Community Community P Kumaran, Popular Ambassador Indian P6of , P16 designer inaugurates new Prasad Bidapa off ice sees fashion of Kerala as key to social Business Forum. identity.

Wednesday, October 9, 2019 Safar 10, 1441 AH

Doha today: 290 - 350

COVER STORY Beacon of light Inside the new New York library that cost $40mn to build. P4-5

BOLLYWOOD HOLLYWOOD

I have become thick-skinned Trebek has ‘some regrets’ about about fi lm reviews now: Anil. sharing pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Page 14 Page 15 2 GULF TIMES Wednesday, October 9, 2019 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

PRAYER TIME Fajr 4.11am Shorooq (sunrise) 5.29am Zuhr (noon) 11.21am Asr (afternoon) 2.43pm Maghreb (sunset) 5.13pm Isha (night) 6.43pm

USEFUL NUMBERS

Rambo: The Last Blood a woman named Maria and her teenage granddaughter DIRECTION: Adrian Grunberg Gabriela. But when a vicious Mexican cartel kidnaps Gabriela, CAST: , Paz Vega, Yvette Monreal Rambo crosses the border on a bloody and personal quest to SYNOPSIS: Vietnam War veteran John Rambo tries to rescue her and punish those responsible. Emergency 999 fi nd some semblance of peace by raising horses on a ranch Worldwide Emergency Number 112 in Arizona. He’s also developed a special familial bond with THEATRE: The Mall Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 Local Directory 180 International Calls Enquires 150 Hamad International Airport 40106666 Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 Mowasalat Taxi 44588888 Qatar Airways 44496000 Hamad Medical Corporation 44392222, 44393333 Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464 Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 44593363 Qatar Assistive Technology Centre 44594050 Qatar News Agency 44450205 44450333 Q-Post – General Postal Corporation 44464444

Humanitarian Services Offi ce (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies) Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, 40253369 Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364 Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365 Qatar Airways 40253374 War SYNOPSIS: An Indian soldier is assigned a mission to DIRECTION: Siddharth Anand eliminate his former mentor, who has gone rogue. CAST: , , THEATRES: Landmark, Royal Plaza, The Mall te Unqu uo ot Q “Once e you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you’ll start having positive results.” — Willie Nelson

Community Editor For movie timings and Kamran Rehmat further details please scan e-mail: [email protected] the QR code above with your Telephone: 44466405 mobile phone camera or visit qatarcinemas.com Fax: 44350474 Wednesday, October 9, 2019 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY

school includes Group Music lessons, Hip- both vocals and instrumentals. To develop hop, Ballet, Drawing and Painting, Drama health consciousness, we train them karate, Theatre & Taekwondo. Ages between 5 and 10 yoga with special sessions for kids and adults. years old after school hours. Mamangam has also come up with chess and robotics in regular batches in an attempt to give a better learning experience, as they sharpen their minds and brains too. For those who wish to register for more details, visit www.mamangamqatar.in

Women in Cultural Leadership WHERE: Museum of Islamic Art WHEN: Tomorrow Photo Exhibition: ‘Experience TIME: 10am - 12pm TIME: 6pm to 7pm Tanzania’ The festival off ers other benefi ts to UCL Qatar cordially invites all to attend an Short Executive Programme – ‘Re- WHERE: Multaqa (Student Center) Art participants, including the promotion of interactive panel discussion at the Museum Inventing Your Business Model’ Gallery at Education City their work, interaction with print, electronic, of Islamic Art Auditorium. The panel will be WHERE: HEC Paris, Doha Campus WHEN: Ongoing until December 1 digital, and social media, interaction with attended by Sheikha Reem al-Thani, Head of WHEN: October 14 and 15 TIME: 4pm selected art collectors, art investors, and Exhibitions at Qatar Museums, Machaille al- TIME: ‘Experience Tanzania’ is a yearly project potential buyers. QIAF, one of the largest art Naimi, Director of Community Development HEC Paris In Qatar off ers an Executive supported by Student Aff airs Division of festivals in Qatar, is organised every year. at Qatar Foundation, and other prominent Short Program in ‘Re-Inventing your Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar that allows local dignitaries. Business Model’ with HEC Paris Associate students and faculty to explore and immerse Career Guidance Professor Hélène Musikas. themselves in Tanzanian urban and rural WHERE: Right Track Consultants, Al This two-day programme is designed to cultures. During their trip, WCM-Q’s Sadd give executives an original and novel view aspiring physicians off er basic healthcare WHEN: Sunday – Thursday of how to envisage strategy and suppress services to the locals as a way of giving TIME: 6pm – 8pm crafting in a world that requires constant back to the community and learn about Career guidance for course, country, adaptation. Building on the concept of the lifestyles, traditions, socioeconomic college and entrance for students of Grade business models, participants will learn how hierarchies and health systems of the local IX-XII, of all curriculum. Career assessments to systematically explore new opportunities Tanzanian communities. administered for stream preference, career for business models and discover what the A collection of photographs of the wildlife, test, branch preference, personality, conditions are to make this kind of innovation landscapes and people of Tanzania taken by multiple intelligence and learning styles happen in their company. WCM-Q professor Dr Dietrich Büsselberg and productivity. For more information, will be exhibited. 55448835.

Hobby Classes WHERE: Mamangam Performing Art Centre WHEN: Saturday – Friday Mamangam is an art and performance centre started with a vision of spreading our knowledge, interests and experience in various disciplines in arts across diff erent countries for children and adults. Basics of TV Presentation Mamangam has become the favourite WHERE: Qatar National Library centre for learning. We off er regular classes WHEN: Oct 18 After School Activities in the following disciplines like traditional TIME: 5pm to 8pm WHERE: Atelier classical and folk dance forms, art and Through this workshop, young adults will Qatar International Art Festival 2019 WHEN: Ongoing craft, drawing and painting, personality familiarise themselves with the basics of WHERE: Katara Cultural Village Music and arts activities for students development and public speaking, Bollywood television presentation. The workshop is led WHEN: 30 October - 5 November taking place after they fi nish their day in dance, contemporary, hip hop styles, music by Library specialist Ahmed al-Maliki.

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Wednesday, October 9, 2019 COMMUNITY COVER STORY Standing tall The project earned criticism for its price tag, but it is being seen as a positive sign for the health of New York libraries, writes Miranda Bryant

PANORAMA: The city’s newest public library features panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline.

trategically positioned huge freeform cutouts for on the bank of the windows, Hunters Point library, East River, across the which opened recently on the water from the United Long Island City waterfront, is Nations headquarters, designed to be noticed from afar. It’s a beacon for the city. SNew York city has a shimmering As well as more than 50,000 It’s a beautiful place for new addition to its skylines. books, including Spanish and Unusually for such prime Chinese collections, and a what libraries are about real estate set among parkland, “cyber centre” with computers, panoramic views of Manhattan highlights include designer in today’s society and convenient transport links, furniture by Eames and Jean this $40mn development in Prouvé, an art installation by Queens is neither an upscale Julianne Swartz, an event space, — Dennis Walcott, apartment block, exclusive a children’s area and a “quiet members club or the offi ces of a room”. president and CEO of huge corporation. There is also a rooftop with In fact, it is the site of the city’s tiered seating, an environmental Queens Public library newest public library. education centre and a dedicated Built from aluminium-painted fl oor for teenagers with a video exposed concrete that sparkles gaming area. The preliminary ‘ in the light and featuring two event schedule for adults ’ Wednesday, October 9, 2019 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY

INTERIORS: The interior boasts designer furniture from Eames and Jean Prouvé. includes trivia night, book, crocheting and has sought to dismantle the civic space and writing clubs. stability as we knew it,” said Jimmy Van “It’s a beacon for the city,” said Dennis Bramer, local council member and chairman Walcott, president and CEO of Queens Public of New York City Council’s cultural aff airs library. “Its location is just ideal both for the and libraries committee. borough of Queens but as well as for New He said Americans should respond to York City overall … Being located between Trump by improving their libraries and other two ferries gives the opportunity for people to spaces where “people can come together, talk, come over, visit and relax and surrounded by meet and actually defend their democracy parkland as well. So it’s a beautiful place for and their neighbourhoods”. what libraries are about in today’s society.” Despite increased internet access and The opening of Hunters Point — the early growing distractions, libraries have proven AMBIENCE: The library features quiet rooms, a cyber centre, and an art installation. design of which was reached by Steven Holl remarkably resilient in the US, adapting Architects in 2010, with construction starting their services to the changing needs of Citing Oodi, in Helsinki, Finland, the project delivery, which will make the system in 2015 — is being seen as a positive sign for communities. Next year, libraries are current star of the library world, Central library more streamlined and more effi cient. Had the health of New York libraries, and has been expected to play a central role in the US in Calgary, Canada, and, in the US, Austin that plan been in place, the library would have largely welcomed by the community despite census when, for the fi rst time ever, it will be Central library in Texas and the library systems been done much more quickly. Hunters Point some criticism over its price tag. available online. in Columbus, Ohio, Seattle and Chicago, he library would also be a candidate for Design- It has become the 217th in New York, where According to the latest Public Libraries said “there are a lot of great libraries”, but that Build (a contracting method connecting libraries attract a total of 37.7 million people Survey report, published by the IMLS in America could still do better. designers and contractors), which New York per year. In Queens, one of America’s largest May, although library funding across the US “The American public library system is City is advocating for strongly in Albany.” public library services, Walcott says none improved in the three years leading up to truly special by international standards. But in Hunters Point, residents were of the borough’s residents lives more than 2016, it remained below pre-recession levels. But that’s only because we’ve inherited a excited about the opening. At a nearby play approximately one mile away from a library. Meanwhile, visits remain relatively high. tremendous gift from the generations that area, Luciana Santos, 31, who looks after two But in the age of Donald Trump, whose In 2016, there were 1.35bn visits to public have come before us and for the most part young children, had already looked at the administration has proposed budget cuts libraries. This compares to 1.39bn the what we’ve been doing is squandering our library’s events schedule. that would close the Institute of Museum previous year. inheritance.” “It looks great … It took a while to get and Library Services (IMLS), the government It’s in stark contrast to Britain, where last There has been some criticism of the ready I think, but now everyone’s excited for agency that gives grants to libraries and year nearly 130 public libraries closed. project, however. Slow Build, a 2017 report by opening,” she said. museums, the high-profi le opening is a “No-one would have predicted 30 years Centre for an Urban Future named Hunters Reading a book nearby with her daughter, political statement, too. ago that of all the public institutions we Point library as an example of a project that Laura Varland, 33, said she currently goes While most library funding comes from have, the library would be the most adept at “grew dramatically in scope and cost” after to Court Square library, which is about a local sources, American Libraries Association transforming to meet needs of contemporary being given the go-ahead. mile away, but plans to switch allegiance to (ALA) spokesperson Shawnda Hines said citizens. But it has,” said Eric Klinenberg, Last year a petition, signed by over 1,000 Hunters Point when it opens because it’s federal money is still “vital” for their director of the Institute for Public Knowledge people called it “an embarrassment and a closer to home. survival. “For three years in a row, the Trump at New York University and author of Palaces prime example of New York City government “It’s a beautiful building,” she said. “It’s an administration has threatened to eliminate for the People. waste and ineffi ciency”. architectural design. It’s taken a while to be IMLS altogether,” she said. Hunters Point, he said, is a reminder of Ian Michaels, a spokesperson for NYC built, so we’ve all been watching it with bated “Obviously libraries are more important the potential of public architecture. “We Department of Design and Construction, breath … and waiting for it to open, so we’re than ever under Donald Trump, who is don’t need to depend on tech fi rms and star said: “In January 2019, the city released excited that it’s fi nally opening.” assaulting our sense of decency and who architects to have beautiful buildings.” its comprehensive plan to improve capital — The Guardian 6 GULF TIMES Wednesday, October 9, 2019 COMMUNITY

Ambassador of India inaugurates KBF off ice

P Kumaran, Ambassador of India, recently inaugurated the new off ice of Kerala Busines Forum (KBF), its Onam celebrations coinciding with the inauguration of the off ice. The event was attended by notable an initiative to unify the large and thriving business community from the state of Kerala in India in Qatar. personalities, including K R , President of KBF; Shaheen Shafi, General Secretary; Jenny Anthony, The off ice is located within the newly opened Integrated Indian Cultural Centre Thumama. KBF also had Vice President; Fazil Hameed, Secretary; and Sabith Saheer, Treasurer.

MES inaugurates Reach Out-MES

MES Indian School recently inaugurated Reach Out-MES, a forum for the voluntary participation among the school students. Manmadhan Mambally, Chief Co-ordinator at MES, welcomed of students who are interested in serving the community and society in general. P N Baburaj, the gathering and remarked that such philanthropic venture would enable students to equip President of ICBF, formally inaugurated the forum. Speaking on the occasion, P N Baburaj said themselves with leadership qualities and instil confidence and discipline among the participating that Reach Out-MES is created to inculcate values of selfless service among students with non- students. “The forum will serve in fields of Health, Education and Environment,” he added. profit motive and in a philanthropic manner to help the needy in general and the ailing working The event was attended by notable personalities, including Abdul Salam, founder of Haajika community in particular. Speaking on the occasion, Hameeda Kadar, Principal of MES, emphasised Foundation. Nahla Naseer, Secretary for Girls at MES, introduced the members of the forum and on the need for inculcating the habit of lending a helping hand to others and developing empathy Shaher, Secretary for Boys, proposed a vote of thanks.

Qatar Premier League (QPL) Cricket Tournament Season XI kicks off

Qatar Premier League (QPL) Cricket year 24 teams from almost all the Tournament Season XI titled ‘Carson subcontinent countries, including Club’ recently kicked off at Barwa India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka City grounds with trophy unveil are participating in the tournament. ceremony. Nilangshu Dey, President The event was attended by notable of Indian Sports Centre, was the chief personalities, including Rupesh, guest, and Asif Ali, Senior Journalist Director of Carson Logistics; Amjad and Head of Ruby News Network, Khan, Gulreiz Syed, Junaid, and and Dr Mohammed Masood Ahmed, Shahnawaz. The members of QPL Educationist and Director of Indo-US committee, including Qamar Qureshi, hospitals Hyderabad India, the guests Chairman; Mir Sohail, President; of honour. Nilangshu Dey unveiled the Saifullah, Vice President; Ibadur tournament trophy on the occasion Rahman, Deputy Vice President; in the presence of 24 captains of the and Sridhar Abbagouni, Amer teams. Ashfaq, Abed Khan and Sharfuddin, Speaking on the occasion, Siraj Board members, also attended the Ansari, Founder of QPL, said that this ceremony. Wednesday, October 9, 2019 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY

Nepali organisations in Qatar organise convention

Nepali Literature Society – Qatar (NLS) recently organised its eighth convention. The new Ramdam, Treasurer. off ice bearers of NLS, include Sita Ram Thapa, Chairperson; Mani Poudel and Lekh Karki, Vice Chitwan Youth Group (CYG), one of the oldest Nepali community organisations in Qatar, recently Chairpersons, Yadav Regmi, General Secretary; Lok Maya Chhetri, Secretary; Khem Subedi, held its 15th convention. The new off ice bearers of CYG, include Ram Hari Gaire, Chairperson; Treasurer; Narayan Bhandari, Sub-Treasurer; and, Shusma Katuwal and Chakra Karki, members. Shyam Kumar Pandey, First Vice Chairperson; Bir Bahadur Gurung, Second Vice Chairperson; The event was attended by notable personalities, including Karim Baks Miya, Nepali journalist. Prakash Aryal, General Secretary; Puran Poudel, Secretary; Nabin Ghimire; Treasurer; and Krishna Prem Prasad Bhattarai, outgoing chairman of NLS, presided over the event. Binod Khadga and Bahadur Sunar, Co- Treasurer. The other members, included Soma Khati Pariyar, Sangita Theng Dr Bhagbat Acharya recited their poetry on the occasion. Tamang, Jaya Bahadur Thapa magar, Anish Nakarmi, Raju Tiwari Rajendra, Subash Thapa, Bijaya Bisworkarma Society (BS) held its third convention at Kerala Culture Centre. Gam Bahadur Bk, Chaudary, Min Bahadur Rashaili, Arjun kumar Bisworkarma, Ganesh Thapa, Raj Kumar Thapa, former president of BS, presided over the event. Muktada Musalman, President of Non Resident Bhumiraj Karki, Yubaraj Sharma, Torana Sripali, Deepak Bhandrai and Nabaraj Shrestha. Nepali Association National Co-ordination Council Qatar (NRNA NCC), also attended the event. The convention was chaired by Prakash Aryal, outgoing president of CYG. Som Sapkota, Co – The event featured various cultural performances. The newly elected off ice bearers of BS, include treasurer of Non Resident Nepali Association International Co-ordination Committee (NRNA–ICC) Prem Kumar BK, President; Prem Bahadur Rashaili, First Vice Chairman; Sebak BK, Second was the guest of honour. Chairman; Mohan Ghatani, Third Chairman; Deepak BK, General Secretary; and Ramkrishna – Text and photos by Usha Wagle Gautam

LIT-Q holds third graduation ceremony

Lighthouse Integrated Institute – Qatar (LIT-Q) recently organised third graduation ceremony new things that will give way to change their lives for the betterment of their future and to achieve under the theme of ‘Quality Education is the key to Success’ at Crowne Plaza Business Park Hotel. higher level of dreams,” she added. Speaking on the occasion, Ma Antonette Salgatar, President and Founder of LIT-Q, said that there Arch Marvin Ryan Macuja Tejada was the guest of honour. Speaking on the occasion, Arch Tejada are 200 students who have finished their respective courses for batch 8 belonging to diff erent emphasised on the need for education. He told the graduates his love for learning and how he divisions of the institute, including IQN Division, ALC Division and SCQ Division with HRM Division. embraced knowledge. He shared his humble beginnings and his pursuit for excellence. He urged “This is a big achievement since the institute is only turning on their second year,” said Salgatar. the graduates to continuously attend trainings and educational courses to help build their career. “The institute believes that life is a continuous learning. As an OFW they should not stop learning The awards of excellence were presented to outstanding trainers and students on the occasion.

ISC organises Inter Organisation Table Tennis Tournament

Indian Sports Centre (ISC), in and 30 Singles Category, Subham association with Qatar Table Tennis Agarwal bagged the winning Association, recently organised ISC title, which was followed by Rohit Teyseer Motors Inter Organisation Goverdhan as the runners up. In Table Tennis Tournament at Qatar men above 30, Vikram Arora was Table Tennis Training Centre. Over the winner and Dr Mohsin Khan 100 people participated in the the runners up. In Women above tournament. 19 singles category, Shalini Tiwary The tournament was divided into bagged the winning title, which was two categories including open for followed by Aradhi Agarwal as the Indian national men and women runners up. from 19 to 30 and above and inter Ziad, Technical Director of QTTA, was organisation featuring teams of the chief guest and Pashupati Anand various Indian organisations in Qatar. the guest of honour. Nilangshu Dey, United Friends bagged the winning President of ISC, welcomed the title in inter-organisation category, gathering. Arun Kumar , Secretary which was followed by Larsen & Indoor games and Badminton at Toubro as runners up. In the Open ISC, compered the prize distribution Tournament for Men between 19 ceremony. 8 GULF TIMES Wednesday, October 9, 2019 COMMUNITY TRA Best day trip from Florenc In March, the biking season was young, so we had a double treat: Our small-group tour became, de facto, a private tour since no one else had signed up. And our tour guide turned out to be the owner of the company, Vignoli, writes Kerri Westenberg

HERITAGE: Siena was listed as World Heritage Site in 1995 by Unesco, having appreciated that the extraordinary Medieval city has preserved its characteristics and qualities for so many centuries.

n Italian puffed his understand why cycling is central Florence-to-Siena ride. A different of way. He splits his time between bag of mixed dried fruit whose way up the narrow to the Italian lifestyle: It’s the best trip, however, had caught my eye, Florence, where he grew up and names I mostly did not recognise road – literally. His way to experience the countryside. one that sounded even better – by where his mother still lives, and and bottled herbs from a farmer hands clutched his When planning a five-day stay 7 miles. Dubbed “Florence to Siena the Los Angeles area, just a few shading himself with a yellow handlebars, leveraging in Florence, my husband and I had Soft,” it begins with a van ride to miles from where my husband and umbrella. themA for power as he cycled uphill. two side-trips in mind. We wanted a hilltop village, eliminates all but I used to live. We spent the ride After shopping, we rejoined That left only one place for his to bike in the Tuscan hills and we one long climb and covers a breezy to the starting point discussing Vignoli at the coffee shop and cigarette: between his lips. wanted to take a day trip to Siena, 13 miles. Perfetto. his favourite biking routes from headed to a parking lot, which was He smiled in greeting as we a medieval confection of a town The morning of our ride, we Los Angeles’ Brentwood section large and open enough for us to try passed. Headed in the opposite centred by the dramatic oval- fortified ourselves with a big hotel to the Pacific Ocean. He offered out the bikes before starting our direction, I had just crested the shaped Piazza del Campo. breakfast and then headed to the restaurant suggestions in both journey. Vignoli told us that he’d hill and my speed was picking up. My research uncovered a way to meeting point. The company Siena and Florence. Tony Bennett be at every stop and turn along the On this sunny Saturday in spring, do both at once. couldn’t pick us up because our crooned on his car speakers. way, and then drove ahead. I had already coasted past fields of “How about if we biked from hotel was in a pedestrian-only After a 45-minute drive, Vignoli Soon, he was flagging us down gnarled olive trees, seen a pheasant Florence to Siena?” I asked, with zone. We knew we were at the dropped us at a coffee shop in at a cluster of stone buildings and scamper into the grasses, breathed my laptop propped open. right place when we saw a van with Castellina in Chianti, a golden- led us into a sleek restaurant for in Cypress-tinged air – and At the time, it was the heart of bikes on its racks and a lean Italian hued stone village that seems to a food tasting in Fonterutoli. The encountered scads of Italians in winter outside. It didn’t take us looking for us. have sprouted from the hilltop food was delicious, even if it was skin-hugging bike shorts zipping long to make our decision. In March, the biking season was eons ago. We walked down its just 10:30 in the morning. We ate across Tuscany (the vast majority, I’d struck on the idea after young, so we had a double treat: winding main drag to a farmers lightly, knowing we had miles to without tobacco). my online research led me to Our small-group tour became, de market and encountered a rarity, go. “Italians are crazy for bikes,” the favourably reviewed I Bike facto, a private tour since no one at least in our tourist experience: Our next stop was a scenic guide Marco Vignoli told me before Tuscany. The Florence company else had signed up. And our tour Commerce intended for Italians, overlook, where Vignoli checked I set off. An Italian could be broke offers a range of cycling excursions guide turned out to be the owner of conducted by vendors who spoke on our water supply and made sure and still wouldn’t hesitate to drop in Tuscany and beyond, from the company, Vignoli. no English. we were fine. He later waved us on $5,000 on a road bike, he said with private, guided multiday A former cycling racer and long- We were tempted by cheeses, at a corner and touched base before a shrug. adventures designed to a rider’s time biking guide, Vignoli turned salami hanging overhead and our only significant hill. “No Perched upright on a specifications to small-group out to be a charmer, and not just in heaps of vegetables. I used my racing; the hill is long,” he warned. comfortable hybrid bike, I began to day trips, including the 20-mile that iconic Italian-gentleman kind rudimentary Italian to buy a I took the gears as low as they Wednesday, October 9, 2019 GULF TIMES 9 AVEL COMMUNITY ce, Italy: a bike trip to Siena

LOCAL EXPERIENCE: Several buildings in Fonterutoli have been converted into stylish guest accommodation, where you can live like a local.

TRADING SPOT: Chianti is a golden-hued stone village that seems to have sprouted from the hilltop eons ago. This place plays quite a role for commerce CROWDED: After a day of cycling in the countryside you feel Siena beautiful but crowded. and Italian traders.

would go, and worked my way at 9am. and made it to Siena by to the top, which culminated in 1pm. another hilltop hamlet, where We explored the hilly city, laundry hung out to dry. There, marvelling at its duomo, dining I rejoined my husband, who’d on heaps of pasta, and enjoying a already finished the ascent, scoop of guilt-free gelato in Piazza and Vignoli, who gave me an del Campo, along with loads of enthusiastic high-five. From there, other tourists. he assured us, we didn’t have far After a day of cycling in to go. the countryside, where we Just when I was ready to quit, I encountered biking Italians but saw Vignoli up ahead, waving us few others, Siena felt beautiful but down. My legs felt just a little bit crowded. like jello when I rolled my bike up We were content to decompress to Vignoli – but they had enough during the van ride back to power left for a walk through Florence, nibbling mysterious Siena. pieces of dried fruit and watching We rode the van to the outskirts the landscape pass by at a van’s of town, made a plan to meet pace. We’d already seen Tuscany at Vignoli at the same spot in three the best pace, by bike. hours, and tracked down lunch in – Star Tribune (Minneapolis)/ CYCLING EXCURSIONS: The Florence company off ers a range of cycling excursions in Tuscany and beyond, from the city; we’d set off from Florence TNS private, guided multiday adventures designed to a rider’s specifications. 10 GULF TIMES Wednesday, October 9, 2019 COMMUNITY INFOGRAPHIC

Science Matters Endoscope Ultrasound and light see inside brain Researchers have found a way to use ultrasound to direct light through tissues to obtain images of the brain and other deep organs without breaking the skin. Current, invasive endoscopy uses a fiber-optical camera (endoscope) inserted through an incision (or down a channel such as the gut) to see area of interest

Ultrasound-assisted optical imaging Surface Works because laser light of correct wavelength can penetrate tissue endoscopy patch 1 Patch transmits very high-frequency sound waves Light beam (ultrasound) through skin and skull, Ultrasound waves into brain tissue AREA OF INTEREST 2 Patch receives echoes back from brain and is positioned over area of interest

3 Ultrasound creates lens of tissue, more transparent to light than usual, that can focus light on area of interest

4 Light penetrates several centimeters of skull Source: Maysam Chamanzar and brain tissue without of Carnegie causing injury Mellon University College of Engineering; Light: Science 5 Reflected light is captured, and Applications journal creating image of area inside brain Graphic: Helen Lee McComas, Tribune News Service Wednesday, October 9, 2019 GULF TIMES 11 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY Dog at home means longer life, better heart health

dog at home means longer life depression and loneliness, both of which have and better cardiovascular health, been connected to dog ownership in previous especially for heart attack and studies. stroke survivors who live alone, “Keeping a dog is a good motivation for according to a new study and a physical activity, which is an important factor Aseparate meta-analysis on the subject. in rehabilitation and mental health,” said Prior studies have shown that dog Tove Fall, professor at Uppsala University in ownership alleviates social isolation, Sweden. In the meta-analysis, Researchers improves physical activity and even lowers reviewed patient data of over 3.8 million blood pressure. people taken from 10 separate studies for a “The two new studies provide good, quality composite meta-analysis study. data indicating dog ownership is associated Researchers found that compared to non- with reduced cardiac and all-cause mortality,” owners, dog owners experienced a 24 per cent said Glenn N Levine, Chair of the writing group reduced risk of all-cause mortality, 65 per cent of the American Heart Association’s scientifi c reduced risk of mortality after heart attack; statement on pet ownership. and 31 per cent reduced risk of mortality due to Researchers in this study compared the cardiovascular-related issues. health outcomes of dog owners and non- “Having a dog was associated with owners after a heart attack or stroke using increased physical exercise, lower blood health data provided by the Swedish National living alone after hospitalisation was 33 per recorded to have had a heart attack, with pressure levels and better cholesterol profi le Patient Register. The patients studied were cent lower, and 15 per cent lower for those almost 6 per cent being dog owners, and in previous reports,” said Caroline Kramer, Swedish residents aged 40-85 who experienced living with a partner or child. nearly 155,000 people were recorded to have Assistant Professor of Medicine at the a heart attack or an ischemic stroke from 2001- The risk of death for stroke patients living had an ischemic stroke, with almost 5 per University of Toronto. The fi ndings of the 2012. alone after hospitalisation was 27 per cent cent being dog owners. study and meta-analysis were published Compared to people who did not own a lower and 12 per cent lower for those living The lower risk of death associated with dog in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and dog, researchers found that for dog owners, with a partner or child. ownership could be explained by an increase Outcomes, a journal of the American Heart the risk of death for heart attack patients In the study, nearly 182,000 people were in physical activity and the decreased Association. —IANS

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

A member of your household has perhaps been withholding some An unexpected and perhaps unwelcome call or e-mail from a co- You may have been saving up for something you really wanted, negative emotions for a long time. He or she may finally let loose worker might mean you have to work some extra hours, Taurus. Gemini, when an unexpected expense compels you to spend with everything today. This could prove disconcerting, Aries, as This could be frustrating. You may feel that someone is taking unfair some of your savings. This could cause some gloom. Make sure you probably had no idea this was going on. Some honest talk is advantage of you. If you aren’t up to doing it, say no. This won’t you’ve exhausted all of your other options before digging into your definitely in order. Try to show that you understand. All should be aff ect your long-term standing with this person. Otherwise, grit your nest egg. Appearances could be deceiving. There could be other fine in the end. teeth, dig in, and think of it as a favour. resources at your disposal that you didn’t immediately think of. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

Some hidden problems in your house could suddenly appear, Some strange communications could come your way today, Leo. A group you’re aff iliated with could find some discrepancies in their Cancer. This could involve plumbing, electricity, or the walls. Repairs Hang-ups or blank e-mails could have you wondering who the financial records and ask you to check into it, Virgo. This is probably are definitely indicated. It’s best if you see to them right away rather person is and what they want from you. This is probably due more to due more to mistaken entries or lost pages than to any major than wait. The problem will only escalate if neglected. It’s probably problems with phone lines or Internet connections than to anything disaster, but solving it will set everyone’s mind at ease. Don’t be better to call in professionals than to try to do it yourself. Things like else, so don’t waste time worrying. If you think you know who’s surprised if you have to dig through little scraps of paper buried in this are a drag, but they happen. trying to reach you, wait until tomorrow and contact him or her. the bottom of files. It will be worth it, though. LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

Secrets that someone close has been trying to keep hidden could come Some strange news concerning friends who live far away could Some rather unsettling insights into a friend’s thoughts and feelings out today, Libra. This may or may not be something Earthshaking, come to you secondhand today, Scorpio. Attempts to reach the could come to you today. Your intuition is keener than usual, but either way, some quick damage control might prevent them from people in question may prove fruitless, at least now. Withhold Sagittarius, so trust your instincts about everyone, even strangers. becoming common knowledge. The people around you are more judgment about what you hear until you talk to your friends, as Disconcerting though it may be, the experience will increase your understanding than you know, so express how you feel. By tomorrow it much of what is passed on to you is likely to be misinformation. understanding of others and enable you to deal with them in the should be old news. Take care of business and all will be well. Tomorrow you should have better luck reaching them. right way. This could strengthen your relationships. CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

A disagreement with a friend or family member could cause Plans to get some long-neglected tasks done around the house Plans to get together with a close friend might go awry due to confusion and hurt feelings if it isn’t nipped in the bud. or yard may be interrupted by a phone call from someone dear circumstances beyond your control, Pisces. Sudden events could Communication is the key, Capricorn. Avert misunderstanding who lives far away. You might be so excited by the call that you are necessitate being out of touch. You might have to face delays when by explaining in detail exactly what it is you need or what you’re no longer in the right frame of mind to finish your work once the you’re trying to make arrangements. Don’t give up – you will reach your prepared to give. Don’t assume everyone knows this already. Do this conversation ends. Don’t worry. You can always get the tasks done goal but just a little later than you’d hoped. Accept things as they are in person if you can. Phone or e-mail might not be as eff ective. later. and change your schedule. These things happen. 12 GULF TIMES Wednesday, October 9, 2019 COMMUNITY CARTOONS/PUZZLES

Wordsearch Adam

Pooch Cafe

ALMANAC SALAMANDERS KILIMANJARO EGOMANIAC COMMANDOS DISMANTLE ROMANCE HUMANLY PERMANENT COMMANDER UNDEMANDING GERMANIUM DEMANDS

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. Wednesday, October 9, 2019 GULF TIMES 13 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Super Cryptic Clues Colouring

Across Down 1 Reheat stew for a loved one 1 Old rulers of Iran unaffected (10) by revolution? (5) 7 Horse swallowing a very soft 2 Account for former spouse stone (8) who’s not attractive? (7) 8 Burden is nought when 3 Riot organised by group of carried by boy (4) three (4) 9 Break for a game of cards (4) 4 Look at ship delivering 10 Leather produced by child’s cosmetic (8) family (7) 5 Goes round for some bread 12 Car worker, a successful TV (5) show contestant? (5,6) 6 Repair damaged sword (6) 14 Turning Labour, many get 11 Precious metal for a blonde votes (7) (8) 16 Take out a tie (4) 12 Something to commemorate 19 Act of revolution (4) a cause of tooth decay (6) 20 Don’t be so demanding - it’s 13 The endless brooks provide unnecessary (8) excitement (7) 21 Writers making artists mad 15 Independent type - one (10) entertained by left and right (4,4) 17 Western snakes and insects (5) 18 Others take it easy (4)

Solution Answers

Wordsearch Codeword 14 GULF TIMES Wednesday, October 9, 2019 COMMUNITY BOLLYWOOD I have become thick-skinned about film reviews now: Anil

ctor Anil Kapoor, who is still Khalid compared Lamhe with saab’s going strong after four decades in Mausam (1975). But almost after 25 years, Bollywood, has said that negative Khalid sent me a message saying that ‘I was reviews used to aff ect him in his wrong and it’s a very good fi lm’. So sometimes early days because his hard work it’s your state of mind. And at that time, you Awould be ignored, but now he has become may not like the fi lm but when you watch it thick-skinned. again you might like it.” Anil Kapoor was addressing the media at Lamhe was a dud at the box-offi ce on the launch of Khalid Mohamed’s book The release, but over time the fi lm has been Aladia Sisters along with , Javed widely acclaimed as one of Kapoor’s best Akthar and Asha Parekh in Mumbai. performances ever and is counted among the Mohamed has worked as a journalist, late Yash Chopra’s best directorial eff orts. editor, fi lm critic, screenwriter and fi lm Kapoor also added that he is surprised that director. On being asked if Mohamed’s fi lm the recently released Hollywood fi lm Joker reviews hurt him, and if he could recall any has got a few negative reviews. of the critic’s caustic reviews, Kapoor said: “I recently watched Joker, and although “There are quite a few fi lms. Right now, the film has received 99 per cent positive the fi lm that comes to my mind is Beta for reviews, there are some reviews that are not which I won the Filmfare Award as Best very positive – which surprised me because Actor. He titled his review as ‘Beti’ (laughs)! I loved the film. So, these things keep Fortunately, the fi lm was a huge success at the happening. Obviously, now the time has box-offi ce.” passed, so I have become much more thick- Beta, released in 1992, became a skinned where reviews are concerned. But blockbuster at the box-offi ce, and many earlier when you start your career, you are among the audience and the trade alike had quite sensible because there are certain attributed the fi lm’s success to its heroine films in which you and your team have Madhuri Dixit at the time. worked really hard, so when you don’t “The second fi lm is Lamhe,” Kapoor get favourable response, that can be quite continued, adding: “I think reviews of upsetting,” he said. Lamhe (1991) were quite devastating for Anil Kapoor will next be seen in Anees Yash (Chopra) ji and for all of us because it Bazmee’s Pagalpanti, Mohit Suri’s Malang impacted business of the fi lm. I remember and Karan Johar’s Takht. – IANS UNAFFECTED: Actor Anil Kapoor said that negative reviews used to aff ect him in his early days.

Gaurav: Digital entertainment Raahgir connected emotionally space is blossoming at Busan: Director Ghose

Actor Gaurav Chopra, who plays a pivotal role in National Award the new web-series Hello Mini, says that although winning-fi lmmaker cinema is changing, the digital space is where more Goutam Ghose is happy experimental work is being done, and this is the that his latest fi lm reason many actors consider the medium to be the Raahgir has connected next big thing. emotionally with the “I must say that the digital entertainment space is audience at this year’s becoming much more interesting than cinema because Busan fi lm festival. the rules are lesser. Yes, cinema is changing but the Raahgir had its world digital space is blossoming, and that is why it is more premiere at Busan on attractive for actors interested in experimentation. Monday evening, and the Earlier, after TV, the next big thing was fi lm, because fi lm received an ovation it was glamorous. Film is still glamorous and a lot of from the audience after experimental work is also happening in the medium. the screening. but an actor like me is getting more off ers from the “We are happy with web space,” Gaurav said. such an overwhelming Gaurav has appeared in web series such as Love Lust response. The best and Confusion and Foreplay. He has also portrayed thing about being at several roles on television including Raghuvendra GOING DIGITAL: Gaurav Chopra says the digital such a prestigious Pratap Rathore in Uttaran, Professor Abhay Singh entertainment space is becoming much more platform as Busan Ranawat in Sadda Haq: My Life, My Choice, Adhvik in interesting than cinema. is the crowd that Aghori. cuts across language “On TV, one has to have a set number of episodes, Aditya Grover, a man who prioritises power over or geographical and the graph of your character might change and emotions. According to the actor, his character was barriers. The audience you do not know that fl ow. In fi lm, because of time introduced in the script and was not a part of the understood the limit, one might not be able to get into the nuance novel. language of cinema. of a character. But on a web show, I know what is “Although it is a special appearance, I had to put They connected APPRECIATED: Goutam Ghose says he was happening in the entire episode. I know my character, in a lot of hard work because every time I appear with the emotions happy with an overwhelming response. so as a performer I can approach it accordingly.” on screen, I create an impact. I put on some weight of empathy and For Gaurav, satisfaction as an actor matters, and not because in some of the shirtless scenes, I wanted him compassion that the film talks about,” Ghose said. the medium. “Whether it is a TV series like Aghori or a to look like a successful businessman and not like “Not only did the audience enjoyed Raahgir, they also asked relevant web series as Hello Mini, as long as I get exciting roles, a supermodel with a perfect body. Also, since the questions related to the fi lm, which shows their engagement with the I am happy,” said Gaurav. screen time is less, I had to create impact with every fi lm was genuine,” said producer Amit Agarwal. The psychological thriller series Hello Mini tells the appearance,” said the actor. The fi lm is a tale of empathy at the time of crises, and revolves around story of a young girl in Mumbai who gets stalked by a Hello Mini, a 15-episode web series featuring Anuja three characters who develop a relationship while on a journey. faceless stranger. The show is based on the Stranger Joshi, Gaurav Chopra, Priya Banerjee, and Mrinal Raahgir stars Adil Hussain, Tillotama Shome and Neeraj Kabi. The Trilogy of novels by Novoneel Chakraborty. Dutt, and is streaming on the OTT platform MX fi lm is all set to be screened at MAMI in Mumbai on October 19 and 20, In the series, Gaurav plays a businessman named Player. – IANS under Spotlight section of the festival. – IANS Wednesday, October 9, 2019 GULF TIMES 15 HOLLYWOOD COMMUNITY

DeGeneres defends friendship CANDID: with George W Bush Don Johnson Comedian-host Ellen DeGeneres has says he defended her friendship with George W Bush, will not after facing backlash for a photograph with the watch his former US president. daughter The comedian came under fi re for sitting Dakota next to former president at the Dallas Johnson’s Cowboys football game on Sunday. hit Fifty She addressed the online criticism that Shades came her way during the taping of The Ellen movies. DeGeneres Show reports dailymail.co.uk “Yes, that was me at the Cowboys game with George W Bush over the weekend. Here’s the whole story. Here’s the thing: I’m friends with George Bush. In fact, I’m friends with a No Fift y Shades fi lms for Don Don shares Dakota with his ex-wife lot of people who don’t share the same beliefs Melanie Griffi th. that I have,” DeGeneres said. Actor Don Johnson says he will not He will soon be seen in dark comedy “We’re all diff erent and I think that we’ve watch his daughter Dakota Johnson’s hit mystery fi lm Knives Out alongside forgotten that that’s okay that we’re all Fifty Shades movies. Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, Ana de diff erent... but just because I don’t agree with Dakota became a household name Armas, Jamie Lee Curtis, Toni Collette, someone on everything doesn’t mean that I’m after starring as Anastasia Steele in Fifty Michael Shannon, Lakeith Stanfi eld, not going to be friends with them,” she added. Shades series, which is based on the Katherine Langford, Jaeden Martell, and “When I was invited, I was aware that I novels by EL James. It also stars Jamie Christopher Plummer. The Lionsgate was going to be surrounded with people from UNDER FIRE: Ellen DeGeneres came under fire Dornan as Christian Grey. production is slated to release in the US very diff erent views and beliefs. And I’m not for sitting next to former president at the Dallas During his appearance on an episode on November 27. talking about politics... I was rooting for the Cowboys football game. of This Morning, Don said that he has no Talking about the experience on the Packers,” DeGeneres joked. interest in watching the franchise. sets, Don said: “You go in, get dressed, do “So I had to hide my cheese hat in Portia’s Several viewers took to social media to Asked if he had seen the fi lm, Don make-up and go to set. After rehearsals, purse,” she added. express their mixed feelings about Bush and said: “Hmmmm image control! There we would fi nd ourselves in this basement In the image, DeGeneres was seen sitting DeGeneres sitting together. are certain images as a father you don’t room sitting around between shots right next to Bush and his wife Laura and “People were upset. They thought, why really need to see. I didn’t have a clue and telling stories. You can imagine, Charlotte Jones was opposite de Rossi. is a Hollywood liberal sitting next to a she was interested (in acting). She was Christopher, Daniel and I – we’ve got They were briefl y shown on the Fox conservative Republican president? A lot of always joyful on set and playing pranks on a couple, it was exciting. I can’t tell broadcast of the game and photographs of people were mad. And they did what people do everybody. Little did I know, Miss Dakota any of them. I probably could but can’t Bush and DeGeneres chatting and laughing when they’re mad... they tweet,” DeGeneres was paying close inspection!” remember the whole thing.” – IANS together quickly went viral. said. – IANS Trebek has ‘some regrets’ about sharing pancreatic cancer diagnosis

While speaking with CTV By Christi Carras News, the TV star also shared an update on his treatment, which has switched from immunotherapy fter hosting Jeopardy! that “didn’t do diddly squat” for more than 30 back to chemotherapy, which had years, Alex Trebek previously caused some of his is no stranger to the tumours to shrink by “more than spotlight. Sometimes, 50%.” Ahowever, the veteran game show “It just kicked the slats out host says he wishes he were out from under me, and I lost a lot of of that spotlight when it comes to weight,” Trebek said. “So we’re addressing his pancreatic cancer. back on the chemo, and we’ll “There are moments when I see if the numbers go down. … have some regrets about having We’ll play it by ear and just keep gone public with it because there’s chunking along until we either a little too much of Alex Trebek win or lose.” out there, and I regret that,” he Though Trebek insisted he said in an interview with Canada’s wasn’t afraid of dying, he did CTV News last week. “To be express concerns that side the inspiration for a lot of other effects of the cancer might one people makes me feel good, but it day prevent him from hosting does place a responsibility on me Jeopardy! For now, however, he that I feel I’m not deserving of.” said he could “suck it up when it’s During the conversation, time to film the show,” no matter Trebek discussed his mental how weak he may feel on the and emotional state following inside. an unexpected setback in his “I will keep doing it as long as treatment, as well as the physical my skills do not diminish, and trials and limitations the illness they have started to diminish,” and medical procedures continue he said. “The chemo has caused to inflict. Last month, for sores inside my mouth. It makes example, Turner Classic Movies it difficult for me to speak and confirmed to the Los Angeles REGRET: Alex Trebek attends the SNL 40th Anniversary Celebration at Rockefeller Plaza. enunciate properly. … I notice Times that Trebek would not be those things, and I’m sure there setting sail, as he usually does, on Classic Movies Cruises, so I’m to cruise-goers obtained by does not permit me to be away for are observant members of the its annual TCM Classic Cruise, very disappointed that I will The Times. “As you know, I’m that week. I hope you all enjoy the television audience who know which this year begins Oct. 22. not be able to make the October battling pancreatic cancer, and cruise, and that I will be able to this, also. But they’re forgiving.” – “I LOVE sailing on the TCM sailing,” Trebek said in a message the schedule for those treatments join next year’s event.” Los Angeles Times/TNS 16 GULF TIMES Wednesday, October 9, 2019 COMMUNITY Popular Indian designer says fashion is key to social identity

RUNWAY: Designs by Prasad Bidapa, a well-known Indian fashion consultant and stylist. Photos by Ram Chand

handlooms and spinning the charkha is still a By Mudassir Raja very heavy activity all over the country. Khadi “We have to cater is particularly suited for new born infants. We always tell people do not use synthetic fabrics international markets. ashion is a social marker. People for children. can understand someone by “Further, Khadi is a kind of spiritual My message is to looking at the fashion they wear. fabric. First of all, spinning of Khadi You can also derive what kind of becomes a very concentrated and use fabrics of India personality an individual has by philosophical act. If your concentration lookingF at the way they dress and the colours breaks, the thread on the charkha will and create a global they wear. break. They say that you have to get into Prasad Bidapa, a well-known Indian a state of absolute nirvana literally to be product with it. That fashion consultant and stylist, believes able to spin fine thread. Now, there is a big that many messages come through fashion revival of this form. It can create further is the challenge for designs “Therefore, fashion becomes jobs and income opportunities for over 20 extremely important as a sociological tool percent of India’s population. Khadi is now the new generation of because it gives you a marker of which nation a fabric of luxury. We want it to become you are from.” something more exclusive. When you are designers” Bidapa was recently in Qatar on the creating something with handcraft, you are invitation of the Embassy of India to creating something exclusive that can never — Prasad Bidapa attend a special event at VCUarts Qatar to be copied by anyone. That is our message highlight the importance of Khadi, a fabric for the young designers. We have to inspire India and create a global product with it. popularised by Gandhi whose 150th birth them to feel that they can have some lasting That is the challenge for the new generation anniversary was marked on October 2. values and they can contribute to this of designers.” Community interviewed him about Khadi and wonderful unbroken chain of 5,000 year The designer does not see Bollywood really contemporary fashion. history of the subcontinent textile.” promoting fashion in India. “Bollywood Bidapa, who has been in the Indian fashion Bidapa says the fashion in the subcontinent does not really dictate the fashion. However, industry for about four decades, is also very has come a long way since its independence a star can wear a certain design and make interested in education. He has travelled from the British Raj. “Women in combined the designer successful. But I do not think around the world to attend diff erent fashion India have always been very fashionable. Even that Bollywood has created a certain kind shows. with nothing they would creating something of fashion trend. India is a big country “About fi ve years ago, I became very wonderful. Fashion always existed. But, it and Bollywood is not followed in all of the interested in Khadi. It is a very emotional became a serious matter with certain fashion country.” fabric for Indians and other South Asian designers in 1960s. Then in 1970s and 80s Bidapa, who was in Qatar for the fi rst time, nations. We call it the fabric of freedom. This things picked up momentum with new was impressed with the country in many is because of Mahatma Gandhi, who used it as generation of designers.” ways. “Qatar is fast becoming an education a tool to strike against the colonial power. The experienced designer believes the hub. I felt very welcomed and very much at “Khadi can further be defi ned as a hand ethnic arts of the subcontinent will never be home. spun and hand woven fabric. If there is any in danger. “Khadi is a perfect fabric for tropical element of mechanisation in it, it is no longer “Sari is as popular as it used to be. In and desert climate. Wearing Khadi, we Khadi. It is a fabric that is biodegradable and fact, women in the West have started feel very cool. It can help us in coping with it is sustainable. Today, India produces a large wearing sari. We have to cater international fl uctuations of the temperature. Khadi will amount of Khadi because the country still has markets. My message is to use fabrics of help you preserve your body temperature.”