Community Community The eight- Fifty students week Youth participate P7Leadership P16 in ‘The Art Program conducted of Giving’ workshop by Indian Club organised by the Indian Toastmasters Community Benevolent comes to an end. Forum.

Sunday, December 25, 2016 Rabia I 26, 1438 AH

DOHA 19°C—26°C TODAY PUZZLES 12 & 13 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE 14 Learning that pays Steve Calland-Scoble, Head of ACS , on the need for education COVER STORY with a real world application, and more that makes the school tick. P4-5 HANDS-ON: Steve Callande-Scoble interacting with the students. 2 GULF TIMES Sunday, December 25, 2016 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

PRAYER TIME Fajr 4.55am Shorooq (sunrise) 6.17am Zuhr (noon) 11.34am Asr (afternoon) 2.31pm Maghreb (sunset) 4.53pm Isha (night) 6.23pm

USEFUL NUMBERS

Dangal Khan as , who taught to his Directed by: Nitesh Tiwari daughters Geeta Phogat and . The former is Written by: Piyush Gupta, Shreyas Jain, Nikhil Mehrotra, ’s fi rst female wrestler to win at the 2010 Commonwealth Nitesh Tiwari Games, where she won the gold medal (55kg). Her sister Babita Emergency 999 Cast: , Sakshi Tanwar, Kumari won the silver (51kg). Worldwide Emergency Number 112 Synopsis: Dangal is an Indian Hindi-language biographical Theatres: Gulf Mall, Villaggio, City Center, Royal Plaza, Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 sports drama fi lm directed by Nitesh Tiwari. It stars Aamir The Mall Local Directory 180 International Calls Enquires 150 Hamad International Airport 40106666 Sing Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 Directed by: Christophe Mowasalat Taxi 44588888 Lourdelet, Garth Jennings Qatar Airways 44496000 Written by: Garth Hamad Medical Corporation 44392222, 44393333 Jennings Qatar General Electricity and Cast: Matthew Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464 McConaughey, Reese Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 Witherspoon, Seth 44593363 MacFarlane Qatar Assistive Technology Synopsis: Sing is Centre 44594050 a 2016 American 3D Qatar News Agency 44450205 computer-animated musical 44450333 comedy fi lm produced by Q-Post – General Postal Illumination Entertainment. Corporation 44464444 It was directed and written by Garth Jennings and Humanitarian Services Offi ce co-directed by Christophe (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies) Lourdelet. It has more Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, than 85 classic songs from 40253369 famous artists and also has Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364 an original song by Stevie Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365 Wonder and Ariana Grande Qatar Airways 40253374 called Faith. It was released by Universal Pictures.

Theatres: Gulf Mall, Villaggio, City Center, Royal Plaza, The Mall, Asian Town ote Unquo u te Q Mall Cinema (1): Dangal 8pm; Dangal (Hindi) 11pm. Generally, we (Hindi) 2pm; Saptagiri Express Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (Telugu) 5pm; Passengers (2D) (2): Dangal (Hindi) 2:15pm; admire the thing we 7:30pm; Office Christmas Party Christmas Party (2D) 7:30pm; Office Christmas Party(2D) are not. (2D) 9:30pm; Passengers (2D) Passengers (2D) 9:30pm; 5:15pm; Collateral Beauty (2D) 11:30pm. Passengers (2D) 11:30pm. 7:15pm; Passengers (2D) 9:15pm; Mall Cinema (2): Sing (2D) 2pm; Landmark Cinema (2): Sing Passengers (2D) 11:15pm. — Stephen Fry Sing (2D) 4pm; Sing (2D) 6pm; (2D) 2pm; Sing (2D) 4pm; Sing Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (3): Dangal (Hindi) 8pm; Dangal (2D) 6pm; Dangal (Hindi) 8:30pm; The Last King (2D) 2pm; Moana (Hindi) 11pm. Dangal (Hindi) 11pm. (2D) 3:45pm; Blackburn (2D) Mall Cinema (3): 10 Kalppanakal Landmark Cinema (3): 5:45pm; Saber Google () (Malayalam) 1:15pm; Moana (2D) Blackburn (2D) 2pm; Moana (2D) 7:15pm; Office Christmas Party 3:30pm; Office Christmas Party 3:30pm; Saber Google (Arabic) (2D) 9:30pm; Passengers (2D) (2D) 5:30pm; Saber Google 5:30pm; The Last King (2D) 11:30pm. Community Editor (Arabic) 7:30pm; The Last King 7:45pm; Office Christmas Party Asian Town Cinema: Dangal Kamran Rehmat (2D) 9:30pm; Saber Google (2D) 9:30pm; 10 Kalppanakal (Hindi) 6:15, 7, 9:30 & 10:15pm; e-mail: [email protected] (Arabic) 11:30pm. (Malayalam) 11:30pm. Katapana (Malayalam) 8:30 Telephone: 44466405 Landmark Cinema (1): 10 Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (1): & 11:15pm; Ore Mukham Kalppanakal (Malayalam) 2:15pm; Sing (2D) 2pm; Sing (2D) 4pm; (Malayalam) 6pm; 10 Kalapanakal Fax: 44350474 Dangal (Hindi) 4:30pm; Office Sing (2D) 6pm; Dangal (Hindi) (Malayalam) 5:30, 8, & 10:30pm. Sunday, December 25, 2016 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY

its students the principles of Arab and to you by Salsa n Candela. For more info & Western music. As part of the “Our Culture reservation, contact 44481280. is a School” programme, Qatar Music Academy has off ered interested schools the Cake Decoration Classes opportunity to attend various workshops. DATE: Morning and evening These workshops will include an introduction VENUE: Tavola Royal Plaza, Al Saad Street to Arab and Western music and instruments, Tavola off ers a range of cake decorating and as well as the teachers giving a brief overview kitchen skills classes. It is the only authorised of the educational music programmes at the Wilton method provider in the Middle Academy. For further details, visit katara.net East. It is authorised by Wilton enterprises to conduct classes in the Wilton Method The Backyard cake decorating and the Wilton Method DATE: Every Friday Instructors (WMI) training programmes by TIME: 6pm Knightsbridge PME (UK). Tavola conducts VENUE: Sheraton Grand Doha sugar-crafting programmes and also off ers The Backyard is a fi rst-of-its-kind venue programmes in baking and chocolate making. in Doha and brought to you by Candela entertainment. Live music every Friday with a variety of your favourite local bands and occasional surprises of bigger performers! Entrance: QR100 for gents including one beverage/ladies free entrance until 8:30pm, after it will be QR65 for ladies including one beverage.

Fragments EVENTS Muhammad Ali: Tribute to a Legend DATE: Until January 30 DATE: Until February 25, 2017 VENUE: Katara Moments WHERE: Eastern Gallery, 4th Floor, In this exhibition, Mahmoud Obaidi Salam International Investment Ltd (SIIL) Museum of Islamic Art retraces the ‘organised chaos’ that led to the is hosting unique archival photography The temporary exhibition is curated by destruction of Iraq, and presents a response exhibition titled Moments in memory of Qatar Museums’ 3-2-1 Olympic and Sports to witnessing the city of Baghdad fall piece by HH the Grandfather Emir Sheikh Khalifa Museum and presents a unique collection piece. Obaidi recreates what has been stolen Fitness Training bin Hamad al-Thani, paying tribute to the of artefacts from the boxing legend’s career, or destroyed to try to piece the city back DATE: Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday nation’s Grandfather Emir and recognising including photography from Ali’s outdoor together again. TIME: 6pm-7pm his contribution to Qatar’s progress. Held exhibition bout at the Doha Stadium in 1971 VENUE: MIA Park at The Gate Mall’s Maysaloun Hall, the and memorabilia spanning his journey to There are fi tness classes in the park on exhibition draws from the private collection the 1960 Rome Olympics; Ali’s world title Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday nights of the Abu Issa family, bringing them out winning bout against Sonny Liston in 1964 between 6 and 7pm. Open to all levels of for a public showing. The collection off ers and his fi nal world title winning fi ght against fi tness, Bootcamp is an intensive and fun a fascinating glimpse into the country’s Leon Spinks in New Orleans in 1978. way to train and also meet new people in the historic journey, with a prime focus on the open and friendly group atmosphere. More Grandfather Emir, making it a must-see event information, from Bootcamp, Qatar or info@ for Qatar’s nationals, expatriates, students bootcampqatar.com. and photography enthusiasts. Moments is open to the public until January 7, 2017 from 10am to 10pm. FOODIE’S CHOICE

RESTAURANT: Turkey Central Tumbao Latin Nights LOCATION: Al Mirqab Al Jadeed Street, DATE: Every Sunday Al Nasr VENUE: Grand Hyatt Hotel Off ering some of the best-tasting food that Tumbao is not only a salsa rhythm, it Turkish cuisine has to off er, Turkey Central enables you to share in the creative fl ow is known for its barbecue. The seating is vast of life and get connected to the beat and but spartan. It makes up for its basic interiors dance. Join us every Sunday at Dunes with with its fl avourful kebabs and koftas. The the fellow Latin dancers in town and nightly portions are generous, the staff is friendly and competitions with valuable prizes brought prices aff ordable.

Treasures of China Qatar Music Academy DATE: Until January 7, 2017 (For school students) VENUE: Museum of Islamic Art Until March 28, 2017 Terracotta soldiers from the First Emperor’s Terracotta Army will be on show at the Museum 11am–2pm of Islamic Art where visitors will get the chance to meet the warriors who guarded a hidden Free (Requires registration) empire. The exhibition will display 116 pieces dating from the Neolithic period to the Qing Qatar Music Academy focuses on teaching Dynasty, spanning over 5,000 years of China’s history. Potteries, bronzes, jades, porcelains, gold, silver, enamel and many other Chinese treasures will be on show.

Al Gannas (For school students) Until March 31, 2017 9am–Noon Al Gannas Society Free ( For boys only, requires registration) Al Gannas association is participating in the “Our culture is a school” programme, by organising many activities for the students every Monday and Wednesday of the week. These activities include explanations on hunting and related items tools, kinds of falcons and preys, in addition to workshop on how to carry a falcon, set a traditional tent (made of goat & camel heir), prepare traditional Arabic coff ee and start a fire. For further details, visit katara.net

E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Sunday, December 25, 2016 COMMUNITY COVER STORY ““WeWe hhaveave sseeneen sstudentstudents performperform bbetteretter iinn sstudiestudies as a direct result of participating in activities outside of the classroom”

We see students working towards our vision for them as caring, respectful and knowledgeable learners

A FINE BALANCE: Steve Calland-Scoble, Head of ACS Doha, says the school ensures provision of balanceded ededucation.ucation.

curriculum built on the the school ensures composed By Umer Nangiana International Baccalaureate education for all, Community sat Middle Years and Diploma down with the Head of ACS Doha Programmes, and a US High Steve Calland-Scoble. stablished about five School Diploma, the school is “As an IB World School, we years ago, ACS Doha currently implementing the IB teach our students through a lot SUNDAY International School Primary Years Programme to offer of enquiry learning. This method has quickly become the best international curriculum helps students understand one of the country’s for all students. concepts, key skills and how to CONVERSATION Eleading schools. It has grown into However, what makes the think critically in the process one of the largest International educational institution stand out of acquiring knowledge,” Steve Baccalaureate World Schools in are its methods of teaching and proffers. maintaining the students’ focus Learning, the school head says, Qatar, enrolling over 900 local provision of balanced education “This is essential for the and motivation is to ensure that is student-centred and there and global students from over 70 to all students. learning needs of higher learning is relevant and can be are opportunities for developing countries. To know more about these education and the future world applied in the real world,” he and choosing interests so that Offering a strong core teachings methods and how of work. An essential part of explains. students can identify their Sunday, December 25, 2016 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY

A typical year can bring together choices as diverse as science clubs, ballet, gymnastics, judo, robotics, dance, music, homework clubs, and Native Language Enrichment in Arabic, French, Urdu, Russian, and Dutch PROUD: Steve Calland-Scoble says the ACS Doha International School off ers a range of activities to students besides academics. strengths and plan a course for Current opportunities for Parent School Organisation and “This technology and our very The school is particularly proud their High School Programme, students include a skiing trip to the Student Council. broad range of software and web of its highly successful Coerver which will lead into college. Italian Alps in February 2017, and Talking about the day-to- applications allows our students Football Programme which Assessment is partly project participating in various Middle day challenges the school faces to research, analyse and present attracts participation from over 70 based, in addition, to formal East schools’ sports tournaments, in managing an international information in sophisticated students, says Steve. examinations. The school always including swimming and football. community, Steve says the ways,” adds Steve. “Currently, we have over 150 wants to ensure that students Last year, a student expedition language of instruction is English, It extends to the design and boys and girls participating in learn to value what they learn and climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in and some students joining the music classes where technology competitive team soccer in all not just study to pass tests. Tanzania. school will inevitably need English supports the creative talents of the divisions. We have defi nitely At the same time, the students The parent and student interest language support. students with possibilities such as become one of the strongest must pass the rigorous IB Diploma in these kinds of trips is high, and Therefore, each student 3D printing, video production and schools for sports in Doha,” he Programme examinations and the expectation is to continue is assessed on entry and a music composition. adds. they are well prepared for these. expanding the choices. programme is tailored to meet The school has also established In line with the school’s “This morning I was talking “We see students working their specifi c needs. For some a programme that further aspirations,, and to further to a new parent, who remarked towards our vision for them students, this means regularly enhances the academic ability of support the human development that the school is a welcoming as caring, respectful and scheduled, small group sessions, students through an extensive, goals of the Qatar National place with a friendly and caring knowledgeable learners. Good off ered in place of some core and growing range of co- and Vision 2030, ACS Doha recently atmosphere. Her son has settled study habits and respectful subjects, which they attend until extra-curricular activities, sports, announced an ambitious project in very quickly into his Grade 5 behaviour is expected and we see they reach the profi ciency in PE and clubs. to build a 60,000 m2, state-of- class, making new friends,” Steve great success with this on our English. “We have seen students perform the-art campus in the Al Kheesa tells us. campus. This is defi nitely one of “For others, it means more better in their studies as a direct district of the city, with a capacity “This is a typical story, which I our strengths,” says the Head of inclusive support from the subject result of participating in more for 2,470 students. hehear repeatedly. Our parents are very ACS Doha. or homeroom teacher, where activities outside of the classroom. The school head says the new susupportiveppo and we have an open and “We are a very diverse school, help is provided with class work We tailor our extensive programme campus will host exceptional suppsupportiveort relationship with them to valuing the contribution that each and homework. English support of school day, after-school and learning environments including work togtogethereth in the best interests of nationality and culture makes to teachers are also present in certain weekend sporting and non- technology-rich libraries, large the childrchildren,”en,” he adds. our community. An inclusive ethos regular classes to provide further sporting activities to meet the age-appropriate teaching spaces, As a schooschool,l, tthey see the ensures that all students, at every support to EAL students during evolving needs of our boys and small group learning suits, benefits of prprovidingovi students age, have the opportunity to be lesson time,” says Steve. girls,” says ACS Doha leader. multi-functional areas, dedicated wiwithth a balanbalancedced education. inspired, challenged and supported ACS Doha School head says they A typical year can bring together specialist teaching spaces, StSteveeve underlinesunderl that their to achieve personal success both have invested heavily to benefi t choices as diverse as science clubs, exceptional IT provision, and internatinternationally-renownedio inside and outside the classroom,” from advancements in information ballet, gymnastics, judo, robotics, outstanding sports, co-curricular acadacademicemi programmes are best Steve adds. technology. The school has dance, music, homework clubs, facilities including a Fifa sized cocomplimentedmp by an attractive The school runs a variety of invested in iPads, Mac laptops and Native Language Enrichment soccer pitch, 25m pool, 8 court anandd stimulating range of after school social activities, and a ‘bring your own device’ in Arabic, French, Urdu, Russian, Sports Centre, and tennis and aactivities. championed by a highly engaged programme. and Dutch, he adds. basketball courts.

THE GRADS: The graduating Class of 2016 enjoy their moment in the sun. SPORTING SCHOOL: The new ACS Doha Campus among other facilities will have a FIFA-sized soccer pitch. 6 GULF TIMES Sunday, December 25, 2016 COMMUNITY WEATHER ADDICT Airport fog clearance a costly aff airair

that pilot can’t navigate safely, then the Given the fact that no airport that I know fog that rolls in across San Francisco or the By Steff Gaulter airport will grind to a halt and this is when clears fog as a matter of course, clearly all south coast of Oman and is a result of the planes are diverted to other airports. clearance methods are still too expensive to air being cooled by the sea. As you can imagine, given the vast use on a regular basis. Therefore, diversions For this kind of fog to form, the air has to f you were trying to fly out of Doha quantities of money involved in the airline caused by fog are a hazard that we will have be drawn in from the east, where the sea is over the past few weeks, you may industry, a large amount of money and eff ort to endure every year as the temperature generally warmer. The waters enter the Gulf have had your flights disrupted by has been spent on research into fog clearance. drops after the summer. around the Strait of Hormuz, then flow fog. India, China and many parts of Attempts at clearing fog started as far back as The reason that fog often forms at anti-clockwise. As they head northwards, Europe have been shrouded in dense the Second World War. The most successful this time of year is because warm air can they are joined by cooler water from the Ifog which has disrupted air travel. We’ve attempts resulted from lining jet engines contain more moisture than cool air can. As rivers in the north. The cooler water then also had a couple of foggy mornings in the along the runway, in an attempt to raise the air autumn wears on and the winter weather flows down towards us here in Qatar and Gulf. Doha had some fog on 6th of this temperature and clear the fog. Oddly enough, starts to grip, the temperature across the the water around the country is usually a month, but it was worse in Dubai, where however, this proves quite expensive, and the northern hemisphere drops. As the air few degrees lower than the waters to the the fog was so thick that some flights bound higher the temperature of the fog the more cools, it becomes saturated, and the excess east of us. for the Emirate had to divert to Doha. expensive it becomes, as you need to heat the moisture in the air condenses to form tiny This temperature drop of just a couple Fog is a major challenge to air travel. fog to a higher temperature to persuade it to droplets. If the winds are very light, then of degrees is sometimes all is takes for an Planes can land on thick snow or in clear. Hovering helicopters above the runway these droplets will hover near the ground, easterly wind to reach its saturation point. torrential rain, but if it’s foggy, then, in order to mix the air and clear the fog also forming fog, but if there is a wind, this will The humid, easterly air travels over the planes have to move slower and delays will proved moderately successful, but this is lift the fog into low cloud. cooler seas around Doha, which causes the therefore get longer and longer. Nowadays, something that only works in shallow fog. Fortunately fog isn’t something we have air to cool and allows the water droplets aircraft have a vast array of technology on If the fog has formed at a very low to deal with very often in Doha and when it to condense. This type of fog is known as board, ensuring they can land and take off temperature, then it is slightly easier does appear, it usually clears pretty quickly, advection fog and it’s pretty impressive even with zero visibility, but most air traffic to clear. Liquid propane, which has a after the sun rises. Fog in colder climates, to see it roll in from the sea. Although it controllers prefer to space out the planes temperature of about -42C (-44F) can be however, can stick around all day. This is can disrupt flights and the traffic, for the a little more on the approach, to allow for injected into the air and this encourages all mostly because the sun is often weak, so ominous spectacle alone, it’s a shame it more room for manoeuvre should anything the water droplets in the fog to turn to ice. can’t supply enough heat to the fog in order doesn’t happen more often. go wrong. This adds a short delay, but the As the ice crystals grow, they become heavy to burn through it. real hold-ups occur once the plane has and fall out of the air, leaving a hole in the There is one type of fog that we get in (The author is Senior Weather Presenter landed. Once on the ground, there is no fog. Hopefully, this clear patch will form Doha, though, which is quite spectacular. at Al Jazeera English channel. She can be special equipment and the pilot simply has over the runway, if not someone has made It appears like a wall of fog, which rolls in contacted on steff [email protected] to see where he’s going. If the fog is so bad an expensive mistake! from the Corniche. This is more like the or on at @WeatherSteff ) Sunday, December 25, 2016 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY Youth Leadership Program ends with a high octane finale

he eight-week Youth Rajeswar Sundaresan, anchored by Dibyendu Gupta in the impromptu speech segment, who volunteered to deliver various Leadership Program Toastmasters District 20 fi nance and Ashlyn Maria Shaji, who which is called Table Topics in educational modules during the conducted by Indian manager and guest of honour, entertained the audience with their the Toastmasters educational eight-week programme. Club Toastmasters Qatar delivered an inspirational keynote timely quips while also exhibiting programme. Curtains were drawn with a vote ended at a hotel recently. speech studded with nuggets good time management skills. Muhammed Hamza emerged of thanks by Vidit, followed by a TThe 34 talented teenagers who drawn from his own life and that of The prepared speeches segment, as the best speaker, Ahmed Raza delicious dinner. underwent rigorous hands-on highly successful people. The event led by Pradyumna, included as the best Table Topics Speaker The highly successful YLP has coaching on communication and was also graced by Toastmasters seven speeches that ranged from and Srinath Murali as the Best led to the launch of Indian Club leadership skills, showcased their Division S director Gil Bangalan, being funny, to informative and Evaluator, based on voting by the Gaveliers, which will provide newly learnt skills in front of their Division E director Virendra Nath, inspirational on topics such as YLP participants. an ongoing platform for the parents and invited dignitaries Gavel Clubs co-ordinator (Qatar) teenage travails, yoga, high school All the participants received youngsters to practice and improve from the Toastmasters fraternity Anil Nair, Area 88 director Ritesh humour and procrastination. The medals and completion certifi cates, on the skills learnt at the YLP. in Qatar. This was the third Youth Doshi and charter president of speakers received constructive while Indian Club Toastmasters The club meets at Indian Center Leadership Program organised by Indian Club Toastmasters HPS feedback in the evaluation segment felicitated the Chief YLP in Thumama on fi rst and third Indian Club Toastmasters, which Bhullar. led by Sachin. Sagar challenged the Coordinator, other coordinators Saturdays of every month between has been in existence since 2004. The three hour event was youngsters and parents to take part and all the veteran Toastmasters 3:30pm and 5:30pm.

Thirty-four teenagers, who underwent rigorous hands-on coaching on communication and leadership skills, showcased their newly learnt skills in front of their parents and other guests at the event.

CCRC Warriors lift the QECC Trophy 2016

Sixty-four local teams participated in the QECC tournament arranged by the Qatar Expat Cricket Community (QECC) recently to mark the National Day. In a closely-fought final, CCRC Warriors beat Tiger CC to lift the QECC Trophy 2016. The tournament was sponsored by Riteway, Green Island, Helmet Studio and Europe Car. QECC off icials distributed the trophies and prizes to the winners, the runners- up and best batsman, best bowler and man of the series. 8 GULF TIMES Sunday, December 25, 2016 COMMUNITY

DPS-MIS holds its 16th Annual Day

The DPS-Modern Indian School’s senior wing held its 16th Annual Day recently. The theme of the The event featured a performance by the school choir as students presented an Arabic dance to event, “Umeed-e-Bahaar – Seasons of Life,” aimed to portray the power of hope in navigating the signify the bond between India and Qatar. challenges of life. Students of classes VI to XII were recognised for their academic and co-curricular activities. Long- Indian ambassador P Kumaran was the chief guest. Other guests included Mohammad bin serving DPS-MIS staff members were given mementoes. Speeches were given by Principal Asna Hammam al-Abdullah, the chief patron; Aisha bint Mohammed bin Hammam , patron; her sister Nafees, Hassan Chougule, ambassador Kumaran and Mohammed bin Hammam al-Abdulla. Fatima bint Mohammad bin Hammam; and Hassan Chougule, president of the DPS-MIS Executive The culture fiesta that followed was a blend of colours, flairs and verve. The dance drama, divided Committee. A large number of other guests also attended. into four segments, told the story of Srishti (Creation). The student performances kept the audience Head Boy Ganesh Kumar Ashokavardhanan and Head Girl Nayana Singh welcomed the guests. engaged and were well received. The event ended with the national anthems of India and Qatar.

Joyalukkas Group executive director ‘Young NRI Entrepreneur of the Year’

n a star-studded celebration business practices he has implemented eff orts and showcasing the contributions of the Keralite expatriate’s across the 11 countries the group of Keiralite entrepreneurs across the entrepreneurial spirit, Joyalukkas operates in to lessons he has learned by GCC. This was a great opportunity for Group Executive Director John example from his father. all of us to strengthen the ties of our Paul Alukkas received the Young “Meeting suppliers and customers business community, as well as give INRI Entrepreneur of the Year Award face-to-face, observing fi rsthand what credit where it is due for the success we for 2016 from Kerala Chief Minister goes on in the showrooms on a daily have all enjoyed in this and past years.” Prinarayi Vijayan and Malayalam basis, these are just a few of the things I The year has been a highly successful Communications chairman and fi lm learned from my father that I continue to one for John Paul Alukkas and the superstar Mamooty recently. The practice today,” said John Paul Alukkas, Joyalukkas Group, seeing his dream of Kairali TV NRI Entrepreneur Awards Joyalukkas Group Executive Director. expanding the brand to achieve a truly were held at Hotel Steigenberger Dubai “When you are following the footsteps global presence coming to fruition with and attended by a large number of of a man everyone says has the Midas the opening of two branches in USA just dignitaries. touch, it can be a daunting prospect. months apart. A third US showroom John Paul Alukkas was inspired from a But I also learned from him that if is already in the works for an early fi rst very young age to enter the challenging you do things from the heart, if you quarter 2017 opening. John Paul is also world of business. He was inspired by the off er sincere, honest and consistently looking into new and untapped markets stories his father, Joyalukkas, Chairman excellent service, you are already a as well as enhancing the off erings at the & MD of the group, would tell him. Paul success. Group’s current 120 showrooms in 11 Joyalukkas Group Executive Director John Paul Alukkas receiving credits many of the innovations and best “I thank Kairali TV for recognising my countries. the award. Sunday, December 25, 2016 GULF TIMES 9 MOTORING COMMUNITY Rolls-Royce announces Spring/ Summer 2017 Collection

he House of Rolls-Royce perfect line joins the two colours of recently announced its leather around the rim. Spring/Summer 2017 Tactility, comfort and quality Couture collection. are an important attribute of Signature detailing in the piece itself. Rolls-Royce’s vibrantT colour will complement designers took inspiration from palettes of classic white as Dawn is this approach in appointing the Inspired by Fashion. car’s front and rear door pockets Rolls-Royce and the world of with fi ne silks, adorned with an Haute Couture have long been abstract representation of the Spirit bound by a common philosophy of Ecstasy with each emblem set – taking the very fi nest materials precisely at fi fty-fi ve degrees to and crafting them into the most complement the lines of the door. exquisite and desirable luxury goods The remarkable craftsmanship as expressions of their clients’ taste and attention-to-detail employed and lifestyle. in the creation of any Rolls- Under the stewardship of Design Royce is evident in the exquisite Director Giles Taylor, a team of application of wood to the talented designers were hand- dashboard, with the lacquering picked from the worlds of fashion, process for Dawn Inspired by fi ne textiles and luxury accessories Fashion alone taking nine days including textile specialist Cherica The Rolls-Royce Dawn Inspired by Fashion. of painstaking work. This is Haye from the Royal College completed elegantly with the of Art and leather technologist which to base three vibrant colours evolving trends,” comments individuality is forged in the integration of a bespoke clock, Michelle Lusby who previously that will set the tone for 2017’s Giles Taylor, Director of Design subtlest details. On opening Dawn’s set as a piece of jewellery, styled worked at Mulberry. Their work Spring/Summer collection: Mugello for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. coach-doors, a contemporary exclusively to emit a silver on silver has seen the incorporation of fi ne Red, Cobalto Blue or Mandarin. “To them, the commissioning Arctic White and Black interior eff ect, evoking the metallic fabrics silks and unexpected textures Subtle accents of these colours of fi ne luxury objects represents colour scheme is accented by one seen on this year’s catwalks in into the interior environment of adorn interior aspects of each a deeply-involving curatorial of the three vivid colours: Mugello preparation for next year’s season. truly bold and distinctive bespoke Dawn, whilst the ‘Silent Ballet’ of process – with diff erent forms of Red, Cobalto Blue or Mandarin. Dawn’s exterior colour scheme commissions. They have conceived the roof as it rises to provide shelter luxury design, craft and execution The Arctic White leather of the of Andalucian White is beautifully and executed bespoke commissions from the paparazzo’s lens unleashes serving as inspiration for the seats is accented through the accented by a hand-painted with a depth of inspiration far a brushstroke of colour to catch the other. Dawn Inspired by Fashion embroidery of the headrests, as well coachline which drapes over the beyond the traditional automotive style-spotters eye. beautifully expresses the notion as the stitching and piping of the curve of the car’s hip as the line palette. “Our clients are the very arbiters that inspiration for truly personal seats. Seamless stitching, a highly fl ows backwards along the car, In creating Dawn Inspired by of fashion, tastemakers who sit objects is drawn from the passions, complex craft technique from the refl ecting the identical splash of Fashion, these designers selected in the front row of the Couture tastes and lifestyle of its patron.” world of fi ne tailoring, is applied colour provided when the soft-top the neutral canvas of white upon shows, themselves infl uencing Like the fi nest bespoke garments, to the steering wheel to ensure the roof is in place. New Chevrolet Trailblazer ready for anywhere he new 2017 Chevrolet and contrast stitching. The full distances, this technology makes Trailblazer brings seven-seater’s “theater-style up the track gradient and reduces together superior levels seating” allows second- and third- judder generated by the imbalance of refi nement, styling, row occupants a better all-around of the wheels. comfort and technology view, while individually controlled To ensure the ride is as quiet as it withT class-leading performance air-conditioning ensures maximum is refi ned, the Trailblazer benefi ts and drivability to meet the versatile comfort in the summer months. from a new wind noise package needs of increasingly discerning The new Trailblazer comes with that was developed with newly drivers. The midsize sport utility a 3.6L engine tuned to off er better redesigned door, window and vehicle is ready to take its driver performance and improved fuel windshield seals; front door glass anywhere by off ering off -road economy, which produces 275 that is 10 percent thicker; and a capabilities combined with premium horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. new aerodynamic headlamp design. The 2017 Chevrolet Trailblazer. ride and handling dynamics. Complementing the improved As a result, the Trailblazer is 8 On the outside, the new engine is a tougher, more rigid percent quieter on the road than its Protection and Trailer Sway in the premium segment, such as Trailblazer’s more angular lines chassis and fully boxed frame, predecessor. Control. This is in addition to front Apple CarPlay. exude a refi ned toughness, while which are designed to improve ride Safety remains Chevrolet’s airbags for the driver and passenger. All 2017 Trailblazer owners will retaining strong proportions stability and drive comfort through number one priority. The new Other technological features receive a new level of customer that underline its go-anywhere unparalleled driver control. Trailblazer comes with a host of which can be found on the experience courtesy of Chevrolet capability. Most notable of these Additionally, the new Trailblazer active and passive safety features Trailblazer include Side Blind Zone Complete Care. The comprehensive features are the front grille, bumper features Electric Power Steering that include the Traction Control Alert, Rear Cross Traffi c Alert, aftersales package promises and lamps that come with daytime (EPS) that makes steering eff ort System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking Lane Departure Warning, Forward additional value with competitive running lights, giving a unique light lighter in the city and at parking System (ABS), Panic Brake Assist Collision Alert, Front Parking and transparent maintenance signature to the model. speeds. This is achieved by reducing (PBA), Electronic Brake Force Assist, and the Tire Pressure pricing; one-hour servicing; 2 Inside, the Trailblazer boasts a power assist proportionately as Distribution (EBD), Electronic Monitoring System. It also features days advance booking; a regional newly designed dashboard and front speed builds, so the driver gets a Stability Control (ESC), Hill the remote-start function. 3-year/100,000-km warranty; and console with a contemporary feel, properly weighted steering feel Descent Control (HDC), Hill The new Trailblazer is fi tted with 4 years of regional 24x7 roadside enhanced by soft-touch materials at highway speeds. Over long Start Assist (HSA), Anti-Rolling new technologies usually found assistance. 10 GULF TIMES Sunday, December 25, 2016 COMMUNITY MOTORING BMW 6 Series: Luxurious elegance at its best

The interior of the BMW 6 Series.

Series Convertible and the BMW generation of the BMW 6 Series 6 Series Gran Coupé can now also Coupé saw its debut in 1976, causing be fi tted with the new 20-inch M a stir not only with its elegant light alloy wheels in bicolor fi nish lines and sporty driving properties and M specifi c double-spoke but also featuring pioneering design, including mixed tyres with innovations. The two-door model emergency running properties. was the fi rst serial-production Likewise optionally available in vehicle with a Check Control combination with the M sports system. Its direct successor went package, the interior trim fi nishers on the market in 2003. And with in Carbon Fibre create a particularly the premiere of the BMW 6 Series The 6 Series is now available in the Sonic Speed Blue metallic colour, a first. inspiring sports car ambience in Convertible a year later, it was the cockpit. These were previously possible to combine Sheer Driving he BMW 6 Series Series Convertible and the BMW 6 extended with the addition of the reserved solely for the three Pleasure with the joys of open-top off ers attractive new Series Gran Coupé add touches of variant Sonic Speed Blue metallic, variants of the high-performance motoring in a luxurious sports car additions to the range striking style to both the exterior which is now available for the sports car BMW M6. for the fi rst time. The current model of optional equipment and interior, clearly expressing fi rst time. In conjunction with For 40 years now, a combination generation now off ers three vehicle for spring 2017. The the sporty character of these three the M sports package confi gured of dynamic performance and luxury types for dynamic performance, optionsT available exclusively for the upper class models. specifi cally for each model, the has been closely associated with elegance and exclusive appeal in the BMW 6 Series Coupé, the BMW 6 The range of body fi nishes is BMW 6 Series Coupé, the BMW 6 the model designation “6”. The fi rst upper class. Ford brings intelligent SYNC 3 to the Middle East he latest generation of Ford’s system, including 3D support with innovative communications and landmarks, a Mecca compass, and enhanced entertainment system is set to junction view providing detailed lane visuals make its Middle East debut as the and guidance. Navigation also auto zooms high-tech new SYNC 3 features on out when the next manoeuvre is more than mostT 2017MY models. In addition to other three kilometres away to making it easier to new languages, Ford’s SYNC 3 will support see the full route. Arabic for the fi rst time – both text and voice SYNC 3 also provides full dead reckoning activation – enabling simpler control for support – which means being able to navigate Arabic-speaking drivers. even after the loss of GPS signal – unlike Ford SYNC already enables drivers of smart phone navigation apps in the region. 15-million vehicles worldwide to voice- The navigation also includes more than 3.5 activate essential in-car features, greatly million “points of interest”, and over 3.5 improving ease of access to numerous phone million kilometres of road. Even the idea and multimedia functions. The system of getting lost should be a distant memory, has also made a signifi cant contribution to thanks to free map updates for fi ve years – a driving safety, enabling drivers to remain necessity for the ever-changing landscape of focused on the road while accessing the the Middle East. vast range of available communication and Navigation on Ford’s SYNC 3. One of the main highlights is the Smart multimedia features. Fuel Indicator, for instance, when a vehicle For the third-generation system, Ford innovative new ways of staying connected text messages, and get directions optimised is low on fuel and the navigation map is has drawn on more than 22,000 comments on the move,” says Kalyana Sivagnanam, vice for traffi c conditions via voice control while displayed; SYNC 3 will automatically show and insights gained from research clinics president marketing, sales and services, Ford the drivers’ eyes stay focused on the road. the positions of petrol stations on the and surveys to ensure the new version is the Middle East and Africa. “SYNC3 is designed The system is also compatible with Siri Eyes map, making sure customers never leave most customer-centric designed system. to complement modern smartphones, with Free which allows for easy access to Siri with themselves high and dry. Simplifying the user experience by putting an intuitive touch screen and an exciting iPhones connected via Bluetooth. Ziad Chaaban, EES Engineer, Product the audio and phone options customers array of new features, is signifi cantly faster, Android users will be able to activate Development, Ford Middle East and Africa, use most at their fi ngertips, SYNC 3 has and off ers a higher resolution interface that Android Auto, which makes the platform’s added: “SYNC3 now off ers unique features been further improved through increased is simpler, and easier to read and use than apps and services such as Google Search, for the Middle East, like user ability to control processing power and a reduction in the its predecessor. For customers in the Middle Google Maps and Google Play Music media and climate, via their Bluetooth- number of steps required for a command. East, considered to be among the most accessible in a safe and seamless manner connected phone, just by speaking to SYNC. With pinch-to-zoom and swipe gestures, connected customers in the world, this is a through SYNC3. Some of the licences for Of considerable importance to Middle East SYNC 3 provides customers with a high substantial step to staying connected on the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are still customers is the language choices for SYNC defi nition experience of the eight-inch touch move.” being fi nalised for offi cial release in the 3 navigation, which includes Arabic for the screen that is similar to smartphone screens, Smartphone integration has been stepped collective Middle East and Africa region, and very fi rst time, while customers will also have thus making it easier and more intuitive to up with several new features, including Apple therefore will be introduced as they become the opportunity to update their maps – free use. CarPlay, which allows iPhone users to make available in market. for fi ve years – from the comfort of their own “SYNC 3 brings to life even more phone calls, access music, send and receive Navigation sees a greatly-improved homes.” Sunday, December 25, 2016 GULF TIMES 11 INFOGRAPHIC COMMUNITY 12 GULF TIMES Sunday, December 25, 2016 COMMUNITY PUZZLES/CARTOONS

Wordsearch Adam

Pooch Cafe Disclosure

ANNOUNCE EXPOSE TELL BARE EXPOUND UNBURY BETRAY IMPART UNCOVER BREAK INDICATE UNEARTH DEVELOP OPEN UNLOCK DISCLOSE PROCLAIM UNVEIL DIVULGE PUBLISH UNWRAP EXHIBIT REVEAL UTTER

Codeword Every letter of the alphabet is used at least once. Squares with the same number in have the same letter in. Work out which number represents which letter.

Garfield Puzzles courtesy: Puzzlechoice.com courtesy: Puzzles

Sudoku

Bound And Gagged

Sudoku is a puzzle based on a 9x9 grid. The grid is also divided into nine (3x3) boxes. You are given a selection of values and to complete the puzzle, you must fill the grid so that every column, every anone is repeated. Sunday, December 25, 2016 GULF TIMES 13 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Quick Clues Colouring

ACROSS DOWN 1. Diminish (6) 1. Distant (6) 4. Triple (6) 2. Crumbles (13) 9. Mixed (13) 3. Encourage (5) 10. Pet (7) 5. Plunder (7) 11. Pale (5) 6. Comradeship (13) 12. At no time (5) 7. Relieving (6) 14. Border (5) 8. Collapse (5) 18. Denude (5) 13. Sovereign (7) 19. Dispossess (7) 15. Climb (6) 21. Amusement (13) 16. Perfect (5) 22. Abandon (6) 17. Subside (6) 23. Pure (6) 20. Nip (5)

Cryptic Clues

Answers

Wordsearch Codeword

ACROSS DOWN 1. Before the end of August, fashions will 1. Is to think about ill-treatment (6) be unpretentious (6) 2. It’s his job to see that people settle (4-9) 4. Stops entry to cathedral precincts (6) 3. The kind of coach seen in “Cinderella” 9. Could it be part of the armament of (5) underwater craft? (3-7,3) 5. Get the file on the generation to show 10. They’re easily deceived by genealogy (7) Yesterday’s Solutions underground shoots (7) 6. Some strain that’s associated with a 11. Lower the sailor before the sea particular star (9-4) QUICK CRYPTIC becomes disturbed (5) 7. One taking part in operas in Germany 12. Some of the professional armies cause (6) Across: 1 Man of letters; 7 Alert; 8 Maple; 9 Eat; Across: 1 Funeral march; 7 Wrest; 8 Torch; a scare (5) 8. Kind of protector for treasure store (5) 10 Archetype; 11 Occupy; 12 Casino; 15 Fabricate; 9 Fit; 10 Gunpowder; 11 Heroin; 12 Tattoo; 15 14. A drink highly respected in Ethiopia (5) 13. Knight upset by fish concoction (7) 17 Sum; 18 Clown; 19 Dodge; 21 Celebrations. Landscape; 17 Lee; 18 Naiad; 19 Essay; 21 Chess- 18. Water vessels found right among the 15. Timber put in the refashioned head- Down: 1 Matter-of-fact; 2 Foe; 3 Entice; 4 players. sheep (5) piece (6) 19. Volume to give satisfaction (7) 16. The range of a policeman in the south- Temperate; 5 Reply; 6 Developments; 7 Antic; Down: 1 Fat of the land; 2 Rye; 3 Latent; 4 21. One gets released after being shot! east (5) 10 Appliance; 13 Issue; 14 Wander; 16 Broke; 20 Astrolabe; 5 Cured; 6 Thermometers; 7 Water; 10 (6-7) 17. One of the townsman’s ways (6) Dot. Glissades; 13 Tally; 14 Make-up; 16 Neigh; 20 Sea. 22. As a lathe operator he was an artist (6) 20. The start of the holiday in pleasant 23. About a coin of no great age (6) recess (5) 14 GULF TIMES Sunday, December 25, 2016 COMMUNITY LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE 4 statement pieces to elevate your bathroom to a work of art

your home? If you’re planning a But a shower is so much more than add luxury touches like a matching bathroom renovation, here are four just a place to get clean. A shower backsplash or under-counter LED ways to make a statement in the can soothe at the end of a trying lighting. space – and elevate your bathroom day, or invigorate your senses in to a work of art: preparation for a busy day ahead. Transformations with tubs Statement showers incorporate Tub options are virtually Choose a showpiece sink luxury features such as multiple limitless these days, and you can Few design elements aff ord such shower heads, wall jets, hand fi nd statement tubs in every size a perfect opportunity for utility showers, rainfall showerheads, and style imaginable. The tub and artistry to blend beautifully as seating, customised lighting and is often the essential element does the bathroom sink. A striking even sound and video. homeowners and designers fi rst statement vessel in patterned fall in love with, and the one that porcelain or smoky glass can be a Create luxury with establishes the direction for their focal point for your vanity while countertops overall bathroom redesign. still providing ample space for Options like granite, marble, Soaking tubs continue to be essential functioning. concrete, limestone and other popular installations for bathroom It’s not diffi cult to fi nd natural stones might be too costly renovations. Whether you choose nvesting in a bathroom staying, a luxurious bathroom can statement-style sinks, but to truly for a kitchen, where you have a lot a traditional claw-foot design that upgrade is in the cards be a relaxing oasis where you’ll elevate the basin to a form of art, of counter space, but they’re a cost- evokes a bygone era, a concrete for nearly a quarter of be happy to begin or end a busy look for options that evoke the look eff ective way to make a statement tub that creates a more modern homeowners planning to day. Your bathroom is also an and feel of the era when luxury in a bathroom where you have less or industrial look, or a porcelain renovate within the next 12 expression of who you are, and it items were handcrafted. square footage to cover. These confection with sweeping, graceful Imonths, according to a new survey should refl ect not only your needs high-end materials pair perfectly lines, you can fi nd a statement tub by Bankrate.com. Improving a but your unique artistic fl are as Stun with a standout shower with statement sinks to create to match your personal sense of bathroom is rewarding on multiple well. What could be more satisfying Most people spend six to 10 a unique, one-of-a-kind look. artistry. levels; if you’re selling, buyers than making an artistic statement minutes or more in the shower Upgrade bathroom countertops love great bathrooms. If you’re in one of the most-used rooms in each day, according to surveys. to your dream material and then ©Brandpoint

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

As proactive as you are and as excited as you might be today (you Whether you’re religious or spiritual or both, today is a very special There are no limits to what you can achieve Twins and if 2016 was are the most childlike sign in the zodiac after all), it’s a time of rest day for everyone. If it’s not your holiday, you can still enjoy the time a lacklustre year for you, 2017 shines brightly like a jewel. All the and reflection as well as eating and drinking and being merry Aries. spent with family and friends. possibilities! Spending time with loved ones today will inspire you even more.

CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

If you are in doubt about something or someone, ask yourself why If you don’t feel up to driving a long way today to visit people –then Mercury the planet of communication remains out of phase today today? It’s more than likely due to the fact that you feel you’ve left don’t. Today should be a peaceful Sunday – and being Xmas day, a but what do you really need to do today besides relax, reflect and something undone. Let it go today –today is the day for being with time for reflection and rest. enjoy quality time with the people you love? loved ones.

LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

Sometimes all you can do is to let things wash over you and keep Your co–ruler Mars spends time in Pisces through early 2017, your Planetary activity in your fourth house of home and family makes on keepin on Librans. 2016 wasn’t the best year for many people, fifth house of self–fulfillment. Which makes it important that you do this an ideal day to celebrate the holidays with friends, family, however, we are at the finish line! Enjoy being with the people you what you want to do today and not focus on what others want. neighbours and new acquaintances. love being with and start your 2017 wish list.

CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

If your birthday falls today, it’s a wonderful blessing – it’s a special Venus the planet of unconditional love and support in your sign right Don’t let something minor become something major today Pisces. day indeed. Spending time reflecting on what you want to achieve now is the perfect “date” for today. Take time out to bestow your Getting upset about something or someone who in the grand by this time next year as well as being present with friends and special kind of love and support to the people around you. scheme of things isn’t such a big deal is a waste of time and energy. family is the only thing on your “to do” list today. Sunday, December 25, 2016 GULF TIMES 15 SHOWBIZ COMMUNITY Sturdy Aamir lands Dangal punch

Narrated through Mahavir’s nephew and high-voltage drama and the entertainment By Troy Ribeiro the girl’s early sparring partner Omkar’s quotient is dutifully obligatory. The plot point of view, the film is a balanced take keeps you engrossed right till the end on the subject and thus offers a few and the climax, with the slow-motion CAST: Aamir Khan, Sakshi Tanwar, humourous nuggets which otherwise shot of Geeta toppling her opponent, is Fatima Sana Shaikh, Sana Malhotra, Zaira would have been a very dry documentation exhilarating. Wasim, Suhani Bhatnagar, Aparshakti of their lives. The national anthem is used as a Khurrana, Girish Kulkarni; Designed as a typical sports fi lm, and magnetic device to extract the feel of RATING: ***1/2 to establish the subject at the very onset, patriotism, and unwittingly, the audience the narrative begins with a preposterous land up giving Geeta and the film a fictionalised tale, based on the start but soon settles in on a convincing standing ovation. lives of an amateur wrestler note, of a tyrant father who ensures his What keeps you glued to the screen, — Mahavir Singh Phogat and reluctant daughters follow his instructions. from the beginning, is Aamir Khan’s his famed daughters, Geeta The shades in Mahavir’s character are transformation into a Haryanvi. The DESTINY: Disha Patani. and Babita Phogat — Dangal highlighted subtly, bringing his softness actor not only reinvents himself, he tips Ais an inspirational story of an ambitious and the messages the fi lm relays to the fore. his films with this novelty factor that I was a very shy girl: Disha father, who, after failing to fulfil his As a biopic, though one-dimensional, wows his audience. This time, playing an dreams, aspires to achieve his vision of the film is well-packaged and presented ageing wrestler, with added pounds and Actress Disha Patani, who will be seen winning a gold medal for his country in an in a realistic manner. Apart from a few flab to his otherwise chiselled frame, he sharing screen space with legendary actor international arena through his progeny. predictable cinematic liberties, it lacks mesmerises you with aplomb. He literally Jackie Chan in Kung Fu Yoga, says being an breathes and lives the life of Mahavir actress was never her plan as she was a very Singh Phogat in rural . shy girl. But the stars of the film are definitely Disha made her debut in 2016 with Sushant Zara Wasim and Suhani Bhatnagar. As the Singh Rajput starrer M.S. Dhoni: The Untold young Geeta and Babita, they are simply Story. adorable and charming. They portray their Asked if being an actress was always in innocent and aggressive attitude with her mind, Disha said: “No (it was not the such finesse that you instantly fall in love plan). I was so shy I didn’t have friends till 16 with their characters and root for them. or something. I could never imagine myself They lay the foundation for Fatima Sana acting in front of camera or doing anything in Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra who play the front of the camera. I was a very shy girl.” older versions of the characters. The 21-year-old says while growing up she Similarly Ritwik Sahore as the young wanted to be an air force pilot. Omkar, lays the foundation for Aparshakti “But I think it was destiny and this (acting) Khurana in the older role. They both do was meant to be...I got the opportunity and I full justice to the character. grabbed it and slowly I started fi nding a lot of Vivan Bhatena in a cameo as Mahavir’s interest in acting,” she added. office colleague is wasted. Sakshi Tanwar Disha will be seen playing an archaeologist in a passive role as Daya, Mahavir’s wife, is in Kung Fu Yoga, which will hit the screens on unimpressive as she plays herself. January 28. The songs and background score mesh The fi lm, which is a Sino-Indian project, seamlessly with the narrative. On the is part of the three-fi lm agreement signed production front, the international games between the two countries during Chinese are realistically recreated with precision President Xi Jinping’s visit to India. and overall the film has a very realistic The fi lm also stars actors Amyra Dastur and look and feel. Sans the performance, Sonu Sood. Dangal seems too perfunctory with its Directed by Stanley Tong, the action IMPRESSIVE: Aamir Khan with the screen daughters played by and Suhani sports and biopic tropes that tend to be comedy fi lm is shot in India, Dubai and Bhatnagar. inspirational and motivational. — IANS Beijing. — IANS Katie Couric will fill in as co-anchor on NBC’s Today show Couric will be substituting for Lauer’s Under the Gun, a documentary about gun By Stephen Battaglio current on-air partner, Savannah Guthrie, violence in the US. who is on maternity leave after giving birth Couric has returned to Today as a guest in to her second child December 9. Guthrie the years since she left the programme, but atie Couric is returning to NBC’s recently signed a new long-term contract she has never fi lled in as a co-anchor. She Today show for a weeklong with Today. did spend a week as a guest co-host of Today fi ll-in stint at the morning Couric was co-anchor of Today from 1991 rival Good Morning America in April 2012. programme’s anchor desk next to 2006, during which time she became the Today has been closing the gap with ABC’s month. most popular personality in TV news. She Good Morning America in the ratings race. KCouric will be back alongside Matt Lauer left the programme to join CBS, where she The NBC programme has won three of the for the week of January 2, according to people become the fi rst solo female anchor of a last six weeks in overall viewers. Today is the at the morning program who are familiar network evening newscast. leader among viewers in the 25-54 age group with the plan but not authorised to discuss it Since 2014, Couric has been global anchor important to advertisers that buy time on publicly. for Yahoo News. She recently produced news programmes. — Los Angeles Times/TNS STAND-IN: Katie Couric. 16 GULF TIMES Sunday, December 25, 2016 COMMUNITY ICBF teaches students ‘The Art of Giving’

Children who participated in the Little Champs contest handed over a generous contribution that will be used to help workers.

participating children to write and present By Anand Holla poetries on subjects relevant to benevolence in just 10 minutes. Arvind Patil, who was the ICBF president o inculcate the value and until recently, briefed the children about how importance of generosity, the they could take individual initiatives even Indian Community Benevolent before approaching ICBF. Sonal Sharma, Forum (ICBF) held a children ICBF labour development and counselling orientation workshop titled ‘The co-ordinator, told the audience about the ArtT of Giving’ at ICC’s Ashoka Hall recently, ICBF activities and encouraged all present to in which more than 50 students from various become a part of the cause. schools including Birla Public School, While the young minds took back home the Bhavan’s Public School, DPS-MIS and MES spirit of benevolence, compassion, humility, Indian School participated. empathy, generosity, and a diary to note The workshop included two highly their everyday good deeds, the parents in the interactive modules helmed by ICBF Joint audience returned with even more – a great Secretary Sameer Moosa and ICBF Children sense of satisfaction, ICBF said. Their instant Awareness Co-ordinator Mala Krishnan. At feedback was greatly encouraging, ICBF said, the workshop, the students were organised to hold many more such workshops in the into teams and given real-life scenarios which near future. More than 50 children participated in the event. had to be enacted upon after a brief group The chief guest of the event was R K discussion. The outcome was fascinating, Singh, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Committee to put together this event. deportation centre, those who have served when the budding community displayed their Indian embassy and the ICBF co-ordinating The other distinguished guests who their sentences in jail for off ences in Qatar, thought process on stage in the form of well- offi cer. The welcome address was delivered attended the event and extended their people who are in need of medical treatment planned and neatly executed skits. by Mahesh Gowda, ICBF General Secretary, wholehearted support were ICC president for life-threatening diseases, and those Mahesh Gowda, ICBF General Secretary, while Devis Edukulathur, ICBF President, Milan Arun, ICC vice president Manikandan, experiencing diffi culties in obtaining legal told Community, “It was so exciting to addressed the audience and encouraged them ICC general secretary Juttas Paul, ICBF past advice and support. From providing food and witness the children’s involvement in to become ICBF lifetime members to do more vice president Baby Kurien, ICBF past general ration to stranded labourers to consulting free the workshop. Each and every student benevolent activities for their Indian brethren secretary Santhosh Nilakandan, and ICC past medical camps on a regular basis, ICBF helps presented out of the box ideas, exploring in Qatar. vice president Divakar Poojary. the community in several ways. diff erent modes of benevolence. Inculcating During the public function, a group of ICBF, under the Aegis of Embassy of It has also taken upon itself the moral duty benevolence in young hearts was the aim of children who were participants of the Little India Qatar since 1984, has been in the to inculcate the culture of social commitment the ICBF through this Children Orientation Champs contests, handed over a generous business of giving succour and solace to and spirit of benevolence in the young Workshop. I believe we could touch the young contribution towards helping workers. the underprivileged segment of the Indian hearts, through involving them in various hearts through this workshop.” Sasikant, ICBF joint secretary, delivered community, constituting mainly workers. It benevolent social activities with an intent to Those present were struck by the the vote of thanks with a special mention provides assistance to those who are stranded serve the needy as well as through orientation creative and rather impressive skills of the of the great team work by the entire ICBF or are in distress. This includes those at the workshops.