LOUNGE of CHAMPIONS with Passion As the Mantra of Laliga Lounge, the Sports Lounge Is Offering Its Guests a Sleek, Chic and Football- Themed Concept

SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2017 CAMPUS | 3 BOLLYWOOD | 10 Birla Public Bollywood School bids mourns adieu to Tom Alter’s Principal death

LOUNGE OF CHAMPIONS With passion as the mantra of LaLiga Lounge, the sports lounge is offering its guests a sleek, chic and football- themed concept.

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SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2017 CAMPUS 03 Birla Public School bids adieu to Principal he management, staff, students and the community Tgave a rousing farewell to A K Shrivastava, Birla Public School Principal, after rendering thirteen years of yeoman’s service to the cause of education in Qatar. In a farewell gathering hosted by the Birla School Management at the school auditorium, P Kumaran, Indian Ambassador in Qatar, addressing the community leaders said, “Mr. Shrivastava, as a Princi- pal is a rare find, a unique person in managing the school, endearing himself with his vast experience, professionalism he brings in to the systems and processes in the school, and the humility with which he conducts his life and work. These characteristic traits of Mr Shrivas- tava command respect not only from within the school but from outside the community at large.” Complimenting Shrivastava, the head and heart, Lukose said, “ Chindhu Antony Rappai, Sub- development of the school. He has Kumaran remarked, “He was a Mr Shrivastava was an excellent Committee members graced the been a brilliant star of excellence unique Principal that went out of leader and a perfect individual. It occasion. in the art of being a Principal.” the way to help each and every is hard to find a man of such unim- While introducing Shrivastava, In an earlier get together Shirly child, and that he was of such stat- peachable qualities.” George Edison, Vice-Principal, the Rappai, Senior Vice-Principal, bid ure that it would be hard for his Dr Mohan Thomas, the Founder host at the formal function, said, the outgoing Principal a tearful successor to fill his shoes. The Chairman of the school and the “Like the statue of Greek Titan god good bye. school will definitely miss him for Board of Directors jointly with Colossus straddling the harbour at A P Sharma, Principal, he set very high standards even for Kumaran, Indian ambassador, Rhode Island in ancient Greece, Mr. proposing the vote of thanks took other school Principals and students presented A K Shrivastava, a A K Shrivastava straddled Birla the opportunity to affirm his faith in other Indian schools.” memento for his dedicated services Public school as Principal for 13 in the vision of the school and Lukose K Chacko, Chairman to school. years. These three years and a dedicated himself to the paid rich tributes to the outgoing C V Rappai, Ms Aarti Oberoi, decade have been spectacularly perpetuation of the legacy left Principal. Admiring the qualities of Directors, Neville Chacko and Ms. eventful in the growth and behind by his predecessor. TNG School conducts advanced skill seminar for teachers

n line with the professional devel- teachers were profoundly engaged opment strategy of teachers, The as Insha spoke about various fac- INext Generation School conducted tors that lead to strong belief in a seminar hosted by well renowned oneself. He emphasised that a strong motivational speaker, Saadi Insha, at belief and conviction can lead to a the TNG Al Wakrah campus. positive approach towards actions The main focus of the seminar which can bring outremarkable was to educate teachers about results and this technique can work unlocking their best potential that in classrooms. “Effective commu- Focus on the weaknesses can help experience of the teachers. can help them to find new and nication is vital to stimulate best us improve the thinking process.” An interactive session with effective methods of learning and response and continuous self- Active engagement and partici- Saadi helped teachers to enjoy executing their course line. assessment can enable us to check pation along with team based and understand self-improve- A power packed session; our strengths and weaknesses. activities enriched the learning ment techniques. 04 COVER STORY SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2017 ‘LaLiga Lounge’ opens at Sheraton Grand

Amna Pervaiz Rao The Penisnula

oha’s first sports themed ‘LaLiga Lounge’ officially Dopened its doors dedicated for football enthusiasts at Sheraton Grand. A unique sports fan experience located at the Hotel Park, offering a new and exciting concept to residents and visitors of Qatar. LaLiga Lounge is situated in Hotel Park, a public family-friendly park situated in the heart of Doha’s Spanish league. LaLiga lounge is and football matches. We have a is going to be a fun place to come bustling business district. going to be a family place. We have very beautiful open area for the res- to. We also intend to bring coaches With passion as the mantra of kid corners in the lounge. We have taurant, when the weather becomes from LaLiga League to Doha. In bet- LaLiga Lounge, the sports lounge a small football play filed for kids. better, we will have outdoor sitting ter weather we plan to have outdoor is offering its guests a sleek, chic Many people visit Sheraton. Moms area open for families. I believe that football matches. We are also going and football-themed concept. can come to the restaurant with people are going to have a lot of fun to invite coaches and players from During the event while talking kids and hang out for some time. at the restaurant,” he added. the League. They will look out for to The Peninsula, Saeid Heider, They could have their dinner as Telling The Peninsula about his the talent. Perhaps some players General Manager of Sheraton Grand their children keep playing.” target market, he said: “We wel- from Qatar may be playing for the said: “We are delighted to have “We have capacity of about 250 come all sorts of visitors but we League in future.” world’s first ever LaLiga Lounge in people. Big TV screens have already expect more young people. We are The Lounge opens in style with Doha in association with the been installed to run different items going to target school children as it a spectacular multicultural food festival ‘LaLiga Festival’ which is brought by Katara Hospitality; cel- ebrating diverse cuisines and football communities around the world starting from September 28 until October 7 at the vibrant Hotel Park just above LaLiga Lounge. From the moment guests enter the lounge through the player’s tun- nel, they can eat and breathe football. Inside they will enjoy com- fortable seating areas, unobstructed views of the game from all angles and the two large video walls for optimum viewing. The four private screening rooms with HD screens and conference seating is perfect for a meeting or a VIP experience. The lounge also features an official league shop, which is the first official merchandise shop for Laliga in Doha. A fan can not only create memories of their favourite games but also collect souvenirs and keep- sakes for these memories to last forever. Pic: Baher Amin / The Peninsula SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2017 COVER STORY 05

For young football enthusiasts, LaLiga Lounge has a dedicated space for a good game with fun attractions in a dedicated play area. Young fans can also enjoy vir- tual football matches with play stations and relaxing seating of bean bags or indulge in football practice in the football field for kids set for their interest along with free Wi-Fi. “I am amazed to see the impres- sive quality of this lounge in terms of food and decoration. This area makes me feel like I am in Spain, the taste of everything is it gives the visitor the best sense of football. In terms of food the chef is a true magician, as the ingredients are Spanish and the cooking techniques are true Spanish ones as well. This lounge has one wonderful factor it is open for all the family members, mothers can enjoy their tea with friends, whereas, children can enjoy watching and playing around,” Ignacio Escobar, Spanish Paella Negra with squid black ink, ambassador to Doha told The ‘Marak Samak’ Braised Sea Bass Peninsula. and more. Special attention has The Lounge menu is a delight been given to kids menu to give with a selection of Spanish-style them an overall football experi- treats and comfort foods all pre- ence with a ‘Little Liga’ menu. pared by our very own “Striker” Sheraton Grand Doha Resort Chef Juan Ramon Sobero, who & Convention Hotel is very proud works hard to offers his guests a to be hosting the world’s first “win” dish. With a diverse menu LaLiga Lounge, owed to Qatar’s that includes Mediterranean cui- premiere position in the world of sine with strong Spanish, Oriental football and the first Arab country and Arabian influences, sports fans to organise the world Cup to be can experience home cuisines like held in 2022. 06 COMMUNITY / MARKETPLACE SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2017

Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo set to become global MICE hotspot

hangri-La Hotel, Colombo is be home to the region’s largest pil- On the higher floors of the hotel, group check-in counter at the set to become the most exten- lar-less ballroom, at 1,580 sq m the guests will find several boardrooms lobby, a traditional Sri Lankan wel- Ssive and versatile events Shangri-La ballroom will be capa- including the Horizon Club Execu- come experience, a welcome drink venue in Sri Lanka when it opens ble of catering seated banquets for tive Boardroom. reception, a facilitator for ice- its doors by mid November 2017. up to 1,500 guests and 2,100 thea- Located at One Galle Face along breaker and energiser sessions, the The hotel will boast over 3,500 tre style. The property also offers the Galle Face Green promenade, exclusive use of brand new state- sq m of events space including two the Lotus Ballroom 470 sq m seat- Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo will of-the-art function rooms with ballrooms, several function rooms ing 400 guests for dinner and 600 offer uninterrupted Indian Ocean LCD projector screens, flip charts and a private outdoor lawn. for cocktails. Moreover, adjacent views in most of its 500 guestrooms and stationary, a choice of themed Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo will to the Lotus Ballroom are three flex- and suites and 41 serviced lunches and tea/coffee breaks, a be the second Shangri-La property ible breakout rooms, thoughtfully apartments. dedicated Events Concierge, and in Sri Lanka – joining Shangri-La’s named after different local spices: Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo will technical support. Additionally, Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa-, Ginger, Saffron and Tamarind. unveil a new social and dining the group can benefit from one and is anticipated to be one of the All of the conference and func- scene in the city with six restaurants complimentary room for every most prominent hotel launches in tion rooms feature state-of-the-art and bars offering an extensive twenty-five rooms booked, and a Sri Lanka in nearly 30 years. audiovisual equipment, including selection of local and international complimentary suite upgrade for Intended to appeal to large con- clip on or wireless microphones, cuisine, al fresco dining, daily live the organiser. Priced at $179 per ferences and events, the hotel will built-in speakers and stands. entertainment and innovative room per night the package also complement the island’s attraction For those wanting to take menus. For those seeking serenity includes accommodation in a room as a global MICE hotspot, alongside advantage of the of the cool sea and the opportunity to unwind, CHI, with ocean view, daily breakfast Bangkok and Singapore. breezes, Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo The Spa will be a welcome addition buffet and complimentary Wi-Fi. The property will also be the also has an outdoor events space with seven treatment rooms, a For more information or reser- perfect host for weddings, social with an open bar, lawn and sus- 24-hour fitness centre, and a swim- vations, you can send e-mail at slcb. functions and gala dinners, while pended pavilion – a striking spot ming pool and pool bar overlooking [email protected] or visit offering Shangri-La Events Collec- for destination weddings, fashion Galle Face Green and the Indian www.shangri-la.com/colombo. tion expertise and benefits, to create shows and private events. In total, Ocean. Room rates are applicable for stays memorable curated experiences the outdoor events space seats 420 Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo’s from November 17 and are subject and bespoke incentives. for dinner and 750 guests for introductory MICE offer “Meet In to 30.28% local taxes and service Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo will cocktails. Colombo” includes: a dedicated charges. SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2017 COMMUNITY 07

Yoga Guru Karan Singh organises workshop

oga Guru Karan Singh from Khel Khel Mein Yoga - a popular Indian Council for Cultural programme being done internation- YRelation (ICCR), Government ally by him across the world in order of India, Chairman - World Yoga to develop physical and mental Institute Europe and Convener - growth and improve memory/con- Madhumeh Niyantrita Bharat was centration of the children on a short visit to Doha. Furthermore, Yoga Guru also Indian Sports Centre used this conducted two workshops on hyper opportunity to organise Special Yoga tension, diabetes and backache for Workshop for Students entitiled as Indian community members on September 25 and 27 from 7 to 9pm Yoga program ‘Khel Khel Mei at Ashoka Hall organised by Indian Yoga’ was conducted by him in five Sports Centre in association with Indian Schools - Nobel Interna- Indian Cultural Centre. tional School, Pearl School, Olive More than 60 attended the International school, Rajagiri Pub- workshop. Various exercises on lic School and Bhavans Public back pain, cyclic meditation and School from September 26 until 28. sectional breathing were demon- The visit of Yoga guru Karan strated by him, which was highly Singh has made a remarkable ear- appreciated by the attendees. mark in promoting Yoga for various At the end of the workshop, age group of people of Doha and individuals query on their various would like to get him in November health related issues were also 2017 to sustain such initiative in the responded by him giving clear cut longer perspective.Small public solutions. The community mem- function was done on September bers were keen to continue such 27, where ISC has presented workshops on regular basis. Memento to Karan Singh Ji. OIA welcomes Ashutosh Gupta in Qatar

he One India Association (OIA) affil- iated to ICC under the aegis of Indian TEmbassy Qatar welcomed Ashutosh Gupta, former journalist and spokesperson of Aam Aadami Party India on September 29 at Crystal Palace Hotel of Doha. The function started with lunch. Gufran Mohammed President IABJ, Shaji Francis OIA Kerala Convener, Zia-Ul-Haq Karna- taka Convener, Nishab Kombath, Ziauddin Ahmad, Hamid Zafar, Mohd. Ajmal, Jeevan Tomson, Muhthasin and Ansar AR graced the occasion. OIA state representatives and members including the guests attended the function. Dilip Kutty greeted all the attendees and Dr Vishvanathan, President OIA presented a memento to the Chief Guest. Ashutosh’s in his speech stressed about the importance of building better bond between people of different faiths in current times. He appreciated the works of OIA and emphasized the need to build bonds between Indians in Qatar. 08 FOOD SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2017

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Spiced chicken 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/8 teaspoon ground skewers with grapes turmeric 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 3/4-inch cubes 1 1/2 cups seedless green grapes 2 tablespoons canola oil or other neutral tasting oil 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, plus lemon wedges for serving 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Steps Whisk together the ginger, garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper and turmeric in a mixing bowl. Add the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Alternate the chicken and grapes as you thread them onto the skewers. (There should be about 5 pieces of chicken and 4 Ellie Krieger chunks onto skewers alter- With Grapes grapes on each skewer; you may The Washington Post nately with plump green grapes. 4 servings have a few grapes left over.) Once grilled, the sugars in those These skewers turn basic Brush with the oil. grapes caramelize; the fruit grilled chicken breast into an Preheat a grill pan over he accompanying recipe is takes on a deep, mellow flavor, irresistibly flavorful and fragrant medium-high heat. Working in the antidote to boring and provides a juicy, sweet dish. The meat is tossed with a batches as needed, cook the T grilled chicken. It’s nearly counterpoint to the savory mix of dried spices - no marinat- skewers about 6 minutes total, as easy to make, but so much meat. ing time needed - then skewered turning them once or twice, until more enticing. The key is to toss It’s a dinner you can whip up with fresh green grapes that take grill marks have formed, the the chicken with a mix of dried in less than 20 minutes, or prep on a deep, mellow flavor once grapes have softened and the spices — ginger, garlic, turmeric, up to a day ahead so it is at the grilled. chicken is cooked through. crushed red pepper flakes, salt ready in the refrigerator when They can be done on the out- Sprinkle with the lemon juice and pepper — that turn the you want to cook it. The skewers door grill as well. and cilantro; serve with lemon blank-canvas protein into some- are finished with a bright squeeze You’ll need to soak 8 wooden/ wedges. thing irresistibly flavorful and of lemon juice and a fresh punch bamboo skewers for 30 minutes fragrant. No marinating time of cilantro leaves for a grilled before using. Nutrition: Per serving: 270 required. chicken dish that is sure to elicit calories, 32 g protein, 10 g car- The chicken would be deli- oohhs and ahhhs, instead of the Ingredients bohydrates, 11 g fat, 2 g saturated cious grilled just like that, but usual ho-hums. 1 teaspoon ground ginger fat, 105 mg cholesterol, 210 mg this preparation goes a step 1 teaspoon granulated garlic sodium, 0 g dietary fiber, 8 g further by threading bite-size Spiced Chicken Skewers (garlic powder) sugar. SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2017 FOOD 09

Lemon-Tarragon Salmon & White Bean Skillet

Ellie Krieger the vegetables and beans are ten- Ingredients skillet over medium heat. Once The Washington Post der, and, with a final squeeze of 2 tablespoons olive oil the oil shimmers, stir in the shal- lemon juice, the whole dish is 1/4 cup chopped shallot lot; cook for about 1 minute, until infused with the flavor and fra- 1 medium zucchini, cut into softened. his skillet dinner is the kind grance of the citrus and herb 1/2-inch dice Add the zucchini and cook for of recipe everyone should seasonings. One 15-ounce can no-salt- 1 minute, then add the beans and T have tucked in their back The meal has a summery feel, added cannellini beans, drained water. Once the mixture is bub- pocket. It is simple cooking at its with summer squash, tomatoes and rinsed bling at the edges, add the best — a one-pan meal that is and herbs at their peak this time 1/2 cup water salmon, tomatoes, tarragon, nearly effortless to prepare, of year, but the ingredients are 1 1/4 pounds skinless salmon lemon zest, salt and pepper stir- made with everyday ingredients available year-round, making it fillet, cut into 1-inch chunks ring gently to incorporate. that come together quickly. You an anytime pleasure. 1 cup grape tomatoes, each Reduce the heat to medium-low, can summon the energy to make cut in half cover and cook for about 4 min- it even when you come home Lemon-Tarragon Salmon 1 tablespoon coarsely utes, stirring gently once or twice, feeling too tired to cook. The pay- and White Bean Skillet chopped fresh tarragon leaves until the salmon is just opaque off in flavor, beauty and 4 servings 1 teaspoon finely grated and the vegetables are tender. satisfaction is a windfall. This flavourful one-pan dish lemon zest and 2 tablespoons Drizzle with the lemon juice To make it, saute chopped is nearly effortless to prepare, fresh lemon juice (from 1/2 and serve. shallot (or onion, if you prefer) made with everyday ingredients lemon) and summer squash in a large that come together in just minutes. 1/2 teaspoon salt Nutrition: Per serving: 370 skillet; add a can of white beans, It has a summery feel, with sum- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground calories, 34 g protein, 19 g car- water and then big chunks of mer squash, tomatoes and herbs black pepper bohydrates, 17 g fat, 3 g saturated fresh salmon, grape tomatoes, at their peak then, but the ingre- fat, 80 mg cholesterol, 400 mg tarragon and lemon zest. In about dients are available year-round, Steps sodium, 5 g dietary fiber, 3 g five minutes the fish is cooked, making it an anytime pleasure. Heat the oil in a large, deep sugar. 10 BOLLYWOOD SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2017 Bollywood mourns Tom Alter’s death

IANS working with him as an AD in a film, His contribution to theatre and cin- n all rounder with a heart of ema will be always remembered. RIP. gold -- that’s how Bollywood Subhash Ghai: Bye Tom. You Acelebrities like Rishi Kapoor, will always be remembered as our Mahesh Bhatt and Anil Kapoor FTII friend, great actor, great remembered veteran theatre and teacher and greater human by all film personality Tom Alter, who of us. RIP passed away in Mumbai after los- Riteish Deshmukh: I had the ing his battle with skin cancer. privilege of working with him in As the news of Tom Alter’s ‘Bangistan’. Will always remember demise poured in, members of the him for his humility and kindness. India film fraternity took to social Tom Alter media to mourn his death. Nimrat Kaur: Waking up to Tom Alter was battling stage some tragic news about the pass- four skin cancer at a Mumbai hos- ing away of Tom Alter. A one of a pital, where he was admitted earlier kind, grace personified, thorough in September. He returned home gentleman. on Thursday and breathed his last Satish Kaushik: Tom sir you will on Friday night. He was 67. In 2008, be remembered for your great con- Alter was honoured with the Padma tribution to theatre and cinema Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian Vikram Bhatt: An actor, a crick- honour. eter and a gentleman. Rest in peace Here’s what the stars tweeted: Tom. You shall be missed, always. Mahesh Bhatt: Goodbye to you Mohit Chauhan: Saddened by express. Wherever you go, you will working with Tom Alter twice. He my trusted friend! Actor Tom Alter, the passing away of Tom Alter. A spread niceness and creativity. was the perfect example of a hum- a Padma Shri awardee, dies of can- glorious chapter has come to an end. Kunal Kohli: Tom Alter So much ble talented artist with a gigantic cer at 67 His death marks the end of an era goodness. Warmth. Friendly. legacy. Anil Kapoor: An all rounder is of grace and dignity. Attracts and exudes positivity and Richa Chadha: RIP Tom Alter. what he was, with a heart of gold. Kabir Bedi: Deeply saddened by peace. a distinct voice. RIP Tom You were an inspiration to so many. Back in the day, I even studied act- the passing of Tom Alter, a wonder- Alter last of the gentlemen. Thank you for the incredible work ing under him. You will be missed ful person, terrific actor on stage Huma Qureshi: So sad to hear over many decades. Respect. dearly Tom Alter and screen, lover of Urdu poetry. about Tom Alter sir.. had the hon- Prakash Jha: A lovely actor and Rishi Kapoor: RIP. My friend We’ll miss you. our of knowing him while doing a a compassionate man dear Tom and colleague Tom Alter. Bless you! Vivek Agnihotri: Oh Tom Alter... play in Delhi .. such a lovely human Alter, your forever smiling face will Madhur Bhandarkar: Sad to I wish you had stayed longer. You being. Rest in Peace. be missed my friend! Prayers for know about Tom Alter. Remember had so many ideas waiting to Vir Das: I had the honour of your soul. Kunal Kapoor to host workshop for aspiring ﬁlmmakers IANS generated and its great that Ritam and the connect its establishes, wait for funds from investors and Bhatnagar, the festival director, is how crowdfunding is the democ- businesses to kickstart his idea. ctor Kunal Kapoor is gear- providing an opportunity to film- ratization of capital and most Music videos, documentaries and ing up to conduct a makers to showcase their work,” importantly why the concept will innovative ideas require planning Aworkshop for upcoming or Kunal said in a statement. be liked by the audience.” and a crowdfunding platform will aspiring filmmakers where he will “I shall kickstart the two-day Kunal will also conduct a guide the person. Eventually the address topics like how to pitch a festival with a talk around how to workshop around crowdfunding idea is that an individual should film at The India Film Project. pitch a film. This will primarily for digital content, where he will be able to raise funds on his own “It’s a honour and privilege to focus around the markets the film talk on how a reward based crowd without relying on anyone.” be a part of the India Film Project. wishes to cater to, the target audi- funding model works. There will also be workshops, We are in a time where there is so ence that the storyline attracts, the “Now with web content being screenings and talks by experts at much good content being reliability factor with the audience so wide, an individual need not the event. SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2017 ENTERTAINMENT 11

Beyonce remixes 'Mi Gente' Kim Kardashian conﬁrms third to aid disaster relief efforts baby on the way im Kardashian has Reuters confirmed reports Kthat she and husband eyonce has released a new single and video to Kanye West are having a help with relief efforts following the recent nat- third baby, with the couple Bural disasters in the Caribbean and Mexico. expected to use a surrogate “Mi Gente (My People),” a remix of the Latin hit by for the birth. J. Balvin and Willy William, marks the R&B singer’s Kardashian’s confirma- first new music since giving birth to twins in June. tion, in a trailer released on “I am donating my proceeds from this song to hur- Thursday for the new series ricane relief charities for Puerto Rico, Mexico and the of reality show “Keeping Up other affected Caribbean islands,” Beyonce said on her With the Kardashians,” Instagram page. means that three of the “We’re heartbroken by the hurricanes and earth- Kardashian siblings are quakes that have devastated families around the world. expecting children around There are many ways to help,” she added in a mes- the same time. sage on her official website, where she directed Multiple media reports in followers to a number of disaster relief the past week have said that organizations. Khloe Kardashian, 33, and Hurricane Maria, the most powerful storm to hit Kylie Jenner, at 20 the Puerto Rico in nearly 90 years, has killed at least 16 youngest member of the people on the island and more than 30 across the celebrity family, are preg- Caribbean. nant for the first time. The In Puerto Rico, most of the island’s 3.4 million res- women and their represent- idents have been 10 days without power and residents atives have neither have complained about the slowness of official US confirmed nor denied the recovery efforts. reports. The original Spanish-language “Mi Gente,” released Kim Kardashian and in June, has been a No. 1 hit in much of South Amer- raised more than $44m for the victims of hurricanes West were rumoured in June ica and in many European nations, and has been viewed Harvey and Irma. to have hired a surrogate 893 million times on YouTube. “Natural disasters don’t discriminate. They don’t because of serious health The remix by Beyonce, featuring home videos of see if you’re an immigrant, black or white, Hispanic complications with ordinary people dancing, is expected to push sales or Asian, Jewish or Muslim, wealthy or poor ... we’re Kardashian’s first two preg- higher and by Friday had already been viewed more all in this together,” she said at the time. nancies and the birth of than 1.8 million times. Beyonce’s husband Jay-Z’s annual benefit concert children North, 4, and one- Beyonce also lent her support to relief efforts in in October in New York will also raise funds for vic- year-old Saint. her home town of Houston, Texas, sending a taped tims of hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria as well as message to a charity telethon earlier in September that the September 19 earthquake in Mexico. Kristen Stewart eyed for ‘Charlie’s Angels’ remake

IANS Casting is under way, and Sony, indie fare in recent years, earning the studio behind the film, is also raves for her work in “Still Alice,” ctresses Kristen Stewart (pic- interested in several other big “Cafe Society,” and “Personal Shop- tured) is reportedly being names, including Oscar-winner per.” She hasn’t headlined a major Aeyed for the remake of the Lupita Nyong’o. studio tentpole film since “Snow hit film “Charlie’s Angels”, which Elizabeth Banks, who scored White and the Hunstman” in 2010. came out in 2000 featuring Cam- with “Pitch Perfect 2,” is directing She will appear in Fox’s “Underwa- eron Diaz, Drew Barrymore and the film. It’s slated for a summer ter,” which centers on a crew of Lucy Liu. 2019 release, and Sony clearly has underwater researchers scrambling The “Twilight” star would play franchise hopes for the project. with the fallout from earthquake. one of the members of the female pri- Banks, Elizabeth Cantillon and Max The new “Charlie’s Angels” vate detective agency. Stewart’s is not Handelman will produce. movie is expected to hit theatres in the only name being considered. Stewart has focused largely on 2019. 12 HEALTH SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2017

A new discovery shows how Zika turned monstrous

William Wan The discovery will be of some help to those trying seven different amino acids, they found The Washington Post now working to develop a vaccine for Zika. It the culprit. also helps health officials trying to prevent future It was a single amino acid called serine that, hen the Zika virus became a global outbreaks of other viruses by helping them when replaced by another amino acid called terror two years ago - inflicting severe understand how a relatively benign virus like asparagine, caused the devastating effect. Wbirth defects on the babies of preg- Zika quickly became a global threat. Because of the complexities involved in the nant women who were infected with the virus Scientists have known about Zika since 1947, research, the resulting paper carries the names and alarming health officials worldwide - sci- when it was isolated in a monkey in the Zika for- of 23 co-authors, Zhiheng Xu, a brain develop- entists were mystified. est of Uganda. But for decades, the virus seemed ment expert at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, How did such an obscure, relatively harm- inconsequential, with symptoms like a mild form said. less pathogen that had been known for more of dengue fever. Once the group isolated the protein change than half a century suddenly blossom into a mon- In recent decades, there have been sporadic responsible, they checked against strains from ster virus? spikes of infection as the virus made its way from previous eras to see when the amino acid muta- A group of scientists based in China may have Africa to Southeast Asia. There was an outbreak tion first appeared. The researchers believe the finally solved the mystery. Their research - pub- in Micronesia in 2007, and in French Polynesia mutation occurred before a 2013 outbreak in lished Thursday in the journal Science - pinpoints in 2013 and 2014. French Polynesia and began to dominate as that a small mutation in Zika’s genetic makeup that But two years ago, when Zika finally reached strain spread to the Americas. made the virus much more dangerous. South America, the speed at which it spread sky- Part of what makes RNA viruses like Zika so Their research shows that a change of a sin- rocketed. Doctors also began noticing the successful is that their genetic material is unsta- gle amino acid molecule - likely occurring increasing rates of the alarming microcephaly ble, giving them an uncanny ability to mutate sometime in 2013 - created a new strain of Zika and suspected a connection to Zika. It took an quickly as they are transmitted over and over. much more dangerous to developing brain cells. international effort to connect the birth defects Scott Weaver, who heads the Institute for Shortly after, Zika was implicated in a dramatic conclusively to Zika and begin to rein in the Human Infections and Immunity at the Univer- increase in cases of microcephaly, in which outbreaks. sity of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, called babies’ heads are abnormally small, and a range Zika is primarily spread by mosquitoes, but the findings important, but pointed out the Chi- of other birth defects. it can be sexually transmitted. nese group only tested the changed amino acid “This answers the question everybody has To identify the small molecular change that strain on mice. “I believe that additional work been wanting to know. Why is it only in the last gave Zika its sudden virulence and power to in human cells, including cells from the placenta, few years that Zika became so explosive, not just inflict birth defects, it took two dozen scientists as well as larger numbers of donors are needed in its virulence but in severity of symptoms,” said working for more than a year to isolate the amino to confirm the potentially very high significance Pei-Yong Shi, a virus and genetics expert at Uni- acid responsible. of the study,” he said. versity of Texas Medical Branch who is a The group took older strains of Zika from Before Thursday’s announcement, scientists co-author of the new study. earlier outbreaks in Africa and Micronesia and had floated several theories for why Zika became While the prevalence of Zika has been much compared it to the current strain in Brazil. Then, so virulent in 2015. Even with this new insight lower this year compared to the outbreaks in they slowly modified the older strains, making into Zika’s origins, however, scientists still have 2015 and 2016, experts say Zika could return in one change to a protein at a time and injecting questions about the virus. Their most urgent task waves in future years, based on the outbreak it into pregnant female mice to see if the modi- now is to develop a working vaccine for Zika cycles of similar viruses. fied strains disrupted brain development. After before the next outbreak occurs. SUNDAY O1 OCTOBER 2017 TECHNOLOGY 13

Reuters

ince 2015, Apple Inc (AAPL.O) Security firm finds some Macs has tried to protect its Mac line Sof computers from a form of hacking that is extremely hard to vulnerable to 'firmware' attacks detect, but it has not been entirely successful in getting the fixes to its customers, according to research released by Duo Security. Duo examined what is known as firmware in the Mac computers. Firmware is an in-built kind of software that is even more basic than an operating system like Microsoft Windows or macOS. When a computer is first pow- ered on -- before the operating system has even booted up -- firmware checks to make sure that basic components like a hard disk and processor are present and tells them what to do. That makes mali- cious code hiding in it hard to spot. In most cases, firmware is a hassle to update with the latest of them were not running the Paradoxically, it was only pos- them public on Friday. In a state- security patches. Updates have to firmware they should have been sible to find the potentially ment, Apple said it was aware of the be carried out separately from the based on their operating system. In vulnerable machines because Apple issue and is moving to address it. operating system updates that are some models - such as the 21.5-inch is the only computer maker that has ”Apple continues to work dili- more commonplace. iMac released in late 2015 - 43 per- sought to make firmware updates gently in the area of firmware In 2015, Apple started bundling cent of machines had out-of-date part of its regular software updates, security, and we’re always explor- firmware updates along with oper- firmware. making it both more trackable and ing ways to make our systems even ating system updates for Mac That left many Macs open to the best in the industry for firmware more secure,“ the company said in machines in an effort to ensure hacks like the “Thunderstrike” updates, Rich Smith, director of a statement. ”In order to provide a firmware on them stayed up to date. attack, where hackers can control research and development at Duo, safer and more secure experience But Duo surveyed 73,000 Mac a Mac after plugging an Ethernet said. in this area, macOS High Sierra computers operating in the real adapter into the machine’s so- Duo said that it had informed automatically validates Mac world and found that 4.2 percent called thunderbolt port. Apple of its findings before making firmware weekly.” Facebook to launch facial recognition for security IANS regain access to a locked account. In certain cases it asks the user to acebook is working on a facial rec- identify photos of friends to verify des- ognition feature to help users ignate several “trusted friends” who Fsecure the account and verify receive a code that can be asked from identity, reports said. them to unlock the user’s account. “We are testing a new feature for Reportedly, the company is also people who want to quickly and easily working towards rolling out a video chat verify account ownership during the device that can recognise users’ faces. account recovery process. This optional But the device has also raised fears feature is available only on devices among consumers that it could be used you’ve already used to log in. It is by the social network to spy on them, another step that were taking to make thereby casting doubt on whether the sure account owners can confirm their device would have all the features as identity,” Facebook told TechCrunch intended when it is finally launched. late Friday. Codenamed Project Aloha, the The social media giant has tried a device is set to be released by Facebook number of methods to help users in May 2018. 14 CINEMA PLUS SUNDAY 01 OCTOBER 2017

NOVO — Pearl ROYAL PLAZA VILLAGGIO & CITY CENTER

Home Again(2D) 10:00am, 12:00noon, 2:00, 4:00, 6:00, 5:00, 8:00. 10:00pm The Son Of Bigfoot (2D/Animation) 2:15, 4:00 & 5:45pm & 12:00midnight The Lego: Ninjago (2D/Animation) 2:15 & 4:15pm Kingsman:The Golden Circle(Action) 10:15am, 1:00, 3:45, 6:30, 9:15pm & 12:00midnight Spyder (2D) Telugu 2:30 & 5:00 Tamil 11:30pm Home Again (2D/Drama) 7:30pm The Son Of Bigfoot(Animation) 3D10:10am&1:50pm 2D 12:00noon,3:40,5:30& 7:20pm Mark Felt (2D/Drama) 8:15pm Victoria And Abdul (2D/Drama) 9:30pm American Assassin (2D/Action) 9:10 & 11:30pm Al Khalya (2D/Arabic) 12:10, 4:50 & 9:30pm Loving In Tandem (2D/Tagalog) 6:15pm Flatliners (2D/Horror) 7:30 & 9:15pm Mark Felt (2D/Drama) 10:00am, 2:40, 7:20pm & 12:00midnight Open Water 3: Cage Dive (2D/Thriller) 10:15pm IT (2D/Horror) 10:00am, 2:45, 7:30pm & 12:00midnight Judwaa 2 (Hindi) 11:15pm Countdown (2D/Action) 11:45pm The Crucifixion (2D/Mystery) 12:45, 5:30 & 10:10pm The Lego: Ninjago (2D/Animation) 10:00am, 12:15, 2:30 & 4:45pm ASIAN TOWN Victoria And Abdul (2D/Drama) 7:00, 9:15 & 11:30pm Open Water 3 Cage Dive (2D/Drama) 10:00am, 2:00, 6:00 & 10:00pm Spyder (2D) Telugu 5:30 & 8:15pm Tamil 6:30, 9:15pm & 12:00midnight Countdown (2D) 12:00noon, 4:00, 8:00pm & 10:00pm Judwaa 2 5:30 & 11:00pm Hara Hara Mahadevaki 8:15pm Kuruppan 1:00, Flatliners(2D/Horror) 10:00am, 12:15, 2:30, 2:50, 4:45, 7:00, 9:15, 9:50 & 11:30 pm 6:30pm, 12:00midnight & 01:45am Njandukalude 9:15pm Kingsman:The Golden Circle (2D/Action) 12:00noon & 7:00pm Kingsman:The Golden Circle (IMAX/2D Action) 10:00am, 12:45, 3:30, 6:15, 9:00& 11:45pm AL KHOR The Lego: Ninjago (2D/Animation) 10:30am, 12:15 & 2:30pm MALL Judwaa 2 (Hindi) 12:15, 3:00, 5:45, 8:30 & 11:15pm Spyder Telugu 3:15&8:45pm Tamil Spyder (2D) Telugu 2:30pm Tamil 11:30pm 12:30, 6:00& 11:30pm Flatliners (2D/Horror) 4:45, 7:15, 9:30 & 11:45pm The Son Of Bigfoot (2D/Animation) 2:30, 4:15 & 6:00pm Home Again (2D/Drama) 4:30pm Ya Thadi Ya Thaadi (Arabic) 6:15pm ROXY Flatliners (2D/Horror) 7:30 & 9:30pm Mark Felt (2D/Drama) 9:45 & 11:30pm The Son of Big foot (Animation) 2:15, 4:15 & 6:15pm Victoria And Abdul (2D/Drama) 9:30pm Spyder (Telugu) 12:00noon, 2:50, 5:40, 8:30 & 11:20pm Loving In Tandem (2D/Tagalog) 7:45pm Kingsman Circle 12:00noon & 7:30pm The Lego: Ninjago (2D/Animation) 12:00noon & 8:15pm Flatliners (2D/Horror) 2:50, 5:10, 10:20pm & 12:30am Open Water 3: Cage Dive (2D/Thriller) 8:00pm Karuppan 12:00noon, 2:50 & 5:40pm Judwaa 2 (Hindi) 8:30 & 11:30pm Hara Hara Mahadevaki (Tamil) 2:00pm Judwaa 2 (Hindi) 5:00 & 11:30pm KINGSMAN: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE LANDMARK The Son Of Bigfoot (2D/Animation) 2:15, 4:00, 5:45 & 7:30pm Spyder (2D) Telugu 2:30 & 7:00 Tamil 11:30pm Karuppan (Tamil) 3:00pm The Lego: Ninjago (2D/Animation) 5:00pm Loving In Tandem (2D/Tagalog) 6:00pm Flatliners (2D/Horror) 7:30 & 11:30pm Ya Thadi Ya Thaadi (Arabic) 8:00pm Victoria And Abdul (2D/Drama) 9:30pm Open Water 3 Cage Dive (2D/Thriller) 9:45pm Mark Felt (2D/Drama) 9:30pm Judwaa 2 (Hindi) 11:15pm When their headquarters are destroyed and the world is held Note: Programme is subject to change without prior notice. hostage, the Kingsman’s journey leads them to the discovery of an allied spy organisation in the US. BABY BLUES

HAGAR THE HORRIBLE SUNDAY 01 OCTOBER BRAIN TEASERS 15

CROSSWORD CONCEPTIS SUDOKU

Conceptis Sudoku: Conceptis Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9×9 grid. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so that each row, each column and each 3×3 box contains the same number only once.

Yesterday’s answer

ALL IN THE MIND

ALEXANDER SEVERUS, ANTONIUS PIUS, AUGUSTUS, CALIGULA, CARACALLA, CLAUDIUS, COMMODUS, DOMITIAN, GALBA, HADRIAN, HELIOGABALUS, JULIUS CAESAR, LUCIUS VERUS, MACRINUS, MARCUS AURELIUS, NERO, NERVA, OTHO, PERTINAX, TIBERIUS, TITUS FLAVIUS, TRAJAN, VESPASIAN, VITELLIUS.

08:00 News 13:10 Alaska: The 11:00 Treehouse 13:10 Bunk’d 08:30 People & Power Last Frontier Masters 14:00 A.N.T. Farm 09:00 13:55 Al Jazeera The Island 12:50 After The 16:10 Good Luck Correspondent With Bear Attack Charlie 10:30 Inside Story Grylls: USA 17:00 Disney The 13:45 Wild Animal 11:00 News 14:40 Outback Lodge 11:30 Talk To Al Jazeera Truckers Rescue 17:25 Adventures 12:00 News 18:20 Storage 14:40 The Vet Life In Babysitting 12:30 Wukan: China’s Hunters UK 15:35 Swamp 18:55 Rolling With 18:50 Democracy Kings Of Brothers The Ronks Experiment The Wild 19:05 19:15 Sharkzilla Descendants 13:00 NEWSHOUR 21:00 Idris Elba: 2: It’s Going King Features Syndicate, Inc. 20:10 Pit Bulls & 14:30 Inside Story No Limits Down 15:00 Al Jazeera World 21:50 Harley Parloees 19:30 Liv And 16:00 NEWSHOUR And The 21:00 Wildest Maddie 17:00 News Davidsons Middle East 19:55 Elena Of 17:30 23:30 Listening Post Fast N’ 23:50 Untamed & Avalor 18:00 Newsgrid Loud 20:45 Uncut Bizaardvark 19:00 News 00:20 Misfit 21:10 The Zhuzhus 00:45 Treehouse 19:30 101 East Garage 21:35 Stuck In The 20:30 Inside Story 01:05 Idris Elba: Masters Middle 21:00 NEWSHOUR No Limits 01:40 Killer 22:00 Miraculous 22:00 News 01:50 Harley Hornets Tales Of 22:30 Talk To Al Jazeera And The From Hell Ladybug & 23:00 Justice! Davidsons Cat Noir