Coronavirus - Gulf Times

Report cardCOVERSTORY

Coronavirus: key scientific questions answered. P4-5

Tuesday, March 10, 2020Rajab 15, 1441 AH

Doha today 160 - 250

BOLLYWOOD HOLLYWOOD

Uncomfortable to see rights taken

away from musicians: Anoushka.

4

Representation

matters, says Freida.

Page 15

Tuesday, March 10, 20202 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 4.31amShorooq (sunrise) 5.49amZuhr (noon) 11.46amAsr (afternoon) 3.09pmMaghreb (sunset) 5.42pmIsha (night) 7.12pm

“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you

do not stop.” – Confucius

Escape From PretoriaCAST: Daniel Radcliff e, Ian Hart, Daniel WebberDIRECTION: Francis AnnanSYNOPSIS: Two white South Africans, imprisoned for

working on behalf of the African National Congress (ANC) determine to escape from the notorious white man’s `Robben Island’, Pretoria Prison.

THEATRES: Royal Plaza, Landmark, The Mall

Stardog And Turbocat CAST: Luke Evans, Nick Frost, Gemma ArtertonDIRECTION: Ben SmithSYNOPSIS: A lost dog and a genius cat must team up to

embark on a voyage in space to fi nd their way home. The pair must also be cautious of a pet ban, which has been enforced by an angry police offi cer.

THEATRE: The Mall

For movie timings and further details please scan

the QR code above with your mobile phone camera or visit qatarcinemas.com

3Tuesday, March 10, 2020 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYROUND & ABOUT

MIA Park Bazaar 2020WHERE: MIA ParkWHEN: Ongoing till April 25TIME: 2pm — 8pmMIA Park Bazaar is a modern version of

the Old Souq tradition with vibrant mix of around 120 stalls. You can browse and buy handicrafts, accessories, paintings, clothing, food, jewellery, photography and art.

Metro Street FoodWHERE: DECC Metro StationWHEN: OngoingTIME: 12:30pm

Street Food is the ideal venue for a leisure experience for the whole family off ering over 20 dine-in options and 18-hole World Mini-Golf setup.

Hobby ClassesWHERE: Mamangam Performing Art

CentreWHEN:Wednesday – MondayMamangam is an art and performance

centre started with a vision of spreading our knowledge, interests and experience in various disciplines in arts across different countries for children and adults.

We offer regular classes in disciplines like traditional classical dance, art and craft, Bollywood and hip-hop styles, Carnatic music, robotics, percussion instruments, keyboard, yoga, zumba and martial arts like Karate, Shaolin Kung Fu and Kalari. For those who wish to register e-mail at [email protected] or call on 33897609/44723680

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

atelierqatar.com or call on 33003839.

Katara Winter Festival & BazaarWHERE: Katara Cultural VillageWHEN: Ongoing till March 14TIME: 10am-10pmKatara has an indoor bazaar with more

than 200 stalls from 18 diff erent countries. You can clothes, perfumes, bags, handicraft, footwear, other accessories and much more. The festival also has a vast playground for children.

Public Speaking Classes for AdultsWHERE: Sharq Capital, C-Ring RoadWHEN:Ongoing till July 1TIME: 6:30pm – 9pmGet trained by experts to be a good speaker.

Smedley Toastmasters is conducting a six-month speech-craft programme that teaches new members to speak confi dently and develop leadership skills. For more

information, 66053485, 33232490 or visit www.SmedleyToastmasters.org

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

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

Qatar National Robotics ChallengeWHERE: Qatar National LibraryWHEN: March 31TIME: 8am — 4pmThe Qatar National Robotics Challenge is an advanced robotics competition in which

students of Grade VIII-XI design, build, programme and operate robots to compete in a head-to-head challenge. The programme is designed to encourage interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

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


COMMUNITY COVER STORY

Corona conundrum

‘’

What are the statistics on surviving Covid-19? When

might a vaccine be ready? Robin McKie takes a look

In such cases the first major outbreak is always the worst one. After that it should settle down and become part of a regular repertoire of winter viruses, I would imagine

— Mark Woolhouse, Professor, Edinburgh University

What exactly is coronavirus?Covid-19 is a newly identifi ed airborne

virus in the corona viral family, but it is more severe and spreads easily. Diagnosis is diffi cult because it shares several symptoms with infl uenza.

How is Covid-19 transmitted?Covid-19 is thought to spread similarly

to infl uenza. That is, it spreads person to person through respiratory droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby — typically within 6 feet — or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Can I catch Covid-19 from contact with an object rather than a person?

Yes, you can catch Covid-19 from an object if the surface of that object has live virus on it. How long the virus can live outside an organism is unknown. Expert estimates range from a few hours to up to nine days, depending on the type of surface, surrounding temperature and

environment.

Can a person have Covid-19 without having symptoms?

Yes.

Is there a vaccine for Covid-19?There is currently no vaccine for

Covid-19. The National Institutes of Health is developing a vaccine, but it will not be ready and approved for use for at least a year or more.

What should I do if I have symptoms of Covid-19?

If you have symptoms of Covid-19, call your local health care provider or hospital, and ask how best to be evaluated.

How is a patient treated for

Covid-19?The basic premise of preventing disease

transmission is to identify patients who show symptoms, isolate those patients from others for appropriate assessment,

and inform appropriate staff and authorities for further response. If people appear with symptoms, they will be asked to wear a mask and answer a series of questions about their health and travel. Based on their answers and vital signs, they will be isolated from other patients while Covid-19 test results can be verifi ed. This may take several days.

Patients who test positive for Covid-19 are isolated and treated. Currently, there is no antiviral treatment for Covid-19. Specifi c interventions are taken in more severe cases, or with patients with compromised immune systems or complex illnesses.

What can I do to avoid Covid-19?To avoid Covid-19, you should:

Keep your hands clean. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and

mouth. Cover your cough and sneezes to keep

germs from spreading to others.

Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces routinely.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Stay home when you are sick.

Should I wear a face mask?Regarding whether you should wear

a face mask, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides this guidance:

CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory illnesses, including Covid-19. You should only wear a mask if a healthcare professional recommends it. A facemask should be used by people who have Covid-19 and are showing symptoms. This is to protect others from the risk of getting infected. The use of facemasks also is crucial for health workers and other people who are taking care of someone infected with Covid-19 in close settings (at home or in a health care facility). — Mayo Clinic News Network

CORONAVIRUS: What to know, what to do


COMMUNITYCOVER STORY

Coronavirus Covid-19 has spread to six continents — only Antarctica is currently free of infections

— and has triggered more than 108,000 cases of respiratory illness, of which nearly 3,800 have been fatal. The spread of the disease, which first emerged in Hubei province in central China at the beginning of 2020, has also triggered widespread financial alarm over the past weeks, with stock markets suffering their worst week since the global financial crisis of 2008.

Covid-19 is now an epidemic in many parts of the globe and is destined to have a major impact on the health of the planet. Here we answer some key questions about the disease and its likely eff ects.

Most doctors had been expecting the next major viral outbreak to involve a strain of fl u. In what ways does Covid-19 diff er from the infl uenza virus?

Both Covid-19 and infl uenza are respiratory illnesses and are spread by exhaled droplets which can survive in the air and on surfaces for short times. However, this strain of the coronavirus produces a fever and a dry cough but does not trigger runny noses or sneezing, as commonly occurs with fl u.

So what is the best protection against picking up the virus? In particular, how useful are face masks?

Doctors say that there is little evidence that masks protect wearers from infection. Instead they recommend that people wash their hands regularly, clean work surfaces and door handles, and try to avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth.

What plans have been prepared to contain a possible epidemic of Covid-19?

A major fear is that rapidly growing numbers of infected individuals could overwhelm hospitals and general practitioners’ surgeries as the virus spreads and people become increasingly worried that they may be infected. Care of individuals in hospitals with other serious conditions could be aff ected. As a result, plans have been set up to “engineer the epidemic” by quarantining cases and attempting to limit the numbers of infected people coming into contact with uninfected individuals. This would slow down the disease’s spread. Cases of Covid-19 would then appear over a longer period of time and would not abruptly trigger chaos at hospitals.

When might we expect a vaccine to be ready?

Researchers have already begun work on a vaccine, but few believe one will be ready for at least another year.

Will it be possible to eradicate Covid-19, or could it reappear regularly in future?

The World Health Organization and the Chinese government both say it will be possible to eradicate

the virus. Not every scientist agrees, however. “I would not be surprised if we now have a virus that we will have to deal with forever,” says Prof Mark Woolhouse of Edinburgh University. “However, in such cases the fi rst major outbreak is always the worst one. After that it should settle down and become part of a regular repertoire

of winter viruses, I would imagine.”

Is it possible the warmer weather may bring relief?

Some observers have pointed to the fact that Africa has relatively few cases of Covid-19 and that this may be a response to hotter conditions there. The virus cannot take the heat, in other words.

Most scientists counsel caution, however. “The disease has only just arrived in Africa and it is far too early to tell how it will behave there,” says Woolhouse. “We will just have to wait and see.”

What are your chances of surviving if you become infected?

Most fi gures suggest that around 1% to 2% of people will die after being infected with Covid-19, though that fi gure could decline as more and more cases in a region are recognised. Scientists are also clear about those who are most at risk from Covid-19: at the moment, it appears that the elderly are most at risk. — The Guardian

There is currently no vaccine for

Covid-19. The US National

Institutes of Health is developing a

vaccine, but it will not be ready and

approved for use for at least a year

or more


COMMUNITY

New GU-Q student club merges the disciplines of natural science and governance policyThe ‘SFS Hoya Starfleet’ student club, recently launched by Ayesha Iqbal, a second year student majoring in International Politics at Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q), serves to merge the disciplines of natural science and governance policy to highlight the importance of having scientific knowledge for future leaders and policy makers, and represents the first club of its kind at the university. The club is mentored by Dr Kai-Henrik Barth, Senior Assistant Dean for Research Support and professor teaching the university’s first required natural science course this academic year. The class gives students majoring in international aff airs an introduction to the science behind nuclear weapons and an understanding of why that knowledge matters for anyone working on policy matters, not just scientists. Ayesha, who enrolled in the course last semester, wanted to find a way to continue the discussion of science and society outside of the classroom. The idea for how to do that came

to her, she said while watching an episode of Star Trek. “I’ve always been fascinated by the level of technology involved in the organisation of empires and planets in the science fiction realm, and I thought that would be a great way to think about our own world as well. I immediately took the idea to Dr Barth, who told me he had long waited for a student to take this initiative.”In the tradition of Star Trek fandom, club members are given rankings, with the faculty mentor serving as the Admiral, Ayesha as Captain, and GU-Q classmate Mariam Hassan as First Off icer. “Mariam and I both love science, took the same nuclear physics course together, and have often talked about finding ways to encourage students to explore the link between science and physics in an engaging way.” Although it just started, the club has been steadily growing. Their inaugural event, which allowed participating students to digitally simulate and assess the fallout of a nuclear event, drew a large crowd of members and non members alike.

Ayesha Iqbal, a second year student majoring in International Politics at Georgetown University in Qatar.

Embassy of Canada and UC-Q mark International Women’s Day 2020The embassy of Canada and the University of Calgary in Qatar (UC-Q) recently hosted a reception to officially recognise International Women’s Day 2020 and the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife. Stefanie McCollum, Ambassador of Canada, along with Dr Deborah White, Dean of University of Calgary in Qatar, hosted guests from across Qatar’s diplomatic, business, and healthcare sectors at Sheraton Hotel. The evening’s guest speaker was Joe Clark, former prime minister of Canada, who brought remarks on the important subject of women’s accomplishments in Qatar and Canada. He also highlighted that empowering women and girls to equally participate in economic, social, and political life benefits all societies. The ambassador and Dr White welcomed Lieutenant Aljazi Nasser Mohamed al-Nasr, first Qatari female combat pilot, at the event. Speaking on the occasion, the ambassador said, “I am delighted to be part of this event – a collaboration between the embassy of Canada and the University of Calgary in Qatar, jointly celebrating International Women’s Day and the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife. Canada chose #BecauseOfYou as this year’s International Women’s Day theme, which pays tribute to the diverse and inspirational gender equality change-makers we know in our own lives, both in Canada and globally.”“Our priority is educating nursing leaders in Qatar and for Qatar,” said Dr Deborah White. “Along with many other parts of the world, we are experiencing a shortage of nurses here in Qatar. I believe that recognising the value of nursing as a profession

contributes greatly to the success and development of Qatar’s healthcare system.” “As a Canadian university, we are proud to offer nursing education here in Qatar. We have over 650 alumni working throughout Qatar’s hospitals, health centres, military, and companies. These are nursing leaders who are making important contributions to the health and well-being of Qatar.”

GROUP: From left, Joe Clark, former prime minister of Canada; Lieutenant Aljazi Nasser Mohamed al-Nasr, first Qatari female combat pilot; Dr Deborah White, Dean of the University of Calgary in Qatar; and Stefanie McCollum, Ambassador of Canada.

BPS to start virtual classroom for students of Grade VI furtherBirla Public School (BPS) is starting first virtual classrooms from Grade VI further during the closure of the school. Based on the directives from the Ministry of Education & Higher Education to prevent the spread of Covid-19, the school will be closed eff ective from today until further notice.However, the CBSE Board Examinations for the students of Grade X-XII will take place as per normal schedule. There shall not be school transportation and parents are required to drop their kids directly to the Examination Centre at MES Indian School, and pick from there after the examination. In the interest of kid’s health, it is advised to not use shared services. For Grade KG-VIII, all remaining school-based exams have been cancelled. The students’ average marks of previous terms will be considered for record purpose and they will be promoted to the next grade. In respect of Grade-IX students, promotions will be made to the next grade

based on their previous term exam marks. However, those students in Grade-IX who are not meeting the passing mark criteria will have to appear for exams after the school reopens. The book distribution schedule has been cancelled and the books will be distributed only after the reopening of the school.The school has planned the following courses of action during this period of closure in order to progress with the academics:1. The ongoing Grade XII classes (Academic Year 2020-’21) will resume in an online platform (virtual classroom) from March 15.2. Similarly, Virtual Classroom for Grade-X will commence from March 22 and for Grades-VI – IX from April 5.3. For Grades up to V, classes will begin based on MoEHE’s directives.A detailed step by step manual for joining virtual classes will be forwarded to all the parents.


COMMUNITY

Medical institutes come together for a week-long ‘Wellness Initiative’ for diff erently abled childrenAllevia Medical Centre, Wellcare Pharmacies, NIARC-Ladies Wing Qatar Chapter and allwell.live is all set to organise a week-long ‘Wellness Initiative’ for diff erently abled children from March 13 till March 19. The wellness initiative would include free consultation and investigation in paediatrics, dental, orthopaedics, ENT, physiotherapy, audiometry, X-ray and ultrasound scan and lab departments of Allevia Medical Centre, Al Wukair Branch. Wellcare Pharmacies would be providing professional pharmacy and counselling services and NIARC-Ladies Wing Qatar Chapter would be providing experience based family support services via its philanthropic wing allwell.live will provide a comprehensive guidance, information and support for the entire event. Speaking at the press conference, Udhayakuma, Chief Operating Off icer at Allevia Medical Centre, reiterated that a wheelchair friendly Dental Console System is available in the medical facility, which helps the patient to be continued sitting in the wheelchair through the dental procedures and treatment. Ashraf K P, Chairman of Allevia Medical Centre, announced that Allevia focuses on the tagline ‘Wellness in Reach’ aiming at providing compassionate, accessible,

high quality, cost eff ective healthcare and wellness through the core values, including attention, listen, love, empathy, value, and information and assurance.NIARC-Qatar Chapter is the extended global service chapter for Nest International Academy and Research Centre, which is a non-profit organisation established in 2005. NIARC is an organisation focused on providing support for diff erently abled children, primarily serving schooling, daycare and rehabilitation sectors. Wellcare Pharmacies is one of the largest and prominent pharmacy chains in Qatar known for their social commitments through medical camps and free medicines for deserving patients. Others who spoke during the press conference, included Mohamed Farook, Manager Operations at Wellcare Pharmacies; SK Vyas, Manager Pharmacy Academics at Wellcare Pharmacies; Udhaya Kumar, COO at Allevia Medical Centre; Dr Babu Konikkara Joseph, Paediatrics at Allevia Medical Centre; MT Hameed, General Secretary of NIARC; and Ramsi Riyas, President of NIARC-Ladies Wing Qatar Chapter. Parents of diff erently abled children can register via phone by contacting on 44412999 or by WhatsApp on 55212999.

HAIQ organises first monthly literary and poetry symposiumHalqa e Adabe Islami Qatar (HAIQ) recently organised first monthly literary and poetry symposium at Halqa-e-Rufqa-e-Hind’s (Indian Friend Circle) off ice.The event was chaired by Basheer Abdulmajeed Omeri, President of HAIQ. Fateh Sharif Omri Azhari was the chief guest and Dr Wasi-ul-Haq Wasi the guest of honour. The session was moderated by Dr Ata-ur-Rehman and Muzaff ar Nayab. Aamir Shakib, Vice President of HAIQ, welcomed the gathering. Speaking on the occasion he said that there is a campaign being launched by patron Halqa-e-Rufqa-e-Hind (Indian Friend Circle) on the topic of ‘Rujuo-il-al-Qur’an (Refer The Qur’an)’. A consultative meeting was held prior to the monthly symposium under the chairmanship of Ishtiaq Falahi, Patron of HAIQ. The meeting was attended by Basheer Abdulmajeed Omerim, Amer Shakeb, Vice President; Muzaff ar Nayab, General Secretary; Mubassir Imaan, Secretary; and Farooq Khan, Treasurer. The patron elected Dr Ata-ur-Rehman Nadvi, Iftikhar Raghib, Khalid Dad Khan and Fateh Sharif as executive members of the board on the occasion. An event reception committee consisting of deputies was also formed on the occasion. Active members of HAIQ, including Mustafa Muzammil, Rashid Nadvi, Hanif Falahi, Abdul Rahman Shamsi and Anas Abdullah were selected

as the members of the committee.The first part of the event was allocated for the essay prose. Two articles were presented in this session. Fateh Sharif presented an article reflecting the most sensitive information of the present era, which was followed by an article by Ifteqar Raghib, renowned Urdu poet, entitles ‘Zafar Kamali’s personality, sincerity and expression’.Nazim Mushaera Muzaff ar Nayab, General Secretary HAIQ, presented several selected poems of Allama Muhammad Iqbal on the occasion. Other poets, including Zareef Baloch, Farrukh Jamshed khan shams, Mubassir Imaan, Rashid alam Rashid, Amer Shakeb, Ashfaque Deshmukh, Ruwais Mumtaz, Saadat Ali Saadat, Wazir Ahmed Wazir, Sani Aslam, Muzaff ar Nayab, Syed Faheemuddin, Ifteqar Raghib, Yousuf Kamal, Wasi Ul Haq Wasi, and Maulana Basheer Abdulmajeed Omeri also presented their works.Speaking on the occasion Basheer Abdulmajeed Omeri, highlighted his action plans in favour of HAIQ. He added that literature plays a significant role in human’s life, a life without literature is not a life, it would be only a living body, the real breakthrough of literature is that we should be able to translate our emotions and feelings into our works, we have to adopt common sense and simple language.


COMMUNITY

Unwind: Wellness retreat for powerhouse women in Qatar

As more people in the country begin to adopt a holistic approach to healthy living, it won’t be erroneous to say that

Al Messila Ladies Wellness Retreat is a must-visit for those seeking an escape that will both satisfy their wanderlust and workout goals in one go. One can lean into their fi erce, feminine energy for an immersive retreat. In an exclusive interview with Community, Dr Alison Stone, General Manager of Al Messila Ladies Retreat, talks about the fi rst ladies-only wellness retreat in the region where tranquillising aromatherapy treatments waft through the air.

A major talking point about the Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha, is the Al Messila Ladies Wellness Retreat. Tell us more about it and what it off ers?

The Wellness Retreat at Al Messila Resort & Spa is the fi rst ladies wellness retreat in the region. It has been built on a luscious urban oasis surrounded by an indigenous environment of trees, birds and water. The facility features 26 treatment rooms; two fully equipped gyms; private training; spinning and movement studios; three mineral pools; a daylight enhanced private recreational pool; as well as a Food Lab cooking classroom. One of the biggest attractions of the wellness

retreat is its hydro wellness Worlds. The four Worlds are a unique facility, never seen before in the Middle East. Each World is themed diff erently, depending on the specifi c wellness journey off ered: Oriental, Floral, Mystic and Mineral. They house fl oatation tanks, cocoon beds, oxygen rooms, Kneipp walks, Hammams and salt rooms, and each World can be experienced in a personalised four-hour journey.

What makes Al Messila Wellness Retreat diff erent?

We off er fi tness, mindfulness and well-being in a luxurious setting whereby the ladies can indulge in beauty, facial, and retail therapies. The guests are presented with opportunities to experience well-being in the form of personalised retreat journeys and exclusive programmes. This makes our retreat truly exclusive and special.

What are the signature treatments at Al Messila Wellness Retreat?

Our signature treatments start with a two-hour well-being therapy, focusing on individual attention. The guest’s tissues and muscles are scrutinised very carefully so that the therapists can personalise the entire 120 minutes and work towards relieving any physical issues rather than just off ering a treatment that

just relaxes and pampers. The next off ering is our signature celebration package, which is three hours of absolute bliss for the guests, with our amazing well-being therapists in our luxury double suites that include holistic cocooning and liquid healing pools. This has been very popular for our ladies spa days and birthday celebrations. And fi nally, the four-hour Journey of the Worlds is of course the highlight of the Ladies Wellness Retreat. It includes comprehensive well-being and skin consultations, personalised journeys based on individual needs, and result-driven therapies and treatments. Your personal retreat specialist is the key to this journey as she will guide and support you so that you can let go of all your cares and immerse yourself fully in this well-being experience. The Journey of the Worlds concludes with an outstanding epicurean experience at the Snoull restaurant, inspired by North-European culinary tradition.

As the General Manager of the Wellness Retreat, how do you make sure that it is well operated?

Teamwork and communication is the key. The retreat measures 14,000 square metres and houses the largest hydro facility for ladies in Qatar, so there are many challenges in operating a facility of this size. To support our no mobile phone policy, we have even restricted the use of mobile phones by our staff . Personally, I have found a higher level of teamwork and guest

engagement by not having phones for the front offi ce staff . We have created eff ective communication through group meetings, which are held three times a day. Following the old school method of having face-to-face discussions and solving problems as they arise is working for us. We are well supported by female engineering and security teams who patrol the premises and take care of all our safety requirements. As fi rm believers of individual empowerment, we have now recognised some outstanding people in the team who also support the effi cient running of the retreat.

Do you have membership programmes? What do they include?

We have three types of membership programmes, including fi tness, lifestyle, and ultimate well-being and lifestyle. Our fi tness and lifestyle memberships are for three, six and 12 months, respectively, and our ultimate well-being and lifestyle package is for 12 months. However, we do off er a month’s vacation or pregnancy holiday for people who have signed up for our 12-month membership packages. We know that ladies often miss out due to school holidays and post pregnancy recovery times. All memberships off er unlimited stay and play at the Al Messila Little Explorer kids club, so ladies can drop off their kids when they come to the retreat. The Ultimate Wellbeing and Lifestyle is our exclusive membership and includes all facilities and treatments

with additional weight management programmes and one bedroom villa stay at the Al Messila Resort and Spa. This unique membership allows the guests to experience a lifestyle with a wealth of wellness through holistic well-being therapies and personalised Journeys of the Worlds. This package also includes yoga and pilates sessions, special deductions on wellness packages, facials, retail, and much more.

Can people staying at the resort have access to the wellness retreat and how?

Absolutely. All ladies over 18 can use the indoor pool as well as the gym; and they can book journeys, therapies, treatments, and facials during their stay. However, as far as possible, we do advise booking in advance so that we can ensure the guests can get the timings they prefer. Weekends tend to be very busy so early booking is preferable.

What is your advice for women looking to visit the Wellness Retreat?

Seeing is believing. Come around and discover everything that we off er and then let us guide you towards what is most suitable for your requirements. We have promotional off ers and packages that are tailor made to suit your needs. It’s important for you to consult us so that we to understand your goals; and only then will we be able to prioritise and off er you the prices that fi t into your budget.

Dr Alison Stone, General Manager of Al Messila Ladies Retreat.

FACILITIES: The facility features 26 treatment rooms; two fully equipped gyms; private training; spinning and movement studios; three mineral pools; a daylight enhanced private recreational pool; as well as a Food Lab cooking classroom.


COMMUNITYGARDENING

Cultural diff erences in gardening are fascinating. In Japan, there are many specialist nurseries

dedicated entirely to moss cultivars. In the UK, the only thing you’re likely to fi nd in a garden centre with “moss” on it is a bottle of moss killer. However, thanks to the blossoming of cross-cultural exchanges of gardening ideas, often generated by following accounts on Instagram, it seems a whole generation of Brits is getting excited about “mossariums” – miniaturised landscapes of moss and rocks encased in glass vessels. But given our lack of dedicated moss nurseries, how do you even get hold of the stuff ? Here’s my guide for beginners who want to get in on this trend.

First, a lesson I have learned the hard way: species choice is crucial. You can’t simply gather bits of moss from garage roofs and garden paths and expect them to work in terrariums. They will die in a few weeks. This is because most temperate mosses either need low temperatures,

extremely high air movement or a dormancy period (sometimes all three) to survive. Sealed in the warm, cosseted environment of a closed terrarium, many will start to etiolate, growing long and spindly, often simply succumbing to black mould infections before that even happens.

Having tested just about every species I can get my hands on, I have so far found only a tiny handful that really work well. Out of these, far and away the most reliable is a cushion-like species called Leucobryum glaucum. Fortunately it is also the most aff ordable. It is widely available and is sold under the name “bun moss” or “cushion moss”. This can be ordered online, or via a good fl orist. I love its fresh, apple-green colour and soft, tactile texture, like a croquet lawn in miniature. It will grow well in sealed terrariums, going pale yellow or white when it needs a spritz of water.

Staying on the native theme, Polytrichum mosses are like miniature pine trees, and can be found very commonly in damp areas. Just a couple of sprigs can

be snipped off with scissors and inserted directly into a “lawn” of bun moss to add detail and variety.

For other moss species, you will need to track down aquarium plant suppliers online. These outfi ts have started cultivating all sorts of diff erent tropical and temperate moss species, which, despite being sold for underwater cultivation, will grow just as well in a sealed terrarium as long as the air humidity is high enough.

For me, the most successful are the tiny feather-like fronds of Fissidens fontanus moss, which usually come strapped to wire mesh. Snip the thin lengths of black cotton thread that keep it in place and lift the sheet of moss away. Other mosses, such as Amblystegium and Vesicularia, will come in tiny sealed plastic cups containing a growth jelly, the result of laboratory propagation. To use these, wash the jelly off under a tap and snip the fi brous threads into small lengths. Pressed against a moist surface in a terrarium, these will quickly establish their own colonies.

– The Guardian

Make your own mossy world

At last, gardeners worldwide are getting excited

about ‘mossariums’, writes James Wong

For fl owers that last, the answer is cut and dried

My fi rst exposure to dried fl owers was as dusty, pastel-shaded posies on doily-covered tables. So when my fl oristry-expert mate Chanel told me that dried fl ower arrangements were back in vogue, my reaction was a judgmental eye-roll.

However, in their latest incarnation, dried fl owers are simple and structural, in displays often of a single species, celebrating the forms of nature. The look is more “wabi-sabi” (the Japanese aesthetic appreciation for age and imperfection) than “potpourri” tweeness. Lasting for at least a year before they need replacing, they are, of course, far more sustainable, more aff ordable, and frankly less faff than buying fresh-cut fl owers. I am now fascinated by the concept, especially as many species are at their most beautiful in their dried form. While the majority are bought ready-cut, most of them are easy to grow and dry at home, providing a steady source of new material with which to express creativity.

Stepping away from bright blocks of colour, what I love about this new take is the celebration of texture. Fluff y sprays of feather reed grass (Calamagrostis brachytricha), or even its giant relative the pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana), are delicate and structural at the same time. If you have a decent-sized patch in full sun with well-drained soil, both are hardy perennials that will off er up a yearly harvest in exchange for very little work. But even if all you have is a

container, there is a range of much smaller, annual grasses that are super simple to grow from seed. Bunny’s tail grass (Lagurus ovatus) lives up to its name, with bobbles of white fl uff so soft you just want to rub them on your face. There are also the intricate, pendant infl orescences of greater quaking grass (Briza maxima), which despite being annual will often self-sow to give you years of new growth.

If it is curious structure you are after, however, it doesn’t get much better than hops (Humulus lupulus) – a quick-growing climber whose dangling, cone-shaped fl owers look and smell amazing. Opium poppies (Papaver somniferum) couldn’t be easier to grow. You don’t need space in your beds in pride of place; these tough candidates will spring up from seed sprinkled on the edges of gravel paths or driveways. Their urn-shaped seed heads are true things of beauty.

If it’s all about colour for you, saffl ower (Carthamus tinctorius) has a blaze of orange at the centre of each papery whorl: ‘Kinko’ is a variety specifi cally bred for cut fl owers. Craspedia is a great annual with yellow bobbles on the end of long sticks – in mild winters they may even return the next year as perennials.

Finally, if you love the old-school look, strawfl owers (Xerochrysum bracteatum) off er a mass of daisy-like blooms in dazzling colours and will last for years at a time.

For all these fl owers, drying couldn’t be more simple. Just hang small bunches upside down in a cool, dry place, such as a shed or garage, for a month or so and they’ll be ready to display.

– The Guardian

UNDER GLASS: Gather no moss from the garage roof, instead buy in a good species, such as Leucobryum glaucum.

PLEASING PODS: Opium poppies have a sculptural form.


COMMUNITY INFOGRAPHIC

108


COMMUNITYLIFESTYLE/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

You’re sailing along and suddenly see a big ramp in front of you,

Aries. Your choice: avoid the ramp, stay on the ground where you

know it’s safe, and be content with a limited worldview, or hit that

ramp head on and soar over the trees and beyond. Who knows

where you might land? There is an incredible adventure waiting for

you when you take that leap into the unknown.

Whether or not you willingly participate, you’ll certainly play a key

role in the action, Cancer. At times you’ll feel like the pivotal player

whose actions decide the fate of the game. Now you must close your

eyes, take a deep breath, and find the answer from your heart. Don’t

look to others for support, because they’ll have their own agendas

and ideas about what you should do. Only you know what is best.

There is a burning restlessness inside you that is activated because

you don’t feel as if you’re fulfilling your life’s destiny, Libra. You could

have a sudden insight that you have a much greater purpose in this

life than what you’re doing now. Explore this idea and see how you

can move toward this desire that comes from deep within. This is the

perfect time to put large, long-term plans into action.

You might want to put on your suit of armour as soon as you wake up,

Capricorn. An all-out battle is raging out there, and it could seem like

everyone has picked you as the main target. Be careful about escalating

an issue even more by becoming defensive without first understanding

the full scope of the matter. It could be that everything is coming to a

head simply because of one slight misunderstanding.

A great sense of duty toward your fellow humans is likely to drive

your actions, Taurus. Think of yourself as an important role model

for young people. They may look up to you without you even

knowing it. Make sure you stand up straight and proudly whether

or not you consider your job menial. The example you set is likely to

have a trickle-down eff ect that will end up touching many people.

The time for planning and calculating is over, Leo. The time for

taking aggressive action has arrived. If you don’t have your armour

ready, too bad. You’ll be thrust onto the battlefield with the rest of

the troops even if you’re in your inner. The more you try to delay the

inevitable, the more diff icult it will be. Bite the bullet and charge full-

speed ahead with whatever protective gear you have.

There is a strong wave of power coming your way, so be careful how

you handle it, Scorpio. You’re extra prone to injuries and accidents of

an explosive nature. Try not to make any hasty moves while driving,

and be careful operating things like gas pumps or propane tanks. Used

properly, today’s planetary energy can help you tackle just about any

obstacle in front of you. How you handle the energy is up to you.

Debates over philosophy, religion, and education are likely to turn

into all-out war. Feel free to add your two cents, Aquarius. This is one

time in which it’s crucial to stand up for what you believe or else the

loudest people will have their way. If there is a protest going on, join

it. If there is an article in the newspaper you disagree with, write a

letter to the editor. Speak your mind.

There is a negative intensity about the day that is only going to get

worse if you continue this stubbornness about every issue that

comes your way, Gemini. Much of today’s activity will focus on ways

in which people can break out of their ruts and see things from an

entirely diff erent perspective. If you insist on remaining fixed in your

ways, you’ll only meet resistance.

A large force is gathering now to make a bold statement and important

pledge, Virgo. This kind of movement brings together generations

and unites people in a revolution. Put away the petty issues and think

globally. Educate yourself about what’s going on in the world and take

a more aggressive stand to fight for what you believe. A small group of

intelligent individuals can make a tremendous impact.

Your energy is likely to operate in extreme bursts, Sagittarius. One

minute you may be lethargic and the next you’re ready to run a

marathon. Engage in activities that nurture your fluctuating moods.

There’s no need to figure out why you feel this way. The key is to identify

these feelings and act accordingly. Plan how you want to use your

energy when it does come. Misdirected action may prove harmful.

There is a tremendous amount of physical energy building within

you, Pisces. Be careful that you don’t let this incredible force come

out in the form of a heated argument against someone you really

care about. Perhaps you suddenly feel as if everything is caving in

and you desperately need some means of escape. Go for a good

long run. Find a way to release this tension.

Wearing high heels may aff ect women’s bone health: Survey

Wearing high heels over a period of time have known to impact a women’s bone health and a new survey yesterday revealed that

regular use of high heels might also lead to early osteoporosis and permanent backache.

A survey conducted by Max Healthcare (MHC) – ‘Women’s bone health and orthopaedic issues’ — was done with over 500 women in Gurugram, Delhi/NCR aged between 20 to 45 years and above.

A balanced share of respondents across following profiles were include – Homemaker and Working Professional.

“Our survey has shown that a shocking 48.5 per cent women wear high heels on a regular basis or on the weekends for social gatherings. High heels when worn on a regular basis, impacts the back, toes and the joints of ankle and knee,” said Dr S.K.S. Marya, Chairman and Chief Surgeon, Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement, Max Hospital in Gurugram.

“This puts immense pressure on the spine which can hamper the overall bone

structure and posture of women over a period of time. These heels create an anomalous and awkward angle for the ankle which further creates pressure and hinders the circulation to the foot,” Marya added.

The survey also revealed that 37.5 per cent of 20-30 year old women wear high heels daily and 85.4 per cent 20-30 year old women wear high heels daily or on weekends for parties.

According to the data, 43.7 per cent working women wear high heels daily.

While only 14.6 per cent 20-30 year old women do not prefer high heels at all or wear occasionally, 52.9 per cent 30-45 year old and 83 per cent above 45 year old women feel this way.

“In many cases, the big toe becomes deformed also known as ‘Hallux Valgus’, and require correction surgery. Regular use of high heels might also lead to early osteoporosis and permanent backache,” Marya said.

“Therefore, women should only wear high heels occasionally and go for flats, ballerinas, loafers, slip ons, oxfords etc. for daily use,” Marya added.

The survey also found that over 50 per cent women do not focus on their daily

posture and are ruining their bone health in the process. – IANS


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.

ABSEILCRAMPONOXYGENALPSCREVASSEPICKASCENTFISSUREPITON

AVALANCHEFROSTBITERIDGEBLIZZARDGLACIERROCK FACEBOOTSGOGGLESSHEER

CLIFFHARNESSSLOPECLIMBICEFIELDSNOWCOLDLEDGESUMMIT


COMMUNITYPUZZLES

Colouring

Answers

Wordsearch Codeword

Across1 Flowers taken to a northern town or part of London (10)7 Only a bit biased (7)8 Monster helping to make progress (4)10 But this flower is not always pink (4)11 Wine held out in capital city (3,5)13 River set back, going round bad actor (6)15 Tree cultivated by Anna (6)17 Ships not completing first gear change (8)18 Snakes pass out (4)21 Tea-time talk? (4)22 Claret’s odd colour (7)23 Seas’s inlets eroding main points (10)

Super Cryptic Clues

Solution

Down1 A Scottish poet is ardent (5)2 Skip in the Dolomites (4)3 Hit back, meeting hindrance from striker (6)4 Showy American street (8)5 Rugby Union convention in the country? (7)6 Drinks produced if a priest is tispy (9)9 Oddly, Maine’s not an American state! (9)12 Humorous exchange - exchange for pear tree! (8)14 A frivolous school head comes to rest (7)16 A county - it provides accommodation (3-3)19 Things for one to do (5)20 Airborne soldier gets a knock, coming back (4)


COMMUNITY BOLLYWOOD

Success is not what you have achieved as an artiste but as a person: Anupam

Veteran actor Anupam Kher says he is proud of his past and his work, but does not believe in living on the laurels he has achieved.

For the actor, success is not what you have achieved as an artiste, but what you have achieved as a person.

“I consciously decided two years back that I will start from the scratch. When I came to New York, I consciously decided that I will forget what I have done all these years, let people remember that. I am thankful to all that but I will start from scratch,” Anupam said.

“From that point of view, it is my second year in the industry, and I still have a lot to do. I am proud of my past, my work but I am not the person who will live on laurels of what I have achieved. Or let’s say that two years back I decided that after interval, now the journey starts. I have the knowledge. I have the wisdom of what I have learnt all these years and I can apply that to what I am going to do. I am happy the kind of person I have turned out to be. That is the most important thing,” he added.

The New Amsterdam star continued: “Success is not what you have achieved as your laurels or your awards... Success is what you have achieved as a person and whether you can motivate other people or become an example of that for other people.”

The actor, who currently resides in New York, turned

65 on March 7. This year, he spent his birthday with his friend, the Hollywood legend Robert De Niro.

“I treat my birthday as a way of expressing my gratitude to people have helped me get here, people who gave me happiness, to my parents, to my loved ones and friends. I treat my birthday as a gratitude day rather than having parties.” – IANS

Grammy-nominated sitarist, composer and producer Anoushka Shankar feels fi lm and television companies

want musicians to sign their rights away, which is a “greedy and unjust” practice.

Asked what change she wants to see in the music industry, Anoushka said: “It’s uncomfortable to see more and more rights taken away from musicians. If musicians compose for fi lm or TV for example, they should own their own intellectual property, but more and more fi lm and television companies want musicians to sign those rights away. It’s greedy and unjust.”

When it comes to gender equality in the world of music, the daughter of the late globally-renowned sitar exponent Ravi Shankar said: “I don’t think gender equality is ‘sweeping in’ anywhere. I think it’s being fought for, by tooth and nail.”

The mother of two channels her inner thoughts and her emotions through her music. Traces of You was about intense joy, pain and sadness, and her album Land Of Gold, released in April 2016, was written in response to the refugee crisis. Her latest album Love Letters, a compilation of songs written across 2018-2019, documents a time of profound fl ux for the artiste: health issues, heartbreak, and domestic upheaval.

Despite spending so long in the industry, Anoushka still has to fi ght many creative challenges.

“To continue to make music from a truthful inner place, to fi nd the

way to go in and hear that voice in a noisy world. And also, to keep my career in balance with my more important role as a mother,” she said when asked about her biggest creative challenges.

Earlier this year, Anoushka

performed in India as part of her worldwide tour of her latest album Love Letters. The tour, presented by Alchemist Marketing Solutions, marked her homecoming to the Indian sub-continent after more than two years. – IANS

Have been instinctively correct about roles I’ve chosen, says Bhumi

Actress Bhumi Pednekar, who has delivered back to back hits with Saand Ki Aankh, Bala and Pati, Patni Aur Woh, says she has been instinctively correct about the roles that she has chosen to bring to life.

“I have been instinctively correct about the roles that I have chosen to bring to life and I’m grateful to the audiences for all the love. As an actor, only your body of work combined with the success of the fi lms can result in more and better work and I’m truly grateful that audience and critics have loved my performances. I hope to continue doing good work and choosing the best scripts that the industry is making,” Bhumi said.

In 2020, Bhumi will be seen in Durgavati and Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitaare. Along with this, Bhumi will start shooting for Karan Johar’s Takht. “It is hugely humbling that industry stalwarts are trusting me to be a part of their projects. It also adds to the responsibility but I’m only grateful that they are making me a part of their vision. It is a major validation for my craft and also my beliefs as an artiste because I have only chosen fi lms that have appealed to my core. The fact that those projects have all worked has helped me in getting my dream projects,” she said. – IANS

Commercial fi lms are dying: Rohit

Filmmaker Rohit Shetty says commercial fi lms are dying as many people are scared to delve into that space.

Rohit has interwoven the world of Singham, Simmba and his upcoming fi lm Sooryavanshi – creating his own “cop universe”.

Asked how tricky was it to create the universe, Rohit said: “It just happened. You have to take risk and create something new.

“Commercial fi lms are dying. There are very few fi lmmakers who are making commercial fi lms. Many people are scared to make commercial fi lms... We need to bring something new every time when you make a commercial fi lm,” he added.

Looking back, the director continued: “When we did Simmba, we had this thought that let’s bring Singham and Sooryavanshi in it and create a start of making our universe. We were scared that if Simmba goes wrong then the brand which I am making with Singham will go wrong. It was risky but we took it and here we are... The audience created the universe.”

In Sooryavanshi, actor Akshay Kumar will be seen as ATS offi cer Veer Sooryavanshi on a lookout for terrorists planning a deadly strike in Mumbai. Ajay Devgn and Ranveer Singh will also reprise their roles of Singham and Simmba to help Akshay bust the terror plot. Actress Katrina Kaif will be seen as Veer Sooryavanshi’s wife while Jackie Shroff plays the antagonist.

Sooryavanshi also features Gulshan Grover, Abhimanyu Singh, Niharica Raizada, Sikandar Kher and Nikitin Dheer. The fi lm is presented by Reliance Entertainment, and produced by Rohit Shetty, Karan Johar and Cape of Good Films, and is scheduled to hit the theatres on March 24. – IANS

Uncomfortable to see rights taken away from

musicians: Anoushka

CANDID: Rohit Shetty says many people are scared to delve into commercial films.

CONCERNED: Anoushka Shankar feels film and television companies want musicians to sign their rights away, which is a “greedy and unjust” practice.

VETERAN: Anupam Kher says that success is not what you have achieved as an artiste, but what you have achieved as a person.

THANKFUL: Bhumi Pednekar.

Tuesday, March 10, 2020 15GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYHOLLYWOOD

Clueless to get 3-day theatrical return for 25th anniversary

Hit teen fi lm Clueless is returning to the theatres to mark its 25th anniversary this spring.

The classic 1995 movie, directed by Amy Heckerling and starring Alicia Silverstone, is heading back to 700 cinemas in North America for a three-day run on May 3, 4 and 6, reports aceshowbiz.com

Fathom Events and Paramount Pictures have teamed up for the anniversary showings, which include a special pre-show presentation breaking down the fi lm’s iconic slang that still lives on in American culture.

“Whether you’re seeing it for the fi rst or the hundredth time, Clueless remains one of the funniest and most charming movies – while never losing its satirical bite or wonderful view of the world as it existed 25 years ago,” a Fathom Events offi cial said in a statement.

“We couldn’t be more delighted to bring it back to the big screen if Cher herself had asked us.”

Based on Jane Austen’s 1815 novel Emma, the story centres on Silverstone’s Cher Horowitz, a rich and beautiful high school student who befriends styleless new student Tai Frasier (the late Brittany Murphy) and gives her a makeover – only for Tai to become more popular than her. – IANS

Representation matters, says FreidaA

ctress Freida Pinto feels representation matters, and says that normalising can only be achieved when we start young.

“Representation Matters! In 2008, when Slumdog Millionaire was released I knew how important that fi lm would be in the way the South Asian narrative would be viewed for the better. I felt so lucky to be part of it. It would mean more opportunities and more acceptance. But that alone was not going to be enough. Because “normalising” can only achieve scale when we start young,” Freida said in her Instagram post.

The actress is glad that she is part of Disney Junior animated series Mira, Royal Detective – a mystery-adventure show is inspired by the cultures and customs of India.

“Being part of Mira, Royal Detective is one of my proudest achievements to date. I get to play Queen Shanti who appoints a kind, empathetic, intelligent and confi dent little girl named Mira to be the Royal detective to her kingdom. This show is groundbreaking on many levels – fi rst of it’s kind ever in the animation world, an all South Asian voiceover cast and the best part NO APU accents. Thank you very much,” she added.

The actress continued: “I couldn’t help but tear up at the premiere watching the littlest of little kids of all races and ethnicities, to their teenage siblings and their parents completely enthralled while watching Mira, Royal Detective.

Thank you Disney Junior for putting your time, resources and sincere efforts in making this adorable little animation series that I predict is gonna be monumental in shaping culture.”

Set in the fi ctional land of Jalpur, it follows life of Mira, a commoner who is

appointed to the role of royal detective by the queen.

The series features an all-star cast of prominent South Asian actors including Jameela Jamil, Kal Penn,

Freida, Hannah Simone, Utkarsh Ambudkar, Aasif Mandvi and Aparna Nancherla amongst others. It will also introduce 16-year-old newcomer Leela Ladnier as the voice of Mira. – IANS

Coronavirus scare: Chris Hemsworth calls off India visit

Hollywood star Chris Hemsworth has cancelled his plans to visit India to promote his upcoming action fi lm Extraction due to the global coronavirus outbreak.

The Thor star was scheduled to visit Mumbai along with director Sam Hargrave on March 16.

The event has been called off due to the coronavirus scare, travel advisory issued and the risk factor involved in travel.

Extraction, which was initially titled Dhaka, also stars Indian actors Randeep Hooda and Pankaj Tripathi.

It revolves around Tyler Rake (essayed by Hemsworth), a fearless, black market mercenary, who embarks on the most deadly extraction of his career when he is enlisted to rescue the kidnapped son of an imprisoned international crime lord. The fi lm is scheduled to release on April 24.

Hemsworth shot for the Netfl ix fi lm in India in 2018. He shot in Ahmedabad and Mumbai.

Earlier, in an interview, Hemsworth opened up about shooting in India, saying he felt like a rockstar while doing so.

“I love the place and the people. Shooting there... There were thousands of people on the streets every day and I have never experienced that on set. It was sort of intimidating as it was exciting because there were so many people,” he said.

“After every take (when the director) called ‘cut’, there was loud cheer. We felt like rock stars in a stadium. But the warmth and support we got while shooting there, no matter how disruptive we were to their daily lives, it was so good. People were so positive. I have huge appreciation to that,” added Hemsworth, whose daughter is named India. – IANS

Amanda Bynes, Paul Michael split aft er engagement

Former child star Amanda Bynes has ended her relationship with Paul Michael, who she met at rehab late last year.

The 33-year-old actress announced their engagement on Valentine’s Day. Now, Michael has revealed that their romance is over, reports dailymail.co.uk

He confi rmed the split to In Touch, saying: “We did... I love her though, she’s my best friend.”

Bynes is allegedly not coping well with the sudden break up. “Amanda is really upset about it and not taking it well at all,” said a source to Us Weekly.

The insider also told the gossip site that Bynes’ rigid conservatorship had “driven the couple apart”.

Michael realised the relationship just couldn’t go forward because of the obstacles of the conservatorship and Bynes must live at a sober living facility.

Rumours emerged that the couple had split this week after the star deleted every photograph of Michael, 28, off her Instagram page. They were last pictured out together in Los Angeles on Thursday. On February 14 she had posted a picture of a large diamond on her left hand and written: “Engaged to the love of my life.”

The former Nickelodeon star started dating Michael after meeting at an AA meeting and got engaged after just three months of dating. – IANS

COMEBACK: Alicia Silverstone starring classic 1995 movie is heading back to 700 cinemas in North America.

UPSET: Amanda Bynes is allegedly not coping well with the sudden break up.

PRECAUTION: Chris Hemsworth has cancelled his plans to promote his upcoming action film Extraction due to the global coronavirus outbreak.

PROUDEST: Freida Pinto says being part of Mira, Royal Detective is one of her proudest achievements to date.


COMMUNITY

By Mudassir Raja

“For me, success is a process and never an end. There are small achievements that we make by taking little

steps. Nothing is a success. It is a process that makes you feel good about something that you get. The more you do, the more you realise there is so much yet to do.”

This was stated by Ivonne A-Baki, the outgoing ambassador of Ecuador to Qatar, while talking to media persons during a farewell press conference at her residence in Marsa Malaz Kempinski recently. She was responding to a question about how successful her stint as an ambassador to Qatar was.

“As for bilateral ties with Qatar, I think we have made a lot progress. Ecuador is known here more than ever and vice versa Qataris are very well known in my country. There is an increase of 35 percent in bilateral trade. The import of roses from Ecuador to Qatar has increased multiple times. Chocolate import is also increasing. We are working on bringing in more bananas. We have also made progress politically and culturally. However, still there is a lot more to do. We are also working on increasing bilateral tourism and starting many business ventures together in the fields of energy and housing. One thing that I wanted to see was direct flights of Qatar Airways to Ecuador.”

Ambassador Ivonne became nostalgic while talking about her two and a half year stay in Qatar. “I have mixed feelings. Wondering that I have to leave very soon, brings tears to my eyes. But at the same time, I am excited about the new challenges awaiting me – as an ambassador to the US. Honestly, I can say that Qatar is my second home. I have never felt I am a stranger here. I have got many friends who helped my mission be easier and more productive.

“I always say that I am the person who never plans. I always follow my destiny since I was born until now, I never planned my career, and even my marriage was a coincidence too. However, the only thing that relieves me is that I am going to a familiar place which, as I served there 20 years ago as ambassador of Ecuador to Washington. I will never forget Qatar and will keep supporting it from Washington.”

The outgoing ambassador

Success a process, never an end: outgoing Ecuador ambassador

Photo by Ram Chand

has penned a book about her life. The Arabic book is titled in English as My Destiny – Horrors of War and Aspirations of Peace. Speaking about the book, she said: “I would like to share with you a very special step in my life. I want to reveal about the launching of my first book My Destiny – Horrors of War and Aspirations of Peace. The book will be launched at Qatar National Library tomorrow. I seize this opportunity to extend my thanks and gratitude to HE Salah bin Ghanem bin Nasser al-Ali, Minister of Culture and Sports and his amazing team and Lusail Publish House.”

Ambassador Ivonne further said: “I was keen to issue this book in Arabic, first to reach a large audience of the Qataris and the Arab residents in Qatar; as the book has a large part where I talk about my stay in Qatar and my experience during the blockade. It will soon be translated into three languages, English first, then Spanish and French too. I was lucky to have the support of Ibrahim Badawi, Arabic journalist, in writing this book. This book is a unique experience for me and made me remember all the past years with its happy memories sometimes, and the tragic ones, other times.”

Touching upon the book further, she said: “Through this book, I tell stories of the different stages of my life and the crucial moments that shaped my destiny. It presents in a smooth way how my life had transformed between the horrors of war and the aspirations of peace, as I have lived the Civil War in Lebanon and passed through many painful situations and challenges that confronted my children. This book unveils secrets of wars without bullets, against corruption and drugs and how I faced a fierce battle during my elections for presidency and another one during the Unesco Presidency elections. It also includes interesting stories about the rescue of a hostage, a journalist named Vivian, environmental catastrophes, funny situations with the US President Donald Trump, while I was working as an Ambassador of Ecuador in Washington and an exciting meeting with the world’s most dangerous journalist, Founder of WikiLeaks, Julian Assange. This book starts from Qatar and ends in Qatar. It narrates a diff erent experience that I lived during the treacherous blockade, and how Qatar managed to overcome this crisis and gained more benefi ts than losses.”

“This book starts from Qatar and ends in Qatar. It narrates a diff erent experience that I lived during the treacherous blockade, and how Qatar managed to overcome this crisis and gained more benefi ts than losses” — Ivonne A-Baki

Coronavirus - Gulf Times

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