desi pages june 2022 final

MESSAGE FROM THE MANAGEMENT OF
PERFECT GROUP OF COMPANIES




VAISHALI THAKKAR - FROM THE MANAGEMENT









Hello Friends ,


We hope you have already started listening to ‘Radio

Mirchi’ on 1110 AM and 104.9FM HD2. This is yet
another initiative of expanding Funasia. Our idea is to

give different flavors and experience to our community

VAISHALI THAKKAR in entertainment . This is another small step towards
CEO Perfect Tax & Finance & being the #1 entertainment company globally.
CEO FunAsiA


Did you download our new improved Big Fan TV app?? That is a great place
to get the best dose of your entertainment. You can watch your favorite RJ’s

on their show and also watch the music videos of the songs played. Browse
your latest Desipages Magazine, watch movies and get your Bollywood

doze from different resource There are many added features you will enjoy.


Look out for many digital features from FAN( Funasia Network). On
our upcoming app you will be able to sing live,play many interactive

music games with your family & friends and interact and connect with
professional music community worldwide. Stay tuned for this and more.


Amongst all the growth and advances, the news of war and the elementary

school shoot out really makes us sad. Our core value is to live and let live and
the destructions all around the world concerns us as we really pray for the well

being of mankind. Our heart goes out to all the parents who lost list their kids
and when the incidence happens so close to home it effects us even more .

With prayers and wishes we welcome the mid year June 2022.

Welcome to our June edition
of Desipages. Our articles in
Desipages are interesting reads.

You will find knowledgeable insights
and entertainment. This month
check out our Men’s and women’s
health in our Lifestyle column; a

great coverage of Yath Yatra at the
Kalachand temple,an interesting
story in our kids talent, a book review
of the ‘The Kite Runner. MAdhuri’s

Musings offers you a very interesting

read on the language of Flowers.

You will enjoy the June magazine.


On a different note, after everything
is opening up in 2022, the world has
been looking forward to normalcy.
People are once again planning travel

around kids summer vacations. But,
the shooting in Uvaldo just before the
schools closed, has shaken us all up.
With a very heavy heart we move on

to the mid year June. We at FunAsia
pray for a non violent peaceful World.

Write your coments, suggestions and

contributions to navneeta@funasia.
net.







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EGGLESS CHOCOLATE MOUSSE




Total time including setting: 2 Hours
With summer on our heels let us cool off with this
delicious dessert!



METHOD

• Take the chocolate and milk in a microwave
safe bowl and microwave it for 30 seconds.
Mix them well and make sure there are no
lumps.

• Strain this using a sieve and let it cool.

• In a deep bowl combine the sugar and
whipped cream and fold gently.


• Add the cooled down chocolate and milk mix-
ture along with the sugar and whipped cream
INGREDIENTS FOR MOUSSE and fold it in.

• 1 cup chopped dark chocolate • Further add the vanilla essence and honey
• ¼ cup milk
• 1tbsp confectioners’ sugar and fold them in gently.
• 1 ¾ cup whipped cream (beaten)
• ¼ cup vanilla essence • Take 4 individual bowls or glasses and re-
• 2 tsp honey frigerate for at least 2 hours. Keep it longer if
needed.

INGREDIENTS FOR GARNISH • Serve topped with extra whipped cream.
Garnish with chocolate and fruit. Add nuts if
• Grated chocolate needed.
• Chopped nuts
• Mixed fruit or Fresh berries For a variation you can add mint instead of vanil-
la essence for a twist. The beating of the cream
with sugar to perfection is key to making a good
mouse. Chocolate or raspberry or strawberry
essence adds to the overall volume and flavor of
the mousse.














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cover story



NEETU SINGH- KAPOOR – THE COMEBACK


Very few child artists make it big after they
become adults. The late Sridevi and legendary
actor, Kamlahasan are two such rare artists.
Neetu joins this rare cadre of artists who
transitioned from being a child actor to an
adult actor seamlessly. After starring in the
Vyjayantimala-Rajendra Kumar super hit film,
Suraj, Neetu acted in several films as a child
artist. The ‘Zinda Dil’ actor’s notable role was
in ‘Yadon ki Baraat,’ a multi starrer where she
played the role of a dancer. The song ‘Lekar
Hum Deewana Dil’ is still a popular number
and had the doe-eyed beauty gracefully move
to R.D. Burman’s stylish popular music.
Neetu Singh paired mostly with Rishi Kapoor.
The year was 1968 and the famous American The pair had a youthful exuberance that the
film, The Parent Trap, based on the German audience loved to see. They were first paired in
novel Lottie and Lisa was remade in Hindi. the movie, ‘Zehreela Insaan.’ Rishi was nursing
The film’s directors, R. Krishnan and S. Panju a breakup and Neetu was the replacement for
had already made this film in Tamil. The Hindi another popular actor who took a hiatus from
film starring Biswajeet and Mala Sinha was acting for a while. The two formed an easy-going
remade as Do Kaliyan. This film revitalized friendship during the shoot. Rishi proposed to
the sagging career of the Bengali superstar, her from Paris where he was shooting for a film
Biswajeet. the film starred the cherubic Baby and an excited Neetu agreed. Rishi and Neetu
Sonia in the titular role of twin sisters separated went on to str in many blockbusters and finally
at birth. The adorable child went on to capture tied the knot after dating for five years. Some of
our hearts later as Neetu Singh also known as their most memorable films are:
Neetu Kapoor. Neetu went on to star in several
movies as a baby star including Waris and Dus KHEL MEIN
Lakh being a couple of them. For the next 15 Ravi Tandon’s
years she acted in several memorable films, blockbuster starred
entertaining filmgoers with her spontaneous Rishi, Neetu, and Rakesh
and genuine charm, spirited dancing, and Roshan as friends in a
some sensitive acting as well. She paired with college. A prank that
her late husband Rishi Kapoor to give some turns into a tragedy
very beautiful movies and the audience gave forms the plot of this
them their love, making Rishi- Neetu one of the taut musical thriller. The
best pairs on and off the screen. After losing her film became a super hit also because of toe
husband and friend of 40 years the ‘Priyatama’ tapping musical numbers such as ‘Khullam
star makes a comeback with Jug Jeeyo. As Khulla Pyar Karenge,’ and ‘Ek Main Aur Ek Tu.’
the industry welcomes this charming actor Neetu became a fashion riot with her wardrobe
let us look back at some of the memorable of maxis, leather skirts and boots.
performances of Harnnet Singh alias Neetu
Singh-Kapoor.


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DEEWAR Manmohan Desai’s lost and
The movie is a cult classic no found tale of 3 brothers. Neetu
doubt. The plot of Deewar has played Dr. Salma Ali the love
been remade over and over interest of a qawwal played by
again in many a Bollywood Rishi yet again. The audience
film. The film was made into yet again loved this endearing
multiple Indian languages couple as Rishi wooed Neetu
as well. Amitabh Bachchan in the song, “Parda hai parda
and Shashi Kapoor’s online hai” rendered by the one and
chemistry yielded many fruitful ventures from only Mohammed Rafi.
Deewar onwards. Through all the gritty grim
drama Neetu Singh’s charming presence comes PRIYATAMA
in as fresh breath of air in the movie. The key In the 70’s a lot of social stories surrounding
locket that she wears in the movie became a the urban middle class were made by the
rage with the youth of the day. eminent film maker Basu Chatterjee. Films
like “Rajanigandha,” Choti Si Baat, Khatta
KABHI KABHIE Meetha” were all cherished by the audience
Yash Chopra’s tale of for the honesty and simplicity in storytelling.
sensitive relationships “Priyatama” gave Neetu Singh and Jeetendra
comes together in a ample room to show their acting skills. Paired
romantic musical I this film. as a couple facing ‘teething’ issues in marriage
This was perhaps one of the online chemistry of this pair was liked by
the few times we got to see viewers. Jeetu and Neetu were paired in many
a serious actor in Neetu movies thereafter.
Singh. All the characters
had a background and Films like ‘Deewar,’ ‘the Burning Train,’ ‘Kala
Neetu’s was that of a girl Patthar’ are some of the multi starrers in which
searching for her identity Neetu played prominent roles. Silky black
after being told that she was adopted. Amidst tresses, an innocence in her eyes and a spirit
the beauty of Kashmir and an ensemble star of vivaciousness all these contributed to Neetu
cast Neetu stands on her own and proves her being one of the first choices for many a multi-
histrionic capabilities. starrer. She was one of those rare actors whom
the male stars felt The 70’s was an era of multi
DOOSRA AADMI starrers, and it is interesting to note that Neetu
Neetu forms part of an Singh starred in several of them. Male costars
unusual love triangle with felt protective towards her, and female stars
Rakhee and Rishi Kapoor. befriended her easily. Such is her non fussy,
Rishi and Neetu are a newly non-dramatic personality!
wed couple with a blow-
hot, blow-cold relationship The ’Chorni” girl is a fitness icon of sorts now
and Neetu made a fashion and has a non-fussy attitude towards her health
statement again with her too. Her husband’s death left her devastated
whit salwar-kameez and no doubt, but the ever-chirpy Neetu Singh has
green bangles. Neetu finally made a come back with “Jug Jug Jeeyo.”
starred with Rakhee gain after “Kabhie.” When asked how she dealt with the tragedy,
Neetu says simply, “I am a happy person.” And
AMAR AKBAR ANTHONY a happy person she will be, even more when
From the old to the young, people loved this the movie hits the theatres on June 24th.


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Lifestyle Article



Men’s and



Women’s




Health -1




cottish philosopher, essayist and historian and women (we have kept the 2 large groups
Thomas Carlyle once said, “He who has of gender in perspective) differ largely. A
Shealth has hope, and he who has hope study conducted by the American Psychology
has everything”. Never has it been truer than Association, lays out a comprehensive picture
ever. The last two years have been unusual for of how stress is processed by either gender.
all of us globally. The COVID -19 pandemic This makes an interesting study for us to
sent us back to our homes, shut us in for most understand ourselves better.
part and created a disruption and a paradigm
shift in our views on the economy, relationships In this issue we are going to examine the
and very significantly on our heath. Gyms had various factors that affect the health of men
closed down, forcing most of us to figure out and women. It is important to understand
our own way to stay fit and healthy. People this a little more before we delve into finding
started working from home and that created solutions for the same. This is not to be
more time for husbands and wives to spend taken as a diagnosis, or the final word in
time with each other. Children were attending health but more as a study for our own better
school from home, and we learned to adjust understanding.
to their schedules along with our own. The Men’s Health
pandemic also had us cooking from home.
Trying out new recipes became a norm. We June is Men’s Health Awareness month. Men
experimented, learned more about immunity have always been considered paragons of
boosting foods, and intermittent fasting, to strength and grit and fearlessness. for the
name just a few of the factors that affect our longest time. Probably this viewpoint has
heath for the better. created more health problems for the Martians
than anything else! Cleveland Clinic surveyed
Yet as the pandemic progressed many of us more than 500 men aged 18-70 about their
experienced to anxiety and that led to unhealthy use of healthcare resources. This survey
eating and sleeping patterns. In addition, revealed the following:
many of us contracted the deadly virus and
have experienced its aftereffects. “Health is 3 out of 5 men get their annual physicals.
not valued until sickness comes”, said Thomas This number is far fewer than the number of
Fuller. The pandemic, its aftereffects on our women who go for their physicals.
physical health coupled with mental health
issues like anxiety and stress have led us to More than 40% of men go to their doctor
rethink our strategies on health and fitness. only when they think that something is
As with many other aspects of life, better seriously wrong with their health. About
health cannot be a one-size-fits-all solution. It 21% said that they were too scared to find out
needs to be customized according to our age, More than 50% of men did not talk about
health issues, and fitness and stress levels just their health. Fear of diagnosis inhibits men to
to name a few. There is also the fact that the talk about their health.
physical and psychological challenges of men

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Present coupon before consultation begins. valid till 04/15/2022









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Lifestyle Article
Prostrate cancer affects 1 in 9 men.
According to the American Cancer Society
almost 175,000 new cases of prostate cancer ‘Mental ‘health refers to how we handle stress
occur every year. This is the most common of different kinds. The hormone oxytocin , the
cancer among men. ‘love hormone’ is important in handling our
stress levels. According to a July 2000 report
Perhaps more than we assume, men suffer in the Review, when stressed, the hormones
from mental health and the stigma that cortisol and epinephrine are released leading
surrounds it. The American Psychological to higher blood pressure and sugar levels in
Association says that around 30.6% of men the blood stream. Oxytocin is also released
have suffered from depression sometime in long with these, and it leads to relaxing and
their life. nurturing emotions. In females it binds with
other reproductive hormones and that is
Several other health facts on men can be why when stressed women tend to nurture
procured from CDC. All these statistics indicate themselves. In most men it results in the fight
the crying need for addressing the needs of or flight mechanism.
men’s health. A good place to start
will be to initiate a dialog with the
men in our lives about their health
and the concerns they might have.

Get medical advice. Prevention
is better than cure, the old adage
goes. The medical director of
NYU’s Preston Robert Tisch Center
for Men’s Health. Dr. Steven Lamm
says, ‘Men need to care about
their health above the waistline
as well as below”. He further asks
men to not ignore symptoms like
chest pain, black stools or loss of
vision. He recommends choosing
a doctor with whom men can talk One of the key factors in promoting overall
comfortably about their physical, mental as mental and physical health is keeping our
well as sexual health. hormone levels in balance. There are several

Protect your prostate. According to medical ways of doing it but one of the
the National Association for Continence simplest ways of accessing the deeper parts of
(NAFC),there is a 50/50 chance of having our brain and activating these hormones is the
an enlarged prostate because it grows with practice of gratitude and meditation. Focusing
age. One might start noticing changes in on gratitude and writing down at least 3 things
their urinary habits and even detect some we are grateful for each day, forces us to think
urinary problems. The NAFC also cites deeper and see the good that is happening
various symptoms of an enlarged prostate and around us. It is the secret armor and weapon
clinical ways of treating it. Eating a nutritious, that all of us possess to counter our day-to-day
balanced, and low-fat diet helps lower the risk challenges. It increases happiness, reduces
of an enlarged prostate. Tomatoes, greens, stress, and creates a positive environment in
fatty fish are some of the foods to include in our brain and then it spills over other areas
your daily diet. A Mediterranean diet is ideal of our life too. As Eckhart Tolle eloquently
for prostate health according to a study done puts it, ’Acknowledging the good that you
in 2021 by a forum of experts. already have in your life is the foundation to
all abundance”. And good health is a sign of
abundance.


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People speak




MAKING A COME BACK IN 2022!

PEOPLE
SPEAK

by RJ Zee
If there’s one thing the pandemic taught whole, even in a world that now seems
us, it’s that you only live once. And us moving faster and more aggressively from
homo sapiens are making the most of it the outside.
now after the great come back/return.
The ubiquity of death has brought about
From travelling, chasing a new job or an overwhelming respect for the present
hobby, exercising or savoring a moment of moment. And people are responding to
pure joy, we are re-exploring everything! this new feeling, perhaps paradoxically,
in extravagant ways. Call it a coping
I am personally a big foodie and love to mechanism, but everyone is indulging in
try new restaurants, getting out of the ‘take their inner desires like there’s no tomorrow!
outs and home delivery’ phase, am back to
enjoying the ambience of new restaurants But we are trying to make a grand come
and trying my favorite delicacies. back, live again, move faster. In the midst
of chaos, there is also opportunity. New
Moreover, the festivities like Eid, Diwali beginnings are a chance to make things
and Christmas are all being celebrated in right and make things better. Among
the traditional way. those who have been working from
home, a growing share say they would
However, life will never be the same be comfortable returning to their office if
again! Although things are coming back it were to reopen soon. For the common
to the “new normal”, nothing is or feels man who moved to remote work from a
the same anymore. From experience one daily 9-5 schedule is now started to drive
can tell that something we cannot
see has changed us. Something
microscopic. When the world was
over taken by the so called “C”
virus, we realized that nothing is
bigger than ‘mental freedom’. No
community, no nation, no borders,
no government, no amount of
wealth.


Although now things are getting
back to normal, the inner landscape
of humanity has changed as a


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back to work in the peak hour traffic. People speak
Although complaining and honking at the
cars in front, but is
happy from within
to hit the road and
soak in the freshly
polluted air


Majorities of adults
now say they are
comfortable doing
a variety of everyday
activities, including
visiting friends and
family inside their
home, going to the
grocery store, going
to a hair salon or
barbershop, dining
out, attending splurge a little, try to draw moments of
weddings and birthday parties just like pure joy, paint a silver lining to the greyest
before. time we have seen.


Moreover, destination weddings are back, As they say, only change is permanent. So,
and most importantly the secondary masks nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be
are becoming obsolete although people understood. Now is the time to understand
continue to wear the emotional masks on more, so that we may fear less.
their faces.
Like they say in hindi movies “Aakhir mein
The mentality has now changed, Instead sab theek ho hi jaataa hain, aur agar nah
of worrying about making sure everything ho, toh picture abhi baaki hain mere dost”
is perfect, we are giving our best now as Everything will be okay in the end. If it’s
we realized, we could miss out on a lot not okay, it’s not the end.
of great opportunities if we try to wait for
perfection. We have realized, we are not a To New Beginnings and Happy Endings!
product of circumstances, rather a product Cheers.
of our own decisions.


What has happened to us during the
quarantine is the past. What matters now
is what lies ahead of us and what we make
of it is completely and entirely up to us.


Take a sabbatical, enjoy a staycation, Zarina Khorakiwalla

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FATCA COMPLIANCE FFI agreement, if applicable) or comply with the
FATCA Intergovernmental Agreements (IGA)
treated as in effect in their jurisdictions.  For this
FATCA stands for reason, even if you do not report your account your
Foreign Account Tax bank will automatically report your account to IRS.
Compliance Act. Case of Vaibhav Dahake An Indian American
FATCA compliance man, Vaibhav Dahake, pleaded guilty to Offshore
comes under IRS tax evasion and tax fraud by US tax authorities. It
section code IRC was concluded that Vaibhav Dahake was helped
6038D. Violation by 5 HSBC employees to conceal his accounts in
not to comply with India so that he could avoid paying taxes in the
FATCA law could U.S. He maintained accounts at large international
mean IRS penalty of banks including England, India, Singapore, Hong
10K for each return Kong. The case also found that Mr Dahake was
or additional 10K for convicted of five years in prison or $250,000
each month if failure continues for 90 days. If you of fine, or twice the amount of financial gain
are Single and your aggregate foreign account accrued to him or loss to the IRS.  Mr Dahake
balance reached highest daily threshold of 75K also paid 50% civil penalty for failing to file
at any given point of time or your ending account reports of foreign bank for all the years involved.
balance is 50K as of Dec 31st. then every US Case of Adrian BaronA former executive of Loyal
person needs to file FATCA form (8938) with IRS. Bank Ltd., Adrian Baron, 63-year-old, pleaded
If you are married, then your threshold is 150K guilty to conspiring to defraud U.S. by failing to
at any given pint of time or 100K at the end of comply to FATCA. Baron was transferred to the
the year. If you are an American living abroad United States from Hungary in July 2018.  The
as Expat, then your threshold is significantly high. guilty plea was entered before United States
District Judge in June 2017. An undercover agent
met with Baron and explained that he was a U.S.
citizen involved in stock manipulation schemes

and was interested in opening multiple corporate
bank accounts at Loyal Bank.  The undercover
agent informed Baron that he did not want to
appear on any of the account opening documents
for his bank accounts at Loyal Bank, even though
he would be the true owner of the accounts.  Baron

FATCA law also requires foreign financial responded that Loyal Bank could open such
institutions (FFIs) to report to the IRS information accounts and provide debit cards linked to them.
about financial accounts held by U.S. taxpayers,
or by foreign entities in which U.S. taxpayers By: Diwas Dhungel,
hold a substantial ownership interest. FFIs are Senior Director, Perfect Tax & Finance
encouraged to either directly register with the June 2022
IRS to comply with the FATCA regulations (and






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several awards.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Shetty made a mark and rose to one of the

SHILPA SHETTY topmost female actors of her time with movies
like Apne, Garv and the musical drama, Life in

JUNE 08, 1975 a Metro. The film had an ensemble star cast and
Shilpa played the role of a stay-at-home spouse
in an unhappy marriage. Shetty was also praised
If one could ward a Bollywood str for being for her role as an eccentric fisherwoman in the
the most fit person, Shilpa Shetty would be movie Rishtey and that role won her a nomination
amongst the top contestants for the award, for a Filmfare award for Best supporting female
easily. Shetty come into prominence actor. It is to be noted that the svelte actor was
with her very first movie, the 1993 a pan-India actor. The svelte beauty starred
thriller, Bazigar. Starring opposite opposite Prabhudeva in ‘Romeo’ a musical. She
Shahrukh Khan, she played went on to perform in several Telugu movies and
the ill-fated elder sister of Kannada movies. Kannada being her mother
Kajol. She went on to tongue. Shetty is known for her beautiful figure as
star in several films she is known for her dancing skills. She is trained
making a name and in Bharatanatyam.
a niche place for She took a hiatus from films after her praiseworthy
herself during dance performance in the film ‘Dostana.’ Shilpa
her initial Shetty continued to stay in news after she faced
years in racism in the UK based reality show ‘Celebrity
Big Brother.’ She showed great poise and was
the winner of that season. She has sine then been
hosting reality shows like ‘Nach Baliye,’ ‘Super
Dancer’ etc. Along with her husband Raj Kundra
Shilpa Shetty owned part of the IPL team Rajasthan
Royals from 2009 to 2015. Shilpa is also very
vocal about feminism and animal rights. A fitness
enthusiast, she has her own Yoga DVD as well.

Bollywood.
Shilpa was Shilpa Trivia
born as Aswini
Shetty. Her dad was • Shilpa can speak 5 languages
a manufacturer for the • Shilpa, 47, joins several other Bollywood
pharmaceutical industry. stars by having a baby girl in 2020 through
She also has a sister Shamita surrogacy.
Shetty. • A big fitness enthusiast, she has co-authored

After Baazigar, Shilpa starred in a book, ’The Great Indian Diet’
the action comedy, ’ Main Khiladi
Tu Anadi’, where she had a dual role. • Her nicknames at her home are ‘babucha’
Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan starred and ‘honeybunch.’
in this movie with her, and the film became • Shilpa was the captain of her school’s
a box office success. Films that followed ‘Main volleyball team and has a black belt in Karate.
Khiladi Tu Anad’i proved to be financially
unsuccessful, but Shetty did receive accolades • She is terrified of driving and never goes out
for her supporting role in the romantic drama without a driver.
Pardesi Babu. Dhadkan starring Akshay Kumar, Shetty will soon be seen in ‘Nikamma’ a film by
Suneil Shetty and Mahima Choudhry was a major Sabbir Khan who has directed several movies,
turning point in Shetty’s career. She played the notable among them being ‘Kambaqht Ishq’ and
role of a woman torn between two men and ‘Baaghi.’ The film is set to release on June 17th
Shetty was praised for her role and earned her 2022.

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY actor, who is in a relationship with ‘Munni’ Malaika
Arora is working on finding his footing again.
ARJUN KAPOOR Outside of films Arjun Kapoor has appeared in the
reality show, ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi,’ the adaptation of
June 26, 1985 ‘Fear factor.’ He also endorses several products. But
the most notable campaign of his is the Earth Hour
initiative in India. Along with creating awareness
Arjun Kapoor celebrates his birthday on June for this campaign he also
26th. Son of film producer Boney Kapoor, Arjun has helped raise
is no stranger to the tinsel world of Bollywood. awareness
His uncle is the evergreen actor, Anil Kapoor, and for the
Sanjay Kapoor. He along with Sonam Kapoor,
Harsh Kapoor and Jhanvi Kapoor form the second-
generation of Bollywood actors. The late actor
Sridevi was his stepmom.

Kapoor entered the film industry with a bang.
‘Ishaqzaade’ a modern-day tale of Romeo and
Juliet with a political background became one of
the highest grossing films of that year. Kapoor was
paired with the vivacious Parineeti Chopra, and
he ended up winning the best ‘Zee Cine Award
for Male Debut of the Year.” The ‘2 States’ star
says that he was very obese during his teens and
early tweens. He lost 50 pounds after which he
was cast in ‘Ishaqzaade’. Recently Kapoor shared
in an interview that he has worked hard again to
sculpt and shred his body. He says that after going
through a recent slump in his career, he wants to
be loved again by the audiences and that his work
motivates him.


His style of acting is very minimalistic but effective.
He delivers his dialogs with conviction and a punch.
‘Aurangzeb,’ the directorial debut of Atul Sabharwal
saw Kapoor in a double role. He was pitted against Sundarbans
stalwarts like Rishi Kapoor, Jackie Shroff and in India.
Prithviraj Sukumaran. Kapoor was praised for his For the Global Goals
performance, but the underperformed at the box campaign, Kapoor represented India at the Global
office. 2014 later saw the releases of 2 of his most Citizen Festival which was held in New York. He
successful films. ‘Gunday,’ where he costarred with gave a speech there highlighting India’s progress
Ranveer Singh, and Priyanka Chopra was one of the as a nation while mentioning the challenges faced
highest grossing films of that year. The film, a takeoff in the process. He joined hands with this campaign
of the Hollywood classic, ‘The Butch Cassidy and the to promote the empowerment and education of
Sundance Kid’ turned out to be a blockbuster and women through a program called, ‘Girl Rising.’
Singh was praised for his zesty performance along
with Singha and Chopra. Kapoor then starred in On the film front, Kapoor will be seen in the horror-
opposite, the then newcomer Alia Bhatt in Chetan comedy ‘Bhoot Police,’ starring Saif Ali Khan, Yami
Bhagat’s adaptation of ‘Two States.’ The film that Gautam and others. He will also be seen in the
centers around the romance between a boy and girl movie,’Ek Villain Returns alongside John Abraham,
from two different backgrounds was well received Disha Patani and Tara Sutaria and also a Hindi
by critics and audience alike. The ’finding Fanny’ remake of the Tamil film, ‘Comali.’ As the actor
star’s comedy sense was appreciated in the Anees turns 36 this June, we wish him all the best in his
Bazmee film, ‘Mubarakan.’ Kapoor has a double future endeavors.
role to play in this film as well. Off late the ‘Panipat’

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S
T
K KIDS TALENT
D
I
A
N
T
E
L
The Invisible String

hrough this Narrative essay I wish to convey a story about a
little boy who devises his own coping mechanism to get over
Ta personal tragedy. I have included dialogs, description of
characters and events to get the reader involved. A third person
voice is used that reveals the thoughts and feelings of the characters.
The tone is serious sentimental and thoughtful whereas the mood is
sympathetic. This narrative is for a universal audience

Yogesh, Kiara and their five-year-old son Yash were a happy family leading
an almost ideal life in Mumbai. The husband owned a multi-million-dollar
company. Life was full of fun and beautiful memories. But just as good
times do not last forever, a devastating news about Kiara having cancer
changed their joyful lives forever. They took it on as a challenge and
did everything possible to fight the dreaded disease. In those testing times
they were wholeheartedly supported by the employees of his company.
Maya, their closest friend pitched in and made sure that little Yash was well
Hello I am Saisha Khemka. taken care of. Unfortunately, the brave efforts did not bear much fruit and
I was born and brought Kiara lost her battle with cancer within a year. Their world came shattering
up in Mumbai, India. I am down. In his heartbroken state, Yogesh couldn’t take care of his only son.
Maya took on the baton and cared for Yash, patiently answering his million
16 years old and I study in questions about his mother’s whereabouts.
the 10th grade. Along with
writing I also love to sing. Time passed and Yogesh was finally able to come to terms with his grief.
Everything I find, observe, He drowned himself in his work and relied on Maya’s assistance for Yash’s
and feel is an inspiration for care. Maya too had become fond of Yash and didn’t mind helping out.
She took over the responsibility of bringing up Yash and let Yogesh focus
my stories, and the different on his work.
behavioral patterns of
people make them a Six- months passed.
stimulus for me to find the
characters for my stories. I Maya was completing her daily chores when a phone call left her confused.
She immediately called up Yogesh.
am the kind of person who
can’t be alone, and I love “Yash’s principal just called me. She says she’s been trying your number,
to socialize with people and but you aren’t picking up.”
love to spend time with my
friends and family. Anyway, “I’ve been in and out of meetings the whole day. Must have missed it. What
did she say?”
that’s about it I hope you
enjoy the story. “She wants you and surprisingly me too to meet her tomorrow.”
“Did she say why?”

“She insisted she’ll talk to us in person.”
...To be continued







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C
O
S

E
R
R
N
D
I
K KIDS CORNER
Listen to Kids Club with Ambreen Hasnat every
Wednesday from 3:00- 4:00 pm.
Click Here to Play


















Click here to color












Did you Know?

































If you want to wish your child a Happy Birthday,
Please send message to navneeta@funasia.net/ambreen@funasia.net
For all submissions of your kids talent: Poem, short stories, Jokes, Artwork please send
submissions to navneeta@funasia.net/ambreen@funasia.net



DesiPages DFW | June 2022 VOL 40 | 29

Amir Khan
bollywood takies 3






this Month



Cannes 2022

1 K Jo’s BD





WE may not cover all birthday
parties, but K Jo’s party definitely
deserves a mention. The ‘Rocky
aur Rani” director turned 50
this May and had a huge party
to celebrate his entry into his
golden age. The party was very
Cannes hosted its 75th annual well attended by carefully chosen His love for cricket is well known.
film festival (My 17-28) after celebrities. Abhishek Bachchan Aamir Khan is to host the Indian
a gap of two years due to the served as the DJ for the party! Premier League 2022 final on
COVID-9 pandemic. The festival Some other interesting ‘gupshup’ May 29th at the Narendra Modi
is always well attended by film about the party: stadium in New Delhi. The trailer
celebrities around the world Shahrukh Khan danced to ‘Koi
and our Bollywood stars are no Mil Gaya’. He took the center of his much-awaited Lal Singh
exception. The 9-member jury for stage while others danced around Chaddha will be released by him.
the main competition includes him. Hrithik Roshan made his The trailer will be played during
relationship with Saba Azad
our own Deepika Padukone. This official. As a tribute to the late a break in the 1st innings. The
jury will be entirely responsible actor Rishi Kapoor, Neetu Kapoor, song ‘Kahani’ from the movie
for choosing the winning movie. Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh
The jury has a wide international and the birthday boy grooved was released in April and has
base, and the members are to ‘Dafliwale’. The bash was a been making its rounds among
selected by their body of work reunion of sorts for all the 90’s music lovers. The song has been
and recommendation from their stars. A selfie featuring with Preity composed by Pritam, penned by
peers. Apparently the 36-year- Zinta, Aishwarya Rai, Kareena Amitabh Bhattacharya, and sung
old has been causing quite a Kapoor, Rani Mukherjee &Madhuri by Mohan Kannan lead singer
sensation with her style and
fashionable looks. Aishwarya of the rock band, ‘Agnee’. After
Rai, a staple at the festival, along 2 along time, fans of Sonu Nigam
with her husband Abhishek and will be treated to a melodious
daughter Aaradhya is among the number, ‘Main Ki Kara” by the
other attendees of the festival. melodious singer. Lal Singh
She has also been causing a
stir with her glam looks. Some chddha starring Aamir Khan and
of the other celebrities attending Kareena Kapoor amongst others
the Cannes 2022 from India are will be released in August and is
Akshay Kumar, A.R. Rehman and expected to break records at the
Nawazuddin Siddiqui among box office like many of Aamir’s
others.
earlier films.


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MELODIOUS ECHOES CONTRIBUTION

By RAJI


CLASSICAL MUSICIANS IN HINDI FILM INDUSTRY


Classical Musicians in Bollywood repute such as Rafi, Lata, Manna Dey to name a
few. Naushad often made classical musicians like
Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan (Mughal-E-Azam),
Pt. D.V. Paluskar and Ustad Amir Khan (Baiju
Bawra), Begum Parveen Sultana (Pakeezah) sing
some of his film compositions and these were very
much liked and appreciated by the audience.

In modern times we have seen composers like
Vishal Bharadwaj and A.R. Rehman use classical
musicians for some of their compositions. It only
goes to show the magic classical musicians and
classical music has in the minds of listeners. Not
ow strange is the fact that our soul enjoys just vocalists but instrumentalists have also been
music, but we tend to separate the genres vastly used in the film industry. The renowned
Hof music into classical or non-classical table player. Samta Prasad Mishra of the Benares
even though the same scales are used to create Gharana played for several films including ‘Teri
music in both genres. The Indian film Industry has Surat Meri Ankhen’ and ‘Sholay.’ Both R.D.
the unique distinction of having created musical Burman and Bappi Lahiri whom we recently
masterpieces and continues to do so. Songs lost were his disciples. Ustad Bismillah Khan
are composed and sung for all occasions and the endearing shehnai maestro was roped in by
milestones of human life in India. The various Vasant Desai for ‘Goonj Uthi Shehnai,’ Ustad
phases from birth to growing up to wedding, Alla Rakha, tabla, for the song ‘Nache Man
childbirth and even death are extolled in songs. Mora ‘from the movie ‘Teri Surat Meri Ankhen,’
Ballads are sung on mythological and national Pt. Shiv Kumar Sharma, tabla for the song, ’Piya
heroes. Special songs to celebrate and extoll Tose Naina Laage’ from the movie ‘Guide,’ and
the events surrounding the Indian Independence many more.
struggle and the Partition are sung even today. So
entwined is music in the very fabric of Indian life. Pt. Ravi Shankar, Ustad Vilyat Khan and several
India also holds the unique distinction of having others tried their hand at composing music for
two forms of classical music apart from its rich films as well. Ustad Vilayat Khan composed only
repertoire of folk music. one song- ‘Ambar Ki Ik Pak Surahi,’ for the movie
‘Kadambari.’ The story and the lyrics for the
Classical music and the practitioners of such song were written by the sprightly Amrita Pritam.
music are considered venerable. Festivals But though classical music has found a place in
and special events are conducted in all major the industry, classical musicians are yet to find
cities and towns periodically to introduce the permanent place in the industry. Film music is an
grandeur and beauty of classical music. After eclectic mix of various genres and often purists
Naushad introduced classical music to the find it hard to blend in. Back in 2016, when asked
Hindi film Industry through ‘Baiju Bawra,’ film why she doesn’t sing in Hindi films anymore, said
composers like Shankar Jaikishan, S.D. Burman, Parveen Sultana that ‘There is nothing in those
Salil Chowdhury and several other reputed tracks that challenge your talent. There is no
composers started adapting classical music into classical base.’ She further says that singing in
their compositions. Although it is touted that Hindi films is like ‘caging a talented bird.’
classical music is not as popular as other forms
of music, audiences have always enjoyed several
classical based compositions sung by singer of

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CONTRIBUTION in the music of Shiv-Hari. They made Amitabh

sing the very popular Holi song, ‘Rangbarse,’
which was penned by his father Harivansh Rai,
and even today this song is a staple in many Holi
celebrations. Two songs that stands out amongst
the lot are ‘Yeh Kahan A Gaye Hum’ and ‘Neela
Aasmaan So Gaya.’ Both the songs were penned
by Javed Akhtar who turned lyricist after Silsila.
Both the songs are sung by Lata Mangeshkar.

‘Yeh Kahan’ has Amitabh reciting poetry in the
Shiv-Hari interludes in his signature baritone voice. Lata
ji weaves her magic with absolute perfection as
One of the most prolific composers in the 80’s Amitabh and Rekha enact this scene in the movie.
was the duo Pt. Shiv Kumar Sharma and Pt. Hari Her expressions re something to watch for in the
Prasad Chaurasyia, popularly known as Shiv- song, stressing at the right words bringing the
Hari. They were They composed together for eight song to life like no one else can do.
films and several of their compositions became
popular. The duo had worked together in 1967 ‘Neela Aasmaan,’ a plaintive plea of a
creating a classical album called ‘Call Of The heartbroken Rekha is also masterfully delivered
Valley’. Music in the 80’s had sort of become a by Lata ji. Lataji’s voice in the 80’s had matured,
cacophony. Many composers from the 60’s and and it needed a composer who understood how
the 70’s had either withdrawn themselves or were to use it effectively and help it deliver songs that
no longer alive. The industry was dominated by
Lakshmikant -Pyarelal, Rajesh Roshan, and Bappi
Lahiri. But the quality of music suffered immensely.

Pt. Shiv Kumar Sharma, popularly known as Shiv
ji was an accomplished santoor player. He was
instrumental in bringing santoor to the limelight.
So dedicated was he to classical music and to
the cause of bringing santoor to the limelight, he
refused early offers by directors like V. Shantaram
to compose music for his films. He did occasionally
play the tabla or the santoor to make ends meet,
devoting his time to the practice of the santoor. suited her newfound maturity. ‘Neela Aasman’
tugs your heart like never before as Lata ji’s voice
Hari Prasad Chaurasia or Hari ji is a legendary hits octaves that are unreal.
flautist who joined All India Radio, Cuttack as a
composer and performer. Later he learnt from the Shiv-Hari composed for the movie ‘Sahibaan.’
reclusive Annapurna Devi the estranged wife of Amongst all the other popular songs the song
Pt. Ravi Shankar. She promised to teach him only that stands out in my mind is ‘Prem Hai Deepak
if he promised to forget whatever he knew until Raag’ by the accomplished classical singer Afraz
then! To prove his adherence to her tutelage he Bano. The short thumri, set to Nat Bahirav leaves
switched to playing left-handed from his usual you emotional and takes you in in its depth.
right-handed playing.
Shiv-Hari gave us some great music in Darr,
Shiv-Hari totally composed music for eight films, Lamhe, Chandini amongst others and won 4
seven of them for Yash Chopra. Their journey filmfare awards in all. We lost Shiv Kumarji on
started from ‘Silsila’ Shiv-Hari composed a total May 10 of this year and never again shall we be
of 16 songs and most of the songs became treated to this duo’s magic again. But their body
extremely popular. The lyrics penned by Javed of work in those 8 films speaks volumes of their
Akhtar, Rajendra Krishan, Hasan Kamal, and command over classical music and adaptability
Harivansh Rai Bachchan found their true worth to film music.


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BOLLYWOOD BONANZA





















YAMI GAUTAM RAVEENA TANDON

“People should know me through my work. They Bollywood has seen comebacks of popular
should feel, if Yami is in it there must be something actors whoa after a long hiatus decide to come
interesting, exclusive to watch for”, says Yami. back into the industry again. Dimple Kapadia-
Yami recently wedded Aditya Dhar of ‘Uri: The Khanna was one of the earliest stars to do it.
Surgical Strike” fame in which she played the role “Mast mast” Raveena is one of the latest ones
of nurse turned spy. She says in an interview with to join the bandwagon. She made a comeback
popular digital magazine. “Let your work define with the OTT series,” Aranyak”. The recent
you”, the doe-eyed beauty observes. The ‘Kabil’ blockbuster,’KGF2’ had Raveena playing the
actor says that the barometer for success in role of the Prime minister of India. In a recent
Bollywood has become very vast and one cannot interview she was asked to compare movies from
typecast actors anymore. Asked about following the south and movies from the north. ‘There is no
trends, she says,” I followed the trends as well. I comparison, there is no competition’, the “Ziddi”
was not happy but needed you work. I was trying actor quips. “It is just a phase in every industry”,
to understand myself. Why did I choose certain the “School” actor observes. “In the south they
films? I followed popular opinions that I must do make different kind of films, and the same goes
movies having a lot of song and dance”. for our Mumbai industry”. She makes her point
The ‘Uri’ star says that she was advised to do when she reiterates, ‘You hear only about the
films with big stars.” That didn’t work for me super successful south films, you don’t hear of
either. I got a good role in Kabil opposite Hrithik every Friday when one south film releases”.
Roshan. But people felt it was too short. Why She hastens to add,” We are aware of every
wont they see how I have fared in the movie”? Hindi film is my logic. Everything is right if it goes
She wonders! That is when she took a step back right”. “Let us count it ( KGF 2) as an Indian film.
and analyzed her needs. She says that she knew If our audiences are pan India, then what North,
what she wanted but didn’t know how to get it. South, East, West divide”, the “Bulandi” actor
She wanted to find role that people would not observes. Talking about why she chose “Aranyak”
expect her to do. Speaking of promoting herself, as her debut, the “Aks” actor excitedly chirped”
the versatile Yami observes, ‘I was told that I am a huge fan of these whodunit thrillers”.
unless you are seen in the company of these big The actor who adopted two girls even before
names…unless you are not invited by...so and her marriage reiterates that it is a story led by
so you have not arrived”. She feels that now she strong female characters and has a voice for the
has found her footing and appreciated for the empowerment of women.
unconventional roles she has chosen to play. The talented beauty will be next seen with
The ‘Thursday’ actor will next be seen in “OMG Sanjay Dutt in the film, “Gudchaddi” and “
2” and ‘Lost”. Agnivarsham”, atelugu film opposite Nagarjuna.


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goodreads LANGUAGE OF FLOWERS
MADHURI’S MUSINGS







The flower of my soul is the Rose. The
Rose is known to have both magical and
medicinal properties. The energy of the Rose
is heavenly and her soft and fragrant petals
are multi-faceted. Her purifying, beautifying
and healing properties make this one of the
most popular flowers in the world. Greek and
Roman mythological stories are rich with the
power of the Rose. During lockdown in 2020,
I experimented with making a rose flower
perfume at home. The experiment itself felt
Spring and summers are the most beautiful magical and the homemade rose essence
time of the year when flowering plants are in was a delight.
full bloom. With every bud that blossoms, a
miracle takes place. Every petal that unfolds
reflects nature’s grace. Whether they are This past week, I was enchanted with my Water
wildflowers blowing in the wind or cultivated Lily’s first bloom this season. Pure and radiant,
gardening blooms, the energy of flowers is she symbolizes the cycle of life and renewal
purifying. Flowers go back in time as one as she folds up every night and unfolds in the
of the earliest gifts that symbolize love and morning in full bloom. This floating beauty
empathy. represents rebirth and transcending from the
mundane to the spiritual. Little did I know that
the Water Lily is my birth flower (for the month
My childhood home in India had the most of July). Have you every wondered what is
beautiful and rare flowers. I don’t recall the your birth flower? Here are some of them and
western English names for many, but what I the symbolism of each:
do remember is collecting the flowers in a
basket and learning the art of threading them
together from my grandmother. Every garland JANUARY BIRTH FLOWER- CARNATION:
of flowers offered for our daily prayers were a Carnations are strong flowers that can bloom
creation of her love and devotion. in winter, withstanding hard weather (so long
as it’s not below freezing). They are also
associated with Mother’s Day. Carnations
The energy of flowers is uplifting. Don’t hug their petals in an embrace as they die out,
they make the best centerpieces for a table similar to a mother’s tenacious love and hold
arrangement? Flowers are mood enhancers over her children. University of Oxford has a
and you can feel how even a floral painting tradition where students wear a carnation on
can raise the vibes in a room. Flowers in exam days to symbolize good luck.
bloom also make the best natural perfume.





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FEBRUARY BIRTH FLOWER- VIOLETS: MADHURI’S MUSINGS
Violets symbolize loyalty and virtue. They are
a soft and modest blossom. If you like the AUGUST BIRTH FLOWER- GLADIOLUS:
sweet romance of the countryside, add a few Gladiolus is also known as the sword lily
violets to your floral arrangement and voila because of her long, skinny shape and
the air around will have a vintage vibe. symbolize strength of character. They bloom
in an array of colors and are one of the
gardeners’ favorites.
MARCH BIRTH FLOWER- DAFFODILS: No
better flower than the daffodil to symbolize the
first month of spring. Daffodils add cheer and SEPTEMBER BIRTH FLOWER- ASTER: Asters
sunshine to a room. Quoting Wordsworth are named after the Greek word for “ Star”
who encountered a field of daffodils “The as the blooms resemble a star shape. Asters
waves beside them danced; but they out-did symbolize patience and faith.
the sparkling waves in glee; A poet could not
but be gay; in such a jocund company”.
OCTOBER BIRTH FLOWER- MARIGOLD:
No better flower than the Marigold for October
APRIL BIRTH FLOWER- DAISY: Daisies as these golden fluffy balls of color match the
symbolize innocence in all its glory. Daisies autumn leaves. Marigolds symbolize passion
can be threaded into garlands and pretty and creativity with their bursts of color and
bracelets. In Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, are known to also have medicinal properties.
Alice contemplates “ the pleasures of making
a daisy-chain”. Daisies are a refreshing
addition, adding a soft and gentle beauty to NOVEMBER BIRTH FLOWER-
the air around. CHRYSANTHEMUM: Mums as they are
popularly known, are joyful fall blooms and
symbolize optimism and happiness. It’s a
MAY BIRTH FLOWER: Lily of the Valley Lily delight to see the welcoming blooms of Mums
of the Valley has small and dainty blossoms at the entrance of homes in the fall.
grouped into a stem, giving this flower a
unique visual appeal. She was the cherished
flower of the French fashion designer Christian DECEMBER BIRTH FLOWER- HOLLY: Holly
Dior. Dior stitched a Lily of the Valley inside his plant and flowers are considered sacred in
linings and her scent was considered sacred. some tradition and symbolize fertility and
In Dior’s honor, one of the line’s fragrances eternal life. It’s indeed a jolly time of the
has the sweet notes of the Lily of The Valley year to be born and Holly also represents
blended in. protection.



JUNE BIRTH flower is the Rose and JULY The language of flowers is a language of love,
BIRTH flower is the Water-Lily which I’ve beauty, purity and steadfastness. Flowers are
elaborated on earlier. They are both the life teachers and if we allow our inner self to
flowers dearest to my soul and heart. blossom and bloom from within, and let our
talents flower and burst forth, we will not only
thrive but spread true joy to all around us.




DesiPages DFW | June 2022 VOL 40 | 37

foundations’ ‘ I stand for peace’

event


It was attended by many community
leaders along with thousands of
community members





In this short amount of time, we have
received an overwhelming amount
Namaste /Aadab of support from the community for
our community segment. In the past
A big hello to the vibrant community few weeks segment hosted many
of the DFW metroplex. nonprofit associations like ISHA
foundation for their ‘save the soil
I am so glad that we are connecting campaign’ Sankara eye foundation,
with the entire community on so DCICA, and DFW Hindu temple &

many levels, and “Desi Pages” is one Shirdi Sai temple along with Fort
of the best platforms where we can worth Hindu temple & BAPS
bring the community together.
We also helped to promote many
The month of May was full of big events for many non-profit
community activities and some great associations all across the metroplex

spiritual events. Living in a culturally
diverse nation such as India, the Once again, I am thankful to
people of the country get to take part our dynamic CEO, Mrs. Vaishali
in each other’s festivals on a regular Thakkar, for her exceptional
basis and often have fun times. leadership in our endeavor to reach
out to the community. Once again,
We also celebrated Mother’s day in many thanks to the community for
dedication to all the great moms of continually supporting FunAsia

the world Radio and helping us in ‘Bringing the
Community Together

The community outreach department
had the privilege of visiting many Always at community service
community events and one of the Neelam Dave
biggest highlights was ‘Art of living


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DesiPages

BOLLYWOOD NEWS
Jug Jug Jeeyo





Karan Johar’s films have the ability to
transport you to a softer realm. The
costumes, the sets and the picturization
of the actors are all something
audience waits to experience. The
stories usually based on relationships
and complications surrounding it are
presented with a different perspective.
“Jug Jug Jeeyo” slated to release on
June 24th promises to be an entertainer
of a similar nature. The film stars Anil
Kapoor, Neetu-Singh-Kapoor, Varun
Dhawan and Kiara Advani. The film is directed by Raj Mehta and produced by Viacom 18
studios and Dharma productions. The film is based on ‘happy Punjabi family’. The film is a
comedy-drama. Varun Dhawan will be next seen in “Bhediya” opposite Kirti Sannon and with
Jhanvi Kapoor in ‘Bawaal’. After the success of ‘BB2” (read Fun Asia’s April issue) Kiara is a
much soughted after actor and will be seen next with Vicky Kaushal in “Govinda Mera Naam”.

Khuda Hafiz -2






After the success of ‘Khuda Hafiz’,

Vidyut Jamwal will be seen again
in the sequel to the action thriller,
“Khuda Hafiz-2 – Agni Pariksha”.
It is to be noted that “Khud Hafiz”,
which was released last year was
based on a true story. The story
circles around an engineer who
goes to a foreign and in search
of his wife who has disappeared.
“Khuda Hafiz-2”, illustrates the tale
of a couple facing societal pressures after having gone through a life-altering experience.

The film stars Vidyut Jamwal long with Shivaleeka Oberai, Danish Hussein among others.
The film is directed by Faruk Kabir whose debut film, ‘Allah ke Bandey” was nominated
for 13 awards at several forums. The film will be released on June 17 in the theatres.







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Naved SAyed


By Navneeta Khemka

“From what we get, we can make a living.; what we give however makes a life” –
Sir Winston Churchill.

Our person in focus for this month, Mr. Naved his mentors and within a short period of time he
Sayed of Expressions Diamond Corp, founder of learnt the family business and grew the business
Asim Siddiqui Memorial College, and Co-founder further from the $30 million it was already making
of NASIM foundation exemplifies the quote above. at that time. Speaking of their mentoring styles he
Mr. Naved comes from a family of scholars and says that while his dad was a stickler for rules and
academicians who entered business out of necessity. didn’t spare the rod, his uncle taught with love.
His father and uncle started off in the business of When Naved wanted to introduce computers for all
jewelry by selling beads to ‘Hippies’. Gradually backend operations of the business his dad pushed
they moved on to gold plated jewelry and went on back, but his uncle encouraged his ideas. He trusted
to build a thriving business in diamonds. Perhaps him and let him implement his new ideas. Those
because of having it all as one would say, Naved ideas paid off. His father has passed on, but Naved
by his own admittance grew up to be a ‘wild child’. continues to maintain close ties with his uncle from
He graduated from the University of Arlington with whom he says he learnt to live life.
a degree in real estate and finance. Naved says that Asked about what inspired him to build the
he was rudderless at that time and leaned towards college Asim Siddiqui Memorial, Naved relates
a socialistic thought process, deriding businesses! an interesting but poignant story that involves
Torn jeans were his fashion statement along with kababs and red lights. Naved was in Mumbai and
long unkempt hair and beard. One day his uncle, accompanied a friend to eat in a restaurant which
his father’s younger brother called him to his office was situated in a red-light area. Walking along the
and put a stack of money on the table and asked road Naved and his friend saw flesh being traded
him what he would buy if he had this money in openly. They had a few laughs commenting and
hand. Naved was working in a gas station, making sneering at what was happening around when a
$ 2.50 at that time. He answered that he would child being ‘married ‘off caught Naved’s attention.
buy a Camaro if he had that kind of money. His That girl must be 11 or 12, my daughter’s age, he
uncle gave him an errand to do for which he had thought. Naved turned and asked his friend about
to groom himself, wear a suit and go to work for this ‘marriage’. And his friend calmly replied that
his uncle! Naved credits his growth and change that little girl was being sold off not married. That
in mindset to his father and uncle. They became struck a chord within Naved. By his own admittance
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Naved says that he did not think very highly of India
at that time and much less about his own hometown
Badayun. Badayun is a small town in UP India and the second phase of COVID-19. The foundation
has some of the lowest ratings in education and has helped several victims of the pandemic as well.
wealth and one of the highest in crime. Naved
came back harshly on India and its backwardness Mawaddah Foundation in Bangalore Karnataka
provides services to Unicare Medical center which
and chided his friend by saying ‘you people will is a multi-specialty clinic. Family care is provided to
never be better’. ‘You people’? asked his friend.
‘Most of the people you see in this trade come the poor.
from UP and Bihar and belong to your community, NASIM also offers a scholarship in The University
his friend retorted back. That stirred something of Texas, Dallas (UTD) for all South Asian students
inside me, says Naved. It gave a purpose to his belonging to any community or religion.
life. Also, one of his cousins who was barely 36 To quote John Maxwell, an authority on leadership,
had committed suicide and his father wanted to “Effective leaders don’t gather things just for
do something with his deceased son’s money in themselves; they do it in order to give to others”.
India. That lay the foundation of Asim Memorial. Naved Syed’s life sums up this quote. While not
Naved SAyed Naved says that lack of education is one of the working or giving, Naved loves to travel. He takes
main reasons that drives people towards corruption
and indulge in nefarious activities. Minorities form several trips with his family and friends and exclusively
with his wife as well. He is an avid sports lover and
about 40% of the population in Badayun, Naved fan of the Cowboys. Naved likes to unwind one day
mentions, but lack education. He started a school in a week by dining and catching up with family.
in his hometown on a family-owned property. The One would always like to have some takeaways
school has more than a thousand students now and from movers and shakers of the society. Some
has the latest amenities and great education as
well. Asim Siddiqui Memorial College and Nasim ‘Navedisms’:
foundation are the two pillars of Naved Syed’s • Children should have a role model. Let them
philanthropic activities. be free, step back and they will figure it out for
themselves. They will make you proud.
The key is to get involved, says Naved. He says
charity was a social event for him before this. He • Businesses should be nimble. Adjust your
paid out a large sum of money, attended dinners business to the market’s demands.
and came home. After finding a purpose, he spends • Challenges are not meant for sharing alone but
a lot of time in India doing the work rather than just for overcoming.
give money away. Asim Siddiqui Memorial has also • Respect people. Look at people as people and
introduced an affiliate program with the University not their status.
of Ohio. Professors from the University take online
classes. The students get an opportunity to spend • Challenge people around you to do something.
the last year of the 4-year graduation period in the • Hold people accountable and set some standards
University campus in Ohio,USA. That is really a before you give.
great opportunity for the students who mostly come
from underprivileged backgrounds. The college is
open to all. The scholarships are also not based In conclusion we can say that some people follow
on caste or religion. Naved however warns that their passion and make a mark for themselves in
anything given away for free and without holding their lives and find a place in the Who’s Who of
people accountable does not go down very well. that industry. Some find a purpose and make it their
So, students are charged a nominal fee which is passion. They end up empowering others and find a
then refunded back to them on the conditions that place in the hearts of people.
they have great attendance and great grades. We wish Naved bhai, his businesses, and his
NASIM foundation also does a lot of work in philanthropic work the very best!
healthcare. Hospitals in Karnataka, Kerala and You can find out more about NASIM foundation at
UP have been helped by the foundation during
www.nasimfoundation.org.


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Festival of Joy:

Festive joyride miraculously
changes the heat to a cool

and pleasant evening



By Parul Bhatia (Dancer, Actress, Filmmaker, Director)


The Festival of Joy – also celebrated as Ratha
Yatra or the Festival of Chariots – is rooted in
ancient India’s bhakti or devotional tradition. It
is celebrated in major city centers around the
world, including New York City’s Fifth Avenue and
London’s Piccadilly Circus. It has been observed
annually for more than 3,000 years in the holy city
of Jagannatha Puri in Orissa, India, making it the
world’s longest-running street festival (courtesy
https://www.facebook.com/Festivalofjoydallas/).


The term “festival”
evokes a sense
of pleasure and Jagannath ji in Odisha – just to name a few. It is
enthusiasm in this form – that of Jagannath ji – that we celebrate
one’s being and at the festival of joy. Lord Jagannath is brought to
when you add a chariot and seated here along with the deity
the term “joy” to forms of his sister and brother, namely Subhadra
it then that feeling and Balabhadra respectively. The devotees/
gets further worshippers take the chariot in a procession with
magnified and the happiness you feel becomes much gaiety and festivity, chanting the name of
enhanced and heightened. Well, this feeling of Krsna and dancing to familiar bhajans and the
joy is something you would experience when famous mantra – namely – Hare Krsna Hare
attending the Dallas-based festival of joy that is Krsna Krsna Krsna Hare Hare Hare Rama Hare
held every year in May at the Klyde Warren Park in Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare – with a passionate
Dallas’s Arts district. This festival is organized by fervor felt and experienced by dedicated devotees
the Kalachandji Temple that is located 10 minutes of Krsna bhagwan.
East of Dallas Downtown on 5430 Gurley Ave
Dallas, TX 75223. May 21st witnessed an exciting day for all Hare
Krsna devotees, Vishnu devotees, Jagannath
Now many of us who hail from India and Nepal ji devotees as that day this Festival of Joy was
are well-versed with the concept of Krishna held amidst a lot of excitement. There were
consciousness as we understand terms such as performances by dancers and Krsna followers
“bhakti” towards the Lord. In this context, Lord - both in front of the chariot as well as on the
refers to Krishna who was an incarnation of Lord stage. Dances that were performed that day were
Vishnu. Krishna is worshipped by Hindus all Gujrati Folk, Manipuri, Odissi and free style.
over the world. He is a God who takes on many The dancers were clad in traditional outfits, had
manifestations, such as he is Udippi Krishna in donned orante jewelry and conventional head
Mangalore, Banke Bihari in Vrindavan, and gear. Palms were decorated with henna (also

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known as mehndi) and time-honored outfits were temperature was in lower to even mid 90s –
worn by most people even when they were not however mystically that changed towards the
there to perform. Men were dressed in kurta- end of the festival around 5 p.m. This change
pajma or Kurta-dhotees and kids in lehenga in weather from what was a fairly hot day to the
cholees and sarees. cool and pleasant evening that it miraculously
Many people were became was like a prasad (holy food) from Lord
also dressed in Jagannath. It was almost like a metaphor of life
routine western – that one needs to give without complaint to the
wear but that just Lord, that one needs to serve unconditionally,
goes to show the and with love and care (to the Lord and to the
slice of today’s life. community, to the human race), that one needs
What was most to toil without expectations and lo behold , with
important was that Jagannath’s blessings one is bound to see the
people took out the silver line and destined to see the rainbow, to
time to attend this enjoy the cool winds – that in the end your toil
festival in traditional ride will become a joy ride – seemed to be the
or contemporary promise that appeared to have manifested for all
gear and that they the attendees of this holy festival.
planned their Saturday to become a part of this
much awaited festival. The volunteers, the Kalachandji committee,
President Nityanand
There were many booths, such as Yoga, Prabhu ji of ISKON
meditation, tie a saree, tie a turban, shopping Dallas and his wife and
stalls, Henna booths, face painting, get your their Temple family put
caricatures – and many more. There was in so much care and
free feast for everyone along with a variety of devotion to this event
longstanding and savory Indian dishes that were that their hardwork
available through purchase amd the price was was rewarded by the
very reasonable, ranging from $5 - $10. people who thronged
to be a part of this
Being a foodie, it was no surprise to me that I festival with equal
ended up trying both the free food as well as fervor. The General
some of the delicacies that were for sale. So Counsel, Abhya Dhir, who was also the emcee
agreed I tasted some (as there is no way you of the event, kept the audience and participants
can actually eat all of these delicacies in one going with his wit and energy. People participated
meal) but it was totally a pleasure to have had by watching the performers on stage, by enjoying
the chance to try out and taste so many delicious soul satisfying food, and by pulling the chariot
varieties such as Masala dosa and chutney, dahi that brought about so much joy.
vada, paneer and puri, chole puri, vada pav,
pani puri, falooda, and mango lassi to name So those who missed the festival this year – no
a few. The food was truly out of this world as it worries – try your best to attend next year as
was prepared with feeling of devotion. All items things that fill your moments with true joy are
were made keeping the satvik element in mind – irreplaceable and precious. Let’s make our
so without any onions and garlic. The food was everyday this metaphorical life of hard work and
superlative to say the least – full of flavor and bliss and then with the blessings of the Lord – the
aromatic spices– for sure. hot and unbearable summer will turn into cool
and pleasant Spring. We can spring forward and
Incidentally the heat level was high, and the face the cold winter too and get ready for this
festive joyride each day. Jai Jagannath.


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pakistan corner
TRAVEL PAKISTAN


Pakistan is home to some of the most beautiful Tourist attractions in summer include Lake Kachura,
places in the world. Last month we talked about an the Mantokha waterfall, Sarfranga Cold Desert,
exquisite fort built in the 16th century, Rohtas Fort. Ft. Shigar, and the Buddha Rock in Skardu.
This month we will talk about Skardu Valley.
Celebrating the Celebrities:


The month of June marks the birthdays of some
extremely important people in the history of
Pakistan as well as some internationally acclaimed
celebrities. To name a few:

• Wasim Akram (Cricketer): June 03, 1966
• Javed Miandad (Cricketer): June 12, 1957
• Ibne Insha (Poet): June 15, 1927
• Zia Mohiuddin (actor, social worker): June 20,
1931
• Benazir Bhutto (Politician): June 21, 1953
• Sultan Rahi (Actor): June 24, 1938
Skardu, a scenic valley with blue water and high • Momina Duraid (TV Director, Producer,
mountains, is located at an elevation of over Screenwriter): June 30, 1971
7,300 feet (2,225 meters) in Pakistan’s northern
Gilgit-Baltistan region. This 10 Kilometers wide A Nazm by Ibn-e-Insha
and 40 Kilometers wide valley is surrounded
by breathtaking views of grey-brown colored Farz karo hum ahl-e-wafa hoon, farz karo hum
mountains (Karakoram Range) and the beauty of deewanay hoon
the valley is further enhanced by its fresh spring Farz karo yeh sari baatain, jhooti hoon afsanay
water, delicious fruits, the blue water of the Indus hoon
River, historical sites, lakes, and pleasant weather,
which attract tourists from around the world. Farz karo yeh ji ki bipta, jee say jor sunaee ho
Farz karo abhi aur ho itni, aadhi hum nay
The Skardu district is in a strategic northern chupayee ho
region of Pakistan bordering China, Afghanistan,
and India and the city of Skardu is the main Farz karo tumhain khush karnay kay, dhoonday
urban center and headquarters of the district. hum nay bahanay hoon
The city is situated at an elevation of nearly Farz karo yeh nain tumharay, sach much kay
2,500 meters in the Skardu Valley, at the maikhanay hoon
convergence of the Indus Rivers and Shigar
Rivers. Along with being an important gateway Farz karo yeh rog ho jhoota, jhooti preet humarai
to the nearby Karakoram mountain range, ho
the spectacular rivers, lakes, and scenery that Farz karo is preet kay rog mein, saans bhi hum
surrounds the city, make it a must-visit by both pay bhari ho
local and international travelers.
Farz karo yeh jog bajog ka hum nay dhong
The Skardu Valley is known as a major tourism rachaya ho
and trekking hub, and a gateway to four peaks Farz karo bas yehi haqeeqat, baqi sab kuch maya
towering over 8,000 meters high, attracting ho
tourists, mountaineers, and trekkers from all
across the world. The valley remains a hub for
global mountaineers from April to October during
summer, while winter remains snowy and freezing
in the area.
by KIRAN HAYAT
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BOOK REVIEW boys run to catch the loose kites. Once
the kite falls, it’s considered proof of the
win, and a big prize for the kite fighter
to keep. The kite runner is generally an
assistant of the kite fighter by going after
the kite after it’s fallen. In the novel The
Kite Runner, this function is performed by
Amir’s best friend and servant Hassan.

Amir has just cut the blue kite and won
the kite tournament. Hassan’s words,
“For you thousand times over.” shouted
to Amir as Hassan “runs” Amir’s blue kite,
reveals Hassan’s unending loyalty and
love for Amir. Hassan, in his eagerness
to get the fallen kite for Amir, runs into
danger. Amir witnesses the dangerous
situation that Hassan is in but does not
take any action. This is something that
affects his self-worth and his life path
from that moment on.

“The Kite Runner” Baba and Amir escape from the Russian
takeover of Afghanistan by smuggling
- By Madhavi Nair themselves out of Kabul in an empty fuel
truck. Eventually, they travel to America

Khaled Hosseini’s powerful debut novel The Kite and settle in California. Baba works as a
Runner on the surface would seem like a multi- mechanic while Amir finishes high school
generational story following the life of the protagonist and starts junior college to study English
Amir in the backdrop of war-torn Afghanistan but it so he can become a writer. Before Baba
is really about family relationships, the class system, dies of cancer, Amir meets and marries
guilt, redemption, honor, friendship, loyalty, and Soraya, a young woman also from
survival. Afghanistan. Amir becomes a writer while
Soraya becomes a teacher. The two are
Amir is the son of a wealthy businessman, he grows happy, even though Amir is never able to
up alongside Hassan, the son of his father’s servant. forget the sins he committed toward his
Amir’s family members are Pashtuns, considered in childhood friend Hassan. When he and
their culture superior to Hazaras like Hassan and his his wife are unable to have children, he
father, Baba gives Hassan a lot of attention, which
makes Amir competitive for Still from the movie – The Kite Runner
his father’s affection. When
other Pashtun boys are
around, Amir sets himself
above Hassan, teasing
him and shunning him.
However, when it’s just
the two of them, they play
together often, frequently
running kites -- a sport
where kite fighters try to
cut each other’s string, and

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Still from the movie – The Kite Runner out so many levels – the history, religion,
social culture, and depth of character
and weaves it with human emotions
of friendship, guilt, selflessness, and
selfishness.

Fun Facts


• A stage adaptation of the best-selling
novel “The Kite Runner” will be
presented on Broadway in July 2022.

• Khaled Hosseini was born in Kabul,
Afghanistan, and moved to the United
believes it is a punishment for what he did. States in 1980. He is the author of
At this point Rahim Kahn, a dear and close friend the New York Times bestsellers The
of Amir and closest friend of his father, contacts Kite Runner, A Thousand Splendid
him to come back to Pakistan, where Khan has Suns, and And the Mountains Echoed.
taken refuge. He informs him about Hassan’s son Hosseini is also a U.S. Goodwill
Sohrab being in an orphanage after the tragic Envoy to the UNHCR, the UN Refugee
death of Hassan and his wife. Khan knows the Agency, and the founder of The Khaled
things that Amir had done to Hassan. He tells him Hosseini Foundation, a nonprofit that
“There is a way to be good again” and requests provides humanitarian assistance to
him to go to Afghanistan to save the boy. Amir the people of Afghanistan.
realizes he must answer this call and goes back
to redeem himself. • The Movie -Kite Runner is a 2007
American drama film directed by Marc
Amir brings back Sohrab to San Francisco after Forster. Made on a budget of $20
a long dangerous journey. He introduces Sohrab million, the film earned $73.2 million
to Soraya, and the couple welcomes Sohrab into worldwide.
their home. Amir teaches Sohrab how to fly kites
and volunteers to act as Sohrab’s “runner”. As
Amir runs off to fetch a Kite Runner on Broadway!!!
defeated kite, he repeats
to Sohrab the words
Hassan had said to Amir
when they were boys:
“For you, thousand times
over.”
The Kite Runner paints
a realistic portrait of a
country about which most
readers probably know
very little and enables
readers to separate the
people of a country from
its leaders, government,
and political parties
associated with it.It’s a
superb book with a simple
story. The simplicity brings



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