RAKESH MATHUR'S INDIA MONITOR


More Articles..Pakistan and Indian 50th anniversary celebrations
50th Anniversary of the Independence of India and Pakistan
By Rakesh Mathur

In a press conference, held at the House of Lords in London, The Lord Privy Seal, The Viscount Cranborne announced British Government's plans to celebrate the independence of India and Pakistan. He said that The Queen has been asked to visit India and Pakistan in October. The Prime Minister's visit to these countries was a great success. The Lord Mayor will be visiting India and Pakistan in March and his visit will coincide with the Royal Yacht's.

Lord Cranborne elaborated further, "the British Government wishes to commemorate these great events in the UK as well. Many from the sub-continent have come to settle here - some of them via other places like Uganda, Trinidad and Guyana. They have greatly enriched our national life. Many have found this country a land of opportunity and have reminded us of the value of enterprise. Asians own 65% of all independently owned shops nationally. Asian restaurants have been an established feature of the UK for many years now, and are part of the fabric of everyone's lives. Sales of Asian food amont to around L285 million, involving upto 6,000 outlets. Two million adults visit an Indian restaurant every week and 33 pence in every pound spent on eating out is spent in an Indian restaurant"

The press conference coincided with the launch of Gtovernment's organisation: 'Old Friends/Modern Partners'. Lord Cranborne talked about the objective of this launch: The programme of events represents a way in which we can all mark an important moment in the history of relations between this country and the countries of South Asia, recognising past connections whilst also looking to the future. In particular, it allows us to pay tribute to the enormous contribution made by the peoples of the sub-continent to British life."

Further details and previews of these events will be transmitted in these columns throughout the year. For further enquiries, contact Rakesh Mathur on 100700.513@compuserve.com


Rakesh Mathur is a producer and journalist, internationally based, whose career spans various continents, cultures, and medias. He has been based in France, England, Germany, and India and has contributed to television, documentary films, print, and radio. His most recent work includes AIM HIGH & A STITCH IN TIME (documentary films), publications in PARIS MATCH, and presentations on BBC radio and television.

Rakesh Mathur has written the following books - The Movie ; Chapters on Indian Cinema ; La Cuisene Indienne and Ray at 70 - a homage

He is highly motivated with substantial international experience in T.V., press journalism, and broadcasting. He is multi-lingual and feels at home in all cultures. Further, he is very well versed in information technology. He is availaible for free lance work For more details, contact Rakesh on 100700.513@compuserve.com