Mehfil_Feb_1002_Master_Final_trimmed_LoRes

“Gurj wasn’t your average groom who wanted to take a

back seat in the wedding planning . . . . The planning really

gives you the opportunity to get to know your partner. You

see how they deal with stressful situations, how you work

together, and if you make a good team.”

– Sukhi Ghuman

cocted an elaborate plan,” says Gurj. a friend who works as a producer for the portation, reception venue, menu, wed-
The date happened to fall during one reality series Rich Bride, Poor Bride, which ding cake/cupcakes, wedding bands and
follows couples gearing up for their big the marriage licence.
of the biggest snow storms Vancouver had day. After a videotaped interview during
seen for years, almost putting a damper which Gurj and Sukhi talked about their “The pre-wedding planning really gives
on things. hopes and dreams for their wedding day, you the opportunity to get to know your
they were chosen to be featured on an partner. You see how they deal with stress-
“I had rented a suite at the Sutton episode. For one week in October, Rich ful situations, how you work together,
Place Hotel and asked Sukhi to quickly Bride, Poor Bride’s cameras followed the and if you make a good team.”
come up as I needed to grab something
before we headed out for our anniversary Snow fell softly on the couple during “The whole process reinforced what we
dinner,” recalls Gurj. “Sukhi was very their first slow dance at their reception. already knew,” says Gurj, adding that they
cranky and cold due to the weather and couple as they met with a variety of wed- embraced the opportunity to spend time
not in the best of spirits.” ding vendors to pin down the details of together.
their wedding (the episode will air this
But her mood was about to change. summer). Among the details the couple came up
When Sukhi opened the door of the Rather than a source of conflict or with to “personalize” their wedding were
suite, she was greeted by music and the stress, the whole planning process ended invitations printed with their images, sig-
sight of hundreds of candles lit through- up being a bonding experience for Gurj nature martinis – dubbed “Sukhitini” and
out the room. In the centre of the room and Sukhi, due largely to the fact that it “Dirty Chef ” – for their reception, and
was a stunning display of two dozen long- was very much a team effort. life-size cardboard cut-outs of themselves
stem green-tea-coloured roses. (Green is “Gurj wasn’t your average groom who positioned at several locations in the re-
Sukhi’s favourite colour.) wanted to take a back seat in the wedding ception venue.
planning,” says Sukhi. “I took care of the
When Sukhi turned to thank Gurj, photographer, videographer, decorator “More importantly, we planned to be
it was to find him on bended knee with and DJ. Gurj was responsible for trans- at our reception venue at 6 p.m. to greet
a little red box in his hand. As if all our guests,” says Sukhi.
that weren’t romantic enough, Gurj then
prepared a gourmet dinner for his new “It was really important for us to be
fiancée. there to thank our friends and family for
attending once they arrived and to ensure
They quickly agreed on a November our reception would begin on time,” says
wedding, and the planning began almost Gurj. “Also, we planned a choreographed
immediately. dance routine because we both love to
dance.”
Rather than going the usual route of
a formal engagement in a banquet hall, Based on their own experience, they
the couple decided to wait until summer highly recommend holding the wedding
and celebrate with an outdoor party for ceremony and reception on consecu-
friends and family. It was the perfect way tive days rather than one right after the
to make their engagement celebration other.
distinct from their wedding reception.
“We were able to take our time and
It took them four days to transform truly enjoy our wedding day,” says Sukhi.
Gurj’s half-acre backyard into the perfect
venue for a classy garden party, com- After posing for post-wedding photo-
plete with a dance floor, decor, music graphs at the Vancouver Art Gallery (they
and catering. The event was everything even had enough time for Gurj, in full
they’d envisioned, with guests “dancing wedding attire, to pop over to a Starbucks
the night away on a warm summer day.” on Robson St. to get a chai tea latte for his
bride before the photo shoot), the new-
In the midst of planning for their wed- lyweds proceeded to Sukhi’s family home
ding, Gurj and Sukhi were approached by for the doli, then to Gurj’s family home,

Mehfil February/March 2010 51

BRIDAL FASHION TRENDS Feature

Toronto-based designer Sushma Kilachand The couple personalized
is known for her knack for teaming Indi- their reception with
an embellishments and fabrics with western signature martinis dubbed
silhouettes and styles. She describes her label, “Sukhitini” and “Dirty Chef”
Sushk, as “Indo-Western.” Her designs, which and life-size cardboard
include tunics and ponchos as well as Indian cut-outs of themselves
suits, have been featured in Flare magazine. throughout the venue.
Kilachand, who grew
up in Mumbai as the only
daughter of a wealthy
business family, began
designing her own clothes
at 14 and studied at the
Institute of Fashion Design
and Merchandising in Los
Designer Sushma Angeles after high school.
Kilachand She quickly landed a job where Sukhi was officially welcomed ing up to the wedding paid off big time
as an assistant buyer at as a member of the family. They ended when they delighted guests with a cho-
Saks Fifth Avenue in Boston. After six months the day with a chance to reflect on the reographed routine. Throughout the
there, she decided to return to India, where she events over a room-service dinner in a evening, guests were encouraged to pose
worked with designer Krishna Mehta for two hotel honeymoon suite. for photographs with life-size cut-outs
years before launching her own line in 2001. of the bride and groom that were placed
She moved from Mumbai to Toronto in By the time they started prepar- in the banquet hall.
2003 after meeting and marrying a Canadian. ing for their reception the following
Kilachand draws inspiration from what styl- day, they were refreshed and relaxed. Asked if there’s something they’d
ish women wear in Mumbai and works with “We had a chance to sleep in and have change if they had it to do over, the
a production team based there. They take her brunch before we had to start getting newlyweds can’t come up with anything.
designs from sketchbook to finished product ready,” says Gurj. Now, that’s a sign of a happy ending to
after she scans and e-mails her sketches to a wedding story — and a happy begin-
Mumbai from her studio in Toronto. As a contrast to the white wedding ning of a new life.
Kilachand’s expe- lengha with red and green embroidery
rience in bridal wear that Sukhi had worn for her wedding The newlyweds honeymooned at an
includes designing all ceremony, she chose an emerald green all-inclusive Sandals resort in the Baha-
10 of the outfits she mas. “We took off on our honeymoon
wore for her own week- lengha with a corset the day after our reception and we high-
long marriage festivi- bodice for the recep- ly recommend this if you can as you
ties, which took place in tion. Gurj, who’d worn definitely need some downtime after the
a 55-room, 100-year- an achkan matching wedding,” says Sukhi.
old palace that once Sukhi’s lengha for their
belonged to Bhupinder wedding, wore a black It’s only fitting that a romance that
Singh, Maharajah of tux for the reception. began thanks to a TV show — the Super-
Patiala. star Chef Challenge wrap-up party where
We asked this It was a good thing Sukhi and Gurj met — will be immor-
designer who has her they’d had the oppor- talized on television, as well. Everyone
finger on the pulse of tunity to unwind be- is invited to see some of the drama and
cause their nerves were joy of the couple’s big day when they’re
put to the test a mere featured on Rich Bride, Poor Bride this
30 minutes before the summer. p
reception when the
Indian fashion for her backdrop of the main
thoughts on the hottest stage, where the head
trends in Indian Michelle Obama table was set up, came
bridal wear. wore an East-West crashing down without any warning.
fusion gown at a Fortunately, enough friends and fam-
state dinner honour- ily were on hand to put everything in
ing Prime Minister perfect order again before guests began
What are the top Manmohan Singh. to arrive.
trends in Indian The “winter wonderland” theme
bridal attire and of the reception included a black-and-
jewelry? white damask colour scheme and snow
You’re seeing a lot of Hollywood/ Bollywood (thanks to a snow-making machine)
fusion in terms of jewelry. If you watch the that fell softly on the newlyweds during
Golden Globes or the SAG awards you see a their first slow dance to the accompa-
lot of Hollywood celebrities wearing a lot of niment of a live singer. The ballroom-
Bollywood fashion in terms of jewelry and in dancing and bhangra lessons that Gurj
terms of clothing. A classic example would and Sukhi had taken in the weeks lead-
be Nicole Kidman. If you saw her at the SAG

52 Mehfil February/March 2010 SAN 245

honeymoonthe luxury included ®

the luxury included®

+ " . " * $ " t " / 5 * ( 6 " t 4 5 - 6 $ * " t # " ) " . " 4

The Luxury Included ® Honeymoon

Love is all you need because everything’s Honeymoon
Package
included at Sandals. Choose from 12
As the world’s only Luxury Included® Resorts, Sandals includes more of is Included!

luxury resorts in the Caribbean.what honeymooners love best, including luxurious suites with exclusive Upon arrival, bottle of
chilled sparkling wine
Butler Service; unlimited land and watersports such as scuba, waterskiing, elegantly arranged on

e Kind of Honeymoon You Dream Aboutand golf*; up to 11 gourmet restaurant options, unlimited premium drinks; ice bucket. On first
night, turndown service
Sandalsand the Red Lane® Spa.U

BRIDAL FASHION TRENDS Feature

Awards (in January) How to
she was completely tell Your
dressed in a sari that
was made into a dress. Shaadi
Very similar to what Story
Michelle Obama had
Nicole Kidman wore a worn (last November When doctors Neha and John Doctors Neha and John Plastaras wanted something
dress made of sari fabric at a White House state Plastaras were planning their more than a typical wedding video to commemorate
at the SAG awards. dinner in honour of spring wedding in 2008, the couple their big day. Their search led them to a company
Indian Prime Minis- decided they wanted to do something
ter Manmohan Singh different for their wedding video. that turned their wedding into a movie.
and his wife Gursharan
Kaur). “I didn’t want your traditional when it happened,” she says.
wedding video,” says Neha, adding Patel’s camera crew has seen — and
You’re seeing the that she had learned about an interest-
constant influence of ing style of video being produced by a filmed — it all.
India in every facet in company called The Shaadi Story. “A mandap falling on the bride and
the west. You’ve seen
Slumdog Millionaire “I had heard about Anoli Patel’s groom during their wedding ceremony,
and the buzz that’s wedding videos through my wedding vendors fighting to get into an empty
created, so it’s almost planner,” says Neha, admitting that she elevator, horrible shoe fights which lead
a natural progression was skeptical at first. “But once I saw her to saris being ripped off, a bride falling as
of sorts. work, it was a no-brainer; I could tell she she walks into the mandap,” says Patel.
was dedicated to her craft.” “Even an after-party which resulted in a
What are the major trends in jewelry? black eye for the groom — compliments
Lots of uncut stones. It’s sort of old classic When couples hire Patel’s company of the best man!”
pieces that the maharajas and maharanis used — with a starting price tag of $10,000 –
to wear. So we’ve taken those designs which they’re in store for what will in effect be But Patel takes her job serious-
were actually in the museum of Hyderabad and a reality show of the events leading up to ly, pressing where needed to get the
used that as an influence for our Nizami collec- and surrounding their nuptials. emotions out but otherwise hanging
tion. We’re not using uncut diamonds, we’re back and just letting things unfold as
using white quartz, red onyx, green onyx to “The pre-wedding and wedding are naturally as possible.
create that kind of look. So you’re seeing a lot the back drop for the love story,” Patel
of the old classic jewelry coming back in terms explains. “We interview the couple, “She was so subtle that neither
of bridal wear —which is nice to finally see in together and separately. We might even myself, John or our families ever felt
the western market. go back to where they had their first date that our view was blocked or even that
Necklaces are making a huge comeback. Big or where the groom proposed. Then we (the camera crew) were there,” says
statement necklaces — those are very in fash- interview family and friends. Whatever Neha, adding that Patel went behind the
ion now. story they want to tell, we put it togeth- scenes of the Plastaras’ wedding parties
er on film.” and captured funny, tender, moving and
What about saris and lenghas? often emotional moments.
Believe it or not, lighter or softer are coming The cameras are always rolling, says
back. It used to be a lot of heavy influences on Patel, pointing out the company tagline “A year later, we received a box set
bead work and zardozi. Now people seem to be is: "Real Life. Real Weddings." with three full DVDs.”
moving more towards chiffons, lighter shaded
colours, a lot of flat sequin, very airy, very sort “We shoot everything in its most Can’t afford to hire a feature film produc-
of light work. The emphasis isn’t so much on natural state, which automatically allows er to produce your wedding video? Anoli
the weight of the piece as it is on feeling more us to capture the exact emotion at that Patel has a few tips to help you choose a
comfortable in it. particular moment in time. If we were to good videographer.
ask the bride to re-do something, then
Is there much of western influence? we've lost the reality of it,” says Patel. “Look for a clean and simple video. Ask
Very much so – it wouldn’t be right to have “So nothing is ever staged. the videographer to show you a complete
it just one way. You’re looking at a lot of wedding and reception video. Pay close
mermaid gowns in India. India has always “If someone were to drop the ring, attention to the titling and the opening
been in the forefront of embroidery, handwork, instead of covering it up with a slick graphics. If it doesn't look good in the
embellishment, so that would never change. editing gimmick, we would just show first 30 seconds, then you know what's in
Where you see the western influence is in the the real thing and, along with it, the store for the remainder of the video.”
way the garments are cut now . . . in terms of a dialogue which followed and the reac-
bustier for blouses, in terms of more of a halter tions from all those who were in the shot
look for sari blouses — that’s where you see
the influence of the west.

(continued on page 56)

54 Mehfil February/March 2010

“We shoot everything in It's your
its most natural state, day...

which automatically allows Embrace it!
us to capture the exact

emotion at that particular
moment in time.”

– Anoli Patel,

founder, The Shaadi Story

Patel got her start in broadcast journal- www.tdweddings.ca Vancouver - New York - Miami 604 551 9413
ism with the South Asian satellite channel
TV Asia after earning a journalism degree Mystery Machine Mobile Lounge
from NYU in 1993. brought to you by MYSTIC Enterprises Ltd.

“Working for a small company allowed "MM1BSUZ/FFETt8FEEJOHT
#JSUIEBZT
4UBHT
FUD
me to learn all the ins and outs of broad- 8IJTUMFS4FBUUMFQBDLBHFTt4QFDJBM8FFLEBZSBUFT
casting . . . it was a fabulous experience,”
she says. $PSQPSBUF&WFOUTt0VUPGUPXO(SPVQTQFDJBMT

It was there that Patel started record- Ask about our
ing reality-style snippets — capturing VIP club packages
random shots of Bollywood actors from with complimentary
Bombay when they came to town.
drinks/entree
Along the way, legendary Bollywood
actor Amitabh Bachchan, who owned TV Our clean, non-smoking fleet of vehicles provides contact Peter
Asia, gave Patel some encouragement. comfort and classic luxury with attention to detail.
It is our goal to provide you with an immaculate 604.304.8327
“He saw that I had a knack for filming party bus with state of the art sound, big screen 604.505.7423
and he told me to go for it,” she says. “It and bar for your special occasion.
really triggered my interest and made me XXXNZTUJDMJNPCVTDPN
want to do it more often.”

After two years, Patel moved on and
joined Raju Sethi at Asian Variety Show,
an award-winning South Asian program.

Then in 1997 she took a three-year
hiatus to become a stay-at-home mom.

As a hobby, Patel began slinging
around her camcorder to her best friends’
weddings and bestowing the videos as
gifts.

“One by one, my friends kept saying,
‘You shoot such great videos, why don’t
you put together wedding videos and get
paid for it?” says Patel.

It was in 2000, after shooting her best
friend’s engagement in South Carolina,
that Patel decided to turn her hobby into
a business. Before long, she had signed on
seven clients.

“I was blown away. I sat down with my
closest friend, a graphic designer, and she
helped me brand myself. We chose The
Shaadi Story, a knockoff from TLC’s A
Wedding Story,” says Patel.

Because of the time and work involved
(Patel will typically shoot more than 100
hours of video for one wedding) she could
only film a few weddings each year when
she started. Today, Patel works with a
number of freelancers, many with regular
gigs with major networks such as CNN,
HBO, National Geographic Channel,
ABC, NBC and Bravo, to produce more
than 20 wedding stories each year. p

Mehfil February/March 2010 55

BRIDAL FASHION TRENDS GIFTS Feature

What’s most popular in terms of A Bridal
embroidery? Registry Is
In terms of bridal wear I still have clients who
tend to love the zardozi look because it’s very A Gift for
classic, bridal Indian wear. Having said that, a Busy Brides
lot of my new clients who are between 26 and
35 are open to the idea of doing chiffons and Planning a wedding is an exciting an eight-place settings of china won’t do,
silks and beads and sequins. time, but it can be an overwhelming they might need 12,” says Crompton.
Is there a resurgence of trends from one as well.
decades past? Another benefit of registering with a
Very much so. You’re seeing a lot of the 1970s Once the flush of the engagement department store, such as Sears, is that it
look in terms of the wider pants coming back, has faded, then the work really begins. sells myriad household items — every-
the longer look in terms of the length of the On top of that, family and friends want thing from bedding to cookware and
kurtas for women coming back. About a year to know what you want for a wedding travel vouchers.
ago everything was short in terms of kurtas gift.
and tunics and you paired them with what were “Because we have a travel depart-
called patiala salwars — very sort of haremy But if going through rows upon rows ment, guests can opt to buy travel gift
pants. And you saw that in Bollywood as well of fine china or picking out small appli- cards as gifts,” she says, adding that all
in films like Bunty Aur Babli, which show- ances feels more like a chore, consider B.C.’s 15 Sears locations offer a bridal
cased actresses like Rani Mukherjee wearing registering with a bridal registry – it registry. “Sears also has an online service
sort of patiala salwars and short tunics. Now can make walking down the aisle less and a catalogue service to further make
you’re looking at more of a longer length, which stressful. it easy for guests.”
was in back in the seventies and eighties with
salwars and churidars at the bottom. Wedding registries simplify a couple's While younger guests might prefer
What would you wear if you were plan- wish list and make shopping more the ease of shopping from an online
ning your wedding this year? convenient for wedding guests, while registry, others may feel more comfort-
I would love to have a summer wedding. I reducing the chances of unwanted or able being able to choose a gift at a local
mean lots of chiffons, lots of light pastel colors, duplicate gifts, says Elizabeth Cromp- store.
sequins, very airy, very light and I would love a ton, Sears Canada associate vice-presi-
magnificent Dagmar white quartz uncut-stone dent of gift registry. “If the couple is registered downtown
necklace to match. Very sort of light in terms of but your grandparents want to buy a gift
outfit, but really heavy and traditional and inter- A bridal registry identifies several from another location, that store will
esting in terms of jewelry. I would do either a factors, including a couple's collective ship the gift downtown.”
heavy piece in terms of jewelry and a light outfit style and family budget, which helps
or vice versa. determine what items should be on the The benefits are endless, adds
What advice do you have for bride shop- “wish list.” Crompton.
ping for their wedding attire?
Take your time. This is a piece you are not real- Much has changed since bridal regis- There’s the one-year completion
ly going to wear more than a couple of times in tries came into being. program, which offers an additional 10
your life, so you want to make sure that what per cent off discounted items for one
you get is exactly what you want to look like on “It used to be that we had kiosks year after the wedding takes place.
your wedding day. So take your time and don’t and a couple would view and create
compromise — there’s a lot of fabulous stuff their own registry, with little help from “Say after the wedding, cookware
out there. p the store,” Crompton says. “Today, it’s goes on sale for 50 per cent off, the
56 Mehfil February/March 2010 much more personal. married couple can buy it and receive
an additional 10 per cent off,” explains
“At our bridal registries we have Crompton.
consultants who guide and walk the
couple through the whole process.” The store also helps couples to pass
savings on to their guests.
Consultants take the time to sit with
the couple, get to know them and quite “When couples register, we give them
often suggest items the couple might 10 savings vouchers, which they can
not have thought of. give out to any family or friends so they
can receive 10 per cent off each $100
“The consultant looks at the short- towards a wedding gift,” she says. “It’s all
and long-term needs, such as do they about making it easier for couples and
entertain a lot, and if so, then perhaps their guests.” p



SHAPING UP HENNA Feature

Five Important Don’ts Ash Kumar
Before Saying “I Do” His client list reads like a who’s who of Hollywood, with
the likes of Cameron Diaz and Julia Roberts counting
In the flurry of nuptial decision-making bliss, themselves as fans. He has also prepped and preened some of
too many brides-to-be don’t add getting in the most famous faces in Bollywood, including the beautiful
shape to their to-do list. As a result, all too Aishwarya Rai. If that weren’t enough, he holds the current
many brides (and bridesmaids) planning for Guinness Book of Records title for the Fastest Henna Artist.
a summer wedding end up turning to a last-
minute crash diet. Meet makeup and henna artist Ash Kumar. We caught up with the man himself
to talk makeup, beauty and . . . more make-up.
Nutritionist and certified trainer Elisa Zied,
author of the book Nutrition at Your Fingertips He shares his top make-up tips and a few of his trade secrets on how to achieve
(published by Alpha Books), says the healthy, that fresh-faced Freida Pinto look, complete with flawless looking skin.
more effective approach is to start getting in
shape today for a summer wedding. How did you get started? permanent. Always ensure that you seek
My education is in forensic science. I have a professional advice and read all the instruc-
Zied offers five common nutrition mistakes keen eye for detail and have loved anything tions thoroughly before using any of the
and real-world healthful solutions that will help with design and culture. Being of an Indian above home kits. It’s also imperative to use
make pre-wedding shape-up as easy as saying, background surrounded by cultural events an SPF before and after using any of the kits
“I do.” and a very cultural family, this excited me mentioned.
even more to pursue my creativity which
DON’T: Skip Meals developed into make-up and henna design If you’re looking for a quick fix I would
Why it’s Bad: Skipping meals before “the big as a hobby during university. The rest was suggest for uneven skin tones a yellow/
day” can contribute to excess calorie intake and being at the right place at the right time. I saw cream makeup base or yellow/cream colour
overeating at a later meal. The bigger the meal, a niche in the market and pursued my inter- corrector before applying foundation. For
the more likely excess calories will be stored as est to form a business. hyper pigmentation I would suggest a green
body fat, especially if the meals are fatty. What has been the highlight of your makeup base or green colour corrector
Alternative: Plan to eat at least four to five career so far? before applying foundation.
times a day; perhaps three meals, two small My career highlight is seeing my creativity
snacks. Try to include foods rich in protein and come to life. It’s difficult to put down one as Last but not least, no beauty cupboard
fiber (like an apple and a small handful of nuts) an example. should be without Bio Oil. It’s the best and
each time you eat to taper hunger, keep blood What advice can you offer when it key secret behind uneven skin tone and
sugar steady and prevent overeating. For busy comes to choosing the right founda- pigmentation plus it keeps skin looking
days at boutiques and bridal shops, prepare tion for darker skin tones? youthful. For long-term permanent results
portable snacks, and plan in advance so that a Colour spectrum starts from fair to ebony, use Bio Oil daily.
nutrition snack is always on hand. middle being olive. Select three tones . . .
close together in colours and similar to skin
DON’T: Dramatically Cut Calorie Intake colour. Test the colours on the side of the
Why it’s Bad: Consuming too few calories is jawline to match true to skin colour.
hard to sustain post-wedding and won't provide
enough nutrients to maintain health. More Hyper pigmentation and uneven Ash Kumar with Bollywood
importantly, without enough calories, the body skin tone can be problematic. What actress Deepika Padukone.
will lack energy for big events like the bachelor- products can we use to even out skin Heavily kohled eyes are prevalent in
ette party, bridal showers, and honeymoon! tone? Bollywood. How can we achieve that
Alternative: Don't let total calorie intake dip The long-term solution would be to invest in old-school Bollywood look like that of
below 1500 or 1600 calories a day. Trim calo- the Glycolic Acid Peel Home Kit by Lancôme. Parveen Babi without getting watery
ries to that level with small steps: take a few The results are amazing but it does take up to eyes?
less bites at meals, switch from a bagel to a a year to see a real difference, which will last Lightly pull down the lower lid and softly
whole wheat English muffin, or one slice of permanently. sweep eye pencil from left to right or right to
cheese on a sandwich instead of two. When left in the inner part of the lower lid. If eyes
cake and menu tasting, take just enough to For short-term results I would suggest water, then take three deep breaths. Inhale
determine what tastes best- no need to finish you try the Microdermabrasion Home Kit from the nose and exhale from the mouth,
every sample. by Lancôme. With amazing instant results, taking deep breaths three times; this clears
skin looks flawless with an even tone and the small vessels inside the tearducts of the
DON’T: Over Exercise smooth finish. However, the results are not
Why it’s Bad: Over exercising increases risk
for injury, important information for anybody
58 Mehfil February/March 2010

Henna is often reserved for special
occasions. Do you use special designs
for different occasions?
I use special designs for different occasions. I
make my designs more personal to the event,
and of course for production I usually stick
very close to the director’s brief.

You’ve worked with some of the
biggest names in Hollywood. Have
you ever pinched yourself and thought
‘wow’ with anyone?
Not really. I really roll up my sleeves and get
into my professional role. I really tend to focus
so much that I forget sometimes how lucky I
really am.

Ash Kumar was inspired by the film Devdas when he created this half-hand henna Freida Pinto always looks so fresh
look using his own brand of henna products, which include a ready-to-use range. faced. How can we re-create her
natural look?
Crystals (on hand): Swarovski black gems and Jazzy bindi gems. Freida evidently has good skin, so a tinted
moisturizer or a light mousse foundation will
eyes. Add a bit of instant sparkle to the eyes look with bright lips for a flamboyant Bolly- look fab on good skin. If you have problem-
with Optrex Eye Dew, Sparkling Clear Eye wood look or opt for nude lips for a more natu- atic skin, use a face scrub or exfoliate the face.
Drops. To get a sharp finish with kohled eyes, ral look topped with loads of mascara to make Ensure that you moisturize the face well and
use waterproof eye pencil. eyes look sexy. apply concealer to areas that need coverage.
To get Freida’s look, blend in concealer well
When re-creating the Bollywood look, Where do you find inspiration for your and top up with a face powder. Try M.A.C
what products do you recommend? looks? Do you look to Hollywood or old Studio Fix. Next, apply kohl pencil to the inner
To get the perfect eye liner shape, use a sepa- school Bollywood movies? part of the eye and light mascara with a nude
rate eye liner brush and Bobbi Brown Long I find inspiration from the outfits and the lip colour. Go for a colour that suits your natu-
Wear Eye Gel. This gives full control on the costumes my clients are wearing. If I’m creat- ral skin tone.
shape of eye liner, making it even or howev- ing a look, then I am inspired by many things,
er you prefer. Always use kohl inside the eyes mostly small items, and very unusual things- Name your five must-have make-up
and evenly spread gel eye liner underneath such as a peacock feather. This gave me inspi- products for our makeup bag.
lower lashes. Fill in any gaps with the gel/ ration for my latest look for the Asian bridal Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream; Chanel Eye
kohl. When it comes to skin, use a good foun- season this year. Pencil; YSL Mascara; Maybelline Colossal
dation to get a flawless finish. Complete the Volume Express Mascara; Bobbi Brown Shim-
mer Brick; Giorgio Armani Concealer Master
Correctors. p

Reprinted with permission. Copyright beautyandthedirt.com.

Ash Kumar’s Tips for Henna Application

1. Touch the surface at all times. 9. Always work from the inside of the palm to
2. Apply at 45-degree angle at all times. the finger tip.
3. Hold applicator just like a pen.
4. Perfect henna will dissolve lumps while it 10. Never use black henna.
11. Always slow down in intricate application;
stands after being mixed.
5. Henna applicators should NEVER be bigger this makes the application neater and finer.
12. Periodically check your henna so it doesn’t
or smaller than an average pen.
6. Henna paste should NEVER block. dry out. Keep applying sugar and lemon.
7. Sugar helps henna stick to the skin while 13. There is nothing wrong in taking your time

lemon helps darken the colour. during application. Quality is everything.
8. Never use plastic bags or gloves. NEVER 14. Allow Ash Kumar henna to stay on the skin

cover applied area. It will ruin your designs. for a maximum of four hours. No need to
sleep with Ash Kumar henna on. The colour
is guaranteed.

Mehfil February/March 2010 59

SHAPING UP Feature

planning to walk down an aisle this summer. Photo by Gary Wildman
Also, a heavy workout routine may be hard to
sustain, especially if combined with too few Five Star Weddings
of calories, leaving any bride-to-be sapped of
energy. While there are many memorable to Hong Kong and ultimately to the
Alternative: Start or pump up regular exer- moments for couples, one memo- Vancouver Fairmont 14 years ago.
cise, but do so gradually in the months prior ry guests take away from a wedding is
to the wedding. Select enjoyable activities, like how good the food was. After all, food With one of the city’s most beautiful
biking or swimming, and do them more often. is a key component to any celebration. venues, it’s little wonder that the Fairmont
An easy addition is to walk more; every minute One way a couple can guarantee that Waterfront is the choice of an increasing
walking (and not sitting) helps burn precious guests will leave singing the praises of number of South Asian couples plan-
calories. Make sure to create a workout routine the menu is to choose a venue that takes ning their wedding reception.
that can be maintained and adjusted for the food seriously. In Vancouver, there are
long-term, particularly so results and routine few that take their food more seriously Deciding on a menu can be a bit chal-
are manageable after the big day. than high-end hotels like the Vancouver lenging for Indian couples, says Dore. “A
DON’T: Avoid Carbs and Load Up Fairmont Waterfront. lot of these are very big affairs with many
On Proteins people travelling from India to attend.
Why it’s Bad: The body needs carbohydrates The Fairmont’s executive chef, Patrick So sometimes there’s a strong preference
for energy. Carbohydrates provide glucose Dore, has a diverse team in his kitchen for food from their specific region, and it
which powers the brain and nervous system. but he’s particularly proud to have one of absolutely has to be done exactly right,”
Cutting carbs also may cut fiber which could the most talented Indian chefs in the city says Dore, who meets with couples and
result in GI problems, not the sexiest thing to in chef de partie Adrian Dias. “Indian then works with his team to custom-
be concerned about, especially on wedding food has very much enmeshed itself into ize food to suit each couple’s taste and
day. the Vancouver palate,” says Dore. (The preferences.
Alternative: Include carbohydrates in daily Fairmont’s butter chicken and prawn
intake, but be mindful of portions. Choose masala are among the “must haves” at “We then prepare the meal to a tee,
whole grains such as oats, popcorn, and whole events held by many of the hotel’s regu- right down to the garnish, for the tasting
wheat bread. Stay within dietary guidelines to lar corporate clients.) with the couple,” explains Dias, adding
keep amounts adequate. Most women need that extensive notes are taken and the
five grain servings, and three or more cups of “Adrian has an excellent command presentation is photographed for refer-
fruit daily. over Indian food,” says Dore. “He is a ence. “It’s all about delivering to the
DON’T: Drink Your Calories good cook in an international sense; couple’s expectations.”
Why it’s Bad: Alcoholic beverages, sports he can not just cook great food, he can
drinks, soda, decadent coffee beverages, and produce great food for 500 people. That’s To ensure the highest quality Dias
sugary beverages add calories, and oftentimes true skill, that’s true talent.” hand picks all the ingredients. “I grind
sugar and fat. Throughout the engagement all the green masalas and red masalas for
there will be plenty of celebrations that include Dias began his career in Mumbai, all the dishes. Every masala, every spice
alcohol. Because drinks don’t fill up like a India, where he graduated from The is ground in-house,” says Dias.
meal, high calorie intake is easily overlooked. Institute of Hotel Management Cater-
Alternative: Limit liquid calories. Read labels ing Technology and Applied Nutrition. If there’s one thing couples can be
to avoid drinks with too many calories and He went on to work for renowned hotels assured of with a hotel like the Fairmont,
sugar and/or fat. While at parties and events, like the Oberoi and Taj before moving it’s that the food at their wedding will
limit intake to one or two drinks and alternate be something their guests will talk about
alcoholic beverages with non-caloric drinks. At for years to come. p
the coffee shop, ask for drinks made with skim
milk and sans whipped cream.

With several months until wedding season,
there is ample time to make informed, healthy
eating decisions that will have positive short
and long term effects. Elisa Zied encourages
women to start now, so they get the most out
of their meals, their body, and that special day
(and night!). p

60 Mehfil February/March 2010

Dream days

HAPPEN HERE

With Vancouver’s magical harbour and majestic mountains as
your witness, consider Fairmont Waterfront the dreamscape for
your dream day. Enjoy authentic Indian cuisine and classically
elegant function space for 60 to 600. Experience unsurpassed
service including a dedicated wedding planner. Expect the perfect
setting to start your life together.

Tell us about your dream day. Call 604 691 1991, or visit
www.fairmont.com/waterfront

Feature

Bridal Beauty
Vimi Joshi’s credits as a makeup artist include creating looks for fashion
editorials in top magazines such as Indian Vogue, Elle and Marie Claire. The Eye shadow in Amber
long list of celebrities who’ve benefited from the magic touch of the senior Lights (left )and
M.A.C makeup artist includes everyone from Indian film legends Amitabh Goldmine (right).
Bachchan and Helen to young stars Katrina Kaif, Sonam Kapoor and Freida
Pinto. Joshi has also worked backstage at the runway shows for top design-
ers such as Michael Kors, Narcisco Rodriguez, Elie Saab and the late Alexan-
der McQueen, to name just a few.

Mehfil asked the globe-trotting Joshi, who’s an expert in Indian-inspired
makeup looks, to share her top tips, favourite techniques and preferred prod-
ucts when it comes to bridal makeup for Indian brides. “The top trend in
bridal beauty at the moment is getting more creative with your makeup when
it comes to your reception and sangeet,” says Joshi. “This is where you can
become more experimental with colours. As for the actual wedding day, many
brides want to keep their makeup more classic and traditional. The makeup
needs to be timeless, as trends come and go but pictures last forever!”

Lip service Complementing white Base. Goldmine/Carbon/Rice
and cream Paper/Embark eye shadows.
“Brides tend to Teddy and smolder eye pencils.
wear red lips on If you’re wearing white or cream, Zoom Lash mascara and #4
their wedding as many brides opt to do for their lashes.
day,” says reception lengha or sari, empha- On the cheeks: Coppertone and
Johsi. “This is size more bronzing tone, says Style blush with Mineralize Skin-
to match the red Joshi. “Think of the makeup that finish in Dark.
bindis that are Jennifer Lopez does. This would On the lips: Chestnut Lip pencil
worn over the be perfect for a white outfit.” She with Instant Gold lip gloss.
eyebrows and suggests the following shades:
in the centre of On the eyes: MAC Hush/
the forehead. Improper Copper Cream Colour
M.A.C Burgundy
lip pencil with Lustreglass in
Dubonnet lipstick Ornamental (left) and
(left) is a great Instant Gold (right.
colour combina- Powder blush Enduring beauty
tion for Indian in Coppertone.
skin tones.” Golden rule If there’s one day when you
“The bronzed look looks want your makeup to stay
Red, gold and gorgeous amazing on Indian skin put from morning till night,
tones,” says Joshi. “You can it’s your wedding day. Joshi
When creating a traditional red and really focus your makeup on recommends the following
gold look, Joshi likes to use the sculpting and highlighting for a look that’ll last: Paint
following: the skin in golden, bronze Pots for the eyes; Power
On the eyes: MAC Cream Colour and copper textures.” Point eye pencils; Pro
base in Bronze with Amber Lights/ In terms of specific Longwear Lipcolour.
Rice Paper/Carbon and Swiss Choco- shades to create a golden
late eye shadows. Smolder Eye Kohl. glow, Joshi recommends Fabulous for olive skin tones
Zoom Lash mascara and #7 lashes. M.A.C’s dream colour base
On the cheeks: Gingerly and Pink in Bronze, Lustreglass in Eye shadows: Amber Lights, Brown
Swoon blushes. Instant Gold and bronzing Script, Rule and Electric Eel
On the lips: Burgundy lip pencil powder in Golden. Technakohl eye-liner Eye kohl: Smolder and Tarnish
with Ornamental Lustreglass. in Brownborder and Eyeliner: Auto De Blu Technakohl Liner
Auto-de-Blu. Blush: Coppertone and Pink Swoon
Lipsticks: Viva Glam V and Lust.

62 Mehfil February/March 2010

PHOTO BY TODD DUNCAN PHOTOGRAPHY PP F

2010S

Dr. Sachit Shah

Dr. Sachit Shah admits he was quite a science
geek growing up in the U.K. But aside from learning
about all things technical, what he enjoyed most was
interacting with people. Medicine seemed a natural
fit to challenge his intellect and keep him connected
with people and he became the first in his family to
attend college and earn a medical degree in London,
England, in 1985.

After more education and work experience in the
U.K. and the United States, he immigrated to Canada,
bringing his new bride, Priti, to Port Hardy, B.C., in
1991 for what was to be a three month stay.

“We ended up staying for five years,” says Shah,
who enjoyed a thriving, rural family practice there.
“But bush medicine is really a young man’s sport,”
says the the 47-year-old doctor laughingly, explaining
his move to the Lower Mainland in 1996, where he
opened a family practice.

It was there that Shah first introduced his patients
to some of the benefits of Botox and decided to explore
other areas of cosmetic treatments.

“Helping people feel better both physically and
emotionally is very important to me,” says Shah. “And
we know when people look better to themselves, they feel
better about themselves.”

To that end he opened the Beautiful Canadian Laser
& Skin Care Clinic in 2000, one of the first clinics avail-
able at the time to patients in the Fraser Valley.

Today, he and his staff of ten offer a wide variety of
lasers, fillers, Botox and procedures, such as hair and
fat removal. And his office is furnished with the latest
technology and utilizes the latest techniques to make
cosmetic treatments as effective as possible.

“I like to establish relationships first … I like to
find out what motivates my patients to come to me,”
he says, adding that he won’t do a treatment if he feels
it isn’t for the right reasons.

Recently, CBC television ran a piece about his work
lasering tattoos off young gang members trying to
escape that lifestyle – for free.

“These kids are trying to break free, and I’m happy
to do what I can to help them make a fresh start,” says
Shah.

For all his patients, Shah takes the time to under-
stand their needs to recommend the best and safest
procedures with their health as the first priority.

“I’ve learned a lot over the years in terms of medi-
cal procedures and treatments,” says Shah. “But the
most valuable lesson I’ve learned is to provide the best,
honest care I can. That’s ultimately what patients want
and need – a doctor they feel they can trust.”

DR. SACHIT SHAH

604 594 2714
13805 – 104th Ave., Surrey, B.C.

www.bclaser.ca

Beautiful Canadian
LASER And SKINCARE CLINIC

PP F

2010S

Making up Lasting Impressions

Neena Bassi can’t remember a time when honed her skills for hours creating intricate their expectations, she then customizes a make
she wasn’t doing make up. henna designs.. up and/or hair package. Each client receives
two to three consultations with complete hair
“I was intrigued by make up very early For more than a decade now, Neena has and make up prior to the big day, as well as
on,” says Neena, who, as a little girl, would been creating looks for a host of different occa- the day of.
lock herself in her mother’s bathroom to experi- sions — weddings, receptions, engagements,
ment with her mom’s eye shadows and blush. Bollywood nights, Mehndi and more – and “Although I do have an assistant, I person-
many Indo-Canadian brides remember her ally do all the make up and hair,” says Neena,
“In Grade 11, I did a lot of my girlfriends’ name for her memorable brushwork, hairstyl- adding it takes between two to two and a half
make up simply because I loved it and had fun ing and Mehndi artistry. hours to make up a bride.
doing it.”
“I get a lot of satisfaction from helping “Whether it’s make up, hair or mehndi, to
She quickly earned a reputation, amongst brides create that perfect look for their wed- me it’s art and each person is a fresh palette.
her friends, as the one to call when they wanted ding day,” she says, adding that it’s common It’s an opportunity to bring out the beauty in
to look their best for any special occasion. And for her to get lost in her work. “When a bride them,” says Neena. “It’s about capturing some-
at a friend’s urging, she decided to enroll at the or bride-to-be tells me she feels beautiful, it’s one’s attention, creating a mood and leaving a
Blanche Macdonald Centre, where she earned a priceless really.” lasting impression. That’s what I do.”
diploma in make up artistry.
The make up artist stays current of any new NB
“For about a year, I was a make up artist trends in the marketplace by researching and
for M.A.C. Cosmetics,” she adds. “I was also spending countless hours browsing through --
doing the make up for Indo-Canadian wed- make up aisles to ensure she offers the best and www.neenabassi.com
dings and parties, as well as photography and latest to her clientele.
editorial work.”
By consulting closely with clients to define
She also specializes in Mehndi, having

Mehfil February/March 2010 65

Art of the Wedding

DECOR PROVIDED FOR CELEBRITIES SUCH AS JAGJIT SINGH, DHARMENDRA,
SUNNY DEOL, BOBBY DEOL, JOHN ABRAHAM, SALMAN KHAN, ETC.

#101 & 102, 12888-80th Ave,
Surrey (Below Crystal at York Center)

604-507-3333 / 604-594-3609

• Celebrity Events • Stage Decorations • Wedding Decor • Back Drops • Walkways
• Floral Arrangement • Balloon Themes • Linen • Chair Covers • Fresh Fruit Displays

Decoration Rentals • Theme Parties • Mandaps

Free Consultation

Polly 778-893-1516

Weddings

Shivani Nand from Vancouver, B.C. August
Kash Prasad from Delta, B.C.
2009
Kash Prasad had never bought
into the idea of “love at first and asking me to marry him,” included a crystal mandap and “Kash then broke out into
sight.” says Shivani. “I was very over- crystal pillars along the aisle. a full-blown Billie Jean per-
whelmed by the slideshow . . . it At their reception that evening, formance which included the
Then he met Shivani Nand. was such a creative idea, but as the newlyweds wowed their famous moon walk,” says
“She was the only girl that I soon as that message appeared I guests by dancing into the hall Shivani. “It was very entertain-
got nervous around” says Kash. was in awe and I could tell those with their wedding party. ing!”
“I didn’t believe in all those love tears were coming. The next
at first sight theories, but when I thing I know I see Kash on his “We had all the guests on The couple honeymooned on
was around her all that went out knee with roses in one hand and their feet and energized,” says the Mayan Riviera and today live
the door! She had this aura about the ring in the other.” Kash. in Langley.
her. I just knew that she was
going to be my wife.” “She loved it!” recalls Kash.
They’d been dating for about “It was one of the best nights of
three years when Kash asked my life.”
Shivani to join him for dinner
to celebrate Valentine’s Day. “I The couple had a traditional
thought we were going out but Hindu wedding ceremony but
instead he invited me to his with a Bollywood theme that
place,” she recalls. “When I got
there it was dark, with candles
leading up to the living room.
Then we had dinner — which he
made!”
“She had no idea that I was
going to propose to her that
night,” says Kash. “After we fin-
ished eating we decided to watch
a movie. I then put on a slide-
show that I had made for her and
she became very emotional”
“At the end of the slideshow,
which was of us throughout
the years, there was a message
describing how he felt about me

Laser Hair Removal Forget Get
tLightSheer RAZOR TLC Laser

(with Zimmer Cooling System) With
Zimmer Cooling System
Microdermabrasion
(with Oxygen Therapy) Dr. Shehab
tSkin Rejuvenation Zaki Ahmad
tFine Line & Wrinkles Pharm. T., CLT
tBlotchy Dull Skin Beena Ahmad
tHyper-pigmentation Electrologist, CLT
tReduce Acne Scars &
Stretch Marks
Laser Peel
tClari es & Softens Skin
tEvens Skin Colour & Tone
tBrightens Complexion
Laser Skin Treatment
t"DOFt)ZQFS1JHNFOU
t4LJO5JHIUFOJOH
Specials
t#SJEBM1BDLBHFT
t(JGU$FSUJöDBUFT

TLC DERMAL LASER CLINIC INC.

604-543-2121 Unit 104 Don’t Be Fooled
8383A 128 Street By Written
Surrey Guarantees

FREE CONSULTATIONS Visit us online for Monthly Specials www.tlcdermallaserclinic.com

Mehfil February/March 2010 67

Weddings

Nina Topiwala from Burnaby, B.C. October
Jagjit Singh from Jalandhar, Punjab.
2009
Nina Singh has some
encouraging words for any one was supportive. “The big- cessful that the only hitch the couples keep expectations for
couple wanting to get married gest challenge was the reactions bride and groom encountered their wedding day in perspec-
in a hurry: “Weddings can be of people when they found out was during their first slow tive: “It is one of the most
planned in a very short time!” that we were getting married,” dance, when they found them- important days of your life,
says Nina. selves dancing to a song other but not as important as putting
She’s speaking from experi- than the one they had chosen. in that same effort into every
ence. Her first meeting with Fortunately, Nina’s parents day afterwards to have a long,
Jagjit Singh, the man who would weren’t among the naysayers. “We ended up dancing to happy marriage.”
become her husband, was on “My parents fell in love with a song we didn’t even practise
August 6, 2009. They tied the Jagjit as soon as they met him.” for,” says Jagjit. “We both kept
knot two months later. looking at each other thinking,
After Nina’s parents gave ‘OMG, what do we do?’ But we
The whirlwind romance them their blessing, the couple kept going and made up the
began when Jagjit dropped by managed to secure wedding and steps as we went along. It all
Nina Topiwala’s salon for a hair- reception venues for October worked out in the end!”
cut. “From then on, one thing 4. Jagjit got a crash course
just led to another,” says Nina. in efficient shopping while Looking back, Nina offers
accompanying his fiancée as she a few words of wisdom to help
It was barely a week after searched for the perfect lengha
their first meeting that Jagjit to wear for their wedding and
decided Nina was “the one.” He reception.
remembers the exact moment.
“It was on Saturday, August 15, “I never thought I would have
when we went out to Downtown to plan my own wedding,” says
Vancouver. We had such a good Jagjit, whose parents have yet to
time and we connected so well meet Nina. “I always assumed it
that day. I don’t know how to would be my family who would
explain it but I just knew.” do it all. Who knew that my own
family wouldn’t even make it my
The certainty was mutual. wedding!”
“I remember not being able to
sleep the first few nights after “He stood there watching me
meeting him,” recalls Nina. try out every outfit and jewelry!”
“People had always told me recalls Nina. “Poor guy! But I
that it would happen when least really admire him for being there
expected — and this literally for all the planning with me and
came out of nowhere!” my family.”

So much so that not every- The planning might have
been fast but it was so suc-

Create and Restore Your Memories for a Lifetime

www.visekhon.com Serving the Community Since 1985 5 MINUTE
PASSPORT

PHOTOS

'".*-:$)*-%3&/410353"*54t3&4503"5*0/4
$6450.'3".*/(t$"/7"413*/5*/(t$0..&3$*"-1)050(3"1):

Vi-Brant Creations ANY PHOTO CAN OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Sundeep Setia
BE RESTORED!
For all your celebrations check out 9375 120th St Delta, BC
GetItRestored.com
Vi Sekhon for examples 604-589-4668

Professional Hair & Make Up [email protected]
604.599.8738 or 604.312.1859
Introducing…Elite Hair & Make-up Artists 604-588-4665

68 Mehfil February/March 2010

Samiya Jawed from Burnaby, B.C. June PHOTOS BY WWW.SIDEWAYPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
Max Gimondo from Maple Ridge, B.C.
2009

Samiya Jawed, who is origi- to the beach,” he recalls. “I then Park, complete with a horse- ing down the stairs to the beach.
nally from Pakistan, and Max carried her to a blanket on the drawn-carriage ride, followed by It was the first time I had seen
Gimondo, who was born and beach so she wouldn’t feel the a formal Pakistani-themed recep- her dress. I was also thinking
raised in Canada, knew that their sand. I then used sea shells to tion in a banquet hall. about how lucky we were to have
path to marriage wouldn’t be spell ‘marry me’ on the sand made it to that point. Being from
an easy one. During a candid inside a big heart. I timed it for Max will never forget the different cultures we had many
conversation early on, Samiya sunset and as soon as the sun first moment he saw his bride obstacles to overcome but we
spelled out some of the challeng- started going down, I took off her on their wedding day. “I thought stuck together and did it!”
es they were likely to encounter if blindfold and she saw the written how beautiful she looked com-
they continued their relationship. message on the beach. I then
went down on one knee and
He won her over completely picked up one of the shells; it
with his reaction. had a ring inside.”

“One day I was telling him The moment was every-
about my cultural and family thing Samiya could have
beliefs and how there would be asked for. “I wanted him to
obstacles along the way,” recalls propose to me before the
Samiya. “After hearing me, he engagement party — just
was still willing to stick around the two of us — but I had no
and take one step at a time. idea.”
There and then I knew that he
was the one.” Another memorable sur-
prise for Samiya was when
Max says there was never any she was lured to her future sis-
doubt in his mind that he was ter-in-law’s home under false
prepared to persevere: “She stole pretences (a request to borrow
my heart from the start.” Samiya’s belly-dancing outfit)
only to discover an Arabian
By the time the date for their Nights-themed bridal shower in
formal engagement had been set, her honour. “It turned out that the
with the blessing of both fami- outfit was for me to wear at my
lies, they were able to focus on own shower!” says Samiya.
romance rather than drama and
Max planned a romantic private The couple had a western-
proposal. style wedding ceremony and
informal reception at Stanley
“I picked her up from work
and blindfolded her and drove

ALSbpaabsyer Congratulations Brides! Goldy Harika & Savina Bhullar

Your one stop shop The rst step towards your new Journey...
for professional skin care
Enjoy a complimentary Laser Or Esthetics Service

when a second one is purchased

Specialize In:

/BUVSBMBTF4PGUMJHIU
/BUVSBMJHIU*1-

.JDSPEFSN
-FH7FJOT
4LJO5JHIUFOJOH

"DOF5SFBUNFOU
4LJO3FKVWFOBUJPOBOE'VMM&TUIFUJDT
we carry 'VMMZ

#SJEBM1BDLBHFT"WBJMBCMFt$BMMUPEBZGPSB'SFF$POTVMUBUJPO certi ed
UFDIOJDJBOT

8 years
#303, 2845 Cruickshank St, Abbotsford, BC | O ce: 604-746-HAIR (4247)tCell: 604-808-5578 FYQFSJFODF

Mehfil February/March 2010 69

VOGUEMEHFIL in

Available exclusively at

Guru Bazaar
t

70 Mehfil February/March 2010

MEHFIL in VOGUE

Available exclusively at

Guru Bazaar
t

Mehfil February/March 2010 71

MEHFIL in VOGUE

Available exclusively at MODEL: CHRISSY HAIR AND MAKE UP: NEENA BASSI PHOTO: TODD DUNCAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Made In India
• 604-501-2577

72 Mehfil February/March 2010

MEHFIL in VOGUE

MODEL: CHRISSY HAIR AND MAKE UP: NEENA BASSI PHOTO: TODD DUNCAN PHOTOGRAPHY Available exclusively at

Made In India
• 604-501-2577

Mehfil February/March 2010 73

MEHFIL in VOGUE

Available exclusively at

Ghunghat Fashion

(Payal Business Centre)

• 778-218-0824
• 604-507-8219

GHUNGHAT GEHNA
FASHION Jewellery

74 Mehfil February/March 2010

MEHFIL in VOGUE

Available exclusively at

Ghunghat Fashion

(Payal Business Centre)

• 778-218-0824
• 604-507-8219

GEHNA GHUNGHAT
Jewellery FASHION

Mehfil February/March 2010 75

Neena Bassi

Professional Hair, Makeup and Mehndi Artist.
tXXXOFFOBCBTTJDPN

HAIR AND MAKE UP: VI SEKHON PHOTO: TODD DUNCAN PHOTOGRAPHY VOGUE

MEHFIL in Available exclusively at

Almari Boutique

(Payal Centre)

t
t

www.almari.ca

Mehfil February/March 2010 77

CLOTHING AND JEWELRY BY : GHUNGHAT FASHION

Professional Sham Bridal Services Harinder Mann
Hair and Makeup 604-779-2643
for all occassions www.ShamBridalServices.com

MEHFIL in VOGUE

Available exclusively at

So-am Boutique
(tKhalsaBusinessCentre)

Mehfil February/March 2010 79

778-839-7O89 NITA SANDHU www.nitasandhu.com

Professional Hair & Makeup Artist

!

Support Vancouver’s premiere South Asian fundraising event to help fund an array of youth programs,
scholarships, and endowments. The fun filled evening will entail live entertainment, fine dining, live
and silent auctions, and dancing.

When: Saturday, March 27th, 2010
Where: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
Tickets: $150 per guest or $1,500 per table

Reserve your tickets today and receive preferential seating. Keynote:
To purchase tickets or to sponsor, please contact Jasmine Monika Deol
Tanliao at 778.888.4529 or [email protected]

www.corsafoundation.com

Charitable Registration No. 85558 4173 RR0001

!
!

Horoscope
by Georgia Nicols

March 2010

Aries (March 21-April 19) Cancer (June 21-July 22) Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
This is a feel-good month! You It will be so easy for you to get The next six weeks are a bless- Fasten your seatbelts. The pace

feel happier to be inside your own down to business this month. ing for your job or whatever daily of your days is accelerating! You’ve
skin. You have increased self- Why? Busy little Mercury with the tasks you set yourself on a con- got places to go, things to do,
respect and self-esteem. If you help of the Sun wants to galvanize sistent basis. You’re keen to get people to see. Short trips, errands,
analyze some of the reasons for you into action to get organized! better organized, and discover a buying and selling, wheeling and
this, you might discover that one You’ll be clearing out closets, cup- system so that you feel confident dealing, shopping, increased read-
of the reasons you feel better about boards, sheds, and garages. (Can- and on top of your scene. You want ing, writing and studying, and
yourself is because you’re being cers have a lot of stuff!) You want to to be able to reliably find things, conversations with everyone keep
spontaneously generous, kind, and departmentalize, categorize, label, to know where they are, and feel you busy. (You love this quickened
considerate to others. Naturally, the and sort everything. Because the good about your overall arrange- pace.) Just surrender to it. Part of
more generous you are, the more heavens are helping you now — ment. Romance at work will spring you loves this heightened energy
generous your world is. This is one roll up your sleeves and get busy. up for many. A raise or a promo- because you have a strong desire
of the more dramatic times when For starters, give yourself the right tion is likely. You want to fix up now to enlighten others. Blah, blah,
you so obviously see that what tools to do a great job. (You’re even and tweak your workspace. This blah. You need to be heard. This is
goes around, comes around. focused on getting healthier!) positive influence also blesses a great time for teachers, actors,
Taurus (April 20-May 20) Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) your health. It’s all good. writers, trainers, and those who
This is a welcome month for you Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) drive for a living.
A popular month! Everyone because all kinds of gifts, good- Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
wants to see your face. Accept all ies, favours, and advantages from Tra la, tra la, it is to laugh. This
invitations. Enjoy the company of others will come your way. It’s month is fabulous for you! Four Ka-ching! Money is so handy
others. Join clubs, groups, and about time! Practical and financial planets in Pisces hype the part when you want to buy things. This
organizations. Some of you might advantages might arise through of your chart that’s about love af- gaggle of planets in Pisces totally
accept a position of power. Others, inheritances, money back from fairs, romance, parties, the arts, zaps the part of your chart about
however, might strike up a new ro- the government, reduced debt, in- the theatre, sporting events, vaca- money — how you earn it, how
mance with someone you meet in a creased credit, gifts, and the use tions, social invitations, playful you spend it, and the things you
group setting. You will likely meet of things other people own. This activities with children, theme bought with it. “It’s mine! All mine!”
artistic types. It’s a good time to is a good time to go for a loan or parks, Disney World, and excit- (Insane ghoulish laugh.) Actually,
form working units, partnerships, a mortgage. (The universe owes ing getaways. This is your turn you’re entering a very nice six-week
and benefit from any kind of group you!) Meanwhile, back in the bed- to party big-time! No matter how window of time regarding money.
activity. Share your hopes and room, intimacy is especially sweet hard you’re working, set aside Many of you will boost your earn-
dreams for the future with others and affectionate. You feel you have time for fun and games. You’ll en- ings, or find a lovely job. Likewise,
because their feedback and advice found your soul mate. joy good times and flirtations with many of you will buy beautiful
can help you. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) others because you feel playful things for yourself and loved ones.
Gemini (May 21-June 20) Partnerships are important this and prankish! Go team go! The bottom line is you feel richer
month. You’re focused on “signifi- Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)
This gathering of planets in Pi- cant others,” be they lovers, part- Even though you’re the great trav-
sces takes place at high noon in ners, or your lawyer (if you’re go- eller of the zodiac, you’re focused You’re the big winner with four
your chart, which means the Sun ing to jail) or your doctor (if you’re on home, family, and your personal planets rooting for you! This makes
shines down on you like a spot- having an operation) or a new pro- life. Relations with family members, you feel confident, lucky, charming,
light, making people notice you, fessional association. It’s a mutual especially parents, are significant. tolerant, and attractive. And when
especially bosses, parents, and admiration society. They love you; You’ll love home entertaining. Re- you feel this way — you are this
VIPs. Meanwhile, Venus and Jupi- you love them. This is a good time decorate and tweak your digs — way! Naturally, others are attracted
ter bring you love, romance, money, to begin new partnerships or work- because company’s coming! Not to you and want to be in your com-
gifts, opportunities, and wonderful ing relationships. Whatever begins only will you enjoy the company pany. Opportunities and favours
press! New romances that begin now will benefit you. It’s a signifi- of others at home, you’ll also enjoy easily come your way. Accept all
will be with people who are older, cant change in direction right now. your own solitude. This timeframe invitations. Caution: Someone
richer, wiser, or more established You have to make all the structures is also an excellent window for real will develop a crush on you. They
in the world than you. You might you have built in your life fit to- estate speculation. Many of you might be seriously smitten. Enjoy
be asked for your creative input on gether. will buy art or beautiful things for this (it’s nice to be fawned over) but
something. Do it. People will love your home as well. be kind. (I see you’re not here for
it. the hunting.) p

82 Mehfil February/March 2010



Cuisine
by Gurj Dhaliwal

Trio of What’s easy to make, leaves your mouth water- skewers and remember to soak them in water over-
ing for more and has your guests begging you night or for at least a few hours before using them.
Tasty for the recipe? Meat on a stick. Whether you refer to Finally, have fun with the flavour combinations and
Treats them as kebabs, satays or skewers they can all pretty ingredients; feel free to use firm tofu, swordfish and
much be summed up as “meat on a stick.” even ground meats as replacements.

With this trio of recipes I’ve incorporated bold These recipes are great for parties and enter-
flavours, spice and variety that will surely make an taining and make a fabulous start to any meal. To
impression on your tastebuds. There are a variety complete the wow factor once cooked, stand the
of elements to keep in mind when preparing these skewers straight up in a wide bowl or vase full of
skewers. They are great to prepare all year round, not sugar or salt. This recipe is all about packing some
just during grilling season. Try to source out bamboo serious punch into just a few bites.

Garam Masala and Mustard Seed Paneer Skewers

Ingredients 1 Tbsp. cilantro, chopped Method mustard seeds and turn the heat off.
1 Tbsp. olive oil 1) Heat a heavy-bottom frying pan over 3) Remove paneer to a bowl and, while
1 450-gram package 1 tsp. vegetable oil medium heat. Season the diced paneer it’s still warm, add the olive oil, cilan-
paneer cheese, diced with salt and pepper and seer paneer tro, lime juice and lime zest.
3 Tbsps. garam masala 1 lime, juice & zest on all sides until golden brown. 4) Place 3-4 cubes of paneer each on a
1 tsp. black mustard seeds salt 2) When the paneer is almost done, skewer and serve warm.
1 tsp. yellow mustard add to the pan the black and yellow
pepper
seeds

84 Mehfil February/March 2010

Tandoori Chicken Skewers

Ingredients 2) In a bowl combine all of W DE ELIVER LUNCH SPECIAL $9.98
½ pound chicken thighs, the ingredients for the chick-
boneless and skinless en marinade: tandoori paste, “In India “curry” ¹1V1VLQI¹K]ZZaº][]ITTaZMNMZ[\W¹OZI^aºWZI\PQKSMZ[I]KMZI\PMZ\PIV
2 Tbsps. tandoori paste yogurt, cilantro, garlic, usually refers $9L.9u8nch Buf¹f[eXQtKM[º<PM[8IU8M2OW1M[_-Q\P1W]2ZU0MVt]hº Street
ginger, salt and pepper. to “gravy” or a 11:30 -3:30 Delta, BC V4C 6R6
1 Tbsp. yogurt 3) Mix the chicken with the thicker sauce Allu Tikki, Fresh
1 Tbsp. cilantro, chopped marinade and let the chicken WE rDaEtLIhVEeRr thanLUNCH SPECIAL Naan & Roti Tel: 604-592-6360
marinate in the fridge for 2-6 Fax: 604-592-6361
1 garlic clove, minced hours. “spices.”
1 small piece ginger, minced 4) Skewer 3-4 pieces of chick- The same goes
en onto skewers, and season with our menu.”
salt with salt and pepper.
pepper 5) Cook the chicken under www.desijunction.ca¹1V1VLQI¹K]ZZaº][]ITTaZMNMZ[\W¹OZI^aºWZI\PQKSMZ[I]KMZI\PMZ\PIV
the broiler in an oven for 8 ¹[XQKM[º<PM[IUMOWM[_Q\PW]ZUMV]º
Method minutes, or on an outdoor
1) Clean and trim chicken, grill over medium heat for 5-7
being sure to dice the chicken minutes.
evenly and to remove all fat.

Coconut Crusted Prawns
with curry mayonnaise

Ingredients Method

6 medium-sized prawns, 1) Heat the frying oil in a pot over
peeled and deveined medium to high heat.

salt 2) Before breading the prawns
make sure the prawns are nice
pepper and dry. Dine in or Take out Now
½ cup flour 3) Season the prawns with salt Open
1 egg, beaten and pepper coat with the flour. Open 7 days
Sun to Th 11:30-10pm
Fri to Sat 11:30 - 11pm

½ cup shredded coconut Then dip into the egg and then 8859 120 Street (Scott Rd),
into the breadcrumb-shredded Delta
½ cup bread crumbs coconut mixture.
604-591-1591
2 cups vegetable oil for frying 4) Place the prawns into the oil.
Fry only a few prawns at a time so
Fine Indian CuisineSeFrvoirncgurVryamncaoyounvneari’sseWestatuSsriend.oeCt towooicktohporladwonwsnfotrhe3-t4emmpienruat-es THE CRITICS’ CHOICE
OriginalThere is only one...
½ cup Japanese mayonnaise until golden brown.
OD(sipneeie1nnngts7oRpteD.ogofaoamylrlsaom•waPimnWagateisroeeacl•kaipBea)nquen5ta)FiTsaoec,milmiatiikxeesththeeJcauprarnyemseaymoany-on- TANDOORI
naise, turmeric and garam masala
1 tsp. turmeric together. Kitchen

SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1987

Note: Japanese mayonnaise is typically made with apple cider 689 East 65th Ave. (at Fraser)
vinegar or rice vinegar and an addition of msg, which gives it a Vancouver • 327-8900
different flavour than the North American style mayonnaise. The
texture is thinner and lighter than regular mayonnaise. It is sold 110 - 3790 Canada Way, Burnaby Sharnjit
in a soft plastic squeeze bottle and can be found in most Asian 604-430-1600 Chef/Owner
grocery stores, such as T&T.
7548 - 120th St., Surrey
604-592-8900

ORIGINAL TANDOORI & CHAT HOUSE
7233 Fraser St., Vancouver
604-327-8901

Gurj Dhaliwal is a chef and caterer based in Vancouver, B.C. Winner TANDOORI GRILL
of the Food Network's Superstar Chef Challenge in 2007, Gurj is also a 201 - 4368 Main St., Whistler

cGo1rna6nta4vci3tleledWItshleraonsudtgchBuelri-nomaaaryidl tawotuiarnyfgo,[email protected]•foo6d0b4lo-g7ge4r.2H-e0c6a2n 2be 604-905-4900

Fully Licensed • Eat in • Take Out • Delivery • Catering • Open 7 Days a Week

Mehfil February/March 2010 85

A Visit to Haweli is: Enjoying the classiest, Authentic

Health & Fitness
by Shefali Raja, BSc., RD Community Nutritionist

DetoxSpotlight on Diets
Since ancient times, people have
sought to purify their bodies through while consuming fibre, nutrients, antioxi- Cutting out major groups of foods such
the process of fasting. The simple act of dants and herbal extracts that aid in the as dairy products, meat and wheat-based
abstaining from eating certain or any body’s natural detoxification processes. foods means you’ll slash the amount of
kind of food, drink or both — known as Generally, fruit, vegetables, beans, nuts, calories you eat – and only replace a few
vrat in Indian households — has taken seeds, herbal teas and massive amounts of these calories with the extra fruit and
on a whole other meaning in the West- of water are allowed. In contrast, wheat, vegetables you eat. The more foods that
ern world. Fasting/ (or vrat) has a place in dairy, meat, fish, eggs, caffeine, alcohol, are banned, the more weight you are like-
Indian households and culture for good salt, sugar and processed foods – in fact, ly to lose. It’s as simple as that.
reason. I am not so sure if I can say the most of the foods that many of us eat –
same about “detoxes.” are banned. Here are examples of a few common
What’s the claim? detox regimens:
The popularity of detox regimens such Master Cleanser by Stanley Burroughs
as the Master Cleanse (the cayenne- and Advocates of detox diets say our bodies
maple-syrup-infused lemonade detox) is are continually overloaded with toxins Claims it will provide a plethora of
being fuelled by Hollywood/Bollywood from pollution, cigarette smoke, pesti- benefits such as extreme weight loss (up
celebrities who use them to drop a few cides, a poor diet full of processed and fast to 40 pounds or more in just a couple
sizes for a movie role or special appear- food, food additives, alcohol and caffeine. of weeks), increased vitality, total reju-
ance. It’s easy to be enticed by the health, The idea is that these toxins build up in venation, mental clarity, a power-packed
weight-loss and wellness claims associ- our system, any number of health prob- immune system, etc.
ated with these detox products. But it’s lems can occur, including weight gain,
important to remember that they are not headaches, dull skin, bloating, fatigue, You eat nothing. But you get to drink
regulated in Canada and some may not lowered immunity, aches and pains, and a lemon, maple syrup and cayenne pepper
be safe, so you risk not only wasting your a general lack of wellbeing. The claim: cocktail (2 tablespoons of Grade A maple
money but putting your health at risk. Detoxing helps to remove these toxins syrup, juice of 1/2 lemon, 1/10 of a
What does a detox involve? from the body with the result that you teaspoon of cayenne pepper and 1 quart
lose weight, feel healthier, have improved of spring water) 6 to 12 times a day for at
There are many methods to help you energy, clearer skin, regular bowel move- least 10 days and up to 40. Also includes
detox, ranging from the mild and plea- ments, improved digestion and increased laxative tea and saltwater flush (1 quart
surable like saunas, massages and body mental alertness, etc. of water mixed with 2 level teaspoons of
brushing to the extreme and unpleasant Do these claims hold water? non-iodized sea salt).
such as colonic irrigation, bowel enemas The Martha’s Vineyard Diet Detox by
and fasting. There are also herbal supple- There’s simply no scientific evidence to Roni Deluz and James Hester
ments, detox drinks and ‘liver’ tonics. suggest that healthy bodies need help to
And making dietary changes is, of course, get rid of waste products and there’s little Claims it can help you lose 21 pounds
a big part of most detox plans. The diets proof to support the claims that detox in 21 days.
vary widely and can last for as few as two diets work. Our bodies are completely
to four days to as long as one month. capable of drawing nutrients from the You eat juices and soups from whole
Many involve some version of a liquid foods that we eat, and excreting wastes foods and vegetables. No chewing allowed
diet — giving up solid food for a few days not needed without the aid of “detoxing.” in order to “rest the gastrointestinal tract.”
and then gradually reintroducing certain The liver, kidneys, digestive system, lungs, Supplements include vitamins and miner-
foods. skin, etc., are natural detoxifiers. These als, food enzymes and inner cleansing
What foods do detox diets allow? organs work together to remove waste. products for the colon and liver. This
is essentially a liquid diet that dictates
The foods allowed can vary wide- Detox diets help you lose weight – but taking in 1,000 calories a day. Every two
ly, with the idea being to temporarily that’s simply because calorie intakes on hours you drink a designated liquid. By
give up certain foods that contain toxins such regiments are usually extremely low. day’s end you’ve consumed 40-48 ounces
of water, 32-40 ounces of herbal tea, 16
ounces of vegetable-based soup, and 32
ounces of either a green drink made from

86 Mehfil February/March 2010

vegetables, vegetable juice, or a berry Kuldip Counselling & Consulting Services
drink.
Colon cleansers Providing information and counselling to individuals with a
gambling addiction or those impacted by loved one's gambling.
Colon cleansers come in a variety
of forms, including capsules, laxatives, Services are
enemas, and “high colonics,” which CONFIDENTIAL
flush large amounts of water through the
intestines. and FREE.

Claim: You should be regularly clean- Funded by the Province of British Columbia
ing your colon just as you routinely sham-
poo your hair or scrub your floor. Offering services Kuldip Gill,
Are there any pros?
in Punjabi M.Ed., R.C.C.
Detox diets do encourage some good and English.
habits, such as eating more fruit and vege- Call for further information
tables, drinking more water and cutting
down on junk food and processed foods. 604-764-9575
Plus they encourage you to cut back on
caffeine and alcohol – all good habits to BC’s largest Independently Owned Transportation & Prorate Office
get into. They also help you to think about
what you’re eating and can be quite moti- Germaine Point Johnston Meier
vating as you take charge of your health.
And for some people, the idea of cleansing Manager Insurance Agencies Ltd.
has psychological or spiritual effects that
may inspire longer-term healthy changes. Port Kells
And the cons?
“Your commercial transportation
Detox diets can be short on many insurance specialists”
nutrients, leading to certain deficiencies
and lowered immunity. For example, the Our experienced & knowledgeable
Master Cleanse provides no protein, no staff is dedicated to taking care
vitamins except for C and no minerals; of your Insurance needs.
you are basically starving your body by
consuming around 700 calories – medical • “All Risk” Cargo Insurance
supervision is strongly advised. • Reefer Breakdown Insurance
• Finance Packages
Any weight loss achieved is usually • Accounts Receivable Insurance
temporary and is the result of a loss of • Loss of Use Coverage
water as well as fat due to the severe calo- • Custom Bonds
rie restriction. This means you usually put • 24 Hour Claim Service
the weight straight back on, which can be • Homeowners, Commercial
demoralizing and lead to yo-yo dieting.
& Autoplan
Side effects may include feeling tired, • Life & Disability Insurance
sick and headachy. Advocates say this
is the result of your body detoxing but, 604-513-9259
in reality, it’s usually caused by a lack of
food! 1-888-883-8892

Following such a strict diet may also #2-20178 96th Ave, Langley, BC
result in craving your favourite foods,
with the result that you give into tempta- Mehfil February/March 2010 87
tion and start down a road of unhealthy
eating, exactly what you were trying to get
away from.

Strict detox plans can help you develop
an unhealthy obsession with food and a
potential eating disorder.

Colon cleansers can lead to dehydra-
tion; high colonics can potentially harm
the colon, causing small tears or internal
damage. The intestines are a place where
nutrients from food are absorbed to the
bloodstream, to be transported through-
out your entire body. Washing out the

Celebration Site FREE!
HOLLAND PARK
ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS
CORNER OF KING GEORGE HWY & OLD YALE ROAD
CELEBRATION STAGE
KING GEORGE SKYTRAIN STATION SKATING RINK

PERFORMANCES BY TOBOGGAN ZONE

MALKIT SUSTAINABILITY WAY
SINGH FOOD COURT

FEB 20 – 10PM KIDS WORLD

MAMSEECTOTHTES

TIGERSTYLE

FEB 20 – 9PM

KS MAKHAN RCMP

FEB 13 – 10PM MUSICAL
RIDE
ALSO ENJOY PERFORMANCES BY EN KARMA, DAL HOTHI,
SHAN E PUNJAB, PUNJAB BEAT AND MORE! SHOWS

WED, THURS, FRI | 8:00PM
SAT, SUN | 3:00PM & 8:00PM

www.surrey2010.com

intestinal tract could potentially inter- 8):6-53"406/%
rupt this absorption, leaving you with a :PVS QFU NBZ IBWF TZNQUPNT
vitamin or mineral deficiency. Frequent UIBUJOEJDBUFTPNFUIJOHDPVMECF
use of some types of laxatives can leave XSPOHJOUFSOBMMZ8JUIVMUSBTPVOE
the colon less able to do its job the way XFDBOWJTVBMJ[FUIFIFBSU
LJEOFZT

nature intended. Colonic irrigations done MJWFS
CMBEEFS
TUPNBDIBOEPUIFS
improperly can seriously injure the large PSHBOT UP IFMQ EFUFSNJOF ZPVS
intestine and create an imbalance for the QFUT DPOEJUJPO XJUIPVU TVSHFSZ
friendly or good bacteria found in the 6MUSBTPVOEDBOIFMQVTEJBHOPTF
gut. RVJDLMZ
TBWJOH UJNF
TUSFTT BOE
PGUFOUIFMJWFTPGPVSQBUJFOUT
Finally, eating out and socializing
are almost impossible – most hosts and %S1BSNKJU%IJMMPO
restaurants don’t offer detox-friendly
meals — with good reason! AWARD WINNING CARE FOR YOUR PETS
Proceed with extreme caution
t 8FMMOFTTFYBNT
WBDDJOBUJPOT
TQBZ
Same day diagnostics
If a detox diet still appeals to you, OFVUFS
BOEUFFUIDMFBOJOH using ultrasound,
then you need to do it safely, with your
doctor’s OK and for a short period of t'SBDUVSFSFQBJSBOELOFFTVSHFSZ endoscopy, and minimum
time. Look for a program that includes JODMVEJOH51-0 invasive surgery including
fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes,
nuts, and seeds. Ensure the diet includes t'SJFOEMZTUBòBOEDPNQBTTJPOBUFDBSF rhinoscopy, laproscopy
protein in the form of (organic) poul- XJUIGBJSFTUJNBUFT and cystoscopy.
try and fish and/or protein shakes.
Avoid laxative and diuretic supplements. t8 FBSF"")"DFSUJöFEBOJNBMIPTQJUBM
Consuming plenty of fibre and water will
help your body excrete wastes. Do not GrandTaj_Oct04 0BL4USFFU
exceed the diet’s recommended duration. 7BODPVWFS
#$
12/61024/-07439-17:13151AM Page 1
Following a detox diet, even for a XXXPBLWFUDPN
short time, is not safe for everyone, espe-
cially for people with diabetes, hypogly- ThGe rand Taj
cemia (low blood sugar), eating disor- Banquet Hall
ders, gastrointestinal disorders, lowered
immunity, kidney disease, liver disease or The perfect place for
addictions to drugs or alcohol. Pregnant Weddings • Receptions • Birthday Parties
and breastfeeding women, children and
growing teenagers also should not follow Anniversaries • Corporate Functions
a detox diet nor should those recovering Business Meetings • Special Occasions
from an illness or injury.
The bottom line 2 Halls to serve you
up to 1000 people
Optimizing your body’s natural detoxi-
fication systems is best achieved by consis- No Charge for Hall
tently practising healthy behaviours: & DJ Services
consuming nutrient-rich foods, drinking
plenty of fluids, getting adequate sleep Monday-Thursday
and exercising regularly. The only “good
diet” is one that provides right amount We also do catering for every occasion
of energy to keep you at the weight you including Gurdwara
desire, meets your nutritional needs, is
practical and suits your lifestyle, tastes The Grand Taj is in the business of making wedding
and preferences. & other special occasions “unforgettable.”

The simple truth about a good diet 604-599-4342
or a natural detox has been summed up
in seven words by the brilliant American 8388 - 128th St., Surrey • www.grandtaj.com
food writer Michael Pollan in his book
In Defense of Food: “Eat food. Not too
much. Mostly plants.”

Indian scriptures also provide similar
guidance: “Eat simple, pure and healthy
food appropriately, not indulging too
much or too little.” p

Mehfil February/March 2010 89

Shifting Gears
by Veeno Dewan

2010 MERCEDES E 350

Redesigned and more value for money

Redesigned for 2010 the venerable leather upholstery and wood trim, dual- around the centre screen menus for audio,
Mercedes E-Class sedan receives zone automatic climate control, 14-way video (only when not in motion), Blue-
a sharp new look for the new decade. power-adjustable heated front seats with tooth phone, navigation and setup.
E-Class sedans in Canada arrive with a three-position memory, split-folding rear
fancy AMG body kit giving this former seatbacks, panoramic sunroof, six-CD/ My test car was equipped with the
sedate, conservative looking car a more DVD/MP3 stereo, Bluetooth connectiv- optional $3,800 Premium Package which
aggressive look and stance. But the big ity, Sirius satellite radio, power tilt and included COMMAND APS hard-drive-
news is a price drop and overall new telescoping multifunction heated steer- based navigation, DVD changer, 4-GB
improvements to interior cabin room, ing wheel, rain-sensing wipers, heated Music Register and PCMCIA interface
luxury features, and improved driving mirrors, auto up/down power windows, for MP3 playback from memory cards;
dynamics and safety. auto-dimming exterior and rearview Harman/Kardon LOGIC7 surround
mirrors, ambient lighting package, garage sound system; power rear window
In times of increasing prices the door opener, Parktronic parking sensors, sunshade; electronic trunk closure; and
2010, six-cylinder E 350 4Matic starts anti-theft alarm, and tire pressure moni- Keyless Go system.
at $62,900, an $11,600 price drop from toring system.
the 2009 E 350! V8-powered E 550 A standard panoramic sunroof consists
4Matics and rear-drive E 63 AMGs are The 2010 E 350’s wider cabin feels of a tilt/slide glass sunroof in front and a
also reduced in price to keep the model roomier and the car’s longer wheel- fixed glass panel over the rear passengers,
line competitive. Power is still supplied base provides rear passengers with more adding a light airy feel to the rear cabin.
via a 268-hp 3.5-litre V6 with a fuel- legroom. Optional are multicontour front Note the E 350’s fully carpeted trunk is
saving seven-speed automatic transmis- seats with air bladders that will adjust to generous at 540-litre and offers more
sion. Despite the drop in price for 2010, your body, and a unique Drive-Dynamic capacity with both rear seatbacks folded
the new E 350 now offers more standard feature with power side bolsters that auto- down.
features, including the seven-speed auto- matically grip your body while cornering.
matic transmission with manual shift The E 350’s dashboard has been complete- Safety is extremely good on the 2010
paddles, 18-inch tires and alloy wheels, ly redesigned for better driver ergonom- E-Class with updates and new technolo-
bi-xenon headlamps with washers and ics. The floor shifter has been decreased gy. In addition to its seven airbags, seat-
cornering lights, Intelligent High beam in size and has been moved to the steer- belt tensioners, belt force limiters, crash-
Control, and LED fog lights. Interiors are ing column leaving the centre console for responsive head restraints, child locks,
also updated with as standard Artico faux the mouse-type device used to navigate and rear child seat attachments, the 2010
E 350 also features Attention Assist which
monitors the driver’s steering behaviour

90 Mehfil February/March 2010

An achievement in overachievement.

A forceful exterior with standard AMG Styling Package declares the All-New
2010 E-Class an achievement in design. The technological achievements of the
car – distance-maintaining DISTRONIC PLUS1, or tiredness-sensing ATTENTION
ASSIST, for example – declare this a quintessential Mercedes-Benz. Inside and
out, the All-New E-Class declaims the achievement of its driver. The 4MATIC™-
equipped E-Class is at your dealer or mercedes-benz.ca/e.
The E-Class. You’ve arrived.

The All-New 2010 E-Class 4MATIC.™
Starting from $62,900.

© 2010 Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. 1Only available in conjunction with the Technology Package.
Not available in conjunction with the AMG Sport Package on the E 350 4MATIC™.

Mercedes-Benz Surrey

15508 - 104th Avenue, Surrey, B.C., …XXXTVSSFZNFSDFEFTCFO[DB

SALES. PARTS. SERVICE

Shifting Gears

and warns them if it determines they are 2010 Porsche Panamera
falling asleep. Also featured is Intelligent
High Beam Control that automatically Four- door Porsche is finally here!
dips the high beams if it senses oncom- One of the most eagerly awaited cars
ing cars; Bi-xenon headlights with on the planet is finally here and it for the roomy interior. Power is deliv-
cornering activation; and Pre Safe which is a complete stunner and well worth the ered either to the rear wheels, or through
tightens seatbelts and closes the sunroof wait. Porsche’s 2010 Panamera is a full- all-wheel drive, depending on the model
in the event of a collision. size, four-door coupe-styled hatchback. you choose. Available models include
And let me reemphasize this is a sports the $115,100 Panamera S, the $120,300
Optional safety features include the sedan with four doors and four full-sized Panamera 4S and the $155,000 Panam-
Blind Spot Assist System which warns seats – the rears of which also fold flat! era Turbo, all of which are powered with
the driver if another car is in the blind a 4.8-litre V8 engine mated to a seven-
spot; Lane Keeping Assist that recog- At last, a Porsche sports coupe designed speed, double-clutch manual/automatic
nizes when the car is drifting out of its to seat four adults comfortably with plen- (PDK) transmission.
lane; Distronic cruise control, a radar- ty of rear leg and headroom and space for
based detection system that calculates luggage. In typical Porsche fashion you can
and monitors the closing distance to customize and option the Panamera to
the car in front and brakes automatical- In the flesh the Panamera S I had on however you want in any finish or color
ly if the driver fails to; and Night View test for a week was simply incredible with you desire with interior leather and trim
Assist which uses infrared headlamps to impressive imposing lines. It is wide, long options including aluminum, carbon
spot vehicles, pedestrians and animals at and low and the four doors have been fibre, and wood trim, while performance
night out of range of the headlights. nicely integrated. It looks like a sleek sedan options include very pricey ceramic
On the road with the signature Porsche silhouette, but brakes, sport exhausts, rear seat enter-
is actually a hatchback. This car simply tainment system, 20-inch wheels, heat-
The new E 350 comes across as a oozes money, sophistication, exclusivity ed steering wheel, and too much to list.
smooth, fast, comfortable cruiser and is and power. From the traditional contem- You can even order the $5,440 - $7,750,
helped by the new wider track and lower porary looking front fascia to the chrome Burmester High-End Surround Sound
centre of gravity which improves corner- trim on the front fenders and the power- System with 16-speakers and 1,000 watts
ing stability while new hydro mechani- ful rear haunches, this Panamera stops of audio power! (You might like to know
cal shock absorbers reduce body roll people in their tracks. it is also found in the Bugatti Veyron.)
noticeably by automatically firming up
when cornering and loosening damp- Open the big doors and the exqui- A start-stop system is standard on all
ing when cruising. This Direct Control site interior is equally stunning, beauti- Panamera models. It enables the engine
suspension comes with a driver-select- fully designed and finished. Rich, finely to shut down at stoplights in order to
able button to switch between Comfort grained leather drapes the interior. It is a conserve fuel, while the battery powers
and Sport modes. The excellent 4Matic superb combination of traditional luxury the air conditioning, audio and other
all-wheel drive system splits the 45/55 and modern technology. Polished metal services. Upon releasing the brake, the
front/rear torque – and is more efficient trim and high quality materials cover engine immediately restarts.
while the E 350 has standard traction and adorn the roomy plush interior. It is
and stability control which help direct simply gorgeous. The Panamera S I tested generated
power to any individual wheel. Overall 400-horsepower and 369 pound-feet
the improvements in handling, stability The Panamera arrives with imposing of torque from its naturally aspirated,
and ride quality mean the E 350 deliv- engineering, as all Porsches are renowned direct injected engine, and could sprint
ers powerful, smooth driving, all-wheel for. Unlike Porsche’s normal mid- and from 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds to a
drive traction, and a quiet cabin. Offi- rear-engined offerings, the Panamera’s top speed of 283 km/h. Standard equip-
cial Energuide fuel consumption ratings engine is located at the front, allowing ment includes eight-way power and heat-
are 12.7 L/100 km city, 8.3 L/100 km
highway. To sum up, there are few vices
in this car. It is certainly a more aggres-
sive looking E Class, but perhaps that is
what is needed to add new customers
which it should certainly find given its
value for money, attractive price and the
prestige for which the Mercedes name is
known.

2010 Mercedes-Benz E 350 sedan
priced from $62,900.

92 Mehfil February/March 2010

ALL 2010
MAZDAS
AT 0%THHOERWE’SEVAEMRAYZDOAUFOMMRO{YzOVdUE{., 6
6t0A4hl-8Ke6h8at-l4oi3fat9M2{lly{, czomdp0le{tS6e0h4al6-yn3,e113N0-5aF07k7%a6i nIeNw ANS7h7a8n-k8C9In6-a8m48dE6arSales & Leasing Professional%% PURCHASE FINANCING FOR

UP TO 60 MONTHS

ON SELECT MAZDA MODELS†

Sales & Leasing Professional 2008.5 MAZDA3

GT model shown WITH AIR CONSDaITlIeOsN&INGLeasing Professional
WELL EQUIPPED FROM $19,270**

2.0 litre engine 148HP, Anti-lock brakes with

Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Dual front

airbags, Side air bags, Side curtain air bags,

Engine immobilizer theft deterrent system, Tilt &

Telescopic steering wheel, AM/FM CD player L/100 km: City 8.4 – Hwy 6.1
with Auxiliary Input, 4 speakers, Sport exhaust. MPG: City 33.6 – Hwy 46.3

Don't miss the vehicle sales event of the year as we

celebrate our 1st birthday with a month long sale this May! 2008.5 MAZDA3 SPORT

As Surrey's newest Mazda dealership we've got state-of- WITH AIR CONDITIONING
WELL EQUIPPED FROM $20,270**

the-art facilities, a bright, high-tech showroom and a team 2.0 litre DOHC in-line 16-valve 4-cylinder engine,
148HP, Anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake
that sets a new standard for professionalism. Visit Surrey Force Distribution, Dual front airbags, Side air
bags, Side curtain air bags, Engine immobilizer
Mazda during the month of May and you'll find the hottest GT model shown theft-deterrent system, Tilt & Telescopic steering
wheel, AM/FM CD player with Auxiliary Input, 4
vehicles in the market at the hottest prices and backed with the speakers, Exterior temperature gauge. L/100 km: City 8.4 – Hwy 6.1
MPG: City 33.6 – Hwy 46.3

best customer service in the industry.

GT model shown 20052008 MAZDA5 SPORT
2008 ecoENERGY
CANADA’S MOST FUEL EFFICIENT VEHICLE AWARD
VEHICLE IN ITS CLASS
L/100 km: City 9.6 – Hwy 7.1
WELL EQUIPPED FROM $22,185** MPG: City 29 – Hwy 40
6 passenger seating, Anti lock brakes with Electronic
Brake Force Distribution, Dual front air bags, side
airbags & curtain airbags, Keyless entry, Engine
immobilizer theft deterrent system, Power windows,
locks & mirrors, Steering wheel mounted audio
controls, Rain-sensing front wipers.

2006 2008 MAZDA MX-5 MIATA

GT model shown WELL EQUIPPED FROM $29,388** L/100 km: City 9.5 – Hwy 7.3
2.0L DOHC in-line 16-valve 4-cylinder engine, MPG: City 30 – Hwy 39
166HP, Anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Force
Distribution, Front and rear stabilizer bars, Steering
wheel mounted audio and cruise controls, Power
lock, windows and door mirrors, Engine immobilizer
theft-deterrent system.

15420 - 104th Ave, Surrey, BC 604-583-7121EXPERIENCE EMOTION IN MOTION AT YOUR BRITISH COLUMBIA MAZDA DEALER.
File Name: 87-75000-183_M6_ShowroomPoster_2 NEW MATERIAL

CYAN

MAGENTA

BLACK www.freewaymazda.ca

"'$#$($+" BOOK& !& !%($+!) ,%"'&%%'#!&&)&""$ &% F%"'&"'$"'&%&!DING COMPREHENSIVE AND POWERTRAIN WARRANTY COVERAGE. YOUR TEST-DRIVE ONLINE AT WWW.MAZDA.CA.
GRADUATES GET AN ADDITIONAL CASH AWARD OF UP TO $1,000 TOWARDS A PURCHASE OR LEASE. † 0% Purchase financing not available on select Mazda3 models, Mazda6 and Mazda5 models.
At 0% purchase financing, a financed amount of $20,000/35,000 the monthly payment is $334/584 per month for 60 months, the cost of borrowing is $0, and the total obligation is $20,000/35,000. Taxes, $46 max. PPSA extra. **Starting price
for 2008.5 Mazda3 Sedan GX (D4XS58BA05)/2008.5 Mazda3 Sport GX (D5XS58BB05)/2008 Mazda5 GS (E6SD58AA00)/2008 MX-5 Miata GX (L2XS58AA00) is $19,270/$20,270/$22,185/$29,388. Total price, lease and cash purchase offers

*$7000 rebate applies to 2007 Mazda 6 Speedinclude freight and P.D.E. of $1,275/$1,390 for Mazda3, Mazda3 Sport, MX-5/Mazda5. Licence, insurance, taxes and other dealer charges extra. Dealer may sell/lease for less. Limited quantities available. Dealer order or trade may be necessary

on certain vehicles. Offers available for a limited time. Lease and Finance on approved credit for qualified customers only. See your dealer for details. Based on 2008 fuel consumption ratings published by Natural Resources Canada.

CYAN MAG YEL BLK

on select Accord mFoidnelds Out3,5What00Honda OwneornsseAlecltrCeR-aVdmyodKelsnow.CASH ACC $&+ NEW Put driving exhilarmodelationCP2F3AE model CP3689JN Accord Sedan EX-L V6 Accord %)(' % Best Selling Car in Canada on select Civic modelsCASH STARTING FROM (FOR CIVIC DX) Put fuel economy in Driving pleasure
the palm of your hands that goes the distance.
at"your fingertips! Ci11Ye$arsina&Row*+viNEW INCENTIVES $18,300 MSRP‡
!
! CIVIC Includes freight & PDI


""$ $$ INCENTIVES STARTING FROM
# up
! to
$
$ $!
#$ ! up ON ALL MANUAL 2010 CIVICS
to O
RD 2N6E,# Includes W50freight
c,%
# 1,000%*"
$ $
1,500¥
(FOR ACCORD£ Accord LX Sedan

MSRP‡

0O&FFERPDI

LX)$! $!
NEW OFFER PST REDUCTION $ ††
!
£
¥

CASH STARTING FROM (FOR CR-V LX) $&+ NEW CR-V EX-L CR-V %$ $! ! Civic DX-A Sedan
CR-V LX 4WD model RE4879JN model FA1E2AE4X
29,35#$ 0 MSRP‡ for"versatility! $
Hands down winnmodel erRE4H3AEY
INCENTIVESCR -V
Includes freight &PDI FOR 5 YECivicASedanRSEX-L low as † PURCHASE FINANCING
model FA1509JNX as
up You may be eligible for the ON PUSELECTRCHCIVICASEMODELS AN0NJO.UU9SNTC%EDO.A.C
to
$


$ £ NEW OFFER
4,000¥ BC GOVERNMENT
$!

$ F1IN,SALES0ATAXN0CIREBATE0N-
! G% for 36
! months

#Limited time lease offers based on new 2010 Honda models. Lease examples based on new 2010 Civic DX-A Sedan, model FA1E2AE4X / 2010 Accord LX Sedan Automatic, model CP2F3AE / 2010 CR-V LX 4WD, model RE4H3AEY available through Honda Financial Services on approved credit. £2.9% / 2.9% / 2.9% lease APR for 48 / 48
/ 48 †mLoimntihtesd. Mtimonethfilynapnacyimngenotf,feinrcbluadsiendgofrneingehwt a2n0d0P9DHIoisnd$a21m8o/de$l2s9. 8Fin/ a$n3c1e8.exDaomwpnlepabyamseedntoonrneeqwuiv2a0le0n9tCtrivaidceDoXf S$1ed,5a4n1,.m24od/e$l3F,A714512.292EX/ ,$a3v,7a4ila7b.9le8,thfirosut gmhoHntohnlydapaFyinmaenncti,ael nSveirvoincmesenotnalafpepersovaendd c$r0ed/it$.0‡M/ $S0RPseicsu$r1ity8,d3e0p0o(siintcdludeeast$le1a,3se10infcrepigthiotna.nTdotPalDlIe)afisneanobceligdaatito0n.9is%$1A3P,R58e5q.u8a7ls/ $52105,3.4502.6p5er/ $21,433.42. Taxes, license,
insurmanocnethanfodr r3e6gimstoranttihosn.aCroeset xotfrab.o9rr6o,w00in0gkiislo$m2e5t5re.0a2llfoowr antcoeta; lcohbalrigeatoiofn$o0f.1$21/8k,m55f5or.0e2x.cTeasxseks,ilolicmeentsres, .inRseutraailnecremaanydlereagsiestfroartiloenssa.rReeetaxitlrear.oRredtearile/ rtrmadaeymsealyl fboer lneescs.eRsseataryil.e†rLoirmdieterd/ ttriamdeefminayncbinegneocffesrsabrays. e¥dCaosnhnpeuwrc2h0a1s0e Hinocnednativmeoodfefelsr.sFwinilalnvcaeryefxraommpmleobdaesletdo omnondeewl. $210,15000CicvaicshDpXu-ArcSheadsaenin, mceondteivleFA1E2AE4X available through
HondaavaFinlaabnleciaolnSneerwvic2e0s0o9nCaipvpicromveoddeclrse,deitx.c‡luMdSinRgPCisiv$ic18D,X68S5ed(ianncluMdTe,sm$o1d,3e9l F5Af1re5i2gh9tEaXn/d2P0D0I9) fCinivainccDedX aCto0u.p9e%MeTq,umalosd$e3l 1F8G.15192p9eEr /m2o0n0th9 fCoirv6ic0Hmybornitdh,sm. Coodsetl oFfAb3o6r2ro9wE;in$g2i,s00$043c0a.s5h9pfourcahtaostealinobcelignatitvioenaovfai$la1b9l,e11o5n.5n9ew. Ta2x0e0s9, lAiccecnosred, Cinosupraenacned, e2n0v0ir9onAmcceonrtdalSfeedsananmdordeeglis,treaxticolnudairnegeAxctrcao.rRdeEtaXilCeor umpaey sell for less. Retailer order /
tradeMmT,amy boedenleCcSe1ss1a7r9y.J¥aPnrdiceAsccloowrderLeXdSbeyd$a5n0M0To,nmaolldneelwCP22051309AEc;c$o3r,d540-0cyclainsdheprumrcohdaeslse; ibnyce$n1t,i0v0e0aovanilaalbl lneeown22001009AAccccoordrdVC6omupoedeVl6s;abnyd$210,00090AocncoarlldnSeewd2an01V06Cmivoicdemlso;d$e4ls,0e0x0cecpatsHhypburirdc;hbayse$1in,5c0e0ntoivneaallvnaeilawb2le0o1n0 2C0R0-V9 mCRo-dVelms.o†d†e$ls1,,0e0x0clumdainxgimCuRm-VPLSXT 2reWduDc,tmioondoenl RalEl3n8e3w92E0. 1†0/¥5O-fsfepresedvamlidanfruoaml Civics. #/£/†Offers valid from
JanuFaerybr2u7atrhy, 32r0d1,020th0r9outghhroMugahrcFhe1bsrut,a2r0y1208atht,p2a0rt0ic9ipaattpinagrtHicoipnadtainrgetHaiolenrdsa. Orefftearislevrsa.lidOfofenrlys fsourbBjerictitsthoCcohlaunmgbeiaorecsaidnecnetllsaatiot nBCwHithonoduat nDoetaicler.sS.eOeffyeorsursuHbojnedctatroectahialenrgfeororfuclal ndceetallialsti.o-n Sweitlehcotu2t 0no0t9icHe.oSnedea yCoivuircHmonodaelsreqtauialelirfyfofrofrutlhl edeGtaoivlse.rnment of British Columbia’s $1,000 Provincial Sales Tax reduction

for fuel efficient vehicles. Visit www.livesmartbc.ca/taxes for more information. *As reported by Canadian manufacturers for calendar year 2008. NHL and the NHL Shield are registered trademarks of the National Hockey League. ©NHL 2008. All rights reserved.

ed seats, six-piston 350/330 mm front/ The name you can trust…
rear brake rotors, navigation system,
park assist; rain-sensing wipers, sunroof, Your Satisfaction is Guaranteed
bi-xenon headlights with LED running
lights, premium audio, start-stop tech- • Express Repair Shop • I.C.B.C Accredited Shop
nology, the PDK transmission, power lift- Certified Craftsmen • “Lifetime” Warranty • Free Estimates
gate, and 18-inch wheels. Courtesy Cars • Glass Replacements • Premium Quality Paints

The Panamera 4S offers all-wheel drive, Amarjit Samra
and a quicker 5.0-second, 0-100 km/h
sprint time. The top-dog Panamera Turbo 11954-94th Ave, Delta, BC
model increases standard equipment and, 604-589-2203 / 604-589-0008
with its twin-turbocharged engine, deliv-
ers a whopping 500-hp and 516 lb.-ft. of ALLIED INSURANCE
torque. The Panamera Turbo also offers SERVICES INC.
a full-leather interior (adding leather to
dashboard and door panels), adaptive &AST

Movie reviews
by Ron Ahluwalia

3 Idiots demic stress leading students Basanti and the same is true for do before. Just as impressive is
to commit suicide, parental 3 Idiots. his appearance — he actually
We’ve lately seen a greater pressure and expectations, and does look young enough to be
influx of smart movies with the idea that more money means Each gets equal scope to entering first-year university!
unpredictable plots that chal- more happiness and success. perform and each makes a
lenge the sensibilities and sensi- strong impression. Sharman Kareena Kapoor is good in a
tivities of conventional Indian Humour, tragedy and real- Joshi has graduated from loud supporting role. Boman Irani’s
wisdom. For that, we should be ism play strong roles, making 3 and obnoxious comedian to character is far too reminiscent
thankful. We should be most Idiots a success. a true actor. R. Madhvan is a of Mamu from Munnabhai
thankful of all for movies like 3 constant reminder that actors MBBS. It’s nice to see Mona
Idiots. Director Rajkumar Hirani popular in the South can make Singh after a long time.
failed with the second it in Bollywood. Aamir Khan Amardeep Jha is on the mark as
Farhan (R. Madhvan) and Munnabhai flick. 3 Idiots is total becomes Rancho — his man- always.
Raju (Sharman Joshi) traverse redemption. His story is seam- nerisms and dialogue delivery
northern India to find their long- less, the flashbacks work like a are nothing like we’ve seen him This was the best movie of
lost college roommate Rancho charm and the twist in the plot is 2009. Do NOT miss this one!
(Aamir Khan). Along the way, a perfectly executed.
series of well placed flashbacks
unveil why the search for this Shantanu Moitra’s soundtrack
one man is so important to these and background score, coupled
friends. A layered, ingenious and with the excellent cinematog-
highly relevant movie awaits the raphy of Simla and Ladhak, is
viewer for the next 2.5 hours. stellar.

How often can we say that? The ensemble cast is fan-
The movie tackles serious tastic. Khan, Madhvan, and
issues in Indian culture: aca- Joshi were amazing in Rang De

Kurbaan he joins her and begins teach- dilute enjoyment of the their chemistry.
ing at her university. All seems movie. The screenplay Kirron Kher and Om Puri
The world of cinema has well until Avantika discovers does not patronize audi-
only recently become fascin- her neighbours are actually her ences with a typical are perfect cast. Cameos by Dia
ated by Islamic fundamentalism in-laws and they are terrorists. Bollywood-style ending. Mirza and Nauheed Cyrusi are
in the East and its influences. So is her husband. Riaz (Vivek The movie is tragic, but memorable.
But this has been a theme in Oberoi) is a reporter with a per- not necessarily dark.
Bollywood for the industry’s his- sonal vendetta against Ehsaan’s This powerful film encour-
tory. The evolution of the genre terrorist family and starts his Saif Ali Khan’s role ages debate and reflection with-
has brought Indian cinema to a own sting operation to exact his is reminiscent of Aamir out passing judgement. Kurbaan
stage where intelligent, compel- revenge. Khan in Fanaa a few deserves a watch.
ling and entertaining movies years ago. Nonetheless,
that reflect the word’s political The best thing about he delivers the goods.
and social climates are being Kurbaan is that the terrorists are Kareena Kapoor is finally grow-
produced. Kurbaan is that kind not caricatures. The depictions ing as an actress and learning
of movie. are culturally and ideologic- the art of believable histrionics.
ally sensitive. Resnil D’Silva’s Vivek Oberoi is in a meaty role
Avantika (Kareena Kapoor) direction is slick, especially in after a long time and shows the
is an American professor the risqué love-making scene wowing talent that lifted movies
seconded to an Indian university between Khan and Kapoor. like Company, and Shootout at
where she falls in love with and There are some predictable Lokhandwala. They worked well
marries Ehsaan (Saif Ali Khan), moments, but not enough to in Omkara and have not lost
a fellow faculty member. When
she is called back to New York,

Ishqiya Khalu (Naseeruddin Shah) and The performances are the Bollywood heroine and catches
Babban (Arshad Warsi) knock on heart of the film. Shah and Warsi the viewer by surprise in many
The problem with Indian her door expecting to stay with share great chemistry. Their scenes. Absolutely perfect!
cinema is the idea that mov- their old friend. Krishna houses mama-bhanja routine is far more
ies are either “commercial” or her late husband’s friends and reminiscent of a bromance. It’s early in the year, but
“art” and never the twain shall develops an eerie connection Ishqiya is a tough act to follow
meet. Debut director Abhishek with each of them. Down and Vidya Balan springs a big and the first must-see of the new
Chaubey, with the blessings of out, the three turn to each other surprise in this movie. With no decade.
producer-writer Vishal Bhardwaj, and devise a plan to change big names or glossy production
merges the grit and audacity of their fortunes. values, she bears the respon-
art cinema with the flair of com- sibility of luring audiences
mercial cinema in Ishqiya. The brilliance of Ishqiya is and keeping them in her grasp
the screenplay. Its development with the author-backed role.
Krishna (Vidya Balan), the of the characters is swift and She does not miss a beat. Her
widow of an infamous kidnap- nuanced. role is nothing like your typical
per, lives alone in Gurakhpur.
On the run from their creditor,

96 Mehfil February/March 2010

L o ca l Artist

Alisha Pillay

AStRiasinrg

by Michelle Hopkins Photo by Mavreen David

Alisha Pillay is young, beautiful and “I competed against 600 singers from Experiences with Dr. Maya Angelou.
already on the fast track to making B.C. I was chosen one of three finalists. Doors opened.
it as a pop sensation. We were flown to David Foster’s house in Pillay recently received a music schol-
The 19-year-old pop and R&B singer/ Malibu for a private audition in front of
songwriter has already accomplished what him,” says Pillay, who is an English major arship at the prestigious Berklee College
many in the music industry take years to at Capilano College. “I sang Alicia Keys’s of Music.
achieve: air play for her newest release, song If I Ain’t Got You, and he told me I
Convicted, on major radio stations across did a really good job.” Her lyrical journey began while she
Canada. Her love ballad also won the was in elementary school.
Radio Active contest and is now available In November, a poised Pillay, along
on iTunes. with the other two finalists, performed At the tender age of seven, Pillay
at the David Foster and Friends Charity demonstrated her artistic abilities, excel-
Things are moving at dizzying speed. Gala fundraiser at the River Rock Casino ling in dance, piano and voice lessons. By
Pillay has been selected as the up and Resort in Richmond. She impressed the nine, she was writing songs.
coming artist on clothing giant Le judges and walked away the winner.
Chateau’s website, and this February the “I was really bored one day, listening
young chanteuse heads to Los Angeles to A highlight for Pillay was meeting and to Britney Spears and watching her videos
pen songs with a number of talented writ- sharing the stage with superstars such and I thought, ‘Why don’t I try this?’” she
ers and producers. as Sarah McLachlan, Josh Groban and says with a laugh.
Renee Olstead.
Pillay says she’s thrilled that she will Soon after, her piano teacher helped
be working with Kevin Hall, senior vice- That was soon followed by another the young ingénue record her first song,
president of Urban Music at Universal stunning performance at the Vancouver Baby You are the One.
Music. Orpheum during the Unique Lives and
The rest, as they say, is history. You can
“My goal is to come back to Vancouver catch this fast-rising star online at www.
with at least five or six great songs,” says alishapillay.com. p
the self-described self-motivator.

Then in March, it’s off to Toronto to
record her CD.

One of the reasons for her swift rise
— besides being blessed with an amaz-
ing voice — was catching the attention of
Grammy Award-winning composer and
producer David Foster.

After Pillay dazzled the crowd during a
2005 performance at the nationally tele-
vised Grey Cup earlier that year, she was
selected to be a contestant in his 2005
David Foster Star Search.

She was 14 at the time.

Mehfil February/March 2010 97