asian lifestyle magazine vol 6 | NO 5 | issue # 35 | May 2008

mother’s
day special!
celeb mom’s
george samuel top gifts
the businessman of the month we love you!

spotlight
our place Restaurant Scoop
ruchi palace Restaurant Book review
rukhsar face & laser center Kids section
Bollywood
Complimentary copy
www.diyamagazine.com Love advice
35 >
and more...
06 7 7 1 5 4 2 6 8 8 0 0 1 5

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 1

Visit www.DiyaMagazine.com to view this issue & win prizes
2 DIYA MAY 2008
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CONTENTS
may 2008
volume 6 number 5
“”
52
Let me explain this with a little anecdote,” he says. “When
I was in the eighth grade I participated in the National
youth festival. I used to think of myself as a good ora-
tor but when I went on stage and looked at the audience I
couldn’t make myself utter a single word. I just stood there
for five minutes and came back. Six months later I gave a
speech of our school’s annual day function and got the first
prize. So, my philosophy is that you can overcome any
hurdle if you believe in yourself.
George samuel
CEO, HL ELECTRONICS
6 DIYA MAY 2008
[ Features ]
38 Mother’s Day special:
The Mother’s Fairytale
All of us are here today because of one person. The person
who chose their live the way it was ‘meant to be’, so they
could smile when they see the happiness in your eyes.
40 Mother’s Day special: Bollywood Mom’s
A sneak peak at the bollywood’s elite.
46 Mother’s Day special:
Top 10 Mother’s Day gifts
Get creative & get your mom a prefect gift or see what we have in store
for you.
52 George Samuel
Eight dollars in the pocket to multi-million dollar company owner/
CEO - this month’s Businessman of the Month!
59 Want a flawless skin?
If flawless skin is on your agenda for this Spring, Rukhsar Face and
Laser Center in Carrollton, TX is the place to go.
36 Spotlight: Our Place Indian Cusine
“The staff is really prompt and friendly. And once you are there, you
will find yourself at home at Our Place.”
48 Spotlight: Ruchi Palace Indian Cuisine
It has a cozy ambiance with minimalist traditional décor and a wide
and delectable selection of recipes - the latest addition to the DFW
metro.
70 How to be a good co-worker
Follow these simple steps to be more productive & a good co-worker
85 Kick start your day!
With Sesame seed and cranberry breakfast naan bread with honey &
coconut.
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 7
CONTENTS
[scene] contributors
29 DFW Int’l Community
27 Baisakhi Mela Gurpareet Bains:
22 Asian Excellence Grew up in England into a large fam-
ily, surrounded by aunts, uncles,
grandparents and a virtual army of

[ be aut y ] brown children (my cousins). “Mum

34 How to get a beautiful skin?
33 TOP 10 Asian Beauty Products
30 Sexy in 60 minutes
would always be cooking up a storm
of crispy samosas, spicy pakoras and
melt in the mouth gulab jamuns in
sweet sugar syrup.“ Our eyes [sib-
lings] would remain fixated on our mother. She would
masterfully make one paratha at a time. And we would
sit wondering who would get the next. Proof that even
the simplest pleasures in life can turn out to be the most

[ fi tness ] ambrosial.“

64 The best way to get back on track Mike Ghouse:

Is a Speaker, Thinker, Writer and a Mod-

[ films+ ] erator. He is a frequent guest on talk

72 Bollywood movie review
74 Malayalam & Telugu movie review
73 East Asian Film Review
78 Tamil Film Review
76 Hollywood movie review
radio and local television network dis-
cussing Pluralism, politics, Islam, Reli-
gion, Terrorism, India and civic issues.
His comments, news analysis, opinions
and columns can be found on the Web-
sites and Blogs listed at his personal
website www.MikeGhouse.net (http://
www.mikeghouse.net) . He can be reached at MikeG-
house@gmail.com or (214) 325-1916. (The Mike Ghouse
Column)

[ travel ] Abhishek Nagrath:

Currently working as an SAP consul-
66 Kuala Lumpur tant. Abhishek is aggressive when it
comes to his career. “Yes, I will be at

[ every issue ]
the top of whatever I do. I am still ex-
perimenting with myself and waiting
for the day to shout Eurekaaaa!!” (Ca-
9 Editor’s Note reer section article)

10 Horoscope
18 Books
Prianna Staley:
16 Kids Section Prianna is a budding writer living in
88 Restaurant Guide the suburbs of Dallas. She is involved
in the local fashion scene in Dallas and
86 Mike Ghouse’s column talks endlessly about her life to anyone
who would listen. She can be reached
62 Love Advice at prianna@diyamagazine.com

25,80-83 Scoop

8 DIYA MAY 2008

 note
VOLUME 6 | NUMBER 5 | ISSUE NO. 35

PUBLISHER Rick Kolluri

& CEO rick@diyamagazine.com

EDITOR IN CHEIF Monicca Sharmaa

& PRESIDENT monicca@diyamagazine.com

EXECUTIVE EDITOR SWAPNIL RAI

Office Manager RAhul Kolluri

Photo: Jack Hollingsworth

GENERAL MANAGER & ANTHONY TRAN
advertising consultant 214-868-4673
anthony@diyamagazine.com

VP Sales & Marketing john ROGERS

214-642-2298
john@diyamagazine.com

Advertising patrick G.
Executive 214-228-5505
patrick@diyamagazine.com Hello & welcome to yet another exciting edition of Diya.
jimmy L.
214-697-3536 Month of May is very exciting for all of us as we appreciate one of the
jimmy@diyamagazine.com
KIET C.
most important people in our lives, our moms’. Hope you are as thrilled
kiet@diyamagazine.com as we are and looking forward to the “Mother’s Day”. If still undecided on
KAY CASTRO what to get for this special day, then check out the ‘Top 10 Products’ to
214-554-8288
kay@diyamagazine.com get for your mom (page 46); for a mother-daughter experience, we have
CONTRIBUTING Anwar Ali, Naseem, Mosin Abudulla,
Rukhsar Face & Laser Center (page 59), and for your dining pleasure on
EDITORS Jay Patel. this exceptional day, we have two featured restaurants – Our Place Res-
CONTRIBUTING tracey mallette, abhisek nagrath, taurant in Irving and Ruchi Palace restaurant in Carrollton.
WRITERS heather safran, Mike Ghouse, Mary
Lorenz, Kathe Nielsen, Subhash K. Jha
& Tamana JOSHI Wait, we are not done yet! Mother’s Day special feature won’t be com-
plete without a bit of masala from our very own Bollywood – take a look
ART DIRECTOR Rick kolluri
design eugenia serratti, David Hauck, at the Bollywoods’ latest mom’s (page 40). Last but not least, experience
jahaan rafear how a mom made a difference in a daughters life, a true story written by
PHOTOGRAPHY Rehan Obaid, Bombay Photography, Prianna (page 38).
Prince Photography, Ink Studios
(EmeryVille, CA), Manav & Jack Hol-
lingsworth We find Mr. George Samuel, our Businessman of the Month (page 52),
COPY EDITORS Amy Presley, Prashant Gupta & RENU as one of the remarkable & practical person – a living book. Not only a
genuine person at heart but also a good businessman; who came to US
HOROSCOPE EDITOR Swami Krsna (vedicstore.com)
with “eight dollar” in his pocket & now the owner/CEO of multi-million
DISTRIBUTION Lewis, binoy, & rahul dollar companies.

INTERNS Meniecia Ford, Michelle Gros, & An- Until next time, enjoy!
nie Patel

SPECIAL THANKS john hamid, akbar birani, ron-

nie basu, david, jose, parez malik, Monicca Sharmaa
muizz waljee, DR. AMER, DR. KHAN- Editor & President
NA, SUBHASH, BALDEV SINGH, DR.
SRINIVAS scott, DR. YOGINI PATEL, monicca@diyamagazine.com
SWAPNIL RAI, JACK HOLLINGSWORTH,
MANISHA, AFTAB, sudha, sudheer
jayaprabhu, michelle sanchez of
moda model, manohar reddy,
Amir rajvi law & TOM MELTON AT
the COOK LAW OFFICES.
Contact us at 972-620-0233 (O) 972-620-0234 (F)

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horoscope Provided by: Swami Krsna
Jyotish Acharya of India
Website: www.vedicstore.com Phone: 214-550-1427 Email: swami@vedicstore.com
Weakened health through over-
working is an effect of Mars passing
through the sixth house, as also trou-
bles through inferiors. Work hard and
get things done. You will be credited
for such accomplishments. Avoid
conflicts with superiors- do only what
is expected of you and don’t be too
aggressive. There may be employ-
ment for team work. There is chance
of infections, fever or accidents, so
be careful about your health in gen-
eral.
Karka Rashi: This month brings great
honor and fortune in proportion to
your station in life. One will be popu-
lar, though unstable; there is much
gain from women in general. Your
countenance will be neat, comely
and prepossessing. You will be ca-
pable of any great action, but fond
of novelty and unprofitable specula-
tions are also suggested. You will feel
love, protective and nurturing to-
wards loved ones and friends. Helpful
to others, Relations with women will
be good including mother.
10 DIYA MAY 2008
Vrishabh Rashi: This month you will
feel well shaped and look elegant,
look out for remarks! Gain through
art and science is indicated. You will
be learned and demonstrate to be
polite. Good for social get together.
Spend time with friends, loved one
and with the opposite sex. Daily sur-
roundings will be more pleasant than
usual. Commercial transactions, buy-
ing and selling as well as professional
life will be favorable. Good for plea-
sure resorts, functions and meeting.
A pleasant trip away from home is
suggested.
Simha Rashi: Increase mental activi-
ties. Do not force your view point upon
others rather listen to them even their
criticism, you will gain than making the
decisions, planning and negotiations.
A good time of optimistic and positive
feelings, others will have confidence in
you. Not to overextend yourself. Avoid
quarrels and confrontations. One will
have reward or recognition for your
work; you can expect promotion and
better avenues in public service. You
may travel and improved change in
profession.
Mithun Rashi: Right thinking in material, intellectu-
al or spiritual side. You may enter into negotiations
with others regarding money or property includ-
ing business and its expansion. In case of affliction
avoid making financial or property deals during
this period. Your mind will be cloudy and may be
misled by others. This transit gives financial gain,
reliable friends, good meals and success in un-
dertakings, but there may be some unjust blame
or scandal. Just be careful and thoughtful! Take
advise from your counselor or elder.
Kanya Rashi: Good deeds and friends, gain,
mental happiness, romance and charity, do-
nations, comforts, marriage (if not already
married), distant travel for loved ones, respect
from elders and preceptors, increased knowl-
edge, fame and prosperity. Love or experi-
ence of beauty in art, pleasures and amuse-
ment is indicated to increase this month. Love
relations will give you good experiences. As-
sociation with a new who is better educated
and experienced than yourself who will be
quite helpful and gainful. This month will be an
easy and rewarding one!
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 11
12 DIYA MAY 2008

Tula Rashi: This month brings prosper-
ity, enhanced prestige, respect from
others, happiness, pleasure and hap-
piness at home, increased income and
land or houses etc. You may undertake
pilgrimage and have good spiritual ad-
vancement. This is a good month for
expansion. You may have opportunity
for extensive and long travels, interest in
studies of profound subjects, philosophy,
metaphysics, religion etc. Gain through
religion, correspondence, foreign travel
or you will be involved in business, con-
tract, or such like. You will have more
religious and awakened mind.
Vrishick Rashi: This is the time to ex-
press your emotions and if somebody
does not like this, then reevaluate
your friendship with that person. In
love, you will experience in greater
emotional depth than usual. Do not
be possessive of the other person.
Give due regard to the other’s feeling
also. Relationships with children will be
more active than usual. In addition,
you will experience increased expen-
diture, illness, indigestion, journeys and
loss of money by spending on worth-
less items, so watch out for extrava-
gance.
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM
horoscope
Dhanu Rashi: For harmony in family life,
you should communicate on points of
contention during this transit. You will
thus be able to influence their point
of view. Compulsive or inappropriate
behavior will aggravate things to your
disadvantage. Difficulties include: re-
lationship with parents, property dis-
putes and some blockage of your ef-
forts in professional life. Stay in control
of yourself. Domestic unhappiness is
indicated. Ordinary financial gain, but
depression, loss of honor, obstacles in
undertakings, expenditure and dis-
putes are indicated. Just take it easy
this month.
13
horoscope
Kumbh Rashi: This month makes you
amiable, beloved and of course fortu-
nate, rich and honorable! This month
also favors relationships, romantic,
pleasantly surroundings! You will be
warm and friendly with others. A new
love relation with mutual attractions
may be formed. This is a good period
for relaxing, gain through pleasurable
resorts and similar professions. You will
be sincere, sympathetic to others and
honorable. Expenditure on beautiful
items, luxuries and or attractive items
will attract you spending! Go and fulfill
your dreams!

Makar Rashi: A good period in all di-

rections, financially, socially, in love,
affection and pleasures. Advance-
ment, recognition and upliftment in
all spheres of life are the special out-
come of this month. Relations and
attachments with others and oppo-
site sex will produce unions and per-
manent connections for pleasures,
emotional happiness and gain. Any
unpleasant relations, misunderstand-
ings with people and loved ones can
be removed and settled for advan-
tage. This is a good month for finan-
cial negotiations and gain of money.

Meena Rashi: Do not expand the things

recklessly. Discipline and restraint are
necessary. Do over estimate your abilities
and neither exaggerate issues, talk or ar-
guments. Take it easy this month. Do not
take unnecessary chances. Conflict with
others can be possible. Try to bear restric-
tions during this period. Be self assertive
and avoid acting impulsively. Secret op-
ponents will create troubles for you. If
you feel emotionally upset, refrain from
any type of significant confrontation with
others. This is the best time to work alone
as much as possible.

14 DIYA MAY 2008

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 15
kids section
QUOTE of the month
“There was never a good war or a bad peace.” - Benjamin Franklin

more KIDS SITE of the month

quotes http://www.kids.gov/internal/archive.shtml

“If you can’t make a mistake, you can’t make

anything.”
- Marva Collins

“Kind words can be short and easy to speak

but their echoes are truly endless.”
- Mother Teresa

jokes
Recently, the Psychic Hotline and Psychic Friends
Network have launched hotlines for frogs. Here is
the story of one frog and his discussing with his
psychic.
A frog telephones the Psychic Hotline
and is told, “You are going to meet a beautiful young
girl who will want to know everything about you.”
The frog says, “This is great! Will I
meet her at a party, or what?”
“No,” says the psychic. “Next semes-
ter in her biology class.”
The Smithsonian Center
School collection 01 Celebrate Earth Day April 22. Visit this site to explore your environment and learn how to protect it. You’ll
A history joke find many links to topics about air, recycling, water, plants and much more. You can also join the EPA Kids
How did the Vikings send secret messages? Club (remember you need your parent’s / guardian’s permission). Kids Club members have access to the
By norse code! “Members Only” Club House and can complete environmental projects; entire classrooms are welcome.
Pop quiz: Name the four parts of The Water Cycle.
A math joke
Teacher: What’s 2 and 2?
Pupil: 4
Teacher: That’s good.
Pupil: Good?, that’s perfect!
Fuel Up For Fun
A history joke
Why did the knight run about shouting for a tin
Frozen Fruit Treat
opneder?
He had a bee in his suit of armour! Mix ingredients together. Freeze in small paper cups.
Serve partially defrosted.
A history joke
Teacher: Who can tell me where Hadrians Wall is? -1 3/4 cup strawberries
Pupil: I expect it’s around Hadrian’s garden miss!
-1 large can crushed pineapple
A history joke -5 bananas (cut in cubes)
Why were the early days of history called the dark -12 ounces frozen orange juice-concentrate
ages? -1 1/2 cup water
Because there were so many knights!
Source: bam.gov. Pictures: savour life & nordljus
A history joke
What was Camelot?
Fruit Slushy in a Can
A place where people parked their camels! Put in freezer for about 2 hours until it doesn’t slosh about
when shaken.
A history joke Open can and put contents in blender.
Who gave the Liberty Bell to Philadelphia? Whip until slushy consistency.
Must have been a duck family Pour into bowls and serve with spoons immediately. Makes
A duck family? 2 servings.
Didn’t you say there was a quack in it!
1 15-ounce can of fruit in fruit juice, no sugar added (e.g.,
peach, pear, apricot)

16
16 DIYA APRIL
DIYA 2008
MAY 2008
Disease Detectives
Dr. Stephen Redd, a.k.a. Dr. Asthma
This disease detective knows a lot about his case.
Dr. Redd is the Chief of the Air Pollution and Respiratory Health
Branch in the National Center for Environmental Health at the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Whew! That’s a
title!) He used to study other diseases, but became “Dr. Asthma”
about four years ago when he realized that our nation’s lungs
needed his help!
Dr. Redd spends lots of time on the phone and travelling around
the country to work with other CDC groups, as well as outside or-
ganizations, on the topic of asthma. Dr. Redd’s team closely tracks
the asthma cases that occur in the U.S. Their goal is to learn more
about what’s going on with asthma, so that they can stop the dis-
ease in its tracks. Dr. Redd also oversees national programs to help
people get their asthma under control.
Asthma: The basics.
Asthma is a breathing condition that leads to coughing, wheezing
(whistling sound while breathing), trouble catching your breath,
and a chest that feels tight. Even chest pains, dizziness, and always
having to clear your throat can be signs of asthma, and should be
checked out by a doctor.
For people with asthma, things like cold or dry air, dust, pollen,
pollution, cigarette smoke, or stress can be “triggers,” which cause
the body to pump out chemicals that make the airways shrink,
stopping air from getting through to the lungs—and causing an
asthma attack. An asthma attack can feel like trying to suck air in
and push it out through a straw!
Physical activity can cause asthma attacks too. Although experts
aren’t entirely sure why physical activity sometimes brings one
on, a likely explanation is that fast breathing through the mouth an inhaler (if it’s on hand) and get help.
(like happens when you get winded) can irritate the airways. Dr.
Asthma advises, “When smog levels are high, it’s always a good What causes asthma, anyway? No one knows for sure yet. Dr. Redd
idea to participate in physical activity in the morning instead of in reports that people’s genes help decide whether they develop
the afternoon — smog levels rise later in the day.” asthma. Some researchers think that since today’s young people
are exposed to germs that are different than the ones that kids
Is asthma a big problem for kids today? “About five million young faced 20 or 30 years ago, their immune systems might not develop
people in our country have asthma,” says Dr. Redd, “When your in the same way, leading to more asthma and allergies. The fact
parents were young (about 30 years ago), asthma was an uncom- that more people than ever are overweight also might be related
mon disease seen in only about 3% of people. Now, it’s up to at to increased asthma cases. (This does not mean that you should
least 7%, and rising. As young kids, more boys have asthma. But lose weight if you have asthma, though if you’re overweight, it
some people ‘grow out’ of asthma (their lungs get bigger and they could help. Talk to your parents or your doctor to find out.) Per-
no longer have symptoms) and the tables turn. So, as teenagers, haps something in the environment causes asthma... One thing
slightly more girls have the disease.” is for sure — the disease detectives have leads and they’re on
the case!
How can kids help their
friends who have asthma?
If their condition is under
control, people with asthma
can do the same things that
you can. So, your job is to
help them know that it’s
okay to use their inhalers or
take their medicines. Also,
don’t worry about catching
asthma ‘cuz it isn’t conta-
gious.
If your friend or relative is
having an asthma attack, it
can be scary to watch. But
according to Dr. Redd, the
first thing to do is stay calm.
Encourage the person to use
APRIL
MAY 2008
2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM
WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 17
17
books
Random Quote of the month:
“You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift. You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong. You cannot help the
wage earner by pulling down the wage payer. You cannot further the brotherhood of man by encouraging class hatred. You cannot keep out
of trouble by spending more than you earn. You cannot build character and courage by taking away man’s initiative and independence. You
cannot help men permanently by doing what they could and should do for themselves.” - Abraham Lincoln

Books - Bestsellers Book Review

Fiction Author: Moni Mohsin
• Sacred Games by Vikram Chandra
Publisher: Penguin Books India
• The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger
Format: Paperback
• Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts
ISBN: 0143100505
• Q & A by Vikas Swarup
• Passion India: The Story of the Spanish Novelists from the sub-continent
Princess of Kapurthala by Javier Moro might benefit by taking a break from
compulsive writing, and asking
Non-Fiction themselves: Who am I? Why have I
• Indian Summers by John Wright chosen to write novels? Do I have a
• Train to Pakistan by Khushwant Singh story to tell? Clearly, Moni Mohsin
• King of Ayodhya: Book Six of the Ramayana failed to pose these questions before
by Ashok K. Banker embarking on her mission and the
• I Feel Bad About my Neck and Other Thoughts result is a disaster.
on Being a Woman by Nora Ephron
Nine-year-old Laila is spending
• The World is Flat: The Globalized World in the
her winter vacation at her family
Twenty-First Century by Thomas L. Friedman
estate in Sabzbag, along with ayah
and grandma. For company she has
Kids Corner Rani, the teenage granddaughter of
The Puffin Book of Classic School Stories a family retainer. Rani falls in love,
Puffin gets pregnant and hell breaks loose
ISBN 0-14-333533-2 in feudal Pakistan. The fundamental premise is rich with possibility: the friendship
between two young girls, both inhabiting the same physical space but belonging to
Nostalgic differ ent social realms. But Moni is not content with writing a simple, coming-ofage
encounters tale, she also wants this to be a coming-of-age story of a country. Can any novel from
Ruskin Bond the subcontinent be taken seriously unless it talks about the nation? The 1971 war
has compiled hovers in the background, an unwilling, faceless servant to the watery plot.
some of the
The tone is highly uneven. Parts of the novel read like an Enid Blyton family saga
most memorable
(Laila’s mother asks her children to ‘pipe down’), parts like an Inspector Ghote
tales for this whodunit. Some of the romantic passages could be straight out of Mills and Boon:
book, finds out “the whispering squirt of perfume”, “a crimson bud of jealousy unfurled in Laila’s
Yojana Sharma. stomach”, and, my favourite, “Rani shut her eyes and savoured the feathery caress of
his voice.” Like a bad Balaji scriptwriter, she uses coincidence to further the narrative.
Ruskin Bond Weeks after a murder, a passing policeman chances upon his quarry lying drunk in a
is arguably gutter, muttering his victim’s name. Convenient. Some descriptions come dangerously
the sole name close to corny television: “…Rani’s face would drift before her closed eyelids, wavy,
in children frondlike, a reflection on water…The image would dissolve suddenly, as if a stone had
literature in been hurled into water.”
India. He
has written There are more clichés. The “spicy, buttery aroma of fried samosas” wafts across
innumerable tales, some of which have become rooms that smell of “just-dried limewash.” A Keralite nun stuck in rural Pakistan,
fables now. yearns for Kerala: “I can still smell the banana groves, you know. And taste the sea
breezes and the coconut.” Mohsin forgot the coffee.

Endless Journey of adventure
G S Dutt’s new book narrates how 12-year
old Nikki plays a cat-and-mouse game with a
murderer.
Lord Ganesha’s Feast of Laughter
These illustrated tales of Lord Ganesha are told
with sparkling wit, like the God himself, says
Benita Sen.
Laila’s grandmother, Sardar Begum, is the only character who comes alive in the entire
novel. Anyone with a Punjabi granny will be able to recognise in Begum a classic type:
“She yearned for the big masculine world outside; for news of local elections won and
lost…fluctuations in the market.” While the husband reads Hafiz and Ibn Khaldun, she
minutely examines “registers and ledgers”. After his death she takes over, becoming
a far more efficient farmer than him. She prefers to remember her placid and bookish
husband with an atypical gilt-framed photograph: “It showed a portly, young man in
jodhpurs and turban astride a stallion, with a falcon perched on his wrist.”
-By Palash Krishna Mehrotra, a teaches at Doon School.

18 DIYA MAY 2008

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 19
dallas scene

Greater Dallas Asian

 
American Chamber of Commerce
18th Annual Asian Festival Date on Saturday, May 3, 2008.
Sponsored by State Farm 
Lion dance, martial arts, sumo wrestling and Japanese drums will grace the Dallas City
Hall Plaza as a part of this year’s Asian Festival hosted by the Greater Dallas Asian
American Chamber of Commerce and co-sponsored by the Crow Collection of Asian Art. 
This FREE event showcases authentic Asian cuisine, cultural entertainment and activities
for children in a daylong festival celebrating the National Asian Pacific American Heritage
Month.
 
The Asian Festival will be held for its 18th year on Saturday, May 3rd from 11am - 5pm,
at Dallas City Hall Plaza, 1500 Marilla Street, in downtown Dallas.
 
This fun, colorful and festive event will unite Asian cultures while creating a diverse
marketplace featuring native arts & crafts, music, dance, food, martial arts and children’s
activities. Unique cuisine from Indonesia, Korea, China, India, Laos, Vietnam, the
Philippines and other countries will be sold by independent vendors. The children’s area,
Passport to Asia for Kids, will provide activities culturally relevant to the traditions of the
arts of Asia such as origami, face painting, henna painting, jewelry making, and many
more.
 
The event is sponsored by the City of Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs, Crow Collection of Asian Art,
McDonald’s, WFAA and the Dallas Morning News*

For additional information:

Please call 972-241-8250 or visit www.gdaacc.com/af.php

20 DIYA MAY 2008

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 21
scene
The 2008 JCPenney
Asian Excellence Awards®
Honoring Director
Ang Le’s Lust & Caution

The 2008 JCPenney Asian Excellence Awards® was held at UCLA's Royce Hall this evening, attracting some of the hottest stars in film and television. Hosted by Carrie
Ann Inaba (Dancing with the Stars) and Bobby Lee (MADtv), Hollywood players came out in force to honor Asian and Asian Americans' accomplishments in the arts and
entertainment, sports and business. The 2008 JCPenney Asian Excellence Awards® will air on E! Entertainment Television on May 1 at 6 p.m. ET/PT, 5 p.m. CT and will be
available on Comcast on Demand, beginning May 7. Here are all the winners of the 2008 JCPenney Asian Excellence Awards®:
OUTSTANDING FILM - Lust, Caution - Director, Ang Lee. OUTSTANDING FILM ACTOR - Tony Leung, Lust, Caution. OUTSTANDING FILM ACTRESS - Sharon Leal, This Christmas OUTSTANDING TELEVISION ACTOR - B.D. Wong, Law & Order, SVU
(NBC). OUTSTANDING TELEVISION ACTRESS - Lindsay Price, Lipstick Jungle (NBC). SUPPORTING TELEVISION ACTRESS - Sonja Sohn, The Wire (HBO). SUPPORTING TELEVISION ACTOR - Rex Lee, Entourage (HBO). FAVORITE TV PERSONALITY -
Cheryl Burke, Dancing with the Stars (ABC).
About the Asian Excellence Awards®
The Asian Excellence Awards® is the only annual nationally televised event celebrating the outstanding achievements of Asians and Asian Americans in film, television, music, and the performing arts. Welly Yang is the creator and executive producer of the Asian
Excellence Awards ®, working with Syd Vinnedge Productions. Teddy Zee and Hugh Wright are Executive Producers. Greg Sills is the Supervising Producer. Grace C. Lee, Jane Mun, Eddie Delbridge and Cindy Hwang are Producers. JCPenney will be supporting the 2008
Asian Excellence Awards® as the exclusive retail sponsor for the second year in a row. Other sponsors include Anheuser-Busch, State Farm, The Korea Times, Courvoisier, Verizon Wireless and Shen Consulting, Inc.

Press Conference for DFW International Community

Inside the Flag Room at Dallas City Hall on Friday March 28, the Press Conference for
DFW International Community Alliance’s report “International Dallas 2008: Bridge to
the Future.” The report presents new statistics on the presence and contributions of New
Americans in the North Texas region, and analyzes their impact on culture and the arts /
economy / education / civic affairs. It includes data and maps that describe 19 international
communities, descriptions of the region’s primary ‘global neighborhoods’, profiles of 30
foreign-born leaders, and a full page of recommendations that strengthen the image and
the essence of Dallas as an international city.

Participants in the panel include:

Elba Garcia, Dallas Mayor Pro Tem - moderator
Dilshad Dayani, Radio Salaam Namaste - statistics and demographics from the report
Joe Chow, Mayor of Town of Addison - international students from the report
Cici Rojas, Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce - immigrant entrepreneurs
from the report
Florence Campbell, Sisters of Sierra Leone - immigrant community reports
Jorge Herrera, Americas Group - recommendations
Anne Marie Weiss-Armush, DFW International - Outstanding New Americans in North
Texas

About: DFW International Community Alliance is the portal for global North Texas,
a network of 1,600 of the regions ethnic and internationally-focused civic, community
and educational organizations.  Its mission is to build mutual understanding and respect
by linking diverse international cultural communities. The organization promotes and
links North Texas global groups through its website and cultural calendar at www.
dfwinternational.org
22 DIYA MAY 2008
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 23
24 DIYA MAY 2008

The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor
The blockbuster global “Mummy” franchise takes a
spellbinding turn as the action shifts to Asia for the
next chapter in the adventure series, “The Mummy:
Tomb of the Dragon Emperor.” Directed by Rob
Cohen, Brendan Fraser returns as explorer Rick
O’Connell to combat the resurrected Han Emperor
(Jet Li) in an epic that races from the catacombs of
ancient China high into the frigid Himalayas. Rick
is joined in this all-new adventure with his son Alex
(newcomer Luke Ford), wife Evelyn (Maria Bello)
and her brother, Jonathan (John Hannah). And this
time, the O’Connells must stop a mummy awoken
from a 2,000-year-old curse that threatens to plunge
the world into his merciless, unending service.
Doomed by a double-crossing sorceress (Michelle
Yeoh) to spend eternity in suspended animation,
China’s ruthless Dragon Emperor and his 10,000
warriors have laid forgotten for eons, entombed
in clay as a vast, silent terra cotta army. But when
dashing adventurer Alex O’Connell is tricked
into awakening the ruler from eternal slumber,
the reckless young archaeologist must seek the
help of the only people who know more than he
does about taking down the undead: his parents.
As the monarch roars back to life and our heroes find
his quest for world domination has only intensified
over the millennia. Striding the Far East with
unimaginable supernatural powers, the Emperor
Mummy will rouse his legion as an unstoppable,
otherworldly force...unless the O’Connells can stop
him first.
scoop
2008 AFI Dallas Awards Announced - Richie Mehta’s
AMAL won the Audience Award for Best Narrative and
Rajeev Dassani’s A DAY’S WORK won the Audience
Award for Best Short
Latest trend?
Ok, this is a trend I never anticipated. I’m not sure how it is in the rest
of the world, but all over England teenagers and those up to their mid-
twenties are wearing these ‘shemagh scarves’ - some call them Pales-
tinian scarves. You’ll have noticed that the entire cast of Shipwrecked
have them. I’ve even seen them in the small town where I live, so this is
clearly a trend which is reaching far and wide. Generally neck-wear of
any kind is fashionable this year, which i’m happy about for practical
reasons - a little bit of material round the neck goes a long way to keep-
ing you warm during spring.
I’m actually considering buying one of these in hot pink (as it’s one of
the major colors of the season and will add a bit of girly-funk to a plain
outfit). Do you think this trend will pick up in US? Visit diyamagazine.
com & vote. To buy one visit: http://www.urbanoutfitters.co.uk/invt/5417422
218989&bklist=icat,4,shop,womens,whatsglovesscarves
DfwDesi.com
The DFW Desi is a free, independent newslet-
ter published to share current news, views and
events pertaining to the South Asian American
community - over 7,800 strong and growing!
Please feel free to forward this newsletter to
your friends. You may not be on our mailing list
- to continue receiving this newsletter, please
visit www.DfwDesi.com
1st LOOK: Saif, Rani, Akshay's makeover.
What’s in a name you might say...but for Kunal Kohli a lot
depended on it. His fully made film was waiting for the perfect
name for a while now. And finally he’s found it. This Yash Raj
film with Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukerji, directed by Kohli
has finally been named Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic and the name
‘perfectly encompasses the spirit of the film’ according to the
director. The other film that everybody was confused about was
Nikhil Advani’s project with Akshay Kumar, Deepika Padukone
and Mithun Chakraborty. It was called Chinatown to Chandni
Chowk...or maybe China and Chandni Chowk or maybe
something else. But finally we have the first look and it is called
Chandni Chowk to China.
First Korean astronaut docks with space station
South Korea’s first astronaut safely arrived at the International Space
Station on Thursday, Russian officials said, in a landmark mission
for the Asian country’s space program.
Yi So-Yeon, 29, arrived aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft with
Russian cosmonauts Sergei Volkov and Oleg Kononenko and after
lengthy checks stepped through a hatch to be greeted by the orbiting
station’s crew, a spokesman for Russia’s space flight control centre
told Interfax. (AFP/File/Alexander Nemenov)
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 25
26 DIYA MAY 2008
dallas scene Join us every Sunday!

Telugu Bible Church

Baisakhi Mela hosted by PCANT at the Big Town Hall.
A ‘turn-out exceed than what we anticipated’ - PCANT, a non-
profit organization hosts this type of cultural events to promote
‘Punjabi language and culture on a secular and non-political
basis.’

Every Sunday inside the McArthur Blvd Baptist Church

“Worthy are You to take the book 8001 Mustang Drive

and to break its seals; for You
were slain, and purchased for
God with Your blood men from
every tribe and tongue and people
and nation.” - Revelation 5:9
Irving, Texas 75063
We are located at 8001 Mustang Drive at the corner of
Mustang Drive and Ranchview in Valley Ranch, Irving.
From I-635 take the MacArthur Blvd. exit and go
north to Ranchview. Turn right (east) and go to
Mustang Drive.

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 27

28 DIYA MAY 2008
 dallas scene

Legend vs. Legend - First time in

USA - “Loosetalk” (loose mushaira).
Event featured by the legends - Anwar
Maqsood & Moin Akhtar. Event hosted by
FunAsiA at Black Acamedy of Arts.

Specials:
Tue: $1.99 Kabab roll
Wed: $2.99 biryani
thu: $2.49 keema
mon: $2.99 rice, dal
with veg

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 29

beauty

Sexy in 60 minutes
Dressing up for an evening out a large brush patches, so blend it
is not hard. Irresistible party outwards with a big brush in semi-
clothes complemented by circular motions. Do not go close
to the nose.
simple make-up and hassle free
hair is all you need to create an Now on to your lips – To give
evening look. Ranju advises your lips a luscious look first draw
you to wear make-up that looks the outline of your lips with a lip
simple, feminine and, most pencil. Line them with a neutral
importantly, realistic. color. Blend inward to prevent
the lipstick from bleeding. Use
Make a fresh start : a lip brush to apply the lipstick.
Wash your face either by using a Powder your lips after the first coat
face wash or with clean water. Dab to prevent it from fading. Apply a
the face with tissue paper. Cover second coat of lipstick. And finally
your face with a little moisturizer use lip gloss on the centre of your
and wait for it to dry. Apply a lower lip to give that sexy pout
councillor to hide spots and dark look.
circles. Dot thin coats of concealer
in the inner circle under the eye,
around the lips and other dark
Hair – always complete the
make up first and then do the
skin area. The concealer should be
hairstyle. Your hair should have
one or two coats lighter than the
texture and shine without stiffness
foundation, otherwise the face will
for an easy and sexy style. Avoid
look heavy. And make sure you
using hair spray. If you have long
apply it only where needed.
and straight hair it is best to leave
them open. Wash your hair with a
Choose a foundation to match
shampoo first and then use a good
your skin tone. Using the right
conditioner. Keep it for ten minutes
foundation makes your skin look
and then wash it with cold water.
flawless and smooth. To achieve
Avoid back combing for long
perfect precision one must blend
hair. When dry, brush it well in
well. Use an oil-free foundation,
an outward direction using a soft
starting at the centre of your face;
brush.
blend it carefully with a slightly
damp sponge all over the face,
We can try different hairstyles if
especially the chin, around the
you have short or mid length hair.
nostrils and under the jaw-line.
If you have curly it to create an
Foundation blended well on the
instant style. Do not wash your
jaw-line avoids demarcation lines.
hair on the same day if you want
Set it with translucent or compact
to style them. For a sleeker looks,
powder for a matte and refined
toss your hair completely back
finish.
and make a neat low bun or tie a
top knot. To create side strings
Eye shadows accentuate eyes,
take a few hair from each side, wet
making them look bigger and
them and pin up. After ten minutes
brighter. Use an eye shadow that
carefully remove the pin and let the
compliments the color of your
strings loose. To make it last longer
eyes. Apply eye shadow right over
use little hairspray. Ass volume to
the eyelid. Draw a thin line of
your hair by using diffusers and
eyeliner on your upper lid, close
drying systems that include dryers
to the lashes. Use a soft tipped eye
and rollers. Hair ornaments and
pencil over the line for a smudgy
accessories could be included to
effect. Apply mascara in an upward
create a different look. Pamper
and outward manner. To make your
yourself with them and make a
lashes look thicker, powder them
pretty statement
before the first layer of mascara is
dry. Then apply the second coat.
For defined lashes use lash comb
and curler.

Even the prettiest of make-up looks

unfinished without blusher. It adds
life and glow to every skin color.
Use powder blush or tinting
powder. Dust the blusher right
on the apple of your checks with

30 DIYA MAY 2008

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 31
 Asian Beauty by Andrea Rademan
Asian beauty was on view when Miss Japan, Riyo Mori, was crowned MISS UNIVERSE 2007. The 20
year old has been dancing since she was four and loves traveling, visiting museums and watching
musicals. Among her prizes: a Mikimoto pearl tiara; scholarship from NY Film Academy; custom
wardrobe; advertising campaign; swimsuits from BSC Thailand; a time piece; fashion portfolio;
consultation with stylist; NYC apartment and living expenses; professional representation by the
Miss Universe Organization and Trump Model Management; and a personal appearance ward-
robe.

Other Asian standouts were Miss Korea, Honey Lee (top five); Miss India, Puja Gupta (top ten); and
Miss Thailand, Farung Yuthithum (top fifteen. Additionally, Miss Philippines, Anna Theresa Licaros,
was named Miss Photogenic and Miss China, Ningning Zhang, won the Congeniality Award.

ASIAN FACES: Essential Beauty and Makeup Guide for Asian Women by renowned
makeup artist Taylor Chang-Babaian (Perigee; $24.95), who shares beauty tips and techniques
for Asian women. Taylor is a top makeup artist in fashion, music, film and television. Her makeup
tips have been quoted in numerous magazines and the California resident has appeared on Dr.
Phil, Extra, and Fox News TV shows. In a profile of Korean beauty Yunjin Kim, she calls her "an
international superstar. An accomplished actress who made a name for herself in Korea and all
over Asia, she is now making it in America on the hit series, LOST… I was taken aback by her
poise and elegance." Foreword by Yoko Ono. Over 100 color photographs and illustrations.

Stephen West wrote in Bloomberg News: “For just 10,500 yen ($86), you can exhibit your art, sculpture,
dress designs or child's scribblings at Asia's biggest design fair. That buys you floor space for a day
the size of one tatami mat at TOKYO'S BIANNUAL DESIGN FESTA.” It takes place at the International
Exhibition Center (Tokyo Big Sight), which holds 6,000 exhibitors and has indoor and outdoor stages.

Source: www.sushiandtofu.com

32 DIYA MAY 2008

TOP 10 Asian Beauty Products
1. Shu Uemura Nail Enamel in Rustic Red
2. M.A.C. Zoom Lash Mascara in Raven Blue
3. Thi Lush Lashes
4. Biotherm Source Therapie Superactiv
5. Nars Duo Eyeshadow in India Song
6. Thi Cream Shadow in Soy
7. M.A.C. Lipglass in Truth and Light
8. Shu Uemura Pressed Eyeshadows (in P Azure, Me Olive,
and Me Sepia)
9. Nars Makeup Primer
10. Thi Lip Stick in Quinn

Rocker Red your pout.

After just one sweep, we fell in love with its feather lightness, high gloss,
and bright hue. Getting flawlessly red, hot nails were never this easy. Lux Lids
Inspired by the Filigree lacelike ornamental
Blues Sisters design, this new Shu Uemura eyes shadow
Push the limits of your lashes with this collection is irresistibly elegant. This iridescent
creamy, rich wand, and amp up the eyes shadow blends heavenly across your lid with
volume minus the clumps. Try Raven perfect richness that can go either light for day or
Blue for an imperceptible, fun touch. intense for night.

Glam Up
Specially made for Asian faces, Thi’s Lush Lashes are famous for its
invisible adhesive and natural shape. A variety of textures and lengths
are in each package. Use thinner, shorter lashes on the inner corner of the
eye, gradually applying longer lashes toward the outside of the eye for
that natural feline gaze.
Smoothing Over
Smooth things up with this feather-light makeup
primer. Apply all over your face under foundation
to avoid the sticky, half-a-day-later, wearing-off effect.
It improves the appearance of your skin, leaving behind a
soft, smooth, non-streak face.

Saving Face Red Hot

Perfecting your skin could not have been easier. After first application, Been looking for that right red? It’s hard to find, but this leaves the right
our skin felt and looked smoother and more even-toned. Thanks to shade of red for golden Asian skin.
Biotherm’s patented ingredient, Vitreoscilla Ferment, a micro-organism
found in natural spring water, Source Therapie Superactive helps bring
about balance to the skin, and resist signs of premature aging.

Perfectly Pretty
This new duo eyes shadow compact has the
two most flattering colors for Asian
eyes. Cream color perfectly highlights
brow bones, and the rich brown help
create natural looking shades on the
eyelids.
Tune into

700AM
No Fuss
Its light, soft texture makes this cream shadow wand a no-fuss must. To
open up your eyes, apply the cream shadow with your fingertip on the
inside corner of your eye, blending in an upward motion toward your
brow bone. So easy.
Bringing community
Go Nude
Add a post modern edge to your face with this nude shade. Dark,
together!
clubbing eyes paired with this gloss with iridescent shine, will plump up www.funasia.net
Picture/article: AsianLifestyle & Asian Beats
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 33
beauty

Beautiful Skin By Kimerly Smith

In today’s world with competition and perfection being the most essential thing,
it is imperative to look good. Make-up will help you to some extent but what is
most important is natural beauty and a glowing skin. The major culprits that ruin
and play havoc on our skin are ultraviolet rays, pollution and stress to some extent.
However the most important thing for a glowing and a fresh look and skin is regu-
lar exercise and a balanced diet. However at the same time you also need to give
your skin a little time for its
care and here are a few tips
for your skin care regime.

Cleansing
Your skin requires proper
cleansing to keep it properly
toned and clean. Cleansing
removes the dust and stress
from your face by clean-
ing the pores and circulat-
ing the blood supply. Use
a gentle cleansing agent.
Face washes are specially
Facials
Facial is also a vital step towards beautiful skin. Facial thoroughly cleanse your
prepared to be effective at
face and remove the top dead layers of the skin resulting into having a beauti-
cleansing your skin gently
ful and glowing skin. Facial moisturizers your face effectively and help in
and tenderly. For your body
faster cell reneval and relaxes the muscle of the face. Facial can also treat prob-
use a good mild and mois-
lems like dark patches, treating acne, restoring skin color and toning the skin.
turizing soap.
Facial must be done at least once a month and by a professional beautician.

Moisturizing Beautiful Skin of Color:

PICK THIS BOOK!
It is essential to use good moisturizers since the UV rays and pollution dries your
skin thoroughly and makes it lifeless. There is a range of moisturizers available A Comprehensive Guide to Asian, Olive, and Dark Skin
in the market to suit your skin type but what is important here is to pick the right by Jeanine Downie, Barbara Nevins Taylor, Fran Cook-Bolden, Fran Cook-Bolden, Barbara Nevins Taylor
one with the right components in it. Choose moisturizers, which have anti-aging
ingredients and vitamins, added to it and use it regularly. Vitamin A or Retinol Beautiful Skin of Color unlocks the particular secrets of your skin and provides
and Alphahydroxy Acids are the best anti-aging agents. There are several salts of the answers you’ve been searching for. Dr. Fran Cook-Bolden and Dr. Jeanine
vitamin A and isotretenioin is found to have definite anti-aging properties and is Downie, internationally recognized dermatologists and women of color, and
very effective. It is also an effective care for acne but it dries the skin and also can Barbara Nevins Taylor, an award-winning reporter on skin and hair issues, of-
give mild irritation and hence has to be used under the supervision of dermatolo- fer clear, specific advice to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, gorgeous
gist. Vitamin C is found to have antioxidants and thus has a protective effect on the complexion.
skin. Vitamin E is also an antioxidant and works by quenching oxygen radicals.
Oxygen radicals are formed which causes damage to the skin because of pollution In a quick-reference, A-to-Z
and ultraviolet rays. Collagen, Elastin and Hyaluronic Acid are all good moistur- format, using examples drawn
izers as they have a good water binding capacity. Ceramides work effectively on from personal and professional
the skin barrier function as well as in the metabolism of the skin. However all experience, Dr. Cook-Bolden
these components have to be present in a proper concentration and then only can and Dr. Downie explain why
they be effective. problems occur, and then pre-
scribe reliable remedies and
Sunscreens groundbreaking new proce-
dures specifically created for
With the rise in pollution level and the intensity of the ultraviolet rays it is very
skin of color.
essential to use sunscreens during daytime to protect your skin form any kind of
damage and premature wrinkles even if you are at home because these rays come
Throughout this comprehensive
in through the windows and there is no running away from it. The UVA ultraviolet
guide, the doctors show you
rays penetrate deep down in the skin and damage not only the top layer of the skin
how to work with your skin and
called epidermis but also the collagen and elastin tissues thereby causing wrinkles
hair -- and your dermatologist
and sagging skin. These rays tan your skin and also harms the skin immune system
-- to create your own unique
thereby making the skin vulnerable to allergies. Another type of UV-rays is UVB.
skin-management program. A
The sunscreen you use should denote the sun protection factor (SPF) and the ap-
long-overdue and much-need-
proximate measure for protection against UVB is 30 or higher is always better and
ed resource,Beautiful Skin of
also check out the protection measures against UVA.
Color is certain to help you look
and feel your best.

Courtesy: BN.com. Pic’s from above - courtesy Kim Zhong Mi

34 DIYA MAY 2008
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 35
spotlight

Our Place
Indian Cuisine

Written by Sangeeta Bachani

Under new management since June 2006, Our Place Indian Restaurant has come a long way serving the hus-
tling – bustling community of Valley Ranch and Las Colinas. Our Place - the big bright neon sign outside
this eatery welcomes you to come inside and try out from a huge variety of over 110 scrumptious vegetarian
and non-vegetarian, south and North Indian dishes along with Indo-Chinese varieties on their menu.

This well-decorated restaurant that has two dining rooms: one painted in contemporary red with pictures of
Hollywood movies like ‘The Godfather’ and the other is painted mustard yellow and has Native American
paintings. You get to choose your preferred room to suit your mood while you enjoy the latest Bollywood
musical videos on life-size screens.

Our Place is easily accessible from Fort Worth, Southlake, Colleyville, DFW airport, Coppell, Grapevine

36 DIYA MAY 2008

 and South Ir- Our Place offers wine and beer. Their beer varieties include
ving since it is beer brewed in the US as well as Kingfisher and Taj Mahal
conveniently which are native to India and perfect accompaniment with
located off flavorful Indian meal.
of Mac Ar-
thur and 635. With so much to choose from, it might be best to try Our
And yes, it Place for the first time at the all-you-can-eat lunch buffet,
is well worth where in you can enjoy a little of everything at a reason-
the drive not able price of $9.95 on weekdays an $10.95 on weekends
only for the (fountain drinks included), and top it off with a hot Cup o’
ambience and Madras Chai.
the variety,
but also for And for any reason that you can’t make it out there, just
the quality throw a party and have them come out to you. Your guests
and taste of will relish Naans, Kababs or Dosas prepared fresh at your
the food they site by experienced chefs from Our Place restaurant.
serve. The
South Indian Along with the food, the ambience and reasonable prices,
delicacies are it’s the customer service that makes this place different. The
prepared by staff is really prompt and friendly. And once you are there,
their chef who you will find yourself at home at Our Place.
hails from Tamil Nadu and has been in this business for over
12 years, while their Biryanis are cooked by Hyderabad na- Address: 8150 N. MacArthur Blvd. #150. Irving, TX 75063. 214-574-7117
tives. When you try their Tandoori items like Tandoori
chicken, Shrimp,Chicken Tikka or Sheesh Kabab you know
it’s been prepared by the experts. Sure enough, the Tandoor
chef at Our Place has had over 17 years of experience!

The cuisine of Our Place is known for its flavor, savory

sauces enriched by nuts, cream and fruits. Fresh and natural
ingredients along with fragrant spices are delicately blended
in meticulous proportions to create the North Indian entrees
that you can enjoy with variety of breads.

For a few additional dollars, along with your choice of

entrée, you can enjoy a comprehensive meal called Thali
where they serve small portions of variety of dishes includ-
ing dhal curry, sambar, vegetable curry of the day, raita, rice, Our Place hosted, the movie, “Happy Days” launch celebration.
your choice of bread and dessert of the day.

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 37

feature: we love you!
The Mother’s
Fairytale
I was 17 when my mother called me over and sat me down
for a little chat. I was into my first serious relationship and
she knew every bit of it. One thing I’d always admired about
our mother-daughter bond was the fact that I didn’t have to
hide a romantic relationship from her, not once in my life. I
didn’t have to lie about who I was going out with or what time
I would be home. We had an open “tell all” relationship. I’d
introduce my boyfriend to her and she would comment about
how nice he was.
And because of that level of trust we had established early in
my teenage years, I never rebelled too far beyond reasonable
limits. I didn’t feel the need to dabble into other teenage drug/
alcohol related binge parties. I had my share of fun, and I kept
it at a reasonable level. I had that much respect for the same
woman who maintained an honest relationship with me.
Mom grew up as traditionally Indian as you could imagine.
She quit medical college because her father told her that she
didn’t need to study further. And so
she obliged. She was on the path to
marriage. It was what was expected
of her.
Until one day he passed away. A heart
attack, late one night. Just like that.
And there she was, without an educa-
tion, without a home, without family.
The next step was to get married.
“Your father and I, it was an arranged
marriage”, she told me. “I wanted you
to know that”.
I followed her eyes as she gazed out
of our house. We lived in Malaysia at
the time. An entire country she was
unfamiliar with. A coconut tree swayed in the wind across
the street. It had rained a minute ago. It was a tropical green
forest around the house. Even with the serenity, it was a place
unfamiliar to her, regardless of the fact that she had lived there
for the past 23 years. For a split second you saw the years fly
by in her eyes.
“When you get married, marry the one you love”.
38 DIYA MAY 2008
By Prianna Staley
Just like that, she said it. The one who grew up understanding
and accepting the world of an arranged marriage, abandoned
her culture and beliefs as the modern day came by.
“Make sure he has values, and is a kind man. That’s all I ask.
Other than that, marry the one you love. I will never tell you to
get an arranged marriage”.
We sat in silence after that. I wasn’t thinking marriage, but I
suspected the conversation had more to do with it. It was about
someone who still believed that as you grow older, the fairytale
of love stories should never die.
The Indian culture had come a long ways from the days where
your life partner was picked out for you from the day you were
born. From what I understood back in the day, the trade was
done before you could experience your first feed. Everything
was kept in the same caste, and the family’s backgrounds were
taken into consideration when the life partner was chosen. You
knew that 18 years from the day, you would be mar-
ried to someone you had never met. And you will
bear children and live your life that way.
Today, I glance into my online social network and
browse through a myriad of photographs of my
friends laughing and hugging each other, two people
gazing into each other’s eyes, smitten in young love.
Couples unaware of how, 40 years ago, some of their
mothers gave up the fairytale of love for the culture
that they accepted and never questioned. Some of
their mothers never had photographs of themselves
gazing into their lover’s eyes, smitten in young love.
Some mothers never experienced young love.
Some mothers never had photographs of themselves
laughing and hugging each other.
It’s almost Mother’s day. All of us are here today
because of one person. The person who chose their live the
way it was meant to be, so they could smile when they see the
happiness in your eyes.
Choose the right love. It’s only fair to her. It’s the best thing
you could do for your mother.
Happy Mothers Day, Mom... We love you.
 bollywood mom’s
Tune into

700AM
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together!
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During her early movie days...

Karisma Kapoor
Patch it up:
On 29 September 2003, Karisma Kapoor
married industrialist Sanjay Kapur, CEO
of Sixth India. In typical Kapoor tradi- With her daughter Samaira and husband

tion, Karisma was married at her grand-

father, the late Raj Kapoor’s home, R K
Cottage.

The couple has one daughter named Sa-

maira, who was born on 11 March 2005.
After the birth of her daughter, there was
considerable rift between the couple. But
subsequently they patched-up.

Birth Date : June 25, 1974

Nick Name : Lolo
Eye Colour : Hazel
With her sister, Kareena & daughter. Right: During her peak time
Height : 5' 6 in Bollywood. Bottom: current pic - still looking glamorous
Family : Mother - Babita (Actress), Father - Randhir Kapoor (Actor ) Sister - Kareena Kapoor (Actress)
Profession : Modeling & Acting
Spouse : Sanjay Kapoor (29 September 2003 - present)

Born on 25 Jun 1975, into Bombay filmdom’s legendary Kapoor clan, Karishma Kapoor nicknamed “Lolo”.
She spent her early years of schooling in “Cathedral and John Connan High School” at Fort Bombay and
did her CBSE before she joined “Sophi College For Fyjc” in Arts quitting her education in the end to stage
her entry into the Bollywood.

Karisma made her film debut with Prem Qaidi (1991) opposite Harish. Her next big hit was Anari (1993)
and during this time she made news with a fight with her Andaz Apna Apna (1994) co-star, actress Raveena
Tandon. She had a series of hit comedies between 1994 and ‘97 starting with Raja Babu (1994) and ending
with Hero No. 1 (1997) with Govinda and director David Dhawan. She hit the big time with the super suc-
cess of Raja Hindustani (1996) and further consolidated her career with Dil To Pagal Hai (1997). In Fiza
(2000) she surprised many with an excellent performance showing great emotional range and depth. She has
won the Filmfare Award for Best Actress 1996 for her role as Arthi in Raja Hindustani (1996). Karisma has
won the National Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Dil To Pagal Hai (1997) as also the Film-
fare and Zee award in the same category. She was offered Rani Mukherjee’s role in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.

The blue-eyed beauty has acted with all the heroes and enjoys her profession keeping fit all the time that
whenever she gets her time off she finds and makes a bit of it to dance. She loves her profession which
keeps her going all the time that she has a dream of getting into sort of a business having connections with
the Bollywood as she wants to be a woman of substance. Formerly engaged to Abhishek Bachchan (2002).
Four months after her engagement news of their split came. Then she finally married with Sanjay kapur, a
famous industrialist.

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 39

bollywood mom’s

40
40 DIYA MAY
DIYA MAY 2008
2008
Malaika Arora Khan
Glam Mom

Malaika Arora is married to the Bolly-

wood actor Arbaaz Khan whom she met
during a coffee ad shoot. They have a son,
Arhaan. Malaika has maintained her per-
fect figure even after motherhood.

She is the perfect millennium woman who

has done equal justice to her marriage and
children without allowing her work to suf-
fer after she turned Malaika Arora Khan.

Sonali Bendre
Momma Dear
Before Sonali Bendre married filmmaker
Goldie Behl on November 12, 2002, she
acted in a number of Bollywood films
and after her marriage she left her career
for her family. In 2005 she became a
proud mother of a son in August.

MAY
MAY 2008
2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM
WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 41
41
bollywood mom’s
Mahima Chaudhary
Mahi- ‘Ma’
Mahima Chaudhary married Bobby
Mukherji, last year amidst total secrecy.
On June 10, 2007 she gave birth to their
first child, a girl called Aryana and after
this she even planned to pen a book on
motherhood based on her own experi-
ences.
Kajol Devgan
Radiant beauty
Kajol and Ajay Devgan tied the knot
on February 24, 1999 and after four
years in 2003 she gave birth to her
daughter Nysa in 2003.
Sridevi
Traditional ways:
Sridevi married film producer Boney
Kapoor on June 2, 1996. The couple
has two daughters, Jhanvi and Khushi.
After this, she took a break from cin-
ema and her time is totally devoted to
her family.
42 DIYA MAY 2008
Twinkle Khanna
Twinkling star
After a long time of courtship
Twinkle Khanna and Akshay Ku-
mar married on January 14, 2001.
After her marriage, she quit acting,
and subsequently gave birth to a
baby boy, Araav, on September 15,
2002.
After this Twinkle in partnership
with Gurlein Manchanda, opened
an Interior Design store.
Madhuri Dixit
Dancing Mom
Madhuri Dixit married an Indian-
American, Dr. Sriram Nene, in 1999.
A UCLA-trained cardiovascular sur-
geon who practices in Denver. She
has two sons, Arin born in March
2003 in Colorado and Ryan born on
March 8, 2005 in Colorado.
Bollywood diva, made her come-
back to the silver screen after five
years with Aaja Nachle and says
that marriage can never end any-
one’s career.
Tune into
700AM
Bringing community
together!
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MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 43
feature: bollywood mom’s

Single Mom:
Sushmita Sen adopted her Re-
nee in 2000. Since she is single,
Sushmita had to fight a Court
battle before she could adopt
Renee. Finally on April 13, 2000
she was given the go-ahead to
adopt her.

Juhi Chawala

juhi chawla
Hot & hit Mom:
Juhi Chawla is married to industrialist
Jai Mehta; the couple have two chil-
dren. She gave birth to her first child,
a girl named Jhanvi, on February 21,
2001 and on July 21, 2003 she gave
birth to a son, Arjun.

44 DIYA MAY 2008

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 45
feature: gifts for mom

Top 10 Mother’s Day gifts

A survey of 68 moms responded to the question:
“What would you most like to get as a gift on Artwork - Mom’s love things in frames. A framed family portrait or even
Mother’s Day?” “Love” is not an acceptable an old childhood photo of you and mom can be turned into a heart-warming
photo keepsake. You can even have photos enlarged and framed.
answer. These are the 10 most requested material
gifts mothers asked for: If your Mom is an art expert, how about a beautiful print of
classic paintings from Vincent van Gogh to special collection
Flowers - Flowers are an essential part of Mother’s editions of Old Master, Impressionist, and Mordern paintings.
Day. It doesn’t matter whether you pick wildflowers,
grow flowers yourself, or buy them. Flowers will make Send Love every Month - When
your mom feel special on Mother’s Day. we asked mom’s what they liked
wines, chocolates, coffees, fruits and
Consider having flowers delivered. It’s an easy and flowers were on the top of
convenient way to make mom happy. Plus the flowers will be many of their lists.
delivered on Friday or Saturday before Mother’s Day - which Not everyone has the
makes Mom feel special all weekend long! luxury of being able
For a surprising and shocking reaction try sending your mom
to be with mom on
the World’s Tallest Roses!
Mother’s Day. Although
there’s no substitute for
Jewelry - Mom’s love jewelry, especially when a piece of jewelry
having you around, these
comes with sentimental value,
monthly gifts will be a welcomed reminder that you love her and are
which anything her family
thinking of her.
gives her on Mother’s Day.
Jewelry doesn’t have to break
Designer Handbags - A quality handbag will serve her well for years
the bank. If your budget is more flexible,
to come. Knowing you gave it to her will make it even more special. Handbags
consider the classic gift of diamonds. I
are one of the many girly items that moms would love to have but won’t buy
recommend you buy from a quality source.
for themselves. Especially, couture handbags like Balenciaga, Prada, Fendi,
JP Tods, Dolce & Gabbana, Moschino Jeans which can be very pricey.
Spa Treatments - There’s nothing mom’s
Then there are the moms who love their pets and the only handbag for them
love and deserve more than being pampered.
are the dog and cat handbags.
Plan a spa day with mom, or give her a gift
certificate to a spa near her. If a spa day is out
Electronics - Some
of your price range you may want to think
mom’s love those
about buying a home spa item. The spa
electronic gadgets.
items I found ranged wildly in price.
Nearly every
With a little research you can find the
mom would value
perfect home spa item for you and mom.
a digital camera
Your wallet doesn’t have to suffer to give
to capture the
mom some pampering and she will feel
warmest moments
refreshed, and absolutely love it.
in her life. Not to
mention the mind
Perfume - The link between smell and
numbing tutorial
memories is so strong that it can even
every child is required to give their mom with these types of gifts.
trigger memories that are long forgotten.
Digital cameras are very affordable now and day.
Some mom wears Cinnabar by Estee
Lauder and nothing makes you think of
These are the Top 10 Mother’s Day Gifts. If you’ve been stuck on what
her faster than that scent. In some case,
to get, this should help.
you can order perfumes online because local stores, like Malls, etc., can be
way too pricey. Perfumes are timeless, and a gift your mom will love.
Remember: You know your Mom
best, take her unique qualities
Clothing - When in doubt you can always count on mom’s girly side. From a
into consideration whenever you
new outfit to a snuggly warm blanket, you just can’t go wrong.
decide on a gift. A personal touch
Think of mom’s personality, her likes, and dislikes. Does mom always get
to gift giving always generates the
cold in the car, how about a thoughtful heated blanket. Does she love to tan,
most happiness.
how about a tan-through shirt (these things are neat). If you have a mom into
high fashion, how about couture clothing right off the runway (geared towards
Happy Mother’s Day!
younger moms).

Home & Garden - Many moms would prefer to receive plants & trees to a
bouquet of flowers. If your mom loves working in her yard, then help make
her hobby more fun. Give her a beautiful fountain, or any number of garden
accents such as garden bridges, engraved garden rocks, or even one of the
world famous Leaf figurines.

46 DIYA MAY 2008

Rated “Excellent” by Zagat 2007/2008
“Best of fine dining” City search

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 47

spotlight

Ruchi Palace Indian Cuisine

By Swapnil Rai
DFW’s biggest Indian Restaurant, Ruchi Palace
had its grand opening on April 18th and the
scrumptious display of food was something to be
devoured by all senses. They had live radio on-site
and hourly drawings for grand prizes through out
the evening. Facilities were spacious, there was lot
of variety, food smelled great, it looked delicious
and tasted great.

Cozy ambiance with minimalist traditional décor

and a wide and delectable selection of recipes from
regional Indian cuisines is what sets Ruchi Palace
apart from any other Indian restaurant. The name
Ruchi translates quite literally into “Taste” and this
is the ethos behind their authentic offerings. Just a
look at their elaborate menu would set your culinary
imagination soaring from the kitchens of South to
North India; and the food at Ruchi does not let you
down on its promise of a great gastronomic
experience.

Chefs at Ruchi Palace are handpicked from best Indian

restaurants across America and average about 12 years
experience. Each master chef caters to a specialty ...over 63 varieties for a
week-day lunch.
section of menu. Experience and quality of master chefs
is their biggest differentiating point, apart from sheer

48 DIYA MAY 2008

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 49
 The Ruchi Palace (Spotlight feature continued from page. 46)

authentic Indian flavors and a casual ambience. At

Ruchi you and your family can enjoy a sumptuous
meal in a relaxed environment. The restaurant is
open throughout the week and offers a daily lunch
buffet and a la carte dinner with special provisions
for parties and other celebrations. With seating
capacity of more than four hundred people, even if
they have a party going on in the restaurant, there
is no wait time for other patrons.

So, for your next family outing don’t dither on

which Indian Restaurant to choose. Check out the
authentic cuisine of India at Ruchi Palace.

size and central location of the facilities. Managing It is conveniently located few minutes from Tollway
partner, Sudhakar has been in the restaurant business
and George Bush Highway (190) at 3128 E Trinity Mills
for over twenty five years. Road in Carrollton and at www.ruchipalace.com on the
web. For more information, they can be reached at (972)
Ruchi Palace boasts of an elaborate menu with 220
308-1443 or sales@ruchipalace.com.
items spanning north Indian to South Indian delicacies,
several types of Hyderabadi Dum Biryani as well fusion
cuisines like Indo Chinese. There is a special section

...most expansive we observed with over 40 entrees

apart from appetizers and South Indian specialties.
on the menu that offers just Tandoor dishes and mouth
watering kebabs. Vegetarian menu choice is most
expansive we observed with over 40 entrees apart from
appetizers and South Indian specialties. They offer lunch
buffet everyday, probably the
biggest in Dallas area with
a wide variety of items. We
counted over 63 varieties for a
week-day lunch.

In addition to the extensive

offerings in terms of food,
Ruchi Palace also has a full
service restaurant and bar with
Indian and American drink
choices. But if you are in the
mood for a non alcoholic and
refreshing beverage, definitely
try their special mango milk
shake. Its lingering taste
might transport you to mango
orchards in India.

Everything about Ruchi

Palace resonates with

50 DIYA MAY 2008

 Coming soon!

aabusinessjournal.com

For more info or to advertise -

Call John Rogers or Anthony Tran
214-642-2298 or 214-868-4673

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 51

feature

Businessman
OF THE
month

I
By Swapnil Rai. Photos Rehan Obaid - Asian Photography.

t was the year 1972, a young man from

Kerala landed in the United States with
eight dollars in his pocket and dreams of
becoming a NASA engineer. Thirty five
years later as I sit across the President
and CEO of a company with multi mil-
lion dollars turnover I can feel the humili-
ty and fervor of the same young man. Age
has only fuelled his passion and determi-
nation and as the president and CEO of
H L Electronics, Mr. George Samuel’s
persona radiates every bit of confidence
of a man who has made his mark in the
world.
The road to success is never easy but George did
not falter at the obstacles. “I came to the United
States with the dream of joining NASA but I got
my first job with a defense contractor instead and

52 DIYA MAY 2008

“
I have a passion

”
for work and I enjoy it a lot

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 53

 one thing led to another,” he explains. Today
his company supplies defense related prod-
ucts to many different countries including
India.
It was a long journey to the top where George
worked for various defense contractors in his
thirty year long career. Although he always
knew he wanted to own an independent
company but even as part of other organiza-
tions his innovativeness set him apart.
A Dream Realized
“I have a passion for work and I enjoy it a
lot,” explains George. “In 2003, I officially
retired as the Executive Vice - President at
General Dynamics but my retirement last-
ed only for a day.” The very next morning
George bought his own company H L Elec-
tronics. Running his own company had been
a cherished dream for him for many reasons,
“when you work for another company, you
often feel that there is a better way to run
it. I always felt that the corporate structure
today does not give due importance to its
greatest assets; the employees.” He hopes
that his foray into the business field would
be a step towards changing that structure,
“Through my company I want to start a new
tradition.”
True to his belief, George’s employee cen-
tric policies completely turned around the
profits for HL Electronics which prior to his
acquisition was running into losses. His per-
sistent hard work and dedication to his ideals
translated into multi million turn over for his
company within a brief span of one and a
half years. “Work never stresses me. I love to
work. I take vacations only for my family’s
54 DIYA MAY 2008
sake because for me my work is as good as a
vacation,” he says.
His relentless passion for work is the reason
why he never married. “I felt I wouldn’t be
able to do justice to married life. I am so oc-
cupied with work all the time.” However,
his house is always full of guests and the
sprightly laughter of his nieces and nephews.
“I have five sisters and eighteen nieces and
nephews,” smiles George.
He lives in his sprawling mansion with his
didi (elder sister) who joined him in the
United States with her two children, a year
after he arrived. Didi had been a constant
source of support for George through the
ups and downs in his life. “Even though
didi came from the lap of luxury in India,
she attended graduate school, taught in a
Montessori School in St. Louis (teaching
students and training teachers) and after all
that came and cooked for all of us,” says
George. “Didi nurtured me through 13 ac-
cidents and multiple surgeries including an
open heart surgery, three back surgeries, two
neck surgeries and a hernia surgery. She has
a lot to do with who I am today,” stresses
George. He raised his didi’s children Uma
and Akhil. “They’ve turned out great. They
are both very rooted in their culture,” he says
beaming with pride.
Love and longing for India
India has always been close to his heart and
though he is “not a vacation person” he vis-
its India at least twice every year where he
owns an ocean facing house in Cochin and
a sprawling resort in Munnar. His other four
sisters still live in Kerala.
Besides the allure of the rain shadow village
of Marayoor near Munnar where George
spent his childhood, India is now an inte-
gral part of his business plan. His company
Deccan Consulting Services headquartered
in Delhi is headed by a Retired Lieutenant
General from the Indian Army.
“Amongst the twenty nine hundred defense
contractors in the United States there are
six major contractors who have a presence
in India; the country with the second largest
defense budget in the world. It is extremely
difficult for other contractors to get into the
business of supplying ammunition or tech-
nology to countries like India,” explains
George. But his company has made their
presence visible despite the odds and is to-
day a prospective supplier of defense related
products to the Indian Army.
“Our company’s endeavor is to level the play-
ing field for the other twenty eight thousand
ninety four contractors. These small compa-
nies have no means to deal directly with the
government. So, we buy their products, get
its export license and sell it to India,” clari-
fies George. Defense contracting however, is
not the only successful business he has ven-
tured in. His company Deccan Technosoft
headquartered in Kochi develops software
for the medical field. In addition, Deccan
Technosoft also owns a fully developed, low
memory ERP Package. While this product
is already being marketed in India George’s
intent is to launch it
in the United States as
well. National Software
Association is another
venture George initiated
to create a platform to
facilitate networking
amongst Software En-
gineers. “This is a de-
velopment program for
Software Engineers. We
rate their professional
proficiency and dedicate
forty percent of our pro-
ceeds to providing them
with medical benefits
and helping them devel-
op professionally.
But that’s not all, George
is the also the co – owner
of The Saffron House, a
restaurant which lures
customers not only for
its fine Indian food but
its modern eclectic am-
bience. “George is God
sent for me,” exudes Mr.
Prabodh Arora , George’s friend and partner
in the restaurant business. “I had lost my
father a year before we ventured into the
business and since then George has been my
mentor and guide. He has so much faith in
me and Uma (George’s niece) that he lets
us and run the entire business on our own.
Yet, he is always there whenever we need
him,” says Prabodh. The restaurant is run
operationally by Prabodh while Uma man-
ages the human resources and finance with
the vision and goals set by George. The trio
together comprises the winning team for
The Saffron House, and has its goals set on
expanding their business to newer locations
around the DFW region by the end of the
year.
Man of many talents
An achiever in the field of business one
might concede
but George’s aca-
demic achieve-
“My entire career is based on the fact that I
ment is even am a good teacher,” he quips. “It helps me
more impressive.
George holds a in developing my employees and lead them
doctorate in the
field of Electri-
and our company towards our vision.”
cal Engineering
with a specializa-
tion in microprocessor technology from
the Washington University, Saint Louis,
MO. “Academics has always been my first
love” adds George. After graduating from
Sardar Patel University in Anand, Gujarat
he taught students from Montessori grades
to Masters. Teaching at schools gave him
a thorough understanding into the psyche
of little children and he loved to impart
knowledge and learning to his students. He
believes that guiding children towards the
right path is a responsibility that must be
fulfilled with utmost dedication. However,
for George teaching is not merely a process
of imparting knowledge; it is also way of
learning. He attributes his success as a busi-
nessman to his teaching experience. “My
entire career is based on the fact that I am a
good teacher,” he quips. “It helps me in de-
veloping my employees and lead them and
our company towards our vision.”
Even today he squeezes time from his busy
schedule to mentor and guide children.
He lectures children and youth on career
development in schools and other social
platforms.
Despite his lack of participation in the ac-
tivities of the local south Asian community
he always makes it a point to attend pro-
grams that involve mentoring of children
and youth. “I never disappoint children.
I always attend the programs when they
call,” insists George.
Having been a part of the academic world
in both India and the United States he feels
that the education system in India is bet-
ter than the United States because it gives
the students a firm grounding in the basics.
“Harvard is the best university in the world
not because of how they teach but because
they are teaching the smartest kids in the
world,” believes George. Then
why is it that most of the inno-
vation by Indians happens while
they are in the United States?
His reply is pointed and simple,
“The first reason for the success
of NRI’s is that only the cream
of India gets to come here. It is
not easy to make the crossover
to U.S so the Indians that come
here have a great amount of drive
which propels them towards suc-
cess. Besides, United States in
an output oriented country and
there is no job security. Hence, by its very
design the social structure encourages in-
novation.”
It did not take George long to understand
these core values of the American Culture
when he first landed in the United States. “A
few days of shock at being so far away from
Kerala was all the change I experienced,”
he says. He was completely at home in the
new country despite having just eight dol-
lars in his pocket and the mere assurance of
a scholarship. “You know it’s pretty hard to
survive two semesters on eight dollars but I
did it. I was caught in this situation because
I turned down the full scholarship offer for
a Doctorate in Physics to pursue a Masters
in Electrical Engineering.” But his commu-
nication skills, dogged perseverance and
belief in the Almighty helped him survive.
Mantra for Success
So, what is the secret of his success?
“Let me explain this with a little anecdote,”
he says. “When I was in the eighth grade I
participated in the National youth festival. I
used to think of myself as a good orator but
when I went on stage and looked at the au-
dience I couldn’t make myself utter a single
word. I just stood there for five minutes
and came back. Six months later I gave a
speech of our school’s annual day function
and got the first prize. So, my philosophy
is that you can overcome any hurdle if you
believe in yourself,” asserts George.
His amiability is another factor that adds
to success. George has never met a person
whom he hasn’t liked. “I am a people’s
person and I never judge people.” This
personality trait endears him to everyone
he meets. Success for George has little to
do with what a person starts with but ev-
erything to do with what his/her vision is
and he has always been driven by his
vision.
“As a teenager in India coming to the
United States was a vision which I
accomplished. Once I embarked on a
career in the defense field my vision
was to run my own company which I
now do. For the future I seek to grow
this company to yield $100 million
revenue by 2012 with branches both
in India and the United States and donate
twenty percent of the proceeds to charity.”
A noble vision indeed!
Driven by his vision George has traversed
the long and rocky road to success to reach
a point where he can say that with a little
perseverance and a will to succeed dreams
do come true.
1. George was born on JUN-1-1945 in Alleppey District,
Kerala.
2. He is fluent in six languages.
3. He is an avid collector of art.
4. His drawing room boasts of Rembrandt and Dali origi-
nals, exquisite Faberge eggs and a four foot long replica of
a Chinese wedding carved in Ivory.
5. Marayoor, George’s home town is believed to be the
abode of the Pandavas during their exile.
6. Ram, Sita and Lakshmana are also believed to have vis-
ited Marayoor during their “vanavasa.”
7. He has a passion for cars, watches, pens and good art.
8. A 2007 Porsche and a 2007 Jaguar grace his garage.
9. George holds three Masters and a Doctorate degree.
10. In his free time George plays tennis and golf.
11. He switched his profession from teaching to business.
12. He has taught at St. Alberts’ College Cochin, St. Pauls’
College, Kalamasery, Palm Beach ISC School and Sadhana
School of Education in Bombay.
13. He has aspirations of writing a book someday.
The Saffron House Restaurant co - owned by George is lo-
cated on 5100 Beltline Road in Addison, TX.
George’s friend and partner Probodh Arora who has an
extensive experience in the hospitality industry runs the
operations. A place with a great ambience and delectable
food, The Saffron House has now expanded its operations
to catering as well.
The management has plans of opening two new
restaurants in the DFW region by the end of 2007.
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 55
56 DIYA MAY 2008
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 57
58 DIYA MAY 2008

Want a flawless skin?
By Swapnil Rai
If flawless skin is on your agenda for this Spring, Rukhsar Face and Laser
Center is the place to go. Rukhsar not only specializes in South Asian skin care,
they have certified estheticians and laser technicians with years of experience
who will customize the treatment specifically for your skin type.
Cecelia Miley the clinical esthetician at Rukhsar has worked in field
of skin care for 26 years. “Skin care is an ever evolving field and
there are always new things to learn. So, over the years I have re-
ceived several certifications. I make sure that I know about the latest
and best treatments available so our customers get the best results,”
says Cecilia. “At Rukhsar we offer wholesome skin treatment for
people to maintain good skin, as well as treatment for people with
problem skin.”
The single biggest with South Asian skin is hyper pigmentation and
related acne, feels Cecelia. “South Asian skin has more melanin
which causes the pigmentation problem and we’ve got just the right
microdermabrasion treatment for that at Rukhsar”, she explains.
Microdermabrasion is a superficial treatment for the skin. It uses
fine “sand like” particles to gently abrade the surface of the skin.
“ This treatment takes care problem skin as well improves the skin
in general by making the skin structure healthier and providing in-
creased hydration to the skin,” says Cecelia.
In addition to corrective treatment Rukhsar also offers anti-aging
treatments that seem to have worked wonders. “Believe you me,
my clients start to feel that their skin is tighter, healthier and cleaner
before they even get off the table,” avows Cecelia.
But if a complete image transformation is your goal and you are
feature
tired of perpetual shaving waxing and threading, opt for Rukhsar’s
permanent hair growth reduction treatment. Amanda Rivera heads
the laser treatment at Rukhsar. Amanda is a well qualified and li-
censed medical assistant and a certified laser technician and elec-
trolysist. Amanda works with the clients individually to help them
decide on a customized treatment that would work best for their
skin. The exciting part of it all is that consultations about your skin
and laser treatment are complimentary. So, if you want to just check
out if a treatment will work for you or not, the skilled professionals
at Rukhsar are there to help free of charge.
So, don’t delay if great skin is what you desire. “Great skin does a
lot for people’s self image. I have seen people become more con-
fident when their skin problems are all
gone,” reveals Cecelia. So, if you’ve
been wondering about getting rid of
the tiresome zits or pigments that never
seem to go away Rukhsar face and laser
center is the place to go.
Rukhsar is conveniently located at
1205 W Trinity Mills, Suite 211,
Carrollton, TX 75006. For appoint-
ments call: 972-245-7727 or email
them at Rukhsar_center@hotmail.
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 59
60 DIYA MAY 2008
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 61
advice
ASK THE LOVE EXPERT:
Problems causing you distress in life? Send in your worries, we will help you out!
theloveexpert@diyamagazine.com
Q: He used to be so great, nice, warm, and happy at the be-
ginning of the relationship. Now that we’re married, every-
thing seems so different. Has he changed or have I changed?
Is my marriage falling apart?
A: I hear this so many times. People tend to wait around for
years before asking that question, and by then sometimes it is
too late. It’s not a matter of him changing or you changing. I
personally think the problem is complacency. People tend to
work harder at putting in an effort at the beginning of a relation-
ship compared to when they’ve been together for a while. Once
they get comfortable in the relationship, they take the partner
for granted. After a while, problems arise.
Here’s some advice. The youth in you relationship should nev-
er die. That’s the secret to staying happy together. The same
attraction you had for each other should remain through the
years. Never quit little things like date nights, movie nights,
romantic dinners out with just the two of you, or little getaways
you used to do when you first started dating. Remember how
much fun you had then? Make sure that never stops. Make an
effort at keeping your relationship young at heart.
Q: I am almost 30 years old and I haven’t been in a serious
62 DIYA MAY 2008
relationship that lasted more than two months. I want to
date, but I don’t think I am attractive enough to the op-
posite gender. I’m getting old and I feel I have missed my
chance at finding a partner.
A: It can be somewhat scary. Well in general regardless of age,
the dating game is a scary place to be. There are a lot of mind
games involved and you never really know how interested they
are in you. A lot of people rush to settle down as soon as they
meet someone because sometimes they say they are done with
dating. Most people find partners in social settings, and I still
believe that till today. Did you miss out of the dating scene
in college? No problem. I would strongly urge you to (if you
haven’t already), build up your circle of friends. That is the best
way to meet people. Chances are, they know friends who know
friends and before you know it, you’re meeting new people and
potentially a partner. It does take effort. Branch out and build
your social skills. The more personable you are, the more likely
people will notice you, want to spend more time with you, and
introduce you to their other friends. Be confident, but please
don’t be arrogant. Nothing is a better turn off than arrogance
when someone getting to know you. Do not worry about your
attraction. Once people overcome their shallowness, they see
the true inner person you really are.
texas wireless

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 63

fitness Tune into

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64 DIYA MAY 2008

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 65
travel

Asia
Petronas Twin Towers,
literally the apex of Kuala
Lumpur's Golden Triangle.
Picture by Beh Kea Chang

Popular Destinations in Asia

1. Bangkok 11. Hanoi
2. Kuala Lumpur 12. Kyoto
3. Beijing 13. Mumbai
4. Singapore 14. Manila
5. Tokyo 15. Chiang Mai
6. Phuket 16. Angkor Wat
7. Seoul 17. Delhi
8. Shanghai 18. Taipei
9. Ho Chi Minh City 19. Melaka
10. Penang 20. Boracay Island

Kuala Lumpur
capital of Malaysia. Literally meaning “muddy
is the

estuary” in Malay, KL has grown from a small

sleepy village to a bustling metropolis (metro
population 6.9 million) in just 150 years. With
the world’s cheapest five-star hotels, great shop-
ping and even better food, increasing numbers of
travellers are discovering this little gem of a city.

Districts
Kuala Lumpur is a fairly sprawling city and its
residential suburbs seem to go on forever. The
city also merges with the adjacent towns of Petal-
ing Jaya (originally developed as KL’s dormitory
suburb), Subang Jaya, Shah Alam, Klang and Port
Klang, creating a huge metropolis called the Klang
Valley.

The city can be divided up into the following ar-

eas, each of which offers a particular attraction or
activity.
City Center – This is the traditional core of Kuala
Lumpur where you’ll find former colonial admin-
istrative center with the Merdeka Square, Sultan
Abdul Samad Building and Selangor Club. This
district also includes Kuala Lumpur’s old Chinese
commercial center which everyone refers to now
as Chinatown.
Golden Triangle – The area of Kuala
Lumpur located to the northeast of
the city center, the Golden Triangle is
where you’ll find the city’s shopping
malls, five-star hotels, Petronas Twin
Towers and party spots.
Tuanku Abdul Rahman – This is the
traditional colourful shopping district
of Kuala Lumpur north of the city cen-
ter and moves into high gear when the
festivals of Hari Raya Puasa (Eid ul-
Fitr) and Deepavali approach. Located
just beside the Golden Triangle (north-
ern neighbour) with many popular bud-
get accommodations. The gigantic Pu-
tra World Trade Centre & the traditional Kampung
Baru food haven are among the most important
landmarks.
Brickfields – This area, located south of the city
center, is Kuala Lumpur’s Little India filled with
saree shops and banana leaf rice restaurants. Kuala
Lumpur’s main railway station – KL Sentral – is
located here.
Bangsar and Midvalley – Located south of the
city, Bangsar is a popular restaurant and clubbing
district while Midvalley, with its Megamall, is one
of the city’s most popular shopping destinations.
Damansara and Hartamas – Largely suburban, this
two districts to the west of the city houses some in-
teresting pockets of restaurant and drinking areas.
This district virtually merges into the northern part
of Petaling Jaya.
Ampang – Located east of the city, Ampang is
home to Kuala Lumpur’s Little Korea and most
foreign embassies.
Northern suburbs – This huge area to the north
of the city is home to several attractions, such as
Batu Caves, the National Zoo and the Forest Re-
search Institute of Malaysia.
Southern suburbs – This district may not interest
travellers although Kuala Lumpur’s main stadium
at Bukit Jalil and The Mines theme park is located
here.

66 DIYA MAY 2008

Sightseeing: Batu Caves and Suburbs of Kuala Lumpur
Drive through The Ambassa-
dor’s row along Kuala Lumpur’s
historic Ampand Road, view
Malaysian suburban homes as
well as rural lifestyle enroute
to the internationally renowned
Royal Selangor Pewter factory
where you will see the art of
fine pewter crafting.
Proceed to Gombak and see the
art of Batik designing. On the
way, you will pass by typical
Malay house before coming to
your last stop, the spectacular
Batu Caves. This massive lime-
Elephant Sanctuary Private Tour stone outcrop and its cavernous
A day at the Elephant Sanctuary in interior is home to Hindu dei-
Kuala Gandah. ties and one will need to climb
Visit the Elephant Conservation its 272 steps to fully appreciate
Farm at Kuala Gandah - only one the caves.
and a half hour’s journey from Kua-
la Lumpur. Located in a beautiful
tropical rainforest, the Elephant “Sanctuary” in an ambitious elephant
conservation program implemented and managed by the Malaysian
Wildlife Society, where you come into close contact with semi-wild
elephants. Truly an exciting and never-to-be forgotten experience!
Spend an exhilarating day with them, enjoy the rides, the thrill of
“bathing” with the elephants at a nearby river, feeding them fruits,
all under the watchful eye and supervision of their skilled trainers.
An experience not to be missed! These specially trained and com-
mitted team of wildlife experts are dedicated to the protection and
preservation of the Asian Elephants (“elephant maximus”). Visitors to
this sanctuary will also get to enjoy a 30minutes documentary on the
conservation activities and programs carried out by the team.

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 67

68 DIYA MAY 2008
 Exclusively
available at:

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 69

career

How to be a
“Here are 10 more tips
to help you be a better
co-worker: good
1. Dial it down a notch
Whether it’s talking on your
phone, singing to your iPod,
co-worker... By Kate Lorenz
or slamming file drawers At CareerBuilder.com
with a deafening bang,
reduce the volume of noises
emanating from your office
or cube, Challenger warns.

2. Keep your ego in check

Watch your bragging. It’s
great that you recently aced
the deal with a difficult client
or made an unbelievable
golf shot yesterday. Most
of your co-workers don’t
want to be subjected to
hearing the endless reasons
why you are so great.
Wait to earn a compliment
rather than trying to force people to deliver one.
3. Avoid office politics (Part 1)
When the resident gossip “confides” insider information to
you and is waiting to hear your reaction and rebuttal, don’t
bite, even if it’s about someone you dislike. Scandalous
scuttlebutt flourishes on the office grapevine and you
don’t want your remarks to come back to haunt you.
4. Clean up after yourself
This old standby of mom’s is spot-on. Make sure you clear the
break table after eating and don’t leave food rotting in the fridge.
5. Silence it
Silly noises usually elicit more grimaces than giggles.
Avoid annoying phone ring tones or computer sound
effects. While you may enjoy hearing “It’s a Small World
After All” over and over every time your BlackBerry
rings, you can bet you’re alone in your amusement.
6. Cut cube clutter
Make sure your thriving collection of ferns doesn’t
cascade over into adjoining cubes or the many pictures
plastered around your area don’t stick up over cube
dividers. While these items may make your cube
‘homey,’ the view from the other side is far less pleasing.
7. Avoid office politics (Part 2)
Today’s politically polarized environment makes discussing
70 DIYA MAY 2008
even the most innocuous issue a potential touchstone for
office controversy. So keep your ideas for obtaining world
peace or solving economic dilemmas under your hat.
8. Temper your toxicity
Try to not let your moments of personal or professional
unhappiness blanket the office. Co-workers will cringe
at your ability to put a negative spin on everything.
9. Good hygiene never fails
Oftentimes, you’re with colleagues more often than you are
with your family at home. That doesn’t mean you should
become complacent in your grooming. Your co-workers
will always appreciate your use of shampoo, toothpaste and
soap - and several squirts of cologne do not take their place.
10. Keep the small talk small
While it’s important to bond with fellow co-workers,
everyone is there to work. By all means share a quick
little story that will brighten their day. But don’t plop
down in a chair and kill a good hour with idle chatter.
“The best environments to work in are those where people
really get along and have built friendships in the workplace,”
Challenger says. “However, if there ever is an issue between
co-workers it’s very important to recognize it and repair it,”
he advises. It is in both your best interest and the best interest
of the company to maintain a cooperative, friendly work
environment.”
Kate Lorenz is the article and advice editor for CareerBuilder.com. She
researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring
trends and workplace issues.
Interested in modeling?
E-mail your headshot with contact info to
info@diyamodels.net | www.diyamodels.net

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 71

Bollywood Film Review Krazzy 4
Ten Shimoyama’s fifth movie, Shinobi: Heart Under Blade is
an epic tale based on the works of author, Futaro Yamada. This
movie is the story of Gennosuke and Oboro, two star-crossed
lovers from rival ninja clans. When a decree from Shogun Ieya-
su Tokugawa ends the fragile truce between the Iga and Kouga
clans, Gennosuke and four of his village’s best warriors are
forced to lead the Kouga clan into war against Oboro and the
Iga clan’s elite ninjas. At first, Gennosuke rebels against this
order and sets off for Senpu Castle to find out the real reason
why the two clans must fight each other again. When Oboro
hears of Gennosuke’s plan, she sets off after Gennosuke and
his men.

One of the most noticeable characteristics of this movie is the

striking composition by cinematographer, Masasai Chikamori.
Chikamori’s epic camera style is well suited to this romantic
period drama. His shot composition reinforces the division and
animosity between the two clans. It will be difficult to find a
better looking epic, period drama made in this day and age.

Although the cinematography is impressive, Chikamori uses it

to compensate for the lack of substance elsewhere in the mov-
ie. The characters in this picture are severely underdeveloped.
There is minimal backstory on Gennosuke and Oboro and the
history revealed in the voiceover narration is unnecessary and
can be figured out elsewhere in the movie. Not only are the sto-
ries of the two lead characters sorely neglected, the supporting characters are little more than glorified extras. In this incarnation of this story, the eight supporting char-
acters that help lead their clans into battle seem gimmicky and lack any real depth.

Since the main characters of this movie are ninjas with magical powers, it is easy to draw the conclusion that this movie would have a great deal of action. The fight scenes
in this movie are gripping and exciting, unfortunately, they are also too few and far between. For the most part, the story focuses on the impossible love that Gennosuke
and Oboro share. With love being the driving force behind this movie, there is little fighting on screen. This is not a detriment to the story, but is likely to go against the
expectations of many viewers.

Usually, period movies are held to a much higher standard than other genres. Fans of authentic, epic chambara movies will undoubtedly be let down by this movie’s focus
on style rather than substance. With that said, Shinobi: Heart Under Blade is a gorgeous action movie. The fight scenes are well choreographed and the overall aesthetic
of this movie is spectacular. Because of this film’s more blockbuster feel, the entertainment value is rather high and definitely warrants multiple viewings. As a whole,
Shinobi: Heart Under Blade is a thoroughly enjoyable experience and what this movie lacks in substance, it makes up for with escapism.
Rating: HHIII
U Me Aur Hum Shaurya Khuda Kay Liye Bhram

The film has its flaws. It sometimes tries
too hard to be trendily philosophical in
its dialogues and ends up sounding pho-
ney.
The back-and-forth editing pyrotechnics
where key incidents are recreated in
flashy flashbacks are distracting. Howev-
er, Aseem Bajaj’s cinematography does
much to create a smooth homogenous
look and mood for the narrative.
The film takes us through a world of love
pain and acceptance with such transpar-
ent honesty of purpose that at the end
of it you only wonder one thing... why
can’t more movies be like “U, Me Aur
Hum”?
Rating: HHHHI
72 DIYA MAY 2008
ahul Bose rocks, his facial expressions
are fantastic. Javed Jaffrey is a much un-
derrated actor; he is top notch in a non-
comical role. But it’s Kay Kay Menon
who stands out with a brilliant perfor-
mance... Minissha Lamba does well.
Deepak Dobriyal is good. Seema Biswas
is average.
Overall, Shaurya is a good film with bril-
liant performances by the male actors.
Has potential to grow with strong word
of mouth. The reaction from the 25 odd
people in the theatre was pretty good.
Rating: HHHII
Mansoor’s narrative is supported by The performance factor of the movie is
strong performances by the entire cast. impressive. Dino Morea does well. His
Rasheed Naaz’s piercing eyes send a expressions were decent and he carries
chill down your spine, while Shaan, off his part with seriousness. Debutant
who represents liberal modern Muslims, actress Sheetal Menon creates an impact
wows audiences with his emoting and with a good performance. Simone Singh
brings tears to the eyes when he is being is first-rate. Miland is good.
tortured in prison.
Overall, Bhram as a movie is just average
Naseer’s stupendous performance en- but could do well at the single screens;
hances the film storyline. hot women with loads of steamy scenes.
Mansoor has an innate understanding of
music, which is reflected well in “Khuda
Rating:HHIII
Kay Liye”.
The film is a must watch.
Rating: HHHHI
Shinobi: Heart Under Blade East Asian Film Review
Ten Shimoyama’s fifth movie, Shinobi: Heart Under
Blade is an epic tale based on the works of author, Fu-
taro Yamada. This movie is the story of Gennosuke and
Oboro, two star-crossed lovers from rival ninja clans.
When a decree from Shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa ends the
fragile truce between the Iga and Kouga clans, Genno-
suke and four of his village’s best warriors are forced to
lead the Kouga clan into war against Oboro and the Iga
clan’s elite ninjas. At first, Gennosuke rebels against this
order and sets off for Senpu Castle to find out the real
reason why the two clans must fight each other again.
When Oboro hears of Gennosuke’s plan, she sets off af-
ter Gennosuke and his men.

One of the most noticeable characteristics of this movie

is the striking composition by cinematographer, Masasai
Chikamori. Chikamori’s epic camera style is well suited
to this romantic period drama. His shot composition
reinforces the division and animosity between the two
clans. It will be difficult to find a better looking epic,
period drama made in this day and age.

Although the cinematography is impressive, Chikamori

uses it to compensate for the lack of substance elsewhere
in the movie. The characters in this picture are severely
underdeveloped. There is minimal backstory on Genno-
suke and Oboro and the history revealed in the voiceover
narration is unnecessary and can be figured out else-
where in the movie. Not only are the stories of the two
lead characters sorely neglected, the supporting charac-
ters are little more than glorified extras. In this incarna-
tion of this story, the eight supporting characters that help lead their clans into battle seem gimmicky and lack any real depth.

Since the main characters of this movie are ninjas with magical powers, it is easy to draw the conclusion that this movie would have a great deal of action. The fight
scenes in this movie are gripping and exciting, unfortunately, they are also too few and far between. For the most part, the story focuses on the impossible love that
Gennosuke and Oboro share. With love being the driving force behind this movie, there is little fighting on screen. This is not a detriment to the story, but is likely to go
against the expectations of many viewers.
Rating: HHHII
Public Enemy Old Boy IInternal Affairs YoJimbo

This movie also has a great deal of hu-
morous moments. The humor as present-
ed in Public Enemy is mainly slapstick
and dark comedy. It seems that every-
body is slapped in the head throughout
the course of the movie. The police chief
uses this technique to express his disgust
with people. Also, Detective Kang hu-
miliates criminals this way after beating
them senseless. Kang also uses black-
mail to employ the services of several
petty criminals whenever necessary for
him to work outside the law. Since these
criminals are far from sophisticated, hi-
larity usually ensues.
Rating: HHHII
The violence in Oldboy is plentiful, but
not excessive. Every scene of brutality
is well justified by the narrative. When
Dae-su Oh beats a mob of people with a
claw hammer, we know that they deserve
it for having a part in his imprisonment.
Even with the violence only being in
place to further the story, a few scenes
may be too disturbing for some viewers.
Oldboy is one of the best revenge mov-
ies ever made. There are disturbing mo-
ments in the movie, but there is never a
time when they feel unnecessary. With
Oldboy, Chan-wook Park set a precedent
for the way violence and brutality should
be displayed, and set a standard for all
revenge movies to come.
Rating: HHHHI
The directing by Andrew Lau and Siu
Fai Mak more than achieves the high
standard set by the acting, writing, and
cinematography. Since Infernal Affairs
is a movie about double identities, it is
easy to think that the story would have a
tendency to be confusing. Lau and Mak
made this movie easy to follow without
downplaying anything for the sake of the
audience. They also let the stars, Andy
Lau and Tony Leung, handle the dichot-
omy of their characters’ lives with great
subtlety, allowing those aspects to be-
come part of their backgrounds. Because
of this, the audience is always aware of
where Yan and Lau’s allegiances lie.
Rating: HHHHI
Yojimbo is a movie that is virtually flaw-
less. Over the years, this movie has won
several awards and has been hailed by
critics everywhere as one of the great-
est films of all time. Every aspect of this
movie from Kurosawa’s superb writing
and directing, to Miyagawa’s brilliant
cinematography, to Toshiro Mifune’s
amazing acting is a perfect example of
the height of film making. Yojimbo truly
has something for everyone and is es-
sential viewing for fans of all forms of
cinema.
Rating: HHHHI

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 73

Reviews
Telegu ReviewsMantra Maharajasri
Anausya State Rowdy

In the final analysis, Ravi Babu proves
his mettle as a director of caliber. He
has the capability to make movies on
the strength of the script without us-
ing big names as crutches. Of Course,
Bhoomika was a pull factor for Anasuya,
but really the trailers shown before the
movie was released were too powerful.
The onus is now on him to make mov-
ies with strong social messages uphold-
ing the good values of life, either with or
without comedy. He is the one capable
of doing it.
Rating: HHIII
Mantra is a horrifying movie. It is heavi- No Rishi is not in a double role in the Shivaji is good as a fake rowdy. His com-
ly engrossing too. The crowd tries relent- movie. It’s the same Rishi that loved Anu ic timing is good. Venu Madhav’s come-
lessly to remove the elements of horror Mehta starts chasing Nikhita for love. dy hovers between mediocrity and excel-
by shouting and hooting at the key mo- lence. At times he is brilliant and at times
ments. But still the director manages to As mentioned earlier, Maharajashri is he is simply repetitive. Mallika Kapoor
terrify with appropriate sound, lighting, a movie with twists and turns, excel- and Madhu Shalini have done their bit.
and timing. People with weak hearts and lent job there. But the destination is not Chandra Mohan is as usual flawless in
heart problems are cautioned: this movie worth all the twists and turns. his rendering.
is not for you. There is nothing to write about Rishi’s
acting. It’s just average and falls short The weak point is the direction and the
So what’s haunting Mantra Nilayam? Is of the promise he showed in A Film by script. This is not the movie that can en-
it a deranged woman, an extra terrestrial, Arvind. Nikhita on the other hand steals tertain the Christmas and the New Year
or really some ghost? the show. Safi, a dynamo, is wasted in crowd.
the movie. Sai Kumar is just a new ver-
Rating: HHHII sion of the old villainy concept. All the Rating: HIIII
characters look very unreal and the mov-
ie doesn’t impress at all.
Rating: HHIII

Malayalam Reviews
De Ingotu Nokiye Innathe Chinthavishyam Mulla Kerala Police

There’s a scene halfway through the
film when the Chief Minister reveals his
fondness for anything that has his be-
loved’s name on it, be it Agarbathis or
Pan Masalas. It’s this sort of astonishing
ineptitude at sardonic humor that sinks
this film. And it almost seems like sev-
eral separate screenplays were bluntly
merged together to form one hardly co-
herent piece of work.
As much as I hate to say it, De Ingottu
Nokkiye is a film that has its attention
concurrently on quite a lot of things.
And as such, it’s way out of focus, shaky
and quite unbalanced and would remain
a socio-political satire with lots of bark
and little bite.
Rating: HIIII
Innathe Chinthavishyam has a hast- It feels impossible to believe that the film
ily conceived feel all about it. It doesn’t comes from the much-admired direc-
move much beyond those tear-jerker tor of Classmates and Achanurangatha
soaps that harp on and on about marital Veedu. This is indeed a mighty fall, and
discord and remains as foreseeable as the the effects quite detrimental and trau-
tides. And it’s just too sad that so much matic. For it is truly inconceivable even
of the film is clumsy, manipulative and if you overlook that carcass of a script,
unnatural, or simply so hard to believe. that the film lacks an essential sense of
direction.
Sorry, but this simply ain’t enough food
for thought. Disfigured by a hollow script, winding
performances and sullen direction Mul-
Rating: HHIII la is a big-time debacle and a colossal
downer. Be the least amazed if you walk
out of it wondering what hit you in your
deep slumber!
Rating: HHHII
There’s nothing much to dwell on, when
it comes to the storyline. The formulaic
plot follows a much trampled path, and
the suspense build up nothing more than
run of the mill. Its nonspecific backdrop
and low-scale action sequences prove to
be a mostly unmemorable affair. Loud,
long-winded and boring, the film goes
down in an ocean of ceaseless pursuits
and misery-go-rounds!
A wholly inept script and truly ruinous
direction see to it that the nails on this
coffin are banged right in. Save your
Sunday for anything better; Kerala Po-
lice just isn’t worth it!
Rating: HHHII

74 DIYA MAY 2008

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 75
 Hollywood Film Reviews
Dan in Real Life
Sometimes movies arrive like whispers and are so gen-
tle in their impact that it’s a shame many people just
don’t get to watch them.

Actor Steve Carrell anchors “Dan in Real Life” - a

sweet, slightly sentimental movie that strives to be hon-
est in its depiction of family relationships and looking
for the ‘right’ kind of love.
It has none of the hallmarks of a blockbuster and will
most probably fall below the radar of most people who,
if they watch it, will actually like it a lot.
Director Peter Hedges stuck to his forte and with
this movie continues exploring pretty much the same
themes he did in his scripts for “What’s Eating Gilbert
Grape?”, “About a Boy” and “Pieces of April” - which
he wrote and directed. All these movies strove to ex-
plore the complexities of human relationships; espe-
cially those of family. Steve Carrell returns to stay
somewhat close to the other characters he played so
well in hit TV show “The Office”, “The 40-Year Old
Virgin” and “Little Miss Sunshine”.

But what saves this movie from outright sentimental-

ity is the way Carrel portrays negative emotions like
jealousy and frustration without looking like a real
jerk. Neither does he try to wring out sentimentality
from the many dramatic scenes sprinkled throughout
the movie.
Carrell plays Dan, a widower tending his three daugh-
ters who all go for a family reunion at his parents place. There he meets a charming woman (Juliette Binoche) and sparks fly, but it is short lived as he discovers she is
his brother’s girlfriend. The rest of the movie is their struggle to do the right thing even as love pulls in the opposite direction. The strong point of the film is clearly the
characters. The movie teems with characters and yet by the end we feel we know each one pretty well. But as with most character-driven plots, some relationships seem
contrived and others are not given enough room to be properly explored.
But the few pivotal relationships - between Dan and his daughters, his parents, his brother and girlfriend - are probed deep enough to give the plot some sense of authentic-
ity. The director also makes us feel comfortable in the setting. The small activities that the family engages in and the way they show concern for Dan especially, all ring
true. The cast is comprised of some veteran actors who seem to have lightened up immensely and seem to stroll through their parts leisurely.
Dianne Weist, playing the mother, and Juliette Binoche are both Oscar winners, and John Mahoney is a veteran, having starred in the hit 90s TV show “Fraser”.

The supporting actors all understand their parts and fit nicely into the endearing stereotypes they represent. Rating: HHHII

Juno Death at a Funeral Vantage Point Sweeny Todd

The comic aspect of the movie makes it
seems like it is skirting some very seri-
ous issues, but scenes like Juno taking
a break on the side of the road just to
weep show that the movie understands
her plight.
The movie avoids getting itself en-
tangled in some potentially divisive is-
sues like abortion, adoption and teenage
sexuality.
The themes are so divisive that it will
be interesting to see how viewers from
different cultures like India will receive
this film. The fact that the movie doesn’t
take a clear stand, let alone hit you on
the head with a message, makes it easier
to embrace.
Rating: HHIII
76 DIYA MAY 2008
The film features a sparkling array of act-
ing talent. Watch out for Peter Dinklage,
who seems saddled with shit in more
ways than one. And Alan Tudyk, romp-
ing naked among mourners preserves a
core of dignity in the ludicrous.
That, I think, is the secret of this come-
dy’s success. “Death At Funeral” laughs
at the living rather than the dead. It tells
us that we don’t need to fear mortality
but the danger of taking life a tad too
seriously.
Rating: HHIII
There are no full stops or commas in sto- The fact that it is a musical pulls it back
rytelling, only exclamation marks as we from veering off into the territory of hor-
go back by half an hour to recreate the ror films or an unintentionally comic one.
circumstances leading up to the assassi- This movie is not for the light-hearted or
nation through various perceptions. for the easily squeamish.
Amir Mokri’s cinematography ploughs
through the wind looking for meaning in But for those who need a break from the
the meaningless mayhem. popular fluffy musicals, Sweeney Todd
We have seen the same format of sto- is worth the indulgence, especially with
rytelling in Akira Kurosawa’s “Ro- the remarkable Depp anchoring it.
shomon” and Mani Ratnam’s “Yuva”.
But never so charged, electrifying and Rating: HHHII
eager to grab eyeballs. Finally though,
“Vantage Point” is more style than sub-
stance. Not a single member of the ac-
complished cast gets an opportunity to
prove himself.
Rating: HHIII
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 77
 Tamil Reviews
Yaaradi Nee Mohini
Karthik and Karunas fit their roles which
they play with all seriousness.
There is no comedy track as such, but
humour is woven into the story. This is
one of the highlights of the film.
Scenes like Dhanush’s discomfiture
while shopping with girls, the burst of
ruckus and the sudden market fight do
not gel with the subject. The dragging
climax somewhat dampens the spirit.
The music by Yuvan Shankar Raja has
been at the top of the charts ever since
its release. The censors, while granting
a “U” certificate to the film, are said
to have congratulated the new director
Mithran Jawahar on coming up with a
clean and wholesome family entertainer.
The film is a gripping family drama.
Rating: HHHII
78 DIYA MAY 2008
Tharagu Vedha Sandai
Some of Pugazh Mani’s dialogues and Performance-wise, all the lead players Glamorous Nadia as the head-strong
Muthukumar’s lyrics set to the tune of seem to be just so so. Arun Vijay hasn’t mother sets the screen on fire with fury
Bharani are seemingly profane. improved much from his earlier films. when Sundar tell her “I am the morai
Neither Sheela nor Jerovardhan impress Mappillai”. One does not feel the ab-
The film is full of talk of money in terms us much. Seetha is just OK. Karunas is sence of a villain. Nadia as arrogant
of not lakhs but crores reflecting the cur- good, but his is just a comedy track. Sa- mother-in-law fills this space with her
rent trend in the real estate business. The tyaprakash is good as Satya. The songs superb body language and banters.
new director is thoughtful of focusing on are good enough, but not spectacular. Namitha plays a ‘Karagatakkari’ out to
the flip-side. He also conveys the mes- The main problem with the film has to seduce Sundar. She looks charming.
sage couched in humour that money is do with the scenarist and the director. Ragini just goes through the motions.
of course needed for living, but money The film is based on a story that is out- Glamour makes good her acting defi-
is not life. dated, but if the director and the scenarist ciency.
had worked better on it, they could have Napoleon makes a guest appearance as
‘Tharagu” is a film a like of which is a made something better out of it. As such Collector.
rarity. Vedha is a total let-down. Dhina’s music is adequate.
Though some of the sequences are bla-
Rating: HHIII Rating: HHIII tantly illogical, Director Shakthi Chi-
dambaram seems to have decided that
it is enough if the film humors the audi-
ence. And, he has succeeded.
Rating: HHIII
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 79
 Korea
Lee Hyori Says
Goodbye to Sexytime

Lee Hyori, who is known for her provocative looks, recently said on
a show that the whole sex appeal concept was no longer fitting to the
person she is.

“Now that I’m 30 years old, I don’t think the sexy image suits me,” the
30-year-old revealed. “I want to be able to present myself with a differ-
ent image... a more comfortable one.”

Nobody really knows where the sudden change of heart is coming from.
But, the rumor is that because she has landed two emceeing roles on
“Sang Sang Plus Season 2” and “Good Sunday: Change,” she wants to
get rid of the whole sexy image.

Korea
Lee Dong Gun picks himself for
May comeback
Since the tragic loss of his brother on 20th
March, Lee Dong Gun had suspended all his
activities. But latest news is that he will be
making his comeback in May.

According to sources close to him, “Lee Dong

Gun has already set a time to enter the filming
for “Every Day Every Night”. He will of-
ficially start filming on 1st May and the drama
will be broadcasted on schedule in the middle
of June.”

Besides the drama, Lee Dong Gun will be

releasing a single in Japan and will fly there
to promote it in the middle of May. His single
was actually supposed to be released in April
but was postponed to May following the loss of his brother.

Lee Dong Gun had signed an agreement with Sony Japan earlier this
year to release a single album titled, “Tsuki Akari” on 26th March and
has been well-received by fans. According to staff, “The album promo-
tion and drama filming was supposed to be carried out in April and
May. But with both having to be done in May now, Lee Dong Gun is
expected to have a very busy month.

Source: asianfanatics.net. By Nii K. Ki

80 DIYA MAY 2008

 scoop
Hong Kong china
Sexy Gigi Lai at MOISELLE Catwalk, Professional Super Junior M’s Chinese windwhirl
Models Fade In Comparison Despite the fact only half can speak Chinese, Super Junior M is doing
surprisingly well in China. SuJu M’s recent release of the Mandarin
Gigi Lai is currently caring version of “U” MV somehow gained the support of the Chinese media
for her brother who had been as well as Chinese Elves who are happy with their personalized slice of
in a car accident, although she the Super Junior pie.
is not accepting any filming
work, but she is constantly and Chinese versions of “Marry U” and “Don’t Don” and will hit the
appearing in catwalk func- stores on May 2nd.
tions and ribbon cutting Source: popseoul. Picture: AsianBite.com
functions. Gigi attended the
MOISELLE catwalk in Shen-
zheng to model the brand’s
new summer and spring
dresses. She wore two dresses
with different styles, looking
elegant, beautiful and stylish.
One of the dresses showed off
Gigi’s busty chest, making the
professional models standing
behind her fade in compari-
son. During an interview after
the function, Gigi revealed
that she will not accepting
any filming jobs, but will
attend more catwalk functions
and ribbon cutting events, she
will also be participating in
some charity work. Source:
asianfanatics.net

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 81

 advertisement

82 DIYA MAY 2008

JAPAN
Oricon: top 20-year-olds for 2008
In a recent survey, Oricon asked a thousand people to name which
20-year-old celebrity they think will have a breakthrough year in 2008.
Choices were limited to people turn-
ing 20 between April 2 of this year
and April 1 of next year.

Actress Yui Aragaki, who already

experienced a significant career
boost last year, was the #1 answer.
Maki Horikita was #2, followed by
Erika Toda. Rakuten Eagles pitcher
Masahiro Tanaka ranked 4th.

The rest of the top ten were Meisa

Kuroki, Mikako Tabe, table tennis
star Ai Fukuhara, baseball pitcher
Yuki Saito, Miliyah Kato, and Aki-
yoshi Nakao.
Source: asianfanatics.net

MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 83

84 DIYA MAY 2008

Sesame seed and cranberry
breakfast naan bread with honey & coconut
By Gurpareet Bains.
Sesame seeds are high in folic acid, and cranberries are crammed full of anti-oxidants, making for a
delicious and fruity treat to kick start the day!
Make the dough the night before and you can roll out this healthy honey drizzled breakfast treat literally in minutes!
TIME: 30 MINUTES (WITH ADVANCE
PREPERATION)
200g plain flour
50g yogurt
30ml milk
1/3 sachet fast action yeast (2.5g)
2 tablespoons honey
¼ teaspoon salt
Handful each of pumpkin seeds, sesame
seeds and dried cranberries
Extra flour for dusting
Olive oil
Extra honey to serve
Coconut cream (optional)
Cold water
Place the flour, salt and yeast into a large
mixing bowl and mix. Make a well in the
middle of the flour.
In a separate bowl, whisk the yogurt, milk
and honey. Pour this mixture slowly into
the well in the mixing bowl, whilst stirring
with a wooden spoon and mixing it into the
flour. When the fluids have been absorbed
food
into the flour, roll the mixture onto a clean Brush each naan with a little water and
bench top and knead for 10 minutes. Roll press down on each naan equal amounts of
the dough ball in a little olive oil and place the pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds and dried
back into the mixing bowl, cover with cling cranberries.
film. Allow the dough to rest in a warm
place for 2 hours- or until the dough has Place one naan at a time at the top of the
doubled in size (to save time you can make oven on the hot tray and cook for1-2 min-
the dough the day before and keep it refrig- utes or until the naan has puffed a little and
erated until use). cooked through with some golden brown
patches.
Once the dough is ready, pre- heat the dual
oven and grill to its maximum temperature Drizzle the naan’s with the extra honey and
setting, leaving an oven tray at top of the coconut cream. Serve immediately. Makes
oven to heat. 4 naan’s.
Split the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll
Tune into
700AM
each piece in the palm of your hands until
you have a ‘dough ball’. Push the ‘dough
ball’ flat onto a bench top until it resembles
a thick disc shape. Using a rolling pin, roll
the disc out into a circle shape approximate-
ly 19cm length x 19cm width (if the dough Bringing community
sticks to the bench top or rolling pin use
extra flour for dusting). Repeat the process together!
until you have 4 naan’s in total.
www.funasia.net
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 85
 Asian American Heritage Month
How does it matter to you?
You may shrug off and say to yourselves, it il Rights Act of 1964 pass on July 2, 1964. Bahai, Buddhist, Christian, Confucius, Fa-
is not for me. God certainly knows what we “It was a landmark legislation in the United lun Gong, Hopi, Hindu, Jain, Jew, Muslim,
want, he is aware of all that we need, yet he States that outlawed segregation in the U.S. Pantheist, Oloriyo, Sikh, Shinto, Tao, Wic-
asks us to ask him, he wants us to earn it. schools and public places. It also started ca, Yazdi, Zoroastrians and other faith tra-
In a democracy like ours, we have to col- the Equal Employment Opportunity Com- ditions. Living in harmony is the beauty of
lectively ask what is good for “us and our mission.” And of course we have to thank America; every one has contributed towards
community” and pave the way to get the Rosa Parks for refusing to give up her seat in its richness in culture, peace and prosperity.
delivery. This “us” is American first, then 1955 which turned the civic life of America We are indeed, a beacon of Pluralistic de-
Chinese-American, mocracy.
Indian-American,
Filipino American, Asian Americans in America
Saudi American, The nation’s population officially
Pakistani Ameri- hit 300 million at 7:46 a.m. EDT
can, Thai Ameri- Tuesday, October 17, 2006, when
can, Vietnamese the Census Bureau’s population
American, Rus- clock rolled over to the big num-
sian-Asian-Amer- ber.
ican or Just Asian
American. The U.S. population’s racial distri-
bution in 2006 was as follows*:
As Asian-nation
puts it, “The his- White alone:73.9% or 221.3 mil-
tory of Asians in lion
the U.S. is the his- Black or African American alone:
tory of dreams, 12.2% or 37.1 million
hard work, preju- Asian alone: 4.4% or 13.1 million
dice, discrimina- American Indian or Alaska Native
tion, persistence, alone: 0.8% or 2.4 million
and triumph.” Native Hawaiian or other Pacific
Islander alone: 0.14% or 0.43 mil-
PBS presented an lion
excellent docu- some other race alone: 6.3% or
mentary series 19.0 million
Ancestors in the Two or more races: 2.0% or 6.1
Americas, the first million [13]
Asians to come
to the western Image courtesy of Aayesha Siddiqui. *U.S. Census Bureau; B02001.
hemisphere were RACE - Universe: TOTAL POP-
Chinese Filipinos who settled in Mexico. around. My friends, you and I would not ULATION; Data Set: 2006 American Com-
Eventually, Filipino sailors were the first to have come to the United States, had it not munity Survey; Survey: 2006 American
settle in the U.S. around 1750 in what would been for the Civil rights act. Remember, we Community Survey. Retrieved 2008-01-24
later be Louisiana. Later around 1840, to have to ask? Indeed, Martin Luther King Jr.,
make up for the shortage of slaves from Af- asked assertively and he got it and restored Dalip Singh Saund
rica, the British and Spanish brought over the pride and the sense of justice in Ameri- On November 7, 2007, the Congressional
slaves or “coolies” from China, India, and cans. I have kept up with the history of the Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC),
the Philippines to islands in the Caribbean, Indian subcontinent, Dallas had about 15 along with the House Fine Arts Board, the
Peru, Ecuador, and other countries in South Indians and Pakistani and Caribbean Indian Committee on House Administration, and
America.” immigrants prior to Civil Rights Act, today the Congressional Caucus on India and In-
we have over 100,00 of them combined. dian Americans, celebrated the unveiling of
Life was not easy for those early settlers. the official portrait of the late Congressman
Culture is about what you eat, wear and how The other community that has worked hard Dalip Singh Saund, the first Asian American
you live your day to day life. Assimilation for our pluralistic ethos is the Jewish com- to serve in the United States Congress.” In-
and integration were looked upon as betrayal munity, their effort to keep Church and the deed, there is a postal stamp to commemo-
to one’s own traditions. Those people, who state separate, has made America, God’s rate his contribution.
were in cultural transition, really paved the true country, where he, she or it can be wor-
way for us. shipped every which way. Today, America “Saund entered the society of the early ‘20’s
is perhaps the only nation on this beautiful — a time when anti-immigrant bills were
We owe our gratitude to Martin Luther King planet, where you find an array of believers pouring out of state and federal legislatures at
Jr. who was a major force in making the Civ- from an Animist, Apache, Atheist, Aztec, a furious pace. During this time, the law not-

86 DIYA MAY 2008


ed that
Asian
Indians
could
not be
U.S.
Citi-
zens
and his
American wife lost her citizenship when
she married him. In the ‘40s, Saund formed
the Indian Association of America to help
amend American immigration laws to make
Asian Indians eligible for citizenship. His
efforts paid off when President Harry S.
Truman signed the Luce-Cellar Act in 1946,
which permitted citizenship to Asian Indi-
ans.” Remember in 1946, India was a Brit-
ish colony, but they had singled out Indian
ethnicity.
All Men are created Equal
Wikepedia: The quotation
“All men are created equal”
is arguably the best-known
phrase in any of America’s
political documents. The
opening of the Declaration
of Independence written by
Thomas Jefferson in 1776,
states as follows:
“We hold these truths to be
self-evident, that all men
are created equal, that they
are endowed by their Cre-
ator with certain unalienable
Rights that among these are
Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit
of Happiness.” And “ Article
I. All men are born free and
equal, and have certain natu-
ral, essential, and unalienable
rights; among which may be
reckoned the right of enjoying and defend-
ing their lives and liberties; that of acquir-
ing, possessing, and protecting property;
in fine, that of seeking and obtaining their
safety and happiness.
The African Americans had the rights on
the books since the day our nation became
independent, but they had to struggle to get
that translated into practice 188 years later.
In the last 40 years, perhaps the Asian popu-
lation has quadrupled; we still have to ask
for a lot more that is on the books.
Ask not what your community can do for
Image Source: ASIANS, AMERICANS, and ASIAN AMERICANS
Mike Ghouse’s Column
Mike Ghouse is a writer, speaker and thinker based in Dallas. He runs several web-
sites and Blogs including MikeGhouse.Net [www.MikeGhouse.net), the Foundation for
Pluralism [ www.FoundationforPluralism.com ] and the World Muslim Congress [www.
WorldMuslimCongress.com] He is a frequent guest on talk radio, discussing pluralism,
interfaith, political, terrorism, peace and civic issues. In this piece, Mike reflects on Asian
American Heritage month, and encourages becoming an activist for the good of every
American.
you. more information, visit http://www.irwin-
books.com
Let me ask each one of you to join your
cultural, religious, and ethnic or your trade Asian Pacific American (APA) Heritage
organizations. We have to play our role, we Month
have to do for the next generation, what the On October 5, 1978, President Jimmy Carter
previous generation has done for us; balance signed a Joint Resolution designating the an-
in life comes from receiving and giving. nual celebration of Asian Pacific American
A detailed article will be posted on Diya Heritage Month, much like Black History
Magazine www.DiyaMagazine.com and and Women’s History celebrations. It was
www.MikeGhouse.net about our role in the expanded further when President George H.
society to become a contributor in building W. Bush designated May to be Asian Pacific
a strong, successful, peaceful, secure and a American Heritage Month. May was cho-
prosperous America with a commitment to sen to commemorate the immigration of the
justice. first Japanese to the United States on May
7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the
Your Event Calendar completion of the transcontinental railroad
Please watch for the following website in on May 10, 1869. The majority of the work-
the month of May, www.Dallasevents.Net, ers who laid the tracks were Chinese immi-
grants.
Asian Pacific
American Heritage
Month is celebrat-
ed with community
festivals, govern-
ment-sponsored
activities, and edu-
cational activities
for students. This
year’s theme is
“Lighting the Past,
Present, and Fu-
ture.”
Greater Dallas
Asian American
Chamber of Com-
merce announces
its 18th Annual
Festival Date.
it will be your information center to every Date: Saturday, May 3 from 11am-5pm,
thing happening in Dallas culturally and Place: Dallas City Hall Plaza, 1500 Marilla
socially. For the business opportunities and Street, in downtown Dallas.
happening, don’t miss the Asian American The event is sponsored
Business Journal about to be launched. by the City of Dallas
Office of Cultural Af-
Book on Asian Texans fairs, Crow Collection
A book is released this month called *Asian of Asian Art, McDon-
Texans: Our Histories and Our Lives * The ald’s, WFAA and the
Author, Mr. Tang is willing to mail the book Dallas Morning News.
to those wishing to donate a book to a high-
school library or junior library. His goal is For additional information, please call 972-
to have this text in every Texas high-school 241-8250 or visit GDAACC website. http://
and junior high library. Books will be on www.gdaacc.com/
sale for $25 Students, $35 General. For
MAY 2008 WWW.DIYAMAGAZINE.COM 87
 Restaurant Guide

el
E
HER

HALNQUET

lev
G

OUT
ERIN
OSP
NAME CUISINE LOCATION

Spice
L

E
PRIC
ATM

CAT
BA

TAK
Akbar Indian Dressy $$ ü ü  Plano
Al Hamra Indo/Pak Casual $ ü ü  Carrollton
Al Markaz Pakistani Casual $ ü ü  Carrollton
Apna Bazar Indian Casual $ ü ü  Carrollton
BBQ Tonite Indo/Pak Casual $ ü ü ü  Carrollton
Bhatia Mart Indian Casual $ ü ü  Plano
Bombay Chinese Indo-Chinese Casual $$ ü ü  Richardson
Bombay Grill Indian Dressy $$ ü ü  Fort Worth
Bombay Sweets Indian Casual $ ü ü  Irving
Chaat Cafe Indian fast food Casual $$ ü ü  Dallas
Tandoor Grill Indo/Pak Casual $ ü ü  Plano
Chettinad Palace South Indian Casual $ ü ü  Plano
Clay Pit Indian Upscale $$$ ü ü  Addison
Curry’s Indian Casual $ ü ü  Irving
Dunes Indo/Pak/Med Casual $ ü ü  Irving
Flavors Indian Upscale $$ ü ü  Addison
Goga Sweets Indian Casual $ ü ü  Carrolton
Gopal Gujarati Casual $ ü ü  Richardson
Grand Cafe American Casual $$ ü ü  Richardson
Haveli Indo/Pak Dressy $$ ü ü ü  Irving
Hot Breads Continental Casual $ ü ü  Richardson/Irving
Jasmine Cafe Middleastern Dressy $$ ü ü  Richardson
India House Indian Casual $$ ü ü  Euless
India Palace Indian Upscale $$$ ü ü ü  Dallas
Indian Food Indian Casual $$ ü ü  Irving
Indiya Fusion Indian Casual $$$ ü ü  Irving
Kalachandji Fusion Casual $$ ü ü  Dallas
Kashmir Kashimiri Casual $$ ü ü  Euless
Kokila Indian Casual $$ ü ü  Lewisville
Kebab ‘n Kurry Indian Dressy $$ ü ü  Richardson
Madras Pavilion South Indian Casual $ ü ü ü  Richardson
Maharaj Restaurant Indian Dressy $ ü ü  Dallas
Masala Diner Indian Casual $ ü ü  Irving
Masala Wok Indo/chinese Casual $$ ü ü  Irving
Mayuri Indian Dressy $$ ü ü  Irving
Noodle Wave Vietnamese Dressy $ ü ü  Richardson
Our Place Indian Casual $$ ü ü ü  Irving
Pasand Indian Dressy $$ ü ü ü  Richardson/Irving
Ruchi Palace Indian Casual $$ ü ü ü  Carrollton
Rice 1 Roll Indian Casual $ ü ü  Irving
Roti Grill Indian Dressy $$ ü ü  Dallas/McKinney
Royal Sweets Fast food Casual $ ü ü 

Shammy’s Middle eastern Casual $$ ü ü  Dallas

Shish Kabob Middle eastern Casual $ ü ü  Irving
Silver Spoon Pakistani Causal $ ü ü  Richardson
Sitar Indian Dressy $$$ ü ü  Plano
Taj Chaat Indian Casual $$ ü ü  Irving
Tandoor Grill Indo/pak Casual $ ü ü  Arlington
Taste of India Indian Dressy $ ü ü  Plano
Taste of Pakistan Pakistani Casual $ ü ü  Euless
lal meat
Now serving Ha
Tawa Grill Indo/Pak Casual $ ü ü  Dallas
Temptations Indo/Pak Causal $ ü ü ü  Irving
Tharas South Indian Dressy $$ ü ü  Irving
Chat Corner Indian Casual $ ü ü  Richardson
Saffron House Indian Dressy $$$ ü ü  Addison
Udipi Cafe South Indian Casual $$ ü ü  Richardson
VEGI THALI Indian Casual $$ ü ü  Carrollton
WOK OF FAME Indo chinese Dressy $ ü ü ü  Garland
ZYKA Hyderabadi Casual $ ü ü  Richardson

88 DIYA MAY 2008

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90 DIYA MAY 2008
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92 DIYA MAY 2008