COLD  CANADA?  WE WELCOME WITH WARMTH!

-      By Usha Pudukkotai

We all have dreams, goals, aspirations. For a better lifestyle, a better future for ourselves and our families. With that in mind, many of us are willing to relocate to an unknown land, leaving our comfort zone behind. In pursuit of opportunities, we emigrate to different countries and make our new homes in distant and far away places.

With globalization though, the world has definitely shrunk and no corner of the planet is too remote! No land unknown, no territory undiscovered, no surprises whatsoever! However, relocating from one place to another is still not an easy task, especially if you are moving in/out with your families.

When you take a look at statistics, every year the number of visa applicants to and from each country is mulitiplying geographically. As of 2006, the International Organization for Migration has estimated the number of foreign migrants worldwide to be more than 200 million. Europe hosted the largest number of immigrants, with 70 million people in 2005. North America, with over 45 million immigrants, is second, followed by Asia, which hosts nearly 25 million. Most of today's migrant workers come from Asia.

In 2005 the United Nations reported that there were nearly 191 million international migrants worldwide, about 3 percent of the world population. This represented a rise of 26 million since 1990. 60 percent of these immigrants were now in developed countries, an increase on 1990. Those in less developed countries stagnated, mainly because of a fall in refugees. Contrast that to the average rate of globalization (the proportion of cross-border trade in all trade), which exceeds 20 percent. The numbers of people living outside their country of birth is expected to rise in the future.

The Midwestern United States, some parts of Europe, some small areas of Southwest Asia, and a few spots in the East Indies have the highest percentages of immigrant population recorded by the UN Census 2005. The reliability of immigrant censuses is low due to the concealed character of undocumented labor migration.

A 2012 survey by Gallup found roughly 640 million adults would want to migrate to another country in the world if they had the chance to. Nearly one-quarter (23%) of these respondents, which translates to more than 150 million adults worldwide, named the United States as their desired future residence, while an additional 7% of respondents, representing an estimated 45 million, chose the United Kingdom. The other top desired destination countries (those where an estimated 25 million or more adults would like to go) were Canada, France, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Germany and Spain.

Of special interest to us is Canada, which is our new home, to many of our readers. In 2001, 250,640 people immigrated to Canada. Newcomers settle mostly in the major urban areas of Toronto and Vancouver. Since the 1990s, the majority of Canada's immigrants have come from Asia. The leading emigrating countries to Canada are China, Philippines and India. India was the third largest source country for immigration to Canada in 2012, with 28,889 permanent residents admitted. This represents an increase of almost 15 percent since 2004. In 2010, a record 280,636 people immigrated to Canada.

Looking at these figures, is it any wonder that Canada is a hugely popular destination? Not at all. What’s the reason behind it? Not the cold weather, the harsh winters and the snow. Obviously not. It is the economic opportunities, the family values, the human aspect. The government gives a lot of importance, tremendous amount of assistance to newcomers trying to integrate into the mainstream society. In the workplace, in schools as well as culturally. The number of programs that are available is incredible. Right from when you arrive at the airport, you feel welcome, you feel you have arrived at the right place. A great country, great people with a lot of warmth.

In addition, there are a lot of non-profit agencies as well as businesses that have their own initiatives and endeavours that you can avail. So, yes to reiterate, we can emphatically say that it’s a warm country and a great place to bring up our kids, the next generation!

MUMBAI & PUNJAB IN SPLITS AFTER SPECIAL SCREENINGS OF BHAJI IN PROBLEM

 Akshay Kumar invites international audiences to watch ‘Bhaji in Problem’

Grazing Goat Pictures had a few lucky viewers in splits at special screenings of their first ever Punjabi Comedy film ‘Bhaji in Problem’ which releases worldwide today.

The production banner spearheaded by Akshay Kumar and Ashvini Yardi organized a special screening in Mumbai and the film’s premiere in Chandigarh consecutively on Wednesday and Thursday this week and all the attendees were full of praises for the film.

Akshay Kumar’s dear friend and leading Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh attended the screening in Mumbai and the Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab, Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal along with legendary actor Dharamendra graced the screening in Chandigarh.  Akshay and Ashvini made an appearance at both the venues in support of  the film and cheered on the cast and crew of his film. Leading lady, Ragini Khanna who makes her Punjabi Cinema debut, accompanied Akshay and Ashvini to the Mumbai screening of the film whereas whilst the other cast and crew members, Gurpreet Ghuggi, Gippy Grewal and director Smeep Kang were seen at the Chandigarh screening. According to an onlooker in Mumbai, Yuvraj found the film so funny that he fell off his chair laughing while watching the film.

The Chandigarh premiere was met with a flurry of excited audiences and fanfare to welcome in the stars of Bhaji in Problem, a film which is set to be a game changer for Punjabi cinema globally.

Post the screening in Mumbai, Akshay Kumar released a video message for his International fans saying, “This is the first time I’m making a film in Punjabi. Bhaji in Problem will be releasing on the 15^th of November, which is a very funny film with a lot of emotions as well. I want to invite everyone to come watch the film, with your entire family, your mom and dad, your grandparents, come with everyone and enjoy the film”

In speaking about the release, Ashvini Yardi said: “We are very excited about the release of our first Punjabi Film Bhaji in Problem. The film has turned out really well and is a laugher riot which can be enjoyed with the entire family. The film looks promising, our friends and guests have enjoyed the screenings and we are certain it will perform well internationally. We cannot wait to see the audiences reactions.”

Bhaji in Problem’ stars some of Punjab’s most reputed stars Gippy Grewal and Gurpreet Ghuggi who are joined by Sasural Ghenda Phool’s Suhana Raghini Khanna, and veteran actor Om Puri as central characters. The film is directed by Smeep Kang who has delivered successful hits such as Carry on Jatta and Lucky Di Unlucky Story. The film also sees cricketer Harbajan Singh make a friendly appearance in the film. Akshay Kumar who is producing the film with Ashvini Yardi under their production banner Grazing Goat Pictures, will also be seen featuring in an extended role in the film.

‘Bhaji in Problem’ is their second regional film production after the poignant Marathi film ’72 Miles Ek Pravas’ and third feature film after the box office hit OMG: Oh My God, which grossed over 100 Crores at the international and Indian box office, and gained rave reviews from audiences and critics alike.

HRH The Prince of Wales and HRH The Duchess of Cornwall Visit Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi

HRH The Prince of Wales (Prince Charles) and HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, visited Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi to experience India’s ageless beauty, borderless culture and timeless values.

 Prince Charles was greeted with a garland of flowers, a chandlo (vermillion powder) and the tying of the sacred kalva (sacred thread) by Atmaswarup Swami (Head Sadhu) on behalf of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj - the inspirer & creator of Swaminarayan Akshardham and Spiritual Head of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, was also greeted in a traditional Indian manner with the auspicious marks of welcome and goodwill by Rohini Patel, lead volunteer of BAPS Women’s Forum. 

Trustees of Swaminarayan Akshardham, Chairman of Swaminarayan Mandir in London, Jitu Patel, and other leading volunteers of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha welcomed the royal couple upon arrival.

After admiring the Mayur Dwar (Peacock Gate), the royal couple made their way to the Swaminarayan Akshardham Mandir where they admired the world’s ‘Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple’.  Captivated by the intricate hand carvings, Prince Charles said, “I am amazed at your outstanding achievement.  I don’t remember seeing anything like this in the world! I promote revival of art and heritage and this (Swaminarayan Akshardham) is perhaps one of the most exceptional examples.” The Duchess of Cornwall also said, “This is an architectural marvel.  I cannot believe how intricate the carvings are.  How did you create all of this in five years.”

After offering respects by placing flowers at the sacred shrine and viewing the mandir’s architecture, the royal couple visited the Gajendra Pithika (Elephant Plinth) that includes 148 life-sized carved stone elephants depicting message of social harmony, peace and spirituality.  Moved by its messages, the Prince said, “The effort you have put into immortalizing them in stone is incredible. What adds value to this place is that you also provide moral, social and spiritual counseling to all the pilgrims and visitors who come here”

Commenting on the 11,000 volunteers who helped create Akshardham, Prince Charles expressed “Where can you get such dedication? His Holiness’s (Pramukh Swami Maharaj) purity and goodness and the selfless spirit of the organization (BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha) can truly inspire such creations of inspiration. I missed His Holiness today. He is truly a deeply spiritual soul, a great leader.”   

About BAPS:

The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a worldwide civic and spiritual organization in Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, is dedicated to community service, peace and harmony.  Motivated by Hindu principles, BAPS strives to care for the world by caring for societies, families and individuals. Through a number of civic and spiritual activities, BAPS endeavours to produce better citizens of tomorrow who have a high esteem for their roots - their rich Hindu heritage.  Its 3,300 international centres support these activities of character-building. Under the guidance and leadership of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, BAPS aspires to build a community that is morally, ethically and spiritually pure, and free of addictions.

About Pramukh Swami Maharaj:

His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, has inspired millions of people across the world to lead a God-centred, morally pure life.  As the present leader of BAPS, Pramukh Swami Maharaj travels from village to village, continent to continent, emphasizing the importance of family harmony, community service and spiritual progress. He embodies the essence of Hindu life.  His compassion for humanity, universal wisdom and striking simplicity has touched many world religious and national leaders.

BHAJI IN PROBLEM’ RECIEVES RECORD PRICE FROM DISTRIBUTORS IN PUNJAB

With exactly 10 days to go for the release of the much awaited Punjabi comical relief, Bhaji in Problem, from Akshay Kumar and Ashvini Yardi’s production house Grazing Goat Pictures, the buzz is that the company has been inundated with huge demands for the rights of the film from across cinemas in Punjab!

An insider has revealed that the film has been sold in Punjab for a record price, a first for a Punjabi film. Keeping in mind the pre-release craze, the distributors are certain of recovering their investments in the first week of the release itself.

Soon after the trailer was launched, audiences were found tweeting and describing the trailer as hilarious and expressing their eagerness to watch the film. Some people also called it the ‘Dhamaka’ trailer, re-instating the fact that the film indeed looks as a promising blockbuster for all Punjabi and Comedy film buffs.

Bhaji in Problem stars some of Punjab’s most reputed stars such as, Gippy Grewal and Gurpreet Ghuggi who are joined by Sasural Ghenda Phool’s Suhana, Ragini Khanna, and veteran actor Om Puri as central characters. The film is directed by Smeep Kang who has delivered successful hits such as Carry on Jatta and Lucky Di Unlucky Story. The film also sees cricketer Harbajan Singh make a friendly appearance in the film. Akshay Kumar who is producing the film with Grazing Goat Pictures Co-producer Ashvini Yardi, will feature in an extended role.

‘Bhaji in Problem’ is Grazing Goat Picture’s second regional film production after the poignant Marathi film ’72 Miles Ek Pravas’.

Art & Artefacts: Inspiring, Interesting & Intriguing

Not too long ago, a few weeks back, to be precise, a group of ethnic media persons were chosen to tour the Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto and McMichael Museum in Kleinburg, Ontario. Thanks to Ontario Tourism and McMichael Museum, who organized the event, we were able to gain insight into the work done by the ‘Group of Seven’ and other Canadian artists.

Our first stop was The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) in Toronto's Downtown Grange Park district, on Dundas Street West between McCaul Street and Beverley Street. Its collection includes more than 80,000 works spanning the 1st century to the present day. The gallery has 45,000 square metres (480,000 sq ft) of physical space, making it one of the largest galleries in North America. Our focus was the exhibits by the ‘Group of Seven’.

The Group of Seven — sometimes known as the Algonquin school — was a group of Canadian landscape painters from 1920 to 1933, originally consisting of Franklin Carmichael, Lawren Harris, A.Y. Jackson, Frank Johnston, Arthur Lismer, J. E. H. MacDonald  and Frederick Varley. Later, A. J. Casson, Edwin Holgate and LeMoine Fitzgerald became members, at different points.

Believing that a distinct Canadian art could be developed through direct contact with nature, The Group of Seven is most famous for its paintings inspired by the Canadian landscape, and initiated the first major Canadian national art movement.

The seven who formed the original group travelled throughout Ontario, especially the Muskoka and Algoma regions, sketching the landscape and developing techniques to represent it in art.

Large collections of work from the Group of Seven can also be found at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection in Kleinburg, Ontario. That’s where our next and final destination was.

Upon arrival, we were kindly served a sumptuous lunch before being taken on a guided tour by expert curators.

 The McMichael was founded by Robert and Signe McMichael, who began collecting paintings by the Group of Seven and their contemporaries in 1955.

The McMichael Canadian Art Collection is an art gallery in Kleinburg, Ontario, Canada, northwest of Toronto. It houses an extensive collection of paintings by Tom Thomson, the Group of Seven and their contemporaries, and First Nations and Inuit artists.

The core of this art collection and the very gallery itself are the result of the dreams and vision of two people. Signe and Robert McMichael were, on first sight, completely captivated by the paintings of the Group of Seven which seemed to embody the same love and respect they had for the Canadian landscape.

After becoming a public institution, the collection continued to grow through the ongoing support and donations from Signe and Robert McMichael, as well as many other private collectors. The McMichaels continued to live at the gallery as unpaid curators-in-residence until their retirement in 1981.

We explored outdoor art with Ivan Eyre's dramatic twice-life-size bronze sculptures, the Tom Thompson Shack, the Gallery Shop – all surrounded by 100 acres of beautiful conservation land which you can explore through a network of paths and trails.

Thank you, team of ‘Ontario Tourism and   McMichael Museum for an awe-inspiring and amazing guided tour!

For those interested in learning more, please visit www.mcmichael.com.

ACTRESS AND SOCIAL ACTIVIST LISA RAY WALKS THE RUNWAY IN NEW YORK FOR SATYA PAUL’S ‘RAY OF HOPE’ COLLECTION

Actress and social activist Lisa Ray took to the runway as Showstopper at the Angel Orensanz Foundation in New York on Sunday, October 27th, in support of the limited edition collection of Sarees she co-created with renowned Indian design house Satya Paul. The Splendid Indian Closet event is a three-city fashion tour showcasing Indian couture, luxury fashion and prêt lines by some of the biggest and brightest designers in the industry. Ray wore an exquisite silver and gold lehenga on beige sheer as the showstopper. The concept of 'East meets West' inherent in the 'Ray of Hope' line, was rendered by 'Kundanwork' used in a contemporary manner.  Special guests who also walked the runway included Bollywood actress and host of India’s “What Not to Wear,” Soha Ali Khan, for Joy Mitra’s “Chokher Bali” collection. Recently-crowned Miss New Jersey USA, Emily Shah, also walked the ramp to support the cause. 

Ray’s early success as a top model and celebrity in India evolved into an acclaimed acting career and includes the starring role in Academy Award nominated film Water. She is currently the host of Top Chef Canada, and is on a National tour of Canada with Indian star, Kabir Bedi for the stage production ‘Taj,’ written by award-winning Canadian playwright John Murrell. Ray is completing her autobiography, which is expected to be published in 2014.

In 2009, Ray was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, cancer of the plasma cells. Following treatment, including a stem cell transplant, Ray met financial executive Jason Dehni. In 2012, the couple married, and on her wedding day, Ray wore a custom-made Satya Paul georgette Saree highlighted with traditional gota-patti work. With the aim of sharing her experience of being a Satya Paul bride, Ray has partnered with the brand to design an exclusive range of Sarees. Through the ‘Ray of Hope’ collection, Ray illustrates her experiences with life, love and cancer on nine yards of fabric. The fabrics can be draped as a Saree, or framed as artwork; Ray calls them ‘Wearable Art.’ 

“Living with multiple myeloma, I have learned that the progress of the human spirit doesn’t stop with obstacles and challenging circumstances. I want to share my message of victory and love with others,” says Ray. “I am partnering with Satya Paul to present a line of Sarees that capture the intimate and celebratory emotions of my wedding. The collection is themed around universal qualities that helped me rise above, like Phoenix Rising, Hope and Faith,” said Ray. Getting diagnosed with multiple myeloma has been a catalyst for change in my life. It is still considered incurable and ultimately fatal. While I'm living with cancer, I’ve also learned how to live more fully." 

A portion of the sales from the ‘Ray of Hope’ collection in Canada benefit the Molly and David Bloom Chair in Multiple Myeloma Research at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. The Bloom Chair supports multiple myeloma research and the development of life-extending treatments for this treatable, yet incurable cancer.   

Bonnie Crombie's Fall Festival brings in bountiful harvest for Seva Food Bank

  

Mississauga, ON - Over 1,000 residents, along with Mayor McCallion joined Ward 5 City Councillor, Bonnie Crombie for her 1st Annual Ward 5 Fall Harvest Festival in support of the Seva Food Bank on October 27th

  

"I was pleased to see so many residents came out to support the food bank," said Crombie. "Unfortunately, we know that food bank use is on the rise in Mississauga and it was my goal to address this need, while providing a fun-filled afternoon for families."

  

According to Seva, over 450 pounds of food was collected at this event.

  

"We were delighted to participate in this year's Harvest Festival. It is a great initiative for Ward 5 and we're pleased to partner with Councillor Crombie to make it happen," said Kulvir Singh Gill, the Chair of the Board of Seva Food Bank.

  

The event featured live entertainment by vocal artists Matt "Zaddy" Zadkovich and Josephine Paul, along with dance performances by the Butler Fearon O'Connor School of Irish Dance, the Culture Philippines of Ontario Dance Troupe, the Lechowia Polish Canadian Folk Dance Company, Mississauga Chinese Arts Organization, Radosc-Joy Polish Dancers, the Macedonian Folklore Ensemble, and the Barvinok Ukrainian Dance School.

 

Along with live entertainment the event featured information and activity booths from over 40 local community groups, including Mississauga Fire, Peel Regional Police and St. John's Ambulance, to name just a few. Residents also enjoyed pumpkin carving and bouncy castles, free food including spring rolls, hot dogs, pasta, pastries, soup, hot chocolate, apple cider and coffee, as well as a corn roast.

Over 25 local companies sponsored the event, including: Pinnacle International; Solmar; Summitview Homes; Toronto Pearson; CML Health Care and Life Labs; Greg Dell & Associates; Louis & Carmela Kapeleris; COSTCO; COTT Beverages; COBs Bread at Hurontario & Eglinton; Century Audio Visual; Tim Horton's; The Mississauga Convention Centre; Romas Banquet Hall; Maple Lodge Farms; Enbridge; Dixie Ford; Oceans; the City of Mississauga; the Region of Peel; Mississauga Fire; Peel Regional Police; St. John's Ambulance; and Downey Farms.

  

Crombie promises to continue to host events like this one in the future as they benefit causes. Her next event will be a free skate on Sunday, December 8, 2013, from 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm at Iceland Arena, where residents will be asked to bring non-perishable donations for the food bank.