Community Community Indian At the MIA schools Park Bazaar, P7in Qatar P16 photographer celebrate Republic Kaleem Ahmed’s Day by hoisting frames encapsulate the the tricolour on many charms of Qatar campuses. for more than a decade.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 Rabia II 17, 1437 AH

DOHA 16°C—20°C TODAY LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE 11 PUZZLES 12 & 13

COVER People’s STORY envoy Indonesian ambassador Deddy Saiful Hadi recalls fond communion in Qatar as he signs off . P4-5 2 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 27, 2016 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

PRAYER TIME Fajr 5.00am Shorooq (sunrise) 6.19am Zuhr (noon) 11.47am Asr (afternoon) 2.53pm Maghreb (sunset) 5.16pm Isha (night) 6.46pm

USEFUL NUMBERS

Gethu SYNOPSIS: Gethu showcases the Amy Jackson has enacted the character GENRE: Action, Thriller story of a father and son who gets of Udhayanidhi’s love interest. CAST: Stalin, Amy Jackson, trapped in a very diffi cult situation. Sathyaraj Sathyaraj and Udhayanidhi plays the THEATRES: Landmark, The Mall, Emergency 999 DIRECTION: Thirukumaran role of the father-son duo respectively. Royal Plaza Worldwide Emergency Number 112 Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 Ooredoo Telephone Assistance 111 Local Directory 180 International Calls Enquires 150 Time 141, 140 Doha International Airport 40106666 Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 Medical Commission 44679111 Mowasalat Taxi 44588888 Qatar Airways 44496000 Weather Forecast 44656590 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 Qatar University 44033333

te Unqu uo ot Q e Rajani Murgan SYNOPSIS: A couple of friends try to make something of Scientists have GENRE: Comedy their lives in . become the bearers of CAST: Siva Karthikeyan, Raj Kiran, Keerthi Suresh the torch of discovery in our DIRECTION: Ponram THEATRES: Landmark, The Mall quest for knowledge. Mall Cinema (1): Gethu (Tamil) 2.30pm; The Airlift (Hindi) 11.15pm. — Stephen Hawking 5th Wave (2D) 5pm; Ride Along 2 (2D) 7pm; Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (2): Airlift Men Dahr Ragel (Arabic) 8.45pm; The Boy (Hindi) 2.30pm; The 5th Wave (2D) 5pm; (2D) 11.30pm. Two Countries (Malayalam) 8.15pm; Two Airlift (Hindi) 7pm; The Boy (2D) 9.45pm; Mall Cinema (2): Airlift (Hindi) 2.30pm; Countries (Malayalam) 11pm. Dirty Grandpa (2D) 11.30pm. The Good Dinosaur (2D) 4.45pm; Cinema Land Mark (2): The Good Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (3): The Good Our Brand Is Crisis (2D) 6.30pm; Dinosaur (2D) 3pm; Airlift (Hindi) 4.45pm; Dinosaur (2D) 3pm; The Revenant (2D) 5pm; Airlift (Hindi) 8.30pm; Two Countries Our Brand Is Crisis (2D) 7pm; Airlift (Hindi) Our Brand Is Crisis (2D) 7.45pm; Ya Tayr El (Malayalam) 10.45pm. 9pm; Our Brand Is Crisis (2D) 11.15pm. Tayer (The Idol) (Arabic) 9.45pm; Our Brand Features Editor Mall Cinema (3): Two Countries Cinema Land Mark (3): Ride Along 2 (2D) Is Crisis (2D) 11.30pm. (Malayalam) 2.15pm; Ya Tayr El Tayer (The 2.30pm; Rajini Murugan (Tamil) 4.15pm; Asian Town Cinema: Charlie (Malayalam) Kamran Rehmat Idol) (Arabic) 5pm; Dirty Grandpa (2D) Men Dahr Ragel (Arabic) 7pm; The Boy (2D) 7.30pm; Airlift (Hindi) 12.30, 6.15 & e-mail: [email protected] 7pm; Our Brand Is Crisis (2D) 9pm; Rajini 9.45pm; Dirty Grandpa (2D) 11.30pm. 11.30pm; Two Countries (Malayalam) 3.30, Murugan (Tamil) 11pm. Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (1): Dragon 6.30, 7.15, 8.30, 9.30 & 10pm; Soggade Telephone: 44466405 Cinema Land Mark (1): Gethu (Tamil) Nest: Warrior’s Dawn (2D) 2.30pm; Ride Chinni Nayana (Telugu) 2.45pm; Rajani Fax: 44350474 2.15pm; Ya Tayr El Tayer (The Idol) (Arabic) Along 2 (2D) 4.30pm; Dirty Grandpa (2D) Murugan (Tamil) 3.15, 4.30 & 10.15pm; 4.30pm; Dirty Grandpa (2D) 6.15pm; 6.30pm; Men Dahr Ragel (Arabic) 8.30pm; Gethu (Tamil) 5.15pm. Wednesday, January 27, 2016 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY

EVENTS January 29, 2016. The event will showcase the IAID Talent Development Programme Exhibition and Convention Centre. Visitors drifting skills of the best amateur drivers in DATE: Jan 30 can enjoy convenient onsite parking, close Katara Winter Festival 2016 the country at the Corniche- Dallah Parking VENUE: Al Tadamoun Signal, Hilal St proximity to 5-star hotels, and more easily DATE: Until Jan 28 Lot from 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm under the Introduce your kids to the wonderful world accessibility by foot for the local community TIME: 4-10pm supervision of Lebanese drifting legend, Abdo of music smile emotion. Music is a natural and wider regional and international VENUE: Katara Beach 16 Feghali. The event is open to the public with part of life for toddlers. They might sing to tourists. The Cultural Village Foundation – Katara free entrance. their stuff ed animals, tap their feet to the invites you to join its winter festival 2016 rhythm of nursery rhymes, and enjoy the How to Become Youtube Creator from 4pm to 10 pm. Entrance is free. The Sport camps sound of their parents singing to them. But Workshop festival features a wide range of activities, Evolution Sports is delighted to off er a this early introduction to music does more DATE: January 30 including children’s competitions, games, number of sporting opportunities to its than entertain. It can kick-start learning, TIME: 10am-2pm folkloric and theatrical shows, a handicrafts members. Between January 31 and February 4, serve as an important cue in a child’s routine, VENUE: Entube Center exhibition, diabetes and blood pressure Evolution Sports will be hosting the following and off er lifelong benefi ts. Entube Center invites you to join a measurements, workshops for falconers, camps between 9am and 1pm daily at Doha workshop on How to Become Youtube exhibition and educational workshops on Al College Al Waab and Doha College West Bay: Interfaith Dialogue Conference Creator from 10am to 2 pm. Participants Galayel competition, and a gallery for birds Soccer (Al Waab and West Bay). DATE: Feb 16-17 will learn the basics of online TV, the and animals. Swimming (Al Waab). VENUE: Sheraton Doha Hotel incentive and drive behind the phenomenon Multi-Sports (West Bay). 12th Doha Interfaith Dialogue Conference of online TV, the composition of the online Falcons Veterinary Conference 2016 Camps are open to boys and girls aged 3-16 will be held this year under the theme: TV market, how money is being made and DATE: Until Jan 29 years of all abilities. For more information, “Spiritual and Intellectual Safety in the Light how to capitalise on the phenomenon, the VENUE: Al-Jasra Hotel, Souq Waqif please e-mail [email protected] of Religious Doctrines”. The conference standards that need to be met in order for Qatari Society of Al-Gannas, in gives a great opportunity to experts and the channel to be successful, and more. collaboration with Souq Waqif Falcon Pravasi Vanitha sports meet professionals from all over the world discuss Hospital and the International Association FCC Vanithavedi, a women’s forum, the issues related to the conference theme, Neuroscience Conference for Falconry and Conservation of Birds of is inviting entries to a sports fest being and provide a certain framework for dealing DATE: February 18-20 Prey, hosting Qatar’s 2nd International organised on the occasion of Qatar Sport with the challenges that threaten the spiritual VENUE: Sheraton Hotel Falcons Veterinary Conference. The four- Day. The event is to be held on February 5 at and intellectual freedom and security of our The 1st Qatar Annual Neuroscience day conference is a unique opportunity Shantiniketan Indian School. times. Conference, organised by the Neurological for veterinarians, scientists, researchers, Individuals can participate in items like Institute at Hamad Medical Corporation, falconers and relevant governmental and 1km walk, 100m race, 200m race, sack race, offers a comprehensive educational non-governmental organisations to review lemon-and-spoon race and shot put. Group programme specifically designed for the the latest advances in the fi eld of falcon items include relay race and tug-of-war. Mena region that will have significant veterinary and address how to provide falcons Only women of 18 years and above are emphasis on practical aspects of common with scientifi cally-based care. eligible to participate. Interested women neurological and neurosurgical disorders. can register their names online at: www. The scientific programme committee has Souq Waqif Spring Festival 2016 fccvanitavedi.wordpress.com or directly at invited world leaders in their fields to share DATE: Until Feb 5 the FCC offi ce. Last date for registration is their knowledge with the attendees. TIME: 2pm-10pm February 3. Contact: 44661213, 44663757, VENUE: Souq Waqif 44315099 Jewellery and Watches Exhibition Souq Waqif Spring Festival is back! DATE: February 23-27 The festival will be featuring shows and VCU Qatar Faculty Exhibition VENUE: Doha Exhibition and entertainment programmes to suit all the DATE: Until Feb 15 Convention Center family. Check out the link for more details and VENUE: VCU Qatar Gallery Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition a full schedule of events http://www.souq- VCU Qatar will organise its annual Doha Dash 2016 (DJWE) is being held once a year in Qatar. waqif.qa/ exhibition of works by artists and designers DATE: Feb 9 This show is one of the most exclusive in who are teaching and researching at the VENUE: Losail International Circuit the world for wealthy individuals interested Record Exhibition university. Entrance is free. This exhibition TIME: 7am in fine jewellery and unique pieces, DATE: Until Jan 31 aims to give faculty members an opportunity The Dolphin Energy Doha Dash was created watches, gemstones, and diamonds, all TIME: 10am-10pm to present their results of current artistic and by Professional Sports Group to support the represented by more than 500 exclusive VENUE: Fine Arts Society - Entrance 2 design research and exploration in a select vision behind the Qatar National Sport Day. international brands. Additionally, a The Cultural Village Foundation - Katara is exhibition. The event will bring the community together number of educational seminars will organising Record Exhibition by Qatari artist at Losail International Circuit for a chance to be delivered on jewellery and watches Ali Dasmal al-Kuwari, from 10am to 10pm. run in one of the three distances on off er. throughout the week. Entrance is free. Aspire Aquathon Series Aspire Run the Park Burst of Colors Exhibition DATE: Feb 20 DATE: Until February 13 DATE: Until Jan 31 VENUE: Hamad Aquatics Centre VENUE: Aspire Park VENUE: Katara Art Center You can join this popular combination of Aspire Zone Foundation will organise The Cultural Village Foundation – Katara swimming and running sport race, organised a series of four races on Saturday once invites you to visit the Burst of Colors by Aspire Zone Foundation in Hamad a month on January 16 and February 13. Exhibition by the Qatari artist Aisha al-Kaabi Aquatics Centre pool facility and around Participants should compete in at least from 10am to 10pm. Entrance is free. the Aspire Zone precinct. Entry fees: QR 20. three out the four races to win a medal and Entry is open for all ages and talents, aged prize. They have to be there an hour before Negotiation Skills and Strategies 8 years and above. Adult groups will run for the race. DATE: Jan 31- Feb 1 5km and swim 500m long, while kids will run VENUE: Tornado Tower, West Bay between 1.5 - 3 km and swim between 100- Aspire Park Cinema This training programme has been 200m long, according to their age group. DATE: Ongoing until Feb 5 specifi cally designed to build on the existing Art Exhibition TIME: 6pm-8pm negotiation experience of the participants DATE: Until April 18 Falcons and Hunting Festival VENUE: Aspire Park and enable them to improve their future VENUE: Porto Arabia, Pearl DATE: Until January 30 Aspire Zone Foundation, in collaboration performance. It will give each participant Diff usion by Peter Zimmermann — A VENUE: Sabkhat Marmi — Sealine with Jeem TV, is presenting for the first the opportunity to step back and think about mesmerising solo exhibition of colourful, Al-Gannas Society is hosting the seventh time children movies on its giant screen their assumptions and routine approaches to futuristic works. Anima Gallery, Parcel 17, edition of Qatar International Falcons and behind Hayat Plaza, every Thursday and negotiations and to practice new approaches. Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. Contact: Hunting Festival. Friday from 6pm to 8pm. You will improve your conceptual 40027437 This international competition, deeply understanding of your own negotiations rooted in Qatar’s culture and traditions, is through the application of a practical Listen to Jazz music showcasing some of the most beautiful and framework and improved self-awareness. DATE: Jan 30 well-trained falcons. FOODIE CHOICE TIME: 3pm-5pm Red Bull Car Park Drift VENUE: Jazz at Lincoln Center Doha, St Qatar Motor Show RESTAURA NT: The French Olive DATE: January 29 Regis DATE: January 28-February 1 LOCATION: Barwa Complex TIME: 7:30pm Take the whole family to learn more about VENUE: Doha Exhibition Convention The French olive Doha is a gourmet VENUE: Al Corniche the world of jazz at one of Jazz at Lincoln Center destination where two of Europe’s most Red Bull Car Park Drift is gearing up to Center’s monthly music talks. Kids and Off ering motor-lovers and visitors a popular cuisines are represented under one take over the Doha Corniche. The yearly- adults will both love this fun and interactive journey to ‘Explore the World of Motion’, roof- French and Italian. A fresh, modern and awaited Middle East championship will afternoon in equal measure. Free entry, à la the popular Qatar Motor Show will return light restaurant The French Olive is prefect see its fi rst round hosted in Qatar on Friday carte menu. Contact: 44460105. between January 28 and February 1 at Doha for a lazy lunch or casual dinner.

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 27, 2016 COMMUNITY COVER STORY ‘Most memorable’ posting

Ambassador Deddy Saiful Hadi’s biggest achievement of his four-year term in Doha has been to turn the large Indonesian expat base into one of the most socially active communities, writes Umer Nangiana

atar is most likely his last foreign assignment and by far the “most memorable.” In his Qfour-year tenure, he mobilised his country’s expatriate base into one of the most socially active communities. And he has been personally involved with them in every community activity. He played golf with them, they used to go fi shing together and he even experienced his fi rst ever scuba diving here with them. An old hand at diplomacy and a gentleman to the core, Deddy Saiful Hadi, Ambassador of Indonesia to Qatar, says he enjoyed every bit of his interaction with his community, and with people outside of it. “I am defi nitely going to miss Doha, the Qatari hospitality, the local food, the members of Indonesian diaspora and a lot of friends that I have made here,” Hadi tells Community just days before he winds up his stay. The 62-year-old diplomat is saying goodbye to Qatar at the end of this month, and with that perhaps, to his long diplomatic career, too. “I still remember the day I arrived here. It was one chilly morning four years ago and I was pleasantly surprised. I was told the climate here is very hot. And let me tell you coming from a tropical country I adjusted very quickly and I never even once fell ill in four years here,” says Hadi as we walk into the elegantly decorated drawing room of his offi cial residence in Dafna. Sipping traditional Indonesian coff ee, the ambassador recalls his fi rst impression of Doha. The city was sprawling with a beautiful landscape and there was a lot of greenery around — yes, greenery! “People say it is a desert country, but I think there is plenty of greenery around. Doha is a beautiful city,” emphasises the ambassador. Although with continuing development, the traffi c congestion has increased, Hadi believes it is not as bad as in his country’s capital Jakarta yet. FOND MEMORIES: Ambassador Deddy Saiful Hadi addressing the audience during a ceremony to mark the Independence Day of his country. Qatar is his fi fth diplomatic posting. His fi rst was Canada in English language courses in the spent three years. Next, he went family along. His two sons studied spent three years before coming to 1984 as a junior diplomat. He was morning and in the afternoon we to Romania for four years before there. His elder son did an MBA Qatar in 2012. posted in Ottawa as part of a one would change into our suits and being assigned to Kuwait, his fi rst and his younger son graduated “I have enjoyed being year training programme by his work in different departments at diplomatic assignment in the with a BA. everywhere. I am an open-minded country’s foreign ministry. the embassy,” Hafi recalls. Middle East. On his return to Indonesia and positive person. I always see “We were four young diplomats The next year he moved to From 2004 to 2008, Hadi was in 2008, he was deputed to positives in people and situations. there. In our jeans and backpacks, Vancouver, British Columbia to posted in San Francisco, United Coordinating Ministry for Political, And I forget any bad experiences. we would go to a university to take his country’s consulate where he States. This time he took his Law and Security Aff airs where he I love to interact with the people. Wednesday, January 27, 2016 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY

“I am definitely going to miss Doha, the Qatari hospitality, the local food, the members of Indonesian diaspora and a lot of friends that I have made here” — Indonesian ambassador

prayers in Katara mosque he used to go to a café in Katara and relax. With friends from the diplomatic community, he has also been going fi shing. “I went to Al-Khor with the Malaysian ambassador and others for fi shing and I caught this big humour (fi sh), the catch of the day,” CAREER HIGHLIGHT: Ambassador Hadi receiving Indonesian President Joko Widodo on his visit to Qatar last year. he laughs. Through multiple cultural Every country I have been to, a German school because at that investment bank. The younger is association while he played golf shows and events, Hadi says he I found interesting people and time I could not aff ord to send training to become a diplomat. He and established the Indonesian tried his best to introduce and interesting things to do,” says Hadi. them to an English school. It was married his classmate from Foreign community’s Golf Association in promote his country’s art and But in all this continent- expensive and our embassy did not Service last year and is currently, 2013. culture in Doha. The ASEAN hopping, did his family life support children’s education back pursuing his Masters degree on Hadi also helped the Indonesians festival he helped organise as the suff er, particularly the children’s then. Now they do,” he recalls. scholarship from Birmingham living in Qatar to arrange for the chairman of the group of ASEAN education? Hadi says his children were University in England. religious education of their children countries in Katara was a huge “A lot of my friends complained therefore taught German language Leaving Doha on February 1, Hadi and actively participate in other success. Now, his embassy has their families suff ered due to and he and his wife got to learn plans to go see him in England but community activities. More than also been invited to participate constant travel. Mine too did it as well in the process. When only after spending two days in Abu 40,000 Indonesians are living in the upcoming ‘My Coffee, My initially, but then I managed it. I am the children would go back to Dhabi fi rst where the members of in Qatar at present; however, Identity’ event to be held here this proud to say that I have been able Indonesia, they had to teach them Indonesian diaspora have invited Hadi feels this number can be year. to raise my children well without Indonesian language as well. But him to play golf with them. increased as there are many areas Hadi says tourism from Qatar to letting their education suff er,” that just proved a phase. Hadi says his biggest that Indonesians can explore for his country enhanced during his replies Hadi. His both sons are married achievement as ambassador was to opportunities. time as ambassador here and he has “I remember when I was posted now. The elder is settled back receive his country’s President Joko He says he has fond memories of been able to convince his country’s in Romania; my sons had to go to in Indonesia, working with an Hidodo in Qatar on his offi cial visit the time spent in Doha. Souq Waqif tourism department to focus on last year. “It was an honour for me is one of the places he is going to Qatar as an important station to and a memorable day in my life,” miss. “We would always take our draw tourists from. says the ambassador. guests to cafes’ and restaurants Hadi thanks HH the Emir Sheikh The veteran diplomat has been there. The environment is amazing. Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and socially active with his community Similarly, there are some amazing HH the Father Emir Sheikh Hamad right from the beginning of his places in Katara and The Pearl- bin Khalifa al-Thani for their tenure. His wife went on to join Qatar as well,” says Hadi, recalling support and hospitality. He wishes the Indonesian women’s bowling how after off ering Juma (Friday) continued prosperity for Qatar.

HAPPY STAY: Ambassador Hadi and his wife Endang Deddy Saiful Hadi LEADING FROM THE FRONT: The ambassador patronised all healthy community activities for Indonesians in Qatar. cutting the rice cake to initiate Independence Day celebrations. Photo by Umer Nangiana 6 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 27, 2016 COMMUNITY Students explore facilities at ExxonMobil Research Qatar

UP CLOSE: During the visit, the students toured the facility’s laboratories, which include an advanced 3D virtual environment used to conduct research on a system that will train workers in the oil and gas industry in an immersive, simulated environment.

n co-ordination with Qatar University be part of their operations. This year’s Stem coral reefs and coral reef zonation; and marine have the opportunity to nurture their passion College of Education (QU-CED), Adventure Week took place between January environments. In addition, they participated in for Stem subjects,” he added. ExxonMobil Qatar arranged for 28 17-21, and gave students the opportunity to a fun hands-on cake decorating session where The students thoroughly enjoyed the visit. male and 30 female students from engage with practising Stem professionals they used icing to create coral reefs. Walid Zakariya from Hamza Bin Abdul Muttalib high schools in Qatar involved in the and educators. The students also took part Dr Mohamed al-Sulaiti, Technical Independent School for Boys explained, “This ICollege’s Stem Adventure Week to visit in stimulating and fun Stem activities with Interface Co-ordinator for EMRQ, who gave is fi rst time I’ve had an experience such as the ExxonMobil Research Qatar (EMRQ) at the the EMRQ staff , and asked them questions the students a detailed presentation on the visit to EMRQ, and I had a great time. After the Qatar Science & Technology Park over two about their jobs such as why they chose their facility, commented on the visit by saying, tour and listening to the exciting presentations consecutive days. particular careers and what made their jobs “The practice of science is a wonderful thing on geological core exploration, I think I’m going Stem Adventure Week is an exciting fi ve-day interesting. Furthermore, the visit gave the to be engaged in, and I’m extremely pleased to look more closely at geological sciences, active learning experience for preparatory students a wonderful opportunity to look closer to see such keen interest from our students at although I’ve always been more inclined to students, sponsored and organised by the at careers they are interested in and consider Qatar’s independent schools. It was a pleasure study engineering.” college’s National Center for Educator other options as well. to host both groups and to share my own “I learned about historical and coastal Development (NCED), and has been supported During the visit, the students toured experiences with them through the Stem lens. geology, and structure and landforms during by ExxonMobil Qatar for three years. the facility’s laboratories, which include EMRQ is a hub for Stem-related innovation and our visit to EMRQ. We looked at old fossils Stem Adventure Week targets students an advanced 3D virtual environment used technology, and is a model of how technological and shells that are thousands of years old,” from grades seven to nine within Qatar’s to conduct research on a system that will and scientifi c research can contribute to a said Fatima Rashid al-Naimi from Maria Al independent school system, and brings train workers in the oil and gas industry in sustainable world.” Qibtiyya Independent School for Girls, one of them together with industries that require an immersive, simulated environment. The “I would like to thank Qatar University for the participating students. “I enjoyed learning professionals with backgrounds in science, students also listened to explanations by co-ordinating this visit, and for sharing our so many new things - it was really interesting technology, engineering and math (Stem) to EMRQ’s experts on geological core exploration; commitment for ensuring that Qatar’s students for me,” she added.

INTERACTION: Nepalese Embassy organised an interaction programme for migrant workers at its premises earlier this week. Shankar Bairagi, Foreign Secretary at Ministry of Foreign Aff airs of Nepal, and Hari Prasad Khanal, Chief of Portugal and West Asia, were present in the programme. Participants asked questions regarding the condition of Nepalese workers, bilateral trade relations, opening of a Nepalese cultural centre, lack of Nepali schools in Qatar etc. Text and photo by Usha Wagle Gautam Wednesday, January 27, 2016 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY

The students of Loyola International School presented a special assembly celebrating the Republic Day of India. All the students were dressed in vivid REPUBLIC DAY: Birla Public School joined India and Indian diaspora in Qatar, in the celebrations of India’s 67th colours of saff ron, white, blue and green. Students showed their love towards Republic Day. Gope Shahani, Vice-Chairman, raised the national tricolour and C V Rappai delivered the message. the nation dancing and singing to the tunes of the Indian patriotic songs.

The 67th Republic Day of India was celebrated at Ideal Indian School with great patriotic fervour and enthusiasm. Principal Syed Shoukath Ali hoisted the national flag in the school premises amidst chanting of the national anthem by the school choir. Heads of sections, scouts and guides, parents and DPS-MIS celebrated India’s 67th Republic Day by hoisting the tricolour at the school campus. The function was attended by students joined the celebrations. management, teaching staff and students.

MES Indian School commemorated the 67th Republic Day of India at the open-air auditorium of the school 2016 with traditional gaiety and fervour. 8 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 27, 2016 COMMUNITY Best Buddies releases short film on friendship ‘Great Success Comes From Great Support’, and we are happy to support Best Buddies Qatar’s worthy initiatives. On behalf of our organisation, I would like to extend my gratitude to The Film House for helping us to produce No Barriers to a Great Friendship for Best Buddies Qatar. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Qatar Cinema and Film Distribution Company for screening this campaign and allowing us to raise awareness on intellectual and developmental disabilities.” Abdulrahman Najdi, General Manager at Qatar Cinema and Film Distribution Company, also commented: “Qatar Cinema is a leader in the import and distribution of fi lms within Qatar, and we wholly support Best Buddies Qatar in their goal of reaching the community through the fi lm No Barriers to a Great Friendship. “We believe that this fi lm, which highlights the importance of social inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities, will enlighten and educate the community about their legitimate rights. We also value both the opportunity to work with Best Buddies Qatar on this campaign, and the collaboration between Best Buddies Qatar and the QFC.” With its release in cinemas, the No Barriers to a Great SPREADING THE MESSAGE: The film aims to raise awareness about the organisation’s mission to enhance the lives of people with and without intellectual Friendship media campaign will disabilities through social integration and one-to-one long lasting meaningful friendships. have a wide reach throughout the community, helping to highlight est Buddies Qatar is be available to a wider audience with this project, and hope that allowing us to screen the fi lm in Best Buddies Qatar and their pleased to announce the through its release in Qatar’s this is only the fi rst step of many Landmark, Royal Plaza and The goal to enrich the lives of those release of its television cinemas.” in our partnership with them. We Mall cinemas.” with and without intellectual commercial No Barriers Al-Sayeed continued: “We would also like to express our great Yousef Fakhroo, Chief Marketing developmental disabilities to a Great Friendship, would like to thank Qatar Financial appreciation and gratitude to Qatar and Corporate Communications through shared experiences, close aB touching story that portrays the Centre (QFC) for sponsoring and Cinema and Film Distribution Offi cer at the QFC, said: “At the friendships and mutual respect friendship between two young supporting Best Buddies Qatar Company for their support in QFC, we strongly believe that and understanding. men, one of whom has intellectual development disabilities. The fi lm, which premiered during a press conference in Royal Plaza Cinema, aims to raise awareness about the organisation’s mission to enhance the lives of people with and without intellectual disabilities through social integration and one- to-one long lasting meaningful friendships. Mohammed al-Sayeed, Manager of the Rehabilitation and Integration Department at Best Buddies Qatar, said: “We are happy to release No Barriers to a Great Friendship, which depicts close friendship between two young people, one with and one without intellectual developmental disabilities. The fi lm, which lasts a minute- and-a-half, has thus far had 80,000 views through social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, and will now Off icials of Best Buddies, QFC and Qatar Cinema and Film Distribution Company at the launch. A still from No Barriers to a Great Friendship. Wednesday, January 27, 2016 GULF TIMES 9 MOTORING COMMUNITY GMC unveils 2017 Acadia MC introduced the all- The strategic re-scoping of new 2017 Acadia – a the 2017 Acadia offers customers reimagined crossover a midsize crossover positioned aimed at the heart of between the compact Terrain the midsize segment, and full-size Yukon. Depending designedG to offer great versatility on the model, it is available with and refinement, with more five-, six- or seven-passenger advanced safety technologies. seating, while offering greater The new Acadia offers more- manoeuvrability than the first- efficient powertrains, while generation model. continuing to offer three rows “The new Acadia captures a of seating on most models. The greater feeling of refinement, in premium Acadia Denali returns, everything from the responsive along with a new All Terrain feeling behind the wheel to the model offering enhanced off-road way passengers interact with capability. its intuitive features,” said Rick “GMC is a strong, growing Spina, executive chief engineer premium brand and the Acadia is a for compact and crossover SUVs cornerstone of our success story,” at General Motors. “It’s a vehicle said Duncan Aldred, vice president that offers the functionality Acadia of GMC Sales and Marketing. “The is known for, while delivering all-new Acadia leverages GMC’s big advantages and balance to proven SUV experience to take on customers’ everyday lives.” and shake up one of the largest The new Acadia is 318kg lighter vehicle segments, with a strong than the current model, which pays blend of design, technology and dividends with fuel efficiency. capability.” A new, available 3.6L V-6 engine The new Acadia goes on sale is more powerful and effi cient than later this year, almost a decade the current model, while off ering after its original introduction, and over 1800kg of estimated trailering RARING TO GO: The all-new GMC Acadia Denali goes on sale later this year. coming off its strongest sales year capability (with the available towing ever in 2015 with 96,393 deliveries package). It is GM-estimated at The 2017 Acadia builds on a place, while the driver-side section as electronic devices and small toys worldwide. 310 horsepower and 9.41 L/100km legacy of intuitive functionality, tips and slides forward for easier to be stored out of sight, for greater “Typically, a vehicle’s sales can be highway (FWD models – EPA with new features such as a split- access to the third row. security and reduced clutter. illustrated on a bell curve during its estimate not available). folding second-row seat that Additional solutions range There’s also a new, standard lifecycle, but the Acadia’s success has The Acadia’s new engines feature improves on the original Smart from simple to technologically rear seat alert that can remind the defi ed convention with impressive direct injection and variable valve Slide feature of the current model. advanced. The rear of the centre driver when an item may have been sustainability,” said Aldred. “It’s timing, and both are mated to six- It off ers greater fl exibility, including console, for example, features a left in the second- and third- a shining example of GMC’s speed automatic transmissions and the capability of the curbside seat unique pull-out storage drawer. row seats. Additionally, all three momentum and we’re confi dent it an electronically controlled drive sliding and tilting forward, even It is accessible to rear-seat rows offer USB charge ports for will grow with the new Acadia.” mode selector. with a forward-facing child seat in passengers and allows items such compatible electronic devices.

drive with ease. Regardless of skill level, they deliver powerful performance, supported by advanced safety and drive control systems with luxury only a Track Day for Cadillac Cadillac can bestow.” Felix Weller, Managing Director, annai Auto Group Cadillac Middle East said: “With and Cadillac hosted the launch of the last generation a special track day CTS-V in 2009, Cadillac entered for its customers an exclusive and elite segment and VIP guests of performance sedans, without Mat the Losail Circuit. The event any compromise on comfort. welcomed the brand new Cadillac The all-new CTS-V is the first CTS-V and ATS-V models car to combine sophisticated to Qatar in an event that saw road manners expected in this specialised race drivers as well as segment with track-readiness as select fans and journalists take a a factory standard, while setting a spin around the race track in the benchmark for power in its class. high performance Cadillacs. The 2016 CTS-V is simply awe- Mohammed Helmy, Group inspiring.” General Manager, Mannai Auto Weller said the response from said: “The V-Series vies for performance fans across the honours in a highly competitive region has been overwhelming performance category and is well and that Cadillac expected similar worth the wait for our customers enthusiasm when the CTS-V and who placed advance orders last ATS-V (both couple and sedan) are year for the 2016 models which available for everyone to explore at have just become available. With the upcoming Qatar Motor Show the ATS-V and CTS-V, Cadillac at the end of January. is able to open a new avenue for The V-Series represents the automobile enthusiasts to fulfil very best of what the Cadillac their passion for high performance brand can do. It is a showcase of luxury cars. These cars are built the brand’s ability to bring design, for peak performance, but they performance and technology HANDS ON: The event welcomed the brand new Cadillac CTS-V and ATS-V models to Qatar. are also cars that anyone can together in an expressive package. 10 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 27, 2016 COMMUNITY MARKETING

ALL DRESSED UP: Turkish Airlines’ plane with the Batman v Superman painting. Flying into fantasy land Turkish Airlines partners with Warner Bros Pictures to off er fans a ‘flight’ into the world of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice

urkish Airlines extremely excited to partner with experience that would be as original Beginning February 8 through Further, Turkish Airlines will announced its Warner Bros Pictures on the most and epic as the fi lm.” mid-March, Turkish Airlines start unveiling its movie-themed partnership with anticipated movie of the year. Drawing inspiration from the is inviting fans and newcomers activations, including: An exclusive Warner Bros Pictures on The excitment around Batman fi lm, Turkish Airlines has created alike to visit turkishairlines.com/ 777 Turkish Airlines wrapped in the highly anticipated v Superman: Dawn of Justice an array of experiences, beginning fl ytogotham or turkishairlines. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Taction adventure fi lm, Batman will enable Turkish Airlines to with an invitation for travellers com/ fl ytometropolis to reserve Justice imagery; Limited edition v Superman: Dawn of Justice. In showcase our global network and to “book” fl ights to two new US fl ights and begin their journey movie-themed in-fl ight amenity the movie, a pivotal scene unfolds unrivaled hospitality to a legion of destinations – Gotham City and into the world of Gotham City kits for adults, which includes an aboard a 777 Turkish Airlines moviegoers across the world.” Metropolis. Turkish Airlines and Metropolis. In doing so, eye mask and slippers; Limited plane. “We are delighted to be currently fl ies to 113 countries, participants will get an exclusive edition movie-themed in-fl ight Outside the movie, Turkish partnering with Turkish Airlines more than any other airline, with virtual view into the life of each amenity kits for children, including Airlines is unveiling innovative to take Batman and Superman into fl ights to 284 destinations – now city, including the activities, headphones, slippers, and a watch; movie-themed experiences that the skies and to fans everywhere,” including the home cities of culture, nightlife and more. Movie-themed in-fl ight menu give fans around the world an inside said Gene Garlock, Warner Batman and Superman. With the Gotham City and items, such as branded cookies look into the world of the iconic Bros Pictures’ Executive Vice “Showcasing Gotham City Metropolis virtual experience as and cupcakes; A Time- Out travel Super Heroes facing off for the first President, Worldwide Promotional and Metropolis as our newest the centerpiece of its partnership guide featuring content focusing on time on the big screen when the Partnerships. “What made Turkish US ‘destinations’ reinforces our with Warner Bros, Turkish Airlines Gotham City and Metropolis, which fi lm comes to cinemas worldwide Airlines such an inspiring partner commitment to grow Turkish is also sponsoring the movie’s will be distributed to moviegoers, beginning March 25, 2016. was their aspiration to dream Airlines’ visibility in the US, an premieres and will off er eight lucky passengers and at select venues; a M Ilker Aycı, Turkish Airlines’ up something more than just important and growing market for fans the opportunity to attend one special edition frequent fl yer Miles Board Chairman, said, “We’re a promotional program but an the airline,” said Aycı. of these gala events. & Smiles card.

Hyatt International appoints new VP

Hyatt International Corporation has announced the appointment of Christoph K Franzen as the new area vice president for Qatar and the Sultanate of Oman. In addition to overlooking the operation of Grand Hyatt Doha as general manager since January 13, 2013, Franzen will now lead and overlook Grand Hyatt Muscat and all Hyatt properties in Qatar, with upcoming openings scheduled between 2016 and 2018. During his tenure at Grand Hyatt Doha, the hotel enjoyed many achievements and won numerous awards and industry accolades. “This is an incredible opportunity, which I am thrilled to have,” Franzen said. “After working TUCK IN: North Indian food festival ‘Flavours of North’ was inaugurated at Lifestyle restaurant in within the Hyatt Corporation for more than 17 Barwa Village. Community leaders ICBF president Aravind Patel, IBPN president K M Varghese, ICC years, I am looking forward to this new and secretary Divakar Poojariand other dignitaries were present. The food festival will showcase varieties exciting challenge, leading teams in Qatar of traditional north Indian dishes until February 6. As part of the festival, there will be some selected and the Sultanate of Oman as well as the north Indian art forms also be displayed during weekends by diff erent artists from Doha. development in the area.” NEW VISTAS: Christoph K Franzen Wednesday, January 27, 2016 GULF TIMES 11 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY The hazards of a grandparent’s home

t is no secret that grandparents z Keep medication up high and play an important role in the out of sight of children. The orange lives of their grandchildren. bottle medications usually come in is From giving encouragement bright and appealing to children. To and life advice, to helping out them it may look like a toy that makes Ias a caretaker, many turn to their noise when shaken, or a fun game with grandparents for support. In fact, pieces that can easily go straight into most of grandparents take care of their their mouth. grandchildren on a regular basis. With an abundance of grandparents z Be absolutely sure the bottle is overseeing their grandchildren on closed and secure with the safety lock. an ongoing basis, it is particularly With a regular schedule of taking important they are aware of the dangers meds, it may be tempting for seniors that lie within their household that may to leave bottle tops loose for easy be harmful to children. One of the most access each time the medicine needs common dangers includes leaving out to be taken. medication that is easy to access. In many cases, the medication z Lock up your medication in belonged to a grandparent, and the a designated spot. Med-Master medication was left in a purse or bag, a off ers a variety of durable, flexible pillbox, or on a counter or nightstand. medication storage solutions that It only takes a moment for children to feature locking options including fi nd and swallow medication that can a 3-digit combination lock, or a put their lives in danger. Parents and wireless battery operated RFID lock, grandparents can protect the lives of to maximise security. In addition to the children they love by ensuring that being a locking storage unit, once all prescription and over-the-counter opened, options include a pill-sorting medicines in their homes are stored tray for organisation, a magnifying safely and securely. glass with LED light for easy label Families, and grandparents reading, as well as a magnetic dry specifi cally, should consider the erase kit for important reminders and following steps to ensure their notes. medications are not available to their grandchildren: © Brandpoint

ARIES TAURUS GEMINI March 21 — April 19 April 20 — May 20 May 21 — June 20

Loyalty is one of your strong suits Aries and while sometimes you do Don’t believe the hype bulls. If something sounds too good to be Don’t be too quick to dismiss someone or something today twins. give in to mindless gossip, now is the time to close ranks about those true it most likely is. And with Mercury the thinker in your spiritual While you may not think it’s something for you, you could also not friends who need your support and strength. zone, you’ll be quick to work that out. be looking at the big picture. The Sun in Aquarius is a very good thing for you right now.

CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

There is something you are not owning today and with Mercury the Don’t stop thinking something is unachievable Leos because it’s not. If you are feeling doubtful about something or someone today, communicator finally moving direct in your relationship zone, if you It’s simply been a rough start to 2016 with Mercury out of phase and trust your instincts Virgos. Mercury, your ruler and the planet of don’t own it someone else will step in and own it for you! your Full Moon last weekend. Now the fun begins! communication and planning, is now moving direct and you are much more on top of things than ever before.

LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

If there is no way you can see yourself doing something today yet, You have a lot of things going on right now with Mars the planet If you don’t think something or someone is worth the trouble or you know you really do need to step up and just do it, ask yourself of activity and energy stirring the pot in your sign. Make sure you eff ort they are requiring today, then reserve your energy and time why it’s so diff icult to do and see if you can’t find a way to work don’t waste valuable time and energy on someone or something for someone or something else more deserving. Saturn the planet of around your fear and just do it! undeserving, Scorpios. focus in your sign is demanding it!

CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

Avoid getting caught up in someone else’s dramas and troubles Be open to sudden changes in plans today Aquarius. While it might In your past karma zone, the Sun and Venus could have some of you today goats. You have a lot to catch up on and really can’t aff ord to not suit you right now, it’s the way the Universe wants it to be. The bumping into an ex — an ex–lover, partner, friend or frenemy — or all spend time trying to help others figure their lives out. Sun and Venus in your sign is a wonderful combo. Enjoy. of them rolled into one! Just remember that while you have let it go it doesn’t mean you have to be fake nice to them either! 12 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 27, 2016 COMMUNITY PUZZLES/CARTOONS

Wordsearch Adam

Cycling Pooch Cafe

BELL EXERCISE MIRROR BIKE FAST PEDAL CABLE FORK PUNCTURE CHAIN GEARS RACE CLIMB HANDLEBARS REFLECTOR CLIPS HELMET SADDLE COAST JERSEY SPOKES DERAILLEUR LIGHT WHEEL DOWNHILL LOCK 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.

Garfi eld 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. Wednesday, January 27, 2016 GULF TIMES 13 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Quick Clues Colouring

ACROSS DOWN 1. Disheartened (11) 2. Tear (3) 9. Pinch (3) 3. Take an oath (5) 10. Distil (9) 4. Uproar (6) 11. Beneath (5) 5. Appearing indistinctly (7) 13. Fatty (7) 6. Detailed (9) 14. Wrangle (6) 7. Impediment (11) 16. Horrified (6) 8. Hatred (11) 18. Speak to (7) 12. Deterioration (9) 19. Handle (5) 15. Raise (7) 20. Infection (9) 17. Hope (6) 21. Self (3) 19. Dogma (5) 22. Respectful (11) 21. Period (3)

Cryptic Clues

Answers

Wordsearch Codeword

ACROSS DOWN 1. Police bullying produces a triple 2. Fresh identity concealed (3) graduate! (5,6) 3. Breed to reach higher things? (5) 9. Apostrophise divine? How strange! (3) 4. It takes two short months to prepare by 10. When at home former Pope was boiling (6) stormy (9) 5. Angered - hand-bomb exploded (7) 11. Lighter bump (5) 6. Always inexperienced - leaves shed only Yesterday’s Solutions 13. War-horse commands a price (7) abnormally (9) 14. Make it possible to nab eel (6) 7. Very quick twice, raising tone (6,5) QUICK CRYPTIC 16. Pick the ones already chosen from the 8. The narrator tells fibs! (5,6) Across: 1 Sign; 3 Procured; 9 Realist; 10 Across: 1 Each; 3 Despatch; 9 Voucher; 10 south (6) 12. Alter the order of the class at the back (9) Nudge; 11 Extravagance; 13 Escort; 15 Reflex; 17 Enact; 11 Afterthought; 13 Launch; 15 Sparse; 18. Orphan gets upset having swallowed 15. Instruct the sentinel to beware (4,3) ring and barbed dart (7) 17. Some send earnest letters to win aff ection Intellectual; 20 Exile; 21 Fanatic; 22 Remotest; 17 Mismeasuring; 20 Acorn; 21 Flutter; 22 19. Cancel article missing from yearly (6) 23 Fret. Gamester; 23 Bray. publication (5) 19. Summer reptile? (5) Down: 1 Sorcerer; 2 Grant; 4 Ritual; Down: 1 Enviable; 2 Count; 4 Earthy; 20. Fail to develop and hurry to call on 21. The company’s lettuce (3) 5 Convalescent; 6 Radical; 7 Deep; 8 5 Presumptuous; 6 Teacher; 7 Hate; 8 dunderhead (3,2,4) Disagreement; 12 Explicit; 14 Confirm; 16 Cliff s; Shortcomings; 12 Beggarly; 14 Uniform; 16 21. A signal to act, no doubt (3) 22. Presumably it covers printing the 18 Utter; 19 Veer. Baff le; 18 Inter; 19 Tang. correspondence column (11) 14 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 27, 2016 COMMUNITY CINEMA Airlift flies on Akshay’s wings

By Gautaman Bhaskaran

aja Krishna Menon’s Airlift undoubtedly lifts the director out of the eminently forgettable cinema he had made, Bas Yun Hi and Barah Aana. Based Ron a true incident in 1990, when Iraqi strongman Saddam Hussein’s army invaded Kuwait shattering the dreams and lives and livelihoods of the 170,000 Indians there. Airlift tells you how the expats were evacuated in probably the biggest civilian operation of the kind carried out by India’s Air Force and national carriers, Air India and Indian Airlines. And the man who made all this possible and oversaw the airlift was Ranjit Katyal, played with superb fi nesse by Akshay Kumar. Nobody knows whether there was a Ranjit Katyal in Kuwait, but it is averred that there were two men who did facilitate the operation in those dark days when Hussein’s boy soldiers —uncontrollably trigger-happy — shot, maimed, plundered and raped at will. Of course, they targeted Kuwaitis, and tried to leave Indians alone. For India was a friend of Saddam Hussein in those days. Airlift is a poignant reminder of how Indians in those faraway lands forget their home and hearth, and Katyal is no exception. He is rich and powerful, lives with his wife Amrita (Nimrat Kaur) and child, and arrogantly believes that he is a Kuwaiti, not an Indian. And when he fi nds his house destroyed by marauding Iraqi soldiers, his driver killed and his huge construction conglomerate in ruins, Katyal falls, his ego buried in rubble and dust, his riches rubbished. It cannot but be a defi ning moment in anybody’s life, however mighty that man may be. Katyal’s painful transformation from a money-spinning, profi t-is-my-mantra guy to a do-gooder, who begins to see the turmoil and suff ering in other people’s lives as his own, has been most ably conveyed by Kumar — whose slate till now has been largely one of IMPRESSIVE: Akshay Kumar, seen in this publicity still with Nimrat Kaur, is very convincing in the lead role. rather shallow parts, baring of course a movie like Special 26, where I found him subtle and did this, but in this day and age, such a stand with the director, Alaipayuthey, traced a Tomar in Saala Khadoos). A terrible defeat in impressive. It is the same avatar that one sees or approach merely looks hollow. Indians troubled marriage (Shalini was his screen the ring leaves him shattered and disillusioned in Kumar as he battles to get 170,000 Indians certainly do not need to be reminded that they wife), and Madhavan sailed through this — pushing him to booze and brawls. But his out of Kuwait. are Indians. And that too through movies! part with dignity, with controlled emotion dream to see India win a gold medal eggs him Unfortunately, the fi lm is not uniform as and with a kind of subtlety rarely seen in to train a fi ery fi sherwoman, Madhi (Ritika far as performances go. Kaur, who was just * * * Tamil cinema. Ratnam can draw memorable Singh). With just nine months to go for the big magnifi cent as the bored, neglected wife in performances out of his actors; remember his boxing day, Prabhu’s task is no cakewalk. He The Lunchbox and who begins a love aff air Madhavan Nayagan and Kamal Haasan. has to fi rst tame Madhi and help her reign in with an ageing Irrfan Khan through the Some of the world’s greatest directors have A year later, Ratnam’s Kannathil her temper and tantrum, before he can get her little notes she sends in the “tiffi n-carrier”, said that though cinema might have its own Muthamittal once again saw Madhavan at his to drive the punches. seems out of place in all the regalia that lingo, one makes a fi lm best in one’s own best, playing the foster father of a girl from While Madhavan had to work for over two Airlift bestows upon her. To me she looked language. If there is one movie that may be Sri Lanka, a girl who wants to go back to meet years to look the character, Singh was a trained uncomfortable — clearly a case of miscasting. termed Satyajit Ray’s “fl op” it is Shatranj Ke her biological mother in the war-torn island boxer, which made the job easy. The age-old folly of Bollywood rears its Khilari. It was in Hindi, which the maestro nation. Madhavan conveyed all the emotions And there was another plus point. The head again in the form of Inaamul Huq — who was never comfortable doing. of an anxious parent — afraid he might lose his director of the bilingual work, Sudha Kongara essays the Iraqi villain. It is caricaturing all And this is often true in the case of actors child — with extraordinary conviction. Prasad, was once an assistant of Ratnam, and over again, and making the man speak in as well. Watch how uncomfortable British- His 2012 Vettai, also in Tamil, saw we know how well Madhavan has fared in stilted Hindi is a terrible mistake. Menon model-turned actress Amy Jackson is while Madhavan magically transform fi rst into a Mani’s pictures. could have got him to lisp in English, and this she essays a Tamil girl. She may give interview meek cop and later into an epitome of courage So, Irudhi Suttru seems like a win-win could have salvaged this character somewhat. after interview saying that she is perfectly at and bravery. The change in the course of a situation for Madhavan, a fi lm that may turn And Prakash Belawadi as the troublesome ease playing the lass from a Tamil milieu (“I couple of hours was remarkable and proved out to be one more signifi cant milestone in Keralite in the group is fi ne to a point, but am a Tamil girl”), but her performances say that Madhavan could keep us spellbound with Tamil cinema. appears too dramatic as the evacuation gets something very diff erent. his acting skills. However, one only hopes that Prasad has underway. Similarly, Madhavan — who will be seen Admittedly, some of the Hindi works of steered clear of any similarities between her Airlift is admirable in many parts. There are in the upcoming bilingual fi lm, Irudhi Suttru his like , Three Idiots and own work and the likes of other sports movies, some arresting moments between Katyal and (Tamil)/Saala Khadoos (Hindi) — has been Tanu Weds Manu revealed that he could be like Chak De India, Bhaag Milka Bhaag and his employees, between his wife and so on, his best in Tamil cinema. True, he grew up in impressive in that language as well. But I feel Mary Kom. and the work is slick — almost like a well- Jamshedpur and speaks Hindi fl uently, but that Madhavan is cut out for still greater times made Hollywood thriller. he was raised in a typical Tamil family. His in Tamil cinema. z Gautaman Bhaskaran has been However, Menon’s attempt at the end to parents were Tamil. And one waits with almost bated breath to writing on Indian and world cinema for evoke patriotism appears all too familiar and His Tamil movies with Mani Ratnam were see him in Irudhi Suttru — where he turns into over three decades, and may be e-mailed at forced. Once-upon-a-time Bollywood cinema his best till date. His 2000 debut Tamil work a boxing coach, Prabhu Selvaraj (and as Adi [email protected] Wednesday, January 27, 2016 GULF TIMES 15 SHOWBIZ COMMUNITY Best picture, so-so script? The Revenant and Mad Max: Fury Road face a challenge that has rarely been met, writes Glenn Whipp

CANDID: Sharmila Tagore Sex symbol image doesn’t last long: Sharmila Tagore

Recalling the sensational bikini shoot in the 1960s for a magazine cover, veteran actress Sharmila Tagore has said she did make an eff ort to change her image of a sex symbol for longevity. In the 1960s, her bikini shoot for a magazine cover, the fi rst Indian actress to do so, created quite a stir. Tagore’s husband, late Indian cricketing legend Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi’s support put her doubts to rest. “There was huge criticism and times were very diff erent. Tiger was away and I told him all this is happening and he told me ‘I am sure you look very nice’. That was enough support and I wasn’t unsettled then,” Tagore said at the Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet. She was responding to audience questions on her being nervous following the sharp reactions. From being the sex symbol of yesteryears (bikini clad diva in An Evening in Paris) to delivering power-packed performances in cult movies like Aradhana, Tagore exuded confi dence in the most demanding of roles that she was cast in by the masters of Indian cinema, including Satyajit Ray. The multiple National Award winner admitted to revamping her image with a variety of roles. “But I did make an eff ort change my image. After that (bikini shoot for magazine), I signed Aradhana and diff erent kind of fi lms, because you know your sex ifty years ago, the hills were the screenplays as blueprints for the The Revenant is chugging along quite (symbol) image doesn’t last very long. You know for alive and The Sound of Music fi nished work (Nashville, Tree of Life). nicely at the box offi ce. But short of longevity you must do diff erent kind of roles that find a won the Academy Award for And Paul Schrader’s screenplays for Taxi Matt Drudge crying “bear rape,” the place in people’s heart,” she said. best picture, doing so without Driver and Raging Bull also, inexplicably, movie hasn’t made much of a societal Mother to actors Saif and Soha, the 71-year-old the benefi t of a screenplay didn’t make the cut. impression. There are no “king of the actress clarifi ed that the shoot wasn’t a statement. nomination.F Adventure and action-heavy world” cries, no raindrops on roses and “It wasn’t a statement... I just thought I would look In the ensuing half-century, just one spectacles such as The Towering Inferno, whiskers on kittens, none of the pop nice. What is the point of wearing a bikini right now... I movie has pulled off a best picture win The Fugitive, Deliverance and Raiders culture touchstones that catapulted wore it at the right time,” she added. —IANS without also earning a screenplay nod — of the Lost Ark didn’t win writing Titanic and The Sound of Music into 1997’s Titanic. nominations. Nor did Jaws, a screenplay eventual Oscar winners. History, then, would seem to be against that was a work-in-progress but yielded The Revenant or Mad Max could still State censorship bizarre, says Zoya The Revenant and Mad Max: Fury Road numerous quotable lines (“You’re going prevail, of course. winning the top Oscar this year. The to need a bigger boat”) and Robert Shaw’s Last year, some pundits initially Bollywood movies led the nominations fi eld — the classic speech about the sinking of the doomed Birdman because it didn’t receive fi lmmaker Zoya brutal frontier western The Revenant Indianapolis. an editing nomination. Birdman won best Akhtar has termed earned a dozen, Mad Max 10 — but You don’t have to look far though to picture, becoming the fi rst movie since the state censoring neither fi lm earned recognition for its fi nd the closest relation to this year’s Ordinary People to do so minus an editing a piece of work as writing. would-be best picture winners. nod. But the movie’s win seems more of a “bizarre” and called Does either movie have the right stuff Two years ago, the landmark space saga function of the fi lm’s single-shot staging for stricter law to join Titanic and The Sound of Music, Gravity received 10 Oscar nominations illusion (a brilliant piece of editing, by enforcement. pop culture phenomena that remain and went on to win seven prizes, the way) rather than any traditional, “The state relevant decades after their debuts? including Oscars for director Alfonso predictive barometer. censoring a piece Short answer: It probably isn’t wise to Cuaron and cinematographer Emmanuel Academy members prefer their best of work is bizarre ignore the past. Lubezki. Many pundits thought Gravity picture winners to be about something, because every time The writers branch of the academy would also take the best picture Oscar, even if (especially if?) that subject is the government has given the cold shoulder to 41 picture but it lost to 12 Years a Slave, Steve themselves. The challenge for the teams changes, the nominees in the last 50 years. Many of McQueen’s shattering portrait of slavery behind The Revenant and Mad Max in the morality changes. So UNIMPRESSED: Zoya Akhtar them, like The Sound of Music, were in America. next few weeks will be to convince voters it doesn’t make sense. musicals, with voters discounting the Now, this year’s two leading best that their movies possess a social relevancy “We need to enforce the law that if it’s an adult diffi culty of adapting a Broadway show picture contenders possessing screenplay along with their considerable craft. fi lm, then children don’t go and watch the fi lm, which for the screen. nominations — the journalism drama The Revenant’s star, Oscar lead-actor happens everywhere in our country,” Akhtar explained That left out movies such as Fiddler Spotlight and the anarchic The Big Short front-runner Leonardo DiCaprio, already during an audience interaction at the Kolkata Literary on the Roof, Funny Girl and Hello Dolly! — don’t pack the same wallop as 12 Years started the ball rolling in his Golden Meet. as well as music-heavy fi lms such as Ray a Slave. But you could also argue that Globes acceptance speech, positioning She also said parents have a responsibility to know and Moulin Rouge! (Voters might also be Mad Max and particularly The Revenant the revenge-themed western as a fi lm what their children should not watch. biased against movies with titles that end aren’t the equal of Gravity in terms of about “the triumph of the human spirit” Asked about her views on censorship, the Zindagi with an exclamation mark.) cinematic achievement. and sharing his award with “all the First Na Milegi Dobara director supported the choice of Source material from Shakespeare The cumulative scores on movie review Nations people represented in this fi lm.” fi lmmakers to make an adult or universal fi lm. (Romeo and Juliet) and Tom Wolfe (The aggregator Metacritic tell the story: Sincere? No doubt. But savvy in its “I don’t believe in censorship at all. I think it is a Right Stuff ) has also been shunned, along Gravity, 96; Mad Max: Fury Road, 89; The awareness of Oscars history too. —Los certifi cation body. I think it has to be classifi ed ‘If you with movies in which the directors used Revenant, 76. Angeles Times/TNS show this, this is your rating’. —IANS 16 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 27, 2016 COMMUNITY Many faces of Qatar At the MIA Park Bazaar, local photographer Kaleem Ahmed’s frames encapsulate the many charms and moods of the nation for more than a decade. By Anand Holla

Ahmed switched to DSLRs with ease. “I started off taking portraits but I found my groove in capturing landscapes and architecture; be it of deserts or the many masjids of Doha or the beautiful MIA building. I like to photograph elements of nature, like the open desert or the sea, which, to me, symbolise relaxation,” he says. When the renovated Souq Waqif was reopened, Ahmed spent four hours snapping up its pictures from varied perspectives and with new eyes. “I was surprised by myself when I saw the results on the computer,” he says, and points to some of those pictures that are now on display at his stall. Photography has always been a passion and not a business, he insists. “The most important aspect of setting up this stall has been the feedback. The response is amazing,” says Ahmed, who works as an assistant to a top photographer, “Many appreciate, some criticise, and I accept it all.” One of his photographs, a panoramic shot of the Doha skyline features an overtly pronounced refl ection of the buildings in the sea. “I have been told that these shadows are too sharp, and I agree. The next time around, I’ll soften them up,” he says, smiling, “Also, I CLICK ON: Kaleem Ahmed at his stall in the MIA Park Bazaar. Photographs by Anand Holla like to shoot in black and white. It brings some kind of mystery, which n the vast market-scape Every year, from October to wonderful platform to put his work I would always be that guy taking makes the viewer want to know of the Museum of Islamic April, when the weather in Qatar out there and interact with the pictures. I think I always had the more and even want to visit that Art (MIA) Park Bazaar gets pleasant, the MIA Park Bazaar community at large. eye for photography.” exact place.” that buzzes with frenetic blooms – it used to spring up For Ahmed, who has been in The photography bug had well A vertical shot of the Fanaar, activity on Saturdays, local only on the fi rst Saturday of every Doha for nearly two decades now, it and truly bitten Ahmed. “The thrill fi lled with fl uttering pigeons in Iphotographer Kaleem Ahmed’s month but has now become a all started around 15 years ago when of printing my pictures would keep the foreground, which won him stall stands out for its showcasing fi xture every Saturday – with more he bought a manual camera. “I me guessing. In the dark room, a photography award on Qatar of the quintessential Qatar. than 150 stalls that sell everything would take pictures of my friends – I would watch the images come National Day 2010, is among Overrun with large frames and from clothes, jewellery, books, we were a group of 25 people – and alive,” he says, adding that his only those eye-catching ones that prints, Indian expat Ahmed’s booth art, crafts, and knick-knacks, to both the results and their response training was a one-month course usually compel a visitor to initiate boasts of a wide sweep of visuals food. Like it has been for many, for encouraged me,” he recalls, “We he took at VCU-Q, which helped a conversation. “I spend my that encapsulate the many charms Ahmed, too, the Bazaar has been a would often visit the Corniche and him grasp the basics. With time, Saturday here and I feel relaxed,” and moods of the nation for more Ahmed says, “I get to meet than a decade. “My photos are diff erent kind of people and it’s focused on Qatari culture and interesting to see how they view visuals that speak of Qatar and its the image in entirely diff erent uniqueness,” Ahmed says. ways.” Mosques, camels, falcons, “You come to know something sandscapes, dhows, swords, the about people and photography Arabian Gulf and the glittering that you didn’t know before,” Doha skyline, mostly make for Ahmed continues, pointing to a his visual fascinations. Ahmed is picture of the Souq Waqif mosque, one of those few who set up his “Many visitors, for instance, stall at the MIA Park Bazaar, a keep looking at this one and make refreshing modern version of the guesses such as Oman and Dubai, old Souq tradition, ever since it and I tell them – No, it’s in Doha. started around three years ago and I then explain to them that I was is still going strong. “In fact, I have inside the mosque when I took expanded my stall over time,” he this picture. As it had just rained, says, “I started off with just one the gentle colours of the courtyard table and around 15 photographs. are infused with a magical Then it became bigger as I kept A framed shot of the visual that won reflection. It is savouring and adding more elements to it over the Ahmed a photography award on capturing such moments that give weeks.” Qatar National Day 2010. Camels resting at Messaieed. me satisfaction.”