Tuesday, February 18, 2020 Jumada II 24, 1441 AH

Doha today 170 - 260

TThehe painterpainter pphysicianhysician

Dr Sreekumar Padmanabhan juggles stethoscope and paintbrush, is convinced one COVER STORY complements the other. P4-5

FUELLING UNDERSTANDING: “My art background has made me more sensitive, and taught me to be more empathetic towards my patients,” says Dr Sree. Photo supplied 2 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 18, 2020 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

PRAYER TIME Fajr 4.49am Shorooq (sunrise) 6.08am Zuhr (noon) 11.48am Asr (afternoon) 3.03pm Maghreb (sunset) 5.29pm Isha (night) 6.59pm

USEFUL NUMBERS

Sonic The Hedgehog on Earth with his newfound best friend — Tom Wachowski. CAST: Jim Carrey, James Marsden, Ben Schwartz They must soon join forces to prevent the evil Dr Robotnik from DIRECTION: Jeff Fowler capturing Sonic and using his powers for world domination. SYNOPSIS: Sonic tries to navigate the complexities of life THEATRES: The Mall, Landmark, Royal Plaza Emergency 999 Worldwide Emergency Number 112 Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 Local Directory 180 International Calls Enquires 150 Hamad International Airport 40106666 Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 Mowasalat Taxi 44588888 Qatar Airways 44496000 Hamad Medical Corporation 44392222, 44393333 Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464 Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 44593363 Qatar Assistive Technology Centre 44594050 Qatar News Agency 44450205 44450333 Q-Post – General Postal Corporation 44464444

Humanitarian Services Offi ce (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies) Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, 40253369 Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364 Bad Boys For Life Mike gets wounded, he teams up with partner Marcus Burnett Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365 DIRECTION: Adil El Arbi, Bilall Fallah and AMMO – a special tactical squad – to bring the culprits Qatar Airways 40253374 CAST: Will Smith, Vanessa Hudgens, Alexander Ludwig to justice. But the old-school, wisecracking cops must soon SYNOPSIS: The wife and son of a Mexican drug lord learn to get along with their new elite counterparts if they are embark on a vengeful quest to kill all those involved in his trial to take down the vicious cartel that threatens their lives. and imprisonment – including Detective Mike Lowrey. When THEATRES: Royal Plaza

ote Unquo Qu te “Where there is love there is life”

– Mahatma Gandhi

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 Tuesday, February 18, 2020 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY

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

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

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

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

Metro Street Food WHERE: DECC Metro Station WHEN: Ongoing

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 18, 2020 COMMUNITY COVER STORY “Choice of colours reflects the times (artists) live in” — Dr Sreekumar Padmanabhan, painter-physician

regular at Katara’s international Community Report and local painting exhibits, and he’s taken part in Qatar Foundation’s popular Art Atelier workshop and Painting should not be a exhibition — all the while practising profession. It should be medicine. a lifetime of dedication,” The physician says that, as an One thing about Qatar that is observed Maqbool Fida artist and an Indian, the launch unique, and sticks out a mile, Husain in an episode of Al of Husain’s Seero fi al Ardh art “Jazeera’s One on One programme, installation at Qatar Foundation’s is the generosity, respect and aired in 2010. (QF) Education City — taking the Husain’s countryman, Dr artist’s vision to its conclusion — acceptance the country Sreekumar Padmanabhan — known makes him proud. But he would also as Dr Sree to his friends and expect nothing less in Qatar. shows to artists patients — seems to have taken that “One thing about Qatar that advice to heart. A resident of Qatar, is unique, and sticks out a mile, the physician spends every spare is the generosity, respect and — Dr Sreekumar Padmanabhan minute outside his job doing what acceptance the country shows to he loves: painting. artists,” says Dr Sree. “It doesn’t Since his arrival in Qatar in 2007, surprise me that Qatar Foundation Dr Sree has held 36 exhibitions, a would take an unfi nished work of ‘ ’ dozen of which were solo. He is a Husain, complete it and then share Tuesday, February 18, 2020 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY

The Seeroo fi al Ardh’s main show chronicles how first nature, then machines, advanced the ambitions of people throughout the Arab region, allowing them to shape the world around them; and how — even before the European Renaissance was born — the Arab world was home to an age of enlightenment, experimentation, and innovation

it with the public — it’s a part of the I admit I was doubtful of what I conduct exhibitions at Katara and number of painting he’s completed of it every day; in the way the eyes personality of this country.” could do in Doha, especially while venues run by Qatar Museums, lead since his arrival in Qatar. Every of my patients light up when they Though the physician never met practising as a doctor.” art events supported by various nook and cranny is fi lled with learn I’m an artist; in the manner Husain, he was captivated by his Today, Dr Sree says that his embassies, and set up art groups framed paintings of all sizes. in which I am constantly invited to style of painting, especially the use artistic experience in Qatar has within the community. In his studio on the third fl oor, paint or display at exhibitions.” of certain colour combinations in surpassed all his expectations — A visit to his home in the Salata cardboard cartons are stacked “Where else would artists his artwork. the last 12 years have seen him Jadeed neighbourhood of Doha against each other, bulging with like me get a chance to work and “I believe that where artists are produce more than 200 paintings, gives a better insight into the sheer portraits, and paintings that depict exhibit artwork alongside those concerned, the choice of colours animals to Arabian landscapes – of renowned local artists such as refl ect the times they live in, and and everything in between. Yousif al-Homaid? And which the experiences they have,” he “It wasn’t just my art that other country would choose to explains. progressed since I came to Doha. I preserve the legacy of artists — like “If you compare the manner did all this while studying further,” Husain — irrespective of nationality in which Renaissance artists and he explains. “I acquired three and culture?” Husain used combinations of red, medical degrees and certifi cations The installation comprises a gold and amber, you’ll notice that while in Qatar. And I teach courses suspended sculpture of Abbas the European palette was far more at Hamad Medical Corporation, Ibn Firnas, a replica of the fl ying subtle and restrained than Husain’s. too. machine of Leonardo da Vince, Husain’s bold colour choices mirror When asked about the fi ve Murano glass horses, and fi ve his life — and India.” infl uence that painting has had vintage cars, all of which move to Dr Sree notes how first-time on his profession, he says, “I’ve music selected by Husain, with a visitors to India are generally noticed that my art background giant mosaic of horses — paying struck by three things – noise, has continuously sharpened my tribute to Qatar’s equine heritage colour, and movement. Husain observational skills. It has made and Husain’s love of the animals — captured these attributes in his me more sensitive, and taught me forming the backdrop. paintings. They can be seen in the to be more empathetic towards my The Seeroo fi al Ardh’s main bold colours he chose, and in the patients.” show chronicles how fi rst nature, manner in which figures of people Dr Sree says that Husain’s then machines, advanced the and animals were positioned in fi nal art installation is more than ambitions of people throughout a frame, portraying a sense of the culmination of the artist’s the Arab region, allowing them to contained energy. life and work. He feels it is an shape the world around them; and The physician – who is a family acknowledgement of one culture by how — even before the European medicine and occupational health another – and refl ects the artistic Renaissance was born — the specialist – can’t remember a opportunities that are opened up to Arab world was home to an age of time when he was not painting or residents of Qatar. enlightenment, experimentation, doodling on a piece of a paper. “The magnanimity of Qataris and innovation. “Art was a part of my existence,” when it comes to providing artists he says. “The only time when I had with an outlet for their creativity Performances take place at to consciously make an eff ort not has to be experienced to be 9am, 11am, 5pm, and 7pm every to paint was during my studies in believed,” he notes. “I doubt if there day except Fridays and are free medical school. is any other country in the world of charge, but pre-registration “After qualifying as a doctor, where I would have experienced the is essential and under-16s must I lived in another country in the level of respect and recognition that be accompanied by an adult. To region prior to coming to Qatar – I INSPIRATIONAL: The late M F Husain with his work of art that is now the I have been given here. register, please visit https://www. never got the chance to explore centre of all attention at the Qatar Foundation’s Education City. “The people of Qatar embrace qf.org.qa/community/seeroo-fi - art as much as I wanted, there. So Photos supplied art; it’s in their blood. I see proof al-ardh 6 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 18, 2020 COMMUNITY Nepalese expat cricket players making their mark in Qatar

By Usha Wagle Gautam

epal’s sport scene is grim: players are in dilemma about whether to continue playing or put their Npassions at the bay at the face of low remunerations and an uncertain future. After passing mid-twenties, players in every sport feel they have been dawdling enough, and consequently feel they have to earn for themselves and their families. As a South Asian country – the bastion of cricket – Nepal has some traces of passion in the game. But a slow economy and lacklustre investment takes a toll on players who might have played in diff erent segments of league. Hence, many opt for green pastures abroad, and Qatar remains to be the prime location of Nepalese sport wannabes. But, old passions and old habits are hard to die. Nepal Cricket Club (NCC), in Qatar, is one of such ensembles formed by the community who work and play. The 20 players’ ensemble was formed in 2004 which now includes 35. In 2009, NCC went on to become TEAM: Nepal cricket club team in a group photo. the champions of TMC Club Tournament. In 2010, it repeated “Workmanship came along with the passion”, Yadav says. it would be unethical to ask them “We thrive by the support of its sportsmanship. In 2012, it sportsmanship.” The club also “But it is not an easy task,” says to empty their pockets for the Nepalese community members,” became runners-up in the same trains the future players in the vice captain Entekhab Ahmed. funds.” Slowly, they are starting Ahmed says. tournament. The team has excelled team; they train tricks of cricket There is a persisting anxiety to get funds from the community Life is unbelievable: what we left in prime community leagues in trade and instil confi dence in the over the funds. Initially, the club members. As we sat for talking, clings onto us. This is the thing that 2013. The team has performed newcomers. For the Nepalese team, members emptied their pockets Ahmed took the opportunity has happened to all of the cricked exceedingly well in Gulf Premier there is no shortage of fanfare – to fund, and second, there was no and asked all to come forward in players at the NCC. They had left Leagues, Abu Hamour Champ folks buy ticket passionately and management body. “As players supporting the team and contribute cricket for jobs in Qatar, but they Leagues and Qatar Premiere cheer up for the team. “They have have migrated here for work, then, with whatever means they could. couldn’t do so altogether. They Leagues. The factor encourages have carried passion wherever they the most, with an over 400, 000 went. population, Nepalese audience buy Jannat Miya, NCC adviser, tickets of the play-off s in which says they have the symbiotic Nepal is playing overwhelmingly. relationship with the community. As of now, NCC is gearing up for a “The community has to support new season-2020. and fund us, and we entertain and Skipper of NCC, Ash Mohamed bring pride to the community.” says he was a huge cricket fan. Player Roshan Mandal is happy “Since I arrived in Doha, I have being in Qatar. “We earn something been watching each and every and we are busy with work, but we cricket show.” Gradually, his put some money and some time in legs and hands itched, he started cricket, so we are happy.” Mandal practising himself. Thereafter, he believes that cricket has brought played mini-series hosted by the the players with natural freshness – community, and ultimately got physical and mental health. a chance to play friendlies with Cricket is now becoming a craze other communities. That was the in Nepal, a country who curiously time when Nepalese community followed football for decades. was unaware that Qatar Cricket Nepalese cricket team plays high Association (QCA) was busy international matches and some organising events that would have players even play prestigious encouraged the community to leagues abroad. And, a proper participate. In 2004, he took a lead cricket pitch is being built in the in forming NCC. west of the country, not by the Manish Yadav, manager of government, but by the public. the club, says, even though it The same craze is brought by the was founded in 2004, the team Nepalese in Qatar or wherever participated in TMC only in they land. Nepalese are making 2009. One of the club’s mottoes cricket popular in Qatar, and are is to showcase that Nepalese are participating in every match against not only the honest and working the South Asian neighbours making bees but also agile sportspersons. WINNERS: Nepalese players express their joy after winning a tournament. themselves and others happy. Tuesday, February 18, 2020 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY

Indonesians in Qatar celebrate Sport Day

Celebrating the 9th National Sport Day of Qatar, the Social Association of Indonesian Community (which in Indonesian Language stands for ‘Ikatan Sosial Warga Indonesia’ – ISWI), held its Sport Day at Al Khor International School recently. Over 300 Indonesians attended the event which off ered many sport activities like jogging, fun walking, archery and bicycling even arm wrestling in three categories for men, women and children. To attract more participants, the organiser also prepared door prizes, including two bicycles for lucky winners. Beside doing sport activities, the participants enjoyed traditional Indonesia cuisines off ered by five food stalls. The participants treated their homesickness by tasting to meet our Indonesian colleagues. Indonesians who travel abroad. Indonesia cuisines. Various dishes Not even once a year.” In his remarks, the ambassador Talabat partners with from many parts of Indonesia like The Embassy of Indonesia in Doha, expressed his appreciation. “While Aceh, Minang, Sunda and Java were led by Ambassador Mohammed Basri serving as ambassador to Qatar, available on the day. Sidehabi, took part in the event by I have attended at least four ISWI Bedaya to support ISWI is the oldest Indonesian providing consular services for the Sport Day events. I always try community group in Qatar. The ISWI Indonesians and disseminating the to attend every events held by Sport Day is also served as an event importance of safe migration using Indonesian communities in Qatar. Made in Qatar initiative to strengthen friendship among the mobile application named Safe Travel. I hope in the future ISWI could Indonesians in Qatar. A participant The application which developed enhance its contribution for the commented: “Our daily job and by the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs improvement of Indonesia’s image Talabat and Bedaya have Talabat to facilitate the seamless activities sometimes made us diff icult of Indonesia is very important for in Qatar.” committed together in the initiative delivery of Qatari local products to support Qatari youth and new off ered through ‘Dukan Bedaya’ business by bringing you brands using the Talabat platform. This which are Made in Qatar. partnership will go a long way in Talabat has agreed to work supporting our entrepreneurs and together to off er their services their products. ‘Dukan Bedaya’ to the Qatari youth in close co- is located at the Cultural Village operation with Bedaya Center. – Katara opposite to Ard Kanaan Bedaya Center is a lively and restaurant and the working hours enjoyable place to be for Qatari are from 10am to 10pm.” youth, where it is possible Francisco De Sousa, Managing to network, get good career Director for Talabat, commented: advice, learn new ideas and “Talabat is constantly looking for entrepreneurship. initiatives for supporting Made Currently Talabat off ers brands in Qatar brands and the Qatari like Kassra Khaneenah, Mondialya, youth.” Feel Qatar and Al Fawah with more Talabat is one of the largest food brands coming onboard soon. ordering and delivery platforms in Commenting about the agreement the Middle East, operating in seven Ruqaya al-Sada, Entrepreneurship countries: Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Adviser at Bedaya Center, said, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, “We are delighted to partner with Oman, Qatar and Jordan.

Qatar Oryx Chapter of ASHRAE conducts technical workshop

Qatar Oryx Chapter of ASHRAE (American Committee for Qatar Oryx Chapter of ASHRAE, Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air- welcomed the engineers and was the main Conditioning Engineers) recently conducted a co-ordinator for the workshop. In his address, workshop on the subject of ‘Smart Actuators he informed about the memorandum of and Digitalisation in HVAC Systems, Thermal understanding (MoU) signed between The Gulf Balancing in Hot Water Network & Steel Organisation for Research and Development Butterfly Valves in District Cooling Network’ (Gord) and ASHRAE Qatar Oryx Chapter, to for the air conditioning engineers in Qatar at foster sustainable development through joint Intercontinental Hotel Doha – The City. initiatives. He also spoke about five workshops, Danfoss FZCO supported the event. Around which were planned in the coming three 100 engineers from various sectors in Qatar months for the fellow engineers in Qatar. attended the event. Stanley De Vries, Business Seenu Pillai, chairman of chapter’s Technology Development Director from Danfoss B.V Transfer Committee, was the master of Netherlands, was the visiting keynote speaker ceremonies for the workshop. The event with Oussama Rouis, Sales Engineer, and and speakers were later felicitated with appreciation Ismail Serhan Ozten, Sales Director for ME/ plaques. Africa from Danfoss FZCO, were the guest ASHRAE, founded in 1894, is a global speakers for the day. society advancing human well-being Danfoss presented new connected through sustainable technology for the technologies in HVAC system to improve built environment. The society and its continuing education, ASHRAE shapes was formed in 2008 and has about 260 the eff iciency and flexibility of chilled water members focus on building systems, energy tomorrow’s built environment today. ASHRAE, member-engineers in Qatar. The chapter systems. efficiency, indoor air quality, refrigeration and worldwide, have over 56,000 members with holds regular technical workshops and Kinan Fahs, chapter president-elect and sustainability within the industry. Through 183 chapters from 132 nations divided into 15 seminars apart from technical conferences chairman of Electronic Communication research, standards writing, publishing and regions. The Qatar Oryx Chapter of ASHRAE in Doha. 8 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 18, 2020 COMMUNITY

Dreama hosts Association of African Ambassadors’ Wives in Qatar

he Orphan Care Center Dreama recently hosted the Association of African Ambassadors’ Wives in Qatar. The members of the association attending the event wereT the wives of ambassadors of Mali, South Africa, Republic of Djibouti, and Republic of Niger. The visiting delegation was briefed on the experience of cultural, artistic and media empowerment carried out by the centre for its children, which is a unique and distinct experience of its kind at the regional level. The association chose to visit Dreama Center as it is one of the best orphan care centres in the Middle East. We looked through the plans of Dreama in all fi elds and methods of care and services provided to children. The centre worked to promote development work in the fi eld of children’s rights, in line with the sustainable development plans established by the United Nations. Mariam Bint Ali Bin Nasser al-Misnad, Executive Director of the Center for Orphans Empowerment and Care Dreama, expressed her happiness over the impact of joint co-operation with the association in Qatar. She outlined her aspirations to launch a new stage for the centre that would be more GUESTS: The members of the Association of African Ambassadors’ Wives that attended the event included the wives of ambassadors of Mali, South open to the international community, the Africa, Republic of Djibouti, and Republic of Niger. diplomatic community, and humanitarian and development organisations. concerted international and domestic eff orts She emphasised the role of eff ective and working against the social stigma that She also thanked the African ambassadors’ to improve the conditions of human lives. international partnerships in exchanging may accompany orphaned children of wives in Qatar for their participation in “The Dreama Center has become experiences and the solidarity of civil society unknown descents. the volunteer teams in Dreama and for fully responsible for the United Nations organisations at the local and international The visiting delegation thanked the organising regular visits to orphans, and their development goals, including raising the levels to achieve the sustainable development executive director of Dreama for good contribution to promote the integration of state of co-ordination and international co- goals. reception and provision of adequate abandoned children and orphans into society operation in the fi eld of childhood.” Al-Misnad underlined the need to information on the vital role that Dreama and empowering them with knowledge, She added that the vision of the centre focus on development fi elds related to takes over in providing high-quality services culture and sports. Al-Misnad said: “I am has become more open to achieving social children’s rights, noting the role of the to the children in Qatar and working to glad to see the crowd of diplomatic fi gures and humanitarian co-ordination between centre in promoting social integration and empower and integrate them into society. today who have united on one humanitarian Dreama and the heads of diplomatic empowerment for the children of Dreama, The association also agreed to be the part of goal, which is advocating the rights of orphan missions in Qatar to serve the interests of raising awareness of social responsibility the volunteer team in Dreama and to organise children. Humanitarian issues always require children. towards this important segment of society, regular visits to the children of the centre. Tuesday, February 18, 2020 GULF TIMES 9 COMMUNITY VCUarts Qatar to host lecture on Artificial Intelligence and Art today

irginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) in Education City, a Qatar Foundation partner university, willV be hosting a lecture by Dr James She from Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), titled, ‘AI and Smartphone Technologies for New Artwork Creation, Interaction and Definition.’ The lecture will take place at 12:30pm on Tuesday, February 18 (today) at the Atrium at VCUarts Qatar. All are welcome to attend. Emerging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and smartphone technologies are making disruptive changes and new possibilities for people in business, manufacturing, travel, education and even art. In this talk, examples of AI and smartphone technologies will be selected to show how recent developments in those technologies could facilitate the creation of, and interaction with, artworks. Dr James She will also share the story of how his artworks are evolving due to the related technologies invented by himself and others. Through these artworks, Dr James She, a new media artist and university professor who is interested in merging traditional and new media techniques, will explore trends in artwork creation, new forms of SAMPLE: AI and Smartphone Technologies artwork, and novel interaction modalities. He will discuss a few key moments in art use it to shape their craft and the way their Dr James She, who is the founding history, and rethink definitions of art, audiences experience it?’ director of HKUST-NIE Social Media Lab, is craftsmanship, ownership and other related Amir Berbi, the Dean of VCUarts currently a visiting professor at the College matters which may affect how we evaluate Qatar, explained that the lectures and of Science and Engineering at Hamad Bin artwork produced by AI and smartphone exhibition highlight how the university Khalifa University, Qatar, and launched the technologies. is increasingly combining art, design, AI first AI and Art event in Qatar in 2019. At the same time, the Gallery at VCUarts and VR technologies, and is bringing them His recent interests explore the use of Qatar is hosting an exhibition that into the classroom and to new audiences smartphone and AI technologies which combines augmented reality, art, and the with lectures and exhibitions by renowned have been developed by him and others to music of Johann Sebastian Bach from an experts. create visual or interactive artworks. album by acclaimed cellist Yo-Yo Ma, to “Artificial intelligence and virtual In the last six years, he has been give visitors a unique and immersive audio- reality are increasingly being used in our exhibiting his interactive artworks in visual gallery experience. The exhibition, programs, such as Art Foundation, Interior Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, Brisbane, titled, ‘Into the Light’ will run until Design, and Graphic Design, and they etc. His scientific research includes AI for February 22. have enormous benefits for our graduating Art, Design and Media, Data Science in The exhibition opened on January 15 students who are entering industries in Social Media and Multimedia, and Green with a well-attended panel discussion Qatar and around the world where these IoT technologies for future social and titled, ‘Art + Technology: How do artists skills are much in demand,” he said. interactive media. EXPERT: Dr James She

ISL Qatar wins first place at Global Act Impact Awards

Students at the International School of London (ISL) participated in the ‘Global Act Impact Awards’ (GAIA) at the recent THIMUN Qatar 2020 and won first place for their Solar Panel project. The main purpose of the ISL Qatar students’ project was to plan for the installation of solar panels in the reception area of the school, so that this area can run independently of the national grid. The next phase is to transition each sector of the school to run off solar energy. This project looks to help the environment along with advocating an important cause and preventing the disastrous effects climate change has on the planet. The more people that can engage in a project as broad as a renewable-energy project, the more we can gradually improve the state of the Earth. THIMUN Qatar has worked to become a platform for global impact and change. In such spirit, as part of their MUN Impact initiative, this year’s THIMUNQ conference hosted the first ever GAIA contest. ISL Qatar has an outstanding reputation for high academic standards, prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes and an impressive record of admission to the best universities worldwide. 10 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 18, 2020 COMMUNITY INFOGRAPHIC Tuesday, February 18, 2020 GULF TIMES 11 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY Sitting more may raise heart disease risk in older women pending a lot of time 63 years and an average body mass sitting may increase index (BMI) of 31kg/m2. heart disease risk among Study participants wore overweight and obese accelerometers on their right hip post-menopausal for up to 14 days, removing the Swomen, warns a study. devices only to sleep, shower or “Reducing sitting time swim. improves glucose control and The accelerometers were used blood flow, and engaging in to track and record sitting and physical activities, even light- physical activity of the study intensity daily life activities participants throughout the day. like cooking and shopping, A single blood test, concurrent show favourable associations with accelerometer wear, with reduced mortality risk and measured blood sugar and insulin prevention of heart disease and resistance. stroke,” said lead study author Each additional hour of sitting Dorothy Sears, Professor of time per day was linked with Nutrition at the Arizona State a more than 6 per cent higher University College of Health fasting insulin and a more than Solutions in Phoenix, US. 7 per cent increase in insulin In this study, published in the resistance, the results showed. Journal of the American Heart Each additional 15 minutes Association, the researchers in average sitting period was measured the sitting habits of associated with a greater than 7 per older women and who were cent higher fasting insulin and an overweight or obese. almost 9 per cent increase in insulin The study included a total of resistance. such a strong negative link between and insulin resistance, and that this accounted for exercise and obesity,” 518 women with an average age of “We were surprised to observe the amount of time spent sitting association was still strong after we Sears said. – IANS

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

You could receive some sort of windfall today, Aries. Use it wisely. It’s likely that you will succeed at whatever you set out to accomplish Your energy may flag a bit today, Gemini. There’s nothing to worry Consider buying some time to figure out what you want to do with today, Taurus. If you’ve been held back by worries over the integrity about, though you could take better care of your health. What your life. It’s likely that your career isn’t exactly ringing your bells of a relationship or the long-term prospects of a partnership, you can happened to that exercise regimen you vowed to start? It’s never these days. You’re ready for new challenges and opportunities. dispel concerns by confronting the person directly. You may find he too late to improve your eating habits and begin working out. Even Meditate on what would make you happy and then take a systematic or she has the same feelings about you! Honesty is important today. if you only walk three times a week, you will notice a dramatic approach to achieving it. diff erence in your appearance and outlook. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

Today is meant for socialising and connecting, Cancer. Your You can’t help but notice that your home looks a bit drab, Leo. Today You have a to-do list a mile long today, Virgo. You may spend a lot of creativity is at an all-time high, so also try to work in some quiet time you could plan to do something about it. It won’t take much money, your day running errands. It certainly takes a lot to run a household, where you can do some writing or painting. If friends invite you out just time and a little creativity. Paint some samples on the walls. Your as you no doubt realise. Try not to get overwhelmed with all that you in the evening, by all means, take them up on the off er. You may spirits will improve. You can make big changes to the mood of the feel needs to be done. Most of the deadlines are self-imposed. No meet someone who could be pivotal to your career. Be open to all place simply by introducing more colour. one will know if you don’t meet them. possibilities. LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

You’re ready for a career change, Libra, or at least a change of venue. What is your dream, Scorpio? Answer that question as specifically as This may seem odd, Sagittarius, but you may not be the person you Have you considered telecommuting one day per week? That might possible today, then set about attaining that goal. All signs indicate think you are. There are indications that you have hidden talents. If give you the variety you seek without needing to find a new job. that whatever you begin today will pay off big time. Even though you they come out today, no one will be more shocked than you! This You may meet someone today or in the near future who will have a may feel that your dreams are too ambitious, there’s no need to feel could take your career in an entirely new direction. Strategise ways dramatic influence on your career decisions. Listen carefully. overwhelmed. Vow to take things one step at a time. Keep in mind to incorporate this talent into your career. Your work will take on a the old adage, “Once begun is half done.” new dynamic, and you will take a major leap forward. CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

You’re about to experience a major change in your life’s direction, You’re unstoppable today, Aquarius. It seems you can do anything. It’s likely that you’re being held back by certain traumatic past Capricorn, and it may occur today. Keep your mind open to all sorts Your confidence and energy are high. There’s no question that you’re events. Before you can make further progress in your life, Pisces, of possibilities. You’re likely to receive some important information. ready to take the world by storm. Is the world ready for you? Think you must address these painful memories for the last time. If it feels Of course, you may not realise its importance right away. It’s only carefully as you formulate plans for your new project. Whatever you too frightening to do alone, seek professional help. You will find that with the passage of time that you will look back on this event as do will succeed, but be sure you’re doing what you really want to do mustering the courage to do this diff icult, emotional housecleaning pivotal. Make sure you don’t miss it. rather than what others expect of you. is more than half the battle. 12 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 18, 2020 COMMUNITY CARTOONS/PUZZLES

Wordsearch Adam

Pooch Cafe

ACHAEA ASSYRIA BACTRIA COLCHIS EGYPT ITHACA LYCIA NUBIA SPARTA AEOLIS ATHENS CARTHAGE CORINTH ETRURIA KNOSSOS LYDIA PERSIA SUMERIA ARGOS BABYLON CHALDEA DELPHI IONIA LATIUM MACEDONIA RHODES THEBES

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. Tuesday, February 18, 2020 GULF TIMES 13 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Super Cryptic Clues Colouring

Across Down 1 Taking new hanky out? There’s 2 One who’d change for dance (7) gratitude! (5,3) 3 Religious woman not aff ected by 6 European Monetary Union gets revolution (3) the bird (3) 4 Preparation for guy or Tibetan 9 Sea in which canoe collapsed? (5) leader - food made from curdled 10 Reg hops about finding milk (6) burrowing rodents (7) 5 Top giving me support (9) 11 Cured fish, apparently very filling 6 Standing up before empty court? (7) (5) 13 It turns backwards and forwards 7 Incompetent psychiatrist entered, (5) not getting less? (12) 14 Rodney wanders over there (6) 8 No boy demands new version of 15 Sweet that’s doubly good in Dickens novel (6,3,3) France (6) 12 Handling medicine (9) 18 Darkness is an odd thing (5) 16 Language translated by Belgian 20 Name of girl from a strange (7) nation (7) 17 Leatherworker finding old coin 21 Taking issue about press (6) operator (7) 19 Blush when injured by animal’s 22 Drag one’s feet in a cubicle? (5) horns? (5) 23 Fellow turning to move his 22 Watering place in cyberspace? head? (3) (3) 24 A printer turning turtle (8) Answers

Wordsearch Codeword Solutions 14 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 18, 2020 COMMUNITY BOLLYWOOD Love Aaj Kal fizzles out at the box off ice

Kartik Aaryan and Sara Ali Khans onscreen chemistry in Love Aaj Kal has failed to a create spark at the box offi ce. The Imtiaz Ali’s fi lm managed a mere Rs28.51-crore haul at the domestic market after the fi rst day of over Rs12 crore. “Love Aaj Kal is rejected... Dips on Day 2, falls fl at on Day 3... Advantage #ValentinesDay (Day 1), else *3-day total* would be lower... Tough road ahead (weekdays)... Friday Rs12.40 crore, Saturday Rs8.01 crore, Sunday Rs8.10 crore. Total: Rs28.51 crore. #India business,” posted trade expert Taran Adarsh. Trade Analyst Komal Nahta also tweeted: “As against Love Aaj Kal fi rst day of Rs12 crore, the second day witnesses a drop in collections rather than a jump. Will the second day close at Rs8 crore or 7 crore or 6.5 crore? Probably Rs6.5 crore! That would be a big drop!” Love Aaj Kal is Ali’s remake of his own hit of 2009 of the same name that had starred Sara’s father Saif Ali Khan with Deepika Padukone. The fi lm narrates two parallel love stories — one set in the past and one in the present — to trace generation gap through the changing perception of love over the decades. Initial reaction of the Valentine’s Day audience was mixed after the fi lm was mostly panned by critics. The fi lm failed to capitalise on the fact that it was a solo Bollywood release this past weekend. — IANS

Dhvani dreams of becoming India’s pop icon

Budding singer Dhvani Bhanushali of Dilbar and Vaaste fame My film choices are the has tasted success in Bollywood as well as in the pop music scene. That’s not the end of her dreams, though. She wants to be India’s pop icon someday. “That dream is going to be fulfi lled through non-fi lm songs. It gift of success: Tapsee also gives me a chance to feature in my own videos and the song is associated to my face and name instead of being a voice for someone else’s face,” Dhvani said. She joined the music industry in 2018 and in less than two years, By Arundhuti Banerjee she has touched great heights. Vaaste, a non-fi lm song that was co-sung by Nikhil D, grabbed the second spot on YouTube Top Trending Music Videos in India last year. ollywood actress Taapsee On handling success, she said: “I have never let all of this get Pannu is gearing up for into my head. I think that’s how a person can grow. I love singing multiple projects in the and it’s my passion. I don’t want to become stagnant by letting coming months, and she this get into my head. Yes, I love the response the audience gives says that success has given me for my work and that just encourages me to work harder.” Bher the confi dence to make unusual There are relatively less solo songs by female singers in choices when it comes to signing Bollywood. “I’m aware that there are less songs for females in fi lms fi lms. and I feel that should change and get better but I think I make up “Success has given me the for it by having an independent career,” said the Psycho saiyaan confi dence that I am heading in the hitmaker. right direction and my judgment on She has teamed up with many singers like Sachet Tandon, Diljit fi lms are right. So, my choices of fi lms Dosanjh and Sukhbir. She feels that there’s always something to are the gift of success. If I give inputs learn from every artiste. in the process of making a fi lm and “Each artist has a diff erent point of view towards the same people listen to me, it is because I thing. And it’s not about being right or wrong, it’s just that in the have managed to become a bankable end we have to be on the same page and in that process, you learn a actor. Filmmaking is a business and lot,” said Dhvani. unless producers have the confi dence She has often collaborated with composer Tanishk Bagchi. that investing in my fi lms will get a “Tanishk sir is one of the best persons in my life. Working with fi nancial return, why would they put him is so eff ortless,” said the singer, who had teamed up with him their money,” Taapsee told IANS. on songs such as Leja re and Na ja tu. The actress recently won the Best She doesn’t see anyone as her competitor though. “I am my own Actress (critics) award at a popular biggest competitor. I look up to a number of artistes, but I want to awards gala along with Bhumi be known as myself,” she said. Pednekar for her 2019 Diwali release Dhvani has made a name for herself in the original as well as Saand Ki Aankh. Last year Taapsee recreations spaces. Recreated songs are not always loved by the also played pivotal roles in fi lms original creators or singers. — IANS like Badla, Game Over, and Mission Mangal. Starting her career with regular fare in the south Indian fi lm industry, she made her debut in Bollywood with the David Dhawan slapstick Chashme Baddoor in 2012, but went COMMITTED: “My audience sees my belief in my choices,” asserts Tapsee. on to become a face of content-driven cinema after her role in Aniruddha do with success, but everything to make is a refl ection of my mindset. Roy Chowdhury’s 2016 fi lm, Pink. do with upbringing. I was never told My audience sees my belief in my She also gained popularity with that I am any less because I am a choices,” she said. strong performances in fi lms like girl. I have a sister and, whether it is Currently, Taapsee is gearing up Baby, Naam Shabana, Mulk and education, jobs or any other choice for the release of Anubhav Sinha’s Manmarziyaan. we made, in our house my parents directorial venture Thappad. The fi lm “How I stand for gender equality never questioned it because we are is scheduled to open on February 28. and women’s right has nothing to girls. So the choice of fi lms that I — IANS COMPETITION: “I am my own biggest competitor,” says the singer. Tuesday, February 18, 2020 GULF TIMES 15 SHOWBIZ COMMUNITY The obsession with rebooting your favourite TV shows By Neal Justin

new streaming service is trying to drum up enthusiasm by promising to reunite six beloved “friends” Awho last fl irted and fought their way into our hearts more than 15 years ago. But don’t reserve a table at Central Perk just yet. Peacock is bragging about bringing back Saved by the Bell, the 1989-93 sitcom so tone deaf about teenage life that it made Welcome Back, Kotter seem like a documentary. The NBCU-owned newcomer, which launches in April, is also working on the further adventures of Punky Brewster and yet another reboot of Battlestar Galactica. Executives would obviously rather be promoting the return of Ross and Rachel, but these days programmers are eager to recycle any familiar titles they can get their hands on. This week alone off ers the updated versions of The Soup, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and a Hulu adaptation of High Fidelity. ABC announced last month that it plans to bring back both Thirtysomething and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. Either Hollywood is running TAKING A SHINE: Supporting actors David H Holmes, left, and Da’Vine Joy Randolph steal the show in High Fidelity. low on fresh ideas or viewers have an unprecedented appetite for years — MacGyver, Charmed, of Roseanne — later retitled The here, but it’s a new story and a out and talk about it and live our nostalgia. The gatekeepers are Lost in Space, The Twilight Zone, Conners — remains a solid hit for new family. But it’s told by the lives perhaps just a hair diff erently betting on the latter. Queer Eye, Dynasty, American ABC, in large part because the same people. If you liked it then, as a result.” “In the climate we’re living in, it Idol — have done well enough in fi ring of Roseanne Barr forced the I guarantee there’s something to In High Fidelity, which feels like this show is the warm hug the ratings to remain on the air. show to focus on her daughters, watch in this one.’?” premieres Friday on Hulu, the everybody needs right now,” said Others, like 24: Legacy, Ironside braving a frontier of fresh, and One Day at Time, which kicks main character, played by John Loren Ruch, senior vice president and Murphy Brown, were barely out often funny, challenges. off its fourth season next month, Cusack in the 2000 movie, is of production for HGTV, at the of the starting gate when viewers Some of the best reboots have also decided to return with a now being tackled by Zoe Kravitz. Television Critics Association were put out of their misery. avoided the temptation of cast Latino family. There are obvious Producers hope the gender swap press tour. HGTV has tapped “As you can imagine, the bar is reunions altogether. cultural adaptations — grandma will help distinguish the series Jesse Tyler Ferguson of Modern very high,” said HBO Max’s head Freeform’s Party of Five has Rita Moreno occasionally throwing from both the fi lm and Nick Family as the new host of Extreme of original content, Sarah Aubrey, relocated from San Francisco to a tantrum in Spanish — but the Hornby’s novel. Makeover, which last aired as a who is developing a new version Los Angeles, where the Acosta series also refl ects other issues “I didn’t want to redo it without regular series in 2012. “And who of Gossip Girl with the soap’s kids are struggling to keep their that weren’t addressed during its making this change,” said series’ would you rather get a good warm original creators, Josh Schwartz household and family restaurant 1975-84 run. Justina Machado’s co-writer Veronica West. “We watch hug from than Jesse and his team?” and Stephanie Savage. “I think from falling apart after their character, for example, struggles a lot of romantic comedies with Part of the strategy is that one of the benefi ts of having the parents are deported to Mexico. with post-traumatic stress female leads and their problems time-tested titles will help original creators involved is that The siblings share some of the disorder from her time in the always seem to be that they can’t attract viewers bombarded with they are very clear on what the personality traits of the Salinger Army. fi nd the right man or they’re a staggering number of options. essential elements of the show are children growing up in the ‘90s. desperate to get married or they’re More than 500 scripted series and are not. But they’re also really But, at best, they’re cousins twice Refl ecting the times self-destructive in some way. But debuted last year. The upcoming excited to bring a modern lens to it removed. But the show’s chief adviser when a man is the lead, the problems addition of new competitors like 10 years later.” “I’m not interested in people is wary of making too much of are internal. It was interesting for us Peacock and HBO Max in 2020 is who say, ‘I can’t fi nd the original the diff erences between the two to tell this from a woman’s point of certain to blow that record out of Same old, Same old in this show.’ I didn’t reboot the incarnations. view and let her issues with romance the water. That formula almost worked show to give them the exact same “This is just another version of really just be about learning how “In a marketplace where it is for Will & Grace. Viewers were thing,” said writer and producer that show as we did it at another to fi gure herself out and not being very hard to launch new shows, initially thrilled to see what Amy Lippman, a driving force on time,” said Norman Lear, who is about fi nding Mr Right.” having built-in familiarity is the old gang was up to after both Party versions. “We had the also enjoying success these days Of course, all the rules about great,” said Heather Olander, an an 11-year hiatus. But it soon opportunity to reboot the show with ABC’s live reenactments of making radical changes could go NBCU senior vice president who became apparent that not much over and over and over again, some of his other classic sitcoms, out the window if Hollywood ever greenlit reboots of Temptation had changed. The new episodes but the reasons were never good including All in the Family. “I arranged that Friends reunion. Island and The Biggest Loser for became hard to distinguish from enough because I thought we did never sat down to cure America Fans would be thrilled to hear USA Network. the classic reruns. Interest faded; it OK the fi rst time around. The of its problems. We just refl ect Phoebe still performing Smelly Cat To a certain extent, the strategy the series wraps up (again) later reason you do it now is to say to them. I think that’s what television — at least for a little while. has worked. Many shows that this year. the audience, ‘There are qualities and theatre does. It refl ects the — Star Tribune (Minneapolis)/ got rebooted during the past fi ve On the other hand, the revival in the original that are present problem and then we get up, walk TNS 16 GULF TIMES Tuesday, February 18, 2020 COMMUNITY Award-winning comedian Omid to perform in Doha on April 8

By Mudassir Raja In 2007, Omid Comedy is a necessity to get through life with the Djalili was voted fewest scars. Humour is the best antidote to help by the British relieve all struggles”, is “rightly said by Suzy Kassem, a public as the prolific American thinker, poet, writer, and philosopher. 60th best stand- Thanks to diverse population of the country, there is a taste and up comedian demand for a variety of comedy and comedians visiting from diff erent in a Channel 4 parts of the world. And so people in Qatar frequently get chances to programme The attend and enjoy comedy shows by comedians of international fame 100 Greatest and standing. Seriously funny comedy by an Stand-Ups award-winning stand-up comedian is soon coming to Qatar. He is both well-known and notorious for his comic jibs and attacks. He does not shy away from controversies. Omid Djalili, a British stand- up comedian, actor, television producer, voice actor and writer, is all set to amuse Doha audience at Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl on April 8. The comedian’s show is being arranged in Qatar following the popular demand. The stand-up comedy show is organsied by Swiss Events Group, an event organising company in Qatar. Though it is not going to be the fi rst show by Omid, he is no doubt popular enough to be heard live by people who follow stand- up comedy. There are certain controversies around the man who night fi lm premières, and he also has won many accolades for his announced a new tour of the UK political and social jokes. called No Agenda. In 2007, he was Djalili was born in Chelsea, voted by the British public as the London, to Iranian Baháí parents. 60th best stand-up comedian in He attended Holland Park School a Channel 4 programme The 100 and then the University of Ulster Greatest Stand-Ups. in Coleraine, Northern Ireland, The same year, he guest- studying English and theatre presented the BBC political quiz studies. show Have I Got News for You. The fi rst signifi cant success of his The Omid Djalili Show started on stand-up comedy career was at the BBC1 on 17 November 2007. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 1995 series was a mix of sketches and with Short, Fat Kebab Shop Owner’s stand-up material. A second series Son, followed by The Arab and the was recorded in late 2008 and Jew with Jewish comedian Ivor began broadcast on BBC 1 on 20 Dembina in 1996. April 2009. He performed on We He has performed in numerous Are Most Amused on ITV1 to mark countries, including Qatar, Prince Charles’s 60th birthday in Australia, Ireland, Sweden, 2008. Belgium, Canada and the United As far as his acting career is States. In US, he had his own HBO concerned, Djalili has appeared Special and did 22 episodes of the in a number of fi lms, most NBC sitcom Whoopi with Whoopi notably Gladiator, The Mummy, Goldberg. Mean Machine, The World Is He did his part for Comic Relief Not Enough, Alien Autopsy, Spy after the 2004 Indian Ocean Game, Sky Captain and the World earthquake and tsunami and also in of Tomorrow, Grow Your Own, He took up the role in the Grand as Dr Lenselius in the BBC Djalili has won awards for his 2005 he appeared on the British TV Notting Hill, Mr Nice, Pirates of the Theft Auto: The Ballad of Gay Tony adaptation of Philip Pullman’s His comedy. These include the EMMA show Top Gear as a celebrity driver. Caribbean: At World’s End, Sex and spin-off game. In 2010, he starred Dark Materials. Award, Time Out Award, and LWT The same year he broke Edinburgh the City 2 and provides his voice in in the David Baddiel-scripted fi lm Like other celebrities, his life Comedy Award for Best Stand-up Festival box offi ce records with over Over the Hedge. The Infi del. is also not free of controversy. Comedian, Spirit of the Fringe 16,500 ticket sales. In 2009, Djalili became the For the years to come, he starred In 2019, Djalili was criticised for Award as well as the One World In 2006, Sky Television picked voice of Yusuf Amir in the popular and was part of many movies and making disparaging remarks about Media Award for his Channel 4 him to be the face of their Saturday gaming series Grand Theft Auto. TV shows. In 2019 he appeared the Welsh language on Twitter documentary, Bloody Foreigners.