Community Community Two teams After the from Qatar massive Academy success P6Doha have P16 of one cult thriller, performed with Indonesian actors are distinction in popping up in countless separate events. Hollywood hits.
Tuesday, April 18, 2017 Rajab 21, 1438 AH
DOHA 26°C—37°C TODAY LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE 11 PUZZLES 12 & 13
THE MANTRA: A reboot with an online wellness subscription.
COVER Wellness online STORY Aff ordable and easy to fit into the most hectic scheds, these can perk up your spirit just in time for the new season. P4-5 2 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 18, 2017 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT
Shivalinga DIRECTION: P. Vasu WRITTEN BY: P. Vasu CAST: Ritika Singh, Raghava Lawrence, Shakthi Vasudevan SYNOPSIS: Shivalinga is story weaved around a murder mystery. Who killed Rahim? Why was he killed? Is it murder or suicide? CID officer Shivu (Shivrajkumar) investigates the murder mystery. But, what is Shivu’s wife’s involvement in the case? Rahim (Shakthi PRAYER TIME Vasudevan) and his well-trained pigeon Saara are alone in a coach Fajr 3.50am aboard a train when a blind man Shorooq (sunrise) 5.09am enters and reaches the door. Zuhr (noon) 11.33am Rahim saves the man, a killer, Asr (afternoon) 3.03pm who in turn throws Rahim off Maghreb (sunset) 6.00pm the moving train to his death. Isha (night) 7.30pm Rahim’s death is ruled a suicide, but Rahim’s fiancee Sangeetha (Vaishali Deepak) knows that USEFUL NUMBERS Rahim had no reason to kill himself…
THEATRES: The Mall, Landmark, Royal Plaza
Emergency 999 Worldwide Emergency Number 112 Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 Local Directory 180 International Calls Enquires 150 Hamad International Airport 40106666 Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 Mowasalat Taxi 44588888 Qatar Airways 44496000 Hamad Medical Corporation 44392222, 44393333 Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464 Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 44593363 Qatar Assistive Technology Centre 44594050 Qatar News Agency 44450205 44450333 Q-Post – General Postal Corporation 44464444
Humanitarian Services Offi ce (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies) Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, 40253369 Kadamban see him collecting nectar for his people, followed by the ‘hero’ Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364 DIRECTION: N. Ragavan song which is inevitable here. The only diff erence is that the Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365 WRITTEN BY: Ragava song glorifi es the forest, which is the actual hero of the fi lm. Qatar Airways 40253374 CAST: Arya, Catherine Tresa, Madhuvanti Arun We get a sense of the fi lm when Kadamban, in an early scene, SYNOPSIS: Kadamban has enough moments reminiscent talks about the impacts of globalisation on forestry. of Mohanlal’s blockbuster fi lm Pulimurugan, which too dealt Then there is Radhi (Catherine Tresa), whose brother with a similar theme. In a blast of an entry scene, Kadamban despises Kadamban. But she falls for him. (Arya) is introduced fl exing his muscles, fl aunting his abs and doing mid-air stunts. He’s the master of the forest. At fi rst, we THEATRES: The Mall, Royal Plaza, Landmark ote Unquo Qu te You should never Mall Cinema (1): Smurfs: The Lost 5:30pm; The Fate Of The Furious view your challenges as Village (2D) 2pm; The Fate Of The (2D) 8pm; The Fate Of The Furious a disadvantage. Instead, it’s Furious (2D) 3:45pm; The Fate (2D) 11pm. important for you to understand that Of The Furious (2D) 6:15pm; The 6:45pm; Robo Dog:Airborne Royal Plaza Cinema Palace your experience facing and overcoming Fate Of The Furious (2D) 8:45pm; (2D) 9:15pm; The Great Father (2): Smurfs: The Lost Village (2D) adversity is actually one of your biggest Kadamvan (Tamil) 11:15pm. (Malayalam) 11pm. 2:30pm; Rabbit School (2D) 4:30pm; advantages. Mall Cinema (2): Rabbit School Landmark Cinema (2): Rabbit Shivalinga (Tamil) 6pm; Robo (2D) 2pm; Smurfs: The Lost Village School (2D) 2:30pm; Smurfs: The Dog:Airborne (2D) 8:45pm; The – Michelle Obama (2D) 3:45pm; Robo Dog:Airborne Lost Village (2D) 4:15pm; The Fate Great Father (Malayalam) 10:30pm. (2D) 5:30pm; Beauty & The Beast Of The Furious (2D) 6pm; The Fate Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (2D) 7:15pm; Eloise (2D) 9:30pm; Of The Furious (2D) 8:30pm; The (3): Beauty & The Beast (2D) The Fate Of The Furious (2D) Fate Of The Furious (2D) 11pm. 2:15pm; The Fate Of The Furious 11:15pm. Landmark Cinema (3): Robo (2D) 4:30pm; The Great Father Mall Cinema (3): The Great Father Dog:Airborne (2D) 2:15pm; The (Malayalam) 6:45pm; Eloise (2D) Community Editor (Malayalam) 2:30pm; Shivalinga Fate Of The Furious (2D) 4pm; The 9:30pm; Kadamvan (Tamil) 11:15pm. (Tamil) 5:30pm; The Fate Of The Fate Of The Furious (2D) 6:30pm; Asian Town Cinema: The Great Kamran Rehmat Furious (2D) 8:30pm; The Great Kadamvan (Tamil) 9pm; Eloise (2D) Father (Malayalam) 4:30, 7pm e-mail: [email protected] Father (Malayalam) 11pm. 11:30pm. & 1:30am; Take Off (Malayalam) Telephone: 44466405 Landmark Cinema (1): The Royal Plaza Cinema Palace 4:30 & 6:30pm; Kalamban (Tamil) Fax: 44350474 Great Father (Malayalam) 2:15pm; (1): The Fate Of The Furious (2D) 7:30pm; Shivalinga (Tamil) 3:30 & Eloise (2D) 5pm; Shivalinga (Tamil) 3pm; The Fate Of The Furious (2D) 9:30pm. Tuesday, April 18, 2017 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY
EVENTS Salsa Beginners Dance Class Imperial Threads: Motifs and Artisans WHEN: Every Friday WHERE: Museum of Islamic Art Karnataka Cup 2017 WHERE: B Attitude Spa, Beverly Hills WHEN: Until November 4 WHEN: Until April 21 Tower, West Bay This exhibition focuses on the exchange WHERE: Old Ideal School Ground TIME: 8pm-9pm of artistic and material cultures between The stage is set for Karnataka Cup 2017, Salsa n Candela offers variety of dance the Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal Empires. organised by Karnataka Sangha Qatar. The classes for adults at Beverly Hills Tower Highlighting MIA’s masterpiece carpets, soft ball cricket tournament will feature eight West Bay’s B Attitude Spa, such as Salsa among other artworks, from Turkey, Iran and local cricket teams and will be played until every Friday and other Latin dances during India, these objects will be contextualised April 21 at the Old Ideal School Ground under other days of the week. within the historical circumstances of fl oodlights. politics and artistic production of their time, KSQ President H K Madhu said that world Aqua Park 2017 Season primarily from the 16th to the 18th centuries. class cricketer Sanath Jayasuriya will grace WHEN: Until August the opening ceremony as a special guest. WHERE: Aqua Park Reggae Beachfest Doha Also attending the opening ceremony will The Aqua Park 2017 season is finally WHEN: Thursdays and Fridays be Indian ambassador P Kumuran and Sri here and is happening with a big bang and WHERE: Oyster Beach Bar at St. Regis Lankan Ambassador P D P S A Liyanage. splash. Aqua Park Qatar is the premiere Hotel A cultural show depicting the rich heritage and still the leading theme park in Qatar, TIME: 8pm onwards of Karnataka state will be presented during Qatar Motor Show “the theatre of all aquatic fantasies where In collaboration with Reggae Beachfest the opening ceremony. An exclusive sports WHEN: Until April 22 the thrills and spills are a knock-off, where in Dubai, Qatar will witness the best rasta stall showcasing the Karnataka cricket WHERE: Doha Exhibition & Convention families and friends, work colleagues nights around. The organisers say, “We’ve players and their contributions to the Indian Center and business partners cool off and the got the setup sorted to get you feeling the cricket team will be an added attraction. The Qatar Motor Show is one of the most appellations go on and on.” Caribbean vibe. Along with our resident band important consumer events in Qatar. It is Earthkry all the way from Jamaica, we have so Roots celebrating its 7th edition with its ‘Driving Karting & Minimoto at Losail many big names in the Reggae scene lined up WHEN: Until April 22 to Innovation’ theme that will help bring WHEN: Until May 26 at this huge beachfest!” Entrance fee is QR50 WHERE: Katara Drama Theatre-Building to enthusiast in Qatar the latest trends and WHERE: Losail International Circuit, at the door. For more information, please call 16 technologies from the global automotive Doha 44460105. TIME: 7:30pm scene. Perceived by brands manufacturers TIME: 5pm An array of performers from the and retailers as the ideal platform to host The registration will be done directly at Senorita- Ladies Night participating countries are set to bring the exclusive regional reveals, the show dates the venue, at the VIP Car Park of the Losail WHERE: The Club at St. Regis sights and sounds of Latin America to Qatar have shifted after the Geneva Motor Show International Circuit. The minimum age is WHEN: Tuesdays during the fi ve-day event that will showcase to showcase new models for the fi rst time 15 years old and any participant under the TIME: 7pm the best of Latin American dance, music and in the region. The Qatar Motor Show 2017 age of 18 needs permission signed by a legal The Club at St. Regis promises the ‘fi nest photography, to the residents of Qatar. will include more than 21 brands that will guardian for the karting activity. To take week-night in town with Cuban and Latin A kaleidoscope of music and dance by showcase their latest technology, innovation, part in karting it is compulsory to bring a rhythms’. The event starts at 7pm. The Ecuadorian artistes will be the key attraction and performance trends. Exhibiting brands helmet along for safety reasons; if dress code is “strictly fabulous-Latin vibe” at the inauguration of the festival. The second include BAIC, BMW, Chevrolet, Chrysler, not available, the circuit can provide you and there are no entrance fees. For more day of the festival will see breathtaking Dodge, Ford, Genesis, Harley Davidson, one. information, please call 4446-0105. performances by musicians and dancers from Hyundai, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lexus, the Republic of Venezuela at 7.30pm. This Maserati, Maxus, Mercedes Benz, Mini, Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change will be followed by Argentinian performances Mitsubishi, Nissan, Ram, Titanium and at 8.15pm. On April 20, artistes from Mexico Toyota. will perform and April 21 will see Paraguay take centre-stage. The conclusion of the Leadership Table conference festival will see performances by Peru and WHEN: April 28-29 Cuba. WHERE: International School of London On April 28 and 29, the International School of London, Qatar will host the fi rst- ever Open Apply Admissions Conference in the Middle East. Managing admissions, enrolment becomes more vital each year for school administrators as the need for schools worldwide continues to grow and competition increases. The two-day conference is open to all professionals aligned to the admissions and leadership of international schools. The experienced speakers will add a wealth of knowledge to ICC Cultural Program aspects of the theme “Admissions at the WHEN: April 21 Leadership Table” and address key questions WHERE: Asian Hall such as “How can admissions help steer the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) has come direction of the school?” up with various programmes to engage the blue collar workers in Qatar. As part of this Qatar Running Series initiative, the fi rst event is being organised at WHEN: May 12 Asian Town on April 21 in collaboration with WHERE: Oxygen Park the Ministry of Interior. The programmes TIME: 7am shall include selected cultural presentations The events will take place in Oxygen Park, from blue collar workers themselves. The Education City and comprises of distances programme also shall include entertainment ranging from 3K to Full Marathon. All programmes by various troops in Qatar along events will be run on accurately measured with ICC dance performers. short courses with multiple laps and will be restricted to a maximum of 120 participants. La Liga fi xtures screenings WHEN: Until April 23 VCU Qatar community classes WHERE: Novo Cinema WHEN: April-May TIME: 5:15pm WHERE: VCU Qatar, Education City In association with beIN SPORTS, Novo This spring, VCU Qatar introduces 45 Cinemas will screen a selected list of La Liga courses in art and design – from drawing fi xtures, including the Madrid Derby, Milan and painting, fashion, graphic design, Derby and El Clasico matches. Football fans illustration, jewelry making and multimedia will have an uncompromised fi eld-side view to visual communication technologies – to within an immersive environment where the public of Qatar. The Late Spring 2017 they feel as though they are a part of the Community Education Program is open to much-anticipated matches. La Liga is the top all residents. Classes start early April. To professional association football division of register, please visit www.qatar.vcu.edu/ the Spanish football league system. community 4 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 18, 2017 COMMUNITY COVER STORY ‘Buying’ health online also worth the time
WIRED: Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned yogi looking to switch things up, there's plenty on off er.
Happiness Project, a book about her fearful or stressed out. “The best time resonates with you, resist the temptation By Andreea Ciulac experiments in the pursuit of happiness and to try something like this is now,” Rubin to invest right off the bat in the Unlimited good habits. added. package — usually the priciest option. The “People can do things with an app that Let your personality guide you. Investing risk, Morton said, is “you’ll try it twice and erhaps your New Year’s they couldn’t do if they (had to) actually in an online wellness subscription after never do it again.” resolutions involved plans show up in a class.” hearing a friend raving about it often leads A bundle of, say, intuitive eating classes, to nurture that mind-body Rubin and Kati Morton, licensed to disappointment. can be difficult to test out beforehand. But connection or simply bring therapist in Los Angeles, who manage a “There’s nothing that universally works most apps focused on mental well-being down stress levels by taking popular mental health YouTube channel for everybody,” said Rubin, who owns an do offer free trials. To access them, you’ll yogaP or meditation classes. Now, as spring (www.youtube.com/user/KatiMorton offer app called Better. “Think about yourself be asked for your credit card information. approaches, the thrill has morphed into tips on choosing the right online course. and what’s true about you.” Set an alarm on your phone, so you don’t dread, and attempts to squeeze in those Build on things that you already like, have to pay once the trial expires, Morton plans have left you even more stressed. Don’t wait to feel depressed added Morton. “If you enjoy walking or advises. For the sake of your sanity, consider Most people don’t consider upping have always been involved in sports, then Do your homework. Before purchasing the next best thing: online wellness their wellness game unless faced with you might focus more on yoga or any kind a month’s worth of self-care classes, pay subscriptions. Affordable and easy to fit an emotional or physical crisis. But you of movement-based therapy.” On the other attention to logistics. Is there any mention into the most hectic schedules, these can shouldn’t wait to reach the end of your rope hand, meditation works better for those of e-mail or text notifications? If so, how perk up your spirit just in time for the new to take action, said Morton. consumed by obsessive thoughts. often will those hit your inbox? “Some season. Instead, she suggests looking for telltale people like that; others find that reminders “Online is so much more convenient,” signs your mind and body could use a Take it for a spin annoy them and make them want to do said Gretchen Rubin, author of The reboot — having troubles sleeping, feeling No matter how much something something less,” explained Rubin. Tuesday, April 18, 2017 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY
“Online is so much more convenient. People can do things with an app that they couldn’t do if they (had to) actually show up in a class” — Gretchen Rubin, author of The Happiness Project
just that: a mix of low intensity workouts, such as yoga and Pilates, plus fitness- inspired workouts from weightlifting to high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Instead of subscribing, you buy a plan. Costs vary greatly, based on complexity and teachers’ reputation. Among the budget- friendly options is a $19.99 Journey to Headstand 31-day plan. Pricier choices include the $159.99 EmBody Yoga Bundle with 39 classes taught by Jessamyn Stanley and Dana Falsetti, plus-size Instagram yogi sensations.
Intuitive eating Created by registered dietitians, these courses are geared toward women who struggle with body issues or disordered eating patterns. Still, thanks to an emphasis on mindfulness, anyone can benefit from them. Sought-after programmes are the ones by nutritionists Christy Harrison and Robyn Likewise, look up the programme to make Headspace. Its guided meditation sessions and relaxation techniques such as deep Coale. Harrison’s 13-week online course, sure it won’t do more harm than good, are perfect for beginners and can be breathing and visualisation. priced at $329, contains audio, video pointed out Morton. “There’s been some listened to on your phone or computer. and interactive exercises meant to teach apps not empirically supported that can be While the app itself is free, subscriptions Yoga clients to “give up dieting for good, “start damaging.” are $12.95 per month or $7.99 per month if Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned exercising for the joy of movement” and On iTunes, apps are rated by customers. you sign up for a year. There’s also a 10-day yogi looking to switch things up, YogaGlo more. Mental health associations make for free trial. has something for everyone. For $18 per Coale, who coaches people via phone trustworthy sources. The Anxiety and Looking for an affordable quick fix? Opt month, you get unlimited access to over or Skype at Nutshell Nutrition, branches Depression Association of America (ADAA), for Buddhify. At only $4.99, this beautifully 3,500 online streaming classes taught by out beyond food issues. She gives advice for instance, posts reviews of mental designed app delivers 80 different short reputable yoga teachers and ranging from on achieving a healthy weight, managing health apps, with scores from 1 to 5 for audio tracks for every moment of the day, five to 120 minutes. It offers a 15-day free stress, improving sleep and more. Her “ease of use,” “effectiveness” or “research including Work, Going to Sleep, When trial. services accommodate all budgets. A evidence.” Stressed, Travelling, Walking, Online, etc. Maybe you want the flexibility to play 35-minute Q-and-A call is $95, while And think twice before paying big bucks For a dollar more, you can access Pacifica, around with your budget and your exercise packages start at $445. —Chicago Tribune/ to join your favourite spiritual guru’s online which combines meditation with journaling choices. The Cody app and website provide TNS classes. Celebrity does not necessarily correlate with a programme’s effectiveness, said Morton. “You can spend all the money in the world, but if you don’t like it, you’re not going to get any benefit out of it.” Below are three types of wellness subscriptions and apps to fit various lifestyles and budgets.
Meditation If you’re just getting started, try
“Most people don’t consider upping their wellness game unless faced with an emotional or physical crisis. But you shouldn’t wait to reach the end of your rope to take action” — Kati Morton, licenced therapist 6 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 18, 2017 COMMUNITY
The Grade 11 students who competed in the Pi Day Mathematics Competition. QAD students finish second in two separate high profile competitions
wo teams from Qatar Bader Hijji said, “Each of us Academy Doha (QAD) brought the skills that we could have performed with with us to help push the team distinction in separate farther, and to do better. We were events. a diverse team with many skills, TMuna al-Asmakh, a student and the experience as a whole was of Grade 10 at QAD, was invited challenging but we were able to to compete in the eighth edition push through together.” of the Materials Science and Usama Usman said, “It was a Engineering Symposium at Texas very good experience, as it taught A&M University of Qatar. This is the us how to work together to solve fi rst year that high school students complex problems. Teamwork was were invited to compete in this very important to get the answers.” event. Muna’s project, “Perfume Cory Carson, QAD senior school & The Science Behind It,” was an principal, said, “We are proud of extremely popular exhibit and she our students when they are able was invited to the fi nal round. to apply their learning to areas Representatives from QAD as well of their chosen interest, step out as members of Muna’s family were into the larger community and present during the fi nal judging shine. Participation in local and round, where she got second place international events raises the and was awarded prize money and profi le of Qatar Academy Doha a certifi cate acknowledging her students like Muna, Bader, Tanya, achievements. Usama, and Yoojin; students who Muna al-Asmakh said: are truly passionate about their “Presenting my project to university learning and are taking steps to professors at the Materials Science make positive contributions to their and Engineering Symposium was an community.” experience that cannot be described QAD Director Don MacIntyre in words. It was an honour to be said, “It is with great pleasure there and winning second place was and pride that we recognise beyond my expectations.” the achievements of our Qatar Separately, four Grade 11 math Academy students in these students competed in the fi nal of Muna al-Asmakh showcases her award at the Materials Science and Engineering Symposium. competitions. I want to off er my Carnegie Mellon University Qatar’s congratulations on their knowledge “Pi Day Mathematics Competition” required to work together to extremely well and fi nished in to attend the World Math Team and teamwork in achieving such on March 18. They were one of the solve diffi cult math questions in a close second place. The team Challenge in Bangkok in November outstanding results. These students four from 107 teams that qualifi ed front of an audience including received certifi cates, a trophy, and 2017. The team members were: are fi ne examples of the ideals for the fi nal round. family members, friends, teachers a tablet each to recognise their Bader Hijji, Tanya Shibu, Usama we support and the education we In the fi nal round, teams were and professors. QAD’s team did success. They are now also eligible Usman and Yoojin Kim. provide at QAD.” Tuesday, April 18, 2017 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY ABP hosts the ‘Muqbeleen’ campaign
to provide such opportunities Qatar Foundation’s Education The objectives and programmes of the campaign is to get students to take advantage of the programmes off ered by off ered by state institutions to the City. Since its launch in 2001, the the Nama Center. students to take advantage of them programme has adapted model and contribute to support social approach in teaching English, he Academic Bridge about his experiences when he the economic and developmental initiatives that will benefi t both math, science, and computer skills, Programme (ABP) was at their age and encouraged eff ort”. them and society. along with holding a broad range recently hosted a team them to be active members of their On this occasion, Moza al- The mission of the Academic of activities including debates, from the Muqbeleen community. Boainain, Assistant Director for Bridge Programme (ABP), a a Model United Nations, school campaign, a project The idea of the campaign is that Student Aff airs, expressed her centre of Qatar Foundation that clubs and newspaper, sports teams, launchedT by Nama Center as part of “young people are the mainstay of thanks to Nama Center and its operates under pre-university and students’ union. The ABP is the Qatar Social Work Foundation. economic and social power. They sponsors for their constructive education, is to provide high accredited by the Commission on The campaign team explained are the builders of the homeland social initiatives that contribute to school graduates from Qatari English Language Accreditation the objectives and programmes of and guarantors of its power and the empowerment and support of schools and other similar schools (CEA) in the United States. This the campaign to the ABP students prevention. Their role in the Qatari youth and enable them to with the academic and personal makes it easier to fast-track ABP and invited them to take advantage comprehensive development is lead the process of renaissance and skills for success in reputable graduates into universities in the of the programmes off ered to them central, and their enlightened construction in the country. Al- English-language universities, United States without the need by the Nama Center. Social activist minds are the scientifi c base that Boainain noted that the Academic with special emphasis on preparing for them to complete a university Aqil al-Janahi spoke to the students ensures success and progress in Bridge Programme is very keen students for the universities in foundation year.
KMCA’s campaign collects 47 units of blood
The Karnataka Muslim Cultural Association (KMCA) organised a blood donation campaign at Hamad Medical Corporation recently. The slogan of the campaign was “Give blood, save lives.” About 150 volunteers showed up and a total of 47 units of blood were collected. Ahmed Niyaz, adviser to the KMCA Board, congratulated donors and said he looks forward to greater participation in the coming years. KMCA president Abdulla Monu and ICC president Milan Arun also spoke on the occasion. All blood donors were given snacks and presented with certificates at the end. 8 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 18, 2017 COMMUNITY Youth Forum conducts meeting for professionals
The Youth Forum conducted its ‘Professionals’ Meet’ recently. Dr Abdussalam Ahmad, director fought against unlawful activities, he said, advising people to be aware of the misguided religious of Al Jamia Al Islamia, inaugurated the programme. Perumbavoor Makkah Masjid Imaam Yusuf practices seen online. The programme featured interactive sessions with guests, songs and a Umari delivered the main speech. He said that people who live with high moral values cannot documentary. It was aimed at professionals in medical engineering and the IT field. Seen here in just adjust to what’s happening around the world. All great thinkers and philosophers of the past the left picture is Dr Ahmad addressing the meeting.
ICC conducts workshop on painting for school children
The Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) conducted a painting workshop for school children over two separate days recently. The workshop was conducted to enhance the artistic skills of the participants and to instil artistic values in their minds. Ritu Kumaran, wife of the Indian ambassador, inaugurated the workshop on April 8. Dr Sreekumar Padmanaban and Mahesh Kumar conducted the workshop. Dr Sreekumar taught about the techniques behind drawing facial portraits, while Mahesh taught scenery. Prominent Qatari artist Hanadi al-Darwish attended the closing ceremony as the guest of honour. She also judged the finished paintings and selected the winners: Pranjali Mulik, Adarsh T Sureshbabu and Harasha Jalan. Ragam Library-Camlin and Nadac were the sponsors of the event. Tuesday, April 18, 2017 GULF TIMES 9 COMMUNITY McDonald’s Qatar invests in renewable technologies and energy eff iciency
l Mana Restaurants & food in its kitchens is the frequent Food Company, the change of cooking oil. In 2016, owner and operator the 40 outlets of McDonalds used of McDonald’s about 108,780 litres of cooking franchise in Qatar, oil, while in the fi rst three months hasA announced that the fast of 2017, a total of 47,960 litres food chain’s Qatar operations of cooking oil has been used. are well on their way to reducing These fi gures clearly demonstrate environmental footprint as well as McDonald’s approach to be a step adopting innovative approaches to ahead of its competitors when it waste management. comes to quality and hygiene. To achieve this objective, According to Rezek, water McDonald’s has set its own cleanliness and purity is one of the benchmark in its supply chain world’s toughest environmental sustainability by creating, challenges and programmes like protecting and growing long- this will protect the water and term environmental, social and environment so that they can be economic value for all stakeholders enjoyed by future generations. involved in bringing products and “With the used oil recycling services to the market. programme, Al Mana Restaurant The supply chain division and McDonald’s Qatar will become of McDonald’s has developed the market pioneer in sustainable the oil recycling programme to eff orts to reduce the greenhouse dispose used cooking oil in a gas footprint and protect the move to maximise its positive environment in Qatar,” Rezek environmental impact and to make continued. its restaurants as sustainable as McDonald’s Qatar developed an oil recycling programme with the support and collaboration of GBO, a local partner Furthermore, as part of possible, and more importantly and provider, who collects used oil and processes it in biodiesel plants outside the food supply chain. McDonald’s Qatar strategy to meets the norms laid down by stop using hydrogenated fats, the Qatar’s Ministry of Municipality doesn’t end up in local water bodies believe that using biodiesel instead step forward to minimise their company has switched to a new oil and Environment. and that it is recycled for other of petroleum diesel can reduce carbon footprint by reducing formula that contains sunfl ower The oil recycling programme uses in compliance with European greenhouse gases up to 78 percent. greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and canola oil blend. The new oil was developed with the support requirements for sustainable “A green and sustainable and improving water sustainability has a signifi cant impact on the and collaboration of GBO, a local biodiesel production under the supply chain ensures that the to considerably cut down nutritional value of McDonald’s partner and provider, who collects International Sustainability and environmental, social and environmental risks across their fried products, i.e. 37 percent used oil and processes it in biodiesel Carbon Certifi cation System (ISCC). economic impacts are effi ciently supply chains and expand their reduction in saturated fats. plants outside the food supply The Biodiesel produced from managed while encouraging the circle of responsibility,” said Fadi “McDonald’s has achieved zero chain. McDonald’s waste vegetable oils best practices in good governance. Rezek, General Manager at AlMana grams of trans fat per serving in In doing so, the local partner produces less toxic pollutants and “Throughout the lifecycles Restaurants & Food Co. its iconic french fries without helps ensure that the used oil from greenhouse gases than petroleum of products and services, the Another testament of sacrifi cing fl avour, texture or McDonald’s restaurants in Qatar diesel produced and experts initiatives by McDonald’s are a McDonald’s assurance to quality quality,” concluded Rezek.
Lina Brax launches 2017 collection at Blue Salon
Lina Brax has launched its 2017 collection at Blue Salon. The luxury handbags are conceptualised and made in Lebanon. 10 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 18, 2017 COMMUNITY INFOGRAPHIC Tuesday, April 18, 2017 GULF TIMES 11 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY Five indoor projects to add to your cleaning list ou’ve been setting trick. If the wear and tear is more Better the baseboards house projects aside all signifi cant, you may need a more Baseboards provide a stylish winter, and now’s the comprehensive solution. If you have accent to any room in your home, perfect time to make carpet, renting a carpet cleaner but when they’re dirty, they stand sure the hot weather allows you to tackle the job yourself, out for all the wrong reasons. To Yseason starts with a cleaner, happier saving you money over hiring a clean them, start by vacuuming home. So open the windows, turn on professional or purchasing your own your baseboards and scrubbing your favourite song, and start your machine. And if you have hardwood each with a mixture of dish soap cleaning with these fi ve to-dos. or tile fl oors, rent a fl oor buff er. It’s and warm water. Dry each with a the easiest way to give your fl oors towel before wiping them with a Clear the clutter back their shine in no time. dryer sheet. This last step will help Removing excess clutter is a great repel dust from landing on your cleaning tip any time of year, but Pretty it up with paint baseboards. Plus, it’ll give your fi nishing this task when the weather The windows are open and a home a fresh scent. was colder may not have been as gentle breeze is moving air through tempting. Tackle your home room by your home. This is the right time to Vet the vents room and analyse the items you fi nd. cross that painting project off your One of the joys of hot weather is If you haven’t used something in a to-do list. Small painting projects the increase in fresh air that fl ows year or more, it’s time for it to go. can be handled with a single can and through your home – as long as a brush, but for your larger painting that air is clean. To improve the air Freshen up the fl oors endeavours, rent a paint sprayer. quality in your home immediately, After a season of tracking It’s the best way to get an even, clean the vents. Dirt, hair, pollen dirt, your fl oors could use some professional coat in a short amount and other debris collect there, so Rent a wearable vacuum and you’ll lugging a traditional model. attention. If the damage is minor, of time so you’re fi nished before the vacuum the vents out to remove make your reaching points easier a thorough vacuuming will do the breeze dies down. particles from your air for good. without the complications of ©Brandpoint
ARIES TAURUS GEMINI March 21 — April 19 April 20 — May 20 May 21 — June 20
Success and good fortune are strongly indicated today, Aries, along Money matters are highlighted today, Taurus. You can expect An unexpected financial windfall could come your way today, with a sense of optimism. All sorts of changes and surprises lie in to spend a lot of time with the calculator as you balance your Gemini. You may stand there with an open envelope in your hand, store for you. You may receive information from a business partner checkbook or begin to work on your budget. Even if you don’t unable to speak. Whether it’s an unanticipated bonus, gift, or that radically changes your short-term plans. A trip may be in order, consider yourself particularly good with numbers, you will do surprising stock dividend, invest the money wisely. You’ve spent or you could have a visitor. You accept the change in plans with your a great job. You’re conscientious. Success in all endeavours is a lot of money recently, and it would be good for you to begin to usual good humour. You’re a winner! indicated today. replenish the bank account. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22
Even though you’re slaving away at work, your mind is very much If you had to score your life right now, it would have to be a perfect You have a lot to celebrate, Virgo, especially where your love life on romance. Passion is running high, especially yours, Cancer! If you ten. You look great, your career is going well, and your domestic life is concerned. Today you may receive a communication from your already have a romantic partner, why not plan an intimate evening is harmonious. Could there be anything more to life? Don’t think so. loved one that makes you yearn for this person’s company. You’ve together? If you don’t yet have someone special in your life, it’s likely You may receive news of more success at work when an important been together a lot recently, attending many dinners and social you will meet someone today or soon thereafter. Make sure you look sale comes through or a project is successfully completed. You have gatherings, but you’ve had little one-on-one time. your best at all times! much to celebrate, Leo! LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21
There’s a lot of work to be done today, and much of it centres on You may be privy to some information today that will ultimately Expect to receive some great news today, Sagittarius. Answer your finances. Whether you’re working on budgets or investments, you result in financial gain, Scorpio. You may get wind of a new company phone and check e-mail all day, because you never know when it will will easily finish the task. Your trusty computer will help you as you and be one of the first investors. Or perhaps what you hear gives come. Indications suggest that success in all aspects of your life is discover a new website that supports your eff orts or post a question you an idea for a new product that you bring to market yourself. The coming. You may complete a project to acclaim or submit a report in a financial chatroom that yields many responses. Favourable outlook for you is rosy indeed, although your success won’t come that’s accepted without question. These small successes boost your advancement is likely, Libra, if not today then quite soon. without putting your own skills and talents to use! self-confidence, which brings more success. It’s a powerful cycle. CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20
Your optimistic nature has served you well. This quality makes you You woke up feeling happy and enthusiastic, Aquarius. Your intuition Whether you spend today with your feet on the ground or in an a great manager since you can motivate and inspire co-workers. tells you that you will achieve whatever you set your mind to. airplane, you’re eager and enthusiastic about your life direction. If Today you may be recognised for your leadership abilities and can- Whatever your goals – career, education, or personal – you’re bound you aren’t on your way to a distant land, it’s likely that you will be do attitude. Your reward might be a promotion or bonus, or perhaps to succeed. If you don’t have a significant other by your side to airborne soon, Pisces. You’ve achieved tremendous success lately another project even more challenging than the last. Your career support your progress, all signs indicate that you will meet someone and that trend is going to continue. If this trip is a reward to yourself eff orts bring you success. You have a lot to celebrate, Capricorn! soon. If you have a mate, lucky you! for all of your hard work, you deserve it! 12 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 18, 2017 COMMUNITY CARTOONS/PUZZLES
Wordsearch Adam
Chicken Pooch Cafe
BARBECUE DARK ROAST BOILED FRIED SALAD BREADED GARLIC SKIN BREAST GIBLETS SOUP BROTH GRAVY SPICY BROWN GRILL STUFFING BUTTER LEGS THIGH CORN LEMON WHITE CRISPY PEPPER WING
Codeword Every letter of the alphabet is used at least once. Squares with the same number in have the same letter in. Work out which number represents which letter.
Garfield Puzzles courtesy: Puzzlechoice.com courtesy: Puzzles
Sudoku
Bound And Gagged
Sudoku is a puzzle based on a 9x9 grid. The grid is also divided into nine (3x3) boxes. You are given a selection of values and to complete the puzzle, you must fill the grid so that every column, every anone is repeated. Tuesday, April 18, 2017 GULF TIMES 13 PUZZLES COMMUNITY
Super Cryptic Clues Colouring
Across Down 1. It plays, having a very good 1. Bottle up what’s left of the time (6) water (8) 4. Spend a long time on certain 2. Like the nonsense story of sections (8) the two fighters? (4-3-4) 10. For pillage, there’s dismissal 3. Check in again first (4) (7) 5. Presumptuous or just putting 11. Wet the fighter (7) it on (8) 12. Just mooch about? Sounds 6. Don’t have the makings of a capital! (4) good potter? (5,5) 13. ‘No, I am not shaky’? (4,6) 7. Persuaded one to dress up 16. The inside, do in rolled gold (3) (6) 8. Go on foot and on the way 17. Went quietly, as told (7) get bread (6) 20. Is rushing about, but less 9. Repeated ‘On the other hand’ productive (7) (5) Answers 21. I set about providing food (6) 14. Being sixteen and silly, in a 24. Exhausted, tell one nice way (2,9) everything’s fine (3,2,5) 15. What one maintains is there’s Wordsearch Codeword 25. A stage in the development strife (10) of an infant? (4) 18. That the snare is set makes 27. Bank you have a preference one feel better (8) for (7) 19. Come out again to harvest 29. The followers return to join in the fruit (8) again (7) 22. Rescuing and putting away 30. My, what virtue! (8) (6) 31. Shoot - a line (6) 23. Miss Grey? (5) 26. It’s often been climbed up before (4) 28. Heavens, it’s cold, ducks! (3)
Yesterday’s Solutions
Across: 1 Mandate; 5 Firearm; 9 Down: 1 Mementoes; 2 Noticed; Mites; 10 Out of line; 11 Nectar; 12 3 Abstainer; 4 Ebon; 5 Fit to Consents; 14 Ogden; 15 Brushed burst; 6 Ruffs; 7 Aligned; 8 up; 18 Saturates; 20 Least; Meets; 13 A bit past it; 16 Half- 22 Coleslaw; 24 Flagon; 26 light; 17 Put in gear; 19 Tillage; Character; 27 Guise; 28 Sleight; 21 Anguish; 22 Cocks; 23 Slang; 29 Pitcher. 25 Wrap. 14 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 18, 2017 COMMUNITY POP SPOT
in brief
Adele
Ed Sheeran and Drake have been in the news for breaking all kinds of chart records in recent times. But English singer/songwriter Adele is no stranger to record breaking. She has now set a new mark in America on the Billboard 200. Her 21 album debuted atop the listings on March 12, 2011. This was the first of 24 non-consecutive weeks that 21 spent at number one. But the album has also achieved consistent sales over the last six years. So much so that it has set a new record for a female artist of 319 weeks on the Billboard 200. Adele has surpassed the mark previously held by US singer/songwriter Carole King. Her 1971 album, Tapestry, was on the chart for 318 weeks. But Adele has a very long way to go before approaching the record for any artist or group. This is held by English progressive rock band Pink Floyd. Their 1973 album, The Dark Side of the Moon, spent an incredible 927 weeks on the Billboard 200. Drake
GOAL: Julia Micheals always wanted to be a songwriter, but the success of Issues may see her performing more. Having conquered the music world, it looks like Canadian superstar Drake is about to return to his acting roots. As Aubrey Graham, Drake appeared in 100 episodes of the Canadian television teen drama, Degrassi: The Next Generation. He left the show in 2007 following the release Julia is in a ‘transitional of his debut mixtape, Room for Improvement. Apart from a few small roles and voicing the mammoth Ethan in 2012’s Ice Age: Continental Drift, acting has been kept on the back burner. But Drake has now bought the rights to the British stage of my music career’ television show, Top Boy. A gritty crime drama following the lives of people involved in drug dealing and street gangs, the show was dropped by Channel 4 but picked up mom took her to vocal lessons and dance people although Justin (Tranter) is my by Netflix. Producers are said to be creating a significant By Geoff rey Rowlands classes. I went along to watch. most frequent collaborator. But we’ll also role for Drake in the next series which is tentatively “I started writing poetry when I was have producers and artists work with us. scheduled to stream on Netflix during 2018. 12 and turned my words into songs by It’s much more fun. nyone who watched the putting music to them on our family “Sometimes the others will come up ZZ Ward closing ceremony of the 2016 piano. I knew I wanted to write songs but with lyrics or melodies which I wouldn’t Rio Olympics will probably thought I’d have to become an artiste in have thought of and we can bounce these American blues singer/songwriter ZZ Ward, full name remember Julia Michaels. order to be a songwriter. I didn’t realise ideas off each other. When you gel with Zsuzanna Ward, has yet to settle on a title for her Wearing a bright green you could just be a songwriter.” people really well, creating the songs forthcoming sophomore album. A release date is also Acatsuit, the Davenport, Iowa-born singer/ Fate took a hand when songwriter together is an amazing and beautiful undecided but it should be issued sometime in the songwriter joined with Norwegian DJ/ Joleen Belle hired Julia’s sister to sing a experience.” summer. producer Kygo to perform their track, demo. Despite making occasional guest Available now though is lead single, The Deep. Built Carry Me. “My mom and I also went along and, vocalist appearances, such as her Olympic around a sample from As Long As I’ve Got You by The “That was a great experience,” smiled for some reason, mom made me sing for performance with Kygo, Julia considered Charmels, the accompanying video is posted at www. 23-year-old Julia, real name Julia Carin Joleen. She was impressed by me and herself content to be a songwriter rather youtube.com/watch?v=qWH1gy86XSw Cavazos. “Kygo and I had co-written asked if I wrote songs. I told her that than a performer. But this was before she This is a second version of the song. The original Carry Me with Justin Tranter. Justin is the was what I wanted to do and we started co-wrote the song which has become her recording featured a rap by Chicago MC Joey Purp. An frontman for rock band Semi Precious writing together. smash hit debut single. audio posting of this version is at www.youtube.com/ Weapons and my main songwriting “It wasn’t long before my work with “I’ve never been the sort of person watch?v=Vs4okB0ZI_o partner. Joleen was being used on television. It who writes a song and wants to keep it Another track from the new album, Help Me Mama, has “It was raining during our performance was awesome. Then Joleen and I wrote a for themselves. I’ve always had so much also been issued. There is no video but an audio posting is in Rio but we hardly noticed the weather. song with Mike McGarity called Can’t Do pleasure from hearing other people sing at www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7MZXbCrbRk Performing for all the people in the It Without You. I was in high school when my songs. But Issues was diff erent. It just Her 2012 debut album, Til The Casket Drops, is stadium, the athletes and the millions I got word that our song had been chosen struck a chord with me. available to hear in full online. It can be found at www. of television viewers was something I’ll as the theme for a new Disney Channel “This was the fi rst time I’d written a youtube.com/watch?v=EmEdyFIi-n4&list=PLBH8_ never forget.” TV show called Austin & Ally. I was so song which sounded so much like myself isPf3IVjqWSMSOdqt1DtrfLIuJTK Although Julia has released two EPs, happy.” that I couldn’t imagine anyone else her self-titled 2010 debut and 2012’s Julia’s next collaboration was with hit singing it. Numerous artists wanted it but SEE Futuristic, she is primarily known as a songwriter Lindy Robbins. I couldn’t let this one go. Issues had to be songwriter. Her co-writing credits cover “Lindy is a friend of Joleen. I originally my own song.” SEE is another American singer/songwriter making her a string of big hit singles including Justin did a vocal demo for one of her songs. The track has become hugely popular mark on the music scene. Bieber’s massively successful Sorry. We got on well, she asked Joleen what I throughout the world and prompted Julia Now 21, she began songwriting six years ago while Julia also co-wrote most of the songs on was like to work with and I found myself to record some more songs for an EP, playing with an alternative rock band in her home town of Selina Gomez’s LP, Revival, and virtually writing songs with Lindy. The second Nervous System, which will be released Centerport, New York. She went solo at 18, secured a deal every track on Gwen Stefani’s This is song we wrote was Fire Starter which next month. Does this mean she now with Blue Elan Records and released her debut EP, Ties, What the Truth Feels Like” Both albums Demi Lovato used on her Demi album and intends to become a performer rather last June. The video for lead single, Potions, can be seen at topped the Billboard 200. we then wrote Miss Movin’ On which was than a songwriter? www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5V1wmcdyrM “I always wanted to be a songwriter a hit single for Fifth Harmony.” “I honestly don’t know. I’d like to SEE is back now with Green Line Killer, another single rather than a singer,” Julia admitted. “My Julia much prefers to collaborate with perform as well as write rather than do from her EP. The first song written for Ties, it dates sister was the singer in our family. We had other songwriters. one or the other. I’ll just have to see how from 2014. The video is posted at www.youtube.com/ moved from Davenport to Santa Clarita, “I don’t know how people write good things go. I guess I’m in a transitional watch?v=9rO85HyMzf4 California, which is near Los Angeles. My songs alone. I love working as part of a stage of my music career so I’ll try to take Many more audio postings and live performances can be sister wanted to be a performer so our team. I’ve worked with lots of diff erent everything one step at a time.” accessed at www.youtube.com/user/eyespysee/videos Tuesday, April 18, 2017 GULF TIMES 15 SHOWBIZ COMMUNITY Country maverick Lillie Mae stepping into the spotlight
brother, Frank, on guitar; older sister By Randy Lewis Scarlet on mandolin; and younger sister McKenna Grace on vocals. For years, they sang together as a family wo middle-aged women band that also included another eyed Lillie Mae as she older sister, Amber Dawn, who now strolled into Rotier’s lives in Canada. family restaurant in Nearly a decade ago, they were Nashville, her head making the rounds as Jypsi. shavedT on both sides with a shock of Lillie Mae was 16 at the time, short, dark hair on top, nose ring and and she quickly rose from her tattoos on both arms easily visible. role supporting to the band’s lead “Well, aren’t you just darling?” vocalist. one of the observers said on her way Jypsi persisted, mostly at to the cashier to pay her bill. Layla’s Bluegrass Inn on Broadway Singer, songwriter and fi ddler along Nashville’s central tourist Lillie Mae smiled back and demurely thoroughfare. The band would thanked the woman for the remark. play several nights a week, four “That’s better than what I get a lot hours a night for years, honing of times,” she quietly told a visitor the siblings’chops across a broad as they sat down for a late lunch range of material from country and on a recent afternoon in one of her bluegrass to rock, soul and R&B. favourite hangs. That provided Lillie Mae with Lillie Mae has dazzled a diverse range of tools in her increasingly larger audiences over musical kit. As a songwriter, she the last decade with her elastic RAVE REVIEWS: Lillie Mae. leans toward heartbreak, which and colourful vocal aplomb, her she concedes sometimes limits her technical command of the fi ddle indie rock kingpin White — who haven’t seen it performed like that. Dance to the Beat of My Own Drum. opportunities to fl ash her expertise and her charismatic presence as a recruited her for the all-female band … It’s completely fresh, it sounds Lillie Mae’s voice comes out of on the fi ddle. performer. that supported him on his Lazaretto way older and way newer, masculine the Dolly Parton school of high, “I just don’t write those kinds Those traits take centre-stage in tour in 2014. and feminine at the same time.” quavering emotionalism, bringing of (uptempo bluegrass) songs,” she her biggest career step yet as Jack “What isn’t interesting about Her album spans the melancholic a tinge of sadness even to her more said. “I wish I did.” White’s Third Man Records releases her?” asked Stacy Vee, director of Americana breakup song Over the optimistic lyrics. One of the most Now the big challenge is stepping the 26-year old musician’s new solo festival talent for Goldenvoice who Hill and Through the Woods to the distinctive facets of her singing up yet again: from frontwoman in album, Forever and Then Some, this oversees the talent bookings for the sprightly country two-step Honky is her ability to swoop up to some a family band and featured support week. promoter’s Stagecoach Country Tonks and Taverns. Elsewhere, notes, gracefully fall off others and player to a bona fi de rock star to Lillie Mae doesn’t sound like Music Festival, which Lillie Mae there’s the country-gospel lope register hop with the ease of a great focal point of her own show. most of the carefully groomed played in 2008 with her family band, of Wash Me Clean and the folk yodeler. “It’s kind of scary, in a way. But nascent stars roaming the streets Jypsi. bluegrass sway of the title track. The album features instrumental I’m really ready to just get out there of Nashville, but that’s one of the “Seriously, the way she’s singing, The album closes with the haunting and vocal contributions from several and play and play and play.” —Los things that caught the attention of the way she presents her art, I mantra-like minor-key lament members of her large family: her Angeles Times/TNS I treat success and failure similarly: Sonakshi Duty and a female-driven fi lm like Akira. She By Nivedita also tried her hand at a diff erent genre with Lootera, which gave her a chance to show her range as an actor. uccess has ruined more people than She will next be seen playing a journalist in failure, believes actress Sonakshi Noor, scheduled for a worldwide release on Sinha, who says she neither shouts April 21. from the rooftop when her fi lms do Sonakshi credits her past work for helping well, nor does she sit in the dark her reach a point in Bollywood where she is Sand cry over her movie debacles. getting to play title roles. “I have been brought up in a way that I “I feel my journey in Bollywood has been treat success and failure in the same way,” the great. Some of the initial roles I did have put actress said while promoting her forthcoming me in a position today where I shoulder a fi lm fi lm Noor. like Akira by myself. I have played two title “Somebody once said, ‘success has roles and it is really exciting to be able to do ruined more people than failure’. So it’s that. very important to learn from mistakes and “Honestly, the fi lms that I have done in the not dwell on them. When I had my huge past have put me in a position that I can do successes, I never got on to a rooftop and roles like Noor today,” she said. shouted that my fi lms are a hit; and in the She is also glad that the industry is case of failures, I don’t sit in a corner and cry changing in a way that’s favourable for STARRING NOOR: Sonakshi reprising the role in the soon-to-be released film by the same name. about them. women. “You move on and do your next fi lm,” “We are moving in a direction where fi lms thriller-comedy adapted from Pakistani novel help, she said: “We are just here to entertain added Sonakshi. are being made with female protagonists, Karachi, You’re Killing Me!. people and that’s our purpose. It’s an The 29-year-old, who is the daughter of and it’s really exciting because, fi nally, good The novel centres on a 20-year-old entertaining fi lm taken from the book with actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha and amazing roles are being written keeping reporter, Ayesha Khan, living in Karachi, the only purpose to entertain and nothing and Poonam Sinha, made her debut with women in mind. I am very happy to be part of her misadventures and fi nding a nice lover. else.” Dabangg, a fi lm that starred Salman Khan. this change and to be able to do those kind of However, the fi lm is set in Mumbai. The message she wants the audience to Subsequently, she delivered hits like Rowdy roles,” she added. Asked about how this cross-cultural take is: “Your voices are important. Youth has Rathore and Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Directed by Sunhil Sippy, Noor is a crime exchange between India and Pakistan can the power to make a diff erence.” — IANS 16 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 18, 2017 COMMUNITY Indonesian action film stars take Hollywood by storm After the massive success of one cult thriller, Indonesian actors are popping up in countless Hollywood hits. By Ahmad Pathoni
ndonesian actor and martial artist Joe Taslim may not yet be a household name in global cinema, but he and his countrymen are fast leaving Itheir mark on Hollywood. Landing prominent roles in franchise blockbusters like The Fast and the Furious, Star Wars, Star Trek and others, a crop of Indonesian action-fi lm stars has steadily climbed the ranks since the 2011 breakthrough of Indonesia- produced fi lm The Raid: Redemption. That fi lm, which cost only about 1 million dollars to produce, introduced the country’s once- little-known traditional martial arts form pencak silat to international audiences. “Americans had probably never heard of any Indonesian fi lms before, and then suddenly came The Raid in all its glory,” says Taslim, wiping off sweat after a recent hard training day at a gym in central Jakarta. “We were off ered roles in Hollywood fi lms simply because of that achievement, and it’s something we’re very proud of,” says Taslim, who won a silver medal in judo at the 2007 South-East Asian Games. The movie, which follows a group of 20 police commandos as they raid a rundown apartment in Jakarta to capture a drug boss, grossed 9.1 million dollars worldwide, a record Yayan Ruhiyan’s success as a street fighter in a cult Indonesian thriller has even spawned a series of action figures. for an Indonesian production. A Hollywood remake is on the way. Headshot, a martial arts action fi lm “Since 2013, Indonesian fi lms Iko Uwais – the main protagonist directed by the Indonesian duo Mo have been screened in every major in The Raid – along with Yayan Brothers that was released in the international fi lm festival, some Ruhiyan and Cecep Rahman also US, Britain, Australia and Russia in of them winning awards,” he says. played roles in the latest Star Wars March. “And it’s not easy to crack the instalment, The Force Awakens. Taslim says he believes that prestigious festival circuit.” Ruhiyan, who plays street fi ghter Indonesian actors securing roles in The surge of global exposure has Tasu Leech, the leader of the major Hollywood productions is no translated into a boon for local box Kanjiclub gang, was previously a mean feat. offi ce sales in Indonesia. pencak silat fi ght choreographer for “It’s a humbling experience In 2016, tickets sold for the Indonesian movie Merantau. working with more senior actors in Indonesian fi lms screened in local “I never dreamed of being an Hollywood,” says Taslim, who plays cinemas doubled to more than 30 actor, let alone appearing in a Star Jah in Fast and Furious 6 and Manas million from 15 million the previous Wars movie,” says Ruhiyan. His in Star Trek Beyond. year, Aristo says. success as Tasu Leech even spawned The Raid: Berandal, a sequel to the “For a fi lm to be appreciated miniature fi gurines. “It feels surreal 2011 blockbuster that set Indonesia’s overseas, it must make an impact at that they created an action fi gure fi lm industry abuzz, was equally home,” he says. modelled after me.” successful, and a third instalment is For years, the Indonesian fi lm Uwais more prominently also in the offi ng. industry was dominated by cheap, stars alongside Frank Grillo in an “The Raid introduced pencak silat sex-laden horror movies. But those upcoming science-fi ction action in a similar way Bruce Lee’s Fist days appear to be over, with viewers thriller Beyond Skyline, the sequel to of Fury introduced kung fu to the growing more demanding and more the US box offi ce hit Skyline. United States,” says Salman Aristo, sophisticated, says Aristo, who has He was also signed to star an Indonesian screenplay writer and written scripts for some of the most alongside Thai martial artist Tony director. successful Indonesian fi lms of late, Jaa (Ong Bak) and Chinese martial Ever since its release, the country including Rainbow Troops and Verses artist Tiger Chen (Man of Tai Chi) has experienced a renaissance in of Love. in the upcoming Triple Threat, The its fi lm industry along with the “Now we have better fi lms, with Hollywood Reporter said in March. emergence of young, talented varied themes and better production “It’s a humbling experience working with more senior actors in Hollywood,” Uwais also takes top billing in fi lmmakers, Aristo says. value.” – DPA says Indonesian actor Joe Taslim.