NEW: The Round Table radio show on RJ1200

A new program that focuses on community and cultural issues, with an underlying theme of community reflection debuted on RJ 1200 and Radio Rim Jhim on March 20, 2008. The new series, called The Round Table, will feature 3 guest panelists every Thursday, along with host and moderator Shushma Datt, on her popular Gupshup program which broadcasts live on weekdays from 2 to 3 p.m.

A revolving panel of guests will discuss topics of interest about and of concern to the South Asian community. The initial program in the series will be a look at the image and reputation of the community.

The Round Table, in addition to addressing topical concerns, will attempt to examine the mindset of the community as well. Given the numerous demographics associated with South Asians residing here, this is no easy task. The community is made up of new-arrivals from India, Pakistan, the Gulf States and Britain; landed immigrants who have been resident for a few years ranging up to decades; first and second generations; and varying cultural and religious sub-groups as well as the usual age, income and educational demographic differences.

The Round Table will be highly interactive, not just in conversation amongst the panelists, but because listeners will also be invited to call in with their own comments and observations.

Future topics will include issues that also delve into cultural norms and the social mores of the South Asian community. Subjects for discussion will include the challenges of raising children within a cultural duality; business practices and ethics within the community and how they may differ from Western societal values, and a look at the roots of violence within the community.

Guest panelists include a number of journalists, editors and publishers, including Fabian Dawson, Deputy Editor for the Province, Kim Bolan, multiple award-winning Reporter for the Vancouver Sun, Michael Roberts, Managing Director for the South Asian Post and Asian Pacific Post and Rupinder Bains, Publisher of Apna Roots and Indo Canadian Times. Other panel members include Jinny Sims, past President of BC Teachers Federation, Karn Manhas, businessman and the youngest MLA in provincial history, Indira Prahst, sociologist and instructor of ethnic relations at Langara College, Rina Gill, National Director of B.C.'s Indo Canadian Chamber of Commerce, Divya Bakshi-Arya, legal and immigration expert and Sonia Andhi Bilkhu, Family Counsellor.