THE DIVERSE INTERACTIVE ACTIVITIES KEEPING PEOPLE ENGAGED DURING COVID-19
by ASJAD NAZIR
VARIOUS individuals are demonstrating that self-isolation doesn’t mean solitary confinement by giving all those indoors during the lockdown ways to keep connected.
From fitness and cooking classes to quizzes and Bollywood parties, technology is being used to keep those at home healthy, entertained and enlightened.
Eastern Eye caught up with British Asians keeping people connected during the time of Covid-19 to discuss what inspired them to take that step and the various interactive activities available.
YOGA
Rakhee Vithlani: Covid-19 is going to leave a mark on everyone’s life in some way. The best thing about doing yoga online is that I see students every week, some of whom I have known and taught for many years. I see them as family, so the prospect of them being in isolation and not practising yoga meant going online was a no-brainer. It felt strange at first, but through this process I learned that being physically further away from people can lead to us becoming a lot closer. I led a free Mother’s Day class online and received touching messages afterwards as people opened up about their own relationships with their mums. It’s actually wonderful and I never thought I would be saying that about online yoga. There are gems of beautiful moments, a reminder of the kinder side of our humanity and a spiritual strength, which can be found by anyone who is brave enough to look.
Instagram: @yogi_rakhee
HEALTH AND FITNESS
Ushi Lad: When the pandemic started to really hit home, I realised that soon enough gyms would shut, parks would close and people would be confined to their homes. At that point, I also realised that most people’s mental health might suffer, including mine. I decided to use my fitness instructor skill-set to help others in a new and fun way. I wanted to share good vibes and positivity as much as I could. And make sure people had a way to use the excess energy that would be building up. I’m an online fitness coach anyway, but my work is usually one-to-one or small group training online, but never an online fitness class. So it’s new to me too. It’s definitely given me focus and motivation. I genuinely love the vibe in my live online classes, whether 10 or 100 people show up. Initially, I was worried no one would feel the class energy, but turns out they all do. It’s my way of helping out people in their time of need, showing them that we don’t need to give up and as a tribe, together we’ll get through this, stronger and fitter than ever before.
Sarah Ali Choudhury: I decided to do these online cookery classes to demonstrate how easy authentic Indian food is to prepare, its health benefits and how great it is to get kids involved. During this particular time, I thought it would be useful for those who are always busy working and never really get a chance to cook or learn about it. Now, we are all indoors all the time; it is the perfect time to encourage good eating habits and hopefully that will help build people’s immune systems. I also decided to start these online cooking videos to teach children about food, its preparation, health and hygiene, while encouraging less food waste. This knowledge will encourage these children to have confidence around food for their future. I particularly enjoy cooking with my boys to encourage equality in the kitchen too. I’m surprised at how popular the videos have become and get brilliant feedback. As this is my profession too, it encourages me to provide this as a free opportunity, open to everyone, while I
improve and develop myself. It’s going well and I don’t think I’ll stop, even when things go back to being normal.
Instagram: @instacurryqueen & Facebook: Sarah Ali Choudhury & www.sarahalichoudhury.com
ANTAKSHRI AND BOLLYWOOD QUIZ
Samir Bhamra: For the last 30 years, I have been interacting with people all over the world through various mediums, mostly creative. With the coronavirus lockdown, including libraries, live events and cinemas, I felt people would be limited in terms of their choices for entertainment, especially those who are socially isolated. To help us through this difficult time, I felt like we needed to remember how to have fun, laugh and challenge our minds. So by creating an online community where we focus on enriching our resilience, we can also connect with citizens of the world and celebrate our commonalities. That led me towards organising interactive Bollywood quiz and antakshri sessions, using global video conference call apps that are available for free and anyone can dial in. We should take a break from stressful news, be creative and remember our humanity.
Facebook: Samir Bhamra
LIVE PERFORMANCE
Kaykay Chauhan: Escapism is my theme. I decided to do a live music performance on Facebook and take requests to take people’s minds away from the troubles and anxiety we are currently facing due to Covid-19. I wanted to take their hearts and minds on a tranquil journey through music, while they are stuck indoors and unable to move. I wanted to rekindle past memories through my performance and help people escape into a different past world of joy and happiness. It was nice taking song requests and I received a positive response. Messages included, “what a great way to contribute your talent in helping people passing through the current crisis, God bless you.” And “Thanks for playing my request, in fact you played many of my favourites. I even got my Sax out and was jamming along! Looking forward to the next one stay safe.”
Facebook: @kaykay.chauhan
MINDFULNESS
Indy Samra: I set up a group for a safe positive space where people can browse various short simple mindfulness meditations, participate in daily gratitude posts and mindfulness children’s activities, and worksheets. I will be adding laughter therapy too. The response has been encouraging with participants adding friends. I receive private messages that the meditations are very relaxing. One lady said it helps her to have a good night’s sleep, listening to it just before bedtime.
Facebook group: Relax, Breathe and Smile with Indy
DANCE
Sneha Mistri: I am from the UK, but have been living in Madrid for 15 years, working as a choreographer, dancer and producer. Sadly, Spain has been hit hard by Covid-19 and we have been living in quarantine. Like many, I have had to adapt to the current situation caused by Covid-19. This quarantine hasn’t affected me mentally or emotionally too much, but I know others are struggling so am doing what I can by conducting dance classes online and delivering performances. I have been conducting classes via Zoom and events such as the Digital Dance Network via Facebook live. I have had fun teaching dance online to students from all over the world and the response has been positive. Teaching online and receiving messages from hundreds of people has been surreal, but very rewarding. Dance is fun; it is a great way to keep fit and unlocks
It may be an essential life skill, but for many, cooking at home can feel intimidating – especially for beginners.
With the cost-of-living crisis, more people are choosing to prepare their own meals and experiment with dishes in their kitchens. Others, inspired by restaurant dishes, social media trends and the rise in home cooking during Covid-19, are now looking to improve their own culinary skills.
The master chef offers simple, easy tips for making tasty and healthy meals at homeInstagram/ thegrande_stratford
Eastern Eye joined this spicy trend by inviting acclaimed chef Sultan Al-Mahmood from the Grande Restaurant in London to share his expert cooking advice for all abilities.
With more than 30 years of experience – including cooking for celebrities, politicians and the Bangladesh national cricket team, as well as running multiple restaurants – the master chef offers simple, easy tips for making tasty and healthy meals at home.
Basics: Before diving into complex recipes, start by learning fundamental skills like chopping vegetables, boiling food such as pasta, and making simple dishes like omelettes. Also understand what different ingredients – especially spices – do. A solid foundation in the basics will set you up for success with more advanced cooking.
Recipes: One of the most common mistakes is not reading a recipe properly. Always read the full recipe before you begin to ensure you have all the ingredients and tools you need. Then follow the instructions carefully – including timings, portion sizes and temperatures.
Always prioritise safety in the kitchenInstagram/ thegrande_stratford
Plan and prepare: A little planning goes a long way. Have all ingredients ready before you start – this includes cutting, peeling and chopping anything in advance. It will make the cooking process smoother and less stressful.
Organisation: A calm, clean and organised kitchen is far more efficient than a cluttered one. Keep your essential tools within reach, and clean as you go. A tidy workspace not only makes cooking more enjoyable but also means less cleaning up afterwards.
Safety: Always prioritise safety in the kitchen. Use oven mitts for hot dishes, turn pot handles inward, store knives properly and take care when handling hot oil or boiling water. Be mindful of flames and keep children away from potential hazards.
Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible. Fresh herbs, seasonal produce and good-quality protein-rich foods will elevate the flavour of your dishes and are usually healthier too.
Tools: A workman is only as good as his tools – and the same applies in the kitchen. Invest in good-quality knives, pots and pans. Many people continue using old or worn-out equipment, which can make cooking more difficult. Keep knives sharp for better and safer results.
Spices: Indian cuisine offers a wide variety of spices, yet many people use only a handful. Start learning about the different spices available and how they affect flavour. Gradually incorporate more into your cooking for better depth and variety.
Perfect pans: Avoid overcrowding the pan, as it can affect cooking time, temperature and taste. Always preheat your pan before adding ingredients – it helps prevent sticking and improves results. Heat: Understanding temperature is essential. Know the difference between low, medium and high heat, and learn how to control your oven or hob settings. Heat affects everything from texture to taste.
Avoid overcrowding the panInstagram/ thegrande_stratford
Embrace mistakes: Cooking is a lifelong learning process – even for professionals. Mistakes will happen. Use them as opportunities to improve your skills and confidence in the kitchen.
Get inspired: Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok and YouTube are full of expert guidance in all cuisines. Use them to expand your knowledge and techniques. Recipe websites and blogs are also helpful learning tools.
Cooking classes: Join a cooking class to learn from experts. The sessions provide hands-on experience, build confidence and are often fun, social environments. There are more classes available now than ever before, including many that are focused on Indian cuisine.
Learn from elders: If classes are not an option, learn from older family members. There is a reason so many people say their parents cook the tastiest food – they have experience and are usually happy to pass it on.
Storage: Proper storage extends the life of both raw ingredients and cooked food. Invest in airtight containers and learn what belongs in each compartment of the fridge or freezer. Good storage habits reduce waste and keep food fresh.
Taste: One of your best cooking tools is your own palate. Taste your food as you cook – it helps you adjust seasoning and prevents surprises when serving. Also get feedback from family and friends to help improve your dishes.
Experiment: Once you are comfortable with the basics, do not be afraid to experiment. Try new flavours, cuisines and techniques. Most importantly, enjoy the process. The more you cook, the more confident you will become.
By clicking the 'Subscribe’, you agree to receive our newsletter, marketing communications and industry
partners/sponsors sharing promotional product information via email and print communication from Garavi Gujarat
Publications Ltd and subsidiaries. You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time by clicking the
unsubscribe link in our emails. We will use your email address to personalize our communications and send you
relevant offers. Your data will be stored up to 30 days after unsubscribing.
Contact us at data@amg.biz to see how we manage and store your data.
As we mark Diabetes Awareness Week (10–16 June), it’s time to shine a light on how disproportionately it affects south Asian women
We often talk about diabetes and menopause as two separate issues. But for many South Asian women in midlife, they collide quietly, invisibly, and with lasting impact.
As we mark Diabetes Awareness Week (10–16 June), it’s time to shine a light on this hidden overlap - and how it disproportionately affects women in our community.
At The Sattva Collective CIC, I work with South Asian women who are often battling low energy, mood changes, increased abdominal fat, and disrupted sleep. These aren’t just symptoms of a busy life - they’re red flags. Often, they’re signs of both perimenopause and early-stage Type 2 diabetes. And unless we start having this conversation more openly, too many women will fall through the cracks.
Why is this happening?
During menopause, oestrogen levels decline. This has a knock-on effect on metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and fat storage - all key players in diabetes risk. Meanwhile, cultural expectations of South Asian women - to keep giving, keep cooking, keep showing up - don’t leave much space for self-care or rest.
Add to this our traditional diets, which often lean heavily on carbs and fried foods, and it’s no surprise that South Asian women are particularly vulnerable.
But many don’t seek help until their health is seriously compromised. Why? Because in our culture, suffering quietly is often seen as strength.
We need to redefine what strength looks like.
True strength is recognising when your body is whispering for help - and responding before it starts screaming.
It’s choosing yourself, even when the world expects you to choose everyone else first.
It’s booking that health check. Asking the difficult questions. Saying no. Resting. Eating for nourishment, not just tradition. And surrounding yourself with women who are also reclaiming their health and their voice.
The South Asian Midlife Reality
Midlife for many of us is a crossroads. Culturally, we’ve been taught to keep going - no matter the cost. But the cost is becoming too high. Type 2 diabetes is preventable. And menopause is manageable. But only if we’re willing to challenge the silence and prioritise our wellbeing.
What you can do today
Don’t ignore symptoms. Tiredness, cravings, or foggy thinking could be more than hormones or stress.
Get screened. Especially if diabetes runs in your family or if you had gestational diabetes.
Eat mindfully. Incorporate fibre-rich vegetables, lentils, and whole grains while reducing sugary and processed foods.
Rebuild rituals. Turn meals, movement and rest into acts of self-respect, not duty.
Join a community. Being with others who understand your journey can be deeply healing.
As South Asian women, we deserve to thrive, not just survive. Let Diabetes Awareness Week be the turning point where we begin to see our health, our hormones, and our future through a lens of compassion and care.
(Kiran Singh is a lifestyle coach and menopause wellness coach. For more information about her work, you can visit kiransinghuk.com)
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a warning over the safety of certain pistachio-filled chocolate bars known as “Dubai chocolate”, amid growing popularity in the UK. The agency says some rogue imports could pose health risks, especially to those with allergies.
Allergen risk from mislabelled imports
Although many of the products being sold are safe, the FSA has found several chocolate bars that lack proper ingredient labelling or include potentially dangerous additives. The agency said some of these products do not comply with UK food safety standards and may not clearly highlight allergens, which is a legal requirement.
Professor Robin May, the FSA’s chief scientific adviser, said: “The vast majority of food in the UK is safe, but some imported Dubai-style chocolate products don’t meet our standards and could be a food safety risk, especially for consumers with allergies.”
He advised shoppers to stick with “trusted retailers”, such as supermarkets or well-established online sellers, where products are more likely to be made with UK consumers in mind and labelled correctly.
What is Dubai chocolate?
The treat first gained popularity in 2021, when it was created by British-Egyptian entrepreneur Sarah Hamouda in Dubai. The chocolate bar features a filling of pistachio cream, tahini, and knafeh — a traditional Arab dessert made from shredded filo pastry soaked in syrup.
Its rise to fame was fuelled by social media. One video of a food influencer trying the bar went viral on TikTok, gaining more than 100 million views. Since then, the product has become highly sought after across the UK.
Growing demand and pistachio shortage
Dubai chocolate has become so popular that it has been blamed in part for a global shortage of pistachios. The soaring demand has led major brands, including Lindt, and supermarket chains such as Lidl and Waitrose, to release their own versions of the snack.
However, the FSA warns that some bars sold through unverified sellers may be illegal imports, containing unauthorised colourings or ingredients. UK law requires all food sold to include English-language labelling, a full ingredient list, highlighted allergens, and the contact details of the responsible UK or EU-based business.
Ongoing investigation
The FSA is working with local authorities to remove any unsafe products from shelves and is continuing its investigation to understand the scale of the issue. In the meantime, consumers with food allergies or intolerances are urged to only purchase bars clearly intended for UK sale.
Keep ReadingShow less
A 1993 study in the UK suggested a curious correlation
The date Friday the 13th has long been linked to misfortune. Whether you are superstitious or not, it is a date that stands out, referenced in films, books, songs and urban legends alike. But where did this association with bad luck begin, and does it really deserve its eerie reputation?
Biblical roots of the superstition
The origins of the Friday the 13th superstition are widely believed to stem from Christian tradition. According to Biblical accounts, Jesus was crucified on a Friday, the day he was betrayed by Judas Iscariot, who was also the 13th guest at the Last Supper. This combination of the number 13 and the day Friday laid the groundwork for its ominous legacy.
Is Friday the 13th really unlucky?
Despite its reputation, there is no scientific evidence that Friday the 13th brings more bad luck than any other day. Still, the superstition persists.
A 1993 study in the UK suggested a curious correlation: even though fewer people drove on Friday the 13th, the number of transport-related accidents was higher than usual. However, the findings were based on data from only one town, leading to questions about the study's validity.
In contrast, a 2011 German study found no increased risk of accidents or bad luck on Friday the 13th compared to other days.
Some researchers believe it's not the day itself that’s unlucky, but that people may act differently because they expect bad things to happen, potentially creating a self-fulfilling prophecy.
A phobia with a long name
If Friday the 13th fills you with dread, there’s an official name for that fear: friggatriskaidekaphobia. The term comes from ‘Frigga’, the Norse goddess for whom Friday is named, and ‘triskaidekaphobia’, the fear of the number 13.
Historical events on Friday the 13th
While there’s no proof the day is cursed, several tragic events have happened on Friday the 13th, fuelling the superstition:
13 October 1307: Hundreds of Knights Templar were arrested by the French monarchy, many later executed.
13 September 1940: Buckingham Palace was bombed during WWII.
13 March 1964: Kitty Genovese was murdered in New York, sparking a national conversation on bystander apathy.
13 November 1970: A cyclone in Bangladesh killed over 300,000 people.
13 October 1972: A plane crashed in the Andes, later portrayed in Society of the Snow.
13 September 1996: Tupac Shakur died following a shooting in Las Vegas.
13 January 2012: The Costa Concordia cruise ship crashed off the Italian coast, killing 30 people.
Of course, tragic events occur on many other dates too. But Friday the 13th continues to capture the imagination, precisely because of its long, often grim, cultural history.
Whether you see it as superstition, coincidence or cultural myth, Friday the 13th has cemented its place as the world’s most infamous date. While there's no proof it's any more dangerous than any other day, its eerie reputation ensures it never goes unnoticed.
If you have ever struggled to drag yourself to the gym after a long day at work – or if your motivation tends to dip midworkout – you are not alone. The simple solution to this all-too-common problem is a gym buddy.
A workout partner, or even a small gym crew, can be a game-changer for any fitness journey. Whether you are a regular gym-goer or just starting out, pairing up with someone can improve consistency, boost motivation and make exercise more enjoyable.
The great news is that the gym is an easy place to make new friends. From chatting between sets to joining group classes or asking someone for a spot, the shared goal of getting fitter often leads to genuine connection. Many gyms now offer community events, buddy challenges and team-based training programmes that encourage interaction. Before long, a stranger at the squat rack might become your most trusted accountability partner.
Here is why the buddy system works:
Accountability: It is much harder to skip leg day when someone is waiting for you. A gym buddy keeps you on track simply by showing up – and expecting you to do the same. Over time, it becomes a positive habit.
Motivation: A good workout partner pushes you when you are tempted to quit. A shared high-five after hitting a new personal best is far more satisfying than a solo win. They also encourage you to push just a little harder.
Safety: Whether you are attempting a bench press or trying a new move, a buddy can spot you – helping prevent injury and building confidence when lifting heavier weights. Competition: A bit of friendly rivalry can work wonders. Trying to match each other’s efforts boosts performance and makes workouts feel more dynamic and engaging.
Partner exercises: There are many exercises you can do with a partner – from medicine ball passes and resistance band rows to partner planks and tandem squats. These moves build trust and make sessions more interactive. It is also a fun way to break routine and add energy to your training.
Social connection: The gym can be a surprisingly social space. Striking up a conversation by the dumbbell rack or joining a group circuit session can lead to lasting friendships. Many gyms also offer running clubs, weekend bootcamps or group hikes. For some, the gym becomes not just a place to train, but a community.
Shared goals: Having someone to share milestones with – whether training for a race, hitting a strength target or losing weight – offers valuable emotional support. Working toward a goal together builds teamwork and creates moments of mutual celebration.
Whether it is your best mate, partner, co-worker or someone you met at spin class, having a gym buddy can transform fitness from a chore into a shared lifestyle. The encouragement, laughter and collective effort can turn an ordinary workout into the highlight of your day.
Having a gym buddy can transform fitnessInstagram/ flexandfuel_official
So next time you are tempted to train alone, consider teaming up. You might get double the results – and discover the best gym hack yet.
Nesreen G and Jayeeta Dutta believe in creating sustainable ways of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and are here to share top tips. They don’t just chase goals, they crush them. Instagram: @flexandfuel_official