Wednesday, February 19, 2020 Jumada II 25, 1441 AH

Doha today 190 - 260

Time tyranny Changing clocks is considered bad for health, but which time to choose? P4-5

COVER STORY 2 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 19, 2020 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

PRAYER TIME Fajr 4.49am Shorooq (sunrise) 6.08am Zuhr (noon) 11.49am Asr (afternoon) 3.05pm Maghreb (sunset) 5.30pm Isha (night) 7.00pm

Fantasy Island dreams of his guests come true at a luxurious tropical resort, USEFUL NUMBERS DIRECTION: Jeff Wadlow but when fantasies turn into nightmares, guests have to solve CAST: Lucy Hale, Maggie Q, Michael Peña the island’s mystery in order to escape with their lives. SYNOPSIS: The enigmatic Mr Roarke makes the secret THEATRES: Royal Plaza, The Mall

Emergency 999 Worldwide Emergency Number 112 Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 Local Directory 180 International Calls Enquires 150 Hamad International Airport 40106666 Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 Mowasalat Taxi 44588888 Qatar Airways 44496000 Hamad Medical Corporation 44392222, 44393333 Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464 Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 44593363 Qatar Assistive Technology Centre 44594050 Qatar News Agency 44450205 44450333 Q-Post – General Postal Corporation 44464444

Humanitarian Services Offi ce (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies) Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, 40253369 Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364 Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365 Sonic The Hedgehog on Earth with his newfound best friend — Tom Wachowski. Qatar Airways 40253374 CAST: Jim Carrey, James Marsden, Ben Schwartz They must soon join forces to prevent the evil Dr Robotnik from DIRECTION: Jeff Fowler capturing Sonic and using his powers for world domination. SYNOPSIS: Sonic tries to navigate the complexities of life THEATRES: The Mall, Landmark, Royal Plaza

ote Unquo Qu te “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela

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, February 19, 2020 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY

Ballet Lessons WHERE: Music and Arts Atelier WHEN: Ongoing TIME: 4pm – 8pm For more info e-mail at registration@ atelierqatar.com or call on 33003839.

After School Activities WHERE: Atelier WHEN: Ongoing Music and arts activities for students taking place after they fi nish their day in school includes Group Music lessons, Hip- hop, Ballet, Drawing and Painting, Drama MIA Park Bazaar 2020 TIME: 12:30pm Theatre & Taekwondo. Ages between 5 and 10 WHERE: MIA Park Street Food is the ideal venue for a leisure Qatar Food Fest years old after school hours. WHEN: Ongoing till April 25 experience for the whole family off ering over WHERE: Sheraton Hotel Park TIME: 2pm — 8pm 20 dine-in options and 18-hole World Mini- WHEN: Ongoing till April 30 MIA Park Bazaar is a modern version of Golf setup. TIME: 4pm — 1am the Old Souq tradition with vibrant mix of The festival is currently happening at around 120 stalls. You can browse and buy Hobby Classes Sheraton Hotel Park. Qatar Food Fest features handicrafts, accessories, paintings, clothing, WHERE: Mamangam Performing Art 77 stalls, food trucks, and trolleys, bringing food, jewellery, photography and art. Centre culinary and cultural experiences from all WHEN:Wednesday – Monday corners of the globe to visitors and residents Mamangam is an art and performance in Qatar. centre started with a vision of spreading our knowledge, interests and experience in various disciplines in arts across different Public Speaking Classes for Adults countries for children and adults. WHERE: Sharq Capital, C-Ring Road We offer regular classes in disciplines like WHEN:Ongoing till July 1 traditional classical dance, art and craft, TIME: 6:30pm – 9pm Bollywood and hip-hop styles, Carnatic Get trained by experts to be a good speaker. music, robotics, percussion instruments, Smedley Toastmasters is conducting a keyboard, yoga, zumba and martial arts six-month speech-craft programme that like Karate, Shaolin Kung Fu and Kalari. teaches new members to speak confi dently For those who wish to register e-mail and develop leadership skills. For more at [email protected] or call on information, 66053485, 33232490 or visit 33897609/44723680 www.SmedleyToastmasters.org

2020 Grand Prix – Test and Race WHERE: Losail International Circuit WHEN: March 6–8 2020 Grand Prix is set to take place from March 6 till March 8 at the Losail International Circuit. Built-in just under a year, the circuit has been a regular venue of the MotoGP calendar ever since. You can watch the races with friends or family in an open-air setting where you will be surrounded by the uproar of larger crowds.

Artistic Gymnastic Classes WHERE: Qatar Academy Msheireb WHEN: Ongoing TIME: 3:15pm – 4:15pm The Olympic sport using horizontal bar, rings and fl oor exercises on mats for the children from age 4 till 16.

Metro Street Food WHERE: DECC Metro Station WHEN: Ongoing

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 19, 2020 COMMUNITY COVER STORY Sounding the alarm The time change, especially in the spring, has been blamed for increase in heart attacks and traff ic accidents as people adjust to a temporary sleep deficit. There are some strong opinions, it turns out. And they are split, with scientists and politicians at odds, writes Roxie Hammill

hanging over to daylight saving time — a major annoyance for many people — may be on its way out as lawmakers cite public health as a prime reason Cto ditch the twice-yearly clock-resetting ritual. I wasn’t the court jester and it The time change, especially in the spring, wasn’t entertainment. It was has been blamed for increase in heart attacks and traffi c accidents as people adjust to a like, ‘What are the practical temporary sleep defi cit. But as legislatures across the US consider bills to end the clock ways we can get this thing shift, a big question looms ahead of this year’s March 8 change: Which is better, passed?’ (after a presentation) summer hours or standard time? There are some strong opinions, it turns out. And they are split, with scientists and — Scott Yates, tech startup CEO politicians at odds. Retailers, chambers of commerce and and #Lock the clock proponent recreational industries have historically wanted the sunny evenings that allow more ‘ ’ time to shop and play. Wednesday, February 19, 2020 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY

Researchers on human biological that politicians are not hearing the rhythms come down squarely on experts on this.” the side of the standard, wintertime Pea, 41 and an amateur hours by angry farmers who astronomer, understands the objected to daylight saving time human need to have the sun when it was fi rst widely adopted directly overhead at noon. “It’s a during World War I. wonderful connection to natural What’s not in question is that reality that unfortunately is lost the clock switching is unpopular. on many people,” he said. Daylight Some 71% of people want to stop saving time “distances us from the springing forward and falling back, natural world.” according to a 2019 Associated At the very least, lawmakers Press-NORC Center for Public ought to consider history, he said. Aff airs Research poll. Daylight saving time was originally Politicians have reacted a plan to save energy during the accordingly. More than 200 state two world wars but wasn’t popular bills have been fi led since 2015 enough to be uniformly embraced to either keep summer hours after the confl icts were over. In or go to permanent standard 1974, the federal government time, according to the National decided to make it temporarily Conference of State Legislatures. year-round as a way to deal with The measures getting the the energy crisis (although energy most traction right now are for savings were later found to be permanent daylight saving time, underwhelming). which makes more sun available Its popularity fell off a cliff for after-work activities. In 2018, after the fi rst winter, when people Florida passed a bill and California discovered the sun didn’t rise until voters backed a ballot measure to 8 am or later and parents worried do so. Maine, Delaware, Tennessee, for the safety of kids waiting in the Oregon and Washington joined in dark for school buses. 2019, passing permanent daylight Pea fi nds it frustrating that saving bills. President Donald switching for six years. He doesn’t state Representative Ray Ward, a and cancer risk, the society’s the momentum now is for Trump even joined the conversation pick a side. It’s the switching itself Republican family physician from members wrote. According to one permanent summer hours — a last March, tweeting: “Making that he wants to end. At fi rst, it Bountiful, is steering a recently often-quoted study on different fact he attributes to the emotional Daylight Saving Time permanent is was just about the grogginess and passed state Senate permanent health outcomes within the same attachment with summer. “It’s a OK with me!” annoyance of being off schedule, daylight bill through the House. time zones, each 20 minutes of shame that every generation we But none of those eff orts can he said. But then he began to see “The human clock was not built later sunrise corresponded to an have to revisit this issue,” he said. become reality without the blessing scientifi c studies that showed the to jump back and forth. That’s why increase in certain cancers by 4% The AP-NORC poll found 40% of of Congress. States have always changes were doing actual harm. we get jet lag,” said Ward, who was to 12%. its respondents support permanent been able to opt out of summer A German study of autopsies a co-presenter with Yates at the “Believe it or not, having light standard time, with 31% opting for hours and adopt standard time from 2006 to 2015, for instance, NCSL summit. “It is very easy to in the morning actually not only permanent daylight saving time. permanently, as Arizona and showed a signifi cant uptick just show that if you knock people off makes you feel more alert but Ward said people have gotten Hawaii have done. But making after the spring switch in deaths an hour of sleep there’s a bump helps you go to bed at the right comfortable with daylight saving daylight saving time year-round is caused by cardiac disease, traffi c temporarily in bad things that will time at night,” said Dr Beth Malow, time since its duration has been another story. accidents and suicides. Researchers happen.” director of the sleep division of lengthened to eight months by Still, Scott Yates, whose #Lock have also noted a signifi cant Eff orts have been particularly Vanderbilt University School of extensions in 1986 and 2007. the Clock website has become a increased risk for heart attacks and strong in California, where 60% Medicine. Malow has seen a lot of (Before 1986, daylight saving time resource for lawmakers pushing strokes. of voters passed a ballot issue anecdotal evidence to back that up lasted six months.) for change, believes this year Three measures pending in for permanent daylight time in at the sleep clinic. Parents report “So now really most of the year will be another big year. Yates Congress would allow states 2018. A bill is pending in the state their children with autism have a we are on the summer schedule, is particularly encouraged by to make daylight saving time Assembly. particularly hard time adjusting to and people are used to that and they the attitude he saw from state permanent. But, in the meantime, All of this alarms scientists who the time change, she said. like it,” he said. “That makes them legislators in August when he state lawmakers who want the extra study human biological rhythms. Jay Pea, a freelance software more aggrieved when we change presented on the issue at the evening sunlight are preparing Researchers in the US and the engineer in San Francisco, was back to the winter schedule.” legislators’ annual national summit resolutions and bills, some of which European Union have taken strong unhappy enough about California’s In any case, changing the in Nashville, Tennessee. would be triggered by congressional positions about permanent summer proposed permanent daylight time clocks is a rare issue in that it “I wasn’t the court jester and approval and the adoption of hours. The Society for Research that he started the Save Standard isn’t partisan, Ward said. “If the it wasn’t entertainment,” he daylight time in surrounding states. on Biological Rhythms posts its Time website to promote the government can’t respond to people said. “It was like, ‘What are the The Illinois Senate passed such a opposition prominently at the top health arguments for keeping it when they want something and practical ways we can get this thing bill, and Kansas is considering one of its website. permanent. He said he doesn’t it’s not even a partisan issue, that’s passed?’” after a bill to end daylight saving Messing with the body’s think the scientifi c community is just a sad commentary,” he said. Yates, 54, a tech startup time died there last year. Utah relationship to the sun can being heard. “Can’t we please fi x something that CEO based in Denver, has been passed a resolution in support of negatively affect not only sleep “Essentially it’s like science doesn’t make sense anymore?” promoting an end to clock the congressional bill last year, and but also cardiac function, weight denial,” he said. “It’s bizarre to me — Kaiser Health News/TNS

“Believe it or not, having “The human clock light in the morning was not built to actually not only makes jump back and you feel more alert but forth. That’s why helps you go to bed at the we get jet lag” right time at night”

— Ray Ward, — Dr Beth Malow, Director Republican family of Sleep Division, physician Vanderbilt University School of Medicine 6 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 19, 2020 COMMUNITY

PSSC organises sports gala to mark NSD

The Pak Shamaa School and at the embassy of Pakistan, was the and physical activities in life. She Students presented the march Moreover, some cultural activities Collage (PSSC) recently organised chief guest on the occasion. He was said that sports teach discipline past and physical training show. were also organised such as Qatari sports gala to celebrate the National welcomed by M A Shahid, president to the students and they can also The students from junior and culture show and zumba. Sport Day 2020 (NSD). The event of school management committee; learn qualities of leadership through senior sections took part in various The winners were awarded with was organised within the premises Nabila Kaukab, PSSC principal; and sports. sport activities such as athletics, trophies and prizes. The winners of the school. other school offi cials. The principal The event started with the obstacle race, thug of war, sprint were selected on team basis as well Sarwar Hussain, Head of Chancery highlighted the importance of sports ribbon-cutting ceremony. 60 and 100m, and water pass etc. as on individual basis.

MES wins medals in Hindi Olympiad

Students of MES Indian School won gold Delhi, for the academic year 2019-20. A total Khatoon, from Class-III/B; Saachi Jangle, Class-IX/L; and Vidya Singh, Class-X/L. medals in the Akhil Bharatiya Hindi Olympiad, of 44 students from classes III-X participated Class-IV/B; Phalguni Pradeep Kumar, Class- Hameeda Kadar, MES principal, congratulated an international linguistic competition recently in the contest. The winners who secured IV/F; Fida Theruvath Kallungal Kabeer, Class- the winners and appreciated their eff orts to win organised by Silver Zone Foundation, New gold medals in various categories are: Amena VII/P; Sehla Theruvath Kallungal Kabeer, laurels for the school.

Fida Theruvath Kallungal Kabeer Sehla Theruvath Kallungal Vidya Singh Amena Khatoon Saachi Jangle Phalguni Pradeep Kumar Kabeer DPS-MIS ‘Shristi’ exhibition earns applause for students

In an endeavour to provide the students a advised the students to remain well -informed better understanding of cultural, social, political, about the current global concerns. and economic developments, and inculcate a The students of Grade-VI exhibited on the sense of responsibility towards environment themes of ‘Weave through the Ages’ and ‘Time, and other global concerns, the Social Science Continuity & change.’ Grade-VII students’ Department of DPS-MIS initiated social science themes were ‘The Mehrazi’ and ‘Explore the exhibition ‘Shristi – The Creation’ for classes World.’ The students of Grade-VIII explored the VI-VIII recently. themes of ‘Journey through the Decades’ and Rocky Fernandes, Director DPS-MIS, was the ‘Moving Forward Together.’ chief on the occasion. He highlighted the critical The landmark of the exhibition was the role of social sciences in helping the students Qatar History Corner. Models showing the understand, imagine and craft a more sustainable rich heritage of Qatar such as Al Zubarah Fort, future. He appreciated the eff orts of the students, Museum of Islamic Art, Souq Waqif, Hammad teachers and the parents in putting up the grand International Airport, Qatar’s Metro Rail, and show. 2022 FIFA World Cup. The students, clad in Speaking on the occasion, Asna Nafees, DPS- the traditional attire of Qatar, kept everyone MIS principal, underscored the vitality of all such attracted to the corner and celebrated the activities which promotes experiential learning strong ties between Qatar and India. Around and encourages students to think diff erently, 350 models took part and 220 charts were examine carefully and conclude sensibly. She displayed at the exhibition. Wednesday, February 19, 2020 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY

Komal Rizvi A photo from last year’s Basant Mela. PWA all geared up for Basant Mela

Pakistan Women’s Association (PWA) in we’re creating a mela atmosphere similar There will also be Pakistani ethnic food opening day of Basant Mela along with collaboration with Talent Resources Qatar to one we have back home in a very large stalls serving BBQ, desi snacks etc. Hence, many local talents performing on both is prepared to welcome guests for their fifth scale by brightening up the entire venue a dedicated area for kids where they can days. Moreover, quiz competitions are also edition of Basant Mela that will take place with decorative lights. There are numerous enjoy number of recreational activities such arranged for all ages with many prizes and at Al Wakrah Sports Club on February 27 activities lined up such as live musical as henna designing and face painting.” valuable give-aways. and 28 from 4pm till 11pm. The event is for programmes throughout the event, with She added: “To create more excitement, “We’ve also reached out to different families only. variety of shopping stands showcasing Komal Rizvi, female pop singer from communities and invited them to become Rahat Mansoor, president of PWA, said: traditional Pakistani and Indian dresses, Pakistan, with her soulful voice will perform part of our colourful event of the year and “Keeping our basant tradition in Qatar; lawns, jewelleries, etc. live for the first time in Qatar on the to see our traditional culture.”

BFIS holds annual Variety Day in a colourful way

The annual Variety Day at Bright Future International School (BFIS) was an amalgamation of colours, beauty, rhythm and vibrancy. The entire show presented themes included human values, 21st century skills, patriotism, teamwork, humanity and many more. Masood Gull, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Pakistan, was the chief guest of the evening, while Mohammad Abdur Rehman al-Meer graced the occasion as guest of honour. Sajid Mansoor, BFIS principal, welcomed the guests and appreciated the eff orts of the school management and teachers to strengthen the unique values and skill based education system followed in the school. The evening was filled with display of English, Arabic and Urdu dramas, themed tableaus, and melodious cultural displays depicting the true colours of Qatar, Pakistan and other the staff and the students. away trophies and I-Pads to the students for taken by the school management to ensure Arab regions. The distinguished guests and Ali Zulqarnain, Vice Principal Senior, highlighted academic excellence and cash prizes to the value based education reflecting progressive parents lauded the excellent co-ordination the outstanding academic achievements, and outstanding faculty members. coexistence and constructive co-operation and synchronisation of the performances that announced the awards for high achievers in Later, a memento of gratitude was presented of students and teachers from diff erent and clearly reflected hard work and team eff orts of the last academic session. The chief guest gave to Masood Gull, who appreciated the eff orts diverse cultures.

Workers’ representatives for Pigeon Engineering elected

The election for workers’ representative (SC) were present during the event as was recently held at B22, Labour City the observer. RK Sharma, CEO of Pigeon accommodation of Pigeon Engineering Engineering, was also present during the Projects, Trading & General Services. In event along with Shazia Mizan, acting total 17 Nepalese, Indian and Bangladeshi general manager. workers submitted their application Naresh BK from Nepal, MD Masud Rana to contest the election. However, nine from Bangladesh and Basant Chauhan applicants met the criteria and were from India were elected as workers’ nominated as candidates. representatives. They were elected as As many as 645 out of total 688 (94%) representatives for Pigeon Engineering’s workers turned up to cast their votes. The Labor City Accommodation for the term of election was conducted in line with workers’ six months. welfare guidelines of Supreme Committee During the event, many workers got the for Delivery & Legacy. Representatives opportunity to present their talents such from International Labor Organization (ILO), as dancing and singing bagging exciting Ministry of Administrative Development, gifts. The outgoing representatives were Labor & Social Aff airs (MOADLSA) and provided with gifts and certificates of Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy appreciation. – By Usha Wagle Gautam 8 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 19, 2020 COMMUNITY

CMU-Q team wins Management Consulting Case competition

McKinsey Case Competition participants. McKinsey Case Competition winners.

A team of students from the Business a solution. During the day, students received institutions.” As the advising faculty member, presentation for the judges. Administration Program at Carnegie Mellon mentoring support from members of the Fuad Farooqi, associate professor of finance at Winning team member Zahid said: “It was a University in Qatar (CMU-Q) won the McKinsey McKinsey off ice in Qatar. CMU-Q, remarked: “This is a fantastic experience thrilling experience to spend a full day as a Case Competition. The competition, which was Kaushik Gangiredla, engagement manager for the students, not only to help broaden their McKinsey consultant.” the first of its kind in the region, was organised at McKinsey & Company, said: “We wanted to skills but to come together as a team. The Amir added: “We are all juniors and beginning by Carnegie Consulting Club, a student-led give students this one-of-a-kind opportunity Carnegie Consulting Club has been working over to look towards our future job prospects. I’d group at CMU-Q. to experience a day in the life of a McKinsey a year to develop this programme and we were recommend this to anyone because there are Open to all university students in Qatar, the consultant. I was very impressed by the level excited to share this opportunity a lot of things you get exposed to. It broadens competition saw six teams compete from of commitment expressed by the students The winning team, which was made up of your horizons.” CMU-Q, Qatar University and Texas A&M throughout the day. We are excited to be Mohammed Shahmeer Ahmad, Mariyam Amir, For more information on programmes off ered University at Qatar. The teams were given a supporting local talent – whether it is through Omar Naim, Faiha Sahirah and Mohammed at Carnegie Mellon Qatar, please visit: https:// business problem and eight hours to work out hiring, internships and partnering with Ahmed Zahid, prepared the winning www.qatar.cmu.edu/academics

ISC organises activities to celebrate NSD

Indian Sports Centre (ISC), an apex body under the aegis of the Embassy of India, recently organised various sports activities on Qatar National Sport Day for the entire Indian community at Asian Town. The tug of war for men was organised at Asian Town, Industrial area involving Indian workers at large. Out of 12 participating teams, SAK Qatar was the winner and Doha Warriors were the runners up. Beside the tug of war, box cricket was organised where 10 teams participated. Team Khalli Valli Fun Club emerged as the champion and Akbar Travels were the runners up. P Kumaran, Ambassador of India to Qatar, also played cricket with ISC officials and celebrated the Sport Day. Arm wrestling for female was conducted with 30 participants. Suja Jayram was the winner and Kavita Mohainder was the runners up. The arm wrestling for men where more than 50 participants took part was won by Meeta and Harris remained the runner up. Ambassador Kumaran was the chief guest and gave away the council; and Azim Abbas, President were attended by the advisory Mohammed Habibun Nabi, ISC management committee, were also prizes. Other dignitaries, present IBPC Management committee council members of ISC, general secretary, was the master present. Asian Town, Absolute Sports, on the occasion, were namely; Members of ISC, ICC, ICBF and various presidents of affiliated of ceremony. Abdurahiman, Sharaf and Care & Cure supported the ISC Hassan Chougule, President ISC; A IBPC. organisations and a huge crowd of P Hameed, Arun Kumar, Ashique, to conduct the events along with 40 R Sanaulla, Chairman ISC Advisory The six-hour-long sports activities around 1,500 people. and Nisha Agarwal, members of ISC volunteers. Wednesday, February 19, 2020 GULF TIMES 9 COMMUNITY

EXHIBITION: Spanish artist Gabriel Diaz Romero; Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti, General Manager of the Cultural Village – Katara and Belen Alfaro, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain in Qatar. Spanish artist showcases Qatar’s success towards 2022 World Cup goals

The Road” exhibition by the Spanish He added: “Katara is devoted to present positive interaction he received for his artist Gabriel Diaz Romero was high-level and distinguished art experiences. ideas. He said that he wanted through recently inaugurated by Dr Khalid bin Art remains the crossroad of all cultures this exhibition to shed light on great Ibrahim al-Sulaiti, General Manager and societies and surpasses all boundaries distinct stories, as he considered that the of the Cultural Village – Katara, in towards amazing expressive potential. destination always waits for the heroes. He the“ presence of Belen Alfaro, Ambassador of For her part, the Spanish Ambassador said that he relied on road signs to highlight the Kingdom of Spain in Qatar. appreciated the high artistic value of the the success story of Qatar and its resilience The exhibition is held in Building 18 until exhibition and said: “it is an attractive in face of the blockade. 28 February, and includes several paintings exhibition that includes many artistic and He also pointed out that Qatar’s and artworks, featuring a symbolic abstract cultural intersections inspired by the nature organisation of the 2022 World Cup is the character known as conceptual contemporary of Arab culture and from the rising and path of success to achieve beautiful and art, as he relied on road signs to suggest development of Qatar”. She also emphasised amazing goals. This exhibition is a tribute various stories related to the rise of Qatar. that Katara represents a distinctive to this collective eff ort, an indication for the On this occasion, Dr Khaled bin Ibrahim edifi ce to present the most eminent local expected future. al-Sulaiti admired the idea of the exhibition and international artistic and creative Gabriel Diaz Romero worked as an art and said: “The artist Gabriel Diaz Romero experiences. teacher in middle and high schools in Spain. has transformed road signs into symbolic The artist Gabriel Diaz Romero expressed He also presented various art exhibitions in artwork about the siege of Qatar, sending an his gratitude to the Cultural Village – several countries around the world. He is a artistic message indicating Qatar’s success in Katara for the co-operation he found member of the artists’ groups “My Mother’s overcoming the consequences”. in organising his exhibition and for the Voice” and “Mountain Children”.

Oryx Rotana donates to families aff ected by volcano eruption in the Philippines

Under Oryx Rotana’s Corporate Social eruption of the Taal volcano in the Philippines, Responsibility umbrella, and to highlight the where thousands of people are in need of importance of volunteering and humanitarian support. work towards communities in distress around The donation drive stems out from our belief the globe, the hotel organised a donation drive of giving back to the community and we at for families affected by the eruption of the Taal Oryx Rotana Doha have always reiterated on volcano in the Philippines. the importance of volunteerism and social The donations collected were shipped in early responsibility towards global events.” February. During the campaign, the hotel’s staff The eruption of the volcano caused the displaced gathered some of the basic necessities like: of more than 162,000 residents who were forced blankets, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, cup to flee their homes and not return due to the noodles and many other items that aimed to help risk of a larger eruption that still exists. The Taal the families affected by the natural disaster. volcano, which is 311 metres high, is one of the On this occasion Ghassan Dalal, General Manager smallest volcanoes in the world, and at the same of Oryx Rotana said: “We arranged an internal time the second most turbulent of the 24 active campaign to donate for families affected by the volcanoes in the Philippines. 10 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 19, 2020 COMMUNITY INFOGRAPHIC Wednesday, February 19, 2020 GULF TIMES 11 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY 10K steps a day may not prevent weight gain: Study

ontrary to the common belief minimise weight and fat gain in college that walking 10,000 steps a freshmen students. day prevents weight gain, the In the end, it didn’t matter if the students researchers have found that it walked more than even 15,000 steps; they still doesn’t actually prevents weight gained weight. Cgain rather it may decrease your sedentary Students in the study gained on average time. about 1.5kg (roughly 3.5lbs.) over the study For the fi ndings, published in the Journal period; a one to four kg average weight gain is of Obesity, the research team studied 120 commonly observed during the fi rst academic freshmen in the US over their fi rst six months year of college, according to previous studies. of college as they participated in a step- Although weight was not aff ected by the counting experiment. increased steps, there was a positive impact “Exercise alone is not always the most on physical activity patterns, which “may eff ective way to lose weight, if you track have other emotional and health benefi ts,” steps, it might have a benefi t in increasing the researchers said. physical activity, but our study showed it One positive outcome of the study was that won’t translate into maintaining weight sedentary time was drastically reduced in or preventing weight gain,” said study lead both the 12,500- and 15,000-step groups. author Bruce Bailey from Brigham Young According to the researchers, in the University in the US. 15,000-step group, sedentary time decreased Participants walked either 10,000, 12,500 by as much as 77 minutes a day. or 15,000 steps a day, six days a week for 24 “The biggest benefit of step weeks, while researchers tracked their caloric recommendations is getting people out of intake and weight. a sedentary lifestyle. Even though it won’t The goal of the study was to evaluate if prevent weight gain on its own, more steps progressively exceeding the recommended is always better for you,” Bailey added. – step count of 10,000 steps per day would IANS

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

If you’re concerned about the love that certain close people have This isn’t the time to make any more of a commitment to your Today you might want to think about getting things straight with for you, you shouldn’t try to compensate by being clingy or overly relationship, Taurus. You aren’t satisfied with your attitude toward the people close to you. It’s possible you haven’t dealt with any aff ectionate. This period is about keeping your distance and putting things lately. Don’t forget that your partner’s characteristics may problems you had in your relationships last month, Gemini. It’s time your relationships into perspective to see what they’re really have something to do with it! You have two months to take care of to look at things again. You may have hidden certain things from worth to you, Aries. Someone may ask you for an even stronger things. Take advantage of this revaluation period. It doesn’t happen yourself. You need to be much more honest about what you want in commitment over the next few months. that often. your personal life. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

You may be asking certain questions about your feelings, Cancer. Nothing can hold you back for long, Leo. You have a hard time You can be known for needing a lot of love, but you will never admit Do you know about the trap that many people get caught up in – resting your body and recharging your batteries. At the moment, that to yourself, much less anyone else. Sometimes it seems as if feeling so close to their partners that they often forget themselves? you’re probably still going through a deep transformation that won’t you like feeling emotionally frustrated. Today is the perfect day to Sometimes it’s easy to confuse your feelings with this kind of self- allow you to slow down. Take the time to meditate and get in touch meditate about whether or not this is true of you. Do you talk to denial. Today you need to think about how this aff ects your life. with your feelings. What is it you really want out of life? other people about your emotional needs?

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

You probably aren’t worried about being conventional in your You may not be very precise. Your motto seems to be “everything This isn’t a good time to make any big relationship decisions. If relationships, Libra. In fact, conventionality is often what causes you is relative.” However, paying attention to details doesn’t necessarily you’re thinking about starting a friendship, or getting married, you problems. If you’re wondering what morality is and what it’s based mean that you lose sight of the fundamentals. Your friends could may feel a bit troubled by your decision, Sagittarius. Take advantage on, this is a good day to think about these questions. tell you that. If you’re an artist, you might make an eff ort today to be of the day to re-evaluate things objectively. There may be some clearer in your expression and a little more down to Earth. issues to resolve before you go any further.

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

Today you may feel like something is holding you back, Capricorn. You may be looking for some new values in your personal life, You may want to take a little trip into your past to visit some old Everything was going just fine until now. If you believe the stream Aquarius. You’re no longer interested in superficial or frivolous friends, Pisces. You could find yourself daydreaming through your of chatter in your head today, you will be regressing in every area of friendships. You need to meet diff erent kinds of people and select good and bad memories. This is an excellent period to break with your life! For example, you may be afraid to go any further in your friends who are really worth keeping. Don’t worry if you feel like some of the more negative ties to your past. If your friend is a little relationship because of your past failures. Use this time to lay the taking a step back to get some perspective, because this is the time worried about you going back in time at the moment, reassure him past to rest. to do it. Relationships are too important to neglect. or her. 12 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 19, 2020 COMMUNITY CARTOONS/PUZZLES

Wordsearch Adam

Pooch Cafe

HABITAT HARPIST HAMSTER HAMBURGER HAGGIS HAVOC HAREM HAMMOCK HALF HACKLE HARPOON HANDLE HAMLET HAIRDO HAZARD HARMONY HAMPER HALTER HACKSAW HATBOX HANGAR HAMMER HALO HAZEL

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 19, 2020 GULF TIMES 13 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Super Cryptic Clues Colouring

Across Down 1 Piece of artillery that’s used by 1 Fashions clothing many builders? (6) mannequins (6) 4 Communicate some grim 2 A stimulant either way (7) particulars (6) 3 Tree that gets shot in army base 8 Duke meeting greedy king (5) (5) 9 Mine worker taking sheepdog by 5 Aimless, aimless girl? (7) river (7) 6 Farewell to advert that is 10 A young hare is always allowed universal (5) outside (7) 7 Cook tried a long angry speech 11 Healthy noise (5) (6) 12 Bird scattering bread devoured 9 Waterfalls aff ecting the eyes? (9) by others (9) 13 Female swans seen after river 17 Sordid gain could be cruel (5) becomes less shallow (7) 19 Not all come on silent journey to 14 Child going round ancient city is work (7) a sightseer (7) 21 Jack obtains things that are 15 One of the top people in the aimed at (7) building trade alters construction 22 Do they fasten cuttings? (5) (6) 23 Enjoy dressing (6) 16 See art involved in puzzle (6) 24 Get the better of teacher (6) 18 Christmas song for a girl (5) 20 Little time to get tea or coff ee Answers (5)

Wordsearch Codeword

Solutions 14 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 19, 2020 COMMUNITY BOLLYWOOD ‘Lusting after Oscars won’t help, US distributer might’

By Arundhuti Banerjee

scar-winning film producer Guneet Monga says that one should understand the process and be well versed with the business if they expect to be close to the final round of the much-celebrated film awardsO ceremony. This year, the South Korean film Parasite swept the Oscars winning Best Film, Best Director as well as Best International Feature Film among other Oscars, UNDETERRED: Bhumi Pednekar. while India’s entry Gully Boy couldn’t even make it to the final list of nominees in the last-mentioned Bhumi on carrying a fi lm on category. her shoulders the fi rst time Monga, who earlier won an Oscar in the Best Documentary (Short Subject) for the film Period. Actress Bhumi Pednekar, who will next be seen in the heroine- End Of Sentence, said: “I believe Parasite winning centric horror fi lm Durgavati, notes how this is the fi rst time in her the Oscar is the sign of how the world cinema is career that she will carry an the entire fi lm on her shoulders. She changing, and becoming diverse by all means. Stories adds that she doesn’t feel much pressure about the fact. are getting celebrated from all over the world, even “I am shooting for Durgavati in Bhopal. It’s a very new from parts of the world that are under-represented. narrative and a new story for me. I am carrying the entire fi lm India is lusting after an Oscar, but I think we are on my shoulders for the fi rst time and really amazing people are missing the practical point. See, lusting after the associated with this fi lm, so it’s going really well,” said Bhumi, Oscars won’t get you the trophy, getting close to while interacting with the media at fashion photographer Dabboo the final could happen by bringing an American Ratnani’s 2020 calendar launch. distributor for the nominated film on board. Are we Does she feel any extra pressure considering the fi lm banks doing that? Unless we are aware of how to get there, entirely on her? “There is always a pressure when you shoot a fi lm it will not work. I am not saying it is easy to get an because you try to give a better performance than your previous American distributor but I am saying that is the way. ones,” she replied. It is an American awards show and it requires that Durgavati is a horror thriller fi lm directed by G Ashok, based representation.” on his own 2018 Telugu fi lm Bhaagamathie. Bhumi stars as an IAS Sharing her own experience, Monga mentioned: offi cer, a role essayed by Anushka Shetty in the original version. “Our film Period. End Of Sentence. was distributed The fi lm is produced by Akshay Kumar, Bhushan Kumar, and by Netflix. See how Parasite is distributed by Neon Vikram Malhotra. (an American distribution company). Humara CANDID: Guneet Monga. Bhumi will next be seen in Bhoot Part One: The Haunted Ship problem ye hai ke hum asli mudde pe baat hi nahin which is also a horror thriller. The fi lm is directed by Bhanu karte (our problem is we don’t address the real issue) Currently, Guneet Monga has produced the Pratap Singh and stars Vicky Kaushal. It is scheduled to release on and just keep cribbing over how we are not getting upcoming anthology Zindagi Inshort, a series February 21. — IANS (an Oscar), and how it is a ‘dream-desire’ to win an of seven short films that will start streaming on Oscar.” February 19 on Flipkart mobile app. — IANS

Amruta hopes for action roles post-TV show

Actress Amruta Khanvilkar, who is one of the 10 participants of the action reality show Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 10 (KKK 10) hopes to get more opportunities to act in action fi lms after the show goes on air. “I just hope that once all my episodes go on air, I get more roles where I get a chance to do action and stunts. There is a certain fearless factor that I have and, I must say, after participating SUPER HAPPY: Shweta Basu Prasad in a scene from Shukranu. in KKK10 I am more confi dent to take risks. I think, for us, it is EXCITED: Amruta Khanvilkar. Shweta Basu on recreating comparatively easy to do action Sharmila’s look in Shukranu sequences than what we did in the and Rani Chatterjee, along with Satyameva Jayate and Malang apart reality show. In the show, there comedian Balraj Syal, RJ Malishka from several Marathi fi lms. Asked Makdee fame actress Shweta Basu Prasad is super happy to have is an element of unpredictability and choreographer Dharmesh about what was her reaction when a look similar to veteran actress Sharmila Tagore’s look from the whereas in fi lms, everything is Yelande. she got the call to be part of the show, 70s in the recently released fi lm Shukranu. choreographed and there are Sharing her experience of shooting Amruta said: “From the time I got As the movie is based in the 70s, Shweta’s character required to retakes and small takes. The for the show, Amruta said: “This was the call from the showmakers, I was look in a certain way, thus the makers of the fi lm took inspiration way women-oriented fi lms my fi rst time in Bulgaria and I had a excited to be a part of the show but from Sharmila Tagore’s looks from her various fi lms during the are becoming common in our great time. I know people must be my husband, being protective, took same time. mainstream entertainment space, thinking that how could someone time to agree. He asked, ‘what if you “I was thrilled when I was told that my look will be similar to action fi lms for women should feel happy in 45-degree temperature, get injured’, and ‘are you sure you Sharmila Tagore’s look from the 70s in Shukranu. I have grown up become the same for us because we but I am a typical Maharashtrian want to take the risk’. But I was so watching Sharmilaji’s fi lms and I always admired her. Adorning the are no less than men when it comes who would rather have summer than thrilled that obviously in the end he chiff on sarees, buff on hairstyle and wing-eyed liner look was all to action,” Amruta said. winter. I feel super lazy when I go to had to agree with me!” very exciting,” Shweta said. The new season is shot in my in-laws’ place in Delhi in winter. Hosted by fi lmmaker Rohit Shukranu also features Divyenndu Sharma. It showcases how Bulgarian landscapes with actors So I actually enjoyed the summer of Shetty, the show will from February Divyenndu (Inder) was forced to undergo sterilisation and how it Ada Khan, Karishma Tanna, Karan Bulgaria.” 22, and air every Saturday and haunts him. The fi lm is streaming on ZEE5. — IANS Patel, Shivin Narang, Tejashwi The actress has worked in Sunday at 9pm on Colors channel. Prakash, Amruta Khanvilkar Bollywood fi lms like Raazi, — IANS Wednesday, February 19, 2020 GULF TIMES 15 SHOWBIZ COMMUNITY Cost of speaking out on politics, or staying silent

By Dan DeLuca

arly on in Miss Americana, the new Taylor Swift documentary, the then-16-year-old singer takesE a moment to celebrate Tim McGraw, the 2006 hit that made her the youngest artist ever to write a No 1 country song that she also performed. “I give myself, like, fi ve seconds a day to say, ‘Yes, this is happening!’” the curly-haired, whip-smart teenager exults. “The rest of the time I’m trying to fi gure out how to make it last.” She hasn’t done too badly: seven million-selling albums, two Grammy album of the year trophies and legions of fans who pack stadiums wherever she goes. And her latest album, last year’s Lover, is both her most mature eff ort and a creative rebound after the mild disappointment of 2017’s Reputation. Yet, to hear Swift tell it in the Netfl ix movie directed by Lana BOLD: Taylor Swift in Miss Americana, a Netflix documentary about the pop music superstar. Wilson, all that success came at a Jason Isbell, the acclaimed cost: keeping her mouth shut. Nashville, Tennessee, songwriter Miss Americana is about Swift who’s an heir to Springsteen in becoming self-aware. It starts But Swift’s shift is a prime example of the predicament depicting quotidian struggles with slowly, tracking her rise to fame and pop artists face, with pressure ramping up to take sides poetic grace, is leaning toward the rehashing battles with Kanye West latter. Last week, Isbell released and Kim Kardashian. as the calendar moves inexorably toward November. Be Afraid, the fi rst track from his The doc gets seriously upcoming album Reunions. compelling, though, when it sends Choosing between a political stance and silence can be Be afraid, be very afraid, Isbell a camera into the recording studio sings on the rugged song. Do it to capture her creative process, a business decision, as well as a matter of principle. anyway. The advice could apply to and when it focuses on two any existential situation — carpe transformative events outside. “I’ve been doing it for 15 years, and nonmusical realm, Larry David a hit Broadway show. diem, while you can — but Isbell is The fi rst was a 2017 trial I’m tired of it,” she says. made it clear he didn’t care if he But their new Father Of All… also speaking to fellow artists who stemming from the singer’s Wokeness is manifest both in lost fans over his MAGA hat jokes in eschews politics, instead returning might fear the consequences of allegation that Denver DJ David Lover’s cleverly feminist single The the new season of HBO’s Curb Your to the antics of their 1994 speaking their minds. “If your words Mueller sexually assaulted her Man and in Only The Young, the Enthusiasm. breakthrough Dookie. The new add up to nothing, then you’re during a 2013 promo event. Swift new song from Miss Americana that But a mainstream country act album is fun, but feels cautious. making a choice to sing a cover when won a judgment against him — aims to be a youth vote anthem. might be inclined to steer clear That notion that now, more than you need a battle cry.” the $1 that she asked for — and Swift’s decision to engage of politics, remembering the ever, art should provide a place for Be Afraid also addresses anyone Mueller’s $3 million defamation politically stemmed from personal ostracism of the Dixie Chicks for people to escape politics has its who insists that artists have no place suit against her was dismissed. experiences, of course. And criticising George W Bush in 2003. adherents. commenting on the world at large: The second was her decision remaining neutral left her open to This year, artists who have long In 2017, I talked with Steve Van “We won’t shut up and sing.” during the 2018 midterm elections both being excoriated by the left made social commentary their Zandt, the Bruce Springsteen Isbell’s urgency is akin to that to speak out politically — for not taking a stance in the 2016 métier have resolved to make their guitarist who made politically expressed by Swift in the Netfl ix doc specifi cally against conservative election and being appropriated by voices heard — among them, the agitating music as a solo artist in as she realises she needs to make her Tennessee Republican Senator white supremacists. Southern rock band Drive-By the 1980s. beliefs heard if she’s going to thrive Marsha Blackburn, who Swift But Swift’s shift is a prime Truckers, who just released The He saw these times as diff erent. “I as an artist and a human being. called “Trump in a wig.” Swift example of the predicament Unraveling, their state-of-the- don’t feel the need to explain Donald She talks candidly about her was appalled by her vote against pop artists face, with pressure nation statement. In Thoughts and Trump. He explains himself every career as a window that inevitably reauthorisation of the Violence ramping up to take sides as the Prayers, singer Patterson Hood day … . It’s redundant to even talk will close. “I want to work really Against Women Act. Blackburn calendar moves inexorably toward seethes with frustration at hollow about it, honestly.” hard while society is still tolerating went on to defeat Democratic November. responses to gun violence. But he A better strategy, he said, is to me being successful,” she says, opponent Phil Bredesen. Choosing between a political also wishes he could block out the create a refuge that’s “a spiritual cognizant that she works in an A central scene pits Swift and stance and silence can be a business ceaseless partisan racket. “White fuel stop … in a way that’s totally industry “where women are mother Andrea against the men decision, as well as a matter of noise in my head, I think I need a away from daily life and daily discarded in an elephant graveyard in the room. Among them is her principle. Protest art doesn’t fi lter, a pressure valve to keep from frustrations.” by the time they’re 35.” father, Scott, who asks, “Did Bing necessarily stand the test of time. blowing up.” With Springsteen expected In Miss Americana, the clock is Crosby do it? Did Bob Hope do The likelihood of artists Green Day has gone in the other to release a new album and tour ticking, and when it comes deciding it?” suggesting she shouldn’t risk alienating their audiences varies direction. In 2004, the pop-punk with the E Street Band this year, it whether to speak out, Swift can only alienating fans. widely. Rapper YG had little trio led by Billie Joe Armstrong remains to be seen whether the Boss come to one conclusion: Now is the For Swift, though, striving to be to lose by releasing FDT about were Bush bashers on American will be inclined toward escapism or time. the good girl is no longer viable. Donald Trump in 2016. And in a Idiot, their rock opera that became engagement in 2020. — The Philadelphia Inquirer/TNS 16 GULF TIMES Wednesday, February 19, 2020 COMMUNITY Top African comedians set to amuse compatriots in Qatar on March 6

By Mudassir Raja

group of comedians from diff erent African countries is all set to entertain their compatriots for the fi rst time in Qatar on March 6. ABesides bringing in the top-notch comedians, African Comedy Festival will feature musical and cultural shows by the Qatar-based singers and artistes. Al Jewan Hall of Dana Club at West Bay is to wear a festive look off ering entertainment for all African expatriates. The festival is organised by Oryx Group Entertainment & Hospitality in partnership with Ruby Events. Oryx is a company solely dedicated to African community engagements and entertainment in Qatar. Ruby Events is a new and innovative event management company dealing with conventions, exhibitions and entertainment. The festival is also supported by diff erent community organisations of African expatraites. Sharing the details of the event with Community, Famous Aluya, General Manager of Oryx Entertainment, said: “The primary objective is to promote Africa in Qatar through entertainment. To do so in the best possible way is to bring the best of African comedy to Qatar. Courtesy of a survey recently conducted within the African communities which revealed the insatiable hunger for an African comedy festival in Qatar’s growing entertainment industry.” Famous added: “It will be stand-up comedy from the funniest comedians from Uganda and Kenya. There will also be live Whale Mouth Patrick Salvador Idringi comedy stage skits from YouTube best and Africa’s pride acts Mark Angel comedy team led by Mark Angel and Emmanuella. Further, a Doha-based resident Comedian MC Justice will perform during the festival. “Cultural performances by Green Maasai Troup, from Kenya, and Twegate Dance Group, form Uganda will add variety to the festival. We will also have music performances by DJ Muse, from Ethiopia, and DJ Walex, from Nigeria.” The organiser further said: “There will also be an exhibition area to showcase food, products and services. The event will be anchored by a Nigerian leading comedian better known as Whale Mouth and Esther Jackson, Miss Global Nigeria and a supermodel. The festival is actually the fi rst of its kind in Qatar and it will be an annual event from now onward.” Emmanuella and Mark Angel are the principal stars in the Mark Angel Comedy family. Mark Angel is a Nigerian comedian Emmanuella Mark Angel and video producer, best known for a series of short YouTube comedy videos “This is not my real face oh”. This short comedian. His career in comedy began when Delivery & Legacy. They have featured in featuring a number of talented young artistes skit got featured on CNN’s Facebook page. he joined Churchill Show. He currently does malls, hotels and several cultural festivals in including Star Child comedians, nine-year This video currently has 6.2 million views parodies that he uploads on YouTube. He was Qatar. old Emmnauella and fi ve-year-old Aunty on YouTube. This has earned her a number voted one of the top 10 Africa’s funniest men. Green Maasai Troupe is another Uganda Success. of awards, including the Prominent Kid Usiaphe Kevin also known as Whale Mouth cultural team based in Qatar. They have also Emmanuella is a young Nigerian star on Comedienne and Princess of Comedy, both is a stand-up comedian from Nigeria. He is featured in several private and government YouTube and the fi rst-ever Nigerian to reach awards from Australia. She also starred on a also a radio and TV presenter and actor. He events in Qatar. a million YouTube subscribers. They recorded CNN show back in 2016. just celebrated his 15th anniversary of being Victor Ikoli, President of Nigerians in this feat in 2017. She captures her followers’ Patrick Salvador Idringi is an Ugandan a comedian with a sold out show in Lagos Diaspora Organisation Qatar (NIDO-Q), hearts without really telling any words. She’s comedian, actor and master of ceremonies. Nigeria. said: “It is going to be fun for the African respected for her creative side and her smart He is one of the most popular, respected and Twegate Dance Group is a Uganda cultural expatriates to see live their loved artistes and attitude. She is still a primary school student funniest African born comedian and also one team based in Qatar. They have featured comedians. Such entertainment activities are although she is a star of Africa most travelled comedian. in several private and government events genuinely needed for the expatriate workers Her fame started after the comedy skit Eric Omondi is an established Kenyan in Qatar, like the Supreme Committee for as they work hard away from their home.”