Author: SITHARA

My passion in life is driven by meeting new people, connecting with them, knowing their stories, because for me that’s the best way to embrace new cultures when you travel.
Articles, Lifestyle, TravelLeave a comment

Are You Living an Adventure-Starved Life? 11 Ways to Shake Things Up

SITHARA
– Vella Mbenna, author of Muddy Roads Blue Skies 

Have you fallen into a routine of drudgery? Do you feel stuck there? You’re not alone. If we’re honest, many of us will admit that we’re kind of going through the motions—work, home, eat, TV, sleep, repeat—and living by default instead of design. Life isn’t bad; it’s just dull. Uninspired. Actually (and ironically), a bit lifeless. We shouldn’t just accept our adventure-starved status quo.

Life is meant to be really lived. I’ve come to believe adventure is a deep human need. We read about it in books and we watch it in movies because deep down we crave it.

And we owe it to ourselves to pursue things that give us that spark, that jolt of excitement. It doesn’t matter how old you are or what your income is. You can and should weave some adventure into your life.

Growing up in rural Georgia, I dreamed of travel and excitement. But after college I found myself broke, divorced, and struggling to raise my child alone. Continue reading “Are You Living an Adventure-Starved Life? 11 Ways to Shake Things Up”

India, LifestyleLeave a comment

President of India extends greetings for Ugadi, Gudi Padava, Cheti Chand, Navreh and Sajibu Cheiraoba

SITHARA

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind in his message on the eve of Chaitra Sukladi, Ugadi, Gudi Padava, Cheti Chand, Navreh and Sajibu Cheiraoba has said: –

“On the auspicious occasion of Chaitra Sukladi, Ugadi, Gudi Padava, Chetti Chand, Navreh and Sajibu Cheiraoba, I extend my greetings and good wishes to all my fellow citizens.

Traditionally, these festivals mark the onset of New Year and the warmer months and they reflect values of prosperity and well being. Let the spirit of joy and happiness signified by these festivals pervade the heart of every Indian.

May these festivals strengthen the bonds of love and affection in our society as well as the spirit of fraternity among people across the nation”.

The Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu has also greeted the people on the joyous and auspicious occasion of ‘Ugadi, Gudi Padava, Chaitra Sukladi and Cheti Chand’. In a message, he said that all these festivals celebrated across the country with different names and customs, mark the beginning of traditional New Year and reflect the composite culture and rich heritage of our country. Ugadi marks the beginning of the New Year and brings new hope, new joy and happiness, he added. Continue reading “President of India extends greetings for Ugadi, Gudi Padava, Cheti Chand, Navreh and Sajibu Cheiraoba”

Community, SportsLeave a comment

City of Toronto celebrates 18 new inductions to Toronto Sport Hall of Honour

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The City of Toronto held its fourth annual Toronto Sport Hall of Honour induction ceremony last night at the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre in east Toronto. Paralympian Stéphanie Dixon, boxing great George Chuvalo, swimming star Kylie Masse and college basketball player (and professional basketball prospect) Rowan Barrett Jr. are among the 18 new inductees.City Councillor Paul Ainslie (Ward 24 Scarborough-Guildwood) congratulated the inductees for their achievements and contributions to sport excellence in Toronto.

The Toronto Sport Hall of Honour is a legacy initiative of the City of Toronto’s Host City Showcase Program from the Toronto 2015 Pan Am and Parapan Am Games. Nominations for next year’s Toronto Sport Hall of Honour are open until October.
“The achievements of this wonderful group of inductees inspire other Torontonians to get and stay active through sport. This city’s sport community has made countless contributions to the social fabric of Toronto over the years. On behalf of all Toronto residents, congratulations to the contributors and remarkable athletes recognized with this honour in 2019.” said  Mayor John Tory.

“I’d like to congratulate this year’s inductees on their amazing achievements, this impressive group inspires Torontonians of all ages to play and get active in our city. The Toronto Sport Hall of Honour provides an opportunity for us to celebrate past and present athletes, coaches and partners and the tremendous contributions they’ve made to Toronto communities through sport. Sports help build healthy and engaged communities, from which we all benefit.”
– Councillor Paul Ainslie

Community, LifestyleLeave a comment

Out and About in Mississauga: Enjoy Spring-time Activities!

SITHARA

It’s time to get out of that winter hibernation mode and give your body some much deserved vitamin D. Spring is officially here, which means it’s time to take advantage of the warmer weather and enjoy spring-time activities in Mississauga.

1) Earth Days

Earth Days 2019 is taking place from April 15 to 27. It’s your chance to take action for the environment and help make Mississauga more sustainable and climate change resilient. There are a number of activities happening throughout the week that you can participate in like a tree planting or litter awareness sessions or a 20-minute makeover litter cleanup. Be sure to register for an event!

If you’re planning to do a little spring cleaning before then, you’ll be able to drop off clothes for donation or recycle electronics at no charge throughout the week. Participating locations are Civic Centre, Central Library or any of the City’s community centres.

2) Cherry Blossoms at Kariya Park 
Did you know that Mississauga has cherry blossom trees? Kariya Park is truly a hidden gem right in the heart of Mississauga with meandering walkways, a quiet pond and hill garden and approximately 59 Cherry Blossom trees. It’s a nice place to walk around with your friends or family to enjoy the beautiful blossoms this spring.

If the trees aren’t in bloom, you can also visit one of the City’s other parks, trails and woodlands too. Continue reading “Out and About in Mississauga: Enjoy Spring-time Activities!”

Business, Global, India, TravelLeave a comment

Hyatt’s Presence in India to Expand from 19 Cities to 27 Cities by 2020

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14 new Hyatt hotels to open, adding approximately 2,100 new guestrooms during the next 24 months

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced that 2019 will mark record growth for Hyatt in India. Expansion plans foresee the addition of over 2,100 guestrooms through the opening of more than 14 new properties over the next 24 months. Aside from growth in the larger capital cities, the emphasis will be on leisure and cultural destinations, with a focus on emerging cities within India.

As a result of an increasingly favorable business climate and heightened tourism spend, encouraged by relaxed visa rules and a growing upper middle class, there is a general demand for growth in the hospitality industry in India. This expansion includes hotels in eight new markets in the country, thereby establishing Hyatt’s brand presence across 27 cities in India over the next 24 months.

“Hyatt is one of the longest-running international hotel management brands in India, the first Hyatt hotels in India opened over 30 years ago,” said Dhruva Rathore, vice president development-India, Hyatt. “Our heritage and experience in this complex market, paired with the strong relationships we hold with local developers and owners has helped make India one of the top three growth markets for Hyatt globally.”

This year’s expansion began with the introduction of the Hyatt Centric brand through the opening of Hyatt Centric Candolim Goa. Continue reading “Hyatt’s Presence in India to Expand from 19 Cities to 27 Cities by 2020”

Business, Community, LifestyleLeave a comment

ANOKHI Media honours the South Asian community from around the world at a star- studded Summit and Masquerade Ball

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The ANOKHI POWER Summitand The ANOKHI POWER Ball 2018rolled out the red carpet to welcome some of the world’s most renowned South Asian names in the areas of music, business, technology, media, glamour and crusader, at the Sheraton Centre Hotelin the heart of Downtown Toronto, on Saturday November 3rd, 2018.

 The day began with a scrumptious VVIP networking buffet breakfast In the Ballroom of Sheraton Hotel, while the Ballroom foyer showcased vendor booths by Free-Them, T-Fal, Chef Harminder, Rubicon, The Gupta Group, Cake-Oliciousand JB Party Halls.

The ANOKHI POWER Summit 2018 began with Founder & CEO Raj Girnwelcoming the ANOKHI MEDIA teamon the stage, and thanking them for their contributions in building the brand. She also spoke about her vision for the ANOKHI brand, its evolution over the course of 15 years, and her decision to bring together all the current brand properties into the ‘ANOKHI EMPOWER ME’campaign to commemorate the milestone 15 year anniversary.

Charity organization Free-Them‘s founder and CEO Shae Invidiataspoke on the initiative’s dedication to raising awareness and funds to abolish human trafficking in Canada and abroad by partnering with people, organizations, & businesses to fight human trafficking. Continue reading “ANOKHI Media honours the South Asian community from around the world at a star- studded Summit and Masquerade Ball”

Articles, Community, IndiaLeave a comment

Book reveals that the Biblical Hebrew people came from Ancient India

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HINDUS EMBRACE JEWISH WRITER’S RESEARCH

Toronto’s Hindu community is embracing the work of a Jewish writer whose research shows the Biblical Hebrew people came to the Middle East from Ancient India.

Earlier this month, Author Barry Brown, who spoke at the Hindu Sabha Mandir, was warmly welcomed by the hundred plus audience in Brampton.    His richly detailed book, Humanity: The World Before Religion, War & Inequality, claims the start of the Jewish Bible and the end of India’s ancient text the Mahabharata are connected by the same ancient history.

“Barry Brown is a Pulitzer Prize-nominated Canadian journalist. His book says that the first war in the world is the Mahabharata,” said Ashok Kapoor, of the Hindu Sabha Mandir, introducing Brown to the audience.

. According to Brown, ancient India’s history ends almost 6,000 years ago with the destruction of its ancient kingdoms in what Brown’s book claims is the first large-scale, organized war in human history. And that war is also the historic event that inspired the Bible’s tale of the “fall of mankind” in the Garden of Eden and the beginning of the Jewish calendar nearly 6,000 years ago.

“The Bible says Eden was located at the eastern end of a larger land called “Havilah” and according to the 20-volume, 1906 Jewish Encyclopedia, the oldest traditions in Judaism and Christianity dating back more than 2,000 years all agree Havilah was India. Continue reading “Book reveals that the Biblical Hebrew people came from Ancient India”

CommunityLeave a comment

Goodbye Snow, Hello Flowers!

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As the snow thaws, we know that garbage can pile up.  Here are a few tips on how you can help before the blooms make their debut.
Use the waste and recycling bins provided in parks and other public spaces
Did you know that Mississauga has more than 500 parks and 300 publicly owned woodlands and natural areas? These are public spaces that we all share. It’s up to each one of us to do our part to care for these spaces and keep them clean for everyone to enjoy. Make sure to put your trash in a proper container. If one isn’t available, hold onto your garbage until you find one. Follow the rules posted on signs – these rules protect you and the park.
Always pick-up after your furry friends
Use the black garbage containers provided in parks and public spaces when out for a stroll with your four-legged pals – avoid depositing it in blue recycling cans. Keep an eye out for Mississauga’s new in-ground dog waste containers – a number of which will be installed in select parks this spring as part of a one-year pilot program. With approximately 300,000 dogs in Mississauga, these innovative containers convert waste into renewable energy and fertilizers.
Report litter, dumping or debris
If you come across any illegal garbage dumping, litter or debris in Mississauga, report it using Mississauga’s online service tool or by calling 3-1-1. You will also be able to track your service request.
Use reusable or refillable drink containers or bring your own cup
Reduce and reuse as much as you can before you recycle. Mississauga supports reducing single-use plastics (like bottles, cups and bags) from polluting the environment and earth’s oceans, and encourages everyone to join this movement. Continue reading “Goodbye Snow, Hello Flowers!”
Community, LifestyleLeave a comment

Have the BEST backyard experience this spring and summer!

SITHARA

Creating the perfect backyard is easy once you attend the Backyard Living Expo, the only consumer show in the GTA dedicated exclusively to backyards.
Come hear from celebrity experts and industry leaders on how to make your backyard the place of your dreams, regardless of your budget or the size of your yard.

Also at the show, get the tips and secrets to entertain your guests with a perfect barbecue. The Backyard Living Expo runs from Friday, March 29 through Sunday March 31, 2019 at The International Centre (6900 Airport Rd), for more information, visit http://www.thebackyardlivingexpo.com.

Learn how to make the most of your backyard from a variety of HGTV celebrities, gardeners,
chefs, DIY professionals, and outdoor build and design experts as they present on the Weber
Grill Main Stage and the Pro Series Stage each day.

Here is a sampling of who you can see at the show:

Grill Master Michael P. Clive brings you the most popular menu items offered at the Weber Grill
Academy! Learn how to prepare the best of both land and sea – and yes, dessert too – using
tips, tricks and grilling techniques to help make you a backyard hero. BroLaws discuss how to budget for your outdoorspace and the latest and greatest for the outdoor world this year.

Ted Reader can talk about all BBQ trends for 2019 and how to create the best BBQ setting
including tools, tips and accessories to create the greatest grilling experience of the summer. Continue reading “Have the BEST backyard experience this spring and summer!”

India, Reel SpinLeave a comment

Modi: The Journey Of A Common Man

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~Eros Now & Benchmark Pictures to make an original series biopic on the political superstar of India ~

Eros Now, the cutting-edge digital over-the-top (OTT) South Asian entertainment platform owned by Eros International Plc, a Global Indian Entertainment Company, offers a wide range of quality content that draws the attention of its worldwide audience. In an attempt to present yet another gripping story, the premium OTT platform, today announced the most-sought after biopic on India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, produced by Benchmark Pictures, a leading production house of India led by Umesh Shukla and Ashish Wagh. Titled ‘Modi,’ the Eros Now original series showcases the eventful life of the inspiring and influential leader.

The 10-part original series on Eros Now directed by the talented filmmaker Umesh Shukla captures different phases of Modi’s life. The story begins with 12-year-old Narendra and traverses through his teenage, youth to becoming the Prime Minister of world’s largest democracy, India. Modi’s siblings, friends, neighbours and school teachers reminisce his fascinating journey of self-discovery and enhances the authenticity of the original series. Actors Faisal Khan, Ashish Sharma and Mahesh Thakur play his part to depict the different stages of his life. The original series is written by Mihir Bhuta and Radhika Anand and each episode ranges between 35 to 40 minutes highlighting many incidents that made him devote his life to the service of the country.

Narendra Modi was born to a family of grocers (who owned a tea stall) in Vadnagar, Mehsana district, Bombay state (present-day Gujarat) Continue reading “Modi: The Journey Of A Common Man”