My Bindi Articles

Sampradaya Dance Creations Partners with FILMI to Launch Children’s Film Festival

Tue, 21 May 2013 19:23:00 -0400

Sampradaya Dance Creations is excited to be partnering with FILMI (Toronto's South Asian Film Festival) to launch a Children’s Film Festival on Sunday, May 26, 2013 @ 4pm at Sampradaya Theatre in Mississauga as part of the Company’s signature series, the Kalangan Series –World of South Asian Arts.

Artists who will be in attendance for the festival include Ash Varma and Saskia Laufer - who happens to be just 8 years old herself!

Notable works selected for the launch of festival are - Raju by Max Zahle - a 2012 Oscar Nominated Film in the category of Best Live Action Short Film and Honeybee Mine - a documentary by Saskia Laufer - which has been submitted for 2013 Jump Cuts TIFF Kids International Film Festival and has also been shortlisted for a TVO Kids Choice Award 2013.

Sampradaya is delighted to be able to showcase these thoughtful and engaging movies that we hope will inspire our local children and youth.

“Our children and youth need opportunities to experience various art forms across all genres. Having our own theatre space allows us to program such events and offer it at no charge for families to enjoy an afternoon of watching great films together. It is a proud moment for us to see our family programming come to fruition in this way” shares Artistic Director for Sampradaya Dance Creations, Lata Pada.

Films that have been selected for the festival include:

Name: Aimee
Director: Ash Varma
Duration: 4:47minutes
Language: English
Synopsis: A young girl struggles to fit into her new surroundings.

Name: AFFECTION
Director: Ash Varma
Duration: 8:37minutes
Language: Silent
A story about little boys struggle to find balance.Oscar Nominated 2012

Name: Raju
Director: Max Zahle
Duration: 24 minutes
Synopsis: A German Couple adopts an Indian orphan in Kolkata.
When the child suddenly disappears they realize they are part of the problem.
Oscar Nominated 2012 – Best Live Action Short Film

Name: Honeybee Mine
A documentary film by Saskia Laufer
Duration: 4:58 minutes
Synopsis: One summer afternoon, filmmaker Saskia Laufer discovers a live bee colony in the rafters of her
cottage basement. In the ensuing process of trying to remove the honeybees, she experiences the pain of the bee sting, the sweet taste of honey and the joy of capturing it all on video.
Submission to the 2013 Jump Cuts TIFF Kids International Film Festival
Shortlisted TVO Kids Choice Award 2013

The launch of this initiative is also proudly supported by Media Sponsor, Mybindi.com .

For event details please click HERE.
For more information please click HERE.

About Sampradaya Dance Creations

Sampradaya Dance Creations is a Canadian, Mississauga-based professional dance company specializing in the creation and production of classical and contemporary dance works rooted in the tradition of bharatanatyam, a South Asian dance form.

Founded in 1990 by Lata Pada, C.M. accomplished dancer and choreographer, the Company continues to inspire audiences with annual productions produced locally and internationally while continuing to nurture the talents of emerging young dancers.

The Company receives on-going operational support from the Canada Council for the Arts, the Ontario Arts Council, andthe City of Mississauga. Capital Support for Facility Expansion was received from the Ontario Trillium Foundation and Canadian Heritage.

Launch of Local Cricket Tournament Scores for The Scarborough Hospital

Sat, 18 May 2013 01:11:00 -0400

The Scarborough World Cup of Cricket , an inaugural event, is being held in support of The Scarborough Hospital's Cancer Care program and will also include cricket clinics by leading professional cricket player Umar Bhatti and well-known coach Nadeem Khokhar.

Above: Popular level-three certified cricket coach Nadeem Khokhar teaches kids from the Agincourt Montessori School how to bat at an event to unveil the inaugural Scarborough World Cup of Cricket, which will be held June 22-23 at L'Amoreaux Park in support of The Scarborough Hospital's Cancer Care program.

The fun filled event will include a family barbecue and international food fair, and Teddy Bear check-ups performed by hospital doctors and nurses in field tents.

The announcement was made today by The Scarborough Hospital Foundation, organizer of the event, and its sponsors, Scotiabank, TD Canada Trust, Royal Bank of Canada, Habib Canadian Bank, ATN (Asian Television Network), The Islamic Foundation of Toronto, Scarborough Muslim Association, Western Union, Arthur Fire Protection, Scarborough Town Centre, Physiomed, Lisa Grogan Green , TEVA Canada, BMO and Woburn Medical Centre.

Above: Professional cricket player Umar Bhatti helps kids from the Agincourt Montessori School sharpen their cricket skills at an event to unveil the inaugural Scarborough World Cup of Cricket.

The Scarborough World Cup of Cricket is a two-day, 10-team round robin tournament with a reduced format of 10 overs per match. Teams, put together by the sponsors, consist of 15 players, with qualifying games on day one. The top four teams will proceed to day two, which will include two playoff games and a championship game, with the leading three teams receiving gold, silver and bronze medals.

Response from the community to the tournament announcement has been overwhelming, as is evident by how quickly our sponsors pulled teams of players together, said Tournament Chair Nigel Samaroo, adding that organizers expect the event to draw hundreds of local residents. This will be a true community-wide event, with something for every member of the family.

Michael Mazza, President of The Scarborough Hospital Foundation, explained that the funds raised from The Scarborough World Cup will help The Scarborough Hospital provide integrated cancer care services to the community. It is The Scarborough Hospital's vision to have a coordinated and integrated Cancer Care program so our community can continue to receive high quality cancer care close to home, across our organization, he said, adding that when the community comes together, great things can be accomplished.

Above: Karen Holness, a nurse at The Scarborough Hospital, performed Teddy Bear check-ups for students of Agincourt Montessori School as part of the launch of the upcoming inaugural Scarborough World Cup of Cricket.

According to Sari Greenwood, Patient Manager of The Scarborough Hospital Cancer Care program, the hospital receives more than 24,000 visits annually to its cancer centre, and the numbers are growing. Managed by a multidisciplinary team of oncologists and specially-trained nurses, the hospital's Cancer Care program is very strong, and with increased integration of services, our program will become even stronger.

Admission to The Scarborough World Cup of Cricket and all activities are free of charge, with food available for purchase.

For more information, please click HERE .

Situated in the most diverse community in Canada, The Scarborough Hospital Foundation ( TSHF) raises funds for state of the art medical equipment and building projects for The Scarborough Hospital. Since its inception, the Foundation has worked with generous donors, volunteers and community members to raise the funds needed to help save lives, and support our vision to be recognized as Canada's leader in providing the best healthcare for a global community.

A Passage to Bombay and Beyond…

Fri, 17 May 2013 13:32:00 -0400

Are there any stories left to tell about India’s most fascinating city?

Yes, most definitely yes, says Veena Gokhale, author of Bombay Wali and other stories, recently released by Canadian publisher Guernica Editions .

Bombay, like New York, Paris, London and other world cities, is teeming with tantalizing tales!

“Six of the 12 stories in my book reflect the slum-speckled, City of Gold I knew in the 1980s,” says Gokhale. “I was a college student and then a journalist in Bombay, and it had not been renamed Mumbai then. I wrote the stories in Toronto nearly 10 years later. I was doing my Masters at York University and the stories started tumbling out.

“The first, Reveries of a Riot, was in response to a very tense period of communal violence in Bombay in the early 1990s. Others followed.”

Says reviewer Heather Leighton about the book in The Rover, an independent review of art and culture:

“While her stories impart a genuine taste and flavour of India familiar to Indophiles, there is a definite departure from tradition in this collection, giving the reader a sense that considerable change is in the air… “Bombay Wali” is a welcome shift from the traditional portrayal of Indian women.”

“My stories are both character and plot driven,” says Gokhale. “The hero or heroine are intimately drawn, and I describe the people, relationships and issues in their life with as much depth as a short story allows! The themes and emotions tackled are universal - friendship and resentment, family ties and freedom, despair and acceptance, ambition and uncertainty, growing up and growing old. There is a touch of humour and one reader told me that I create suspense. Some of the stories have an informal, playful vibe; others are more serious.”

The characters reflect the diversity typical of urban, contemporary India and come from different language, caste, class and age groups. So there is Dilip, a dalit (lower caste) student who comes to Bombay from a small village to attend university on a government scholarship, and Munni, a little servant girl.

Feroza is a middle-aged Parsi woman, a university professor who is the primary caregiver for her aging parents.

The setting for Feroza’s story is a Jazz Festival in Bombay.

Ashok is a Maharashtrian businessman who prides himself on being “modern” and is put off because his niece and wife have compelled him to take yoga classes after a heart attack.

Bombay Wali means a woman from Bombay.

The book title comes from a story about three, young, women journalists – Renuka Rao, Gulnar Vaid and Tanya Trivedi – who are close friends. Renuka needs money and Gulnar comes up with a desperate scheme to help her. Gulnar is also writing a novel called Bombay Wali.

By the end of the story, she has changed her mind about who is a real Bombay Wali. Is it someone born and brought up there, or an outsider who makes the city her own, is the question Gulnar poses.

Identity and belonging is a theme that recurs; hardly surprising from an author who has lived in 10 cities in 3 countries. In Canada, Gokhale has worked with non-profit organizations that focus on environment and international development issues. She currently lives in Montreal with her partner Marc-Antoine.

The three stories that take place outside India unfold in Kathmandu, suburban Tokyo, and on an unnamed tropical island and Toronto.

“The best part of being published is reader response, which has been very positive,” she says.

Veena Gokhale invites MyBindi readers to visit her website which features a short intro video, story descriptions and excerpts, interviews and reviews, ordering info, a pinterest spread of text and images, and more!

To get in touch with Gokhale please contact her via Email . She is available for readings at book clubs, guest appearances at community events and to collaborate with other writers and artists.

“The book can help spark a discussion about various aspects of life. So it is a two-way communication, not just “passive” reading,” she says. She also has Bombay, India and Nepal pictures to share.

Halton Regional Police Host Asian Heritage Festival

Thu, 16 May 2013 19:59:00 -0400

Halton Regional Police are proud to be hosting the Asian & South Asian Heritage Month now in its 11th year!

Special Guests this year include Tiger Jeet Singh and Tiger Ali Singh: Both world famous wrestling Ambassadors, Humanitarians and Philanthropists.

Aside from their numerous international achievements and accolades, father and son entered the record books after both were inducted together to Milton’s Walk of Fame and again both receiving the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medals.

They have now set another goal and that is to bring joy and opportunity to the youth around the world by promoting their message of Stay in school, Stay away from drugs and Stay Tiger-Fit.

“Both my father and I are thrilled to be part of this year’s festival,” says Tiger Ali Singh. “It’s an opportunity to further bridge the understanding among diversity and showcase the beautiful heritage of Asians and South Asians living in Canada. We are grateful for Halton Regional Police to taking on this initiative and look forward to supporting them in the future.”

Master of Ceremonies will be Indira Niadoo-Harris. This event is part of the Asian and South Asian Heritage Month celebration going on across the country. Asian Heritage month officially began in Canada in May 2002, when the Government of Canada signed an official declaration to designate May as Asian Heritage Month.

This month long period allows all Canadians to acknowledge the long and rich history of Asian Canadians and their contributions to Canada. It also provides an opportunity for Canadians across the country to reflect on and celebrate the contributions of Canadians of Asian and South Asian Heritage to the growth and prosperity of Canada.

This Halton Event is as a result of a partnership made up of the Halton Regional Police Service, The Halton Multicultural Council, Halton District School Board, The Halton Catholic District school Board, and various community partners.

The day’s events will include performances from Bhangra dancers and Dhol drummer, Children from Tiger Jeet Singh Public School band and choir members, Korean girls dance group, Taiko drumming from Do Kon Daiko, Chinese Lion dancers and demonstration from The Cead Bua fighting faction club.

Rakhine Lotus Flower Dance (Budda Puzania) performed by the Myanmar Cultural Association of Brampton. Milton and Georgetown Seniors Flying Rainbow Tai Chi Group.

Visitors will also be able to attend the various cultural information booths being represented by volunteers who represent a large quantity of Asian and South Asian cultures.

There will be various local vendors who will be offering cultural jewellery and other goods for sale. There will also be a children’s craft corner set up.

Finally, lunch is being supplied by Funky Thai and the Alemilia group for a nominal cost to provide light refreshment.

For event details please click HERE .

'Yamla Pagla Deewana 2' Movie Synopsis

Thu, 16 May 2013 17:44:00 -0400

‘YAMLA PAGLA DEEWANA 2’ once again brings together the three Deols - Dharmendra, Sunny Deol & Bobby Deol and 2 Lead Actresses in a film genre comprising of comedy, action & romance.

Check out Yamla Pagla Deewana 2's official trailer:

The story revolves around Paramveer Singh Dhillon (Sunny Deol), a dashing, honest and righteous loan recovery agent with a unique working style. He initially greets defaulters with flowers, if otherwise needed, the “dhai kilo ka haath”.

The film opens in Scotland, travels to Banaras and eventually makes its way to UK.

In another universe called Banaras, much to Paramveer’s oblivion his folks Dharam (Dharmendra) and Gajodhar (Bobby Deol) have failed to mend their ways and continue deceiving people.

This time though they have a greater con up their sleeves.

Their latest fish is, Yograj Khanna, a rich Night Club owner from England. Shrewdly Dharam intends to hook up Gajodhar with Yograj’s strikingly beautiful daughter, Suman, posing as a billionaire himself.

Dharam and Gajodhar land in UK and to their surprise find that Paramveer is Yograj’s new night club manager.

Thus unfold series of hard core conning by the father-son duo.

With Paramveer hell-bent on ruining every last one of it, the entry of Reet, an attractive woman who runs an art gallery.

She is also Paramveer’s love interest, and a mysterious character named ‘Q’ which adds to the comedy of errors, comprising of mistaken identities, weddings, kidnappings and Mafia wars.

The twisted trios are back with a bang, except they are funnier, crazier and make tigers look like whimpering cats.

Yamla Pagla Deewana 2, is produced by YPD Films Ltd & Sunny Sounds Pvt Ltd, and directed by starring Sangeet Sivan.

It starrs Dharmendra, Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Neha Sharma, Kristina Akheeva, Anupam Kher, Annu Kapoor, Johnny Lever, Sucheta Khanna.

The Film releases 7th June 2013 worldwide

Have a listen to the movie's smashing track Suit Tera Laal Rang Da:

Canadian Hip-Hop Veejay Commemorated on Trading Card!

Thu, 16 May 2013 16:41:00 -0400

Raoul Juneja (aka Deejay Ra) is the latest Canadian hip-hop luminary to be recognized as part of Toronto promoter Fred E. Fame's "Great Canadian Hip-Hop Trading Card Collection".

Known as the closest thing to a Canadian "Hip-Hop Hall of Fame", the collection has already received the support of KRS-One and other American hip-hop legends.

Raoul currently appears as the Music Coordinator for Canada's first South Asian music TV show "V-MIX", which airs across the country on OMNI Television each Sunday.

Hosted by Dilshad Burman, “V-MIX” is also known for paying tribute to old school hip-hop artists who have inspired today’s generation of South Asian urban artists, and for supporting independent Canadian artists who are fans of South Asian music.

Over 100,000 copies of Raoul’s “Great Canadian Hip-Hop Trading Card” will be distributed across Canada this year, as part of a limited edition trading card pack which also features Raoul on the cover.

First editions of the packs will be distributed this month, timed with ‘Hip-Hop Appreciation Week’ and ‘South Asian Heritage Month’, which are both celebrated in Canada during May.

V-MIX wrapped up its first season last August as the first Canadian media to speak to Bollywood superstar Priyanka Chopra about her upcoming English pop album being produced by Lady Gaga’s team.

Raoul with Dilshad

V-MIX also featured rap legend Snoop Dogg in their season one finale, who had previously worked with Raoul for a Canadian film festival premiere of Snoop’s “Singh is Kinng” Bollywood music video.

Raoul recently kicked off the 2nd season of V-MIX late last year interviewing “The Godfather of Canadian Hip-Hop” Maestro Fresh-Wes (known worldwide for his hit 1989 ‘Let Your Backbone Slide’ single) and renowned American poet/actor Saul Williams, who both praised today’s cultural diversity in hip-hop.

Raoul with Saul Williams

Afrika Bambaataa, one of the “founding fathers” of hip-hop, and Grammy winner Taboo (of the Black Eyed Peas) were recently featured on V-MIX, discussing their love of Punjabi music. V-MIX was also a 2013 Canadian Screen Awards nominee (Canada’s equivalent of the Emmy Awards).

A well known media personality in Canada over the past ten years, Raoul is the first veejay to be featured as part of "Legends of the Fame: The Great Canadian Hip-Hop Trading Card Collection".

Born in Toronto but raised in New York, Raoul returned to Toronto in the mid 1990's, immediately becoming part of the growing Canadian hip-hop scene.

Raoul's first college radio series "Comedy Meets Hip-Hop" featured Canadian comedians such as Russell Peters and artists such as Choclair, while his initial foray into TV landed him the first North American interview of world renowned producer Panjabi MC. Raoul even became the first hip-hop deejay to write an op-ed for Canada's national newspaper, The Globe & Mail.

Raoul with Russell Peters

Raoul is also founder of a 'Hip-Hop Literacy' campaign, for which he arranged hip-hop themed book giveaways and appeared at schools to read to students across Ontario. Working with charities such as the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund, Raoul's campaign also received the support of numerous celebrities such as Michael Madsen, Jasmine Guy, Robert Forster, Sarita Choudhury and even Sticky Fingaz among others.

Raoul With Michael Madsen

Raoul has received awards from the Province of Ontario, commendations from the Government of Canada, and even recognition from Nelson Mandela for his various educational initiatives and community work.

In 1996, Raoul was co-executive producer of the Tupac ten year anniversary commemorative album "A 2Pac Tribute: Dare 2 Struggle" alongside Tupac's adoptive father, Dr. Mutulu Shakur. The album featured Tupac's brother Mopreme Shakur (of Thug Life), The Outlawz, and the late Johnny "J" (producer of some of Tupac’s biggest hits) among others.

Created in 2011 by Fred E. Fame, “Legends Of The Fame: The Great Canadian Hip-Hop Trading Card Collection” features talent from all aspects of Urban entertainment and the Hip-Hop community.

To learn more about Raoul please click HERE.

For more about Fred E. Fame’s “Great Canadian Hip-Hop Trading Card Collection” click HERE .

To check out V-Mix click HERE .

V-MIX Canada Air Times: Sunday's on OMNI Television at 4:00 PM (EST) in Ontario / 11:30 AM (PST) in British Columbia / 11:30 AM (MDT) in Alberta

Fundraiser in Support of Oasis Animal Rescue

Thu, 16 May 2013 15:39:00 -0400

Party for Paws Comedy Show & Party

On Friday, May 31st, Oasis Animal Rescue will be hosting its first Annual Fundraiser “PARTY FOR PAWS ” at the luxurious Proof Vodka Bar inside the Intercontinental Hotel in Yorkville, Toronto. The event promises to be a fun-filled night featuring a comedy show and after party, and is dedicated to raising funds for Oasis’ programs and inspire awareness on animal welfare throughout our community.

This event aims to not only raise as much money as possible for Oasis, but to also create an incredible and unforgettable night for all our guests.

Enjoy a fun night of laughs with live performances by some of Toronto’s funniest comedians:

Aastha Lal (Absolute Comedy, Comic Strip Live (New York), Second City)

Nitish Sakhuja (Yuk Yuks (Toronto), Voted Mississauga’s Funniest Comic)

Mike Rita (Vapor Central, Yuk Yuks (Toronto), Second City)

After the comedy show, guests will PARTY to the sounds of DJ Navin S as he spins the best in Hip Hop, House, R&B, Reggae and Top 40.

The newly renovated and luxurious Proof Vodka Bar will serve as the backdrop for this event with its plush lounge and gorgeous patio.

For event details please click HERE .

Charity Partner:

Proceeds from the event will be going directly to Oasis Animal Rescue. Oasis Animal Rescue and Education Centre is a non-profit organization committed to saving animals that are abandoned, displaced or homeless. Oasis is not only dedicated to saving the lives of orphaned pets, but also offers several programs to help animals in need. These programs include food bank services to feed the hungry pets of seniors and low income pet owners, basic veterinary care for those who cannot afford it, and a safe and responsible foster parent network.

To learn more about Oasis Animal Rescue, please click HERE .

This event is proudly sponsored by MyBindi.com .

Interview :: Gurpreet Singh Sarin on Life After 'American Idol'

Wed, 15 May 2013 20:15:00 -0400

Gurpreet Singh Sarin, is best known for his bright turbans and soulful vocals on reality-singing competition, 'American Idol'. Now dubbed as the "Turbanator", Sarin has broken cultural barriers by becoming the first ever Sikh to make it to such a program, and become a Top 40 contestant.

Take a look at Sarin's cover of JT's Cry Me A River:

MyBindi's Habiba Ahmad caught up with the talented Sarin to discuss life after 'Idol' and why he is so passionate about singing, song-writing and playing the guitar.

You have made pop culture history by becoming the first ever Sikh to make it to American Idol and reach to the Top 40. How do you think you have impacted society?

One thing I love about music is that it is universal – it shouldn't matter how you look, where you’re from, what language you speak, etc. Auditioning for American Idol was a goal of mine because I wanted to take my passion for singing and music to the next level.

I’m glad to have had the opportunity to show the world that you shouldn't judge a book by its cover.

I've been told that I have now opened the doors to minorities and given them the courage to pursue their passion without thinking of their appearances as obstacles – that is a huge blessing for me!

There were some negative comments said about you in social media such as “Osama bin Laden cannot win American Idol #ThatsUnamerican”. How did you overcome such adversities?

I was aware that my unique identity would possible result in racial slurs; however, my main focus was on getting to the next rounds of the competition, so I wasn't spending any time with the hate messages.

Many Sikhs have been subject to hate, especially since the attacks on 9/11 – by keeping my head up and staying confident, I wanted to prove to society that you can stand up to bigotry and conquer your fears with a positive attitude. I’m thankful for all the support and encouragement I received from my family, friends, local community, and the entire Sikh community.

On the other hand, you were also seen as a rallying point for the Sikh-American community. How did you feel knowing you were representing an entire ethnicity?

It was such a blessing and honor to be able to represent the Sikh-American community and Sikh religion on the mainstream network! Having such a strong support system to provide me with words of encouragement, I felt confident being an ambassador for Sikhs.

I believe there are many ways to educate others about who we are; our religion, culture, beliefs, etc. Being on mainstream media was an approach that I found to be lucrative because of its large audience-base. It was very re-assuring when naysayers approached me and said “you have changed our perception and helped educate us”. Hearing those words already assured that I had succeeded!

You only started practicing Western music a couple years ago. What brought you to shift from your background of classical music?

I've mentioned before that I believe music in universal – music of the east and west has been combined by many artists, such as Ustad Zakir Hussain, Pandit Ravi Shankar, Norah Jones, etc.

My passion for Western music, particularly blues, jazz, soul, and folk came about when I noticed that they all share a common link with Eastern music: improvisation.

Indian classical music roots itself of the notion of improvising and expressing emotions from the heart. I found this concept to exist in particular genres of Western music, and that’s what got me to start practicing.

After being eliminated from ‘American Idol’ you promised your fans that you would return next year. Have you considered running for a competition other than ‘American Idol’ such as ‘The Voice’ where they solely base one’s performance on vocals and not appearance.

I auditioned for ‘American Idol’, because I had been watching the show for a few years and was aware that many of its finalists had achieved stardom and recognition in the music industry. That being said, I’m open to all venues and have not ruled out other competitions. I have considered competing on 'The Voice’, because they do indeed focus on vocals and not so much of appearance.

Being Sikh didn't stop you from achieving your goals in the Western world; instead it has worked as your fuel. What advice do you give those breaking cultural barriers?

I believe it’s important for us to recognize that our unique identity should not act as an obstacle and should not prevent us from following our passions and goals. More than anything else, sometimes our mind acts as a hindrance, because we feel that we won’t be accept.

I like to reiterate a quote from Canadian Hockey Player, Wayne Gretzky: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” I encourage everyone to step out of their comfort zone and stay optimistic!

What do you think of Canada and your fans in Canada?

I've been to Canada a couple times and one thing that always pleases me is the excellent preservation of the Sikh religion and Punjabi culture. Whether it’s the participation in Gatka after a Sunday Divaan, Bhangra practice, or a simple afternoon stroll by a Sardar Ji in a flowing beard, beautiful Dastar, and Kura Pajama – these things draw me close to Canada!

I want to thank each and every one of my fans in Canada for reaching out to me and providing me with support! It truly means a lot to have such a wonderful fan-base and I’m excited to meet everyone!

What do you do when you’re not enjoying your love of music and song?

Outside of singing and music, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, playing tennis and working out, reading, watching TV shows, shopping.

Is the Western GTA in Economic Gridlock?

Wed, 15 May 2013 17:58:00 -0400

Brian Crombie, Founder and Co-chair, Western GTA Summit

Is the Western GTA in Economic Gridlock?

As you read this, chances are you have recently spent time stuck in traffic or have waited too long for a bus or a train. Chances are also that you have said to yourself, there has to be a better way. You are not alone.

In recent months, there has been a lot of discussion about the investments we need to make in our public transit and transportation networks and even more discussion about how we are going to pay for these. No decisions have been made, but almost everyone agrees that we must do something to reduce congestion and improve how we move goods and people. It’s critically important that all residents have a say in these decisions because everyone will be affected by the choices we make today. To date, the discussion about transit and transportation has focused on the needs of Toronto.

The Western GTA is home to 1.5 million people and our voice needs to be heard.

How we move is critical to how we live and more importantly, how we thrive and prosper. Every year in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) traffic and congestion cost us $6 billion in lost GDP and our average commute is one of the longest in North America at an average of 82 minutes.

The average family in the GTA spends over $10,000 on transportation costs, while 45 per cent of us in Peel Region live in what are considered “low or very low income” neighbourhoods. The more time we spend in our cars, or taking inefficient public transit means more time away from our families, reduced job opportunities and a strain on our finances.

The time for action is now. However we at the Mississauga Summit believe that addressing transit and transportation in isolation leaves out important parts of the discussion and does not adequately address the larger issues facing residents in the Western GTA. This is why the Mississauga Summit organization is hosting the Western GTA Summit on May 21, 2013 at the Mississauga Convention Centre.

The Summit will ask a single question: Are we facing economic gridlock?

To answer this important question, we will not only examine how we move, but will go a step further and also examine how we live and most importantly, how we thrive and prosper.

For instance, will ask questions like do we need to change the way in which we live and design our communities? What should our future neighbourhood and city growth look like and do we require changes in zoning, density and urban design, and what about the call for an end to sprawl?

Poverty rates remain a serious concern in the GTA, but how we will we fight it? How will we tackle homelessness, precarious employment and the increasing use of food banks? And, what innovations and employment opportunities will we create for youth, seniors, new immigrants and the working poor to ensure everyone has a chance to thrive?

The 2013 Western GTA Summit will be co-chaired by Mississauga Mayor, Hazel McCallion, Brampton Mayor, Susan Fennel, Oakville Mayor, Marolyn Morrison, and Oakville Mayor, Rob Burton.

Joining these mayors will be a wide array of experts in each of the areas of live, move and thrive.

The Summit will feature keynote speakers, followed by round-table discussions with participants, including businesses, academics and residents of the Western GTA.

I hope that you will consider joining us for what we believe will be a game changing afternoon.

For event details please click HERE.

If you would like to register or find out more, please click HERE .

Decisions are made by those who get involved. Make sure your voice is heard.

South Asian Heritage Day filled ROM with vibrant colours

Tue, 14 May 2013 21:38:00 -0400

On Saturday May 11th, the ROM was filled with vibrant colors from South Asia for South Asian Heritage Day.

This exciting event was organized by Ethnic Marketing, ROM’s official community partner, in lieu of the South Asian Heritage month celebrations in Canada.

The event branded as 'RUNG' - Colors of a Living Culture - was a huge success, attended by close to 3500 people including the following VIPs:

Hon. Senator Salma Ataullahjan (Chief Guest)
Hon. Senator Nicole C. Eaton
Hon. Senator Asha Seth
Hon. Minister Bal Gossal
Hon. Minister Michael Chan
Hon. MP Jim Karygiannis
Hon. MP Chungsen Leung
Consul Generals: Pakistan, Nepal, Turkey, Cuba and Afghanistan

Culture and heritage from all South Asian countries was well represented and showcased. The event’s highlight, however was the internationally recognized Truck Artist Haider Ali from Pakistan, who flew in specially for the event and painted before a live audience (courtesy: Govt. of Pakistan).

Haider Ali’s work as an artist was recognized by Senator Salma Attaullajan and she presented him with a certificate of appreciation. Hon. Ministers Bal Gosal and Michael Chen, recognized the importance of such events and appreciated Ethnic Marketing for organizing this community event in collaboration with the ROM.

South Asian Heritage Day was packed with multiple exhibits, set up throughout the ROM. These included classical music and dance performances, Miniature paintings, Textile crafts, Rangoli display (floor art), Truck Art, Kites display, Digital Photography, Documentary and Film, Calligraphy, Islamic Art, Youth Dance etc. Live Storytelling for children and delicious South Asian food at the ROM Cafe continued all day long. 

My Bindi Articles

Sampradaya Dance Creations Partners with FILMI to Launch Children’s Film Festival

Films that have been selected for the festival include:

For event details please click HERE.For more information please click HERE.

Launch of Local Cricket Tournament Scores for The Scarborough Hospital

The Scarborough World Cup of Cricket , an inaugural event, is being held in support of The Scarborough Hospital's Cancer Care program and will also include cricket clinics by leading professional cricket player Umar Bhatti and well-known coach Nadeem Khokhar.

Above: Professional cricket player Umar Bhatti helps kids from the Agincourt Montessori School sharpen their cricket skills at an event to unveil the inaugural Scarborough World Cup of Cricket.

Above: Karen Holness, a nurse at The Scarborough Hospital, performed Teddy Bear check-ups for students of Agincourt Montessori School as part of the launch of the upcoming inaugural Scarborough World Cup of Cricket.

Admission to The Scarborough World Cup of Cricket and all activities are free of charge, with food available for purchase.

For more information, please click HERE .

A Passage to Bombay and Beyond…

Are there any stories left to tell about India’s most fascinating city?

Bombay, like New York, Paris, London and other world cities, is teeming with tantalizing tales!

Bombay Wali means a woman from Bombay.

“The book can help spark a discussion about various aspects of life. So it is a two-way communication, not just “passive” reading,” she says. She also has Bombay, India and Nepal pictures to share.

Halton Regional Police Host Asian Heritage Festival

Halton Regional Police are proud to be hosting the Asian & South Asian Heritage Month now in its 11th year!

Special Guests this year include Tiger Jeet Singh and Tiger Ali Singh: Both world famous wrestling Ambassadors, Humanitarians and Philanthropists.

For event details please click HERE .

'Yamla Pagla Deewana 2' Movie Synopsis

‘YAMLA PAGLA DEEWANA 2’ once again brings together the three Deols - Dharmendra, Sunny Deol & Bobby Deol and 2 Lead Actresses in a film genre comprising of comedy, action & romance.

Check out Yamla Pagla Deewana 2's official trailer:

Thus unfold series of hard core conning by the father-son duo.

The Film releases 7th June 2013 worldwide

Have a listen to the movie's smashing track Suit Tera Laal Rang Da:

Canadian Hip-Hop Veejay Commemorated on Trading Card!

Raoul Juneja (aka Deejay Ra) is the latest Canadian hip-hop luminary to be recognized as part of Toronto promoter Fred E. Fame's "Great Canadian Hip-Hop Trading Card Collection".

To learn more about Raoul please click HERE.

For more about Fred E. Fame’s “Great Canadian Hip-Hop Trading Card Collection” click HERE .

To check out V-Mix click HERE .

V-MIX Canada Air Times: Sunday's on OMNI Television at 4:00 PM (EST) in Ontario / 11:30 AM (PST) in British Columbia / 11:30 AM (MDT) in Alberta

Fundraiser in Support of Oasis Animal Rescue

Party for Paws Comedy Show & Party

Enjoy a fun night of laughs with live performances by some of Toronto’s funniest comedians:

Aastha Lal (Absolute Comedy, Comic Strip Live (New York), Second City)

Nitish Sakhuja (Yuk Yuks (Toronto), Voted Mississauga’s Funniest Comic)

Mike Rita (Vapor Central, Yuk Yuks (Toronto), Second City)

For event details please click HERE .

Charity Partner:

To learn more about Oasis Animal Rescue, please click HERE .

This event is proudly sponsored by MyBindi.com .

Interview :: Gurpreet Singh Sarin on Life After 'American Idol'

Take a look at Sarin's cover of JT's Cry Me A River:

MyBindi's Habiba Ahmad caught up with the talented Sarin to discuss life after 'Idol' and why he is so passionate about singing, song-writing and playing the guitar.

You have made pop culture history by becoming the first ever Sikh to make it to American Idol and reach to the Top 40. How do you think you have impacted society?

There were some negative comments said about you in social media such as “Osama bin Laden cannot win American Idol #ThatsUnamerican”. How did you overcome such adversities?

On the other hand, you were also seen as a rallying point for the Sikh-American community. How did you feel knowing you were representing an entire ethnicity?

You only started practicing Western music a couple years ago. What brought you to shift from your background of classical music?

After being eliminated from ‘American Idol’ you promised your fans that you would return next year. Have you considered running for a competition other than ‘American Idol’ such as ‘The Voice’ where they solely base one’s performance on vocals and not appearance.

Being Sikh didn't stop you from achieving your goals in the Western world; instead it has worked as your fuel. What advice do you give those breaking cultural barriers?

What do you think of Canada and your fans in Canada?

I want to thank each and every one of my fans in Canada for reaching out to me and providing me with support! It truly means a lot to have such a wonderful fan-base and I’m excited to meet everyone!

What do you do when you’re not enjoying your love of music and song?

Is the Western GTA in Economic Gridlock?

Is the Western GTA in Economic Gridlock?

The Summit will ask a single question: Are we facing economic gridlock?

For event details please click HERE.

If you would like to register or find out more, please click HERE .

Decisions are made by those who get involved. Make sure your voice is heard.

South Asian Heritage Day filled ROM with vibrant colours

On Saturday May 11th, the ROM was filled with vibrant colors from South Asia for South Asian Heritage Day.

For event details please click HERE.
For more information please click HERE.