Community Community The Sri Lankan Visiting Majlis Qatar chef Andy P6marked the P20 Arndt to Independence Day of preside over Taste Sri Lanka by conducting of California event competitions for children at Discover America at the embassy. Week in Doha.

Wednesday, February 17, 2016 Jumada I 8, 1437 AH

DOHA 16°C—24°C TODAY LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE 13 PUZZLES 14 & 15 Double COVER treat STORY As well as being ILPG’s grand special meet, American Beauty Breakfast set the ball rolling for the much awaited Discover America Week. P4-5 2 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 17, 2016 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

PRAYER TIME Fajr 4.51am Shorooq (sunrise) 6.08am Zuhr (noon) 11.48am Asr (afternoon) 3.03pm Maghreb (sunset) 5.31pm Isha (night) 7.01pm

USEFUL NUMBERS

Emergency 999 Worldwide Emergency Number 112 Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 Ooredoo Telephone Assistance 111 Local Directory 180 International Calls Enquires 150 The Benefactor SYNOPSIS: The fi lm follows a philanthropist meddling in the Time 141, 140 GENRE: Drama lives of a newly-married couple attempting to relive his past. Doha International Airport 40106666 CAST: Richard Gere, Dakota Fanning, Theo James Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 DIRECTION: Andrew Renzi THEATRES: The Mall, Royal Plaza, Landmark Medical Commission 44679111 Mowasalat Taxi 44588888 Qatar Airways 44496000 Weather Forecast 44656590 Hamad Medical Corporation 44392222 44393333 Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation 44845555 44845464 Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 44593363 Qatar Assistive Technology Centre 44594050 Qatar News Agency 44450205 44450333 Q-Post – General Postal Corporation 44464444 Qatar University 44033333

te Unqu uo ot Q e Paavada SYNOPSIS: Two alcoholics enter a treatment facility to Old minds are GENRE: Comedy get their lives straightened out before they re-release a fi lm. like old horses; you must CAST: Prithviraj , , Mia George DIRECTION: Marthandan THEATRES: The Mall, Landmark exercise them if you wish to keep them in working order. Mall Cinema (1): Paavada () (Arabic) 7.45pm; How To Be Single (2D) 2pm; The Choice (2D) 4.30pm; Ocean 14 9.30pm; The Pack (2D) 11.30pm. — John Adams (Arabic) 6.15pm; The Benefactor (2D) 8pm; Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (1): Alvin & The Pack (2D) 9.45pm; Jil Jung Juk (Tamil) 4.45pm; The Choice (2D) 6.45pm; Jil Jung The Chipmunks: The Road Chip (2D) 3pm; 11.15pm. Juk (Tamil) 8.45pm; Paavada (Malayalam) Navy Seals: The Battle Of New Orleans (2D) Mall Cinema (2): Alvin & The Chipmunks: 11pm. 5pm; Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2D) The Road Chip (2D) 2.30pm; Kung Fu Style Cinema Land Mark (2): Kung Fu Style (2D) 7pm; Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2D) (2D) 4.15pm; The Finest Hours (2D) 5.45pm; 2.30pm; Kung Fu Style (2D) 4pm; Pride & 9pm; Navy Seals:The Battle Of New Orleans Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2D) 7.45pm; Prejudice & Zombies (2D) 5.30pm; Navy (2D) 11pm. Navy Seals:The Battle Of New Orleans (2D) Seals: The Battle Of New Orleans (2D) Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (2): Fitoor Features Editor 9.45pm; Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2D) 7.30pm; Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2D) (Hindi) 2.30pm; Kung Fu Style (2D) 5pm; Kamran Rehmat 11.30pm. 9.30pm; Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2D) Sanam Re (Hindi) 6.45pm; The Finest Hours Mall Cinema (3): Fitoor (Hindi) 2.15pm; 11.30pm. (2D) 9pm; Fitoor (Hindi) 11pm. e-mail: [email protected] Sanam Re (Hindi) 4.30pm; How To Be Cinema Land Mark (3): Pride & Prejudice Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (3): The Telephone: 44466405 Single (2D) 6.30pm; Fitoor (Hindi) 8.30pm; & Zombies (2D) 2.30pm; Alvin & The Benefactor (2D) 2.30pm; How To Be Single Paavada (Malayalam) 10.45pm. (2D) 4pm; The Choice (2D) 6pm; The Fax: 44350474 Chipmunks: The Road Chip (2D) 4.30pm; Cinema Land Mark (1): Paavada The Benefactor (2D) 6pm; Ocean 14 Benefactor (2D) 8pm; Ocean 14 (Arabic) (Malayalam) 2.15pm; The Finest Hours (2D) 9.30pm; The Pack (2D) 11.15pm. Wednesday, February 17, 2016 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY

EVENTS Economic Development Forum brands. Additionally, a number of educational DATE: March 7-8 seminars will be delivered on jewellery and Qatar Music Academy VENUE: Sheraton Doha Hotel watches throughout the week. DATE: Feb 20 The Entrepreneurship in Economic VENUE: St Regis Development Forum forum aims to further Qatari Agricultural Product Yards A total number of eight students from highlight the importance of entrepreneurship DATE: Until June 30 the ages of 11-16, representing a variety of as a vital element in economic development VENUE: Al Mazrooa, Al Zakheera, Al Khor, nationalities, which include locals and expats and an engine for private sector growth and Al Wakrah performed at St Regis Doha. The students diversity. It will bring together offi cials, policy The Ministry of Environment has opened performed pieces by Mozart, Hansen, makers, academics, educational institutions, the 4th season of Qatari agricultural product Beethoven, Chopin, Bach, Paganini, Fink, Al Gannas universities, businessmen, bank leaders, yards for selling locally produced fruits, Rameau, Villa-Lobos, Rieding, Schubert and DATE: Until Oct 30 fi nancial institutions and economists from all vegetables, poultry, fi sh and livestock. Work Moszkowski on the piano, violin trumpet and TIME: 9am - 11:30am over the world. in these yards will continue for seven months. snare drum. The next series of concerts are VENUE: Al Gannas Society The yards will operate three days a week on scheduled to happen on February 20 and on Al Gannas Association is participating in Halal Qatar Festival Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 7am April 23, 2016. the ‘Our culture is a school’ programme by DATE: Feb 19-28 to 5pm, with livestock vendors in Al Mazrooa organising many activities for the students VENUE: Katara Southern Area operating at the same times throughout the every Monday and Wednesday of the week. Committed to reviving the Qatari heritage, week. These activities include explanations on the Cultural Village Foundation - Katara hunting and related tools, kinds of falcons is hosting, for fi fth consecutive year, the Atif Aslam and Shalmali Kholgade in and preys, in addition to workshop on how to Halal Qatar Festival for goat and sheep Qatar carry a falcon, set a traditional tent (made of breeding. The festival includes Almzaan, DATE: Feb 26 goat & camel hair), prepare traditional Arabic barns and auction, as well as a large number TIME: 6pm-10pm coff ee, etc. of accompanying activities, such as games, VENUE: Asian Town Amphitheater traditional food, the old market and the Playback singers Atif Aslam and Shalmali Winter Weekends at Aspire Zone tent heritage, in addition to many other Kholgade will perform live together for the DATE: Until March 24 recreational and educational activities related very fi rst time in Qatar. TIME: 4pm-9pm to Halal and ways to deal with them. VENUE: Aspire Park Pottery workshop for kids Aspire Zone Foundation invites you to Childhood Cultural Center DATE: Every Monday come along with your family and friends, and DATE: Until March 31 TIME: 5pm-6pm to bring your kids every Thursday for outdoor TIME: 9am-10:30am Kids will learn a new hand building sport fun activities, including football, VENUE: Katara technique for creating and fi nishing artworks volleyball, competitions and games for boys Childhood Cultural Center participation in clay. For more, call 44865201. and girls, from 4pm to 9pm. in ‘Schools Enrich our Culture’ programme includes a variety of educational and artistic Hip Hop for kids Qatari Youth Forum workshops. DATE: Every Sunday DATE: Feb 22-23 TIME: 5-6pm VENUE: Sheraton Doha Hotel Art Exhibition VENUE: Hilton The Qatari Youth Forum, which will DATE: Until April 18 Join our Hip Hop classes instructed by Everette E. Dennis be organised by the Ministry of Culture VENUE: Porto Arabia, Pearl Beats and Bytes every Sunday at 5pm @ and Sports for the fi rst time in Qatar, Diff usion by Peter Zimmermann — A Hilton Hotel, Efora Spa. For more info, call on Panel on US elections aims to enhance communication between mesmerising solo exhibition of colourful, 33003839 The American Chamber of Commerce in the ministry and youth, and provide the futuristic works. Anima Gallery, Parcel 17, www.salsancandela.com Qatar (AmCham Qatar) is hosting a special appropriate environment that promotes Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. Contact: edition of its popular Distinguished Speaker dialogue and consultation between them 40027437 Salsa Beginners Series as part of the second annual Discover and those supervising the youth in schools, DATE: Tuesday, Friday America Week taking place February 15-22 in clubs and universities. In addition, it aims to Aspire Aquathon Series TIME: 8-9pm Doha. A panel of international media experts give young people the chance to present their DATE: Feb 20 VENUE: Hilton Hotel will tackle the upcoming US presidential ideas, participate in examining the issues VENUE: Hamad Aquatics Centre Whether you’ve danced salsa before or election in a lively debate, ‘Presidential that concern them, and work out solutions, You can join this popular combination of not, you will fi nd what you want. Diff erent Predictions Forum: Media, Politics and besides activating new youth initiatives swimming and running sport race, organised salsa classes with diff erent levels at your Campaign 2016.’ and coming up with recommendations that by Aspire Zone Foundation in Hamad service, taught by the best instructors in Doha The panel will be moderated by reinforce youth work. Aquatics Centre pool facility and around the at Eforea Spa, Hilton Hotel. No need for a Northwestern Qatar Dean and CEO Everette Aspire Zone precinct. Entry fees: QR20. Entry partner, no need for reservation, come as you E Dennis and will include three prominent Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery is open for all ages and talents, aged 8 years are. Prices are QR60 per person per lesson. panelists: Clyde Wilcox, professor of political Summit and above. Adult groups will run for 5km and Visit: www.salsancandela.com science at the Georgetown School of Foreign DATE: March 10-12 swim 500m long, while kids will run between Service in Qatar; Jocelyn Mitchell, assistant VENUE: Hajar Auditaurium 1.5 - 3 km and swim between 100-200m long, Ladies day at Beach professor of liberal arts at Northwestern Hamad Medical Corporation will organise according to their age group. DATE: Every Monday University in Qatar; and Yasir Khan, Al the Third Qatar International Metabolic TIME: 9am-7pm Jazeera English producer and documentary and Bariatric Surgery Summit with the Neuroscience Conference VENUE: Sheraton Doha fi lmmaker. participation of distinguished keynote DATE: February 18-20 For all the ladies in Doha! Do you feel like speakers and panelists who will share VENUE: Sheraton Hotel taking some time off for yourself? Come join Cultural Diversity festival their experiences through lectures and The 1st Qatar Annual Neuroscience us at the Sheraton Resort for an all-day- DATE: Until May 31 discussions on bariatric and metabolic Conference, organised by the Neurological access to the beach and pool, along with aqua TIME: 7:30-9:00pm surgery techniques. The summit will feature Institute at Hamad Medical Corporation, gym aerobics for free. Nestled on the edge VENUE: Katara Beach live sessions to provide technical knowledge off ers a comprehensive educational of Qatar’s West Bay with an unbeatable and Over 20 countries from all over the world from experts around the world and support programme specifi cally designed for the uninterrupted views of the blue sea. Our pool are showcasing their traditions and heritage. specialists to adopt new techniques in their Mena region that will have signifi cant and beach adds an exciting experience to practice for revisional and complicated emphasis on practical aspects of common enhance your senses of relaxation. Enjoy only bariatric surgeries. neurological and neurosurgical disorders. The for QR100 per person. scientifi c programme committee has invited Second Qatar Nephrology Conference world leaders in their fi elds to share their DATE: Feb 25-27 knowledge with the attendees. FOODIE CHOICE VENUE: Convention Center, Sheraton Hotel Jewellery and Watches Exhibition RESTAURANT: Yabby The Second Qatar Nephrology Conference, DATE: February 23-27 LOCATION: Shangri-La Hotel Doha which will be organised by Hamad Medical VENUE: Doha Exhibition and Convention A vivacious ambiance with the Doha’s Corporation, will bring together experts in Center largest live and fresh seafood selection. Open the fi eld of nephrology to discuss the most Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition for lunch from 12pm to 3pm and dinner from important clinical issues that specialists (DJWE) is being held once a year in Qatar. 6:30pm to 11:30pm. Enjoy the fi rst adults- face in their daily practice. The conference’s This show is one of the most exclusive in the only Friday brunch from 12pm to 3:30pm. programme addresses the diff erent aspects world for wealthy individuals interested in Shangri-La Hotel, Doha, Level 1, Conference of renal and transplantation medicine by a fi ne jewellery and unique pieces, watches, Centre Street, West Bay, group of highly respected and experienced gemstones, and diamonds, all represented E-mail: [email protected], Phone: physicians from all over the world. by more than 500 exclusive international 44295295.

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 17, 2016 COMMUNITY COVER STORY The red-white-blue verve American Beauty Breakfast — the first event of the week-long Discover America Week celebrations organised by the American Chamber of Commerce in Qatar and the US embassy — was an instant hit, writes Anand Holla

American members Lora Lyn Frederick, left, and Mindee Jones Poldrack strike a pose. Photos by Noushad Thekkayil

onday morning at Week celebrations organised by the Monaghan, Joanne Blakemore, US in the form of a trivia quiz. the Al Jazi Gardens American Chamber of Commerce Amany Eid and Sahar Khawaja, Monaghan shared how the 13 Clubhouse in West in Qatar and the US embassy. in association with AWAQ, the equal horizontal stripes of red (top Bay sure seemed Ladies turned up in outfi ts that event buzzed with the collective and bottom) alternating with white, brighter than had a smattering of red, white or excitement of those gathered. represents the original 13 colonies, elsewhereM in the city. A merry wave blue, or cowgirl denims and hats, Blakemore told Community, “The and a blue rectangle in the upper of red, white, and blue, had taken or any sort of western attire that best part for us, Americans, is to hoist-side corner bearing 50 small, over the American Beauty Breakfast encapsulated the quintessential see all these ladies of diff erent white, fi ve-pointed stars arranged gathering, as around 150 ladies Americana coolth. All the ladies nationalities come together and in nine off set horizontal rows of six gathered to celebrate American could be seen wearing red, white be part of this American picnic stars (top and bottom) alternating culture, cuisine and cheeriness. and blue plastic garlands, through and do line dancing, which is a with rows of fi ve stars, represents The grand American special the morning full of festivities as the uniquely American dance. It’s so the 50 states. meet of the International Ladies American members of ILPG and wonderful to see such enthusiastic “The blue stands for loyalty, Potluck Group put together by its AWAQ had arranged everything response and participation from an devotion, truth, justice, and American members, in association from a group of beauty and health international community.” friendship, red symbolises courage, with the American Women’s experts who let ladies in on how The event fl agged off with zeal, and fervency, while white Association of Qatar (AWAQ), was to glam it up to the choicest Monaghan explaining the meaning denotes purity and rectitude of further enhanced by becoming assortment of American food. and symbolism of the US fl ag, while conduct,” Monaghan explained, part of and being the fi rst event of Hosted by ILPG’s American Joanne Blakemore shared with the “The US fl ag is commonly referred the week-long Discover America members, headed by Pleunette ladies some rare information on the to by its nickname Old Glory.” Wednesday, February 17, 2016 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY

A group photo of the ladies at the event.

Blakemore engaged the audience showed just how involved they all with some fun trivia on America, “When all the ladies got up and danced, it showed were in this celebration,” Blakemore such as: “Fourth of July fi reworks just how involved they all were in this celebration. said, “It was heartening to see an were begun as a mockery of the international group embrace an tradition of fi reworks for British It was heartening to see an international group American festival.” royalty. The Fourth of July wasn’t Shriani Burley, Co-president of an offi cial US holiday until 1941. embrace an American festival” ILPG, said, “With this, ILPG has ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ is — Joanne Blakemore, ILPG member completed another exciting and set to the tune of an old English enjoyable event. Thanks to the drinking song. Lincoln logs were ILPG’s American members and the named after Abraham Lincoln turned to Nina Johnson, who American goodness. The highlight, Theresa Backus Dunn, Executive AWAQ members, we could all come and his childhood log cabin. No specialises in nutrition, to glean of course, was buckets of Kentucky Director, American Chamber of together and make this gathering president has been an only child. some precious wellness advice. Fried Chicken with side dishes like Commerce in Qatar, said, “The such a huge success.” Longtime friends John Adams and The Trinity Talent had set up a macaroni and cheese. The ladies American Chamber of Commerce ILPG consists of 422 members Thomas Jeff erson died on the same photo booth where the ladies posed had whipped up some salads on in Qatar was very excited to partner from 65 countries. The group day, July 4, 1826. The national for photos donning cowboy hats their own, such as potato salad, with the American Women’s has been a torchbearer for expat capital was originally Philadelphia, and masks representing American bean salad, and coleslaw, while a Association and the International ladies in Qatar, boasting of over Pennsylvania. President Lincoln icons. What got the ladies grooving wide range of scrumptious sweets, Ladies Potluck Group to put 400 members from more than 65 kept important notes and papers to their hearts’ fi ll though was from scones to chocolate fudge, on the fi rst event of this year’s countries. ILPG celebrated its 11th tucked in his famous top hat.” line dancing as Chela Radi from completed the feast. Discover America Week – Qatar anniversary, last year. Given the theme American Dance Entertainment As with all ILPG events, the 2016 calendar. Attendees at the The annual Discover America Beauty Day, beauty brands like and Classes acted as the line customary raffl e was held as the day’s American Beauty Breakfast enjoyed Week Qatar celebrations began on Diva Lounge Spa, Glow Salon, dancing caller and DJ Zack Petersen lucky ladies jumped up in joy and expert advice from health and Monday with a host of special and Clinique from Salam Store spun some interesting western and picked up some cool prizes donated beauty professionals, giveaways events and attractions. The had set up stalls at the event and country music. by the stall holders and the regular and an American-style picnic.” series of events celebrate the assisted the ladies with their health, While there were ample samples sponsors Salam Store, Sawasdee Given the verve and spirit on US-Qatar partnership. Running skincare and make-up queries. of healthy breads and other Spa and Bellezza Salon. The ladies show throughout the event, it until February 22, it will highlight While some women could be seen delicacies available for tasting, also took away some “goody bags” would be hard for anyone to not American business and innovation, having a ball getting their make-up the food reserved for the hearty from Diva Lounge Spa and a host of have felt rejuvenated. “When all travel, food, music, fashion, art, done at the Clinique stall, some breakfast comprised typical samples distributed by Clinique. the ladies got up and danced, it education and culture.

Beauty treatments underway. The ladies getting busy at the food corner. 6 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 17, 2016 COMMUNITY ‘Ragolsavam 2016’ on Friday

Afsal Bhama Rimi Tomy

n array of artists, including honouring four expatriates who have been and comedians Dharmajan Bolghatty, Niyas we have staged a few remarkably successful playback singers, comedians associating with humanitarian activities Backer and Mani Shoranur among others. stage shows in the last few years, “ said one and dancers will perform at a across diff erent communities for the last The show includes a number of comedy of the offi ce-bearers of the Incas. three-hour show ‘Ragolsavam several years. skits, besides rendition of songs by the three Gates at the venue will be open at 5pm. 2016’ to be held at MES Indian The show, organised by Keralite playback singers. The four humanitarian workers who will ASchool grounds on Friday (February 19). It is expatriate forum Indian Cultural and Arts Offi ce-bearers of the Incas told this be honoured at the function are Senior scheduled for 6pm start. Society (Incas), has Behzad Group as the newspaper that they are hosting the event at nurse at Hamad Medical Corporation Molly The event is directed by Mummy Century, Event Sponsor and Rusiya Group as Main a time when there are hardly any such stage Pauly, Abdul Salam , Merry Rozario who has directed a number of similar events sponsors. shows in the country’s Indian expatriate and M Ali. The foursome has been rendering in the Gulf region in the last 20 years. Gulf Among the artists who have confi rmed community. noble services while repatriating the bodies Times is the offi cial media of the event. their participation are cine actress Bhama, “Though we are not regulars in organising of several Asian expatriates who have died During the show, the organisers are also singers Afsal, Rimi Tomy and Pradeep Babu, stage shows in the expatriate community, while they were being in the country.

SLMQ marks the 68th Independence Day of Sri Lanka

The Sri Lankan Majlis Qatar (SLMQ) marked the 68th Independence Day of Sri Lanka by conducting competitions for Sri Lankan children recently. The competitions were held on the embassy premises and included public speaking, essay writing, drawing and colouring. The prizes and certificates were awarded to the winners by the principal of the Sri Lankan school in Qatar and Sri Lankan ambassador Dr WM Karunadasa. Wednesday, February 17, 2016 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY

Indian embassy marks Qatar National Sport Day

The Embassy of India collaborated with the Indian Cultural Centre from the embassies of France, Philippines, Indian and Pakistan India like kabaddi and kho-kho. They also demonstrated yoga. (ICC) to mark the Qatar National Sport Day at Khalifa Tennis & attended. A team also represented Qatar. All countries were In the women’s tennis tournament, Indian nationals Vipasha Mehra Squash Complex in the morning session and Arabi Sports Club in assigned a pavilion to showcase the traditional items from their and EN Sravanti finished first and second, respectively. the afternoon session. countries and India took good advantage of the opportunity by India’s ambassador to Qatar Sanjiv Arora also attended and was For the morning session, the Qatar Tennis Federation invited decorating the tent with colourful and antique items. presented memento by Ebrahim Saleh al-Khulaifi, the Assistant several embassies to participate in a tennis tournament. Teams At the sports pavilion Indian players displayed traditional games of Head of National Team Committee.

Nepalese Tharu community celebrates Maghi

Tharu Kalyankarini Sabha-Qatar (TKS) recently organised a cultural programme marking the festival of Maghi at Quality Hypermarket along Salwa Road. TKS is an umbrella organisation representing the Tharu community in Qatar and Maghi, their biggest festival, celebrates Nepalese New Year. During the programme, popular Tharu artists showcased their talents to entertain the audience. The festival also marks the end of winter and the beginning of summer. Men wear the traditional dress of Mardani (dhoti) and Phad (kachhad). The women dress up in Nahagi (a white dress) and Uporona. The women also wear jewellery made of gold and silver, including “nathiya” on the nose, “Kanphul” in the ear, “Hansuli” and “Kanthi” on the neck, “Matha” on the wrist, “Tadia” on the elbow,”Tikuli” on the forehead and “Upairi” on their feet. The function was presided over by Tharu community leader Anjani Kumar Tharu. Hari Prasad Aryal, second secretary at Nepalese Embassy, was the chief guest. Artists Rishika Chaudhary, Prem Shila Chaudhary and Sita Chaudhari were the prominent performers on the occasion.

Text and photos by Usha Wagle Gautam CINE

8 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 17, 2016 COMMUNITY Winners of Qatargas Chess Championship felicitated

The third edition of the Qatargas Chess Championship, organised by the Qatar Chess Association He was joined by Mohammed Ahmed al-Medaihki, General Secretary, QCA, Hamad al-Tamimi, (QCA), was held from February 11 to 14 at the Al Muntaza Model Primary School for Boys. Nearly Executive Director, other senior off icials of QCA and Mariam al-Hor, Director of Al Muntaza Model 120 boys and girls between 6–16 years old participated in the tournament. A ceremony was held School. The top three prizes were claimed by Egyptian Menatalla al-Taftazani, Indian Pushkar Suhas on Sunday after four days of exciting competition, to award prizes to the winners. Azzam Abdulaziz Talwakar and Qatari Salih al-Hor, respectively. A total of nine rounds, were played with each round al-Mannai, Qatargas Public Relations Manager, attended the ceremony and gave away the prizes. lasting up to 20 minutes.

Qatar Music Academy students perform at Jazz at Lincoln Center

The students of Qatar Music Academy, in association with Steinway Piano Gallery Qatar, recently Science and Community Development. Eight students from the ages of 11-16 represented a variety performed their second concert on the stage of Jazz at Lincoln Center at The St. Regis Doha Hotel. of nationalities. The students performed pieces by Mozart, Hansen, Beethoven, Chopin, Bach, Qatar Music Academy is the leading music academy in Qatar that combines between academic Paganini, Fink, Rameau, Villa-Lobos, Rieding, Schubert and Moszkowski on the piano, violin trumpet learning and musical depth. The vision of the academy focuses on furthering musical excellence in and snare drum. The next series of concerts are scheduled to happen on February 20 and on Qatar and the wider region. Qatar Music Academy is a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, April 23. EMA

Wednesday, February 17, 2016 GULF TIMES 9 COMMUNITY

DPS-Modern Indian School bids farewell to Grade XII students

DPS-Modern Indian School organised a farewell for students of Grade XII students recently. The event began at 10am with a prayer, followed by a farewell video, dance and band performance all planned and executed by the Grade XI students. Students of the outgoing batch of 2015-2016 shared their experiences and memories with the audience. School President Hassan Chougule and School Principal Asna Nafees wished the children the very best for their board exams and future endeavours.

MES bids adieu to Class XII students

The MES Indian School organised a farewell for its Class XII students recently. More than 600 students and 250 teachers attended. A total of 552 students, who have completed their Class XII at the school, were honoured with mementoes. The major student off icials, prefects, club secretaries and Campus Care Force members were given certificates for their contributions to the school.

Birla issues hall tickets to Class XII students

Birla Public School bid farewell to its seventh batch of Class XII students recently. A total of 193 students of Science and Commerce will have their exams spread across March, with a few extending to April. The students also received their hall tickets on the occasion. Each candidate received the Hall Ticket along with a pen and a copy of the class photograph. 10 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 17, 2016 COMMUNITY ‘I Love My Monoprix’ campaign

launched The Monoprix team in Qatar. onoprix Qatar has drawn attire including badges that reinforced the the campaign. A hugely popular highlight of right from the start. After having been in the inspiration from its devoted message. A host of giveaways were also created the wide variety of in-store events was the market for a relatively short time, when we fans to create the “I Love My by Monoprix baring the campaign slogan. introduction of the friendly, red, heart shaped designed this communication effort our goal Monoprix” campaign. Taking the campaign beyond Monoprix’s doors “I Love My Monoprix” mascot who is bound to was to give voice to how our customers feel The campaign is built a wide range of touch points located from add to the lively entertainment at the popular about us. Maround an integral commitment of Monoprix parking spaces, to walls, doorways all carried store. “From a Monorpix perspective we have Qatar of caring for the health and well-being branded communication material, thereby Commenting on the campaign launch pledged to bring the very best in terms of of its customers. Utilising the full power of a spreading the “I love My Monoprix” message Regional General Manager of Monoprix food retailing with clothing, household versatile mix of media channels, the “I Love far and wide. Sebastien Farhat said, “Monoprix Qatar has items, perfumes, cosmetics and gifts My Monoprix” Campaign gives voices to a Harnessing the strength of social media and steadily built a reputation for giving pride of and place them at the fingertips of our myriad of reasons why customers love the press relations a special bloggers breakfast place to our customers. We focus on what our customers. brand while enticing those who have yet to event was held for press and bloggers, at customers want and need, what their specific “We are pleased to say we have kept this interact with Monoprix to experience the best which information was disseminated on the preferences are, what high quality products promise. From a customer perspective we of what Monoprix Qatar off ers. Gift Hampers available to reward Monoprix’s can we place before them to give them a know they have opinions about what makes The “I Love My Monoprix” Campaign was visitors. Bloggers and members of the press wide array of choices while giving them them love our brand and what draws them to launched by creating a fully engaged in-store were treated to a number of interactive and how can we offer unbeatable value for Monoprix. In this campaign we bring both experience. Members of staff at Monoprix activities in-store designed especially to their money. This is the customer-centric those elements together, and we carry out sported t-shirts, aprons and other branded enable them to capture diff erent elements of mindset that has driven all our offerings that conversation on media space.”

Meeting pays tribute to late Malayalee poet, ONV

ONV, an eminent Malayalam poet who passed away recently, “used his creative writing as a torch for social transformation to uphold universal humanity.” This was the opinion of speakers at a condolence meeting organised at Friends Cultural Centre Vayanakkoottam recently. Taking a humanitarian view, ONV used his poems as weapons to fight systems of exploitation. Environmental issues were brought to focus in Malayalam poetry through ONV’s compositions, said speakers. “After Changampuzha, ONV was the most adored poet by the common Malayalee,” said one speaker. The meeting was presided over by FCC Executive Director Habeeb and attended by a number of prominent members of the Indian community in Qatar.

HERO Qatar wins Filipino Friendship Game

HERO Qatar basketball team won the Filipino Friendship Game that was organised at Asian Town to mark the Qatar National Sport Day recently. Ronnie Cajayon was declared the Most Valuable Player, while MusikHERO Qatar team member Alen Peñaflor won the award for the basketball half court shoot out. A large number of Filipino organisations participated in the activities organised to mark the day. Wednesday, February 17, 2016 GULF TIMES 11 COMMUNITY

Al Khaliji Commercial Bank hosts football tournament

Al Khaliji Commercial Bank organised its second annual 5-A-Side Football Tournament in support of Qatar’s National Sport Day recently. The tournament involved 12 teams from local and international organisations and saw enthusiastic participation, sportsmanship and positive team spirit among all competing groups. The teams were: Qatar Development Bank, Tasweeq, Qatar Airways Company, Gulf English School, Carnegie Mellon University, Woqod, QNB, Amwaj, Al Fardan, Qatar Insurance Company, Q-Chem and a team from the bank itself. Amwaj won the tournament, with Carnegie Mellon University coming in second place and Q-Chem third.

Bhavan’s Public School hosts Guinness World Record-holding flutist

Bhavan’s Public School gave a warm reception to flutist Narayanan, a Guinness World Record holder, at its Al Wakrah campus recently. Murali took the students on a voyage of diff erent musical styles, ranging from Carnatic to Hindustani to folk and western. A large number of students and the school’s staff members attended.

Youth Forum Qatar organises sports meet

Youth Forum, the youth wing of Indian Islamic Association, recently organised the Fourth Indian Expatriate Sports Meet 2016 to mark the National Sport Day. The first day of the meet was held at Al Markhiya Sports Club on February 5, along with the qualifying rounds of the sevens football tournament. The second day of the meet was on February 9, while the final day of the meet was on February 12.

McDonald’s Qatar marks NSD

McDonald’s Qatar marked the National Sport Day by supporting a series of events held by leading local organisations including Qatar Institute of Speech & Hearing, Qatar Hope, Khawala Bint Alazwar School and Barwa City Community initiatives. McDonald’s Qatar gave away meals and giveaways and kept all the children entertained. Over 500 children with their parents attended the events and participated in the sports activities organised by the McDonald’s Qatar staff such as Obstacle Course, Sack Race, Cone relay and Tug-of- War among others. 12 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 17, 2016 COMMUNITY INFOGRAPHIC Wednesday, February 17, 2016 GULF TIMES 13 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY Resolve to cut clutter: Quick, easy ways to bring order to the kitchen

he kitchen may be the Storage space that works heart of the home, but better, and smarter it’s also home to a lot If you’re lucky enough to have a of clutter. From food pantry, go beyond simple shelves to and utensils to small make this area work better — and appliancesT and phone chargers, smarter — for you. Pullout baskets the kitchen is the second most- and shallow drawers will ensure cluttered room in the house. your pantry off ers a proper place for everything. Curved cradles can turn Stash your stuff where you an ordinary shelf into a beverage can see it storage centre, allowing you to store You don’t need a large pantry or wine, water or soda bottles on their countless cupboards and drawers sides, while eliminating the fear to fi nd the perfect spot for all your of them falling off the shelf. And stuff . If you have blank space on instead of wasting the space on the walls, consider adding a few the back of the door, install a slim, open shelves. They provide plenty vertical storage system to provide a of storage while keeping everyday spot for plastic wrap, aluminum foil dishes and staples, like the coff ee and other awkward-sized kitchen canister or cookie jar, within easy must haves. reach. The key to staying organised is The biggest pain point — and making the best use of the space eyesore — for homeowners is lack of you have. With a little imagination counter space, and feeling like there and the right additions, getting the isn’t enough real estate for everyday kitchen organised once and for all is essentials. Instead of adding to the paperwork or electronics. leaving it in a damp heap on the hang. Not only will it free up space, a New Year’s resolution that’s easy chaos, designate a specifi c “drop Extend the “everything in its counter, install a towel bar, towel but like in the bathroom or powder to achieve. zone” for items that fi nd their way place” mentality to another kitchen ring or hook to the side of a cabinet room, you’ll always know where to into the kitchen each day, like mail, staple — the dishtowel. Instead of or island to create a spot for it to look for it when you need it. ©Brandpoint

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

Don’t be too willing to do something for someone today Aries, when If there is one thing to be wary of today bulls its overdoing the If you aren’t sure about someone’s intentions, trust your gut and you know they more than likely wouldn’t help you out. compliments. It could come off as being aggressive. your instincts.

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

Be open to some new situations today Cancers. Something you Being a fire sign, you can often fire back quickly before thinking There is nothing worse than putting a lot of work into something and haven’t had to deal with as yet. about your words or actions. is not being well received.

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

Unless you are 100% sure about something, don’t push forward with Mars the energetic planet of the zodiac in your sign for the rest of You need to redirect your energy inwards today Sags. Put it towards it. the month is pushing you hard right now. Don’t overdo it. something you want to achieve.

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

There is nothing better than doing something you enjoy doing, is Be true to yourself today Aquarius. If something doesn’t feel right, There is nothing you can do to stop a train from going off the tracks there goats? smell right or taste right, don’t eat it! today. So let it Pisces. 14 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 17, 2016 COMMUNITY PUZZLES/CARTOONS

Wordsearch Adam

Pooch Cafe

Ending and Beginning

BEGIN ENDING NEW CEASE ENTER OLD CLOSE EXPIRE ONSET COMMENCE FINISH RISE COMPLETE INTRODUCE SPRING CONCLUDE LAST START DAWN LAUNCH TOMORROW EMBARK MORNING YESTERDAY 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, February 17, 2016 GULF TIMES 15 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Quick Clues Colouring

ACROSS DOWN 7. Jail (6) 1. Particular (7) 8. Orb (6) 2. Knave (7) 10. Offender (7) 3. Plank (5) 11. Vagrant (5) 4. Work (7) 12. Related (4) 5. Cloth (5) 13. Rash (5) 6. Cut (5) 17. Foolish (5) 9. Specify (9) 18. Manufacture (4) 14. Varied (7) 22. Stir up (5) 15. Sailor (7) 23. Paltry (7) 16. Full (7) 24. Strip (6) 19. Wife (5) 25. Fault (6) 20. Arc (5) 21. Mature (5) Cryptic Clues

Answers

Wordsearch Codeword

ACROSS DOWN 7. Well-known bather’s shout (6) 1. Mounts, perhaps, and starts on a journey 8. Feel in form, like a cat (6) (4,3) 10. The head cleaner (7) 2. Small cask for fresh water – or sea 11. The kind that turns green (5) water? (7) 12. Charge a number for animal fodder (4) 3 . Misses jumps (5) 13. Speeds that go up every year (5) 4 . Worked to rule? (7) Yesterday’s Solutions 17. Expresses regret for glue that’s weak, 5. Soldier and worker combine in a big we hear (5) way (5) QUICK CRYPTIC 18. Entrance for spectators (4) 6. Up or down it is neither (5) Across: 1 Union; 4 Confess; 8 Despair; 9 Across: 1 Paste; 4 Plumber; 8 Elation; 9 22. One may slip and fall into it (5) 9. Out to make one uneasy? (3,2,4) Plump; 10 Reel; 11 Canister; 13 Chew; 14 Glad; Butts; 10 Step; 11 Immodest; 13 Dash; 14 Lean; 23. Control may rest in the wrong position 14. Take a side turning, perhaps (7) 16 Nautical; 17 Taxi; 20 Idiot; 21 Unusual; 22 16 Escalate; 17 Lute; 20 Exist; 21 Electra; 22 (7) 15. Money making gifts (7) 24. Diffident in two ways (6) 16. It’s often faced with resolution (3,4) Genteel; 23 Enemy. Freedom; 23 Delft. 25. Left one with a Shakespearean part (6) 19. Appears to understand the manuscript Down: 1 Understanding; 2 Issue; 3 Near; 4 Down: 1 Please oneself; 2 Scale; 3 Evil; 4 (5) Corral; 5 Nuptials; 6 Equated; 7 Superficially; Panama; 5 Unbroken; 6 Bittern; 7 Rise to the 20. A hundred are insolent and coarse (5) 12 Belittle; 13 Caution; 15 Manual; 18 Amuse; 19 bait; 12 Isolated; 13 Decline; 15 Stream; 18 Until; 21. Point to organist’s control in bar (5) Sure. 19 Head. 16 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 17, 2016 COMMUNITY CINEMA At Berlin, Clooney loses cool

unusual plot about how a tea-shop is built By Gautaman Bhaskaran on an absolutely arid land in the British India of 1913, and the lone eatery on a hostile wilderness spawns a community t is not in India alone — as we often around it — and ultimately a whole village. think — that movie stars are revered Anjala begins with a couple wearily and celebrated, placed on a pedestal walking on a parched expanse of land. and worshipped like demi-gods. This There is no vegetation, there are no trees, happens the world over, and I have no shrubs. The husband and wife are going Iseen stern looking immigration officers at towards a village, but make a mid-day halt Venice or Cannes or Beijing melt and break to quench their thirst. An English officer into a big, big smile when I tell them that I on horseback comes along, and orders them am there in their country to cover a cinema to move. But the couple stay on right there festival. After this, it is green, green all the after the officer leaves, and decide to build way! a shack on the spot that eventually becomes But the sad truth is, these men and the tea-shop. women, who weave fantasy on screen, We are told in a voice over that while pushing our pulses to pound and our civilisations grew on river banks, the tea- imagination to take wings, are not demi- shop village grew not by the side of a water gods. They are mere mortals like any of body, but in the middle of barren land. And us with their faults and weaknesses, their interestingly, the shop first becomes a place limitations and moods. Pushed to the where travellers quench their thirst. precipice sometimes by silly journalists and Anjala, that is the name of the tea-shop, their sillier questions, stars snap. As George later becomes a centre of social interaction Clooney did at the ongoing Berlin Film — as such eateries do in India, and Festival — at a press conference soon after elsewhere. Somewhat like a Hindu temple his movie, Hail Caesar!, was screened. or maybe even a Christian church, Anjala Clooney is a master actor, whose — as we see in the movie — develops into performances in films like Up in the Air, a vibrant centre of cultural activity where Syriana, Michael Clayton, The Descendants, men meet, where lovers exchange their first The Monuments Men, Gravity and The shy glances. American among others, were just about But, Anjala — subsequently run by the brilliant. son (Pasupathy, who is just called Owner) And like many responsible artists, of the man who along with his wife erected Clooney has been deeply involved in the shack in 1913 — also turns into a humanitarian work. Part of Not On den, albeit unwittingly, where a crook, Our Watch Project, he has tried to draw unsuspecting to the Owner and the boys global attention to stop and prevent George Clooney in Hail Caesar!, which was screened at the ongoing Berlin Film Festival. who work there, hides counterfeit currency mass atrocities. He has been vociferously notes. And this leads to the Owner being campaigning for the world to recognise through its movies — and in other ways. by Eritrean-born Italian documentary arrested, and his social esteem taking a the 1915 Armenian genocide, and urging “One of the founding ideas of the Festival maker Gianfranco Rosi, is about 12-year- severe beating. Turkey (which is the modern-day Ottoman was to contribute to better understanding old Samuele, who lives on the tiny Italian An important sub-plot is the romance Empire) to accept the responsibility for this between nations and cultures,” Berlinale island of Lampedusa in the Mediterranean between one of the boys working in the tragedy. During World War I, thousands of Director Dieter Kosslick told the media at Sea, where thousands of African migrants tea-shop — Kavas (Vimal), and a college Armenians were killed or deported by the the start of the 12-day event on February 11. have landed. Samuele and the inhabitants student, Utthara (Nandita — not Das). As Ottoman rulers. The Festival “has always had a reputation of Lampedusa are “witnesses — at times Nandita waits opposite the shop every Clooney has also been fighting for a for being more political than maybe other unwitting, at times silent, at times aware morning for her college bus, she falls in love resolution to the Darfur (in Sudan) armed festivals. Many films treated either the of one of the greatest human tragedies of with Kavas. rebellion. consequences of war or the suffering of our time” and Lampedusa is “the most Also woven into the plot is a road So, it was not exactly fair on the part of displaced people.” symbolic border of Europe,” the movie’s widening project that threatens the very a reporter at the Berlin press conference to This year at Berlinale, more than 400 publicity material avers. existence of the shop. Perhaps, this must have asked Clooney what HE was doing to movies will be screened, 20,000 industry Meteor Street by France’s Aline Fischer have been the very soul of Anjala that got ease Europe’s current refugee crisis. He lost professionals will attend, several hundred centres on an 18-year-old youth who has lost in the medley of other incidents. his cool, and with irritation writ clearly on thousand tickets will be sold to the public run away from the war in Lebanon. He As much as the theme of Anjala may be his face and in his voice, he answered: “I — including refugees, many of whom will arrives in Germany, a country that may unique, the film’s scripting and treatment spend a lot of time working on these things, given free passes. not live up to his expectations. Fischer said leave a lot to be desired. Utthara’s and it’s an odd thing to have someone stand A statement from the Festival said: in a Press note that she began making the declaration of love for Kavas is artificial up and say, ‘What do you do?’ That’s fine, “Organisers are encouraging those picture in 2012, before the migrants crisis to the core, robbing the scene of a certain knock yourself out,” an annoyed Clooney attending the Festival to make contact with erupted. “We knew what was happening in tenderness, a certain beauty. Kavas’ shot back. “I have gone to places that are the migrant community. When the Berlin Syria,” she said. “But we weren’t trying to response is equally silly and juvenile. very dangerous and I work a lot on these Film Festival was launched in 1951, there make a film about the crisis. We were trying But what is utterly distasteful are the things.” were millions of German refugees and to tell a story with universal values.” scenes that are meant to provide comic “I’d like to know what you are doing to traumatised displaced persons in Europe. Some movies from the Arab world, like, relief. Here we have huge burly men with help the situation?” Clooney at one point The Festival made a point of fostering for example Houses Without Doors, will talk unimpressive physical features wooing asked the reporter, a Mexican. understanding, tolerance and acceptance... about the upheaval in the region (Syria, for gorgeous looking girls, and the whole train Minutes later, Clooney regained his As a public festival and one of the city’s instance) and how this has led to an exodus of thoughts and sequences can be described composure, and his trademark cool was biggest annual events, the Berlinale feels to Europe. in just one word, ugh. back. He was smiling and went on to add: a responsibility to do its part for Berlin’s As Kosslick added: “Artists and This kind of humour is crass, and adding “The unfortunate thing about the film culture of welcome.” filmmakers are seismographs of their time, to this lack of finesse are the needless songs community is we react to situations much In fact, when the Festival rolled its first some of the movies will allow viewers to and dances that do not push the narrative, more than we lead the way. News events edition in 1951, Europe had just got over change our perception of things and reflect but hamper and ruin it. It seems such a happen, scripts are written and movies its debilitating war and the aftermath of and act differently.” tragedy that a fascinating plot is messed up aren’t made for a couple of years...I’ve this had left a trail of misery and suffering this way. often struggled to make a film about Sudan, among millions of people, grappling with * * * But yes, Pasupathy’s extraordinarily about Darfur, a subject that’s very close loss of lives, loss of homes and loss of even dignified performance as the man who to me. But I haven’t been able to find the their own identities. Berlin itself was a Anjala genuinely feels for the boys who work proper script.” divided city, split into the America-ruled The most inspiring feature about Tamil for him and the community around stops Be that as it may, the Festival itself has West and the Russia-dominated East. And cinema is its ability to think out of the Anjala from sinking to the very bottom. been alive to the refugee crisis — what in its inaugural edition, Berlin showcased box. Tamil films continue to amaze me, with Germany alone taking in a million of cinema that dealt with war, the partition a seasoned critic who has been watching z Gautaman Bhaskaran has been them, the largest number for any European and the ravages from these. movies from just about every corner of the writing on Indian and world cinema for nation. The Festival has consciously This year, the Festival will provoke earth. over three decades, and may be e-mailed decided to talk about this grave problem debates on the refugee crisis. Fire at Sea, Thangam Saravanan’s Anjala is an at [email protected] Wednesday, February 17, 2016 GULF TIMES 17 BOLLYWOOD COMMUNITY Arjun Kapoor wants characters with ‘shades’

fter essaying the role with the 2012 fi lm , The 30-year-old actor, who of good-for-nothing said: “If you look at my fi rst fi lm is currently hosting the seventh local enforcer Parma in Ishaqzaade, I have lot of shades of season of Colors channel’s show Ishaqzaade and Bala, grey on me. In Aurangzeb, I played Khatron ke Khiladi, says that it’s who goes against his both positive and negative.” a good time for young actors as Afriend for a girl in Gunday, actor “Bala from Gunday had a lot of the audience comes to see fi lms or Arjun Kapoor says he hopes to negative shades. I have (played) watch TV shows on the “merit of get to play more characters with characters of those traits...But in the work”. diff erent shades. today’s date it has become very “With the audience, it is become “I would like to play a negative generic or boring to call it a villain.” simple — if you are doing good on-screen. I would love to play The Tevar star feels young work, they are okay. If you are not characters with (grey) shades. I actors like him are willing to doing good work, they will change have been very fortunate that I have experiment with diff erent roles. the channel or they don’t watch already got that and I hope to get “I am not somebody who is bound your fi lm. They are just coming on more (fi lms) like that,” Arjun, who by (anything). I think young actors the merit of work that we do. So, has also played loverboy in fi lms, don’t have that stress of imagery. it is a good time for young actors,” told IANS. We can aff ord to take risk. Today, he added. Arjun will next be seen Talking about his fi lmography, doing television is as much of a risk on the big screen in Ki and Ka. — DRIVEN BY MERIT: Arjun Kapoor Arjun, who made his acting debut as doing a negative role.” IANS

I’m not dying to with everyone. I work with people Madhavan may play specialist, Vijay will essay the role break any norm: with whom I am comfortable. I am shootout specialist of a gangster. Both of them are yet Kareena Kapoor Khan not dying to break any norm.” in next Tamil fi lm to sign on the dotted lines,” a source Talking about the unusual close to Madhavan told IANS. Actress Kareena Kapoor Khan is pairing with Arjun, she said: “The Actor R Madhavan might be Tentatively titled -Veda, picking unusual fi lms like Ki and typical pairing never works, but the seen essaying the role of a shootout the fi lm will be produced by S Ka, and even working with younger odd pairing works because there is specialist in a yet-untitled Tamil Sashikanth of Y Not Studios. “The actors like Arjun Kapoor. Breaking something about it which is very fi lm, which will be directed by lead cast will be fi nalised by April. norms, is it? No, she says. organic.” husband-wife duo of Pushkar- If everything goes as planned, the Ki and Ka is the story of a Kareena said her husband Saif Ali Gayathri, according to the team plans to start shooting from career-oriented woman, essayed Khan is very proud that she signed grapevine. May,” the source said. by Kareena, and a house husband, Ki and Ka, directed by R Balki. “The makers are in talks with Madhavan’s latest fi lm Irudhi played by Arjun. The fi lm’s trailer “We never discuss scripts, but Madhavan and Vijay Sethupathi to Suttru, in which he played a boxing was launched at an event on when Balki sir messaged me, I was play the lead roles. While Madhavan coach, has turned out to be a Monday. excited because I respect him as will be seen as an encounter successful venture. — IANS COACH TO COP: Madhavan It’s an unusual choice of movie a fi lmmaker. I just told Saif that for an actress, and also the fact I am going to meet Balki, and that she is paired with a fairly new the conversation ended there. Salman Khan fears actor like Arjun. Asked if it’s about Yesterday, Saif saw the fi lm’s promo bachelorhood! The 50-year-old Bajrangi to persist for some more time,” breaking norms, Kareena said: “I and he said, ‘I am so proud of you Bhaijaan actor made the Salman said in the video. don’t think of it as breaking norms. that you said yes to this fi lm’. His Bollywood’s most eligible revelation in a video, posted by The actor will next be seen I am an actor and it’s in my blood. reaction was amazing.” bachelor, superstar Salman Khan, actress Sonam Kapoor on the in Raj Films’s Sultan, in I have worked with Salman Khan, The fi lm is slated to release on whose love life has always been in micro-blogging website Twitter. which he plays Sultan Ali Khan, a Shah Rukh Khan, Arjun ... I work April 1. — IANS limelight, has revealed that while “I am afraid of the fact that till Haryana-based wrestler. Directed he fears the fact that he is single, now I am a bachelor. But, I like by Ali Abbas Zafar, the fi lm also he likes the fear. this fear. I would like this fear stars Anushka Sharma. — IANS

Amitabh Bachchan gets new Land Rover

Jaguar Land Rover India Ltd (JLRIL) announced the delivery of a Range Rover to megastar Amitabh Bachchan. “Range Rover is the fl agship of the Land Rover brand and is built on a legacy which represents the very pinnacle of refi nement and British craftsmanship, JLRIL president Rohit Suri said in a statement, adding: “More specifi cally, the autobiography derivatives of Range Rover sit absolutely at the top of the personalisation and luxury ladder.” “Over the last 45 years, The Range Rover has gained an iconic status in the high-end SUV market across the world and we are thrilled to have the ultimate icon of Indian cinema Amitabh Bachchan as a valuable customer of The Range Rover,” he added. NOT ON PURPOSE: Kareena Kapoor – IANS NEW WHEELS: Amitabh Bachchan with his Range Rover. 18 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 17, 2016 COMMUNITY HOLLYWOOD Laughing all the way! Funnyman and actor Mike Birbiglia finds comedy in tragedy. By Joseph V Amodio

fter you’ve had a bladder tumour at age 19, been hit by a drunken driver and fallen from a Asecond-storey window as the result of a severe, life-threatening sleepwalking disorder, you can either see your life as supremely tragic or seriously funny. Mike Birbiglia chooses the latter. The comedian has enjoyed some high-profi le roles in the past year — you may remember him as Amy Schumer’s boring brother-in-law in Trainwreck, and the lame boss in last season’s Orange Is the New Black — and now he’s headlining off -Broadway in Thank God for Jokes, a stand-up-comedy- meets-one-man-show-ish kind of performance that’s hard to categorise. And very funny. Also not. Birbiglia, 37, a Massachusetts native who now lives in Brooklyn with his wife and infant daughter, lampoons yoga, urology, Catholics, Muppets and more in his third off - Broadway gig (his fi rst two shows got raves). Don’t Think Twice, a new fi lm about an improv troupe he wrote, directed and stars in, will premiere in March at the South by Southwest Film Festival.

It’s hard to know how to describe your show — it’s not just jokes, there’s a dramatic arc to it, and some serious bits. I was reminded of Robin Williams. Thank you. He’s one of my heroes. We did a Wounded Warriors benefi t and a few months later — maybe six months before he died — he showed up to see me at a show in Nashville. They tried to wave him through. He said, “No, no, I’ll pay,” and he came back after the show, and we talked about a half-hour. He said, “I gotta get my fi x, boss, my comedy fi x.” He really had this addiction to comedy, to seeing it performed. He was one of the greats, but he was also such a great supporter of other comedians.

Were you the class clown COMIC APPEAL: Mike Birbiglia arrives for a screening at Landmark Sunshine Cinema, New York City. growing up? No. The class clown was always contest where I went to college, at Then he fi gured out how to be shooting Trainwreck, I was pretty pretty much playing a variation the mean guy. I was always the Georgetown. I started out trying Richard Pryor. typecast — I’m playing this boring on myself.” Actually, one of the kid being picked on by the class to be Steven Wright and ... about loser. And I’m not that far from reasons I’m a comedian is because clown. Now, I always thought I was seven years later fi gured out how to Um ... I’m afraid I may insult that. Amy, in character, quote of my mom — she’s Irish, a funny but that no one got it. I was be Mike Birbiglia. Which is always you here. unquote, would make fun of me storyteller and has a way of being convinced I was misunderstood. the hard thing. Jerry Seinfeld said OK. all day. She’d say “You’re boring” self-deprecating about herself. Then in high school my brother that in an interview once — it in 97 diff erent ways, because she’s My wife and I just had a daughter, took me to see Steven Wright takes about seven years to fi gure But you played bland, such a great improviser. In the Oona — she’s nine months old — perform. It changed my life 180 out who you are onstage, and to be boring losers in Trainwreck, movie she says, “Is that sweater and if there’s one thing I can teach degrees. He made me laugh so hard comfortable with that. and — though this is a huge from To Catch a Predator?” There her, it’s to have a sense of humour and I was like, that’s exactly the generalisation — in Orange. were so many lines that were so about herself. Life is so full of stuff I wanna talk about. I went So you were on schedule. Does it do anything to your self- mean and she said even more that mistakes and failings ... if you’re home and started writing in my They said that about Pryor — he esteem when casting agents say, got cut. And I came home to my not able to laugh at yourself it puts notebook these Steven Wright said it himself in his books, even “Wait, we need a boring guy? wife and was like, “Umm ... am I you in a really tough spot. So I’m rip-off jokes. I got onstage when — that he started out doing Cosby Call Birbiglia.” a loser? Is this something people most appreciative of my mom for I was 18 or 19 and won a comedy for the fi rst fi ve years of his career. I have to admit, when I was aren’t telling me? Because I’m teaching me that. – Newsday/TNS Wednesday, February 17, 2016 GULF TIMES 19 HOLLYWOOD COMMUNITY

Cate Blanchett magazine, reports femalefi rst. never looks in mirror co.uk. The 46-year-old says she has Actress Cate Blanchett says no interest in social networks her glamorous appearance is a or reading about herself on the “wonderful illusion” and adds that internet. “Social networks can be she never even looks in a mirror. “I very useful on some occasions, but have a great way of dealing with all I like to compare it to graffi ti. You that: I try to avoid looking in the might read one or two things that mirror. At our house in Australia, are interesting, but most of the stuff the only mirror we had was in the out there isn’t very useful. That’s bathroom. why I stay away from Facebook and “When you see me on the red Twitter. carpet or at awards ceremonies, my “I’m not interested in reading look is the result of a whole team about myself on the internet either. of people who have spent the day It’s so boring. What really interests on my hair, my make-up and my me is other people and events and outfi t. It’s a wonderful illusion,” things that matter in the world.” — Blanchett told Britain’s HELLO! IANS

ROPED IN: Michael B Jordan, left, and Daisy Ridley Jordan, Daisy Ridley added to 2016 Oscar presenters

ctor Michael B Jordan this year’s nominees — actors Cate Silverman and Sofi a Vergara. has been added to the Blanchett and Eddie Redmayne — It is expected to feature lineup of a new series who will give away the trophies, performances by singers Lady of presenters for the reports aceshowbiz.com. Gaga, Sam Smith and The Weeknd, upcoming 88th annual They are joined by actors like who are also pitted against one AAcademy Awards along with Star Emily Blunt, Common, Russell another in Best Original Song Wars: The Force Awakens actress Crowe, Chris Evans, Jennifer category. The awards night will be Daisy Ridley. Garner, Louis CK, Rachel hosted by Chris Rock on February Jordan and Ridley have joined McAdams, Dev Patel, Sarah 28. — IANS LOOKS DON’T MATTER: Cate Blanchett

Kanye West calls for $1bn “Mark Zuckerberg invest $1bn Lady Gaga gets Bowie at Grammy Awards, visited the outlandish personas made her investment by Zuckerberg into Kanye West ideas...after tattoo ahead of Grammys Shamrock Social Club tattoo believe she wasn’t too “weird”. The realising he is the greatest living parlour over the weekend, where musical director for the tribute that Rapper Kanye West has asked artist and greatest artist of all time,” Ahead of the Grammy Awards, she got a David Bowie Ziggy Gaga will be paying to the star at Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg read the post. singer Lady Gaga has got herself Stardust inking, reports femalefi rst. Grammys will be Nile Rodgers, who to invest $1bn in his “ideas”, shortly Before the post, West’s net worth inked with a tattoo of late singer co.uk. produced Bowie’s 1983 album Let’s after claiming that he is $53mn in was thought to be around $100mn. David Bowie’s face. Gaga has previously spoken of Dance and remained friends with debt. After talking about his personal The 38-year-old has two children The 29-year-old singer, who how Bowie inspired her to keep him until his passing from cancer at fi nancial problems on Twitter, daughter named North West and will also pay tribute to Bowie going with her career as his own the age of 69 in January. — IANS West took to the social networking a month old son, Saint West with platform again to talk about the $1bn reality TV star Kim Kardashian. — request, reports femalefi rst.co.uk. IANS Tyra Banks shares newborn son’s image

Supermodel Tyra Banks has shared images of her newborn son York. The America’s Next Top Model host took to photo- sharing website Instagram on Sunday to share an image of herself cradling York, who she welcomed with partner Erik Asla last month, reports femalefi rst. co.uk. Banks captioned the image as: “This is the Happiest Valentine’s Day of my life. York, Daddy Erik Asla and I send you so much FIT FOR THE SEASON: Rachel Stevens love.” Last month, Banks revealed Diets don’t work: “I’m learning to cook. It’s not my MOUNTING DEBTS? Kanye West that she and Erik had welcomed Rachel Stevens forté, but I try and balance my portion their boy through surrogation. sizes. I have a hardcore trainer who She wrote on the photo sharing Former S Club 7 band member puts me through my paces. I’m like James Corden plans site: “The best present we Rachel Stevens has given up on anyone else. Sometimes you feel great to buy $1.4mn home? dailystar.co.uk. worked and prayed so hard for is low-calorie diet in favour of hiring and other times you don’t,” Stevens Corden had previously refused fi nally here. He’s got my fi ngers a personal trainer, eating plenty of told dailymail.co.uk. Actor James Corden is said to be to buy new furniture as he was not and big eyes and his daddy Erik’s carbohydrates, and running around But despite her body confi dence, planning to buy a $1.4mn home in convinced that the show would do mouth and chin. after her daughters Amelie and the 37-year-old says her busy Malibu after his The Late Late Show well. “I was so convinced it wouldn’t “As we thank the angel of a Minnie to get the perfect physique for schedule has left her feeling “frazzled” turned out to be popular. work that we rented all our furniture woman that carried our miracle her beach holidays. but it’s been an amazing year so far. Corden, who relocated to Los for a year. I mean, I’ve never hosted baby boy for us, we pray for “I love my carbs, especially in “I always think you look better with a Angeles to host The Late Late Show a chat show before. I’m not a stand- everyone who struggles to reach winter. Diets don’t work. I just eat tan. This year has been crazy. I’ve felt has his eyes set on a 5,000 sq ft up. I’m not even a sketch comedian,” this joyous milestone. York healthily little and often. I know it’s frazzled, but it’s been amazing, with house for him and his family, reports Corden said. – IANS Banks Asla, welcome to the boring to say, but running after the Strictly and the S Club reunion,” she world. (sic).” — IANS kids helps me keep in shape. said. – IANS 20 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 17, 2016 COMMUNITY

SERVING IT UP: US ambassador Dana Shell Smith, centre, off icially opened the Taste of America celebrations in the award-winning New York Steakhouse yesterday. West Coast flavours at Discover America Week Visiting chef to preside over Taste of California event, also host an exclusive master class

Qatar, the American Chamber of role in bringing the fl avours By Umer Nangiana Commerce, and the Orange County of West Coast to the shores of Visitors Association, California. Doha. He fi rst started working in As part of the celebrations, the a kitchen at the age of 14. While he Discover America hotel has partnered with Orange attending the California Culinary Week brings a County Visitors Association Academy in San Francisco, Chef smorgasbord of and Qatar Airways, bringing in Arndt worked at Boulevard with American culture for the guest chef Andy Arndt from the chef Nancy Oakes who taught him local audience to witness Newport Beach Marriott Hotel the importance of focusing on the Tand experience. And cuisine is one & Spa. He will be creating a true seasonal ingredients abundant in of them. Guest chef Andy Arndt Taste of California in the New York the area. has come down all the way from the Steakhouse. In 1998, Arndt accepted a US West Coast to create Taste of Chef Arndt will also host a position at San Francisco’s award- California at Marriott Marquis City special Californian Vino Dinner on winning Mc2 with chef Yoshi Centre Doha. February 17. Guests can indulge in Kojima, who helped him develop US ambassador Dana Shell a four-course set menu featuring and execute his French-Californian Smith offi cially opened the Taste of Californian delicacies. On February cuisine infl icted with subtle America celebrations in the award- 20, guests can join for an exclusive Japanese elements. winning New York Steakhouse cooking class, learning how to Chef Arndt left the West Coast yesterday. “We are excited to prepare popular Californian dishes. for New York City, where he celebrate Taste of America here at “We are proud to participate embarked on a series of stages with the Marriott Marquis City Center in this prestigious celebration. It the city’s leading chefs. Chef Arndt Doha in an authentic American provides an exciting opportunity was then hired as chef de cuisine steakhouse. It perfectly sets the to partner with one of our at Halcyon Restaurant at the Rihga Chef Andy Arndt tone for the week-long activities, sister properties, bringing the Royal Hotel where he managed a providing an American culinary culinary marvels from California kitchen of 40 staff and received Discover America Week The week-long series of and cultural journey here in Qatar,” to our award-winning New some of the restaurant’s best Qatar 2016 is an annual series of events will offer information on said the ambassador at the opening York Steakhouse,” said Andreas critical reviews. events celebrating the US-Qatar investing in the United States, ceremony. Wissdorf, General Manager. “We While he was executive chef at partnership. This joint eff ort revive nostalgic memories about The Marriott Marquis City are excited to welcome chef Arndt Ojai Valley Inn and Spa, the resort between the US embassy and the the pop legend Elvis Presley, Center Doha Hotel joins the second and we look forward to showcasing acquired a Five Diamond AAA American Chamber of Commerce showcase authentic US arts and annual celebration of Discover the best of Californian cuisine to Rating. He has a large focus on in Qatar will highlight American fashion, encourage travel and America Week being held between our guests”, he added. fresh seasonal ingredients and the business and innovation, travel, education in the United States February 15-22 this year, in co- Chef Arndt has long years of farm-to-table mentality native to food, music, fashion, art, education and highlight American brands in operation with the US embassy in experience and will play a critical his location. and culture. Qatar.