TALENTED actor Amal Sehrawat has kept his feet on the ground despite his impressive small screen success.
The hardworking star is currently part of popular serials Choti Sardarni and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.
Eastern Eye caught up with Amal Sehrawat to talk television, health and inspirations.
How did you feel seeing yourself onscreen for the first time?
The first time I saw myself on the silver screen, I was numb. My family and friends appreciated me. Many from the audience also praised me. It took me a while to accept the reality. I was overwhelmed by seeing myself onscreen. Seeing the happiness on the face of my family members gave me a sense of achievement.
Tell us about your current project?
I am shooting for Choti Sardarni. I am happy and grateful that in no time the show has become number one and is stable at that position. Also, for the first time, I am playing an entirely positive character. I am grateful that both my shows Choti Sardarni and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai are hits.
What has working on TV taught you?
TV has groomed me in delivering more scenes in less time, as at least 21 minutes of footage has to be given to the channel daily. Also, it’s an extremely powerful medium that gives massive and instant fame. Unlike in films, an actor does not have to wait long to see his work broadcast. It’s like an instant medium, shoot today and get telecast soon after.
What is the master plan going forward?
The best plan is to have no plan. Work hard and smart and give 100 per cent, but don’t have high expectations. The only thing a person has in hand is to do his best and leave the rest on God.
What would be your dream role?
My dream role would be any role that challenges me to step out of my comfort zone. I have been fortunate to get these kinds of roles so far.
What do you enjoy watching on TV?
I enjoy watching different and experimental stuff. Of late, web series have excited me a lot as I find them detailed with well-defined characters. Recently, I saw Inside Edge season two in one go.
You have an amazing physique, would you give us a fitness tip?
A healthy body has a healthy mind and vice versa. I am glad that many people are taking care of their physical health these days. But at the same time, in today’s competitive and hectic lifestyle, every person is emotionally and mentally drained, so it’s important to take care of your mental health. Some ways to do so are by practising yoga and meditation.
Tell us something about you that not many people know?
Being an actor, there’s always an assumption you are a party person, but in reality, I am totally the opposite. When I am not shooting, it becomes tough for me to be up beyond 10.30pm and impossible to sleep beyond 6am. I prefer starting my day early and finishing on time. Early to bed, early to rise makes a person healthy, wealthy and wise.
What inspires you?
Inspiration is directly proportional to attitude. An optimistic attitude helps me to find inspiration in every small thing. For example, when I go to the gym early morning, sometimes I feel lazy. At that time, school children waiting for the bus inspire me. I feel that if these small kids can start their day so early, then why not me?
Kew Gardens will shut its iconic Palm House for up to four years
Grade I-listed building to undergo major restoration as part of net-zero strategy
Gas boilers to be replaced with modern heat pumps
Rare plant collection, including 45 endangered species, to be relocated during works
Palm House and Waterlily House will become the first net-zero glasshouses globally
Historic Palm House to undergo major upgrade
Kew Gardens will temporarily close one of its most recognisable landmarks, the Grade I-listed Palm House, for up to four years as part of an ambitious net-zero redevelopment plan. Opened in 1848, the glasshouse is home to a globally significant collection of tropical plants and houses the world’s oldest potted plant—an Encephalartos altensteinii dating back to 1775.
The Palm House, along with the neighbouring Waterlily House, will be transformed into the world’s first net-zero glasshouses through a large-scale renovation focused on improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.
Plans to modernise historic infrastructure
The project, submitted last week to Richmond-upon-Thames borough council, will replace ageing gas boilers—installed more than 100 years ago—with modern heat pumps. These upgrades are designed to help Kew Gardens meet its sustainability targets while preserving the conditions required to house rare tropical species.
Each pane of glass in the structure will be removed and recycled. New, more robust glazing will be fitted using advanced sealants designed to retain heat and humidity, crucial for plant survival.
The Palm House’s iron ribs will also be stripped, repaired and repainted in the original colour used when the structure first opened.
Funding for the scheme will come from a combination of grants and private investment.
Protecting rare and endangered plant life
During the renovation, the entire plant collection—comprising towering palms, passion plants, and 45 species at risk of extinction—will be carefully relocated to temporary glasshouses to ensure their survival.
Tom Pickering, head of glasshouse collections at Kew, described the project as both a dream and a major responsibility. “The aim is to make the Palm House energy efficient while retaining all the magic of what it is today in terms of planting and horticulture,” he said.
Reviving a global icon with modern innovation
Richard Deverell, director of Kew Gardens, emphasised the urgency of the work, saying: “The Palm House and Waterlily House represented the latest in design and build at the time of their construction, but they are showing serious signs of deterioration and are not at all energy efficient.”
“Without urgent work, these iconic listed buildings and the vital tropical plants they protect are at risk of being lost forever,” he added.
Deverell called the project an “epic opportunity” to combine cutting-edge technology with heritage conservation. He said architects, engineers and Kew’s horticultural team have already spent years developing and testing the features that will help secure the buildings’ future.
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Singer Anne-Marie gave an open and emotional interview on BBC Radio 2
Anne-Marie discussed the challenges of motherhood and returning to work in music
Revealed struggles with postnatal anxiety and depression after birth of daughter Seven
Praised therapy as a crucial support tool and advised others to seek help
Shared insights into life with two young children and how routines have changed her
Confirmed she will perform at the Women’s Rugby World Cup opening ceremony on 22 August
Anne-Marie opens up about motherhood and mental health
Singer Anne-Marie gave an open and emotional interview on BBC Radio 2 this morning (16 July), speaking to Scott Mills about the mental and physical challenges she has faced after becoming a mother of two. The artist, known for hits including 2002 and Friends, reflected on the impact of motherhood on her mental health and creative life.
Returning to music while raising a family
Anne-Marie revealed that adjusting to life with two children while returning to the music industry has been “really difficult”. She is mother to daughter Seven, aged one, and a baby son who is just two months old.
“Getting back into music and being a mum has been really difficult,” she said during the interview. “Having a second one, it’s like the attention spread of the two is difficult.”
Despite the challenges, she described her children as “the most beautiful little things you’ve ever seen”, adding that moments of calm—such as looking at photos of them while they sleep—make the exhaustion feel worthwhile.
Anxiety and postnatal mental health
The singer spoke frankly about how she experienced intense anxiety after the birth of her first child. “I actually had anxiety so bad when I first had Seven and I didn’t want to be left alone,” she said.
Anne-Marie admitted that she had only been aware of postnatal depression, not postnatal anxiety, until experiencing it herself. She went on to say that her postnatal depression developed around six months after Seven’s birth.
The role of therapy and learning to ask for help
Anne-Marie highlighted the importance of therapy in her recovery. First starting sessions during lockdown, she said she had periods where she paused, particularly after making her third album, believing she no longer needed support. However, after becoming a mother, she returned to therapy and now attends weekly sessions.
“I’m sorry if you saw any of the interviews where I said I don’t need you anymore,” she joked, referring to her therapist. “Can I have you back?!”
She encouraged others to reach out, saying, “Therapy is my best friend. But also tell people, because I never asked for help, and that’s why I got so tired. People think that you’re sweet when you’re pretending to be okay.”
Speaking about the lifestyle shift, Anne-Marie described how routines have become a major part of her day-to-day life. “When I think about routines, it stresses me out. If I don’t do it right, it stresses me out,” she said. “And now I have to make three meals a day to make sure she’s good, you know? So it’s all just a massive change, and now I’m in a routine that’s my life.”
She also reflected on how her body and mind have changed since becoming a mother, saying, “I look different. I feel different. My brain is rewired. I swear everything has changed.”
Looking ahead: TV, sport and live appearances
Anne-Marie also spoke about her daughter recognising her on TV, recent performances at Glastonbury, and practising karate. She confirmed she will be performing at the Women’s Rugby World Cup opening ceremony, which takes place at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland on Friday 22 August.
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The Great British Sewing Bee is back for 2025, welcoming 12 new home sewers to the sewing room
Hosted by Sara Pascoe with judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young
12 contestants will compete across 10 themed sewing challenges
Each episode features a Pattern, Transformation, and Made to Measure challenge
Opening week focuses on shaping garments including pleats and circle skirts
Sewing Bee returns with a fresh cast of home sewing talent
The Great British Sewing Bee is back for 2025, welcoming 12 new home sewers to the sewing room. Host Sara Pascoe returns to guide the competition, alongside judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young, who will evaluate each contestant’s technical ability and creative flair.
Spanning 10 weeks, the series will feature themed challenges ranging from artistic and historical references to cultural inspirations like the 1920s and Korean fashion. Contestants will face the usual trio of tasks each week: a Pattern Challenge, a creative Transformation Challenge, and a Made to Measure Challenge where garments are tailored to real models.
This week’s theme centres on “creating shape”. Contestants must sew a tie-front blouse, transform a circle skirt into a new outfit, and design a pleated dress that fits perfectly. One sewer will be awarded Garment of the Week, while another will be eliminated.
The 2025 Sewing Bee line-up
Caz Age 59 | Staffordshire | Retired After retiring from the family printing business, Caz has devoted more time to sewing, which she began at age 11. She enjoys technical sewing, including French seams and topstitching.
Kit Age 24 | Manchester | Digital marketer Kit taught themselves to sew at school and returned to the hobby at university. They create one garment per week and are drawn to turning unusual fabrics into stylish pieces.
Gaynor Age 72 | Port Talbot, Wales | Retired office manager Gaynor has sewn since the 1950s and now teaches her granddaughter. Her style is described as smart and traditional.
Jess Age 33 | London | Head of communications Jess began sewing as a child to connect with her mother and grandmother. She resumed the hobby during lockdown and continues to create her own clothing.
Órla Age 19 | Inverness | Café worker and student The youngest contestant, Órla started sewing four years ago and enjoys experimenting with both androgynous and feminine looks. She dreams of building a self-made wardrobe.
Peter Age 45 | Devon | Senior pre-construction manager Peter took up sewing after watching the show with his daughters. He focuses on practical garments and enjoys upcycling, such as turning old jackets into bags.
Glendora Age 59 | Luton | Bus driver Glendora began sewing at eight and has since made over 30 quilts. She values durability and quality in her creations.
Yasmin Age 30 | Gateshead | Research and development scientist Yasmin learned to sew from her father, who inspired her to apply to the show. She honours his memory through her sewing, including a pink zebra dress they made together.
Novello Age 66 | London | Business owner and magistrate Inspired by Blue Peter, Novello began sewing at five and received her first machine at age seven. She enjoys creating unique and personalised garments.
Dan Age 37 | Durham | Performer Dan started hand-stitching garments at 10 and now uses his sewing skills to make costumes for stage performances.
Saffie Age 32 | London | Lecturer in Product and Industrial Design Taught to knit by her great-aunt at age eight, Saffie now creates a functional and stylish wardrobe using patterns from independent designers.
Stuart Age 53 | Herefordshire | Premises manager Stuart began sewing in 2020 intending to make hats but quickly expanded his repertoire. He combines practicality with creativity in his work.
How to watch
The Great British Sewing Bee 2025 airs weekly on BBC One, beginning Tuesday 15 July at 9pm.
Tune in to see which of these talented sewers will impress the judges and make it to the final.
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The event follows recent data from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA)
Event part of South Asian Heritage Month, taking place in London
Focus on fertility challenges faced by the South Asian community in the UK
Speakers include individuals with lived experience and reproductive health experts
HFEA data reveals ethnic disparities in IVF outcomes and patient satisfaction
Aims to break taboos, encourage open dialogue, and advocate for tailored care
Fertility event aims to spotlight inequalities and cultural stigma
A landmark event during South Asian Heritage Month will explore the unique fertility challenges faced by South Asian communities in the UK. Titled Breaking the Silence – Fertility Journeys in the South Asian Community, the event will take place in London on Tuesday 5 August from 5:30pm to 8:15pm.
The panel gathering will feature individuals with lived experience of infertility, baby loss and involuntary childlessness, alongside clinicians and mental health professionals specialising in reproductive care. The goal is to open up often-silenced conversations and address disparities in access to fertility treatment and patient outcomes among South Asian groups.
Ethnic disparities in fertility treatment outcomes
The event follows recent data from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), which highlights troubling disparities in fertility treatment success. While overall IVF birth rates continue to improve, success rates for Asian patients remain lower. For those aged 18–37, the birth rate per embryo transferred is 27% for Asian patients and 25% for Black patients, compared with 33% for White patients.
The figures reflect long-standing concerns that ethnic minority patients do not receive the same quality of care or outcomes as others. Beyond clinical results, the HFEA’s National Patient Survey found that Black and Asian patients are less likely to report satisfaction with their fertility treatment.
Cultural barriers and need for tailored support
The panel event will tackle the cultural taboos and stigma often surrounding fertility within South Asian communities. Organisers hope the conversation will not only validate the emotional and social challenges many individuals face but also lead to meaningful action around culturally competent care.
Attendees will hear from those who have navigated complex fertility journeys, as well as professionals who are working to improve reproductive healthcare for ethnic minority communities. By fostering open dialogue, the event aims to break down barriers, increase awareness, and help bridge the gap in patient experience and outcomes.
Anita GuruInstagram/ _themindcoach_
More information
To attend or for further details, please get in touch with Anita Guru 📧 anita@fertilitynetworkuk.org 📞 07854 769761
For a detailed overview of the event, visit our website
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UK climate has become 'notably different' due to global warming
Met Office says UK climate has become 'notably different' due to global warming
2024 saw record-breaking heat, rainfall and early spring indicators
UK warming at rate of 0.25°C per decade; sea levels rising faster than global average
Wildlife, trees and seasonal patterns under pressure from climate shifts
Met Office confirms UK's climate is changing rapidly
The UK’s national weather service, the Met Office, has said extreme weather events are becoming the norm as the country’s climate continues to warm. Its annual State of the UK Climate report highlights a clear and accelerating trend, showing that the nation is experiencing hotter days, milder winters, and more intense rainfall than in previous decades.
Heat and rainfall records tumbling
The year 2024 brought some of the warmest conditions on record in the UK, including the warmest May and spring ever documented. February 2024 was the second warmest on record, and both December and the winter season ranked among the top five warmest since records began in 1884.
These trends are already being surpassed in 2025, with much of the country enduring a third heatwave, prompting a hosepipe ban in Yorkshire following the warmest June on record. The region, along with north-west England, was declared in drought by the Environment Agency in June.
According to the Met Office, the UK is now warming at a rate of approximately 0.25°C per decade. Between 2015 and 2024, the average temperature was 1.24°C higher than the 1961–1990 baseline.
Wetter winters, rising seas
In addition to higher temperatures, the UK is also experiencing more rainfall, particularly during the winter months. From October to March, rainfall between 2015 and 2024 increased by 16% compared to 1961–1990.
Sea levels around the UK are now rising faster than the global averageUS EPA
The period from October 2023 to March 2024 marked the wettest winter half-year in over 250 years. Flooding and storms during this period caused widespread damage, with regions such as eastern Scotland, Derbyshire, and the West Midlands receiving several times their usual monthly rainfall.
Sea levels around the UK are now rising faster than the global average, further heightening the risk of coastal flooding.
Natural world under strain
The impact of climate change on UK wildlife is increasingly visible. Spring 2024 began earlier than average, affecting 12 out of 13 seasonal events recorded by Nature’s Calendar. Frogspawn and blackbird nesting were both recorded at their earliest points since 1999.
These seasonal shifts pose serious challenges for native species such as dormice and hedgehogs. Warmer weather causes fruits and nuts to ripen earlier, leaving fewer food resources available in autumn when animals prepare for hibernation.
Adapting to future extremes
Professor Stephen Belcher, Met Office Chief Scientist, said: “The climate is likely to continue to change, and we need to prepare for the impacts this will have on the weather we experience.”
At Alice Holt forest research centre, scientists are examining which tree species may thrive in the future. Some, including California’s coastal redwoods, show promise in adapting to the UK’s evolving climate. However, many native trees are already showing signs of stress, such as reduced growth and leaf damage following droughts.
Dr Gail Atkinson, head of Climate Change Science at the centre, warned that many trees currently common in the UK may not survive the changing conditions.