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There’s probably a photographer hidden in each of us, looking out for a platform. Community invites you to grab your chance and send your contributions with contact details and complete description of the images to [email protected] — PHOTO ESSAY, Page 10

Sunday, June 23, 2019 Shawwal 20, 1440 AH

Doha today: 340 - 400

COVER STORY PPursuitursuit ooff eexcellencexcellence Dr Ivan Ninov, Executive Dean at Stenden Qatar University of Applied Sciences, on his academic experiences and quality education at the university. P4-5

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Mexico City’s lowriders ICC unveils plans for new pedal against stigma. welfare, cultural programmes. Page 11 Page 16 2 GULF TIMES Sunday, June 23, 2019 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

PRAYER TIME Fajr 3.13am Shorooq (sunrise) 4.46am Zuhr (noon) 11.37am Asr (afternoon) 3pm Maghreb (sunset) 6.29pm Isha (night) 7.59pm

USEFUL NUMBERS

Kabir Singh to marry another person. As a senior and a topper in one of DIRECTION: ’s most reputed medical institutes, he wields immense CAST: , , power. Thanks to his lethal anger issues, there are few who SYNOPSIS: is a remake of a Telugu movie would want to mess with him. (2017), where a short-tempered house surgeon Emergency 999 gets used to drugs and drinks when his love interest is forced THEATRES: The Mall, Landmark, Royal Plaza 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 Qatar Airways 40253374 Men In Black: Inernational Earth from the scum of the universe. In this new adventure, DIRECTION: F. Gary Gray they tackle their biggest threat to date a mole in the Men in CAST: Chris Hemsworth, Tessa Thompson, Kumail Black organisation. Nanjiani SYNOPSIS: The Men in Black have always protected the THEATRES: The Mall, Landmark, Royal Plaza ote Unquo Qu te “Optimism The Mall Cinema (1): Kabir Hussein? (Arabic) 9:45pm; Unda Singh () 2pm; Aladdin (2D) (Malayalam) 11:30pm. is the faith that leads 5pm; Mahadesh Shaf Mohamed Royal Plaza Cinema Palace to achievement. Nothing Hussein? (Arabic) 7:15pm; Child’s (1): Toy Story 4 (2D) 2:15pm; Toy Play (2D) 9:15pm; Kabir Singh (Malayalam) 2:15pm; Aladdin (2D) Story 4 (2D) 4pm; Toy Story 4 (2D) can be done without hope and (Hindi) 11pm. 4:30pm; Mahadesh Shaf Mohamed 5:45pm; Men In Black International confi dence.” The Mall Cinema (2): Toy Story 4 Hussein? (Arabic) 7pm; Unda (2D) 7:30pm; Men In Black (2D) 2:15pm; Toy Story 4 (2D) 4pm; (Malayalam) 8:45pm; Kabir Singh International (2D) 9:30pm; Men In — Helen Keller Toy Story 4 (2D) 5:45pm; Men In (Hindi) 11pm. Black International (2D) 11:30pm. Black International (2D) 7:30pm; Landmark Cinema (2): Aladdin Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (2): Men In Black International (2D) (2D) 2:30pm; Toy Story 4 (2D) 5pm; Unda (Malayalam) 2:30pm; Kabir 9:30pm; Men In Black International Toy Story 4 (2D) 6:45pm; Kabir Singh (Hindi) 5pm; Kabir Singh (2D) 11:30pm. Singh (Hindi) 8:30pm; Child’s Play (Hindi) 8pm; Unda (Malayalam) The Mall Cinema (3): Unda (2D) 11:30pm. 11:15pm. Community Editor (Malayalam) 2:30pm; Pokemon Landmark Cinema (3): Toy Royal Plaza Cinema Palace Kamran Rehmat Detective Pikachu (2D) 4:45pm; Story 4 (2D) 2:15pm; Toy Story (3): Shadaa (Punjabi) 2:30pm; e-mail: [email protected] Toy Story 4 (2D) 6:45pm; Kabir 4 (2D) 4pm; Men In Black Pokemon Detective Pikachu (2D) Telephone: 44466405 Singh (Hindi) 8:30pm; Unda International (2D) 5:45pm; Men In 5pm; Child’s Play (2D) 7pm; Unda Fax: 44350474 (Malayalam) 11:30pm. Black International (2D) 7:45pm; (Malayalam) 8:45pm; Kabir Singh Landmark Cinema (1): Unda Mahadesh Shaf Mohamed (Hindi) 11pm. Sunday, June 23, 2019 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY

Career Guidance Hobby Classes WHERE: Right Track Consultants, Al WHERE: Mamangam Performing Art Sadd Centre WHEN: Sunday – Thursday WHEN:Wednesday – Monday TIME: 6pm – 8pm Mamangam Performing Art Centre, is a Career guidance for course, country, holistic performing arts institution and a one college and entrance for students of Grade stop solution for adults as well as children IX-XII, of all curriculum. Career assessments looking to explore their talents in various administered for stream preference, career art forms. We off er classes in contemporary, test, branch preference, personality, , hip hop, indian classical dance, multiple intelligence and learning styles music (Hindustani and Carnatic), arts and craft, and productivity. For more information, karate, yoga, percussion (Chenda, Thimila, 55448835. Elathalam and Madhalam), violin, harmonium, public speaking. Additional services include dance education, choreograph music videos and dance cover albums, choreograph dance musical projects, corporate workshops and events, choreograph events for schools, colleges, alumni meets and corporate and choreography events. For details, call 33897609.

EVENTS Qatar and . Composed of five main topics, including community, trade, arts, MF Husain: The Horses Of The Sun food and incense, the exhibition takes Exhibition one on a journey to explore the rich and WHERE: Mataf: Arab Museum of Modern diverse Indian cultures, the long historic Artistic Gymnastic Classes Art links between Qatar and India, and cultural WHERE: Qatar Academy Msheireb WHEN: Ongoing till July 31 similarities between Qatar and India. WHEN: Ongoing TIME: 9am – 7pm TIME: 3:15pm – 4:15pm The exhibition presents Husain’s pluralist Ballet Lessons The olympic sport using horizontal bar, approach to the divine and cosmic aspects of WHERE: Music and Arts Atelier rings and fl oor exercises on mats for the being, articulated through the myths, symbols WHEN: Ongoing children from age 4 till 16. and narratives of the world’s religions and TIME: 4pm – 8pm philosophies. M. F. Husain: Horses of the Sun For more info e-mail at registration@ bears witness to a recurrent motif in his art, a atelierqatar.com or call on 33003839. Arabic Calligraphy Workshop personal symbol of self-renewal and vitality. WHEN: Saturday – Wednesday TIME: 6pm Summer Entertainment City Arabic Calligraphy workshop is back. WHERE: DECC Come and learn the artistic practice of Arabic WHEN: Ongoing till July 13 handwriting and calligraphy at Music and TIME: 1pm – 11pm Arts Atelier. The biggest indoor VR and Gaming The lessons will take place every Saturday, zone,over 50+ new activities and 45 food Monday and Wednesday at 6pm. For options along with 114 retail shops, for the more information, contact registration@ whole family under one roof. Entry fee QR15 atelierqatar.com per head. 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 Theatre & Taekwondo. Ages between 5 and 10 years old after school hours.

Summer Camp for Special Needs WHERE: Step by Step Centre for Special Needs Dance and Instrument Classes India to Qatar – Symbiosis of WHEN: June 30 – August 1 WHERE: TCA Campus, Behind Gulf Times Cultures TIME: 8:00am – 12:30pm Building WHERE: FBQ Museum During this time, all therapists and WHEN: Wednesday – Monday WHEN: Ongoing till July 31 teachers will be working together, running Learn the movements of dance styles in Under the context of cultural exchange, individual, peer and group sessions within Bollywood, Hip Hop and also the musical FBQ Museum brings together the treasures classes. The children will continue learning instruments such as Piano, Guitar, Keyboard of the museum owned collection in age-appropriate concepts, work on social for adults as well kids and move in the world order to promote mutual understanding, skills, life skills training, arts and crafts, of music. For details, contact 66523871/ recognition and appreciation between music, and fun activities such as water play. 31326749.

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Sunday, June 23, 2019 COMMUNITY COVER STORY “Qatar has always been very creative in how they do things” — Dr Ivan Ninov, Executive Dean at SQU of Applied Sciences SUNDAY CONVERSATION

Qatar has opened up to the world. The country has been trying to develop a lot of cruise tourism and different tourism attractions. The effect from the blockade was shortlived ‘ — Dr Ivan Ninov

By Mudassir Raja

e is very impressed by the dining options available in Doha and likes the upscale restaurants here. He sees a brighter future for Qatar’s diverse hospitality scene. Dr Ivan Ninov, Executive Dean at Stenden Qatar University (SQU) of Applied Sciences, is full of praise for the continuous growthH and future prospects of the hospitality industry in Qatar as he has been heading one of the premier higher education providers of hospitality management, tourism management, and business management in Qatar for over three years. Dr Ivan holds a PhD degree in Hospitality Administration from Texas Tech University in the US and a Master of Science degree in Restaurant, Hotel and Institutional Management from the same institution. He carries extensive industry and academic knowledge, combined with successful international’ and regional experience. He has also worked for Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management in Dubai as an Assistant Dean. Community recently caught up with the dean and interviewed him about his professional career, the contributions that the university has been making so HOLDING FORTH: Dr Ivan Ninov delivering a speech at the graduation ceremony. Photos supplied far and his understanding of the hospitality industry in Qatar. Sunday, June 23, 2019 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY

CSR CAMPAIGN: As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility activities, Stenden Qatar University (SQU) of Applied Sciences along with the Alumni Association at the university organised tree planting.

Originally from Bulgaria, Dr Ivan of advisory board for the university has been living abroad for over 20 “It is not easy to make progress in Stenden. It is one which consists of heads and CEOs years. He cherished talking about of the most challenging universities to graduate of 10 biggest organisations in Doha. his childhood in predominantly In October 2017, the university was agricultural Bulgaria. “My childhood from. We have very rigorous criteria and admission added to the list of the government was very eventful in Bulgaria. It support universities. We are the was very safe and quiet to be there requirements. A very high percentage of our graduates only private institution in the list. in childhood. I used to be a very Last year, we got two new masters good basketball player in my school. get good jobs” programmes licensed. Further, we When I was in my high school, I was are the only private university in kind of fascinated with a very old hospitality and service management. close relations with these hotels. All the importance of the fact that Qatar that off ers its own degree. We building housing a hotel, close to “Apart from the academic courses, our students go for practical training. Qatar is becoming a big stop-over are really focused on the quality of my school. I wanted to study about we off er special short course for the Currently, there are some challenges destination. There are very attractive the courses we off er. We also plan to this. At that time, we did not have industry in Qatar. We have planned due to the unjust blockade. There deals.” introduce new courses in media and hotel management education at the diff erent short courses. We off er used to be a good market from the Dr Ivan has been working on maritime studies. university level so I got the degree courses both for companies and GCC. However, I think this market diff erent projects in the university “About 20 percent of our in International Tourism. I did my individual professionals.” has been replaced with other to contribute to the tourism sector students are Qataris at the moment. internship with a well-known hotel The dean appreciates the markets. Qatar has opened up to the in Qatar. “There have been lots of We are trying to increase the in my country. promotion and development of the world. The country has been trying developments here in the last three percentage. I see a lot of interest in “I liked the hospitality industry hospitality and tourism sectors in to develop a lot of cruise tourism. years. First of all, in 2017, we applied our international business degree. and I decided to make it my career. Qatar. “The development of the They are expecting them in big for international accreditation It is not easy to make progress Then I went to the US and did my tourism and hospitality sectors is numbers. They are also developing for the hospitality and tourism in Stenden. It is one of the most Masters in restaurant and hotel one of the strategic objectives of the diff erent tourism attractions. I think programmes from International challenging universities to graduate management. I started working with country. There is a lot of investment the eff ect from the blockade was Sector of Excellence in Hospitality from. We have very rigorous criteria a company and they off ered me to do in these two sectors. In terms of shortlived. The country has kind of and Tourism Education, which and admission requirements. The PhD in Hospitality Administration facilitates, Doha has a lot to off er. We found ways to work around. Qatar is the most reputable accrediting graduates of Stenden are very in 2001. At the same time, I was have more than 50 fi ve-star hotels has always been very creative in how body worldwide based in Australia. good. A very high percentage of our teaching the course of food and here. Some of them are upscale they do things. I think slowly with Our tourism programme is the only graduates get good jobs.” beverage management. I really luxury hotels. There is a lot more more marketing and promotion, internally accredited programme in The dean is fully aware of the enjoyed teaching young people. I under development. Qatar will see a rise in the number whole Mena region. upcoming opportunities and possible decided to make academia as my “We (the university) have very of visitors. We should not diminish “In 2016, we created a high level growth in the tourism sector in Qatar. career. I have always been having a He has his eyes on the FIFA World certain kind of rewarding feelings. Cup 2022. “We want to extend our In 2005, I moved to UAE and it was “The development of the tourism and hospitality portfolio. We will introduce newer in 2016 that I moved to Stenden in sectors is one of the strategic objectives of the country. courses. We are also planning to Qatar.” move to a new facility in two to three Talking about his family, the There is a lot of investment in these two sectors. In years. We already have the land.” dean said: “I have one sister. I got Dr Ivan also shared his expert married in 2013. Both of my parents terms of facilitates, Doha has a lot to offer. We have views on hospitality scenes in were medical doctors. My father more than 50 five-star hotels here” diff erent areas of the world. He sees was a surgeon and my mother a more similarities than diff erences paediatrician. They always wanted at the international hospitality both of us to become doctors. My scenes. “With the globalisation, sister is a lawyer. My mother now things are becoming more or less pushes our children to become similar, though still there are some doctors. I have two kids.” diff erences. With standardisation, It was in January 2016 when Dr you can see hotels having similar Ivan found himself in Doha after properties in diff erent countries. he joined Stenden University. He They have to follow the same fi nds the education facility quite standards. There is a lot of attractive. “Stenden is a very unique standardisation but still you can university in Doha. We are the oldest fi nd diff erences between markets. private university. Next year, we will For example, in the US, they are be celebrating our 20th anniversary. very pragmatic. In GCC, you will So far, we have graduated around 700 fi nd a diff erent level of luxury that is students. Some of them have been upscale. working in very good key positions. “Doha has developed very quickly. “We are the only Dutch university It is very diverse. The main hotel in GCC. We are the only international companies are in Doha. But, what campus that off ers fi ve diff erent I have personally found interesting programmes – international about the market here is, from the hospitality management, tourism hospitality prospective, to have management, and international really nice upscale restaurants. I am business for bachelors’ degree. From actually impressed by the dining last September, we introduced two options here. There are so many master programmes — international options for everyone. The dining leisure, tourism, and event VISIT: Dr Ivan Ninov with Dr Bahia Tahzib-Lie, the Ambassador of The Netherlands to Qatar, during her visit to the options here are very unique, management and international SQU of Applied Sciences. especially the fi ne dining.” 6 GULF TIMES Sunday, June 23, 2019 COMMUNITY

Students of MES and Sindhu P Nair perform at ICC

Eighty-seven students of MES Indian School recently performed thematic fusion and classical dances based on the theme of ‘Glimpses of India’ at Indian Cultural Centre. The performances included Fusion Oppana, Fusion Thematic Dance and Group Song. Sindhu P Nair, a well- known ‘Vazhuvoor style’ Bharatanatyam artist from Bangalore, also performed on the occasion, which was followed by a felicitation ceremony. Certificates and appreciation plaques were presented to the students of MES and Sindhu P Nair by the managing committee members of the ICC. Anjan Ganguly, Joint Secretary of ICC, initiated and conducted the proceedings. A P Manikantan, President of ICC, welcomed the gathering and Nayana Wagh, Cultural Secretary, introduced the artistes.

MCTA organises 28th annual get-together and general body meeting

The Qatar Chapter of the Marthoma College Tiruvalla Alumni Association (QC-MCTA) recently organised its 28th annual get-together and general body meeting at Shalimar Hotel. Raju Mathew, President of MTCA, presided over the event. A P Manikandan, President of Indian Cultural Centre, was the chief guest on the occasion. Rev Mathew Skariah, Baby Kurian, Patron of MCTA, Anish George Mathew and Lijo Raju spoke on the occasion. Anish George Mathew presented the annual report and Vijo John Thomas the annual accounts report for the year 2018- 2019, which was followed by a cultural performance. Baby Kurian extended his condolences and sympathies on the passing away of Varughese Mathew, alumni member. A minute silence was observed in his memory on the occasion. SIS organises SIS Academic Excellence Awards 2018-19

Shantiniketan Indian School (SIS) recently organised SIS Academic Excellence Awards 2018-19 for subject. K C Abdul Latheef, President of the School Management Committee, along with Dr the students of Junior Section of Grades I-V. The students received awards in diff erent categories, Subhash Nair, Principal of SIS, Vice Principals and Head Teachers presented the awards. Speaking including SIS Scholar Badge, Co-Scholastic Achievement Badge, and 100% Attendance Badge on the occasion, Dudley O’Connor, Vice Principal of SIS, congratulated the parents and students. among others. Principal’s Honour badge was presented to the students who received both the He spoke about the progress of the school and the unique changes that have taken place with the scholars badge and the co-scholastic badge and having no record of indiscipline. learner and the taught. He also shared about the SIS Learn Pedagogy which is inclusive in nature, Abdullah Abdul Wahab Quraishi, a student of Grade V, was presented with the International giving all children equal opportunity and personalised guidance, keeping in mind that ‘Every Child Benchmark Test Certificate of Distinction in recognition of his outstanding performance in Hindi can Learn and Achieve High Results’. Sunday, June 23, 2019 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY BPS takes part in online meeting

Birla Public School (BPS) recently exchanged music notes with B K Birla Public School from Kaylan Mumbai in an online meeting via Zoom Webcam, technical support arranged by the IT Department of BPS. The meeting was supported by A P Sharma, Principal of BPS, Rajesh Pillai and Bhavna Vijaykumar Sonkamble, Vice Principals. Marshal D’Silva, Head of Department of Music and Dance, co-ordinated the meeting. Ann Mariya, a student of Grade IX, explained the meaning of Qatar national anthem and the history behind it. John, music faculty at BPS, supported the session. Twenty students of BPS took THEATRICAL PERFORMANCE: Ethera Api Qatar recently staged a theatrical play part in the session which was Suddek Oba Amathai at Qatar National Convention Centre Al Mayassa Theatre. The compered by Rushali, a student of artistes from Sri Lanka performed on the occasion. Dr Jayalath Manorathna, veteran Grade-IX. artiste, was felicitated on the occasion.

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY: Greenwood International School and Kindergarten (GISK) recently marked World Environment Day to highlight the importance of global warming and the duties of every individual in keeping our mother earth cool and green. Students of KG - Grade VI participated in various activities. The students of Kindergarten Section planted saplings. The students of Grade I-IV made drawing and slogans and the students of Grade V-VI participated in face painting and T-shirt designing.

New touring specification for Jaguar XE SV Project 8

Jaguar’s Special Vehicle 3.3sec (0-100km/h in 3.7sec) Operations division has recently and on to a limited top speed of developed a more restrained 186mph (300km/h). road-oriented version of the Jamal Hameedi, Engineering extreme XE SV Project 8 Director, Jaguar Special Vehicle featuring a discreet new rear Operations, said, “Project 8 spoiler, delivering a covert design has received outstanding that belies the 600PS vehicle’s critical acclaim since its race track-honed performance launch, demonstrating the capabilities, stated a press Special Vehicle Operations release. team’s ability to create a The new Touring specification compact Jaguar sedan with is available alongside existing supercar-rivalling performance. 200mph Project 8 derivatives, Touring specification extends which currently hold production the appeal of Project 8 to sedan lap records on three performance car enthusiasts and continents – at circuits including collectors who prefer a more the Nürburgring Nordschleife, discreet appearance, without Dubai Autodrome and Laguna compromising its driver-focused Seca. on-road dynamics.” The fixed Touring Spoiler Special Vehicle Operations will replaces Project 8’s adjustable hand-assemble no more than carbonfibre rear aerodynamic 15 examples of the Touring wing and is complemented by specification Project 8 at its a fixed front splitter to maintain Technical Centre in Warwickshire, aerodynamic balance. exclusively in four-seat Despite this significant configuration. aerodynamic revision, the Valencia Orange, Velocity Blue, 5.0-litre Supercharged V8 Project Corris Grey Satin and British 8 with Touring Spoiler retains Racing Green paint finishes are an extraordinary level of on- available, while the absence of road performance and driver body decals – though optional engagement for a sports sedan, – confirms this as the ultimate accelerating from 0-60mph in Q car. 8 GULF TIMES Sunday, June 23, 2019 COMMUNITY GARDENING

SHORTER: Viking begonia Red on Chocolate also come in the standard habit which is a little shorter. Viking begonias shaking up the garden world You see we can’t be happy until we get our hands on each and every colour in this new series of begonias, writes Norman Winter

ife seemed as it should The Viking series of begonias touted the size of the plants know for all of us gardeners is coming from Sakata Seed that also that the fl owers are enormous and horticultural gurus. also brought us SunPatiens and in and colourful with rose, pink, We loved Big Begonias, a similar fashion, these begonias scarlet and coral fl ame. Judges were Whopper Begonias and too are packed with vigour and impressed with how the deep bronze TophatL that had just introduced performance. The eight regular of this year’s AAS Winner remained white. Shoot we still had Dragon selections are suggested to reach a sharp and intense no matter what Wing at the throne when it height of 20-24 inches with a spread area of the country it was grown. came to hanging baskets. Then of 24 to 28 inches. The XL group Hello Sakata, we want it now! something happened in the space- takes on a more dwarf azalea frame Whether you choose to grow in time continuum of begonias and reaching 28-34 inches tall with a sun or partial-sun, the soil should gardeners. Our happiness has been width of 32 to 36 inches or should be fertile, organic-rich and well shaken thanks to Viking begonias. we say, THREE FEET. drained. Work in 3 to 4 inches of You see we can’t be happy now The rows of these begonias were organic matter, turning the soil to until we get our hands on each uniform and stunning and seemed to a depth of about 8 inches. While and every colour in this new series be the gathering place of greenhouse tilling, add two pounds of a slow- of begonias. These have been the producers, garden centre owners, release, 12-6-6 fertiliser with minor jaw-droppers at all of the trials this and professional designers. The nutrients per 100 square feet of bed summer. Eight standard varieties consensus was I want it and I want space. and 4 that are called XL. You may it NOW. To be honest it will be next These plants are ever-blooming have heard of the one called Viking year before most of us get our hands and have the ability to form Red on Chocolate XL as it is a 2019 on it. The wrinkle in that may come an almost dwarf shrub-like AAS Winner. from the 2019 AAS Winner Red on appearance. They lend themselves My gut tells me, however, that Chocolate XL. Seeds are out there to create stunning vistas when this one largely slipped under the although 99.5% of us have never mass planted. Believe me when I radar this year, and to be honest, I grown a begonia from seed. Visit say, however, they can stand alone would like to know why. At trials your garden centre often this season in large containers dazzling on the which typically seem like an ocean and keep your eyes open, you never porch patio or deck. The Garden of colour, begonias typically have know. Guy looks forward to the day where an uphill battle to steal the limelight You’ll fi nd three leaf colours in they are combined with bananas, from plants like lantanas, zinnias, the series, bright green, bronze, and gingers and elephant ears for a VARIETY: Viking Begonias come in bright green leafed, bronze and and salvias, but not the case this chocolate. The foliage is so luscious tropical paradise. Sakata, I want chocolate. year. you want to touch it. While I have them NOW! Sunday, June 23, 2019 GULF TIMES 9 TRAVEL COMMUNITY Travelling in time along the Pacific International Date Line When ships travel east across the International Date Line, they gain a day. Heading west, they lose a day. And if you think that’s complicated, try living in a country that has land on both sides of the line, writes Joachim Mangler

here’s only a single sign on the tranquil island of Taveuni to remind visitors that two separate days once existed here Tvirtually right next to each other. If you stood east of the line, you were in yesterday. West of the line, it was today. Sound crazy? It is. First the explanation. Longitudinal lines are the geographical co-ordinates running from the North Pole to the South Pole. These lines help to measure precisely where something is located on the Earth. The zero degree meridians runs through Greenwich, DIFFERENT TIMELINE: If you travel east across the International Date Line, just outside London. you gain a day. Heading west, you lose a day. Taveuni, an island belonging to Fiji in the South Pacifi c, is situated both travelled for the same amount Date Line runs through the Pacifi c exactly on the other side of the of time, yet one has repeatedly Ocean, where few people actually globe, on the 180th line of longitude. lost an hour and the other has kept live, was intentional. It means that This north-south line runs through gaining an hour. But since, logically very little actual land territory is vast expanses of the Pacifi c Ocean speaking, neither has travelled into divided by two days of the calendar. and, importantly, marks the the past or the future, there must be That notwithstanding, the International Date Line dividing some kind of balance established. International Date Line does yesterday from today – or today So, the traveller coming from the not completely follow the 180th from tomorrow. west goes back a day, while the one meridian. The line does some And, as if this isn’t confusing from the east goes forward a day. zigging and zagging, since having enough, things can get even more The fact that the zero meridian two dates can be a handicap for the complicated. When those travelling was established as running aff ected countries. The same applies by ship near Taveuni cross the through Greenwich is rooted in to time zones, which also rarely International Date Line heading a – rather arbitrary – decision at an follow a specifi c longitude. And so, east, they experience the same day international conference in 1884. today, the International Date Line twice. Heading west, they lose an Which means that theoretically no longer runs through the island of entire day. speaking, the date line could also be Taveuni. On a cruise ship heading from PICTURESQUE: The island of Taveuni in Fiji is located on the 180th line of somewhere else. It also makes a hammer-shaped Fiji to Tahiti, the captain tells longitude. But the fact that the International bulge near the equator close to the the passengers: “Hapag-Lloyd island republic of Kiribati. In 1995, is generous and so is giving you Kiribati was fed up with dividing an extra day.” The ship is heading its time between two diff erent eastwards across the International days, and so the country decided Date Line. This means that that it lies completely west of the Wednesday takes place twice International Date Line. The new on board – “because it was so adjusted time zone was ushered beautiful,” the captain says with a in at the turn of the millennium, wink. “We took pains to see that which has given the Micronesian nobody has a birthday.” island-state the nickname of the The passengers spend hours “Millennium Islands.” trying to fi gure out why it is that In 2011, Samoa changed from the a day must be experienced twice. eastern side of the date line to the With intuition alone, it is something western side because this brought that is not easily grasped. benefi ts in its trade with Australia, To try to understand the date New Zealand and Asia. Beforehand, line, one should imagine two air Samoa was virtually always running passengers who, starting from the a day behind. But American Samoa prime meridian in London, fl y off remained in the east. in opposite directions. One heads “The date line has inspired us all west, where, upon reaching each to think a lot more about things,” new time zone, they must turn their comments one of the passengers watch back one hour. The other fl ies on board the cruise ship as the east, and must correspondingly trip comes to an end. The lecturer keep turning the watch ahead by one keeps going back to the day that hour. was repeated on board: “I still don’t When both passengers reach the know whether I got paid for that 180th degree of longitude, they have MAPPING OUT: The International Date Line is located broadly along the 180th line of longitude. second day.” – DPA 10 GULF TIMES Sunday, June 23, 2019 COMMUNITY PHOTO ESSAY

The combination of contemporary architecture with Islamic traditions During my fi rst visit to the Education City Mosque located in the Education City, I found the whole space breathtaking. This is the fi rst truly modern structure for worshippers in the region and it is already an inspiration for many. The interior juxtaposes light and shadow. The uniqueness of the building is that the rays of light penetrate through the holes of diff erent shapes and sizes. The peculiar features of the mosque are the two minarets, similar to ribbons which strive for the sky. The mosque rests on fi ve large columns with each featuring a verse from the Quran. Prayer lines are calligraphed over the facade of the building. Four streams of water fl ow from the surrounding garden into the building. The mosque has a main prayer hall - a hall for men and a hall for women, and classroom spread across the fl oor. This is a must visit place for people in Qatar, especially since everybody is welcome to visit. It is also a place to go and click some stunning pictures, get enlightened about religion and spend some quiet time. It is an oasis of serenity amidst the bustling city. — Text by Keerthana Kandaraja, photos by Santhiya Kandaraja Sunday, June 23, 2019 GULF TIMES 11 OFFBEAT COMMUNITY Mexico City’s lowriders pedal against stigma Once a month, the members of Chilangos Lowbike Club gather for a ride through the boulevards of Mexico City, writes Andrea Sosa

fi ngers. Some are tattooed, even on gangs of Central America. their neck and head – like David The group was founded in 2014 Tavira, whom they call ‘El Pizarron’ and today has around 85 members, (the blackboard). including women and children. Their outfi ts recall the ‘Cholos’ “Apart from our image, we are – Mexican youths who in the a club like any other,” says Juan 1970s sought to establish their Carlos Jasso, one of the organisers. own identity in the immigrant “There are workers, fathers and districts of Los Angeles. Many of students here.” the lowriders live in areas that are They meet at a corner opposite plagued with violence. They don’t the cathedral of San Hipolito near want any trouble here – just to the Hidalgo metro station to start cycle on their special bicycles. their tour. A lowrider is a kind of lowered “We are like a family,” says bicycle. With their low seats and 30-year-old Hector Hernandez. long, curved handlebars, some look “There are boys who have been a bit like a Harley Davidson, but through so much that they are without the engine. Their owners marked - hence the tattoos. They are also often classic biker types. joined the club fi rst and foremost to “Some were gang members, but leave all that behind – everything today they don’t want any more that they did.” trouble. That’s why they’re cruising One of them has come with his now,” says Saul Perez Ramiro. The seven-year-old son on a converted 30-year-old bricklayer has got his tricycle. “The aim of our bike club bike himself. is to change this image people have: “They want to leave that behind Here come the wrongdoers, the them. And when they come here thieves and the drug addicts. When instead of committing crimes, they get to know us, they realise they represent a culture. There’s a that it’s not true,” he says. completely diff erent atmosphere The group has rules for how here,” he says. members support and interact GROWING FAME: The club was founded in 2014 and today has around 85 members, including women and children. On the last Sunday of every with each other. Members must month, the boulevards of Mexico respect the code in order to be he chrome handlebars friends from the Chilangos Lowbike It’s not just their unusual and City become a track for the allowed to wear the offi cial signs of Carlos Bermudez’s Club stand out among all the elaborately decorated bikes, but lowriders. And it’s not just their of membership: a badge to hang lowrider glint in the sun cyclists, joggers and roller-bladers also the way they are dressed: exotic bikes that attract attention, around your neck and a shirt with as he hops on and starts on the Paseo de la Reforma in the baggy pants, XXL sports jerseys, but also their characteristic poses the yellow ‘Chilangos’ lettering to pedal. He and his centre of Mexico City. silver chains and large rings on their and gestures, borrowed from the on the back. That’s what the T inhabitants of the Mexican capital are called. “I see this as a lifestyle. It’s something that allows you to completely switch off ,” says Juan Carlos Martinez. Inspired by the lowriders, the 21-year-old started studying industrial design. Ricardo ‘Robotin’ Sanchez’s bicycle, meanwhile, is chrome- plated. Its seat has a low backrest and the rear wheel rim is reinforced. Uriel Solorzano rides a blue bike with curved handlebars decorated with dice. The 24-year-old is a lawyer, but instead of a suit and tie, he is wearing dungarees with the straps hanging down. “They say fashion is just what you like wearing. Clothes don’t make people,” he says. “People often see us and think, ‘You will steal from me.’ But when they engage in conversation, they are surprised. Some are academics, teachers and cooks,” he says. “This is a project that shakes off that bad GROUP: Members of the Chilangos Lowbike Club. image.” – DPA 12 GULF TIMES Sunday, June 23, 2019 COMMUNITY CARTOONS/PUZZLES

Wordsearch Adam

Pooch Cafe

AGUILAS GUERNICA VIGO CUENZA PAMPLONA BURGOS MADRID AVILA LAREDO ALCIRA HUELVA ZAMORA DURANGO TOLEDO CADIZ MALAGA BARCELONA LEON ALCOY IRUN CORDOBA GRANADA VALENCIA LORCA OVIEDO BILBAO ALICANTE JEREZ

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. Sunday, June 23, 2019 GULF TIMES 13 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Super Cryptic Clues Colouring

Across Down 1 Beginner in Athens (5) 1 Porter right on the ball (5) 4 Long poems involving spice? 2 Group of soldiers taking (5) philosopher forward (7) 7 Loose chips are heavenly (8) 3 A colleague of Castro is hurt 8 A cereal, we hear, that’s (4) crooked (4) 4 Get away having swallowed 9 Ancient city not completely half of loaf or slice of meat (8) destroyed? (4) 5 Characters from China 10 Garment daughter ripped needlessly silly (5) off (7) 6 Theatre work that could have 12 Social occasion - central bit you in stitches (7) in backyard? (6,5) 11 Mortality figures may be a 14 Sit and read awkwardly with complete write-off (4,4) legs apart (7) 12 Family tree reveals this 16 Small animal in boat (4) sudden visit (7) 19 Captain in submarine 13 Judges playing conkers? (7) movies (4) 15 Woman distributing hoard 20 Examination, as soon as it’s (5) finished (4-4) 17 Revolver we’ll hear (5) 21 Times leader censures 18 Cast about for laws (4) pitfalls (5) 22 Fibre used in optics is altered (5)

Yesterday’s Solution Answers

Wordsearch Codeword 14 GULF TIMES Sunday, June 23, 2019 COMMUNITY LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE Soft furnishing ideas for your home

ifting the look of your uninviting room, a simple method house can be easy with to add positivity is by introducing a change or two in soft some cushions or throws. furnishings. Play around — Revive a favourite sofa or with a rug or throw in chair: We all have that one most Lcushions to style it well, suggest loved household item that we experts. just couldn’t stand to dispose off. Rashi, Founder, Carpet Regardless of whether it’s a legacy Couture, has the following tips to wingback seat or a comfortable share: Chesterfield couch, there’s no — Style the windows: The requirement for a substitution. windows are the eyes of the home, Pick squashed velvet, an letting in light and confining extravagant print or much the world outside. Try and pick calfskin – maybe pick something trendy curtains for your windows swanky to make the thing emerge – for example, strong textures or significantly more to give a special wild examples, Venetian blinds or style to your living room. manor screens. — Make a statement with a Sameer A M, Founder and CEO, rug: Your eyes will normally be Bonito Designs, suggests: attracted to walls and furniture, — One of the easiest things but did you realise that a carpet/ to look for while decorating is rug can truly integrate the room? curtains, things you might have Pick something that you can already stashed away in your manage the cost of. Only buy if cupboards. There are plenty — Complementary bed linens with small ones, geometrics and will look and feel so much better you adore it. A rug encompasses of things already in your home accentuate the decor. A printed florals. Bright, fuller pillows in than foam. the furniture arrangement and you may not have considered bedspread really uplifts a space varying colours and textures, — Using objects such as musical makes the decor look complete. wall-worthy. Take another look when it comes to décor. blend different groupings. instruments and album covers Important points to note while at curtains, scarves and fabrics — Pile on the pillows, and don’t However, one should be careful makes a fi tting display in your selecting a rug are size, colours, you’ve collected and use one shy away from mixing patterns. not to go overboard. living room - particularly when texture and most importantly, its large, or several smaller pieces by This is one of the easiest ways to — Another quick hack to make a hung together in a grouping maintenance. hanging them on a rod or directly accessorise and brighten a room, throw pillow seem so much more or salon arrangement. Choose — Scatter cushions: In case you onto the wall with small hooks whether you buy them or make luxurious is to replace the original matching frames to bring it all are becoming weary of a plain, sewn onto the back. your own. Combine large prints insides with a feather insert. They together for a cohesive look. – IANS

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

You may feel like you’re coming up against a brick wall, Aries. Smile at the world today, Taurus. Be thankful for the things you have Today isn’t the best day to play practical jokes, Gemini, so put Your emotions are a bit stifled and you may find that you’re more and the people around you. Amplify the cozy, warm feeling inside away the disappearing ink. Stick close to home. Find security in stubborn than usual. There is a large and beneficial force that you and spread this love to others. This is a very expansive time for you doing things you know how to do best. Hang a painting and cook a can tap into today, as long as you keep your intuition open. The less in which you can get quite a bit accomplished if you set your mind scrumptious dinner. You can inspire others with your smile, so use it. you search for it, the more likely it will come to you. Something may to it. Radiate your true nature through every cell in your body and Don’t get down if your thoughts aren’t flowing well with the group. spur you to act. watch as the opportunities come your way. This is a sign that you should spend some time alone. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

There may be a great deal of opposition in your way today, Cancer, The pieces of today’s puzzle may not fit into place, Leo, and it’s Today can be an extremely productive day, Virgo. You’re in a but try not to dwell on it. The key is to stay levelheaded and maintain possible that you have no idea why. Don’t stress over something good space from which to work and this will aid you in all your a positive outlook. This is a day in which you can bring a great deal you don’t quite understand. The key to making things work out is endeavours. Today is also excellent for looking at some of the long- of balance to issues by understanding and respecting the other side. listening. Adjustments will definitely be needed on both sides, but term trends moving through your life now. Consider the next five or Have charity for those who are making sacrifices so that you may this can only happen if both parties are willing to open their ears and ten years and think about how your actions will aff ect your future. have a more comfortable ride. understand one another’s perspective. Plan ahead to get ahead. LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

There may be a battle between old and new in your world today, People may seem a bit stubborn today. Your powers of adaptation When you go up a flight of stairs, take one step at a time today, Libra. A reserved and old-fashioned perspective has a strong hold may be put to the test, Scorpio. The people around you are likely to Sagittarius. Skipping up the staircase two at a time could result in on the prevailing sentiment. This feeling is likely going to hit you call on your tender, sympathetic nature. Off er a nurturing ear and you falling back to the bottom. Trying to rush things today will leave square in the face as you lean toward the unconventional and more strong shoulder for others to cry on. Keep things low key and steady. holes in your projects. Finish jobs completely by making sure that revolutionary approach to life. See what sort of past lessons you can The more grounded you are, the easier it will be to get along with every step is thoroughly taken care of. Don’t ignore the details. learn from as you build the future. the energy of today. CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

Today is a terrific day for taking the plunge or making an investment, The key to being successful today is to maintain an air of stability. Today is a very expansive day for you, Pisces. Your emotions can Capricorn. Luck and prosperity are in your favour, and you have the If others see you as too flighty and off the wall, they will hesitate lead you into favourable situations with others. The pace of the opportunity to make some very profitable financial decisions. Your about putting their trust in you. Make sure you do those things in day may seem a little slow, but this can be used to your advantage. intuition is right in line with what you need to do. Make the best your power that will help boost your clout. You will need this support Examine every detail with care and try not to leave any piece of the deal possible and provide a fair and secure future for you and your from others later. Make a solid base to build on. equation unaccounted for. You should enjoy a stable, caring mood investment. that radiates out and draws others toward you. Sunday, June 23, 2019 GULF TIMES 15 SHOWBIZ COMMUNITY

Manisha’s grandparents inspired her to be a questioner

Actress-author Manisha Koirala says it was her grandparents who inspired her to be a writer, thinker and someone who questions. Manisha on Friday shared a photograph of her grandparents and captioned it: “My love for classical dance, reading fi ction inspired by her and dreams of being a writer/thinker (or in my case questioner) was inspired by grandparents.” Manisha, who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2012, wrote about her journey as a survivor in Healed: How Cancer Gave Me a New Life. She was last seen on-screen in Sanju. Earlier this month, Manisha announced: “Starting a fi lm...another exciting journey begins. Feel blessed.” – IANS

INTENSE: A scene from Toy Story 4.

THINKER: Manisha Koirala says it was her Going to theatres to watch grandparents who inspired her to be a writer and thinker.

Life got ruined with Wasseypur, films still a popular trend says Kashyap “Because that misconception’s in on 2,000 screens, and scores a $50 Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap says when Gangs Of By Michael Phillips play,” Corcoran says, “a bad string of million marketing budget, the fi lm has to Wasseypur released on this day seven years ago, his movies has a way of underscoring the make $150 million to break even. life got “ruined”. perception that we’re a legacy industry, if That doesn’t happen very often. If it June 22, 2012 was when the fi rst instalment of the wners of the nation’s not a dying one.” did, Corcoran likely wouldn’t be getting two-part Gangs of Wasseypur released. It is a cult fi lm roughly 4,100 movie theatre About that rough patch: A lot of on a plane next week to come to Chicago that revolves around a gangster who clashes with a screens are hoping the recent studio titles performed poorly. to talk to a lunchful of fi nancial analysts ruthless, coal-mining kingpin. arrival of Toy Story 4 will Men in Black: International, Shaft, Dark about the long-term viability of movie- “Seven years back is exactly when my life got mean big business. The Phoenix represent brand recognition going. ruined. Since then all everyone wants me to do is the previousO Toy Story made a little over $1 without much imagination or distinctive Corcoran says the media has to claim same thing over and over again. Whereas, I have only billion in revenue. So. That kind of big. fi lmmaking skill. some of the responsibility: “If there’s any been unsuccessfully trying to get away from that Next week, Chicago native and Of the 10 most lucrative theatrical industry being hurt by the online world, expectation. Anyways hope that Saadhe Saati is over Northwestern University graduate off erings so far in 2019, only one film – it’s the press. And I wonder if the press by the end of 2019,” Kashyap tweeted yesterday. Patrick Corcoran will leave Studio City, Jordan Peele’s Us – wasn’t a sequel, or has a way of seeing everything through Gangs Of Wasseypur, based on a real life story, was Calif., where he lives, and return to his a remake, or franchise line item. It was that lens (of crisis).” loved by the masses for its rawness. It had managed to hometown for a lunch meeting convened new. And it turned into Peele’s second When Disney and AT&T/ collect Rs10 crore in the opening weekend. by the Wedbush Securities Inc. The consecutive smash, with Get Out pulling WarnerMedia launch their streaming The gang war drama based in Wasseypur in mission, in his words: “to dispel some in $255 million worldwide (on a $4.5 platforms next year, will things indeed Dhanbad district, Jharkhand, featured Manoj misconceptions about the health of the million product budget) prior to Us ($254 change in the multiplex-slaughtering Bajpayee, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Piyush Mishra and exhibition industry.” And to persuade a million worldwide, on a $20 million fashion so many have predicted for so Richa Chadha. roomful of skeptical fi nancial analysts production budget). long? Kashyap has helmed fi lms like Black Friday, that traditional, old-fashioned movie- Peele’s movies are anomalies in a Perhaps. For now, the product supply Dev.D, Gulaal, Ugly, Raman Raghav, Mukkabaaz and going hasn’t succumbed to online movie world regularly smothered by remains somewhere between “steady” Manmarziyaan. streaming platforms yet. the Marvel Cinematic Universe and and “too much to handle properly.” It’s He is currently working on a new fi lm with Roshan Not yet. super-heroics that feel a little less the same with streaming platforms and Mathew and Saiyami Kher. – IANS The movie-going experience and the super each year, even when the movies home-screen options. Half the country corporate behemoths supplying its wares work. Certainly from most angles goes to bed wondering how the other half may not be “a growth stock,” Corcoran Avengers: Endgame worked. It satisfi ed has time for even a fraction of it, and half tells me. “It’s too erratic, and dependent the unoffi cial global membership ranks of both halves wonder when they’ll get on the popularity of the movies. But of the MCU club, to the tune of $2.69 around to Fleabag. for investors it’s a good dividend stock, billion in revenue. Meanwhile, at the multiplex: If we quarter after quarter.” It was a sterling example of “product continue to get the occasional MCU A former entertainment journalist supply,” which is a phrase NATO’s triumph, such as Black Panther, and the and Los Angeles Reader theater editor, Corcoran hears with some regularity occasional stand-alone, franchise-free Corcoran serves as vice-president when meeting with industry analysts. success story, such as Us, then a few dud and chief communications offi cer of What’s missing, he says, is simple. weeks near the midpoint of 2019 won’t the National Association of Theatre “We’re not off ering audiences enough merit much attention come December. Owners (NATO), a trade organisation diversity of types of fi lms to get them in But for anyone who saw Dark Phoenix representing the owners of those 4,100 the door,” Cocoran says. “Audiences turn in the same late spring blur as Aladdin screens across the US and Canada. out for the huge stuff . But you can also (a hit, though not with me) and Men Industry analysts, Corcoran says, “keep build a big audience through a mixture of in Black: International and Shaft, the reading and hearing this idea that there’s smaller fi lms.” viability of the same old formulas feels UNDER PRESSURE: Anurag Kashyap says that a mass change in consumer behaviour, Marketing and advertising, so often perilously shaky. everyone expects from him to make more gangster and it’s leaving the movie industry under-budgeted and curtailed just “Hollywood runs on retreads,” as action films. behind.” That, he argues, doesn’t jibe when a new fi lm needs the boost, is Corcoran says. It’s a winning game with 1.3 billion tickets sold in 2018 across ridiculously pricey. If a $20 million dollar plan for the stockholders. Until it isn’t the US and Canada. studio movie wants to open successfully anymore. – Chicago Tribune/TNS 16 GULF TIMES Sunday, June 23, 2019 COMMUNITY

PRESS MEET: From left, Bhumeshwar Padala, Head of Consular Services & External Events at ICC; Adv Jaff arkhan M, Head of Premises, HR & Sports; C A Rajesh Singh, Head of Finance & Sponsorship; Manikantan A P, President; Vinod V Nair, Vice President; Nirmala Shanmugapadian, Cultural Co-ordinator; Mohsin P, Head of Aff iliation & Membership. ICC unveils plans for new welfare, cultural programmes

– from 7:30pm to 8:30pm. The weakly for dance, karate, chess and music. “This By Mudassir Raja programmes are about dance, music and art summer we plan to have some crash courses “We are also going to of India. These events will be organised by for Indian expatriates.” 19 different organisations, affiliated with Manikantan also talked about privileged upgrade the website ll expatriate communities ICC. insurance cards for the ICC members. always like to enjoy and engage We are providing a chance to the “We have around 4,000 members. With of ICC and the new themselves in cultural activities affiliated organisations to present their different associated organisations, we in Qatar. The Indian community cultural programmes. There are many have over 100, 000 members. Now, we are website will be – the largest expatriate Indian schools and they can also come and planning to give privilege to some members. Acommunity here, is no exception to that. perform in ICC on every Wednesday. There First of all we are going to announce a group launched on June 25. The community has the prestigious are many institutes that are also interested insurance facility. This will be helpful Indian Cultural Center (ICC) working under in carrying out cultural programmes. They for all the community members. We have Indian expatriates the aegis of the Embassy of India in Qatar. will first get registered with ICC and then observed that if someone dies here, his or The center has been organising different they will offer their performances. We are her family finds it hard to deal with the will be able to apply cultural activities coupled with welfare allotting them slots accordin. situation. services for their larger community. “Last two weeks, we have had our We are planning to the insurance for ICC membership ICC office bearers yesterday organised programmes. We will have one month plan with minimum premium. We are in a press conference at its Mumbai hall. summer break – from July 3 to the first negotiation with different Qatar based online. We are also The ICC office-bearers who addressed week of August. We have already booked insurance companies. We are trying to keep the press meet were namely, Manikantan 15 Wednesdays. We have done our work the premium up to QR100. The insurance creating a job portal A P, President; Vinod V Nair, Vice to spread the news about performance will be valid for two years and can be President; Bhumeshwar Padala, Head opportunities. Every week, we will extended. We are planning to launch this in the website” of Consular Services & External Events: be sending press releases on Monday scheme in August. Jaffarkhan M, Head of Premises, HR & highlighting what cultural programme is “Further, we are also reaching out to — Manikantan A P, Sports: Rajesh Singh, Head of Finance going to take place on Wednesday making different businesses in Qatar seeking & Sponsorship; Mohsin P, Head of sure that the news reaches maximum concessions for the ICC members holding President ICC Affiliation & Membership; and Nirmala number of Indians. We will prioritise the privileged cards.” Shanmugapadian, Cultural Coordinator. cultural programmes according to their He added: “We are also going to upgrade The ICC office-bearers highlighted quality. We are trying to inform more and the website of ICC and the new website will and companies to give preference to these various new programmes their team wants more people to come and enjoy the shows. be launched on June 25. Indian expatriates CVs. The job applicants must have Qatari to introduce for welfare and cultural Mostly cultural programems in Doha take will be able to apply for ICC membership identity card or visit visa number.” activities. They talked in detail about place on Thursday, Friday or Saturday. online. We are also creating a job portal in The ICC president also shared that they cultural programmes, welfare projects, and We have arranged it on Wednesday, giving the website. were going to set up different clubs such as educational activities. people a chance to enjoy cultural activities Indians living in Qatar or visiting the science club, drama club, photography club Talking to the media, Manikantan said: during week days.” country will be able to upload their CVs etc. “We want to get our children to interact “First of all, we are having [already started] The president added that the ICC had on ICC website. We have been in talks with known and professional people cultural programems on every Wednesday already been conducting different classes with managers of the different businesses visiting Qatar from India.”