an aging society will keep demand for healthcare practitioners over the next decade. Particularly in a world of rapid technological advancement in AI, and the resultant proliferation of misinformation and disinformation, critical thinkers will be needed more than ever before in history. Whereas creatives and scientists will be needed to solve those integrated, complex problems that we are facing, like climate change.

What would success look like for you as President of KPU by the end of your first full term?

Returning to your first question, success in my first term is when KPU is no longer a “best kept secret”, but rather my role as KPU’s #1 cheerleader no longer needs to be done because we have advocates across a broad spectrum of B.C. society’s leaders. To achieve this, we must tighten up a focused sense of purpose: one that is bold, impactful, and supports the community in which KPU resides in.

By Naina Grewal

BALANCING PASSION, PURPOSE, AND PLAY ARIYA JAGPAL

At just 13 years old, Ariya Jagpal already wears many hats: athlete, entrepreneur, mentor, and student. A Grade 8 student at Seycove Secondary School, she juggles a busy schedule filled with high-level soccer and basketball, schoolwork, and running her own jewelry business, Gummy Bear Wear. For Jagpal, these aren’t just activities, but expressions of who she is.

Jagpal’s interest in sports was stirred long before she could even play on an organized team. “My love for sports started when I used to watch my older sister play soccer from the sidelines,” she recalls. “I couldn’t wait to play myself! I started kicking the ball around in the yard with my dad when I was about 3 years old and joined my first soccer team

with the North Shore Girls Soccer Club when I was 5. I’ve been hooked ever since.”

While soccer was her first love, basketball soon followed. At age 10, she picked up the sport as a way to improve her endurance for soccer, but quickly discovered it was much more than cross-training. She fell in love with the sport, joining her local club team at Vancity Basketball, determined to develop her skills and understanding of the game. Now, she plays at a high-performance level for both soccer and basketball!

For Jagpal, sports have been about more than winning games. They’ve shaped her confidence, resilience, and leadership. “The best part about being on a team is definitely the friendships and

connections I’ve made,” she shares. “I’m usually a bit shy until people get to know me, but being part of a team has really helped me build confidence and feel more comfortable socially. I love celebrating wins together and working hard after losses to get better as a group.”

Leadership, Jagpal believes, comes in many forms. “I’ve learned that leadership doesn’t always mean being the loudest person on the team; it’s about leading by example and earning your teammates’ respect and trust.” The star athlete credits her coaches — Amelia Ng, Alex Mulders, and Steph Riedemann — as role models who’ve taught her the value of teamwork, perseverance, and believing in herself.

Inspired, Jagpal has started to pay it forward. She now works as a Junior Coach for Drive Basketball in North Vancouver, helping younger kids develop their skills through an after-school program at Cove Cliff Elementary. “It feels awesome to help younger kids learn and have fun with the game,” she highlights. “Because of my coach es’ influence, I want to help others the same way they helped me.”

That sense of resilience and giv ing back extends into her approach to challenges. “Sports have made me re ally resilient,” she points out. “I’ve learned that things won’t always go my way — I’ll lose games, miss shots, or get injured — but it’s important to keep going, work on things that I can control, believe in myself, and stay focused on my long-term goals.” One of her proudest moments came when she represented Team Canada with her Vancity Basketball team at the

Taro Cup in Tai wan in 2025. “Our team won the Bronze Medal and it was such an incredible experience!”, she details.

Beyond sports, Jagpal’s entrepreneurial journey is just as inspiring. Her business, Gummy Bear Wear, began as a Grade 5

school project for a young entrepreneurs fair.

“My idea was Gummy Bear Wear, a bright, fun, and inclusive jewelry line,” she fondly remembers. “It turned out to be a big hit! My booth had long lineups, and everyone loved the colourful designs.”

Encouraged by the response, she decided to keep going, with help from her parents. Jagpal began selling at local craft markets in Deep Cove, where she met Heather Radant, manager of the Deep Cove Collective Store. “She loved my designs and offered to sell them in their shop, which was super exciting!” Jagpal exclaims. “Now, my jewelry is really popular with locals, and I often hear from parents who love being able to buy my pieces as gifts for their kids and friends. That kind of feedback makes me so happy and inspires me to keep creating.”

For Jagpal, jewelry design is about more than fashion — it’s about self-expression.

“I love that my pieces can help people show off something unique or fun about themselves,” she emphasizes. “I think that’s what makes fashion and design so powerful.” Balancing school, sports, and business isn’t easy, but Jagpal credits

I’ve learned that leadership doesn’t always mean being the loudest person on the team; it’s about leading by example and earning your teammates’ respect and trust.”

her supportive family for helping her stay grounded.

When asked what advice she’d give to other young people hoping to follow their dreams, Jagpal’s message is simple but powerful: “Start with something you’re passionate about or something you truly love,” she suggests. “That’s what will keep you going when things get tough or don’t work out the first time. Believe in yourself, focus on things that are in your control, be patient, and surround yourself with people who will support and encourage you.”

Looking ahead, Jagpal hopes to continue growing Gummy Bear Wear while pursuing her athletic dreams. She has been recognized with the District of North Vancouver’s Youth Recognition Award for her entrepreneurship and has earned a spot on the U14 BCCBA Dream Team for the second year in a row. The trailblazer dreams of one day becoming a professional athlete in soccer, basketball, or maybe even both!

For now, whether it’s hoops, goals, or jewelry, Ariya Jagpal keeps proving that when you play with heart, the possibilities are endless.

“If I couldn’t be Kobe Bryant, my favorite basketball player, I always wanted to be Dr. Buss, who was the owner of the Lakers.”

MILAN MANN BM GROUP’S

NEWEST ADDITION TO VANCOUVER BANDITS’ OWNERSHIP GROUP

By Ish Sharma

When people describe Milan Mann, the word that comes up most often is “builder.”

Not just because he leads one of Western Canada’s fastest-growing construction and development groups, the BM Group of Companies, but because every stage of his career has been shaped by a desire to build something meaningful—for his family, for his community, and now, for professional basketball in British Columbia.

As President of the BM Group of Companies, Mann oversees a diversified portfolio that spans construction, materials supply, civil infrastructure, environmental remediation, real estate, and large-scale project management. He

often says that B.C. is where he learned the values that shaped every decision he makes—hard work, humility, and a deep commitment to giving back.

Those values are at the core of his latest venture—joining the ownership team of the Vancouver Bandits, Fraser Valley’s professional franchise in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL).

The move is more than a business decision for Mann. It’s the culmination of a lifelong connection to the sport and a continuation of his philosophy that community investment creates lasting impact. Before he ever stepped into an ownership role, Mann was a Bandits supporter, season-ticket holder, and community partner. Basketball had always been

part of his life—a sport he loved growing up, a source of joy and competition, and a vehicle for community connection. “I want basketball and Bandits in B.C. to be synonymous. So, whether that is programming on and off the court, I want to develop with the Bandits team a sense of consistency.”

For Mann, turning the page is not just about branding or visibility; it's about creating a vision for places where young people can gather, play, and dream. “Like a lot of immigrant children, I grew up playing basketball at school or in someone’s driveway. I always said if I couldn’t be Kobe Bryant, my favorite basketball player, I always wanted to be Dr. Buss, who was the owner of the Lakers at the time, and I just want to make those dreams of mine come true”.

The Bandits themselves are a growing force in Canadian professional sports. Since joining the CEBL, the Bandits have cultivated one of the league’s most passionate fanbases and become a regional leader in youth programming, cultural outreach, and community-driven sport. The addition of Mann to the ownership team signals a new, ambitious chapter—one that combines business acumen with community-first values.

He leads with a long-term view, the same mindset that guided BM Group’s expansion and its reputation for reliability. In joining the Bandits, he isn’t simply adding another business line— he’s investing in a cultural institution he believes can inspire the next generation. In Mann’s words, “My message to the South Asian community is that this is the community’s team, come out and support. All it takes is one game; nobody leaves the game disappointed, and they feel more excited for the next game. We are the Bandits; when people come, they become the Fandits. This is the team for the community, and I want people to feel the same ownership.”

Competing started as me just wanting to give it a shot, but it came at a time when I really needed a strong, clear goal.” “

From Chennai to California to the world stage, Shreenath Ganesh’s journey into professional natural bodybuilding is one built on discipline, identity, and a quiet but unshakeable belief in what patience can create. Two weeks before stepping onto the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation (WNBF) Worlds stage, he competed in California in both Open Bodybuilding and Open Classic Physique at the WNBF Natural Muscle Mayhem™, winning both categories and earning not one but two Pro Cards. Days later, he stood under the brightest lights in natural bodybuilding once again, representing both Canada and India, and walked away a world champion, as the first pro athlete to represent both countries at the WNBF Worlds—and to win gold!

The Dual-Flag World Champion:

How

SHREENATH GANESH

Made Bodybuilding History for India and Canada

By Naina Grewal

For Ganesh, what looks like a sudden rise has actually been the slow refinement of a passion 15 years in the making. Born and raised in Chennai, he first entered the gym simply because his friends were going. What started casually soon became an anchor. “Training turned into the best part of my day,” he shares. “It made me feel good, grounded, and accomplished, and it slowly became a non-negotiable part of my lifestyle.” Even as he completed a bachelor’s in Information Technology, a master’s in Computer Science, and settled into a 9-5 career in digital marketing, the gym remained a constant. Over time, he wanted more than just consistency. He wanted purpose. “I told myself there has to be something on the other side of all this hard work,” Ganesh recalls. “Competing started as me just wanting to give it a shot, but it came at a time when I really needed a strong, clear goal.” That goal became the spark that eventually led him to the sport’s biggest stages. One of the most distinctive parts of his journey is his dual representation: India and Canada. “I will always be an Indian at heart, but also give Canada its credit because it gave me a new life,” he explains. At both WNBF Natural Muscle Mayhem™ and the WNBF Worlds, he was officially

representing both nations, an identity he carries with pride. “The goal is also to inspire people back home in India that natural bodybuilding is a thing,” the powerhouse says.

The road to earning his pro cards began more than six months before his California show. Ganesh’s only initial objective was to get lean and choose a competition later. As his physique sharpened, his confidence grew, and he entered WNBF Natural Muscle Mayhem™, known as one of the toughest amateur natural bodybuilding competitions in the world. When show day arrived, it became a defining moment as Ganesh met athletes he’d admired from afar and won both his class and the overall in two divisions. That rare double victory earned him two pro cards and a spot at the WNBF Worlds. The WNBF Worlds stage was surreal for Ganesh. Surrounded by champions from Spain, Brazil, Italy, the U.S., and beyond, the pressure was real, but so was the gratitude. He won his class in the short category, becoming the first Indian to compete at the WNBF Worlds and win. “Walking away from that experience, I was just filled with gratitude and happiness,” he expresses. “It felt like a full-circle moment for more than a decade of hard work.”

Those years were shaped by challenges that go far beyond dieting and training. Growing up in Chennai, sur

rounded by a gym culture where drug use was normalized, he always felt pulled in a different direction. Curious Ganesh spent countless hours researching the longterm effects of performance-enhancing drugs and studying natural bodybuilding, eventually finding athletes who inspired his own path. Yet, pursuing a natural route often meant being underestimated and brushed off, lacking access to quality equipment, supplements, or even reliable guidance. “My mother would literally spend half her salary at times just so I could afford protein and creatine,” Ganesh reveals. More than any trophy, that sacrifice stayed with him.

Today, balancing a demanding job, training, strict nutrition, and recov ery is its own discipline. He leaves work at 5:00 PM, heads straight to the gym, and returns home by 8:00 PM, structuring every day with intention. “Planning to prepare is preparing to fail,” he empha sizes. Weekends belong to his wife and family, though he still trains both days. Life may look intense from the outside, but for him, it’s simply structure, which in turn makes room for excellence.

Behind every win stands a team he speaks about with deep gratitude. “Without my wife, this wouldn’t be pos sible,” Ganesh highlights. He credits her, his late mother, his father and brother, his in-laws—especially his father-in-law—his coach Yuvaprakash, his colleague David, and his workplace for their unwavering support. “This is by no means a singular effort,” he points out. “It takes a whole team to achieve something like this.”

For aspiring South Asian ath letes, especially those considering natural bodybuilding, he offers advice shaped by experience rather than clichés: patience, perseverance, consistency, and the courage to ignore instant-gratification culture. “Put your head down and get to work day in and day out for years,” he suggests. “Gain knowledge, put it to use, and don’t get influenced by social media. Also, don’t be afraid of putting on some fat; it’s essential for gaining muscle.”

Undoubtedly, Shreenath Ganesh embodies what natural bodybuilding truly is: relentless effort, patient growth, and heart in every rep.

BHUPINDER OBEROI OWNER

Meet the First Turban-Wearing President-Elect of Doctors of BC

DR. BALDEV SANGHERA

When Dr. Baldev Sanghera was elected President-Elect of Doctors of BC, it marked a historic first: he became the first turban-wearing leader of any regional or national medical association in a Western country. For Dr. Sanghera, the milestone is less about personal recognition and more about what it represents: visibility, inclusion, and the possibility of leadership that fully reflects the communities it serves. Though his term begins this year, his path to provincial medical leadership is grounded not in titles, but in decades of community-based care, deep listening, and a belief that healthcare is, at its core, a human relationship.

Dr. Sanghera’s journey into family medicine began with a commitment to continuity and connection. Since opening his Burnaby practice in 1998, he has cared for patients across generations, witnessing lives unfold over time. “Family medicine has a unique ability to build long-term relationships,” he reflects. “It’s a field where trust is earned over time, where care is not episodic but enduring.” For him, the clinic has always been more than a workplace; it is a community anchor. “Every day, I’m reminded that healing begins not just with treatment, but with trust.”

Serving in one of the most culturally diverse regions in the province has profoundly shaped his approach to both care and advocacy. In Burnaby, patients arrive with different languages, histories, and expectations of the healthcare system. Dr. Sanghera sees each encounter as an opportunity to understand context, not just symptoms. “Every patient encounter is an opportunity to listen deeply, understand the unique context

a patient brings, and deliver care with dignity,” he says. This perspective has reinforced his belief that equity cannot be an afterthought in healthcare design. Rather, it must be embedded from the start.

As a longtime leader within Doctors of BC and the Family Practice Services Committee, Dr. Sanghera is acutely aware of the pressures facing frontline physicians. Burnout, administrative overload, and retention challenges are no longer abstract concerns, but lived realities. “Supporting frontline physicians begins with recognizing the extraordinary demands they carry every day,” he notes. He emphasizes that physician voices must be central to policy-making, not consulted after decisions are made. “When physicians are supported,” he adds, “the entire healthcare system becomes stronger, more resilient, and more compassionate.”

One of his most consistent advocacy points has been reducing administrative burden so doctors can spend more time with patients. He describes the current reality as one where paperwork too often competes with care. From simplifying electronic medical records to integrating healthcare systems and empowering team-based models, Dr. Sanghera believes meaningful change comes from designing systems with physicians at the table.

As he prepares to step into his role as President-Elect, Dr. Sanghera is clear about the values that will guide his leadership. Community trust, physician wellness, equity, and collaboration sit at the centre of his vision. He highlights, “I believe progress comes through transparency and partnership, with physicians’ voices at the heart of reform.” Amid ongoing transformation in BC’s healthcare system, he remains hopeful, encouraged by interdisciplinary care models, renewed focus on access and continuity, and a growing culture of listening across government and healthcare institutions. Be it as a physician, advocate, or leader, Dr. Baldev Sanghera continues to model a form of leadership rooted in service, humility, and the belief that inclusive care begins with understanding the people it exists to serve.

PRIYANKA GANJOO

Redefining Beauty, One ‘Brown’ Shade at a Time

As the founder and CEO of Kulfi Beauty, Priyanka Ganjoo has become a trailblazer in modern beauty. Kulfi, the first-ever South Asian-owned beauty brand to be stocked at Sephora, has not only made waves with its vibrant color offerings but has also reshaped how South Asian representation is viewed in the global beauty space. Known for its playful packaging, storytelling, and celebration of individuality, Kulfi is more than a brand; it is a cultural movement built around joy, authenticity, and community. It’s a journey Ganjoo never imagined for herself. “It’s wild to me that I’m building a makeup brand because I didn’t even wear makeup grow-

ing up,” she admits. “I grew up feeling like makeup was not for me, that I didn’t have permission to participate in beauty, that it wasn’t meant for girls like me.”

That sense of exclusion, paired with years of not seeing people who looked like her represented in beauty, planted the earliest seeds for what would later become Kulfi. When she began working in the beauty industry from the business side in her late twenties, something shifted. “I discovered that makeup can be fun, and I discovered it on my own terms,” she recalls. “I remember playing around with eyeshadow at work, and it spilled all over my desk. It was glittery, and I was freaking out but also having so much fun at the same time. That was such a defining mo

Natasha D'souza

ment because I remember thinking that’s what beauty is. Beauty is color, it’s play, it’s fun.”

That moment of discovery became the heart of Kulfi. “It was an ‘aha’ moment for me, realizing that beauty doesn’t have to come with judgment or fitting into a certain standard. It can really be about expressing yourself,” she says. When asked what nuances about South Asian skin tones the industry still misunderstands, Ganjoo points out that the problem goes far beyond oversight. “South Asian skin tones and undertones have been largely ignored by the global players in beauty,” she says. “It’s not even that they’ve been misunderstood, but they just haven’t been studied at all. What we do in our process is keep our community front and center when we’re developing shades and products. Even with our concealer, we created 21 shades and worked with a lot of undertones. There’s still more we can do, but we’re already doing far more than what’s been done in the industry for a long time.”

She explains that it’s not rocket

science; it’s about intention and care. “It just requires intentionality, resources, and effort behind serving the market you’re creating for. It’s about taking customer feedback and continuously getting better at developing products that work for our skin tones and undertones.”

Ganjoo highlights how diverse South Asian complexions truly are, spanning a spectrum of undertones from cool and warm to olive and peach. “With real people and real skin, we’ve developed an understanding of what shades truly complement different tones and undertones. That’s how we’re pushing boundaries through innovation and risk-taking.”

She recalls how this approach inspired Kulfi’s beloved Nude Lipstick Collection, which featured seven shades of nude. “It was funny because sometimes the difference between a brown nude and a light brown nude is so slight, but we wanted to take the risk to refine our understanding of what works across skin tones. That small variation in depth or undertone can make a huge difference in how it shows up on someone’s skin.”

For Ganjoo, beauty and mental health are deeply interconnected, an idea woven into the heart of Kulfi’s mission. “Beauty and mental health are definitely very intertwined in our approach,” she reflects. “When you think about seeing people who look like you in beauty brands and rethinking your idea of what it feels like to feel beautiful, that has a huge impact on mental health.”

One of her most memorable examples is Kulfi’s Free the Brow campaign. “We featured a young woman who had thick brows and a unibrow, and she was so proud of it. She was owning it. I loved the photography that came out of that campaign, and it was so healing for me because I’ve always had big brows. Growing up, I was made fun of for them and felt like I constantly had to go to threading salons. I was very conscious of my facial hair, and it affected my self-esteem. So, to see someone proudly owning her features, felt incredibly healing for me.”

“South Asian skin tones and undertones have been largely ignored by global players. It’s not even that they’ve been misunderstood, but they just haven’t been studied at all. What we do is keep our community front and center when developing shades."

Through campaigns like this, Kulfi continues to champion representation, self-acceptance, and community healing. “We hope that through our work and the representation we’re creating, more people feel seen,” Ganjoo says. “We also do giveback initiatives. This year, our give-back initiative was for the Palestine Children's Relief Fund, and every year we usually partner with different organizations. As we grow, we want to do more in the mental health space as well.”

For Priyanka Ganjoo, Kulfi is not just about beauty but about rewriting the narrative. By celebrating South Asian identity with authenticity and heart, she is creating space for countless others to feel confident in their skin, just as they are.

The Yogi of Sound:

Professor

Surinder

Singh

By Naina Grewal

In a world where noise is constant but true connection feels increasingly rare, Professor Surinder Singh has devoted his life to reviving a sacred kind of listening, laced with healing, clarification, and reconnection to the inner self. Through sound, scholarship, and decades of teaching, he has sparked a global renaissance in Sikh musical tradition and Naad Yoga, reawakening practices that once shaped entire communities.

Hailing from London, UK, Professor Surinder Singh is a scholar, musicologist, and trailblazer of Naad Yoga. Boasting 45 years of experience and students across the globe, he has spent more than three decades reestablishing the sacred link between sound, mind, and spirit. His mission began with a simple but radical belief: true transformation happens through education, not confrontation. Professor Surinder Singh shares, “My journey in developing the world’s first recognized degree in Sikh Music stemmed from a deep desire to combat the subtle manipulations and abuses that plagued the traditional approaches to Sikh music education.” Rather than criticize existing systems, he built new ones, forming the foundations of an educational shift that would ripple worldwide.

In September 1994, Professor Surinder Singh founded Raj Academy, a non-profit dedicated to teaching Gurmat Kirtan and Naad Yoga in their authentic forms. What began as preservation became a global movement, with structured courses, archival projects, and degree programs designed to make Sikh music accessible. “By creating structured educational pathways, we invited everyone to explore Gurmat Kirtan—not only the Sikh diaspora in the UK but people across the globe,” he highlights. Today, there are independent chapters across Europe and North America, where Germans, French, English, and Spanish individuals, among others, are breathing life into an authentic philosophy of sound.

One of Professor Surinder Singh’s most influential contributions is introducing Naad Yoga to contem-

CHOPRA

porary audiences, an approach rooted in sound, not posture, that focuses on healing and inner awareness rather than physical mastery. “Sound is a direct line of communication with our mind,” he explains. “It allows us to perceive and understand its authentic state of being.” The idea that emotional states can be navigated and transformed through sound has resonated deeply with students seeking mental and spiritual well-being in an increasingly stressful world.

Yet, preserving Sikh musical traditions has not been without resistance, be it misconceptions that raags and instruments are only for a select few, or the effects of colonial disruption and modern pressures. Still, Professor Surinder Singh’s commitment to authenticity remains unwavering. Raag, he emphasizes, is not merely melody but emotional grammar, designed to unlock the psychological depth of Gurbani. Deviating from the original compositions, he cautions, risks losing the intended spiritual impact of the Guru’s teachings.

To youth, especially those in the diaspora, his message is one of clarity and purpose. He urges enthusiasts to avoid confusing Sikh musical traditions with classical Indian music or fusions that dilute their meaning. Instead, Professor Surinder Singh encourages them to embrace the spiritual discipline as it was designed. “Start with the openness and humility of a student,” he advises.

Professor Surinder Singh’s work is far from finished. Archival recordings of all 60 Sikh raags, a groundbreaking documentary, innovative wellness projects like Sohila, and an upcoming U.S.-published book all attest to a legacy still expanding. His mission remains clear: to ensure future generations inherit the sacred, healing power of Sikh sound traditions, and to help people around the world rediscover harmony through the wisdom of Naad.

TRUMP'S TRADE WAR PUTS INDIA-CANADA CEPA NEGOTIATIONS ON FAST TRACK

By Aprameya VN

The second term of US President Donald Trump has disrupted the global trade order. At the center of his disruption are at least two big countries - India & Canada. While India has been threatened with 500% tariffs if it does not stop buying Russian oil, Canada faces a huge economic threat due to it being the US’s biggest neighbor & largest trade partner.

Trump’s diatribes on trade & tariffs, however, have opened new doors for greater India-Canada trade. Both countries have been discussing a comprehensive economic partnership since November 23, 2025. With the uncertainty around Trump’s tariffs, India and Canada are looking to hedge their risks

"We see big opportunities in the Critical Minerals sector, Clean Energy sector and the IT sector (especially in Al development), 60% of US imports of Critical Minerals is from Canada. Whereas only 2% of India's requirements are procured from Canada.”

Dr. Vivek Savkur Founder, BC-India Business Network Business Network.

by diversifying their trade partners.

This is especially important for Canada, whose economy is highly dependent on the US. A recent Eurasia Group report has warned that Canada’s efforts to diversify trade would face ‘powerful headwinds’. The risk management group also says that the government will have to defend Canadian sovereignty in the wake of the US’s aggressive stance on Latin America & Greenland.

While the US was India’s largest trade partner in FY25 (April 2024-March 2025), with total bilateral trade reaching $131.84 billion, the specter of higher tariffs in the absence of a trade deal could virtually bring bilateral trade to a standstill.

“PM Mark Carney has been clear in mentioning that Canada attaches importance to its relations with the Indo-Pacific and to India. India reciprocates this sentiment and is committed to working closely with Canada to put in place robust institutional mechanisms in all sectors,” says Dinesh Patnaik, India’s High Commissioner to Canada, told DARPAN.

Patnaik’s statement underlines the changing dynamics of the India-Canada bilateral relationship. After a volatile two-year period, during which bilateral ties faced political head-

winds, trade and commerce can come to the rescue of both countries.

India and Canada are not big trading partners. In 2024, India was Canada’s seventh-largest goods and services trading partner, with two-way trade standing at $23 billion. However, Canada is not a top trading partner for India, failing to find a spot among the top 10 countries. India also runs a trade deficit with Canada. But a bilateral trade deal could change these figures significantly. In fact, during their recent meeting at the G20 Summit in South Africa, Indian PM Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart agreed to double bilateral trade to about $50 billion by 2030.

"Traditional sectors like agri-food, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods & textiles still provide ample scope for increase. We are also looking at new areas like high-tech products, defense technologies, oil & gas, nuclear, automobile components & fintech.”

Dinesh Patnaik

India’s High Commissioner to Canada

It's important to note that India holds a key role in Canada's pivot to Asia. As a counterweight to Communist China, a democratic India, with its ambition to become a developed nation by 2047, offers a sizeable economic opportunity to Canada. With India's economy growing rapidly, an energy-rich Canada stands the chance to benefit from India's rising energy demand. This will also help Ottawa diversify away from the US but also secure its energy exports – 30 percent of total exports – from geopolitical fluctuations (read US and China).

“We see big opportunities in the Critical Minerals sector, Clean Energy sector and the IT sector (especially in Al development),” says Dr Vivek Savkur, Founder of the BC-India Business Network. Dr Savkur notes that critical minerals will be an untapped sector that could prove beneficial to Canada-India bilateral trade. “60% of US imports of Critical Minerals is from Canada. Whereas only 2% of India's requirements are procured from Canada,” he adds.

For the benefit of our readers, Critical Minerals are the foundation upon which modern technology is built. They are used in a wide range of essential products ranging from mobile phones and solar panels to electric vehicle batteries, medical devices, and defense applications.

For India, Canada provides a suitable market for its superior pharmaceutical products, gems & jewelry and smartphones. Moreover, India’s STEM graduates – the world’s largest talent pool – offer Canada vital human resources for futuristic sectors like Artificial Intelligence & quantum computing.

Patnaik is hopeful that a trade agreement will not only boost existing bilateral trade in goods and services but will also add several unexplored dimensions. “Traditional sectors like agri-food, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods & textiles still provide ample scope for increase. We are also looking at new areas like high-tech products, defense technologies, oil & gas, nuclear, automobile components & fintech,” the Indian

diplomat says.

The ongoing trade talks are not without their hiccups. Both countries have not been able to seal a deal despite beginning negotiations way back in 2010. A key roadblock had been India's protectionist policies, which made it a difficult export market to penetrate. However, changing geopolitical dynamics and other factors have softened India's trade stance in recent years.

“The challenges that we are likely to face are a turbulent global order which we will need to navigate. There are certain sectors which are critical to both countries, and we will have to try and work around them to create exceptions. The biggest challenge will be the capacity of our negotiators. We will need to make sure that we can put enough time and effort in making these negotiations successful,” says Patnaik, who took charge as the Indian envoy to Canada in August 2025.

Dr Savkur, on the other hand, does not see political issues hindering a possible trade deal between India and Canada. Although he notes that previous negotiations could not resolve many grey areas relating to tariffs and import duties, he believes that the present situation involving Trump's uncertain trade policies can actually aid in concluding a trade deal.

ROBIN BAWA

The First, The Fight, and the Future

By Ancy Mendonza

"As a community, it’s our responsibility to give these kids a platform, support them, and stand behind them— whether they’re on the ice, in management, or just starting out."

On an any given night in a Canadian hockey arena today, it is no longer unusual to hear Punjabi being spoken in the stands. Families arrive wrapped in jerseys, kids alongside their grandparents, and a generation that once watched from the margins now occupies the center rows with ease. On the ice, too, the picture has begun to shift. Names like Manny Malhotra, Jujhar Khaira, and Arshdeep Bains have entered the NHL conversation, proof that South Asian presence in hockey is no longer a question mark, but a reality.

Yet every movement has a beginning. Long before the jerseys, the crowd, or the cautious optimism, there

was Robin Bawa.

When Bawa stepped onto NHL ice on October 6, 1989, wearing a Washington Capitals jersey, history quietly unfolded. There were no headlines marking the moment, no community-wide celebration, no recognition that a boundary had been crossed. Most fans saw a 23-year-old rookie chasing a lifelong dream. What they did not see was the first South Asian athlete to play in the NHL and very likely the first of South Asian heritage to appear in any of North America’s four major professional sports leagues.

For the community he represented, many of whom would not

even learn of this milestone until years later, it was a door opening without an audience.

The Pond Before the Arena

Robin Bawa’s hockey story does not begin under bright lights or roaring crowds. It begins, like many Canadian hockey stories, on a frozen pond in Duncan, British Columbia, with a pair of brand-new skates and a boy who could barely stand on ice.

When he first asked neighborhood kids if he could join their game, the answer was blunt and unmistakable. “Your kind doesn’t play hockey.” It was a phrase rooted in ignorance, but reflective of a time when belonging was rigidly defined. “Hockey was also expensive, and nobody from our community was playing — so you didn’t see it as an option.”

His response was not confrontation. It was persistence.

The first time he ever stood on skates was beside his father. His dad worked relentless hours—leaving home at 4:30 every morning and returning only by early evening—but no matter how long the day had been, he would lace up his son’s skates and head out.

Four or five evenings a week, they returned to the ice. Bawa fell often, got up just as often, and slowly learned

to balance. Once he could skate, his father brought him and his cousins to a frozen pond behind his workplace, this time with hockey sticks and a puck in hand.

By the end of those long winter days, they weren’t just skating anymore—they were playing. Laughing, clumsy, and exhausted, they left the ice having unknowingly fallen in love with a game that would shape the rest of his life.

Climbing Without a Map

Hockey, for all its romance, is rarely gentle. For a South Asian kid in the 1970s and 80s, it could be unforgiving. There was no roadmap for someone like Robin Bawa. His parents, like many immigrant families, knew little about elite sports pathways. They watched Hockey Night in Canada on Saturdays, absorbed what they could, and trusted their son’s passion. There was no pressure, no post-game interrogation, no living vicariously through his performance. They let him play. That freedom mattered.

Bawa moved through local systems, eventually landing with the Kamloops Blazers, where he flourished. Under coach Ken Hitchcock, he

emerged as a force, scoring 57 goals in 62 games during his final junior season and contributing to the team's multiple WHL titles and strong Memorial Cup finishes. By then, he was impossible to ignore. “We were always taught we had to work twice as hard just to get noticed, and I did just that.”

Still, progress did not mean acceptance.

In the minor leagues, playing for Washington’s farm teams in Fort

Wayne and Baltimore, Bawa was often the only South Asian player in the building. Racial discrimination was frequent, sometimes casual, sometimes cutting. There were no social media platforms to expose it, no systems to address it meaningfully. Complaints were rarely welcomed. Silence was survival. “Back then, nobody talked about things. You were taught to just look the other way,” he says.

So, he adapted. He learned to fight as well as score. In one season, he tallied 23 goals and over 200 penalty minutes. He was not just playing the game; he was protecting his right to be there.

A Debut That Changed Everything

When Robin Bawa finally made his NHL debut with Washington, the moment arrived quietly. There were no special ceremonies, no recognition of what the puck drop represented. Yet he made sure it was felt.

On his first shift, he delivered a jarring open-ice hit. “My dad went and bought a satellite dish just so he could watch my first NHL game,” he recalls. In his second NHL game, he scored,

becoming the first South Asian player to do so. The message was clear. He was not there to fill a novelty slot. He belonged.

A trade to Vancouver in 1991 brought him closer to home and into a city with a growing South Asian population. Ironically, many believed this was his first NHL appearance. Few knew he had already broken the barrier years earlier. There simply had not been a South Asian media ecosystem capable of carrying that story.

In his Canucks debut, he shattered a pane of arena glass attempting a hit, igniting the Pacific Coliseum crowd and, for many in attendance, a sense of recognition they had never felt in hockey before.

For the first time, the community could see one of their own, live and undeniable.

Playing Ahead of His Time

Robin Bawa’s game was physical, responsible, and adaptable. He chipped in offensively, played heavy when required, and understood the value of grit. In many ways, he was built for today’s NHL, a league that prizes speed and skill but still demands toughness.

“I was probably better suited to today’s game than the game in the late 80s and early 90s,” he reflects.

After stints with Vancouver,

"From 1987 to today—almost 40 years—there have only been four or five South Asians in the NHL. With our population, that number should be much higher."

San Jose, and the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, Bawa’s NHL career totaled 62 games, 57 goals, and 56 assists. The numbers tell only part of the story. His professional career extended far beyond the NHL, with 12 seasons in the minor leagues, where he amassed over 400 points and more than 2,300 penalty minutes.

Concussions eventually forced his retirement in 1999. The grind had taken its toll. What remained was legacy.

The Cost of Being First

Being first is rarely glamorous in real time. It is isolating, often misunder-

stood, and deeply exhausting. Robin Bawa does not romanticize it. “When you’re the first of any kind, you don’t have time to think about history. You’re just focused on making the team and doing your best.”

Looking back, he notes that in nearly four decades since his debut, only a handful of South Asian players have followed. Manny Malhotra. Jujhar Khaira. Arshdeep Bains. A few others on the margins.

“For the population we have, you’d think there would be more,” he says plainly.

The reasons are complex. Hockey is expensive. Cultural expectations can pull kids away from sports at critical ages. And then there are the subtler barriers, the ones that don’t announce themselves.

Bawa speaks openly about hidden bias, about how decision-makers often gravitate toward familiarity.

“People tend to lean toward people who look like them. That’s why we need more South Asians in coaching, management and ownership,” he says. Coaches, managers, and executives tend to see themselves in the players they choose. Without South Asians in management and ownership roles, progress remains limited.

Visibility, he insists, is everything. Not just on the ice, but behind the bench, in front offices, in boardrooms

"Visibility is everything. These kids need to see someone who looks like them playing at the highest level— and then believe they belong there too.”

A Changing Landscape, Slowly

Today’s environment is undeniably different. Social media, increased accountability, and greater awareness have tightened the space for overt discrimination. Young players now grow up seeing faces that resemble theirs in professional uniforms. That matters.

Yet Bawa is careful not to declare victory too early. Progress, he believes, is real but fragile. It requires community support, media amplification, and parents willing to let their children explore paths beyond tradition.

Sports, he argues, offers structure, discipline, and belonging. They keep kids connected, focused, and supported. Walking away too early can mean losing more than a potential career.

He has lived this belief, volunteering as a coach for over a decade, giving back to the game that gave him purpose.

Legacy in Motion

When asked how he views his legacy, Bawa does not hesitate. It is both the moment he stepped onto the NHL ice and the players who followed.

“The first one is always the hardest,” he says. “After that, it gets a little easier.”

He believes that one day, when the hundredth South Asian player skates into the NHL, the idea of “first” will feel distant and unnecessary. Until then, the responsibility is shared. Families must support, communities must celebrate. Media must tell these stories, not years later, but in real time.

Looking at the current generation, especially those playing and coaching in British Columbia, Bawa feels hope. Not the loud kind, but the steady kind. The kind that grows quietly until it becomes impossible to ignore.

The Dream That Endures

If Robin Bawa could speak to a young South Asian child standing nervously at the edge of a rink today, unsure if they belong, his message would be simple. Dream big. Keep the dream alive.

He says it without theatrics because he lived it. Every night as a boy, he visualized the game, imagined himself there, long before anyone else could.

“Once you kill the dream,” he says, “it’s over.”

Today, as arenas fill with families who once believed hockey was not for them, as kids lace up skates without questioning whether they fit the mold, that dream continues to move forward.

Quietly. Persistently. Just like it did on a frozen pond in Duncan, all those years ago.

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KHALSA CREDIT UNION

Rooted in Values, Amplifying Impact

In the mid-1980s, British Columbia’s Sikh community was growing rapidly. Families were settling, businesses were being started, and roots were being laid down with quiet determination. Yet for many newcomers, something as basic as opening a bank account or securing a loan came with friction. Language barriers, unfamiliar systems, and a lack of cultural understanding made mainstream financial institutions feel distant and unapproachable. It was in this moment that Khalsa Credit Union was established in 1986, not as an alternative for the sake of difference, but as a necessity. The

vision was clear: to create a financial institution rooted in Sikh values, built by and for the community it served, and committed to fairness, dignity, and long-term well-being.

Forty years later, that vision has not only endured—it has grown.

A Credit Union Born From Community Need

Khalsa Credit Union was founded to serve a gap that few others recognized at the time. Many Sikh families in BC struggled to access basic finan-

cial services simply because they could not communicate comfortably or were misunderstood by traditional institutions. Lending opportunities were limited, trust was fragile, and new immigrants often felt invisible within systems that did not reflect their realities.

From the start, KCU took a different approach. Staff spoke Punjabi and understood Sikh customs. Conversations were unhurried. Decisions were personal. Financial products were shaped around real community needs: flexible loans, practical savings plans, and guidance that respected both cultural priorities and financial responsibility.

Just as importantly, KCU’s role extended beyond banking. Financial literacy workshops were held in Gurdwaras. Youth scholarships were created to support education. Outreach events helped families find their footing in a new country. The credit union became not just a place to bank, but a place to belong.

Holding Steady Through Change

The early years were not without challenges. KCU entered the market later than other credit unions and had to earn trust from a community that had already faced disruption and trauma, particularly in the years following 1984 and the unrest in Punjab. Cohesion was fragile, and leadership understood that bringing people together mattered as much as financial viability.

Trust was built slowly, through consistency and seva. Founders leaned

into community networks, relied on word of mouth, and stayed visibly present. Personalized service became the credit union’s strongest currency. Over time, a loyal membership base formed, not because KCU promised the most, but because it listened the best.

Guided by Sikh Principles

Unlike many financial institutions that adopt values as messaging, Khalsa Credit Union lives them as practice. Sikh

principles are not symbolic here; they are operational.

Sarbat da Bhalla — welfare for all — shapes inclusive policies and community-focused programs. Vand Chakhna — sharing — is reflected in scholarships, donations, and reinvestment into local initiatives. Kirat Karna — honest work — informs transparent governance and ethical decision-making. Seva remains the heartbeat, guiding how staff show up for members every day. And Naam Japna, while deeply personal, influences the collective spirit of Chardi Kala — a steady optimism, even in uncertain times.

That spirit has mattered. Especially during economic volatility, KCU has leaned into resilience, encouraging its teams to do better than yesterday, knowing that steady, values-driven work ultimately strengthens the community it serves.

Growing With Intention

From its humble beginnings, Khalsa Credit Union has evolved into a robust financial institution without losing its soul. Over the past six years alone, assets have grown by over $400 million, bringing total assets to more than $900 million, nearly double what they were in 2018. This growth has been accompanied by expanded services, improved digital access, and clearer communication with members.

Today, KCU offers free chequing accounts, savings and investment products, registered accounts,

Nearly

mutual funds, residential and commercial mortgages, and business banking solutions. Students, seniors, newcomers, families, and entrepreneurs all find products designed with their realities in mind, including no-fee accounts and flexible first-time homebuyer options.

Digital tools have made banking more convenient, but relationships remain central. Members can book time with advisors they trust. Branch conversations still matter. Technology enhances connection, it doesn’t replace it.

" "

KCU’s purpose is about putting people first. Our values guide how we serve members with honesty, empathy, and a strong sense of responsibility."

Hardeep

Singh Bains CEO, Khalsa Credit Union

Q: How do you personally interpret KCU’s purpose and values as a leader?

A: For me, KCU’s purpose is about putting people first—always. Our values guide how we serve members with honesty, empathy, and a strong sense of responsibility. Leadership, in this context, means honoring the trust our members place in us and ensuring every decision reflects that trust.

Q: What has been the most rewarding part of leading KCU during this phase of its journey?

A: Seeing our values lived out by our people every day. Watching teams take ownership, support one another, and serve members authentically has been deeply fulfilling. It reinforces that culture is not something you write down— it’s something you practice.

Q: What legacy do you hope KCU builds over the next 40 years?

A: A legacy of trust, continuous improvement, and deep community connection, where members feel proud to belong, and future generations feel empowered to lead

Trust as a Daily Practice

Trust is not assumed at KCU; it is earned. Unified service standards, ongoing staff training, mentoring, and transparent leadership ensure that members experience consistency across branches. Weekly team meetings keep communication open. Leaders model the values they expect others to uphold.

This approach has paid off. Member satisfaction has grown, staff engagement is strong, and the credit union’s presence, both in person and online, continues to deepen.

Community Impact Beyond Banking

KCU’s impact extends far beyond financial services. Financial literacy sessions in schools, senior centers, and community spaces have reached over 1,000 students and seniors since 2019. Scholarships of over a million dollars rooted in the principle of Dasvandh have supported more than 1000 students in the past five years, many now serving the community as doctors, researchers, architects, and educators.

Donations to BC Children’s Hospital, Ensaaf, Khalsa Aid, and environmental initiatives like tree planting speak to a broader understanding of responsibility: one that includes health, justice, humanitarian aid, and sustainability. Food drives, clothing drives, Nagar Kirtan participation, and volunteerism remain woven into the annual calendar, not as obligations, but as expressions of faith and service.

We live and work in the same communities as our members. That shared reality creates a genuine connection. We are not just a financial institution— we are partners in our members’ lives."

Ramandeep Kaur Randhawa Community Branch Manager

Q: What does serving members at the branch level mean to you?

A: It means creating a space where members feel understood, respected, and supported—beyond transactions. True service is about relationships built over time and guiding members through different stages of life with care and accountability.

Q: How do KCU’s values translate into everyday interactions?

A: Our values show up in the small things: clear communication, patience, honesty, and follow-through. Especially during complex decisions, we take the time to ensure members fully understand their options and feel confident moving forward.

Q: What truly sets KCU apart at the community level?

A: We live and work in the same communities as our members. That shared reality creates a genuine connection. We are not just a financial institution—we are partners in our members’ lives.

At 40, Khalsa Credit Union stands as proof of what is possible when financial institutions are built on trust, values, and community ownership. With a growing Sikh population in Canada, the road ahead holds opportunity and responsibility. KCU’s focus remains clear: deepen relationships, adapt thoughtfully, and continue serving with humility.

As the credit union enters its fifth decade, its message to members is simple and sincere: thank you for the trust, the belief, and the shared journey. This institution belongs to its members — and together, its best work is still ahead.

KCU in Numbers

Deposit Portfolio ($M)

Loan Portfolio ($M)

Total Assets ($M)

"

Giving back has always been central to who we are. That commitment to service and community impact will continue to shape our future."

Jagpaul Singh Sandhu Chair, Board of Directors

Q: How is the credit union evolving as the community changes?

A: Over the next 40 years, as our membership moves into its second and third generations, we are evolving alongside them to meet their changing needs. That means embracing digitization, staying rooted as a values-based organization, and continuing to fund and support initiatives that matter to our community.

Q: What values will continue to guide the organization going forward?

Membership

A: Giving back has always been central to who we are. Guided by the Sikh principle of seva, we support a wide range of organizations, not only within the Sikh community, but across British Columbia. That commitment to service and community impact will continue to shape our future.

Q: What would you like to say to members as the credit union marks this milestone?

A: As we reflect on the past 40 years, I want to express our sincere gratitude to every member who has placed their trust in Khalsa Credit Union. Your continued support has been the foundation of our growth and purpose. It motivates us to do better, serve with greater care, and remain steadfast in our commitment to the community we exist to uplift.

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RACISM THE RISE ON

WHEN ONLINE HATE SPILLS INTO REAL LIFE

By Naina Grewal

For many South Asian Canadians, racism no longer feels distant or occasional. It has become louder, more visible, and increasingly normalized, especially online. What often begins as hateful rhetoric on social media now spills into schools, workplaces, streets, and places of worship, leaving communities grappling with fear and exhaustion.

Across Canada, South Asians report a surge in targeted harassment and misinformation, frequently tied to polarizing debates around immigration, housing, and employment. Online, racism appears through coded language and recurring narratives across comment sections and short-form videos. Many posts rely on dietary and hygiene-based stereotypes, portraying South Asians as “dirty” or “unsanitary,” while immigration and invasion rhetoric surfaces in remarks like “go back to where you came from” or claims that South Asians are “invaders.”

Others engage in economic scapegoating, accusing immigrants of stealing jobs or driving housing shortages. Even seemingly unrelated travel or lifestyle content often attracts degrading comments such as “average day in India,” used to mock entire communities. More recently, AI-generated content has fabricated dystopian “Canada in 2050” scenarios portraying South Asians as a threat, while some online spaces have crossed an even darker line by mock-

“To address racism in our communities, we must focus our work not only on changing hearts and minds but also on reforming our systems. That means focusing our efforts on education, policy change, and building community.”

- Kasari Govender B.C.’s First Independent Human Rights Commissioner

ing tragedies or posting explicit threats, depicting how digital platforms continue to amplify hate.

B.C.’s first independent Human Rights Commissioner, Kasari Govender, says the issue cannot be isolated to one cause or one group. “There is no one issue that rises to the top when talking about racism in B.C. today,” she explains. “We are seeing a high number of hate incidents both online and in real life, amplified by the rampant spread of misinformation.”

Commissioner Govender warns that focusing only on individual prejudice misses the bigger picture. “To address racism in our communities, we must focus our work not only on changing hearts and minds but also on reforming our systems,” she points out. “That means focusing our efforts on education, policy change, and building community.”

Nationally, the numbers underscore the urgency. According to Statistics Canada, police-reported hate crimes targeting South Asians increased year over year between 2019 and 2024, including a 143 per cent jump between 2019 and 2022. Experts stress that these figures likely underestimate the true scale of the problem, as many victims do not report incidents due to fear, mistrust, or uncertainty about where to turn.

The federal government acknowledges that online hate has become a critical driver of this trend. Amy Mills, Department of Canadian Heritage spokesperson, highlights that the rise in anti–South Asian racism is deeply concerning. “Canadian Heritage is deeply concerned about the rise of racism and online hate targeting South Asians in Canada,” she shares. “Recent analysis shows that anti–South Asian sentiment is increasingly fueled by anxieties around housing and employment, with online platforms amplifying and normalizing these harmful views.”

Research from the Institute for Strategic Dialogue supports this assessment, alluding to a dramatic escalation in hateful content directed at South Asians across major platforms. In response, Ottawa launched Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate in September

“Our new Racist Incident Helpline is having a tremendous impact, with 94 per cent of callers saying their needs have been met. I encourage anyone who has experienced racism—in person or online—to contact the helpline to get the support you need.”

- MLA Amna Shah Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism

2024. “This plan brings together Canadian Heritage and federal partners to strengthen community support, improve data collection, and enhance prevention and response efforts nationwide,” Mills explains. The initiative is backed by $273.6 million over six years, with funding directed toward community security, research, victim support, and public education.

The federal government has also renewed Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy 2024–2028, reinforcing what Mills describes as a “whole-of-government commitment” to dismantling systemic racism. “Both the Action Plan and the Anti-Racism Strategy aim to build a Canada where everyone—regardless of heritage or background—has a fair chance to belong and participate fully,” she assures.

Legislative tools are also evolving. Proposed amendments under Bill C-9 would make it a criminal offence to obstruct access to places of worship and community centers, criminalize the public display of certain hate symbols, and more clearly define hate-motivated crimes; these steps, as per advocates, are long overdue.

At the provincial level, B.C. has introduced new measures to address both online and offline racism. MLA Amna Shah, parliamentary secretary for anti-racism, reveals that the province is taking a direct and data-driven approach. MLA Shah emphasizes the deep roots South Asians have in Canada. “South Asian Canadians have played a major role in building the province and country we all love,” she reminds. “The recent rise of racism is deeply troubling and unacceptable.”

Among the province’s most impactful tools is the Racist Incident Helpline, which provides culturally safe support for people experiencing racism, including cyberbullying. “Our new Racist Incident Helpline is having a tremendous impact, with 94 per cent of callers saying their needs have been met,” MLA Shah notes. “I encourage anyone who has experienced racism— in person or online—to contact the helpline to get the support you need.”

In its first year alone, the helpline received more than 800 calls, including cases involving targeted online harassment. Callers are connected to legal guidance, mental health support, and help document and report abuse to social media platforms. For youth, B.C.’s ERASE program allows students to anonymously report racism and cyberbullying and provides schools with clear response guidelines.

Undoubtedly, while resources are vital, community action matters just as much. For those facing online hate today, the message from authorities is clear:

Document incidents

Seek support Report abuse

After all, racism thrives in silence but loses power when confronted collectively!

By georgia nicols

Canada's most widely read astrologer, Georgia Nicols, has horoscope columns in The Washington Post, the National Post, and the Chicago Sun-Times, with regular appearances on television and radio.

Aries

(March 21- April 19)

Element: Fire

Symbol: The Ram Ruling Planet: Mars

“My personal word is enriched and happier.”

You Know Me

You’re attractive because you’re heroic! You rise to every challenge. You’re quick to defend. You’ll fight for what is right. You like speed, danger, and excitement. (Many of you are firefighters or in the military.) You’re a pioneer at heart, and you love to discover new places and new ways of doing things. You’re saucy and bold -- and a creative, inventive lover. Who else would fry bacon naked?

My Daily World

This year you’re on a new journey. You might move. You might change your job. You might leave a relationship. Don’t worry if you feel discouraged, older, and your joints ache or you have teeth issues. This is because Saturn is in your sign. Meanwhile, lucky Jupiter will help you to make your home more beautiful. Some will move to some place better. You might speculate in real estate. Later, vacations, romance and fun-loving pleasure are yours!

All My Relations

For the first time in your life, Neptune is in Aries, acting like a mist around you. When others see you, it’s as if they have Vaseline on their lens. They can’t see you clearly. You’ll feel more compassionate and selfless. You might join groups to help the needy or save animals. Relations with family members will be excellent, but later this year, romance will be intriguing. Romantic opportunities will be better than they’ve been in 12 years! Enjoy warm friendships. A platonic friendship might morph into something more serious.

Home, Family and my Private World

During the first four months, relations with family members will be tested. However, your increased energy will help you work with purpose and diligence to make home improvements and tackle projects and repairs. The upshot is your home life will be more active and social. Travel is on the menu. Because you’re meeting new daily contacts, you might entertain more and introduce family to new friends. You’re flying your colours!

My Lucky Days for 2026

January 24, 25 | February 19, 20, 21

March 19, 20 | April 15, 16, 17

May 13, 14 | June 9, 10

July 6, 7, 8 | August 2, 3, 4, 30, 31

September 1, 26, 27, 28 | October 23, 24

November 20, 21 | December 17, 18, 19

Taurus

Element: Earth

(April 20 - May 20)

Symbol: The Bull Ruling Planet: Venus

“I welcome increased wealth at home and through family relationships.”

You Know Me

You want to own mortgage-free land with fruit orchards and a pasture for gamboling lambs. You know good wines, and you’re a gourmet cook. You’re not pretentious. You know which truck stop has the best apple pie. You don’t do onestop shopping – you go to the best butcher, the best fishmonger and your fav place for produce. You’re a financial wizard. You watch Antiques Roadshow.

My Daily World

This year your ambition is aroused. Note: If your possessions are a burden, or your finances are a problem – sudden changes might occur. You might get a wake-up call! By summer, you can make money or find employment in real-estate, the entertainment world – movies, the theatre, video games, as well as the hospitality industry – restaurants, hotels and theme parks. Homebased businesses will flourish. You’ll be bolder and more confident, which is why you’ll make bigger plans!

All My Relations

This year you might be more aggressive in your relationships – personal, professional and romantic. If people accuse you of coming on too strong – listen to them. Meanwhile, you might start to winnow your list of friends. You might stop seeing someone or see some people less because you no longer get the desired result. And yet, you will meet new people! You will enjoy visiting new places and meeting new faces. In turn, they will be attracted to you because you’ll be upbeat and full of positive energy.

Home, Family and my Private World

This year you will improve your home. You might do repairs or renovations, or tear down a building. Or you might move to a better home. You might buy real estate for speculation because this is the best year in over a decade to improve your home and real-estate, as well family relationships. Many of you will expand your family through birth, adoption or marriage. Family members will be more generous to each other –especially siblings. Your family life will become upbeat and joyful!

My

Lucky Days for 2026

January 25, 26, 27 | February 22, 23

March 21, 22 | April 17, 18, 19

May 15, 16 | June 11, 12 | July 8, 9, 10

August 5, 6 | September 11, 2, 3, 28, 29, 30

October 25. 25, 27 | November 22, 23, 24

December 19, 20, 21

Gemini

Element: Air

(May 21 - June 20)

Symbol: The Twins Ruling Planet: Mercury

“I’m richer because I have more of what I value most.” You Know Me

You need constant stimulation because you don’t do boring. Situations and people fascinate you. You’re abreast of what’s happening – locally or nine thousand miles away. This is because your ruler Mercury energizes your intellect and communication skills. Oh yes, you’re the wordsmith of the zodiac. You scan magazines, YouTube and you scroll a lot. You have excellent hand dexterity. You like to travel. You love to learn and share your ideas. You’re a grazer – not only with food.

My Daily World

You feel you’ve survived heavy challenges and you’re ready for anything. Recognition from authority figures will bless you this year. This could be one reason why you’ll get richer, because you will! Could be a raise? A promotion? A new job? Perhaps increased assets, cash flow or money through inheritances, gifts or bonuses. You might benefit through a partner. Enjoy success in groups and organizations because it’s time for you to be Leader of the Pack!

All My Relations

When it comes to relationships this year, you’ll feel stronger and more independent. You will stick up for yourself more than usual and express yourself more powerfully. Your concern for the well-being of others will be stronger. Some friendships will fade away, while at the same time, other friendships will become more important. Your social life will be lively. You might enjoy vacations with friends. Overall, your relations with everyone will be happier because you feel better about yourself and your future.

Home, Family and my Private World

You’re on a mission to make practical improvements including at home. (We’re not talking rethinking your throw pillows – we’re talking new flooring or an updated bathroom.) Fortify where you live. Fix locks. Buy new fire extinguishers. Think candles and working flashlights. Work to get better organized as much as possible at home. Meanwhile, family vacations will delight, especially because you’ll be more generous to everyone. Of course, this kind of generosity is self-rewarding because whatever you give comes back to you.

My Lucky Days for 2026

January 28, 29 | February 24, 25 | March 23, 24

April 19, 20, 21 | May 17, 18

June 13, 14 | July 10, 11, 12

August 7, 8 | September 3, 4, 30

October 1, 2, 28, 29 | November 24, 25

December 22, 23

(June 21- July 22)

Element: Water

Symbol: The Crab Ruling Planet: Moon

“I deserve my good fortune!”

You Know Me

You’re nurturing. You feed people. You garden. You cook. You tend to the sick. You fix what’s broken. You give emotional support and a sympathetic ear where needed. You’re tenacious. You hold on to people, places and things. You love mementos from bygone eras, especially your family. You can’t let go of anything, including the wrong relationship. You’re charismatic, compassionate and responsive. Many of you work in nursing or with food. I call Cancer “The Big Tit.”

My Daily World

This year starts strong with Jupiter bringing you good fortune. Your self-confidence and poise will grow. By summer, you’ll get richer! You’re also in your time of harvest, which happens every 30 years. Something will be like a dream come true -- a marriage, the birth of a child, a promotion. It might be your chance to work independently. It could be fame. You might publish. You might graduate. Whatever it is – you’ll be proud!

All My Relations

This year your increased wealth might give you more influence over your life, including your closest relationships. In a few cases, a partner might resent your new power, your prestige, your sense of accomplishment and perhaps your new wealth. If this is the case, it will be obvious to you that this person does not have your best interests at heart – and they should not be along for your new joyride. Be with those who have your back.

Home, Family and my Private World

Enjoy the increased respect from family that you’ll have this year. Don’t be so focused on your career that you overlook the demands of home and family. As the year progresses, and your wealth increases, you’ll be able to benefit family members. You can take them on vacations and boost educational opportunities for them. You can pay for courses and athletic outings. You might improve your home with high tech changes that are entertaining for everyone. It’s a win/win!

My Lucky Days for 2026

January 2, 3, 29, 30, 31

March 25, 26 | April 21, 22, 23

May 19, 20 | June 15, 16

July 13, 14 | August 9, 10, 11

September 5, 6, 7 | October 30, 31

November 26, 27 | December 23, 24, 25

Leo (July 23- August 22)

Element: Fire

Symbol: The Lion Ruling Planet: Sun

“I welcome my good fortune when Jupiter enters my sign this summer to stay for 12 months!”

You Know Me

Your recipe for life is optimism laced with caution. Your creativity is mind boggling. You excel at acting, the entertainment world, show business, teaching and working with kids. You inspire and encourage. You’re diligent, efficient, ambitious, and quick to see the big picture. You’re cool in a crisis. You enjoy admiration and present an image to your world that is stylish and sporty. You expect romantic gestures (preferably slavish adoration). You’re the one who arrives on the scene, gets everyone organized and makes things happen!

My Daily World

Recently, you have undergone a slow-building momentum of tentative wishful projects. It’s been a time of gestation. Now your goals are starting to gel. In two to three years, your efforts will bear the greatest fruit possible in 30 years! This means now is the time to study, do research, take courses, increase your skills and update technological knowledge. Start writing. Travel. Get performance ready! In July, lucky Jupiter will enter your sign for the first time since 2015, increasing your confidence and attracting good fortune. Not too shabby!

All My Relations

Sometimes relationships are draining; but this year, they’ll be supportive. You’ll enjoy meeting unusual people, perhaps a new group. You might find someone who helps you to build up your physical strength. Others will be impressed with your diligence. Some will be attracted to someone of an age difference. Small changes in even passing relationships will work to your advantage. You will find that your compassion for others is increasing. Beware over idealizing someone, which you love to do.

Home, Family and my Private World

This year you’re optimistic. You look like a winner. You’ll set a positive example for family members demonstrating compassion and showing practical, positive support to loved ones. You will meet family challenges with strength and dignity. You’ll also have the drive to address home repairs, redecorate, buy real estate, and get rid of what you no longer need. In other words, you’ll be efficient at whatever it is you need to do to secure your home base.

My Lucky Days for 2026

January 4, 5 | February 1, 2, 28

March 1, 27, 28 | April 23, 24, 25 | May 21, 22

June 17, 18 | July 15, 16

August 11, 12, 13 | September 7, 8, 9

October 4, 5 | November 1, 2, 28, 29

December 25, 26, 27

Virgo (Aug 23- Sep 22)

Element: Earth

Symbol: The Virgin Ruling Planet: Mercury

“This year is about my relationships.” You’ve Got Me Covered

The value of service is ingrained in you. It requires generosity, observation, intelligence and compassion. (Admirable!) You’re discerning and analytical, and can absorb trivia from the air. You’re dexterous with your hands, clever with words and a fantastic mimic! You collect, codify and classify to create order in your world. You have a tremendous eye for detail. You’re meticulous, frugal and patient. You buy vitamins –but some are sitting high in a cupboard. Because you put your friends first – you are valued.

My Daily World

Form partnerships because others will benefit you this year. Meanwhile, you might quit your job. You might work for social reform or a nonprofit organization. You might do volunteer work. Walk or jog. Explore yoga or the gym because you can physically regenerate yourself! You might get along with less. Fear not, your time of harvest is in 2030. This is a year of readjustments and testing your future direction. Whatever you put out this year out will come back to you multiplied.

All My Relations

Friends and groups will be meaningful and beneficial to you this year. By contrast, close partnerships will be tested. (Go figure.) Some might end because at the beginning of the year, you’ll have a tendency to overidealize, and then be disappointed. No one is perfect. You know this but it’s hard to stop hoping. (This influence will diminish by May.) Meanwhile, your desire for freedom is ignited! You want adventure and the thrill of change! You might travel suddenly.

Home, Family and my Private World

This year some families might feel the strain of a breakup. Because resources might be reduced, everyone will have to pull together and make the best of what’s happening. After all, loving family bonds are based on words, actions and feelings and not the make of the car in the driveway. Meanwhile, increased popularity and involvement with friends and groups will be welcome.

My Lucky Days for 2026

January 6, 7, 8 | February 3, 4

March 2, 3, 29, 30, 31 | April 26, 27

May 23, 24 | June 19, 20, 21

July 17, 18 | August 13, 14

September 9, 10, 11 | October 7, 8

November 3, 4, 30 | December 1, 2, 27, 28

Libra (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

Element: Air

Symbol: The Scales Ruling Planet: Venus

“I’m loving my popularity and excellent reputation!”

You’ve Got Me Covered

You’re gracious, attractive and charming. You have refined tastes and appreciate beauty in your surroundings. Relaxed convivial company and good conversation in a beautiful room or a pleasing restaurant are your favourite choices. You’re a people pleaser but you can debate. You like to look good, and are aware of how you dress. Many of you work in the legal profession. You like a pleasing partner. “He was strong, compassionate and really knew how to accessorize.”

My Daily World

This year you look successful, affluent and confident. You’re a star! Expect a promotion and public recognition. However, a different influence will narrow your focus on partnerships, which are challenging. Some might end. A new influence will give you fresh eyes to see your world. Be open to studying and exploring unusual disciplines. (You might adopt a new exercise program or a new diet.) This wake-up call is something that has never before happened to you. Exciting!

All My Relations

This year romance will be passionate and intense. You might have to take care of someone close to you. For the first time in 30 years, Saturn will be opposite your sign making you want to redefine yourself in your own terms. This will test your relationships. If people make demands on you that you don’t like, those relationships might end. By summer, your popularity will increase. Pease know that whatever you put out now will come back you in even greater quantity!

Home, Family and my Private World

Family members will have reasons to feel proud of you this year because of promotions, awards and accolades that are clearly evidence of your success in the world. They will share in this success by association and feel proud. Your increased success can mean better perks for family members. You might treat your family to vacations, social outings, special courses for your kids –whatever. After all, what is good for the hive is good for the bee.

My Lucky Days for 2026

January 9, 10 | February 5, 6, 7

March 4, 5, 6 | April 1, 2, 28, 29, 30

May 25, 26, 27 | June 22, 23

July 19, 20 | August 15. 16, 17

September 11, 12, 13 | October 9, 10

November 5, 6, 7 | December 2, 3, 4, 30, 31

“I

Scorpio (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

Element: Water

Symbol: The Scorpion & the Eagle Ruling Planet: Pluto

wear my mantle of success modestly.”

You Know Me

You’re magnetic, intense, passionate and strong willed. (You pussy cat.) You’re emotionally driven with amazing self-discipline. You see through deception and criminal activity with laser-like penetration because you have a strong Spidey sense. Personally, you’re private and secretive. You work for the police, espionage or security. Or you might choose medicine, psychiatry or the arts. (You’re a perfect first responder.) You’re sexy, jealous but protective. You enjoy exotic underwear and memorable trysts. You are the most powerful sign in the zodiac – and the most playful.

My Daily World

Get performance ready for your success later this year when your reputation gets a boost in the eyes of your peers. Your reputation will shine! For the first time in 30 years, Saturn will be in your House of Employment urging you to accept responsibilities and hard work because you’re being tested as a human being. Some might change your work to healing, medicine, the law, higher education, travel or foreign interests. (If so, don’t expect the accolades mentioned above.)

All My Relations

For the first time in your life, unpredictable Uranus will trigger strong feelings of independence. An old order is passing away and a new one about to begin. Restrictions that were imposed might be intolerable. You want your own freedom! This could apply to partnerships, or your dependence on someone for economic support. As part of this urge to run your own show, you might become impatient with duties and obligations, especially involving shared property. Don’t act rashly.

Home, Family and my Private World

This year you can expand your world through outdoor activities and travel with family members. In the next decade, you will transform your home and family relationships for the better. You might deal with old problems, perhaps since childhood. Your home life is fluctuating, perhaps a change of residence, or extensive repairs, or remodelling. Even your relationship with your parents might change. Some years slide by, while others are benchmarks when we remember change. This will be one of those memorable years.

My Lucky Days for 2026

January11, 12, 13 | February 7, 8, 9 | March 7, 8

April 3, 4, 5, 31 | May 1, 2, 28, 29 | June 24, 25

July 21, 22, 23 | August 18, 19

September 14, 15, 16 | October 11, 12, 13

November 7, 8, 9 | December 5, 6

“I will learn, organize and explore my world through travel!”

You Know Me

You’re the globe trotter of the zodiac. You’re a phi losopher and a truth seeker who enjoys the out doors and loves animals -- the bigger, the better. You’re a gambler at heart – not just in games but in life. You’ll take a chance mountain climbing, self-publishing, opening a new business, or train ing for a sport. You’re bluntly honest. (“Get that one. The other one makes you look fat.”). You’re amazingly organized! Freedom and optimism are survival issues for you.

My Daily World

This year steady Saturn will act like a rudder to your Sun, helping you accomplish a lot. If you can learn a new skill or get further training – grab it. This is the perfect year to build your physical strength, especially bones and teeth. Your financial scene is blessed! It will be easy to get a loan or a mortgage from a bank. You might inherit. This is the perfect time to ask to borrow anything because you will benefit from the wealth and resources of others. Yay!

All My Relations

This is an excellent year to enter into a serious relationship because you will benefit from oth er people’s resources. If you marry, you’ll marry someone richer or more established. If you enter into any kind of partnership, it will bless you be cause this year people are more willing to help you. Even though you have idealistic values, for the most part, you are sensible. You’re whimsical and fanciful but you’re no fool.

Home,

Family and my Private World

Four influences will benefit home and family. You can get loans, mortgages and practical assistance to shore up your home, and offer educational and rec reational support. Secondly, your ability to work will make it easier to take care of the practical demands of family life. Thirdly, you will benefit from an almost magical healing influence to health impediments. (A rising tide lifts all boats.) Finally, exciting opportunities to travel, learn and meet fascinating people will enrich everyone.

My Lucky Days for 2026

January 13, 14, 15

March 9, 10, 11

May 3, 4, 5, 30, 31

July 24, 25

September 16, 17, 18

November 10, 11, 12

Element: Earth

Symbol: The Mountain Goat Ruling Planet: Saturn

“I welcome financial and practical support this year.”

You Know Me

Aquarius

Element: Air

Symbol: The Water Carrier Ruling Planet:

“Others will help me as I explore a new journey.”

You Know Me

You know how to fit in -- black tie or safari. You’re responsible, disciplined, high-minded and loyal. You’re hard-working, thrifty, industrious and entertaining. (You have panache!) You’re an excellent planner and saver. (You hate waste.) Because you like to be useful, you socialize by being involved in community events and fundraisers. You look younger than your age, “Capricorns are old when they’re young and young when they’re old.” Like Mae West, you believe in restraint – but not if it goes too far.

My Daily World

This year you will expand your world. You intend to go after everything that you want. Work in partnership with someone. Not only will you accomplish more, you will become more aware of who you are. (Difficulties with authority figures are likely if you overstep your bounds.) Later this year, you might receive an inheritance or benefit in practical and financial terms from a third party. This is an excellent year to ask for a loan or a mortgage. Doors will open for you!

All My Relations

This is a fantastic year for all your relationships, especially your closest relationships -- romantic, marital and professional. In fact, this is the best time in 12 years for Capricorns to get married. If you do marry this year, you will likely marry someone who is perhaps slightly older and more well-established in the world. Your respect for this person is one of the reasons for your attraction to them. Form partnerships. Form working pairs. Get involved!

Home, Family and my Private World

This is the year to secure your home base. However, you might be seized by the idea of creating an ideal home – like your dream home. You will work to create something that feels like the perfect refuge because your ideals and expectations about where you live are going to be strong and imaginative! Meanwhile, conversations with family members might be confusing. Misunderstandings or erroneous assumptions might occur, especially with parents. Be patient and be clear.

My Lucky Days for 2026

January 16, 17, 18 | February 12, 13, 14

March 12, 13 | April 8, 9, 10

May 5, 6, 7 | June 2, 3, 29, 30

July 1, 26, 27, 28 | August 22, 23, 24

September 19, 20, 21 | October 16, 17, 18

November 12, 13, 14 | December 10, 11

You want to save the world before bedtime, which is you’re in unions and organizations like Greenpeace and Amnesty International. You’re humane, democratic, principled and the most excellent listener in the zodiac. You’re punctual. You keep your promises. Your mind is acute and your analytical ability is top-notch. You need to socialize but you like people in small doses. You’re a rebellious, non-conformist who is considerate and soft-spoken. You can be outrageously eccentric. You’re philanthropic. You start petitions. You love aviation.

My Daily World

Around 1992, you began to reinvent yourself by the turn of the century. If you look back to 1990 and compare your life to 1999, you’ll see the difference. Now, 30 years later, you’re in that same eight-year window of reinventing yourself. It began in 2020 and will be over by 2028. This year, lucky Jupiter will boost your health and bring you opportunities to improve your existing job – or get a better job. It’s time to find work that gives you a sense of joy and fulfilment.

All My Relations

In the last half of this year, Jupiter moves opposite your sign for the first time in 12 years creating the most enriching experiences of dealing with those who are closest to you that you have had in over a decade. The last half of this year and the first half of 2027 will be the best time in 12 years for Aquarians to get married. Your partner will be someone who is slightly older or more established – perhaps more experienced or more worldly than you.

Home, Family and my Private World

If you change residences, this will impact your family. Somehow, you will restructure your life in a way you feel necessary. You might get married, or commit to a new partnership, which will affect your family. For the first time in your life, your ruler, Uranus will be in the part of your chart relating to children, thereby suddenly expanding your family through birth or adoption. The bottom line is something different, even revolutionary, will take place in your domestic world.

My Lucky Days for 2026

January 18, 19, 20 | February 15, 16

March 14, 15, 16 | April 11, 12

May 8, 9, 10 | June 4, 5, 6

July 1, 2, 29, 30 | August 25, 26, 27

September 21, 22, 23 | October 19, 20

November 15, 16, 17 | December 12, 13, 14

Pisces

(Feb 19 - March 20)

Element: Water

Symbol: The Fish Ruling Planet: Neptune

“I welcome amusements, pleasure and rewarding work!”

You Know Me

You’re a dreamer. You’re attractive and move with the grace of a dancer. You’re imaginative, charitable, soothing, selfless, open-minded and wise. You’re sympathetic to the suffering of others to such a degree that you should not work where people suffer because you’ll be overwhelmed. You have elegance and style. You thrive in the film industry and work related to the ocean, music and the entertainment world. Your success is based on your belief that you have what it takes.

My Daily World

This year life will feel so easy you might relax. Don’t do this. Your ability to tap into your creative talents will be the best it’s been in over a decade! You’ll find opportunities to express your talents more easily than before. Check out arts school or studying design, high-tech training or videogame courses. Whatever you pursue will flourish! In the autumn, you enter a 12-month window where you can improve your job or get a better job. Even your health will improve. This smells like success!

All My Relations

Romance is blessed this year! You’ll delight in opportunities to explore social occasions, the arts and excursions into exciting new relations with others. This also might come about through travel or meeting people from other cultures and different countries. Count on more chances this year to have fun and enjoy yourself! Outdoor sports, especially hiking will appeal. You’ll find that your sense of humour is heightened, making you appreciate the dance of life in all its glory.

Home, Family and my Private World

This year you’ll feel thrifty. This doesn’t mean there’s a reason for this – but Saturn travelling through your Money House can create these feelings. Ironically, Jupiter the planet associated with wealth and increase will give you the opposite message. You’ll spend money making your home more elegant! Your relations with your kids will be rewarding -- and you’ll be proud of them. Vacations will abound, giving you chances for family outings, day trips and weekend getaways. Create fond memories for everyone. Decide to be happy.

My Lucky Days for 2026

January 21, 22 | February 17, 1, 19

March 16, 17, 18 | April 13, 14

May 10, 11 | June 6, 7, 8 | July 4, 5, 31

August 1, 2, 27, 28 | September 24, 25

October 21, 22, 23 | November 17, 18, 19

December 15, 16

By Naina Grewal

"There’s a norm of ‘keep it in the family,’ there’s sometimes ignorance or dismissive language that is not necessarily intended to harm, but people internalize that language, feel shame, and then self-isolate because they think, ‘No one understands me. ’”

- Priya Gil MCP, RCC and Certified EMDR Therapist

Why Isolation is Rising and How We Can Begin to Heal The Loneliness Epidemic:

Loneliness has become one of the most pervasive public-health challenges of our time. Across age groups, cultures, and communities, people are reporting deeper disconnection, shrinking social circles, and a sense of unfamiliar emotional distance in their daily lives. While loneliness isn’t new, counsellors, mental health practitioners, and community storytellers agree that the texture of it is changing. Perhaps, for the first time, people are naming it out loud.

Priya Gill, MCP, RCC, and certified EMDR therapist, has seen the shift firsthand. “COVID was a period of isolation that brought up things people had suppressed,” she explains. “We kept busy seeing friends and going out, but when that wasn’t possible anymore, a lot emerged.” The pandemic acted like a mirror, reflecting back wounds, unresolved identity questions, and emotional realities we could once distract ourselves

from. Many never reassembled the social networks they had before, and as Gill notes, “People lost touch with their friends, and social circles became a little smaller.”

However, the rise in loneliness also opened new conversations about mental health, particularly in immigrant communities where emotional expression can be culturally complicated.

“There’s a norm of ‘keep it in the family,’” Gill highlights. “There’s sometimes ignorance or dismissive language that is not necessarily intended to harm, but people internalize that language, feel shame, and then self-isolate because they think, ‘No one understands me.’” For many, loneliness isn’t the absence of people, but the feeling of being unseen.

Vijay S. Mann, MA, RCC, sees technology, economic pressures, and shifting cultural identity as major drivers of today’s loneliness. “Technology use is a significant factor,” he shares. “The

overuse of digital and social media, especially among young people, reduces real-life interactions and deepens feelings of isolation.” He also points to financial realities tightening around many Canadians, “Economic challenges compound these issues. Low-wage workers and people in distressed areas experience higher loneliness because of limited social mobility and access to community resources.”

On a structural level, Mann believes modern Western values also play a role. “Individualism weakens communal bonds,” he reveals. “Profit-oriented social structures undermine community connection in lieu of individual success.” This affects South Asian communities uniquely, where belonging has long been tied to collectivism. Youth often straddle a divide: Am I South Asian enough for my family? Am I too South Asian for Canadian society? These identity conflicts can create inner loneliness even in crowded households.

"Engage in self-care that reflects externally. It helps others respond positively to you, and helps you feel more comfortable in your own skin.”

- Vijay S. Mann MA, RCC,

That said, loneliness is not exclusive to the younger generation. The experience has profound consequences for elders, too. Actor, Creative Director, and Filmmaker Kiran Rai has sought to spotlight elder loneliness in her short film Time, which follows the intimate emotional life of an elderly widow, Surjit. “So many elders in our community grew up in a communal lifestyle,” Rai points out. “Losing a spouse—someone who’s been by your side most of your life—feels like losing a part of yourself.” In many such cases, siblings and friends have passed on, mobility decreases, and adult children are busy navigating their own lives. “It makes them think about their own mortality,” she describes. “And that can be incredibly difficult for someone trying to adjust to a new chapter of life.”

Despite different manifestations of loneliness, the underlying longing is the same: to be understood, to be supported, to belong somewhere. So,

how do we begin to mend the disconnect?

Gill emphasizes the power of presence: “If someone opens up to you, try not to see it as something that needs to be fixed,” she advises. “Practice being present. Ask, ‘How can I support you in this moment?’ Sometimes that’s what listening is. Sometimes it’s inviting them for a walk or even just sitting on the couch together.” Gill’s gentle prompt: “Join that group. Try that class. Explore cultural, religious, wellness, or hobby-based communities. Find people who share your values.”

Mann offers concrete steps for rebuilding connection: “Get out of your comfort zone and engage with others. Visit family and friends. Put down your phone. Find commonalities with people.” As per his experience, vulnerability deepens connection, but so does confidence. Mann suggests, “Engage in self-care that reflects externally. It helps others respond positively to you, and helps you feel more comfortable in your own skin.” He also

"Losing

a spouse—someone who’s been by your

side most of your life— feels like losing a part of yourself. It makes them think about their own mortality and that can be incredibly difficult for someone trying to adjust to a new chapter of life.”

- Kiran Rai Actor, Creative Director, and Filmmaker

reminds us of something timeless: “Help those in need. Volunteering and seva (selfless service) are powerful ways to connect.”

Rai hopes her film is a reminder that empathy is a practice. “We want people to look at the elders in their life and engage in conversation,” she encourages. “Ask them about their childhood, challenges, likes, and dislikes. Document their stories.” She urges families to help elders find community, whether at local senior centers or cultural programs. “Ultimately,” she adds, “all they want and deserve is support and connection.”

Surely, the loneliness epidemic is real, but it is not irreversible. What emerges from these conversations is a blueprint not just for reducing isolation, but for rebuilding a culture of care. It asks us to be present enough to both initiate and receive; be brave enough to reach out and humble enough to reach back.

NEW YEAR REFLECTIONS

BETWEEN TRADITION AND TOMORROW IN A DESI HOME

By Dr. Shimi Kang and Devinder Dhaliwal

As the calendar turns to a new year, South Asian households worldwide buzz with energy—and a slightly predictable set of family resolutions. For the Desi parent generation, goals are often etched in the bedrock of tradition, while their digital-native children aim for peaks uncharted by the previous generation. This annual ritual is a humorous and heartwarming collision of worlds. Picture this: on one side of the living room, parents meticulously detailing their goals. On the other hand, their child is drafting a vision board full of travel snaps and tech jargon.

For many parents, resolutions center on family: saving for education or weddings, maintaining health with traditional remedies, and strengthening connections. Their focus is stability—a secure roof, a fit body, and a united household. By contrast, their children’s goals reflect global connectivity and individual purpose. Career growth, side hustles, financial independence, and

Dr. Shimi Kang MD, FRCPC Mental Wealth, Addiction & Motivation Specialist, Global Speaker, Media Expert & #1 Best-selling Author, Clinical Associate Professor, UBC

Dr. Shimi Kang is an award-winning Harvard-trained doctor, researcher, and keynote speaker specializing in the science of motivation. She founded Future-Ready Minds, is the host of ‘Mental Wealth with Dr. Shimi Kang’ on YouTube, and is the author of the #1 national bestselling parenting book ‘The Dolphin Parent.’ Her work focuses on mental health, addiction, and brain-related conditions, offering assessments and treatments like psychedelic-assisted therapy and more.

mental health practices dominate, with travel and experiences seen as essential markers of growth. For them, life is measured in moments, not assets.

The beauty of the family lies in its resilience and desire to support one another. The secret to a peaceful New Year is understanding, not judgment. Parents can validate rather than critique their children’s focus on mental health, while children can appreciate that their parents’ obsession with saving stems from lived histories of economic uncertainty. Partnership goals—like walking together for fitness while discussing career dreams—create bridges. Sharing tools and wisdom across generations transforms differences into strengths. In this way, the 2026 resolutions in a Desi household become less about division and more about dialogue, weaving tradition and modernity into a shared fabric. Renewal, however, is not just about resolutions written on paper—it is about the deeper choices of hab-

its, relationships, and mindsets that families carry forward or leave behind. Daily rituals like morning walks, shared meals, and disciplined financial practices are anchors of identity and re silience. These are worth carrying for ward. At the same time, the new year offers a chance to release habits that drain us: overwork that erodes health, negative self-talk that diminishes confi dence, or endless comparisons that fuel dissatisfaction. Renewal begins with this honest inventory—keeping what strengthens us and leaving behind what weakens us.

It also extends to the relation ships we cultivate. Family and commu nity ties remain central to South Asian well-being, offering continuity across generations. The new year is an oppor tunity to nurture these bonds—calling elders, spending time with uplifting friends, and deepening connections that bring joy. Equally important is recognizing where boundaries are

Perhaps the most powerful renewal lies in the mindsets we choose to carry forward. Resilience, gratitude,

and curiosity deserve cultivation, while guilt, fear of judgment, and scarcity thinking can be released. For many South Asians, this is about reframing tradition: honoring heritage while stepping into a more confident, expansive self. By shifting our inner narrative, we align our actions with growth and possibility. In 2026, parents secure the roof while digital natives chase the sky. Together, they can build a year that balances roots and wings.

Devinder Dhaliwal

Registered Clinical Social Worker

Devinder Dhaliwal is a Registered Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience in mental health, addictions, and family support. He holds a Master of Social Work and has operated a successful private practice for over seven years. His professional background includes working with youth at risk of gang involvement, individuals experiencing homelessness, and families navigating complex relationship challenges. Raised in Abbotsford and now based in Chilliwack, Devinder values community, family, and lifelong learning, and enjoys golf, travel, and time with his three sons.

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■

Sonia Virk

Jagmeet Virk

How A ‘One-Man NGO’

Has Saved 30+ Million Liters of Water Since 2007

By Aprameya VN

It's Bombay (now Mumbai) from the 1940s. A young boy from present-day Gujarat lived with his large family on the streets of Mumbai. Every night, he and his father slept on the footpath while the others in his family slept inside a one-room home. Every morning, he witnessed fights for each and every drop of water. Even decades later, he could not forget his childhood struggles with clean water.

Meet Abid Surti, the world-renowned writer, painter & cartoonist, who established the Drop Dead Foundation in 2007 to conserve water. "The childhood trauma of lacking clean water made me hyper-sensitive to any leakage of water," said the 90-year-old Surti. He recollected his earliest battle to save water: "I was at a friend's home many years ago. While we were sitting in the living room, I could hear drops of water leaking from a tap. I told my friend about this, but he casually dismissed the matter.” This incident, Surti said, strengthened his resolve to stop water wastage and sowed the seed of Drop Dead Foundation.

After a successful career, during which he created the popular comic characters ‘Dabbuji’ & ‘Bahadur’, Surti decided to dedicate his life to fixing one leaking tap at a time. "I made a rough calculation of the monthly expenses, which came to about Rs 5,000 per month. Then, I decided to take the plunge," he said. The monthly expense, he said, included the

plumber fee and the cost of repairing taps. Until the COVID-19 pandemic, Surti & his plumber fixed at least 400 water leakages every year in Mumbai. "To convince society members, we shared our pamphlets, which provided details of our work and mission," he said. Once the approvals were in place, Surti and his team went about fixing leakages on Sunday. All free of charge. The plumber used to be paid Rs 500 per week for his services. His initiative received a tremendous response. He and his team used to tell society members that a thousand liters of water going down the drain every month is equal to wasting a thousand one-liter water bottles. Thanks to his decade-long efforts, Surti is credited with

successfully saving at least 30 million liters of water in Mumbai.

In 2017, 10 years after launching Drop Dead Foundation, Surti decided to register his organization. "For several years, many well-wishers wanted to monetarily contribute to my initiative. So, they convinced me to register my foundation," he said. Surti, who leads a Spartan life, said that luck has always been on his side. "In 2007, the Uttar Pradesh government awarded me the Hindi Sahitya Sanstha Award. The prize money of Rs 1 lakh helped in funding the foundation."

He was once invited to Kaun Banega Crorepati, which is hosted by Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan. The veteran actor presented Surti with a cheque of ₹15 lakh. "It was too large an amount. I didn't know what to do with it. However, he insisted that I use it to do even more for saving water," Surti said. "If your intentions are noble, then you don't need to beg for funds. God will work in mysterious ways to help you," he added.

Surti's life took an unexpected turn amid the COVID-19 lockdown. Suddenly, he could no longer visit homes. But he remained undeterred. He pivoted from residences to public establishments, such as police stations and public toilets, across the city.

Surti also made full use of his creative skills to spread the message of water conservation. He began creating posters with messages from various religions, emphasizing the importance of conserv-

"

Water conservation is my lifelong pursuit. It will continue till my last breath. Save every drop of water before you drop dead.”

- Abid Surti Founder, Drop Dead Foundation

ing water. "Indians are deeply religious. So, I decided to use noble teachings from every religion to drive my point,” he said. For instance, Surti designed posters with a photo of Lord Ganesha and a quote, “Arey balak jab paani nahi hoga to mera visarjan kaha karoge?”

The initiative became an instant hit, with people from all walks of life –from policemen to even foreigners – asking him for these posters. Thanks to his creative posters, the nonagenarian feels his 'save water' mission has become a global movement.

Surti said his posters have had a visible impact on how people conserve water. "Mosques have a wazookhana, where people perform ablution. At one wazookhana, I saw a lot of water wasted. I pasted a poster with words from Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). It had a big impact as the water wastage reduced considerably." Surti is not done yet. He is a man brimming with ideas. Even before he began creating posters, Surti wanted to turn water conservation into a mass movement. In 2017, he organized a traditional rain dance at Churchgate railway station to spread his message.

“Water conservation is my lifelong pursuit. It will continue till my last breath,” said Surti, who is also known as the one-man NGO. He also has a message for the readers of DARPAN: “Save every drop of water before you drop dead.”

My New Indian Kitchen began as a feeling more than an idea, a shared spark between Chef Vikram Vij and his partner Jennifer Muttoo during years of wandering through markets, kitchens, and unfamiliar cities together. Somewhere between the steam of a clay cup of chai in Delhi and the quiet warmth of a Moroccan home kitchen, they began to see a truth reflected in their own lives: Indian cooking today isn’t confined to tradition. It breathes, travels, absorbs, transforms, shaped as much by memory as by spice, and it deserves a cookbook that honors that kind of freedom.

MY NEW

INDIAN

KITCHEN

A LOVE STORY OF FOOD, TRAVEL, AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY VIKRAM VIJ & JENNIFER MUTTOO

By Naina Grewal

Vij shares, “Travel taught us to think beyond borders—seeing Indian spices in Marrakech, Canadian ingredients transforming a Goan curry, or a chaat tasting different in every place. In our kitchen, these influences merge naturally. The recipes became a reflection of that journey, grounded in Indian technique, yet shaped by the world we’ve explored together.” It is precisely this blend that became the heartbeat of My New Indian Kitchen, a celebration of tradition and also of all the places and memories that shaped how Vij and Muttoo cook today. Undoubtedly, the cookbook grew from moments collected over years, be it home cooks in Morocco, fishermen in Kerala, or street vendors in Punjab. While the book is rooted in food, its soul is found in Muttoo’s photography—vibrant, hardworking, chaotic, and beautifully alive. Rather than styling plates under oh-so-perfect lighting, she turned her lens toward the spirit of India. “I wanted to bring the country’s colors, movement, and everyday life into the book. For me, the images are a love letter to India, encapsulating its markets, landscapes, and the small moments that stay with you long after you’ve returned home,” expresses

Muttoo.

My New Indian Kitchen is an ode to Vij’s instinctive, emotion-driven cooking colliding playfully with Muttoo’s thoughtful, detail-oriented creativity. The dynamic duo reveal that behind the scenes were late nights, lively debates, and bursts of laughter sparked by everything from spilled spices to frantic final edits. Out of that dance came dishes that reflect exactly who they are as a couple. Vij’s now-famous Chicken Schnitzel with Butter Chicken Sauce merges his Austrian upbringing with his Indian roots, while Muttoo’s Chai Tiramisu reimagines an Italian classic through the warmth of spiced tea.

The cookbook, available for purchase on Amazon and Indigo, is an invitation for people to explore spices with confidence, understand the “why” behind each technique, and feel empowered to adapt recipes to their own lives. Vij and Muttoo detail, “More than anything, we want readers to connect with the stories, memories, and emotions woven through every dish. If someone finishes the book feeling inspired, curious, and excited to cook, then we’ve done our job.” Undoubtedly, My New Indian Kitchen isn’t meant to sit untouched on a shelf, but meant to be cooked from, spilled on, bookmarked, and loved, serving as an open invitation to play, to taste, and ultimately, to make Indian food your own.

Ivor Petrak's Goulash

Indian Tiramisu

Ingredients Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped

• 1 lb stewing beef, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon pepper

• 2 tablespoons Hungarian sweet paprika

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 4 cups beef stock

• 2 carrots, sliced

• 1 large potato, diced

• 1 green bell pepper, seeded, deveined, and diced

• 1 large tomato, diced

• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds

• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• 1 bay leaf

• ¼ cup chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish

• Crusty bread or dumplings, to serve

Directions

1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened and golden.

2. Add cumin seeds, increase the heat to mediumhigh, and sauté for 2 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute. Add beef, season with salt and pepper, and brown for 5-7 minutes on all sides.

3. Stir in the paprika and tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors. Pour in the stock and 2 cups of water.

4. Add carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Stir in caraway seeds, marjoram, garam masala, and the bay leaf.

5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1½-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender and flavors are well-developed.

6. Season to taste with more salt, pepper, and /or paprika. Discard bay leaf.

7. Ladle the hot goulash into serving bowls, garnish with parsley (or cilantro), and serve with crusty bread or dumpling

For Masala Chai Syrup:

• 4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed

• 2 cloves

• 1 small cinnamon stick

• 1 star anise

• 1 piece (½ inch) ginger, sliced

• 2 tablespoons black tea leaves, such as English breakfast

• ½ cup sugar

For Flavored Mascarpone:

• 1 cup mascarpone cheese

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup icing sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

To Assemble:

• 24 ladyfinger biscuits

• ¼ cup cocoa powder, for dusting

• ½ cup finely chopped pistachios or almonds (optional)

Directions

For Masala Chai Syrup:

1. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add all the ingredients, except for sugar, and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in sugar until dissolved and simmer for another 5 minutes. Strain syrup, then set aside to cool completely.

For Flavored Mascarpone:

2. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

For Assembly:

3. Dip a ladyfinger into the cooled syrup. (Do not soak them, just a quick dip to absorb some flavor.) Place it in a 6*12-inch dish (or use individual serving glasses). Repeat with more ladyfingers until the bottom of the dish is fully covered. Spread a layer of the mascarpone mixture on top, using about half of it.

4. Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers and mascarpone.

5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld.

6. To serve, top the tiramisu with a dusting of cocoa powder. Garnish with pistachios or almonds (if using).

Born from an unbridled passion for design, Hyderabadbased designer Aisha Rao’s eponymous label has, since its inception in 2018, quietly redefined modern luxury. With a distinctive approach to color, form, and technique, the brand has been creating pieces that go beyond mere trends.

Aisha Rao’s WILD AT HEART

2.0

A Love Letter to Nature’s Untamed Beauty

By Shweta Kulkarni

A seamless amalgamation of spirited artistry, meticulous craftsmanship and modern sensibility, Aisha Rao’s designs have garnered an ardent following among Bollywood’s most stylish names. From Athiya Shetty, Janhvi Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Diana Penty, Shanaya Kapoor, Shilpa Shetty, Mira Kapoor, Mrunal Thakur, Rakul Preet Singh, Taapsee Pannu to Neha Dhupia, Sania Mirza, Tamannaah Bhatia, Sara Ali Khan, Kajol, Huma Qureshi, Kajal Aggarwal, Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna and Ayushmann Khurrana, the label has become a hot favorite among celebrities.

The label is best known for its maximalist aesthetic—a heady mix of fantasy, nature, and art brought to life through vibrant color palettes and Aisha Rao’s signature appliqué work. Rao began her career in law, earning a degree from NUJS, before following her true calling to Barcelona’s IED to study design. This was followed by advanced training in Sewing and Garment Construction at Parsons, New York. This global exposure, combined with an understanding of Indian crafts, became the backbone of her design philosophy.

What started as an experiment with upcycled occasion wear has today evolved into a full-fledged fashion house rooted in individuality. Modern silhouettes crafted from exceptional materials form the core of the brand. Rao’s signature appliqué technique, which uses fabric waste to create vibrant motifs with an overlay of aari, zardozi, and macramé, adds depth and texture to every piece created. The result is an eclectic mix of delicate detailing and maximalist expression, which feels contemporary yet timeless. This design aesthetics continue to shape the brand today, with each collection challenging preconceived notions of luxury and couture. The brand’s latest offering, Wild at Heart 2.0, is a quiet yet powerful reflection of this very philosophy.

While the original Wild at Heart edit was an exuberant celebration of imagination, Wild at Heart 2.0 deepens that spirit, becoming darker, richer, and more assured in its wildness. It is the continuation of a story that began with fantasy and flora, now reimagined in twilight tones and molten metallics.

Unveiled at India Couture Week 2025, the Wild at Heart collection was a maximalist love letter to nature in all its untamed beauty. Speaking about it, Aisha Rao shared, “It is not about restraint. It is about living a little louder, carrying joy like second skin, and letting everyday moments feel like poetry. The silhouettes reflected that duality—sharp yet soft, blazers laced with theatre, lehengas draped with memory, florals stitched with a sense of nostalgia. For us, couture is not excess; it is expression. And Wild at Heart is created for the bride who refuses to blend in—wild, graceful, and unapologetically herself.”

Wild at Heart 2.0 is a natural progression of this philosophy. At its heart, the collection remains a love letter to nature’s untamed beauty, but this time it is seen through a more introspective lens. Black plays a key role, grounding the collection, while shades of gunmetal, silver, rust, mustard, cantaloupe, teal and ivory add depth, evoking the feeling of light and shadow coming together.

Aisha Rao’s quintessential appliqué technique once again takes center stage in this edit, creating surreal, sculptural, and richly textured silhouettes. Crafted from raw silks, organzas, dupions, and Banarasi tissues, the garments effortlessly strike a balance between structure and ease. Draped saris, sculpted lehengas, sharply tailored bandhgalas, fluid kaftans, corseted gowns, shararas, and statement gowns all find space in the Wild at Heart 2.0 edit. Geometry dances with whimsy, embroidery glints with metallic sheen, and fantasy is given tangible form, lending the collection an almost dreamlike quality.

What further sets Wild at Heart 2.0 apart is its free-spirited confidence. While bold expression remains at the core, the collection feels more refined and assured. As described by the label itself, “It is a refined take on bold expression, where structure meets movement and intricate appliqué defines the collection’s unmistakable character.”

Further capturing the spirit of the collection, the brand notes, “Wild at Heart 2.0 is an invitation to embrace evolution—to stay wild but wear that wildness with quiet confidence. It celebrates imagination not just as escape, but as return—to oneself, to wonder, to everything that catches the heart before it catches the eye.”

The collection is available at Aisha Rao’s flagship stores in Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi, as well as online at www.aisharao.com and select multi-brand e-stores.

MEET

2026’S HOTTEST HUES

JYOUR GUIDE TO THE YEAR’S BOLDEST BEAUTY

By Michele Marko

ust as the new year starts with astrological predictions for the next 12 months, so does trend forecasting for design, fashion, and beauty. One of the most high-profile predictions is what determines the most influential colors for the year—those shades you see everywhere, be it on paint, household items, clothing, or beauty products.

Pantone’s Cloud Dancer White, while evocative of lightness and airiness, might not be a shade effortlessly worked into a makeup look as some of the hues they’ve featured in previous years. Conversely, Benjamin Moore’s Silhouette AF-655, which is described as “a distinctive color that weaves luxurious burnt umber with delicate notes of charcoal,” could well work into a number of schemes, as would global trend forecaster Worth Global Style Network’s (WGSN) choice—Transformative Teal. “A fluid fusion between dependable dark blue and aquatic green, this is the color for a period of change and redirection,” states WGSN’s website.

Elizabeth Layton, regional education trainer at MAC Cosmetics, confirms that color of the year declarations influence makeup trends in a big way. “Suddenly you find yourself inspired by a shade you may not have considered in

the past, as you are surrounded by inspiration—in clothing, decor, etc. You may find yourself exploring the shade in mood boards and looking for new ways to wear color.”

The question then is not just should we embrace these color trends, but if we do, how should it be done? Unlike home furnishings, makeup is not necessarily a big financial commitment, and if you change your mind, you won’t be stuck with a dated sofa color. Essentially, it’s a playful and low-risk way to indulge in a trend.

Layton advises. Shakeshaft suggests shearing out the teal for a hint of color rather than a dramatic take. “Teal will pop on the skin, so balance the bold color with sheer opacity,” she explains. “One of my favorite ways to do this is to take a soft gold-toned shimmer and mix it with teal. The gold softens the intensity of the blue and makes it more wearable for most people. Once you find your perfect ratio of blue to gold, you can apply a sheer veil of that color to the lid. If you don’t want to mix teal with another color, apply teal as a sheer layer and add balance with a neutral color in the crease.”

Benjamin Moore’s Sihouette,

“I think trend colors are fun, but they aren’t for everyone,” says Michele Shakeshaft, Bobbi Brown national makeup artist. “If you are unsure of a trend color, start by wearing it as a small accent in your overall look, and then build to bolder looks if you really like it. Depending on your personal style, trend colors can be worn boldly and be the focus of your look, or you can wear them as subtle accents.”

agree that both shades are flattering on just about everyone. Layton says teal is ideal for the eyes regardless of eye color or complexion undertone. She notes the blue-green complements the red-orange tones in brown eyes and makes them really pop, while for those with blue-green eyes, it will produce a more monochromatic look, which is equally flattering. “A dash of teal on the lash line will instantly intensify your gaze. Look for MAC Colour Excess Gel Liner in Pool Shark or The Last Word to easily wrap the shade around your lashes. For those who want the versatility of an eyeshadow, which can be used as a liner, accent to the inner corner, or an all-over wash of color,”

described as a deep espresso with notes of charcoal, could be easily worn as a neutral. Layton declares that it’s a shade that will flatter everyone. She suggests experimenting with it as an alternative to a classic black liner.

“Matte eyeshadow shades like Coquette or Print are perfect for this when applied with a 266S Angle Brush for precision,” she advises. “Alternatively, this color in metallic is an iconic smoky eye shadow shade.”

Shakeshaft concurs that Silhouette is suitable for every skin tone. “You’ll want to choose the level of intensity that is right for your skin tone and desired look,” she recommends.

For 2026, the on-trend colors, even in a dramatic application, are not only wearable for everyone, but, as Layton observes, easy to integrate into a daily routine.

“I suggest adding these shades to your everyday look, so they act as an accessory—like a trendy fashion piece you would pair with your favorite jeans and t-shirt.”

It won't be wrong to say that Yoga has been India's greatest export to the world. While Yoga has a deeper philosophical and spiritual significance, the world has also greatly benefited from its numerous health benefits.

Yoga is not the name of a single practice. It comprises thousands of physical exercises, each with its own benefits.

Hatha Yoga is arguably the most popular form. A more physical type of yoga that focuses on breath-controlled exercises is called Pranayama. In fact, Hatha Yoga is the most popular form of Yoga throughout the globe.

CANADIANS IN FIVE TURNING FOR MENTAL HEALTH YOGA TO

By Aprameya VN

Canada is undergoing a major mental health crisis, as noted by an August 2025 survey by Mental Health Research Canada (MHRC).

According to the survey of over 4,600 adult Canadians, 44% of Canadians have reported being diagnosed with a mental health condition at some point in their lives. Diagnoses of depression (32%) and anxiety (30%) are the most common. Without any support from their family or the healthcare system, people diagnosed with a mental health condition are prone to alcohol, cannabis, or opioid usage.

Yoga, however, is turning out to be a popular form of exercise to tackle mental health issues. According to reports, at least one in five Canadians practices yoga. In addition, 9% of Canadians say they do yoga because of its therapeutic effects.

Here's how Yoga can come to the rescue of your mental health:

1) Helps Fight Stress

Yoga exercises, according to medical research, reduce stress hormones and lead to higher levels of endorphins, which provide pain relief. According to a Harvard Health report, Yoga can also increase levels of a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps improve your mood and decrease anxiety. Moreover, meditation helps reduce activity in the limbic system, which regulates emotions. Previous research has suggested that reduced emotional activity leads to a more tempered response to stressful situations.

Marjaryasana to Bitilasana (Cat-Cow Pose):

Start on your hands and knees, inhale, let your belly drop. Then, lift your chest and tailbone while looking forward. Pause for a moment. Then flow into the Cat Pose for balance.

2) Improves Sleep Quality

Regular practice of Pranayama has been linked to better sleep quality. According to a Centre for Disease Control survey, over 55% of yoga practitioners have reported better sleep patterns. The relaxing effect of conscious breathing and gentle body movements is known to help reduce levels of cortisol, which plays a role in causing problems related to sleep disorders. Good sleep helps in improving mental health by regulating mood, sharpening cognitive functions, and processing complex emotions.

3) Enhances Mindfulness

Breathing is an essential component of Yoga. By urging people to focus on their own breathing patterns and body movements, Yoga stresses living in the present. That's mindfulness in a nutshell. Mindfulness helps enhance self-control, develop equanimity, improve concentration, and declutter the mind. As per a 2021 Indian study, Yoga practitioners are higher on mindfulness, empathy & self-transcendence compared to non-practitioners. Being mindful during

Stand up, shift your weight to one foot, and place the other foot on your inner thigh. Lift your arms overhead. Bring your palms together (like a namaste). Keep your head steady. Hold a few deep breaths, then release and repeat.

Yoga also has a physical benefit: It can help practitioners avoid injury.

4) Boost Self-Esteem

Consumerism in a rapidly globalizing world has created a generation of people who often struggle with issues of self-esteem and self-confidence. Nowadays, social media posts on destination weddings, high-end products and glitzy foreign locations have become a way of seeking external validation. On the flip side, many engage with such posts and enter a phase of self-doubt and low self-esteem. However, Yoga tells people to focus internally, self-introspect, and

Sit cross-legged. Inhale and raise your arms. Then, join the palms (like a namaste) and keep them straight. Maintain the stretch with joined palms, then slowly return. Repeat the process.

Parvatasana (Mountain Pose):

Vrikshasana (Tree Pose):

DARPAN MOVIES

By Shweta Kulkarni

HAPPY PATEL KHATARNAK JASOOS

Release date: January 16, 2026

Directed by: Vir Das

Starring: Vir Das, Mona Singh, Aamir Khan, Imran Khan

January may not boast any blockbuster releases this year, but it does bring the assurance of Aamir Khan’s ‘hatke’ cinema with popular comedian Vir Das holding the directorial baton. The film in question, Happy Patel Khatarnak Jasoos, is a quirky, offbeat spy-comedy starring Vir Das, Mona Singh and Imran Khan, with Aamir Khan popping in for a cameo. While the plotline remains tightly tucked away, Vir Das, who makes his directorial debut with this film, said in an interview, “I have very cinematic dreams, there’s camera angles, there’s a soundtrack... I don’t know yet if I am any good as a director. But I know it’s what I have been searching for.” With Aamir Khan producing the film, expectations are already sky-high

Cinephiles have plenty to look forward to in 2026. The year is serving up a tantalizing cocktail of passion projects, high-octane action dramas, gripping spy sagas, sweeping romances, patriotic tales and real-life narratives. Here’s a peek at the Hindi films and series that already have fans buzzing.

THE REVOLUTIONARIES (Series)

Release date: To be announced

Directed by: Nikkhil Advani

Starring: Bhuvan Bam, Rohit Saraf, Pratibha Ranta, Gurfateh Pirzada, Jason Shah

Based on Sanjeev Sanyal’s widely discussed book Revolutionaries, this period drama, directed by Nikhil Advani, dives into the lesser-known chapters of India’s independence movement. The series follows a group of young revolutionaries who engage in armed resistance against British colonial rule. Nikhil Madhok, director and head of originals, Prime Video, said, "The Revolutionaries is an ambitious and deeply meaningful project for us, and we are delighted to once again join forces with our long-time collaborator Nikkhil Advani and the talented team at Emmay Entertainment.”

Release date: February 13, 2026

Directed by: Vishal Bhardwaj

Starring: Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri O’ ROMEO

The Bard of Indian Cinema, Vishal Bhardwaj, returns to the big screen after three years, and naturally, the excitement is at an all-time high. O’ Romeo is another passion project by the maestro, who has given us iconic films like Maqbool, Omkara, Kaminey and Haider. The film is an action-thriller with Shahid Kapoor taking on a complex and intense lead role. Given Bhardwaj and Kapoor’s history with Kaminey and Haider, cinephiles’ enthusiasm for this one is understandably off the charts.

Amazon Prime Video

OPERATION SAFED SAGAR (Series)

Release date: To be announced

Directed by: Oni Sen

Starring: Siddharth, Jimmy Shergill, Abhay Verma, Mihir Ahuja

Based on true events, Operation Safed Sagar is another web series to look forward to in 2026. Operation Safed Sagar was the code name assigned to the Indian Air Force's role in acting jointly with the Indian Army during the 1999 Kargil war that was aimed at flushing out regular and irregular troops of the Pakistani Army from vacated Indian Positions in the Kargil sector along the Line of Control. Since its announcement, the series has created significant buzz among viewers and history enthusiasts alike.

LOVE & WAR KING

Release date: August 14, 2026

Directed by: Sanjay Leela Bhansali

Starring: Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is returning to the big screen with yet another epic romantic saga with an equally epic casting, and cinephiles are obviously losing their calm. Speaking about the film, Bhansali said, “It is a love story that I am making after a long time. A slightly contemporary work, different from the dances, pillars, architecture, drapes, curtains and jewelry. It’s a new language, milieu, and ambience for me.” Bhansali has never failed to impress, and one can’t expect anything less from Love & War

Release date: To be announced

Directed by: Siddharth Anand

Starring: Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone

Shah Rukh Khan teaming up again with Siddharth Anand after Pathaan is enough for fans to start booking tickets in advance. King is being touted as India’s biggest action film yet, with massive action sequences shot across real locations. And SRK, sporting a rugged tattooed look with salt-and-pepper hair in the teaser, has already sent fans into a frenzy. While the details are strictly under wraps, SRK promises King to be a solid entertainer. Speaking at an event, SRK said, “I can’t tell you much because my director, Siddharth Anand, is very strict. But I can assure you it will be entertaining, and you will love watching it in theatre.” We certainly can’t wait.

ALPHA

Release date: April 17, 2026

Directed by: Shiv Rawail

Starring: Alia Bhatt, Sharvari

After hugely successful films like Tiger, Pathaan, and War, YRF is expanding its spy universe with Alpha—the first female-led film in its spy-verse. Headlining the project is the feisty Alia Bhatt, joined by the rising star Sharvari. Both these power gals will be seen playing super-agents. The title announcement featured Alia delivering a powerful line: “Greek alphabet ka sabse pehla akshar aur humare program ka motto… sabse pehle, sabse tezz, sabse veer. Dhyaan se dekho toh har sheher mein ek jungle hai. Aur jungle mein hamesha raj karega… ALPHA!” With slick action and two formidable female leads at its core, Alpha is set to create serious mayhem on the big screen.

If the thought of braving a treacherous path, irrespective of blistering sun or bone-chilling cold, gives you an adrenaline surge like no other, then this article is for you. From the iconic Everest base camp tucked in the Himalayan ranges to Africa’s towering Kilimanjaro, to Europe’s majestic Mont Blanc, and Canada's Mount Logan, we have rounded up seven of the most epic hikes on the planet. Each trek promises a unique mix of beautiful scenery, physical challenge, and soul-stirring accomplishment, which will leave you breathless, of course, in the best way possible.

Epic Hikes Every True Adventure Junkie Must Try

Mount Everest Base Camp, Nepal

Reaching the pinnacle of Earth’s highest mountain, Mount Everest, is the ultimate dream for seasoned mountaineers. However, standing at its foot is an equally powerful experience, minus the life-threatening risks and year-long preparations. Situated in Nepal, the Everest Base Camp trek, though challenging, is a far more achievable feat, offering all the thrill and

chill of the majestic Himalayas. Starting in Lukla, the route climbs to an altitude of around 5,364 meters and offers some of the most awe-inspiring views on the planet. The trek takes about 13-15 days, and the biggest test is the high altitude and the rugged terrain; hence, excellent fitness is essential.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Towering at 5,895 meters, Mount Kilimanjaro is the world’s highest free-standing mountain and arguably the most accessible of the Seven Summits. Formed after volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, this African jewel is famed for its five distinct ecological zones ranging from lush, humid rainforests to alpine deserts and, eventually, the famous snow-capped summit, which is known as the Uhuru Peak. While altitude remains the main challenge of this 7-day hike, the climb demands no technical expertise, just dedication, willpower, and an adventurous spirit.

Cordillera Huayhuash, Peru

The Cordillera Huayhuash is a remote, rugged, and scenic high-altitude trek, which is considered one of the ten best hiking circuits in the world. The Huayhuash range boasts seven peaks soaring above 6,000 meters. Among them, Yerupajá rises to 6,617 meters, making

Mont Blanc, France/Italy

Mont Blanc, literally meaning the ‘white mountain’, is the largest peak in Western Europe. Rising at about 4,805.6 meters, Mont Blanc offers a tantalizing mix of alpine charm, dramatic ridgelines, and thrilling adventure. The trek, also known as Tour du Mont Blanc, is one of the most iconic multi-day alpine treks in the world, covering 170 kilometers, climbing more than 10,000 meters, and weaving through three Alpine regions in France, Italy, and Switzerland. The 7-day trek is both demanding and deeply rewarding.

it Peru’s second-highest mountain. Another peak, Siula at 6,344 meters, gained worldwide fame through the harrowing story told in Touching the Void. This 15-day trek is not for the faint-hearted and is perfect for hikers seeking an off-grid adventure.

Mount Logan, Canada

Majestic, remote, and almost surreal, Mount Logan, the highest mountain in Canada, is a hiker’s paradise. Rising to 5,959 meters, Mount Logan is not only famed for its height but also for its sheer girth, which makes it the most massive mountain in the world. What’s more interesting: it is still getting taller, as the tectonic plates beneath it continue to shift and expand. The 21-day trek to Mount Logan is not just a climb; it is a rigorous test of endurance, skill, and determination, but once you make it, the reward is unmatched, with 360-degree views of endless mountain ranges and frozen landscapes that feel otherworldly.

Matterhorn, Switzerland

Sitting tall at 4,478 meters, with a near-perfect pyramidal shape, the mighty Matterhorn is the symbol of the Alps, drawing trekkers from across the world. The full circuit around the Matterhorn can be done in around 7–10 days, and is a picturesque trail traversing high valleys, panoramic ridgelines, and the quintessential alpine villages of the Zermatt region. It is one of the most exhilarating trekking experiences in the Alps and Europe.

Pouākai Circuit, New Zealand

The Pouākai Circuit on Taranaki’s slopes is one of the most spectacular trekking loops in New Zealand, which takes you through rainforests, tussock highlands, alpine swamps, and volcanic landforms. The circuit is approximately 29 km long with significant elevation changes and takes over 2-3 days to complete. The track is moderately challenging but rewards trekkers with iconic reflections of Mount Taranaki and some of the most beautiful areas of Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki, formerly known as Egmont National Park.

A Musical Evening

By Kamal Sharma

Celebrating 'DHARMENDRA'

Vancouver came together to celebrate the life and legacy of Bollywood legend Dharmendra, in a special tribute organized by Kamal Sharma. From emotional renditions of his timeless melodies to touching reflections on his illustrious journey, the night was a reminder of why Dharmendra remains one of Indian cinema's most beloved icons.

LAVA Events' Band Baaja Baarat NYE

Gala

Hosted by Lava Events and Face 2 Face Salon, Surrey rang in 2026 with a grand Band Baaja Baarat Bollywood Night at the Royal King Palace. Featuring international Bollywood DJ Avneet, the night delivered high-energy Bollywood beats, Punjabi and desi vibes, a packed dance floor, and a spectacular New Year countdown—making it one of Surrey’s biggest and most vibrant New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Cricket Canada’s Men’s Team Gets Rousing T20 World Cup Send-Off

Cricket Canada's National Men's Team received a warm send-off at Brampton City Hall. As the team gears up for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, it's a proud moment for the entire Canadian cricket community.

PICTURES COURTESY: AZIZ LADHA, A MASTER MEDIA

Hebah&Wilson

Q: How did you two meet, and what was your first impression of each other?

We met in school when we were both in our undergraduate degrees at the University of British Columbia. Both of us were volunteering together to support incoming UBC students’ transitions to university in the Faculty of Science. We didn’t have very great first impressions of each other, actually! Hebah thought Wilson was “too cool for school”, and Wilson thought Hebah was a “teacher’s pet”. But once we actually sat down and talked to each other, we realized we had a lot in common.

Q: Describe your wedding day for us. Did you have a favorite part of the wedding?

Our wedding day was simultaneously the most perfect and the most exhausting day! We had our Mehndi celebration the day before, so we were exhausted from that and had to wake up early to get ready. Despite all of that, it was extremely exciting, and we were simply so overjoyed to be married to each other and have our dearest family and friends around us. Our favorite part was the reception, and specifically sitting with our families while they watched a special video that we had prepared for our parents.

Q: Tell us more about your reception.

Our reception was hosted at the Aria Banquet Hall, which was fantastic in helping us with the preparation and execution! We were very focused on

the little details in our reception, from the name cards at each table to our little ‘wedding magazine’ we created. We also incorporated different elements of both our cultures throughout — for example, having red and gold as the central color theme, as they are regal colors in both our cultures. We really tried to focus on our gratitude for each other and our families at our reception, where we did our best to incorporate special moments dedicated to our families and friends who are near and dear to us.

Q: Were any specific traditions or customs particularly important to include in your wedding?

During all of our events, we ensured to integrate components that represented our individual and shared cultures. For example, at our reception, we played the “Joota Chhupai” game, and at our Taiwanese event, we went around to each table to greet every single person!

Q: Where did you honeymoon?

We went to Thailand (Chiang Mai), Indonesia (Bali), and Japan (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka) this summer for a couple of weeks!

Q: Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?

We wish we had taken the time to enjoy the food at our wedding more!

Q: What do you love the most about one another?

Wilson: Hebah’s kindness and ability to actively listen to everyone around her and make them feel heard & special. Hebah: Wilson’s patience, kindness, and consideration for everyone around him.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to couples planning their wedding, what would it be?

There can be a lot of pressure to “get it right”. Make sure to incorporate elements, traditions, or experiences that feel like “you” and are important for you, as it can be really easy to lose yourself in the overall wedding planning process!

DRIVING INTO

2026

By Benjamin Yong

AYear and try to envision what the next 12 months will bring, one thing is for certain—electric vehicles aren’t going anywhere. In fact, it’s quite the opposite, as consumers can expect to see auto manufacturers rolling out EVs in even more shapes and sizes moving forward. Here are five of Darpan’s favorite future models that may be coming soon to a road near you.

FIVE MOST ANTICIPATED FUTURE EVs THE

In yet another sporty-car-turnedcrossover, Acura is set to resurrect the RSX badge in the latter half of 2026 and slap it onto a compact SUV. The prototype was revealed at Monterey Car Week in a bright Propulsion Yellow Pearl color—inspired by the Performance EV Concept shown at the event a year prior—and the production version will be the first zero-emissions offering made in-house, rather than piggybacking off General Motors technology a la the ZDX.

Acura RSX Prototype

The coupe-style vehicle features a pointy grille-less nose, flared wheel arches, big multi-spoke 21-inch wheels, Brembo brakes, dual-motor all-wheel drive, sport-tuned suspension, and the ability to act as a backup power source for the home. ASIMO OS infotainment software is also debuting, which possesses machine learning capable of predicting user music preferences and driver behavior to provide a tailored motoring experience.

BMW iX3

When the BMW iX3 arrives later this year, the small “Sports Activity Vehicle” showcases an all-new electric platform built at the recently constructed factory in Debrecen, Hungary. The novel

design language reverses contemporary course and shrinks down the signature kidney grille, oriented vertically, as a nod to heritage examples from the 60s. Measuring 4,782 millimeters long, 1,895 millimeters wide, and 1,635 millimeters tall, the cargo capacity behind the second row is rated at 520 liters with another 58 liters under the hood.

Twin motors on the initial 50 xDrive variant create 469 horsepower, and the high-voltage 108.7-kilowatthour battery yields up to 805 kilometers of range. The 800-volt architecture allows DC fast charging to a maximum of 400 kilowatts, and a compatible Level 3 charger can get the energy level from 10 to 80 percent in 21 minutes. Inside, the Panoramic iDrive user interface combines a fresh take on a pillar-topillar head-up display, multi-function steering wheel, and more.

Ferrari Elettrica

Ferrari is readying its foray into the EV world with the announcement of the Elettrica (working name), though the supercar maker hasn’t divulged whether the upcoming automobile is going to be a car or SUV. All that’s known currently is there’s a chassis ready to go, and the finished 2,300-kilogram product will have short overhangs and a 122-kilowatt-hour battery completely integrated into the floor pan to achieve a low center of gravity and optimal handling.

A pair of motors found on each axle together output well north of a staggering 1,000 horsepower, top speed is 310 kilometers per hour, and the normally all-wheel drive layout can convert to rear-wheel drive when greater efficiency is needed, for example, on the highway. Everything rides on an active suspension system, also used on siblings such as the Purosangue and F80, jointly developed by Canadian engineering and manufacturing company Multimatic.

Audi Concept C

When the original Audi TT launched all the way back in 1998, the diminutive sports car was a game changer due to its unique “Bauhaus” styling, thenground-breaking virtual cockpit introducing a fully digital instrument cluster in lieu of the traditional analog variety, and a zippy turbocharged engine. The Concept C is its spiritual successor: a rear-wheel drive roadster with a Targa-like hardtop, razor-thin head and tail lamps, and a new slim vertical grille design. Anchoring the interior of the two-seater is a 10.4-inch display that folds away when minimizing distractions is desired. The rest of the space is tastefully appointed and minimalistic, utilizing plenty of fabric, leather, and aluminum materials. The absence of a rear window might be an issue, though the three louvres behind

the cabin do look cool, the bottom one concealing a brake light. A retail model is anticipated for 2027.

Out of all the mainstream car companies, Hyundai/Genesis is arguably taking the driver’s seat (pun intended) in creating fun, enthusiastfocused vehicles at an obtainable price point—i.e., any of the N variants, or the G70. Magma is a new performance sub-brand, akin to BMW’s M, and the first to receive the go-fast treatment is the GV60. In addition to the obvious orange paint, the crossover boasts a 20-millimetre lower ride height, widened fenders, aggressive body aero, 21-inch wheels, and a chunky lower waist spoiler.

An electric motor found at each axle together generates a net 609 horsepower and 546 lb-ft of torque, increasing to 650 and 583 when the temporary 15-second Boost Mode is activated. Sitting on electronically controlled suspension, special tuning strikes a balance between tight handling and ride comfort. There’s even a drift mode, which takes advantage of the e-LSD to send more power to the rear for some tail-happy fun. Production begins this year.

Genesis GV60 Magma

2026

PORSCHE CAYENNE

E-HYBRID

REFRESHED PLUG-IN HYBRID CROSSOVER ISN’T GOING ANYWHERE

The 1100-plus-horsepower Cay enne Electric is on its way, and Porsche announced that, in the foreseeable future, customers will continue to be able to enjoy internal combustion products such as the third-generation E-Hybrid, which was recently facelifted.

While assisted by gasoline, the new Cayenne PHEV closely resembles the electrified Macan design language, wearing polygonal matrix LED headlights, a bigger front bumper intake with an A-shaped central element, a reworked hood, more defined fenders, a slimmer 3-D tail lamp bar and a license plate holder repositioned further down. Zoom out, though, and the overall styling stays true to the original look.

By Benjamin Yong

HIGHLIGHTS

MSRP: $142,300

MOTOR: 3.0-LITER TURBOCHARGED V6 + ELECTRIC MOTOR

HORSEPOWER: 463 @ 5,400 RPM

TORQUE (LB-FT): 479 @ 1,400 RPM

GEARBOX: EIGHT-SPEED AUTOMATIC

LAYOUT: FRONT ENGINE, ALL-WHEEL DRIVE

FUEL ECONOMY: 15.7 L/100 KM MIXED CITY/HIGHWAY (OBSERVED)

Our press loaner also had the SportDesign package (+ $4,110) equipped bundling body-colored aero kit, roof spoiler and gloss black trim, all complementing the optional Exclusive Design 21-inch wheels (+ $3,540), bronze sport exhaust pipes (+ $1,090), and earth-toned Quartzite Grey Metallic paint nicely. Legacy Porsche enthusiasts remember dashboards littered with physical switches, almost all of which got taken away during the industry-wide movement towards touch-based inputs. Thankfully, there’s a nice blend of both now in the freshened cabin. Unfortunately, in the process, the traditional gear knob has been transformed into a small selector lever mounted to the left of the infotainment display; however,

this does free up some storage space in the center console area.

The leather steering wheel still has a nice chunky feel and gains some rotary dials to navigate the 12.6-inch digital instrument cluster. At first glance, media player controls appear to have been omitted, but they are present and just not intuitively labelled. The heated wheel button found behind the lower middle spoke remains one of, if not the most, hidden examples on the market.

Unlike the smaller Macan, the Cayenne actually has a usable cargo area, boasting 545 liters behind the second row, or 1,563 liters if the bench is stowed. Speaking of the rear compartment, it is spacious enough, though possessing a length of 4,930 millimeters and a wheelbase of 2,895 millimeters, I expected a little more legroom at the back.

A tuned version of the returning 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged engine is paired with a new electric motor—and eight-speed automatic transmission—together making 463 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, which is an additional eight ponies compared to before. The 37 less lb-ft of torque isn’t noticeable, as acceleration feels quick as ever for the base plug-in.

Porsche Active Suspension Management is standard, and when the dampers are firmed up in Sport or Sport Plus mode, it feels remarkably taut in the corners and displays minimal body roll. Impressive for a mid-5,000-pound midsized SUV.

A bigger 25.9-kilowatt battery takes two hours and 40 minutes to fully charge via a maximum 11-kilowatt level two source, and a zero-emissions range is somewhere in the neighborhood of 40 kilometers.

Assembled at the luxury automaker’s Bratislava, Slovakia facility, the 2026 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid starts at MSRP $111,000 and is in stores now.

Meet the Dasgupta Family

What inspired you to make the move to Canada, and how has your journey been so far?

I wanted to take a chance and explore something new. I was well settled in India but eager to learn more—if it worked out, wonderful; if not, home would always be home. Thankfully, my journey has been a smooth and fulfilling one.

Where did you first stay when you arrived in Canada?

I stayed with friends for the first two months before finding my own place to rent. I was fortunate to have close friends already living in the city, which made the transition much easier.

How would you describe your experience finding a job in Canada? Did you find it straightforward or challenging?

To find opportunities as a nurse was certainly challenging at first. My first job was at Tim Hortons, where I worked for three weeks before securing a position as a Home Care Service Quality Manager. Day and night soon blurred together—hours were simply hours— but every step brought me closer to my goals.

CANADIAN IMMIGRANTS

SHARE THEIR STORY

Gargi Lahiri Dasgupta, a care coordinator at a long-term care facility, made Canada her home in 2012 alongside her husband, Chandan Dasgupta. They now live in Vancouver, surrounded by family and love, with their sons Debayan and Debatrik, and their daughter-in-law, Mridula Dakshy Dasgupta.

What were some of the biggest surprises or challenges you faced when you first arrived?

Finding a job in my field was a challenge. Even though I held a license from India, I had to update my knowledge of Canadian healthcare programs and medical practices. At the age of 45, I returned to college to pursue my qualification as a Licensed Practical Nurse. It took dedication and hard work, but I was eventually able to make a living doing what I did best.

How has your experience as an immigrant shaped your view of Canada as a country?

People here are genuinely kind, and Canada is truly a mosaic of cultures and backgrounds. Being able to take part in different festivities and traditions is what makes the country so special. A beautiful land, made even more beautiful by its people.

How have you managed to stay connected to your roots while embracing Canadian culture?

Embracing Canadian culture felt natural, given how welcoming and value-driven the society is. At the same time, I’ve been able to celebrate Indian festivals and religious traditions with my community. I’ve never

felt out of place—just as I learned to enjoy global celebrations with friends from different cultures, my friends in Canada have also warmly embraced and celebrated our Indian traditions with me.

What’s one Canadian custom or tradition you’ve come to love?

Human values truly define Canada. The country offers space and opportunity to everyone willing to embrace it—smiling at strangers, spending an evening at English Bay, enjoying the Celebration of Light, or respectfully acknowledging Indigenous land and values are just a few examples. All of this comes together to create the spirit of Canada.

If you could go back in time, would you do anything differently?

Looking back, I could have focused a bit more on my education. While I did earn my LPN license, I should have pursued my RN as well. It would have opened up greater job opportunities and higher earnings.

Proudest Moment in Canada

Being able to carve out a place for myself and feel valued in my profession is my greatest achievement. My proudest moment isn’t a single instance—it’s the entire journey.

Advice for Immigrants

Don’t let setbacks get to you—taking a step back happens to everyone. Just figure out what you really want, think about what makes sense for your career, and keep moving forward. And don’t be scared of taking an education loan if that’s what you need. Plan as much as you can, but stay honest with yourself about your goals and what you’re aiming for.