Community Community Institute of Pakistani Chartered community P6Accountants P16 members of India-Doha organise Urdu poetry Chapter organises event to mark National a cultural and Day celebrations musical event. in Mesaieed.
Tuesday, April 2, 2019 Rajab 26, 1440 AH
Doha today: 240 - 270
Ctrl-Alt-Del? Silicon Valley is a minefield for 2020 presidential hopefuls. P4-5
POP SPOT SHOWBIZ
I’m So Tired gives Lauv Urmila carries traits of fi rst UK top ten entry. consummate politician. Page 14 Page 15 2 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 2, 2019 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT
PRAYER TIME Fajr 4.05am Shorooq (sunrise) 5.25am Zuhr (noon) 11.38am Asr (afternoon) 3.07pm Maghreb (sunset) 5.51pm Isha (night) 7.21pm
We Die Young When ruthless drug lord Rincon and his MS-13 gang recruit USEFUL NUMBERS DIRECTION:Lior Geller 10-year-old Miguel to work as a runner, big brother Lucas is CAST: Jean-Claude Van Damme, David Castañeda, Elijah desperate to keep Miguel safe. Fleeing for their lives, the boys Rodriguez are rescued by a veteran with PTSD named Daniel, who helps SYNOPSIS: Jean-Claude Van Damme shines in this gritty them fi nd their revenge. action thriller set in a crime-ridden barrio of Washington, DC. THEATRES: The Mall
Emergency 999 Worldwide Emergency Number 112 Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 Local Directory 180 International Calls Enquires 150 Hamad International Airport 40106666 Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 Mowasalat Taxi 44588888 Qatar Airways 44496000 Hamad Medical Corporation 44392222, 44393333 Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464 Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 44593363 Qatar Assistive Technology Centre 44594050 Qatar News Agency 44450205 44450333 Q-Post – General Postal Corporation 44464444
Humanitarian Services Offi ce (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies) Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, 40253369 Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364 Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365 Qatar Airways 40253374 Airaa to Chennai where the supposed protagonist, Yamuna DIRECTION: Sarjun (Nayanthara) is shown. She is caught in between a misogynist CAST: Nayanthara, Kalaiyarasan, Yogi Babu NRI who is set as an alliance by her parents and a typical boss SYNOPSIS: The movie takes off with a couple of cops who is focused more on professional terms than on personal/ heading towards a lavish bungalow in Pollachi, which is emotional concerns. shown as a haunted entity. Cut to the scene and we navigate THEATRES: The Mall, Landmark, Royal Plaza ote Unquo u te Q “Wise The Mall Cinema (1): Lucifer Dumbo (2D) 4:45pm; Lucifer men speak because (Malayalam) 2:15pm; Lucifer (Malayalam) 7pm; Lucifer they have something to say; (Malayalam) 5:15pm; Lucifer (Malayalam) 10:15pm. (Malayalam) 8:15pm; Lucifer Royal Plaza Cinema Palace Fools because they have to say (Malayalam) 11:15pm. 11:30pm. (1): Dumbo (2D) 2:30pm; something.” The Mall Cinema (2): Dumbo Landmark Cinema (1): Lucifer (Malayalam) 4:45pm; — (2D) 2pm; The Snow Queen: Dumbo (2D) 2:30pm; The Lucifer (Malayalam) 8pm; Plato Mirrorland (2D) 4pm; Dumbo Snow Queen: Mirrorland (2D) Lucifer (Malayalam) 11pm. (2D) 5:30pm; Dumbo (2D) 5pm; Dumbo (2D) 6:45pm; Royal Plaza Cinema Palace 7:30pm; We Die Young (2D) Junglee (Hindi) 9pm; Airaa (2): Lucifer (Malayalam) 3pm; 9:30pm; Junglee (Hindi) (Tamil) 11:15pm. Dumbo (2D) 6pm; Dumbo (2D) 11:30pm. Landmark Cinema (2): 8:30pm; Junglee (Hindi) 11pm. Lucifer (Malayalam) 2pm; Community Editor The Mall Cinema (3): Royal Plaza Cinema Palace Notebook (Hindi) 2pm; Lucifer (Malayalam) 5pm; (3): Airaa (Tamil) 2:30pm; The Kamran Rehmat Junglee (Hindi) 4pm; Lucifer Lucifer (Malayalam) 8pm; Snow Queen: Mirrorland (2D) e-mail: [email protected] (Malayalam) 6pm; The Lucifer (Malayalam) 11pm. 5:15pm; Junglee (Hindi) 7pm; Telephone: 44466405 Professor And The Madman Landmark Cinema (3): Junglee (Hindi) 9:15pm; Airaa Fax: 44350474 (2D) 9:15pm; Airaa (Tamil) Junglee (Hindi) 2:30pm; (Tamil) 11:30pm.. Tuesday, April 2, 2019 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY
TIME: 9am – 7pm Arabic Calligraphy Workshop Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) in Doha WHEN: Saturday – Wednesday presents a major exhibition, co-curated by TIME: 6pm MIA Director Dr Julia Gonnella and Rania Arabic Calligraphy workshop is back. Abdellatif, as part of the MIA ten-year Come and learn the artistic practice of Arabic anniversary celebrations. handwriting and calligraphy at Music and Arts Atelier. Ballet Lessons The lessons will take place every Saturday, WHERE: Music and Arts Atelier Monday and Wednesday at 6pm. For WHEN: Ongoing more information, contact registration@ TIME: 4pm – 8pm atelierqatar.com For more info e-mail at registration@ atelierqatar.com or call on 33003839.
Ladies and Children Talent Search WHERE: Sapphire Plaza Hotel Hobby Classes WHEN: April 5 WHERE: Mamangam Performing Art TIME: 4pm Centre Karnataka Sangha Qatar is set to celebrate WHEN:Wednesday – Monday the Ladies Talent Search and Children’s Mamangam Performing Art Centre, is a Talent Search. Susmita Pattnaik, President of holistic performing arts institution and a one Indian Women’s Association will be the chief stop solution for adults as well as children guest at the event. Prema, Indian actress, and looking to explore their talents in various Impana Jayaraj and Nihal Tauro, Kannada art forms. We off er classes in contemporary, EVENTS The Future of Coral Reefs: Status and playback singers, will also attend the event. Bollywood, hip hop, indian classical dance, Threats music (Hindustani and Carnatic), arts and MIA Park Bazaar 2019 WHERE: Doha English Speaking School, HEC Paris Info Session craft, karate, yoga, percussion( Chenda, WHERE: Museum Of Islamic Art Madinat Khalifa South WHERE: 14th fl oor, Tornado Tower Thimila, Elathalam and Madhalam), violin, WHEN: Ongoing WHEN: Tomorrow WHEN: Tomorrow harmonium, public speaking. TIME: 12pm – 8pm Time: 7pm TIME: 5pm – 6:15pm Additional services include dance MIA Bazaar has a vibrant mix of 350 Coral reefs are considered the rainforests HEC Paris invites you to the next education, choreograph music videos and stalls. MIA Park Bazaar is a modern version of the sea with a wide diversity of amazing Information Session of its International dance cover albums, choreograph dance of the old souq tradition. The stalls off er a animals that depend on them for food and Executive MBA. Learn more about this musical projects, corporate workshops and wide range of gastronomies from all over shelter. This talk will give an overview of the world-class executive programme. Discover events, choreograph events for schools, the world. You can also browse and grab current condition of the world’s coral reefs the international diversity of participants, colleges, alumni meets and corporate handcrafted artefacts, accessories, canvases, and of Qatar’s reefs, the global and local blended learning and international mobility and choreography events. For details, call fashion wears, designer ornaments. threats to their survival and the outlook for options. Find out how it will help you 33897609. their future. Talk by Dr Greta Aeby, Research transform yourself and your career. QISH Autism Walkathon Associate at Qatar University WHERE: Al Bidda Park Cycling: Losail Circuit Sports Club WHEN: April 5 WHERE: Losail Circuit TIME: 3:30pm – 5:00pm WHEN: Ongoing In support of World Autism Awareness TIME: 5pm initiative, Qatar Institute for Speech and Losail Circuit Sports Club, in association Hearing conducts ‘4th Autism Walkathon with Qatar Sports For All Federation, invites – to Help Increase Understanding and all cyclists, runners and walkers to train under Acceptance’ near the Theatre in Al Bidda the fl oodlights of Losail International Circuit Park. every Wednesdays.
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.
Dance and Instrument Classes After School Activities WHERE: TCA Campus, Behind Gulf Times It’s My Right WHERE: Atelier Building WHERE: Qatar National Library WHEN: Ongoing WHEN: Wednesday – Monday WHEN: April 4 Music and arts activities for students Learn the movements of dance styles in TIME: 4:30pm – 6:30pm taking place after they fi nish their day in Bollywood, Hip Hop and also the musical Young adults have rights just like everyone school includes Group Music lessons, Hip- instruments such as Piano, Guitar, Keyboard else. Come hear what your rights are and how Syria Matters Exhibition hop, Ballet, Drawing and Painting, Drama for adults as well kids and move in the world you can stand up for them. WHERE: Museum of Islamic Art Theatre & Taekwondo. Ages between 5 and 10 of music. For details, contact 66523871/ WHEN: Ongoing till April 30 years old after school hours. 31326749.
Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 2, 2019 COMMUNITY COVER STORY Tech not-so-savvy Silicon Valley’s standing in presidential politics has fallen many notches amid big-tech privacy intrusions, platform vulnerability to election interference, and perceived corporate excess, writes Evan Halper
IN THE DOCK: Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg appears before the House Energy and Commerce Committee in Washington, D.C., last year.
If the question nly three years ago, Silicon Valley was riding so high that Hillary Clinton seemed truly stumped is what role will when asked on The Ellen Show whether she’d rather have George Clooney as a running mate or Silicon Valley have Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg. O“Oh, that’s hard,” Clinton said at the time. in picking the next It is hard to imagine any Democratic presidential candidate president, the hedging on the question today. Many might bristle at even being asked to pose for a selfi e with a Facebook executive, much less answer is probably a run with one. Silicon Valley’s standing in presidential politics has fallen lot less than it thinks many notches amid big-tech privacy intrusions, platform vulnerability to election interference, and perceived corporate excess. The community that not long ago had candidates — Bradley Tusk, pining for its approval now fi nds its political reputation stuck somewhere between that of Wall Street and Big Pharma. venture capitalist “If the question is what role will Silicon Valley have in ‘ picking the next president, the answer is probably a lot less than it thinks,” said Bradley Tusk, a venture capitalist who ’ has worked as a political strategist for Uber and campaign Tuesday, April 2, 2019 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY manager for former New York Mayor Michael R Bloomberg. “There are few tech leader endorsements you would even actively covet.” Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren has taken the most aggressive posture toward the “I spent my life tech industry, recently launching a proposal to break up Amazon, in Silicon Valley, Google and Facebook through aggressive use of antitrust laws and I will be the and strictly regulate how fi rms first to say a lot amass personal data. But even the most-tech friendly candidates of the larger have adopted some of Warren’s adversarial posture, if not her firms here have precise policy prescription. Republicans off er the industry lost the trust of little relief. Erstwhile Silicon Valley boosters in the GOP have joined the American President Trump in threatening the fi rms over a perceived conspiracy to people” censor conservative voices. Yet even if this crop of Democratic candidates does not — Steve Westly, want to be associated with the oligarchs and politically aloof venture capitalist innovators of Silicon Valley, it needs them just the same. Much like the bankers and brokers on Wall Street, the entrepreneurs of Silicon Valley have assets the candidates want — in this case expertise on digital campaigning tools, policy expertise and big bank accounts that can be crucial to a White House bid. The iPhones of wired Silicon Valley politicos are still ringing, with calls from the same campaigns Salamanca, a venture capitalist and most unwanted attention forced to relationships with Silicon Valley misguided. that are using the valley as a Democratic activist who helped improve their business practices. leaders and an understanding of the “It displays a total lack of political piñata. launch Swing Left, one of the “I spent my life in Silicon Valley, innovation economy, even if they intellectual curiosity about the “Every day here in San Francisco, most successful new fundraising and I will be the fi rst to say a lot of don’t always agree with the tech digital revolution,” said Khanna, a there is another presidential platforms for progressives. Yet at the larger fi rms here have lost the sector’s perspective,” he wrote. progressive who has championed candidate coming through,” this early stage in the campaign, trust of the American people,” said Beyond stealthy fundraisers in an “Internet bill of rights” and said Chris Lehane, the longtime she said, tech leaders are not so venture capitalist Steve Westly, the the living rooms of tech titans, antitrust rules opposed by some of Democratic strategist who now much panicked as looking to sort former California state controller even candidates who are among the big fi rms located in his district. heads global policy and public out “candidates who are attacking and one of the tech industry’s most the most sharply critical of tech Candidates should be focused on aff airs at Airbnb. “There are two or tech because it is a hot talking point prolifi c Democratic fundraisers. have been quietly traipsing the tech spreading the innovation economy three here this week.” versus candidates bringing the “They need to do a better job circuit, stopping in at incubators, to struggling parts of the country, They are just circumspect. appropriate amount of attention to protecting their customers.” visiting the campus of Stanford rather than attacking it, he said. No candidate this time around issues of concern to everyone.” Westly has already been enlisted and meeting people at intimate The companies, unlike Wall Street has sought a media moment by Even as tech entrepreneurs say to raise money for former Vice events at Manny’s, a social hub fi rms, remain extremely popular opening a satellite campaign the hearings lawmakers are holding President Joe Biden, who is for innovators in San Francisco’s with voters, he added. offi ce in a cubicle of a San in Washington to berate companies expected to enter the race at some Mission district. “It’s a mistake in the candidate Francisco incubator, as Republican like Facebook and Google have done point in April. Another star tech Even Senator Bernie Sanders, the messaging,” Khanna said. “They are Senator Rand Paul did in the last little more than highlight how ill- fundraiser, Amy Rao, is working to self-described democratic socialist, disconnected from what people in presidential race. None are trying prepared Capitol Hill is to regulate fi ll the campaign coff ers of Senator eager to redistribute some of the Middle America want. Those voters to prove their tech savvy by hailing the sector, they are chastened Kamala Harris. Silicon Valley power wealth that big-tech executives want to partner with tech leaders to an Uber en route to an appearance by the problems that have been broker Ron Conway said in an amass, has signed on Silicon create economic opportunity. I have at the offi ce of a gig-economy exposed. Their posture toward e-mail that he’ll be backing Harris, Valley congressman Ro Khanna as been with them in these places. platform for plumbers, as Jeb Bush regulation is no longer resisting it Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey a top adviser. Khanna argues that Often, the tech leaders are treated did in 2015. at all cost. Many are eager to see the and “likely others.” some of the hostility candidates like rock stars.” Yet most of the top candidates giant fi rms that have generated the “Many candidates running have are directing toward his district is —Los Angeles Times/TNS this cycle have already been hosted by tech executives at fundraisers and are enlisting tech industry bundlers — well-connected “It’s a mistake in the candidate supporters who can tap their networks of friends and business messaging. They are disconnected associates to raise tens, even hundreds, of thousands of dollars from what people in Middle for campaign accounts. America want. Those voters want Operatives who have been around a few presidential cycles have seen to partner with tech leaders to similar episodes of industries falling out of political favour. create economic opportunity. Former president Bill Clinton aggressively and publicly courted I have been with them in these Wall Street’s approval. By the time places. Often, the tech leaders are Hillary Clinton ran, holding a campaign rally near the New York treated like rock stars” Stock Exchange, as her husband did, was extremely ill-advised for a Democrat. “Silicon Valley is feeling itself — Ro Khanna, Silicon Valley under the spotlight in a negative way congressman for the fi rst time” since the dot-com bubble of the late 1990s, said Maria 6 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 2, 2019 COMMUNITY ICAI-Doha Chapter organises Rajasthani Musical Extravaganza
Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) – Doha Chapter recently organised a cultural Speaking on the event, Nilangshu Dey said that Doha Chapter of ICAI is amongst the very few and musical event for its sponsors, members and their families at Holiday Inn. A Rajasthani organisations that boasts of women cricket teams which is very noteworthy and promising troupe, led by Jasu Khan, renowned Rajasthani singer, performed at the event. and that Qatar sports is encouraging this. The unveiling ceremony was followed by the musical Nilangshu Dey, President of Indian Sports Centre (ISC), was the chief guest at the event. Chief event. guest along with Rukkaiya Pachisa, Chairperson of ICAI Doha, presented the team jerseys to Speaking on the occasion, Rukkariya Pachisa said that Rajasthan is one of the most vibrant nine team captains, including two all-women’s team. The trophies for men and women category states of India with so much of intensity and spectrum of colours. Sandeep Chowdhary, Vice were also unveiled on the occasion. Chairman of ICAI-Doha, proposed vote of thanks.
GRADUATION CEREMONY: Birla Public School (BPS) recently organised a graduation ceremony for the students of Kindergarten Section. The ceremony was attended by notable personalities, including Lukose K Chako, Vice Chairman of BPS; Gope Shahani, Director; Maria Thomas, member of Academic Sub-Committee; A P Sharma, Principal of BPS; and Shirly Rappai, Senior Vice Principal. PICPA marks Accountancy Week
The Philippine Institute of correctly concerning all topics Certified Public Accountants about accounting. The game (PICPA) Doha recently is divided into four rounds, organised an event to including easy, average, mark Accountancy Week diff icult and clincher rounds. at La Cigale Hotel. Sharon Vladimar F Susi, Christian C Dela Cruz, President of Dave M Barrameda and John PICPA Doha, welcomed Vincent P Gunita bagged the the gathering, which was first position. PICPA Quiz Whiz, followed by a mind game an online quiz competition, ‘PICPA Utakan 2019’. Six was won by Vladimar F group including 2-3 members Susi. The event was chaired participated in the game. by Fredelene P Magdaug, PICPA Utakan is a form Treasurer of PICPA Doha, and of game or mind sport, in Carmela Mae V Ampongan, which the players attempt Chairman for Ways and to answer the questions Means. Tuesday, April 2, 2019 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY Best Buddies Qatar and Shafallah Centre mark World Autism Awareness Day
Best Buddies Qatar and Shafallah Centre, with the them to be eff icient particles in Qatari community, equal support of Ooredoo Qatar, recently marked Word Autism to people without the disability, with rights for work, Awareness Day with a video presentation and a row education and social opportunities suitable to them.” of sports activities at Shafallah Centre for Persons with She added, “Governmental and non-governmental Disabilities. institutions intent to unite eff orts and involve solidly into Around 100 autistic participants took part in sports enhancing life of people with Autism and their families. activities, including basketball, football and various This year United Nations focus on the importance of the exercises with ball. It encouraged the members with leveraging the use of assistive technologies for persons Autism to improve communication and physical skills with Autism under the slogan ‘Assistive Technologies, through team games and socialisation. Eff ective Participation’, as a tool in removing the barriers Ooredoo Qatar supported and felicitated the participants to their full social, economic and political participation, with Myki watches, with function of précised locating of and in promoting equality, equity, social inclusion and child though 24 satellites and the options of calls, texts supporting the role of the families of autistic persons. and SOS. We should spread awareness and support concerned Laalei Abu Alfain, Managing Director of Best Buddies autistic people and their families on not only 2nd of April Qatar and acting Executive Director of Shafallah but every day.” Centre for Persons with Disabilities, said, “Yearly, Best Manar Khalifa al-Muraikhi, Director of Public Relations and Buddies Qatar and Shafallah Centre mark World Corporate Communications at Ooredoo, said, “Ooredoo Autism Awareness Day. This Day is declared by the is keen to involve all members of the community in United Nations General Assembly resolution ‘62/139. various events and activities, in order to emphasise on World Autism Awareness Day,’ of the year 2007. On the importance of communication and rapprochement the occasion, International and Qatari community between diff erent segments of society. Our participation jointly light up houses, landmarks, buildings in blue to in this event aims raising of the awareness about the recognise people with Autism in order to increase social matters autistic persons, the importance of the rights understanding and acceptance and the support of their for education and complete social integration, without rights, and freedoms. exceptions. We are happy to present them gifts to bring Best Buddies Qatar-Shafallah Centre for Persons with joy to their pure hearts, to shed light on their active Disabilities aims to raise the awareness about people contributions to society and to raise awareness of their with Autism to facilitate their social integration and help abilities.”
MES organises ‘Teachers’ Enrichment Programme’
MES Indian School recently organised ‘Teachers’ Enrichment Programme’ to empower widely acknowledged as education and knowledge oriented. The presenter of the day was teachers. Syed Haris, a well-known trainer for teachers, students, parents and professionals, emphatic about the fact that teachers play a crucial role in the ‘making’ and ‘breaking’ of was the resource person. The two-hour long session focused on ‘Teachers of Tomorrow.’ Haris a child’s self-esteem, and strongly recommended teachers to adopt enhanced mindsets explained the need for a sea-change in the attitude of teachers towards students and the and varied skills catering for the needs and preferences of young learners of today. The positive changes impacting on education and schools. programme was co-ordinated by the members of Department of Guidance and Counselling at He also highlighted on preparing teachers for the students of a new millennium, which is MES. 8 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 2, 2019 COMMUNITY AR Larger than life artworks ca
‘For the Sake of Art’ features art pieces that have been created within the walls of the Qatar Art Centre for over two decades. The exhibition off ers a rare glimpse of the memories, friendships, stories, exploration and processes the artists have shared and experienced. The timeline is diverse and so are the works on display, writes Muhammad Asad Ullah
LANDSCAPE: Capturing the old landscaope of Doha in oil, a piece by Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali al-Thani.
SCULPTURE: Mixed media portrait sculpture by Dia al-Azzawi that took 6 years to finish. The IN THE CREATIVE PROCESS: Artist Nazar Yahya at work. ARTISTIC: Self portrait of Sheikh Hassan al-Thani in ink. artwork is about 4 metres large in wood.
aking on the subject of artists alongside, including Yousef unifi es us all, but on the other, the space to portray a theme or to a close-lasting friendship – going down the memory Ahmad, Nazar Yahya and Dia al- treatment of moving along with message. This is refl ected with the infl uencing each others work. lane and showcasing Azzawi at Qatar Art Centre. The time, its implication and visual UCL Qatar student project – the Yousef’s work on display personal art collection exhibition features art pieces that representation has evolved over Center off ered them a space to highlighted the specifi c period in is sometimes daunting have been created within the walls time and diff ers dramatically across display their curation and bring Qatari history, evoking feelings of butT Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed of the Qatar Art Centre for over cultures, these four artists pays an to light their artistic vision. UCL nostalgia of a simpler and more al-Thani, Vice Chairperson of two decades. The exhibition off ers ode to the every changing time and Qatar students have become part grounded past. It’s astounding to Qatar Museums Authority, Advisor a rare glimpse of the memories, accepts future like anything with of the artistic scene in Qatar, and see his pieces, all created from his for Cultural Aff airs at Qatar friendships, stories, exploration and splash of colours and gold. the academic institution itself has memories rather than any archival Foundation, Founder of Mathaf: processes these artists have shared Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed become a partner in the artistic photographs amidst the hazy hues Arab Museum of Modern Art, a and experienced over the past two al-Thani, Founder of Qatar Art processes and developments here.” of Qatar. Qatari artist, collector, researcher, decades. The timeline is diverse and Centre, said, “Qatar Art Centre is a UCL Qatar Masters students “It entices me in old and educator in the fi eld of modern so are the works on display. hub which off ers space, providing on the Museum and Gallery neighbourhoods how the light art from the Arab world, India, When Hassan is using his diff ering and creative talents Programme have partnered with refl ects and shadows shape. That and Asia, is fearless. Sticking with signature grid pattern and the with an opportunity to engage, be Qatar Art Center to curate this captivates me. Life in Qatar is very contemporary work always helps. same self-portrait in his painting, supported and promote their own exhibition exploring the process of very simple and Qatari architecture Just when you think you know there’s a no-holds-barred freedom production. It can be perceived as making art. refl ects that. A wall, a door, some everything there is to know about that makes them completely alive, an ‘artists’ residency. The artwork It’s rare when you witness an art windows and a Sidra tree. These are Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed al- nearly abstract, and full of the kind here goes beyond the time in which show featuring paintings of teacher the main elements of an old Qatari Thani, regarding his artistic vision of energy and it’s rare and exciting it is completed – it communicates and student side-by-side, but when house and that is what I tried to and legendary artwork, including to see an artist of this vintage going with modern day audiences and you do, it’s special. You can just document.” Motherland, that is making a deeper and looser – having and inspires Qatar’s communities, realise it with the strokes of the From the mangroves to the statement at newly opened Qatar giving viewers so much fun. provoking diff erent thoughts and brush and draw parallel how they desert, such a trip inspired Nazar National Museum, he turns around The aesthetic and philosophical perspectives.” inspire each other. Yahya, Iraqi artists, some of the and surprises you, and for a good treatment of the themes of past, Speaking about the role of the Yousef Ahmad was Sheikh works on the display. Whilst reason. present and future have been students, he said, Hassan’s Fine Arts teacher at Qatar the paintings are not a typical His primary-colour techniques explored by artists over the ages “The curators of the exhibition University back in 1990s. They representation of Al Khor with grab your attention as you enter his and across cultures. On the one are responsible for creating a formed a strong bond due to a its fl owers, reeds and birds, current show, ‘For the Sake of Art’ hand, the transience of good days, narrative from the artwork, by mutual passion for art that evolved Nazar presents his emotions featuring three other prominent beauty and life is something that constantly utilising the exhibition from a teacher-student relationship and refl ections of the day on Tuesday, April 2, 2019 GULF TIMES 9 RT COMMUNITY pturing time and memories
TIMELINE: Nazar Yahya’s four paintings, from left to right, reflecting the distinct colours, elements and timeline of the day, respectively.
LOYALTY: Depicted here is King Faisal I of Iraq and paying a tribute to Sheikh Hassan al-Thani’s love for DOWN MEMORY LANE: Yousef Ahmed’s recall of Al Jasrah, the old heart of cheetahs by portraying the king’s pet leopard as a Doha, taken from the artist’s memory. MAKING A STATEMENT: Mixed media by Dia al-Azzawi. cheetah by Nazar Yahya.
canvas and uses yellow tinges, him to continue working on his he needs to know that there is a Sheikh Hassan dates back to the by his archaeological studies of the as a representation of Cusranche art, free from any limitations and destructive energy to art, as if it’s a 1990s, when the Arab Centre was Babylonian and Assyrian empires Tubulosa. restrictions. The exhibition also sickness that mocks him. You live only the villa of Sheikh Hassan as well as his studies of ancient From grey to black, series of four features a particular piece by Yahya your life accepting this disease like with Cheetahs roaming around Egyptian art. The eyes of the paintings on display defi ned the which pays a tribute to Sheikh a person who is born with diabetes. the centre, as a muse to the artist’s sculpture are pronounced, even timeline of a day. From the dawn Hassan’s love for cheetahs, sitting There must be honesty between an creations and mood. Both, Dia protruding like almond shaped, till dusk, even featuring the red, calmly next to King Faisal I of Iraq, a artist and his canvas.” and Hassan used to often sketch taking inspiration from Egyptian refl ecting the setting of the sun mesh of Iraq and Qatar at its best. “I Look at the pieces on display at and draw together and despite heritage. “Having more that one and how the reddish hues spread used colours that refl ect the truth, the exhibition and most of them working independently elements artists working at the same place over the land and the water refl ects but I added my personal taste,” said defi nitely have his refl ection, even of collaboration between the two creates a level of internal dialogue. a diff erent aspect of experience of Yahya. the ones created by Sheikh Hassan. sometimes glimpsed in Sheikh Artists do not necessarily infl uence the day. “A true artist knows beforehand The pioneer of modern Arab Art, Hassan’s work. The main attraction each other, although that is possible Nazar Yahya was invited by that he will lose a part of his soul Dia al-Azzawi, is also responsible of Dia’s work on display was the 4 in the long ter. Humans by nature Hassan to come to Qatar at a time because it goes towards the artwork. for the façade of the building. metre tall sculpture he had created seek to know each other closely and of unrest in Iraq that enabled When one accepts this world, The friendship between Dia and over the period of six years, inspired artists are the same,” said Dia. 10 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 2, 2019 COMMUNITY Evenings well-lit and fully lived
ighting displays have fl ocked in their thousands to which stole the show in the again between breaks! to brag about. Cameras and this magnetic quality the famed park to enjoy fantasy proverbial might-is-right mould. Open to the general public smartphones were therefore about them; they can characters come to life. Amid electrifying lights and fi re for free meant people drove in predictably, pressed into service lure all comers, young While colourful lights drawn beams taking off , characters from droves with the only bottlenecks and fl ashes of light mingled with and old, to hold them on fabled characters made the a world of fantasy and folk tales being the surge in traffi c on the fl ashes of memories of evenings Lin thrall. The Aspire Wonderland evenings all their own, the biggest appeared out of thin air to delight roads leading up to the venue. No well-lit and fully lived. Festival over the past few days attraction undoubtedly, remained the gazers. It so fascinated them matter; everyone seemed to have —Text and photos by has been no diff erent as visitors the spectacular dancing fountain, that many fl ocked to it again and their fi ll with enough high‘lights’ Kamran Rehmat Tuesday, April 2, 2019 GULF TIMES 11 MARKETING COMMUNITY
Richard Mille welcomes Mick Schumacher to its ‘family of champions’
Richard Mille has welcomed Mick Junior. 2015 saw young German driver Mick Schumacher’s transition Schumacher to its ‘family of to ADAC Formula 4, the champions’, according to a German federation of press statement issued in automobile clubs, at Van Doha by Ali Bin Ali Group. Amersfoort Racing, and then Determination and as part of Prema Powerteam competitiveness are the the following year. He main qualities that define finished second in the 2016 Mick, characteristics that German championship and he demonstrated last competed simultaneously year when he won the in the Italian Formula 4 FIA Formula 3 European championships where, Championship Title. despite not participating The worthy bearer of a in all the races, he came in famous Formula 1 name, second. Mick made his Formula 2 The next year, Mick made debut for the Prema Racing the move to Formula 3 team, finishing eighth in before sealing the deal Saturday’s race in Bahrain in 2018 at the European after qualifying in 10th place. championships. “Racing “Since the beginning, Mick is constantly on my mind. has consciously earned his Of course my goal is spurs through hard work Formula 1. The FIA Formula and perseverance, proving 2 Championship offers me his rightful place in the another milestone towards sport. He has a talented past my declared dream,” says as a kart driver under his Mick. mother’s name, Betsch,” the “Mick has all he needs to statement noted. reach the highest echelons In 2014, he was runner- of Formula 1 and to give the up at the Karting World, crowds in the stands the European and German chance to chant once more Championships, this the name of Schumacher,” time under the name of the statement added. Mick Schumacher. Photo by: Renaud Corlouer
Movenpick Hotel Doha marks Earth Hour
As part of Earth Hour 2019, Movenpick Hotel Doha recently switched off its lights in support of world’s largest grassroots movement for the environment at 8:30pm, stated a press release. Earth Hour is a worldwide movement organised by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). The event is held annually to encourage individuals, communities, and businesses to turn off non-essential electric lights for one hour, from 8:30pm to 9:30pm as a symbol of commitment to the planet. Sami Aawar, General Manager of Movenpick Hotel, said, “A simple gesture towards this significant movement can contribute generously towards the environment and we are glad to have been actively participating for the same since years. We believe in supporting environmental sustainability to the fullest.” Carrefour Qatar goes lights out
Carrefour stores across Qatar recently observed Earth Hour, a global movement where millions of participants join forces for the sake of a greener planet, said a press release. Carrefour contributed by switching all dispensable lights including signage off from 8:30pm till 9:30pm, eff ectively saving 440KW of energy, while essential light sources were dimmed in the interest of customer safety. Laurent Hausknecht, Country Manager at Carrefour Qatar, said, “At Carrefour, we take our responsibility as an active corporate citizen seriously and will continue our drive to support environmental causes. Through our actions we hope to inspire others and raise awareness on the need to promote energy conservation, as it’s important that we work together to create change for the better.” Building on its eff orts, Carrefour will also reward customers who choose not to use single-use plastic bags at its checkout counters with 50 points on their MyCLUB digital cards. 12 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 2, 2019 COMMUNITY INFOGRAPHIC
Science Matters
Bubble streams Streams are short-lived, may turn off and on tides, moving around between feed a web of life cracks in the seafloor Off the U.S. Northwest coast, methane bubbles rise from the seafloor, feeding a Depth: About 500 ft. (160 m) community of microbes, plants and animals.
Cape Flattery A supply of chemical food In a recent survey, Bacteria extract energy from 1,780 Washington the methane, and they grow into bubble great masses of bacterial film plumes (dark dots) Methane (CH ) were found 4 Long Pacific in this area Methane Beach of the bubbles Ocean The bacteria then serve as Pacific food for small invertebrates Cause: Earth’s moving plates
1 Juan de Fuca Plate is moving toward The invertebrates provide food for small and sliding under North American plate predators, such as worms, shrimp and crabs 2 North American Plate rakes sediment and rock off of moving plate, releasing gases – including methane – locked for hundreds of years in the rock Energy moves up the food chain as larger predators prey on smaller ones Cross-section of the Earth
Vancouver Island CANADA
Finally, scavengers eat the Plumes occur U.S. dead bodies of other animals; along this line WASHINGTON bacteria grow on the remains, 2 and the food chain lives on Source: Paul Johnson of University of Washington; University Juan de Fuca Plate North American of Oregon; Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth Plate Graphic: Helen Lee McComas, Tribune News Service 1 Tuesday, April 2, 2019 GULF TIMES 13 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY New ‘smart’ pyjamas can improve sleeping patterns
esearchers have developed to form various electronic components and pyjamas embedded with self- ultimately integrated sensors,” said Andrew. powered sensors that provide “Unlike most electronic wearables, the unobtrusive and continuous vapour-deposited electronic polymer monitoring of heartbeat, fi lms are wash-and-wear stable and they Rbreathing and sleep posture – all factors that withstand mechanically demanding textile play a role in how well a person slumbers. manufacturing routines,” he added. The The garment called “Phyjama” could give “Phyjama” has fi ve discrete textile patches ordinary people as well as clinicians useful with sensors in them. The patches are information to help improve sleep patterns. interconnected using silver-plated nylon “Our smart pyjamas overcame threads shielded in cotton. numerous technical challenges. We had to The wires from each patch end up at a inconspicuously integrate sensing elements button-sized printed circuit board placed at and portable power sources into everyday the same location as a pyjama button. Data garments while maintaining the weight, are wirelessly sent to a receiver using a small feel, comfort, function and ruggedness of Bluetooth transmitter that is part of the familiar clothes and fabrics,” said lead author circuitry in the button. Trisha L. Andrew from the University of The garment includes two types of Massachusetts, Amherst. self-powered sensors that detect “ballistic The key to the smart pyjamas is a process movements” or pressure changes. Four of called reactive vapour deposition, according the patches are piezoelectric. They detect to the fi ndings presented at the American constant pressures like that of a bed against a Chemical Society (ACS) Spring 2019 National person’s body. Meeting and Exposition. The triboelectric patch detects quick “This method allows us to synthesise changes in pressure, such as the physical a polymer and simultaneously deposit it pumping of the heart which provides For the study, the team tested the readings from the sensors independently. directly on the fabric in the vapour phase information on heart rate, the researcher said. garment on volunteers and validated the – IANS
ARIES TAURUS GEMINI March 21 — April 19 April 20 — May 20 May 21 — June 20
Tackle things that require high energy today, Aries. This is your Even though you feel most comfortable when things are organised Finding balance in your world will be no sweat once you get into the day to make short work of chores, errands, or any sort of physical and meticulous, Taurus, you’re going to need to be flexible. Allow groove, Gemini. Waking up is likely to be the most diff icult part of the activity. Patience is the thing that you will lack, if anything, but don’t room for surprise and adventure. Bask in the adventurous spirit that day, but once you conquer that incredible feat, you should be fine. worry, because your strengths lie elsewhere now. Your heart is apt to must be adopted when you walk out the door with no idea where Try taking a cold shower instead of a warm one this morning. This sing once you get going on a personal project about which you feel you will end up. People and situations that come around today are will serve to open up your mind and get your blood pumping when passionate. likely to be foreign but friendly. you need it most. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22
You may feel like the smallest issue is suddenly a life or death Things may come to you more easily than usual today, Leo. This Check your messages often, Virgo. Someone is trying to contact you situation, Cancer. Depending on your mood, you may think you’re is a sign that you’re on the right path and doing things correctly. and you may keep missing each other by minutes. It’s important on the brink of complete disaster, but the next minute be soaring Life shouldn’t have to be full of stress and heartache. If something to connect with this person to take care of some matters. If your high in the clouds. The drama that surrounds you is more a product isn’t flowing smoothly, you should consider taking a new approach objectives are clear, things should work out fine. Two people of your reaction to your environment rather than the environment toward it. Keep a smile on your face and be respectful of the people working toward the same goal make the power of the joint eff ort itself. around you. extremely potent. Don’t underestimate this incredible influence. LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21
You will get much farther than you think today, even with minimal Don’t get too caught up in the emotional side of life today, Scorpio. Try not to be overwhelmed by the frenzied activity around you, eff ort, Libra. There are plenty of avenues to take now, so even if one Keep things light and keep them moving. A rolling stone gathers Sagittarius. Unexpected variables are popping up everywhere, and is jammed, there’s always another that you can reach easily. Soon no moss. Unfortunately, you may have quite a bit of that green stuff your first reaction may be to flip out. This is the opposite reaction you will arrive at your destination with time to spare. The trick is to growing on you now. Get up and get moving. One little bit of eff ort that you need to have now. Calm yourself down and take small bites. keep moving. Don’t get stuck in one place with your engine running. will send you off and running. Don’t hesitate. You’re ready to take the Don’t try to eat the whole eight-course meal in one five-minute plunge. sitting. CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20
It’s time to bring more fire into your life, Capricorn. Inspire your inner This is one of those days in which you may ask for five minutes to Don’t be afraid of the fire today, Pisces. Instead, embrace it and yearning for excitement and adventure. Eat spicy foods and adorn complete a certain task and an hour later finally finish whatever you incorporate more of it into your life. Certain people may intimidate yourself in bright colours. Even the smallest actions will help bring set out to do. Keep in mind that this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. you at first, but that doesn’t mean you should run away from the more of this dynamic, activating energy to your life. Things are taking you longer than expected not because you’re scene. More than likely this feeling of intimidation is a signal that ineff icient but because you’re more passionate than usual about there’s something you need to learn from that person or situation. what you’re doing. Stick around and pay attention. 14 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 2, 2019 COMMUNITY POP SPOT I’m So Tired gives Lauv first UK top ten entry
usic prodigies often name, Ari then had what turned out several countries. fi nd their vocation to be the diffi cult task of choosing a “This is another really personal in classical rather stage name. song. It’s about when I fi rst moved than popular “It might sound ridiculous but to New York to attend college. music. But there it actually took me quite a while I’d been there about two months areM always exceptions. One of these to come up with my stage name. I when I fell in love for the fi rst time. is 24-year-old Ari Strapans Leff , really wanted to fi nd a name which I didn’t really know who I was or better known by his stage name of meant something important to me. who I wanted to be. But I knew that Lauv. “My mom’s side of the family with this person, I just liked myself “I enjoyed virtually everything is from Latvia. I used to go there better. when I was a child,” recalled San to visit my grandparents every “I didn’t write the song at that Francisco-born Ari. “I took piano summer when I was growing up. time. In fact, it wasn’t written until and viola lessons so the music I still go now and have a lot of fun after I’d left New York and moved to for these instruments was almost memories from my time there. Los Angeles so I was pulling in the always classical. But I learned to “My name, Ari, means lion. My emotions from four years earlier.” play guitar when I was 11 so this star sign is Leo, another lion, so I I Like Me Better became a top ten opened up the possibilities of wondered what was the Latvian hit on Billboard’s Pop Songs Radio playing pop music. word for lion. It was lauva. I liked Airplay chart. A slow burner, it set “I got into song writing and this but wanted to get rid of the a new record by taking 35 weeks became obsessed with writing fi nal a so it looked and sounded a to reach the top ten. The previous love songs and breakup songs. little cleaner. That’s how I became mark had been set 20 years earlier This was all from my imagination Lauv.” in 1998 when Edwin McCain’s I’ll because I was only 14 and had never The Other and Reforget are Be took 31 weeks to eventually climb experienced any kind of romantic two of the fi ve tracks on Lauv’s into the top ten. relationship.” debut EP, Lost In The Light. The Despite being written four years Schooldays saw young Ari play Other exploded on the Internet after the event, I Like Me Better in numerous bands and study jazz blog scene. It peaked at number is the fi rst track on Lauv’s debut before turning his attention to three on the blog aggregator Hype album, I Met You When I Was 18 electronic music. Eager to develop Machine, hit the Global Top 100 (The Playlist). The album draws his production and recording skills, on Spotify and gained resounding together the songs written about he majored in music technology at endorsements from actress Chloe his relationship and places them in New York University. Grace Moretz and One Direction’s emotional order. “I didn’t think I would be a Liam Payne. “The songs are all part of the performer myself. I thought I “I was still at college when same story telling a chapter of my SUCCESSFUL: Ari Strapans Leff is better known by his stage name of Lauv. would just write and produce songs all this was happening. It was life; moving to New York when I for other artistes. I enjoyed song unbelievable really. The response was 18 for school, falling in love, about actually happened. current single, I’m So Tired, which writing and was actually pretty just blew my mind.” being in a four-year relationship “That’s why I added The Playlist has given Lauv his fi rst UK top ten prolifi c. I’m not sure how good Despite the interest in his own which taught me everything about to the album title. Even so, I knew entry and his biggest hit since I Like many of the songs might have been music, Ari turned his attention back myself, the world and how to love. the story was still incomplete. Gaps Me Better. but I certainly wrote plenty.” to writing and producing for other Discovering and defi ning who I would eventually be fi lled by new “I made the track with (South Ari’s attitude to performing artistes. Most notable among these really was and struggling to have songs. Maybe one day I’ll end up African-born Australian singer, himself was changed in 2014 after were songs for Charli XCX, Olivia the confi dence to truly be that with a double or triple album telling songwriter and actor) Troye Sivan. co-writing The Other with his Noelle and the hugely successful No person. Learning to trust myself, the full story of this chapter in my We co-wrote the song with Brett friend Michael Matosic. Promises for Cheat Codes featuring even when it was the scariest thing life.” McLaughlin and Michael Pollack. I “That song just felt so special Demi Lovato. in the world. Supporting Ed Sheeran on originally intended to just record it and so personal to me. I didn’t want 2017 saw his own fi rst major “I did the only thing I knew how his Divide World Tour raised myself but Troye sounded so good to give it to another artiste. I had pop chart success with the single, to do and turn my feelings into Lauv’s international profi le. singing it that it became natural to similar feelings about another song, I Like Me Better. The track did well songs. But the songs were all out Collaborations with DJ Snake on do the record together. Troye says Reforget, so I decided to record and in Britain and America but proved of order when I wrote and released A Diff erent Way and Julia Michaels it was an accidental duet and he’s release them myself.” even more popular in other parts them. I wanted to put them into on There’s No Way saw him fi nd right. But it’s worked out great for Not wanting to use his own of the world reaching the top ten in the order of how the things I wrote more chart success. But it is his both of us.”
UK top ten albums between 1965 on the soundtrack album from the turn the tables on their wealthy and ‘67. 2018 fi lm, Vox Lux. But Scott will Wall Street clients. Cardi escaped They also had a chart-topping EP always be best known for his work from poverty by working as an in and nine top 40 singles including with The Walker Brothers. exotic dancer before making her a pair of number ones, Make It There are no offi cial videos way into the music business. She Easy On Yourself and The Sun Ain’t from those years but Make It Easy has never tried to hide her past and brief Gonna Shine Anymore. On Yourself can be heard at www. recently revealed plans to write her The trio disbanded in 1968 but youtube.com/watch?v=bZTS9H- autobiography. reunited for some years in the 1970s l5qQ while a posting of The Sun “I came from the streets,” Cardi Scott Walker jazz during the early 1960s before to record three more albums and Ain’t Gonna Shine Anymore stated. “I wasn’t a Disney Channel joining forces with John Walker, real enjoy a fi nal UK top ten hit single in is at www.youtube.com/ star, I wasn’t a nun, I wasn’t a saint. The death of Scott Walker, at 76, name John Maus, and Gary Walker, 1975 with No Regrets. watch?v=Q11ium_-Lv8 I’m a good-hearted person but I saw him publicly mourned by many real name Gary Leeds, to found The Scott’s solo career featured four have done some bad things. I’m contemporary artistes who were Walker Brothers. UK top ten albums, including the Cardi B tired of people trying to tear me infl uenced by both his work with Formed in 1964, they enjoyed far chart-topping Scott 2 in 1968. down and make me out to be a bad The Walker Brothers and as a solo greater success in Britain than their But he moved away from the Cardi B is set to appear in her fi rst person. I’m going to write a book performer. native America. Indeed, Scott lived typical Walker Brothers musical feature fi lm. She will co-star with about my life so everyone will know Born Noel Scott Engel, he in the UK from 1965 onwards and style to a less successful avant- Jennifer Lopez and Constance Wu the truth.” initially found fame in the late became a British citizen in 1970. garde sound. He also produced in the movie, Hustlers. With all of Cardi’s other 1950s as both a singer and actor. Led by Scott’s baritone voice and albums for other artistes and It might be said that Cardi has commitments, it remains to be seen But his eclectic taste saw Scott coupled with perfect harmonies, composed fi lm soundtracks. been typecast. She plays one of a when she will fi nd time to put pen develop an interest in progressive The Walker Brothers recorded three Indeed, his fi nal recordings appear group of former exotic dancers who to paper. Tuesday, April 2, 2019 GULF TIMES 15 SHOWBIZ COMMUNITY Urmila carries traits of consummate politician
re-launched and the rest is history. On September 8, 1995 at 12.05 noon, a star was born. It was like a war chant. The minute Urmila Matondkar screamed Yaeee re, yaeee re, zor lagake nachee re in her micro-mini Manish Malhotra outfi t that left everything to the imagination, WRONG: Game Of Thrones actress Maisie Williams she was a certifi able star. I remember Ram Gopal Varma telling Maisie Williams made wrong predictions me Urmila’s stardom had nothing to do with him. “When people say I Game Of Thrones actress Maisie Williams tried to made Urmila’s career in Rangeela, I predict how the show would end and which characters completely disagree. I am the same guy would survive, but was wrong. who earlier made Drohi with Urmila. “I said, ‘Let’s predict the fi nal series. You call who What happened to that? For any actor, you think is going to be alive and who you think is going success is a question of getting the to be dead. So will I.’ And we did. And we were both right opportunity. Then everything wrong,” Williams said. falls into place. During Drohi, the Her co-star Joe Dempsie said one of the fi rst things choreographer didn’t turn up for a he did on receiving his scripts was to check to see if song. So I asked Urmila if she would he’d won, died or survived, reports femalefi rst.co.uk dance on her own and she agreed. “At the top of every script there is a cast list for every And she did a great job. That’s when I character involved in that episode. A few of us were decided to make Rangeela with Urmila.” tempted to check if we were in the last one,” he said. Urmila’s career shows her to be And asked his fate, he simply said: “Look, Gendry’s constantly making brave choices. She (Dempsie’s character) the last surviving blood isn’t afraid of taking risks. She may Baratheon. He’s got to have a pretty strong claim. But I stumble and fall while taking the ragged don’t even trust the fact that I have the answers in my route but she doesn’t let the fear of brain. It feels like you’re walking around with a secret failing and falling stop her from being that the whole world wants to know.” – IANS adventurous. Shabana Azmi, a dear friend to both FIRM: Urmila Matondkar is considered firm in her resolve. Urmila and me, recalls her enthusiasm even as a child artiste in Shekhar I like the most in her personality is Kapoor’s Masoom, describing Urmila By Subhash K Jha her fi rmness of resolve. She is well- as a born star. informed about current aff airs. And if Above all, Urmila is an entertainer. she is half as enterprising in politics She can take centrestage eff ortlessly. henever I think of as she was in her choice of fi lms (from Unlike Hema Malini, who had to coax Urmila Matondkar, I Kaun to Pinjar to Maine Gandhi Ko herself out of her shyness to become a think of a lot of warm Nahin Mara) she would make a huge politician, Urmila is comfortable with food and conversation. impact in politics. crowds. Urmila talks a lot. Anupam Kher, who directed Urmila I remember her walking into the WIf you know her, you’d know what in his only directorial venture – Om Jai premiere of Kamal Haasan’s Abhay ‘nineteen to the dozen’ means. She is a Jagdish – and also played her father in many many years ago in Mumbai. one-woman entertainment industry in one of his fi nest fi lms, Maine Gandhi Ko The fl ashbulbs went berserk. Urmila the living room if she warms up to you. Nahin Mara, talks fondly of Urmila’s posed preened pouted and then rushed Or else, she freezes you out of her life. inner drive to excel at whatever she towards me as the cameras continued I can’t say I am totally surprised does. Half-measures don’t work for to click, not the least self-conscious by her move into politics. Urmila has Urmila. I’ve seen her fi erce dedication about greeting a friend while the BOND GIRL: Tania appeared only once on big screen. always been an adventurous soul, at getting it right from the time she photographers were clicking. and never afraid to speak her mind. came in. I knew some day she will captivate Goldfi nger actress Tania Mallet dead At the same time, she can be killingly Like Sridevi, Urmila’s debut fi lm as a crowds on a far larger scale than the diplomatic when the need arises. In leading lady in Hindi (Aa Gale Lag Jaa) entertainment industry allows. The Actress Tania Mallet, who is known for her brief, the consummate politician. What was a disaster. Like Sridevi, Urmila was moment has come now. – IANS modelling career and her role in the 1964 James Bond fi lm Goldfi nger is dead. She was 77. The offi cial James Bond Twitter account confi rmed SRK takes hours to dress up, says Gauri Khan her death Sunday saying: “We are very sorry to hear that Tania Mallet who played Tilly Masterson in Celebrity interior designer and producer Gauri Khan says Goldfi nger has passed away. Our thoughts are with her her husband and superstar Shah Rukh Khan takes hours to family and friends at this sad time.” dress up whenever they are stepping out for a party. No further details have been revealed about her Shah Rukh and Gauri won the Most Stylish Couple Award death, reports deadline.com here at an event. She later took to Instagram to celebrate the Mallet was born in 1941. She is the cousin of win. She shared her favourite moments from the award night Academy Award-winning actress Helen Mirren. and treated fans to a “little secret” about the Chennai Express Despite being of Russian descent, she didn’t land star. the role of Tatiana, but would later appear as Tilly On who takes longer to get dressed for an event, she said Masterson opposite Sean Connery in the third James in her acceptance speech: “For someone who’s claiming that Bond fi lm Goldfi nger. he has got nothing to do with style, I just have to tell you a In addition to continuing her successful modelling little secret – whenever we are going out or stepping out for career, she would go on to appear on many talk shows a party, I am usually out in 20 mins, ready and perfectly on and James Bond specials. time, and he takes may be two or three hours.” The James Bond fi lm would mark her only big screen She added: “So, tonight I made a special eff ort and I took acting role. In 1976, she appeared in the TV show The two-three hours and I think he took six.” New Avengers but would not appear in any acting roles Before Gauri could go on, SRK quickly took the after. She continued her modelling career, saying that it microphone and said: “And I think you are looking very was a more comfortable world for her. – IANS stunning!” Shah Rukh married Gauri in 1991 and the couple are parents to three children – Abram, Suhana and Aryan. – STYLISH: Shah Rukh and Gauri won the Most Stylish Couple IANS Award. 16 GULF TIMES Tuesday, April 2, 2019 COMMUNITY Pakistani community celebrates Urdu poetry in Mesaieed on National Day
By Mudassir Raja
akistani community members recently organised a programme to celebrate Urdu poetry in connection with the Pakistan National Day celebrations at Al PBanush Club in Mesaieed. Prominent members of the community, families and children attended the programme in large numbers. The chief guest on the occasion was Syed Ahsan Raza Shah, Ambassador of Pakistan to Qatar. He was fl anked by other offi cials of the embassy. The programme was organsied by Shaiqeen- e-Funn, a literary group of Pakistani “I am glad to see the community. The event started with national anthems number of women of Qatar and Pakistan. Following the national anthems, organisers and guests attended and children present a cake-cutting ceremony, after which young children from the Pakistani schools here. They look very performed diff erent cultural tableaus. The children clad in traditional and keen to enjoy Urdu colourful national dresses presented songs and folk dances of Punjab, Sindh, poetry and that is Balauchistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa GROUP: Guests and organisers pose for a group photo at the Al Banush Club in Mesaieed. and other areas of Pakistan. The children really encouraging.” also presented diff erent performances Day and its signifi cance. The poets invoked In his address Mohammad Atiq, Chairman highlighting the struggle for the patriotism and human values of the audience Shaeqeen-e-Fun, said: “The literary group — Syed Ahsan Raza independence of Pakistan and paid rich through their heart-touching verses. They was founded by me and by Museeb-ur- tributes to the defence forces of the country. also shared romantic ghazals to amuse the Rehman 25 years ago in Doha. It was formed Shah, Ambassador of All and sundry present in the gathering were gathering. to promote Pakistani literature, culture, entertained by the energetic and rhythmic Speaking on the occasion, Pakistani traditions, and nationalism. I congratulate Pakistan performances of the children. ambassador Syed Ahsan Raza Shah said that the offi ce-bearers and members of the group The main charm of the programme was he was very happy to see the enthusiasm and for its silver jubilee. We have regularly been the guests and audience for attending the Alami Mushaira (International Poetry energy of the children. “They are our future organsing literary and music events on the eve programme. Talking to Community, Abrar Symposium). The organisers had invited and I am happy to see their keen interest in of the Pakistan National Day. We have been Husasin, a noted community leader, said: “It noted Urdu poets from Pakistan. Some the celebration of our National Day.” inviting classical, semi classical, playback is always good to have Urdu mushaira. This Doha-based poets were also present on the The ambassador also appreciated the and folk singers for our programmes. Few symposium is special because it is being held occasion. The prominent poets were namely; families present to attend the event. “I of them were namely; Ustad Hamid Ali on the eve of our National Day. The poets Abbas Tabish from Lahore, Fakhira Batool am glad to see the number of women and Khan, Ghulam Ali Khan, Rustum Fateh Ali have actually evoked strong nationalistic from Islamabad, Shakeel Jazab from Lahore, children present here. Khan, Rafaqat Ali Khan, Abida Perveen, Sira feelings through their verses. It is also good Dr Fartash Syed from Lahore, Kunwar Imtiaz They look very keen to enjoy Urdu poetry Naseem, Iqbal Bano and others. to see young children celebrating the day and Ahmed from Lahore, Adnan Baig from and that is really encouraging.” He thanked “We have also been organising lectures enjoying the colourful activity.” Faisalabad, Athar Abbas from Sheikhupura, the organisers and the Pakistani community on the National Day. We have invited men of Fakhra Batool, a poetess from Islamabad, Sheraz Ghafoor from Dera Ghazi Khan and in Mesaieed for arranging the event and letters like Professor Abdullah and Professor said: “For me it is always a pleasure to visit Nauman Abdul Majeed from Muscat, Oman. making it a success. Fateh Muhammad. We have also organised Qatar. The passion of literature and especially Abbas Tabish presided over the proceedings The ambassador specially thanked the poetic symposiums for Pakistan’s diff erent for the Urdu poetry is extraordinary among of the symposium and Dr Fartash Syed poets from Pakistan. “Abbas Tabish and regional languages such as Punjabi, Sindhi, the Pakistani community here. I have visited compered the proceedings. Shakeel Jazib are here. I welcome you in Doha Balochi, Pashtu, and Siraeki.” many countries but I fi nd Qatar very special The majority of poets presented their and thank you for sharing your soulful verses Nawaz Akram, President of Shaeqeen- as far as giving respect to the poets and creative poetry highlighting the National and encouraging messages.” e-Adab, in his welcome speech thanked appreciating their creativity goes.”
GATHERING: Fourth from left, Syed Ahsan Raza Shah, Ambassador of Pakistan; fifth from left, Mohammad Atiq, Chairman Shaeqeen-e-Fun; and prominent Urdu poet Abbas Tabish, sixth FOLK SONGS: Children presented folk songs and cultural tableaus at the event. from left, seen during the cake-cutting ceremony.