Community Community Indian schools Argentinian across Qatar street artist P8-9 organise P16 paints events and powerful oryx to assemblies to showcase the strength mark 71st Republic of the people of Qatar Day of India. during unjust blockade.

Monday, January 27, 2020 Jumada II 2, 1441 AH

Doha today 130 - 190

HOSPITALITY: Few nations in the world are as welcoming as Thais with a signature smile being the country’s USP. Photo by Kamran Rehmat

COVER Smile land STORY Tourism and sustainable development-driven Thailand is now exporting Suff iciency Economy Philosophy with some zest. P4-6

QUIZ HOLLYWOOD

Story behind Alice Impeachment trial tests in the Wonderland. American attention span. Page 10 Page 15 2 GULF TIMES Monday, January 27, 2020 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

PRAYER TIME Fajr 4.59am Shorooq (sunrise) 6.21am Zuhr (noon) 11.48am Asr (afternoon) 2.54pm Maghreb (sunset) 5.15pm Isha (night) 6.45pm

USEFUL NUMBERS

Shylock returning the money he owes. Despite warnings from Boss CAST: Mammootty, Meena, Raffi DIRECTION: Ajai and his assistants, Prathapa Varma, with the help of his police Vasudev commissioner friend, continues to mess with Boss. And the SYNOPSIS: A kind-hearted man and a ruthless battle begins. moneylender lock horns in this family entertainer. Boss is a Emergency 999 money lender and Prathapa Varma has cheated him by not THEATRES: Royal Plaza, Landmark, The Mall 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 Panga struggle and overcoming of stereotypes. It shows how Qatar Airways 40253374 DIRECTION: Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari important the love and support of your family is for you to be CAST: , Jassie Gill, Richa Chadha successful. SYNOPSIS: Panga is inspired from the life of a national level Kabbadi player from India. It follows her triumphs, THEATRES: Royal Plaza, Landmark, The Mall te Unqu uo ot Q “Believe e you can and you’re halfway there.” – Theodore Roosevelt

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 Monday, January 27, 2020 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY

Keto Diet at Elite Medical Centre information, 66053485, 33232490 or visit WHERE: Elite Medical Center www.SmedleyToastmasters.org WHEN: February 8 TIME: 11am To register for the seminar WhatsApp on 30771895 with your name and telephone number. It is a free seminar.

After School Activities WHERE: Atelier WHEN: Ongoing Music and arts activities for students Shop Qatar 2020 WHEN: Ongoing taking place after they fi nish their day in WHERE: Malls in Qatar TIME: 12:30pm school includes Group Music lessons, Hip- WHEN: Ongoing till January 31 Street Food is the ideal venue for a leisure hop, Ballet, Drawing and Painting, Drama TIME: Entire day experience for the whole family off ering over Qatar Food Fest Theatre & Taekwondo. Ages between 5 and 10 Shop Qatar has something for everyone, 20 dine-in options and 18-hole World Mini- WHERE: Sheraton Hotel Park years old after school hours. including beauty masterclasses, fashion Golf setup. WHEN: Ongoing till April 30 shows, shopping off ers, mall activities and TIME: 4pm — 1am shows, raffl e draws, and Chinese New Year Hobby Classes The festival is currently happening at celebrations. WHERE: Mamangam Performing Art Sheraton Hotel Park. Qatar Food Fest features Centre 77 stalls, food trucks, and trolleys, bringing WHEN:Saturday – Friday culinary and cultural experiences from all Mamangam is an art and performance corners of the globe to visitors and residents centre started with a vision of spreading in Qatar. our knowledge, interests and experience in various disciplines in arts across diff erent countries for children and adults. Public Speaking Classes for Adults We off er regular classes in disciplines WHERE: Sharq Capital, C-Ring Road like traditional classical dance, art and WHEN:Ongoing till July 1 craft, Bollywood and hip-hop styles, TIME: 6:30pm – 9pm Ballet Lessons Carnatic music, robotics, percussion Get trained by experts to be a good speaker. WHERE: Music and Arts Atelier instruments, keyboard, yoga, zumba and Smedley Toastmasters is conducting a WHEN: Ongoing martial arts like Karate, Shaolin Kung Fu six-month speech-craft programme that TIME: 4pm – 8pm and Kalari. For those who wish to register teaches new members to speak confi dently For more info e-mail at registration@ email at [email protected] or call at and develop leadership skills. For more atelierqatar.com or call on 33003839. 33897609/44723680

Makeup Masterclass WHERE: Msheireb Downtown, M7 Building WHEN: January 31 TIME: 3pm onwards Shop Qatar presents The Masterclass by celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic. Mario will share his trademark beauty tips and secret tricks guiding you into the making of his genius and how he applied it to his highly renowned muse Kim Kardashian West.

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

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Monday, January 27, 2020 COMMUNITY COVER STORY Welcome to a ‘new’ Thailand Ecologically-driven tourism, foreign medical hub and all things halal are instant catchers, but the country — fresh from leading the Asean last year — is now focused on taking every willing partner on board so that others, too, can reap the rewards of its successful home-grown suff iciency economy philosophy, or SEP

CELEBRATIONS: Fireworks erupt over downtown Bangkok during New Year’s celebrations on January 1, 2020. AFP

We believe in maintaining a fine balance; we offer value for money, but money on its own is not our goal. (Hence) our tourism is not only for the rich indulging in luxury, but it caters to all tiers where the prime goal is to maintain environment-friendly tourism

— Natapanu Nopakun, Deputy DG, Department ‘ of Information, MoFA, Thailand ’ Monday, January 27, 2020 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY

Assistant Professor Dr Molraudee Saratun of the Sustainable Development and Suff iciency Saowalak Pornwilassiri of the Department of Economy, Studies Center, NIDA. South Asia, African and Middle East Aff airs.

perhaps infl uencing people (Dale Carnegie, By Kamran Rehmat anyone?) swiftly! Natapanu Nopakun, Deputy Director General, Department of Information, here are multiple engaging areas Ministry of Foreign Aff airs, said the and aspects to a familiarisation tour was part of a studied endeavour to trip such as one to Thailand, but familiarise media professionals with the each time you realise one is not diversity of Thailand. In this regard, he enough. ‘The Land of Smiles’ — as highlighted the economic vistas and tourism itT is popularly known — immediately strikes (including medical tourism, which also you as (why it is) one of the world’s premier makes the country a choice destination), tourist destinations even if you have not been but with a greater emphasis on ‘sustainable here before. But if you have, chances are you development’, which he drove home was just take it for granted. Because somehow entirely homegrown in Thailand’s case. they have managed to whittle it down to It was a recurring theme throughout the a simple enough equation: smile = happy tour and Assistant Professor Dr Molraudee tourist. Saratun of the Sustainable Development The figures speak for themselves: 2020 and Suffi ciency Economy, Studies Center, marks the 60th anniversary of the Tourism National Institute of Development Authority of Thailand and Thai Airways Administration (NIDA), painstakingly International — the pillars of Thai tourism. explained the philosophy that has enabled Today, the kingdom enjoys 40 million Thailand to become the success story it arrivals and 3 trillion bhats in income is today and how it was trying to fashion according to Imtiaz Muqbil, Executive the same elsewhere with a profound Editor of Travel Impact Newswire, commitment. Thailand’s second longest serving travel In a frank exchange where a fi gure of $63 trade journalist, and author of The Greatest billion turnover was trotted out for the last Story in Global Tourism History. year, Nopakun said that while tourism had That being said, just pigeonholing it in shared with our media group from the rewards. been pivotal in making Thailand a hub, one (admittedly, massive) area would be a Middle East. In fact, Saowalak Pornwilassiri, When this scribe asked about the ‘novelty the country believed in — and practised — tad one-dimensional — even unfair — given of the Department of South Asia, African factor’ in passing the ingredients of success responsibility to ecology. how rich the tapestry is. But let’s start with and Middle East Aff airs, disclosed that to other nations with the possibility that “We believe in maintaining a fi ne balance; the smiles anyway. In moments of solitude, Thai diplomatic missions abroad had a new they may go on to rise as similar powers or we off er value for money, but money on its one has often wondered how Thais manage to mandate vis-à-vis SEP. even better, she reasoned that ultimately, it own is not our goal. (Hence) our tourism is keep that emoticon-like spread regardless of Fresh from leading the Asean with panache benefi ted humanity and that was the only not only for the rich indulging in luxury, but how tough life is — and it always is, in some as its chair last year, Thailand is swearing by motivating goal for Bangkok in proactively it caters to all tiers where the prime goal is part of this cinder of a planet! the uncanny scruples of taking every willing helping other capitals. If nothing else, it to maintain environment-friendly tourism. The standard outsider explanation, of We don’t aspire for too many just to make course, redounds to “laughing all the way more money. It is important to maintain to the bank”. But that, in my considered eco-friendly tourism and sustain all good opinion, is a rather lazy inference with a practices,” he pointed out. pronounced business rider. It does not take Perhaps, the spirit was encapsulated none into account what lies beneath that effusive better than by this inscription on a signpost smile. Could this simply be a natural one saw: byproduct of religion, culture, values? I had this engaging casual conversation with a “We are supposed to plant a tree in the senior Thai official, who, agreed with me people’s heart and those people will plant tree on those derivatives as well as the calm and in the land” serenity one had experienced in another — King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) predominantly Buddhist nation — Sri Lanka — as an expat resident. But he told me how Over the years, Thailand has developed it was also viewed as a “weakness” by a few, indigenous marketing schemes to promote who deduced that the Thais were “too soft” tourism and it has also been creative in using — as a people and country. At the end of tourism as a bridge to enhance diplomatic this conversation, one just opined how the relations. However, late King Bhumibol world would be a much better place if there inspired the development of sustainable were similarly other “soft” nations. tourism by empowering local communities Consider. Thailand is now exporting as well as preserving the environment and ‘Suffi ciency Economy Philosophy (SEP)’ natural resources (in the round-up that in a conscientious endeavour to help other follows on the select few sites this scribe nations achieve sustainable development visited, this is a central theme of Thailand’s goals! At a Ministry of Foreign Aff airs press PICTURESQUE: The Doi Tung Royal Villa in northern Thailand where Her Highness the late green outlook). briefi ng in Bangkok, its fi ner details were Princesspartner Motheralong on Srinagarindra a journey for spent collective considerable time.surely is a recipe for Photo winning by friendsKamran and Rehmat „Continued on Page 6 6 GULF TIMES Monday, January 27, 2020 COMMUNITY COVER STORY

Islam in Thailand: A look at history and the burgeoning Halal industry

Associate Professor Dr Pakorn Priyakorn, Chairman of the International Task Force, Off ice of the Sheikhul Islam of Thailand.

Thailand, a predominantly Buddhist nation, has been for some time now, a go-to destination for even people of other faiths particularly, Muslims, from the Middle East, and closer home, the GCC. In fact, it is already the top ranked destination in Asia for Muslims. The reason is not hard to understand. It has also evolved into a dedicated tourism industry catering to the Islamic faith: from running halal hotels and food to the many places of worship that enable Muslims to have a relaxed vacation. Similarly, patients coming from the Middle East and GCC have been benefiting from medical tourism in completely safe and secure environs with dedicated help right from native language communication tools to treatment and post- treatment stay in the country, and resultant follow-ups. Associate Professor Dr Pakorn Priyakorn, Chairman of the International Task Force, Off ice of the Sheikhul Islam of Thailand, was at hand to give the media a detailed presentation on his behalf and answer questions related to various issues falling under the subject. Going back in time, he said, historically, politically and culturally, Muslims have been an integral part of the social and economic development of Thailand for nearly five centuries. Islam is the second biggest religion in the kingdom and enjoys royal and off icial patronage. Muslims number approximately 5.9 million. He felt that part of the Thai success story was owed to peaceful coexistence by intent. The Sheikhul Islam was first established and appointed by King Songtham in 1602 AD. Islam is the dominant religion in four southernmost provinces. He disclosed that there were nearly 4,000 mosques in the country, and 185 of these were in Bangkok alone. But none of this backgrounder would be complete with a word on halal food. Coined as ‘Kitchen of The World’ since 2000, Thailand is one of the world’s top 10 Halal food exporting countries and all this is owed to an elaborate paraphernalia manned and overseen by Muslim researchers and food inspectors in a detailed set-up. Dr Priyakorn, who is also Director, The Halal Standards Institute of Thailand, ran a documentary on the subject to enlighten the visitors on how — and what — Thailand manages to dutifully respond to the need for Muslims to lead their lives in conjunction with Islam where halal food is concerned. Thailand’s status in the Muslim world is also embellished by the fact that it also enjoys Observer Status in the 57-member Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. — Kamran Rehmat Monday, January 27, 2020 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY

QU law students volunteer with THIMUN Qatar high school delegates

Members of Qatar University (QU) College of Law’s and seriously impressed with the high school students Moot Court team recently volunteered with local high participating in the THIMUN Conference,” said Dr school students at The Hague International Model Melissa Deehring, QU Legal Skills faculty member and United Nations (THIMUN) Qatar’s ‘THIMUN Conference’ UNODC Education for Justice (E4J) Ethics Champion, at the Qatar National Convention Centre. who also volunteered at the event. During the event, QU Law students, including Latifa She added, “Our College is invested in advancing Abdulla al-Marri, Lolwa Ibrahim al-Mohannadi, Rawan our students’ skills while promoting the Sustainable Yousef al-Mohannadi, Sharouq Saeed Bawazir, and Wafa Development Goals and encouraging students to Saad al-Kuwari, along with Fatema Ali al-Amri, recent QU be more active in their communities. Our Legal Skills Law graduate, led a workshop with THIMUN students Department always tries to participate in collaborative preparing to compete with each other during a Model teaching and learning eff orts and volunteering with International Court of Justice (ICJ) competition. THIMUN is the perfect way for our Moot Court students QU Law Moot Court members coached students from to learn while simultaneously educating for the rule of the American School of Bombay, Doha College, Newton law and promoting SDG 16 for peace, justice and strong International Academy, and Lycée Bonaparte French institutions.” School as they prepared oral arguments for mock Fatima F El Mahdi, Head of THIMUN Qatar, said, “I would hearings based on real-life ICJ cases before the ICJ in like to reiterate our thanks on behalf of the THIMUN The Hague. QU Law volunteers advised on what they Qatar team to QU College of Law’s generous support of have learned regarding how to formulate arguments, the ICJ student advocate teams. Thanks to the QU Moot analyse for counter arguments, and conduct direct and Court’s participation, the education for advocacy that cross-examinations of witnesses. QU Law Moot Court THIMUN Qatar promotes gained a polish and expertise members also worked with student ICJ Off icers and that our student teams will carry on with them for life. members of THIMUN’s Secretariat General representing We hope that this collaboration will inspire the next Doha College, American Embassy School, and the generation of lawyers to be diligent, ethical, critical and American School of Doha. passionate about upholding the law and promoting a “We are extremely proud of our Moot Court students culture of lawfulness.”

UMAI Qatar marks its 20th anniversary

United Martial Arts Academy International (UMAI) Qatar recently organised an event to mark Thahir Pattara, Executive Director of Mixmax Group of Companies; S A M Basheer, Sifu CP Arif its 20th anniversary celebrations and interclub championship at Al-Arabi Indoor Stadium. UMAI Palazhi, Founder and Grand Master of UMAI; Noushad K Mannoli, Technical Director of UMAI, students in Qatar participated in various competitions, including Karate, Kung-fu and Wushu along with international referees attended the celebrations. Certificates of Achievement were martial arts styles. handed over to 17 new black belt holders and 14 higher black belt holders, which was followed by Sheikh Fahad Khaled Jassem al-Thani, Qatar’s first professional boxer, was the chief guest on the a documentary on UMAI Qatar’s history and a martial arts demonstration performed by UMAI occasion. Faleh Mohamed al-Hajri, Ahmani Mustafa, Technical Expert at Qatar Karate Federation; Karate, Kung-fu and Kalarippayattu teams. 8 GULF TIMES Monday, January 27, 2020 COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS OF REP

DPS-Modern Indian School Ideal Indian School

DPS-Modern Indian School (DPS-MIS) recently marked Asna Nafees, Principal of DPS-MIS, shared her views Ideal Indian School (IIS) recently called upon the students to live up 71st Republic Day of India. Hassan Chougule, President of on the multifarious growth of India in all the fields and marked 71st Republic Day of India. to the traditions of their country and DPS-MIS, was the chief guest on the occasion. The chief advised the students to reconnect to the past, develop Dr Hassan Kunhi MP, President of IIS, work for her betterment. Jyothisha guest unfurled the national flag, which was followed by the qualities of tolerance, sensitivity and respect for all hoisted the national flag, which was Pillai, a student of grade-XI, and Robin the National Anthem. The students of Nursery Section cultures. She encouraged the parents to educate their followed by the national anthem by Varghese, a student of Grade-XI, spoke presented a patriotic song. Speaking on the occasion, children to join the bureaucracy and the armed forces and the choir of the school. Syed Shoukath on the occasion. Hassan Chougule outlined the significance of the day and contribute significantly for the development of the world. Ali, Principal of IIS, along with the Boy Scouts and Girl Guides were discussed the contribution of the Indian diaspora towards The programme was anchored by Ziya Rasik, Head Girl heads of the sections, staff and honoured with certificates and medals the development of India and the world. He urged the of Junior School; and Aaryan Sujith, Head Boy of Junior parents attended the event. for their services rendered on various students to dedicate themselves in building a stronger School. Imaad Hussain, President of Student Council Speaking on the occasion, the chief occasions. Certificates of merit for and better India, an India of their dreams. Junior School, proposed a vote of thanks. guest reminded the students about academic excellence award given in their responsibility to contribute for the CBSE Gulf Principals’ Conference, strengthening the country. “As the under the aegis of Council of CBSE future leaders of the country, it is Aff iliated Schools in the Gulf Region, the duty of everyone to protect the were also distributed on the occasion. integrity and fraternity of our nation. Kalinga Sahani, Assistant Head Tolerance towards the caste, creed Girl, welcomed the gathering, and religion and gender is the most Darryl Menezes, Assistant Head important aspects of our constitution Boy, proposed a vote of thanks. The which has to be maintained,” he event was co-ordinated by Khatija added. TC, Assistant Headmistress of Boys’ Students in their speeches reiterated Section, and compered by Ronnie their bond with their motherland and Elizabeth.

Birla Public School

Birla Public School (BPS) recently celebrated the 71st A P Sharma underscored the need for recognising the Republic Day of India. C V Rappai, Director of BPS, greatness of a Nation spread from east to west, south to unfurled the national flag, accompanied by Mohammed north, including various cultures, caste and creed and yet Farooq, Life Member of BPS; Nevile Lukose, Management breathing as a single soul. Using the medium of Hindi, he Representative of BPS; and A P Sharma, Principal. The added that unity is the greatest strength of India and BPS event featured a parade by the school scouts and guide too as the school host students who belong to more than members. 25 diff erent cultural backgrounds. Speaking on the occasion, C V Rappai emphasised that as The school choir presented patriotic songs, which the Republic Day exemplified the celebration of the Indian was followed by a speech by Andra Sunil, Student Constitution, each Indian and student should revisit the Representative BPS. Rajesh Pillai, Vice Principal of BPS, preamble and live the values of equality and freedom in its added that the importance of today was proved via united true essence. eff ort taken by all to make the programme a huge success. Monday, January 27, 2020 GULF TIMES 9 PUBLIC DAY OF INDIA COMMUNITY

Shantiniketan Indian School Doha Modern Indian School

Shantiniketan Indian School (SIS) recently organised an event with honouring one’s host country and try to strengthen Doha Modern Indian School followed by various patriotic songs to mark the 71st Republic Day of India. K C Abdul Latheef, the bilateral relations too. With reflect on education, he said recently celebrated the 71st and performances. Speaking on President of SIS, hoisted the national flag and addressed the that the stakeholders have the responsibility to keep up Republic Day of India. Rahul Nair, the occasion, Jayashankar Pillai gathering. Speaking on the occasion he emphasised on the the tradition and develop the educational institutions and Head Boy of DMIS, welcomed urged everyone to work for the words of Ram Nath Kovind, President of India. He insisted bring up the future generation in a way that they protect the gathering. Jayashankar Pillai, constitutional values and to create that the citizens of the nation be committed to engage in the the values of our constitution, justice, liberty, equality and Director of Taleb Schools, along a better India. Jacob Mathew global community, in order to build a secure and prosperous brotherhood. The event also featured various cultural and with Sabu Thomas, the Academic exhorted everyone to be more future for them and the entire humanity. traditional performances from south-western states of Auditor of Taleb Schools; Jacob committed citizens and contribute He reminded about the freedom movement and its leaders India, including Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Goa, Mathew, Principal of DMIS; Ursula to the growth of India. Harini, Head including Dr Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi, the hardships Maharashtra, Gujarat and Rajasthan. The teachers of SIS also Sabu, Assistant Principal, hoisted Girl of DMIS, proposed a vote of and sacrifices they had undergone to unify the Indian presented a patriotic song. Dr Subhash Nair, Principal of SIS, the national flag, which was thanks. society seeing the beauty in diversity. He stressed upon represented SIS at the Republic Day celebrations organised the clear understanding of the values and practices along by the Embassy of India on the embassy premises.

MES Indian School

MES Indian School recently commemorated the 71st fructify the dreams of visionary leaders. Dhananjay Gaur, Republic Day of India. The event featured patriotic songs, Head Boy of MES, read the preamble of the constitution of group dances and tableau depicting the cultural integrity India, which was followed by a patriotic song by the school and harmony of the country. B M Sidhique, president of choir, written by Rajendran S, Department of Hindi at MES, MES, was the chief guest and P K Mohammed, General and composed by Anver VP, music teacher at MES. Secretary of MES, the guest of honour. The chief guest The scouts and guides, members of Campus Care Force hoisted the national flag, which was followed by the (CCF) and the students of Junior, Boys’ and Girls’ Sections national anthem. waved the Indian national flag. The event was attended by “It is due to the struggles underwent by the freedom notable personalities, including K Abdul Karim, Senior Vice fighters and by their ultimate sacrifice for the welfare of free President of MES; Kashif Jaleel, Vice President; and Khaleel India, our country has flourished in the international arena,” A P, M C Muhamed, and M P Saleem, Directors of MES. said B M Sidhique. Nandhini Rajagopal, Assistant Head Girl, welcomed the Speaking on the occasion, Hameeda Kadar, Principal of gathering and Anushka, a student of Grade-X, proposed a MES, urged the students to assume a more responsible vote of thanks. The event was co-ordinated by Rajendran, role in upholding the pride and glory of the nation and to Cultural Co-ordinator of MES. 10 GULF TIMES Monday, January 27, 2020 COMMUNITY QUIZ Story behind Alice in Wonderland

way, including Alice’s Hour in Elf Signed on this day (January Land, Alice Among the Fairies, and 27) in 1967, which treaty forms Alice Among the Goblins. the basis of international space Alice in Wonderland came out in law? This treaty prohibits the 1865 and was an instant success. placing of nuclear weapons in The book is widely credited with space, limits the use of the Moon changing the landscape of children’s and all other celestial bodies literature, adding nonsensical fun to to peaceful purposes only, and what had been a genre obsessed with establishes that space shall be moralising. The book has never been free for exploration and use by all out of print. It has been already been nations, but that no nation may translated into 176 languages. At the claim sovereignty of outer space time, the book was so popular that or any celestial body. its sequel, Through the Looking- The Outer Space Treaty, formally oday is Charles Lutwidge Glass, and What Alice Found There, the Treaty on Principles Governing Dodgson’s birthday, which sold out within seven weeks of its the Activities of States in the is the opposite of an ‘un- publication. Exploration and Use of Outer Space, birthday’. Never heard of Welcome to ‘Nutty’s including the Moon and Other Dodgson? Don’t know Infortainment.YAYS!’ Your time Celestial Bodies. Twhat ‘un-birthday’ is? starts now. Well, more than 150 years ago, Which revolutionary product Alice fell down the famous rabbit Like a lot of writers, Dodgson was fi rst announced 10 years hole after family friend Charles was frustrated by losing excellent back on January 27, 2010 at a Lutwidge Dodgson told the story to ideas that inconveniently come in press conference in the Yerba the Liddell sisters on a boat trip down the middle of the night. In 1891, Buena Center for the Arts (YBCA) the Thames on July 4, 1862. Does he invented a device, enabling in San Francisco, USA? this remind you of grinning Cheshire users to note down ideas in the iPad. cats, rabbits running late and a Mad dark. Name this device. Hatter’s tea party? You are in the Nyctograph. Dodgson also The fi rst Winter Olympic right space! considered it useful for the blind. Games, offi cially known as You might know Dodgson better the ‘I Olympic Winter Games,’ by his pseudonym Lewis Carrol, Alice Liddell is well known to were held in Chamonix, France a genius play on his name Charles have been the inspiration behind between January 25 and February Lutwidge which came about by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. 5, 1924. Which country has won translating it into Latin – Carolus However, she wasn’t the girl who more Winter Olympics medals Ludovicus, reversing the names inspired Alice in the follow-up than any other? and retranslating them into English book, Through the Looking-Glass. Norway, a total of 368, eclipsing – hence, Lewis Carroll. Instead of The ‘Alice’ in that book’s subtitle, USA at 305 and Germany at 238. off ering you cake, we’ve gone down And What Alice Found There, the rabbit hole to fi nd some fun facts CHANGING LANDSCAPE: Alice in Wonderland came out in 1865 and was refers to whom? January 26 is celebrated every about this renaissance man of the an instant success. The book is widely credited with changing the landscape Carroll’s fi ve-year-old cousin, year in India as Republic Day. It Victorian Era, celebrated around the of children’s literature, adding nonsensical fun to what had been a genre Alice Theodora Raikes. honours the date on which the world as one of the great purveyors of obsessed with moralising. Constitution of India came into ‘literary nonsense’. Charles Lutwidge In Through the Looking-Glass, eff ect in 1950. Australia Day is Dodgson started using the pen name corresponding upwards of 2,000 was Dodgson himself. The popular Humpty Dumpty is wearing a also celebrated on January 26. in 1856 when he published a romantic times in one year, and he would story is that he used the bird as his cravat which he says was given to What is its signifi cance? poem called Solitude. sometimes write backwards, forcing caricature because his stammer made him as an “un-birthday present” It marks the anniversary of the Dodgson had a rough childhood. the reader to hold the letter to a him sometimes introduce himself as by the White King and Queen. In 1788 arrival of the First Fleet of Calling it his ‘hesitation,’ he mirror to decipher. ‘Do-Do-Dodgson’. The kids pestered 2020, we celebrate our birthday British ships at Port Jackson, New developed a stutter at an early age And for some fun trivia on this him to retell the story — Carroll even on one day only, the day we were South Wales, and the raising of the that stuck with him throughout beloved children’s classic…Lewis wrote in his diary about telling “the born. How many day(s) can we Flag of Great Britain at Sydney Cove. adulthood and ultimately became Carroll never would have written interminable Alice’s adventures.” So celebrate our “un-birthday” this part of his personal mythos — them down. On a boating trip up he eventually wrote the story down year? Below is the image of the including the evidence-free claim the Thames with the Liddells — and gave it to Alice for Christmas 365 days. An unbirthday (originally largest gem-quality rough that he only stuttered around the children of his boss, Henry 1864. written un-birthday) is an event that diamond ever found, weighing adults, but spoke without problem Liddell, the dean of Christ Church, It was originally titled Alice’s is typically celebrated on any or all 3,106.75 carats (621.35g) and to children. A childhood fever also Oxford – in the summer of 1862, Adventures Under Ground when he of the 364 (365 on leap years) days in discovered at the Premier No. left him deaf in one ear, and a bout Carroll spun a fantastic tale. Alice gave a handwritten copy to Alice which it is not the person’s birthday. 2 mine in South Africa, on 26 of whooping cough at 17 weakened is Alice Liddell, the Lory is Lorina Liddell. By the time it was published, It is a neologism coined by Lewis January 1905. Name it. It was his chest for the rest of his life. Later Liddell, the Eaglet is Edith Liddell, the name had been changed to Alice’s Carroll in his Through the Looking- named after the mine’s chairman. in life, he developed debilitating, the duck was colleague Reverend Adventures in Wonderland. But he Glass. aura-hallucinating migraines and Robinson Duckworth, and the dodo went through other titles along the what doctors at the time diagnosed Why is Lewis Carrol’s ‘Alice as epilepsy. in Wonderland’ banned in the Carroll led a varied and interesting Hunan province of China? life outside of writing literary On the grounds that “animals nonsense. The author was also Tribe NI.yays should not use human language, and known as a brilliant scholar and that it was disastrous to put animals spent a large portion of his life and human beings on the same level.” teaching mathematics including geometry, algebra and logic at Christ 1. What is the name of the dog that lives with Garfi eld? This word was fi rst used Church College at Oxford. He went Odie. by Lewis Carroll in Through on to publish several mathematics (Joaquim Fernandes, Tourist, Manila) the Looking-Glass in which books as well as puzzles, games and Humpty Dumpty explains to riddles. 2. What two measurements of data come next in this sequence: Alice the coinage of the unusual Beginning in his mid-20s and Kilobyte, Megabyte, Gigabyte? words in “Jabberwocky”, where continuing for over two decades, Terabyte, Petabyte. slithy means “slimy and lithe” Dodgson created over 3,000 (Thomas N, GAC, Doha) and mimsy is “miserable and photographic images, including fl imsy”. In this column as well, portraits of friends and notable “Infotainment” is “information fi gures (like Alfred, Lord Tennyson), Do you have some interesting bytes to share? And, does yourvibe and entertainment” and hence a landscapes, and stills of skeletons, attract you to the ‘Tribe NI.yays!’ Every week two of your best questions brilliant mix of the two. What do (Answer next week. Answer to last dolls, statues, paintings, and more. will be featured here. Please do write to us at [email protected]. we call these kind of words? week’s photo-quiz: An ocelot named He was a big letter writer, sometimes Portmanteau. Babou.) Monday, January 27, 2020 GULF TIMES 11 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY Why people love goosebumps during horror movies

o you know why some the 100 best and scariest horror on real events the scariest, and were people like to watch movies of the past century and how far more scared by things that were horror movies like ‘The they made people feel. unseen or implied rather than what Conjuring’ despite Firstly, 72 per cent of people they could actually see. the scare and frequent report watching at last one horror The team discovered two key Dshouting episodes? If we ask movie every six months, and the fi ndings. researchers, this is because scary reasons for doing so, besides the “The creeping foreboding dread fl icks manipulate brain expertly to feelings of fear and anxiety, was that occurs when one feels that enhance excitement. primarily that of excitement. something isn’t quite right, and the Finnish researchers mapped “Watching horror movies was instinctive response we have to the neural activity as study participants also an excuse to socialise, with sudden appearance of a monster watched horror movies, and found many people preferring to watch that make us jump out of our skin,” that our brains are continuously horror movies with others than on said principal investigator Professor anticipating and preparing us for their own,” the fi ndings showed. Lauri Nummenmaa. action in response to threat. While all movies have our heroes During those times when anxiety “Horror movies exploit face some kind of threat to their is slowly increasing, regions of this expertly to enhance our safety or happiness, horror movies the brain involved in visual and excitement,” said researcher up the ante by having some kind of auditory perception become more Matthew Hudson from University superhuman or supernatural threat active, as the need to attend for of Turku, Finland. that cannot be reasoned with or cues of threat in the environment People found horror that was fought easily. become more important. psychological in nature and based The research team at the “After a sudden shock, brain on real events the scariest, and were University of Turku, Finland, activity is more evident in regions far more scared by things that were studied why we are drawn to such involved in emotion processing, unseen or implied rather than what things as entertainment? threat evaluation, and decision they could actually see. People found horror that was making, enabling a rapid response,” The researchers fi rst established psychological in nature and based said the researchers. – IANS

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

It’s time to put away the sentimental feelings for the day and move Let the genius within you come out and play, Taurus. You may feel You may get frustrated when your list of tasks for the day just does to something new, Aries. Stop pulling out old photo albums and like some sort of inventor who has wild ideas that could help to not seem to get any shorter, Gemini. More than likely, this is due to crying about past experiences. You will only succeed in sinking into revolutionise the future. Bring these ideas into the open and see unforeseen circumstances and unexpected interruptions that you a puddle of tears that you can’t pull yourself out of. Instead, this is a what kind of response you get from the people around you. Cutting- basically have no control over. Don’t get upset at yourself because of day to look to the future and plan for new experiences that you can edge concepts are likely to appeal to you the most. These are the things you can’t change. Make sure to leave extra time to do the things enjoy with the people you love. ones that you should pursue and follow through on if you can. you want, because the interruptions will continue throughout the day. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

Because of your well-mannered attitude and socially minded outlook, Don’t be surprised if you’re scolded by people who are upset about You may find yourself flying high for no particular reason, Virgo. If you Cancer, you may normally be reluctant to make a stand with an the way you’re handling certain things in your life, Leo. Most likely, aren’t, stop and examine the situation. Any emotional discomfort you outlandish idea or draw attention with an unusual outfit or hairstyle. the people who criticise you the most are the ones who understand feel is due to a lack of personal freedom in one way or another. Perhaps Today is a day to be an individual in all aspects of the word. Prove that you the least. They are probably on a completely diff erent you’re feeling too tied down emotionally or too restrained mentally. you are by doing something unexpected. Make yourself stand out wavelength than you, and it isn’t your job to try to change them, nor Perhaps you need to get out of your current situation entirely. Use this above the rest in whatever way feels most comfortable to you. is it your responsibility to change your ways because of them. day to seek ways to feel more independence in your world. LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

This is a good time for you to subscribe to some sort of magazine You probably have the desire to take charge, and you certainly have Remember that no one can make you feel inferior without your or newsletter that will keep you abreast of current events and the capability, so what are you waiting for, Scorpio? Stop sitting consent, Sagittarius. It might seem as if others are trying to show you up developments in a field or hobby that interests you, Libra. The around waiting for someone else to make a decision. By the time the today with their knowledge about the world and how it should be run. operative word of the day is “new.” Keep your mind fresh with news others are done arguing and vacillating about which direction to go, Don’t let them talk you into believing that your thoughts and ideas are that sparks your interest and gives you the inspiration you need to you will already have travelled miles and miles down the road. Your any less valid than theirs. At the same time, it’s important for you to stay keep striving for the goals you have set for yourself. heart wants you to take a strong, independent stance. open-minded and accepting of other people’s ideas. CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

If you’re still using the old shovel and rake out in the fields, now is the Drink plenty of water in order to keep your system properly hydrated, You’re likely to hit that magic spot with someone today in which you can time to upgrade, Capricorn. Get that big piece of machinery that will Aquarius. Water is the most important part of your diet, and it’s likely almost read each other’s thoughts, Pisces. You may know exactly what plow all the acres in no time. In a nutshell, think about ways in which that you aren’t drinking nearly enough. You are highly sensitive today that person is going to say before he or she says it. You may also find you can be more eff icient. Feel free to invest in those things that will so taking care of yourself is the best thing you can do. Otherwise you that your mind is working so quickly that while someone is trying to help make your life easier and more comfortable. Most likely, the might act emotional and too easily manipulated. Distance yourself from make one point, you are already five steps ahead of where that person natural flow of the day will take you to exactly where you need to go. people who try to suck this life force from you. is trying to go. Put your gifts to good use. 12 GULF TIMES Monday, January 27, 2020 COMMUNITY CARTOONS/PUZZLES

Wordsearch Adam

Pooch Cafe

APPLE TIME LEAGUE DEAL BEN WHEEL SHOT HEAD CHEESE BAND TOE MOUTH DIPPER BROTHER CHIEF SPENDER HEART SCREEN BANG TOP GAME BUSINESS

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. Monday, January 27, 2020 GULF TIMES 13 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Super Cryptic Clues Colouring

Across Down 1 Saint has to go on horseback or 1 Tool seen in small insanitary walk with big steps (6) dwelling (6) 4 Looked deeper, perhaps (6) 2 The right animals for worthless 8 Warmer cockney animal (5) people (7) 9 Is present as a race finishes (7) 3 Giggles start to interrupt 10 Woman with others on a dreadful sad song (5) mountain (7) 5 Beg for change in net rate (7) 11 She is entertained by the 6 Managed church and western queen in Surrey (5) farm (5) 12 Fit to sail in other ways, 7 Run away from pudding, say possibly (9) (6) 17 Flooded a laundry (5) 9 Someone setting out unto a 19 Aerial used by social worker star! (9) before queen turns up (7) 13 Let heat sort out a sportsman 21 It’s the most expensive, (7) darling (7) 14 Look for no revolutionary 22 An opportunity in the interval Americans (7) (5) 15 Animals found in a shop and a 23 Set out and set about finding store (6) six performers (6) 16 Swindle that may be taken to 24 New Escort model is a tight court! (6) fit! (6) 18 Gather a large amount (5) 20 Expressions of gratitude and disapproval are forbidden (5) Answers Solution Wordsearch Codeword 14 GULF TIMES Monday, January 27, 2020 COMMUNITY BOLLYWOOD People shouldn’t be judged by their height: Puneett

By Ahana Bhattacharya EXCITED: Ahmed Khan says he is quite excited to be a part of the show. eople should not be judged on the basis of their height, Ahmed to play ex-army offi cer feels television actor in Ek Duje Ke Vaaste 2 Puneett Chouksey. The actor is all set for the release Actor Ahmed Khan, who has featured in movies such Pof his new daily soap Naati Pinky Ki as Dil Chahta Hai and Krrish 3, will essay the role of a Lambi Love Story where he plays the retired army offi cer in the show Ek Duje Ke Vaaste 2. lead. Set against an army backdrop, Ek Duje Ke Vaaste 2 will “We often see people around us narrate the love story of Shravan and Suman. suff ering from lack of confi dence Ahmed will be seen in the role of Mohan Tiwari, due to their low height. And they are Suman’s grandfather. called chhota, nata and so on. So, we “Ek Duje Ke Vaaste 2 is a beautiful story and when I want to deliver a message through heard the script, I was quite excited to be a part of this the show that there should not be any show. My character is of an ex-army man which is a big discrimination on the basis of height responsibility. Also, I am getting a chance to experience or weight because these do not really their lifestyle which is a very big opportunity in itself,” matter at the end of the daym,” Puneett said Ahmed. said. “Mohan is a unique character who has his own style Talking about the serial he added: and fl air, which I am enjoying as an actor while playing “Naati Pinky Ki Lambi Love Story is the role. I also hope that the audience loves it too,” he diff erent in a way that the common added. people will be able to relate to the CANDID: Puneett Chouksey believes that there should not be any discrimination on Also starring Mohit Kumar and Kanika Kapur, the story. It’s a light hearted drama which the basis of height or weight. show will premiere on Sony Entertainment Television on the entire family can sit and watch February 10. – IANS together.” who have a short height are in no these days are often not relatable The actor also opened up on his role way lesser than others in any aspect. due to larger than life characters and in the show. Look at Lata Mangeshkar ji or Sachin poor content. However, this one is “I play a character called Arjun. It’s Tendulkar. They are not known for “diff erent”, he claims. an intense character which brings a their height but for their work, their “Serials these days show a lot of tam diff erent fl avour to the show. Arjun is achievement. That’s the message we jham which the masses cannot connect a very serious person always immersed want to convey that height does not to. We are trying to change that via this in work. He has a soft nature but has matter. It’s God’s gift. People should show where we are showing the story created a hard layer around it, so that be measured not by their height but by of a normal family which everyone can nobody can read his mind or hurt him.” their personality, their contribution relate to. At the same time, it delivers a When asked if a word like “Naati” to the society and what kind of human social message. Contentwise, it is very (short height) in the title would be beings they are.” diff erent from other shows,” he said. off ensive, the actor replied that he does The actor, who has earlier featured in Naati Pinky Ki Lambi Love Story not feel that way. shows like Naagin 3, Vish, Naagarjuna also stars Riya Shukla, Dheeraj Rai and “Don’t think that it is off ensive. – Ek Yoddha and Saath Nibhaana veteran actress Bharati Achrekar. It will What we are trying to say is that people Saathiya feels that television serials air on Colors from today. – IANS

Rang De Basanti clocks 14 years, Sharman Joshi gets nostalgic

It’s been 14 years since ’s patriotic fi lm Rang De Basanti released, and it is still UNIQUE: Ravneet Kaur calls her upcoming TV show very remembered by everyone – especially for its excellent unique. storyline, songs, dialogues and artistes’ performances. Actor Sharman Joshi, who played a pivotal role in the fi lm, Karn Sangini actress Ravneet in Naati Pinky took to social media yesterday and reminisced about the fi lm’s journey. Karn Sangini actress Ravneet Kaur will be seen in He posted one of the stills from the movie in which he can the new TV show Naati Pinky Ki Lambi Love Story. be seen standing next to co-stars , Kunal Kapoor, Ravneet will be essaying the role of a fashion Siddharth and Atul Kulkarni. designer named Medha in the show that revolves One of the famous dialogues from the movie is also written around the life of a girl named Pinky. on the image, which Sharman has shared on his Instagram Pinky, who is short in height, is on a hunt to find a account. perfect match for herself. “’Koi bhi desh perfect nahi hota, usse perfect banana padta “I am super excited and happy to be a part of this hai’(No country is perfect, we have to make it perfect),” the show. Such unique concepts are very few and I have image read. The 2006 released fi lm narrated the story of a always wanted to be a part of such a show,” said group of youngsters and how they are drawn towards leading Ravneet. a freedom movement after Independence. It also talks about “Medha is young, bold, energetic, independent and how society invokes the group to fi ght the system with the REMINISCENCE: Sharman Joshi took to social media and today’s girl. She is crazy about her work as well as for aim to bring about a change. reminisced about the film’s journey. Gagan. It will be really interesting when she, Gagan The fi lm brought forward a fl ashback to the freedom and Pinky come across,” she added. struggle about how freedom fi ghters like Chandrashekhar Rang De Basanti also featured Soha Ali Khan, R Madhavan, Naati Pinky Ki Lambi Love Story also features Riya Azad, Bhagat Singh, Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan and Waheeda Rehman, Kirron Kher, Anupam Kher and British Shukla, Puneet Choksey and Dheeraj Rai. – IANS Rajguru continue to inspire youngsters. actress Alice Patten. – IANS Monday, January 27, 2020 GULF TIMES 15 HOLLYWOOD COMMUNITY

Channing, Jenna reach custody counsellor to work out a specific schedule and they are expecting their first child agreement for daughter to split the holidays and custody time in a together. fair way, reports etonline.com Meanwhile, Jessie J and Channing Former star couple Channing Tatum The source added that the actors also Tatum confirmed their relationship was and Jenna Dewan, who finalised their agreed to not exploit Everly for any social very much back on when they walked the divorce in November last year, have media advertisements. red carpet for the MusiCares Person Of worked out a child custody agreement for Tatum and Dewan announced their The Year bash the night before. their daughter, Everly. separation in April 2018 after eight years And the couple continued to flaunt According to a source, Tatum and of marriage. They filed for divorce in their rekindled romance when they Dewan have agreed to share 50/50 custody October of that same year. stepped out for the Clive Davis Pre- of their 6-year-old daughter. The source Meanwhile, they have moved on. Dewan Grammy Gala in Beverly Hills on Saturday SEPARATED: Former star couple Channing said they have also agreed to work with a is currently dating actor Steve Kazee evening. – IANS Tatum, left, and Jenna Dewan. Impeachment trial tests American attention span

arguments, and Trump’s legal By Lorraine Ali team will likely begin its defence this weekend. Senators will then have the opportunity to pose he trial of a lifetime. A written questions through Chief constitutional crisis of Justice John Roberts, who is historical proportions. presiding over the trial. A game-changer for The state-controlled broadcast American democracy. has been a great media equaliser. All TPresident Donald Trump’s news outlets and platforms have the impeachment trial – only the third same feed, no matter their political in American history, the second leaning, balance of punditry versus since the advent of television and facts, or annual revenue numbers. the fi rst of a fi rst-term president – The only diff erences were the rolled into the Senate chamber this network ID icons on the side of week with the promise of a made- the screen and colourful backing for-TV spectacle. Drama! Confl ict! graphics that struggled to make the Burisma Bada Bing! dry aff air look sexy. What landed was more like Imagine if political campaigns a local cable co-op hearing, were run this way – if the spliced with a jury-duty service candidates were only allowed instructional video, squeezed the one setting to appeal to through an uninspired PowerPoint pollsters. If Bloomberg didn’t presentation. own it, and Fox couldn’t spin it. Thank the government for the Congratulations, President Yang. low-fi production of this high- CNN and The New York Times stakes trial, which began last sent sketch artists into the trial, Tuesday and will roll into next week who came back with illustrations with a series of all-day sessions of senators falling asleep in their featuring arguments for and against chairs, or vacating their seats Trump’s removal from offi ce. like Lindsey Graham for the The artless staging and inert excitement of the cloak room. fi xed camera angles are a result of Last Wednesday, as Schiff the Republican-controlled Senate’s finished up his roughly three- request that no press photography hour presentation, perhaps two or recording devices be allowed dozen Republicans were out of inside the chamber. The fi lmed their seats at once. It’s a violation record of this extraordinary period MANAGER: In a screenshot taken from a Senate Television webcast, House impeachment manager Rep. Hakeem of the rules for senators to leave in our nation’s history is being Jeff ries (D-N.Y.) speaks during impeachment proceedings against President Donald Trump in the Senate at the US their seats during the trial, which documented by what appears to Capitol in Washington. may be another reason they be one fi xed camera left behind wanted to control the narrative. after Bill Clinton’s impeachment, pointed timelines. Video clips Political pundits lamented the messed up as it is today, was centre Sens. Tim Scott, R-S.C., and equipped with a zoom feature and of testimony during the House setup, arguing that Sen. Mitch stage and unadorned. Sans the bells Ben Sasse, R-Neb., reportedly not much else. impeachment hearings from key McConnell, R-Ky., banked on a and whistles, it was and is a study in loitered by the door while Sen. Hours stuck in the same frame players in Trump’s administration, boring telecast to dissuade voters paying attention when everything Tom Cotton, R-Ark., was spotted – Senator X and Trump lawyer Y such as Lt. Col. Alexander from watching the hearing. “They tells you not to, of staying attuned sneaking chocolate from under making their argument in front of a Vindman and Gordon Sondland, don’t want the public to see this,” to a laborious process that’s his desk. If we’re honest, we marbleised wall whose cracks and were interspersed throughout the said MSNBC analyst Michael designed to make us look the other all needed a sugar boost at that fi ssures illustrate the glacial pace proceedings to back their charges Steele. “They don’t want us to way. point. and weight of the trial – make one that the president used his offi ce to assess for ourselves.” Call it a January miracle, but The no-frills production had yearn for the brilliance of C-SPAN game the forthcoming election in The unintended result, however, the first day of the trial drew an even the jurors tuning out, which and the Frank Capra-esque his favour. was impeachment in the raw, a audience of more than 11 million probably wasn’t an anticipated masterworks it’s produced in these But when the audio slipped sombre endeavour uncluttered by television viewers, according to detail in McConnell’s suppress- same chambers. out of sync, as it did quite often, the fl ashy graphics and curated ratings data compiled by Nielsen. the-checks-and-balances Presentations by impeachment it evoked the dubbed hilarity of direction of news outlets tasked And that’s not accounting for playbook. Trump is on trial, but manager Rep. Adam Schiff , a midcentury Godzilla movie, with entertaining their audiences. those who live-streamed it so is the disappearing American D-Calif., and other Democrats and their meticulously planned Reports of celebrities in the public on internet platforms. They’ll attention span. Stay alert, because arguing that the president abused attack was upstaged by memories seating area were just that, reports. have plenty more to watch in the last thing we need is a sequel his power were augmented by of another monstrous battle, but Alyssa Milano was off camera. the coming days. Each side is of “Distraction vs. Democracy.” – evidentiary documents and bullet- involving Rodan. The American political process, as allotted 24 hours in all for opening Los Angeles Times/TNS 16 GULF TIMES Monday, January 27, 2020 COMMUNITY Argentinian street artist paints powerful oryx mural in Katara

GROUP: From left, Martin Ron, street artist; Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti, General Manager of LARGER THAN LIFE: The oryx mural can be seen outside Building 40 of Katara - the Cultural Katara; and Dr Carlos Hernandez, Ambassador of Argentina to Qatar, unveiling the oryx mural Village. in Katara. Photos by Nasar K Moideen

around the world. “I travel around the Doha skyline. The artist has painted the “Katara people looked at his works and By Mudassir Raja world and create murals in collaboration map of Qatar on the forehead of oryx.” they asked him if he could do a mural for with local artists and organisations. I have Martin finds Qatar an amazing place. “I them. Katara wanted him to finish the work been painting murals for the last 15 years. am from the other part of the world. Qatar in one week and he has done it in five days. There can be diff erent opinions about the I came to Qatar as a part of the artists is so far from my country. When I came We have Martin’s works in streets of many genre of street art but no one can deny its invited by Pallas Art. Katara and the Pallas here, I felt I have discovered a hidden pearl. cities around the world. I hope this is not importance, when it comes to being in sight Art collaborated to create the oryx mural. I think here art is growing.” going to be the last of his work in Qatar.” and available for everyone, irrespective of Katara offered the wall and I completed Ambassador Carlos was seemingly The ambassador added: “Martin one’s social stratum, to appreciate creative the mural,” Marin said while talking to excited to have the mural painted by the proposed the idea of painting the oryx and pieces. Community. Argentinian artist. “I am extremely happy Katara accepted it. We have talks with Dr Murals and other forms of street art are He further said: “The city of Doha is new because this is our first art work not only Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti has promised very common in major cities of the world for me. I learnt that oryx is an important in Katara but also in Doha. It happened by to have an Argentine corner in Katara. We where street artists continue to paint the figure for Qatar, that is why I chose to paint chance. Martin came for a different work will try to hold cultural activities in the walls with their creative skills and unique the huge mural. I also love painting exotic here. corner.” subject matters. In this regard, Doha is not animals in big shapes. Wherever I am, I an exception. typically chose the local animals.” Katara - the Cultural Village also The oryx mural is noticeably huge. “The “I try to tell a story supports and promotes street art. Recently, mural is six metres wide and 12 metre tall. a talented Argentinian street artist painted It took me nearly five days to complete the with my brush. In a huge oryx outside Building 40. Facing project. I worked for seven hours a day. I towards the beech, the oryx is visible for have used typical paint colours that are this case, the mural the visitors even when they are driving by used to paint the houses. I picked up the the building. best quality. The paints will not be impaired is free of any kind The mural was unveiled jointly by Dr by rain for a long time. The administration Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti, General of Katara, however, needs to repaint it after of interpretation. Manager of Katara; Dr Carlos Hernandez, some time.” Ambassador of Argentina to Qatar; and Martin loves to tell story through each However, my Martin Ron, the talented young street of his murals. “I try to tell a story with artist; in the presence of a large gathering my brush. In this case, the mural is free intention is to on a pleasant evening. of any kind of interpretation. However, Martin is an artist based in Buenos my intention is to highlight the pride highlight the pride of Aires. He specialises in the creation of of people of Qatar. When I came here, I large inspirational murals that already learnt about the ongoing unjust blockade. people of Qatar” decorate many walls of his city. At the same time, I heard people saying His works have a realistic feeling that is talking about resilience of Qatar as there — Martin Ron hard to match, while at the same time they is no impact of the blockade is visible. So, include fantasy segments that are inspiring. I have displayed a powerful oryx breaking Argentinian He is known for the originality in his work a wall. The name of the mural is ‘Oryx and attends festivals and competitions Going Ahead.’ The background shows Street Artist