Community Community The Non- Ospitalita’ Resident Italiana, a Nepalese benchmark P7Association-National P20for gastronomic excellence, Coordination Council will be awarded to Italian will conduct its restaurants in Doha that election tomorrow. meet very high standards.

Thursday, December 24, 2015 Rabia I 13, 1437 AH

DOHA 19°C—25°C TODAY LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE 13 PUZZLES 14 & 15

COVER Good STORY Samaritan British expat Sarah Kobrus, who has made Doha home a second time, on the joy of giving. P4-5 2 GULF TIMES Thursday, December 24, 2015 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

PRAYER TIME Fajr 4.54am Shorooq (sunrise) 6.16am Zuhr (noon) 11.33am EVENTS biggest and best-ever. Now in its fourth year, the Ooredoo Asr (afternoon) 2.31pm Marathon will take place on Friday, January 8. Ooredoo is Maghreb (sunset) 4.52pm 2016 Ooredoo Marathon working with a range of partners across Qatar to encourage Isha (night) 6.22pm DATE: Jan 8, 2016 more people to participate. In particular, the company is TIME: 10am looking to encourage more kids to run in the children’s races USEFUL NUMBERS Ooredoo offi cially opened registration for the 2016 Ooredoo and more people from all walks of life to get involved in their Marathon, as the company aimed to make next year’s race the fi rst race.

Emergency 999 Worldwide Emergency Number 112 Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 Ooredoo Telephone Assistance 111 Local Directory 180 International Calls Enquires 150 Time 141, 140 Doha International Airport 40106666 Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 Medical Commission 44679111 Mowasalat Taxi 44588888 Qatar Airways 44496000 Weather Forecast 44656590 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 Qatar University 44033333 The Color Run Qatar QR160 per runner. For solo runners: registration will cost QR170. DATE: Jan 9, 2016 Kids under the age of 4 years run for free. The Color Run is a 5km, VENUE: Qatar National Convention Center un-timed fun run in which thousands of runners are doused You can join the Color Run this year and enjoy the time of your from head to toe in diff erent colors at the end of each kilometre. It life. For team runners (4 or more friends): registration will cost is open to all of Doha’s residents regardless of age and ability. ote Unquo Qu te Friendship ... is Mall Cinema (1): The Peanuts (2D) 2.45pm; Love The Coopers not something you learn in Movie (2D) 2.30pm; The Good (2D) 4.45pm; Room (2D) 6.45pm; school. But if you haven’t learned Dinosaur (2D) 4.15pm; The El Leila El Kebira (Arabic) 9pm; the meaning of friendship, you really Peanuts Movie (2D) 6pm; Belle & Cinema Land Mark (1): Thanga Pasanga 2 (Tamil) 11.15pm. haven’t learned anything. Sebastian 2 (2D) 7.45pm; Morning Magan (Tamil) 2.15pm; Paparazzi Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (1): Star (2D) 9.30pm; Room (2D) –(Arabic) (2D) 4.30pm; Dilwale The Peanuts Movie (2D) 2.15pm; — Muhammad Ali 11.15pm. (Hindi) 6.30pm; Point Break Belle & Sebastian 2 (2D) 4pm; Mall Cinema (2): Love The (2D) 9.15pm; Point Break (2D) The Good Dinosaur (2D) 5.45pm; Coopers (2D) 2.30pm; Room (2D) 11.30pm. Point Break (2D) 7.30pm; Morning 4.30pm; Star Wars: Episode VII – Cinema Land Mark(2): The Star (2D) 9.45pm; Point Break The Force Awakens (2D) 6.30pm; Good Dinosaur (2D) 2:15pm; The (2D) 11.30pm. Dilwale (Hindi) 8.45pm; Point Peanuts Movie (2D) 4pm; The Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (2): Features Editor Break (2D) 11.30pm. Peanuts Movie (2D) 5.45pm; Love The Coopers (2D) 2.30pm; Kamran Rehmat Mall Cinema (3): Pasanga 2 Belle & Sebastian 2 (2D) 7.30pm; Paparazzi –(Arabic) (2D) 4.30pm; e-mail: [email protected] (Tamil) 2.15pm; Paparazzi (Arabic) Star Wars: The Force Awakens Room (2D) 6.45pm; El Leila El Telephone: 44466405 4.30pm; Point Break (2D) 6.45pm; (2D) 9.15pm; Morning Star (2D) Kebira (Arabic) 9pm; Star Wars: Fax: 44350474 El Leila El Kebira (Arabic) 9pm; 11.30pm. Episode VII – The Force Awakens Thanga Magan (Tamil) 11.15pm. Cinema Land Mark (3): Room (2D) 11.15pm; Thursday, December 24, 2015 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY

BOOKS MUSIC

1. The Amazing Book Is Not On Fire by Dan Howell and Phil 1. Adele: 25 Lester 2. Various Artists: Now 92 Db 2. The Mindfulness Colouring Book by 3. One Direction: Made In Emma Farrarons The A M Hardcoverbook Del Ed top 3. Diary of Wimpy Kid – Old School by Jeff Kinney 4.Various Artists: Now That’s What I Call Christmas 4. Black Book of Arabia by Sheikha Hend Al Qassemi 5. Various Artists: Now That’s What I Call Drive Db 10 5. Animal Kingdom by Millie Marotta 6. Various Artists: Now That’s What I Call Disney Bx4 6. Girl Online by Zoe Sugg 7. Various Artists: Very Bo Now That’s What I Call Dance 7. Tropical Wonderland by Johanna Basford 8. Various Artists: Best Arabian Nights Party 2015 Ever 8. A Knight Of The Seven Kingdoms by George R.R. Martin 9. Jean-Marie Riachi: Belaaks 2 9. Guinness World Records 2016 by Guinness World 10. Ed Sheeran: X Records 10. Make Me by Lee Child TV-SERIES

MOVIES 1. Big Bang Theory S1-8 2. Mentalist S1-7 1. Man From U.N.C.L.E 3. Two & A Half Men S1-12 2. Jurassic World 4. Modern Family S6 3. San Andreas 5. Walking Dead S5 4. Furious 7 6. Anger Management S1 5. Insurgent 7. Covert Aff airs S5 6. Mean Girls 2 8. Grimm Series 4 7. Southpaw 9. Rizzoli & Isles S5 8. Mad Max 4 Fury Road 10. 12 Monkeys S1 9. Terminator Genisys Courtesy: Virgin Megastores, 10. Avengers Age Of Ultron Landmark and Villaggio Mall

Refl ection Event wishing to develop their skills and capabilities will run from 19-31 December 2015, so hurry Salsa Beginners Better Connections is one of the largest as entrepreneurs, or their employability and and enroll now. DATE: Tuesday, Friday public-private partnerships in Qatar focused work-based skills. TIME: 8-9pm on building the skills of low-income workers Contemporary Traditional VENUE: Hilton Hotel and providing them with access to the Harrods Doha DATE: Until Jan 5 Whether you’ve danced salsa before or internet and other technologies that would DATE: Until Jan 24 TIME: 7pm not, you will find what you want. Different facilitate their needs while living in Qatar. TIME: 4pm-1:55pm VENUE: Katara salsa classes with different levels at your Reach Out To Asia (Rota) cordially invites VENUE: Katara Cultural Village This exhibition is the result of Johnatan service, taught by the best instructors in you to attend The Better Connection Harrods celebrates their inaugural launch Machado’s experience in Qatar, who has Doha at Eforea Spa, Hilton Hotel. No need Program Refl ection Event to celebrate 2015 of the Harrods Doha Village. Be there and produced a series of works inspired by Qatari for a partner, no need for reservation, come achievements, held on December 30 in Doha. experience luxury in style. traditional art forms. In this production, the as you are. Prices are QR60 per person per WHEN: Wednesday, December 30, 2015, artist utilises traditional local materials such lesson. Visit: www.salsancandela.com at 7pm. Circus Of Sound as Sedu — Bedouin’s fabrics — and transforms WHERE: Ballroom 2, Student Center – DATE: Dec 31 them into great contemporary pieces, creating Ladies day at Beach Qatar Foundation (KBHU) TIME: 8pm new patterns and building a bridge between DATE: Every Monday VENUE: Al Majlis Ballroom past and modern times. TIME: 9am-7pm Mangrove Kayaking Behold the greatest show on earth: Circus VENUE: Sheraton Doha and Flamingo Beach Of Sound! Join our ringmasters and circus Operation Keep Syrian Children Warm For all the ladies in Doha! Do you feel DATE: Dec 25- 26 party animals for an immersive experience DATE: Until Dec 31 like taking some time off for yourself? TIME: All day under the big top this New Years Eve! TIME: All day Come join us at the Sheraton Resort for VENUE: Al Thakira Witness our spectacular circus performers VENUE: Al Suhail St, Al Mansoura an all-day-access to the beach and pool, The holiday season is a good time to enjoy and take part in traditional carnival games All For One, a community service along with aqua gym aerobics for free. kayaking with your family and friends, whilst bringing in the New Year in style with organization, gives you the motivation you Nestled on the edge of Qatar’s West Bay explore the mangroves and watch the wildlife the original superstar DJ Judge Jules and need to clean out your closets for a good cause. with an unbeatable and uninterrupted in Thakhira Natural Reserve. Defected’s leading lady DJ RAE. Participate anytime throughout the year by views of the blue sea. Our pool and beach donating any items for winter in the aid of adds a tempting and exciting experience to Harem Al Sultan Exhibition Syrian children refugees! This campaign runs enhance your senses of relaxation. Enjoy DATE: Until Jan 10 year round so anytime you fancy a clear out, only for QR100 per person. VENUE: Katara Bldg 10 bring in a bagful and help beat the cold of the The Magnifi cent Century series has winter for our Syrian children sooner. Hip Hop for kids become a television legend, a historical DATE: Every Sunday soap opera on the life of the Ottoman Sultan Pottery workshop for kids TIME: 5-6pm Suleiman the Magnifi cent that has now been DATE: Every Monday VENUE: Hilton watched by 300mn viewers in 54 countries. TIME: 5pm-6pm Join our Hip Hop classes instructed by This unique exhibition brings the costumes, Kids will learn a new hand building Beats and Bytes every Sunday at 5pm @ sets and ambience of the series to Doha, technique for creating and fi nishing artworks Hilton Hotel, Efora Spa. For more info, call revealing the stories behind the life of the in clay. For more, call 44865201. on 33003839. www.salsancandela.com Turkish conqueror and his love for the humble and beautiful Harem Sultan. Exhibition Festive Dinner Sketching with pencil and charcoal visitors will be transported back to the Mercure Hotel will have a Festive Dinner DATE: Sunday and Wednesday FOODIE CHOICE glorious world of Suleiman the Magnifi cent at their La Villa Restaurant on December 25, TIME: 5pm-6:30pm and see the artistry and craftsmanship that from 7pm onwards with an a la carte menu to If you can hold a pencil, you can draw REST AU RANT: Fraser went into creating the iconic props and decors choose from with dishes ranging from QR26 … Discover techniques to make your LOCATION: Fraser Suites of the series. to QR80. drawing more realistic. Every Saturday Brighten up your special day with our and Wednesday from 5pm-6:30pm. For rich selection of festive array! Exclusive Career development workshop IAID Winter Workshop reservation: [email protected]. activities for families with kids not to be DATE: Dec 30 DATE: Until Dec 31 missed. Package includes unlimited hot TIME: 5pm-8pm TIME: 8am Works from Mathaf Collection & cold beverages, interactive kids corner VENUE: Katara VENUE: Al Tadamoun Signal, Al Hilal DATE: Until February 14, 2016 and special character appearance. QAR149 The Bedaya Center for Entrepreneurship Street TIME: 11am to 6pm and QAR 79 for per adult and young guests and Career Development is a partnership IAID Winter Workshop 2015 off ers an VENUE: Arab Museum of Modern Art (6-12 years) respectively. Your festive between the Qatar Development Bank and exciting range of courses for Dance, Music, The artworks collection to be exhibited celebration gets better with 25% discount Silatech that is closely aligned to their Arts and Fitness for ages 3-18 years. Your kids will refl ect a number of important defi ning for bookings of 5 and above. Stand to win respective visions. Activities are designed will surely enjoy each class with our highly- moments in Arab history and artistic attractive Raffles Draw prizes. For bookings to address the needs of youth (aged 18 - 30) professional Instructors and facilities. Classes innovations in the region. call 4424 3412

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Thursday, December 24, 2015 COMMUNITY COVER STORY ‘Giving is contagiously good’ —Sarah Kobrus, philanthropist

The Syrian and Iraqi Muslims and Christians refugees in Amman live in poor conditions including garages and basements — often several families live in one room. The fi rst time I visited Groub and her family was in 2013. As I heard their stories of terror, torture and fl eeing with young children, I felt overwhelmed. “What help can I possibly be with such suff ering and on such a scale,” I wondered. But as I looked at Groub, I felt a deep connection with her; she went on to grab my hand and through the interpreter voiced exactly what I had been feeling. She felt I was ‘like a sister’. She had nothing to give me except her blue, plastic bangle, which she placed on my arm and insisted I keep it. She said, “You’ve made me feel like a human being again!” I gave her my watch in return. Although, we are from diff erent faiths, we agreed to pray for each other every day at 12am, asking God to bring us back together; a year later we were both overjoyed to be reunited. We keep in touch via Whatsapp using emoticons and I visit her each time I return to Jordan. She recently had her fi fth child, a triumph of hope over adversity! The number of refugees in Jordan is overwhelming but to have genuinely made a diff erence for even one family has been a humbling and joyful experience. We both still cry every time we say good-bye. As a family we send them what we can, when we can.

Would you relate an inspiring incident you’ve experienced? ON A MISSION: Sarah Kobrus, second from right, inspiring youth to care for the destitute. I have so many, it is very diffi cult to pick just one; so I’ll pick one since 2003 and love to teach young that happened here in Qatar. When By Aney Mathew people, that giving is so much I returned to Qatar in 2012, I was better than receiving. Since 2013, worn out by the many moves and DDOHAOHA I’ve been working with a group to the accumulation of losses. I felt Introduction help Palestinian, Iraqi and Syrian like hiding, but instead initiated I am into my 60s, but I feel I have refugees in Jordan — through an a Youth Group called The Edge mislaid a decade somewhere in my organisation called Global Hope who started a new project; to try travels — so it’s true for me, that the Network International. Often my and raise enough money to build a new 40s is your 50s! children accompany me on these home for a homeless family in Lima, I am originally from North trips. Peru. Over the next three years, this Yorkshire, England, but I have Their mission statement mirrors amazing group of 10-13 year-olds lived abroad for almost half my my own, ‘bringing hope and raised enough to build 36 homes! life — in America, Bahrain, Qatar, healing to the hidden and hurting’. They also inspired me to go beyond France, Holland and now Qatar for The situation there is desperate and go on my fi rst serving trip to the second time. I live here with as the volume of refugees is meet some of the families. I had my husband Andrew and my three unprecedented. Many of the local the most amazing trip to Peru with children — Beth, Alice and Jonny. and international aid agencies are two of my youngest children and a Professionally, I am a social worker simply overwhelmed and out of group of people, who turned from and counsellor. My claim to fame funds. The refugees are beginning strangers into my best friends ever. is that my fi rst writing project to starve and it is very cold in Jordan Giving is so contagiously good and (collaborating on a book called at this time of year. Global Hope has it multiplies, too. We always receive Turning Points) was an Amazon a brilliant scheme called ‘Families back so much more than we can ever bestseller in its category; for one Adopting Families’, which connects possibly give. whole day, I was an international you directly with a family; you can best-selling writer. I also love help pay their rent and provide Expatriate children face rescuing dogs. heating and food. unique challenges as 3rd culture kids, don’t they? Tell us about your social work Can you share a touching My children are all Third Culture with refugees in Jordan… experienceas part of your social Kids (TCKs) — part of a unique but DDENIZENSENIZENS I’ve been a youth group leader work? growing group of Internationals Thursday, December 24, 2015 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY

COMPASSION: Sarah Kobrus with the refugee family she has adopted. who grow up caught between the become my World Wide Web of culture of their parents and the family. My life and work includes host nation. Their experiences everything I love — friends, family, are unique. As they are grow, this writing, teaching, healing, travelling deeply aff ects things like identity and good food. I may not have any and belonging. salary or pension but I do have joy, The average 18-year-old TCK will peace and purpose that is making a have experienced more loss from the diff erence for the greater good. coming and going that is constant in expat life, than an elderly person What do you consider your who has stayed put all their lives greatest accomplishments? back home. Simple questions like I have faced some truly tough “Where are you from?” and “Where times from traumatic bereavements is home?” are not simple at all. My to surviving cancer during multiple eldest daughter lived in 16 homes, international moves. I am blessed went to 11 schools in French, British with the tenacity to keep choosing and American systems by the time to build my spiritual and emotional she went to the university in the UK! resilience. I am someone who walks My own TCK’s ‘home’ is in the walk not just talks the talk and Brittany, France; while they are my greatest accomplishment has British passport holders, two of been passing on this same spiritual my children have never lived in and emotional resilience to my England. three TCKs. They are genuinely Yet the gains for my children have kind, compassionate and good far outweighed the losses. They’ve people. They are my greatest had to learn at a young age how to be accomplishment, but I did not do emotionally intelligent, resilient and this alone! to be active global citizens. They defi ne home as, “anywhere Mum Your attitude to life? is, with enough of our stuff to feel Summed up in the well known familiar with.” They embrace being prayer — God grant me the serenity ambassadors with a still distinct to accept the things I cannot British fl avour but with American, change; the courage to change the Arabic and French toppings. things I can and the wisdom to know the diff erence. A SISTER, A FRIEND: Making a genuine diff erence to Groub, a refugee in distress. What is your ultimate dream? You mean beyond world peace and an end to poverty, persecution and oppression? I’ve been writing my memoir — Counting Sunny Hours — for years, because new chapters keep unfolding. It is not so much a dream because it is perfectly achievable; I just have to be more LIFE LESSONS disciplined and prioritise time to write. The dream would be that You can’t once it is published, at least one person contacts me to say that this control what has brought “help and hope to the happens to hidden and hurting”. you in life, What is your idea of a dream job? but you can I think I have it right now. I’m completely free to follow my calling control how — ‘bringing hope and healing to the you respond hidden and hurting.” I am part of an amazing team of international and react. co-working friends who have HOME IS WHERE MUM IS: Sarah with her family. 6 GULF TIMES Thursday, December 24, 2015 COMMUNITY ABBA tribute to usher in 2016

By Umer Nangiana

BBA, a Swedish pop group formed in Stockholm in 1972 with members Agnetha Fältskog, BjörnA Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad, was one of the most successful acts in the history of popular music. They topped the charts worldwide from 1975 to 1982. They won the Eurovision Song Contest 1974 at the Dome in Brighton, UK, giving Sweden its fi rst triumph in the contest, and were the most successful group ever to take part in the competition. ABBA were honoured at the 50th anniversary celebration of the Eurovision Song Contest in 2005, when their hit Waterloo was chosen as the best song in the competition’s history. The group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on March 15, 2010. The ABBA Tribute band, Revival, from UK is a tribute live experience which is quite unlike any other ABBA Tribute acts. And they are coming to town this New ORIGINAL ACT: ABBA in 1974, from left, Benny Andersson, Anni-Frid Lyngstad (Frida), Agnetha Fältskog, and Björn Ulvaeus. Year’s Eve to mesmerise the local audience. The award winning band and after it, said Jassim. mock fl icker fl ame candelabras, the charts of English-speaking The legend of ABBA lives on with will take you back to the golden The show will be held at giant led star cloth backdrops — countries, including the UK, an incredible legacy of timeless era of Dancing Queens and Mama Marriott Hotel on the New giving the audience an experience Ireland, the US, Canada, Australia, tunes and their undeniable place in Mias. Year’s Eve. Their collective of extremely high-quality New Zealand, and South Africa. music history. The Swedish super “The show is especially years of experience in all walks production. The group also enjoyed signifi cant group is as popular and well-loved choreographed. It would be a high of the entertainment and music ABBA, the original Swedish success in Latin American today as it was in its 70s heyday, energy, fast paced show including industries have enabled the Revival band, sold over 300 million markets, and recorded a collection with classic pop songs and dance ballads that builds towards a to create and fi nely tune quite albums and singles worldwide, of their hit songs in Spanish. fl oor beats familiar with generation superb grand fi nale. There will also simply the slickest concert stage while according to its label the ABBA was a highly respected and after generation. Never in the be a sing-along unplugged section show around. Universal Music Group the band family friendly group whose music history of pop has one group been where the band will involve the The show includes faithful has sold over 375 million records continues to thrill young and old so celebrated and revered. audience,” Jassim Mohammed, the choreography, spectacular and as of January 2010. The group’s alike. Revival continues those Earlier this year ABBA Revival organiser from Red Apple Events authentic costumes, stunning record sales fi gure is uncertain, principles and provides a show to were nominated for the ‘UK told Community. production and, most importantly, and various estimates range from be enjoyed by all age groups. Tribute Awards 2013’. They have There will be some fully excellent musicianship. over 140 to over 500 million sold From small venues to large also been recognised by the choreographed dance routines Special attention has been paid records. events, the show itself is shrouded industry as the ‘Offi cial #1’ Abba with more than four costume to the stage itself. Revival uses This makes them one of the in the special atmosphere that only Tribute Show. They are one of changes and a fully interactive state-of-the-art lighting rigs best-selling music artists, and the a live concert can provide. Add the best ABBA tribute bands to show. The ABBA tribute band and special eff ects, Lasers, UV second best-selling music group to all this to the sheer energy and emerge from the UK, selling out performance will last about 90 lighting, audience blinders, and of all time, after the Beatles. ABBA enthusiasm all the band members shows throughout the UK and minutes while there will be a DJ custom built stage props including was the fi rst group to come from bring to each show, the audience internationally for over six years. engaging the audience in the build an original white Yamaha cp70 a non-English-speaking country is set to have an incredible night to They are quite simply the premium up to the Revival’s performance piano, as originally used by Benny, to enjoy consistent success in remember. ABBA experience.

THE TRIBUTE BAND: Revival-The Tribute to ABBA has been one of UK’s best Tribute bands for years. Thursday, December 24, 2015 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY Last chance to catch ‘The Hunt’

Powder flask. Mughal, India. 17th-18th century. Ivory, paint.

ON DISPLAY: Archer’s ring. Mughal, India. 19th century. Gold, diamond, enamel.

was – and in some places, still On display in the museum’s expressed throughout the Islamic kinds of animals. But one theme By Anand Holla continues to be – an essential Special Exhibitions Gallery, it world. in particular is falconry which is element in the lifestyle of focuses on hunting as a royal “It shows a certain type of a symbol of royalty and comes up princes, sultans and pashas, “as it activity in Islamic lands, a major imagery that has been repeated in quite often. Then, we move on to ith the year coming required horsemanship, strength part of elite life in the Islamic Islamic art. It off ers all diff erent the animals that were hunted,” to a close, the and courage, allowing rulers to world from earliest times until the kinds of mediums through diff erent Tugwell had further pointed out. deadlines for demonstrate their skills and assert present day. As such, images of time periods. We are going through Frequently commissioned some of the year’s their authority.” This is also why the hunt in almost every medium Spain to India,” Julia Tugwell, and exhibited for royal display, most fascinating images of the hunt are commonly are commonly found in Islamic Assistant Curator at MIA, had told such artworks form a signifi cant exhibitionsW that have either been found in Islamic art. art, whether in lavishly illustrated Community at the launch of the component of collections held by extended to or were slated to fi nish At The Hunt, you can pore manuscripts, inlaid metalwork or exhibition in September, “We see prominent Qatari and international in the early days of 2016 are also through the “the lifestyle, power colourful ceramics. this imagery of huntsmen and its museums. The Hunt forms part closing in. and bravery of royal hunters”. The wide variety of objects association with royalty so it has of the Qatar Turkey 2015 Year of One such must-watch exhibition The MIA has pointed out that the presented in The Hunt exhibition – become a sort of symbol and it is Culture. As such, a number of is The Hunt: Princely Pursuits in exhibition draws on highlights manuscripts, ceramics, metalwork, interesting to see that this symbol key artworks from the Topkapı Islamic Lands at the Museum of from the collections of Qatari and textiles, glass, woodwork and has spread all over the place. It is Palace Museum and the Turkish Islamic Art (MIA), which ends on Turkish museums “to explore and hunting tools – dating from the 11th not just confi ned to one country; it and Islamic Arts Museum in January 9 — the entry is free. celebrate the sport of hunting, as to the 20th centuries, allows you to keeps reappearing in textiles or on Istanbul are on show as part of Throughout the Islamic well as the related activities of polo, have a peek into the lives of princes, ceramics.” the exhibition, highlighting the world, the act of hunting, rich feasting, and fi ghting, all of which sultans and caliphs and explore “We talk about animals that commonalities between Qatari and with symbolism and pageantry, feature richly in Islamic art.” how the notion of kingship was were involved and we use diff erent Turkish cultures. NRNA-NCC election tomorrow involved. Other prominent Nepalese in Qatar By Usha Wagle Gautam also played critical roles in the negotiations, said the council. Fifty-six candidates are vying for diff erent he Non-Resident Nepalese posts in NRNA-NCC’s new working Association-National Coordination committee. There are three people competing Council (NRNA-NCC) will conduct for the chairman’s post: Arjun Bhattarai, the election for its new working Binash Tamang, and Mohammed Shakir Ali. committee for 2015-17 tomorrow at Nagendra Prasad Pokhrel and Mohammed Tthe Embassy of Nepal in Doha. Muktada Musalman are competing for the The council issued a notice saying that the post of fi rst vice-chairman; Nanda Prasad elections will be held at the embassy from Garbuja and Karim Baks Miya are competing 6am to 3pm. The elections were originally to become general secretary; Prem Kumar BK, scheduled for August 21 but were postponed Uttam Kumar Shah and Mohammed Aaujer after the embassy did not allow the use of its for secretary; and Bhesraj Parajuli, Abdul premises as a ballot venue. The organisers then Wasid, Akbar Kawari, Rupesh Yadav and The NRNA-NCC election committee members along with some of the candidates. planned to conduct the elections online on Budhabal Gurung are competing to become September 28, but that plan also fell through. the treasurer. women members; while Ramji Khatri, Shiba Alam, Santosh Dangal, Buddhiram Bhandari, NRNA-NCC election committee says Lil Bahadur GC, Kedarnath Bhusal and Prasad Bastola, Lal Bahadur Bhatta, Bhupati Shakti Chhetri and Deepak Lamichhane are they were able to get the embassy to say yes Dipendra Dhakal are eyeing the post of Bhattarai, Bhim Bahadur Thapa, Maila Waiba, competing for the open member posts. to hosting the balloting after the NRNA’s youth co-ordinator; Sarita Bhandari and Bhim Bahadur Taramu Magar, Mohammed NRNA-NCC has 2,807 registered members International Coordination Council got Mina Khadka will compete to become Yasin Rain, Dilliram Bhattarai, Mehbub in Qatar. 8 GULF TIMES Thursday, December 24, 2015 COMMUNITY Over 100 attend a boot camp to raise cancer awareness

ore than 100 people and SFQ Sports Academy as its AAB said it encourages Work around 1,600 sports enthusiasts. are extremely grateful to Future 318 participated in organising partner. Life Balance to promote a healthy Heba Nassar from Qatar Cancer in involving us in this initiative. a boot camp at The participants were divided quality of life. The company Society thanked and welcomed the At McDonald’s Qatar, we are Sharq Village & into fi ve groups and each one took recognises the importance of sports participants and gave an overview committed to take up any causes in Spa recently to turn in doing all the activities in the holistic development of an of how cancer can be prevented the interest of our community and showM their support for Beat Cancer simultaneously. The last part of individual and community in line through living an active healthy work towards a better and healthier Awareness Programme initiated the programme was a treasure with the Qatar National Vision lifestyle. society.” by Future 318 Faisal Al Suwaidi for hunt game incorporating cancer 2030. Hence, it strives to promote Ghada Khamal, Marketing A group of employees from Events. awareness through searching for a healthy lifestyle by conducting Manager of McDonalds Qatar, said, various departments at Sharq Future 318 was supported for the the diff erent types of cancers in weekly internal sports events “We were delighted to support Village and Spa joined the boot camp by Abdullah Abdulghani & the Word Search Puzzle, solving a participated in by about half of its the camp as part of our Corporate camp and won as the fastest group Bros (AAB) as its strategic partner Riddle and a jigsaw puzzle. employees, which accounts for Social Responsibility policy and to fi nish all the challenges.

COMPETITIVE: Some of the activities that the participants competed in at the camp.

Thierry Sabbagh new Managing Director of Ford Middle East

Ford’s regional off ice has announced the develop the Middle East market is in line with appointment of Thierry Sabbagh to the role of the One Ford Plan. Managing Director, Ford Middle East. “For the continued success of Ford in our Sabbagh makes the internal switch from his region, certain priorities including customer position as Ford’s Regional Sales Director, satisfaction will help us reach our goals,” which he held since 2012, where he was said Sabbagh. “An improved dealer network responsible for supporting Ford and Lincoln and level of capability, along with making dealers across the GCC markets as well as the customer sales and service experiences Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Afghanistan and Yemen. second-to-none, can ensure the growth of In his new role, Sabbagh aims to grow share Ford in this region moving forward.” profitability, while also creating a leading Sabbagh also intends to improve distributor customer experience for the brand. And, in marketing eff orts, while also getting serious constructing the best distributor network in about the fleet and commercial vehicle the region, Sabbagh’s vision to understand and business. Thursday, December 24, 2015 GULF TIMES 9 COMMUNITY

PEC organises workshop on Fire Safety Management System

The Pakistan Education Centre (PEC) recently hosted a one-day workshop on the school’s Fire 20 admin staff members attended the workshop. The workshop was divided into three parts: 1) Safety Management System recently. The workshop was conducted by Liaquat Amin Satti, PEC Life Safety Management System by Liaquat Amin Satti; 2) PEC Drill Planning & Schedule for Director Crisis Management & Business Continuity at Ras Gas SHE & Q. About 120 teachers and 2016 & 2017 by Muhammad Bilal Akram; and 3) Fire Warden Training by Ian Potter.

Prem Nazeer Memorial Essay Contest announced

Charishma Arts have partnered up with Photo Power to conduct a “Prem Nazeer Memorial Essay Contest”. The organisers announced details of the competition in a press conference recently. Each essay should be no longer than five pages in length, written in Malayalam and is open to both boys and girls. Competitors should send scanned or typed copies of their essays to [email protected] as PDFs by January 8. Prizes will be awarded on January 16 at the Indian Cultural Centre. Abdul Khader (7 April 1923 – 16 January 1989), better known by his stage name Prem Nazir, was an Indian film actor best known for his work in Malayalam cinema. Nazir holds two Guinness World Records — for playing the lead role in a record 725 films, and for playing opposite the same heroine (Sheela) in 130 films.

Warm welcome for former principal of Sree Narayana College

SN College (Essenssmrithi) Alumni Association welcomed the former principal of Sree Narayana College and former Kerala Public Service Commission member Professor K U Arunan on his recent visit to Qatar. The function was held at the Indian Cultural Centre. M K Usman chaired the function. 10 GULF TIMES Thursday, December 24, 2015 COMMUNITY

Holiday Villa Doha celebrates Qatar National Day

Holiday Villa Hotel & Residence Doha decked itself in Qatar’s maroon and white flags to mark Assistant Manager Roy Buma, spearheaded the Tree Lighting celebration. The hotel’s own choir the National Day recently. The hotel celebrated the occasion by lighting its walls, with cultural performed at the ceremony. traditions, ethnic costumes and signature delicacies. Buma said, “This annual event never ceases to lift everyone’s spirit. Knowing that most of us are Holiday Villa Doha General Manager Joey Chen said, “We take great pride in commemorating far from home this season, we at Holiday Villa, in our own small way, aims to lighten the mood the National Day. This country has been our second home and we are grateful to be part of it. On and impart enjoyment to everyone. Thankful for the unending support given by our guests behalf of the management and staff , I would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations on the and loyal friends, the show also symbolises the exciting programmes we have prepared for occasion of Qatar National Day.” 2016. With the eff orts spent by staff over the past weeks, the celebration would not be possible The hotel also marked the beginning of the festive season recently with dancing lights and jovial without them. With these, we are grateful to all who has participated in accomplishing the hymns. Cued by the solemn Angels We Have Heard on High, Chen, together with Executive success of the event.”

Al Khebra Driving Academy celebrates Qatar National Day

The management and staff members of the Al Khebra Driving Academy celebrated Qatar National Day recently with enthusiasm and zeal. Representatives of Ooredoo also visited the academy on the occasion and distributed free sim cards and mobile phones to employees and customers. Thursday, December 24, 2015 GULF TIMES 11 COMMUNITY

Indonesian embassy celebrates 87th Indonesian Mother’s Day

The Indonesian Embassy in Qatar marked the 87th and Indonesian women living in Qatar. In all, about 150 “highest appreciation to Indonesian ladies for their role and Indonesian Mother’s Day and 16th anniversary of the Spouses people attended the event, many dressed in Indonesian active participation in various events conducted by SICSA”. of the Indonesian Civil Servant Association (SICSA) recently in traditional outfits such as Kebaya and Moslemah. A group of Indonesian ladies also played the traditional a ceremony led by Ambassador Deddy Saiful Hadi. Ambassador Deddy performed the Cutting of Tumpeng Indonesian musical bamboo instrument called Angklung, The event was attended by the Indonesia embassy’s staff (pagoda shape of yellow rice decorated with food ornaments) livening up the atmosphere at the celebration. members, SICSA Chairwoman Deddy Hadi, ICSA members and presented it to Endang Deddy Hadi to symbolise the 12 GULF TIMES Thursday, December 24, 2015 COMMUNITY INFOGRAPHIC Thursday, December 24, 2015 GULF TIMES 13 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY 5 ways to make your first impression a lasting one ithin the fi rst professional and will position you and optimistic outlook. Go into the few seconds of in a positive light. Being mindful of meeting with an open mind and meeting someone, your appearance will give you more learn something new. Contribute an opinion is confi dence to help make a great fi rst to the conversation and maintain immediately impression. engagement. Showing attentiveness Wformed that can last forever. This is often contagious, as the person you encounter often sets the tone for the Share your best smile meet catches on and reciprocate. relationship that follows. So how A warm, genuine smile is your can you make your fi rst impression a best tool in making a fi rst impression Be conscious of your body positive one? unforgettable. A self-assured and language Here are some tips to help you convincing smile starts with regular Body language is a crucial element knock your fi rst meeting out of the oral care practices to keep your teeth in daily human interaction. From park: clean and your breath smelling fresh. the way you walk to a meeting, to An easy way to do this is by adding a the hand gestures used while you Take pride in your presence mouthwash. Mouthwash formulas speak — body language is just as Physical appearance is the strengthen teeth, kill germs and important as the words you say. fi rst thing people observe before freshen breath, so you are guaranteed Start by standing tall, making Be yourself as you move forward. Making an an introduction. Always dress to have and maintain an impressive appropriate eye contact and giving Being true to yourself is the best everlasting fi rst impression is simply appropriately for the occasion, smile. a fi rm handshake. Demonstrate way to be presentable to others. Be about being at peace with who you whether it’s a casual lunch or a formal open body postures by keeping comfortable with your personality. If are and being ready to meet others. business meeting. A go-to suggestion Showcase your positive your head up and relaxing your nervousness kicks in, take a few deep Try some of these above tips at your is to maintain a clean and crisp attitude shoulders. Crossed arms and legs breaths and remember to be calm and next meeting, networking event or appearance for most events because For people who get nervous make you appear closed off and confi dent. A composed demeanor job interview. you can’t go wrong — think business when interacting with others, it is unapproachable, so be mindful of will put anyone at ease, sealing the casual. This look can be trendy and essential to sustain a calm attitude how you might appear to others. deal on an excellent relationship © Brandpoint

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

Single? Love is definitely in the air for those of you looking. With You know the saying ‘you catch more flies with honey than with Feeling as if you have way too many new obligations lately? That your ruler Mars the planet of energy in your one on one relationship vinegar’, right? Today is the perfect day to spread the love and cheer you have to answer for pretty much everything lately? Think fast zone, Librans and Aquarians are both great air matches for you this amongst your friends and family, bulls. and be super sharper than ever today Gemini’s! holiday week/season.

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

If you’ve been struggling with a financial issue and it’s become As much as you like things to run smoothly and preferably go the A friend or colleague may be constantly challenging you and more complicated so far this year, you’re about to have your Eureka way you want them to go Leos, you might very well have to follow moving the goal posts. Keep your sense of humour intact and trust moment today or this weekend. Capricorns are a really good match someone else’s lead today. This is a great time to shoot the breeze your intuition. Being an earth sign you usually stick to the facts, up for you as are other Cancers. and talking about joining forces with someone and buy property or however, this is a great time for you branch out and really tap into start a business. your inner mind. LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

Now is the time to expand your horizons and really allow your life to Avoid sticking to plans today and instead, go out and play and have If you feel as if someone is talking at your versus to you, this is follow whatever pathway it wants to follow. Live your dream Librans fun Scorpios. This is the absolute perfect time for you to really push a great time for you to speak up and say something Sags. Being and allow your inner light to shine through. yourself at work and make some big steps towards your work goals lectured isn’t any fun and if someone is trying to tell you something, in 2016. that’s fine, but they don’t have to act all preachy, right?

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

Don’t try to nail someone or something down today. You may You’re an air sign and like being able to reach calm and rational Watch out Pisces! If others are clinging to their own opinions for change your mind mid–day and decide on something else — decisions and have calm and rational thoughts with no drama dear life, let them. Nothing short of a miraculous happening will however if you’re locked in to something, it may not be possible for attached. However, with the holidays here, family and drama tend change their minds, so why even try? Just keep on plugging away you to do what you want to do because you’ve made other plans. to go hand in hand. People might want you to razz you today but and slowly but surely they will see that your way is the best way! ignore them. 14 GULF TIMES Thursday, December 24, 2015 COMMUNITY PUZZLES/CARTOONS

Wordsearch Adam

Pooch Cafe All My Sons

ANDERSON HARRISON MORRISON BRYSON HENDERSON NICOLSON CARSON HUDSON PATERSON DAWSON JACKSON ROBINSON EDISON JOHNSON TENNYSON EMERSON JOLSON THOMPSON GARRISON MADISON WATSON GIBSON MASON WILSON 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. Thursday, December 24, 2015 GULF TIMES 15 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Quick Clues Colouring

ACROSS DOWN 1. Assume (10) 1. Earlier (5) 7. Uplift (5) 2. Lift (8) 8. Shorten (7) 3. Gamin (6) 10. Word for word (8) 4. Chaste (4) 11. Opinion (4) 5. Durability (7) 13. Mythical beast (6) 6. Foresight (10) 15. Damage (6) 9. Criminal (10) 17. Observe (4) 12. Still (8) 18. Sleeplessness (8) 14. Item (7) 21. Cry out (7) 16. Spite (6) 22. Fireplace (5) 19. Dark (5) 23. Unrelenting (10) 20. Girl (4)

Cryptic Clues

Answers

Wordsearch Codeword

ACROSS DOWN 1. Round dairy is lap in flying show 1. A role out of consideration (5) (3,7) 2. The athlete is out of bed; he came second 7. A win once more (5) (6-2) 8. Mood engendered by liquor? (7) 3. Anne is unfortunately quite mad (6) 10. Need hint after all (2,3,3) 4. Gave the money as Polish leader needed 11. The demeanour of one surrounded help (4) by males (4) 5. Originating from a revolution (7) Yesterday’s Solutions 13. Prepare to stop (4,2) 6. For which players take to the air (5,5) 15. One can get a bangle from here (6) 9. Having given vocal items, girls minimise QUICK CRYPTIC 17. All fifty lost as leaving pass in the glare with them (10) Across: 6 Shackle; 7 Sever; 9 Bog; 10 Intention; Across: 6 Sundial; 7 Might; 9 Nap; 10 mountains (4) 12. Abandon set joint (8) 12 Come to an end; 15 Semaphore; 12 Puts in order; 15 18. The others get a smaller amount, 14. Almost really wanting a painkiller (7) being fidgety (8) 16. Look for car he’s wrecked (6) Considering; 17 Maladroit; 19 Cow; 21 Style; 22 Livingstone; 17 Turntable; 19 Bar; 21 Repel; 22 21. Oar rate affected by apparatus to 19. Delete part of the chapter as excessively Bear out. Captive. put gas in (7) explicit (5) Down: 1 Shoot; 2 Act; 3 Glen; 4 Pertinent; 5 Down: 1 Sugar; 2 Ode; 3 Cane; 4 Dithering; 5 22. The condition of the country (5) 20. Remain as support (4) Redound; 8 Devour; 11 Constable; 13 Charges; 8 Magnet; 11 Audiences; 13 23. Unique opportunity is merely luck (4,6) Endure; 14 Loyalty; 16 Vogue; 18 Idea; 20 Dry. Signal; 14 Minutes; 16 Waive; 18 Leap; 20 Eta. 16 GULF TIMES Thursday, December 24, 2015 COMMUNITY REVIEWS No slowing down for Cruise and company

hooks than a fi shing basket. It’s one Belarus to Morocco to London, scene, but everything makes sense. By Colin Covert of the best wide-release movies of where Hunt clings to vehicles The fi lm has a sophisticated the summer. moving at redline speed. Now he’s feel, introducing an unidentifi ed, Over 19 years — a term far beyond hanging onto a transport plane unpredictable femme fatale who FILM: Mission: Impossible — the longevity of any Bond star — taking off , now screeching sideways could be Hunt’s ally or archenemy. Rogue Nation Cruise has played undercover agent in a wheel-smoking BMW, now Swedish actress Rebecca Ferguson DIRECTOR: Christopher Ethan Hunt like a dashing freshman racing alongside a dozen enemies in is vibrant in the role, standing out McQuarrie on campus. In his 50s now, his a lethal game of motorcycle chicken. here like Charlize Theron did in Mad ACTORS: Tom Cruise, Rebecca charisma and physicality are still Cruise doesn’t put on airs of berserk Max. Ferguson earns our support Ferguson, Jeremy Renner good as new. Hunt’s ageless charm strength and invulnerability. One whether she’s outfoxing the IMF, the never seems to reach beyond his of the fi lm’s funny touches is seeing weirdly reserved Syndicate nemesis ne of the many talents closest Impossible Missions Force Hunt survive each new catastrophe played by Sean Harris, or Simon of Tom Cruise is the allies, though. just barely. McBurney’s manipulative MI6 chief ability to elevate a The unit’s spotty track record in He’s not always pushed to the (the fi lm’s bad guys are all British as ho-hum movie format saving the world has the CIA (led edge of death by hand-to-hand marmalade). into a goodie box of with tongue-in-cheek smarm by combat. Often he goes there himself. Her eyes shining with intelligence, creativeO surprises. To me, that’s a Alec Baldwin) trying to disband the An instant after a near-drowning, Ferguson is a performing equal to skill that even tops doing his own IMF in secretive US Senate meetings. he motors across Casablanca with Cruise. To orchestrate the emotional stunts. Cruise has sometimes been Under investigation, Hunt is forced a comically worried Benji in the tension between the characters, a cocky 7 out of 10 as a performer, to abandon Simon Pegg’s anxious passenger seat. “Sure you’re OK to McQuarrie repeats the glorious but as a movie-developing producer tech wizard Benji, Ving Rhames’ drive?” Benji bleats. “A minute ago “Turandot” theme we fi rst encounter he’s dependably a 9.5. His Mission: icewater cool Luther and Jeremy you were dead.” in a Hitchcock-style assassination Impossible series has transformed Renner’s analytical Brandt. How nice to have a hero with no at the Vienna opera house. Even the traditional action espionage into Those are badly timed farewells, superpowers, just skills and courage. fi lm’s musical motifs are swanky. high-concept team stories with a since a global threat called the Christopher McQuarrie, Cruise’s Baldwin’s CIA bulldozer spends crew of clever protagonists, snappy Syndicate is about to launch an creative partner on Valkyrie, Jack most of the running time trying dialogue and gravity-defying stunts. international splatterfest that Reacher and Edge of Tomorrow, to pull the plug on the IMF’s The new edition, Rogue Nation, only Hunt and his associates can handles both the script and direction adventures, but not many viewers is immersive, unpredictable and confront. with stylish spin. You can’t guess will agree. They’re Tom terrifi c. — crammed with more sharp plot Rogue Nation takes us from where the mystery is headed scene to Star Tribune (Minneapolis)/TNS

A minor win for the little guy Atmospheric dread, but problems too and into familial headaches as his ex-wife story that serves as the basis for the fi lm By Colin Covert (Judy Greer) married her cop boyfriend (Bobby appeared in the anthology October Dreams: Cannavale) and denied Scott visitation to their A Celebration of Halloween. Although the cute-beyond-words daughter (Abby Ryder fi lm preserves the premise, its release has FILM: Ant-Man Fortson). been timed more than a month ahead of DIRECTOR: Peyton Reed His eff orts to provide child support payments Halloween. ACTORS: Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas, Corey reveal a streak of cat burglar skills apparently The story hints at the depth of its Stoll developed in prison. Those talents persuade literary roots, with an elaborate exposition retired science genius Hank Pym (Michael drawing on Halloween’s Celtic origin and n its visual focus, the weight of its characters Douglas) to recruit Scott for a small-scale caper of the tradition’s propagation in the colonial and its storytelling ambition, Ant-Man is his own. Very small-scale. settlements of 1679 New York. But none the tiniest superhero fantasy in the Marvel Wearing Hank’s mechanised shrinking suit, of this is explored in depth in the fi lm, universe. bite-sized Scott soon leads an ant army. Don’t something that would have enhanced The hero is the little guy incarnate, a shiver if you have insect-phobia, these are Mike’s character development given his Ishape-shifter growing in strength by shrinking computer-created to look less hairy and scary than academic background. in size. His biggest concern is the safety of his the real things. They are not the creepy-crawlies By Martin Tsai Whatever research Lebbon and moppet daughter, not the galaxy. The engine of that invade your kitchen, but pleasant, helpful screenwriter Dan Kay might have the self-satiric plot is a corporate heist, not an aides happy to put a sugar cube in your tea. undertaken ultimately comes off like the epic alien invasion fl attening a metropolis. Other Scott befriends a fl ying ant, imaginatively FILM: Pay the Ghost product of a historical walking tour of Marvel champions face interlocking challenges to dubbed Antony, riding it into battle against bad DIRECTOR: Uli Edel New York. Other details don’t add up: A their safety and sanity. guys who are out to seize the Pym Particle, an ACTORS: Nicolas Cage, Sarah Wayne struggling academic who just got tenure, This hero’s top worry is getting stepped on. invention of Hank’s that could unhinge the world. Callies, Veronica Ferres Mike inexplicably lives with his family The lead character enters the fi lm not by fl oating While director Peyton Reed includes in a two-story brownstone in Lower down from Asgard, taking a superhuman serum or long periods resembling wide-angle macro n Pay the Ghost, Nicolas Cage and Manhattan that only millionaires could being bitten by a radioactive spider. He just walks photography of half-inch Scott, much of the fi lm Sarah Wayne Callies play spouses aff ord. If he does come from wealth, why out of prison on release day. is devoted to comedy. Part of it seems inherited estranged since the disappearance not consider ransom as a possible motive Nice guy Scott Lang (the ever-likable Paul from the script created by the project’s originally of their young son while trick-or- for Charlie’s abduction? Rudd) was locked away for a multimillion-dollar planned director, Edgar Wright (Shaun of the treating on Halloween, and though Mike is supposed to be a suspect in the theft. It was, he repeatedly explains, burglary Dead). Who but Wright would have crafted a aI year has passed since Charlie (Jack investigation, but the fi lm isn’t entirely not robbery. A computer whiz outraged by his micro-scale battle to a pounding soundtrack of Fulton) vanished, college professor Mike convincing about this, either. To be fair, money-grubbing employers, he turned digital The Cure’s 1989 song Disintegration? Or the fi ght (Cage) continues to pass along his latest Cage is convincing, for the most part. (As Robin Hood, returning the ill-gotten wealth on a moving Thomas the Tank Engine toy, whose conspiracy theories to a detective (Lyriq Mike confers with a colleague, Cage does to the good people they cheated. Still, a crime smashing conclusion is the fi lm’s action high Bent). seem like he’s merely feeding her lines.) is a crime. His good deed put him behind bars point? Police have treated this as a missing- Tidbits that would make the fi lm Rudd and co-writer Adam McKay (Anchorman), persons case, despite all the ravens interesting have been squandered. Instead, among the team that revised Wright’s story, seem hovering overhead suggesting that they we get the standard-issue haunted-house to have created the amusing trio of Scott’s quirky follow another lead: Charlie complained fodder. The ghosts manifest in so many criminal sidekicks. Michael Peña, hip-hop hero about a shadow outside his window and diff erent ways that it seems like the movie TI and David Dastmalchian are each distinctively proceeded to draw it for his art class. He is grasping for straws. funny. Peña’s habit of jitter-jawed storytelling sets asked, “Dad, did we pay the ghost?” before Director Uli Edel, whose fi lmography off riptides of dialogue fl ashbacks that are solid he was gone in 60 seconds. Since then, his ranges from the Oscar-nominated foreign- gold comedy. beloved scooter scoots all by itself. language fi lm The Baader Meinhof Complex Beyond that, Ant-Man is an ant-i-climax. It Like so many of Cage’s fi lms made in to the Madonna disaster Body of Evidence, doesn’t rise to the screwball audacity of Guardians the last fi ve years, Pay the Ghost seems credibly creates the atmospheric dread. But of the Galaxy. Or Antz. Or A Bug’s Life. But it’s an to be aimed at audiences overseas, where that can go only so far. –LA Times endearing exercise in style — a playful, small-scale he may be a more viable box-offi ce DVDs courtesy: crowd-pleaser that parodies its bombastic Marvel draw. British author Tim Lebbon’s short Saqr Entertainment Stores, Doha precursors. — Star Tribune (Minneapolis)/TNS Thursday, December 24, 2015 GULF TIMES 17 BOLLYWOOD COMMUNITY I don’t read reviews: SRK

good despite certain negative Shah Rukh says the fi lm never was meant to be an “in-the-face” reviews, much better than Bajirao “pretended” to be something else, commercial entertainer. Directed Mastani, the other release of the and if audiences want a novel by Rohit Shetty, who’s known for week. The collections though are concept, they should wait for Fan. his stylish action and comic scenes, less compared to Shah Rukh’s “If you’re looking for novelty, the movie has impressed Bollywood previous fi lms Happy New Year and then you should watch out for Fan. buff s, primarily SRK’s fans. HAPPY GO LUCKY: Shah Rukh Khan Chennai Express. It’s a diff erent kind of fi lm, supposed “It has romance, comedy, drama. About the response to the fi lm, he to be a niche ... It’s not meant to be I don’t even think that having Kajol uperstar Shah Rukh Khan and artistic acclaim.” said: “There is a feeling of delight, a blockbuster releasing ahead of and Shah Rukh Khan is a novelty says he is happy that his “But according to me, such fi lms we want it to do better, that families Christmas,” Shah Rukh told IANS. factor as it’s just that we are doing a fi lm Dilwale was liked by should be liked by the audience. I’m come to the theatres without any Fan, directed by Maneesh fi lm together after a long time. people but he didn’t read happy that the critics have liked it hesitation.” Sharma, features Shah Rukh as “Within that scape, if you’re the reviews. Some critics and disliked it, though I don’t read “In some places, there were Gaurav, a fan of Shah Rukh Khan, looking for something, then Rohit Shave panned the fi lm, while many it. situations where all families the superstar. Shetty has not had much a love- have given average ratings for the “But beyond that, the fi lm we couldn’t venture out. But we have The actor-producer believes that based storyline or relationship Rohit Shetty fi lm. want to make is for a target ... the made the fi lm for families and I am “fi lms and storytelling are novel aspect in his fi lms as he is more But Shah Rukh said: “Popular audience, and as long they like it, hoping that the situation improves in the storytelling of it, unless you known for action and comedy. That fi lms usually have this logic. They I’m very happy. But all the views and and all come to watch the fi lm.” have a completely niche or off beat will be novelty for Rohit. But if you are a popular, blockbuster, in your all the reviews, god bless them all, I The fi lm also stars Kajol, Varun subject, and you take a subject not ask me generically, no Dilwale is face, masala fi lm. There are a lot of don’t read them.” Dhawan and Kriti Sanon among touched upon”. not reinventing cinema. It’s a fun elements, which are beyond critical The fi lm’s collections have been others. For Dilwale, he was clear that it commercial movie.” — IANS

Rishi Kapoor takes over Varun Dhawan to celebrate 5 hours for make-up New Year in Abu Dhabi

Rishi Kapoor, who teased his fans and Actor Varun Dhawan is going to celebrate his New Year followers with a glimpse of his look in out of India as he is leaving for Abu Dhabi to shoot for Shakun Batra’s Kapoor & Sons in the Rohit Dhawan’s Dishoom. virtual world, says it takes him over fi ve “I don’t think I will be in India on New Year’s (day). I am hours to get ready for his part. out of town and after that I will be leaving for Abu Dhabi Three-time Oscar winner Greg to shoot Dishoom.” He said at the Stardust Awards event. Cannom, the man behind the Dishoom also stars John Abraham, Jacqueline transformation of Brad Pitt in The Fernandez, Akshaye Khanna, and Nargis Fakhri in lead Curious Case of Benjamin Button and roles. The music is composed by Pritam Chakraborty. The Priyanka Chopra’s look in 7 Khoon Maaf, Badlapur actor, who is basking in the success of his latest has been hired for the make-up of the release Dilwale, is also keen to watch Bajirao Mastani veteran actor. — a fi lm that was released along with Shah Rukh Khan Rishi shared his look in the upcoming starrer on the same day in theaters. “I met Ranveer and modern family drama fi lm with an congratulated him. My mom watched Bajirao and I will be image on Twitter. Cannom seems to be watching as soon I get the time.” busy giving a touch-up to the 60-plus Bajirao Mastani featurs Ranveer Singh, Deepika actor. Padukone and Priyanka Chopra in lead roles. — IANS OUT OF TOWN: Varun Dhawan The actor posted: “Teaser picture. Acclaimed American make-up artist Greg Cannom making me up for ‘Kapoor Bhansali refutes rumours & Sons’. On chair for fi ve hours.” of remaking Khalnayak planning to buy its rights. By the look of it, Rishi plays the role For now, Bhansali is elated with the response to of an elderly person in the fi lm, which his period drama Bajirao Mastani. “We have worked brings Alia Bhatt, Fawad Khan and Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who is basking really hard on this fi lm so it feels really good to get Sidharth Malhotra together. The male in the success of his latest release Bajirao Mastani, appreciated. The team had worked really hard on leads will be seen playing the role of has dismissed rumours that he has signed actor this fi lm,” Bhansali said. writers. Ranveer Singh for the remake of Subhash Ghai’s Bajirao Mastani, starring Ranveer, Deepika The romantic drama is produced by 1993 hit fi lm Khalnayak. Padukone and Priyanka Chopra, has minted fi lmmaker Karan Johar and is slated to “No, not at all. That’s totally a wrong news,” Rs.100cr worldwide and is going strong in theatres, hit theatres on March 18 next year. Bhansali said at the red carpet of the Renault Sony with positive word of mouth. It released alongside Cannom’s Bollywood story continues Guild Awards 2015. There were reports that Bhansali superstar Shah Rukh Khan’s Dilwale on December as he is also behind the look of Shah is keen to remake Ghai’s 1993 fi lm and that he’s 18. — IANS NEW LOOK: Rishi Kapoor Rukh Khan in Fan. — IANS 18 GULF TIMES Thursday, December 24, 2015 COMMUNITY HOLLYWOOD ‘The events in the world are disturbing to say the least’ Hateful Eight’s Quentin Tarantino, Samuel L Jackson touch raw nerve of racism

By Jeff rey Fleishman

ut of a nation shaken by terrorism, racial tension and violence, where traces of past sins collide with aO quicksilver pop culture, rides Quentin Tarantino’s new fi lm about frontier justice, strange alliances and how a black bounty hunter with a dead-eye shot survives on guile, menace and clever sleight of hand against enemies and unrepentant Confederates. The Hateful Eight, which opens Christmas Day, is a western spun through a racial prism, a swift- talking tale of seven suspicious men and one mean woman trapped in a snowstorm in the cruel mountains of Wyoming. The bad die in wicked ways and mercy is a lie, but the fi lm, set in post-Civil War America, speaks to today’s troubled landscape of police shootings and seething politics. Tarantino turns narratives inside out and scratches at the national psyche with restrained frenzy. Like his other fi lms, notably Pulp Fiction and Django Unchained, The Hateful Eight hypnotises with dialogue while edging toward brutal recrimination that is at once wincing and cartoonish. The movie, brimming with N-words and ghosts of the Old South, distills the disquieting polarisation of a country that has given us Donald IN YOUR FACE: Jennifer Jason Leigh, Kurt Russell and Bruce Dern in The Hateful Eight. Trump and Black Lives Matter. Filmmakers are often reluctant to the nation after the San Bernardino Tarantino. “Those are the kind of draw analogies between their work shootings. The director had been movies he makes. He writes things and divisive current events. But talking to the press about his fi lm for that are complex, interesting and Tarantino relishes hitting nerves three days, and it seemed he could exciting. I don’t get a lot of those and insinuating himself into the go for three more. things. I get a lot of stuff . Very few broader conversation. Samuel L Jackson took a scripts are those things.” “The events in the world are seat beside him. The two have Anticipation for the movie, shot disturbing to say the least, but collaborated for decades, and in on high-resolution 70mm fi lm with as an artiste you can only hope The Hateful Eight Jackson is Major an overture by Ennio Morricone, to do some piece of material that Marquis Warren, an ex-Union has been strong. It received several actually connects to the zeitgeist,” soldier and bounty hunter who Golden Globe nominations, Tarantino said. “While we were relies on his wits, pistol and a including for screenplay, and is part doing the movie that sort of blue suspect letter from Abraham of an aggressive Academy Awards state-red state divide that had been Lincoln. Theirs is a relationship campaign by the Weinstein Co. going on — and it wasn’t lost on me rooted in a reverence for fi lm and Despite his contentiousness, when I wrote the script — just got Jackson’s loyalty to the director Tarantino, who threatened to shelve wider and wider and the people on even as many blacks have criticised the movie after the script was both sides of the line seemed to be his portrayals of African- leaked online in 2014, is a favourite even more vocal in demonising one Americans. among academy voters — he’s won another.” Both men escaped to movie two Oscars for his scripts for Django Talking to Tarantino is like buying houses when they were young, Unchained and Pulp Fiction, which a car from a man at the end of an and, with Tarantino shaking his he shared with Roger Avary. alley. He’s coy, quick, eff ervescent. head, Jackson, 66, his voice like The Hateful Eight glides on He has a prankster’s laugh, and his swallowed thunder, remembered greed and betrayal played out in long frame, tailored in grey and his boyhood in Tennessee. Minnie’s Haberdashery, an outpost black, unfolds like a loosed hinge. “I came home and I pretended to in a blizzard where eyes squint He sat in a Beverly Hills hotel as be the thing I saw up there because hard and little is as it seems. The dusk fell over Hollywood Hills and it made me feel good and it was fi lm also stars Tim Roth, Jennifer President Barack Obama addressed exciting,” he said, gesturing toward Jason Leigh, Kurt Russell, Walton Quentin Tarantino Thursday, December 24, 2015 GULF TIMES 19 HOLLYWOOD COMMUNITY

and cultural pecking orders get rearranged. Mentioning that even today he is deferential to police because of what he learned as a boy, Jackson wondered what Muslims in America might encounter in the coming months. “They’ve essentially become young black men in a community COMING SOON: Matt Damon where before they didn’t have to walk the line. People fear them in a Damon says 5th Bourne fi lm way they didn’t before.” is ‘halfway through’ Tarantino nodded. He sipped water. Jackson leaned back. They Actor Matt Damon, who is were friends, muses, guys used to reprising his role as Jason Bourne, in being holed up for months together. the yet untitled fi fth instalment of As kinetic as they are, both men, the Bourne series, has revealed that on-screen and in person, have the the fi lm’s production is “halfway patience to let a moment gather through”. force. Jackson remembered his “We’re, like, probably about youth, sitting on the porch with halfway through. We started in his grandfather, listening to Andy September but they’re going dark Griffi th on the radio, trying to for most of December and cutting fi gure out how a story works, how it basically the fi rst two acts,” Damon crawls into you and makes a home. told variety.com. Tarantino said he wanted to make “And then we have the third act another western so his work could and then whatever we owe from stand on a shelf with Anthony the fi rst two acts,” he added. The Mann and Sam Peckinpah. 45-year-old actor teased on what He turned to Jackson. fans could expect from the upcoming “He does dialogue like nobody fi lm. “We were in Tenerife, which is else,” he said of the actor. “I let supposed to be Athens. It would be him do more collaborating with like a nighttime riot scene to kind of the structure of the scene and even start the movie. Samuel L Jackson in the film. some of the dialogue and even some “And then England, Berlin a little of the emotional beats than I allow bit for about a week, and a little bit Goggins, Michael Madsen and said Ishmael Reed, a writer and blacks. “I’m a human being with other actors to do. He’s plugged in DC. Then we’re going to Vegas for Bruce Dern, playing a bitter, white- activist who recently edited Black a conscience,” Tarantino said at into the way I write.” the third act ... Big car chase on the haired Confederate general. They Hollywood Unchained, a collection the rally. “And when I see murder Tarantino stood and stretched. strip,” he shared. are a pernicious lot guided by the of essays on how African Americans I cannot stand by. And I have to Night covered the hills. Obama’s Damon also discussed how the The harsh codes of an untamed land are portrayed in fi lms. “Tarantino call the murdered the murdered speech was over and pundits were Bourne Ultimatum would be related where a hangman roams for hire gets more coverage and a bigger and I have to call the murderers the spinning what it all meant. From to the upcoming instalment. and the sheriff has the oily manner audience. There aren’t enough murderers.” the 15th fl oor of the hotel, the world “You’ll fi nd the character — like of a corrupt preacher. black directors with enough power Police threatened to boycott The below unfurled in the bittersweet The Bourne Ultimatum, the third Racism and barbed vernacular to accurately tell the story of black Hateful Eight. Days later, Tarantino quiet of a dying Sunday; makeup act actually in the movie dovetails — sentences fl it like venomous history.” told The Times: “All cops are not artists packed their bags and with the third act of The Bourne sparrows — salt this mendacious Such criticism doesn’t “deserve murderers. I never said that. I never publicists scratched the last names Supremacy. So technically when the stew. Major Warren is the only much respect from me,” said even implied that.” off their lists. Jackson pulled tight Bourne character disappears, it’s still black among whites, some of whom Tarantino, suggesting that his But the San Bernardino shootings his cap and walked to the door. 2004. tolerate him while putting him in opponents want to appropriate — carried out by husband and wife Television sets fl ickered with “So when this next one comes out his place with the N-word, and racial and cultural touchstones to Islamic radicals — have tugged the latest violence from militants in ’16, it will have been 12 years — in others who would just as soon keep them out-of-bounds for white the nation, at least for a time, in a in Iraq and Syria, and a day later movie years — that the character as lynch him. artists. “I’m a writer. Writers are diff erent direction. Tarantino and protesters in Chicago condemned been off the grid. So what’s happened The major is wily enough to supposed to write about themselves Jackson spoke of the paranoia that the police shooting of a black teen. in those intervening years gives you a know that safety is a black man’s and other people. Male writers blooms from fear and how racial Los Angeles Times/TNS story,” he added. delusion, which is why he keeps his are supposed to write about white Bourne 5, which reunites Damon weapon close and an ever-assessing people and black people and THE BIG THREE with co-star Julia Stiles and director gleam in his eyes. He uses the children, women and old people.” married to a black woman. Paul Greengrass, is scheduled to colour of his skin and all it evokes to Tarantino has a sharp awareness Quentin Tarantino’s fi lms Jackie Brown (1997): Starring release in US theaters on July 29, scare, revile, placate, humour and of the times and a savant’s hurtle with violence, sly dialogue, Pam Grier, the sultry queen of 2016. The cast also includes Alicia draw respect. detailed passion for movies. multiple storylines, references to 1970s blaxploitation movies, Vikander, Tommy Lee Jones, Riz “If I have one serious subject He is a “provocative artist and pop culture and explorations of the fi lm traces the travails of a Ahmed, Vincent Cassel and Scott that has carried over with me,” said fi lmmaker,” said Yoruba Richen, a inter-racial relationships among fl ight attendant contending with Shepherd. — IANS Tarantino, 52, “it is dealing with black documentary director. “What everyone from married couples to federal agents and gun dealer race in America and in particularly I appreciate about him is that he’s hit men. Tarantino has often been Ordell Robbie (Jackson). Robbie Steve Carell loves between white folks and black folks engaging with issues of race. I don’t criticised by black intellectuals brims with racial asides, likes a holiday lights ... . It is who I am and what I’m always like what he does, but I’m and writers, including director video called Chicks ‘n’ Guns, and interested in.” interested.” Spike Lee, for his depictions of is fond of the AK-47 for when Actor Steve Carell says Christmas Black writers and intellectuals Dressed in a burgundy cap and a African Americans and their “you absolutely positively got to tradition for him involves driving have upbraided Tarantino for matching sweater, Jackson took the history. The director’s supporters kill every (expletive) in the room.” around his neighbourhood with warping black history and off ending argument back to his Chattanooga say his work uses the n-word and The screenplay is based on Elmore his family to look at people’s light with caricature and epithet. One childhood when his grandfather, confounds stereotypes to bring Leonard’s novel Rum Punch. displays. of his most vocal detractors has who cleaned offi ces, was referred race into sharper, more realistic Django Unchained (2012): The 53-year-old says he enjoys been Spike Lee, a director whose to as “boy” and worse by white focus. These three fi lms showcase Tarantino’s most racially it when people go “nuts” with vision and cinematic alchemy are as men. He said in the South everyone Tarantino’s controversial depiction unsettling tale, the fi lm follows Christmas decorations, reports captivating as Tarantino’s. professed to hate the N-word. “But of race: two men: a German bounty hunter femalefi rst.co.uk. Both fi lmmakers explore race; every rap song has it in it. It’s all Pulp Fiction (1994): This who detests slavery (Christoph “I appreciate when people go Lee’s new movie Chi-Raq, which over Chi-Raq. It’s all over Straight free-wheeling, verbally charged Waltz) and the black gunslinger nuts. I don’t go nuts, but we actually, also stars Jackson, bristles with Outta Compton. So what are we take on con men, crime lords and (Jamie Foxx) he befriends. The my wife, Nancy and our kids, get street violence and the N-word in talking about?” other malcontents is rife with men set out to free Foxx’s wife into the car once around Christmas Chicago. But Lee vilifi ed Django He pointed to Tarantino. “He’s racial overtones. It weaves several from a vicious plantation owner time and we get a big box of donuts Unchained, about a black slave not that person,” he said in answer narratives, including the dynamics (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his and hot chocolate, and we drive turned gunslinger, in a tweet: to those who accuse the director between hit men played by Samuel malevolent, plotting house slave around looking at Christmas lights “American slavery was not a Sergio of racism. “He’s not any of those L Jackson and John Travolta, who (Jackson). The movie is saturated in our neighbourhood...It’s pretty Leone spaghetti western. It was a people.” wax philosophical as bodies fall in violence and vengeance, leading wonderful,” Carell said on TV show Holocaust.” In October, Tarantino outraged and blood is mopped up. It’s brazen to questions about the deceptions, The Ellen DeGeneres Show. “What’s most off ensive is police unions across the country in its use of the n-word, notably betrayals and cruelties wrought by “It’s fun, and actually the bigger, that (Tarantino’s fi lms) are being when he marched in New York to by a husband (played by Tarantino) slavery. the bolder the better. We love it,” he treated as a guide to black history,” protest police brutality against added. — IANS 20 GULF TIMES Thursday, December 24, 2015 COMMUNITY Michelin moment for Italian cuisine in Doha Ospitalita’ Italiana Diplomas, a benchmark for gastronomic excellence, will be awarded to Italian restaurants in Doha that meet very high standards. By Anand Holla

PAVING THE WAY: Italy’s ambassador to Qatar, Guido De Sanctis, and the Chairperson of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Qatar, Palma Libotte, at the event yesterday. Photo by Jayan Orma

s Qatar’s food with the support of IS.NA.R.T. and government to select the Italian Italy, checking out the menus and Qatar is growing rapidly in the scene continues to the Italian Chambers of Commerce restaurants in Qatar, evaluate them reviewing chefs’ CVs. We have hospitality sector off ering great explode through abroad. and to designate the 10 outlets who to admit there are some pretty selection for tourist and the expat multiple avenues Its key purpose is to “enhance the will receive this notable certifi cation. amazing professionals out there,” community, we are proud to bring of deliciousness, image of authentic Italian restaurants We are targeting restaurants that Libotte explained, “All the data this project in Qatar to boost ItalianA cuisine, which has been at abroad, and ensuring compliance follow the original criteria of Italian gathered will be sent to Italy where the image of the valuable Italian the forefront of Doha’s culinary with quality standards typical of the Hospitality: the traditional ambience, a panel of experts will determine restaurants that are of a very high makeover of the recent past, has just world-renowned Italian hospitality.” original Italian ingredients and an which restaurants are eligible for standard, hoping to reach a wide got a shot in its arm. By recognising real Italian restaurants experienced Italian chef being some the Ospitalita’ Italiana diploma.” target audience of gourmet lovers. With several Italian restaurants and awarding them the “Golden Q”, of the main aspects.” De Sanctis, on his part, emphasised Founded in 2004 under the having cropped up in the city, the prestigious Ospitalita’ Italiana The Ospitalita’ Italiana Diplomas on the benefi ts for the restaurants patronage of the Italian Embassy the benchmark for gastronomic label of Quality, the idea is to “bring will be awarded in March by the involved in this project. and endorsed by the Italian Ministry excellence has constantly been added value to the Italian food and Italian Ambassador at his residence, The project’s aims also include of foreign development in 2013, the pushed higher. At the Italian Embassy beverage culture abroad.” A diploma during a very exclusive gala dinner. developing and promoting the Italian Chamber of Commerce covers yesterday noon, Italy’s ambassador and a plaque are awarded to those “In Italy restaurants that possess traditions of Italian food products wide range of activities from PR and to Qatar, Guido De Sanctis, and the Italian restaurants who guarantee this diploma are highly regarded and and upgrade the culture of Italian media relations to organisation of Chairperson of the Italian Chamber typical quality standards of Italian Italians tend to choose restaurants food; and “create an international corporate events, fashion shows, B2B of Commerce in Qatar, Palma hospitality. that bear this symbol at the entrance network, providing for the realisation meetings, high level-matchmaking, Libotte, announced that, for the fi rst In 2016, 10 Italian restaurants in when abroad,” the Italian Chamber of promotional events of Italian marketing collaterals content time in Qatar, the Ospitalita’ Italiana Doha will display this prestigious of Commerce in Qatar said. They will productive excellence.” management and graphics for Diplomas will be awarded to Italian plaque. Since 2009, 1,736 Italian also publish a directory to promote Interestingly, 89% of the certifi ed promotional material in English and restaurants that meet very high restaurants in the world have received the authentic Italian restaurants in restaurants in the world believe Italian. standards. this award. New York is the city with Doha, and Qatar Happening, the that the Ospitalita’ Italiana diploma The Italian Chamber provides With procedures similar to those the highest number of authentic offi cial media partner of the event, brought them an increase in sales. cost-eff ective and practical solutions of being awarded a Michelin star, Italian restaurants with 154 Golden will support the project. As much as 67% of the enterprises to promote companies in Qatar, and the worldwide project of Ospitalita’ Qs, followed by Sao Paolo and Tokyo. “We are working on the site benefi t of advantages in terms it enjoys good reputation courtesy its Italiana was conceived by the Italian Libotte said, “We have been inspections now, taking pictures of image and reputation of their solid networking with the Qatari and Republic’s institution Unioncamere offi cially appointed by the Italian of the products imported from business. international business communities.