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I'd like to thank my mum and dad, and I'd also like to take this moment to thank four of the best guys I've ever met - everything I've done with them will stay with me for the rest of my life.”
aking his solo appearance at the annual Asian Awards, former One Direction member, Zayn Malik, paid tribute to his ex band-members. Donning a new shaved haircut, the 22-year-old was awarded the award for Outstanding Contribution to Music, presented by good friend Naughty Boy. Accepting the award, Zayn said, “I'd like to thank my mum and dad, and I'd also like to take this moment to thank four of the best guys I've ever met - everything I've done with them will stay with me for the rest of my life.” He ended his speech with, “Here’s to the future.” Also in presence was Bollywood superstar, Shah Rukh Khan, renowned fashion designer John Rocha, Gary Lineker and cricket legend Kumar Sangakkara. The awards are a global celebration of Pan Asian excellence and were held at London’s Grosvenor House
DIL
the musical
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ntheatre Hotel. Shah Rukh Khan was awarded Outstanding Contribution to Cinema award and dedicated his award to overseas Asians. “I am extremely humbled and honoured to receive this award. I say this very often that my stardom belongs to most South East Asians who reside abroad who have made the Indian cinema and me known around the world. I congratulate all the winners at the Asian Awards as well. There is so much talent around Asia and so many achievers, whether it is Dr Amar Bose, the Hinduja Brothers or Zayn Malik. I am glad to have been a part of such a wonderful celebration of hard work by people in difference field but similar passion.” Guests were presented with an exclusive performance from the cast of Gurinder Chadha’s upcoming West End extravaganza, Bend It Like Beckham – The Musical. Batsman Kumar Sangakkara was awarded Outstanding Contribution to Sport whilst Outstanding Achievement in Science & Technology
6TH
went to experimental particle physicist, Sir Tejinder Singh Virdee and the Outstanding Achievement in Television award went to comedian, actor and broadcaster, Sanjeev Bhaskar. Launched in 2010 by entrepreneur Paul Sagoo, The Asian Awards, have become the world’s biggest celebrations of Asian excellence. “We are absolutely thrilled with the staggering success of The Asian Awards this year and the remarkable level of support we’ve received. From Prime Minister David Cameron to global superstars like Zayn Malik and Shah Rukh Khan, joining us for this superb gathering of some of the world’s most inspirational and powerful people. “I’m so proud of the way The Asian Awards are evolving. They have truly grown into a voice for the Pan Asian community to celebrate its own success – as well as become a way to share the stories and achievements and lives of these great people with the world, to inspire the millions of us who strive to be the best we can.”
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Crisis in Nepal as Earthquake Claims Over 7,000 Lives
A
massive earthquake which hit Nepal has left at least 7,000 people dead. The 7.8-magnitude quake, the worst to strike the country in over 80 years, led to 6,500 people being injured as well as leading to the death of dozens of people in neighbouring China and India. Nepal's capital city of Kathmandu saw vast tent cities springing up to accommodate for displaced civilians or those too fearful to return home due to the strong aftershocks ravaging the country.
Udav Prashad Timalsin, a senior official in the district of Gorkha, where the earthquake's epicentre was based, had heard of reports that 70% of houses had been destroyed. "Things are really bad in the district, especially in remote mountain villages," Udav Prashad Timalsin said. "There are people who are not getting food and shelter." A warning issued by officials stated that the number of casualties could increase as remote mountainous regions of western Nepal are reached by rescue
teams, with initial reports suggesting that many communities close to the mountains have suffered substantial damage due to the quake. The spokesman for aid agency World Vision Matt Darvas said: "Villages like this are routinely affected by landslides, and it's not uncommon for entire villages of 200, 300, up to 1,000 people to be completely buried by rock falls." He added that a man who had been evacuated via helicopter from Pokhara, 200km from Kathmandu, had said that his village of over 1,000 houses had seen
almost every home destroyed. The UN has said that the quake left the country running short on water and food, with hospitals overflowing with patients, shops being closed as well as suffering frequent power cuts. Fifteen international search-andrescue teams and 14 international medical teams arrived in Nepal to assist the country in coping with the earthquake's aftermath, according to the UN.
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Continued from front page The UK’s have sent in a rescue and relief team which have been boosted with trauma medics, heavy lifting equipment to move aid supplies at Kathmandu airport, and humanitarian experts to help coordinate the international response. This additional support brings to £15 million the total UK response to the Nepal earthquake, along with three Royal Air Force CH47 Chinook aircrafts. International Development Secretary, Justine Greening
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CONTRIBUTORS Manisha Tailor Anita Champaneri Manish Gujjar Sunny Malik Mita Mistry Sara Khan Sunny and Shay Dal Dhaliwal Mark Hands Manish Patel Kam Chopra Suri Singh Mohammed Zafran Sharon West Cricket Association Deepali Nangia Pam Malhi South & City College
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‘AN ANGEL AMONG US’ Woman Praised for Trying to Help Dying Girl A
woman has been praised after trying to save a two-year-old girl who died after a car driven by her mother smashed into a tree. Henna Rai, a General Election candidate, put her coat on the ground and helped perform CPR on the child following the accident in the Birmingham district of Selly Oak. The girl’s mother was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and child neglect following the crash, which happened at around 4pm. Ms Rai is a trained first aider who stood as an Independent candidate at the recent General Election. “I just wanted to save that baby girl. I was driving down Gibbins Road and the crash that had already taken place. When I saw the panicked faces I pulled over immediately to help. I saw a lady with a cut to her head. “She was quite confused, saying: ‘We need to get the baby out of the car’. Another person in the car, I believe it was the grandmother, had put the little girl across her lap and was trying to resuscitate her, giving her compressions. “We pushed the seat forward because it was a twodoor car. I put my coat down on the floor and we laid the baby on top of it and gave her CPR and continued until the paramedics took over. “They lifted her out of my arms almost immediately. Part of me knew what had happened to her but I was still hopeful she may come back.” “The emergency services arrived really quickly and I
• PRAISED: Henna Rai was just hoping Esmee would make it. The first ambulance that arrived was so swift in its response. They swept her out from underneath me, I said: ‘Save her, just save her’. The mother was utterly devastated, she was just broken, she was screaming. “My thoughts are with Esmee’s family.” She said: “Esmee was just a year younger than my daughter and I wanted to put a teddy bear at the spot. I went back and sat there and reflected and just cried. “I can’t even fathom what the family must be enduring. That girl went and took a piece of me with her, I didn’t know her but this has bound me to her and to her family. “The least I can do is try to offer some comfort.” She said: “Nobody cared about cast, creed, background, anything. It was about saving a little girl’s life, that’s all it was. What I saw shows people do come together. I have no words to express it, they are true heroes and they need to be acknowledged.” Ms Rai regularly drives along Gibbins Road with her three-year-old daughter. “I had driven up that road with my own daughter about
five or ten minutes earlier. I dropped her home and when I drove past this I stopped and it just consumed me. I believe the girl’s family lived quite close by and they were just on their way home.”
said, “These highly versatile Royal Air Force helicopters and UN aircraft will mean life-saving aid supplies can be moved around Nepal and reach people in remote communities cut off by the earthquake who are in desperate need. “Conditions in Nepal are dire, but the UK is determined to do everything it can to help support Nepal and its people.” Anyone wishing to donate, can do so through the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) website, www.dec.org.uk
MOLINEUX TURNS ORANGE FOR CULTURAL DAY Event Raises Awareness of Punjabi Culture
S
ome of Wo l v e r h a m p t o n ’ s most passionate football supporters came together in a spectacular mix of drumming and dancing to raise awareness of their culture. The Punjabi Cultural Day, created by the famous Punjabi Wolves Supporters, was a day to bring together the shared love of the beautiful game and the Punjabi culture and the Sikh religion. While a circle of young members of the group banging on their Dhol drums attracted a huge crowd, fans of other faiths learned more about the rich historical culture behind the religion. Andy Sahota, from the Punjabi Wolves Supporters Group, said, “We’ve been wanting to do this for many years. “It is about educating
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people on our culture and getting them to engage with it. This is what we are all about, having a good time, throwing a fun party and welcoming everybody to join in. I love to see people getting together and celebrating the things we have in common.” The game marked a huge moment for them, as a section of the group were allowed to give a performance on their Dhol, an instrument seen at many Asian weddings and in Bollywood films, at half time. It is the first time the instruments have been allowed inside Molineux. A game of kabaddi, a contact sport that originated in the Punjab region, was also played on the pitch at half time. Mr Sahota said, “It is a big moment for us and it something we would like to try and extend in the future, hopefully using the Dhol to spur on the players. “The drums bring a unique atmosphere, when they play you can feel the excitement in the air.” Danny Batth, captain and central defender for Wolves and ambassador of Punjabi Wolves Supporters, who is also of Punjabi descent, said, “I am honoured to be the Punjabi Wolves Supporters ambassador as they have always been present throughout my career, building awareness within the Asian football community.”
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TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719 A SUCCESS: Priya Walia launched her photography
• business with help from the Prince's Trust
A
local businesswoman has landed a substantial grant from a leading charity after wowing judges with her ideas. With the direction and positive feedback of the Prince’s trust’s enterprise programme team, Priya Walia has successfully launched her photography business, Sorriso Weddings and Portraits. She was given the chance to access funding to launch her business plan and has now actively engaged in networking events. After a string of temporary jobs after graduating from Coventry University in 2008, in November 2013 she was asked to intern for a world recognised wedding cinematographer and photographer. “When Simeon Quarrie invited me to London to intern for him, I was knocked for six because I had followed his work for a number of years and admired his vision and creativity,. After various talks with Simeon, I had a penny drop moment and I knew that running my own business was the way forward. I contacted the Prince’s Trust after finishing my intern and took the plunge into fulltime self employment,” she explained. Lucy Davenport, a Prince’s Trust Enterprise Programme Executive worked closely with Priya, encouraging her to go through to the earliest available launch panel meeting giving her the opportunity to discuss her ambitions to further explore the western wedding industry as well as secure
NEWS
ROBBED OF HER FUTURE UNIVERSITY STUDENT KILLED
PRINCE’S TRUST BACKS
PHOTOGRAPHER
Tributes have been paid to a university student who tragically died in a high-speed horror crash, just weeks before her 22nd birthday. 21-year-old Hina Shamim was pronounced dead at the scene after being his by a BMW outside the University of Kingston campus. Tayaba Ali, the student's aunt, said, "She was always so bright and on the go. She was beautiful and perfect in every way. We are all devastated at her loss. She has been robbed of a great future." Detective Sergeant John Hartfree, from the Serious
Priya Walia’s Exhibition Praised by Leading Charity
Collision Investigation Unit, said, "Penrhyn Road would have been busy at the time of the collision and I am appealing for anyone who saw this tragic event unfold to contact police. I am particularly keen to speak to the occupants of a dark coloured car which was seen following the white BMW M3 car immediately prior to the collision."
SONG 'SUCHA SOORMA' PULLED
• TRIBUTES PAID: Hina Shamim, 21 funding to start up her business. After Priya took her existing photographic portfolio to the city's Prince's Trust Enterprise Programme launch panel, chairman of the panel Clive Gerard – a retail professional, described her work as “the best photography portfolio we have ever seen on our panel”. Priya added, “I’m not from a business background, I’m the first in my family to take on self-employment and felt very overwhelmed with the panel’s comments and with how encouraging and positive they were towards my passion. I cannot thank the Wolverhampton Prince’s Trust team enough. Their guidance has been invaluable."
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CINEMAS CANCEL SCREENING OF
SIKH MOVIE
Religious Film Claimed to be ‘Blasphemous’
L
ocal cinemas across the Midlands were forced to evacuate after individuals occupied foyers protesting about a religious movie. The Odeon and Cineworld cinema chains cancelled screenings of Indian film Nanak Shah Fakir following a major sit-in protest at a branch of Cineworld in Wolverhampton. Around 50 Sikh protestors surged into the cinema, chanting protests until the cinema owners cancelled the screening. Dozens of cinemagoers had to leave the cinema, and were later promised refunds. The film, a biopic of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak, was being protested because the religion prohibits any personification of the Guru, either by actors or in animated movies. A Cineworld spokesperson said it would
stop showing the film because, “we want our customers to enjoy visiting our cinemas and experience a wide range of films without disruption from others.” Odeon confirmed it would also cancel planned screenings following the protest. Producer, Harinder Singh, released a statement, saying, “A leading Sikh spokesman told me that some changes need to be made in the movie and I agreed to it. At the same time, the Jathedar said the movie has been made
with great passion and faith. The movie was granted written permission by the Darbar Sahib four months ago. Now a fringe group, that claims intellectual property rights over the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev ji, decides that the movie is not to be screened. Is it fair that while my graphic description of the Guru (whom I have projected only through the back and as a ray of light) is considered unacceptable, while a movie like [the 3D animation] Chaar Sahibzaade is acceptable?"
INAPPROPRIATE: Music video
• depicts honour killing
Campaign Groups Rally Against Honour Killing Song A Punjabi song, glorifying honour killings, has been pulled by the BBC after complaints by listeners and campaign groups. Sucha Soorma which got to No17 in the Official Asian Download Chart, had been promoted by a BBC Twitter account as it played Network. The song, sung by Punjabi singer Kulwinder Billa, tells of a man murdering his adulterous sister-in-law and her lover – and the video for it shows both killings. However, after numerous complains the BBC pulled the song, saying it was “inappropriate” Jasvinder Sanghera of anti-honour violence charity Karma Nirvana said, “I am extremely disappointed at how we have even allowed air for the messages this song gives. “This song reinforces the consequence of not only significant harm but death, it reinforces the message that you can be killed for bringing such shame. “Victims will watch this and be further silenced and perpetrators and those with like minds that uphold honour systems will praise it. Sucha Singh is originally a folk story about a man who lived in Punjab more than 100 years ago and in the story is said to have restored the family honour by killing his sisterin-law Balbiro and her alleged extramarital lover Ghukkar.
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SELT TEST GETS LOCAL LAUNCH
only two approved providers of Secure English Language Testing used to support UK visa applications. As a result of last year’s visa controversy, only two organisations are now authorised by the Home Office to run SELT tests in the UK. A SELT certificate is
to Tunisia to help provide humanitarian aid to refugees, and impressed the judges with her enthusiasm for science and ambition to become a medic and travel to countries, which need humanitarian aid. Jim Al-Khalili, PROJECT Chair of the Science and Maths judging panel said, “What is so brilliant about Sarah is that she is incredibly smart, but could also explain her project in such a clear and understandable way. She is a true champion of science and engineering and will bring something special to the sector." Sarah was thrilled to have won, and said, “I’m extremely shocked to be the UK Young Scientist of the Year 2015, there were so many amazing projects here so to have won is a real privilege.” “When I first applied
I had no idea where the project would take me. The National Science & Engineering Competition is very prestigious, but it was mainly the opportunity to display the project I had spent a month working on in the summer, which is what drew me to apply. “Working on the project has made me really passionate about trying to find better treatments for those affected, so it meant a lot to speak about it to people and to hopefully continue working on this project in the future.” Imran Khan, Chief Executive of the British Science Association said, “Now in its eighth year, our contest has become renowned for recognising, rewarding and inspiring thousands of talented youngsters in all areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.”
Trinity College London and International English Language Testing System (IELTS) will be the
• A TRUE CHAMPION OF SCIENCE: Sarah Sobka
SARAH SOBKA SHOWCASED TO OVER 75,000 VISITORS
YOUNGSTER NAMED
SCIENTIST OF THE YEAR A
young female has been named UK Young Scientist of the Year after winning the nation’s prestigious National Science & Engineering Competition. Sarah Sobka, wowed the judges with her
project investigating how Lubiprostone, a drug used to treat irritable bowel syndrome, affects patients with cystic fibrosis. Sarah showed a great aptitude for science and spoke of how she travelled
What is so brilliant about Sarah is that she is incredibly smart, but could also explain her project in such a clear and understandable way.
NEWS necessary for many types of visa applications. These include GESE (Graded Examinations in Spoken English) speaking and listening exams that are required for Spouse/Partner, Parents of Dependents and Settlement or Naturalisation visas.
Trinity College London operates 10 SELT centres, approved by the Home Office, throughout the UK including Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Newcastle, Peterborough, Belfast, Cardiff, Leeds, London Holborn and London Hammersmith.
CHILDREN PULLED FROM SCHOOL MOSQUE VISIT Parents Raise Concern Over Safety Concerned parents have banned their children from visiting a mosque after raising concerns over their safety. It has been claimed more than 10 per cent of parents whose children attend Lostwithiel School have stopped their children going on a school trip to the mosque in Exeter. The school said some parents were also concerned about the teaching of Islam as part of the religious education curriculum. It said the trip to the mosque and Exeter Cathedral was an opportunity to learn about different faiths. One parent, who didn't wish to be named, said, "We have grave concerns about the children's safety during the trip due to the horrific events that occur every day. "We have therefore decided not to send our children on
this trip. This decision is not one based on ignorance or racial or religious beliefs, but one based purely on safety concerns." The school wants to take 91 children from Years 3 to 6 to Exeter on as part of their religious education. Head teacher Carolyn Huxley said, "Our hope from the visit to the mosque is that children will be given a view as to what are the values and beliefs of a 'British Muslim'. This trip will show the children the views of extremists are not a true reflection of Islam as a religion."
• BANNED VISIT: Exeter Mosque
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IN AID OF SCIENCE Prominent Coventry Sikh Donates His Body To Medical Science
NEWS
NISHKAM CENTRE LEA SPEAKS AT EVENT PRO
“
In order to build peace, we must prepare ourselves for peace and not for war
• DONOR: Gurdial Singh Guru
A
Sikh man from Coventry who spent the majority of his life helping others has continued his life's work even in death. Gurdial Singh Guru, who died at the age of 82 at his home in Holbrooks, told family members that he had decided to donate his body to medical science to help in the struggle against diseases. Gurdial's son-in-law, Pushbinder Nagra, of Gibbet Hill, said: “He made a decision to donate his body in 2009 to help with future medical research.” The father-of-five's family
have said they are extremely proud of Gurdial's decision. His body will be used to assist in training future doctors and to help develop medical research into tackling illnesses and aiding in the development of new medical techniques. Pushbinder said: “His family are extremely proud of his brave decision to donate and were not surprised at his decision as he was a man who always wanted to do good for others.” A prominent member of Coventry's Sikh community, Gurdial had worked as a trade unionist before retiring. He
then took up campaigning for the improvement of people's living and working standards, focussing primarily on the rights of elderly people in times of austerity. Of the family and community's loss, Pushbinder said: “He leaves a big void in the hearts of his family and friends. “The family feel a great loss to no longer have him with them and he will be missed him greatly. “He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, fatherin-law, grandfather, friend and comrade.”
• NISHKAM CENTRE LEADER: Bhai Mohinder Singh Ahluwalia
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ADER ADDRESSES UN OMOTING TOLERENCE L
eader of the Handsworth-based Nishkam Centre made history recently by speaking in front of a packed United Nations assembly. The gathering brought together leaders representing Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Sikhism as well as ministers, academics, clerics and spiritual leaders to discuss ways to foster peaceful, inclusive societies and counter violent extremism. Representing the Sikh religion at the UN headquarters in New York was Bhai Sahib, Bhai Mohinder Singh Ahluwalia.
Talking to the international crowd, the Sikh leader, said, "Extremist select and choose isolated verses of religious texts, which through misinterpretation and misquotation, are used spread hate and intolerance. In order to conquer these challenges, and threats they pose, multiple strategies to counter violent extremism are necessary. Religious practitioners and scholars need to assist in correct misinterpretation and misquotation that lead to radicalisation and violent extremism. " “Rather than tolerance, people must begin to talk about mutual acceptance. In order to build peace, we must prepare ourselves for peace and not for war," He added. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said terrorists are misusing religion, and said good government was the remedy. "Missiles may kill terrorists, but I'm convinced that good governance is what will kill terrorism.
That is why I urge you to speak out against human rights breaches and social injustices wherever you encounter them." Ban told a High-Level Assembly meeting on Promoting Tolerance and Reconciliation, Fostering Peaceful, Inclusive Societies and Countering Violent Extremism, which opened yesterday and concludes today. He said," people across the world have been horrified by the recent brutal acts carried out by terrorists and violent extremists. While they claim religion as their guide, their ideologies are contrary to the teachings of any of the major faiths." Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Archbishop of Abuja, Nigeria, said, "Those nations which claim to have an official state religion and refuse their citizens the right to follow or adopt a religion of their choice, need to bring in line promptly bring their laws and practices in line with their commitment to respect human rights."
FROM LONDON TO BIRMINGHAM Man walks 150-miles in eight days in memory of his partner
• Dr Nazim Mahmood & Matt Ogston
• WALK: Matt Ogston with friend
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man from Birmingham who walked from London to Birmingham in memory of his partner has raised £7,000. Matt Ogston, 36, from South Yardley, completed the 150-mile walk in eight days in the name of his partner, Dr Nazim Mahmood, 34. Matt was assisted by his friends in organising the walk, which ended in Birmingham's Handsworth Cemetery where Nazim is buried. He has founded a charity to help gay people from faith backgrounds. Entitled 'The Naz and Matt Foundation', it aims
to raise awareness by working with faith communities as well as supporting people through counselling. Nazim Mahmood, 34, had committed suicide on 30 July by jumping from the balcony of his London apartment, an inquest heard. Matt said since Dr Mahmood's death, several gay people from faith backgrounds have reached out to him. He said, “They have had to leave their families, change their names, move to different parts of the UK all because of the way they were born.”
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These superb new-build detached houses are set back from Portland Road behind electronic gates and occupying large mature plots. Both houses offer superb family accommodation extending to over 3,000 sq ft including six double bedrooms (7 bedroom layout option available) and four bath/ shower rooms over the two upper floors. The fantastic living space downstairs includes a family kitchen/dining area of almost 50 feet in length! A large separate living room, a study, utility and cloakroom, and integral double garage complete the ground floor accommodation. Large back gardens (over 43m/140ft).”
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EXCLUSIVE
EXCLUSIVE
EXCLUSIVE
BOLLYWOOD
EXCLUSIVE
BECKONS FOR BRUMMIE LAD
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The Asian Today Talks to Film Fan Who Lands Movie Role
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local man has gone on to secure his second role in a major Bollywood movie. Ijaz Rashid, known as Jazzy, is from the Solihull area in Birmingham and having already been casted as an extra in the 2012 blockbuster Tezz, he has now gone on to be casted in the upcoming movie Welcome to Karachi. Talking to The Asian Today, the owner of a frozen food company says this is just the beginning. “This is my second big Bollywood blockbuster. My agent called me and told me about the audition in London. I was fortunate
enough to meet fantastic human being who goes by the name of Kushal Bakshi, who is the co-director of the film, and he also wrote the film. I passed the audition and as they say the rest is history. When asked what it like is to work with Bollywood A-listers, the 27-year-old replied, “Its mind blowing man both Arshad Warsi and Jackky Bhagnani are both very approachable and very humble people. I was star struck when I met them both but after a short while they make you feel very welcome and apart of the family. It was great getting advice
“
I play a very angry Pakastani Pathan
from both Arshad Warsi and Jackky Bhagnani one the of the New faces of Hindi Cinema. “Ashish R Mohan who is the director of Welcome to Karachi is such a nice guy and a fantastic director who is very professional. It was Ashish and Kushal who gave me the chance and taught me a lot about the industry and who I spent most of my time with around the shoots. Pretty much all the cast of the film, which includes Pakistani
actors Kubra Khan, Adnan Tipu Shah and Danish Hussain are f a n t a s t i c people and the producer of Welcome to Karachi, Vashu Bhagnani, is a really nice guy it's been more than a pleasure to work with all of them.” The film has been shot in various parts of the Bradford, Birmingham, and Wales. During the shooting of scenes in Wales, the lead
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• MOVIE ROLE: Ijaz Rashid
actors were mistaken as real Taliban people and the shoot was halted by Scotland Yard authorities. The Bradford Bazaar was used as the backdrop of the film's shooting in Bradford. During the shoot, the airport set from Birmingham was stolen by truckloaders. Talking about his role, Ijaz said, “I play a very angry Pakistani Pathan who deals in illegal activities from his office which is inside a traditional Pakistani bus and that's pretty much all I can say. You will have to watch the rest but I can promise it's going to be a memorable
This is my second big Bollywood Blockbuster
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scene.” Finally, the future looks bright for the Birmingham lad. “I am currently in talks for another Bollywood Feature Film but I can't really say anything about that at this moment in time. All I can say is I'm a big believer of fate and when the time is right things will fall into place. I would love to be in a movie with the queen of Bollywood Preity Zinta or play the role of a villain in any Vishal Bhardwaj movies.”
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POLICE RE-APPEAL YASAR ABBAS ANNIVERSARY DEATH SPORT
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Sania Mirza Named World No.1
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n the second anniversary of the death of a Walsall takeaway driver West Midlands Police are renewing an appeal for information to find the people responsible. Yasar Abbas was delivering Chinese takeaway food to an address in Maddison Avenue, Alumwell when he was attacked during the early hours of Saturday 13 April 2013. Detectives believe the takeaway order was bogus and that Mr Abbas was ambushed as he got out of his car. Witnesses have described how three people approached the silver Vauxhall Corsa and attacked the 28-year-old. Mr Abbas was taken to hospital with life threatening injuries and sadly passed away four days later. During the investigation to date 10 people have been arrested and questioned, all were later released without charge. Detective Inspector Gary Plant, who is leading the investigation, said, "It has been two years since Yasar
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• ATTACKED: Yasar Abbas received his fateful injuries but the investigation is ongoing and will be reviewed on a regular basis until his attackers are brought to justice. "People out there know who is responsible for the death of this young man and for the sake of his family who are still very much grieving for his loss, I am appealing to those persons to come forward and help us. "I believe answers remain in the local community and anyone with information can come forward in the knowledge that it will be dealt with in strict confidence."
BIRMINGHAM LIBRARY HIT BY 'HUGE AND UNFAIR' CUTS
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BILKIS BREAKS BARRIERS
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abour leader Ed Miliband has said that he understands Birmingham's concerns regarding the cutting of opening times at the Birmingham library by the conservative party. He Said these cuts unfairly targeted cities such as
THERE’S A NEW IN TOW
Birmingham and pledged labour would introduce a "fair funding" system ensuring cash went where it was needed. Hundreds of people queued to get inside the £190 million Library of Birmingham after it slashed its opening hours as part of massive council cuts.
he county of Nottinghamshire has elected its first Sikh High Sheriff. Being installed at a ceremony at a Sikh temple, Dr Jaswant Bilkhu officially took over the post for the next year from outgoing High Sheriff Graham Cartledge. Having moved from Punjab in 1960, Dr Bilku went on to become a GP for 27 years. He said. "I accepted this role first and foremost for my mother and father. They dedicated their life to their family and their community. When they came here there weren't many Indian people, and certainly not many Sikhs. "I think the community is very proud to now see one of their own being installed as High Sheriff. My wish is to try and bridge the gap with the Sikh community.” Dr Bilkhu intends to focus on improving health and wellbeing in the city and will also be continuing with charity
work through his ambassadorial role for the Nottinghamshire Hospice and as a Marie Curie patron. His other charities are Age UK and Karma Nirvana, which helps victims of domestic abuse and forced marriage. Dr Bilkhu's sister Jaswinder Biant, 54, of Sherwood, said, "This is an achievement not just for him, but for the whole Sikh community of Nottingham. My brother is a great role model and we regard him now as the head of the family. Our father came to England wanting his children to integrate and have an education here. I can't think of a better integration than having a Sikh High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire." Outgoing Sheriff Graham Cartledge said, "I think he is an excellent choice and I look forward to seeing the work he does over the coming year."
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W SHERIFF STUDENT USED DEVICES WN TO BOOST MARKS Jailed After Hacking University Computers
Dr Jaswant Bilkhu Elected as first Sikh High Sheriff
He was determined to cheat his way to a better degree. His false qualification could have seen him go on to research medical treatments.
" He was in his final year and was suspended. It is very unlikely that any other university will touch him after this"
• JAILED: Student Imran Uddin
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student who used key-logging devices to hack into an exams grading system at the University of Birmingham to improve his grades has been jailed for four months. Imran Uddin used four of the devices on university computers to capture login details from members of staff - including one who had access to the system that kept records of his grades. The 25-year-old then logged
ESTABLISHED SINCE 1975
into the system using the details he had obtained and upped his marks from being on course for a 2.2 result to what would have been a first class degree. However the biochemistry student was found out when staff located one of the small, black, rectangular devices inside a computer. Staff launched an internal investigation and found three more - including one attached to a machine in a secure area
of the campus only accessible to staff. Police were called and detectives from the Regional Cyber Crime Unit were able to decipher the data he had collected and found Uddin had been logging in using staff details to better his grades. Appearing at Birmingham Crown Court he pleaded guilty to six offences of the Computer Misuse Act. Judge James Burbidge QC told Uddin, “For reasons not entirely clear to me, whether it was monetary, or pride or a desire to out perform others, you decided to cheat and you formed a settled intention to do that. I consider your actions were planned and persistent. “This kind of conduct undermines or has the potential to undermine public confidence in the degree system, set up by this university. I have decided
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I cannot pass a suspended sentence because there needs to be an element of deterrence.” Detective Constable Mark Bird, from the Regional Cyber Crime Unit, said, "The audacity of Uddin to install not just one but four of these devices showed how determined he was to cheat his way to a better degree. His false qualification could have seen him go on to research medical treatments. "The seriousness of his crimes were reflected in the four-month prison sentence he was handed at court.” Defending, Balbir Singh, said, “He was in his final year and was suspended. It is very unlikely that any other university will touch him after this. This is not a case where he was hopelessly failing and was not going to be able to succeed.”
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LEGAL COLUMN HOW DO ENGLISH COURTS TREAT FOREIGN MARRIAGES? In this column I hope to be able to provide the readers with some answers regarding how foreign marriages are recognised by courts in England. Nowadays the courts are seeing many cases where the parties have been married abroad and are seeking the intervention of English courts to deal with the dissolution of their marriages, child issues including child abduction issues, forced marriages as well as financial property matters. It is difficult to establish the marital status of the parties if there is little or no evidence to confirm that the marriage took place. The basic principles of recognising a valid marriage in England are (a) the parties voluntarily consented to the marriage, (b) they were not prohibited from marrying due to age, physical capacity, being blood relationship or because they are already married, (c) they entered the marriage for life and (d) there may be the requirement of consent by a third party (e.g. if either party is aged 16 or 17 years then parental consent is required) Taking these principles on board, a marriage conducted outside of England would be recognised by English courts provided that the marriage has been performed in accordance with the laws of the country in which the marriage has taken place, the parties have capacity to marry in accordance with the laws of that country (unless for example if by the law of the country in which the marriage was performed
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THOUSANDS GATHER TO TACKLE
ISLAMAPHOBIA
• LEGAL - Jusleen Arora
it was considered legal if one party did not give valid consent), and the marriage is not against public policy (for example a forced marriage). In some countries, polygamous marriages (where multiple marriages are allowed) are considered valid and these will be recognised by English Courts unless there is strong reason why the court should not, e.g. if either party did not have capacity to enter into the marriage. A marriage is easily evidenced if the parties hold a valid marriage certificate. However if the marriage is not evidenced in written form then expert evidence from a lawyer in the country the marriage took place would need to be provided to confirm that according to the laws of the country the marriage is legal. If the parties seek resolution of a dispute and there is question about the validity of the marriage, then an application to court would need to be made for the court to decide upon the validity of the marriage and to be able to do this, one of the parties must have been a permanent resident of England at the date of the marriage, or one or both of the parties have been living in England for at least one year before the application is made and they are settled in England. If you have been married abroad and seek a remedy from English courts, it is essential that you seek the advice of a specialist family lawyer.
FOREIGN WEDDINGS: When marrying abroad, couples must marry according to the laws of that country
Contact me on twitter: @castleparksol
ORGANISERS PRAISE SUCCESSFUL EVENT
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CELEBRATIONS: Residents Come Out to Celebrate the Birth of Prophet Muhammed
“Today is about celebrating the birth of our Prophet and secondly we are part of the movement for the protection of the honour of all the Prophets in the light of the comments made in France. People are here from all over the UK and Europe.”
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ver 30,000 people assembled in Birmingham, celebrating the birth of the Prophet of Islam (Peace be upon Him). The Milad procession, which has become an annual event, saw thousands gather in Aston Park following a parade from the Victoria Road Mosque. What has become to be known as the largest Milad celebration in Europe, it saw six giant marquees put up in the park to accommodate attendees. The parade included a horse-drawn carriage and much waving of bright banners and flags. Politicians of all parties were welcomed to the event, with all calling for an end to Islamophobia. Members of all other faith groups were also in attendance.
Organiser Sahibzada Arfeen said, “Firstly today is about celebrating the birth of our prophet and secondly we are part of the movement for the protection of the honour of all the prophets in the light of the comments made in France. People are here from all over the UK and Europe.” The ceremony was led by Hazrat Qibla Pir Alauddin Siddqiui Sahib, chairman of the Victoria Road Mosque. MP Khalid Mahmood, said, “This is a huge event involving the whole community, it has grown over ten years. It is a very important celebration.” He was joined by Liam Byrne, John Hemming, Shabana Mahmood and John Spellar, as well as Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Shafique Shah.
CELEBRATIONS: A Young Boy Celebrates the Birth of Prophet Muhammed
“This is a huge event involving the whole community, it has grown over ten years. It is a very important celebration. As you can see there are people from all backgrounds, religions and cultures to speak out about Islamaphobia."
CEO SLEEP OUT C hairman of the Lunar Society Waheed Saleem will be joining CEO's from Birmingham on the 14th May 2015 to Sleep Out at Aston Villa Football, as part of the national initiative CEO Sleep Out. The aim's of the CEO Sleep Out are to raise awareness of, and vital funds for, tackling homelessness issues. To show the people of Birmingham that its business leaders care and will do something difficult and different and to show the rest of the West Midlands, and in fact the UK, that Birmingham lead the way in taking positive action in their community.
Lunar Society Chair to Sleep out for Charity
• SLEEPING OUT: Waheed Saleem
CEO Sleepout is a charity formed in December 2013, set up to fight homelessness and poverty. The charity is funded with money raised by executives who sleep outdoors for one night to raise sponsorship from their business contacts and friends. Trustees of the charity include Niklas Tunley of business law firm Endeavour Partnership and Martin Houghton Brown CEO of homelessness charity De Paul UK.
Waheed will be joining the Midland Heart Team led by the CEO Ruth Cooke. Other people participating include Mark Rogers CEO Birmingham City Council, Rt Rev David Urquhart Bishop of Birmingham, Ian Taylor former Aston Villa footballer. Waheed said "homelessness affects many people in our cities and it's important that we do our best to eradicate this. The sponsorship raised through this initiative will go directly in tackling homelessness in Birmingham. One night of discomfort for us is nothing compared to the discomfort experienced by many people in our city that sleep rough." If you wish to sponsor please visit : https://www.justgiving. com/MidHeart
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Mosque Teachers Accused of Assault
BOY BEATEN BY TEACHER
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wo teachers from a Birmingham mosque are facing allegations of assault after beating a ten-year-old student. Mohammed Waqar, 23, and Mohammed Siddique, 60, are accused of beating the young boy for reciting the Quran incorrectly at the Jamia Mosque
in Anderton Road, Sparkbrook, where the pair taught. The alleged victim is said to have been repeatedly slapped for making mistakes in his religious studies and is claimed to have suffered a black eye on one occasion. Mr Waqar and Mr Siddique, both of Olton Boulevard West,
were arrested by officers last June and are due to stand trial at Birmingham Crown Court on August 10. Both men had pleaded not guilty to the offence of cruelty to a person under 16 at the same court on April 1, which carries a maximum sentence of ten years in prison.
MILLIONAIRE FINED FOR SHOPLIFTING RONAN GHOSH DETAINED BY TESCO SECURITYGUARDS
• CAUGHT - Ronan Ghosh
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he director of a million pound company was caught stealing £200 worth of meat and wine from a local Tesco store in Birmingham. 39-year-old Ronan Ghosh, attempted to take the products out of the store by hiding them in a bag. But Mr Ghosh, who is the director of a global recycling firm, was spotted on the store’s security cameras and police were called. Ghosh, who lives in a luxury house in leafy Solihull, stood before Birmingham Crown Court after originally asking for a trial by jury, but then pleaded guilty to theft. Judge Murray Creed sentenced the businessman to a 12 month community order and he was ordered to complete
80 hours unpaid work and pay £575 costs. Charnjit Jutla, defending, said, “He’s the director of RG Recycling a limited company that supplies high-value machinery for the recycling industry. It is a global business. It has a yearly turnover of £16 million. It beggars belief as to why he finds himself in this court. He had no financial difficulties. He accepts full responsibility for what he has done.” Mr Jutla said Ghosh, was “disappointed with himself and shocked and embarrassed.” On the day in question, his father had told him his mother had been diagnosed with skin cancer and that had “worried him a lot.” Mr Jutla said there was also a will being discussed within the family which
had put considerable strain on him. Lal Amarasinghe, prosecuting, said, “Ghosh visited the Tesco on February 21 and was captured on CCTV selecting items, including meat and bottles of wine, which he put into a bag. He then went to the checkout and paid for shopping that was in his trolley – but not for what was in the bag.” Ghosh was detained by a security guard. “When quizzed, the millionaire said he had visited the store after having an argument with his girlfriend and claimed he had not intended to steal the goods.” Ghosh set up RG Recyling, based in Warwick Road in 2009. The company trades in new and used waste processing equipment and recyclable materials.
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TILE CHOICE Win Key Industry Award
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leading Midlands independent tile retail chain is celebrating a successful business year after winning a prestigious industry award. Tile Choice, whose head quarters are based in Wolverhampton and now have sixteen stores throughout the central region, attended the 2015 TTA Crystal Anniversary Awards in Birmingham, where they were recognised for their business excellence in the retail sector winning the Gold Award for "Multiple Retailer of the Year." The Tile Association represents all aspects of the wall and floor tile industry in the UK, from manufacture to installation. Formed in January 2000, The Tile Association represents the whole of the UK wall and floor tile industry under one organisation. The Awards recognise and reward the innovative designs and projects that have happened over the last year, as well as appreciate the consistently high level of customer service shown by retailers within the Industry.
GOLD AWARD: Business Excellence - Multiple Retailer of The Year
The TTA Awards is now in its 15th year and is still growing fast. This year, the awards were held at St John’s Hotel and Conference Centre in Solihull, on Saturday 18th April, along with a black tie dinner for the estimated 400 people who attended, and was hosted by TV presenter Emma Jesson. Marketing Manager at Tile Choice, Lee Rudkin was particularly proud of the company’s achievement, “This is the third time in the last four years we have won Multiple Retailer of the Year. As a company, we’ve been working very hard within the retail sector and have continued to see some great results because of our dedication to make Tile Choice the market leader. “We are great believers in utilising our experience within our industry to focus on providing only excellent customer service and products, which is essentially what everybody is looking for from a retail perspective. “From the quality products we offer, which are bulk bought from trusted suppliers allowing us to pass on significant in-store savings, to the way they are presented in each specific store, we like to make each shopping experience as enjoyable as possible for domestic and trade customers alike. “And of course, it’s all down to individual style, so we make sure we stay up to date with the latest interior design fashions as well as continuing to offer traditional products to keep ahead of our competition, and remain always able to offer people a much wider choice. “We are extremely proud to be recognised by our piers at The Tile Association for the work our dedicated team have put in to making Tile Choice such a success”.
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Birmingham man was ordered to pay £550 for misleading customers that meat sold at a Small Heath butcher’s was approved by the Halal Monitoring Committee (HMC), at
Hajj Tour Operator Ordered to Pay £70,235
TRAVEL AGENT LIED ABOUT SERVICES
Package tour operators have a captive audience because visas for Hajj have to be booked through these companies – people can’t do it themselves. This then leaves pilgrims exposed to criminals who wish to exploit them
Birmingham Trading Standards is leading the way nationally on cracking down on unscrupulous Hajj tour operators
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Birmingham-based Hajj travel company has been ordered to pay £70,235 at Birmingham Crown Court. Umrah & Hajj Specialist Ltd, based on Coventry Road, Small Heath, pleaded guilty to five offences under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations (2008) and one under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations (1992). The travel firm has been ordered to pay £38,740 in compensation to seven victims, plus £25,995 costs and a £5,500 fine. In November 2012, Birmingham Trading Standards started receiving complaints from numerous consumers who had been on the Hajj pilgrimage during October 2012.
Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 at an earlier hearing. He was fined £150 and ordered to pay £400 towards court costs. Birmingham City Council brought the case after Trading Standards officers, who visited the store on 16 April 2013, saw posters bearing unauthorised HMC trademarks which suggested that the premises and the meat there was certified by the HMC. Officers inspecting the premises found meat products from four suppliers which were not certified or licensed by the HMC. Sajeela Naseer, Head of Trading Standards for Birmingham City Council, said, “Food fraud is a major concern that we take very seriously and, as in this case, we will take appropriate action – including prosecution – where any case warrants this. Consumers, particularly those who follow strict dietary guidelines in line with their religious beliefs, expect to food labelling to accurately reflect the provenance of their food. “The presence of a Company HMC logo reassures Fined for consumers the meat they’re buying Selling has been inspected 'Unapproved' and approved, so even though these Meat products were halal, the posters were misleading consumers Birmingham Crown Court. Mohammed Naseer, 39, in to thinking the meat on who owns New Kashmir Halal sale were approved.” New Kashmir Halal Meat Meat, on Coventry Road, Small Heath, pleaded guilty was allowed to remain open to two offences under the to customers during this Consumer Protection from investigation.
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The offences relate to the description of and standard of the hotel in Madinah, transport, meals and guides provided, failing to give information about insurance needed, and aggressive practice by company representatives trying to stop dissatisfied customers from complaining. The brochures claimed the hotel had a 3A* rating and that ‘dedicated air conditioned coaches’, religious guides and educational programmes would be provided as part of these ‘deluxe’ packages. However the victims described their accommodation as overcrowded with filthy bathrooms and dirty conditions in the bedrooms. Meals were to be provided as part of these packages,
• FINED: Umrah & Hajj Specialist Ltd, on Coventry Road, Small Heath however on occasions they had to buy their own food. Hardly any religious guides or educational programmes were provided. For some parts of the trip coaches failed to arrive or were old, cramped and unsafe. However when the travellers complained to the tour representatives they were met with contempt, derision and at times
aggression. Pilgrims had paid between £3,295 and £4,195 each for the deluxe or super deluxe Hajj packages booked with the Umrah and Hajj Specialists Ltd. Some of the travellers booked on these trips were elderly and, for most people, making the pilgrimage for Hajj is a once in a lifetime experience.
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HEALTH COLUMN LOOKING AFTER YOUR SKIN THIS SUMMER Summer is almost here and many people will have already made plans for the holidays. That might include going abroad or staying closer to home in the United Kingdom, but whatever your plans, it’s important to be aware of the damage that can be caused by overexposure to the sun. More than 13,000 people living in Great Britain develop skin cancer each year compared to 1,800 in the mid-1970s. People at risk of getting skin cancer include those who have pale skin, lots of moles and freckles, a history of sunburn or a family history of the disease. British Asians, though are less likely to develop skin cancer as they have more natural protection from ultraviolet radiation and have darker skin, should still protect their skin from the sun because skin cancer can affect anyone. Overexposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun and sunbeds can lead to skin cancer and with May being Skin Cancer Awareness Month, this is an ideal time to raise awareness of skin cancer and how you can stay safe in the sun. The three most common types of skin cancer are: Basal cell skin cancer: Basal cell skin cancer is the most common type of skin cancer and starts developing from basal cells. Basal cells are situated around the hair follicle and this type of skin cancer will develop mainly in areas exposed to the sun. Basal cell skin cancer can develop anywhere on the skin. Squamous cell skin cancer: Squamous cell cancer will also develop in areas that have been exposed to the sun. However, squamous cell skin cancer will start in cells lining the top of the skin. Melanoma: Melanoma is a less common but serious type of cancer that begins in the skin and can spread to other organs in the body. More than 2,000 people in the UK every year die due to melanoma. Most skin cancers can be cured if found and treated early. Treatment will depend on the type and stage of the disease, the size and place of the tumour
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• JACQUI JONES - Skin cancer clinical nurse specialist at Good Hope Hospital
as well as your general health. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are other treatments available to help treat skin cancer. Surgery may be required for people with skin cancer. Even if you are not going on holiday or going abroad this summer, it is essential you take steps to help protect yourself from the sun. So what steps can be taken to help you protect your skin? Spend time in the shade when the sun is strong. Trees, umbrellas, canopies or buildings can all provide shade and help you protect your skin. Avoid getting sunburnt. Every time the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays, this increases the chance of skin cancer occurring. You should apply a good sun protection factor (spf) sunscreen before you go out in the sun so the cream can be absorbed. You will need to apply sunscreen regularly if you are going to be spending time in the sun. You will also need to re-apply sunscreen if you have been for a swim.
• STAY PROTECTED: Wear shades in the sun
Wear clothes that provide protection from the sun if you are going to be working outdoors. This should include a hat to protect your face and scalp and sunglasses to protect your eyes. Avoid the use of sunbeds. Sunbeds can damage your skin and cause premature wrinkles. Skin Cancer Awareness Month takes place every year in May.
Are you on Twitter? To find out what is going on around our hospitals, and for latest news and updates follow us @heartofengland. Join our conversation today! Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust staff provides general and specialist hospital care across Heartlands Hospital, Solihull Hospitals, Good Hope Hospital and Birmingham Chest Clinic. The Trust also provides community health services across the borough of Solihull. The Trust employs more than 10,000 members of staff, making it one of the top five employers in the Midlands.
Abhishek Bachchan Visits Leicester A Bollywood A-lister graced the streets of Leicester to show his support for a local MP of Indianorigin. Abhishek Bachchan visited the city to aid the election campaign of 58-year-old MP Keith Vaz, who is the longest-serving BritishAsian MP to date. Keith, who has been officially
nominated the local Labour Party candidate for the upcoming polls, was joined by Abishek in a public question-and-answer session at Peepul Centre with over 350 residents from the city in attendance. The actor answered questions about his life and career at the event in which he was presented
with a personalised Leicester City football shirt. The pair then embarked on a tour of Belgrave Road and Uppingham Road to the delight of thousands of adoring fans of the big screen star. Bachchan said at the event: "I am here for Keith. He works so hard for Leicester and I am delighted to be here to help him today. Keith is a close family friend. He possesses so many values I hold close to my heart for our politicians; he is warm, generous and kind. I know that he is a true leader for the Indian community in the United Kingdom, who does great work for people of Indian origin.” "It was an honour to have one of Bollywood's megastars with us in Leicester today. Our city was bouncing with the joy and excitement of thousands of adoring fans who came out to see Abhishek," said Keith. The MP added: “Abhishek was wonderful, and people adored him. He is a close friend, and for him to take time to come to Leicester is truly special.
Zoheb Majid Given 12 Years for Murder Jailed Alongside 13-Year-old Schoolboy
• JAILED:
Zoheb Majid
A teenager has been jailed for 12 years for murdering a 47-yearold Smethwick woman. Petri Kurti, aged 13, was handed the sentence at Wolverhampton Crown Court alongside Zoheb Majid, 20, who was jailed for 10 years for robbery and manslaughter. Glynis Bensley, 47, of Smethwick had visited the Seven Stars pub in Smethwick on 3 September 2014 and was on her way home when she was targeted on Cheshire Road near to the junction with High Street. Ms Bensley was hit by Kurti making her fall to the ground. The boy was then joined within seconds by Majid on his bicycle. They turned their victim over stealing property from her pockets before the schoolboy stamped on her face with such force that his footprint was left on her cheek. A post mortem examination of Ms Bensley revealed she died as a result of a severe bleed on the brain. Following the attack Kurti fled to nearby Victoria Park where he joined a number of people who
congregated there. He was overheard talking about the incident. Majid was also seen at the park after his conspirator had left, he was also overheard talking about selling a gold bracelet. Five days later on the evening of 9 September, the Kurti handed himself into police. During his initial interviews with detectives he did not provide any comment on the attack. He was subsequently charged with murder and appeared at youth court the following day. Unemployed Majid, of Cheshire Road in Smethwick was arrested by detectives in Highgate two days later. Throughout the investigation, both maintained a belief that the victim was a man due to the clothing and hairstyle of Ms Bensley. At court Kurti was handed a 12 year sentence for murder and a concurrent five year sentence for robbery. He will be on licence for life. Majid was sentenced to 10 years for manslaughter and seven years for robbery to run concurrently.
BIG BUSINESS IN THE BIG APPLE B NEWS
udding business students from Abbey College Birmingham had a once in a life time opportunity to go behind the scenes at some of the most iconic business and financial institutions on a recent trip to New York, where they were able to develop their business acumen and hone their financial understanding. 20 students and three teachers gained a unique insight into one of the world’s greatest cities and some of its landmarks during their four day stay last week. The knowledge thirsty students attended a business and marketing workshop at the renowned Madame Tussauds where they learned the art of creating a successful business. They followed the beneficial talk with a guided
walking tour of the financial district, where they were able to gain an insight into one of the largest financial centres in the world. The eager students also visited the Empire State Building where they experienced the incredible views of the city. The students made the most of Manhattan with some students watching an exciting basketball game - the Brooklyn NETS V Milwaukee Bucks at the Barclays Centre, whilst others watched The Phantom of the Opera at the Majestic Theatre. The lucky group also took a ferry to Ellis Island to see the Statue of Liberty, where they could take time to appreciate the important landmark. The Sony Wonder Technology Lab, on Madison Avenue was the next stop
A beauty salon owner jailed for conning suppliers out of stock worth £1,000s and racking up huge rent arrears will spend an extra 10 months behind bars for trying to trick a judge into believing she’d paid back her debtors.
The thought provoking trip gave the students a once in a lifetime look into the economics of New York City
West Midlands Police’s Economic Crime Unit found Tina Patel − who set up Creative Salons in May 2013 from premises in Walsall’s Park Place − tricked beauty wholesalers by sending emails purporting to be from bank officials confirming
transfer payments. And she repeatedly wrote cheques from closed bank accounts to cover monthly payments on a residential property she rented in Boulevard Walk, Walsall, amassing arrears of £7,500 before eventually being evicted. Patel admitted
for the enthusiastic students who used the experience to develop their understanding of the importance of bringing technology and creativity together. Ground Zero was the last stop for the students who took the time to remember those affected by the attacks on 9/11. Vikram Singh Maan, 17, from Ridgeacre Road, Quinton is in lower sixth and studies Economics, Chemistry, Physics and Business. He found the trip beneficial: “It was exciting to have the chance to explore New York City. It has so much to offer and has really
five counts of fraud at Wolverhampton Crown Court last May and was jailed for threeand-a-half years. She pleaded for leniency by producing a receipt from her landlady showing the bulk of her tenancy bill had been settled – but the judge demanded
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opened my eyes to the world of business and just how big and impressive it is. The landmarks were incredible and I am thrilled that I could experience some of New York’s most famous features.” Abbey College Birmingham Principal, Stephen Robinson, commented: “The thought provoking trip gave the students a once in a lifetime look into the economics of New York City providing them with valuable knowledge which will be useful in their academic studies.” “I am delighted they were given this opportunity and I know they all thoroughly enjoyed the trip.”
her story be probed by police when the property owner denied knowledge of receiving a payment or signing a receipt. Fraud police turned to a calligraphy expert to compare the landlady’s handwriting against the receipt – and when
they found significant differences Patel eventually admitted penning the receipt herself. The 38-year-old, formerly of Waterfront Way in Walsall, admitted perjury and at the same court, she was jailed for an additional 10 months.
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Once in a Lifetime Opportunity for Abbey College Students
Salon Owner Given Longer Sentence
• JAILED: Tina Patel
MAY 2015
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MAY 2015
CABBIE AVOIDS
JAIL
A Birmingham taxi driver has narrowly escaped prison for trying to deceive officers over a speeding ticket. Mohammed Malik, aged 62, claimed a mechanic was driving his Toyota Avensis, when it was clocked doing 37 mph in a 30 zone on Washwood Heath Road in April last year. Officers then wrote to the man Malik claimed was his mechanic, only to have the letter returned saying he no longer lived at the address given. Becoming suspicious, officers then contacted the cabbie’s firm and asked for a print out of his journeys on the day of the speeding offence. His records revealed he had actually picked up a fare at the time - which could clearly be seen on the speeding camera footage sat on the back seat - but despite this, Malik was insistent his car had encountered mechanical problems on the journey and it was his mechanic driving. Officers then went to the address Malik claimed the mechanic worked from and found it to be a residential property, which had never been used as a garage. With the evidence stacking against him, Malik finally admitted the speeding offence and was subsequently charged with perverting the course of justice for lying about who was behind the wheel. Malik - of Coleshill Road, Ward End - pleaded guilty to the charge and on 31 March he was handed a four month prison sentence - suspended for 18 months - plus 80 hours unpaid work and costs of £400. He was also banned from driving for six months.
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GET JUSTICE FOR MY SON
Tariq Jahan Asks Public to Sign Petition Calling for Public Inquiry
One of the heroes of the Birmingham riots has called on the public to help him sign a petition to launch an “examination” into the police investigation of his son’s murder. Tariq Jahan has set up the petition asking Home Secretary, Theresa May, to look into the flawed court case of Haroon Jahan, Shahzad Ali and Abdul Musavir – who died
taken from us! “I called for peace and calm at a time when our hearts had been ripped from our chests, in the single hope that those responsible would be brought to justice. Eight men stood trial and before our very eyes, they were all acquitted. What transpired before us was a gross miscarriage of justice, which was perpetuated by
• MOSQUE COLLAPSE: The mosque on Walford Road in Sparkhill, Birmingham collapsed, after being closed for two weeks.
• HELP ME: Tariq Jahan seeks justice expect or deserve. “Today I am asking for your support in calling on the Home Secretary to launch a Public Inquiry into what happened
#justicefortheboys The Asian Today is backing this call to the Government. To sign the petition, please visit: www.tariqjahan.com during the 2011 Birmingham Riots. Writing on his Facebook page, the grieving father said, “In the early hours of 10th August 2011 my son, Haroon, along with brothers Shazad Ali and Abdul Musavir were murdered when a car drove at them at high speed. Our lives were changed forever as our beloved sons, brothers, husbands and fathers were
• JUSTICE: Haroon Jahan, Shazad Ali and Abdul Musavir who died during the 2011 riots the incompetence of the very police force which gave us assurances that justice, would be done. “More than 3 years on from that day and after an IPCC investigation into the conduct of the senior investigating officers, which raised more questions than it provided answers, we are still no closer to getting the justice that any family in our position would
FOR ALL THE
so that we may try to achieve some sort of closure and get answers to the questions we have. “I, along with my family, friends and supporters have started a petition and I ask that you sign this petition and help me gain as many signatories to this as possible. I thank you for your ongoing support and I pray that nobody else has to go through what we have gone through in the future.”
B
irmingham City Council has opened a formal investigation into how the roof of a mosque, shut two weeks ago, has collapsed. Following an assessment of the building, the council has contracted Acivico who deals with faulty buildings, to find out the cause of the collapse.
SPARKBROOK
MOSQUE
NEWS
MAY 2015
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LATEST NEWS VISIT: WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM I heard a sound like a huge lorry had driven past – there was no explosion
• MOSQUE COLLAPSE: Inside view of the mosque.
COLLAPSE
CITY COUNCIL OPENS INVESTIGATION
• MOSQUE COLLAPSE: Firefighters look through the wreckage
The mosque, situated in the Watford Road of Sparkbrook, has been closed for two weeks so construction work could be carried out on the building. West Midlands Fire service has spoke of its relief that no-one had been in the building at the time, after it was called to the scene. The departments Highgate section was sent out along with a specialist dog unit from Leicestershire. A statement from Acivico, stated, “A meeting took place with a demolition contractor at 9.30am this morning to assess the immediate danger and to survey the building. Remedial work to make the building safe will then commence. “A further update regarding the intended course of action will be supplied this afternoon following the assessment this morning.” Local resident, Abid Shah said, “I heard a sound like a huge lorry had driven past – there was no explosion. I went outside and there was dust in the air and rubble across the path and in the road. It was quite a shock. I am just so relieved that noone has been hurt.” The childhood home of Top Gear star Richard Hammond's mother was devastated when the roof of the mosque collapsed.
23
Richard’s mother, Eileen Hammond, 69, was born and raised in the terraced house, in Walford Road, Sparkbrook, which saw its two storeys destroyed due to the collapse in the Muslim Welfare Centre's roof. Mrs Hammond said: “Richard visited a lot when he was a boy. My father had an attic workshop in an area of the house that was destroyed. “He was a cabinet maker and the top floor of the house was an Aladdin’s cave for the boys. It’s a real shame because I was born in the house and lived there for 21 years and only left in 1967 when I got married. “My parents stayed on until my father died in 1983 and then we sold the property. I hadn’t seen it since. I haven’t spoken to any of my sons about it yet. I will speak to them at some point. They all have very successful careers.” A grandmotherof-eight and retired charity consultant, Mrs Hammond now resides in Gloucestershire with her husband Alan, 70. West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service attended the site of the mosque when they were informed by locals of the roof's collapse. They said the destruction, which saw no one come to harm, was caused by “ongoing works inside the premises”.
CHANNEL 4 COMMISSIONS BETTY TO MAKE A NEW SERIES OF OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE CLEANERS
•
OCC: Previous participants Jim and Gemma
Caption for picture: “OCC: Previous participants Jim and Gemma.”
B
etty has been commissioned to make of her obsessive habits. "It puts your life in a fourth run of Obsessive Compulsive perspective a bit. Cleaning isn't the be all Cleaners for Channel 4. The series follows and end all. I obviously still have to do my people who, by their own admission, cannot rituals but I used to wash my floor 5 or 6 Are you consumed cleaning? matches OR do youthem find housekeeping an overwhelming and it all stop cleaning andbycarefully times a day and I cut thatchore down toavoid 3 times. with costs?someone whose home is in dire need of I'm more relaxed when people come round." a spring clean. Together these people with Homeowner Charlie found that taking such contrasting compulsions explore how part the ashow has him a fresh start. TV production company Betty has been commissioned toin make fourth rungiven of Obsessive their different behaviour affects their lives. 'it's been great. Spending a little bit more Compulsive Cleaners for Channel 4. This series follows people who, by their own admission, cannot time cleaning, more people come round now. Betty is currently looking for people to take stop cleaning and carefully matches them with someone whose home is in dire need of a spring part. It's good. Getting the garden sorted now and I'm doing a bit of painting & different decorating. It's OneTogether compulsive cleaner, found clean. these people withTina, such contrasting compulsions explore how their that taking part helped slow down some been fantastic."
behaviour affects their lives. Betty is currently looking for people to take part.
One compulsive cleaner, Tina, found that taking part helped slow down some of her obsessive
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24
THOUSANDS OF NEW FOSTER FAMILIES NEEDED To Provide Stable and Secure Homes A
t least 8,370 new foster families are needed across the UK during 2015 to provide stable, secure and loving homes for record numbers of fostered children,
according to figures released today from The Fostering Network. Each day sees over 63,000
children living with over 52,500 foster families in homes across the UK. With a rising number of children coming into care, and around 13 per cent of foster carers
retiring or leaving the service last year, there is a need to not only recruit more foster carers but also better utilise
the current pool of foster carers. More foster families are particularly needed to provide homes for teenagers, children with disabilities and sibling groups.
In 2013/14, 39,600 of the young people in care in England were aged 10 or older whilst 5,595 children
Your local ‘outstanding’ adoption agency Successfully placing children with people like you www.adoption-focus.org.uk info@adoption-focus.org.uk Tel: 0121 779 0891 | Address: Adoption Focus, TS3 Pinewood Business Park, Coleshill Road, Marston Green, B37 7HG Adoption Focus is the registered adoption agency of Family Society, a company limited by guarantee. Registered in England & Wales no: 6869556; Registered Charity No: 1129095. Registered Office: Kemp House, 152 City Road, London EC1V 2NX
with disabilities were living with foster carers, a further 1,520 siblings from 535 fostered sibling groups in England were separated, where the aim was for them to live together and 7,190 children who were fostered were placed over 20 miles from their home. Without enough foster families willing and able to offer homes to these groups, some children will find themselves living a long way from family, friends and their school. It could also lead to them being split up from brothers and sisters, or being placed with a foster carer who does not have the right skills and experience to meet their specific needs. These pressures can lead to relationships breaking down, and children having to make regular moves between homes. Some young people will also be living in residential care when fostering has been identified as the best option for them. Jackie Sanders, director of public affairs at The Fostering Network, said: “Fostering can be an incredibly rewarding career and lifestyle choice for those who do come forward, opening their hearts and homes to children and young
people who need security and stability. “Fostering is also a challenging job, and when the match between foster family and child is not right, it becomes even more difficult. A wider pool of foster carers enables fostering services to be able to match the needs of each child more closely with the skills that each foster carer brings, and to find the right home for each child, first time. “However, as well as recruiting new foster carers, fostering services must look at the foster carers who are currently available to them in their local area. Where existing foster carers have space in their homes, it may be possible to retrain and support them to look after different ages of children with a variety of different needs. "Children and young people come into care for a wide range of reasons, but all come needing professional, dedicated and compassionate support. Foster carers are remarkable people who open their homes to some of society’s most disadvantaged children and young people. Fostering services approved over 7,175 new foster families in England alone in 2013/14,
but recruitment remains an ongoing challenge to replace those who leave and to meet the needs of the children coming into care. “We urgently need people who have the right skills and qualities to foster to come forward and make a long lasting positive difference to the life of a child. In particular, foster carers are needed to provide homes for teenagers and children with disabilities, and to help sibling groups stay together.” During 2015 an additional 6,900 foster families are needed in England, 170 in Northern Ireland, 750 in Scotland and 550 in Wales. A regional breakdown for England is below.
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SAY ‘YES’ TO ADOPTION WITH ADOPTION FOCUS
Adoption Focus, a Midlands-based adoption agency is running a campaign to encourage more people to enquire about adoption. Potential adopters who can answer yes to all three of these questions fulfil the basic requirements needed to take the first steps towards adoption: • DO YOU WANT TO BECOME AN ADOPTIVE PARENT? • ARE YOU OVER THE AGE OF 21? • DO YOU HAVE A SPARE BEDROOM?
The campaign is designed to demonstrate that the key requirements for adopters are relatively straightforward. There needs to be space for a child in the applicant’s home, applicants need to be old enough to legally start the process, and those who enquire must aspire to become a parent to an adoptive child. Adoption Focus CEO Anna Sharkey commented: “We know that potential adopters are often discouraged by thoughts that they won’t be eligible to adopt. With
our ‘Say ‘Yes’ to Adoption’ campaign we hope to assure couples and individuals that with their commitment, we can support them all the way through the adoption process and beyond.” Adoption Focus is an experienced and dedicated Ofsted Outstandingrated Voluntary Adoption Agency with offices in Birmingham, Staffordshire and Oxfordshire. They are currently recruiting adopters. Call 0121 779 0891 or visit www.adoptionfocus.org.uk for more information.
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THE BRITIS
Winners are announced at the TradeN
IN THE wPARK d Turns Record Cro t n e v E l a u n n A r o f t u O
There were twenty awards presented on the night, the winners are: Rising Star Award went to Rav Bagri (Santander Corporate & Commercial) Best in Creative Industries went to Nitin Dahad (Tech Spark) Best in Science and Engineering went to Mamta Singhal (Mattel) Best in Medical went to Professor Pankaj Sharma (Royal Holloway) Best in Civil and Third Sector Service went to Ravi Chand (HM Revenue and Customs)
A
n estimated 120,000 people attended this year’s Vaisakhi celebrations at Birmingham’s Handsworth Park, the largest outdoor Vaisakhi celebration in Europe The Council of Sikh Gurdwaras in Birmingham organised the annual event, which was free to all members of the community. Running from 11am to 6.30pm, the event included Sikh cultural activities, children’s inflatable play area, arts and crafts exhibitions, and sports and entertainment on the bandstand stage. There was also a Langar area – a marquee in which free food is served
– which is an important part of the Sikh faith, with food being prepared by various Gurdwaras across Birmingham and the Black Country. A worship area, known as a Darbar, was an important focal point on the day and was opened to all communities to visit and learn more about the Sikh faith. In addition to the celebrations in Handsworth Park, there were two processions. The first started at 10am from the Baba Sang Gurdwara in Sandwell, travelling along High Street, Toll House Way, Rabone Lane, Booth Street, Soho Road, Rookery Road, Oxhill Road, Grove
Lane and ending in Handsworth Park at 1pm. The second procession started from the Ramgarhia Sikh Temple, in the Jewellery Quarter, at 10am, travelling along Vyse Street, Hockley Flyover, Soho Hill, Soho Road, Grove Lane and then arriving at Handsworth Park at 12 noon. At the head of each procession was the Guru Granth Sahib – the Holy Book of Revelation – led by five Sikhs dressed in ceremonial costume to represent the five original Panj Pyare (the Beloved Ones) who were the first to join the Sikh order more than 300 years ago.
Photography by Jas Sansi (twitter: @jassansi)
Best in Media went to Sanjiv Buttoo (BBC Radio York) Best in Education went to Professor Kiran Trehan (University of Birmingham) Best in Accounting went to Ebrahim Sidat (AMS Group) Best in Legal Services went to Dee Kundi (HL Solicitors) Arts & Culture Awareness went to Piali Ray (SAMPAD) Best in Sport went to Rajiv Ouseph (Olympics, Commonwealth, English National Badminton Champion) Indian Spirit in the Community went to Nisha Tandon (ArtsEkta) Young Achiever of the Year went to Amit Pate (Snapify Ltd)
• VAISAKHI: Jas Sansi & Amrick Singh
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Its vibranis rich in culture. in to one Birmingham has made it cy and vivaciousness cities in the World. of the most recognisable case if things will not be the However, this city is becomgrow that the were carry on fears The claims most ing more "ghettoised." of Birmingham’s has made by one Jasper Carrot the put prolific celebrities. minorities to of their called on ethnic country ahead late. city and the before it is too in community, who was born the on The comedian, and still lives Acocks Green city, explained how he the in the outskirts of distinctive change could see a up in. where all city he grew is it a place "No longer where the on, but one is an examminorities get schools row a cultural Trojan Horse there has been ple of how
years shift." said, “Ten The 69-year-old racial problems in have commuago we didn’t because different Birmingham got on." nities have always Birmingham harmony in I am "The racial been remarkable. which now, has always that change starting to see more is very sad." are becoming “Communities themselves." Muslim enclosed in going into “Muslims are areas; Sikhs into Hindu into areas; Hindus and Somalians into Sikh areas Somali areas." careful, the city might “If we are not That’s the great start to get ghettoised. issue danger.” this is a thorny " I believe that bud." nipped in the that must be so hard to prevent work to “We have only good relationships that, and have he said. hesitanin communities,” you have the they are “Otherwise, worrying where cy of people they are." going, and who Horse thing has been the fore “The Trojan to has never come around, but page 2 Continued on until recently."
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Dosanjh Diljit PUNJAB 1984 - Interview
time to in your name it’s If you’ve got SINGH proud because... as sing it loud and going to be remembered ...2014 is definitely the summer of ‘SINGH’.
AWARDS 2013 AT THE ASIAN MEDIA 'BEST LOCAL NEWSPAPER' WINNERS OF THE
" I believe that this is a thorny issue that must the be nipped in bud." Comedian Jasper Carrot
Its vibrancy and rich in culture. Birmingham is to one of the most has made it in this will not vivaciousness in the World. However, the city recognisable cities carry on as fears grow that things be the case if "ghettoised." is becoming more
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Family Business of the Year went to PallMall Medical (Manchester) Leaders in Finance went to Ashminder Kaur (Hedgefund Hotel) Outstanding Achievement Award Geeta Srivastava (Magic of India) Businesswoman of the Year went to Anjna Raheja (Media Moguls) Businessman of the Year went to Sam Sangha (Asiana Ltd) Business of the Year went to Octavian Security. Entrepreneur of the Year went to Sukhvinder Javeed (Milkysnugz)
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SH INDIAN AWARDS
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Next presents The British Indian Awards in association with BDO
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he winners of the British Indian Awards presented by TradeNext in association with BDO LLP, were announced on 24th April, at the prestigious ceremony at the Chateau Impney Hotel, Worcestershire. The evening was a celebration to the success and achievements of Britain’s Indian individuals, groups and business people. The ceremony was one of recognition and celebration, which highlighted the significant role Indian’s play in contributing to a better Great Britain. “The calibre and scale of talent present
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at the British Indian Awards is a testament to the commitment and hard work the British Indian Community holds, coupled with the opportunities available in the United Kingdom, I pray that we continue to see contributions of this sort in future years.” Commented Mohsin Jameel, CEO TradeNext. Hosted by Kamlesh Purohit of BBC Radio Leicester, over 300 people attended the glamorous event, including singer and songwriter Navin Kundra and some of the cast of Desi Rascals. The Awards also raised funds for the official charity partner, Amir Khan Foundation.
Picture Perfect at the British Indian Awards It was a night on the town for The Asian Today team as it hosted twenty two guests at this year’s British Indian Awards. Professionals from all backgrounds were welcomed by Anita Chumber and Ifraz Ahmed of the Asian Today to Worcestershire’s Chateau Impney Hotel for an evening of enjoyable, creative and relaxing
BOB’S GLAZING
networking, invited by the newspaper. The award ceremony saw guests, invited by The Asian Today, win awards on what was seen as a hugely successful event. Reflecting back on the occasion, the newspaper would like to thank all that accepted the invitation and honoured us with their presence. The night ended with a group selfie.
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SHOWBIZ
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MAY 2015
“UNAUTHORISED” MOSQUE UNDER FIRE
Police open investigation into hate crime
P
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“Immensely Proud”
A tuition centre in Walsall is celebrating after securing a 100% success rate in maths. Heroes Tuition at Innovate Walsall, who offer extra outof-school support in maths and English for children aged ten to 15 and 26 students, has said it is “immensely proud” of students who have achieved the unprecedented results. Students achieved grades A* to B in the recent March exam, which is seen as a practice mock for summer’s GCSEs. Owner Sohail Ghalib said, “Hard working pupils and teachers are the real story for our success. We are immensely proud to work with so many outstanding delightful young people. Eight-year-old Aaqifah Shahina, who is also the youngest in the class, scored 148 out 200 – which equates to an A grade at GCSE.
SOLIHULL: The site which has allegedly been turned into a mosque
A local community centre is under fire following allegations that it has been turned into a mosque without permission. Solihull's Community Hub, based on Hermitage Road, opened its doors as a conference and training centre last April but is now under investigation from Solihull Council. A man residing near the Hub site said he had called police to inform them that almost 300 people had attended the conference and training centre. “People were throwing abuse back and forth. I called the police because I felt intimidated.” An online petition calling for the Community Hub to be shut down has been signed by over 1,000 people. The petition's states, “Solihull’s residents have not been consulted or informed of plans to turn the old ambulance station on Hermitage Road in to a ‘masjid’, otherwise known as a mosque. Dr Issam Ghannam, a Solihull Imam, said that Muslims from the area had to travel into Birmingham to visit a mosque and practice their faith.
olice are investigating after four pigs heads were dumped on the doorstep of a new community centre in Solihull. Officers were called to the old ambulance station on Hermitage Road just after 9.30pm by one of the centre’s trustees, who discovered the heads. The evening before, windows on the same building were also damaged. CCTV footage taken from cameras in the area shows one man leaving the heads on the doorstep before driving off in a light coloured saloon car.
PIGS HEAD LEFT OUTSIDE “UNAUTHORISED” MOSQUE
A carrier bag which is believed to have been used to carry the meat has been seized by forensic experts and is currently being examined along with other evidence taken from the scene. A number of witnesses have
also spoken to local officers. Chief Superintendent Alex Murray, from Solihull police station, called upon those behind the hate crime to come forward. "We’ve secured good quality CCTV of the culprits and
my detectives are making good progress with the investigation. The forensic evidence we have is also very strong and we expect a result from that in the coming days. "With this in mind, I would urge those responsible to
come forward and put their side of the story to us before we come and knock on their door." The incident come after an online petition attacking proposals for the building to be turned into a mosque.
EXPERIENCES AND THOUGHTS FROM THE FRONT LINE M
ad...crazy...bonkers... i n s a n e . . . n u t t y. . . o f f his rocker...mental...are just some of the phrases which can be used around the mental health area. They can flow from a lack of understanding, ignorance, taboo and prejudice as mental health is indeed a complex and multi-layered issue. I am a Mental Health Lawyer and this is a phrase
Units in circumstances when they are usually seeking a discharge which leads to representation at a Mental Health Tribunal hearing. This is when the ‘court’ essentially comes to the hospital and has the power to decide to discharge a person from Section out into the community. Mental health carries a heavy burden of stigma with it always but hopefully
• TIME TO TALK: Ranjit Thaliwal and his team
that many people simply don’t understand! Essentially I represent those who are detained under Section in Mental Health
the weight of that burden is getting lighter through awareness, knowledge and some tremendous work done by key groups in the mental
health world, in particular national mental health organisations such as Mind, Rethink and the Time to Change campaign. Taken by force from your home into a psychiatric unit can indeed be a traumatic and devastating experience. In terms of the Asian community, one observation that I would make is that the issue of stigma remains perhaps as prevalent as any other community and when mental health issues arise the way to assist and overcome these can be a difficult challenge for those nearest and dearest encountering the problems. Historically Asian persons often live in extended family situations with a great intensity of interaction with family members outside the household as well. Perhaps on occasions the issue of mental illness may arise but remain internalised and cocooned within that structure. Those affected by mental health issues are many and the figures are estimating that broadly one in four people in the UK will experience some form of mental health problem over the years. In terms of those detained under the Mental Health Act, figures going back to 2013
indicate that 50,408 were detained under the Mental Health Act and therefore it puts the numbers into context. Figures released by the Office for National Statistics show that 6233 suicides of people over fifteen were registered in 2013 which was a four percent increase on the preceding year’s figures. One of the important lessons seems to be that if support is needed it should be sought early and robustly as delay can often exacerbate the position meaning that the mental health problems that arise can be more severe and the road to recovery can be longer and more difficult. The help you could be seeking is ‘multi layered’ mainly going to a local mental heath support group and there are many excellent ones that operate both locally and nationally including Mind, Rethink etc. Seeking professional help is obviously central. Turning to key family and friends can also be vital as openness and discussion can be very positive and aid the road to recovery. As a firm Thaliwal & Co will be hosting an event on 27 May 2015 in Leicester
Thaliwal & Co Solicitors ( Leicester ) Ranjit@thaliwalsolicitors.co.uk
By Ranjit Thaliwal Mental Health Law Specialist
where we are supporting a local advocacy group as well as raising awareness through the Time to Change
campaign in the run up to the event and at the event itself. Details are on our website – www.thaliwalsolicitors.co.uk.
NEWS
MAY 2015
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AMIRAH IN THE SPOTLIGHT
WHY WAS THE AMIRAH FOUNDATION SET UP?
As a Muslim I know there is a great sentiment to help the poor and needy, and Muslims, by virtue of the religious edict, are very philanthropic. I felt frustrated time and time again, that millions are being sent to worthwhile causes
FOUNDATION OUR VISION
• SHAZ MANIR: Founder and CEO
“A world where women do not have to live in fear of domestic violence, abuse or isolation but are empowered to achieve their full potential. To live in security and positively contribute back to their communities and society.”
of the Amirah Foundation
TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF.
M
y name is Shaz Manir, and I am the founder and CEO of the Amirah Foundation. I have worked for local authorities and leading charities in Community Development and empowering communities both at strategic and grassroots level for 15 years.
UNIQUE HOME
CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY Charity Welcomes Worldwide Festivities daughters, and everyone is invited. Exceptionally, thousands of admirers of the home celebrate the festivities throughout the world. This year, organisers of the event asked followers send in a photograph of themselves celebrating the girls' birthdays, and in true form, photographs were sent in from every corner of the world. Thanking everyone for participating in the occasion, ASIAN TODAY: Cutting Cake to trustee for UK Friends of • THE celebrate Unique Home Birthday Unique Home, Rupinder Kaur, said, “We’d like to Last month saw thank all the wonderful birthday celebrations supporters who took the of international charity, time to post photographs Unique Home for Girls. of themselves with a cake The charity, which caters to celebrate Unique Home for abandoned girls in the Girls birthdays! We had heart of Punjab in India, photos from all it established in 1993 by over the UK, Parkash Kaur, who had Europe and been abandoned herself, USA showing the home caters to give their love and girls back their lives support for through education and Unique Home. most importantly, love. "I To join in see these children as mine. the birthday They are not abandoned celebrations and are never made to feel for girls that that they were abandoned. many have Seeing the smile on their not met is face fills my heart with joy," compassion Parkash says. personified. Every year, on April Thank you all 24th, Parkash organises so much.” an 'Annual Birthday' The Asian in dedication to all her
Today joined in the celebrations and would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and wish the girls at Unique Home, a very happy birthday.
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abroad, yet nothing is being done locally. Muslim women are the most financially inactive. Since my early twenties I have met with many people and organisations discussing these issues. But it was always difficult to get
them to see the seriousness of the issues, as they were very focussed on international issues, and saw poverty as only absolute poverty. So I took the brave step of setting up Amirah as a charity to work on these issues.
WHAT KIND OF SERVICES DOES IT OFFER?
I will give you an example of our services through a case study. Recently, I was visited by a woman celebrating her life. Just a few months ago she came into the office, crying, pale, physically and mentally broken. Eyes on the floor, carrying the shame of being beaten up and thrown out of her home. She came in with her small baby, a girl child who her husband and mother-in-law wanted her to abort. They did not want a girl. She had been brought over from Pakistan as a bride, full of hope and excitement of a
new life as a married woman; instead she became a sex slave to the husband and a labour slave for the motherin-law. When she became pregnant, instead of the joys of parenthood, she was told to abort the child as they did not want a girl. When she refused, the beatings intensified. She gave birth on her own and after 10 days in hospital she was homeless with the father refusing to accept paternity of the child. Amirah has helped her to get her immigration status resolved, paid for a paternity
test so that the child can have a British passport, paid for all housing and food costs for mother and baby. The lady has gone through counselling with us along with the Road to Recovery Programme, the business enterprise programme and is currently working with my team to plan her online e-commerce website. The vision that I had almost five years ago, working from a kitchen table, having given up everything else in my life along the way, is now a reality. Real cases like this reinforce to me that the only way is forward.
WHAT CHALLENGES DOES THE FOUNDATION FACE? So many times I have held women crying and sobbing that have tried for so long to get a way out and are turned away from refuges They all say the same thing 'I was waiting for him to kill me; I was hoping it would be
soon, as I thought that was the only way it would be over.' This is the brutal reality. Last year Amirah helped 421 such women. I can’t bear to think what would have happened to these women had Amirah not
been here. It has been an amazing and wonderful journey, whilst we help hundreds of women each week, as a charity we never have more than a few months of running costs! So the stress is unbelievable.
They all say the same thing: 'I was waiting for him to kill me; I was hoping it would be soon, as I thought that was the only way it would be over.'
FOUNDATION: The people • AMIRAH behind the foundation's success
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WMP Recruits Only One Black Officer Since 2010
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MAY 2015 West Midlands Police has faced questions from its own crime commissioner after it was found that only one black officer was recruited in the force's most recent batch of 162 new recruits. Police and Crime Commissioner, David Jamieson, has criticised
the recruitment process after he received details of the ethnicity of the latest recruits – the first employed to join the force since 2010. The Crime Commissioner said that the police force needs to do more to “look like the public it serves”.
Dudley Man Jailed On Terrorism Charge A man from the West Midlands, accused of sending letters as well as gifts to convicted terrorists, has been sentenced to nine months behind bars. Usman Hussain Choudhary, of Terry Street in Dudley, was arrested following a police raid at his home. A variety of extremist literature was found by officers in Usman's home alongside records of hundreds of letters and small gifts which had been sent to prisoners. The 33-year-old was arrested after a publication of Join the Caravan, which was en route to a prisoner, was discovered at Swaleside Prison in Kent. West Midlands Police said the extremist publication was intercepted by prison staff before it reached its intended recipient. Usman pleaded guilty at Kingston Crown Court to distributing terrorist material. Det Ch Supt Sue Southern, head of the force's Counter Terrorism Unit, said: "Police and prison officials are alive to the risks of radicalisation of inmates and are working together to tackle the issue. "This was a dangerous publication to send into a prison and we are grateful to the Swaleside staff for their vigilance and prompt call to police."
Over 30,000 people had registered interest in applying for the 450 positions available at West Midlands Police. The ethnicity of the initial 162 officers recruited has been revealed as: 139 white, 13 Asian, seven of mixed race descent, two listed as 'none
stated' and only one black. Mr Jamieson has voiced his concerns, saying that the force needs to improve its recruitment drives in order to reach out to all communities. He said, “West Midlands Police quite rightly only recruits the very best people,
Adnan Rafiq
DEATH • MURDERED:
Adnan Rafiq who died in HMP Hewell in 2013
T
he family of a Birmingham prisoner who had predicted his death in a letter to jail bosses have spoken of their grief after an official report concluded that more could have been done to save him. 22-year-old Adnan Rafiq died from his injuries after he was beaten by a fellow inmate at HMP Hewell in 2013. The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman has now found that staff on patrol should have done more to protect him, especially after a previous attack. Mr Rafiq, who was from Moseley, had suffered multiple skull fractures when he was punched, kicked
Hair
Family Tell of Grief
and had his head stamped on. He died three days later in hospital. Barry Mundle was later convicted of his murder and jailed for 23 years. The attack had followed an argument about an alleged theft from a cell, five days earlier. In the letter, Adnan wrote, “I was supposed to have been [transferred] to Birmingham due to conflict [at] Hewell. I have told officers several times that my life is in danger [here] due to me having trouble with Coventry prisoners that are all over this jail but nothing seems to be getting done. “I was assaulted yesterday [and]
Make Up
suffered a broken nose, broken cheek bone. I have told staff … because next time it could be … fatal.” The letter was delivered four days before the fatal attack but was not opened because it had been marked ‘confidential’. Ombudsman Nigel Newcomen wrote in the report, “The letter remained unopened for several days as the Head of Reducing Re-Offending was not on duty and was not due back in the prison until January 30. “The man’s complaint should have been directed elsewhere or returned to the man. Hewell reviewed its complaints system after the man’s death.
but the force clearly needs to do more to engage with communities to ensure that more BME (Black and Minority Ethnic) people apply to be police officers. “The police service should look like the public it serves. I believe that West Midlands Police is an open organisation that is welcoming of people from all backgrounds, but also an organisation that needs to do much more to ensure that people from all backgrounds apply to join their ranks.” Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Yvonne Mosquito added, “The next challenge that I have set my sights on is making sure that more people from BME communities apply to join the force and make the police force look more like the public it serves. The number of BME people recruited by the force so far is disappointing and needs improving.” West Midlands Police have said that they had targeted underrepresented groups by holding pre-recruitment workshops alongside discovery days and mythbusting presentations. Applications for the approximate 300 remaining positions were re-opened in March with further intakes planned for later this year as well as the first half of next year.
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FIANCÉ OF DR NAZIM IN MEMORY WALK Sponsorship to Tackle Homophobia ‘Caused by Religion’
• Matt Ogston and Nazim Mahmood
T
he fiancé of a Harley Street doctor from Birmingham - who killed himself after his mother, told him to find a 'cure' for being gay - has said he thought about ending his own life to join his soul mate. However, Matt Ogston said he held back after his partner of 13 years, Nazim Mahmood, contacted him from ‘beyond the grave’ and told him not to. Now, the 36-year-old has said he is on a mission to ‘tackle homophobia triggered by religion to help parents accept their children’. “I heard Naz’s voice in my head. He said to me, 'You
need to do something for me' - and, as always, I can never say no to Naz, I always listen to everything that he says. “He told me to set up a foundation and help people who are in the same or similar situations as us. It was at that point where I turned around from the terrace and walked back inside and sat down. “I wanted to do the walk for Naz, and wanted to do it from London to Birmingham and end it in Handsworth. I thought that would be special as that’s where his body is resting. “It’s been okay so far, quite emotional talking to people
listening to some their heartbreaking stories. “People have been massively supportive, more than I could’ve ever imagined. So many people have contacted me with their lovely supportive messages. I have a few things lined up that I want to do in the near future, I need to recover from this walk first. “This walk was very special because it’s the first event that we have held in memory of Naz. I want to do other special events like this and find a way to talk to the minds that are closed. “It’s been awful, absolutely awful; setting up this foundation is my only coping mechanism. The psychiatrist didn’t work, I’m taking counselling, but it’s too early to say whether that’s working.”
Matt is calling his eight day walk from London to Birmingham ‘The journey to acceptance’. He has already raised nearly £3,500 for the Naz & Matt Foundation, which has a mission ‘to never let religion, any religion, come in the way of the unconditional love between parents and their children’. Dr Mahmood - a University of Birmingham graduate who specialised in cosmetic beauty procedures - fell from the balcony of his mansion block penthouse in West Hampstead on July 30 last year. An inquest heard that Dr Mahmood took his own life just two days after confiding in his Muslim mother for the first time about his sexuality. The court was told she suggested he saw a psychiatrist to find a 'cure' when he revealed his sexuality.
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WINNERS MUSLIM WOMEN LIST MORE LIKELY TO BE
UNEMPLOYED iscrimination by employers means that D Muslim women are much
more likely to be unemployed than white Christian women even when they have the same qualifications and language abilities, new research shows. Dr Nabil Khattab told the British Sociological Association’s annual conference in Glasgow that Muslim women in the UK were around 70% more likely to be looking for work unsuccessfully. Dr Khattab, of the University of Bristol, said that they “have experienced greater unemployment, which can be attributed to discrimination in recruiting and hiring practices.” Survey data showed that the unemployment rate among Muslim women was 18%, compared with 9% for Hindu women and 4% for white Christian women, he said. Previous research had attributed this to Muslim women being less well educated and less fluent in English: on average 21% of Muslim women aged 1959 had degrees, compared with 44% of Hindu women and 30% of white Christian women. Only 29% of Muslim women had English as their first language. However, Dr Khattab took a sample of 2,643 replies to surveys to compare the rates of people looking for work without success, and carried out a statistical analysis to compare women
with similar educational level and language abilities. He found that Muslim women were 71% more likely than white Christian women to be unemployed, even when they had the same educational level and language skills. Hindu women were 57% more likely to be unemployed than white Christian women. These figures were also adjusted to remove any effects of marital status, whether the women had children and the strength of their religious belief. “This study uses data to explain the employment patterns among Muslim women in the UK,” Dr Khattab told the conference. “It provides a thorough analysis of a wide range of factors that have not been analysed in previous studies such as the impact of language skills and the importance of religion. “Economic activity among Muslim women in the UK remains considerably lower and their unemployment rate remains significantly higher than the majority group even after controlling for qualifications and other individual characteristics.” He said that Muslim women’s high visibility was likely to be a key factor in explaining their exclusion. “They wear the hijab or other religious symbols which makes them more visible and as such exposed to greater discrimination.”
A traumatic experience when one is baldingor suffering from hair loss
FOR HAIR LOSS AND SKIN CARE
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MAY 2015
If you have been in one to watch in despair as your luscious locks disappear down the plug-hole everyday, then there is hope to save your crowing glory! Neeta’s Herbal offers a safe and natural solution to combat hair problems. A pioneer in Ayurveda hair treatment, Neeta Gosalia has been practicing herbal treatment for the past 25-years, and owns 26 outlets worldwide. While lustrous, healthy hair is a source of pride for men and women alike, many are forced to battler with hair problems. Neeta introduced her corrective formulas after years of search for a product to halt her own hair loss. Commonly encountered hair dilemmas among clients are, she explains; hair loss, premature greying, hereditary baldness,
male pattern baldness alopecia areata or patchy baldness and dandruff. There are many reasons why a person can start losing their hair. Research has shown that stress plays a vital factor in determining hair condition. Poor hair care, environment, lifestyle and diet too has its effect on hair growth. It is very important to ascertain what kind of hair you have and then look after it accordingly. Dry hair for example, would need plenty of nourishment; the roots would need extra oil and feeding”, Oily hair on the other hand requires a completely different therapy, she adds. Hair loss falls into two categories, where it is distributed over the whole scalp and where hair loss is limited to localised areas.
Hair l o s s is often more than a beauty problem. In some cases of alopecia, the condition is caused by bacteria or other infection or may even indicate a severe systematic disease, adds Neeta. Neeta has seen clients walking in with utter hopelessness and pessimism, but walk out with a whole different attitude. However Neeta stresses that science would only work if clients are co-operative, patient and possess a healthy attitude. Apart from hair care, Neeta’s also administers treatment for skin problems such as acne, black heads, white heads, scars, wrinkles, dark circles under the eyes, pigmentation and other skin disorders.
EDUCATION
MAY 2015NEWS
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THE ASIAN TODAY
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EDUCATION
ASIAN LANGUAGES COULD BE SCRAPPED E
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
ducation officials have slammed the exam boards after reports circulated about the scrapping of minority languages from education
GCSE’s and A-Level exams. Shadow Education Secretary, Tristram Hunt attacked the decision saying languages were a vital part of the curriculum. “The
syllabuses. Rumours were afloat after both AQA and OCR announced they were to abolish qualifications for Polish, Modern Hebrew, Turkish, Portuguese, Dutch and Persian from both
government’s decision to allow the scrapping of these exams is a really retrograde step. “They are important qualifications, both for speakers in the community but also for the outward-
PROGRAMMES ROLL OUT!
Understanding that many students at South and City College Birmingham will eventually start up their own business or develop an opportunity through using their own initiative, The Student Entrepreneur Club which launched at the College recently, has created even more opportunities for South and City College Students. Personal Development programmes commenced in April with the entrepreneurial individuals that already support the Club sessions, delivering 4 week sessions to
InBusiness Network revolves around working with local companies and individuals, creating opportunities for them through B2B, but also enabling those members the chance to ‘give back’ to the college by supporting student activity. The College Tyesley Campus also held an ‘Industry Day’ in April, with a number of corporates attending and talking to students about their journey in life – great listening for young minds to help them grow their experience of industry at
Student Triumphs at UN Conference • TYESLEY INDUSTRY DAY: A number of corporates spoke to students at the event about their journey in life
the coal face! students within the college Student activities like curriculum. Mentoring this are ‘common place’ our young people about these days at South and the ‘key’ elements of City College, and by employability. Former creating robust links with Eastender’s Actor Nicholas local business through Bailey ran his first session the College InBusiness of 4 at the Digbeth Campus, Network the college with Nick delivering some are creating invaluable great advice – supported by additional student learning Guard Group. opportunities. Continuing with the theme of ‘celebrity’ status presenters, If you are a business that former Barnet FC and Birmingham wants to contribute to City footballer the future workforce of Dave Barnett, Birmingham AND would like now a business to secure B2B opportunities entrepreneur, also delivered his first from the college network, session of mentoring please contact skills at the College’s steve.dourass@sccb.ac.uk or Bordesley Campus to Sports Curriculum dawn.edwards@sccb.ac.uk Students. to find out more. The College
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looking trade in the multicultural country that Britain needs to be in the 21st century. “They are important for our export economy, they are important for the south Asian community and modern multicultural Britain. “This is enormously detrimental to the strong economic, cultural and social ties between Britain and India. Having strong proficiencies in these languages is about building the new relationship between India and Britain, and that is built on linguistic ties as well as cultural, social and historic ones.” However, Education secretary, Nicky Morgan said a Conservatives government would guarantee the future of GCSEs and A-levels in minority languages. In a letter to the heads of exam boards, she says she has received "numerous representations" from ethnic
minority communities about fears that these languages would be dropped from A-levels and GCSEs. "I have received numerous representations from minority groups in the UK making plain their worries that young people will soon be unable to take gold standard qualifications in these languages”. She added: “I am therefore to be very clear about the Conservative Party’s position on this matter. We believe it is vital that all young people master English, but we also believe that young people should engage with and study other languages as well – in particular in their mother tongue or that that of their parents and family. Following the coalition's overhaul of the exam system, the OCR exam board said it would be dropping GCSEs and A-levels in Turkish, Portuguese, Persian, Gujarati and Dutch. AQA announced the end of A-levels in Polish, Punjabi, Modern Hebrew and Bengali.
Courses to Brighten up Your Life If you haven’t studied for a while and you are worried about taking the first step, we are here to help, with short courses in:
• STUDENT: Hassnain Safdar An Aston student has proven his political prowess yet again after being showered with plaudits for his performance at a Model United Nations (MUN) conference. Hassnain Safdar was one of six Aston students to take part in the KU Leuven MUN conference 2015 (KULMUN) at the University of Leuven in Belgium. He was awarded Honorary Delegate status by the event organisers for the clarity and confidence of his arguments and the way in which he conducted himself during debates.
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MAY 2015
THE ASIAN AWARDS
G
lobal music phenomenon, Zayn Malik, Bollywood superstar, Shah Rukh Khan, renowned fashion designer John Rocha and cricket legend Kumar Sangakkara were among the big winners at the fifth annual The Asian Awards a global celebration of Pan Asian excellence, on April 17th at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel. Presented by Naughty Boy, this is Malik’s firstever independent award and also his first award, since leaving One Direction to launch his solo career.
While accepting the award, Zayn said, “I'd like to thank my mum and dad, and I'd also like to take this moment to thank four of the best guys I've ever met - everything I've done with them will stay with me for the rest of my life.” Shah Rukh Khan said: “I am extremely humbled and honoured to receive this award. I say this very often that my stardom belongs to most South East Asians who reside abroad who have made the Indian cinema and me known around the world. I congratulate all the winners at the Asian Awards as well. There is so much talent
ZAYN MALIK AWARDED AT FIFTH ANNUAL AWARDS SHOW
around Asia and so many achievers, whether is was Dr Amar Bose, the Hinduja Brothers or Zayn Malik. I am glad to have been a part of such a wonderful celebration of hard work by people in difference field but similar passion.” Fashion icon, Gok Wan hosted The Asian Awards, in Partnership with the British Asian Trust, with Associate Headline Partner, Spectrum Events, and saw an exclusive performance from the cast of Gurinder Chadha’s upcoming West End extravaganza, Bend It Like Beckham – The Musical. The event itself dazzled with an array of A-list celebrities, dignitaries and influencers, including Zayn Malik, Gary Linekar, the Hinduja Brothers, Naughty Boy and Shah Rukh Khan. Launched in 2010 by Paul Sagoo, entrepreneur and Founder of the Lemon
Group, The Asian Awards, in Partnership with the British Asian Trust has quickly evolved into one of the world’s biggest celebrations of Asian excellence. Paul said: “We are absolutely thrilled with the staggering success of The Asian Awards this year and the remarkable level of support we’ve received, from Prime Minister David Cameron to global superstars like Zayn Malik and Shah Rukh Khan, joining us for this superb gathering of some of
Malik with Paul Sagoo
QUEEN'S AWARD
Entrepreneur of the Year Jack Ma Outstanding Achievement in Cinema Shah Rukh Khan
Outstanding Achievement in Sport Kumar Sangakkara Business Leader of the Year Hinduja Brothers Outstanding Achievement in Television Sanjeev Bhaskar OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT
• IN TELEVISION: Awarded to Sanjeev Bhaskar
the world’s most inspirational and powerful people."
Article photos credited to Javed Mohamed and Javed&Mizan
LOCAL WOMAN AWARDED
Founders Award Dr. Amar Bose
Chivas Regal Social Entrepreneur of the Year Gopi Gopalakrishnan
We are absolutely thrilled with the staggering success of The Asian Awards this year and the remarkable level of support we’ve received, from Prime Minister David Cameron to global superstars like Zayn Malik and Shah Rukh Khan, joining us.
• A GLOBAL MUSIC PHENOMENON: Zayn
WINNERS LIST
Outstanding Achievement in Art & Design John Rocha Outstanding Achievement in Science & Technology Sir Tejinder Singh Virdee Outstanding Achievement in Music Zayn Malik
NAVINDER SINGH
SARAO REMANDED Accused of Causing 2010 “Flash Crash”
LOPA PATEL TO RECEIVE THE HONOUR FOR ENTERPRISE PROMOTION
D
• HONOURED: Lopa Patel
igital Entrepreneur and STEM evangelist, Lopa Patel MBE, has been announced as one of the latest recipients of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion, becoming the first Asian woman to receive the award. “It is a huge honour to receive the Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion,” says Lopa Patel. “I am particularly proud to have become the first Asian woman to receive this
Encouraging diversity and entrepreneurship in the world of business is something about which I am extremely passionate.
award. It is my hope that this accolade will provide me with a platform to continue advocating diversity in business, as well as greater innovation of technological skills in industry”. The Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion was formed in 2004 and looks to recognise individual people who have played an important role in promoting enterprise skills and supporting entrepreneurs. Each year, up to 10 people become recipients of the award. Individuals who have been recognised by their peers are those who have voluntarily passed on their skills and experience to future generations, and actively
involved themselves in the education and development of the next generation of entrepreneurs. As the first female Asian recipient of the award, today marks a key moment for the recognition of Asian women as entrepreneurs. Asian women have long had a strong presence in the running and creation of SMEs, but received little wider recognition for their contribution to entrepreneurship in the UK. The award comes after a long career spent as a passionate advocate for diversity and entrepreneurship in business and the creative industries, for which she received an MBE in 2009.
A
n international trader, who has been accused of starting the infamous “flash crash”, has been remanded in custody after failing to pay £5 million for his bail. Navinder Singh Sarao, a British trader was alleged to have made $40 million through manipulation of the U.S. futures markets. When appearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, the 36-yearsold initially appeared disoriented and had to be asked twice for his address by Judge Jeremy Coleman. Mr. Sarao followed the proceedings, which lasted 10 minutes, from behind a glass wall along one side of the courtroom.
The U.S. Justice Department has alleged that, from 2010 to 2014, Mr Sarao used an illegal computerised trading strategy, known as spoofing, which contributed to the flash crash. During that market meltdown, the Dow industrials sank 1,000 points and then quickly rebounded. No reason was given during the hearing for why bail wasn’t paid, with his lawyer, Joel Smith, declining to comment. Mr. Smith did request a change in date for Mr. Sarao’s hearing for extradition to the U.S., which the judge granted, postponing it from August to Sept. 24 or 25.
THE TEXTBOOK OF TRANSLATING NEWS
MAY 2015NEWS
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Kavita Parmar and the Art of Interpretation We are currently developing online technology that will mean anyone can use an interpreter instantly via telephone, or video. It will also be available through an App so someone can speak to anyone in the world, in any language, with the help of one of our qualified interpreters. You’re an Executive member of the distinguished Institute of Asian Businesses (IAB), how has this helped to expand your business reach?
• DIRECTOR: Kavita Parmar
I
am Kavita Parmar, Director of WORD360 language services and an Executive Committee Board Member of the Institute of Asian Businesses (IAB). I began my career as an Optometrist, before launching my first business venture, Adaptawear, a clothing range designed specifically to promote independence for the elderly and disabled. After selling the business to a larger chain I took a career break to raise my two children, before taking over WORD360 18 months ago. Philanthropically, I am Vice-chair of the Hallfield School Parents Association, advisor to the Titan Partnership and Non-executive Director of Monsoon Venue Group. Tell me about Word 360. What kind of services does it offer? WORD360 is a complete language services provider. We offer everything from translation of marriage certificates through to face to face interpreting for a court hearing. We offer this service in over 250 languages and dialects with our network of 2000+ linguists, globally. We have a range of public and private sector clients. Currently we provide interpreting and translation to the entire NHS in Birmingham. We also have specialist clients such as Quality Solicitors, Irwin Mitchell and Pertemps. We are also heavily involved in assisting local businesses go global. We work closely with
the government’s UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) department in facilitating this growth. How does it work? It’s very simple. Generally, our clients know what they need when they come to us. Be it a business wants to translate their website into different languages or an individual needs an interpreter to buy a property in another country. We offer face to face, telephone and video interpreting in over 100 different languages. We also have a dedicated translation department that offers 3 levels of service, basic translation through to technical projects What has been your most lucrative project?
The IAB has a fantastic reputation in Birmingham and in the past year has seen much reform. It is now a vibrant hub of young, likeminded business individuals who have created a positive collaborative environment at all our events. I am really proud to be part of such a forward thinking, dynamic group of people and actually we are being admired by the wider business networks for our sell out events and ability to create partnerships. The IAB has allowed me to build contacts with people I otherwise may not have opportunities to meet. I have been privileged to gain insight into the fresh, undercurrent of business growth within Asian Business across the West Midlands and it is something we should all be really proud of. Describe to me how the average day in your life is like? I wake up at 5am, and work till around 7am before getting the kids ready for school. My husband and I have a scrap as to who is going to be the unlucky one to negotiate the school run (usually him because he is more patient than I am!) Once in the office, I generally try to work until early afternoon, after which I will arrange to meet with clients. I pick up my children from school at around 5pm. Once the kids are in bed it is usually a dash to a social engagement. I have a protected weekend
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policy which means I can devote time to my family and friends with no work distractions. Sometimes it really can’t be helped and I have to work but this is an occupational hazard when you own your own business. Future plans? Not small! With the development of our new software system, WORD360 will be able to offer language assistance to anyone who needs it, anytime, anywhere. That can be in person, over the phone or via video. To do this, we will be recruiting 10 more staff over the next six months and so are in the process of moving from our office in Handsworth into bigger premises. We are also recruiting interpreters across the country in every language. These are really exciting times and motivated by the potential growth in WORD360.
The Lunar Society Annual Lecture ll new vehicles sold in A EU will have devices fitted to them that alert
emergency services in the event of an accident from 2018 – but Jaguar Land Rover has committed to installing such technology before then, according to Dr Mike Bell. The Asian Today attended the Annual Lecture to find out what Jaguar Land Rover had to offer. Speaking at the 2015 Lunar Society Annual Lecture held at Birmingham City University, Global Connected Car Director at Jaguar Land Rover Dr Bell told the audience that Jaguar Land Rover’s latest models will include eCall, an automatic accident alert system that can contact the emergency services in the case of a car accident. He explained that connectivity is becoming ever more important to drivers, and is now the 6th highest priority for potential customers when buying a car. Jaguar Land Rover are aiming to improve end to end multimodal experiences by making cars become ‘smarter’ and able to retain key information about the car’s performance and the driver’s preferences. This will not only provide added convenience for drivers and passengers – but also deliver direct feedback to motor manufacturers with the potential for them to be aware of issues with a vehicle even before the driver. Examples of this
advanced technology that will soon be available include digital speedometers, 3D navigation, an ability to connect up to 7 car devices to in-car Wi-Fi and a new app which will assist with both home and international journeys – factoring in flight times and train times. Dr Bell joined Jaguar Land Rover in 2010 and is responsible for managing the company's endto-end connected car business service delivering an integrated strategy for telematics, mobile connectivity and connected services. Previously, he was Jaguar Land Rover’s Chief Technology Officer having been Deputy Chief Technology Officer and Head of Information Systems Strategy at United Utilities. The lecture was part of the Lunar Society’s role of highlighting future trends and development, particularly on how they will impact on global communities and city/urban living. Waheed Saleem, Chairman of The Lunar Society said: "I was delighted that Mike agreed to deliver our prestigious annual lecture following an eminent line of previous speakers. This was a fascinating insight into Jaguar Land Rover’s vision for the future and received both praise and sparked interesting questions from the audience.”
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Street Art Aims to Talk Back to Politicians
SENDING THE MESSAGE
SHOUTING OUT THE COMMUNITY MESSAGE A
LOUD AND CLEAR
Imam’s Gather to Declare ISIS as “UnIslamic”
O
ver 130 Imams from across the country have come together to declare the actions of ISIS as “unIslamic.” The scholars attended included leading figures like Shaykh Qamaruzzaman Azmi (Manchester), Shaykh Imdad Hussain Pirzada (Nottingham), Dr Sajidur-Rehman (Keighley), Imam Qari Asim (Leeds), Mufti Qazi Hasan Raza (Bradford), Sayed Zafrullah Shah (Birmingham), Hafiz Fazal Ahmad Qadri (Derby), Qari Abdul Majid (Bristol), Syed Amjed Hussain Shah (Middlesbrough) and Qari Tayyeb Naqshbandi (Manchester). The chairman of Suffah Foundation, Shaykh Umar Hayat Qadri (Huddersfield) organised what is said to
be the largest convention of United Kingdom's Islamic scholars in which a unanimous declaration against ISIS was passed, stating that ISIS were “neither Sunnis nor their actions reflect Islamic teachings. They are 'Khawarij' (outcast) of the Muslim community.” In a statement, Shaykh Umar Hayat Qadri said, "We are appealing to everyone to spread the message of this important declaration so that this message goes
out loud and clear to anyone who is contemplating either joining or sympathising with ISIS. "This rogue group does not represent Islam and joining them could potentially take you outside the folds of Islam".
unique advertising campaign has been launched aiming to get politicians to understand what voters would like. The 10 satirical cartoons depict hard-hitting slogans, designed by communities and charities, to develop their own message as part of the #BedfordVoices collaborative art project organised by Bedford Creative Arts (BCA). Royal College of Art graduates, Dash MacDonald and Demetrios Kargolis, worked with eight Bedford groups to pen satirical cartoons in a series of 'fantasy election' workshops. Dash said, "We're not really concerned about direct authorship, this project was about reclaiming spaces for the community groups. "It was about helping the community groups to voice
what they felt was important to them," he added. Dawn Giles, chief executive of BCA, said the idea of a billboards community project was seeded over a year before the project blossomed into being. "When we realised this was going to coincide with the runup to the general election we saw it as a chance to talk back to politicians – they're always trying to tell us what we want and what we care about. The message was to stop and think about other people's voices." Activities co-ordinator Adam Emms said working with the other community groups, which range from TransBedford to Carers in Bedfordshire, was an eyeopening process. It was during an inter-group group workshop that got all the group members talking about
what makes them feel riled they came up with their slogan. "This was a unique opportunity to give the children a voice. It was a fantastic project and we're really pleased with the results." Managing director Dr Pamela Ayewoh-Bernard MBE said the artists really 'captured' their message, "'Don't judge us before you know us as individuals' – no stereotyping. "We all deserve to be known as individuals, we are all different. "We are a multi-cultural society now and we need to look past the old typecasts." "The aim of Queens Park Community Orchard is to tackle social deprivation, prejudice, racism and isolation by working together to produce something which will benefit the whole community today and for generations to come."
be changed with a single icon. Imagine putting a ‘poop emoji’ in the middle of your conversation – albeit in error. Not cool. So, would men benefit from using emojis more? Personally, I don’t feel like using them is emasculating, but I’m confident the opinions would differ man to man. Rapper Drake made his connection with emojis clear after getting inked with the ‘Praying Hands’ icon – blowing up the internet with his Instagram revelation. So
introduced ‘ethnic’ emojis as part of the evolution of the iconic journey. (We did already have an Indian man wearing a Turban.) This gives users the option to cycle through shades from white to brown and customise their emojis skin colour. But it’s questionable whether Apple has gone a step too far and included ‘race’ into our conversations unnecessarily? Not surprisingly the bigots of the world have taken to these all too well in using them to abuse others. Teen Vogue contributor Marissa Miller quoted ‘a smiley face text is no replacement for an actual smile’. As with anything people will have their own opinion on the topic of emojis. Factors such as age, sex, context and now race will all play a part in deciphering if one feels it is or isn’t acceptable to animate our way through our communications. As with anything the decision of how far you go is entirely up to you. The options are endless where technology is involved but the question is how willing we are to sacrifice what were once deemed as ‘appropriate’ communication forms and replace these with the more c u r r e n t , popular? Thumbs Up or Thumbs Down, the Emoji world is here to stay.
"This rogue group does not represent Islam and joining them could potentially take you outside the folds of Islam".
The Male Brain
Suri Singh, born and raised Londoner and media head who once lived the dream in Bollywood. One time Associate Editor of a National lifestyle magazine, giving you his perspective on all things relevant. Share his world on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @aboycalledsuri
W RLD EM JI EMOJI COMMUNICATION AS THE WORLD’S FIRST GLOBAL LANGUAGE
Words. They are fast being replaced by pictures. The more we communicate the less we say. Thumbs up, a smiley face, strange animals, buildings and even pistols. Fussy traditionalists are making it a point to highlight the decline of literacy reflected in their heart-shaped eyes, whilst the progressive every day users continue to leave a trail of their activities – a bit like the ‘snail trail’. Welcome to world EMOJI. Emoji communication has become the world’s first global language. Everyone who uses emojis just gets it irrespective of where in the world they are from. The number of ways we have to communicate today continues to grow
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therefore it’s not surprising we are gradually replacing words with animations instead. Who has the time for full sentences, correct grammar and punctuation not to mention spellings? So instead we add unnecessary images to our conversations that mean little or nothing to us. Picture this; it’s probably
•
happened to you at some point. You pour your heart out with words to your best friend about a situation affecting your life dramatically, anticipating a detailed heartfelt response. It says ‘typing message’ at the top of your screen and seconds later there it is – your response. A shock face
PRAYING HANDS: Rapper Drake has the 'Praying Hands' icon inked on his body
+ red heart + hugging smiley. Satisfied – Nope didn’t think so. So is emojing a universal thing or is it predominantly a female thing – with the exception of a select ‘few’ masculine type options. Hand fist knuckles. Women do tend to be the more overt of the sexes when it comes to expressing themselves which would explain why they are much more prone to using emojis but how would you feel if • ETHNIC EMOJIS: Apple users can now customise their emojis skin colour your man started sending you smileys, tongue out expressions with hearts, animals and kisses on a if Drake can emoji anyone regular basis? Does the world can right? An important question of emojing need its own set of rules? For example, when to ask would be the impact any ‘communication are you classed as ‘too old’ to of use them – How far do you go replacement’ such as this. If with emoji’s? Age 40 plus and the younger generation are your emoji game is over. Face more familiar with pictures than words are we at risk in palm time. The Oxford dictionary of dumbing ourselves down defines an emoji as in conversation? As with ‘A small digital image everything, moderation is or icon used vital. The electronic icons to express an idea or have been used in Japan for emotion in electronic well over a decade and the communication’. The whole Japanese are doing just fine. Last month Apple tone of a conversation can
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XPRESS ZAYN’S
NO.1 FOR ASIAN ENTERTAINMENT
STAR OD SUPER O W Y L L O B H KHAN SHAH RUK
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Former 1D Member Awarded Asian Award at First Solo Appearance
"TO THE FUTURE..."
M
“ “
I'd like to thank my mum and dad, and I'd also like to take this moment to thank four of the best guys I've ever met - everything I've done with them will stay with me for the rest of my life.”
aking his solo appearance at the annual Asian Awards, former One Direction member, Zayn Malik, paid tribute to his ex band-members. Donning a new shaved haircut, the 22-year-old was awarded the award for Outstanding Contribution to Music, presented by good friend Naughty Boy. Accepting the award, Zayn said, “I'd like to thank my mum and dad, and I'd also like to take this moment to thank four of the best guys I've ever met - everything I've done with them will stay with me for the rest of my life.” He ended his speech with, “Here’s to the future.” Also in presence was Bollywood superstar, Shah Rukh Khan, renowned fashion designer John Rocha, Gary Lineker and cricket legend Kumar Sangakkara. The awards are a global celebration of Pan Asian excellence and were held at London’s Grosvenor House
DIL
6TH
the musical
SHOWING NOW @ PHOENIX THEATRE at phoenix ntheatre went
Hotel. Shah Rukh Khan was awarded Outstanding Contribution to Cinema award and dedicated his award to overseas Asians. “I am extremely humbled and honoured to receive this award. I say this very often that my stardom belongs to most South East Asians who reside abroad who have made the Indian cinema and me known around the world. I congratulate all the winners at the Asian Awards as well. There is so much talent around Asia and so many achievers, whether it is Dr Amar Bose, the Hinduja Brothers or Zayn Malik. I am glad to have been a part of such a wonderful celebration of hard work by people in difference field but similar passion.” Guests were presented with an exclusive performance from the cast of Gurinder Chadha’s upcoming West End extravaganza, Bend It Like Beckham – The Musical. Batsman Kumar Sangakkara was awarded Outstanding Contribution to Sport whilst Outstanding Achievement in Science & Technology
AWARDS
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NOMINATIONS
to experimental particle physicist, Sir Tejinder Singh Virdee and the Outstanding Achievement in Television award went to comedian, actor and broadcaster, Sanjeev Bhaskar. Launched in 2010 by entrepreneur Paul Sagoo, The Asian Awards, have become the world’s biggest celebrations of Asian excellence. “We are absolutely thrilled with the staggering success of The Asian Awards this year and the remarkable level of support we’ve received. From Prime Minister David Cameron to global superstars like Zayn Malik and Shah Rukh Khan, joining us for this superb gathering of some of the world’s most inspirational and powerful people. “I’m so proud of the way The Asian Awards are evolving. They have truly grown into a voice for the Pan Asian community to celebrate its own success – as well as become a way to share the stories and achievements and lives of these great people with the world, to inspire the millions of us who strive to be the best we can.”
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RACING
AWAY Ali Fazal’s Success in Furious 7 Opens New Doors
38 DESI XPRESS MAY 2015
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Rock the Desi Star Gippy Grewal Headlines Desi Rockstars Tour Punjabi actor and singer, Gippy Grewal, is set to headline this year’s Desi Rockstars event. For the first time in the UK, fans will be able to some of the best experiences in Punjabi culture. It will feature the Punjabi film and music superstar Gippy Grewal, and music superstar Sharry Mann with a full live band, plus a performance from the king of comedy and Punjabi film star Jaswinder Bhalla alongside Bal Mukand Sharma.
IN NEED OF A FRIEND
Mandy’s Empowerment Actress Releases Short Online Movie
Born in Wolverhampton, Mandy Takhar has become a well known face of the Punjabi movie industry. She has already been casted alongside both Arminder Gill and Honey Singh along with scooping up a number of Punjabi movie awards. However, her latest project, Goonj, is somewhat entirely different. The message of the movie resolves around women empowerment and is said to be aimed at all sections of society. In a message posted on social media site, Instagram, she wrote, “#goonj our salute to #shaheedbhagatsingh.. May there be strength in us all to stand high no matter what happens in this world and in this life.. #riseup#shaheedbhagatsingh #strength. The movie was released online and was produced by Filmy Shots.
“#goonj our salute to #shaheedbhagatsingh..
Racing Away NAUGHTY BOY SHEDS LIGHT ON ZAYN MALIK SAGA
S
hortly after sharing Zayn Malik’s first solo demo, titled “I Won’t Mind”, producer Naughty Boy has speaking about his friendship with the former One Direction band-member. Zayn left the chart-topping boyband stating he would like to be a normal 22-year-old. Now, Naughty Boy has come to his defence saying the demo actually came from a One Direction recording session. "I've been his friend. He needs one. Just because we were seen at my studio – you [don't] necessarily just make music," he says. "People seem to forget that he's under so much stress. Which
is why he left the tour. There's a lot going on. People get caught up – what he has done is to be normal. Sometimes being normal is to try and sort things out with your fiancee or hang around with a friend. That is normal." Naughty Boy also addressed the Twitter row with Zayn’s former band-mate, Louis Tomlinson. "There seems to be some needless provoking going on. [Louis] was deliberately adding to the provoking. I don't think that's fair. Especially on Zayn, That's not fair. Right now, there needs to be calm," he says. "He could have said that to me privately. Doing it openly is another act of provocation that's not needed."
After appearing alongside Vin Diesel in the latest Fast and Furious instalment, actor Ali Fazal has signed up for his latest movie, Indo-American movie For Here or to Go. The movie will see him play the lead character of software engineer in the highly-affluent neighbourhood of Silicon Valley, USA. The film also stars popular names like Rajat Kapoor and Omi Vaidya. It captures the struggles of young software engineer who tries to adjust to the change in lifestyle and culture as he travels from Mumbai to San
Ali Fazal’s Success in Furious 7 Opens New Doors Fransisco. With an economy class flight ticket tucked in his shirt pocket, Ali Fazal seems already to relocate to Silcon Valley in the poster.
GETTING HITCHED The Bollywood wedding of the year has officially been confirmed with sources stating the big day is set to take place on June 10th. Heartthrob Shahid Kapoor broke the hearts of millions of girls when he confirmed that he was actually engaged to Mia Rajput. It is believed that Shahid’s
father, Pankaj Kapur, met Mira Rajput, through a religious organisation, Radha Soami Satsang, and introduced them to each other. Reportedly, Shahid got engaged to Mira, on Makar Sankranti, January 14, this year. A source said, “Both the families have agreed on June
10 as the wedding date. In fact, preparations have already begun. “The couple will tie the knot in the presence of family members and a few close friends, and a grand reception will follow in Mumbai, with Shahid’s friends and colleagues from the industry.”
BOLLYWOOD TO BHANGRA: Asia
FIRS
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New Kids on the Block
an Entertaiment Lowdown
ST LOOK!
@
Singer TJay Releases Kurbaan
Music producer Nin Matharu teams up with talented Punjabi singer 'TJay' to bring you 'Kurbaan' his debut single. The two artists linked up over Twitter and within a very short period, the track came to life, having also been written by the very same 'TJay'. Nin Matharu has spent most of his career as a live musician and going into production was a natural
DIL
progression. He opened 'Boombox Studio's' several years ago and has since mixed'n'mastered many releases including 'Folkin Bass' - Jr. Dread, 'Ki Kenda Dil' Time Productions feat Rajvir and the latest 'Ticketa' - Moneyspinner feat. Kanwar Grewal. Having Congratulations to our released promo videos for entertainment editor his studio, he has gained Kam and Satish on their recognition from the UK and recent engagement India.
TOP10 WITH KAMAL CHOPRA
KAM CHOPRA
BOLLYWOOD 1 Piku - Bezubaan
A bittersweet comedy drama about a family that takes a trip that changes them forever. Kamal and Neelam Mehra, one of the most popular couples in Delhi’s society are entering their 30th year of marriage. This is an occasion that calls for a lavish celebration in their circles. Kamal and Neelam take these social responsibilities very seriously and invite close family and friends on a 10 day cruise of Europe. Once on the ship, their lives start to unfold. Kamal is heading to bankruptcy; Neelam and he can barely tolerate each other. Their business savvy daughter, Ayesha is sick of her mar-
DHADAKNE DO
riage and wants a divorce, which leads to a lot of drama with her husband, and in -laws who are also there. Their son Kabir, who is slated to take over the family business and hopefully save the company by marrying the only daughter of the wealthy Sood family, starts to have other ideas. He falls in love with an entertainer on board the ship and realises he is not cut out for business after all. Will the Mehra’s socially sink? How will they be able to confront the society that is so fake and judgmental? How will they swim to shore and survive as a happy family? This is what Dil Dhadakne Do is about.
KEE DOES IT AGAIN!
2 Kuch Kuch Locha Hai - Aao Na 3 Leela - Tere Bin Nahi Laage 4 Mr X - Tu Jo Hain 5 Dharam Sankat Mei - Tu Takke 6 Barkhaa - Tu Itni Khoobsurat Hai 7 NH10 - Chhil Gaye Naina 8 Dilliwalli Zaalim Girlfriend - Janib 9 Badmashiyaan - Thode Se Hun 10 Hey Bro - DJ
BHANGRA 1
Diljit Dosanjh - Jatt Fire Karda
2
Harbhajan Mann Ft Tigerstyle - Husn
3
Jenny Johal - Narma
4
TAB - Pretty Baby
5
DJ SamFt RanayeKaye & Jevi-My Ego
6
Jay Kadn - Dil Nai Lagda
7
Ranjit Bawa - Yaari Chandigarh Waliye
8
Preet Harpal - Law
9
Diljit Dosanjh - Faize E Noor
10 Kulvinder Johal - Jeeja
SINGER RETURNS WITH A BANG
Dil Dhadakne Do is directed by Zoya Akhtar, presented by Junglee Pictures and Excel Entertainment and produced by Excel Entertainment. The film is set to release internationally on 5th June 2015.
Back with a bang, talented singer Kee is taking the British Asian music scene by storm again with her brand new single 'Akhiyan'. Returning with a stunning fresh look, buzzing new sound and a sure fire hit, Kee’s latest offering promises to be a definite floor filler. Released in April, the track is produced by renowned music producer and DJ, 'Shayal' who’s set to release a track with French Montana, Movado and DJ Khaled later this year. He's currently working with RnB artist J Holiday on a new single due out in a few weeks.
Akhiyan is a Punjabi-infused hip hop anthem, with a relentless beat and stunning vocals. The track also features a rap interlude from Rishi Rich’s latest protégé, Stax. Speaking about the track, Shayal comments: “It’s got a great Punjabi/Hip-hop vibe which hasn’t been done in this way before. I mainly used to listen to Bollywood music growing up, and that’s influenced my own sound a great deal. I think hip hop with a Bollywood flair is definitely a niche I want to fill and it’s something I hope came across in Akhiyan.”
PUTTING THE CHEEKY IN
CHAPPIE
Shahid Kapoor Set for Summer Wedding
Back with a bang, singer Kee is taking the British Asian music scene by storm again with her brand new single 'Akhiyan'. Returning with a stunning fresh look, buzzing new sound and a sure fire hit, Kee’s latest offering promises to be a definite floor filler. Released in April, the track is produced by renowned music producer and DJ, 'Shayal' who’s set to release a track with French Montana, Movado and DJ Khaled later this year. He's currently working with RnB artist J Holiday on a new single due out in a few weeks.
Akhiyan is a Punjabi-infused hip hop anthem, with a relentless beat and stunning vocals. The track also features a rap interlude from Rishi Rich’s latest protégé, Stax. Speaking about the track, Shayal comments: “It’s got a great Punjabi/Hip-hop vibe which hasn’t been done in this way before. I mainly used to listen to Bollywood music growing up, and that’s influenced my own sound a great deal. I think hip hop with a Bollywood flair is definitely a niche I want to fill and it’s something I hope came across in Akhiyan.”
UK 1
Wiz Khalifa Ft Charlie Puth See You Again Soon
OMI - Cheerleader Jess Glynne - Hold My Hand 4 Clean Bandit - Stronger 2 3 5
Nick Jonas - Jealous
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Major Lazer x Dj Snake Ft Mo Lean On Years & Years - King Kygo Ft Conrad - Firestone Maroon 5 - Sugar Dr Kucho & Greg Salto Can't Stop Playing
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@desixpress KIRAN RAI LANDS ROLE IN INTERNATIONAL MOVIE Kiran Rai is making strides across the British-Asian scene. Describing himself as an international model, actor, comedian, broadcaster, agent, media co-ordinator and chat show host, the 22-year-old has now landed himself with a role in a Sri Lankan movie named ‘Parachute.’ He explained: “I met Louis Vanderstraaten and found out the roles had already been cast, but I asked if I could audition anyway. “I went for two different roles and was given the lead role. “My advice for anyone who wants to chase their dream is to ask questions. I would never have got this role if I hadn’t.
KIRAN RAI OUR DESI VISIT WWW.DESIXPRESS.CO.UK WEBSITE XPRESS
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COLLABORATION 2 STATES LEADS NOMINATION LIST The 16th edition of the most spectacular celebration of Indian Cinema globally, the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards has announced the much anticipated list of nominations. The awards will be held during 5-7 June 2015 at the Stadium Putra in Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. Indian Cinema saw a fantastic year in 2014 with some exceptional films taking the box-office by storm. Leading the polls is the heart-warming ‘2 States’ with 9 nominations followed closely by Vishal Bhardwaj’s hard-hitting ‘Haider’ which garnered 8 nominations. Rajkumar Hirani’s inspiring ‘PK’ achieved 6 nominations and the naively stirring
Kangana Ranaut starrer Queen received 5 nominations. Some of the other noteworthy mentions this year also up for awards are Imtiaz Ali’s Highway and ‘Ek Villain’. Speaking on the nominees, Andre Timmins, Director – Wizcraft International Entertainment Pvt. Ltd, said, “It is amazing how Indian cinema is growing strength by strength every year. It has been a spectacular year for Indian Cinema across genres of films and a multitude of talent on and off screen. Some of the biggest films are contending for awards this year and the nominations reflect the talent and achievements of our Indian Film Industry.”
Best Picture Viacom 18 Motion Pictures, Vikramaditya Motwane & Anurag Kashyap – Queen Sajid Nadiadwala & Karan Johar – 2 States Vinod Chopra Films & Rajkumar Hirani Films – PK Utv Motion Pictures & Vishal Bhardwaj Pictures – Haider Sajid Nadiadwala & Imtiaz Ali – Highway Viacom 18 Motion Pictures & Sanjay Leela Bhansali – Mary Kom Best Director Vikas Bahl – Queen Vishal Bhardwaj – Haider Rajkumar Hirani – PK Abhishek Varman – 2 States Imtiaz Ali – Highway Leading Role Male Shahid Kapoor – Haider Aamir Khan – PK Arjun Kapoor – 2 States Hrithik Roshan – Bang Bang Randeep Hooda – Highway Shah Rukh Khan – Happy New Year Leading Role Female Kangana Ranaut – Queen Alia Bhatt – 2 States Priyanka Chopra – Mary Kom Deepika Padukone – Happy New Year Rani Mukherji – Mardaani Anushka Sharma – PK Supporting Role Male Ronit Roy – 2 States Ritesh Deshmukh – Ek Villain Kay Kay Menon – Haider Randeep Hooda – Kick Inaamulhaq – Filmistaan Naseeruddin Shah – Finding Fanny Supporting Role Female Tabu – Haider Amrita Singh – 2 States Lisa Haydon – Queen Juhi Chawla – Gulaab Gang Huma Qureshi – Dedh Ishqiya Comic Role Sharib Hashmi – Filmistaan Sanjay Dutt – PK Varun Dhawan – Main Tera Hero Govinda – Happy Ending Negative Role Ritesh Deshmukh – Ek Villain Nawazuddin Siddiqui – Kick Kay Kay Menon – Haider
Best Music Direction Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy – 2 States Mithoon-Banjara, Zaroorat & Hamdard, Ankit Tiwari- Galliyan, Adnan Dhool (Soch) – Awari, Rabbi Ahmed-Awari – Ek Villain Vishal Bhardwaj- for the full album – Haider Mithoon, Yo Yo Honey Singh, Pritam, Arko Pravo Mukherjee – Yaariyan Best Story Vikas Bahl, Chaitally Parmar, Parveez Shaikh – Queen Chetan Bhagat-Based On A Best Selling Novel “2 States: The Story Of My Marriage” – 2 States Abhijat Joshi & Rajkumar Hirani – Pk
Taz, Apache and Bally Sagoo Come Together for “Sweet Baby” Combining the three biggest names in the Asian music industry for the past three decades, 'TAB' is the super-group that the world has been waiting for! TAB brings together the powerful vocals of Taz, the man behind Stereo Nation, the reggae vibes of raggamuffin king Apache Indian and the master-mixer Bally Sagoo. 'Pretty Baby', the first track to be released by the music icons under their new identity, is a Punjabi dancehall anthem that showcases the talents of the three musical maestros to the max. With Taz's Punjabi vibes interspersed with Apache Indian’s signature ragga stylings and the unmistakable magic touch of producer Bally Sagoo, Pretty Baby is guaranteed to set the charts alight. The track is supported by a superb video, shot in their home town of Birmingham and directed by former actor turned director Ameet Chana (Eastenders, Bend It Like Beckham).
BECAUSE SHE’S WORTH IT! Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif will finally be attending the prestigious Cannes International Film festival this year as an ambassador for L'Oreal Paris. "I'm very excited to represent L'Oréal Paris and India at the Cannes Film Festival this year. Being an actor, it is very inspiring to attend an event that celebrates all forms of cinema," Katrina said in a statement.
MEERA THE HOUSE OF HI
Salman Khan Jailed for 5 Years over hit-and-run case
Best Lyrics Manoj Muntashir – Galliyan – Ek Villain Rashmi Singh – Muskurane – Citylights Amitabh Bhattacharya – Mast Magan – 2 States Playback Singer Male Ankit Tiwari – Galliyan – Ek Villain Arijit Singh – Muskurane – Citylights Mika Singh – Jumme Ki Raat – Kick Sukhwinder Singh – Bismil – Haider Playback Singer Female Kanika Kapoor – Baby Doll – Ragini Mms2 Sultana & Jyoti Nooran – Patakha Guddi – Highway Shreya Ghoshal – Samjhawan – Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has been jailed for five years after he was found guilty of killing a homeless man in a hit-and-run incident in 2002.
The book will be published in hard ba
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DEEPIKA'S INFAMOUS TOILET LINES
Actress Deepika Padukone didn't squirm once while reciting the already infamous toilet lines to her screen-father Amitabh Bachchan in upcoming film, PIKU. Director Shoojit Sircar said, "I never had to convince Deepika to do the lines. In fact she agreed to do the film after I enacted just one scene in front of her. Just one scene! After
that one scene she said, 'I am going to do the film.' As for Mr. Bachchan, he heard the full script, and then we had a discussion." "To mouth the kind of dialogues that talk of bodily functions would embarrass many actresses. But she can say anything with grace. She is so much in control of the language."
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VIDYA PATEL WINS THE BBC YOUNG DANCER SOUTH ASIAN DANCE FINAL
DANCING WITH JOY
SYAL’S IDDEN MOTHERS Welcome to Little India, situated in East London: Shyama, aged forty-four, has fallen for a younger man. They want a child together. Meanwhile, in a rural village in India, young Mala, trapped in an oppressive marriage, dreams of escape. When Shyama and Mala meet, they help each other realise their dreams. But will fate guarantee them both happiness? Author, actress, comedian and an impressive three decades into her career, Meera Syal CBE, is gearing up for the exciting release of her new book, The House of Hidden Mothers. Never afraid to push the boundaries in discussing topical issues facing the Asian community, The House of Hidden Mothers follows in the same vein as Life Isn’t All Ha Ha Hee Hee in its determination to tackle difficult topics. Late parenthood and surrogacy is not often openly discussed, although it is extremely prevalent in the British Asian community. Taking on such a sensitive topic is no easy feat, but Syal’s powerful novel is underpinned by female friendship, motherhood and love. Armed with the unique ability to connect with her British Asian audience through compelling storytelling, Syal’s novel is beautifully descriptive. Readers will immediately connect with Shyama’s perception of Modern India, as Syal takes the reader on an emotional journey alongside the novel’s protagonist. Meera Syal said, “For me, the topic is a perfect area to delve into. It’s about women, it’s about the politics of women and fertility, it’s about India and Britain, and I was very inspired to write it.” Meera’s book is a departure from her comedic television appearances. Engaging and moving, The House of Hidden Mothers is certainly one of 2015’s must-reads.
ack by Doubleday on 4th June 2015
19 year-old dancer Vidya Patel, from Birmingham, has won the South Asian Final of the first ever BBC Young Dancer. She will join 5 other finalists who will perform on stage at Sadler’s Wells in the Grand Final on Saturday 9th May, broadcast on BBC Two. The BBC Young Dancer South Asian Category Final was broadcast on BBC Four and will be available to view again on BBC iPlayer. All of the finalists' performances will be available to view in full on the BBC Young Dancer website www.bbc.co.uk/ youngdancer. Vidya said, “I’m really excited about reaching the Grand Final of BBC Young Dancer, and I can’t believe I’ve made it to this point. It means a lot to me because it’s the first time a South Asian dancer has been put on a platform next to styles like ballet, hip hop and contemporary. Being able to represent South Asian dance is a privilege.
SUNNY LEONE: I HAVE FACED DISCRIMINATION IN BOLLYWOOD
"There is discrimination in Bollywood in terms of the roles that I am offered, and also in relation to my past. I am not here to follow my past, but to carve my future in Bollywood. However, there are a lot of people in Bollywood who discriminate against me. I don't want to do something that is illegal in this country. I want a chance, and I hope that there is some sense of acceptance," says Leone.
@Serena_Kern
AJ
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Rishi Rich delivers yet another amazing song in the form of 'Dream'. The beauty behind the vocals is South Indian born Serena Kern who despite currently having a highflying career as a lawyer in a top London firm, still finds time to do her daily voice exercises. Growing up listening to many Rishi Rich productions, she decided to get in touch with him and having heard her voice and ideas, she found herself in a studio in Atlanta with the man himself creating her new EP 'Dream'. Serena says, here are four songs on the EP, "Emotion filled 'Burn' is about having to let go and move on in life. 'Chase the Sun' and 'Dream' are very upbeat tracks, evoking images of youth and summer, joy, young love and striving for happiness against the odds. 'Run Away' (which features Kiran Dhanoa) is a portrayal of the struggle in a relationship for control and it is an emotion packed track". She explains: "In a way you are opening up very intimate aspects of your life as a songwriter. Once I started writing, I found that it immediately had an impact on my singing as it became more believable and I was able to have an emotional impact on the audience. It was from there that my music took off.
AJ’s story is one of inspiration. Having received training I have also been getting music from training by Rashee Rragga (Rashi Rragga) he is seen as an exceptional upcoming artist in the Bollywood industry. “I have strongly been inspired by the likes of Salman Khan, Kanika Kapoor, Sonakshi Sinha and H Dhami.” As a child, AJ was bullied, a fact that he has never hid. “I have been through bullying, dyslexia, dyspraxia, learning difficulties and autism spectrum disorder. I would like to break the silence in the Asian community in London in the topics for such as depression, stress, anxiety, autism, learning difficulties, dyslexia, dyspraxia and bullying.
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With Manish Gajjar Hindi Film Adviser for Vue Cinemas
BOLLYWOOD MOVIE OF THE MONTH
BOMBAY VELVET
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MAR U K e HAY AKS ks to Th Tal day o T n Asia eing a on B lante Vigi
Director: - Anurag Kashyap Cast: - Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, Naseeruddin Shah
Bombay Velvet is the first of a trilogy of films planned by director Anurag Kashyap. It is based on Gyan Prakash’s book Bombay Fables. It showcases how a city becomes a metropolis set against the backdrop of ambition, love, greed, and jazz. It is a story of one ordinary man who goes against all odds by forging his destiny to become a 'Big Shot' Set in the 1960s lead stars Anushka Sharma and Ranbir Kapoor play lovers whose lives interact as the city of Bombay grows over the years. Karan Johar makes his acting debut as the evil Kaizad Khambatta, a rich but dangerous businessman who will stop at nothing to get what he wants. He plays a significant part in the life of Ranbir Kapoor’s character. Anushka plays the role of Rosie a 60s’ jazz singer in the Bombay Velvet nightclub. Meanwhile Ranbir is playing the role of a street fighter and risk taker Johny Balraj. He received training in Martial Arts for his role. Donned with a 1960s look Bombay Velvet looks like a cross between the life of the American gangster Al Capone and a Broadway musical. With young Ranbir Kapoor leading the way the film could very well turn out to be a surprise package at the UK box office upon release. Jazz clubs, a passionate love story, a growing metropolis and a phenomenal hunger for a good life. Welcome to the City of Dreams. Welcome to Bombay Velvet.
GABBAR IS BACK! Bollywood heartthrob Akshay Kumar is back on the silverscreen this month with Gabbar,is Back. The story is of a common man, Ajay (Akshay Kumar), wronged by the establishment, who starts the Anti-Corruption Force (ACF) that aims to track down and cease the corrupt strata of society. Gabbar Is Back stars a high profile roster of talent, Akshay Kumar, Sonu Sood and Shruti Hassan in lead roles alongside Prakash Raj and Nikitin Dheer. He sat down with The Asian Today to talk about the movie and “Bebo.” Tell us something about Gabbar is Back? Gabbar Is Back is directed by Krish and produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Viacom18 Motion Pictures. It’s the Hindi remake of Tamil film Ramana and based on the story of corruption. I am playing the character of ACP Gabbar, who turns leader for a vigilante group and is enroute to end corruption in the city. It’s releasing on 1st May 2015 and also stars Shruti Hassan and Prakash Jha. Is it inspired by the character of Gabbar in the famous movie Sholay? No. Gabbar is the hero in the film and a vigilante, who takes it in his own hands to put an end to crime and injustice. Both the characters are very different. What motivates you to do a movie like Gabbar? I did Gabbar is Back because of corruption. I am alarmed by the crime rates in India and even calculated the amount of money gathered due to scams, to add up to 12 trillion dollars. I compared the crime rates between India and other countries and the numbers in India are astonishing. Crime rates are low in countries such as the UAE due to strict law enforcement which isn’t the case in India. So you need a name like Gabbar, who may behave like a villain but his actions are of a hero. Are you doing any special song for Gabbar?
Yes, I am doing one special soulful song called “Teri Meri Kahani” with Kareena Kapoor Khan, which happens to be the first song to be launched for this film. The song will take viewers through the emotional journey of the couple making itself indispensable to the overall narrative of the film. How’s your chemistry with Kareena Kapoor Khan?
Bebo has been an integral part of my career. We’ve done many movies together and one can only hope we have many more to come. She is everything one could ever ask in a Bollywood actress. She will always know how deeply I appreciate her effort and expertise. I’m sure viewers are going to love her in this song. She has brought a kindness to our film like no other. We love working with each other. We had a great time while shooting for the song. How is your experience in working with co-star Shruti Hassan? I am working with her for the first time. She is playing my love interest in this movie. She is a beautiful, professional and talented actress. Tell us about your new film projects? My upcoming films include Brothers, which sees me star alongside Sidharth Malhotra and Jacqueline Fernandez. It’s the official remake of 2011 Hollywood movie Warrior and based on the story of two estranged brothers, whose entrance
into the mixed martial arts tournament forces them to come to terms with their past and each other. After this, I will have Singh is Bliing, a fantastic action comedy directed by Prabhu Deva and produced under my production company Grazing Goat Pictures. I am joined on screen by the very talented actresses Lara Dutta and Amy Jackson. We will shoot in Patiala, Punjab for this movie. In Jan 2016 I have Airlift releasing which is is based on the invasion of Kuwait. I am playing the role of Ranjit Katiyal, an IndianArab billionaire who plans an ambitious evacuation mission to rescue 170,000 Indians in Kuwait during the Iraq invasion. Do self-made actors like yourself have more motivation? Yes, I think so! But this isn’t the case for everyone, each case is different. It is only natural to protect and work hard for something when you have been through hell to get it in the first place. I myself had no Godfather in the industry; I worked hard and wanted to constantly improve myself. My goal was to strive to be better, and so it was this drive that got me to where I am today. The only reason I am still here in this industry today is because of God’s grace, my parents blessings and my fans’ love.
Gabbar Is Back is scheduled for release internationally on 1st May 2015
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THRILLER
Director: Anand L. Rai Starring: Kangana Ranaut and R. Madhavan
Releasing 29th May 2015
Tanu Weds Manu Returns is a quirky take on marriage. Eros International & Color Yellow Productions launched the motion poster of their ambitious next project - Tanu Weds Manu Returns, the sequel of 2011's blockbuster Tanu Weds Manu, in a unique wedding celebration in Delhi. Talking about the film said producerdirector Aanand L Rai, “It is wonderful to be collaborating with Eros yet again on Tanu Weds Manu Returns .The making of this film has brought back a lot of memories for all of us and we have made every effort to ensure that sequel will be just as memorable and entertaining.”
Director: Ashish R Mohan Starring: Arshad Varshi and Jackky Bhagnani
WELCOME TO KARACHI
Producer Vashu Bhagnani has managed to achieve what no Bollywood film-maker has so far. Vashu’s upcoming production Welcome To Karachi starring his actor-son Jackky Bhagnani and Arshad Warsi has become the first film to go to Pakistan as far as Bollywood film promotions are concerned. The film is a political satire about two Indians who land in Karachi, Pakistan ing Releas without their passports. 21st May No sooner do they get 2015 trapped in web of the Taliban and try to find a way to get back to India.
GADAAR THE TRAITOR Director: Amitoj Mann Starring: Harbhajan Mann, ManPneet Grewal, Ashish Duggal
From the maker of the critically acclaimed and commercially successful Hawayein and following the recent success of Haani, lauded director Amitoj Maan presents Gadaar the Traitor. Gadaar the Traitor is an emotional, suspense thriller about a man and his past. What happened in his past is what haunts his present. Fans of Harbhajan Mann, a Pioneer in Punjabi Music & Film Industry are in for a treat as well as a surprise as he has been cast in a completely different
Releasing 22nd May 2015
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ROMANCE
HOLLYWOOD MOVIES
BOLLYWOOD MOVIES
TANU WEDS MANU RETURNS
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GABBAR IS BACK Director: Krish Starring: Akshay Kumar and Shruti
Releasing 1st May 2015
There's no one more dangerous than a common man on a death wish. This is one such story of a man remorselessly wronged by the establishment. One freak incident results in everything he held dear taken away from him. Predictably, the system doesn't seem to care — let alone resolve. That's when Ajay (AK) takes matters in his own hands. An underground vigilante army, a secret identity, an elaborate modus...all of these combined make a 'GABBAR'— a true hero, with dreadful villainous instincts.
PIKU
Director: Shoojit Sircar Starring: Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Irrfan Khan and Jisshu Sengupta
Billed as the quirkiest take a on father daughter relationship, the film brings Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone and Irrfan Khan together for the first time. Piku is also Deepika’s first stand-alone title role and has been coproduced by MSM Motion Pictures along with Saraswati Creations and Releasing Rising Sun 15th May Films. 2015
MAD MAX: FURY ROAD Director: George Miller Starring: Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron and Nicholas Hoult
Releasing 14th May 2015
An apocalyptic story set in the furthest reaches of our planet, in a stark desert landscape where humanity is broken, and almost everyone is crazed fighting for the necessities of life. Within this world exist two rebels on the run who just might be able to restore order. There's Max, a man of action and a man of few words, who seeks peace of mind following the loss of his wife and child in the aftermath of the chaos.
PITCH PERFECT 2 Director: Elizabeth Banks Starring: Anna Kendrick, Skylar Astin, Rebel Wilson, Adam DeVine, Anna Camp, Brittany Snow, Alexis Knapp, Ester Dean, Hana Mae Lee, Hailee Steinfeld with John Michael Higgins, Katey Sagal and Elizabeth Banks
The Barden Bellas are back in Pitch Perfect 2, the follow-up to the original smash hit. The comedy will be helmed by Elizabeth Banks, costar and producer of Pitch Perfect, and produced by Paul Brooks, Max Handelman and Banks. Writer Kay Cannon returns to the team to pen the next chapter.
Releasing 15th May 2015
TOMORROW LAND Director: Brad Bird Starring: George Clooney, Hugh Laurie & Britt Robertson
Releasing 22nd May Bound 2015 by a shared destiny, a bright, optimistic teen bursting with scientific curiosity and a former boy-genius inventor jaded by disillusionment embark on a danger-filled mission to unearth the secrets of an enigmatic place somewhere in time and space that exists in their collective memory as "Tomorrowland."
LOLLYWOOD MOVIES
3 BAHADUR
Director: Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy Starring: Muneeba Yaseen, Hanzala Shahid and Zuhab Khan
ing Releas y a M d n 2 2 5 1 0 2
3 Bahadur is the story of three extraordinary children who rise from the unlikeliest of places to save their town from the evils that plague it. Equipped with courage and super powers, 11 year olds Amna, Saadi and Kamil battle against the odds and stand up to injustice to restore peace and harmony in their once thriving neighbourhood
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DESI ROCKSTARS
DATE: 15th - 25th May 2015 VENUE: Southbank (London)
ALCHEMY 2015 Alchemy, Southbank Centre’s exploration of the cultural connections between the UK and the Indian subcontinent, returns for its sixth year celebrating and exploring the region’s art, artists and society as a whole. At the show this year, expect to see Internationally-renowned tabla musician Zakir Hussain, Bollywood singer Shreya Ghoshal, dancer Nahid Siddiqui, Director Gurinder Chadha, Hardeep Singh Kohli and Shazia Mirza performing together. Plus sixteen poets from India, Wales, Pakistan and Scotland collaborate to take part in City to City, the British Council’s first literary presentation at Alchemy
THE DERANGED
MARRIAGE Rishi and Sona have agreed to get married in the traditional way and the whirlwind wedding circus is on the move with or without them. Their frenzied families go into overdrive to ensure this is the most elaborate wedding ever seen but hidden amongst the show off dance numbers and sparkling saris, a forbidden love story starts to unfold. As the ice sculpture melts and missing Ladoos continue to cause mayhem, the young couple's cold feet threaten to enter the wedding mandap. Does tradition have any value in our modern lives? Does love have anything to do with getting married?
DATE: 25th April 13th June 2015 ORGANISATION: Rifco Arts
OCCASIONALLY WE SKYPE DATE: 29th - 30th May 2015 VENUE: MAC Birmingham
one person’s birth with another person’s reality? Occasionally We Skype explores what it means to exist in a digitally
connected, globalized world, where we have so many ways in which we can connect with other people, but we all still live in our own separate worlds. Using Kathak dance, live music, spoken word, iphones, digital projection and theatre, Occasionally We Skype brings together the combined talents of the Sonia Sabri Company and Black Country Touring, with the able support of Sampad and The Arena Theatre, in a unique and compelling new show.
STAFFORDSHIRE HOARD & CONSERVATION TOUR DATE: 12th May 2015 VENUE: Think Tank (Birmingham)
This monthly behind-thescenes tour will enable people to see both the Staffordshire Hoard in the new gallery and conservation work on Hoard objects going on in the Conservation Studio. You will first visit the Hoard exhibition under the expert eye of one of our curators or conservators who will tell you more about this fascinating find. Following this you will be escorted to the Conservation
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BLOOD ( A 21ST URBAN 19th May - 23rd LOVE STORY) DATE: May 2015 VENUE: REP Theatre
DATE: 16th-24th May 2015
Punjabi actor and singer, Gippy Grewal, is set to headline this year’s Desi Rockstars event. For the first time in the UK, fans will be able to some of the best experiences in Punjabi culture. It will feature the Punjabi film and music superstar Gippy Grewal, and music superstar Sharry Mann with a full live band, plus a performance from the king of comedy and Punjabi film star Jaswinder Bhalla alongside Bal Mukand Sharma.
What do you get when you combine global families with mobile phones, performers with iPhones and the accident of
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Set among a Midlands Pakistani community, Blood is sparky, funny and heartwrenchingly honest. A timely and contemporary story, this play cuts through political agendas and goes straight to the heart. It lets us into a world governed by links to family and clan, as much as fiercely individual wants and
desires. Caneze meets Sully in the college canteen. The heat rises over triple chilli sauce in Nando’s. She makes her move in the sweet smoke of a shisha bar. A touchpaper is lit… but neither of them bargained on the lengths to which her brother would go to keep them apart.
ANCIENT OCEANS DATE: 23rd - 31st May VENUE: Sea Life Centre (Birmingham)
Join the Sea Life Centre at Whitsun week for their captivating and intriguing Ancient Oceans. A host of exciting
activities, workshops and talks will take place during this special themed week and the charismatic Dr Dug will be on hand to oversee archaeological digs, where guests, armed with special No Loss/Gel LG Harris Brushes, can dig deep and hunt for historic fossils! Visitors will also get the opportunity to learn about the fascinating history of the oceans and the evolution of the mesmerising sea creatures, some of which have been around for over 200 million years.
FAMILY FUN DAY DATE: 16th May 2015 VENUE: Edgbaston Stadium (Birmingham)
Studios where the Hoard Conservation team will be on hand to demonstrate how they are conserving the Staffordshire Hoard. You can hear about recent findings and research and also have privileged views of the Hoard under powerful microscopes. There will be ample opportunity to ask questions. These fundraising tours are exclusive events. Tours start at 12.30pm and finish at 1.45pm. Please meet
in the Round Room on level two of the Museum for the start of your tour. You will be asked to leave your bags and coats in a secure place before entering the Conservation studios. Please note: The Staffordshire Hoard gallery is an extremely popular area of the Museum and it can get very busy at peak times. This tour involves some walking and reaching the Conservation Department via a staircase.
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Last year saw over 5,000 people attend a day full of fun and excitement. The Open Day is being run by Warwickshire CCC and Fisher House UK, the "home away from home" for military patients and their families at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Entrance to the Open Day is free and doors open at 11am, At
2pm, there will be a very special t20 match between WOCCA, the team of Warwickshire "Legends", and the national Combined Services team, which consists of the very best of Army, Navy and RAF cricketers. Immediately before the match, the Red Devils parachute display team will literally be "dropping in" to the stadium.
NEWS
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REVIEW movie massala Desixpress mUSIC massala Desixpress movie massala Desixpress USIC Desixpress
A Teenage *************************************************************** ******** RELATIONSHIP EXPERTS SHOWBIZ SHOWBIZ SHOWBIZ SHOWBIZ SHOWBIZ Girl's Guide To We'reSHOWBIZ really happy to join the team at Asian Today. Sunny and I were a part of the Channel 4 series
Being Fabulous by Suzanne Virdee
‘The Family’ which aired in 2009 and documented our Indian wedding along with the events that led up to it. Something that we get asked regularly is, ‘What is it like living with an extended family?’ We’ve been together for over 11 years and had our registry wedding 10 years ago and in this column we will be sharing our experiences and will give you advice or tips that have worked for us. If you have a question email us on: editorial@theasiantoday.com with the subject line as - Sunny & Shay Question.
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
THE PRESSURE OF HAVING CHILDREN!
Former BBC presenter, Suzanne Virdee, has written a book motivating young women to achieve their aspirations. The book, “A Teenage Girl’s Guide to Being Fabulous”, is an astute guide of advice and recommendations which allowing young girls to become the best they can be. Easy to read and very relatable, A Teenage Girl’s Guide to Being Fabulous’ is a book which gives practical solutions to, boosting the confidence of young girls. When asked what made her write the book, the ex-Midlands Today presenter said, “I was doing some work with the police and looking at youth issues for another project. Several police officers working with young people were telling me horror stories about how girls see themselves, how they had no confidence and didn’t think they were good at anything. They were putting up with being groped in corridors at school. That was the norm, wearing trousers or shorts under their skirts to protect themselves. “I want girls to get together and form groups to talk about things so they can feel more supported. Don’t worry on your own. I don’t want to be preachy and I’m no expert, but I want to pass on valuable information and to inspire girls. I want girls to be the best they can.”
I believe that you need to live your life and get to know your partner before you have a baby. Many a time I have seen couples get married and have a baby straight away and the binding factor is their children - they do not actually know the person they are married to. Fast forward 18 years and when the children move out they are living together with a stranger who they love because of their children. There is nothing wrong with this but it’s definitely not an ideal situation. Your binding factor should not be your children it should be the two of you. This will then allow you to love and be there for your children more because you both are a strong unit. Age and time should not be a factor when planning to have a baby because there truly is no right or wrong time. If you are with a partner who is not ready to have a child or a partner who wants a child and you do not then conversation and respect for each other’s opinions should be the first and foremost priority. There are many men who don’t like talking as we’d much rather watch football then sit and have a heart to heart. So, I completely understand when women say I can't talk about this because he is avoiding the topic. But if you are passionate about starting a family together then you have to find the time, make the time to ensure that you are both ready. Succumbing to societies pressure will only mean that you resent society. It’s a decision only for you both as a couple.
SUNNY
Growing up you’re always told about the big landmarks to look forward – graduating from university, getting the job of your dreams, buying your first house, falling in love then getting married and the biggest landmark is starting a family. This is something that is preached to us all but as we know life does not always turn out this way. Sunny and I have been together for over 11 years and the pressure has definitely been on for us to start a family but no one leads a conventional life. If one person in the relationship is not ready to have a child and the other is then that’s definitely not the time to have a child. Both Sunny and I believe in having shared goals in life which we work towards together as a couple. The biggest goal for me has been to start a family but that has to happen at the best time for us both as a couple. A relative once told me that if a lady lies to her husband then they will never know and that way you get what you want. Now this advice is definitely the worst piece of advice I have ever heard! Starting a family on lies is not the way to begin a family at all. As women we are always under pressure from loved ones or society but I firmly believe that if you are in a loving stable relationship then starting a family or having a baby must be a choice you make together. As much as our biological clock might be ticking there's no reason that we can't control when we want that clock to stop… the decision is ours not our families, not our friends and definitely not societies!
SHAY
The decision is ours not our families, not our friends and definitely not societies! Listen to Sunny and Shay every Monday to Thursday 2pm to 4pm on BBC WM 95.6FM and every Sunday on BBC London 94.9FM at 6pm. Listen back on www.bbc.co.uk/sunnyandshaywm and www.bbc.co.uk/sunnyandshay Also, watch the antics of Sunny and Shay unfold in their online comedy series ‘As We Proceed’ on /TheSunnyandShay or follow them on @SunnyandShay
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MAY 2015
THE ASIAN TODAY Author: Sara Khan Twitter: @sarakblog
A
s always we do our very best at The Asian Today to keep you updated on the latest fashion trends and it’s no different this May. With the surge of Indian & Pakistani fashion weeks it’s trends time again! Top trend from PDFC Sunsilk Fashion Week 2015 was from award-winning designer Hassan Sheheryar Yasin also known as HSY. HSY is the 90’s Shah Ruk Khan of South Asian fashion - young, fresh and his work just gets better and better. For example his latest collection took traditional South Asian fabrics, embroideries and designs such as the salwar kameez and transformed it into the
21st century by adding a unique twist such as the cape dupatta. HSY certainly knows how to create the peak of modern fashion movement in the South Asian fashion scene. HSY takes traditional fashion techniques to new heights, whilst empowering Pakistani women through fashion and a talent you have to appreciate. Payal Singhal doesn’t need to do much to get our heads turning and it was no different at FDCI Amazon India Fashion Week 2015. If you were looking for some glamour to a special occasion or wedding, we would definitely recommend the classic shimmery peachy gold
TREND SETTERS
CLASPING THE CLUTCH Sunita Mukhi Bags Grabs Top Trends Famously known for her eye-clutch bags, designer Sunita Mukhi is a name not to be forgotten. Lavish critical acclaim and praise, from leading fashion icon, Anna Dello Russo, the editor of Vogue Japan, followed hot on the heels of the first eyeshaped clutch, when it was launched at Milan Fashion Week in February 2013, making Sunita’s concept a trend to admire and fully embrace. It attracted worldwide attention via ADR’s social media and currently features in multiple global publications. This has paved the way for Sunita to become renowned as a pioneering bag designer as far afield as America and Europe as
well as the United Kingdom, and creating innumerable opportunities to be sold on the shelves of the world's most prestigious boutiques, be they Yvette in Knightsbridge, Mayfair to Swans in San Tropez; Sauce in Dubai or even being showcased at the Dorchester Hotel, Park Lane London. Celebrities to Royalty, all have paid tribute to her designs, which have been worn by Kate Middleton to Hollywood’s Charlize Theron, all clutching a Sunita Mukhi creation.
Top 5 Sunita Mukhi Trends: • Serena Evil Eye Envelope Clutch • The SM Bespoke • Alyssa Assymetric Eye Clutch • Bianca Clutch • Grace Clutch
FASHION
Facebook: /sarakblog website: www.sarakblog.com
SPRING AND SUMMER TOP TIPS FOR 2015
FASHION & BEAUTY
lengha, sequin embellished dupatta draped down one side of the garment finished off with a silver waist belt. Payal Singhal’s eye for modern fashion designs combined with stunning Indian fabrics the designer creates another to die for masterpiece. And last but not least is the renowned dazzle of Pakistani clothing designer, Deepak Perwani. The designer’s latest collection featured stunning modern silhouettes combining practical silks with extraordinary western inspired subtle prints. The symmetrical patterned
HSY
jumpsuits with waist belts, two combinations patterned blazer suits, paisley trouser suits and gathered in sections with fabric-draped dresses were a big hit. Deepak Perwani is a muchloved designer by many not only because he pushes the boundaries of South Asian fashion but the fashion he creates gives the new modern South Asian women a voice of freedom through everyday fashion. That’s all for now but don’t forget to check out The Asian Today website for more fashion features and news.
PAYAL SINGHAL
SIRENS IN A SAREE There are many words associated with cultural clothes. Culturally, connotations which are typically given to south-Asian community include “colourful” and “vibrant” – words that showcase not only the attire of the community, but also the customs. However, living in the 21-century and fastpace of modern life can often make us forget the vitality which cultural attire hold for us. Now, two women from India are starting a new project which shows the importance of their attire by making a pact between them. The idea came about when friends Ally Mattham and Anju Kadam were talking about the prized saree collection which had been piled up in their wardrobes and how they do not get to wear often enough. A conversation between the two about their longing to wear sarees turned into a practical campaign across the world. Starting a pact between themselves and their friends to wear sarees for 100 days before the end of the year, they went on to invited friends of friends to join in. The idea is simple; all they had to do was post a picture
The #100SareePact
• SAREE: Media entrepreneur Anju Kadam, 47, and perfumer Ally Matthan, 35, made a pact in March to wear 100 saries in the year.
of themselves wearing a saree with a little description underneath. The pictures shared on social media with #100sareepact went viral with more and more women joining in. However, with all projects and campaigns there is a story behind this one. Ally
and Anju are both storytellers and are encouraging women to not just take pictures, but to tell their story. It is about acceptance of the Indian culture, traditional clothing and the stories that go along with the outfit that someone is wearing. It is about sharing feelings and emotions.
Body Perfect Personal Training ensures you get the optimum workout experience and we are dedicated in helping you achieve your results. Your individualised plan will include strategies to overcome obstacles and develop a positive mental attitude which will gear you towards achieving your health and fitness goals.
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Our Personal Training service is available at our prestigious studio situated in the heart of Warwickshire or alternatively try our excellent Online Training service.
“Our mission is to help busy women to feel good, gain confidence, build on their self-esteem and to be the best possible version of themselves.” - Dal Dhaliwal
Body Perfect Personal Training delivers an experience that is unique, personalised and we are 100% committed in helping you reach your goals!
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FASHION & BEAUTY
N & BEAUTY ITCHING FOR A
CURE With the change of weather, it is only natural for the effect on your skin, especially dry skin. Eczema is a condition that causes the skin to become itchy, red, dry and cracked. It is a long-term condition in most people, although it can improve over time, especially in children. Keeping skin moisturised using emollients, or moisturisers, is key to managing all types of eczema with topical steroids commonly used to bring flare ups under control. Here is a list of five moisturisers, which we recommend you use are:
EPADERM Epaderm Cream is an emollient, formulated with clinically proven ingredients that moisturise and soften the skin. It provides all of the moisturising and protective benefits of paraffin-based emollients and can be used for eczema, psoriasis and other dry skin conditions. Epaderm Cream is especially effective if applied immediately after washing to counteract the loss of essential oils from the skin.
WHAT BEAUTY MEANS TO YOU
FIVE CREAMS TO HELP YOU MANAGE YOUR ECZEMA
CETRABEN Cetraben, a range of emollient p r o d u c t s d e s i g n e d to help you better manage problematic, dry and eczemaprone skin, uses a special blend of ingredients. It has helped millions of people manage dry and eczemaprone skin. Its unique and balanced formulations help to treat dry and eczema-prone skin by re-hydrating and protecting it from irritants.
DIPROBASE
Diprobase Lotion is a highly moisturising lotion that will help soothe, hydrate and protect the skin. It is non-greasy with a light feel allowing for easy application to large areas of skin. Diprobase Lotion is used to relieve dry skin conditions, including eczema.
DERMALEX
E45
Dermalex C o n t a c t Eczema is a new, breakthrough treatment for Contact Eczema for adults and children from 6 years old. It effectively treats typical contact eczema symptoms such as itching, red spots, dry skin and scaling. By restoring the deeper skin barrier, Dermalex Contact Eczema also helps prevent new flare ups.In Clinical studies, an average symptom improvement of 71% was shown.
E45 Cream has been clinically proven to treat and soothe dry, itching, flaking, chapped, rough and calloused skin, sunburn and detergent hands. Its non-greasy emollient formulation is quickly absorbed by your skin, leaving it soft, comfortable and relieved. It is recommended for more serious dry skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, ichthyosis and certain dry cases of psoriasis.
Dove has recruited visually impaired women to explain what beauty means to them for its latest ad campaign. The Swedish commercial sees three women, all of whom are visually impaired, discussing their worries and insecurities about their appearance, the loss of their sight and what makes them feel beautiful. "I feel beautiful on the day when I feel like life is fun," explains Anna Bergholtz, who has been blind for 13 years. "Beauty is more of a feeling to me." "When it feels as if I'm in the right place, doing the right things; meaningful things, I automatically feel beautiful," adds Ida Ostlund, who has been visually impaired since birth and can only see light and darkness. "It comes from within. If you radiate warmth, humility and love, then you're beautiful to me," explains Naomi Allback, who lost her sight 15 years ago. The advert is captioned by the brand: "How do you know that you are beautiful if you can't see your reflection in the mirror?"
Hi! Im Rav Deol and I would like to welcome you to my brand new beauty column! I am a busy full-time Mum of one, a professional beautician, hair and make-up artist, a professional mehndi artist for the last 18 years and…a solicitor to boot! I think that’s as diverse as it gets!
FB: /RavDeolMehndi Email: info@ravdeol.com IG: /ravdeolthequeenwithinyou Tel: 07506336877
SKIN AND SPRING The Ultimate Tool - Skincare! I
am sure I speak for many when I say the unusually amazing warm weather recently certainly put a spring in my step! As I reached for my sunscreen, I couldn’t help but wonder how many of us really give our skin the attention it needs? So what better way to kick start my column than a lowdown on the ultimate beauty tool – skincare!
Ascertain your skin type
to protect from UV rays. SPF is vital and can help prevent (possibly cancer causing) UV rays from penetrating the skin.
Cleanse!
Do this at the end of the day but use a night cream to moisturise.
Buy a suitable cleanser, toner, moisturiser and exfoliator as one size does not fit all! Ensure the products are suitable for your age range. Removal of oil, pollutants and make up from the face is essential. Follow with a toner to help promote pore reduction and apply a conditioning serum.
Soothe Eyes
Applying a soothing eye cream may help reduce fine lines and puffiness.
Moisturise!
Ensure your moisturiser contains SPF
Repeat routine
not.
Exfoliate
These can be used regularly to promote everything from anti-ageing to brightening of the skin.
An exfoliator should be used once or twice a week.
The wonders of water!
At least two litres of water a day can help to achieve a glow by flushing out the toxins from your system. Herbal teas may form part of your daily water intake but sugar laden drinks should
Face Masks
Remember...
To stick as closely as possible to your routine as with most things it is dedication that yields results! Have a great month and enjoy the sun…safely!
MAY 2015
47
DAL
GET FIT WITH
D H A L I W A L
Dal Dhaliwal is UK’s first Indian Female Health and Fitness Coach to launch a private fitness gym. She is also a Health and Fitness TV Presenter. Dal has been working in the wellness Industry since 1998. She will teach you strategies to overcome obstacles and develop a positive mental attitude, and will share with you methods on how you too can follow a healthy lifestyle which includes exercise, correct nutrition and wellbeing.
When Is The Best Time To Exercise? The best time to exercise really depends on your personal preference. For many of us it depends on when we can fit it into our busy schedule. Some people prefer to exercise in the morning and they find this to really help them kick start their day and get them psyched up for the day ahead. However, it’s important to remember in the morning our muscles are not normally ‘loose’ as later in the day – this is because our body temperature and blood sugar levels are lower. Therefore if you do opt to exercise in
give yourself 90 minutes after consuming a heavy meal. Therefore, be sure to eat after you work out, not before. The truth is that there is no reliable evidence or research to suggest that calories are burned more efficiently at certain times of the day. However, the time of the day can influence how you feel when exercising. Different people will have different preferences and respond differently to exercise at different time of the day. So it’s a case of trailing a few different times to determine the
the morning then allow yourself more time to warm up before you commence your workout. Some people can’t bear the thought of getting up early to fit in exercise and prefer to work out in the evening and find this fits better into their daily schedule – and for some evening workouts help to relieve work day stress. If you have issues sleeping such as Insomnia then the thought of getting up early to exercise hitting the gym or going for a run could prove difficult and very unappealing. If you lack motivation in the morning then exercicing later in the day is a better option. For some people, lunchtime is the best time to exercise. It’s important to remember not to exercise immediately after eating a meal. This is because the blood that would circulate to your muscles will be going to your digestive tract. Therefore it is recommended that you
best time for you. It also depends on other factors such as; precise time of day, location, type of physical activity, social setting, and who you are with etc. This can play a major factor in how consistent you maybe with your exercise schedule. Try working out in the morning for a few weeks and then maybe during the day, try midday and then early evening. See which you enjoy the most. It is also a good idea to look at what type of exercise you are doing and also your daily commitments. Once you establish a time that suits you then it will become a habit. It is important to vary your exercise and plans so that you don’t become bored and this will help you stay more motivated. The most important thing is to choose a time of the day you can stick with, so that exercise becomes a habit. To get the benefits and results it is essential you regularly exercise – so keep it consistent!
YOU CAN TWEET DAL YOUR QUESTIONS TWITTER: @DALDHALIWALPT FIND HER ON FACEBOOK: /DAL DHALIWAL WWW.BODYPERFECTPT.COM
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MAY 2015
THE ASIAN TODAY
Food & Travel
BUON APPETITO! ENTREPRENEURS
SPICE THE MARKET Rayeesas Funds New Curry Sauces
H
erefordshire based entrepreneur Rayeesa Asghar-Sandys and daughter Farah have announced the launch of Spiced by Rayeesa a new range of, frozen, Indian sauces lovingly developed and handcrafted by the local duo. On Wednesday 17th June
PR supremo and food blogger Anita Champaneri brings her blog Ms Delicious PR and all things food to The Asian Today. Bringing all the news from hot restaurants to cool bars and everything in between. blog: www.msdeliciouspr.blogspot.com
TRENDY BISTROS FOR SUMMER DINING
This spring saw a boom in trendy bar and bistros opening in the City, all promising something new and offbeat in eclectic surroundings but casual, comfy and affordable. So we put three to the test to see if they really had the wow factor.
MARMALADE BISTRO AND BAR First up was the new Marmalade Bistro and Bar. Situated inside The REP’s famed arches, the casual dining restaurant is very on trend with eclectic furnishing, bold décor and soft mood lighting. The website boasts of entertaining the taste buds with delicious food at affordable prices, so we were eager to try it out. I thought I would go for a healthy starter and ordered the Lime Margarita cured Salmon which came with hunks of granary bread. It was perfectly plated on a slate plate and tasty too. I followed this with a small plate of coffee infused lamb rump with a prune glaze. It sounded awful but I was pleasantly surprised that the flavours worked well together, and with the sweet potato mash was a great combination. The presentation with the edamame beans looked pretty cool, but it could have done with more greens – I
wanted less style and more substance. Yet the Battered Cod Loin with fat chips was just that. Hearty food for a hungry diner. For dessert we ordered the Plum, Orange and Caramelized Apricot Crumble which sounded divine, and with the cinnanmon ice cream it proved to be an ideal finale to the meal. Next time I am going to try the Gingerbread Cheesecake with Maple Sauce and Toffee Pecans, which looked amazing. The Kids Menu is normally £8.25 but was FREE for half term! Result! My two boys had the Nibbles Lunch, free-range chicken skewers which came with cheese, carrots, cucumber and crisps and an innocent smoothie. The kids meals offered a good healthy choice and different from the usual fooder on many a kids menu. The dessert choice were pancakes, ice cream sundae or fruit kebabs, so they we very happy indeed.
GAS STREET SOCIAL Rumour has it that the Gas Street Social at the Mailbox is the place to be
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for getting together with friends and colleagues to enjoy great food and drink.
To read the full article please log onto our website: www.theasiantoday.com
Get more food news on twitter @deliciouspr & on the web : www.msdeliciouspr.blogspot.com
A HEALTHY ALTERNATIVE: Spiced
• by Rayeesa sauces
2015, Hereford’s iconic Left Bank will be brimming with guests keen to experience fresh, exiting flavours whilst soaking up the atmosphere and learning the story behind Rayeesa’s passion for authentic Indian cuisine. “The evening will bring Hyderabad to Hereford,” says Rayeesa. “With excellent food and plenty of entertainment, we want to c e l e b r a t e our amazing stockists and supporters who have watched this small, local business achieve national recognition over the past two years.” Spiced by Rayeesa sauces offer a healthy alternative
HEALTHY INDIAN COOKING HEALTHY - Volunteer group Our
• Way Our Say learning about Indian food.
A community group has joined forces with an Indian restaurant to give lessons on healthy eating. Our Way Our Say, set up in 2011, offers activities to
to other types of cooking sauces. Frozen at source to capture the freshness of the herbs and spices resulting in a dish bursting with flavour. The sauces are developed to be used straight from the freezer; simply combine with meat fish or vegetables. They are an obvious convenient solution to creating a quick and easy dish perfect for every occasion from the mid-week family dinner to an elaborate dinner party for today’s busy families; reducing preparation time, shopping time and waste. Rayeesa learnt the intricacies of regional Indian cooking from her mother during her childhood in Hyderabad. Keen to share this passion she established Rayeesa’s Indian Kitchen, an award winning cookery school based in her Herefordshire farmhouse. In 2012, she began selling her sauces at local farmers’ markets and in 2013, Rayeesa and daughter Farah featured in Jamie Oliver’s Big Feastival, BBC 3 and the BBC News. Finalists in the Midlands Business Awards 2015, Rayeesa and Farah have also received accolades from Theo Paphitis, Richard Reed and Atul Kochhar for their delicious creations. people living in South Ward. In the latest venture, the group has been involved in a healthy eating scheme, with help from local businesses. Project Manager Michelle Cleary, who originally set up the service, said: “The aim of the project is to teach residents from Oldmixon how to cook healthy Indian food from scratch with herbs
VOTE FOR YOUR
FAVOURITE CURRY L
overs of Asian food now can nominate their favourite restaurants for the fifth Asian Curry Awards (ACA). The awards are open to all Indian, Bangladeshi and Asian restaurants in Britain, including - Chinese, Thai, Japanese and Malaysian, that have been trading for at least 12 months and have a minimum 4-star hygiene rating, with a plan to boost this to 5 stars. The winners will be announced at a high profile, glittering awards ceremony at the London Hilton on Park Lane in Mayfair on Sunday 15th November 2015. Curry lovers can nominate their favourite restaurants and chefs online via www. asiancurryawards.com.
Voting closes 16th September. Leading restaurants will be visited unannounced by a panel of judges led by Pat Chapman, editor of the Cobra Good Curry Guide to ensure a truly representative customer dining experience. Participating restaurants will be required to send the ACA meal four complimentary vouchers, which will be presented at the end of the meal. Whilst the judging criteria are heavily weighted towards the quality of the food and cooking, additional points will be awarded for ambience, customer service and hygiene. Short-listed chefs will compete in a live cook off in London on 5th October. “We expect top chefs to challenging the existing
standards and exceed them,” said Asian Curry Awards chairman Yawar Khan, who added, “These Awards are designed to encourage our young people into the restaurant industry and to motivate those already in the profession to set sights even higher.” Nominations forms and details of the whole awards process may be downloaded from the ACA website www. asiancurryawards.com. The full list of national award categories is: • Best Asian Restaurant of the Year • Best East Asian Takeaway/Delivery of the Year • Best South Asian Takeaway/Delivery of the Year
COUNCIL APOLOGISES FOR INDIAN FOOD BAN Salisbury City Council has apologised after telling a Indian food seller that she could not sell food at a St George’s event because it was an “English only event.” The council had originally invited Tania Rahman to trade at the event, but then rejected her application after sending her an email stating, "It has been decided that St George’s day will be English themed food only." Ms Rahman said she was hugely shocked by the email response. "For the best part of a year now, I have operated a small yet successful Indian Street Food stall Chit Chaat Chai, often appearing at various markets across the county. "Due to popular demand at sell-out events, I was contacted by Salisbury council in regards to applying to be a food trader at this years St George Day event being held in the Town. "I was dismayed then to find out that my application had been unsuccessful on the grounds that it was deemed ‘not English enough'." and spices.” Chutneys Takeaway provides free training on how to cook fresh Indian food. The headteacher of Oldmixon Primary School Martin Greenwood allows the group to use the school kitchen free of charge, and joins the group each week to learn to cook Indian food himself.
Fifth Asian Curry Awards Gets Successful Launch •
Newcomer of the Year (restaurants established less than 3 years) • Best Asian & Oriental Chef of the Year (International) • Young Asian & Oriental Chef of the Year (under 30) • East Asian Restaurant of the Year • Best International Asian Restaurant • Lifetime Achievement Award There are also 10 regional awards for the Best South Asian restaurants in London, London suburbs, South East, South West, East, South Coast, North, Midlands, Wales and Scotland & Northern Ireland.
FOOD & TRAVEL
MAY 2015
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• DIVERSE - The new chaplaincy team at Manchester Airport
M
ALL ABOARD!
AIRPORT CHAPLAINCY GETS SIX NEW MEMBERS
PRUNING COSTS Air India is cutting costs by cutting back the number of its foreign and local offices and has already shut down 23 booking offices in different parts of the country.
Air India Shuts Down Offices
The decision to close booking offices has been taken with a view to control costs and reduce expenditure.
THERE’S AN
Within the country, the national carrier has closed down 23 booking offices, including the national carrier has closed down 23 booking offices. Booking offices have been closed as most of the sales are done by agents and the number of walk-in passenger at these places are "negligible". Besides, passengers can make bookings through Air India's website, Sharma said. At present, there are 54 local booking offices of the carrier that are functional. Air
Travel App Aims to “Simplify Muslim Life”
APP FOR THAT! O
ne of the leading online platforms for Halal travel has launched the world’s first multi-functional next generation prayer calculator. HalalTrip has integrated the latest available technologies on its mobile app to give Muslim travellers a simple way to find prayer times and locations whether on air, land or sea. With just one click, the new feature instantly calculates the prayer times
•
for the current location, the distances for nearby mosques and the time it will take to reach them. For travellers it will also work out whether you can reach your hotel in time for prayers. The addition of this feature alongside its existing in-flight prayer calculator means the HalalTrip app now provides Muslim travellers with a seamless experience for all their needs. Fazal Bahardeen, CEO of HalalTrip & CrescentRating,
HALAL FOOD DISCOVERY: Users are able to upload and share Halal food dishes they've spotted via social media
said embracing new technology to innovate and enhance the experience of Muslim travellers is a key ongoing focus for the company as the $145 billion Halal tourism sector becomes more sophisticated and smartphone savvy. He said: “The Muslim traveller is now much more technology savvy than ever before. They are increasingly coming from a younger demographic and are now some of the early adopters of online innovations.” The HalalTrip app now brings together a number of key essential travel resources for Muslims which includes Halal food discovery. The Halal food spotting feature allows users to “spot” Halal food dishes and upload images, comment and share via social media to millions across the world. The new version of the app, available on both iOS and Android, now has English, Arabic, Bahasa Indonesia and Bahasa Malaysia user interfaces with more languages to follow. The free app is available for both iPhone/iPad & Android smartphones/tablets and can be downloaded by searching for ‘HalalTrip’ in the App Store/Google Play.
India has been grappling with tough financial conditions. In another written reply, Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju said the carrier has closed, decided to close or downsize some of its overseas booking offices. "The booking offices at offline stations at Zurich, Chittagong and Vienna have been shut down in FY 2013-14 with a view to cut down cost. "So as to maximise revenue and promote code share flights, there is now only a small sales or representative set up at the airport at Zurich and the sales representative office at Vienna is operating from a small office space in a business centre," he said. A decision has been taken to close offices at Cairo and Tehran, he added. Raju said that Air India is maintaining booking offices at Washington, Los Angeles and Amsterdam even though it does not operate any flights to these places. These offices are being maintained due to various reasons such as to "tap and cater to the Indian ethnic population, business travellers, tourists and also other segments having affinity between India and the respective countries".
anchester Airport has added extra members to its chaplaincy team, which is growing alongside passenger numbers. Adding to the existing 10 members, the six new members include its first female Christian chaplain, along with two Muslim chaplains, a man and a woman, and a Sikh colleague, too. The airport chaplaincy was established in 1980 to represent all Christian denominations and has since evolved to support all passengers and staff, whatever their faith or tradition. The new members are Muslim chaplain Assia Sha, Orthodox Judaism chaplain Joseph Sandler, Sikh member Charan Jit Singh Khalsa, The Rev Bill Raines, new Church of England chaplain, the Rev Jean Hurlston and Moulana Mohammed Faruk Ali. The Rev George Lane, coordinating chaplain at Manchester Airport, said, “We welcome, work with and support people of all faiths (and no religious faith) to provide support through spiritual, pastoral and humanitarian care for all people within, and beyond, the airport community. On a daily basis the key elements of the role we play is to identify, understand, and share in the issues that affect the thousands of people who work here and the millions of people who travel through here every year. “As the airport continues to grow - both in terms of increased passengers and the number of people who work on site - so does the chaplaincy. These latest appointments will bring new faith traditions to the chaplaincy team and further help us to provide
•
49
more effective support to Manchester Airport’s diverse mix of passengers, visitors and colleagues.” Muslim chaplain Assia Shah added, “I’m passionate about promoting community cohesion and religious understanding. Whilst we all have our differences, it’s important to respect an individual’s faith. "I am pleased to be joining the chaplaincy team at Manchester Airport as I feel it will enable me to contribute to, and develop and broaden my knowledge and skills within the field of chaplaincy.”
£275 MILLION TO IMPROVE LOCAL ROADS Councils across England will receive a share of £275 million for major local roads maintenance. The Challenge Fund will be used for one-off major infrastructure schemes by local authorities to improve life for local residents and businesses. Patrick McLoughlin said, “Good quality local roads are essential for people to get on with their daily business and today’s announcement will provide extra capacity where it is needed most. This government has put record funding in place for local roads as part of our long-term economic plan to improve journeys, create jobs and drive economic growth.” The 31 schemes being awarded funding today across the 28 local authorities include safety repairs, bridge renewal, carriageway and drainage improvements, as well as upgrading street lighting in a number of areas to bring them in line with modern standards.
ESSENTIAL: Good quality local roads are essential for people to get on with their daily business
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THE ASIAN TODAY DAY IN THE LIFE OF
LIFESTYLE The Healing Power of Writing
SHAFIQUE SHAH
By: Mita Mistry www.mitamistry.co.uk
Birmingham Lord Mayor
@mitamistry
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." - Maya Angelou
Every month we will be bringing you an exclusive insight of a day in the life of an influential personality. Looking at what inspires them, defining the passion they have for what they do and exploring a day of their life. Meet Shafique Shah. Lord Mayor. Councillor. Proud Brummie. Councillor Shafique Shah is first and foremost a Brummie, having lived in Birmingham and Bordesley Green since childhood. Father of five, he worked as a telecoms engineer until he decided to stand as a councillor. The Lord Mayor is chairman of governors at Bordesley Green Girls School and a Birmingham City supporter. He spoke to The Asian Today about work, life and his newfound fame.
“
Wake up. Take the kids to school.
09:00-04:00
First engagement of the day. I am picked up to go to my first event, which could be anywhere around Birmingham. This could be at Council House in Birmingham City Centre, an organisation or anywhere around this fine city.
04:00
I would typically have a break for some lunch. Being invited to so many events, because I am the Lord Mayor, can be a hectic experience.
04:00-09:00
The day goes on with more events to attend during the evening. At these events, I will be presenting awards or giving speeches. They all vary. In average, I attend between 5-10 events a day.
09:00-12:00
Try to spend time with the kids and try to catch up on home life.
• The Lord Mayor and his wife
Quick Fire Questions: One drink that gets you through the day? Water One person that gets you through the day? For me it's not just one it's My wife & Council Team One food that gets you through the day? Tea & Coffee Favourite time of the day? Evening Gadget that gets you through the day: Phone
-
-
Where did the passion for serving your community come from? Originally, I had been a councillor for nine years. From there, I use to get involved in various community events. Every time there was a meeting, I would always be very vocal in those events. Once you are elected, it makes you think about the things, which you want to be able to do in the community. Following your experiences, what is it like being Lord Mayor? It is a huge privilege, especially in this great city. Being Lord Mayor, you really get to know the city and when you do, you get really amazed by it. I think the most important thing is that you need to try to be yourself because as soon as you try to be someone else, people do see right through you. How has your family adjusted to your newfound fame? First, the kids were all excited – but now that novelty has paid off! My mom and dad are really proud of me. When we had the official ceremony and my parents were there – so that was a really special moment for me. I must say, when you are officially declared the new Lord Mayor, it is like getting remarried again with 300+ people turning up. You are the third Asian Lord Mayor elect – how does that make you feel? I think it is great. We live in a diverse city and people give you a lot of respect. My grandfather came to Birmingham in 1936 with virtually nothing and for me to become Lord Mayor, I feel it is a huge privilege. Opportunities are always given to us and we need to appreciate and acknowledge that. When I am out and about, I always make sure that people see me as the Lord Mayor of Birmingham rather than by cultural or religious background. Future Plans? Next year I will be Deputy Lord Mayor. Depending on the strategies and plans by the next Lord Mayor, my role will be constructed through that.
“
Follow on Twitter: @BrumLordayor
It's a huge privelage, especially in this great city being Lord Mayor you really get to know the city
“
07:30
We live in a diverse city
“
What's an average day in your life like?
51
The journey of illness can be a long and lonely one. Whether you are recovering from surgery, cancer, going through a stressful period, grief or any condition that compromises “normal” living, it can be a rollercoaster of emotional highs and lows. You can take control of fluctuating thoughts and emotions by chanelling your energy into journaling. Keeping a journal is not only good for your soul, but for your body too. It is widely recommended by therapists to supplement treatment. New research by psychologists Dr James Pennebaker of the University of Texas and Dr Joshua Smyth of Syracuse University suggests that writing about emotions and stress can boost immunity in patients with HIV/AIDS, asthma and arthritis as well as offering physical benefits to people battling terminal or lifethreatening diseases. The healing power of writing lies in helping you to understand and learn from your emotions. When you are deeply in touch with your needs you are better able to cope with obstacles. Journaling is like having an inner conversation with your mind, body and emotions bringing them together in wholeness. It’s your story; you can write as if you were consoling yourself, vent an outburst of emotions or write to discover where you have been and to decide where you are going.
To read the full article please log onto our website: www.theasiantoday.com
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MAY 2015
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THE ASIAN TODAY “We Have No Sympathy for People Joining Extremists” BALJEEV JOHAL'S
NATIONAL British Muslims Respond to National Poll
A
poll, commissioned by a leading news organisation, has revealed how over a third of British Muslims “blame the actions of the police and MI5 radicalising the younger generation.” According to the survey, 39% of British Muslims have said public authorities, such as the police service and MI5, have a hand in turning Muslims extremists, with 29% saying they didn’t. The topic of young people uprooting their lives to join extremist groups such as Islamic State and becoming 'jihadi brides,’ remains a highly controversial one. One situation was that of 15-year-old Amira Abase who left London to join the situation in Syria. Her father Abase Hussen blamed authorities for not warning families that girls were at risk. However, the poll suggested both Muslims and non-Muslims, jointly, were responsible for stopping young people going to Syria: 44% of Muslims and 65% of non-Muslims agreed. Just 3% of Muslims thought the police were responsible, 15% said the Government, 9% religious leaders and 2% schools. Ironically, compassion with those leaving the UK to fight for
• PHOTO: Baljeev Johal
BODY FOUND Body Discovered in River Six Months After 25-Year-Old Went Missing
The body of a missing Nottingham man has been found in a river six months after his disappearance. Baljeev Johal was last seen at a wedding at Sports Connexion, in Ryton-on-Dunsmore, on October 5
of last year. Police have confirmed that the body, found in the River Leam, near Marton, Warwickshire, is of 25-year-old Baljeev, from Bramcote in Nottingham. His family have been informed of the discovery.
EIGHT-YEAR-OLD DIES IN HIT-ANDRUN ON PAKISTAN HOLIDAY
PHOTOGRAPHS OF TWO 17-YEAR-OLDS ISSUED BY FAMILIES The families of two “ordinary Yorkshire lads” feared to have left the UK for Syria have issued photographs of the teenagers. Hassan Munshi and Talha Asmal, from Dewsbury, flew from Manchester to Turkey on 31 March and are believed to have done so in order to join Islamic State. A statement on behalf of the two 17-year-old boys' “devastated” families has been released. The boys' families said via the statement: "Our number one priority is to get Hassan and Talha back home with their families and we implore anyone who may have any information whatsoever to get in contact with the police. "Naturally, we are in a state of profound shock and are trying to come to terms with the predicament we find ourselves in and we hope and pray that no
or marry terrorist groups in Syria was highest among women. Some 11% of female Muslims agreed they had a lot of sympathy, compared to 5% of males. The figures for non-Muslims were at 4% for both sexes. However, a majority of Muslims and non-Muslims said they had no sympathy for those joining extremist groups. The Sky News poll analysis what Muslims and non-Muslims think about British values and issues including radicalisation, security concerns, political uncertainty, a rise in hate crimes and growing prejudice. 71% of Muslims added their values were compatible with those British society were compatible with those of Islam, 16% believed they were not. The results found younger Muslims were more likely to see their values aligned to those of Britain, with 73% of those aged 18 to 34 agreeing, compared to 71% of those aged over 55. Male Muslims were also more likely to agree - 78%, versus 64% for females. On the issue of integration into UK society, the survey found 58% of non-Muslims believed their Muslim neighbours were not doing enough, with those aged over 55 more likely to be critical.
Family Pay Tribute to “Loving Son”
A
• PHOTO: Hassan Munshi (left) and Talha Asmal, both 17, who are believed to have travelled to Syria
other family finds itself in our situation. "These were just two ordinary Yorkshire lads who enjoyed the things that all young people enjoy at their age - both Hassan and Talha had a promising future, as an apprentice and an A-level student respectively, and we are praying they will be back with us soon and are able to realise that future."
Farooq Yunus, from Zakaria Mosque based in Savile Town, Dewsbury, has criticised the “whole system”, including the council and the community, for having failed the boys. He said: "I think we have failed. Not just the people in here... the council, the police, the community." The disappearance is being investigated by West Yorkshire Police.
Two Dewsbury Teens “Syria-Bound” WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES MONTHLY
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Rakesh Chauhan Named as One of Five British Pilots Killed
Tributes have been paid RAF hero named in last to an patriotic solider helicopter week's that died doing crash in Afghanistan. what he loved. Birmingham Based in born Lieutenant Flight Rakesh Chauhan, ing tribute, Leicester and payintelligence an officer, was Chauhan, 61, his father, Kishor named as one of the five his son.“The spoke proudly about that died when British personnel air force has son’s passion been my ter they were the Lynx helicopwas at King since he was 11. He travelling in down in Kandahar Edward High came in Birmingham School province. Known as and he was of the RAF Rak to his part the young pilot air cadets friends, first year there. since his low Intelligencedied alongside felHe excelled cadets and won the highest in the missioned officer Corps non-com- cadet of award the year Oliver Thomas, Lance Corporal in his final year." Clarke, Warrant Captain Thomas “He even picked Spencer FaulknerOfficer Class 2 St Andrew’s University in and Corporal James Walters Scotland, where took a four from the Army he year Scottish Corps. Air degree in International Masters Lieutenant Relations, partly because described him Chauhan's family it was near Leuchars.” as a dedicated RAF and Continued on page 2
• SACRIFICE: Rakesh Chauhan was killed in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan
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1992 CRICKET WORLD CUP
OCTOBER 2013 ISSUE No.179
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Mahmood. the money The duo used holidays and to fund lavish clothes. buy designer led the DC Mark Calvert “What we inquiry. He said: prolonged a uncovered was fraud by two and systematic ironically were people who an organisation employed by those who which prosecutes break the law."
IN THIS ISSUE...
HAROON'S MARATHON EFFORT FOR SYRIA PAGE 4
CITIZEN KHAN DUO MAYA SONDHI AND BHAVNA
A BIRMINGHAM
Haroon with dad
BABY BOOM! 24 BABIES IN 24 HOURS AT CITY HOSPITAL 7 PAGE
SHOWBIZ ENGLAND KABADDI CAPTAIN NOMINATED FOR AWARD JOHN ABRAHAM PAGE 14
INTERVIEW
MEET LONDON'S NEWEST STAR: FOOTBALL PLAYING SINGING STAR SHIVANI ENTERTAINMENT
- 23 PAGES 18
The series of messages demanded money in order toSPORT ensure he did not come to harm. MOMENT MAGICAL To make the claims believable, HE - a driver FOR MO AS Hussain from Sparkbrook GRABS WORLD - even sent picture MOSCOWof himself messages TITLES IN lying on a bed with PAGE 26 a bag over his head and his wrists apparently bound. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 No.174 MAY 2013 ISSUE
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BY ZAKIA YOUSAF zakia@theasiantoday.com
THE RELUCTANT FUNDAMENTALIST
RIZ AHMED HIS IMMEDIATELY' 'THE ROLE WASknew she had found the one How Director Mira Nair auditioned for new when Brit actor Riz Ahmed Fundamentalist' Hollywood film 'The Reluctant TURN TO PAGE 23
MURDERED PENSIONER WAS 'WELL LOVED'
of THE grieving family a Birmingham pensioner as he stabbed to death evening returned home from are they prayers have said still trying to understand to want why anybody would hurt him. Small Heath pensioner was Mohammed Saleem in the stabbed three times home back as he walked just from a local Mosque April 29 in before 10.30pm on described what police have attack”. as a “swift, vicious tears, Fighting back the Nazia Mr Saleem’s daughter a as described her father “well loved man.” for us “It is very difficult that to accept the brutality our dad has happened to she said. and grandfather,” PAGE 2 CONTINUED ON
KHINDA HELPS INDIAN YOUNGSTERS
FULFILL THEIR SPORTING DREAMS
- TURN TO PAGE 27
a fighter after she battles Birmingham Youngster proves she's th life-changing injuries wi back from horror crash which left her
in Surrey. The Children’s Trust and a half BY ZAKIA YOUSAF Fast forward a year is fully on the zakia@theasiantoday.com later and Labeebah road to recovery. dad Syed With mum Shaheela, by her and older sister Maahirahan emomade side, the youngster Children’s Trust tional visit to The with the nursagain. in Surrey to reunite walk again. The bubbly four-year-old es who helped her injuries after the famsuffered horrific Shaheela revealed in August to take she was hit by a car ily made the decisionChildren’s away from The 2011 – just weeks Labeebah back to The accibecause the her third birthday. Trust for a visit fightstop talking dent left the youngster youngster “wouldn’t with doctors ing for her life about the nurses.” slim chance happy to see only giving her a “She was really a trauasking to see of survival after suffering everyone, and was at the Trust matic brain injury. those who weren’t tells The six months at Labeebah spent that day,” Shaheela Hospital Birmingham Children’s months Asian Today. seven PAGE 2 and then a further CONTINUED ON at going through rehabilitation
youngster BRAVE Birmingham proved she’s Labeebah Islam has visiting a fighter after proudly her walk nurses who helped
her Syed as she makes looks up to her father smiling toddler • BRAVE: Labeebah Trust, and right, the brave walk at The Children's before her accident
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TURN TO PAGE 28 HALF- OF BRITAIN'S MOSQUES ATTACKED, POST 9/11
ALMOST half of Britain's Mosques have ed to attacks been subjectsince 9/11, research new shows. The figures an alarming come amidst rise in attacks since the murder of Rigby in Lee Woolwich Recent attacks in the Midlands include an explosive device Aisha Mosque left outside in Walsall, swastikas sprayed on Redditch Central Mosque (pictured above) and Sandwell a Mosque
Marrow donor for il son
Off-duty police offi
cer Sujjad Ahmed
SPECIAL
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Birmingham father in desperate plea for Bone
A BIRMINGHAM family are in a desperate search for a Bone Marrow donor to help save the life of their critically ill son. Two-year-old Guarav Bains urgently needs a bone marrow transplant before Christmas. The youngster, from Tipton, was diagnosed with blood disorder Monosomy 7 in June and is likely to develop an
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SPORT: FORMER FOOTBALLER ANISH
PROVE WE ARE FLOURISHING IN ALL
HELP SAVE MYBRAVE COP SON'S LIFE HONOURED
man has
been jailed for blackmailing in IGCSE inspection. an A* results gained his family Chemistry, -Physics, by claiming In total Haroon he Maths, hadBiology, been kidnapped Education, BY ZAKIA YOUSAF Maths, History, and was BTEC, Religious English being by English, zakia@theasiantoday.com men threatenBusiness Studies and held A’s in proved he really kill him. Level 2 Finance, ing to Studies. teenager has whilst Business he gained Zubair Hussain the results A BIRMINGHAM Language and learning after ap-– Religious it comes to Haroon achieved A’s in his Remarkably peared is a star when nine A*’s and three level subjects Warwickshire two AS before for Justice In both subjects a phenomenal also studying Level Centre where a 3 Finance. he was results showing it, two A’s! GCSE’s. Education and sentenced to eight year’s GCSE said he has cermonths – yes, you guessed Haroon Despite this Haroon Shah he achieved imprisonment, Asian Today, The after police in top grades, kind! Speaking to unravelled record fall had paid off. a his he is one of his hard work a web of lies I could not “thrilled” with tainly proved was ecstatic be spun my results; said he was the with in will spur order extort for learning The 16-year-old “I am thrilled so welltoconsidering have done from relatives I money hopes his passion and AS level a doctor. results and believe that Years’ both GCSE on New have the of becoming to juggle Eve last year. his family in all my efforts on his dreams fact that I had relieved that who lives with of the city, took so As people were he said. The youngster, area work. I am results,”waiting to Alum Rock fantastic Academy see 2013, the family of largely deprived Park View School The given me such in Husgiven an at ON PAGE 2 which was his GCSE’s CONTINUED sain received text messages and Science OFSTED claiming that the most recent of Mathematics 24-year-old rating in its had been kidnapped. ‘Outstanding’
Zahid
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of the Class after gaining City Teen Haroon Shah Top and 2 AS Level A's! GCSE mammoth 9 A*'s, 3 A's at
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'FAKE KIDNAP' MAN JAILED
Prosecution TWO Crown have been Service employees over £1m paying jailed after firm. to a bogus taxi Lisa Finance manager Titford Burrows, from and admin Road, Oldbury Mahmood officer Tahir Avenue, from Eastbourne each senwere Birmingham, years in prison tenced to six Crown Court at Birmingham guilty to fraud after pleading position at an by abuse of in March. earlier hearing - B&M The taxi company existed - never Taxi Services linked to the and accounts belonged to firm in fact
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HAROON'S A* IN THE MAKING!
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How one woman risked everything murdered sister-in-law...even for her telling the truth if it meant actions of her about the murderous domineering mother-in-law
'BRIGHT' FOR FOOTBALLER TURN TO PAGE 16 DYLAN LALL - TURN TO PAGE
commended for tackling
AN OFF-DUTY has been police officer commended man who a knifeman for tackling attacked him. fight whilst after stepping Instinctively into to the suspect PC Ahmed went Birmingham. driving home througha but became in order to arrest over Sujjad Ahmed him, was on Old At the height involved in a struggle. Hill at around Snow of the 4pm
NEWSPAPER
LOCAL NEWSPAPER
OR MAGAZINE
Awards 2013
BY ZAKIA YOUSAF zakia@theasiantoday.com A BIRMINGHAM lor helping councila grieving ily come famto terms death of with the their ter in India young daughhas told The
28
knifeman
tional courage act of bravery and demonstrated whilst off-duty an no personal with protective
or knowledge on 20 September man became incident, last year daubed in aggressive form graffitti. equipment of childhood leukaemia. a third when he of when involved; Doctors have told arrive to found both PC the centre Kiran is not a threatening his assistance.officers would his family that matchOutside Ahmed of a disorder himself at for Guarav of the his chances of survival was and the really difficult newsan Islamic Midlands whom he six men. “He instinctively will be increased involving suspect because itcentre was trying if he meanswas has a bone marrow that Guarav’s bestalight involved in a violent to arrest. His colleagues The PC set transplant before chance himself in London. disorder of survival immediately he develops leukaemia. will be a bone marrow tect the the scene in order were soon after he Professor transplant to prosaw a topless stepped in from And in more heartbreaking at innocent life of the stab someone that we Nigel ple, whilst and arrested two in blood Copsey of Teeside don’t victim and know. news, docWe know having been man covered members tors told the family University that it is difficult wounded paramedics treated peo- Sujjad ultimately chest. neither his older of the public. to helped stabbed compile sister, Kiran, 4, stab victim. for Asian patients becausefind matches the report. in the the at or parents Sunny A pack risk to ensure put his own safety He shouted Hethere and a lack of Gurprit were a bone said:is"There Asian donors on of four knives marrow match. to members the bone marrow the safety community.” recovered public to has regisIt means the family was later ter. We have also undoubtedly of the dial 999 immediatelyof the from the been told that it been a are desperately offender tended to PC Ahmed will be spike in searching the bone 31-year-old best if Guarav hasanti-Muslim who was as he the marrow register was commended a transplantincidents his bravery ly jailed ing emergency injured man, to try to find an unrelated subsequentChristmas, so we the Woolwich before since providfor two don’t have long murder." match. years and to find emony in at a special awards for months. Dad Sunny said: Ahmed applied first aid. But that match.” “Finding out that Birmingham. seven as PC cerpressure a Chief Constable’s CONTINUED ON wound, the • HERO COP: Sergeant He received to the stab PAGE 2 victim pointed • DONOR PLEA: Sunny Commendation; the highest nominated Noeleen Murrin, Birmingham Sujjad Ahmed tackled with two-year-old Guarav out the the officer who bestow. last year honour a knifeman said: the for
THE ASIAN TODAY
Nominated for BEST
at The Asian Media
his award, force can “PC Ahmed showed He said: innocent excepmembers protect the “I acted instinctively public whilst of the lives of the to also detaining the victim and offender. Asian Today My ing and experience trainfight to the the family will helped end for answers. admitted Gurkiren suffering tion, but dehydrain an Indian Kaur Loyal died died shortly organs she was after analysis would be taken during an hospital in April injected Easter trip for unknown with an the family country substance. to the were devastated with her to A post mortem Amrit and mother return to discover on their was carried father out in India the The 8-year-old Santokh. the youngstersUK that all of family being but despite the had been been removed. organs had of tissues told that pieces from Gurkiren’s As a result coroners Birmingham were unable in to
whilst off-duty
in
me in what ous incidentwas a very serinot hesitate and I would to do the again.” same
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Bikram Singh up with Gunjanteams and Tigerstyle to follow up of release a their 2005 iconic hit.
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Comedian, Mickey Sharma visited hub to talk about The Asian Today Fringe Festival his upcoming show at the Edinburgh alongside his Sharma Sharma sold out, Sharma Sharma Comedian, Sharma Birmingham. at the MAC in Tell us about your show at the Edinburgh I am doing an Fringe. Sharma Sharma Edinburgh preview called Sharma Sharma Sharma my first time Comedian. It at the fringe. will be The show is sold out show a preview of I’m doing at the the MAC.
Who is your inspiration? My routines are autobiographical. references to my life and It will have my culture. Asian. I’m not I’m not British British. I’ve been in this years. I still country for have an Indian 12 There is always passport. It’s internal conflict. all legal!
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Asian Wedding
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INSIDE Arranged WEDDING marriage INSPIRATIONS de novo? Y PAGE 25 ears ago, in my parents’ generation parents, arranged and their marriages were in the Asian community. common What people mean place arranged marriage by varies a lot. They marriages that are ‘set-up’ to those range from those marriages, be it force in the physicalthat are forced psychologically sense or force with emotional blackmail. Clearly (including me) would agree that no one to be forced into is correct for someone marrying someone choice. against their own
But what about the ‘set-up’ arrange a terrible thing? marriage? Is it really Is ‘arranged marriage’ such a dirty word? in this sense still solution to our busyOr could this be the 21st century lives? Some of you may be totally lost by it down for you. this point so I’ll break Imagine your friends Poppy and Jack. single and you have always thought They are both really hit it off, if that they would only both out for drinks they met! You decided to invite them and plan to excuse first 5 minutes because yourself of a “family emergency”.after the Now replace the above situation with the name and Kajol, add Jay some get together) swap tea into the mix (a must for Asian have a typical ‘set the friend with parents and you up’ situation. Two families who think that their children compatible for might be marriage meet up and the boy girl can talk. There and are of course lots example, the boy of variations. For and girl can talk arrange to meet on the phone fi rst or separately but hopefully you get idea of what I mean the by a ‘set up’. At university, I am seeing people claim tradition and do it for themselves. having boyfriends And I don’t just mean people are or girlfriends. I mean for set-ups for potential people looking marriage partners or even asking themselves for them.
FOR ALL YOUR CAR SEE ROYAL LIMO'S -HIRE NEEDS PAGE 22 Last year a friend inboxed me on asked me if I know Facebook and for them because any “potentials” (potential spouse) they were looking own set up and to get married. this is far from an They an event and a isolated case. Recently, were trying to create their friend joked ‘I am a new society at was an element going to find a uni had wife’. of truth to it too and when I discussed This was said in jest but there he agreed and said ‘it wasn’t a this comment with bad idea’. And attending with a friend, he certainly wasn’t this thought in mind! the only one I find it funny that whereas thing by my generation, ‘arranged marriages’ are often looked we are now trying at as a terrible friend if they know to do exactly that! any “potentials” How is asking your would ask their friends and family any different to 100 years ago when your parents if they knew anyone suitable for their We all like to think child? that we have progressed doing the same and moved on thing but we are Asian friends complainas our parents. And from the times that I have essentially about the “lack doing a worse heard my of potentials in job! Bristol”-we may even be
DJ NOREEN KHAN Inspirations for your LAUNCHES HER wedding NEW FASHION
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B r i t i s h schoolboy has been killed in a hit and run crash in Pa k i s t a n . Bradfordb a s e d S a m e e r Iqbal died he • KILLED: Sameer Iqbal when was struck by a passing car after following his uncle who stopped to check on an overturned car ahead. The eight-year old had been visiting the country after getting a last-minute flight for a family wedding. Paying tribute, his uncle, Mehboob Alam said his death had devastated his family and friends. Mr Alam said, "There was another man in the front of the uncle's car. He had hold of Sameer's hand trying to stop him getting out but he wanted to go with his uncle. He still had his hand when he got out but in just a couple of steps a speeding car came from behind and just took him. "It was dark, there were no street lights. They didn't know where he was. He had been thrown about 80 yards into some bushes. His uncle found him and picked him up but when he got
him back to the car there was no breath. He died in his arms." In a heartbroken phone call, they rang Sameer's parents, Maryam and Zafer Iqbal, to break the news of his death and within hours, they were on a flight, arriving only a few hours before he was buried after the tragedy. Mr Alam, said Sameer had been desperate to go to the wedding and it had only been decided the night before he flew that he could go with his grandmother. "It was lucky at the time. He was so excited but it's tragic they got the tickets now. "No-one could believe it when the news came. We still can't believe it today. It is so shocking. We are devastated. "Sameer was an intelligent, smart boy. He wasn't a naughty kid. He was good at sports and good at school. He was a very good boy." Sameer had been a pupil at Farnham Primary School. Headteacher, Richard Edwards said Sameer had a “wonderful sense of humour.” "He was always kind and helpful and enjoyed everything about school. He was loved by his family and his many friends and he will be greatly missed.” He was always kind and helpful and enjoyed everything about school. He was loved by his family and his many friends and he will be greatly missed."
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INTERNATIONAL WOMAN CAUGHT PAKISTAN SERVES JUSTICE THE ASIAN TODAY
URINATING IN IN-LAWS’ TEA
An Indian woman has been discovered urinating in her in-laws’ cuppa, an act she has admitted she’s been committing for a year. Rekha Nagvanshi, a 30-year-old woman from the district of Indore in central India’s Madhya Pradesh State who was unhappy with her arranged marriage to 34-yearold Deepak, was caught squatting over the teapot by her mum-in-law. Her friend Alia Kohli, 32, said: “She said her husband treated her like a slave.” She added, “Rekha is strong-minded and likes to be independent and the thought of being dictated to by his parents was just too much for her. So I guess that’s when she decided to start doing what she did, and urinating in their tea.” Shocked mum-in-law Suraj said, “We used to go and visit them once or twice a week. And although we knew she didn’t like us we had no idea she was doing this. Suraj, who has decided to take out a private prosecution, said: “You cannot urinate into someone’s tea for a year and get away with it. We want justice.”
10 Sentenced to Jail for Malala Assassination Attempt A
court is Pakistan has sentenced 10 men to life in jail for their involvement in the attack on education activist Malala Yousafzai. Ms Yousafzai, who was 15 at the time, was shot in the head on board her school bus in the Swat valley in 2012 - an attack that shocked the world. She was awarded last year’s Nobel Peace Prize for campaigning for children’s rights, despite the risk to her life, becoming the youngest recipient of the award. Officials say the 10 men, who do not include the man named as chief suspect, belonged to the Pakistani Taliban. Ataullah Khan, a 23-yearold militant, was identified by a police report at the time of the shooting. In one of Pakistan’s most
high profile court cases there is little information about it and the sourcing is shaky. Someone leaked the court ruling to a television channel, surprising journalists in Swat. A press officer for the military first promised a statement giving details of the case, then backed out. Local lawyers declined to offer comments, and judicial officers feigned ignorance about when or where the trial had been held. There was a similar lack of detail when the army first announced it had arrested the 10 men who have now been convicted. It did not say when and where they had been arrested or how they were linked to the attack on Malala Yousafzai. Besides, their names did not include the ones the country’s civilian authorities had
earlier identified as Malala’s attackers. This raised eyebrows, and led to speculation that the army may have been keen to show results at a time when it was in the middle of a major operation against militants in North Waziristan, long demanded by Western powers. The secrecy surrounding the trial and convictions has led to doubts over whether these men are really who the authorities say they are. The men were tried in an anti-terrorist court in Swat, in north-west Pakistan. A lawyer from the local District Bar Association said that “there were no open hearings”. Those convicted “had a role in the planning and execution of the assassination attempt on Malala”, a police official added.
MINI-CYCLONE LEAVES 44 DEAD
HEAVY RAIN AND FLOODING RAVAGE PESHAWAR • 44 PEOPLE KILLED: Peshawar residents carry bodies of flood victims
Jas Sansi's Scribbles
A
storm in Pakistan’s north-west city of Peshawar has resulted in the death of at least 44 people and left over 200 people injured. The torrential rainfall and strong winds caused dozens of buildings to collapse and
Twitter: @Jassansi
the intense rain led to flood water in some parts of the city to rise to one metre deep. The storm was described as a “mini cyclone” by Mushtaq Ali Shah, director of the provincial meteorological department. He said: “Its speed in the open was more
• MALALA YOUSAFZAI: 10 men senetenced to life
MALALA’S ASTEROID U
S space agency, NASA, has named an asteroid after Pakistani teenager, Malala Yousafzai. Dr Amy Mainzer, who discovered the asteroid in 2010, had the right to name the asteroid and decided to honour the Nobel Peace Prize winner by naming it after her. “I read about Malala’s amazing story and thought that if anyone deserves to have an asteroid named after them, she does,” she said.
The activist, who was shot in the head by Taliban militant forces, has used her fame to campaign and increase awareness about girls education in thirdworld countries. Writing on the Malala Fund Blog, NASA’s Amy Mainzer said, “We desperately need the brainpower of all smart people to solve some of humanity’s most difficult problems, and we can’t afford to reject half the populations.”
• Photo: The ‘Malala Yousafzai’ Asteroid than 120 kilometres per hour and that’s what caused destruction on such a large scale. It’s a completely new phenomenon in this region.” District official Riaz Mehsud said that the strong winds, along with the heavy rain and hail,
caused power supplies and telecommunications services to become disrupted as well as damaging infrastructure and crops. Efforts were being made to provide those affected with food, shelter and emergency medical services.
PICTURE OF THE MONTH
• LONDON: Women celebrate at London’s Vaisakhi mela. The event, hosted and created by the Mayor of London’s
office, was attended by thousands of individuals from different cultures and religions and held at Trafalgar Square.
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MAY 2015
TECHNOLOGY
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THE ASIAN TODAY GADGETS SHOW LIVE Having recently visited the visiting Gadget Show Live at Birmingham’s NEC, we came away with some ideas of what gadgets you should be looking out for. The guide below has something for everyone. Check it out!
I-QUE INTELLIGENT ROBOT i-Que is an intelligent robot with a difference. Interactive and with a cheeky sense of humour, i-Que is the ultimate cyber side-kick for children aged 6+. Download the free app and pair the robot with a smart device to unlock his capabilities.
REAL FX RealFX combines Artificial Intelligence technology with a unique customisable track to create the ultimate real-life video game style racing experience. For the first time ever you can truly race against other players, or a ‘virtual opponent’ in the confines of your front room.
COLOUR ALIVE Crayola Colour Alive combines special effects markers and a free Colour Alive app to enable kids to simply colour the pages in each book, scan them on their smart device and watch as their characters come to life! The Colour Alive special effect markers transform colouring by activating interactive effects of fire breath or pixie dust, through drawing on the page, in real-time.
TECHNOLOGY
‘OmniO Rider’ IS PRIDE OF GADGET SHOW LIVE
Lightweight stroller wins British Inventors’ Award
A
forward thinking, lightweight stroller is set to revolutionise life for parents of young children after being voted the winner of the prestigious Gadget Show Live British Inventors’ Project. The OmniO Rider weighs in at around 5Kg and quickly transforms from a pushchair to a compact backpack. Designed specifically for parents who ‘always seem to have their hands full’, the stroller is one of the lightest on the market and provides the perfect solution for days out when the kids flit between walking and being pushed. With a carrying capacity of 25Kg, parents with kids as old as five can benefit, and with features such as a rain hood and sun protector, it was deemed a perfect fit to a perennial problem by the award judges: Jeremy White, Product Editor Wired Magazine; Nick Scheider, Product Designer at Dyson and Mark Shehan, Inventor in Residence at the British
MY SMART REMOTE My Smart Remote is an innovative in car security system that provides a solution to modern day thieves bypassing existing systems. It provides a system in which a mobile app (Android or iOS) communicates with a kit installed inside a car.
Show Live's British Invention of the Year Award
Award showcases the best in British Design Innovation Kino-mo, and bike storage solution Cycloc Hero take runner-up spots Last year’s runner-up Edward Ward, the brains behind Veglo, a revolution in cycling safety lighting, has seen his business going from strength-to-strength after being part of the competition: “The British Inventors’ Project was just the beginning,” says Edward. “After being knocked off my bike I developed our Commuter X4 as I believed it could save lives, we launched a Kickstarter fundraising campaign alongside entering
Rising Star of the Year The UK’s technology sector is booming, but there is still an imbalance in terms of the gender make-up of its workforce. These incredible winners today are demonstrative of the huge opportunity there is for future generations to make their mark and achieve success.” Maxine Benson MBE,
CYCLOC Smart, simple cycle storage for all bike styles. Versatile, store bikes horizontally in left or right orientations. Facility to lock bike in place. Ideal for all bikes, children, adult or even tandems. Perfect for home, office or retail display. Make efficient use of space with a tiered installation. Suitable for clipless or platform pedals.
Library’s Business and IP Centre. Also recognised were runners up Cycloc ‘Hero’, a simple and discreet storage solution for bikes, which allows users to hang their cycles on the wall using one pedal, and Kino-mo, a transparent display that creates the effect of content floating in 3D in the air. Now in its second year, the competition was set up to promote the incredible amount of technology innovation coming out of the UK. “As a nation, the UK’s design heritage is one to be proud of and we wanted to showcase British talent as well as provide a platform for it to flourish and develop further,” commented Sally Bent, Gadget Show Live Event Director. The competition is supported by Design Council Spark, a new product incubation initiative from the Design Council and Autodesk, a world leader in 3D design software.
• GADGET SHOW: OmniO Rider wins the Gadget
Co-founder of Everywoman
• AWARD: Sadia Chuhan Named Rising Star of the Year
Apprentice Confirmed Winner at everywoman in Technology Awards
L
eading business and technology figures gathered in London to celebrate the winners in the 2015 FDM everywoman in Technology Awards. This leading initiative, supported by techUK and leading global technology businesses champions the advancement of women in technology and
STEM careers. The winning role models unveiled demonstrate both the diversity of talents needed by the technology industry and the breadth of career opportunities IT can offer women. Winners include corporate leaders from large PLCs, entrepreneurs exploiting tech for accelerated business growth and young go-getters forecast to be the technology champions of tomorrow. One of the winners was 20-year-old Sadia Chuhan who was chosen as a winner, from hundreds of applications.
As Apprentice IT Project Manager of Thomson Reuters, the world’s leading source of intelligent information for businesses, Sadia has worked in the prominently male environment of the company datacentre doing a physical and sometimes dirty job. She has contributed to the refurbishment of the datacentre space, taken responsibility for media management and recently started training two new apprentices as well as playing an active role in the recruitment of new cohorts. Sadia was nominated for Apprentice of the Year and won the Information Technology Student of the Year award at her college. She recently presented to colleagues at a Technology UnConference on her experiences, and her positive attitude has been credited as the catalyst for the expansion of the Apprentice Scheme in Thomson Reuters, giving other young people opportunities to excel.
the competition and it all just took off! Since last year’s event we have now been fully funded, are stocked on Wiggle. com, have sold 7,000 units and are launching three new products this year.” The OmniO Rider team wins £1,000 to develop their product further, a commercial stand at Gadget Show Live 2016 and three years free access to Autodesk’s product design software Fusion 360 Ultimate.
“NET NEUTRALITY” IS BEING THREATENED Indian Companies Pull Out of Facebook Scheme Indian technology groups and internet organisations have pulled out of Facebook's Internet. org initiative, saying it threatens the beliefs of "net neutrality". The scheme was relatively simple with all websites and apps being equally accessible. Travel portal Cleartrip. com and media giant Times Group both announced they would be withdrawing from the service, citing competition fears. But Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg defended wInternet.org's aims. The service aims to extend internet services to the developing world by offering a selection of apps and websites free to consumers. Participating publishers pay the data costs charged by telecoms firms.
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BUSINESS
ASIAN WOMEN OF
LEADING BME BUSINESS HELPS MENTOR SMES
ACHIEVEMENT SHORTLIST UNVEILED FOR MAY 19 EVENT
T
he shortlist for the 2015 Asian Women of Achievement Awards has been released and it features a number of highprofile women. The list includes a stand-up comedian, a TV star and a senior executive at the world’s first Islamic branding agency This year’s shortlist includes Shelina Janmohamed, vice-president of Ogilvy Noor, the world’s first Islamic branding agency, Lucy Choi, the entrepreneurial niece of shoe tycoon Jimmy Choo, is also shortlisted, along with Farah Dakhlallah, Arabic spokesperson for the Foreign & Commonwealth Office. Now in its 16th year, the event aims to highlight the often overlooked contribution that Asian women make to sectors including business, sport and culture. The awards, which will be held in London on 19 May, were founded by Pinky Lilani, who received an OBE in 2007 for her work to celebrate women’s achievements. Speaking on the announcement of the list, Pinky said, “What really makes me happy is seeing these women who are hugely talented but are so collaborative, very kind and humble. They all seem so honoured to be involved.”
• NEWLY APPOINTED - Members of MSDUK
MSDUK LAUNCHES
AMBASSADORS
n organisation which helps ethnic minority A firms compete for contracts
• AWARDS FOUNDER: Pinky Lilani
“What really makes me happy is seeing these women who are hugely talented but are so collaborative, very kind and humble. They all seem so honoured to be involved.”
with multinationals has today unveiled ambitious long-term growth plans by launching a new board of mentors and ambassadors. Set up in Leicester nine years ago, MSDUK has helped black and ethnic minority business owners secure an estimated £60 million worth of business contracts. The not-for-profit organisation is funded by its members and offers support and networking, while promoting business opportunities. Today it has 34 corporate members on its books – including Mastercard, Johnson & Johnson, Barclays and GlaxoSmithKline – and 300 members from small and medium-sized business. The organisation has now
launched an "executive committee" whose role will be to encourage and help businesses around the country to follow its example. Committee member Arnab Dutt runs Harborough-based Texane, he said, "MSDUK is a fantastic organisation which is based here in Leicester, but which has a national and international impact. "We are trying to promote BME businesses from all over the UK, showing them how to win contracts all over the world. "We have a huge diversity deficit within the UK – just as we have a huge gender deficit – and our role is to act as ambassadors. "When it comes to a lot of large contracts in the supply chain many small businesses do not get a look in because there are so many established
bidders and suppliers." MSDUK founder and chief executive Mayank Shah said, "We give BME businesses access to the global, regional and local supply chains dealing with the likes of IBM, KPMG and Coca Cola who have requirements ranging from small £1,000 contracts to contracts worth £1 million. "We did a social impact report in 2012 which showed 71 per cent of businesses from within the network were based in places with more than the national average of unemployment and youth unemployment – but these businesses are growing by 20 per cent year on year, creating more and more jobs. "If we can help them grow even faster then they are going to be helping those communities."
View the shortlist online at www.theasiantoday.com
BHATTI & CO CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS
2 0 1 5 14th Annual Dinner and Awards
We would be delighted to have the pleasure of your company at the 14th Anniversary BCABA Annual Awards Dinner. With a high profile guest speaker, high quality entertainment and an awards ceremony, the evening will prove to be awonderful night celebrating Asian business achievement. For further information please contact:
8 Shaw Park Business Village, Shaw Road, Wolverhampton, WV10 9LE
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BUSINESS AW A R D S
Wolverhampton Racecourse Holiday Inn Garden Court, Dunstall Park, Wolverhampton WV6 0PE.
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B L A C K C O U N T R Y A S I A N B U S I N E S S A S S O C I AT I O N
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Black Country Asian Business Association (BCABA) Annual – Awards Dinner
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She added that charges takes advantage of their portal without charges and human desire to have a roof fees. The couple's vision is to landlords can comprise over our heads.” to revolutionise the property finder’s fees, itinerary checks, and a percentage of the Find Me a Landlord's aim rental market for both is to allow landlords and landlords and tenants by monthly rent once a tenant is secured. Charges to tenants tenants to engage with each offering a free service via a other directly through a secure portal. can consist of admin fees, referencing and credit check fees, deposit handling fees, fees for the transfer of council tax and fuels bills. She added: “People are squeezed out of home ownership by high prices and the same is happening in the letting market, too. Tenants are often seen as cash cows by an • EXTORTIAN - Politicians have been urged to end unnecessary charges on properties industry which
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oliticians have been challenged to end the “money for old rope” fees charged for rental properties by letting agents. Entrepreneurial couple Jag and Bal Hir, of Find Me a Landlord, based at The Courtyard, Shendish Manor, in Hemel Hempstead, run a campaigning website to rid the rental property market of unnecessary fees for what can be, in simple terms; an introduction. Bal said: “We are sending out a challenge to candidates in this general election to pledge to take action over letting agents who currently charge both landlords and tenants what can be extortionate fees for what is in fact a relatively simple service.”
ven the impending general election in the UK has failed to pull back the farmland market in England, with prices continuing to rise in the first quarter of the year. The farmland market in England has gained further ground this year with the average price of bare agricultural land rising by almost 2% between January and March to break the £8,000 an acre barrier for the first time. An acre is now worth £8,059, according to the Knight Frank Farmland Index. Values have risen by 10% over the past 12 months and by 192% over the past 10 years. This compares with 10 year capital growth of 138% for the prime central London residential market, 40% for the FTSE 100, despite the index hitting its own record high earlier this year, and 250% for gold. An imminent General Election, particularly one
with so many possible outcomes, might have been expected to cause the market to pause for breath, but it appears the appeal of farmland is overriding the uncertainty, according to Andrew Shirley, head of rural research. But he pointed out that the market continues to separate into two clear submarkets, each with their own distinct performance trends. Large blocks, ideally over 1,000 acres, of arable land are being eagerly sought after by investors and demand is so strong that prices upwards of £12,000 an acre are regularly being paid and even £15,000 an acre has been achieved on a number of occasions. Although East Anglia has traditionally been the main source of investment farmland, buyers are now looking across the country and exceptionally strong results have also been recorded in counties such as Hampshire.
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SPEED
QUINTESSENTIAL BRITISH LUXURY
GLOBAL DEBUT FOR BENTLEY’S SPEED MACHINE
Bentley unveils the future direction of luxury and performance with the EXP 10 Speed 6 concept at the Salon International De L’auto 2015. The concept is a British interpretation of a high performance two-seater sportscar. From the racing success of the company’s early years to the international motorsport success of today, ‘speed’ is part of Bentley’s DNA. This inspiration is expressed throughout the EXP 10 Speed 6, where iconic Bentley design cues are fused with progressive craftsmanship techniques and modern technologies. “Making its global debut at the Geneva Show, the EXP 10 Speed 6 is the ultimate expression of our vision for Bentley’s future – a powerful, exquisite and individual concept. This one car
showcases modern automotive design, highly skilled British handcrafting, the finest materials and advanced performance technology. This is not just a new sports car concept – but the potential Bentley of sports cars – a bold vision for a brand with a bold future,” says Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors. Bentley also unveils a suite of new luxury design upgrades and features to its Continental family of grand tourers in Geneva. The Bentley Continental GT is refreshed with a complement of new exterior design features, aimed at sharpening the on-
road presence of the iconic Grand Tourer. A new front bumper combines with a smaller radiator shell and new, more pronounced fenders to lend a more assertive and confident stance to the front of the car. Enhancing the GT’s iconic silhouette further, three new paint colours are available.
TOP SPEED OF 190 MPH
Bentley’s mighty 6¾-litre twin-turbo V8 engine propels the Mulsanne Speed to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds
CAR THEFT
Lowest in a Decade
R
ecent records have given an indication that motorists are now far less vulnerable to car theft than a decade ago. The number of drivers claiming on their care insurance for theft has plummeted since 2004 to reach a new 46-year low. But with the volume of thefts still just short of 70,000 last year, the need for drivers to safeguard their vehicles is
still paramount. In 2004, 231,323 vehicles were reported stolen, compared to 69,547 vehicles in 2014 - a drop of 70%, according to latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The last time car theft fell below this level was in 1968. There were 842 (or 1.2%) fewer incidents in 2014 than the year before it. Only one in 500 (0.2%) vehicles were
taken last year out of over 36 million licensed motors. Experts attribute a sharp fall over the past 10 years to the rise of new technology which is helping car manufacturers make vehicles more secure than ever. Multi-billion-pound funding goes into keeping cars safe and one step ahead of the thief, with advanced security equipment now standard. The motor industry hopes to bring down theft further still by urging the Government to collate more comprehensive information on how cars are actually being stolen. Intelligence among police forces is being hampered by lack of countrywide knowledge about current trends in thefts of specific vehicles. Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), urges authorities to set up improved tracking for each particular make. This, he said, would build up an upgraded know-how of thieves' operating practices and help future technology develop which could wipe out car crime.
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MOT F
aults that flash up on tyre pressure monitoring systems could see millions of cars in the UK fail their MOT tests. The technology comes fitted in most modern motors, flagging up when tyre pressure dips below the level it should be at through a warning light on the dashboard to help drivers pre-empt punctures and even blowouts. But this could lead to millions of failed MOTs due to nothing more problematic than an underinflated tyre. TyreSafe is urging motorists to make sure their car's tyres
are correctly inflated before the initial test date, as any car that has a warning light showing on the dashboard fails its MOT under current
Failure Caused by Tyre Pressure legislation. It means drivers could unnecessarily be forking out even more money for another MOT. The inclusion of TPMS technology in new model vehicles has only been mandated in Europe since 2012 and on all new cars since 2014, despite the fact it has already been around for several decades. TyreSafe says this gradual introduction to the market has led to a lack of understanding. It claims a large number of motorists are unaware of how the
systems work and need to be maintained, while others just see them as an expensive luxury rather than the crucial safety feature they are.
The organisation recommends having a TPMS serviced occasionally, even if it appears to be functioning correctly, to ensure it continues to operate properly and reduce the likelihood of an MOT failure. TPMS sensors are designed to last for many years and miles, yet a sensor's internal battery will eventually run out, while they can become faulty or fail completely as a result of weather damage, corrosion or accidental damage. Replacing the valve cap and core components every time a tyre is changed is one way to ensure a sensor remains in a good condition.
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WASIM KHAN MBE Chief Executive Leicestershire CCC
F
ormer Warwickshire Cricketer, Wasim Khan MBE, will be writing a monthly column in The Asian Today aimed at enhancing cricket at a grassroots level. Talking about his experiences, his passion for a global sport and his pride of being a proud Brummie, Wasim presents a brief summary of his journey from playing cricket on the streets of Small Heath to the top seat at Grace Road.
MY JOURNEY FROM THE STREETS OF SMALL HEATH In 1990, I was delighted to become the first British born Pakistani to become a professional cricketer in England. I was fortunate to play in the double winning team at Warwickshire back in 1995. Having been born and brought up in Small Heath in Birmingham, it is fair to say that sport has changed my life. Back in 2005, I was recruited by Lord Mervyn King, former Governor of the Bank of England to plan and deliver, Chance to Shine, a £50 million cricket-education programme in state schools. By 2014, we had raised £55 million and delivered programmes to over 2.5 million state school children. By the time I left the charity, Chance to Shine had become the biggest of its kind in the world. In January 2015 and having completed an MBA at Warwick, I decided the time was right to move on. I was pleased to be appointed Chief Executive of Leicestershire County
Cricket Club and in doing so, became the first Asian CEO of a County Cricket Club, in fact the first Asian CEO across any professional sporting club in this country. I wrote about my playing experiences and life travelling the world playing pro cricket in an autobiography called ‘Brim Full of Passion’, I was delighted that the book won Wisden Book of the Year in 2006. www. brimfullofpassion.co.uk It is an exciting time for me to be running Leicestershire, the only way is up for us! The signing of Pakistani cricketer Umar Akmal along with New Zealand World Cup hero Grant Elliott, will give us a great opportunity for success in this year’s NatWest T20 Blast. With Shahid Afridi playing at Northamptonshire this year, it will be great atmosphere when we host Northamptonshire for a T20 match at our ground on 12th June. Get yourself a long!
Continued from Front Page 60 I hope this makes girls in India believe that anything is possible; we can achieve anything we want if we put our mind and body to it.” Stacey Allaster, WTA Chairman and CEO, said, "It is a truly remarkable accomplishment for Sania Mirza to become the first Indian
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woman to reach the WTA World No.1 doubles ranking. Sania has attained many milestones throughout her successful career and this achievement is a fitting recognition of her talent, dedication and success. I am sure Sania will continue to create history and inspire our evergrowing fan base in India and the wider Asia-Pacific region.”
Among her notable achievements, Mirza was the first Indian woman to win a WTA singles title; the first to reach the third and fourth rounds of a Grand Slam; the first to surpass $1 million in career prize money; and the first to win a Grand Slam title of any kind when she claimed the 2009 Australian Open mixed doubles title with countryman
BILKIS BREAKS BARRIERS • NEW RECRUIT:
Bilkis Mahmood
Bilkis Mahmood Lawyer based in Leeds, is now hoping that her appointment will encourage more women from the ethnic backgrounds to follow in her footsteps. "I have been given the encouragement by Shehneela Ahmed (Britain's first Asian female football agent for the English FA), It's a challenge for me, I want to prove to
the Minority Ethnic groups , particularly females that if you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything" said Bilkis Mahmood. It was a year ago when Shehneela Ahmed made global news headlines and rewrote the soccer history books by becoming the Britain's first Asian female football agent for the English FA.
Becomes World's Second Asian Female Football Agent
"The sports world is no longer just a man’s sport and more females are now involved in the sport industry. Especially with the Football, I grew up watching the game. I have good male friends around me who are already involved in the football industry who also have encouraged me” said Bilkis Mahmood. The FA is campaigning to bring more Asians into football, but only eight of the 4,000 players in the Football League are of Asian descent. The FA has recognised and is making strides to tackle the lack of British Asian talent, taking a series of forums around the country to speak to members of the Asian community trying to discover why there are not more Asians involved in the professional game.
PREPPED & READY
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Adil Anwar All Set to Take on Dale Evans
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I'm feeling great ahead of my fight
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eeds Boxer Adil Anwar has said he is in good shape ahead of his welter weight fight against Welsh boxer Dale Evans. Anwar is set to take on Evans on 15th May 2015 at Sheffield’s IceSheffield venue. After his training session in Spain, Adil spoke to The Asian Today. “I’m feeling great ahead of my fight. I’m working harder to prove myself again which will hopefully get myself back into the mix for the British title, this
Mahesh Bhupathi. She holds a total of 26 career doubles titles, a n d t h r e e G r a n d Slam mixed doubles titles. Only three other Asian women have achieved the WTA World No.1 doubles ranking: Japan’s Ai Sugiyama, China’s
time at welter weight which I feel is a suited weight for me. “Training has been excellent, having had the opportunity to work with Danny Garcia, who is the welter weight unified world champion, for two weeks and then training in Marbella at the MGM Gym with former Great Britain Captain Tom Stalker. You can’t beat that experience! “As a fighter I’m 100% confident I have the tools but no fight is easy, every fight
you go into, you have to be prepared 110%. I’m working hard and I believe Dale Evans is also working as hard as I am, so I can tell you this, the fight will be exciting as he is a come forward fighter and styles make fights.” The 27-year-old recently got his career back on track with an impressive points win over Sheffield’s Ryan Hardy and hopes to carry the winning steak on.
Peng Shuai, and Chinese Taipei’s Hsieh Su-Wei.
TENNIS: Indian tennis player Saniya Mirza
• CONFIRMED: Amir Khan will fight Chris Algieri
Amir Khan will be returning to the ring to take on former world champion Chris Algieri on Friday, May 29, at the Barclays Centre in Brooklyn, New York. Confirming the fight, Amir said, "I have happy memories of New York having made my successful U.S. debut there against Paulie Malignaggi in 2010. I'm delighted to now be fighting there once again against another champion in Chris Algieri. Algieri has shared the ring with some tremendous fighters and shown great skills in those fights so I know I will need to be at my very best when we meet. In all my fights I bring excitement, speed and skill and can guarantee more fireworks on May 29 at Barclays Centre." "I am very excited to get back into the ring and to be fighting here in New York," said Algieri. "Fighting at Barclays Centre, where I won my world title just under a year ago, is an added bonus. Amir Khan is a tested champion and is the matchup that I wanted. I believe this is a fight that will bring the best out of me."
ASIAN STAR SPORTS
Chelsea FC Opens Applications for Scheme
Receives ZRF Backing
Asian Star returns on Monday 25 May, with applications for players aged 9-12 now open at www.chelseafc.com/asianstar
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ikas Sadiq of the Zesh Rehman Foundation has praised Chelsea’s Asian Star and urged youngsters interested in football to sign up for the groundbreaking initiative. The scheme, the first of its kind undertaken by a professional football club, is designed to give a much-needed boost to Asian participation at all levels of the game with this year’s event taking place on Monday 25 May. The Chelsea Foundation has been working closely with ZRF since 2013 to deliver Sidelined2-Sidelines - a coach education and mentoring programme funded by the Premier League and the PFA - while coaches from ZRF also worked alongside the Foundation at last year’s Asian Star. Sadiq and his colleagues will once again be in attendance for the seventh edition of Asian Star and the 28-year-old, who studied business management at university before turning his attention to coaching in 2013 after
• APPLICATIONS OPEN: Asian Star receives ZRF backing coming to Cobham with his nephew, believes the event is a must for youngsters with a love of the game. ‘I always thought you had to be a player to get into football but Asian Star and the Zesh Rehman Foundation taught me that it was about the individual, it was about how much you wanted it and how hard you worked,’ said ZRF sports development officer Sadiq. ‘Asian Star gives a platform for young people. It gives
them the belief and the motivation and the drive, as well as the knowledge and connections to make it in the world of football. ‘For Chelsea to do something like Asian Star, to give young Asians the belief and the passion to go on and try and achieve their dreams in football, is an amazing thing.’ Asian Star was launched in 2009 and has grown in size ever since, attracting almost 400 young players to our
Cobham training ground last year, where they competed in a series of matches and tests to examine speed, skill and ability. The winners in each age group were all invited to join the Chelsea Foundation’s Football Development Centres. Chelsea will also be inviting managers, coaches and scouts from clubs at all levels of the game to identify talented youngsters, while workshops and useful information will also be available to parents.
CHANCE TO SHINE LAUNCHES STREET • SHINE: Ravi Bopara Launches Chance to Shine Street For more information and to get involved, visit: www.chancetoshine.org
Cricket Scheme Aims to Draw in Inner-City Youngsters
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ports charity, Chance to Shine, is bringing cricket to thousands of young people in inner-city areas via a new scheme. The Chance to Shine Street initiative uses the game to promote social cohesion and create opportunities in diverse communities affected by anti-social behaviour and youth crime. At sessions, young people will play fast-paced version of tape-ball cricket, using a tennis ball wrapped in electrical tape. Each innings lasts for 20 balls and games last for just 20 minutes. It needs very little cricket equipment and is ideal for inner-city venues. England and Essex all-
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rounder Ravi Bopara helped to launch the new scheme, which is being sponsored by Lycamobile, at the Kia Oval. Speaking at the event, Ravi said, “Chance to Shine Street can help massively by giving kids access to somewhere to play cricket. They just want a place to play cricket, they don’t care how it’s done and sometimes those kids don’t have the opportunity in inner-cities. Tapeball cricket is so simple: get a tennis ball, tape it up, let’s play cricket. It speeds up the game, it’s exciting and I used to love it as a kid. “It’s brilliant from Lycamobile to back the street programme, its
very kind and I’m sure they’ll benefit from the partnership.” Chief executive of Chance to Shine, Luke Swanson, said, “Chance to Shine Street is fast-paced, hardhitting, loud, fun and open to anyone. It has a proven record of attracting young people, supporting their development and keeping them engaged in the game. This partnership builds on Lycamobile’s commitment both to cricket and to connecting communities: together we can further broaden the reach of the game, bringing its benefits to many more young people in some of our most deprived communities.”
Ahwais Khan, 16, from Saltley in Birmingham is one of many examples of individuals who have benefited from the programme. Ahwais was a handful for his teachers, disturbing lessons and mixing with the wrong crowd. Since he started on the Street programme his behaviour has improved and so has his grades. He has now moved away from his old circle of friends. “Now I see them hanging around on the streets,“ says Ahwais, “Some have got in trouble with the police for knife crime. That would definitely be me if I hadn’t got involved in the Street programme.”
ZAF'S COLUMN @All4YouthCIC
MYKAL BROWN IN THE COMMUNITY
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fter being announced as one of the winners of the Handsworth Currency Competition I would just like to share a few of projects, which Mykal is involved in. Being named one of the winners’s meant that Mykals facial profile will feature on one of the sides of these new coins. The new Handsworth coin will be produced as a multiple of 6000 (two different coins, 3000 of each). In the first instance, the coins will be distributed to 3000 local children via the schools participated in the project (Holyhead School, St Theresa's Catholic Primary School, Grove Primary School, Future First School, Handsworth Girls School). The coin will have a 'cultural' value in that it will
He also participates in many charity events such as The Top2Toe Challenge which was a series of 10 marathons in 10 days, plus 1000 miles of cycling; this was to celebrate the first 100 years of Macmillan Cancer Charity Trust. Mykal is dedicated to education and working within his local community and is involved with many projects. In 1972 his love of music lead him to become the founder of Wassifa Sound System which has become well known nationally providing music and entertainment to thousands of followers. This has led to his latest challenge which is to participate in a new TV Channel on Freeview TV. This is a major breakthrough for the local community. The programme broadcasts to the communities of Birmingham, Walsall, Sandwell and Solihull and went live on air in late February. You can watch the show on Wednesdays at 7pm and it is repeated on Sundays at 7pm on Freeview channel 8. The programme will target music with genres such as Reggae, Lovers rock, R & B and Gospel. There will be many local and well-known artists interviewed including topics on History, Education, Caribbean entitle the coin’s owner to Culture and the 40 year a number of free cultural journey of Wassifa Sound offers. These include free System who are the longest access to the Soho House serving Sound System museum (on certain days), from Handsworth. half price entry to all As you can see he does Birmingham museums and a vast amount of work free access to arts and craft within the community all workshops. voluntarily and does this Mykal is well recognised in conjunction with his full for his charity work and time role as the colleges’ directed the Coast2Coast Community Link Manager. challenge in June 2014. And finally he has just It was a gruelling cycle been nominated for one challenge to raise money of the National Diversity for Teenage Cancer Trust Awards 2015 for his work with riders covering an 800 within the community. mile radius. This award is within a He also directed the collection of some of the 7inSeven Challenge nation’s most inspirational which was in aid of Help and selfless people Harry Help and others who gather annually to campaigns and was an recognise the country’s amazing bike ride which rich tapestry of talent saw campaigners rode over please support him with 60,000 miles your vote. The link for the website is: https://nominate. nationaldiversityawards.co.uk/nominate/endorse/22549
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AGE IS JUST A NUMBER
“BOWLING UNIT NEEDS TO PERFORM”
8-Year-Old Clinches Top Spot in Muay Thai
Delhi Hoping Top Order Comes Good A
fter a couple of tough games upfront, the Delhi Daredevils posted successive wins before losing to the Kolkata Knight Riders at the Ferozeshah Kotla. Heading into their match against the Mumbai Indians at home, the JP Duminy-led side were keen to set their record at home straight. “We are very hungry to get it (our strategies) right and set the record right, especially in our home ground. We haven’t played well here (previously); so we’ve got three games now to set the record straight,” the DD captain said while addressing the media after training. “We have won two out of five games and we are at
the fourth position in the points table. To me it’s not a bad position to be in at this stage of the tournament. We would like to win most of the remaining games and give ourselves a chance to get in to the Playoffs. It is not difficult for me to motivate myself and the team because we have created a good team culture, led by the management and by Gary (Kirsten). The guys are motivated to play for DD and want to do well, especially at the home ground. You’ll definitely see a different change come tomorrow,” he said optimistically. The hosts trained under the hot sun in Delhi as they prepared to take on MI in pursuit of another win of the
season. While the batsman honed their skills, the bowlers too strove in the nets. Speaking about the team’s key contributors he said, “Our match-winners have been two leg-spinners plus Nathan Coulter-Nile upfront.” “We have to produce performances around them as well; we can’t just depend of them. So all of us, including myself, have to put up performances with the ball as well. We know that our previous performance wasn’t great but that is only one game and we will take a lot of lessons out of previous game and we want to set them right especially in the bowling department tomorrow.”
ENGLISH PLAYERS NOT GOOD ENOUGH
David Lloyd Attacks ECB Contribution in IPL
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ery few men have experienced cricket in their lifetime from as many perspectives as David Lloyd has. After a decade-long firstclass and Test career, Lloyd has been involved in the game as coach, umpire, journalist, author, and continues to be one of the leading voices behind the microphone. After 50 years of close affiliation with cricket, David
‘Bumble’ Lloyd was in India on “a two-week adventure” called the Pepsi Indian Premier League, 2015. On the sidelines of his second IPL match in the commentary box, in Bengaluru, Lloyd shared his thoughts on the tournament and offered his opinion on England Cricket’s stand towards the Twenty20 format. Talking about his
WISDEN B
ears director of cricket Dougie Brown has congratulated Jeetan Patel on being selected as one of Wisden’s Five Cricketers of the Year. Patel was recognised for his outstanding contribution to the club’s success in all three competitions last summer, alongside the Yorkshire pair of Gary Ballance and Adam Lyth, Worcestershire’s Moeen Ali, and the Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews. The 34-year-old from Wellington became the first New Zealander to be included in the Wisden “Five” – a tradition that stretches back to the 19th century –
since Chris Cairns in 2000, and the first Bears player since Jonathan Trott in 2011 (although bowling coach Alan Richardson joined the exclusive club in 2012 when he was recognised for his performances for Worcestershire). “We’re all delighted for Jeetan, and it’s fully deserved,” said Dougie. “He had an outstanding year for us last year in all forms of the game. He’s not the kind of guy that shouts about it either, which makes it even better to see him being recognised in this way. “We’ve been lucky enough to have some outstanding
experience, Lloyd said, “I have watched it from afar for years. I have watched it develop and evolve. There have been some great points in the tournament. My first experience was in Delhi and the enthusiasm of the crowd was awesome. Just watching people getting into the stadium you could tell that they were in great spirits in the anticipation of seeing
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Coventry youngster has become the UK’s No1 champion in Muay Thai. Muhammad Abu Bakr, who is 8-yearsold and competes at -25kg, started training in Muay Thai at the age of 5 under his instructor Raf Hussain at the 8 Limbs Muay Thai Martial Arts Academy based in the Coventry City Centre Abu Bakr won his first championship in 2013 at just 6 years old; he now holds 6 championship belts and most recently competed in the Sandee Junior Muay Thai Championships. Abu Bakr won two fights in one day at the Northern
their team. That continues inside the ground as well.” When asked about the English calibre in the IPL, Lloyd said, “Well, first, they have to be good enough to get into a franchise. We only have maybe six cricketers who the franchises would be interested in. I am getting a bit technical here but a major reason why we lag
Championships and went on to secure his spot in the finals, which were held four weeks later in March. Oddly enough, Abu Bakr's first fight was against the runner up from the northern championships who refused to fight Abu Bakr again. In the Southern Championships, Abu Bakr started off strong and put in a good performance, the referee stopped the fight in the third round due to an outclass, crowning Abu Bakr the Sandee Champion and securing the top spot. Abu Bakr was also spotted in the tournament by Muay Thai officials and
had been shortlisted for best male technical fighter. Brimming with pride, instructor, Raf Hussain said, "Abu Bakr is a talented child and will go a long way, I will be bringing over a team from France and Abu Bakr will be competing for a European Title on Sunday 14th June." Abu Bakr competes for the Junior ISKA European Title in Coventry and hopes to become a World Champion one day. Muay Thai is a Martial Art that originates from Thailand, consisting of Boxing, Kicking and clinching using knee strikes.
behind in the shorter formats of cricket is because we have not grasped bat speed. Going back to the World Cup and here in the IPL, you watch guys like Brendon McCullum and AB de Villiers and you see their bat speed is tremendous. Our batsmen have not grasped it. For that, we need our young players to experience the IPL, but again they have to be good enough.”
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SPORT CELEBRATES ASIAN CONTRIBUTION TO CRICKET overseas players at this club in the last 20 years or so, who have stayed with us for a long time – someone like Allan Donald would spring to mind. That sort of thing doesn’t tend to happen in the modern game but Jeetan has been with us a while, and because he doesn’t play international cricket his availability is great. “He’s due back from New Zealand in the next few days, and let’s hope he has another great year.” Patel was one of two everpresents in the Bears team who finished second in the LV= County Championship, taking 59 wickets at an
average of 26.32, and making 510 runs at 30 including a century. He also played a key role as the Bears reached the finals of both domestic limited overs competitions, topping the bowling averages in both the Royal London Cup with 23 wickets at 17, and in the NatWest T20 Blast title-winning campaign with 25 wickets at an even more impressive average of 13.
“He had an outstanding year for us last year in all forms of the game. He’s not the kind of guy that shouts about it either, which makes it even better to see him being recognised in this way."
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Jeetan Patel
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DREAM COME TRUE SANIA MIRZA NAMED WORLD NUMBER 1
"I hope this makes girls in India believe that anything is possible"
"When you start off as a child playing tennis, you dream of being No.1 in the world. It’s a dream for every person; very few get there. I feel extremely honoured to be No.1, it’s something that I’ve worked for all my life."
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ndia’s Sania Mirza has reached number 1 in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) double rankings. Since the WTA doubles rankings were introduced on September 10, 1984, Mirza is the 33rd player to reach the top doubles ranking, the first from India and fourth from Asia, to do so. In the last 52 weeks, which are used to calculate the WTA doubles rankings, Mirza has won seven doubles titles with three different partners: In March this year, 28-year-old Mirza teamed up with nine-time Grand Slam doubles champion Martina Hingis, and the pair
achieved instant success, winning 14-straight matches and claiming three successive titles. These results have propelled Mirza to the top of the WTA doubles rankings, and the team of Hingis and Mirza to the top of the Road to Singapore doubles leaderboard. Mirza said achieving the WTA World No.1 doubles ranking was a dream come true. “When you start off as a child playing tennis, you dream of being No.1 in the world. It’s a dream for every person; very few get there. I feel extremely honoured to be No.1, it’s something that I’ve worked for all my life. Continued on page 58
GETTING ON THE BALL FOR THE COMMUNITY Football Tournament Raises Money for Burglary-Hit Nursery F
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Fidah Hussain, Stepping Stones represenatives Rulu Noor, Fahmida Rahmman and Engage FC's Ikky Ahmed
ootball teams in Stokeon-Trent have raised hundreds of pounds for a local nursery which was recently hit by a devastating break-in. Stepping Stones Community Nursery and School, based in Hanley, lost £15,000 worth of valuables as a result of the incident and has struggled to get back on its feet. Stoke City's Community Trust offered their support to the local project and organised a 7-a-side football tournament to raise money. Football fans in the local area
responded brilliantly to dig deep, with a total of £700 coming from the fundraiser. The event was run in conjunction with Premier League Kicks and the money raised will make a real difference for the nursery to continue their recovery. Engage FC prevailed as winners on the day and kindly donated their £200 prize fund to Stepping Stones. The investigation into the burglary is ongoing and Staffordshire Police are still appealing for witnesses. The
incident took place between 2:15pm on February 24th and 8:45am the following day. Fahmida Rahman, who runs the Raymond Street facility, was left devastated after discovering items including cameras, computers, TVs and DVD players had been taken in the raid. The 38-year-old, of Blurton, said, "We set up our group to help local people from disadvantaged backgrounds and then to discover something like this had happened was absolutely devastating. "We can't understand why
anyone would do this. We haven't been able to provide the same learning experience we normally do for the children. "But the community has been brilliant ever since it happened and the football tournament has been wonderful. The money raised should help us get back on our feet." After hearing of the facility's plight, Yaser Mir, the founder of community organisation Engage, organised the charity tournament with help from Stoke City.
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