Community

P6
Community
Buggy
Nhakente
and his band
Fully Loaded will
perform regularly at
The St. Regis Doha
starting February 18.
P20
Community
Writer-director
James
Schamus and
documentary filmmaker
Joshua Oppenheimer
roped in as final two
Masters for Qumra.
Monday, February 15, 2016
Jumada I 6, 1437 AH
DOHA
15°C—25°C TODAY
LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE 13
Blindsided
As Zika spreads, scientists race to
learn more about the virus. P4-5
COVER
STORY
PUZZLES 14 & 15
2
GULF TIMES Monday, February 15, 2016
COMMUNITY
ROUND & ABOUT
PRAYER TIME
Fajr
Shorooq (sunrise)
Zuhr (noon)
Asr (afternoon)
Maghreb (sunset)
Isha (night)
4.52am
6.09am
11.48am
3.02pm
5.29pm
6.59pm
USEFUL NUMBERS
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
ote Unquote
u
Q
The talent for
being happy is appreciating
and liking what you have, instead
of what you don’t have.
— Woody Allen
Features Editor
Kamran Rehmat
e-mail: [email protected]
Telephone: 44466405
Fax: 44350474
The Choice
GENRE: Drama, Romance
CAST: Benjamin Walker, Teresa
Palmer, Alexandra Daddario
DIRECTION: Ross Katz
SYNOPSIS: Based on Nicholas
Sparks’ 2007 novel of the same name
about two neighbours who fall in love
at their first meeting. The first part is
how Travis Parker and Gabby Holland
set off into an interesting journey of life
as neighbours and then young lovers.
Travis Parker is a happy man with
wonderful friends, great occupation
and an enviable life. He thinks his life is
already full of joy and happiness – then
Gabby Holland moves in the house
next door. And what blossoms is an
emotional and inspiring love story. It
is a story about overcoming barriers
to be with your loved ones. It is about
pure and intense romantic love, trust,
strength, and the choices we can make
to show them.
Jil Jung Juk
GENRE: Comedy
CAST: Siddharth Suryanarayan,
Sananth Reddy and Mehaboob Nasser
DIRECTION: Deeraj Vaidy
SYNOPSIS: Jil Jung Juk is a Tamil
comedy and the title was taken from
a dialogue spoken by Vadivelu from
Kaadhalan, which refers to three
different types of people. The story
begins in 2020 where drug peddlers and
fuel barons rule the world. A drug mafia
leader Deivanayagam (R Amarendran)
with the help of scientist Marunthu (K
Bhagavathi Perumal) and Pai (Bipin)
finds an ingenious way of transporting
cocaine by painting it on an old
Ambassador car. The task of taking
the candy pink car to Hyderabad and
hand it over to waiting Chinese mafia
is given to three conmen Jil (Siddharth)
Jung (Avinash Raghudevan) and Juk
(Sananth). What follows is a hilarious
macho ride that keeps audiences in
splits right till the very end.
Mall Cinema (1): Paavada (Malayalam)
2pm; The Choice (2D) 4.30pm; Ocean 14
(Arabic) 6.15pm; The Benefactor (2D) 8pm;
The Pack (2D) 9.45pm; Jil Jung Juk (Tamil)
11.15pm.
Mall Cinema (2): Alvin & The Chipmunks:
The Road Chip (2D) 2.30pm; Kung Fu Style
(2D) 4.15pm; The Finest Hours (2D) 5.45pm;
Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2D) 7.45pm;
Navy Seals:The Battle Of New Orleans (2D)
9.45pm; Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2D)
11.30pm.
Mall Cinema (3): Fitoor (Hindi) 2.15pm;
Sanam Re (Hindi) 4.30pm; How To Be
Single (2D) 6.30pm; Fitoor (Hindi) 8.30pm;
Paavada (Malayalam) 10.45pm.
Cinema Land Mark (1): Paavada
(Malayalam) 2.15pm; The Finest Hours (2D)
THEATRES: The Mall, Royal Plaza,
Landmark
THEATRES: The Mall, Landmark
(Arabic) 7.45pm; How To Be Single (2D)
9.30pm; The Pack (2D) 11.30pm.
Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (1): Alvin &
The Chipmunks: The Road Chip (2D) 3pm;
4.45pm; The Choice (2D) 6.45pm; Jil Jung Navy Seals: The Battle Of New Orleans
Juk (Tamil) 8.45pm; Paavada (Malayalam) (2D) 5pm; Pride & Prejudice & Zombies
(2D) 7pm; Pride & Prejudice & Zombies
11pm.
(2D) 9pm; Navy Seals:The Battle Of New
Cinema Land Mark (2): Kung Fu Style
Orleans (2D) 11pm.
(2D) 2.30pm; Kung Fu Style (2D) 4pm;
Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2D) 5.30pm; Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (2): Fitoor
Navy Seals: The Battle Of New Orleans (2D) (Hindi) 2.30pm; Kung Fu Style (2D) 5pm;
7.30pm; Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2D) Sanam Re (Hindi) 6.45pm; The Finest
9.30pm; Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2D) Hours (2D) 9pm; Fitoor (Hindi) 11pm.
Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (3): The
11.30pm.
Cinema Land Mark (3): Pride & Prejudice Benefactor (2D) 2.30pm; How To Be Single
(2D) 4pm; The Choice (2D) 6pm; The
& Zombies (2D) 2.30pm; Alvin & The
Benefactor (2D) 8pm; Ocean 14 (Arabic)
Chipmunks: The Road Chip (2D) 4.30pm;
9.30pm; The Pack (2D) 11.15pm.
The Benefactor (2D) 6pm; Ocean 14
Monday, February 15, 2016
Winter Weekends at Aspire Zone
DATE: Until March 24
TIME: 4pm-9pm
VENUE: Aspire Park
Aspire Zone Foundation invites you to
come along with your family and friends,
and to bring your kids every Thursday for
outdoor sport fun activities, including
football, volleyball, competitions and
games for boys and girls, from 4pm to 9pm.
Qatari Youth Forum
DATE: Feb 22-23
VENUE: Sheraton Doha Hotel
The Qatari Youth Forum, which will
be organised by the Ministry of Culture
and Sports for the first time in Qatar,
aims to enhance communication between
the ministry and youth, and provide the
appropriate environment that promotes
dialogue and consultation between them
and those supervising the youth in schools,
clubs and universities. In addition, it aims
to give young people the chance to present
their ideas, participate in examining
the issues that concern them, and work
out solutions, besides activating new
youth initiatives and coming up with
recommendations that reinforce youth
work.
Hamad Medical Corporation, will bring
together experts in the field of nephrology
to discuss the most important clinical
issues that specialists face in their daily
practice. The conference’s programme
addresses the different aspects of renal
and transplantation medicine by a group
of highly respected and experienced
physicians from all over the world.
Economic Development Forum
DATE: March 7-8
VENUE: Sheraton Doha Hotel
The Entrepreneurship in Economic
Development Forum aims to
further highlight the importance of
entrepreneurship as a vital element in
economic development and an engine for
private sector growth and diversity. It will
bring together officials, policymakers,
academics, educational institutions,
universities, businessmen, bank leaders,
financial institutions and economists from
all over the world.
Atif Aslam and Shalmali Kholgade in
Qatar
DATE: Feb 26
TIME: 6pm-10pm
VENUE: Asian Town Amphitheater
Playback singers Atif Aslam and Shalmali
Kholgade will perform live together for the
very first time in Qatar.
Halal Qatar Festival
DATE: Feb 19-28
VENUE: Katara Southern Area
Committed to reviving the Qatari
heritage, the Cultural Village Foundation Katara is hosting, for fifth consecutive year,
the Halal Qatar Festival for goat and sheep
breeding. The festival includes Almzaan,
barns and auction, as well as a large number
of accompanying activities, such as games,
traditional food, the old market and the
tent heritage, in addition to many other
Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
Summit
DATE: March 10-12
VENUE: Hajar Auditaurium
Hamad Medical Corporation will organise
the Third Qatar International Metabolic
and Bariatric Surgery Summit with the
participation of distinguished keynote
speakers and panelists who will share
their experiences through lectures and
discussions on bariatric and metabolic
surgery techniques. The summit will feature
live sessions to provide technical knowledge
from experts around the world and support
specialists to adopt new techniques in their
practice for revisional and complicated
bariatric surgeries.
recreational and educational activities
related to Halal and ways to deal with them.
Childhood Cultural Center
DATE: Until March 31
TIME: 9am-10:30am
VENUE: Katara
Childhood Cultural Center participation
in ‘Schools Enrich our Culture’ programme
includes a variety of educational and
artistic workshops.
Second Qatar Nephrology Conference
DATE: Feb 25-27
VENUE: Convention Center, Sheraton
Hotel
The Second Qatar Nephrology
Conference, which will be organised by
3
COMMUNITY
ROUND & ABOUT
EVENTS
GULF TIMES
Art Exhibition
DATE: Until April 18
VENUE: Porto Arabia, Pearl
Diffusion by Peter Zimmermann — A
mesmerising solo exhibition of colourful,
futuristic works. Anima Gallery, Parcel 17,
Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. Contact:
40027437
Interfaith Dialogue Conference
DATE: Feb 16-17
VENUE: Sheraton Doha Hotel
12th Doha Interfaith Dialogue Conference
will be held this year under the theme:
“Spiritual and Intellectual Safety in
the Light of Religious Doctrines”. The
conference gives a great opportunity to
experts and professionals from all over
the world discuss the issues related to the
conference theme, and provide a certain
framework for dealing with the challenges
that threaten the spiritual and intellectual
freedom and security of our times.
and Wednesday from 5pm-6:30pm. For
reservation: [email protected]
Aspire Aquathon Series
DATE: Feb 20
VENUE: Hamad Aquatics Centre
You can join this popular combination
of swimming and running sport race,
organised by Aspire Zone Foundation in
Hamad Aquatics Centre pool facility and
around the Aspire Zone precinct. Entry
fees: QR20. Entry is open for all ages and
talents, aged 8 years and above. Adult
groups will run for 5km and swim 500m
long, while kids will run between 1.5 - 3
km and swim between 100-200m long,
according to their age group.
Salsa Beginners
DATE: Tuesday, Friday
TIME: 8-9pm
VENUE: Hilton Hotel
Whether you’ve danced salsa before or
not, you will find what you want. Different
salsa classes with different levels at your
service, taught by the best instructors in
Doha at Eforea Spa, Hilton Hotel. No need
for a partner, no need for reservation, come
as you are. Prices are QR60 per person per
lesson. Visit: www.salsancandela.com
Neuroscience Conference
DATE: February 18-20
VENUE: Sheraton Hotel
The 1st Qatar Annual Neuroscience
Conference, organised by the Neurological
Institute at Hamad Medical Corporation,
offers a comprehensive educational
programme specifically designed for the
Mena region that will have significant
emphasis on practical aspects of common
neurological and neurosurgical disorders.
The scientific programme committee has
invited world leaders in their fields to share
their knowledge with the attendees.
Jewellery and Watches Exhibition
DATE: February 23-27
VENUE: Doha Exhibition and
Convention Center
Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition
(DJWE) is being held once a year in Qatar.
This show is one of the most exclusive in
the world for wealthy individuals interested
in fine jewellery and unique pieces,
watches, gemstones, and diamonds, all
represented by more than 500 exclusive
international brands. Additionally, a
number of educational seminars will
be delivered on jewellery and watches
throughout the week.
Qatari Agricultural Product Yards
DATE: Until June 30
VENUE: Al Mazrooa, Al Zakheera, Al
Khor, Al Wakrah
The Ministry of Environment has opened
the 4th season of Qatari agricultural
product yards for selling locally produced
fruits, vegetables, poultry, fish and
livestock. Work in these yards will continue
for seven months. The yards will operate
three days a week on Thursdays, Fridays and
Saturdays from 7am to 5pm, with livestock
vendors in Al Mazrooa operating at the
same times throughout the week.
Pottery workshop for kids
DATE: Every Monday
TIME: 5pm-6pm
Kids will learn a new hand building
technique for creating and finishing
artworks in clay. For more, call 44865201.
Sketching with pencil and charcoal
DATE: Sunday and Wednesday
TIME: 5pm-6:30pm
If you can hold a pencil, you can draw
… Discover techniques to make your
drawing more realistic. Every Saturday
Hip Hop for kids
DATE: Every Sunday
TIME: 5-6pm
VENUE: Hilton
Join our Hip Hop classes instructed by
Beats and Bytes every Sunday at 5pm @
Hilton Hotel, Efora Spa. For more info, call
on 33003839
www.salsancandela.com
Ladies day at Beach
DATE: Every Monday
TIME: 9am-7pm
VENUE: Sheraton Doha
For all the ladies in Doha! Do you feel
like taking some time off for yourself?
Come join us at the Sheraton Resort for
an all-day-access to the beach and pool,
along with aqua gym aerobics for free.
Nestled on the edge of Qatar’s West Bay
with an unbeatable and uninterrupted
views of the blue sea. Our pool and beach
adds a tempting and exciting experience to
enhance your senses of relaxation. Enjoy
only for QR100 per person.
Swimming lessons for kids
DATE: Saturday to Thursday
TIME: 10am-6pm
VENUE: H2O Swim club
The Swim Club’s goal offers a variety of
swimming programmes for adults and kids.
They run the following programmes from
competitive squads, leisure swimming for
kids, up to adult swimming. To find out
more, please visit their website:
http://www.h2oswimclub.com
Fitness Training
DATE: Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday
TIME: 6pm-7pm
VENUE: MIA Park
There are fitness classes in the park on
Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday nights
between 6 and 7pm. Open to all levels of
fitness, Bootcamp is an intensive and fun
way to train and also meet new people in the
open and friendly group atmosphere. More
information from Bootcamp Qatar or info@
bootcampqatar.com
Join in our Walk-in Weekends
DATE: Every Saturday
VENUE: MIA Atrium
MIA art education and calligraphy teams
offer walk-in workshops in MIA’s atrium
every Saturday. These walk-in workshops
are for open for all family members.
FOODIE CHOICE
RESTAURANT: Paul
LOCATION: Landmark Mall
Food-wise, it’s clear that Paul’s is a cut
above the sandwich café — its food is fresh,
rustic and authentic French. Their menu has
a good range of sandwiches, Paninis, pastries,
cakes and fruit tarts.
Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change
4
GULF TIMES Monday, February 15, 2016
COMMUNITY
COVER STORY
Undone by Zika
‘We’re all steep on this dreadful learning curve,’ said Elizabeth Talbot, a physician and
infectious diseases expert at Dartmouth College’s Geisel School of Medicine. ‘There
are a lot of negatives, and there are a lot of unknowns right now.’ By Daniel Chang
DANGER THAT LURKS: A mosquito from the genus Aedes, which can carry Zika virus.
I
n 2007, physicians working on
a remote island in the western
Pacific Ocean reported an
outbreak of an illness with
flu-like symptoms similar to
dengue fever, a debilitating viral
disease transmitted by mosquitoes
and well documented since the 18th
century.
But the illness observed
by doctors on Yap Island in
Micronesia seemed different than
dengue — with sudden onset of
rash, joint pain or red eyes, and no
cases of haemorrhagic fever.
Patient blood samples sent to
the federal Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention would
later confirm the first recorded
outbreak of what was then an
obscure pathogen.
“We didn’t have any idea that it
was Zika virus,” said Lt. Col. Mark
Duffy of the US Air Force, one of
the lead physician researchers
dispatched to investigate the
mystery illness in June 2007.
“There was just a paucity of
literature that was out there.”
Until then, Zika had been
something of a sleeper virus.
Only 14 cases of human Zika
disease had been documented
prior to 2007, and all of them
were in Africa and Asia, according
to an article on the Yap Island
upsurge published in the New
England Journal of Medicine in
2009. Researchers identified
49 confirmed cases of Zika, and
estimated that 73 percent of the
population had been infected with
the virus.
Nearly nine years after the first
Zika outbreak was documented
Monday, February 15, 2016
COMMUNITY
COVER STORY
by Duffy and a team of disease
detectives — a collaborative effort
involving the CDC, the World
Health Organisation and the
nonprofit Pasteur Institute — the
virus has spread rapidly across
South America and the Caribbean,
triggering warnings of a global
health threat.
But physicians and public
health officials still lack the basic
scientific research to understand
precisely how Zika spreads or
to establish a causal connection
with a concurrent spike in
microcephaly, a congenital birth
defect, and other neurological
disorders following outbreaks of
the virus in Brazil in 2015 and in
French Polynesia in 2014.
There is no tool available that
allows physicians to diagnose
Zika virus in the field, limiting
their ability to quickly identify
the disease and take action.
There is no vaccine or specific
medical treatment for the virus’
symptoms, which affect only
one in five infected people. And
it’s unclear whether the virus is
transmitted only by mosquitoes,
or perhaps also through sexual
contact, as health officials believe
occurred in Texas this year.
“We’re all steep on this dreadful
learning curve,” said Elizabeth
Talbot, a physician and infectious
diseases expert at Dartmouth
College’s Geisel School of
Medicine. “There are a lot of
negatives, and there are a lot of
unknowns right now.”
Those unknowns, particularly
the suspected link between
the virus and birth defects, are
precisely the reasons cited by the
WHO’s Emergency Committee
for declaring an international
emergency for Zika on
February 1.
Catherine Spong, a physicianscientist and acting director
of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver
National Institute of Child Health
and Human Development, said
the most important unanswered
question is whether or not Zika
virus is causing birth defects and
other neurological disorders.
“If in fact it is,” Spong said,
“then we need to work through
exactly when that happens and
how can we prevent that.”
Duffy, the physician who
investigated the Zika outbreak on
Yap Island in 2007, said the team
of scientists spent a month in the
field studying the transmission
and symptoms of the disease.
In that time, he said, the
team made several important
observations, including the
determination that only about 1
in 5 people infected with the virus
show symptoms.
Duffy surmised that the Zika
virus likely arrived on the remote
island via an infected monkey,
an infected person or a mosquito
carried aboard a cargo container
or airplane.
The team determined that
about 75 percent of the island’s
population had been infected
with Zika during the outbreak,
he said, and they were the first
to characterise the disease’s
symptoms in a broad population.
But, Duffy said, “There wasn’t
GULF TIMES
There is no tool available that
allows physicians to diagnose
Zika virus in the field, limiting
their ability to quickly identify
the disease and take action.
There is no vaccine or specific
medical treatment for the virus’
symptoms, which affect only
one in five infected people
any indication at that point about
the fetal anomalies or GuillainBarre syndrome,” a neurological
disorder often associated with
viral infections.
The only way to prove a causal
link between the virus and any
of the suspected outcomes is
through epidemiological research,
including cohort and case-control
studies, which then would require
further research for prevention
and treatment.
Scientific efforts, including
case investigations and ecological
research, already are underway to
close the knowledge gap on Zika,
the WHO reported.
President Barack Obama has
asked Congress for $1.8 billion in
emergency funding to combat the
virus through mosquito control,
vaccine research, education and
improving healthcare for lowincome, pregnant women.
The CDC also is responding to
state requests for help, sending
950 Zika antibody tests to Florida
at the request of Governor Rick
Scott — in addition to 475 tests
sent recently. Sixteen cases have
been identified in Florida so far,
all acquired outside the country
and none involving pregnant
women.
Talbot, the infectious disease
expert at Dartmouth, who also is
New Hampshire’s deputy state
epidemiologist, said “very active
investigations” into a causal link
between Zika and birth defects are
under way now. But, she said, the
scientific community shouldn’t
expect to arrive at definitive
conclusions for three to six
months.
Until then, she said, people
worried about Zika virus should
listen to what is known about
transmission of the disease and its
symptoms.
“Pregnant women should
try to postpone travel to the
affected regions,” she said.
“We have confidence in that
recommendation.”
Tablot added that practical
advice can go a long way,
including the use of insect
repellants DEET or Permethrin in
clothing and removing containers
and places where mosquitoes
breed.
“Maybe they’re not always
simple,” she said, “but they are
effective.” —Miami Herald/TNS
5
6
GULF TIMES Monday, February 15, 2016
COMMUNITY
Reggae fully loaded
By Umer Nangiana
T
he evolution of
Barbados’s reggae music
would not be complete
without the musical
contributions of Reggae
Artist of the Year 2016, Buggy
Nhakente, the lead singer of Buggy
Nhakente and Fully Loaded Band.
Buggy, whose road to success
is clearly defined through the
consciousness of his lyrics,
demonstrates the true meaning
behind his name Nhakente, “The
spirit of the people expressed
through music.”
In his career, Buggy has
connected with the spirit of the
people in Canada, the UK, and over
50 cities in the US and has shared
the stage with megastars like Ja
Rule, Ashanti, Sean Paul, Tony
Rebel, Sizzla, Beres Hammond,
Shaggy, Jah Cure, Queen Ifrica,
Buju Banton, Anthony B and many
more.
Buggy Nhakente and his
band Fully Loaded will perform
beachside at The St. Regis Doha
every Thursday and Friday, starting
from February 18, 2016.
Buggy Nhakente has the
distinction of being the first
Barbadian artiste to perform at
Jamaica’s premier conscious reggae
show, Rebel Salute in 2009.
In April 2011, Nhakente
completed a short tour in Liverpool,
England which included a
scintillating performance, where he
gained another distinction of being
the first reggae artist to have ever
performed at the Paul McCartney
Auditorium.
His latest first occurred with his
inspiring November performance in
Denmark for the Remembrance of
Danish Reggae Artist, Natasha.
His ever evolving talent has
seen him — along with his band
members Elvis Edwards, Jamal
Browne, Daniel Medford,Tabitha
Johnson and Rhesa Garnes (Fully
Loaded) — as an exciting addition
to any major concert in Barbados,
resulting in him being a popular
feature on Barbados’ premier
Reggae events Reggae on the Hill
and Hennessy Artistry.
Reggae Artist of the Year is not
an unfamiliar title to Buggy — he
has earned this title as well as “Best
Reggae Single” in 2007, 2010, 2011,
2012, 2013 and has also collected
“Video of the Year” award in 2009.
With phenomenal collaborations
with Sizzla and the successful
release of his debut solo album
“Nhakente” featuring the hit
single I See Dem, he has been riding
high on the wings of his January
2011 released single, Just A Man,
which was produced by Penthouse
Records and became an instant hit.
Nhakente released his second
album titled “Just A Man”,
which also featured work with
Grammy Award-winning Steel
Pulse producer Jimmy Haynes.
The album also birthed Buggy’s
hits Love Remains the Same by
the Hawaiian label Rumble Rock
Recordz and Best Friend produced
by KB Sharp for Hit Island Records.
Born Ryan Chase, his initial
introduction to music came at
age 7, when his uncle gave him a
mini radio and microphone. With
that musical seed planted, his
admiration of music, in particular
reggae and dancehall grew and
flourished.
Clearly gifted musically, Buggy
was encouraged to develop and
pursue a career as an entertainer.
In 1990 the journey began and
Buggy has not looked back since.
A humble, focused and talented
individual, there’s no doubt that
this young songwriter/vocalist,
who is a blend of rich Caribbean
roots and artistic talent, is
attracting great opportunities that
have him destined for even greater
musical successes.
A humble, focused and talented
individual, there’s no doubt that
this young songwriter/vocalist,
who is a blend of rich Caribbean
roots and artistic talent, is
attracting great opportunities
that have him destined for greater
musical success.
Fully loaded with universal lyrics,
energy and charisma, plus an ability
to musically connect with people
of all walks of life, this artiste is
on his way to fulfilling his goal of
spreading love in all forms to the
world through his music.
VENUE: Buggy Nhakente and Fully Loaded will perform at The St. Regis Doha from February 18.
GIFTED: Buggy continues to chart a path of spreading love in all forms to the
world through his music.
Monday, February 15, 2016
GULF TIMES
7
COMMUNITY
New Board of Directors of the Spanish Business Council
Ambassador of Spain to Qatar Ignacio Escobar recently hosted a workshop lunch at his residence
to fete the new elected Board of Directors of the Spanish Business Council. The Spanish Business
Council is a private non-profit organisation gathering Spanish and foreign companies and
individuals committed to improving the commercial, economic, cultural and educational relations
between Spain and Qatar. Seen here are Ambassador Escobar, centre, with Adel al-Mannai, and
SBC President Francisco Garrote, third from left, along with other board directors. the picture: H.E
Ambassador of Spain, Mr. Ignacio Escobar with Mr. Adel Al Mannai and third from left, Mr. Francisco
Garrote, President of the SBC with others Board Directors.
Al Jazeera Printing Press organises Annual Day for employees
Al Jazeera Printing Press Co. organised an Annual Day for its staff members at Diplomatic Club recently. A large number of the staff members participated in the event, which featured various sporting
competitions, followed by a cultural programme. The winning prizes were distributed by Jacob Kannath, director of the company.
Qmass celebrates National Sport Day
The Qatar Mahe Souhrida Sangamam (Qmass) celebrated Qatar National Sport Day at Aspire Park on February 9. The society had arranged separate sporting
events for women, men and children. Some of the sports that the participants got to play at the event included kabadi, kambavali, running and football.
Honour for four leading
Indian social workers
Indian expatriate forum Incas
will honour four leading social
workers from the community in
a cultural programme scheduled
for February 19 at the MES
Indian School grounds at 6pm.
The four people who will be
honoured at the event are: Abdul
Salam, KM Ali, Molly Pauly and
Merry Alphonso.
These four individuals have
been rendering voluntary service
at the mortuary of Hamad
Medical Corporation, preparing
bodies for burial or repatriation.
They have been following in
the footsteps of the late social
worker Hajikka.
The four social workers will be
presented with a citation
and memento at the event,
said a statement issued by the
society.
8
GULF TIMES Monday, February 15, 2016
COMMUNITY
Sports Corner marks National Sport Day
Sports Corner celebrated Qatar’s National Sport Day with a range of activities at Aspire Park.
The programme encompassed a multitude of activities, tournaments and sports zone. From a
football multi-skills activity sponsored by Adidas to quick and fun mini tournaments by Qatar
Futsal, participants from different ages competed and enjoyed challenges and spend quality time
Mosafer launches artistic
luggage collection
Mosafer has announced the launch
of German Luggage brand BG Berlin
and its collaboration with Brazilian
artist Lobo. After years of bringing
the world into peoples’ homes and
lives through his signature Pop Art
style, Lobo has translated this into
a collection that directly relates to
the global cities he portrays. The
collection will be sold across Doha
in Mosafer’s five locations, and also
will be available in Mosafer New York
and across the GCC.
The unique range of products under
the Lobo Collection are designed
to meet the demands of travel and
urban life. Lobo’s Pop Art stands for
sustainability, made for those with
an adventurous spirit who relate to
the worlds of art, design and culture
around the world.
The collection is comprised of
Luggage, Luggage Covers, Eco
Bags and Umbrellas, all in the
colourful Pop Art artworks by Lobo.
The inspiration has come from
travel experiences Lobo has had in
locations he has visited across the
world. Incorporating the details of
everyday life, and fusing these with
landmarks of iconic destinations
Lobo has created The American Way
Collection that includes sites like the
Statue of Liberty, Golden Gate Bridge
and famous New York Yellow Cabs.
The Brazilian city of Sao Paulo is also
honoured with his museum MASP
and famous bridge, Ponte Estaiada.
The colours aim to be a standout
in the airport as well, in the luggage
carousel, easy to find and easy to
identify. As Lobo puts it: “I always
carry bright and colourful luggages.
They are fun and easier to find on
the airport mats.”
competing with peers. Evolution Qatar organised competitions for different Evolution Academy
teams. There was also a skills station where participants enjoyed different challenges likes head
tennis, crossbar challenge, and penalty shootouts. The venue also had special zones for the kids,
elderlies and families.
Retaj Group marks National Sport Day
Retaj Group marked the Qatar National Sport Day by
organising a march that started from Retaj Al Rayyan
Hotel in Al-Dafna through the Corniche leading to Retaj
Royale Doha Hotel. Participants of this activity included
the CEOs of Retaj Group, the head of departments, and
employees. The march was led by Vice-Chairman and
Managing Director of Retaj Group Dr Mohammed bin
Johar al-Mohammed, as well as the CEO of Retaj Real
Estate Engineer Ibrahim Yousif al-Fakhro, and Retaj
Hotels & Hospitality CEO Dr Kamal Sanhaji.
Monday, February 15, 2016
GULF TIMES
9
COMMUNITY
Nepalese group releases debut music video
The Nawa Pratibha Cultural Group (NPCG) released its debut
music video at a recent cultural programme at Al Naken
Restaurant. The group also announced the winners of a lucky
draw on the occasion. Community leader Satya Narayan
Chaudhary presided over the programme that was jointly
organised by NPCG and Patheka Saving Group (PSG). Bhabindra
Tamang, chairman of International Artists’ Front-Qatar, was the
chief guest.
The video — Laure of Jeevansathi (life partner of an expat) —
has been directed by Keshab Bhattarai, edited by SB Films and
shot by Santa Bomjan. The vocals have been performed by
Bhimbhadra Dev and the lyrics were penned by Parash Gajmer.
NPCG artistes Rajan Century, Januka Thapa Magar, Raj Lopchan
and Anjana Tamang have played their parts in the video that
deals with tragic conditions of the near and dear ones of
migrant workers. The video has been shot across Qatar.
The organisers also honoured artistes Devika KC, Youbraj
Chhantyal, Keshab Bhattari, Babin Rai, Lokesh BC, Ishwor Ballav,
Prakash Rai, Mangal BK and Srijana Gurung at the event.
Text and photos by Usha Wagle Gautam
Stenden University Qatar appoints new Executive Dean
S
tenden University Qatar has
announced that Dr Ivan Ninov
has been appointed as Executive
Dean, effective January 17.
Dr Ninov was selected after
an extensive international search and is
joining Stenden University Qatar from
the Emirates Academy of Hospitality
Management in Dubai, where he was an
Assistant Dean. Dr Ninov brings extensive
industry and academic knowledge,
combined with successful international
and regional experience. He holds a PhD
degree in Hospitality Administration
from Texas Tech University in the US, and
a Master of Science degree in Restaurant,
Hotel and Institutional Management from
the same institution.
At the Emirates Academy, Dr Ninov
was responsible for developing the
Institutional Effectiveness Programme,
the purpose of which was to assure
the highest quality in all areas of
the university. This programme was
recognised as exemplary by UAE’s
Ministry of Higher Education and
Scientific Research and by various
external audits. Dr Ninov was also
involved in the day to day operation of the
university and was specifically in charge
of directing and managing the MBA
programme.
During his welcoming ceremony,
Dr Ninov said: “I am grateful to the
Board of Stenden University Qatar for
entrusting me with the leadership of
this institution and I will do my best to
continue and initiate efforts towards
making this university one of the premier
higher education providers of hospitality
management, tourism management, and
business management education on a
regional and international level. Stenden
University Qatar is very well situated to
give our students great opportunities for
learning, and our location in Doha and the
GCC region is vital to our identity and our
success as a school.”
Dr Ivan Ninov
Cricket tournament marks National Sport Day
The Qatar Expat Cricket Community organised a cricket tournament to mark the Qatar National Sport Day on February 9. The one-day tournament featured 48 teams. Seen here are the runners-up in
the tournament, Spartan XI.
10 GULF TIMES Monday, February 15, 2016
COMMUNITY
Sporting activities on National Sport Day at Asian Town
HE the Minister for Culture and Sports Salah bin Ghanem bin
Nasser al-Ali visited and participated in multiple sports activities
organised by Ibn Ajayan Projects on Qatar’s National Sport Day
at Asian Town.
Asian Town celebrated National Sport Day by holding a series
of sports activities to highlight the prime importance of active
and healthy lifestyles. Thousands of people from different
expatriate communities participated in events that were led by
senior officials on behalf the organising company, Ibn Ajayan
Projects.
The activities started with a walking marathon, which was
followed by basketball and volleyball tournaments for both
men and women, a cricket match between Qatar National
Team and Asian Eleven Expatriate Team, a football match and
tug-of-war.
Winners of the sports tournament and competitions were
awarded with trophies and medals in a prize distribution
ceremony for all winning teams.
Naseem Al Rabeeh hosts cancer prevention forum
A Cancer Prevention Forum was held
at the auditorium of Naseem Al Rabeeh
Medical Center recently. The forum
aimed to spread awareness on early
detection and prevention of cancer.
Dr Zeba Iqbal, a gynaecology specialist
at Naseem Al Rabeeh Medical Center,
discussed the signs and symptoms of
breast cancer.
Two cancer survivors, Sameer Ahmed
and Marie- Antoinette Attiyeh, joined the
panel discussion to share their journeys
and how they fought the battle and won.
Mohammed Arif, Marketing Manager
at Naseem Al Rabeeh Medical Center,
announced free breast cancer screening
for those who registered their names
after the forum.
World Cancer Day is marked around
the globe on February 4. Its objective
is to get as many people as possible
to talk about cancer. Future 318 (Faisal
Al Suwaidi for Events) initiated the
event in collaboration with Naseem
Al Rabeeh Medical Center, with the
support of Diet Delights and Luxury
Spa & Fitness.
Chinese Food Culture
Festival at Dragon Mart
Dragon Mart, also known as China market in Qatar, is organising
a Chinese Food Culture Festival on February 19 and 20. The
two-day food festival will celebrate the first Qatar-China Year of
Culture. Authentic Chinese fare will include signature dishes from
some well-known Chinese restaurants based in Qatar, such as
Royal Bafilyon, Shanghai Garden, Beijing House and Guangzhou
Barbecue. Dragon Mart is home to more than 200 shops
offering a variety of goods from China.
Monday, February 15, 2016
GULF TIMES
11
COMMUNITY
Celebrating the traditions
of Jesuit heritage at GU-Q
A
packed schedule
of events marked
Georgetown University
in Qatar’s Jesuit Heritage
Week (JHW), an
annual tradition where the campus
community explores and celebrates
the university’s Jesuit heritage, values,
and identity.
Based on an ongoing tradition
from Georgetown’s Main Campus
in Washington, DC, JHW in
Qatar provides the opportunity
for the community to explore the
Georgetown Jesuit identity in the
context of its Middle East location and
uniquely diverse student body, with a
focus on interfaith dialogue.
This year’s JHW included a
wide variety of activities hosted by
different student clubs and groups to
encourage the campus community
to delve into the values that
underscore the Jesuit commitment
to community-based service and
an ethical responsibility to human
development.
Amal, a student club that advocates
and raises awareness for social
inclusion of people with special
needs in Qatar, organised an event
called «Faith > Cure». “Amal›s event
focused on how faith and religion
can help people with special needs
and their families cope with their
condition,” said Sherif Elgindi,
the student founder and current
president of the club. “We had a panel
of three people who told their stories
on how faith helped them deal with
their special needs and those of their
GU-Q’s professor of religious studies, Fr. Tom Michel, SJ, during the lecture.
family members.”
Other clubs that took part include
the Film Society, which hosted a
screening of the independent film
titled Thirteen Conversations About
One Thing, and the Human Rights
Club, which organised an interfaith
dialogue. Brainfood, a student
club that helps to foster an active
community of academic engagement
outside the classroom, hosted an
engaging dinner and discussion.
A keynote address titled “My Fifty
Years of Interfaith Dialogue”, was
delivered by GU-Q’s professor of
religious studies, Fr. Tom Michel, SJ,
where he shared insights gained over
his five decades working and engaging
Muslims and people of other faiths.
His work earned him the International
Tschelebi Peace Prize from the Central
Islamic Institute of Germany in 2008,
and the Ali Shir Navai Award from the
International Turkish Olympiad in
Ankara, Turkey in 2009.
“The defenceless, marginalised,
refugees, and victims of violence, get
first priority of our intentions. How
to make society more attentive and
responsive to the demands of justice
remains an integral part of our Jesuit
mission. But this is a task that we
can’t do alone,” he said, describing
the many social service projects, such
as establishing schools and medical
clinics in struggling communities,
that have emerged from interfaith
co-operation. “Only from working
together and learning from each
other can the human endeavour move
forward,” he explained.
A highlight this year was the
participation of Fr. Jerry Rosario, SJ,
an Indian Jesuit priest, theologian,
writer, lawyer, and social activist, best
known as “The Barefoot Priest” for
his choice to stop wearing shoes in
solidarity with the Dalit people who
are denied the right to wear them
under caste traditions in India. Fr.
Jerry led retreats for faculty, staff, and
students, and he participated in many
of the week’s other events, sharing his
unique perspective and story.
The Jesuits are known worldwide
for their work in promoting social
justice and education through the
founding and running of schools,
colleges, universities and seminaries,
as well as for promoting intellectual
research and cultural activities.
“Educating the Whole Person”,
“Faith and Justice”, “Community
in Diversity”, and “Interreligious
Understanding”, are just a few of
the foundational values that this
year’s schedule of events sought to
highlight.
Landmark Group Qatar celebrates National Sport Day
The Landmark Group celebrated the Qatar National Sport Day with multiple fun-filled activities for its employees as well as customers. The group conducts Landmark Olympics every year to
support sporting activities and spread the importance of healthy living amongst its employees. This year, the group’s employees participated in indoor and outdoor games like football, basketball,
volleyball, cricket, softball, table tennis, carrom, chess and bowling.
12 GULF TIMES Monday, February 15, 2016
COMMUNITY
INFOGRAPHIC
Monday, February 15, 2016
GULF TIMES
13
COMMUNITY
LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE
Four futuristic bath upgrades
A
remain free of condensation even
after the hottest shower — so you
never have to wait for the mirror to
clear or wipe of fog and live with
the streaks. On the higher end are
digital mirrors that incorporate a
touchscreen display, WiFi, TV and
Internet functionality. Some also
allow you to use favourite apps, so
you can check the weather or scan
e-mails while shaving or doing your
hair.
re you planning a
bathroom remodel in
this year? If so, you’re
not alone. Some of
those remodelling
homeowners will seek upgrades to
transform their bathrooms into true
oases of luxury, beauty and efficient
functionality.
Bathroom renovations remain
among the most popular home
improvement projects, and can
greatly enhance not only real estate
value but your enjoyment of your
home as well. From high-end fixtures
that clean themselves to smart
showers, here are leading-edge
bathroom upgrades that add luxury
and value to your bath:
The fixtures of tomorrow
While the toilet’s sleek,
contemporary styling compliments a
variety of modern bathroom design
themes and a special glaze to break
down dirt in the bowl and rinse it
clean with ewater+, a system that
mists and cleans the bowl with
electrolysed water after every flush.
A heated seat, deodoriser and warm
water personal cleansing system
elevate this high-tech sensor toilet to
a relaxing and refreshing experience.
Space-age showers
The idea of a shower as a place
to relax — rather than to just get
clean — has been around for a
long time, but modern technology
is taking the concept to the next
level. From showers that can
function both as traditional spray
ARIES
March 21 — April 19
Unless you are completely 100% sure about something, don’t go
ahead with it today. Think about it and if you can, leave it be until
later in the month.
CANCER
June 21 — July 22
If you aren’t sure about something, then don’t just think you can
breeze through it and risk failure. You don’t like failure Cancers. So
don’t invite it.
LIBRA
September 23 — October 22
If you aren’t sure that you can do something you might have
promised someone you would do, do what you can to back out of it
today Librans. You don’t want to do something with a bad attitude,
right?
CAPRICORN
December 22 — January 19
Avoid being caught out by someone today who is trying to trick you
in some way or another. You need to hang out with positive people
and with the Moon in Taurus, your fun zone, have fun as well.
showers and steam showers, to
“smart showers” that allow you to
program customised temperature,
pressure and spray settings
for multiple users, a variety of
high-tech, luxury upgrades are
transforming the simple shower
into a customised experience.
Smart mirrors
If you’re a bathroom multi-tasker,
smart mirrors can make life easier
and help you keep step with the busy
pace of your lifestyle. On the simple
end of smarter mirrors, an anti-fog
bathroom mirrors use heat and/or
special coatings to ensure mirrors
TAURUS
April 20 — May 20
The Moon remains in your sign again today and makes this a time to
tackle anything and everything emotional. Not so easy sometimes
but if it means having ‘that talk’ you need to have, so be it.
LEO
July 23 — August 22
The stars are aligning today for you and it’s important that you take
advantage of all they have to offer. Aquarians and Aries are both
great signs for you to hang out with today.
SCORPIO
October 23 — November 21
The Moon remains in your one on one relationship zone today
Scorpios. In Taurus, this makes it the perfect time for you to do
something fun with your partner or BFF.
AQUARIUS
January 20 — February 18
Avoid being too bossy or overwhelming today. Your coworkers and
friends won’t enjoy it and you might be talking a whole bunch of
stuff that doesn’t make any sense at all.
Digital electronic faucets
Touch-free faucets have been
around for a while, but modern
digital electronic faucets do far more
than turn on without the touch
of a finger. Electronic faucets also
use infrared technology to turn off
when a user’s hand moves away.
Digital features also allow users to
see the temperature of the water and
program the temperature and the
duration of the flow, so you don’t
have to touch the faucet to turn it on
or off while brushing your teeth. You
can even find faucets that feature
touchscreen technology so you can
not only control temperature, but
monitor your water usage too.
© Brandpoint
GEMINI
May 21 — June 20
Avoid any and all obstacles today Gemini’s. If something seems too
hard and doesn’t want to budge, then let it go. You have time on your
hands to work on the hard stuff later on.
VIRGO
August 23 — September 22
The Moon spends another day in Taurus, your fellow earth sign
Virgos. In your higher education zone, this is a great time for you to
look into taking an online course or study group.
SAGITTARIUS
November 22 — December 21
Uranus the planet of the unexpected and unusual transiting Aries
throughout the year is making sure your romantic life is never
boring! You will have more than one lovely encounters this year and
you could even have one this week!
PISCES
February 19 — March 20
Never say ‘NO’, Pisces. You might think you will never do something
but you might just surprise yourself today when you do it.
14 GULF TIMES Monday, February 15, 2016
COMMUNITY
Wordsearch
Adam
Pooch Cafe
John I
BARRYMORE
BIRCH
BROWN
CASSAVETES
CLEESE
DILLINGER
GIELGUD
KEATS
KNOX
LENNON
MALKOVICH
MASEFIELD
MCENROE
MILLS
OSBORNE
STEINBECK
TRAVOLTA
WESLEY
Codeword
Puzzles courtesy: Puzzlechoice.com
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
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.
PUZZLES/CARTOONS
Monday, February 15, 2016
COMMUNITY
PUZZLES
Quick Clues
ACROSS
1. Isolated (6)
4. Soul (6)
9. Independent (4-9)
10. Dampen (7)
11. Relative (5)
12. Divan (5)
14. Gaze (5)
18. Make amends (5)
19. Dominate (7)
21. Strengthening (13)
22. Boarder (6)
23. Smell (6)
GULF TIMES
Colouring
DOWN
1. Recommence (6)
2. Variegated (13)
3. Taut (5)
5. Hobby (7)
6. Rebirth (13)
7. Pulled (6)
8. Occurrence (5)
13. Fissure (7)
15. Legal (6)
16. Shoot (5)
17. Clutch (6)
20. Glorify (5)
Cryptic Clues
Answers
Wordsearch
ACROSS
1. Genuinely concerned with a friend (6)
4. He has to view and review (6)
9. Mediterranean tear-jerkers? (7,6)
10. The fellow grew older, but coped (7)
11. Tag changed by Bella (5)
12. Short pithy saying concerning a garden
ornament (5)
14. Not a liability when established (5)
18. Collect before noon in front of a ship
(5)
19. Unauthorised disclosure causing a loss
in liquid assets (7)
21. Just failed to win and got the cane
(6,2,1,4)
22. They eat rinsed produce (6)
23. Restyled screen used in a church? (6)
DOWN
1. Start again with a summary (6)
2. One profit followed by another
repeatedly (5,3,5)
3. Obviously relaxed when being
untruthful (5)
5. Aggravates the French in rows (7)
6. They cause mischief and disturb
manufacturers (13)
7. Thrown at the French chateau (6)
8. In which I decide to reprimand (5)
13. He may rub you up the wrong way (7)
15. Somewhere to sleep in the pub? There’s
a catch! (6)
16. Suit the societies (5)
17. Sensitive offer (6)
20. A confusing series of ways to cause
astonishment (5)
Codeword
Yesterday’s Solutions
QUICK
Across: 1 Prizefighter; 7 Grass; 8 Singe; 9 Act; 10
Convivial; 11 Tenure; 12 Sewing; 15 Rapturous; 17
Far; 18 Peace; 19 Flair; 21 Unattractive.
Down: 1 Philanthropy; 2 Era; 3 Insane; 4
Hastiness; 5 Ennui; 6 Belligerence; 7 Get on;
10 Corpulent; 13 Infer; 14 Confer; 16 Plain;
20 Arc.
CRYPTIC
Across: 1 Seeds of doubt; 7 Wagon; 8 Tango; 9
Sol; 10 Casserole; 11 Hasten; 12 Keep it; 15 Track
suit; 17 Col; 18 Drama; 19 Pages; 21 Under your
hat.
Down: 1 Stems the tide; 2 Sag; 3 Finish; 4 On
the beat; 5 Bingo; 6 Comes to light; 7 Wales; 10
Checkmate; 13 Pecks; 14 Supply; 16 Again; 20
Gnu.
15
16 GULF TIMES Monday, February 15, 2016
COMMUNITY
BOLLYWOOD
Govinda apologises
after eight years
T
here is a YouTube
video of Govinda
doing a dance of sorts
at a movie set when
he was a star many
years ago. He is dressed in his
trademark loud attire, in this case
a patterned white jacket and dark
glasses that seem to cover most of
his face.
Suddenly he turns towards
someone not visible in the video.
He questions the man whether he
is a reporter, asks him where he
is from and then abruptly slaps
the person. Later he admits to the
media that he did it.
This is a slap that happened
almost eight years ago and, since
he was a star and the victim an
ordinary man, it was assumed
that he had gotten away with it.
After all, what can someone do if
slapped by a movie star?
But the man who was slapped
was made of sterner stuff. He filed
a case in court, which got quashed
at the lower level and he then
moved all the way to the Supreme
Court, which found merit in his
complaint and rapped Govinda
on the knuckles saying that he
should settle this out of court by
apologising.
Govinda’s reaction was marked
by u-turns. First he shirked from
apologising and told the media
that it was a political conspiracy,
otherwise how could the
complainant follow up in court for
so long. That might be true but
there was still arrogance in that
logic. It didn’t question the right
or wrong of his action, merely
the motive of the complainant in
seeking redress.
One more split
himself put up a sad looking nerdy
image on himself in his Instagram
account with a caption that said
‘Heartbroken’. Slowly, the facts
seem to be coming out in different
news reports.
According to one, Virat had
decided to not play in a cricket
series so that he could spend time
with Anushka but when he returned
to India he found to his surprise
that she had taken on a number of
movie assignments and wouldn’t be
available.
Another version said that Virat
in fact proposed marriage to
Anushka and she was not interested
in it, leading to the end of the
relationship.
While Anushka has been silent
post the break up, Virat has not
taken it so well. He has unfollowed
her on Twitter and Instagram and
at one party was apparently inviting
people to dance saying that he was
single now. It doesn’t seem like a
temporary tiff and the chances of
reconciliation are very slim.
Break-ups are happening at
the speed of light in Bollywood
these days. First there was the
unexpected one of Ranbir Kapoor
and Katrina Kaif. Then came news
about Farhan Akhtar and his wife
deciding to divorce. That was a
relationship which had been on the
rocks for some time and so wasn’t
really a surprise.
But now comes news that
Anushka Sharma has also broken
up with cricketer Virat Kohli. They
had been together since 2014 and
their relationship had withstood
some needless controversies when
Anushka accompanied him on
cricket tours and his poor form on
the field was blamed unfairly on
her. But the two had not let that
affect them and no one really had
thought that they were heading for
a break up until recently when the
speculations began to appear in the
gossip pages.
It got confirmed when Virat
But then wiser sense seems to
have prevailed on Govinda after he
was given two weeks by the court,
which his lawyer said he would
do. The actor has now apologized,
even if not in person, and has
also offered INR Rs500,000 as
compensation for his action.
This marks a departure from
his statements so far, where he
first said that he slapped the
man because he kicked the chair
Govinda was sitting on and then
later changed the version to
saying that the man was harassing
women on the movie set.
It took the fear of the court
taking him to task that finally
made him make amends. The
moral of the lesson for him is
that it is only easy to be a bully
when you think there will be no
retaliation.
LONG TIME COMING: Govinda has apologised to a man he slapped eight
years ago, after the court gave him two weeks.
Online theatre
Ram Gopal Varma was once known for making
cutting edge movies using the new talent in an
industry bereft of creativity. Lately all he is famous for
is in trying to be famous.
A series of flop movies that went from bad to worse
has left him with very little work in Bollywood and
forcing him to return to the south Indian film industry
where he is now making a biopic on the bandit
Veerappan.
He however seems to have a tactic to remain
relevant elsewhere too. Recently he announced on
Twitter that he was going to start an online theatre to
show short films made by him.
What he has in mind seems to be bordering on
pornography, if his first such film’s poster of a scantily
clad woman is anything to go by. The movie, which
he dubs an erotic thriller, is titled Single X and Varma
says that an online theatre is his way of getting
around the problem of the Censor Board interfering
with his work.
Send your feedback to
[email protected]
Reports say that Shah Rukh Khan will reimburse
distributors of Dilwale half of its losses.
Paying the price
BROKEN UP: Chances of Virat and Anushka getting back together seem
to be slim.
An instance of the peculiar revenue model of
Bollywood is on show in the performance of the Shah
Rukh Khan starrer Dilwale, which has earned almost
Rs150 crore in the Indian market, a decent number.
And yet there is news that Shah Rukh is going to
reimburse 50 per cent of the losses that distributors
of the movie suffered. It begs the question of how can
anyone make a loss when the movie has made so much
revenue.
The fact is that distributors buy the movie at a huge
price from producers if they have stars like Shah Rukh
Khan and it has to then be not just a hit but a huge
blockbuster for them to make profits.
In this case it certainly fell short of that, though Shah
Rukh, whose company co-produced Dilwale, came
away with a hefty profit because of how much the movie
earned in other countries and by the selling of satellite
and music rights.
EXPERIMENTATION: Ram Gopal Varma recently
announced on Twitter that he will launch an online
theatre.
Monday, February 15, 2016
GULF TIMES
17
COMMUNITY
BOLLYWOOD
Might compose music
if I get confidence for
it: Prakash Jha
NEW VISTAS: Prakash Jha
F
ilmmaker Prakash Jha
says that he attempted
acting when he got the
confidence for it and
might consider music
direction if he gets a similar
confidence.
“It wasn’t since beginning that
I wanted to become an actor. You
have to be very engaged, because
I also have to handle direction,
production and writing, and there
are numerous tasks associated with
it,” said Jha, who makes his acting
Nimrat’s ‘dream
come true’ moment
at sister’s wedding
Nimrat Kaur, who was in New
Delhi last week for her younger
sister Rubina’s wedding, says it was
always her dream to see her “baby
sister” as a bride.
debut with his upcoming film Jai
Gangaajal.
“Acting is not an easy task, it
has its own technique, its own
process, and when I decided on
it, I thought of mastering it, tried
to understand it, and also took
benefit of it, because it is a task of
responsibility when you intend to
do acting. You cannot disappoint
and if I disappoint myself it would
be difficult for me, and that is
something I never do.
“But inside yourself you have
“I had a wonderful time at the
wedding and it was indeed a perfect
winter wedding. It was something
she (her sister) had dreamed of
ever since she thought of having a
wedding and it was also what I had
dreamed of for her.
“It was a beautiful intimate
SIBLING ACT: Nimrat Kaur in Rimple and Harpreet Narula dress at younger
sister Rubina’s wedding.
an awareness of what all things
you’re capable of doing and this
wish arises at the right time, and
a confidence comes with it. So
these kinds of needs could arise.
I’ve started playing the piano to
compose something and suppose
in the future I feel like and if I have
the confidence I will compose,” the
director said.
The trailer sees a strong song in
the voice of Sukhwinder Singh and
the album also sees Bappi Lahiri
lending his voice. Ten folk songs
have been used in the film with
lyrics by Manoj Muntashir and
music by Salim-Suleiman, who
have composed music for Jha’s
previous works such as Satyagrah
and Chakravyuh.
“These are songs of the soil in
our film in the background which
will give a new dimension to our
film ... Nowadays comedy is going
on, someone says something and
tolerance, intolerance, caste starts
being discussed. And there are
a kind of songs that come out in
this comedy because it is not just
songs but words of time which
unite. “We saw 10 such situations,
so we took 10 folk songs and
Salim-Suleiman gave it a modern
feel to it, and made it large and
big like our films,” he added. Jai
Gangaajal stars Priyanka Chopra
in the lead role as a police officer.
— IANS
ceremony with our loved ones and
everything was just perfect. I had
always wanted to see my baby sister
as bride and the dream had finally
come true,” Nimrat told IANS.
The actress, who is basking in
the success of her latest Bollywood
outing Airlift wore a custommade ensemble from designer duo
Rimple and Harpreet Narula for
Rubina’s Anand Karaj ceremony
(traditional Sikh wedding).
Talking about her ethnic attire,
Nimrat said: “It was a traditional
Punjabi sharara in a mint green
colour with antique gold work on
it all around and it was absolutely
perfect. I have been swamped with
compliments ever since. I felt like a
complete bridesmaid and could not
have wished for more. I just can’t
stop looking at the pictures.”
The designer duo have described
Nimrat as the “perfect” muse.
“Dressing the beautiful Nimrat
was a sheer pleasure. As Sikhs
ourselves, we understand the
sentiment and feel of a Anand
Karaj in the morning. The colour
was perfect keeping the weather in
mind and the silhouette classic yet
comfortable,” they said. – IANS
LUCK SHINES: Gaurav Arora
Gaurav Arora excited to
work in Raaz 4
Even before the release of his
debut film Love Games, Gaurav
Arora has been signed for Raaz 4
along with Emraan Hashmi. The
debutant says he is on cloud nine
with a Bhatt film in his kitty.
After walking the ramp
and featuring in several TV
commercials, Gaurav will be
making his Bollywood debut with
Love Games, slated to release on
April 1.
“It’s known that Bhatt camp
is responsible for introducing
best of today’s actors such as
Emraan Hashmi, John Abraham
and Kangana Ranaut to name a
few. They are also responsible
SRK’s Dilwale goes global
via digital route
Yearning to watch Shah Rukh
Khan and Kajol’s fun-filled ride in
Dilwale? Take the virtual route as
Red Chillies Entertainment Pvt Ltd
will be bringing the movie for home
viewing across all major platforms
on transnational basis, where
consumers can own a digital copy or
pay for a viewing.
After the theatrical release of
Dilwale across 60 countries, the
Rohit Shetty-directorial became
available on iTunes and Google Play
last month, and it will soon make
way to other platforms like DTH,
DVD, Blue Ray and every other major
home entertainment platform, read a
statement.
for introducing new directors,
singers, music directors and
technicians. I feel blessed and
honoured to get a launch from
the Bhatts at the start of my
acting career,” Gaurav said in a
statement.
Being directed by Vikram Bhatt,
the fourth instalment of Raaz
franchise features Emraan in the
main lead opposite south Indian
actress Kriti Kharbanda. The film
has been shot in Romania.
The plot of the film is not out
yet, but it is expected to retain
the spooky level with a haunting
story. The earlier films from the
franchise have been a success,
giving an impetus to careers of
stars like Bipasha Basu, Kangana
and Emraan. — IANS
With the aim to cater to a wider
audience, the film is being made
available across all major territories
with local sub-titles. And even
television partner Sony is doing True
Video On Demand to capitalise on
this window.
According to the statement, the
move is significant as it allows the
film to cater to fans in countries
where theatrical release is not feasible
due to various reasons as Dilwale
is being made available to them six
weeks after theatrical window.
Dilwale brought back SRK and
Kajol together on the silver screen
after a gap of five years with a story
laced with action, rib-tickling
comedy and romance. It also features
Varun Dhawan, Kriti Sanon and
Varun Sharma. — IANS
18 GULF TIMES Monday, February 15, 2016
COMMUNITY
HOLLYWOOD
A salute to Jim
Family and friends pay tribute to war reporter James Foley’s courage in film
IDEALIST: Photojournalist James Foley in the documentary, Jim.
By Steven Zeitchik
J
ohn Foley felt a
complicated set of
emotions when he viewed
the now infamous video
of his son, the journalist
James Wright Foley, being executed
18 months ago by masked soldiers
of Islamic State.
“Despite the world watching, I
felt so bad he was alone and none of
us were there,” John said recently in
an interview with his wife, Diane.
“I only pray that, even though he
was physically alone, he died with
the memories of all those who loved
him.”
A tear then came to John’s eye.
“It was horrific,” he said, his voice
wavering. “But seeing Jimmy’s
lips like that in the video, I could
see his courage. I could feel his
courage.”
To many Americans, James Foley
is a piece of shorthand, a symbol,
the orange-jumpsuited man in the
grotesque footage that drove home
the danger of Islamic State. To the
Foleys, he represented something
else: Jimmy, a brave and purehearted idealist, the son who made
them proud, if more than a little
anxious, with every new adventure
he embarked upon. Foley had been
held prisoner for nearly two years
before his death, in Syria, at age
40, and his parents had come to
embrace their son’s pursuit of the
stories beyond the headlines.
The rest of America might start
to feel a little more like the Foleys
upon watching Jim. Directed
by Brian Oakes, a film-graphics
veteran and the subject’s childhood
friend, the documentary is an
intimate homage to a deeply likable
man — and a reminder that, for all
its high-level policy wrangling, the
war on terror is just as often about
a confused and heartbroken family
next door.
After premiering at the recent
Sundance Film Festival, where it
won a major audience prize, Jim
is now on HBO. The film paints
the native of small-town New
Hampshire as a rich human being,
one innately driven to take risks in
the name of truth.
“I remember as I became more
aware of the dangers, asking
him, ‘Why are you doing this?’
You have two master’s degrees —
why?’” Diane said, sitting near her
husband, with a mix of resolute and
questioning tones. “And he said,
‘Mom, you have to understand my
passion.’ He became more excited
just talking about it. And that’s
when I began to understand.”
The Marquette- and
Northwestern University-educated
Foley was a free spirit — so caught
up was he in the moment he often
came hours late to appointments
and frequently forgot to pack a
toothbrush, the film recalled. Foley
took some time in early adulthood
figuring out his life purpose.
He volunteered with Teach
for America; he taught writing
to prison inmates in the Chicago
area. As the Iraq war progressed,
however, Foley felt the need to be
closer to, and communicate from,
intense global conflicts.
He embedded with the Indiana
National Guard as a broadcast
journalist, then shortly afterward,
he travelled as a freelancer with
a small group of international
reporter friends to chronicle the
2011 revolution in Libya. Foley was
captured there and survived more
than 40 days as a hostage before
being freed in a negotiated release.
The journalist returned home
to his tightknit family — he is
the eldest of five siblings and
was especially close to his more
pragmatic brother Michael, a
key voice in the film — but found
himself bored with a desk-editing
job. He soon returned to a combat
zone. In late 2012, he was captured
while working in war-torn northern
Syria.
The second half of Jim is devoted
to showing what Foley’s life was like
in a harsh prison setting. More than
a dozen European journalists were
held captive with him at various
points; apart from the British
nationals, all were released. Their
voices here offer a detailed look at
life as a Westerner behind Islamic
State lines.
Monday, February 15, 2016
COMMUNITY
HOLLYWOOD
Rebel Wilson’s ideal man
Actress-comedienne Rebel Wilson says her ideal man
would be the one who she “couldn’t beat in a cage fight”.
While the 35-year-old is happy being single now, she says
that she knows what she wants in a boyfriend, reports
mirror.co.uk.
Asked what she looks for in a man, Wilson told Flare
magazine: “I always say, someone I couldn’t beat in a cage
fight. I like men who are traditionally masculine.
“Like if a table needs to be lifted, he would do that.
I mean, I like that show The Millionaire Matchmaker.
There’s something about traditional manliness and
chivalry, and ‘gentlemanliness’. But then is that sexist? I
don’t know.
“Men are traditionally stronger physically. So if you
need something done at your house that’s physical, they
should do it.”
While her career is going from strength to strength,
starring in strong female-led comedies, she says that she
was disappointed with her experience in Sacha Baron
Cohen’s movie The Brothers Grimsby. “I feel really lucky
to be a woman in Hollywood doing comedy right now.
Now that more writers are getting a chance to create these
scripts, it’s just more edgy. Girls (are often) relegated to
Khloe slams
Odom rumours
Reality TV star Khloe Kardashian
has slammed rumours that she and
estranged husband Lamar Odom
are rekindling their romance.
There were the board games
the prisoners invented out of
little raw material. The oranges
they coveted like candy. And, of
course, the torture sessions. As one
former captive says in the movie,
it wasn’t the physical pain as much
as the psychological uncertainty.
A perennial optimist, Foley was
a steady presence throughout.
He was frequently helpful and
supportive, even if it meant pushing
down his own pain.
“The most poignant moment,
and the one that drove home
Jimmy’s spirit to me watching
the film, was when some people
weren’t certain about whether they
would be released, and Jimmy put
his arm around them and supported
them even though he knew he
would never be released,” said John
Foley, a soft-spoken doctor with
a New Hampshire accent. “That
was the essence of Jim,” he added,
beginning to choke up once more.
Oakes, who knew Jim Foley well
from their shared New Hampshire
town, said: “He was just that
guy you always wanted around.
Whenever Jim entered that room,
he didn’t have to say anything. He
just changed the environment.”
If the movie mostly evades the
question of whether there was a
more traditional way for Foley to be
practicing overseas journalism, it
also makes clear the benefits that
came from his fearlessness. Foley
and his colleagues were among the
first to transmit horrific images and
stories from the region where few
dared to travel because it was simply
too dangerous. (One of the goals
of the foundation that Diane and
John formed after their son’s death
is to provide a better safety net for
the growing number of freelance
journalists in conflict areas.)
Hovering above the movie are
several what-ifs, particularly
with regard to the strict hostagenegotiation policy of the US.
Though John and Diane Foley
GULF TIMES 19
decline to speak of it these days,
there is a palpable sense of
frustration in the film about the
government’s efforts. As Foley’s
editor notes, the Europeans were all
released.
Some viewers might also
ask why a civilian was in a hot
zone like Syria, especially after
cheating death in Libya just a
short time before. But this was
never a question for Foley, and
the film argues it shouldn’t be for
us either. As a friend says, in an
analogy befitting cinema’s current
“Spotlight” moment, you would
never question a fireman who
rushes into a burning building to do
his job. Why would you do the same
for a journalist?
For his parents, this is,
understandably, a more delicate
issue. “It was so hard to have Jimmy
home from Libya,” John said. “We
didn’t want to push him. But I
still feel like sometimes maybe we
should have laid more guilt, like
that might have stopped him from
going back overseas.”
“We could have laid more guilt,”
Diane said quietly.
The moment that will
emotionally wreck the most
steely soul comes in the movie’s
conclusion, when Jim’s brother
Michael reads a kind of farewell
letter written just before Foley was
executed. In it, the journalist offers
a poignant reminder to each of his
close family members of what he
loves and remembers about them —
the hug he gave one brother outside
a comedy club, his wishes to his
grandmother.
“You realise you don’t know your
children when they become adults,”
said Diane, taking a deep breath as
she recounted some of the textured
details in Jim. “They go off and have
their jobs and their friends, and a
lot of that is a mystery to parents.”
“We came to know Jimmy from
the film,” said John. — Los Angeles
Times/TNS
just being the love interest in a guys’ movie,” she said.
“The experience of filming How to Be Single is so
different than, say, my experience on Sacha Baron
Cohen’s movie The Brothers Grimsby. They just want you
to stand in the corner and do nothing, which is a waste,”
she added. — IANS
FINDING MR RIGHT: Rebel Wilson
Khloe posted a cryptic message
on Twitter, saying people
involved in former relationships
can be friends as well, reports
aceshowbiz.com.
“Wt is wrong with people?
People should praise kindness. Not
question it,” she tweeted.
The reconciliation rumours
emerged after Khloe was spotted
boarding a private jet from LA to
New York with Odom. — IANS
Katie Holmes rules out reunion
Actress Katie Holmes doesn’t think that the
reunion of TV show Dawson’s Creek will work.
The 37-year-old, who shot to fame with her act
in the teenage show, says a reunion of the show
would not work as it would be difficult to recapture
the elements which made it successful, reports
femalefirst.co.uk.
“When I look back at the show, it had a certain
charm. It was before the internet really took over, it
was before iPhones, it was before this kind of new
form of communication, and it had this certain
feeling that was of the nineties. “I don’t think that
in today’s world, you could achieve that same kind
of feeling,” Holmes said on Today show. Holmes’s
remarks come a few months after actor Joshua
Jackson, who played her character’s boyfriend
Pacey Witter in the show, gave his idea for a
reunion. — IANS
MOVING WITH THE TIMES: Katie Holmes
Benedict Cumberbatch
to narrate Naples 44
Actor Benedict Cumberbatch has been
roped in as voice talent to narrate upcoming
high-profile documentary Naples 44.
Helmed by Italian director Francesco
Patierno, the documentary is based on the
eponymous diary by British travel writer
Norman Lewis about his experience as a
British intelligence officer in the southern
Italian port city following its liberation
from Nazi forces, reports variety.com.
Cumberbatch is voicing Lewis, who
wrote the memoir while he was a sergeant
in the Field Security Service of the British
Army Intelligence Corps in southern Italy
from September 1943 to October 1944.
In his widely sold book, he recorded the
desperate lives of Neapolitan civilians
who survived by relying on all types of
subterfuges, and also prostitution, thievery
and belief in miracles and cures. — IANS
LENDING HIS VOICE: Benedict Cumberbatch
20 GULF TIMES Monday, February 15, 2016
COMMUNITY
Last two Masters join
in for Qumra big five
Writer-director James Schamus and noted documentary filmmaker Joshua
Oppenheimer roped in as the final two Masters for the second edition in March
James Schamus
COLLABORATION: James Schamus co-wrote Eat Drink Man Woman (1994) with Taiwanese director Ang Lee.
By Anand Holla
W
ith Doha Film
Institute’s (DFI)
Qumra inching
closer, the five
big names that
would lead it from the front are
now all in place. Touted as Qatar’s
first international film and creative
industry gathering, Qumra, which
will be held from March 4-9, has got
two more filmmaking geniuses on
board.
The DFI has confirmed
screenwriter-producer-director
James Schamus and noted
documentary filmmaker Joshua
Oppenheimer as the final two
Masters for the second edition of
Qumra. With previously announced
Qumra Master Lucrecia Martel
unable to participate this year,
Schamus and Oppenheimer will join
three other Qumra Masters Naomi
Kawase (Japan), Nuri Bilge Ceylan
(Turkey) and Aleksandr Sokurov
(Russia) at the event.
Qumra, an old Arabic word for
camera, is an initiative that connects
with the top order of the global
film-scape, so as to guide, support
and inspire emerging filmmakers
of the nation, and outside it, as
well. “Devised with a special focus
on first-time and second-time
filmmakers, Qumra consists of three
sections: Master Classes, Meetings
and Screenings,” the DFI says.
The Masters will mentor first and
second-time filmmakers during the
new initiative, which debuted last
March, “to support the development
of emerging filmmakers from Qatar,
the Arab region and around the
world.”
Accredited delegates have
access to exclusive events in the
Qumra programme, including
master classes, film screenings
and networking events with local,
regional and international industry
guests and filmmakers. While the
five Qumra Masters will participate
in a series of master classes, and
one-on-one advisory sessions with
participating Qumra projects and
industry professionals from around
the world, a selection of their films
will be screened for Doha audiences
during the event.
Born in the US, both Schamus
and Oppenheimer combine their
acclaimed filmmaking careers
with other roles within the
industry: Schamus as a revered
film historian and academic; and
Oppenheimer as Artistic Director
of the Centre for Documentary and
Experimental Film at the University
of Westminster in London.
DFI CEO Fatma al-Remaihi said,
“We are privileged to have James
Schamus and Joshua Oppenheimer
participate as Qumra Masters this
year. Both filmmakers, while very
different in style, are truly groundbreaking in their fields and bring a
wealth of experience to Qumra that
will be invaluable for the young
filmmakers participating.”
Al-Remaihi added, “We look
forward to welcoming James and
Joshua to the Gulf region for the
first time and enabling our Qumra
2016 participants to establish a
connection with these two leaders
of independent filmmaking in the
US. We are also very pleased to have
the opportunity to showcase their
work through our Qumra screenings
at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA),
a cultural landmark for the region
and the perfect setting for Qumra
this year.”
A multi award-winning
screenwriter, director and leading
US indie producer, Schamus is
best known for his long creative
collaboration with celebrated
Taiwanese director Ang Lee.
Schamus has worked with Lee on
nine films, including Crouching
Joshua Oppenheimer
Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000), which
won four Academy Awards, and
remains the highest-grossing nonEnglish-language film in the US.
He was the screenwriter for Lee’s
The Ice Storm, for which he won the
award for Best Screenplay at the
Festival de Cannes in 1997 and also
co-wrote Eat Drink Man Woman
(1994).
As a producer, Schamus cofounded the US powerhouse
production company Good
Machine in the early 1990s, and
then from 2002 to 2014 was CEO
of Focus Features, the motion
picture production, financing and
worldwide distribution company
whose films during his tenure
included Wes Anderson’s Moonrise
Kingdom (2012), Michel Gondry’s
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless
Mind (2004), Roman Polanski’s
The Pianist (2002), Henry Selick’s
Coraline (2009) and Sofia Coppola’s
Lost in Translation (2003).
In 2014, Schamus directed the
short documentary That Film About
Money. In 2016, he made his feature
directorial debut with an adaptation
of Philip Roth’s Indignation, which
had its world premiere at the
Sundance Film Festival last month.
Two-time Academy Award
nominee Joshua Oppenheimer’s
debut feature-length film, The Act
of Killing (2012) was nominated
for the Academy Award for Best
Documentary Feature Film, named
Film of the Year by The Guardian
and the Sight and Sound Film Poll,
and won 72 international awards,
including a European Film Award,
a BAFTA, an Asia Pacific Screen
Award, a Berlin International Film
Festival Audience Award, and the
Guardian Film Award for Best Film.
His second film, The Look of
Silence (2014) had its world premiere
at the Venice Film Festival, where
it won five awards including the
Grand Jury Prize, the FIPRESCI
Prize and the FEDEORA Prize. It
was nominated for the 2016 Oscar
for Best Documentary Film, and has
received 66 international awards.
The Qumra Screenings, open
to the public and Qumra industry
delegates, will be presented in two
sections of ‘Masters’ and ‘New
Voices in Cinema’, at the MIA. The
Masters screenings boast of some
spectacular cinema: Crouching
Tiger, Hidden Dragon by Ang Lee,
Once Upon A Time in Anatolia by
Nuri Bilge Ceylan, The Mourning
Forest by Naomi Kawase, Russian
Ark by Aleksandr Sokurov, and
The Look of Silence by Joshua
Oppenheimer.