Arvind Chandak, his beautiful wife and their two lovely daughters have become the first foreign family to win the city's annual selection of "Five-Good Families", which, in its past 20 years' history, has gone to Chinese families only.

After scoring a triumph in the initial contest in July, the Indian family went on well with the second phase in which all the 300 candidate families were judged by the public opinions.

The Chandak family has been living in the city for about 10 years, during which they found themselves more and more intrigued in the Chinese culture, Chinese people and the great variety of Chinese dishes.

Every weekend, the family try out a new Chinese restaurant. Their favorite dish is Tofu.

Arvind works as the general manager of a joint venture manufacturing electronic products.

"Shanghai is providing a wonderful chance for my company and myself," said Arvind, who has also worked in Africa and Singapore. "I love this city."

Sandha is a full-time housewife. Apart from taking care of her daughters, she also studies at the community school where she goes twice a week to learn about Chinese handicrafts.

Asshwaeya, 8, the elder daughter, is the one in the family who speaks the best Chinese. Despite her young age she has hosted several parties in the community because of her good Mandarin and now she is learning Shanghai dialect.

"An important thing for a harmonious family is that everyone who lives in it feels happy," Arvind said.

Each of the "Five-Good Families" is expected to do well in abiding by the law, being conscientious students and participating in public activities. They should also understand family planning, ensure the education of their children, enjoy domestic harmony and have good relationships with their neighbors. Finally, they should be frugal, clean and orderly in their household management.

(Shanghai Star October 8, 2004)