Curry King - Gulf Times

CommunityPakistan International School

Qatar receives ECO Schools Programme Award 2018-19.

P6 P16 CommunityBelgium Embassy, in association

with Qatar Music Academy, hosts a classical European chamber music concert.

Sunday, March 3, 2019Jumada II 26, 1440 AH

Doha today: 130 - 230

Curry KingCOVERSTORY

Mohammad Ajman Miah talks about his life,

struggles and passion for cooking. P4-5

QUIZ SHOWBIZ

Saving species

Page 10

The Jonas Brothers are back after

a 6-year hiatus.

Page 15

Sunday, March 3, 20192 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

Community EditorKamran Rehmat

e-mail: [email protected]: 44466405

Fax: 44350474

Emergency 999Worldwide Emergency Number 112Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991Local Directory 180International Calls Enquires 150Hamad International Airport 40106666Labor Department 44508111, 44406537Mowasalat Taxi 44588888Qatar Airways 44496000Hamad Medical Corporation 44392222, 44393333Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 44593363 Qatar Assistive Technology Centre 44594050Qatar News Agency 44450205 44450333Q-Post – General Postal Corporation 44464444

Humanitarian Services Offi ce (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies)Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, 40253369Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365Qatar Airways 40253374

USEFUL NUMBERS

Quote Unquote

PRAYER TIMEFajr 4.40amShorooq (sunrise) 5.57amZuhr (noon) 11.46amAsr (afternoon) 3.07pmMaghreb (sunset) 5.38pmIsha (night) 7.08pm

“Moral excellence comes about

as a result of habit. We become just by doing just acts, temperate by doing temperate acts, brave by

doing brave acts.” — Aristotle

Escape Room DIRECTION:

Adam RobitelCAST: Deborah

Ann Woll, Taylor Russell, Tyler Labine

SYNOPSIS: Six strangers fi nd themselves in circumstances beyond their control, and must use their wits to survive and solve a series of puzzles to win $10,000. What starts out as seemingly innocent fun soon turns into a living nightmare.

THEATRES: Landmark, The Mall, Royal Plaza

Luka Chuppi DIRECTION: Laxman Utekar CAST: Kartik Aaryan, Kriti Sanon, Vinay Pathak SYNOPSIS: Guddu, a television reporter in Mathura, falls

in love with a headstrong woman Rashmi. Guddu proposes for marriage. What happens when they decide to live in, but the whole traditional family joins in too?

THEATRES: Royal Plaza, The Mall, Landmark

The Mall Cinema (1): Lonappante Mammod1sa (Malayalam) 2:30pm; Total Dhamaal (Hindi) 5pm; Escape Room (2D) 7:15pm; Luka Chuppi (Hindi) 9:15pm; Gully Boy (Hindi) 11:30pm.The Mall Cinema (2): Toys (2D) 2pm; Toys (2D) 3:45pm; Alone/Together (Tagalog) 5:30pm; Alone/Together (Tagalog) 7:30pm; A Madea Family Funeral (2D) 9:30pm; Total Dhamaal (Hindi) 11:30pm.The Mall Cinema (3): Luka Chuppi (Hindi) 2:15pm; Thadam (Tamil) 4:30pm; Alita: The Battle Angel (2D) 7pm; Take Point (2D) 9:15pm; Escape Room (2D)

11:30pm.Landmark Cinema (1): Lonappante Mammod1sa (Malayalam) 2:30pm; Toys (2D) 5pm; June (Malayalam) 6:45pm; Alone/Together (Tagalog) 9:15pm; Kodathi Samaksham Balan Vakkeel (Malayalam) 11:15pm.Landmark Cinema (2): Sonchiriya (Hindi) 3pm; Luka Chuppi (Hindi) 6pm; Lonappante Mammod1sa (Malayalam) 8:30pm; Thadam (Tamil) 11pm.Landmark Cinema (3): Thadam

(Tamil) 3pm; Gully Boy (Hindi) 6pm; Escape Room (2D) 9pm; Take Point (2D) 11pm.Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (1): Total Dhamaal (Hindi) 3pm; Luka Chuppi (Hindi) 5:30pm; Alone/Together (Tagalog) 8pm; Sonchiriya (Hindi) 11pm.Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (2): L.K.G. (Tamil) 3pm; Lonappante Mammod1sa (Malayalam) 6pm; Escape Room (2D) 9pm; Lonappante Mammod1sa (Malayalam) 11pm.Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (3): Toys (2D) 2:30pm; Gully Boy (Hindi) 4:30pm; Boo! (2D) 7:15pm; Total Dhamaal (Hindi) 9pm; Thadam (Tamil) 11:15pm.

3Sunday, March 3, 2019 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYROUND & ABOUT

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change

EVENTS

Artistic Gymnastic ClassesWHERE: Qatar Academy MsheirebWHEN: TodayTIME: 3:15pm – 4:15pmThe olympic sport using horizontal bar,

rings and fl oor exercises on mats for the children from age 4 till 16.

MIA Park Bazaar 2019WHERE: Museum Of Islamic ArtWHEN: OngoingTIME: 12pm – 8pmMIA Bazaar will be having a vibrant

mix of 350 stalls. MIA Park Bazaar is a modern version of the old souq tradition. The stalls are going to off er a wide range of gastronomies from all over the world. You can also browse and grab handcrafted artefacts, accessories, canvases, fashion wears, designer ornaments.

Mehaseel FestivalWHERE: Katara Cultural VillageWHEN: Ongoing till March 31Mehaseel Souq will be open every

Thursday, Friday and Saturday until 31st of March. It is a perfect market to get amazing local fresh produce.

Grand Prix of Qatar 2019WHERE: Losail International CircuitWHEN: March 8 – 10TIME: 1pm – 9pmThe opening race will be held under the

fl oodlights. Tickets can be purchased on-line.

A R Rahman ConcertWHERE: Khalifa StadiumWHEN: March 22TIME: 6pm – 11pmMusic maestro A R Rahman is going to

be performing on the 22nd of March at the Khalifa Stadium.

Ballet LessonsWHERE: Music and Arts AtelierWHEN: OngoingTIME: 4pm – 8pmFor more info e-mail at registration@

atelierqatar.com or call on 33003839.

Syria Matters ExhibitionWhere: Museum of Islamic ArtWhen: Ongoing till April 30Time: 9am – 7pmMuseum of Islamic Art (MIA) in Doha

presents a major exhibition, co-curated by MIA Director Dr Julia Gonnella and Rania Abdellatif, as part of the MIA ten-year anniversary celebrations.

Cycling: Losail Circuit Sports ClubWHERE: Losail CircuitWHEN: OngoingTIME: 5pmLosail Circuit Sports Club, in association

with Qatar Sports For All Federation, invites all cyclists, runners and walkers to train under the fl oodlights of Losail International Circuit every Wednesdays.

Arabic Calligraphy WorkshopWHEN: Saturday – WednesdayTIME: 6pmArabic Calligraphy workshop is back.

Come and learn the artistic practice of Arabic handwriting and calligraphy at Music and Arts Atelier.

The lessons will take place every Saturday, Monday and Wednesday at 6pm. For more information, contact [email protected]

After School ActivitiesWHERE: AtelierWHEN: OngoingMusic and arts activities for students

taking place after they fi nish their day in school includes Group Music lessons, Hip-hop, Ballet, Drawing and Painting, Drama Theatre & Taekwondo. Ages between 5 and 10 years old after school hours.

Hobby ClassesWHERE: Mamangam Performing Art

CentreWHEN:Wednesday – MondayMamangam Performing Art Centre, is a

holistic performing arts institution and a one stop solution for adults as well as children looking to explore their talents in various art forms. We off er classes in contemporary, Bollywood, hip-hop and Indian classical dance forms, along with classes for music, art and crafts, karate and yoga. Additional services include dance education and choreography. For details, call 33897609.

Dance and Instrument ClassesWHERE: TCA Campus, Behind Gulf Times

BuildingWHEN: Wednesday – MondayLearn the movements of dance styles in

Bollywood, Hip Hop and also the musical instruments such as Piano, Guitar, Keyboard for adults as well kids and move in the world of music. For details, contact 66523871/ 31326749.


COMMUNITY COVER STORY

When I was 17, I decided that I would not work for somebody. I wanted to have my own business. That was when I started my first take away business

— Tommy Miah, world class chef

‘’SUNDAY

CONVERSATION

“Cooking became my passion because it gave me life”

By Mudassir Raja

The life and achievements of 60-year-old Mohammad Ajman Miah, better known as Tommy Miah, have been nothing

short of a saga where he was brought down by challenges, but he rose up again with an increased passion for success.

Tommy is a Bangladeshi-born British celebrity chef, owner of an award-winning Raj Restaurant and founder of the International Indian Chef of the Year Competition. He is often recognised as the ‘Curry King’ in Britain.

Born in a village in Moulvibazar,

Jalalabad, Bangladesh, he arrived at the age of 10 to Birmingham, England, with limited knowledge of English. He became interested in food and cooking due to which he began working in the catering industry.

The rest of his successful journey so far was shared by the Curry King with Community recently as he was in Doha for a short period of time.

Introducing himself, the chef said: “The name Tommy was given to me by a teacher when I was 10-year-old working in the UK in 1969. I have a brother and two sisters. They were all are born in the UK. My wife and I have three children, one daughter and two sons.

“I left my village when I was 10 and had no formal education. In the UK,


COMMUNITYCOVER STORY

I went to a junior school but I could not concentrate on my education because my dad was not earning enough. I had to work and support him. I started washing dishes when I was 10. I started working with a restaurant Bengal Room. At the same time, I started learning how to cook at my home from my mother. I started working as a chef with Gaylord Restaurant in Birmingham in 1976.

“That was the start that has no ending so far. Cooking has become my passion because it gave me my life. I do not think if I had gone to some university, I would have supported my family the way I had. Cooking gave me everything. At the early age, I just wanted to earn some money. With the passage of time, I started loving cooking and thought I could add something valuable. Cooking is an art. You have to have basic knowledge and training and then you can create your own dishes.

Regarding how he started his own

business, Tommy said: “When I was 17, I decided that I would not work for somebody. I wanted to have my own business. That was when I started my fi rst take away business. I started a restaurant with the name of Miah’s Takeaway in 1977. My wife used to help me in the restaurant where we targeted low income class. The business was not good and I had to do two other part time jobs. I hired my fi rst employee, a lady, but I could not pay her any wages. I used to give her my curry for her work.

“A real push came for me, when I moved to Edinburgh. On February 6, 1981, I started my fi ne dining restaurant with the name of Verandah in partnership with one of my friends. It was a Bangladeshi high end restaurant. It fast became a celeb restaurant. That gave us real recognition. Palak ghosht became one of our signature dishes.”

When asked what new recipes he has invented so far, the chef said: “Green Bengali fi sh is my signature

dish. It was not too heavy. I also improved upon shatkora chicken and mezban ghosht.

“In 1983, I bought an old cinema building and converted it into a restaurant. I started the restaurant in 1986 with the name of The Raj. To attract more and more people, my restaurant was inaugurated by a famous elephant in UK. It gave me huge media coverage. There were queues outside my restaurant. I added new dishes. I promoted Bangladeshi cuisine. In 1987, I launched my fi rst book Best of Bangladesh sponsored by British Airways. There were very few Bangladesh restaurants in the UK.

“I have written 20 cook books. I have written mainly for Bangladeshi market. The British press started calling me Curry King, I think some time in mid 1990s. Still they call me Curry King.”

When asked what it means to be a cook, he said: “Somebody has said that Tommy has made curry look

sexy. They say that I have taken it to another level. In 1991, I launched International Chef of the Year competition. It still goes on.

“For me the art of cooking is like sharing my experience with others. I have 20, 000 students so far. I started from a small kitchen and now I have three campuses of my cooking institute. Cooking is my passion and my life. It is everything for me. My love for cooking has made me what I am today.”

About the role of UK in his success, Tommy said: “If I had stayed in the village where I was born, I would not have been where I am now. It taught me so much. I learnt through hard work and dedication. It gave me confi dence. I am able to help others. I am running an orphanage in Bangladesh with 600 children.”

Advising the young aspiring chefs, he said: “My piece of advice is that you should have dedication, hard work and honesty. If you have that, you will be successful in your life.”

Regarding his plans in future, he said: “I feel l am still 20-year-old with my passion. If I have done something today, I will still be doing something tomorrow. I still have the hunger in me. I am always there to support younger generations with my hospitality institute that I have been running. Hospitality is a big industry.

Sharing some extraordinary incidents in his life, he said: “I have visited 10 Downing Street in 1990s. Her Majesty the Queen of England has written a forward to one my of cook books Recipes of The Raj. I have made curry for many celebrities of their choices. In 2013, I did a Bangladesh Food and Culture Festival at La Manga Club Spain. I have also done events in Tokyo and Brussels. I have introduced curry all over the world.”

“Tommy Miah is the founder of the International Indian Chef of the Year Competition. In the mid 1990’s, British press started calling Tommy ‘Curry King’. He has also written over 20 cook books, mainly for the Bangladeshi market”

CHEF’S WORLD: Tommy, left, with Sir Thomas Farmer, a Scottish entrepreneur, outside his restaurant. Photos supplied

AWARD: Tommy, right, giving away International Growth Award at Tommy Miah’s International Curry Awards in London.

Awards and recognition

In 2004, Miah was elected a fellow of Royal Society of Arts.

In 2017, Miah was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2017 Birthday Honours for his services to the hospitality industry and charity.


COMMUNITYPISQ receives ECO Schools Programme Award 2018-19Doha Bank recently presented the ECO Schools Programme Award 2018-19 to Pakistan International School Qatar (PISQ) for successfully completing the ECO-Schools Programme projects in ‘Environmental Health’ category. Ivonne A Baki, Ambassador of Ecuador, felicitated and presented the award along with Dr R Seetharaman, CEO of Doha Bank.A team from PISQ, including students from Senior Girls Wing and faculty members, including Reema Rashid and Sabah Mujeed, received the award. The ECO-Schools Programme encourages students of all ages and abilities to work together and is designed to empower and inspire young children to make positive environmental changes to their school. Some 14 schools across Qatar

were felicitated with ECO Schools Programme Award.A ‘Green Quiz’ was also part of the event. The quiz competition was conducted to raise awareness on environmental conservation and protection issues. Reem Saeed, a student of PISQ, participated in the competition and won a voucher of QR500.The students of PISQ worked on a greenhouse project. They gathered information about several environmental issues. They made Greenhouse in the school garden under their teacher’s supervision and grew variety of plants. Nargis Raza Otho, Principal of PISQ, extended her gratitude to Doha Bank for co-operation.

KEF to organise ‘Engineers Corporate Cricket Tournament’Keralaite Engineers Forum (KEF) is all set to organise ‘Engineers Corporate Cricket Tournament’ from March 8 at Idea Oval, Old Ideal Indian School. The captains from participating corporate teams, including Galfar Al Misnad, L&T, Powerman International, Qatar Design Consortium, Mannai Corporation, Castle Constructions, Omega Engineering, Global Auto Parts, Coastal Qatar, Almoyyed Air-conditioning, Technosteel and Gulf

Warehousing Company recently attended a ‘Captains’ Meet’ held at Oryx Rotana Hotel.Sajeet George, Chairman of KEF, welcomed the gathering. Sudheesh Gopalakrishnan briefed everyone about the rules of the tournament. The design of the jersey was also launched on the occasion by Prakash Nair. Sreenivas T S and Rahul Rajan conducted a pool draw and Kishore Nair proposed a vote of thanks.

Sarjano Khalid visits his alma mater in DohaSarjano Khalid, the male protagonist of Indian Malayalam film June, recently visited his alma mater, Ideal Indian School (IIS), along with Rajisha Vijyan, award winning actress. Sajano was a student at IIS in Grade XII. Principal of IIS, along with the Heads of the Sections, teachers and students wished him all the best for future projects.


COMMUNITY

MEW Qatar organises awareness event for environmental protectionMidtune EcoWaves (MEW) Qatar recently organised an event to create awareness about environmental protection at Holiday Inn Hotel. The event was attended by notable personalities, including Dr Saif al-Hajiri, Qatari environmentalist and educationist; Shobendran, Indian environmentalist professor; Dr C A Rezack, Chief Patron of MEW; Dr Amanulla Vadakkangara, Global Chairman MEW; V C Mashhood, General Secretary of MEW; V C Rajesh; Dr M P Hassan Kunhi, Director of Kannur International Airport; Abdul Gafoor, CEO of Argon Global; and Ziad Usman, Managing Committee Member of ICBF.Speaking on the occasion, Dr Saif al-Hajiri, said, “Environmental protection and awareness activities are pats of our culture and value system and all eff orts are to be made to keep the balanced echo

system for all living beings.” Dr al-Hajiri also felicitated Shobendran with a golden shawl on the occasion. Khalid Ahmed Fakhroo, Public Relation Director of Qatar Charity, presented Life Time Achievement Award of Mind Tune Eco Waves to Shobendran. Fakhroo appreciated the commendable services of Indian community and off ered all support and patronage to improve the situation. He also launched Waves, a commemorative publication brought out in connection with the first ever global summit of Mind Tune Ecowaves in Doha, by handing over a copy to A P Manikantan, President of Indian Cultural Centre. Fakhroo also presented Leader of the Leaders Award to V C Mashood in appreciation of his leadership qualities. The event also featured a Qawali performance by Muthalib.

NIS celebrates 91st National Science DayNoble International School (NIS) recently celebrated 91st National Science Day. The event paid a tribute to Sir C V Raman, Indian Physicist. The event kicked off with a poster designing competition for the students of Grade IV-XII. “The children really proved their creative mind and it was a pleasure to see how they see their future” said, Shibu Abdul Rasheed, Principal of NIS. Special assemblies were also organised on the occasion. Various competitions and activities were part of

the celebrations, including speeches, tableau, drama and quiz competition. Jayamon Joy and Robin K Jose, Vice Principal of NIS, addressed the gathering. The event was organised by Nizar K, Shihabhudheen and Mrs Indira Ajeesh, Head of Sections; Mohammad Hassan and Dhanya Linto, Co-curricular activities in-charge; and Aleyamma Thomas, Head of Department of Science at NIS.


COMMUNITY

Students of MES excel at interschool competitions conducted by Focus QatarMES Indian School recently bagged first and second position at the interschool competitions conducted by Focus Qatar. The competitions for school students were conducted as part of the campaign by Focus Qatar to proclaim the importance of nurturing broad-mindedness and patience in individuals as a method of healing the heart to make the world a better place for co-existence.Karthika Mahesh, a student of Grade-VIII, and Wazha Bint Sameer, a student of Grade I, secured first positions in poster making and pencil drawing competitions, respectively. Mohammed Hashir, a student of Grade VII, got second position in poster making contest. Winners were honoured at the closing ceremony of Healing Summit, organised by Focus Qatar at Qatar Sports Club.

Senior evaluators from WASC visit Ta’allum AcademiesThe senior evaluators from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) recently visited Ta’allum Academies. Each Academy prepared a very detailed submission in the form of self-study reports leading to a focused action plan. The focus is firmly on learning. The team visited Al Jazeera Academy during the first week with subsequent visits and scheduled to visit Al Maha Academy for Girls on March 3 and Al Maha Boys on March 10. The WASC organisation has played a key advisory role working with the Ministry of Education to develop a Memorandum of Understanding to support school improvement. Dr Mohammed Saefan, Director of Education, said, “We are committed to a cycle of continuous improvement in our academies, monitoring and reviewing our standards then taking the actions necessary to secure improvement.”Ahmed al-Mannai, CEO of Ta’allum Academies, said, “As Ta’allum expands with new Academies, we constantly seek to develop the next level of quality. Ta’allum’s unique blend of modern, global education alongside respect for Arabic heritage and culture, is increasingly appreciated by our parent group. As a direct result of oversubscription Ta’allum will soon expand to a 4th Academy with ‘state-of-the-art’ buildings currently under construction. Partnership and collaborative work are growing across the organisation and key to our success at every level.”

Podium finish for Hyundai Motorsport in WRC Rally SwedenHyundai Motorsport has taken its second consecutive podium result of the 2019 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) as Thierry Neuville finished in third place in a closely contested battle on the concluding day of Rally Sweden, stated a press release. Skyline Automotive WLL is the off icial distribution partner of the Hyundai Motor Company in the State of Qatar.Neuville and co-driver Nicolas Gilsoul mounted a strong campaign during the weekend, having been down in seventh at the end of Friday’s stages. The Belgian duo ended the 19-stage event just three seconds from second-placed Esapekka Lappi after a determined performance.“It was a big battle in these tricky conditions, and we were on the edge for a lot of it,” Neuville said. “When you are pushing so hard, it is easy to make mistakes, so we have to be content with our third place as well as taking four extra points for second in the Power Stage. We are still at the start of a long season with lots more to come, so it is important to get as many points in the bag in these opening rounds. As a team, we are all focused

on pushing for more performance, and we will continue to work in this direction as we prepare for Mexico,” he added.Neuville now holds second place in the drivers’ championship on 40 points and will start second on the road on the dusty gravel roads of Rally México next month.Norwegians Andreas Mikkelsen and Anders Jæger-Amland were also in the podium hunt and finished in fourth overall, fending off M-Sport’s Elfyn Evans. Sébastien Loeb and Daniel Elena took seventh to ensure all three Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC cars completed all 316km of special stages reliably.“I think we can summarise our weekend results as ‘could have been worse, should have been better’,” said Andrea Adamo, Team Director. “All three cars finished the rally, which is testament to the ability of the crews and the reliability of the i20 Coupe WRC. The pace has been evident in the first two rounds of the season, but we need to keep pushing for more, as we head to Rally México, which will be a completely diff erent challenge,” he added.


COMMUNITYTRAVEL

Wahiba, a silent, distant worldRiding a camel is not the most eff icient way to travel, but those who take a camel tour

through Oman’s Wahiba desert soon come to realise that slowing things down is

exactly the right way to enjoy the magical sights and sounds of this remote landscape

TREK: A white mosque can be seen during a camel trek across the Wahiba desert in Oman.

By Manuel Meyer

Milha reluctantly gets to her feet. She snorts and stares obstinately ahead – and refuses to budge. But camel driver Monir is just as

stubborn. He pulls the reins until Milha starts moving forward.

“We have to get going so that we can reach our fi rst night camp on time,” Monir says, riding out ahead of a group of visitors, all riding atop their camels.

A quick gulp of water, another layer of sun lotion, visored caps donned. Let Milha get her head start, the visitors think. The animal is, after all, 15 years old. And Milha’s pace is so leisurely that it surely won›t take them more than a few minutes to catch up.

You can’t help wondering whether, on this trek across the Wahiba desert in north-eastern Oman, the animal moving in super slow-motion will be able to survive the fi ve-day journey.

But after an hour, the others in the group feel a certain frustration. They still haven’t caught up yet with the slowly swaying Milha. Even worse, despite their own enormous eff orts to urge their camels on, the gap behind Milha has gotten larger, even though she hasn’t gone any faster than before. Monir must stop and wait for his guests. Even the smallest sand dunes turn out to be a challenge.

Evening starts to fall. The skies change colour – yellowish, then pink, then a deep red. Then it gets dark in the Wahiba – or Sharqiyah – desert, which measures 250 kilometres north to south and 80 kilometres east to west.

Off in the distance, there is a rise with a small fi re. Two tour guides have driven out ahead in an all-terrain vehicle in order to pitch the tent and start preparing the evening

meal. They serve up plates of fi sh, rice and vegetables, smelling of cardamom and various Arabic spices. The guests take their meal sitting down on a carpet stretched out on the sand in front of the tent.

Shortly before sunrise, it’s time to wake up again. A long trek lies ahead. Breakfast is served, again on the carpet. Drinking Omani coff ee and eating warm pita bread with strawberry marmelade, the guests look sleepily out towards the horizon. The fi rst rays of sunshine are pleasantly warm after a night when temperatures were a bit on the chilly side. Dewdrops cling to the small shrubs around the tent.

“It’s time to go. We must use the early cool morning hours for trekking. At midday we will then be taking a long break,” Monir says,

heading out atop Milha once again.After an hour, something appears on the

horizon. Is that really a snow-white coloured mosque surrounded by a sea of yellow-gold sand dunes? Yes. This is no illusion.

It is hard to believe that, in this empty desert, people can even exist. Sometimes the absolute stillness feels scary. But at the same time, it is impressive how spending days riding through the desert gives you a certain sense of calm. No cellphone, no Internet, no noise. No other people to be seen – only by a taciturn camel driver.

As the days go by, you start to notice the quiet sounds of the desert – fi ne grains of sand crunching beneath hiking boots; the occasional cracking of a snail shell that the monsoon winds have blown across the desert

from the nearby Indian Ocean.Sometimes the breeze is fresh; at other

times warm. A desert hare suddenly springs up from its den, startling the group from its lethargy. Over and again, the guests try to catch up with Milha, if only to grab a new bottle of water from the cloth bag tied to her back. You start to appreciate why camels are dubbed the ships of the desert: Like vessels in the waves, the animals sway gently back and forth.

The dunes keep getting taller and steeper, some of them more than 100 metres high. Monir drives his camel up a steep ridge. Up on top, the two trek assistants have set up camp on a spectacular spot – the edge of a crater. The two men have gathered branches to make a fi re.

First, tea is served. Atop a dune on the horizon, you can see the silhouettes of several camels. It is one of those moments when you completely forget about the hardship of the trek, the searing sunshine and the awareness that there is nowhere to wash.

The air is completely still. Tonight, no one wants to sleep inside the tent. It’s incredible how many stars are visible out in the desert, where there is no light pollution.

Slowly the fi re burns down, the air turns crisp. The next morning the covers are completely wet and mists lie over the dunes. Grains of sand have lodged in our teeth. After an Omani coff ee to warm up, the group heads out on the last stage of the trek. The air already smells of salt from the nearby sea.

After six strenuous kilometres conquering dunes as tall as buildings, we fi nally get a glimpse of it – the Arabian Sea. Once on the beach, we throw off our backpacks, shoes and shirts and race into the refreshing water.

Monir leads Milha into the turquoise-coloured sea and the camel appears to enjoy it. For the guests, it is a moment of water, bathing and washing – such a feeling of happiness after fi ve days crossing the desert. – DPA

GUIDE: A tour guide prepares mint tea for participants in a camel trek across the Wahiba desert in Oman.


COMMUNITY QUIZ

From the birds of the air to the majestic whales of the sea, wildlife abounds in the most unusual and unexpected places on the

Earth. Whether a plant or animal, their importance in every part of human life, from culinary to medical, could not be understated.

What do the Bornean orangutans, Sumatran tigers and elephants, Amur leopards, mountain gorillas and the Black Rhinos have in common? Aside from all being totally cool animals that we love watching on YouTube and BBC’s groundbreaking Planet Earth series, the disturbing truth about these creatures is that they’re all critically endangered species.

According to the UN, the biggest threat to wildlife is habitat loss, as well as overgrazing, farming and development. Habitat loss accounts for 80% of the loss in biological diversity. According to a recent contentious World Wildlife Fund report, global wildlife populations have declined by 58 percent in the last 40 years. Every time we lose a plant or animal, we have no way of knowing if a cure for a disease or some new medical breakthrough was lost with them. If certain creatures were to die out, it would cause ripples and send our food chain far out of whack.

On December 20, 2013, at its 68th session, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) proclaimed March 3 as World Wildlife Day, to celebrate and raise awareness of the world’s wild fauna and fl ora. World Wildlife Day has now become the most important global annual event dedicated to wildlife. It is indeed an opportunity to do our bit in preserving our world.

Enjoy the planet’s biodiversity by visiting animals in a zoo or on a safari, visiting a nature museum, a botanical garden or a national park. Watch documentaries about conservation eff orts and global loss of biodiversity. Volunteer to help clean up trash and other debris along a beach, park or stretch of road.

Host a wildlife party and share what you’ve learned with your friends and family. One of the best ways to catch the attention is to share some cool facts which can hopefully spark curiosity about conservation. Post on social media and remember to use the hashtags #WorldWildlifeDay, #PeopleAndPlanet, #WWD2019, #DoOneThingToday.

Welcome to ‘Nutty’s Infotainment. YAYS!’ And your time starts NOW!

Approximately what percentage of oxygen we breathe are produced in the ocean?

50%

Why do leopards drag their kill up into a tree?

It risks losing its meal to other predators such as lions, hyenas and wild dogs. The leopard is the strongest climber among the big cats and can carry prey twice its weight up a tree.

How many eyes do most species of spiders have?

Eight. Some spiders have as many as 12 eyes while there are also some that have no eyes at all. Those with eyes, only the pair in the front is capable of detecting directions. The other pairs of eyes of the spiders can only detect light. And, let’s take a moment and be thankful that spiders don’t fl y.

The ferret is the domesticated form of the European polecat, a mammal belonging to the same genus as the weasel. What is a group of ferrets called?

Business or Busyness

How do butterfl ies taste their food?

With their feet as their taste sensors are located there. They can taste it by just standing on their food.

Name the construction worker turned writer and activist who survived an act of police brutality by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) on March 3, 1991. The beating was famously captured on amateur video, leading to riots during which 63 people were killed, when the police offi cers were acquitted.

Rodney King.

Name the English actor and worldwide icon who was

knighted at the age of 85 and had to be pushed in a wheelchair to meet the Queen, who performed the ceremony. His fans had been pressing for such recognition over many years, but controversy in his past life kept him off the honor. Foreign Offi ce papers from 1956, which were kept secret until 2002, revealed that the silent screen star’s knighthood had been shelved partly because he was considered to be a communist sympathiser.

Charlie Chapin.

According to the Guinness World Records, it is the most recognised song in the English language. Its melody comes from the song Good Morning to All, which has traditionally been attributed to American sisters Patty and Mildred J Hill in 1893. Which song is this?

Happy Birthday to You. On this date in 1924, it was published by Claydon Sunny.

It all started on March 8, 1908 when 15,000 women marched

through the streets of New York City to demand shorter hours, better pay, and the right to vote. Which important worldwide annual events are we referring to?

International Women’s Day

Identify the board game below, which the Time once called the “the biggest phenomenon in game history.” It was fi rst conceived on December 15, 1979 by Chris Haney and Scott Abbott.

(Answer next week. Answer to last week’s photo-quiz: It is a visual representation of Michael Dell’s wish to “turn the world on its ear”.)

What’s the Good Word?

1. Pawky: (a) wish (b) sly (c) ethereal

(d) immaculate

2. Harum-scarum: (a) swallow

greedily (b) weariness(c) diverse (d)

reckless

3. Swimmingly: (a) eff ortlessly (b)

hilarious (c) deluge like situation (d)

crazy

4. Latibule: (a) distance from

equator (b) a hiding place (c) hazy (d)

measuring device

5. Rancor: (a) malign (b) scatter (c)

bitter (d) cordial

6. Wan: (a) dangle (b) enigma (c) annex

(d) fatigue

7. Misanthrope: (a) hater of mankind

(b) insane (c) unique (d) sweetheart

8. Taradiddle: (a) zealot (b) a petty lie

(c) tangible (d) oxymoron

9. Snickersnee: (a) type of shoes (b)

bell (c) large knife (d) cyclone name

10. Widdershins: (a) liaison (b)

anticlockwise (c) indictment (d) ecstasy

Answers: 1 (b); 2 (d); 3 (a); 4 (b); 5 (c); 6

(d); 7 (a); 8 (b); 9 (c); 10 (b)

Saving species

1. The name of which toy translated means ‘come come’?Yo Yo(Aruna Ali, Wakrah)

2. Which year is missing from both the Gregorian calendar and the Julian calendar yet present in the astronomical calendar system?

The year zero(Dorothy Sein, American Creativity Academy, Kuwait)

Do you have some interesting bytes to share? And, does your vibe attract you to the ‘Tribe NI.yays!’ Every week two of your best questions will be featured here. Please do write to us at [email protected].

Tribe NI.yays

ENDAGERED: Bornean orangutans, Sumatran tigers and elephants, Amur leopards, mountain gorillas and the Black Rhinos are all endangered species. Habitat loss accounts for 80% of the loss in biological diversity.


COMMUNITYINFOGRAPHIC


COMMUNITY CARTOONS/PUZZLES

Adam

Pooch Cafe

Garfield

Bound And Gagged

Codeword

Wordsearch

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.

Puzz

les

cour

tesy

: Puz

zlec

hoic

e.co

m

Sudoku

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.

Furniture Store

ARMCHAIRBENCHBOOKCASECABINETCHESTCRADLEDAVENPORT

DESKDIVANDRESSERLAMPLECTERNOTTOMANRECLINER

SETTLESIDEBOARDSOFASTOOLTABLEWATER BED


COMMUNITYPUZZLES

Colouring

Answers

Wordsearch Codeword

ACROSS1. Tears the pieces of film (6)

5. Arrange the escape well (6)

8. In the neighbourhood for a

spell (5)

9. Club president, you say (6)

10. Going up to see what’s got

the hounds so excited (6)

11. The same but different, due

to suspicion (5)

14. Put the ruddy ring on the

bird! (8)

16. He’s not lying (that’s easy!)

(6)

18. Leave on the beach? (7,2,3,3)

20. Suppose it to mean ‘adopt’

(6)

22. ‘Storyville’ reveals keen

perception (8)

25. Point the marquee out with

conviction (5)

27. Up and away, as the saying

goes (6)

28. I stuffed the bird for the dope

(6)

29. Having seen running, you tail

in, or follow (5)

30. Clarify, when you translate

(6)

31. Amazed by how one calmed

the crying baby? (6)

Super Cryptic Clues

Yesterday’s Solutions

ACROSS: 1 Cumbersome 6 Opal 10 Bounder 11 Nearing 12 The Orient 13 Celia 14 Marat 15 Laser beam 17 Reputable 20 Utter 21 Earns 23 Look alike 25 Entrain 26 Imitate 27 Sort 28 EastEnders.

DOWN: 1 Cabot 2 Mousetrap 3 Elder statesman 4 Surreal 5 Minutes 7 Phial 8 Leg-warmer 9 Bad circulation 14 Murderess 16 Extricate 18 Belinda 19 Egotist 22 Rotor 24 Evens.

DOWN1. Tearaway and a cheat (3-3)

2. There’s a lot to say for the

location (4)

3. The dinar is currency on a

holiday island (8)

4. Get away from the traffic

(2,3,2,8)

5. Says there are upsets at the

interior (6)

6. Thought one fellow had gone

deaf (4)

7. Collect the fish caught (6)

12. Book transport (7)

13. For a while, expand (7)

15. In a beauty competition,

they’re important, it seems

(5)

17. A short time after the flat

race (5)

19. Got back at three, about, and

not alone (8)

20. ‘There’s a market,’ the

stutterer said. ‘for the thing’

(6)

21. One of the two in here,

perhaps, it is (6)

23. Was tired and, on the way

back home, upset (6)

24. List you rely on (4)

26. Stop in port (4)


COMMUNITY LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE

ARIESMarch 21 — April 19

CANCERJune 21 — July 22

LIBRASeptember 23 — October 22

CAPRICORNDecember 22 — January 19

TAURUSApril 20 — May 20

LEOJuly 23 — August 22

SCORPIOOctober 23 — November 21

AQUARIUSJanuary 20 — February 18

GEMINIMay 21 — June 20

VIRGOAugust 23 — September 22

SAGITTARIUSNovember 22 — December 21

PISCESFebruary 19 — March 20

A new fascination with history or an exotic culture could drive you to

learn more about it, Aries. It could become an obsession, for today at

least. You might spend a lot of time online or in the library or talking

to people who specialise in this field. By day’s end, your mind could

be spinning like a top. Take a walk and clear your head or you might

not be able to sleep.

A number of people involved in the healing professions could

cross your path today, Cancer. You might hear news about recent

discoveries in those fields that sparks your interest. What you learn

could aff ect your life in a profoundly positive way, so you need to

write down not only the contact information for the people you

meet but also the resources they use.

Invitations to some exciting social events in your neighbourhood

could come today, Libra. You might hear from some friends who are

planning to attend, so you could be enthusiastically looking forward

to these events. You will enjoy getting together with your friends.

Bear in mind that you could also meet new people who prove to be

valuable business contacts. Make sure you look your best!

A lot of unfinished tasks may need doing around the home today,

Capricorn. You might decide to ignore some of the work that

desperately needs to be handled in favour of a project that you think

you will enjoy more. Don’t stick family members with the boring

stuff ! If you pull together to get the worst out of the way, then you

can all have fun with the more interesting tasks.

You may find that your instincts are right, Taurus, particularly

where other people are concerned. You and a friend could come

up with the same words at the same time, which might be a little

disconcerting for both of you. Still, this increased intuition is likely to

help your understanding of those close to you more than you ever

expected. Make the most of it, and remember what you learn.

A potential new love partner could show up, Leo, perhaps someone

from a distant state or foreign country or in a field like law or

education. You could have a lot of interests in common with this

person. Some intriguing discussions could result. Whether you choose

to pursue this attraction depends on your situation, but you can enjoy

this person’s company today anyway. Tomorrow - who knows?

Good news involving a small, extra sum of money could come today,

Scorpio. You might receive a check in the mail. Take a friend out to

lunch. You will both have fun. Afterwards, you may want to blow the

rest of the money on something frivolous, but don’t go that far. Think

about one or more items you want and concentrate on those.

Some great news about a friend’s good fortune could be exciting,

Aquarius, and you might spend a lot of time on the phone not only

congratulating that friend but also discussing it with other people.

This is good for you, as you’re apt to find it inspiring and use it as

motivation to continue pushing ahead yourself. In fact, this news

could change your life profoundly in the long run.

Social events and group activities could bring new interests your

way that provide a rich field of knowledge for you to delve into,

Gemini. Someone could recommend books on the subject. This

could be very exciting, especially since a lot of new people who

share this interest could come into your life. Be sure to keep track of

names and phone numbers. You won’t want to lose touch.

Family members could spring some surprising news on you today,

Virgo. This news may concern people you know or perhaps a family

member has some interesting plans of his or her own that you

weren’t aware of. Although positive, this news could throw you for

a loop. It should definitely cause you to alter your thinking in some

way. Don’t let emotion overwhelm logic right now.

Bonding is today’s keyword, Sagittarius. Relations with close friends

should be enhanced by increased communication, perhaps some

fascinating conversations about new ideas and exciting world events.

This new intellectual rapport could bring you closer than you were

before. Romantic relationships, in particular, intensify through newly

discovered mutual interests, perhaps involving foreign cultures.

When it comes to managing money today, Pisces, you should go

with your gut, whether it involves personal finances, job-related

concerns, or the funds of a group you’re aff iliated with. Be less

concerned about logic and more with how you feel about sources

of income, specific investments, or ways of planning expenses. Do

some research to verify your insights and then follow them!

Learn how to promote positive body image

Making people more aware of their own internal body signals, such as heartbeat or breathing rate, could

promote a positive body image, says a new study.

The fi ndings, published in the journal Body Image, suggests that awareness of internal body signals can aff ect the way we see ourselves.

“Our research fi nds associations between the awareness of internal body signals and measures of body image. This could have implications for promoting positive body image, for example modifying interoceptive awareness through mindfulness-based practices,” said lead author Jennifer Todd from the Anglia Ruskin University in the UK.

For the study, the researchers recruited a sample of 646 adults and found that there were statistically signifi cant relationships between

people’s interoceptive awareness – the extent to which people are aware of internal signals given out by the body such as heartbeat or feelings of discomfort or hunger – and body image.

The study, which included both men and women aged between 18 and 76, found that people who can sustain attention towards their internal body signals tended to report higher levels of positive body image.

The researchers also found that people who trust their internal body signals are more likely to hold a positive view of their own body, and be less preoccupied with being overweight.

“However, the research, which was conducted with exclusively British participants, also demonstrates that the relationship between interoceptive awareness and body image is complex and requires further investigation,” Todd said. – IANS

Sunday, March 3, 2019 15GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYSHOWBIZ

Amanda Bynes checks into mental health facility

Actress Amanda Bynes has entered a rehab facility following a relapse.

According to people.com, the Living Proof actress is seeking treatment for drug addiction and mental health issues.

Bynes has been struggling since the end of last year, when she stepped back into the public eye and began pursuing work in Hollywood again, said sources.

Last year, Bynes opened up about her previous mental struggles when she spoke about how her use of drugs created multiple problems in her life.

“I was high on marijuana when I saw that but for some reason, it really started to affect me. I don’t know if it was a drug-induced psychosis or what, but it affected my brain in a different way than it affects other people. It absolutely changed my perception of things.” –IANS

Luka Chuppi rakes in over Rs8 crore on opening day

Kartik Aaryan’s Luka Chuppi registered a business of Rs8.01 crore on the first day of its release at the box office.

The romantic comedy, which explores live-in relationships, opened on Friday.

According to a statement, the film promises to hold strong over the weekend and the business will get a boost on Monday due to a holiday on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri.

As per trade expert Taran Adarsh, the film had a superb opening day.

“Springs a big, big surprise... Opens bigger than Raazi [Rs7.53 crore], Stree [Rs6.83 crore] and Badhaai Ho [Rs7.29 crore]... Strong word of mouth should ensure impressive growth on Day 2 and 3.”

Luka Chuppi tells the story of a couple who decide to go for live-in and how their whole family gets involved with their idea. Directed by debutant Laxman Utekar, the film is produced by Dinesh Vijan through his banner Maddock Films in association with Jio Studios. –IANS Thought my fi rst fi lm would

be last fi lm of my career: Riteish

Actor Riteish Deshmukh, who made his Bollywood debut over 16 years ago with the fi lm Tujhe Meri Kasam, says he never imagined that he would be able to survive in the industry for so long.

“I thought Tujhe Meri Kasam would be my first and last film of my career. I never thought that I would last so long in the industry. I am grateful for all the opportunities I have received in my life.

“It was a roller-coaster ride with lots of ups and downs. Each phase of my life has made me learn something. When I made my debut, I didn’t even think of even surviving a decade in the industry but I worked hard... did fi lms and tried to improvise myself with each project,” Riteish told IANS here.

After stepping into the acting world in 2003, Riteish later created a niche for himself with comedy fi lms like Masti, Kya Kool Hai Hum, Malamaal Weekly, Heyy Babyy and Housefull.

He recently featured in Total Dhamaal, the third instalment of the Dhamaal franchise. –IANS NICHE: Actor Riteish Deshmukh has created a niche for himself with comedy films.

CHILD STAR: Amanda Bynes rose to prominence as a child star in the late 1990s and early 2000s on the Nickelodeon series All That and The Amanda Show.

REUNION: Jonas Brothers’ band was formed in 2005.

PLOT: Luka Chuppi is the story of Guddu a television reporter in Mathura, who falls in love with a headstrong woman Rashmi.

The Jonas Brothers are back after 6-year hiatus

The Jonas Brothers have reunited for a single titled Sucker after a gap of six years.

Pop singers Nick Jonas, Joe Jonas and Kevin Jonas sported

ensembles designed by New York-based Nepalese designer Prabal Gurung for their single cover.

Gurung on Friday shared the cover on Twitter, and captioned it: “The Jonas brothers wear Prabal Gurung on the cover of their new album (single) Sucker. So stoked that our first menswear collection is on my favourite brothers thank you Nick Jonas, Joe Jonas and Kevin Jonas... I am over the moon.”

In the album cover, Nick is seen sporting salmon pink pants and a black

and yellow t-shirt. Joe looks dapper in an ice-blue twin set, while Kevin is seen wearing a bright orange and blue twin suit.

Its video also features Nick Jonas’ actress wife Priyanka Chopra.

Excited about having worked on a video of her husband and brothers-in-law’s song, Priyanka says it was fun working with them.

“This is the first time we’ve worked together but not for a moment did it feel like work. Such a fun family affair... Proud of you husband,” Priyanka tweeted while unveiling the song among netizens.

The video also stars Kevin Jonas’ spouse Danielle and Joe Jonas’ fiancee

and Game of Thrones fame actress Sophie Turner.

Priyanka added: “Such a fun family affair... Jonas Brothers and the J sisters cheering each other on.”

Nick also took to Twitter to announce the band’s comeback.

He said: “Sucker video is officially out! We really had the best time shooting this video in England with our family. Hope you guys love it. Feels good to be back.”

Nick also complimented Priyanka saying she looks “so beautiful in this video”.

The band has created hits like Burnin’ up, Hold on and Fly with me. The Jonas Brothers split up in 2013. –IANS


COMMUNITY

By Mudassir Raja

West and the Europeans have long had a love aff air with the classical arts and music and no doubt plays host to internationally

renowned artistes. It defi nes heritage and culture and transports you to just another world, if you’re a keen lover for violin, piano or any instrument for that matter. The trend seems to be shifting its place and is defi nitely taking over the world, and Doha in particular. On windy Friday evening, Bart De Goof, Ambassador of Belgium, hosted a classical European chamber music concert at his residence.

The concert was attended by notable personalities, including ambassadors and diplomats with their families. They all enjoyed performance of young and talented instrumentalists, who enchanted the audience particularly with violin and piano.

The concert was organised in partnership with Qatar Music Academy. The concert featured Belgian violin talent Julia Salvaggio, laureate of fi rst Qatar National Music Competition; Joris Laenen, Belgian trumpet player at Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra; and Sonja Park, a pianist.

Born in 2002, Julia started playing violin when she was just three-year-old. She has music teachers from Ukraine, Hungary, Russia, Romania, Italy and more, and was admitted at the Qatar Music Academy since its inception in 2011. She played private concerts for several notable personalities, including Prince Charles, Prince Andrew, several

ministers and ambassadors, and was invited to play with Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, the English Chamber Orchestra, Winton Marshs and other renowned professional musicians. In 2017, she was the fi rst QMA student to win an international music competition. She’s a student at Parkhouse English School in Doha, and is an early and active member of the Qatar Youth Orchestra.

Steinway artiste, Sonja Park was born in South Korea and studied in Vienna. As a sought-after soloist and chamber musicians, she has performed in prestigious venues. She is the co-founder of Moving Young Artistes which hosted the fi rst Qatar National Music Competition. She is also the founder

of International Chamber Music Concerts Series for Peace and Unity, supported by six embassies, including UK, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Australia and Germany. Sonja is also a jury member of the International Brahms Competition and Gulf Chopin Piano Competition. Currently, Sonja is residing in Qatar and enjoying her busy schedule with performing, teaching, and organising concerts for young talents.

Welcoming the gathering, the Belgian ambassador said, “Qatar Music Academy, community members, and friends, I am very happy to have you all in our house to attend the music concert. Many of you were probably at Qatar National Convention Cnetre a few

days ago when a brilliant performance was presented by Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra on its 10 anniversary. It made you realise that how far this city has come in the last 10 years in classical music. Doha has really become, I would say, a focal point of Western, Arab and other music fusions in the region. I am actually very proud of that.

“I am also very proud to have one or two Belgian components in this musical adventure that we are having in Qatar. It is our pleasure to introduce to you one young Belgian talent, Julia. She has also brought some friends. We have performer from Qatar Music Academy as well. There are lots of diff erent things happening in Qatar and we are very happy to see that and to be a part of that. It is an opportunity for us to showcase what we have as the Belgian embassy and to promote this chamber music. It also helps in bringing the Belgian community together.”

Dr Ozgur Mert Esen, Head of Western Music Department at Qatar Music Academy, said, “I welcome you all to the Chamber Concert. Qatar Music Academy is the only professional institution around the region established in 2011 as a member of Qatar Foundation to produce next generation world class musicians. It also carries out research on the musical heritage of the region. The academy represents over 50 countries from where diff erent students and teachers are coming. The diversity of its family is the most important quality of the academy. Our students have received and won many prizes from over 20 international competitions. They have performed in many prestigious concerts in over 60 countries around the world. I see this process as a miracle for an institution that was established only eight years ago.”

It’s all classical at Belgium Embassy

Bart De Goof, Ambassador of Belgium, in association with Qatar Music Academy,

recently hosted a classical European chamber music concert at his residence

PERFORMANCE: Artistes during their performance.WELCOME NOTE: Belgian ambassador with his wife, Shemain Thakur speaking on the occasion.

VIOLINIST: Julia Salvaggio, laureate of first Qatar National Music Competition, playing at the event. Photos by Ram Chand

Documents

Curry King - Gulf Times