Community Community DPS-Modern The fourth Indian School edition of Al P6organises P16 Adaid Desert annual day for Challenge brings bigger and the students the most exciting desert of preparatory cycle race that will take grade. place on Friday, March 1.

Tuesday, February 26, 2019 Jumada II 21, 1440 AH

Doha today: 190 - 260

WINNERS: From left, Rami Malek, Olivia Colman, Regina King and Mahershala Ali.

COVER Oscars Verdict STORY The 91st Academy Awards ceremony had some surprises, some great speeches, a bit of controversy and some beautiful dresses. P4-5

POP SPOT SHOWBIZ

Billie is proud of Bury Guneet Monga wants to use her a Friend’s popularity. Oscar win to educate masses. Page 14 Page 15 2 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 26, 2019 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

PRAYER TIME Fajr 4.44am Shorooq (sunrise) 6.00am Zuhr (noon) 11.47am Asr (afternoon) 3.06pm Maghreb (sunset) 5.36pm Isha (night) 7.06pm

USEFUL NUMBERS

What They Had between her father’s stubborn insistence that his wife remains DIRECTION: Elizabeth Chomko at home and her equally determined brother’s eff orts to place Emergency 999 CAST: Hilary Swank, Michael Shannon, Robert Forster her in a ‘memory care’ facility, Bridget struggles to make sense Worldwide Emergency Number 112 SYNOPSIS: After her ailing mother wanders off during a of a lifetime of family confl ict. Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 blizzard, Bridget returns to her childhood home in Chicago, Local Directory 180 accompanied by her rebellious daughter. Forced to referee THEATRE: Royal Plaza 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 Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364 Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365 Qatar Airways 40253374 Kikoriki. Deja Vu birthday party. He contacts the DejaVu scatters the group across the ages. With DIRECTION: Denis Chernov Agency, which organises exciting help from his alter ego, Krash the rabbit CAST: Denis Chernov, Jeff rey Hylton time travel adventures. When the must race through time to fi nd and SYNOPSIS: Krash decides to throw Kikoriki crew fail to follow the rules, rescue his friends before it is too late. his best buddy Barry an unforgettable a cataclysmic accident happens and THEATRES: Landmark, Royal Plaza ote Unquo u te Q “Change The Mall Cinema (1): L.K.G. June (Malayalam) 11:30pm. your life today. Don’t (Tamil) 2pm; Kodathi Samaksham Royal Plaza Cinema Palace Balan Vakkeel (Malayalam) (1): L.K.G. (Tamil) 2:15pm; Total gamble on the future, 4:15pm; A Star Is Born (2D) 7pm; (Hindi) 4:45pm; Total act now, without delay.” Total Dhamaal (Hindi) 9:15pm; June (Malayalam) 2:30pm; Dhamaal (Hindi) 7pm; L.K.G. Gully Boy (Hindi) 11:30pm. Kodathi Samaksham Balan (Tamil) 9:15pm; Total Dhamaal The Mall Cinema (2): June Vakkeel (Malayalam) 5pm; (Hindi) 11:30pm. — Simone de Beauvoir (Malayalam) 2:15pm; Gully Boy Natasaarvabhowma (Kannada) Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (Hindi) 4:45pm; Alita: The Battle 8pm; Natasaarvabhowma (2): Kikoriki Deja Vu (2D) 2:30pm; Angel (2D) 7:30pm; Fighting With (Kannada) 11pm. Gully Boy (Hindi) 4:15pm; A Star My Family (2D) 9:30pm; Total Landmark Cinema (2): L.K.G. Is Born (2D) 7pm; The Knight Dhamaal (Hindi) 11:30pm. (Tamil) 2:30pm; L.K.G. (Tamil) Of Shadows (2D) 9:30pm; L.K.G. The Mall Cinema (3): 4:45pm; Total Dhamaal (Hindi) (Tamil) 11:30pm. Natasaarvabhowma (Kannada) 7pm; Total Dhamaal (Hindi) 9:15pm; Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (3): Community Editor 2:15pm; Total Dhamaal (Hindi) Total Dhamaal (Hindi) 11:30pm. June (Malayalam) 2:15pm; Kodathi Kamran Rehmat 5pm; Upgrade (2D) 7:15pm; The Landmark Cinema (3): Samaksham Balan Vakkeel e-mail: [email protected] Knight Of Shadows (2D) 9pm; Kikoriki Deja Vu (2D) 2:30pm; (Malayalam) 4:45pm; What Telephone: 44466405 Natasaarvabhowma (Kannada) Natasaarvabhowma (Kannada) They Had (2D) 7:30pm; Upgrade 11pm. 4:15pm; The Knight Of Shadows (2D) 9:30pm; June (Malayalam) Fax: 44350474 Landmark Cinema (1): (2D) 7:15pm; L.K.G. (Tamil) 9:15pm; 11:30pm. Tuesday, February 26, 2019 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY

Syria Matters Exhibition Where: Museum of Islamic Art When: Ongoing till April 30 Time: 9am – 7pm Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) in Doha presents a major exhibition, co-curated by MIA Director Dr Julia Gonnella and Rania Abdellatif, as part of the MIA ten-year anniversary celebrations.

Arabic Calligraphy Workshop WHEN: Saturday – Wednesday TIME: 6pm Arabic Calligraphy workshop is back. Come and learn the artistic practice of Arabic handwriting and calligraphy at Music and Arts Atelier. The lessons will take place every Saturday, Monday and Wednesday at 6pm. For more information, contact [email protected] Artistic Gymnastic Classes WHERE: Qatar Academy Msheireb After School Activities EVENTS Grand Prix of Qatar 2019 WHEN: Ongoing till February 28 WHERE: Atelier WHERE: Losail International Circuit TIME: 3:15pm – 4:15pm WHEN: Ongoing Baladna Cultural Festival WHEN: March 8 – 10 The olympic sport using horizontal bar, Music and arts activities for students WHERE: Baladna Park TIME: 1pm – 9pm rings and floor exercises on mats for the taking place after they finish their day in WHEN: Ongoing till March 1 The opening race will be held under the children from age 4 till 16. school includes Group Music lessons, Hip- Baladna Park will embark you on a floodlights. Tickets can be purchased on- hop, Ballet, Drawing and Painting, Drama delicious and rich journey this time of year, line. Theatre & Taekwondo. Ages between 5 and through the Baladna Culture Festival. The 10 years old after school hours. festivities will take place each Friday and Saturday of the month of February and will Hobby Classes include food, dance shows, entertainment WHERE: Mamangam Performing Art and cultural handicrafts from across the Centre world. For further information 44246000. WHEN:Wednesday – Monday Mamangam Performing Art Centre, is MIA Park Bazaar 2019 a holistic performing arts institution and WHERE: Museum Of Islamic Art a one stop solution for adults as well as WHEN: Ongoing children looking to explore their talents TIME: 12pm – 8pm in various art forms. We offer classes in MIA Bazaar will be having a vibrant contemporary, Bollywood, hip-hop and mix of 350 stalls. MIA Park Bazaar is a Indian classical dance forms, along with modern version of the old souq tradition. Ballet Lessons classes for music, art and crafts, karate and The stalls are going to offer a wide range WHERE: Music and Arts Atelier yoga. Additional services include dance of gastronomies from all over the world. WHEN: Ongoing education and choreography. For details, You can also browse and grab handcrafted TIME: 4pm – 8pm call 33897609. artefacts, accessories, canvases, fashion For more info e-mail at registration@ wears, designer ornaments. atelierqatar.com or call on 33003839. Dance and Instrument Classes A R Rahman Concert WHERE: TCA Campus, Behind Gulf WHERE: Khalifa Stadium Times Building WHEN: March 22 WHEN: Wednesday – Monday TIME: 6pm – 11pm Learn the movements of dance styles Music maestro A R Rahman is going to in Bollywood, Hip Hop and also the be performing on the 22nd of March at the musical instruments such as Piano, Guitar, Khalifa Stadium. Keyboard for adults as well kids and move in the world of music. For details, contact 66523871/ 31326749.

Mehaseel Festival Cycling: Losail Circuit Sports Club WHERE: Katara Cultural Village WHERE: Losail Circuit WHEN: Ongoing till March 31 WHEN: Ongoing Mehaseel Souq will be open every TIME: 5pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday until 31st of Losail Circuit Sports Club, in association March. It is a perfect market to get amazing with Qatar Sports For All Federation, local fresh produce. invites all cyclists, runners and walkers to train under the floodlights of Losail International Circuit every Wednesdays.

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 26, 2019 COMMUNITY COVER STORY New Academy, new Oscars

By Mary McNamara

hange is hard. It never happens quite like you want it to and most of the time it is very, very messy. CThis year’s Oscars refl ected an institution in the midst of great change. Three years after #Oscarssowhite, the largest and most diverse Academy membership in history made history with fi rst-time wins for black female fi lmmakers and a record number of awards for black fi lmmakers. They gave an Oscar to the female creators of a short fi lm about menstruation, the fi rst Pixar fi lm directed solely by a woman and Spike Lee. Alfonso Cuaron won three awards for Roma, which is a black-and-white fi lm entirely in Spanish that is distributed by Netfl ix. The nearly 8,000 voters also continued to baffl e and irritate critics with their stubbornly retro fondness for Bohemian Rhapsody and their choice of the old-fashioned Green Book for best picture over Black Panther, Roma and BlacKkKlansman. And, like the smaller and more homogenous group before it, this academy stayed true to its inexplicable, and frankly unforgivable, “no Oscar for Glenn Close” rule. (Glenn, you should have brought the dog.) All of which occurred in a telecast that came as close to the three-hour mark as it’s probably ever going to get if we are going to continue to let people sing and honour the dead. Even the set looked way better on television than it did in photos. All of which is kind of a miracle. Never has an Oscar telecast been preceded by so much fretting, fuming, Twitter-lashing, letter-writing and general hand- wringing. A popular Oscar? No way! Kevin Hart as host? Uh-uh! No host? That won’t work either. Hand out awards in four categories during the commercials? We have a petition! A three-hour telecast? Impossible! You say Queen is opening the show? That’s crazy. And that set? It looks like Donald Trump’s hair. Seriously, for an event that usually spends its fi nal weeks wondering what to wear, it was intense. But Queen was fi ne, if a little redolent of all those beer-soaked fl oors from which sweaty teenagers of at least four generations have sung We Are the Champions. Instead of a host making jokes about how long the show is and how big the ratings dip will be, there was a far more optimistic “all hands on deck” energy that bounced the action between BEST DRESSED: Billy Porter Wears Christian Siriano Tuxedo Gown to the Oscars 2019. awards and performance. Tuesday, February 26, 2019 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY

“This year’s nominees and winners represent a very different and more wide-ranging worldview than we’ve seen in previous years. And if the evening opened with Regina King... that’s always a good sign”

BEST PERFORMANCE: Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper perform Shallow onstage at the Oscars the 91st Annual Academy Awards at Dolby Theatre.

Any show that manages to get winning for costume design and So when Greenbook won for never met your membership. many of these evenings have, with Maya Rudolph, Tina Fey, Amy Hannah Beachler for production best original screenplay, social Still, this year’s nominees and a bunch of white guys thanking Poehler, Barbra Streisand, Serena design, both for Black Panther. media lit up with disgust only to winners represent a very diff erent the academy, well, it opened with Williams and Melissa McCarthy Carter and Beachler were the fi rst settle down minutes later when and more wide-ranging worldview Regina King. And that’s always a with a rabbit hand puppet on stage African-Americans ever to win in BlacKkKlansman won for adapted than we’ve seen in previous years. good sign. is doing something right. their categories. screenplay. And if the evening ended, as so — Los Angeles Times/ TNS In fact, for all the last-minute And while women remained In the end Green Book, a story angst producers Donna Gigliotti shut out of the directing and of racism told largely from the Interesting Oscars facts: Oscars, the highest till now. He and Glenn Weiss endured, the cinematography categories this perspective of a white man, was nominated for a staggering 64 show felt pretty polished – the year, as in most years, the directors prevailed, beating not only a z The longest acceptance speech awards! presenters were prepared, and and producers of Period. End glorious kingdom of black warriors was by Greer Garson, which was z Tatum O’Neal was the youngest announced the correct winners. of Sentence. which won short and superheroes and the story of during the 15th Awards ceremony, Oscar winner ever at the age of 10. There were so many inclusive documentary, and Bao, which won a black man infi ltrating the Klan, and was six minutes long. She won the Best Supporting Actress and inspired pairings – Helen animated short, were women, as but also stories of a love triangle z During the Second World War, for the film Paper Moon. Mirren and Jason Momoa (and was the producer of the live-action between a queen and her female winners of the 1943 ceremony z Jessica Tandy was the oldest person his scrunchy), McCarthy and short winner Skin. consorts, the quiet but dramatic received plaster filled trophies. to receive the Oscar at the age of 81. Brian Tyree Henry in an equally Nowhere was the tension life of a Mexican housekeeper, and z It was on March 19, 1953 that the She received the Best Actress Award outlandish costume – that when between the old and the new as a rising female star. Oscars were shown for the first time for her part in Driving Miss Daisy. Mike Myers and Dana Carvey obvious as during the writing But it beat Bohemian Rhapsody on television. z The shortest Oscar speech was came out to introduce, of course, awards. Many saw Green Book, a too, and that’s something. z The person with the maximum shared by William Holden and “Bohemian Rhapsody,” the sight fairly standard odd-couple tale in Change is hard: It takes time, it nominations without a win was sound renowned director Alfred Hitchcock, of two white men seemed a bit which a white man drives a black makes a lot of people mad, and it mixer Kevin O’Connell. whose speech was simply, “Thank strange. musician on a tour of the South takes a lot of work. The Academy z The first person to win an Oscar you.” Especially after the fi rst 40 and both learn something, as an and its leadership have taken a lot for playing an Oscar winner was Cate z The phrase “And the winner is..” minutes of the show in which antithesis to the more modern of fl ak for a lot of things, some if Blanchett, who portrayed Katharine was abandoned in 1989 and the line Regina King’s supporting actress BlacKkKlansman, in which a black it justifi ed – seriously, you have Hepburn in The Aviator (2004). mostly used since then has been, And win, for If Beale Street Could Talk, cop and a white cop infi ltrate the to stop dropping bombshells via z Walt Disney has received 26 the Oscar goes to…” was followed by Ruth E Carter Klan and both learn something. random press releases as if you had

FIRST WINS: Left, Spike Lee accepts the Adapted Screenplay award for BlacKkKlansman. Lady Gaga wins first Oscar for Shallow in the Best Original Song category. PARODY: Melissa Mccarthy and Brian Tyree Henry hilariously parody The Favourite. 6 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 26, 2019 COMMUNITY DPS-MIS organises annual day

DPS-Modern Indian School (DPS-MIS) recently organised an annual day for the students of Asna Nafees, Principal of DPS-MIS, welcomed the gathering. She urged the parents to spend preparatory grade. The event featured a presentation highlighting the importance of eating time with their children and avoid the excessive use of technology. She also advised the parents healthy food. to empower their children to be emotionally strong, socially responsible and mentally agile Omar Abdulaziz al-Naama, Assistant Under Secretary at Ministry of Education and Higher human beings so that they become the ambassadors of positive change in the world. Education Qatar, was the chief guest and Ashok Kumar Dhawan, Deputy Secretary at Central Addressing the gathering, Hassan Chougule congratulated the young achievers who were Board of Secondary Education New Delhi India, the guest of honour. Hassan Chougule, receiving their first distinction. Omar Abdulazaz al-Naama also appreciated the eff orts of DPS- President of DPS-MIS, along with other executive committee members of DPS-MIS also attended MIS in providing quality education with a holistic vision and mission. the event. The event featured various performances. Around 450 students participated in the event.

KMCC elects new off ice bearers

Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre (KMCC) Qatar recently held its general meeting and elected and Shafeeq Sensai, Secretaries; and Raheem Pakkanhi, Chief Patron. The election was conducted new management committee at KMCC auditorium. The new off ice bearers, include P P Fahad, by Riyas P V K, Central Committee Representative of KMCC. The general meeting was inaugurated President of KMCC Qatar; P K Faisal, General Secretary; Hameed Potteri, Treasurer; Yousef Chittulli, by Naseer Areekal, Secretary of Central Committee KMCC, and attended by notable personalities, Senior Vice President; Sameer C M, Rafeeq T V, Haris Hana, Asif Parol and Rasheed Potteri, Vice including Salam Veettikkal, Azeez Kakkat, Muhammed Poonthottam, Majeed Edathil, Moidu Presidents; Jamsheer Kundathil, Adv Muhammed Jamsheer P M, Noufal Nalloor, Noushad Kollathi Kakkatt, Akbar Kunnoth, Rafeek Balathil, Saheer O P and Muhammed Shammas.

Hameed Potteri P P Fahad P K Faisal Yousef Chittulli

Doha Bank felicitates OIS eco-club members

Doha Bank recently felicitated the eco- club members of Olive International School (OIS). Geetha Somashekaran, Vice Principal of OIS, along with Anupama Sajith, Co-ordinator at OIS, and Sarika Pandey, In-Charge of Eco Club OIS and students attended the ceremony. Doha Bank felicitated them with the certificates of appreciation for valuable contributions and pro-active participation in working to build zero waste community project. Ivonne A-Baki, Ambassador of Ecuador, along with Dr R Seetharaman, CEO of Doha Bank, presented a memento to the team of OIS. Tuesday, February 26, 2019 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY PISQ organises ‘Open House’

Pakistan International School (Qatar) recently organised ‘Open House’ to attract prospective current students of PISQ also shared their experiences. The ambassador visited all the desks students and give their parents an insight to the current facilities available at the campus. Various and appreciated the eff orts of the students. The guests were given an insight to the academic resource desks were set-up, including Senior Boys Wing, Senior Girls Wing, Primary Wing and KG programmes, curricular and co-curricular activities of the school. Wing, Education, Technology and Laboratory (ETL), Evening Classes, Federal Board Aff airs (FBA) Speaking on the occasion, Nargis Raza Otho, Principal of PISQ, expressed her gratitude to all the Qatar Debates, PISMUN, i-EARN and IGCSE. guests for sparing their time and giving a positive response and constructive feedback. “The Syed Ahsan Raza Shah, Ambassador of Pakistan, was the chief guest at the event. Alumni and success of PISQ is not possible without the inception of all the stake holders”, she said.

Students of DPS-MIS participate in Fourth Qatar Universities Debating League

Three teams of DPS-Modern Indian School (DPS-MIS) recently participated in the Fourth Qatar Universities Debating League at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) Student Center, Education City. The team members of various teams from DPS-MIS included, Farhan Sakkir and Nakshatra Gayan, Team 1; Joel Alex and Subh Srivastava, Team 2; Priyal Dhade and Vaishnavi Chettiar, Team 3. Team 1 bagged the second position, which was followed by Team 2 and 3 with 9th and 14th position, respectively.

WINNER: Jibraeel Khan, a student of SIS, recently bagged the championship title in Under 15 Category of Prakash Padukone Inter-Academy Badminton Tournament - 2019. 8 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 26, 2019 COMMUNITY TGS organises event to celebrate Maghe Sankrati festival

Tamu Gurung Society (TGS), Nepali ethnic organisation, recently held an event to mark Maghe occasion, Taumaya Tamusyo, Third Vice Chairperson of TGS, highlighted the importance of the Sankrati festival. The event was chaired by Bhaikaji Gurung, Chairperson of TGS. Prabin Gurung, festival. Co-ordinator of Middle East NRNA, was the chief guest at the event. The event was attended by All women participants, including Dhan Kumar Gurung, Keshar Singh Gurung, Madan Gurung, notable personalities, including Bill Bahadur Gurung, Bimal Subedi, Shiba Kumar Bhujel, Budhabal Karma Gurung, Nil Gurung, Man Prasad Gurung, Janak Thapa Magar, Janak Thapa Magar, Gurung, Ras Gurung, Dil Kumari Gurung, Suk Bahadur Gurung, Shankhalal Tamang, Rajendra Surendra Lamshal, Kumar Gurung, Ram Kumar Mandal, Bhesh Gurung, Maya Tamusyo, Padam Limbu, Ekraj Rai, Thirtha Thing, Hari Bahadur Mahato, Samuel Sunuwar, Milan Bhujel, Raju Thapa, Hari Kaji Gurung and Sangram Gurung were felicitated at the event. Shrestha, Tenjing Sherpa, Ram Kumar Mandal, Rabindra Gurung, Bishnulal Shrestha, Rajeshwor Rajeshwor Dhakal, Milan Bhujel, Bishnulal Shrestha, Rabindra Gurung, Suk Bahadur Tamang, Dhakal, Laxman Thapa, Prem Rijal, Lekhnath Rijal, Janak Thapa Magar, Maya KC, Ambika Khatri, Shiva Bhujel, Rekha Rai, Maya KC and Bimal Subedi also spoke on the occasion. Prabin Gurung Rekha Rai, Mohammad Aziz Ali, Hemraj Basnet, Thakur Pariyar, Kedar Bhushal, Surendra Lamshal, announced a fund to support higher education of poor but diligent students from the Tamu Kumar Gurung, Ram Kumar Mandal, Bhesh Gurung, Maya Tamusyo, Padam Thapa and Sangram Gurung community. Gurung. The event was hosted by Tej Gurung, General Secretary of TGS; and Gyanu Gurung, Secretary of Khusiman Gurung, First Vice Chairperson of TGS, welcomed the gathering. Speaking on the TGS. – Text and photos by Usha Wagle Gautam

BISQ to organise Under Oryx Rotana appoints 11 and Under 13 Games new Director of Food

British International School Qatar (BISQ) is all set to organise and Beverage Under 11 Games on March 1 and 2 and the Under 13 Games on March 3 and 4. Around 14 schools would be participating in the tournaments. Tom Bell, BISQ Games Co-ordinator 2019 and Oryx Rotana, the five-star luxury business hotel in Doha, has recently Director of Sport at Doha British School, said, “BISQ 2019 is set to announced the appointment of Sidi Fikri as the Director of Food and be the largest student sporting event in Qatar, and proudly held Beverage. Sidi brings in over two decades of experience in the hospitality again in the prestigious Aspire Dome. The games will provide and service industry. During this journey, he has been part of some of school competitors with not only a unique opportunity to the finest restaurants in New York City. Post his successful stint in the compete in world class sporting facilities; but also celebrate the USA, he moved to Asia and spent a decade between Singapore and unique and collaborative community approach of British schools Malaysia, before the call back to his cultural roots and his move to Doha, in Qatar, proudly brought together through the shared passion of Qatar where he made Oryx Rotana his new home, stated a press release. sport. Organising a large tournament of this size and managing On the appointment, Ghassan Dalal, General Manager of Oryx Rotana, the logistics has been a challenge. It would not have been possible said, “We are glad to appoint Sidi Fikri as the Director of Food & Beverage. without the support, experience, and commitment from members Sidi has an enviable experience in the industry. We are sure that his of PE departments across the country, whose professionalism has appointment will help the brand to sustain a leadership position in the been outstanding. Credit goes to those specialised and committed market and will bring a unique culinary and service experience to delight teachers. I would also like to thank all the sponsors and the Aspire the guests of Oryx Rotana Doha.” Logistics team for their contribution.” “My eagerness to constantly learn and grow drove me ultimately to various management roles; from running entertainment clubs, successful fine dining restaurant groups, food and beverage for hotels and even purchasing for an international airline catering company. It has all shaped my diverse experience. I am sure my time at Oryx Rotana will be a long and fruitful experience to add in my portfolio of successful stories,” Sidi said. Tuesday, February 26, 2019 GULF TIMES 9 TRAVEL COMMUNITY Azerbaijan: A melting pot of time, culture and topography With several modern skyscrapers and beautiful architectural designs of imposing buildings, the city of Baku preserves its cultural heritage by keeping the entire Old City intact and well maintained. By Joseph Varghese

nown for its ancient monuments and an Old City, said to be dating back to the BC era, Azerbaijan as wellK as its capital Baku is presently a melting pot of old age and modernity. Situated in Eurasia, this South Caucasus country is a land of ethnicity, modernity and originality. With several modern skyscrapers and beautiful architectural designs of imposing buildings, the city also preserves its cultural heritage by keeping the entire Old City intact and well maintained. Azerbaijan, thriving on its oil resources, especially after it became independent in 1991 from the former Soviet Union, is a treat for tourists with the beautiful city of Baku, welcoming the visitors and showcasing an expansive array of cuisine, culture and clothes among others. From the lovely coastline of the Caspian, the wonderful locales of the midland to the mighty snow- clad mountains, the country is a traveller’s delight to explore. Bordering with Russia, Turkey, Georgia, Iran and Armenia, the country has something to offer for everyone from the beautiful Baku to the soaring Shahdagh peak. Baku is located 28 metres – about 92 feet below the sea level, which makes it the lowest lying national capital in the world and also the largest city in the world located below sea level. Situated on the Caspian Sea, Baku is also the largest city on the Caspian and is famed for its medieval walled Old City and the modern marvels of architecture. “The country has transformed LANDMARKS: Modern landmarks include the magnificent Heydar Aliyev Centre, and lovely Flame Towers, three pointed skyscrapers covered with LED into a major tourist destination screens, among others. in the recent years. We welcome millions of visitors every year. The Shirvanshahs, a vast royal complex, no real written document about several construction activities are has the tallest tower in the country, people of the country are very are some of the highlights that no its construction or other aspects. underway. with a height of 182 metres. The welcoming and we have a very visitor to the city can miss. The The tower has a well, 0.7 metres in Heydar Aliyev Centre, a museum buildings consist of 130 residential hospitable culture. Our history goes Maiden Tower built in the shape of a diameter, concealed in the south- that showcases life and works of the apartments over 33 fl oors, a hotel back to the very ancient times and cylinder with a height of 29.5 metres, eastern part of the wall. The mouth father of modern Azerbaijan, Heydar tower with 250 rooms and 61 we are now living in modern city has a diameter of 16.5 metres. The of the well is on the 3rd fl oor and it Aliyev, is a major attraction for the serviced apartments, and an offi ce with all its elegance. It is truly a walls on the ground fl oor are fi ve descends 13 metres to the bottom tourists. The building designed by block that provides about 33,114 mix of ancient era and modernity,” metres thick and the interior of the through the wall suggesting that it Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid is square metres of offi ce space. Abbasov Fazil, Chairman of The tower is divided into eight fl oors. might have been used for the water noted for its distinctive architecture “Life comes to a full cycle in this Board Of Journalists Association Not just the age of the Maiden and sewage system in the Old City. and fl owing, curved style that avoids city. Originating from the very told Community. Tower, but even the origin and Modern landmarks include sharp angles. The museum presents ancient times and travelling with the The Maiden Tower in the Old purpose of the tower is shrouded the magnifi cent Heydar Aliyev all information about the life and time and moving through the pulls City, although widely believed to in the mystery. No one knows for Centre, and lovely Flame Towers, activities of Heydar Aliyev, who and pushes of history, we are living be built in the 11th century, many certain when it was built or what three pointed skyscrapers covered ruled the country from 1993 to 2003. in a modern city while preserving all claim that some part of the tower it was built for or even how it got with LED screens, among others. Flame Towers, another major the precious treasures of our culture was built quite earlier than the given its name Maiden Tower. There The city is also bustling with attraction in the bustling downtown and tradition,” added another city period- as well as the Palace of the are several versions and there is several new high rise buildings and of Baku, is a trio of skyscrapers. It offi cial. 10 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 26, 2019 COMMUNITY INFOGRAPHIC Tuesday, February 26, 2019 GULF TIMES 11 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY Research decodes how social ostracism aff ects humans

eing socially ostracised Another study, detailed in the inspires feelings of Journal of Social Psychology, anger, sadness and examined how people feel when revenge in humans, their companions paid more some of whom even attention to their cellphones than Bexpress interest in joining gangs their partners. after being left out, fi nds a “What we found is that people research. reported greater threats to their According to Andy Hales, a basic needs when they had postdoctoral researcher in social recalled an experience where their psychology from the University of conversation partner had used a Virginia, human motivation is to cellphone,” Hales said, adding that maintain four basic psychological phone-induced ostracism hurt needs: belonging, self-esteem, women more than men. control over one’s environment, In a third collection of having a meaningful existence. experiments, Hales revealed that Hales and his team created feeling ignored or unacknowledged several diff erent scenarios to see is worse for a person’s mental how people reacted when those health than receiving bad basic needs were threatened by news. On the other hand, being ostracism. acknowledged eased the pain of “In order to restore those needs, attractive alternative, especially if studied the reactions of people might be temporarily more open the rejection. people can engage in a variety people are trying to restore their who would not ordinarily be to groups that would be otherwise “We know ostracism is a hurtful of behaviours. Some of them are needs for meaningful existence or interested in identifying with unappealing,” he said, much like a experience,” Hales said. “You’re pretty positive,” Hales said. control over the environment.” extreme groups. very hungry person might be more essentially being treated like a “But there are also times In a study, published in the “But when you are ostracised and open to eating food that normally ghost, like you’re not even there.” when aggression may be a more Journal of Social Issues, the team starved of social connection, you would not be tempting. – IANS

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

One day, I want to be…. When you were little, how did you finish that If you feel cautious today, Taurus, don’t be alarmed. This can be a Gemini, personal dignity may be important to you today. This may sentence, Aries? See what your memory and imagination come up good thing, Taurus, as you can be too trusting at times or forget to come about when things go wrong or if you’re accused of something with. Is your life what you dreamed it would be? If not, consider what take care when going into something new. Use a little caution in you didn’t do. You always have control over your dignity. Your daily you could do to change it. Maybe you should lie on your back and everything you do to keep safe. This is true with relationships, too. actions aff irm this. The key is to hold on tightly to who you are and gaze at the clouds or stars. This childlike activity may spark some Give a little more thought and time to things to help you choose what you believe in. Defend your dignity if it’s challenged. It’s one ideas for you. more wisely. thing that no one can take from you no matter what. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

Don’t be surprised if someone describes you as conservative, Your mother may be on your mind today, Leo. Your mother probably Focus on yourself today, Virgo. Take note of your health. You Cancer. It may be true. It could indicate that it’s important for you to aff ects how you think, act, and feel, both in the past and now. If your probably know that this is something you must take care of always, maintain control over most things – what you say and how much, mother’s sign is opposite yours, conflict and misunderstanding can not just sometimes. Daily routines are important. It’s up to you to how you dress, the kinds of people you spend time with, where and happen more easily. Take the time to learn about her sign today to stick to them. The little things like taking vitamins, staying active, how you spend your money – these are all things that conservative help you understand her and the relationship you have. and relaxing help maintain a healthy body. If you aren’t feeling your people tend to closely monitor. Be proud of who you are. best, make your habits more conducive to glowing health. LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

No dream is too big or too late to fulfil. You may be thinking Chances are good that you will receive a helping hand or comfort Today, Sagittarius, you may think about competition and possible about your special dreams today, Libra. Perhaps you aspire to do from someone many years your senior who cares about you, future goals. Imagining and dreaming can serve you well. What did something really great, be a pioneer in some field, or be a prominent Scorpio. Don’t hesitate to ask for their thoughts, ideas, and you dream about as a kid? Who did you want to become? Are you figure. Whatever it is can happen if you believe in yourself and work assistance. They will probably enjoy being able to do this for you and close to this in your life now? If not, is this all right for you? Take time toward it. Don’t let naysayers stop you. If you decide you can, you be glad that you’ve approached them. Be open and accept the love to think such things through and, if need be, get back on the right probably will. and support that’s off ered. track. CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

You may think about your finances today, Capricorn. It’s never too late Take the time today to consider your health, Aquarius. Do you get Pisces. Take a look at your time management. It’s possible to plan to learn about saving and investing, especially if there’s something enough rest, eat the right foods, take vitamins, exercise every day, every day so you have enough time to do what you have to get done you really want to do, like travel. Preparing for retirement can seem go to the doctor when you need to, and take time to relax? All these as well as do everything you’d like to do. Set priorities to keep things surreal when you’re young, but it’s important to start early. Regardless help you have a lifetime of good health. Living a long, healthy life is flowing well. There are many books and websites out there on this of how your aff airs have gone to date, change starts now. Write down something we all want. Start now to take care of your body. subject. Check them out. your goals and meet with your financial adviser. Today you may emphasise organising things and managing your life, 12 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 26, 2019 COMMUNITY CARTOONS/PUZZLES

Wordsearch Adam

Pooch Cafe

Eddie

ACUFF COCHRAN KENDRICKS ALBERT COLLINS MURPHY ANDERSON CONDON SHORE ARCARO FISHER STANLEY BRACKEN FOY VAN HALEN CANTOR HEYWOOD VEDDER CLINE HOLLAND

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, February 26, 2019 GULF TIMES 13 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Super Cryptic Clues Colouring

ACROSS DOWN 1. Sound you understand (6) 1. Leaving word (8) 4. The bandits, in gangs, 2. Offers to take Kate out for capturing the equipment (8) something nice to eat (6,5) 10. Little jingle in the hair 3. On British game birds (4) commercial? (7) 5. Told us again the country is in 11. Right inside the old jar (7) debt (8) 12. A small D for ‘dandelion’? (4) 6. 750 plus 250 dollars? (5,5) 13. Do, to stay alive (5,5) 7. Head of the lunatic asylum? (3) 16. Not having advanced so far in 8. Be furious and stand up when the instruction (6) she emerges (6) 17. Can and are flying solo, 9. Irritated by ‘I have your cold anyhow (7) heart’ (5) 20. Set and waiting (7) 14. Not now and again (7,4) 21. A portly female and a priest 15. The certainty that comes with Answers (6) time (10) 24. Get loaded and become 18. A poor writer and a Wordsearch Codeword bossy (4,6) s-sycophant (8) 25. Damages the hemblems! (4) 19. Maintain it’s your private 27. Not a depressed area: a domain (8) centre of industry (3-4) 22. Standing the art model 29. The soldier must be outside in the passage (6) remanded again, the 23. With a post on either side, it’s magistrate holds (7) ornamental (5) 30. They’re teaching art, having 26. A way in which one gets a break when the siren goes thirsty ..... (4) off (8) 28...... and the drink ‘23’ may 31. Stick by, having had trouble finally provide (3) before (6)

Yesterday’s Solutions

ACROSS: 1 Mustang 5 Mumbled DOWN: 1 Most of all 2 Sterile 3 9 Sweep 10 Undermost 11 Appraisal 4 Gout 5 Made no Origan 12 Envelops 14 Avers sign 6 Merge 7 Look out 8 15 Bespatter 18 Labelling 20 Dates 13 Abridgment 16 A bit India 22 Shortage 24 Stoned 26 thick 17 Re-address 19 Blown up Cantonese 27 Irene 28 Sapient 21 Dungeon 22 Sacks 23 Those 29 Takings. 25 Left. 14 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 26, 2019 COMMUNITY POP SPOT

in Billie is proud of Bury brief

Ariana Grande

Not since The Beatles 55 years ago a Friend’s popularity has any act achieved the kind of US chart dominance currently enjoyed by singer/songwriter Ariana Grande. By Geoff rey Rowlands The latest Billboard Hot 100 sees Ariana hold the top three spots with 7 Rings, Break Up With Your Girlfriend, ith Ariana Grande continuing I’m Bored and Thank U, Next. The last to dominate the US and UK pop time this happened was on the April charts, the music industry is 25, 1964, chart when The Beatles took searching for the girl who might numbers one, two and three with become the next major female Can’t Buy Me Love, Twist and Shout Wrecording artiste. But Interscope Records may and Do You Want To Know a Secret. have already found her. Step forward 17-year-old The Fab Four do still hold at least one singer/songwriter Billie Eilish. US singles chart record over Ariana. Born into a family of actors and musicians, In the chart dated April 4, 1964, they Billie has been singing all her life and wrote her occupied the top five positions. fi rst song when she was just four. Thanks to the relatively recent use “That was about falling into a black hole,” she of online streams being counted laughed. “Pretty cool subject matter for someone towards chart placings, all 12 tracks that age. I began really serious songwriting when on Ariana’s Billboard 200 chart- I was 11.” topping album, Thank U, Next, are She was so vocally talented that Billie joined listed on the Hot 100. Eleven are in the Los Angeles Children’s Chorus at the age the top 40. This sets a record for the of eight. Despite all these musical leanings, most simultaneous Billboard Hot 100 her initial intentions were to become either an top 40 entries by a female artist. Only actress or dancer. Make Up missed out by charting at “I was in plays when I was little. My parents number 48. and brother are actors. Living in Los Angeles It would undoubtedly be a similar means there are always auditions for something story on the UK singles chart. or other. One day, I came home from an audition However, recent rule changes where some pretty lame stuff had happened and introduced to discriminate against I just said I was never going to act again. That’s songs which are not officially when I decided to concentrate on dancing.” released singles restrict artistes to Ironically, it was through dancing that Billie just three entries. came to realise her true vocation. This means that while Break Up With “My dance instructor knew about my musical Your Girlfriend, I’m Boreds debuted background. He’d heard me sing a song to myself at number one and 7 Rings dropped called Ocean Eyes. It’s such a beautiful song to number two, former chart-topper which was written by my brother. Finneas is Thank U, Next would appear to have incredibly talented. You might have seen him fallen from number 28 to outside the acting in things like the TV shows Glee and PROSPECT: Billie Eilish is considered the next major female recording artiste. top 100. This is certainly not the case Modern Family. He also has his own band, The but the song is no longer able to be Slightlys. He’s been writing and producing songs Smile At Me also hit number one on Billboard’s which has given Billie her initial taste of truly listed because album track, Needy, since he was about 12. Alternative Albums chart. signifi cant singles chart success. The track hit has entered the chart at number “I loved the song and couldn’t get it out of While Billie’s burgeoning music career was number seven in Britain, 14 in America, top eight. my head. I’d go around humming or singing it moving from strength to strength, there was one ten in numerous countries and number one in quietly. My dance teacher picked up on this. important aspect of her life which left her feeling Sweden. Lady Gaga He asked if I could record Ocean Eyes and send decidedly downcast. “I’m so pleased that the song has proved it to him so that he could choreograph a dance “I couldn’t dance. I got a bad injury. I strained so popular. It was a very important song in Lady Gaga is single again. She and routine to the song. my growth plate. My hip bone separated from that when we made Bury a Friend, the whole her former fiance, Christian Carino, “I recorded it with Finneas and we put Ocean my muscle. It’s something that can’t happen if album clicked in my head. I immediately knew have ended their engagement. Eyes on SoundCloud ready for my teacher. We’d you’re over 16. But I was in a dance class with what it was going to be about, what the visuals Christian was Gaga’s agent when already put two songs on SoundCloud, one that I seniors because my ability was at that level. We were going to be and everything in terms of they began dating in February, 2017. wrote and one Finneas wrote, just for fun and for were doing a hip hop dance and it just popped. how I wanted it to be perceived. Bury a Friend Although he apparently proposed our friends to hear. We uploaded the song, I went I love movement and performing the most eff ectively inspired the entire album. marriage just a few months into to bed, checked SoundCloud the next morning challenging choreography so being unable to “The song is written from the perspective of their romantic relationship, Gaga and found it had a whole bunch of plays. dance was horrible and so frustrating.” the monster under my bed. If you put yourself did not go public with the news “That was just the start. I remember being The injury did leave Billie free to concentrate in that mindset, what is this creature doing or until last October when she flashed really thrilled when Finneas told me Ocean Eyes on her music. Although she and Finneas have feeling? I also confess that I’m this monster her engagement ring and named had got 1,000 plays. We were over the moon. We occasionally teamed with other writers, they because there are times when I’m my own worst Christian as her fiance during a thought we’d made it. But it just kept going. I much prefer just working together. The siblings enemy. I might also be the monster under your speech at Elle magazine’s 25th didn’t really appreciate how big it was becoming have written and produced almost every song bed.” annual Women in Hollywood until we reached 50,000 plays. It now has about Billie has recorded. But don’t look for Billie Eilish As with her previous work, Billie’s album Celebration. 15 million.” among the writing credits. was created in her brother’s bedroom at the Rumours about the failure of their Record companies knew a good thing when “My name is Billie Eilish Pirate Baird O’Connell family home in Highland Park, Los romance began on Valentine’s Day they heard it. Interscope won the battle to sign O’Connell. Baird is my mother’s family name Angeles. when Gaga posted pictures of two Billie and were immediately rewarded by the and I almost didn’t get Pirate as a middle name “We tried renting a studio but it didn’t really new tattoos on social media but made world-wide chart success of her 2017 debut EP, because my uncle said pirates were bad. I use work. It was far better at home. Some songs no mention of her fiance. A few days Don’t Smile At Me. Containing nine tracks, 11 Billie O’Connell as my writing name so that’s start with lyrics, others with a melody or beat. later, Christian did not accompany on the expanded edition, it is really more like an what appears on the credits.” It’s diff erent each time. Working at home means her to the Grammy Awards ceremony album than an EP which would usually house Billie and Finneas have now created the songs we can do it at whatever time, day or night, and she did not wear her engagement four or fi ve songs. for her 14-track debut album, When We Fall whenever ideas and inspiration might come. ring. A number 12 spot on the UK Albums chart Asleep, Where Do We Go? Set for release on “It might seem strange not to work in a This is Gaga’s second failed was almost matched by a number 14 peak on the March 29, the fi rst two singles, You Should See professional studio. But Finneas’ bedroom is engagement. She had previously Billboard 200. Top ten positions were reached in Me In a Crown and When The Party’s Over, sold just as good in many ways and it seems like the been engaged to actor Taylor Kinney the Scandinavian countries, Canada, Australia, fairly well. best place for us to make what we hope are great but they split up towards the end of New Zealand and the Netherlands. Don’t But it is the third single, Bury a Friend, songs.” 2016. Tuesday, February 26, 2019 GULF TIMES 15 SHOWBIZ COMMUNITY Guneet Monga wants to use her Oscar win to educate masses

NEXT PROJECT: Diljit Dosanjh will be seen in the film Good News later this year. Diljit’s wax statue to be unveiled

Punjabi sensation Diljit Dosanjh’s wax statue at Madame Tussauds Delhi, located in the iconic Regal Building at Connaught Place here, will be unveiled on Thursday. As part of a social media engagement, fans have been posting messages for their Punjabi superstar on Madame Tussauds handle. The top posts will be getting a couple of passes to the attraction and will be amongst the fi rst few to step into the spotlight with their favourite superstar’s fi gure. Once launched, Diljit’s fi gure will take its place in history as the fi rst turbaned fi gure in Madame Tussauds Delhi. The artiste will join a host of other national and international celebrities at the attraction including Virat Kohli, David Beckham and Sachin Tendulkar. Diljit had earlier posted on social media: “Finally yeh din bhi aa gaya Madame Tussauds Delhi.” The Sikh singer-actor has found popularity in Indian showbiz with his versatile roles in fi lms like Udta Punjab, PRODUCER: Guneet Monga is a film producer, known for (2013), (2015) and Gangs of Wasseypur (2012). Phillauri and Soorma. “An actor is more than his ethnicity and his religion. A Adityanath, who has acknowledged about it, share it, show it, screen it... fi lmmaker, a director has to be convinced and should be able to By Radhika Bhirani its eff ort to spotlight Hapur’s ‘pad If we don’t celebrate our own country envision someone in a role, regardless of Sikh or not Sikh, if the women’, who have gradually learnt right now, when will we,” asked fi lmmaker feels you suit the role, then that’s perfect,” Diljit had to break the stereotype about Monga, who has earlier backed fi lms earlier said. – IANS n Oscar victory is menstruation. Union Women and like Masaan and The Lunchbox under a defi nite reason to Child Development Minister Maneka her banner . Have to be skinless to be celebrate for the makers Gandhi is glad the fi lm talks about Directed by award-winning good actor: Redmayne of Period. End of Sentence how a “period should end a sentence, Iranian-American fi lmmaker Rayka – an Indian-set fi lm on not a girl’s education”. Zehtabchi, the fi lm is created by Oscar-winning actor Eddie Redmayne believes that to be a menstruationA – but it would be a In the opening scenes of the The Pad Project, an organisation good actor, you have to be skinless. “dream come true” if the government 26-minute Netfl ix fi lm, which won established by an inspired group “I have this whole theory on why actors are so weird.... It is takes it to the grassroot level via the Best Documentary Short at the of students at the Oakwood School because they are super sensitive people,” Redmayne told IANS. educational programmes to schools 91st Academy Awards in Los Angeles in Los Angeles and their teacher, “And the reason why they are sensitive people is because and colleges. on Sunday, young girls giggle away, Melissa Berton, with help from Gauri they are skinless people who have taken a load of rejections. It “After the Oscar win, I’d love the and older ones aver “sharam aati hai Chaudhary from Action India. eventually shaves away your skin literally,” he added. Education Ministry to get involved (it’s embarrassing)” at the mention It follows girls and women in “But in order to be a good actor, you have to be skinless. (So and take this fi lm from school to of “period”. The scenes show just the Hapur and their experience with the that) when people see you on screen, people can understand school, college to college and have an grassroot issue around menstrual installation of a pad machine in their your emotions. That’s the way I try to balance out my own educational programme... That would health that its makers – and several village, making them particular kind of anxiety that I worry a lot in my life with the be a dream come true, and that is others – hope to weed out from the For Mandakini Kakar, who worked fact that probably if I was insensitive then I wouldn’t be having when a shift or change will happen,” society. on ground in Hapur to bring out a career and getting to do a job which I love,” he added. producer Guneet Monga told IANS in Another attempt to make the alive the stories of reluctant women, He walked into the industry with a career-breaking role in an interview from Los Angeles. discussion around menstrual health there’s a world of diff erence in the Twelfth Night at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in 2002, but “I think we must try and make that mainstream was Akshay Kumar’s Pad village which she visited two years got his ticket to the fi lmy world with his role in My Week with happen... If not now, then when,” Man, inspired by the life of India’s ago and just 15 days ago. Marilyn back in 2011. asked Monga, who also became a real life ‘Pad Man’ Arunachalam Sitting in a room in Los Angeles at Redmayne is known for Les Miserables, The Theory of member of the Academy of Motion Muraganathan, who also features in 2.30am and refl ecting on the Oscar Everything and Warner Bros Pictures’ Fantastic Beasts Picture Arts and Sciences this year. Period... victory, Kakar told IANS: “The franchise. – IANS Would she come back and speak to Akshay, his wife Twinkle Khanna change has been phenomenal. Those offi cials? as well as a stream of celebrities girls there now not only aware about “Yeah, I’d love to... I will have to including Priyanka Chopra have come the topic, they are using the pads, navigate that,” Monga said. out in support of the fi lm’s Oscar win. they are spreading awareness, they The fi lm’s Oscar win has already “I’d love all the young actresses are feeling economically empowered, caught the attention of Uttar Janhvi Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan, Bhumi and they are not afraid anymore.” – Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Pednekar to champion this fi lm, talk IANS

Total Dhamaal crosses Rs60 crore Co-produced by , Ffilms, in opening weekend Ashok Thakeria, Kumar, Sri Adhikari Brothers, Anand Pandit, Sangeeta Ahir and Kumar Mangat Pathak, the film Ajay Devgn-starrer Total Dhamaal, helmed by Indra released on February 22. Kumar, minted Rs62.40 crore at the box office in its The movie collected Rs16.50 crore on day one, Rs20.40 opening weekend. crore on day two and Rs25.50 crore on day three — taking HUMBLE BEGINNINGS: Edward Redmayne is an English actor Total Dhamaal is the third instalment of the successful the total to Rs62.40 crore, read a statement from the who began his professional acting career as a youth in West End franchise Dhamaal, which originally starred Arshad film’s publicist. theatre, before making his screen debut in 1998. Warsi, Jaaved Jaaferi and Riteis h Deshmukh alongside It also stars Nene, and . . – IANS 16 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 26, 2019 COMMUNITY Take over the desert, explore Qatar’s beauty

PHOTO: From left, Thani al-Zaraa, Deputy Secretary General at Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation; Dr Jamal Rashid al-Khanji, Managing Director Al Adaid Desert Challenge; Ayed Hekmat, General Manager of Doha Insurance Group; and Manar Khalifa Almuraikhi, Director PR and Corporate Communications at Ooredoo Qatar. Photos by Nasar K Moideen

Dr Jamal said, “Cycling is growing By Mudassir Raja “We have nearly 50 elite riders that specifi cally signifi cantly in Qatar. Qatar Cyclists started as a local club that was set up travelled to Doha for the race. They are representing by fi ve Qataris four years go. Right re you ready to take over now, we have over 500 members. the desert? The outdoor various countries, including Italy, Croatia, Serbia, The number of participants in event off ers cyclists diff erent events organised by us is and runners a unique Montenegro, France, UK, Ireland, Iran, Oman, US, way above than 1,000. Our event chance to explore Riders’ Champion, happening every Qatar’sA natural beauty. Australia, South Africa and Canada” March, had 1,100 participants last The fourth edition of Al Adaid year. This is year, we are expecting Desert Challenge brings bigger and will have to cover the distance of Fatbike, Women Fatbike, and Qatari. “We are very proud that the Qatari over 1,500 participants. the most exciting desert cycle race 38.5 kilometres. The distance for The running categories are namely; participation is the biggest this “I think sports, in general, is that will take place on Friday, March the runners will be 26.7 kilometres. Open Men, Open Women, Veteran year in the history of the race. We seeing a huge rise in Qatar. This 1. The challenging cycling race The starting point is about 1km from Men, and Veteran Women. have around 90 Qatari participants, comes from our leaders’ interest continues to attract more and more the Sealine Beach Resort located Speaking on the occasion, Dr which includes nearly 19 percent of in sports. I think Qatar has the enthusiasts as the number of the next to the Mawater Sand dune. Jamal said, “Hopefully, this is the total number of the participants. opportunity to become one of the participants surpasses 500 this year. From the starting point, the cyclists going to be an exceptional event, The largest group, taking part in the best cycle friendly nations in the This was announced during and runners will cycle and run over especially by the number of race, is that of the Filipinos. They are region.” a press conference organised by the desert highway, across sandy participants. We nearly have 70 amazing. Their numbers are always The event is being organised by Qatar Cyclists Center at St Regis patches and cross over seven sand percent increase in the number of increasing. They also support and Qatar Cyclists under the patronage recently. The press conference was dunes to reach the fi nish line at Doha participants as compared to last volunteer during the race.” of Qatar’s Ministry of Culture addressed by Dr Jamal Rashid al- Bus Desert Camp. year. This year the number has Thani al-Zaraa said, “The event is and Sport, and in co-operation Khanji, Managing Director Al Adaid The MTB race will be run under surpassed 500. We have more than about 10-year-old. This is going to with National Tourism Council Desert Challenge; Thani al-Zaraa, the Union Cycliste Internationale 51 nations represented in the race. be the fourth edition hosted by Qatar (NTC), Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Deputy Secretary General at Qatar (UCI) regulations. The commissaire We have nearly 50 elite riders that Cyclists. We are happy to work hand Federation (QCTF) and International Cycling and Triathlon Federation; panel will apply the UCI regulations specifi cally travelled to Doha for the in hand with Qatar Cyclists. We are Cycling Federation (UCI). The Ayed Hekmat, General Manager of and the Qatar Cycling Federation race. They are representing various looking forward to having more such sponsors are Doha Insurance Group, Doha Insurance Group; and Manar regulations. The grand prize is countries, including Italy, Croatia, events in the future. We believe that Ooredoo, Takaful Insurance, Rayyan Khalifa Almuraikhi, Director PR QR188,000. Serbia, Montenegro, France, UK, we can develop and advance the Natural Watar, Chevrolet, Doha Bus, and Corporate Communications at There will be diff erent categories, Ireland, 10 participants from Iran, event further from all perspectives.” Resen Sports, Garmin, Mawater, Ooredoo Qatar. including Elite Men, Elite Women, Oman, US, Australia, South Africa Responding to a question on Qatar Red Crescent, St. Regis Hotel The Mountain Bike (MTB) racers Men MTB, Women MTB, Men and Canada. cycling getting popular in Qatar, and Royal Rivier Hotel.

GROUP: Off icials post press conference of the fourth edition of Al Adaid Desert Challenge. GATHERING: Media representatives and guests during the press conference.