Desi Express Magazine May 2016

MAY 2016

WWW.DESIEXPRESSUSA.COM

®

“People Confuse Reel Chemistry with Real Life” ~ Farhan Akhtar ... 14

“It is a Surreal Feeling on being called Bollywood’s Fashionista” ~ Athiya Shetty ... 16

"Living under Public Microscope adds Pressure" ~ RIP Pratyusha … 36

“I’m Middle Class in my Thinking, Trust and Respect are important ” ~ Shilpa Shetty … 66

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PUBLISHER Shamroze Enterprises Inc.

CEO / EDITOR‐IN‐CHIEF S. Lalani, (404-246-3256) sblalani@yahoo.com

DESIGN / LAYOUT Rozina Gadhiya

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Aarti Aggarwal Arul Louis Gauri Sinh Isabella Rauter Nivedita Shashwati Shankar Indo-Asian News Service

CONTRIBUTING IMAGES/PHOTOGRAPHS Photography by Vinod Indo-Asian News Service

DISCLAIMER Shamroze Enterprises Inc and/or Desi Express, reserves the right to refuse advertisements for any reason. All prices of advertisement are subject to change and on availability. The publishers of this magazine assume no responsibility for statements made by their advertisers, nor do they assume responsibility for statements/opinions expressed or implied in the columns/articles of the magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the permission from Shamroze Enterprises Inc, Advertising copy, logos, photos, and artwork appearing in the advertisements are the sole responsibility of individual advertisers, not of Shamroze Enterprises Inc/Desi Express Magazine. All editorial photos are licensed under their respective owners.

DESI EXPRESS MAGAZINE For Advertising in Desi Express (404) 246‐3256 | (404) 644‐5893 Fax: (866) 635‐5804 Email : desiexpress@ymail.com Website: www.desiexpressusa.com P.O. Box 930531, Norcross, GA 30093 06

DESI EXPRESS MAGAZINE

contents BEAUTY SECRETS: Honey for Skin & Hair … 18

THE TRAVELER: India a Discovery Journey… 22

HEALTH & FITNESS: Quick Fitness Fixes … 28

THE FOODIE: Foods to Beat the Heat … 30

PARENTING: View Through Tinted … 32

AROUND TOWN: Kajal Oza Vaidya … 48

AROUND TOWN: BAPS Mandir Celebrates… 50

CHAI LOUNGE: NRI’s Turn to Startups … 56

MOVIE BUZZ: Upcoming Bollywood Movies … 64

BOLLYWOOD BUZZ: Cinema Gupshup ... 66

DID YOU KNOW: Latest News And Gossip … 68

WHAT’S YOUR RASHI: YOUR FORCASTS … 72

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ONE ON ONE

New Delhi (IANS) Ever since the news of his separation from his wife of 15 years emerged, Farhan Akhtar's personal life has been surrounded by rumors of link-ups with his co-actors.

The actor-singer-filmmaker only laughs at it and says people sometimes confuse onscreen chemistry of actors with their real life. Farhan, who announced in January his separation from his celebrity hairstylist wife Adhuna Bhabani, with whom he shares two daughters, Shakya and Akira has been linked to his "Wazir" co-star Aditi Rao Hydari, his "Rock On!! 2" actress Shraddha Kapoor and even with Kalki Koechlin, with whom he worked in film "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara".

Asked why actors end up in the midst of such link -up rumors in the first place, he said "Well, I really don't know why the rumors spread like fire and why the rumors have started. I guess people enjoy what they watch on screen and feel the chemistry that is happening on screen... maybe (they) confuse it with what is happening in real life."

Farhan Akhtar, whose association with contemporary menswear brand Code by Lifestyle has been extended , says there's a change in the fashion code in Bollywood movies as characters have moved towards "real and believable" looks.

"Now when you watch a movie, everyone looks like they belong to the character and even their clothes belong to that character. I think this is a very big change as this has made the experience of watching a movie feel more real and believable.

You can say so much more about a person just by the way they dress, hence, costume plays a huge role in the viewing of a film. And yes, it has definitely changed a lot. Also, being true in terms of fashion, that is being true to who you are, is really important."

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FASHION TRENDS

New Delhi (IANS) She is just one film old, but is already making waves in the tinsel town for her acting skills as well as fashion and style quotient. Actress Athiya Shetty says the tag of Bollywood's fashionista comes with a “strange and surreal feeling”. Athiya, who is daughter of Suniel Shetty, added that she has never made an attempt to “be that person”.

When we asked her about how it feels to be known as one of the fashionable actresses from the younger brigade, she said: “It has always been a strange and surreal feeling because I have never made an effort to try and be that person."

"I think I have to obviously thank my stylist (Ami Patel), who has most importantly given me my personality through my dressing and I think that is what really important.” Sharing her fashion fundas, Athiya said the key to being stylish is to be comfortable with "whatever you are wearing".

"You have to be yourself, you have to be comfortable in your own skin and in your body type and kind of own whatever you are wearing no matter what it is," she added.

Athiya, who is the brand ambassador of Maybelline New York, turned muse for designer Namrata Joshipura for the beauty brand's show at the fourth day of Amazon India Fashion Week (AIFW) AutumnWinter 2016.

"I am thinking about thousand things but I think once you get on the ramp and you see the people cheering for you, you automatically get a sense of energy in front of the live audience," she shared.

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BEAUTY SECRETS

Before dismissing it as too sticky, know that honey was often used by Cleopatra in her milk baths to achieve glowing skin. This food item is rich in antioxidants, great for fighting wrinkles and ageing skin. Further, it is an antibacterial and clarifies skin by opening up the pores and cleaning them. Perfect for the cooler months, honey is a good moisturizer that soothes dry and dull skin as well as adds shine to hair.

Moisturizing Face Masks: A simple mask to freshen up skin, take a spoonful of honey and spread evenly over your face. Rub it into your skin and let it sit for 10-30 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. Another option is mix one tbsp buttermilk, one tsp honey, and one egg yolk. Apply to clean skin and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Facial Cleanser: Looking for a natural way to remove all your make-up? Honey is good at dissolving residue, mixed with a gentle oil.

Combine it with jojoba or coconut oil to create a mixture. Gently rub it into your skin for a couple of minutes and then rinse off with warm water.

Exfoliating Body Scrub: Honey is an excellent moisturizer and when combined with almonds it can be used as a cost-effective natural scrub. Mix equal amounts of ground almonds and honey to create a paste. Rub into your skin gently for a few minutes and rinse with warm water.

Oily Skin Controller: Honey works well on oily skin that is prone to breakout due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It absorbs extra sebum from the skin and offers less chance of skin infection and boils. Mix one teaspoon of fuller’s earth with one teaspoon of honey and one teaspoon of lemon juice. Make a fine paste and apply it all over the face. Leave it for 20 minutes or till it dries then wash it off.

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THE TRAVELER

My entry point to India was Mumbai and, aptly enough, it began with a magnificent view of the Gateway of India and the Arabian Sea from the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. The Taj, of course, is a fairy tale, opulent abode, full of old world charm. My stay in Mumbai was a gastronomic journey of taste and discovery. At the Taj Palace's iconic Masala Art restaurant, I sampled their signature dish the unique local Bombay Tiffin meal, inspired by the famed Dabbawalas whose six-sigma quality delivery system story amazes me.

If the Bombay Tiffin meal opened up the local flavors and wonderful aromas of the city, then my meal at the early 20th century Parsi eatery, Britannia and Co. in South Bombay with Beri Beri Rice Pulav; Raspberry Soda was another fascinating culinary expedition.

Just a few days in India were enough for me to fall in love with the ubiquitous local brew flavored with ginger and cardamom the Masala Chai. While I relished the spicy Indian food, some desserts like carrot fudge (Gajar Ka Halwa) and Gulab Jamun were cherry on the cake.

I could not get over the variety of Indian breads from watching a roomali roti being rolled out in the Gymkhana Club in Delhi, to photographing an entire family dig into a huge bread, the naan, at the table next to mine at the Mughal Sheraton's Peshawar restaurant in Agra.

But food was just one part of my journey of discovery.

Between all the business meetings there was some time to soak in Indian culture and see some impressive monuments.

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My next stop, Delhi, brought me face to face with 1,000 elephants, not in a Jungle Safari, but in the impressively carved Akshardham temple. A drive past the biggest Presidential Palace in the world, the Rashtrapati Bhavan, and the impressive India Gate brought home the grandly classical architecture of Lutyens Delhi.

On my last day I visited the Taj Mahal, which was an undeniably breathtaking experience. When approaching the main entrance, I could feel the excitement rising in a few seconds, and then, I caught my first glimpse of the shining white Taj framed, picturesquely within the shadowy arch of the main gate. I must say it was truly overwhelming and I fell in love at first sight.

While the Taj is incredibly beautiful, what makes the monument really special is the story behind its construction, as explained to us by our Sherpa: Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan had this remarkable ivory white mausoleum built for his dearly beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

It's an ode to love like nothing else and no wonder tourists throng to the Taj. The love story of Mumtaz Mahal reminded me of our own Empress Elisabeth "Sisi".

Perhaps it is this sense of romance that has inspired Indian filmmaker Karan Johar famed for his love stories like "Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham" to choose Vienna as the setting for his upcoming movie, "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil", starring Aishwarya Rai, Anushka Sharma and Ranbir Kapoor. The heart always finds a way to make connections. Vienna and India certainly did!

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SPOTLIGHT: BOOK REVIEW Imagine you are on a treadmill and don't have a pause button or you are driving a car that has no brakes in it. For the individual in either of the situations, death or being seriously hurt is guaranteed. Dr. Gaurav Nigam's first book, "Devil Inside My Mind", reflects this roller-coaster ride of the narrator Amit Saxena and his "unique living profile" with his struggles and triumphs pertaining to his obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). "This is not a text book on OCD. It's a story about winning, about fighting your problems, no matter how bizarre they can be," said Nigam The title of the book brings out the trauma that Saxena faces in his mind, that is, his obsessive compulsive disorder -- a mental issue which absorbs him from his young age and also depicts a true acceptance to the fiend playing havoc in his life.

"I have severe OCD and it's terrible, it's demonic and you have no idea how I feel," is Saxena's confession, which brings out the honesty of the narration. The cover of the book, which portrays a yellowish worn out paper on which words are scribbled, runs parallel with the title and, being struck off at various intervals, appears meaningless, which is the actual state of his life.

The book brings out the vivid insights about Saxena's OCD and its effect on his day-to-day life. Essaying his doomed social life, the book reflects his struggle to fit in, compounded by the quirks associated with his OCD and the shocking and dreadful expressions of what all his mind dictates he do. "I wanted to show a real picture of OCD and the tougher parts of anxiety disorder," Nigam explained. The OCD begins in Saxena, with the desire to become a topper and to conquer the achiever's badge in school. This strong urge becomes the basis of his life and pushes him through gory and dingy lanes.

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The OCD also numbs his already drowned mind with an absolute fear of failure and coerces him to shut the door on his best friend Raj in medical college hostel as the latter flunked in his exam.

Next, the demon advises him to remain free of contamination. In this pursuit, Saxena cuts off names of diseases from medical textbook, thereby rendering them powerless to spread.

The devil also instigates in Saxena the fear of needles and thus he dissects a cushion made of feathers, as he was fearful of it being the main cause of HIV. Nevertheless, in each of the troubles that he faces, the book shows the tireless efforts that Saxena puts in the quest of a way out of the satanic bondages of the OCD. Ultimately, he manages to create an OCD management tool box in which he feeds his body, soul and spirit certain positivity, in the same manner that his OCD in the brain used to feed his sheepish mind with bizarre thoughts.

From controlling his diet to exercising and following strict discipline, he focuses everything on the selfrehabilitation and becomes a worldrenowned pediatrician, rubbing shoulders with the creme-de-la-creme. Saxena leaves a message to the readers by confessing that OCD has put him on top of the world and brought him down but he didn't lose his life over OCD and advises them not to lose theirs either.

"I hope that readers would sense the struggles that people living with OCD go through and a determination for winning through their own problems," Nigam concluded.

Saxena models a cognitive selftherapy and behavior modification such as empowering himself with Mozart's rhythm and harmony to make its place into the inward regions of his soul, enabling him to fight with the compulsions of the demonic thoughts. He satiates his creative mind by rendering a semicircled corner for painting and begins practicing meditation, which gives him the realization of ultimate truth of spirituality. Thus, Saxena begins channelizing the OCD's spurt in a positive manner and starts reigning over everything.

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HEALTH & FITNESS

Every woman deserves to look great and feel good about herself, however, with time constraints and juggling a hectic schedule this may be difficult.

These 20-minute solutions can help you get into shape; especially after spending a tedious day at work.

torso from the floor, so that your muscles contract.

Maintain this position for a second before you lower yourself.

JUMPING JACKS: 50 repeats Stand straight with your feet together. Then simply jump with your feet apart at shoulder-width distance, while simultaneously lifting your hands upwards. When returning to a normal standing position, bend your knees slightly to reduce the impact on knee.

HIP BRIDGES: 10 repeats Lie on your back with your arms flat on the mat, while your palms face downwards. Keep only the heels of your feet touching the floor, then lift your hips up as far as you can. Raise one foot up off the mat, bringing it parallel to the rest of your body. Repeat with the other leg. The muscles you work are your lower back, hamstring and gluteus.

MOUNTAIN CLIMBER: one minute Get down on your hands and knees. Assume a sprinter’s position. Run on the spot, supporting your upper body with the palms of your hands. Remember to keep your back straight. Several muscles are worked out here, including your triceps, deltoid muscles, gluteus, quads, hamstrings and calves.

In addition to these exercises, 15 pushups and squat thrusts for five minutes would be helpful. Attempt to do 20 minutes, three times a week. Eating a balanced diet will only ensure you get into shape sooner. Refrain working out on full stomach,”

CRUNCHES: 15 repeats When performing crunches, ensure you keep your neck in a straight line with your spine.

Most importantly, be sure to check with your doctor before you begin any fitness program. — By Shashwati Shankar

This quick home workout routine is designed to improve both cardiovascular fitness and muscular endurance. It is also great for toning the body. “Every time you exercise, be conscious of your body posture in order to prevent any injuries to your joints or muscles.” Raveena Sandhu, instructor. Here are a few simple exercises for you to follow: JOGGING IN PLACE: three minutes Focus on simple, light jogging on the spot. This is to gently warm you up for a few minutes before the main exercise.

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THE FOODIE

Cucumber

The phrase ‘as cool as a cucumber’ was not a literary fluk.

The high water content in cucumbers reduces heat and inflammation. Have them in salads, eat them plain with sprinkled salt and pepper, or better grind cucumber along with some mint leaves for a cool, refreshing drink.

Mint The scorching heat and humidity is not just plain annoying but is bound to get you down. The resulting heat can leave you feeling fatigued and low your energy.

And therefore, it's important that you consume foods that help cool down the body. Here's a list of them:

Watermelon This is the best summer fruit you can lay your hands on and sink your teeth into!

Even the thought of eating a chilled slice of chilled red, juicy watermelon on a hot sunny afternoon is comforting.

Watermelon contain 90 per cent water, which is good to hydrate the body, besides containing vitamins A and C. Eat it, juice it or have it in a salad.

Tomatoes Now these may sound weird being on this list, but it’s true. Tomatoes contain lycopene, a compound that gives them their red color and helps in protecting the skin against 30

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This plant has a refreshing and soothing effect, as their aroma helps keep sluggishness at bay in the heat.

Use them in iced teas, juices and salads. Mint helps to ease indigestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Yogurt These are one of the healthiest and most nutritious foods, which have a great cooling effect. When the weather is hot, there’s a chance of catching intestinal infections, eating curds prevents the risks by increasing friendly bacteria in the gut. Curds contain vitamin B, which helps to soothe heat rashes, ulcers, and skin ailments.

Coconut This is one of best drinks to have in the summers.

It is packed with nutrients, sugar, electrolytes, and minerals to replenish hydration levels within the body.

Green Tea This tea has is known for its cooling and numerous healing properties. It contains loads of anti-oxidants and so, especially good for women to sip during menstruation.

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PARENTING

Gauri Sinh parents a five year old human and an 11 year old canine. She also happens to edit DNA After Hrs Media Work and home competing for my attention have made it a humdinger of a week. Both have had niggling issues, sundry stress factors, and the fatigue that hits at the end of a harried day.

Your temper is on a short fuse and needing peace how often have you felt that all you need at such moments is to return home and curl up in silence?

Surveys have said (conducted on British moms) that on an average, a working mother gets only 26 minutes of me-time in a day to the mother of hyperactive under-fives, working or not, even 26 minutes might seem like a bit of a stretch a real luxury.

And so it transpires that at a time when I’m in need, dire need of rest to prevent a meltdown, it isn’t convenient. I simply cannot have a breakdown at a time when all help is on leave, the dog (my other baby) needs to be fed and walked, and my just turned five-year-old needs attention, because finally mommy’s home from office and there’s so much to tell her.

I hear the chatter and the indignant barking and I wonder if my sense of humor or my patience can endure the onslaught. In quick succession, I wonder if I’m a terrible parent for feeling tired at a time reserved for little ones and a monster mother for wanting to be alone for a few minutes.

Undoubtedly a monster, says the exacting little voice within, brutal in its honesty. My little daughter, who has inherited her father’s

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shall-we-say ‘commanding’ temperament, is in no mood to broker my tiredness, nor my pangs of conscience/ guilt/other sentiments. “Mimi, I want to do your hair,” she states imperiously.

Weary and guilt-ridden, I oblige. In a jiffy the rainbow-hued treasure box is out, the one with the musical doll which revolves when the key is turned, and the hairclips inside. In a trice the Barbie hair set makes an appearance, its pink shininess at compete odds with my careworn spirit. The multi colored shells all strung together follow, along with beads, bracelets and a cunning pair of mismatched wooden flower earrings from Tariecka’s do-it-yourself baby jewelry kit. It’s a trinket haul that would do a pirate proud, and it is lavished upon my un protesting person with the concentration of a sharpshooter.

“Do not remove them. If you’re careful you won’t drop your food on them.”

The words are vaguely familiar, being an almost word-perfect rendering of instructions given to her at mealtimes, now being directed upon me in real et-tu style. Fingerprints on my spectacles, a pink butterfly on my wrist, and baubles all over. I am at last ready. I have a revelation: no spa, beauty or relaxation treatment on earth can match up to the fat, loving baby fingers playing with your hair, teasing it into a mess, even as a little voice tells you that its owner’s singular efforts you now look more pretty than that epitome of beauty, school mate. Zahaan’s mother.

Though you are mildly aggrieved that you do not touch this standard of perfection otherwise, you are suddenly deliriously overjoyed to have accomplished it now. The day’s horrors have melted there is a pink Barbie universe and rose-tinted glasses many sizes too small perched on my nose and I am at

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I hear the chatter and the indignant barking and I wonder if my sense of humor can endure the onslaught. In quick succession, I wonder if I’m a terrible parent for feeling tired at a time reserved for little ones and a monster mother for wanting to be alone for a few minutes. present seeing the world through them in perfect compliance with universal will (and my daughter’s). I am where I have wanted to be all day through, I know this now. I am at once wordless and tearful. No, it’s not the meltdown moment coming on all evening. It’s my grateful-to the-universe for-showing me what’s-right in-my-world moment.

I am fussed up, beautified, beribboned fit for a gypsy. I am also unreservedly overcome.

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LOVE PRESCRIPTION

Mumbai (IANS) After the shocking death of TV actress Pratyusha Banerjee, actor Eijaz Khan says that “living life under public microscope for actors, adds pressure to live the perfect life” says Eijaz, he shared the difficulties that come with being a celebrity and has given an insight to the turmoil that actors go through no matter how famous they become.

“A lot is being said about the heartbreaking demise of a young, 24-year-old girl. Risking the assumption from the intelligentsia, that another disgrace is pimping a tragedy, I sit here to write my two bits. What might give me some authority is the fact that I've been there a couple of times,” he posted on his social media page.

“Why does one become an ‘actor’? I think it's because as individuals, they are so uncomfortable in their own skin, unhappy of who or what they are, that their only form of ‘escapism’ is to live/portray someone completely different (escapism - remember that),” Eijaz added. He even says actors are “inherently unstable elements and eventually “lead turbulent lives”.

His outpouring of sentiments comes soon after Pratyusha, an actress who became popular as grown-up Anandi in TV show "Balika Vadhu" was found hanging from the cieling of her apartment in Mumbai and succumbed to it. She is said to have been going through issues in her personal life, but the police is investigating the matter.

Explaining the journey of actors who gain overnight fame, make fortune they never saw and the adulation that they get, the “Zilla Ghaziabad” actor, who rose to fame with TV show “Kahiin To Hoga”, says that as an actor “you are sure that the higher you get, the lesser people understand you”.

“I , me , myself take precedence over family and true friends.

You feel entitled to a unique set of yardsticks. The fact that you have started living under a public microscope adds pressure to live that perfect life. This happens so fast that no amount of training can actually ready you. The pressure leads to insecurity. Insecurity of losing or keeping up with all you have,” he posted.

“And when all of this is coupled with a heartbreak or lost love, it gets dangerous. What coping mechanism can one resort to? Mostly escapism. Which in turn leads to self-doubt, lack of self-worth… depression. Hardly a week goes by without a celebrity ‘opening up’ about their struggle,” he added.

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DESI MAKING WAVES For the past 36 years, the YWCA has hosted the Outstanding Women Awards, an event that recognizes women in Greater Richmond who have made significant contributions to our community through their exceptional leadership qualities, as well as for excellence, achievements, and dedication in their careers and to society.

Lakshmi Challa was selected as the 2016 OWA Honoree in Business for her significant accomplishments as a business owner and leader, as well as her selfless commitment to educating organizations on new immigration legislation, often meeting with government leaders on proposed legislative changes and their impact on the international business community.

As CEO of Challa Law Offices, headquartered in Richmond, she leads the firm’s three offices including an affiliate office in Hyderabad, India.

She has been voted Henrico Community Leader of the Year, honored as one of Virginia’s Influential Woman by Virginia Lawyers Weekly, awarded the John C. Kenny Pro Bono Service Award by the Richmond Bar Association, and invited to participate in President Obama’s White House Roundtable Discussion on Innovation and Immigration.

Through the firm’s legal clinic and its affiliated community advocates, she assists victims of domestic and sexual violence, children who have been trafficked to the U.S. and unaccompanied minors with their immigration needs.

Additionally, she and her firm have donated numerous hours to religious organizations of all denominations, so that their workers can serve their communities.

Through her practice, she works to facilitate foreign investment and trade with the United States, recently touring and presenting alongside consular officials with the Department of Commerce’s Select USA India Roadshow.

She is in her ninth year as Special Counsel to the Virginia Attorney General for Immigration assisting state agencies and academic institutions on immigration.

As a sport’s enthusiast, she enjoys assisting international sports players with their work authorization.

Her community involvement and connections translate very well with the firm’s pro bono efforts.

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COVER STORY

Food has the power to bring enemies together and this time it's the lip-smacking appetizer, the chicken tikka, that has managed to bind Asian countries India and Pakistan together. Mohit Bhargava from India and Shamoun Bhatti from Pakistan, chefs at Dubai's seven-star Burj Al Arab hotel, say they love to serve the best of their countries' delicacies to their consumers who don't inquire about the recipes' nationality, they say "WORK LIKE BROTHERS" Dubai (IANS) For its authentic Arabic cuisine or Far East Asian or Modern European dishes, the hotel sources ingredients from across the globe, says 34-year-old Bhatti from Karachi. "Some of the spices and herbs come from India and Pakistan, as we don't find them here. You will be amazed to know that many people term Pakistani dishes as Indian food here and I feel proud. I don't think chicken tikka has any nationality. You wonder if it is from India or Pakistan?

I feel it's chicken tikka, that's it," he told this visiting correspondent, who was invited to witness the grandeur of Burj Al Arab during the ongoing Dubai shopping festival. The Bab al Yam restaurant in the hotel, where he showed some of the food items prepared by him, has a contemporary and sophisticated concept with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views, breathtaking spacious terrace and plush shisha lounges. "I think it's not the people but the governments that are making a hue and cry.

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There are so many politicians and all of them have their own reason for hating each other. Even in the very recent incidents, Indians and Pakistanis were blaming each other. I feel this type of thing creates bad relations," says Bhatti.

While he shifted to Dubai 10 years back for work, 32-year-old Bhargava, who hails from Lucknow, moved to the United Arab Emirates city with his wife two and a half years back.

"We work like brothers and it's always good to have someone around who understands your language," said the chef while giving a pat on the shoulder of his Pakistani counterpart. He also pointed out how the world has opened up for Indians, especially in the food sector.

"It's a home away from home. People love Indian food, especially chicken tikka masala that has become universal. Some of the other dishes n demand are lamb rogan josh, biryani and, of course, Masala Dosa," FOR ADVERTISING CALL 404-246-3256

COVER STORY he said, pointing out how Indian restaurants are doing well. "There are many local restaurants which are coming in. So, you have a large choice where you want to dine," he informed.

The distinctive sailshaped silhouette of Burj Al Arab is more than just a stunning hotel, it is a symbol of modern Dubai.

Repeatedly voted the world's most luxurious hotel, the magnificent destination offers people the finest service and facilities throughout right down to an optional chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce.

Hence, it won't be wrong to say that it's the hot spot for all the Bollywood, Hollywood and other A-list celebrities.

It boasts of serving celebrities like Hollywood actor Vin Diesel during the shooting of "Furious 7" in Dubai, southern star Mahesh Babu with his family and tennis legend Roger Federer.

Talking about a loyal customer, Bhargava said: "There is one Russian lady who is very regular here and she always asks me about Indian food. She has a liking for different cuisines."

Niamh Keohan, director of marketing and PR for Burj Al Arab, said hiring an Indian and a Pakistani together was not a "well planned strategy" but people are very open to all the "spicy foods" that India is known for.

"I feel the authorities wanted people with different nationalities and hence they were hired. People love Indian food and that's why many Indian restaurants are opening up here," she said.

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— By Nivedita (Nivedita's visit to the UAE is at the invitation of Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing) FOR ADVERTISING CALL 404-246-3256 43

PRESS RELEASE Consulate General of India (Atlanta) ----- -----

Public Notice Regarding Change of Passport Outsourcing Service Provider The existing India Passport Application Centre in Atlanta, which is operated by M/s BLS International Services Limited [Address: BLS India Passport, USA, Premier Plaza, 5881 Glenridge Drive, Suite 180, 1st floor, Georgia 30328; website: www.blsindia-usa.com/passport/contactus.php#tabs-quote/ATLANTA Helpline: +18459990726] Email: atlanta@blsgroup.in; will close operations at Closure of Business on 6 May 2016 (Friday).

2.

With effect from 9 May 2016 (Monday), Consulate General of India, Atlanta will accept passport applications through the new India Passport Application Centre (IPAC) in Atlanta, which will be operated

by M/s Cox and Kings Global Services. A service fee of US$ 19.95 (inclusive of all taxes) per application will be charged at the IPAC in addition to applicable passport fees.

Details of new IPAC in Atlanta India Passport Application Centre Cox and Kings Global Services Suite 160, 5883 Glenridge Drive Georgia 30328 Email: passportusa@ckgs.com* Website: www.passport.in.ckgs.us*

Timings (Monday to Friday except holidays) Submission of passport applications: 0900 hrs. – 1530 hrs.

Collection of processed passports: 1530 hrs. – 1800 hrs.

Call Centre and Information Desk: 0900 hrs. – 1900 hrs.

* CKGS telephone, email and website will be operational with effect from 2 May 2016 (Monday).

3.

Transition Arrangements: During the transition of outsourcing services from M/s BLS International Services Limited (BLS) to M/s Cox and Kings Global Services (CKGS), acceptance of passport applications and return of processed passports will be handled as follows:

● ●

BLS will not accept any postal application after 22 April 2016 (Friday). Only postal applications post-marked on or before 22 April 2016 will be accepted by BLS. BLS will not accept regular walk-in / appointment applications after 29 April 2016 (Friday).

4.

Return of processed passports: Renewed passports for all passport applications accepted by BLS will be returned to applicants by BLS through walk-in collection or through postal dispatch, where the applicant has chosen for postal delivery. For passport applications under processing at the Consulate during the transition period, renewed passports will be returned to the applicants by Consulate General of India, Atlanta. Applicants are advised to check tracking status of their applications on BLS website.

BLS will also inform all those applicants by email whose renewed passports will be returned directly by the Consulate. In such cases, renewed passports will be available for walk-in collection at the Consulate’s Consular Office [5549, Glenridge Drive NE, Atlanta , Georgia 30342] or will be dispatched by post, where the applicant has chosen for postal delivery.

5.

All applicants who have submitted their passport applications to BLS IPAC are advised to check status of their application on the BLS website and make immediate arrangements to pick up their renewed passports from BLS, if they are now available at the BLS IPAC.

6.

In order to avoid any inconvenience, applicants who are not in immediate need for renewal of their passports are advised to submit their passport applications to the new IPAC on or after 9 May 2016 (Monday). However, applicants may take care that their postal applications do not reach CKGS IPAC before 9 May 2016.

7.

For further information / clarification, applicants may send an email to the Consular Wing of the Consulate General of India, Atlanta at cons.atlanta@meagov.in with subject head “Transition”.

8.

For information regarding new India Passport Application Centres at Washington, Chicago, Houston, New York and San Francisco, please visit the websites of Embassy of India, Washington and the Consulates General of India at Chicago, Houston, New York and San Francisco respectively.

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AROUND TOWN

The Sai Adult Day Care Center Hall at the Global Mall, Norcross was packed with Atlanta’s Gujarati community members, and graced by the presence of leading dignitaries gathered to listen to multi-talented and multi-faceted inspirational speaker Kaajal Oza Vaidya from Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The talk-show was arranged by Mustafa Ajmeri and Chirag Thakker, with team of Dipa Shah,Sanjay Pandya and Nimesh Sevak. One of the Organizers, Chirag Thakkar is a well-known and respected businessman and a community leader. He plays a proactive role in many Organizations to offer his community services. He along with Mustafa Ajmeri who is lauded for his sterling role in promoting performing arts in Atlanta decided to organize Kaajal Oza Vaidya’s talk. They and their team received very encouraging support from the community for their efforts.

Dipa Shah who is also fond of writing helped to host Kaajal while in Atlanta and also emcee the program with great verve and composure. After welcoming all, she introduced Kaajal, an award-winning renowned and prolific author of 56 books, a newspaper columnist; a gifted orator, screenwriter, radio show host, who also serves as a visiting faculty for creative writing at Gujarat University.

She is known for her radical thinking and fearless truthful reporting and is a role-model for the young generation.

She is well-versed in Gujarati, Hindi and English.

Atlanta’s familiar and highly-regarded Dr. Bhagirath Majmudar has recently retired from positions of professor of Pathology and associate professor of Obstetrics/ gynecology. In his spare time, he officiates as Hindu Priest.

He is also a gifted and talented poet, writer, playwright and performer. Dr. Majmudar warmly greeted all and said,” It is heart warming to see a respectably large number of Gujarati

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speaking Indians gathered here to listen to Kaajal Oza Vaidya. A large part of this success goes to the speaker, who has profusely contributed to Gujarati literature and culture by authorship of multiple books, articles and columns. Kaajal is indeed a charismatic, electrifying orator gifted with spontaneous humor and a razor sharp wit.

Please enjoy her talk.”

Atlanta’s well known and respected community leader and philanthropist Dr.Jagdish Sheth,is the Charles Kellstadt Professor of Marketing at the Goizueta Business School of Emory University,and internationally recognized management thought leader and business consultant of high- profile Corporations. Dr.Sheth who is also an educator, author of several best-selling books and winner of many awards and honors, thanked Kaajal for coming to Atlanta, wished her well on her remaining US trip and presented her with a flower bouquet amidst loud cheering applause from the audience.

Smt. Kaajal said she was overwhelmed by the turnout and warm hospitality of the Atlanta community. She welcomed all and thanked Dipa Shah, Dr. Bhagirathbhai Majmudar, Dr.Jagdish Sheth, Mustafabhai, Chirag and all who helped organize the event.

Mustafabhai and Chirag thanked Ashish Desai of Sai Adult Day Care Center for kindly letting use of the hall.

They went on to thank all the sponsors; dignitary guests; media representatives; photographer Darshan Shah and volunteers Kaushik(Keith) Patel, Mahendra Ganatra, Nimesh Sevak, and Sanjay Pandya to name a few.

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AROUND TOWN

April 16, 2016 – The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Lilburn, GA celebrated the 235th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, a celebration referred to as Swaminarayan Jayanti by the devotees of BAPS. According to the Hindu calendar, this day also celebrates the birth of Bhagwan Shri Ram. This year’s celebration centered on the theme of “Shanti through Samjan,” imparting knowledge on how to attain elevated levels of peace through spiritual understanding.

(understanding): Atma vichar, Sarvoparipana vichar, Sarva karta-harta vichar, Prapti-mahima vichar, and Rajipa vichar. These thoughts extol the idea of gaining true, spiritual understanding through realizing one’s self as the Atma, knowing the glory of attaining Parabrahma, the all-doer, and leading a life in accordance with Parabrahma’s wishes and commands. These thoughts provide practical ways on thriving in one’s spiritual journey. Atlanta_SwaminarayanJayanti2016_15

The Swaminarayan Jayanti celebrations were organized by local youth volunteers with much zeal and devotion.

Children and youth dedicated weeks leading up to the celebrations to organize a heartfelt production.

Swaminarayan Jayanti also carried a much greater significance in the lives of the devotees who had fasted for the whole day in honor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and Bhagwan Shri Ram.

With classical devotional songs and dance, they illustrated examples of staunch devotees from Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s time through to modern day who never faltered from their spiritual path despite countless hardships in their lives. Skits were performed reflecting on Bhagwan Shri Ram’s spiritual attainment, which allowed him to remain at peace even during his fourteen years of exile. Citing examples of historical devotees, the program highlighted how a spiritual aspirant can thrive in his/her day to day life as well as spiritual journey.

Many had chanted dhun for hours at length to offer their devotion and engage their senses in Parabrahma.

The performances relayed that one’s spiritual journey can begin at any stage in one’s life and that age and gender are certainly no barriers in this path. The theme also took the audience through five types of samjan 50

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The Sheriff of Gwinnett County, Sheriff Butch Conway, was in attendance and remarked at the intense youth involvement in the celebrations and other BAPS activities and programs. He added, “I really appreciate the Indian community and BAPS for the way you promote values with your children.”

The Swaminarayan Jayanti program connected with the members of the audience to bring them together to commemorate the birth and legacy of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Today, the continuation of this journey is seen through His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, who tirelessly inspires his devotees to lead a life infused with spirituality and greater purpose.

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AROUND TOWN

Atlanta was in for yet another music treat when Rajdeep Chatterjee and Group performed at Impact Banquet Hall, Global Mall on Sunday, 3rd April. The Group is on a US tour to help Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of America’s 2016 Annual Fundraiser to help eradicate illiteracy, educate and empower rural and tribal India through Ekal’s one-teacher schools. They performed a splendid and enthralling concert to regale a jam-packed hall of over 500 music-lovers of Atlanta. The lamp-lighting was done by luminaries of the Atlanta community: Mr. R. Srinivasan and Mr. DV Singh, representing Consulate General of India in Atlanta, Mr. Harsha Agadi, Chairman of Crawford companies, Smt. Kusum Khurana, President of VHPA and Treasurer of Atlanta Hindu Society, assisted by Ekal’s Atlanta Chapter President, Sh. Shiv Aggarwal and Vice President, Rina Gupta.

Starting the event with Holi flair, all guests entered the hall which was fragrant with fresh flowers and incense and were welcomed with a gulaal teeka. Sipping a delectable “Thandai” prepared by VHPA volunteers, and later enjoying a delicious full-course dinner served by Ashiana, the guests mixed and mingled for an hour before the show, which promptly started at 7pm. Ekal’s Regional Administrator, Ajay Upadhyaya’s cheerful welcome was in his signature style through a few lines of the song, “Hume tumse pyaar kitna” implying how much the Ekal school children love their supporters.

A presentation by Smt. Sneha Mehta showed the strides Ekal has made in rural/tribal education, health, empowerment and integrated village development with over 1.4 million students enrolled in 52,599 Ekal schools across India!

Gramothan Resource Centers run by Ekal provide skills training and income opportunities through cultivation of

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small businesses. Atlanta added over 90 new schools at the event. Notable among these were 17 schools sponsored by Atlanta Hindu Society, 10 by Sh. Shiv Aggarwal and 10 by Dr. Prakash Desai who matched 10 sponsored by other guests on the spot. It is very heartwarming that people have been very generous in their support to Ekal. In December 2015 at the Shaam-E-Sangeet event, orchestrated by GeetRung school, Atlantans came forward to sponsor 111 schools, by raising $40,000!

Mr. Kiran Kodithala, CEO of N2N Inc. (Systems Integration for Higher Education), with his 11 year old son Varoon Kodithala, both volunteers of Ekal, presented their “Literacy Heroes Challenge” which is an essay contest to be promoted through Georgia schools with the aim of supporting Ekal’s goal of eradicating illiteracy. Based on their call, literacyhero.com website immediately had 100 unique visitors and 5 subscribers through audience access on smartphones! Mr. Kodithala later shared upbeat news, “Varoon has launched the site in his school and he is meeting his principal to pitch this idea. Based on our collective outreach efforts, we now have 12 subscribers to the challenge and $75 in donations.”

Being impressed with Ekal’s work, Sh. Kalpesh Patel of Raja Foods and H2K Infosys have become permanent sponsors to help Ekal bring quality programs to Atlanta audiences.

All the sponsors, dignitaries, media partners, Fifth Season decorators, Ekal, VHPA volunteers who worked tirelessly in the background got a big round of applause. All in all, a wonderful concert turned the musical evening into an unforgettable magical evening!

By Aarti Aggarwal and Mahadev Desai Photos: Vinod Devlia and Devyani Dave FOR ADVERTISING CALL 404-246-3256

AROUND TOWN

United Nations (IANS), As the UN celebrated B.R. Ambedkar’s 125th birth anniversary by examining the relevance of his legacy to its global development goals, the world body heard a plea to declare April 14, the birthday of the crusader against discrimination, as “International Equality Day”.

“I believe Baba Saheb’s lifelong struggle for equality was not only for the people of India but for people around the globe,” Punjab Assembly Speaker Charnjit Singh Atwal said at the Ambedkar Jayanti celebration. Therefore, as his “true tribute and honor”, he said that April 14 may be declared the “International Equality Day” by the UN. Former New Zealand prime minister Helen Clark, the keynote speaker, said that Ambedkar’s ideals were relevant today as the UN embarks on its ambitious program of sustainable development goals (SDG). “Ambedkar understood that inequalities pose fundamental challenges to well-being” and the UN had adopted the elimination of inequality as its goal, she said. Clark is now the head of the UN Development Programme and a candidate for Secretary General of the UN in the upcoming elections. The theme of the celebrations organized for the first time by the Indian Mission to the UN along with the Kalpana Saroj Foundation and the Foundation for Human Horizon was “Combating inequalities for the achievement of SDG” and included a panel discussion on the relevance of Ambedkar’s message to these goals.

India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Syed Akbaruddin, said: “Last year, when the UN adopted the universal and transformative Agenda 2030 with its 17 Sustainable Development Goals and 169 targets, we,

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as Indians, noticed traces of Ambedkar’s vision in the ‘Sustainable Development Goals’.”

These could be seen in the parallels between the SDG goals of eliminating inequality and the Constitution that Ambedkar developed for India, enshrining the principle of equality, and the UN’s goal of achieving gender equality and his commitment to affirmatively empowering women, he said. More than 550 people diplomats, international officials, academics, civil society activists and Indian residents from across the US filled a UN conference room for the celebrations.

The Ambedkar celebrations featured two remarkable Dalits, who acknowledged they owed their positions to Ambedkar.

Kalpana Saroj, whose foundation co-sponsored the celebration, is the chairperson of Kamani Tubes, an industrial manufacturer with an annual turnover of over Rs.100 crore.

She spoke of discrimination based on religion that “treats crores of its adherents worse than dogs” and said that fed up with such atrocities “Ambedkar accepted Buddhism and bestowed upon us the duty to follow the path of truth and non-violence of Bhagwan Buddha”. Deelip Mhakse, the president of Foundation of Human Horizon, said India owed its emergence as a power on the world arena to Ambedkar’s vision of promoting “education and exertion”.

Stan Kachnowski, a visiting professor at the Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi and chair of HITLAB, said that if today India was “the intellectual capital” of medical technology and pharmaceuticals, it was a consequence of Ambedkar enshrining the primacy of education.

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CHAI LOUNGE NRIS TURN TO STARTUP EXPERTISE FOR THEIR REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS HYDERABAD: Startups in the home aggregator and rental space say a growing number of non-resident Indians are seeking their expertise to manage their real estate properties in India, marking a shift from the general practice of entrusting the task with traditional brokers. India has an estimated 4 million unattended properties listed in the name of NRIs. Startups like NestAway, Grabhouse and No broker cited higher rentals, home insurance and assurance of better management of property as some of the reasons for the increasing footfalls.

"As home rental startups generally deliver 20-50% higher returns compared to returns they were receiving from the conventional brokers in the market, the NRIs find us attractive," said Amarendra Sahu, cofounder of NestAway, a Bengaluru-based home aggregator backed by Ratan Tata "Given our strong customer base and high occupancy ratios, we can assure uninterrupted rent payments to property owners even when some of those properties were vacant for short periods."

INDIA WAS WORLD'S LARGEST REMITTANCE RECIPIENT IN 2015: WORLD BANK WASHINGTON: India was the world's largest remittance recipient in 2015 despite experiencing a USD 1 billion drop from the previous year, the first decline in its remittances since 2009, the World Bank said today. India retained its top spot in 2015, attracting about USD 69 billion in remittances, down from USD 70 billion in 2014, the World Bank said in its annual report 'Migration and Development Brief'.

"Remittances are an important and fairly stable source of income for millions of families and of foreign exchange to many developing countries," said Augusto Lopez-Claros, Director of the World Bank's Global Indicators Group.

"However, if remittances continue to slow, and dramatically as in the case of Central Asian countries, poor families in many parts of the world would face serious challenges including nutrition, access to health care and education," Lopez-Claros said.

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CHAI LOUNGE SUBHASH CHANDRA GETS AWARD FROM CANADA-INDIA FOUNDATION Zee TV and Essel Group chairman Subhash Chandra on Saturday received the $50,000 Global Indian Award from the Canada-India Foundation. The award was presented by Canada’s Investment Minister Navdeep Bains at a glittering gala attended by top leaders.

In his acceptance speech, Chandra said it was “really a humbling experience”. He said he was accepting this award from the Indian diaspora despite his decision 10 years ago to reject the Indian government’s Padma award for promoting Indian culture worldwide.

The TV mogul said: “I was just doing my duty to my motherland to take Indian culture around the globe.” He said “Vasudhaiva kutumbakam the world is one family” was his motto behind promoting Indian culture by launching channels to cater to Arabic, Russian, German, Portuguese, French and Spanish speakers around the world. Welcoming Chandra to Canada, Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne said the Canadian award for him was an indication of deepening ties between the two countries. Canada-India Foundation chairman Ajit Someshward said: “This award is open to any Indian who has made us global Indians proud. Subhash Chandra has made us proud by taking Indian culture globally through his TV network.”

US RECEIVES 236K H-1B APPLICATIONS, COMPLETES LOTTERY WASHINGTON: The US received over 2,36,000 H-1B petitions in just five days of opening up the process early this month for the most sought-after work visa for IT professionals, including from India, and has completed the computerized draw of lots. This is more than thrice the Congressionally-mandated cap of 65,000 in the general category for the work visas for highly-skilled workers in the general category for Financial Year 2017.

On April 9, USCIS used a computer-generated random selection process, or lottery, to select enough petitions to meet the 65,000 general-category cap and the 20,000 cap under the advanced degree exemption, also known as the master's cap. The agency conducted the selection process for the advanced degree exemption first. All unselected advanced degree petitions then became part of the random selection process for the 65,000 limit, it added.

USCIS will reject and return all unselected petitions with their filing fees, unless the petition is found to be a duplicate filing, it said. As announced on March 16 this year, USCIS will begin premium processing for H-1B cap cases no later than May 16. It would continue to accept and process petitions that are otherwise exempt from the cap.

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CHAI LOUNGE INDIAN-ORIGIN ENGINEER DEVELOPS TECHNOLOGY TO DOUBLE WI-FI SPEED An Indian-origin engineer has developed a novel technology that doubles Wi-Fi speeds with a single antenna -- an achievement with potential to transform the telecommunications field in future. Columbia University's Harish Krishnaswamy, an electrical engineering graduate from the Indian Institute of Technology -Madras, has for the first time integrated a non-reciprocal circulator and a full-duplex radio on a nanoscale silicon chip to create the breakthrough system. "This technology could revolutionize the field of telecommunications," said Krishnaswamy, director of the Columbia High-Speed and Mm-wave IC (CoSMIC) Lab.

THERE SHOULD BE MORE COMEDY SHOWS, SAYS KAPIL Comedian-actor Kapil Sharma believes that there should be more comedy shows in India. With his new comedy show “The Kapil Sharma Show”, which went on air on Saturday, Kapil shared that a lot of reality TV shows on television these days are depicting the problems that bug our society, and that is why comedy shows should multiply. “I feel there should be more comedy shows. There are so many shows out there... although they show what is going on in our society, but it spreads a lot of negativity too. That is how I roll, I feel there should be more comedy. If we sleep with a good mood, we get a better sleep. This is what we all want,” Kapil said in a group interview.

TODAY, ROLES NOT RESTRICTED TO ETHNICITY: FREIDA PINTO Gone are the days when actors from different nationalities were restricted to playing roles based on their ethnicity, feels US-based Indian actress Freida Pinto.

She also says that nobody is tagged as an 'American', 'British' or 'Indian' in the current film scenario worldwide. The 31-year-old, who started her career in films with "Slumdog Millionaire", says it will be "weird" if actors only get to play roles belonging to their nationalities. "Actors want to enter the film world saying that they only want to play that ethnicity in their entire career gets a little weird because that will be very limiting in many ways," said Freida.

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MOVIE BUZZ

Sarabjit RELEASE DATE: MAY 20, 2016 STARRING: AISHWARYA RAI, RANDEEP HOODA, RICHA CHADDA, DARSHAN KUMAAR Mumbai (IANS) Film maker Omung Kumar, who took the plunge to direct the film "Sarbjit" based on the life of Sarabjit Singh, an Indian farmer who was convicted of terrorism in Pakistan and sentenced to death, says he has stayed true to the facts and has not changed anything. Asked if he has taken any creative liberties while making the film, he said: "We made this film with our heart and what (Sarabjit's sister) Dalbir told us we followed exactly that way. "We know about Sarabjit through Dalbir and we had stayed true to the story not changed anything so it's true to the facts." The movie will narrate the struggle of Dalbir, whose sole aim in life was to get her brother, out of jail. Randeep plays Sarabjit, while Aishwarya is seen essaying the role of Dalbir Kaur.

1920 London RELEASE DATE: MAY 06, 2016 STARRING: MEERA CHOPRA, SHARMAN JOSHI Mumbai (IANS) Actress Meera Chopra, who is making her Bollywood debut as a lead in forthcoming horror film “1920 London”, wants to hold a special screening of the film for her cousin and actress Priyanka Chopra. Meera is said to have spoken to Priyanka. “I am waiting for Priyanka to come back so that I can show her the movie. She loved the trailer. She's a great emotional and physical support I have here in this industry and because I completely look up to her, it makes it even more special for me to show her something I am very proud of,” Meera said in a statement.

Priyanka made it a point to see the trailer.

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Azhar RELEASE DATE: MAY 13, 2016 STARRING: GAUTAM GULATI, NARGIS FAKHRI, EMRAAN HASHMI, PRACHI DESAI, NIMRAT KAUR, HUMA QURESHI, LARA DUTTA Mumbai (IANS) Actor Emraan Hashmi, who will be seen portraying former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin in the biopic "Azhar", says he almost became a "stalker" for the film to get a hang of the cricketer's "gestures. "When we started actual shooting in London and Hyderabad, I was nervous because of the cricket portion. As Azhar bhai is a well-known personality, all have seen his mannerism and nuances. So if something goes wrong to portray his character, there would have been a chance of a huge criticism. I had to keep that in mind and noted even very minute things from how he walks to the way he eats," Emraan said.

Buddha in a Traffic Jam RELEASE DATE: MAY 13, 2016 STARRING: ARUNODAY SINGH, MAHIE GILL, PALLAVI JOSHI, VIVECK VASWANI, ANCHAL DWIVEDI New Delhi (IANS) Vivek Agnihotri's political satire "Buddha In A Traffic Jam" won the Best Original Screenplay in a foreign language award at the Madrid International Film Festival. “Won the ‘Best Original Screenplay’ at Madrid International Film Festival, Spain. for #BuddhaInATrafficJam Thanks #TeamBuddha,” Agnihotri tweeted.

The film festival, is an annual film jamboree focusing on independent films. It also had two other nominations Best Foreign Language Film and Best Lead Actress in a foreign language film for actress Mahie Gill at the fest.

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BOLLYWOOD BUZZ

I'M MIDDLE-CLASS IN MY THINKING: SHILPA SHETTY Mumbai (IANS) At a time when marriages and relationships are going kaput in tinsel town, actress-turned-entrepreneur Shilpa Shetty, who believes she has "middle-class thinking" says “discussions” and “arguments” are normal in any marriage. Shilpa is married to businessman Raj Kundra. “I feel that discussions, arguments in any marriage are very normal. But how you get over those and resolve (them), that is important. However you resolve it, you need to make sure you do it within that circle of marriage. That’s why I feel I’m a bit middle-class in my thinking. Trust and respect are very important for a successful marriage. “We should keep the marriage simple and never feel like you’re married to keep the complications away,” added Shilpa, who has son Viaan with Raj. It was Raj's second marriage.

SELFIES ARE LIKE AUTOGRAPHS TODAY: ARJUN KAPOOR Mumbai (IANS) Actor Arjun Kapoor, who admits that he loves posing for photographs with his fans, says "Selfies are like autographs today. I always say that one selfie with a fan means you have sold a ticket. Because that moment is going to be on his/her mind forever, they hold that memory close. And when you behave odd, then people have a bad idea about you. Therefore, I love to take selfies as much as I can," He also said he feels bad when he is unable to click selfies due to "crowded situations".

I AM A FULL TIME STRUGGLER: SAYS NEHA DHUPIA Mumbai (IANS) Former Miss India and actress Neha Dhupia, who is best remembered for her roles in films like “Julie”, “Kyaa Kool Hai Hum”, “Delhii Heights” and “Phas Gaye Re Obama”, says that she is a full time struggler. Asked if she is satisfied with kind of films she has done so far Neha said: “I am very satisfied. I am not the kind of person who regrets anything. I am proud of whatever I have done so far. If the struggle dies in you then what's the point. Everyone struggles and I am a full time struggler,” she added.

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SALMAN KHAN SHARES PHOTOGRAPH WITH BABY AHIL Mumbai (IANS) Superstar Salman Khan, who became a uncle again by welcoming his half-sister Arpita Khan Sharma's first son named Ahil, has shared a photograph of himself with the newborn. Arpita, who married Aayush Sharma in November 2014, gave birth to her son on Wednesday.

Salman took to Twitter to share a photograph of himself with the baby. In the image, the 50-year-old actor is seen holding baby Ahil in his arms.

POLITENESS DOESN'T REFLECT IN TODAY'S TIME: BIG B Mumbai (IANS) Megastar Amitabh Bachchan believes that in today's time, politeness and obligations which were very prominent in the past as far as celebrities' public appearances were concerned, are long gone. Sharing his thoughts on his blog, “the art of public appearance has taken on a select different engagement. Artistes now get paid for their presence. Paid for speeches and visits and so on. Politeness and obligation of the past does not reflect in today’s time. And there is an instruct for those that manage them to negotiate the value of the presence... Nothing wrong. But there are few that refrain from it”

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DID YOU KNOW ?

AAMIR'S WEIGHT LOSS LEAVES B-TOWN CURIOUS Mumbai (IANS) Aamir Khan, who revealed his lean look last month, took many in the film fraternity by surprise, especially since the 50-year-old opted for only natural means to achieve his weight goals. Aamir indulged incycling, trekking, swimming and played tennis in addition to exercising. A lot of his friends from within the industry have been reaching out to Aamir, asking him how he managed to lose the extra weight. Everyone is left in awe of the sheer dedication he has exhibited to achieve his current look."

KFC TAKES OVER LUNCH HOUR WITH DABBAWALAS Mumbai (IANS) It was not the same day for Mumbai's dabbawalas when they teamed up with KFC to announce the launch of the latter's all-new 5-in-1 Meal Box. The fast food restaurant worked with dabbawalas to deliver the box during lunch hour on Monday. Carrying KFC 5-in-1 Meal boxes for the first time ever, the dabbawalas made their way through the streets of the city to a wide section of influencers, food lovers and media.

The dabbawalas also surprised their existing customers with complimentary 5-in-1 Meal Boxes along with their ordinary meal. “The 5-in-1 Meal Box is a complete and delightful meal built on the principles of abundance, variety and value. The insight was simple - people want more in less! Our new offering is the ‘perfect lunch meal’ consumers can opt for and we are thrilled to launch it in association with dabbawalas in Mumbai,” said Lluis Ruiz Ribot, CMO of KFC India. Mumbai's Dabbawalas daily serve home-cooked food to over 200,000 Mumbaikars, on occasions putting their own lives at risk. They've also been the subject of a Harvard study and have been invited to attend a UK royal wedding.

PRIYANKA IN TIME'S LIST OF 100 MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE Mumbai (IANS) Priyanka Chopra has made India proud once again. Her name has been featured in Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People in the World list alongside Oscar-winner Leonardo DiCaprio, Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg, and singer Nicki Minaj, among others. Has also graced one of the six cover pages of the magazine.

CONCEPT OF 'FAN' WAS FIRST NARRATED TO SRK BY YASH CHOPRA Mumbai (IANS) Shah Rukh Khan says the idea of his forthcoming film “Fan”, which will bring forward a story about a fan's obsession with a star, was first narrated to him by late veteran filmmaker Yash Chopra. The superstar is glad that he could bring the idea to life. The 50 year old star shared the news during an episode of Colors' show “Comedy Nights Bachao”, read a statement from the channel.

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SALIM MERCHANT MATCHES TILLOTAMA SHOME'S TALENT Mumbai (IANS) I am always wary of musicians turning actors. But guess what?

Salim Merchant does a decent job with his acting debut in "Fired", a short film.

The title has a layered relevance in the plot. You see, Tillotama Shome has just been fired from her job. She is understandably upset. She calls her chef boyfriend to share the news.

"Fired" is a well-executed slice-of-life film.

There are only two characters and a faceless waiter who barges into the couple’s conversation. But there are lots of people bustling all around the couple. Life, you see, has a way of going on even when you are making plans with your loved one that could make or break you.

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WHAT’S YOUR RASHI ?

Aries ( 21 March – 19 April ) - New beginnings, new relationships, business endeavors, friendships, and creative projects are on fire for you. You have the power to bring them into fruition if you so choose, and bring those you find intriguing along for the ride. Finances in general look good. If you have been working on making extra money or a solo business you will make progress. Manifestation will be strong in the next few days as what you lost will be replaced. You will start to feel your Fire element rise back up, as you gain positive energy from the changes that have occurred. Favorable Dates : May 2, 7, 11, 16, 20, 25 Favorable Colors : Red & White

Libra ( 23 September – 22 October ) - Now is the time to draw on your years of experience and wisdom to craft an executable plan that will yield the tangible results you desire. It may be advising you to take the methodical and systematic approach towards reaching your goals. You may need to put your feelings aside for now in order to become focused and self disciplined. Take the organized and strategic route towards manifesting your dreams. Maintain your focus at this time.

Remain strong, but fair and try not to show any weakness.

Favorable Dates : May 1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20 Favorable Colors : Blue & White

Taurus ( 20 April – 20 May ) - New relationships, whether romantic or business partnering, can jolt electrical, amazing creative collaboration, and spark a spontaneity that keeps your spark alive.. Some strategic planning for work ends up looking like a lot of fun and celebration with you being the centre of attention and the life of the party. Being open to the unexpected and welcoming it with wide arms will bring you great success in your endeavors this month. It is a good time to reconnect with others, especially if you’ve been hiding out in your hermit’s cave.

Favorable Dates : May 4, 7, 13, 16, 22, 25 Favorable Colors : Red & Yellow

Scorpio ( 23 October – 21 November ) - You may be inspired to take a different approach to your life, work or relationships. It’s about letting go of unhealthy habits of the past and embracing new beginnings. You may find yourself restructuring your life and purifying yourself. Let go of the past, embrace your future and try to see things from a fresh, new perspective. There is a need to let go of negative patterns and adopt new and pure energy. What goes around comes around, finally you can see some of the positive reversals in your life.

Favorable Dates : May 1, 2, 11, 15, 19, 22 Favorable Colors : Red & White

Gemini ( 21 May – 20 June ) - Exciting business ventures are ahead that show promise and profit! Opening your heart to receive is the best decision you’ll ever make. It’s time to blend what your head is telling you with what’s going on in your heart space, remembering that clarity is a combination of a perfect thought and a strike of intuition. So it’s time to open your eyes fully and reconnect. Love interests appear out of the clear blue sky, so it seems. You will have another chance to create a dynamic relationship with someone special.

Favorable Dates : May 5, 8, 14, 17, 23, 26 Favorable Colors : Red & Grey

Sagittarius ( 22 November -21 December ) - There is a feeling of enlightenment and living in the natural flow of things. You may be feeling you are finally able to enjoy the simple pleasures in life. You may be feeling inspired by a new idea, a new path or a new way of living. This period reflects the passion, energy and excitement that comes with releasing old burdens and embracing new opportunities. Freedom, invigoration and rejuvenation may abound you. Your attitude may be light-hearted as you approach your life with a fresh new sense.

Favorable Dates : May 1, 3, 10, 12, 19, 21 Favorable Colors : Blue & White

Cancer ( 21 June – 22 July ) - Relationship issues will bring to the fore some financial issues that need to be addressed. Even if this involves you in a bit of a battle, rest assured, pure and harmonious outcomes in your financial well-being will ensue.

Music will be your best friend where keeping calm is concerned.

Stars are blending energies to bring about a creative, clever and kind momentum. They blend logic and intuition together in a delightful manner. This is a good time for you to boost your sense of self-worth by exercising and getting physically healthy.

Favorable Dates : May 7, 8, 16, 17, 25, 26 Favorable Colors : Red & Grey

Capricorn ( 22 December – 19 January ) – This month represents emotional growth, development, reunions, gathering or harvest. There are merry festivities, socializing and success which you would celebrate. This is a time to be grateful, appreciative and enjoy the good times together. This is a positive time, things are flowing, you are connecting with others, socializing and having fun. You have been able to balance family, fun, responsibility and finances – no easy feat, a challenge that can take a soul an entire lifetime or more to accomplish.

Favorable Dates : May 1, 4, 10, 13, 19, 21 Favorable Colors : Yellow & Green

Leo ( 23 July – 22 August ) - Your emotions should be a lot more stable and with lady luck fighting in your corner, you’re all set to go after goals with gusto. Look for new ways to get ahead in work or love, as present methods seem to have gone stale.

This is a lovely time for peace talks involving your parents or colleagues. The idea is to create an atmosphere of calm and tranquility. You might also be able to come up with some clever ideas about how to resolve any bureaucratic issues involving your home, like dealing with mortgages, property taxes etc.

Favorable Dates : May 2, 8, 11, 17, 20, 26 Favorable Colors : Purple & Yellow

Aquarius ( 20 January – 18 February ) - You may be experiencing a renewal of the emotional and creative self and you may be finding yourself able to see and experience the world with childlike wonder and freedom. This month symbolizes new opportunities. It can also show the significance of new enterprise and that you will have the creativity and willpower to succeed in whatever you may set out to do. If you have been suddenly presented with unexpected circumstances, this period signifies that you will be able to manage the changes.

Favorable Dates : May 2, 7, 11, 16, 20, 25 Favorable Colors : Green & Yellow

Virgo ( 23 August – 22 September ) - Imagination, logic and intensity are yours for the taking. Intrigue and fantasies are seen coming to life. This is a time of great awakening. The way you will be organizing your life - both on the job and with family will have a momentum all its own. Use grounded wisdom in all your dealings with others. Be encouraging at meetings, take notes and delve more deeply into methodologies now.

This is an awesome time for a proposal of marriage, a new child or the birth of a new company or partnership.

Favorable Dates : May 3, 9, 12, 18, 21, 27 Favorable Colors : Blue & Yellow

Pisces (19 February – 20 March) - You need to break free of oppression or stagnation in a business or to find solutions to problems. You need to find a new approach to things and accept that change is in the air and that a friend could help to see things in a different light or attain a fresh perspective. This could also indicate a new beginning of a practical, business or career nature such as a new job or development in the person's career field. This longing for a change could also relate to a loved one, close friend or family member – and you should focus on receiving good news on this front.

Favorable Dates : May 4, 10, 14, 19, 22, 28 Favorable Colors : White & Green

Manish Kumar Arora K.P. Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Card Reader & Vastu Consultant Phone: +91-9871062000 E-mail: manishastrologer@rediffmail.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/manishastroconsultant

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MAY 2016

DESI EXPRESS MAGAZINE

All astrological predictions are to be considered friendly advice based on the author’s personal opinions and used for entertainment purposes only.

These are not to be considered as promises, guarantees, or psychic predictions.

They are simply potentials to be used at the reader’s own discretion.

For important decisions, consult your personal intuition, doctor, accountant, lawyer, educator, or clergy as needed. It is best to be informed on all levels.

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