art of diplomacy

CommunityIndian Sports Centre organises the second

edition of ‘Skipping Rope Inter-School and Open Championship’ at Olive International School.

P6 P16 CommunityPak Shamaa School and College

organises a Qir’aat and Naat Competition.

Sunday, December 2, 2018Rabia I 24, 1440 AH

Doha today: 200 - 290

Art of diplomacyCOVERSTORY

From painting for peace to working for it, Ecuadorian

ambassador Ivonne A-Baki has lived an artful life. P4-5

QUIZ SHOWBIZ

The third most

popular team sport.

0

Kangana hopes Manikarnika is

released on Republic day.

Page 15

Sunday, December 2, 20182 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 4.42amShorooq (sunrise) 6.03amZuhr (noon) 11.23amAsr (afternoon) 2.23pmMaghreb (sunset) 4.45pmIsha (night) 6.15pm

“Those who do not remember the past are condemned

to repeat it.” — George Santayana

10X10DIRECTION: Suzi

EwingCAST: Luke Evans, Kelly

Reilly, Jill WinternitzSYNOPSIS: Just a

few days from opening her new business, Cathy’s (Kelly Reilly) fresh start is interrupted when she is attacked, kidnapped and locked in a room. She assumes the kidnapper wants her body or her life, but he is after something simpler...her name. Lewis is an outwardly ordinary guy, but in reality he is hiding an obsession revenge against Cathy. Lewis kidnaps Cathy in broad daylight and takes her to his home, where he locks her in a soundproof cell and attempts to extract a dark secret from her past.

THEATRES: The Mall, Landmark, Royal Plaza

Instant FamilyDIRECTION: Sean AndersCAST: Mark Wahlberg, Rose Byrne, Isabela MonerSYNOPSIS: When Pete and Ellie decide to start a family,

they stumble into the world of foster care adoption. They hope to take in one small child, but when they meet three siblings,

including a rebellious 15-year-old girl, they fi nd themselves speeding from zero to three kids overnight. Now, Pete and Ellie must try to learn the ropes of instant parenthood in the hope of becoming a family.

THEATRES: The Mall, Royal Plaza, Landmark

The Mall Cinema (1): Thugs Of Hindostan (Hindi) 2:30pm; 2.0 (Tamil) 5:30pm; 2.0 (Tamil) 8:30pm; 2.0 (Hindi) 11:15pm.The Mall Cinema (2): 2.0 (Telugu) 2:15pm; Creed II (2D) 5pm; The Girl In The Spider’s Web (2D) 7:30pm; Robin Hood: Origins (2D) 9:30pm; Creed II (2D) 11:30pm.The Mall Cinema (3): Ralph Breaks The Internet: Wreck It Ralph 2 (2D) 3pm; Ralph Breaks The Internet: Wreck It Ralph 2 (2D) 5pm; Tourab El Mass (Arabic) 7:30pm; Instant Family (2D) 10:30pm.

Landmark Cinema (1): 2.0 (Telugu) 2:30pm; Creed II (2D) 5:15pm; Creed II (2D) 7:45pm; 2.0 (Hindi) 10:15pm.Landmark Cinema (2): Ralph Breaks The Internet: Wreck It Ralph 2 (2D) 3:30pm; Ralph Breaks The Internet: Wreck It Ralph 2 (2D) 5:30pm; 2.0 (Tamil) 7:45pm; 2.0 (Tamil) 10:30pm.Landmark Cinema (3): Detective Conan: Zero The

Enforcer (2D) 3pm; 2.0 (Hindi) 5:15pm; Instant Family (2D) 8:15pm; Tourab El Mass (Arabic) 10:30pm.Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (1): 2.0 (Tamil) 3pm; 2.0 (Hindi) 5:45pm; 2.0 (Tamil) 8:30pm; 2.0 (Hindi) 11:15pm.Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (2): Ralph Breaks The Internet: Wreck It Ralph 2 (2D) 2:30pm; Ralph Breaks The Internet: Wreck It Ralph 2 (2D) 4:30pm; Creed Ii (2D) 6:45pm; Instant Family (2D) 9:15pm; Creed Ii (2D) 11:30pm.

3Sunday, December 2, 2018 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYROUND & ABOUT

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

EVENTS

Explore Coral Reefs and Discover Diving

WHERE: Doha English Speaking SchoolWHEN: December 5 TIME: 7pmFew people know the divable waters of

Qatar like Khaled Zaki, Diving Consultant/Master Instructor. His talk will provide a brief introduction to coral reefs, with some interesting statistics and underwater (UW) footage from Qatar. The history of diving will also be discussed along with the positive effects it has on the environment and communities in Qatar and worldwide. The talk will also cover how the UW videography and photography can positively affect conservation of marine life.

Ajyal Film FestivalWHERE: KataraWHEN: Ongoing till tomorrowTIME: 10am – 10pmSound, Camera, Action. Qatar Living is

proud to be the official media partner of the sixth edition of Ajyal Film Festival where you can have a week-long exposure to the art of film. Ajyal Film Festival is Doha Film Institute’s annual celebration of film. The word Ajyal means generations in Arabic and the audience for this festival is people from ages 8-21 who are categorised in different generations. This festival is all about watching global cinema, analysing them and discussing afterwards.

Katara Dhow festivalWHERE: KataraWHEN: OngoingTIME: 3:30pm – 10pmBe there to witness exciting activities

and events at Katara 8th Traditional Dhow

Festival, scheduled to take place at Katara’s beach. During the month of November be there and experience the cultural heritage of Qatar.

Acting ClassesWHERE: Retaj Al Rayyan, West BayWHEN: Ongoing till December 19TIME: 3pm – 7:30pmThe Talent Factory is having an acting

monthly course for kids and adults. Gentë Retkoceri Rrahmani, Teaching artist and actor, will take care to create an amazingly entertaining and socialising class for kids and adults. Both programmes are specifically designed to fit different ages with the main purpose to develop the participant’s self-esteem, especially when in front of audiences. Kids course fee is QR600 and adult course fee is QR800. For further details, e-mail at [email protected]

Katara Beach - School StudentsWHERE: KataraWHEN: OngoingTIME: 9am – 12pmBy participating in the programme of

‘Our culture is a school’, Katara Beach emphasises the Qatari marine tradition and introduces to students the meaning of Dasha, Al Qafal and various type of pearls. The students will discover all details of the Fath El-Kheir journey.

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

atelierqatar.com or call on 33003839.

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 floodlights of Losail International Circuit every Wednesdays.

Meditation RetreatWHERE: Banana Island ResortWHEN: December 14 – 15Imagine waking up with the peaceful

silence of a paradise beach as your senses are lured by the smell of essential oils, vegan food and fresh herbal tea. With each breath, your whole being feels relaxed and recharged. You can finally release all the tension you’ve been carrying for years. The bright sunlight warms your face as you walk on the beach to join morning yoga, sound healing and mindfulness meditation.

Heritage Library’s Permanent Exhibition

WHERE: Qatar National LibraryWHEN: Ongoing till December 31TIME: 9am – 8pmThe exhibition displays around 400 items

from the QNL Heritage Library collection that illustrate the spread and evolution of ideas throughout the Arab and Islamic world, as well as document interactions between Arabs and the West over the past several centuries. The exhibition features books, manuscripts, historical photographs maps, globes and travellers’ instruments that tell the story of Qatar, along with the history of science, literature, writing, travel in the region, and much more.

The Colour RunWHERE: QNCCWHEN: January 26TIME: 8:30amCelebrate the hero in you in a realm

where nothing is impossible and you are unstoppable. Soar to new heights in the all-new Super Zone and suit up in gear fit for only the most super of heroes as you collect your medal at the Finish Line! 2019 will

also include the Foam Zone. Gates will open at 7am on January 26, with our first Color Runners setting off at 8.30am.

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

taking place after they finish 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: Mystic Arts Centre behind Al

Hilal Focus Medical CentreWHEN:Wednesday – MondayMystic Art Centre, is a holistic

performing artsinstitution and a one stop solution for adults as well as children looking to explore their talents in various art forms. We offer classes in Carnatic Music, Hindustani Music, Karate, Yoga, Zumba, Classical Dance, Salsa, Hip Hop, contemporary and Bollywood dance forms. 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

For me, everything has to be what you feel at the moment, not living in the past or the future. It is living in the moment‘

’SUNDAY CONVERSATION

“I always think the best is yet to come”

— Ivonne A-Baki, Ecuadorian ambassador

By Mudassir Raja

She is an artiste, painter, diplomat, peace negotiator, humanist and politician. Multifaceted and driven by ideals,

Ivonne A-Baki, is the ambassador of Ecuador for the Gulf.

She was born in Guayaquil in Ecuador, of Lebanese parents. From a very young age, she got involved in the world of arts through dance and classical music. It was then that she discovered the magic and power of art to unite ideals, cultures, people and nations.

Community recently caught up with the ambassador for an engaging interview.

In her introduction, she said, “I am blessed to be always positive. I always think the best is yet to come. For me, the word impossible does not exist, if you want to do

something. You have to have the passion to do what you want to do. When I wake up in the morning and do not feel the passion for what I am doing, I will not do it. I will not continue it.

I am a diplomat because I am passionate about it. I am an artist at the same. The artist being never leaves you. For me, everything has to be what you feel at the moment, not living in the past or the future. It is all about living in the moment.

I studied in Ecuador and fi nished my school there, and high school in Lebanon.

I married very young; I was only 16. I met my husband Sami Abd-El-Baki in Beirut when I was only 15. It was a love marriage and we met through a road accident. Soon we got married. I have three children: Mohammad, Faisal, and Tatiana. My husband passed away a year and a half ago. He was in politics, too.”

About her love of painting, she


COMMUNITYCOVER STORY

said, “When we were living in Lebanon, war broke out and my world was completely shaken. Death, violence, and suff ering inspired me to paint. I tried to defy bullets, bombs, hate and intolerance with brushstrokes and colours. I painted about women. Khalil Gibran was my inspiration.”

It was through my art that I tried to promote peace, unity, and love among nations, to make them see that beyond hate and prejudice there is a power, bigger and more sublime, which can reach into our innermost being and change us forever.

With this purpose — to change this world into a better and more tolerant place — I started my long and successful career as a

visionary artist. I have exhibited my paintings in many countries of South America, North America, Europe, and Asia, and my works touched the souls of thousands of people.

In 1990, I moved to the United States and became artist-in-residence at Harvard University. My art, as always, has a conscience and is socially responsible. It promotes peace, unity, and social justice. I created the Harvard Arts for Peace Foundation through which I organised many joint exhibitions and art shows between countries at war. The purpose was to build bridges and fi nd solutions. At the same time, I started the Beyond Boundaries Foundation to improve the health of the poor people of

Ecuador through prevention and education.

I painted till 1995 and stopped when I started my negotiation for peace project. I painted for 25 years. I studied art in Lebanon and France. I met Salvador Dali in Paris. I have learnt more from artists than from my teachers. I started with surrealism and then moved to abstract form. Abstract art comes after you forget all that you have learnt — and that is wisdom. Abstract is actually wisdom.”

Explaining further why she stopped painting, the envoy said, “When I was the artist-in-residence, I entered Harvard Kennedy School to study politics. My life changed there. My obsession for peace and social

justice fi nally, took me to the realm of diplomacy, peace negotiation and politics. I was instrumental in reaching a peace agreement between Ecuador and Peru on October 26, 1998. I have not painted since 1995. I then became an ambassador to the US.”

Speaking about Doha being a place of art hub, the envoy said, “I have been here for over a year. They are doing an amazing job for art and culture. There are amazing collections of art pieces at Museum of Islamic Art. Qatar takes good care of whatever is art. I am also a goodwill ambassador at Unesco for the dialogue of culture for peace.

I believe the Government of Qatar has really brought education and culture to the country. They

have converted Qatar into a place that believes in power of education and culture. For peace, it is necessary to be at peace with yourself. Without knowing your origin and roots, you cannot be at peace with yourself. An educated person can become a citizen of the world. In essence, Qatar is really creating a country of the world. Bringing sports to the country is another artistic thing in Qatar.”

Does she feel an urge to paint while living in Qatar?

“I cannot tell you how much I feel the urge. But somebody told me that I am painting another compass. My daughter is also a good painter and we plan to have an exhibition of her works here. I tell her that she is doing it for me,” she said.

Asked how her being an artist has been helpful in diplomacy, she laughed, “I have been telling everyone, if you want to be successful and have a better world, bring artists into politics, diplomacy, and in every fi eld. Because everyone is an artist but one has to develop it. That is why education is very important for arts. But the problem with artists is that they do not want to do it. They think that it is not a good area for them.”

She said being an artist has helped her connect with the people, to understand them, and to put herself in the place of others. “As a diplomat, you have to put yourself in the place of others to understand their issues.”

Regarding her future plans, the envoy said, “I never plan. I cannot. I do what I feel like doing and continue to do that. However, I have a wish to see peace in the Middle East. It has been my long standing dream. We need to have more women in politics and diplomacy to have peace in the region.”

Giving a piece of advice to young artists and diplomats at the same time, she said, “They should start learning mostly about themselves. For an artist, it is about yourself. Always be authentic. Art is a work that you cannot express in words. Artists want to do something unique. Loving yourself is also very unique. Sometimes you are afraid to venture into yourself. You have to overcome your fear of failure. You should never give up trying. Diplomacy is also an art.”

WORKS OF ART: Pieces done by Ecuadorian ambassador Ivonne Baki. Photos supplied

“I have a wish to see peace in the Middle East. It has been my long standing dream. We need to have more women in politics and diplomacy to have peace in the region”


COMMUNITYISC organises ‘Skipping Rope Inter-School and Open Championship’Indian Sports Centre (ISC), under the patronage of embassy of India, recently organised the second edition of ‘Skipping Rope Inter-School and Open Championship’ at Olive International School, Al Thumama. The championship was in speed hop and endurance and included girls, boys, women and men categories. The overall championship was won by MES Indian School. Around 225 participants took part in the completion. In speed hop competition Sohal Ann Soy scored maximum counts of 210 in one minute while in endurance Manoj Sahibjan scored 4,045 counts.Sunil Thakkar, General Manager of Apparel Group, was the chief guest at the event. Habibun Nabi, General Secretary of ISC, also attended the event. Habibun Nabi appreciated the participants for their excellent performances and the team for conducting another successful event for ISC. He highlighted the importance of sports in children’s carrier and benefits of being physical and mental fitness.The event was co-ordinated by Nisha, Head of Yoga and Fitness at ISC. She welcomed the guests and participants and emphasised on the importance of skipping rope as a great cardio-vascular fitness, which helps an individual to excel in any sport. ISC in co-ordination with R Anburaja, a skipping rope specialist in Doha, plans to develop the skills and techniques among children. Qbake was the off icial refreshment sponsor.Registrations were managed by Sujatha, Prabha and Renu. Four performance stations were set-up to complete the championship on time. The judges of the competition, included Anburaja, Sreenivas, Sowmya, Dr Rakesh and Arun. Participants were managed by Zarna, Ruby, Laxmi and Sudesh.The winners of speed hop in Under-18 Girls category, included Sohal Ann Soy, a student from SIS, won first position; Vaishnavi Venugopalan, MES, second position; and Laranya Kandula, Rajagiri Public School, third position.

The winners of speed hop in Under-18 Boys category, included Rajat Raj Ramesan, won first position; Arjun Shine, a student of MES Indian School, second position; and Faiz Ahmed Anas, BPS, third position. The winners of speed hop in Under-12 Girls category, included Diya Manoj Shetty, a students from Shantiniketan Indian School (SIS), won first position; Dhanyashree Ramesh, DPS-Modern Indian School (DPS-MIS), second position; and Arifa Khatun, OIS, third position.The winners of endurance in Under-12 Boys category, included Ralph Oadin, a students from MES, won first position; Anirudh Palluthodi, OIS second position; and Mudassir M Madni, MES, third position.The winners of endurance in Men category, included Manoj Sahibjan, first position; Dr Rajesh Gupta, second position; and Hitesh Rane, third position.The winners of endurance in Under-18 Girls category, included Lamiya Shajahan, a student from GEMS, won first position; Aditi Harshad Ajgoankar, second position; and Juverya Mohammed, MES, third position. The winners of endurance in Under-18 Boys category, included Faiz Ahmed Anas, a student from Birl Public School, won first position; Arjun Shine, MES, second position; and Aadi Umrani, DPS-MIS, third position. The winners of endurance in Under-12 Girls category, included Diya Manoj Shetty, a student from SIS, won first position; Isha Harshad Ajgoankar, second position; and Hibah Rezak, MES, third position. The winners of endurance in Under-12 Boys category, included Ralph Oadin, a student from MES, won first position; Firoz Khan Jahfarkhan, OIS, second position; and Mudassir M Madni, MES, third position. The winners of endurance in Women category, included Shalini, first position; Suchita Pradhan, second position; and Latha, third position.

KMCA marks Karnataka Rajyotsava celebrationsKarnataka Muslim Cultural Association (KMCA) recently marked Karnataka Rajyotsava celebrations at Indian Cultural Centre (ICC). Notable artistes and personalities from India and Qatar performed at the event. , where noted artists and Personalities from India and Qatar performed and felicitated. The event was held at Indian Cultural Centre.KMCA also invited mentally moderate and challenged children to Qatar from Saanidhya School, recognized by the Directorate of Welfare of Disabled & Senior Citisens, India. Some fifteen children along with along three guardians visited Qatar for a performance. Ibraiz Khan, President of KMCA, talking about the performance of the children, said “It was more than what we expected.”Shri U T Khader, Minister of Urban Development and Housing for the state of Karnataka, was the chief guest at the event and Dr Devi Prasad Shetty, President of Belupu Grama Panchayath, and

Asim Anwar, Third Secretary at embassy of India, the guest of honours.The event was attended by the members of KMCA all other Karnataka Based Organisations, including Karnataka Sanga, Tulu Koota, South Canara Muslim Welfare Association, Bunts Qatar, MCC and MCA.The event kicked off with Majunath inviting Emad Ahmed for the recitation of the holy Qur’an, which was followed by a stand up comedy by Chandrashekar Angadi.Along with the chief guest, guest of honours and president of KMCA, Abdullah Monu, Advisory Chair of KMCA, also addressed the gathering. All the Presidents of Karnataka based organisations in Qatar felicitated Dr Devi Prasad Shetty. Sheikh Usman was also felicitated at the event for his services in the field of social service and upholding communal harmony.


COMMUNITY

Lorna Cordeiro, known as the ‘Nightingale of Goa’, recently performed at Orbital Nite 2018, event organised by Orbit Events and Marketing at Giwana Ballroom, Radisson Blu Hotel. According to a press release, the young fans of Lorna, who had never seen her but had grown up listening to her famous songs being played zealously by their parents, enjoyed the evening of wonderful performances, not only from Lorna, but the very talented Norman Cardozo on the keyboard as well, who was accompanying her during the concert. The event kicked off with DJ Glorio warming up the audience with some ballroom music, which was followed by some retro English renditions by DJ Ryan Nogar, winner of All India DJ Master Mixer. The audience applauded as Lorna took over the stage. The diva glided across the stage flawlessly singing. The crowd gave a standing ovation for her performance of Aikat Mojo Tallo song. Super Sparklers performed to her songs, including Lisboa, Tuzo Mog and Nachom-ia Kumpasar.The evening witnessed an enchanting repertoire of songs. Haitham Rafi, an Omani singer who won the show Dil Hai Hindustani, was an added attraction for the audience.

He began with Arabic songs, which was followed by Hindi sound tracks. The highlight of the evening was the interactive and photo session with Lorna.The novelty of Lorna, who started her career as a jazz singer, is her intense mellifluous voice which along with popular Chris Perry compositions, have seen her performing for fans all over the world including Middle East, USA, UK, France, Portugal, Africa and recently New Zealand.Dr R Seetharaman, CEO of Doha Bank Group, was the chief guest at the event. He felicitated Lorna and honoured other artistes, including Norman Cardozo, Haitham Rafi, DJ Ryan Nogar and Updesh Swar. Dr Seetharaman was impressed to hear Lorna’s electrifying voice. He said that Doha Bank will always support Indian community for such shows and in particular Goans and assured he will always be a part of Orbit Events and Marketing in their forthcoming events.Updesh Swar compered the event. The event also featured spot prize and lucky entrance gifts. The main sponsor of the event was Classic Squares, Off icial Bank was Doha Bank, Off icial Hotel was Radisson Blu Doha, Off icial Airline was Oman Air and Gulf Times and daijiworld were media partners.

Lorna enthrals audience in Doha

Brochure of Kuwaq’s upcoming event releasedSri E Valsaraj, former home minister of Pondicherry, recently released the brochure of Kuwaq’s upcoming musical programme by handing over the brochure to Noushasd, MD of Goodwill Cargo, at an event held at Horizon Manor Hotel. The musical programme is scheduled to be held on December 21 at ICC Ashoka Hall as a tribute to Vayalar Rama Varma, famous Malayalam poet.

Vayalar Sarath Chandra Varma, film lyricist and son of Vayalar Rama Varma, will be the chief guest at the event. The event was attended by notable personalities, including Thabith Mohd Ali, President of Kuwaq; Vinod Vallikkol, General Secretary; Ranjit Padavil, Treasurer; Ratheesh Mathradan, Programme co-ordinator; Sanjay Ravindran, Shanjith Mundametta, Anil Kumar and Rameshan Thekkadavn.


COMMUNITY

Usha Wagle Gautam

Dance like nobody’s watching, even when one of the most notable personalities of community is sitting right in front of you, watching. Now,

that’s a bigger challenge. But, UNI proves their dancing prowess every time they take over a stage or two and puts up a performance to detail, and to remember. These are real dancers, dressed in sweatpants and tank tops; their beautiful, fl uidly moving bodies are always the focus at any event.

UNI is a Doha-based Nepali dance troupe that frequently performs at local community events. Established in 2013 with merely fi ve members, now UNI has grown to a cluster of 15 members including Nepali boys and girls from diff erent age groups.

Given the freewheeling spirit of the performance, the group is well recognised among Indian, Bengali, Pakistani and Filipino communities in Doha. From performing at Qatar National Day celebrations, organised by Ministry of Interior, to staging a performance to raise funds for the earthquake victims of Nepal in 2015, UNI knows their business well and translates it to detail with self-expression. UNI has been a part of more than a dozen dance videos, including tutorials and have performed for various music experts including Nepathye, music band, and Pramod Kharel, Nepali singer.

Sometimes it’s a thwarting struggle, but UNI has successfully managed to place itself on the map of established performers in Doha in less than a decade.

Youb Raj Oli, Dance Director at UNI, came

to Doha in 2011 to work as an accountant. For seven years Oli was a dance teacher in Kathmandu, before he moved to Qatar. “My fi rst dance performance in Doha was not even scheduled. As I saw a couple of artistes

performing at an event, I requested the organisers to give me a chance. That’s how it all started,” says Oli.

Oli founded UNI with his four friends including, Deepak Magar, Shekhar KC, Shekhar Tamang and Lucky Bista, who later left for Kathmandu to pursue dancing as a career, leaving Oli behind, with the sole responsibility of the troupe.

On talking about the experience of joining UNI, Rohit Bishwokarma, a dancer member of UNI, said, “I come from a poor family and I was always discouraged to dance because it didn’t pay well back then. But now, my friends and families are happy about it.”

Munal Gurung, another dance member of UNI, came to Qatar in 2010 as a driver and later joined UNI to pursue his passion for dancing. Munal has been felicitated with numerous awards and certifi cates for dancing ever since. He also supports the crew from the backstage. Well how he joined the dance masters? “I met Youb Raj Oli at an event organised by Struggle Band and that’s how things came into place. I haven’t looked back, ever since.”

Other members of UNI included Bhupendra Bharati who comes from east Nepal and specialises in traditional folk dance; Kisore Thapa, Sandip Pariyar, Romit Poudel, specialises in hip-hop genre; Mahesh Babu Chhetri, Nisha Sherpa, a female member of UNI; and Soni Bhujel among others.

UNI also provides a platform to amateur and professional dancers from Nepal, who work partime with the dance group, juggling between their job and interest. The members of UNI aspires to establish a dance institute in their home country.

Dancing through the waves of time, struggle and perfection

UNI is a Doha-based Nepali dance troupe that frequently performs at local community events

and is well recognised among Indian, Bengali, Pakistani and Filipino communities in Doha

PERFORMANCE: UNI during performance at Qatar National Day last year.

GROUP: The dance members of UNI in a group photo.


COMMUNITY

Ooredoo sponsors 2nd Annual Red Rhino Cup 2018

According to a press release, W Doha Hotel & Residences is all set to host the spectacular festive season of celebration with off erings that will guarantee a memorable time with loved ones.

Diamonds are forever Gala Dinner–NYE celebrationThis New Year’s Eve, W Doha’s has a license to thrill and your mission is to celebrate to the fullest from 8pm to 2am at the Great Room. You can groove to non-stop beats from their internationally acclaimed 13-piece band from the USA with entertainment by The Big Blast and the Party Masters. You can also enjoy a 5-course gala dinner with a set menu for QR795.

Room PackagesSteal the scene this New Year’s Eve, own the moment and celebrate nonstop with W Doha’s festive package that includes an entrance to the Gala dinner at the Great Room, a night’s stay on the December 31, a breakfast at Market by Jean George, early check in at 12pm and late check-out at 6pm and, complimentary Wi-Fi. Prices for this package start from QR1,149 in a single occupancy room and QR1,799 for a double occupancy room. You can even upgrade for additional cost. You can treat yourself to W Doha’s off er that is available for stays between the December 20 and the January 5. The off er includes QR579 per night for single or double occupancy rooms and upgrades are available for additional cost. There is also early check in at 12pm and late check out at 6pm, breakfast in Market by Jean Georges and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Market by Jean GeorgesThe award-winning Market by Jean-Georges has prepared festive delights this holiday season with an exquisite four course dinner menu on Xmas Eve between 6pm and 11:30pm for QR265 per person. Market by Jean-Georges has also prepared a mouth-watering brunch menu for Xmas day, from 12pm to 4pm, starting from QR385 per person. You can welcome 2019 the right way at Market with a 5-course set menu starting from QR465 and a la carte menu available.

Spice MarketEnjoy Xmas Eve with a succulent menu designed to celebrate the best moments together from 6pm to 11:30pm, priced at QR265 per person for a 4-course menu. Serving a lavish feast, Spice Market has planned the ideal New Year’s Eve dinner. You can spice it up and begin 2019 with a sumptuous feast and live entertainment by the golden voice of Lexter Smart. All of this will be happening from 7pm to 2am at a starting price of QR465 per person for a 5-course menu. There will be a live performance by Lexter Smart with a mouth-watering feast, starting at QR350 per person from 12pm to 4pm.

La SpigaPamper yourselves this Xmas eve with a delicious dinner and savour a flavour-filled 4-course set menu for QR265 QAR per person with live entertainment by GD Angelo. The dinner will be available from 6pm to 11:30pm.

WAHMGet ready to party for Xmas and have the time of your life because on December 24, you can dance all night with Wahm’s resident DJ on the decks from 8pm to 2:00am.

W Café Indulge scrumptious turkey with all the trimmings. This succulent feast can satisfy 10-14 people for QR790 or 16-20 people for QR990 and side dishes are available for QR35 each. This is off ered till January 7.

OSCThis year W Doha has an exciting, new festive package. You can celebrate New Year’s Eve anywhere in Doha and W Doha will cater to you. You will be provided with a special buff et menu for the occasion as well as a service team, venue rental for in-house events and festive background music. All this is included for QR295 per person for a minimum of 30 attendees.

W Doha creates the perfect setting for any festive occasion

GAZOO Racing World Rally Team recently claimed the 2018 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) manufacturers’ title in style, with a rally victory for Jari-Matti Latvala in the No 7 Toyota Yaris WRC at Kennards Hire Rally Australia. Esapekka Lappi finished fourth in the No 9 Toyota Yaris WRC to enable GAZOO Racing to clinch the manufacturers’ crown in just the second season since its return to the WRC.GAZOO Racing World Rally Team’s Toyota Yaris WRC machines demonstrated their strong performance during the final round of the season, with Ott Tänak and Latvala moving to the top of the leaderboard on the fourth and final day of the race. The victory sealed GAZOO Racing’s fourth manufacturers’ title in the WRC and its first since 1999.Akio Toyoda, President, Toyota Motor Corporation, and Team Chairman, said, “Congratulations to Jari-Matti and Miikka for the Rally Australia win. I was very glad to see them on the top of the podium at the end of the year after what has sometimes been a tricky season. And with this victory, we could win the manufacturers’ title. I feel so proud, as Team Chairman, that we could achieve such a great result in the second year of our challenge after returning to the WRC after being away for 18 years. I am so grateful to Tommi, who has kept strengthening the Yaris WRC to win this title, all the team members who supported Tommi, and the six drivers and co-drivers who kept driving the Yaris towards our goal. Thank you very much and congratulations! I also feel glad that we could share this victory with the fans who kept cheering for us, and also our partners who have fought with us as one team. I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to them for supporting us.”Tommi Mäkinen, Team Principal, said, “It’s an absolutely amazing feeling today. This was the toughest final round of a season that I can remember, and it was absolutely brilliant that Jari-Matti could win again. Esapekka also helped us score the points we needed. We started this project three-and-a-half years ago and we have developed much faster than we imagined. Last year we were here to learn and to gather data. In the second half of this season we were able to find a lot of improvements with the car. This is the result of the huge eff ort from everybody in the team, and I am sure this success will just further motivate us all to continue improving in 2019.”Jari-Matti Latvala, Driver of No 7 Toyota Yaris WRC, said, “I am so happy to win again. It was quite a relief after such a long time! The conditions today were incredibly demanding, and it would have been very

easy to go off the road. I was very excited and nervous at the start of the final stage, but we managed to do it. To win the manufacturers’ title is fantastic. I am so proud of the team and what they have created. Everybody has worked so hard and they deserve this reward!”Over the years, Toyota has been participating in many diff erent forms of motorsports, including Formula One, the World Endurance Championship (WEC), and the Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race. Toyota’s participation in these events was overseen by separate entities within the company until April 2015, when Toyota established GAZOO Racing (GR), to consolidate all of its motorsports activities under one in-house brand. Representing Toyota’s belief that ‘the roads build the people, and the people build the cars,’ GR highlights the role of motorsports as a fundamental pillar of Toyota’s commitment to making ‘ever-better’ cars. Harnessing years of experience gained under the extreme conditions of various motorsports events, GR aims to forge new technologies and solutions that bring the freedom, adventure, and joy of driving to everyone.

GAZOO Racing wins Australia Rally at FIA World Rally Championship

Ooredoo was the off icial sponsor for the 2nd Annual Red Rhino Cup 2018, organised by Indonesian Football Association in Qatar (IFQ), a non-profit organisation dedicated to facilitating access to Indonesian football for all fans in Qatar. The tournament was a a one-day competition held at Al Arabi Sports Club with the theme of ‘IFQ Supporting Qatar World Cup 2022’. Open to all juniors in the U6 to U16 categories, competition matches were streamed live from the field on Red Rhino Football Club’s Facebook and Youtube pages for all to enjoy. The day also

featured exciting activities for families including games, photo competitions, traditional Indonesian dance shows, digital activities on Red Rhino’s Facebook fanpage and Instagram account.Manar Khalifa al-Muraikhi, Director PR and Corporate Communications at Ooredoo, said, “We’re delighted to be partnering with the Indonesian Football Association in Qatar for this exciting competition. Supporting our local community is a key focus for Ooredoo, and we’re looking forward to a great family day out.”


COMMUNITY QUIZ

It is a fast-paced game and full of quick twists and turns. It provides a huge adrenalin rush that spectators crave for. Hockey is arguably the 3rd

most popular team sports in the world, behind association football (soccer) and cricket. A highly technical sport and a fi rm favourite, especially at the Olympic Games, is played by men and women in over 100 countries around the world.

Hockey is one of the oldest team sports in the world. However, its roots are buried deep in antiquity. The Arabs, Greeks, Persians, and Romans each had their own versions. Hockey can also be identifi ed with other early games, including hurling and shinty. During the middle ages a French stick game called hoquet was played, and the English word may be derived from it.

The modern game of hockey emerged in England in the mid-18th century and is largely attributed to the growth of public schools, including Eton. Blackheath Rugby and Hockey Club, set up in 1861, is the fi rst hockey club in the world.

The credit for making the game popular across the globe goes to the British army. Wherever they went, they took the game with them and played it. Most of the dominant nations in the sport are, or were, members of the British Empire which explains its popularity in countries including India, Pakistan, Australia and New Zealand.

The fi rst international Hockey Match was played on June 26, 1895, between Wales and Ireland. The sport went main-stream in 1908 when it was included in the Summer Olympics in London.

Hockey experienced its greatest level of success in British colonial India, where Calcutta HC was founded as the fi rst professional fi eld hockey club outside of England in 1885. The sport continued to grow at a blistering pace in India throughout the 19th and early 20th century, and when fi eld hockey was reinstated as an Olympic sport in 1928, India proceeded to win the gold medal every year from 1928 to 1956, a record six times. Dhyan Chand won Olympic gold medals for his team in 1928, 1932 and 1936. From 1928 until 1968, either India or Pakistan won every men’s gold medal (and the other usually took the silver).

In 1976, the fi eld was switched from grass to synthetic turf and it changed most of the aspects of fi eld hockey, gaining speed and

conferring increased importance on athleticism. It also ended Indian and Pakistani domination because artifi cial turf was too expensive for developing countries. Since the late 1980s, it saw the ascendancy of the Netherlands, Germany, New Zealand, Australia and Spain.

The 14th edition of Men’s Hockey World Cup is being held at Kalinga Hockey stadium in Bhubneshwar. India is hosting the WC for the third

time, after 1982 (Mumbai) and 2010 (New Delhi).

Pakistan has been the most successful team in the World Cup, with four titles from six appearances in the fi nal. The Netherlands is next with three titles from six appearances in the fi nal. Australia has been the most successful team in the World Cup in recent years. They won the tournament in 2010 and 2014, and now have three titles from fi ve appearances in the fi nal. Australia took the mantle from Germany who won in 2002 and 2006.

Germany, the Netherlands, India and Spain are the only other teams to have competed at each World Cup.

Welcome to Nutty’ Infotainment. YAYS! Your time starts NOW!

In men’s hockey event at Olympics Games, India leads having won 8 gold medals, with 6 successive in a row. How many gold medals has India won in Men’s World Cup Hockey?

One

What is the contribution of Bashir Moojid of Pakistan to the

Men’s Hockey World Cup?The trophy of men’s Hockey

World Cup was designed by him. The trophy was created by the Pakistan Army.

Name the sports superpower and the only country which makes its Men’s Hockey World Cup debut at its current edition in Bhubaneshwar.

China

What does Olive Ridley got to do with the 2018 Men’s Hockey World Cup?

Olly, the mascot of the World Cup, represents the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles, the smallest and most abundant of all sea turtles found in the world.

This Beirut-born Hollywood actor was so good at being a hockey goalkeeper, he was nicknamed ‘The Wall’. He

dreamed of playing hockey for Canada but an injury ended his hopes for a career in the sport. He also portrays a goalie named Heaver in the 1986 fi lm Youngblood. Name him.

Keanu Reeves

Aged 16 and 6 months, she became the youngest Grand Slam singles winner in the Open Era, only to be surpassed by Martina Hingis seven years later. She is still the youngest ever French Open singles winner. With eight Grand Slam singles titles before her 20th birthday, she holds the record for most Grand Slam singles titles won as a teenager in the Open Era. Name this Serbian-American tennis player who is celebrating her 45th birthday today.

Monica Seles

Name the well-known Italian fashion designer who was murdered on the steps of his Miami Beach mansion by Andrew Cunanan.

Gianni Versace

What medical fi rst was successfully done to retired dentist Barney Clark on this day in 1982?

Permanent artifi cial heart implant. He lived 112 days with Jarvic-7 heart

What connects Brain De Palma, John Woo, J.J. Adams, Brad Bird and Christopher McQuarrie?

Each of them directed fi lm from Mission: Impossible movie series.

Identify them. (No Clue required).

(Answer next week. Answer to last week’s photo-quiz: Philippines)

What’s the Good Word?

1. Peremptory: (a) myth (b)

commanding (c) docile (d) justified

2. Insouciance: (a) indiff erence (b)

lazy (c) anxious (d) arboreal

3. Chary: (a) beguile (b) heedless (c)

inflammable (d) cautious

4. Vox: (a) annoy (b) type of gun (c)

voice (d) to destroy

5. Indurate: (a) skillful (b) heartless (c)

uncertain (d) compassionate

6. Inexorable: (a) unstoppable (b)

indecent (c) lenient (d) inadequate

7. Posterity: (a) prior (b) rear (c)

remote (d) future

8. Flippant: (a) observant (b) glassy

(c) disrespectful (d) reverent

9. Succor: (a) relief (b) revoke (c)

construe (d) relegate

10. Zaftig: (a) fish (b) gaunt (c)

circumscribe (d) plump

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

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

Third most popular team sport

Tribe NI.yays1. Many birds live alone, but crows live in a group. What is a

group of crows called? Murder. (Abhishek Dikshit, Barzan, Doha)

2. Which term was coined by John McCarthy, an American computer scientist, in his proposal for the 1956 Darmouth Conference, which was the fi rst conference devoted to the subject?

Artifi cial Intelligence(Rabih Roumman, Tourist, Doha)

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].

HOST: The 14th edition of Men’s Hockey World Cup is being held at Kalinga Hockey stadium in Bhubneshwar. India is hosting the WC for the third time, after 1982 (Mumbai) and 2010 (New Delhi).

ASSASSINATION: Gianni Versace, well-known Italian fashion designer, was murdered on the steps of his Miami Beach mansion by Andrew Cunanan.


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.

Five-letter Females

AGNESALICEAMBERANGELANITAANNIEAPRILAVRILBECKYBELLABERYLBETSY

BETTYBUNTYCANDYCARLACAROLCATHYCELIACINDYCLARACORALDAISYDEBBY

DELIADELLADIANADOLLYDORISEDITHELIZAELSIEEMILYETHELFAITHFANNY

FLORAGEMMAGRACEGRETAHAZELHEIDIHELENHILDAHOLLYIRENE


COMMUNITYPUZZLES

Colouring

Answers

Wordsearch Codeword

Across 3. It will be simpler, too, to

convert the capital (10)

8. As a doctor, I can treat her (6)

9. Flat race, perhaps, left

unfinished (4)

10. Did he attack travellers on

the Alpine pass? (10)

11. Coming back to dress

irritated one (3)

13. The singer is a b-booby (4)

14. For a spell, try to make

yourself look big (7)

15. Photograph of the marksman

(4)

17. Warmed a little the day I had

the favourite backed (5)

20. Measures and tries on the

ornamental textiles (5)

22. From which the cowherd can

tell we’ll have bad weather?

(4)

24. Alternatively, I will have a set

and cut (7)

25. Sharp, for a start, and

attractive (4)

27. Examine and remove the ring

from the bar (3)

28. Term used by Norfolk people

for ‘weapon’ (5-5)

29. Unused, being useless (4)

30. Having been a student, left

off and went to work (6)

31. How those about to putt go,

on the turf (10)

Super Cryptic Clues

Yesterday’s Solutions

Across: 1 Gemini; 5 Amused; 8 Nooks; 9 Olivia; 10 Tartan; 11 Sedge; 14 Overturn; 16 Nettle; 18 Go without saying; 20 Lament; 22 Huntress; 25 Pools; 27 Turnip; 28 Teller; 29 Erase; 30 Remind; 31 Reveal.

Down: 1 Grotto; 2 Maid; 3 Inasmuch; 4 Good enough to eat; 5 Astern; 6 Site; 7 Dangle; 12 Trailed; 13 Stayers; 15 Viola; 17 Lines; 19 Sinister; 20 Litter; 21 Tipped; 23 Sorrel; 24 Grim; 26 Blue.

Down 1. Control so not a dime goes

out (8)

2. Attractive girls featured in

washing-up ads (6)

3. Runs the same wild horse in

it (7)

4. Parking the vehicle first, walk

(5)

5. Start with the duck coop (4)

6. Yearns to have the toy

cricketer (4-4)

7. Goes over to - and turns on

(8)

12. Run or back in the race (4)

14. Worry when the point breaks

(4)

16. Contain, in the cargo

compartment (4)

17. I have put back the article

about stealing (8)

18. Sure after I have trapped one

(8)

19. As a surname, was attractive

(4)

21. Once having rotted badly,

was pulled out (8)

23. Dusted ridiculously round

one while one worked (7)

25. He’s afraid to swallow the

raw minced fish (6)

26. She is, therefore, in a mess

(5)

28. They may be spelling the

letters aloud (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

Family members could be upset over diff erent frustrating events in their

lives, and these moods could spill over to you. Today it would be best to

leave them alone to work things out in their own way. They aren’t likely

to respond to sympathy. Take this opportunity to tend to some of your

concerns that you may have postponed. This way, the silence in the

house can work for you.

Your ambition and will to succeed may be at war with your feelings

today, Cancer. Perhaps you’ve been working so hard that you aren’t

spending enough time with friends and family - and they miss you.

Children and young people may be very much on your mind. Perhaps

you doubt your ability to fulfil your responsibilities. Be objective when

considering the situation. Don’t let your emotions run away with you.

Spiritual and metaphysical studies may take up a lot of your time today,

Libra. You might want to dig into the world’s major religions or try to

make it through works about spiritualism or the occult. If you want

to, this is the day to do it because your concentration is very strong,

although it will be necessary to take a lot of breaks!

There might be some tension between you and your romantic partner

that might have you feeling a bit depressed. The key to patching this up

is honest communication. Remember that honest doesn’t necessarily

mean brutal. Confrontations now can only widen the rift. Tell your

partner how you feel, Capricorn, but don’t cast blame for anything.

Share a little. By day’s end, all should be well.

Unguarded words on the part of a younger person might lead to upset.

If the words are directed at you, don’t take them seriously. The person

doesn’t know any better. If the words are directed at someone else,

don’t be tempted to lash out at the person who said them. Correct him

or her gently. Either way, keep it to yourself and then forget it. It isn’t

worth the stress.

Today, Leo, you might uncharacteristically decide to sequester yourself

away from the world. Perhaps you’re tired or feeling a bit under the

weather and only wish to kick back and read a good book. That’s fine.

Everyone needs a little solitude from time to time. The only concern

here is that if you stay too secluded, you might miss an important

communication. Resist the temptation to turn off the phone!

You might long for a vacation today, Scorpio, and you could toy with the

idea of a journey by air. Your mind may turn to spiritual places such as

India, Egypt, Israel, or Ireland as you wonder how it would feel to stand

in the sacred places in those countries. Don’t just toy with the idea.

You’re probably overdue for a vacation, and such a trip would suit your

mystical nature.

An electrifying attraction to someone you may have just met could

cause your mind to dwell romance today, Pisces. If you can, set up a

romantic evening with a partner. If this isn’t possible, go to an emotional

play or movie that moves you to tears. Movies may be of particular

interest to you today, since you might be reading about how they’re

made.

Profligate spending over the past week or two may have you feeling

less confident about your money situation today, Gemini. Perhaps

you’ve lent some money to a friend and you doubt their ability to repay.

Or maybe you fell for a sales pitch that you now regret. Correct the

situation if you can. If you can’t, simply learn from the experience and

put it behind you.

A quarrel over money could interfere with a friendship today, Virgo.

Perhaps someone hasn’t repaid a loan and the lender now needs it.

Perhaps a member of your household is unable to pay their share of the

bills. Don’t let yourself get drawn into quarrels or recriminations. Work

something out with your friend if possible. Money isn’t worth throwing

away a friendship and leaving a gap in your life.

Someone you’ve known for a long time may move away or otherwise

vanish from your life. He or she may move to a distant state. You’ll

probably stay in touch by phone or email, but it will never be the same,

at least not for a long time. You will feel better if you meet some new

people. They will come your way today, possibly through humanitarian

group activities.

Today your biorhythms may be a little low, Aquarius, so you aren’t likely

to be feeling very sociable. You’re more likely to want to bury your nose

in your projects instead of being your usual outgoing self. This is OK,

but take care that you aren’t so reclusive that you miss receiving some

sincere compliments. That can make a big diff erence in the way you

feel!

Must have winter wear to help you stay warm

Your winters don’t have to be dull anymore. Make it cool and classy with some smart options.

Matthew Wood, Creative Director at GANT, and Steve McSween, Head of Men’s Global Design, Nautica, show you all the new ways to style your coats, jackets, vests and other winterwear options to stay warm this season.

Quilted vests: The vest proves to be a versatile cold-weather casual. Available in a range of bold colours, you can wear it with a chunky sweater and cuff ed trousers.

Contrast colour sweaters: Knit from incredibly soft cotton, makes layering eff ortless as the temperature drops. Wear it with a tee underneath or wear it as a top with a pair of jeans.

Bomber jackets: Bomber jacket is a timeless piece of outerwear that every man should own. This classic jacket, which comes in a variety of styles and can suit many occasions, is both

fashionable and versatile at the same time.

Sweatshirts: Add a dash of elegance to your closet with simple yet trendy sweatshirts. Cut in a

classic fi t from cotton-blend fabric and long sleeves; you can team it with a shirt and cuff ed chinos to complete your ensemble.

Cardigans: For the less breezy

evenings, choose a light weight cardigan sweater. It can be styled to look preppy or edgy, depending on how you accessorize it; with high waist pants and a basic T-shirt. — IANS

Sunday, December 2, 2018 15GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYSHOWBIZ

Simon Cowell plans to bring back Celebrity X Factor

He previously called the one-off series of Celebrity X Factor ‘pointless’ and insisted he would never want to do it again but now music mogul Simon Cowell plans to bring the series back.

Speaking to The Sun’s TV magazine, he admitted: “Celebrity X Factor wasn’t one of my favourite shows, but for some reason I do actually want to do it again.”

Revealing that he already has one contestant in mind, he continued: “I’m hoping we’re going to do this soon. I’d like to mentor David Walliams!”

The X Factor: Battle of the Stars aired for one week-long series in 2006 and saw the likes of David Beckham’s former PA Rebecca Loos, Gillian McKeith and Nikki Sanderson compete for the title, reports dailymail.co.uk

The series was won by former EastEnders actress Lucy Benjamin, and saw Simon, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh act as judges, whilst Kate Thornton hosted.

Simon is currently being kept busy by the current series of The X Factor, with the fi nal airing this weekend. – IANS

Kit Harington vows never return to Game of Thrones

Actor Kit Harington found it emotional to fi nish TV series Game of Thrones but he would never go back and do more episodes.

The British actor has portrayed Jon Snow in the hit fantasy drama since 2011 and earlier this year wrapped his fi nal scenes for the show’s last season, which will air in 2019.

And while it was hard to end that chapter of his life, Harington is not sad about moving on with his career and has vowed to never return to the show.

“It was emotional to leave the job defi nitely,” Harington told bbc.com

He added: “But I wouldn’t say I was sad: if like me you go all the way back to the pilot of Game of Thrones that’s almost 10 years of your life – that’s really unusual in an actor’s career. It was a huge emotional upheaval leaving that family. But would I want to go back and do more? Not on your life.”

Spin-off s from the main series are currently in the works, with Naomi Watts already confi rmed to star in The Long Night, a prequel series which will be set thousands of years before the events of the show.

When asked if he would consider fi lming a cameo or a small appearance in the prequel, he reportedly gave an “unequivocal no.”

The 31-year-old is currently performing in True West, alongside Beast actor Johnny Flynn. In the play, Harington’s character Austin is working on a movie script he has just sold when his hopeless brother Lee stumbles back into his life. – IANS

Kangana hopes Manikarnika is released on Republic day

DELIGHTED: Ali Zafar’s Teefa In Trouble is now available on Netflix for his fans in India.

PATRIOTIC: Kangana Ranaut says her film has a patriotic theme, therefore the release date is very important.

MENTOR: Simon Cowell says he would like to mentor David Walliams in the series.

Actress Kangana Ranaut, who will be seen playing the role of Rani Laxmibai in Manikarnika - The Queen of Jhansi, hopes that her

forthcoming fi lm gets a solo release at the box offi ce early next year.

Kangana was interacting with the media at the 25th anniversary of Swiss Watchmaker brand Chopard where the brand unveiled ‘Happy Sport Collection’ yesterday.

There were reports that Hrithik Roshan starrer Super 30 is running behind it’s due schedule since the time the fi lm’s director Vikas Bahl’s name cropped up in harassment cases and therefore, the fi lm will not be able

to release on January 25 along with Manikarnika - The Queen of Jhansi.

When asked whether this situation is favourable for her fi lm, Kangana said, “It’s very good thing because I feel we should remember people who have sacrifi ced their lives for the freedom of our country on days like Independence Day and Republic Day.”

“Our fi lm has a patriotic theme so, that date is very important for us and we will be very happy to have a solo release on that day.”

When asked how the post-production work of the fi lm is going on, Kangana said, “Actually, we were feeling that we are in a war zone because the post-production of the fi lm is taking place.

“Our fi lm is on a huge scale so there are lots of VFX involved in the fi lm but now by the grace of God, our deadlines are under control. It’s an amazing experience. After January 25, I will be very happy to sort of take a little break and go somewhere because I have been working so long on this fi lm.”

Manikarnika - The Queen of Jhansi” also stars Ankita Lokhande, Atul Kulkarni, Vaibhav Tatwawaadi, Danny Denzongappa, Suresh Oberoi and Jisshu Sengupta in key roles.

It is directed by Krish and produced by Zee Studios in association with Kamal Jain and Nishant Pitti.

The fi lm is scheduled to be released on January 25. – IANS

Ali Zafar’s fi rst Pakistani fi lm can now be viewed by Indian audience

Pakistani singing sensation and actor Ali Zafar’s fi rst Pakistani fi lm Teefa In Trouble can now be viewed by his Indian fans as it is available on the streaming platform Netfl ix from yesterdat (Saturday).

“Me and my team are more than delighted to announce that Teefa in Trouble, which went on to become the biggest non-holiday blockbuster of all time and is running in its fourth month in Pakistan, will now be available to audiences in India and all over the world on Netfl ix to watch and enjoy,” Ali said.

“I can never let go of the love and admiration I have always received from fans and audiences in India and I am overjoyed that I

could reconnect with them once again through Teefa.... I hope they enjoy it as much as people did in cinemas,” he added.

Ali has served as an actor, a producer, singer and writer of the romantic action comedy fi lm, which hit the screens in about 25 countries in July.

He had joined hands with India’s popular banner Yash Raj Films for the international theatrical distribution of his home production.

Earlier in an interview, Ali had said: “I hope that it (Teefa...) gets screened over there (in India) and makes a mark.”

After making a promising acting debut in India with the Bollywood fi lm Tere Bin Laden in 2010, Ali featured in Hindi movies like Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, London, Paris, New York and Dear Zindagi. – IANS


COMMUNITY

By Mudassir Raja

Pak Shamaa School and College (PSSC) recently organised a Qir’aat (recitation of Holy Qur’an) and Naat (poetry

in praise of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) Competition. The annual competition was held to mark the birthday of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) at the school auditorium that was packed with students, parents, teachers, and members of the Pakistani expatriate community.

The programme that continued for about three hours also included recitation of naat by teachers and speeches made by young students, who beautifully highlighted diff erent aspects of life and personality of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The event kicked off with a naat presentation, recited by the young girls in chorus.

In the Qir’aat competition, Talha Ubaid got fi rst position, Ahmed Masood stood second and Farhan Ahmed clinched third position. In the Naat completion, Hiba bagged fi rst position, while second position was shared by Sadia Saeed and Awais Wali. Hammad Ahmed got third position. The students

were felicitated with cash prizes, certifi cates and trophies.

Before the competition, two students also delivered some short speeches, one in Urdu and the other in English. The speakers highlighted the teaching and practices of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

In Urdu speech, the student underlined kind and courteous behaviour of the Prophet. The student said that the life and moral practices of the Prophet are the best guide for the humanity in the life. In the English speech, the speaker said, “Prophet Muhammad

(PBUH) is a great role model for the Muslims in every aspect of life. He implemented the teachings of Qur’an in his life. His practices and teachings are the only way to be successful in this life and hereafter.”

In her welcome speech, Nabila Kaukab, PSSC Principal, said, “I feel lucky to be part of this enlightening event. To have Hafi z Junaid Sial, Community Welfare Attachee at Pakistan Embassy, here is very encouraging for the students and teachers of the school. It is very good to be part of this event to revive our knowledge and love for the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). We also listen

and learn from Qur’an. We are very lucky to have the Prophet as our guide and mentor.”

Appreciating her Islamic Studies department teachers, she said, “We have been carrying out special eff orts to learn from each other about Islamic teachings and life of the Prophet.”

Speaking on the occasion as the chief guest, Hafi z Junaid said, “I thank the school management for inviting me to the event where we have learnt and revisited the life of our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). I congratulate all the contestants for presenting beautiful recitation

of Qur’an and naat. I saw how much the young students love the teachings of Islam and their Prophet (PBUH).”

He added, “I will urge all of you make your bond with Islam stronger. Life is a journey. It passes very quickly. Now a days, life is becoming more and more materialistic. We need to bring the teaching of Qur’an and Prophet (PBUH) into practice.”

In the end, the school management felicitated the students for showing excellent results in the annual examination conducted by Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Islamabad.

The students who excelled in Grade-IX, included Sadia Saeed, fi rst position in the school with 493 marks; Haider Naeem, second with 480; and Muhammad Saim Maqsood, third with 475.

The students who excelled in Grade-X, included, Javeria Saeed, fi rst position in the school with 1021 marks; Baynita Khalid, second with 1006; and Anas Mustafa, third with 992.

The students who excelled in Grade-XI, included, Ammna Arshad, fi rst position in the school with 413 marks; Osama Khalique, second with 388; and Imnia Tufail, third with 385.

PSSC holds Qir’aat, Naat competition

BEGINNING: Young students reciting Naat while opening the competition. Photos by Thajudeen

GROUP: Judges and guests in a photo.

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