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FROM THE EDITOR

SCINTILLATING SWITZERLAND

Celebrate Diwali with the perfect gifts your loved ones can enjoy now or cherish as a keepsake

SHINE BRIGHT THIS DIWALI

Qatar-based Indian female photographer Meghna Shirish opens up about her love for the camera, challenges and stories

P.14

Make your own choice It’s official: Having a purpose in life can actually help you live longer. Apparently those who have one — which could range from something ambitious like scaling Mount Everest to a relatively simple goal like reading a set of books— are likely to live longer than those who don’t, according to researchers at the Rush University Medical Center in Chicago.

Ask anybody and they’ll tell you setting a goal is relatively easy. However, investing time and effort towards achieving it is the tricky part. And it is here that the importance of emotional and mental health is most crucial it’s no secret that people who are emotionally stable and healthy can tackle life’s challenges, bounce back from adversity and build and maintain strong personal and professional relationships.

We all have our fair share of emotional trauma, we all have our past, we all make mistakes and we all lose someone in life and there could be much, much more. And people who succeed these upheavals are people who are strong and mentally well-balanced and healthy. These people take everything in life as a challenge and try to find a positive solution and they have a way to figure out strategies to overcome the depressive thoughts. We all need to balance our thoughts as rationally and practically as possible. When we are well-balanced in our mind, we will never compare our life with anyone, as it is well said, everyone has their own journey, everyone has their own destiny and we all make our own choices in life.

Recognising the importance of wellbeing in practical life, Dr Aruna Dhade on P.26 clearly defines what’s wellbeing and how it can help you live your life in a positive and meaningful way. Moving on to this month’s gourmet (P.44), if you are someone who loves to make cakes at home, here are four simple, no-fuss recipes that will end your search for the perfect cakes for entertaining.

Happy reading!

Amjad VanimalEditor

amjad.m@gulf-times.com

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Sondra HopeSonia FazalRabi’ah MRuchika DubeyDr Aruna DhadeMurtaza SoniDr Rajeev ThomasAzqa HaroonGabriella B Katya Hvass

Design & LayoutMajeed Nadapuram

MY TOP 3PICKS

Switzerland offers an amazing array of winter activities for people of all ages.

PHOTOGRAPHER IN FOCUS

MY TOP 3PICKS

Photo of the issue

Captured by Shabna Shanid

Although societal pressure to get everything back to normal is intense, breast cancer survivors need time to create a new self-image that incorporates both the experience and their changed physique

Scope:Although societal pressure to get everything back to normal is intense, breast cancer survivors need time to create a new self-image that incorporates both the experience and their changed physique

EducationThe Power of Extraordinary Teachers

Style

Trends

Gourmet Here are four simple, no-fuss recipes that will end your search for the perfect cakes for entertaining.

Travel:Switzerland offers an amazing array of winter activities for people of all ages

CONTENTS October 2019

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59

32

44

FREQUENT FLAIR FOCUS

TRAVEL

EDUCATION: GOURMET

Switzerland offers an amazing array of winter activities for people of all ages

Here are four simple, no-fuss recipes that will end your search for the perfect cakes for entertaining

SCOPE

Next >>P.12

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The Power of Extraordinary Teachers

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COVER STORY

WellnessSpotlightPHOTOGRAPHER IN FOCUS Qatar-based Indian female photographer Meghna Shirish opens up about her love for the camera, challenges and stories.

Spotlight

20

WEALTH OF WELLBEING : Your wellbeing is your utmost power of achievement. Indeed, nothing can be achieved if you are not physically and mentally sound enough.

THE SPA SANCTUARY: The Tivoli Spa at Souq Al Wakra Hotel offers a number of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments for those who have trouble unwinding

Taking Qatari fashion to the heart of London: For the Qatari fashion label Black Pearl, heritage and culture are the core of their success.

October 2019

Spotlight PHOTOGRAPHER IN FOCUS: Qatar-based Indian female photographer Meghna Shirish opens up about her love for the camera, challenges and stories. TAKING QATARI FASHION TO THE HEART OF LONDON: For the Qatari fashion label Black Pearl, heritage and culture are the core of their success.

TAKING KATHAK TO NEW HEIGHTS IN QATAR: Like most classical forms of performing arts in India, Kathak a traditional dance also has a fascinating story behind its origin.

Cover story: WEALTH OF WELLBEING: Your wellbeing is your utmost power of achievement. Indeed, nothing can be achieved if you are not physically and mentally sound enough

Wellness:THE SPA SANCTUARY: The Tivoli Spa at Souq Al Wakra Hotel offers a number of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments for those who have trouble unwinding

PHOTO OF THE ISSUESubmit a favourite photo you’ve clicked on any topic of your choice for possible publication in an upcoming issue of Society. Send your photos to : society@gulf-times.com

Your cam. Your shot

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Captured by

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Photographer IN FOCUS

spotlightFOCUS

14 Society

Qatar-based Indian female photographer Meghna Shirish opens up about her love for the camera, challenges and stories

It is often said that the equipment you use to capture a frame doesn’t matter much; what matters is the ‘man’ behind the camera! Oh well,

gone are the times when this held true only for the other gender. Right from wedding to wildlife, travel to corporate shoots, women have matched up with a relentless pursuit for perfection. Fearless of the common judgements and stereotypes, women can be seen armed with a myriad of lenses and other equipment required for their genre of photography, matching steps irrespective of tough terrains and a tougher mindset.

While it has become fairly common across bigger cities to spot a lineswoman or two calling the shots, female photographers in a smaller city are still struggling to find their stepping. But Qatar-based Indian female photographer and artist Meghna Shirish wants to change the stere-otype, and with it, the photography industry for women. She was rated one of the top 26 wedding photographers in India.

In a free-wheeling interview with Society, Meghna speaks about her photography journey, challenges and stories.

Excerpts:

Q Please shed some light on your background.

A My journey to becoming an artist began in the year 2008, when I started my higher education in the field of fine arts at a reputed institute in Ben-galuru, India. For four years, I attended course with allied subjects in Visual Arts, where my passion for photography and sketching were re-ignited. As such my passion for the photographic arts began in my formative years –I was extremely keen to pursue any creative form I could lay my hands on. I learnt sketching and painting from a qualified tutor and actively took up pencil sketching, still life and por-traiture during my school years and won manylau-

By Amjad Vanimal

www.society.qa 15

rels. Thus a natural flair for arts combined with my industriousness ultimately led me to choose a four-year Bachelors course in Visual Arts (Fine Arts ) with a specialisation in Applied Art & Photogra-phy. I studied photography keenly, both on and off the field. I remember falling in love with the process of creating pictures with the camera.During my college years, I learnt fine art and portrait photography under G. Sethuraman (reporter for reputed Indian Newspaper “The Hindu”) and attended several training workshops on wildlife photography under Amoghavarsha (wildlife photographer with world re-nowned projects). After I completed tasks assigned by above mentors, they said: “You got a good eye, ideas and colour concepts”. They encouraged me to take this as my profession. This boosted my resolve further. With unflinching encouragement and support

from family, I incorporated and regis-tered my own professional photography firms - Phosmage for Event photography and Meghna Shirish Photography for portrait, fashion, architecture, commer-cial photography and Blogs. My work has been featured in several publications – ‘Better Photography’ magazine, ‘Wedding Sutra’ and ‘Bangalore Mirror’ newspaper. During these years, I have learnt much on capturing those anomalous decisive moments crossing our special events which are routine to everyone. Having learnt through experienced hands and on a decision to inspire more people, I conducted several basics of photography workshops and portrait workshop at the Happy Camera Club and Pixetra. Finally, as a crowning glory to my hard work and efforts, I was rated one of the best 26 wedding photographers in India.

Not one to rest on my achievements, I

desired to delve deeper and travelled to Santa Fe Photographic workshops, to attend Dramatic Portraiture by David Robin, Multimedia Story Telling by Deanne Fitsmorse, and a session called “Characters on Location: “Telling Stories with Light” by Joe McNally at Atlanta, Georgia. This exposure gave me invalu-able knowledge on working with people across the globe and sharing knowhow whilst learning from some of the best in the field. Through my journey as a student and a professional practitioner in photography, I strive to use rich hues in an observant and non-intrusive style. I firmly believed that the best step for-ward in the advancement of my passion would be a Master’s Degree in Profession-al Photography from IED, Madrid. I was highly motivated by the distinguished faculty – to name a few Ricardo Cases, Oliver Hunt, Christian Middle and Paul Kranzler. Through them, I found my keen

16 Society

interest in the subject of Studio Lighting and specialised in it. I was drawn to their work because of the unique way they connected with subjects and how they drew out raw, unguarded emotions from them. I was able to dissect each artist’s work and that later crafted my style.During my masters, I made a Personal Documentary project called NINE (a series purely on the reality of labour and birth) which was loved by the faculty, commended by the jury at Toto Awards and featured in ‘Prajavani’, a Kannada newspaper in Bengaluru. For the first time since the beginning of this journey, it felt like all the hard work, sweat, and tears were finally rewarded. Someone believed in my vision and my work and validated my dream of becoming an artist.

Q Do you remember the first time you picked up a camera? The first picture you took?A The First time I picked up the

camera would have been my dad’s film cameras, Kodak when I was 12 years old. I started experimenting on my first DSLR Nikon D3000 in 2009 and had visited Bannerghatta National Park Bengaluru.

During the course of all above activities the realisation hit me that I didn’t need the most expensive or modern gear to capture captivating photographs, all I needed was my camera, my passion, and my desire to bring out the beauty in

every person or subject I photograph.

Q Can you identify when you first start-ed calling yourself a photographer—when you felt comfortable naming yourself as such?

A I had chosen Professionally Prac-

ticed Photography while my specialisa-

tions in Applied Art during my Bachelor’s

Degree. Further, the practical training

from experts such as Amoghavarsha and

G. Sethuraman during several work-

shops gave me the milestone confidence. All these acquired expertise made me

the photographer who could work with even projects single-handedly. Each year, I would look back on all of the shoots I did that year and would compare with the last ones. Although the progress seemed substantial, I realised that the key to growth as an artist is to never be complacent with your work. This mindset gave me the confidence to creating progressively better work year after year

Q What are you working on now?A I work as a professional photogra-

pher providing commercial/ fashion/portrait photography services. The rest of the time I work on developing personal projects on fine art and docu-menting short stories. Also I am working on self-publishing two books.

Q What are some of the difficulties or challenges of being a woman who photographs?A When I graduated in Visual Arts, I

knew I wanted to make a difference in the world through my pictures, but I didn’t know how. That was when I was fortunate enough to get introduced to IED, Madrid. Spain has been very challenging during my Masters Degree in Photography. Venturing into the streets for several documentary series gave me quite a scare initially. Approaching people for stories was difficult in the beginning due to language issues and immigrants.

www.society.qa 17

The first picture of Meghna

Q What are some of the joys of being a woman who photographs?A I was one among the few women

photographers in Bengaluru to start doc-umenting weddings; the brides specially preferred and felt comfortable around me and shared a lot of stories about their occasion and made me feel part of it. 2016 Personal Project in Spain- I could Document Birthing Photography, which was made easy being a woman. The mother could connect and feel com-fortable around me and it got easier to document the experience. This was the dearest and most intense project I ever did. It taught me to never give up on my dreams, no matter how crazy they seem. Currently I am working as a woman photographer in Qatar and it has been really advantageous, because we can see the culture from both bride and groom perspectives. Further, I think being a woman it allows me access to places that sometimes might be a bit harder for male photographer in a few scenario.

Hence, I feel we have more range and freedom to get involved deeply during our photography execution.

Q You had a chance to work with well-known photographers like Sethuraman and Amoghavarsha. How was the experi-ence like?A I have attended and assisted

Amoghavarsha in a few of his Wild Life Photography Tours. It has been one of my best experiences. Amogh knows the best of the places in Karanataka and has access to areas where general public wouldn’t be able to go. We have seen Karnataka landscapes at its best. Sethuraman is my mentor since 2009. He has given me opportunity to teach pho-tography, through his former company Pixetra in Cochin and Chennai. Recently, I attended an Internship programme at Santa Fe Photographic Workshops at New Mexico USA and worked under Nivade Wier (Nat Geo documentary Photographer), Kimberly

Witham, Elena Dorfman, Keith Karter and Nick Fancher. I hope this new found expertise will definitely reflect in my new future projects.

Q Can you talk a bit about the business versus the art of photography?A Business in photography (Com-

mercial Photography) tends to utilise acquired skill. This skill form includes advertising, fashion, graphic design, branding, logos and book illustrations.Fine art includes paintings, sculptures, printmaking, calligraphy, photography, installation, multi-media, sound art, per-formance art, applied art etc. and these would require a natural talent to pursue and nurture it regularly. Business side photographers depend on their employer’s vision and rules. They can’t be flexible as fine art photographers. Many artists agree that business side of photography is the only way one can make a living. But with a natural artistic eye business and the fine arts can go

18 Society

hand in hand as the clients appreciate your style of work.

Q When you are not photographing, what are you doing that keeps you grounded? What else do you do for fun?A I have been into drawing and painting for long time now

and learning Carnatic music since I was eight year old. During my high school, I also learnt to play guitar and picked up western music vocals and had a band. I have won many laurels

during my school and college years for music and art. When I do not photograph, I have my time spending in sketching/ painting and practicing music. Also, I love to travel and meet people. Getting to know culture in different parts of the world.

Q What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?A “Imagination is more important than knowledge”

-Albert Einstein quote Photography is more than just taking pictures, it is a form of art, it is a never-ending process of self-discovery, accom-plishments, creativity and failures. So, do always look back at your old pictures and art works and see how far you have come since the beginning.

Q What is your advice to women who are willing to enter into professional photography?A As a woman photographer we have advantage in a

few sensitive topics related to gender work. So, within this framework some of us photograph, gender can be irrele-vant or work to our advantage. I’ve found it to be beneficial in some areas of my work. After all, we’re all just photographers, trying to make a living from the passion that we love.

Meghna receiving TOTO Awards 2017 in Bengaluru, India. The award is presented to young creative minds, recognising their passion

www.society.qa 19

By Rabi’ah. M

For the Qatari fashion label Black Pearl, heritage and culture are the core of their success, they are a team of two energetic individuals who wanted to revamp their Abaya collection and participate in the Stories from Arabia event, a part of the London Fashion Week

20 Society

TAKING QATARI FASHION TO THE HEART OF LONDON

RABI’AH MAn experienced journalist with a passion for exploring and learning new things, adventures, Rabi’ah M graduated from London with a background in journalism. She enjoys writing about an array of subjects – arts, culture, entertainment, lifestyle and fashion.

spotlightFOCUS

For Hanan Al Shammari and Maryam Al Atteya, two talented and creative Qatari nationals, their passion for

fashion brought them together to create the “Black Pearl” fashion brand in Qatar. Despite belonging to varied backgrounds where Al Shammari has worked for Aspire Logistic as the manager of communication, whereas Al Atteya a business student, they used their skills, knowledge and love to form their fashion brand, a true representa-tion of their Qatari heritage. Since London is one of the fashion capitals in the world, the much-awaited London Fashion Week during the month of September is one such event which a must for participation for fashion designers and a much attend for fashion lovers, influencers, and jour-nalists. It is within this context the Stories from Arabia event emerges as an official part of the London Fashion Week, which celebrates creativity, originality and talent of Arab fashion designers.

The Black Pearl was one of the participat-ing fashion designers at the Stories from Arabia, as it is their first time showcasing their work in London they were ecstatic as they explain their anticipations towards this event: “We wanted to attract a posi-tive response from the audience by using the Abaya as a new inspiration and to fulfil their expectations.” Describing their inspiration for this collection, they point: “The purpose of the Abaya is pretty much the same regardless of the variations in the design and styles which tend to differ from region to region. For instance, some Abayas would feature embroidered on the black fabric whereas others use bright colours. We wanted to take our traditional Abaya and blend it with our culture and the latest fashion.” When asked what they believe is their unique selling point, they emphasise it is the use of their special fabrics and ensuring that the customer would receive the perfect product which is created with hard work, passion, love and delivered in a timely manner. Whilst designing their collection, the duo explains one of the key hurdles they faced were with the colours they wanted since they were specific about using pearl fabric colours which they suc-cessfully accomplished. It took them about a month to choose the fabric and design and a month to complete the collection with the quality as their foremost and paramount ingredient to focus on. In terms of the advice on wearing an outfit which is fashionable and commuter friendly, the team state that Abaya is the ideal outfit since it is fashionable and com-fortable which can be worn in numerous places. One of the fundamental reasons for choosing to participate in the LFW was due

to their love for London as their favourite destination as a fashion hub. When asked about their favourite thing at the LFW, they explained: “We had an opportunity to know many fashion designers from around the world and discover a new fashion journey.

Also, we take the pride in being the first Qatari designers who have participated and attended this show by showcasing the traditional Abaya brand.” They were able to represent the ambassadors to Qatar on such an international platform.” Consid-ering they wanted to initiate their interna-tional journey from London, the responses from the London Fashion Week audi-ence has been a positive one, since they expressed their likeness for the collection. As they explain: “Many of the audience members never wore an Abaya before, but after the show, we started receiving orders which is a great outcome from the show.”

The experience as they describe is one of their “favourite experiences” which enabled them to meet various people from different cultures and discuss the role of fashion and be open to receiving con-structive criticism and praise. When you ask them if they follow any trend book or styling guides, they express their resilience to learning new things and pretty much following everything and trends which play the role of an inspirational driving force. After London, the Black Pearl is head-ed to participating in Paris or the New York Fashion Week. Finally, when asked how they wanted women to feel when wearing their clothes, they expressed their views: “We want every woman to feel that she is unique, powerful and elegant. We work very hard for our clients to be content with the pieces we create with love and hard labour.”

www.society.qa 21

CULTURAL DIARY

Best-loved walk or view?

Walk

Greatest meal you’ve ever had in London?Indian food

Hidden gem no-one else knows about?Dark places

Public/cultural/artistic figure you admire?Princess Diana

Favorite local restaurant?Chutney Mary- Scalini

The best thing about London?London is the home of fashion and the first window of international opportunity.

22 Society

Taking KATHAK to new heights in QATAR By Ruchika Dubey

Photos by Firoz Ahmed

22 Society

spotlightFOCUS

www.society.qa 23

Like most classical forms of performing arts in India, Kath-ak a traditional dance also has a fascinating story behind its origin. Counted amongst the ten most important and

popular dance forms from India, it is said to be originated from

the traveling bards of ancient India who would tell stories while traveling from one region to another performing, dancing and imitating at the same time. The stories were generally derived from myths, legends or the ancient epics.

www.society.qa 23

Kathak as an art form survived centuries and became popular during the Mughal reign in India too. During the British rule in India, it suffered as other foreign

cultural aspects took over. Post- independence it continued to grow through oral traditions. Kathak as a dance form both excites and intrigues as the sto-

ries, emotions and moments are expressed through both physical dance movements and also through facial expressions. For many it combines an element

of acting alongside and that’s what makes Kathak dancer particularly riveting to watch.

Today in modern India the dance form is still preserved and presented as one of the most en-lightening art forms and institutes teaching Kathak have popped up all across the world.To shed some light on the beauty of this art form Society caught up with Qatar-based Indian Kathak exponent Sonali Jadhav. Sonali, who wholeheart-edly enjoys Kathak, the dance of motion, is a distin-guished dance instructor who currently teaches at the Skills Development Center in Doha.

Her dance journey is hard-hitting by ups and downs of life. As an ortho-dox Indian female, she used to recite religious and mythological tales to the accompaniment of music, mime, and dance. Sonali’s persistence saw the guru relenting and the unsaid family norm being upend-ed. Having been braced by her father, Sonali unveils that she devoted her child-hood with famous and not so famous people of widely diverse origins. She praises her mother and acclaims her to be instrumental in developing her love for the form, in spite of so many problems in family.

Sonali considers every dance forms around theworld are magic quin- tessential, expressive thoughts, sayings, ideas, moments, observations and testimonials fromdancers. Their truth reso- nates deeply, some by their.definitive finesseSonali believes that, sadly, these beautiful art forms are now struggling to strive with foreign dances, and in futile.

24 Society

Excerpts:Q Please introduce yourself. A I am Sonali Arnalkar Jadhav, Kathak

Visharad from Gandharv Mahavidyalay Miraj, India. An Electronics Engineer, member of UNESCO, member of Film Federation as senior Actress in Mumbai. I worked in Marathi movies in lead roles as well as supporting role, modeling, and advertisements. I have won golden cam-era awards for best choreography, trained under Bollywood choreographer Saroj Khan. From childhood, I am a Marathi drama actress, judge, and examiner for many competitions I have been a kathak dancer for the past 20 years and I teach Bollywood dance, Kathak, Bollywood Kathak in Qatar since 2017.

Q What drew you to dance? Any particu-lar reason to select Kathak?A My father introduced me to a kathak

class. My guru was Shri Jaykumar Khele sir. I was just 4 years old when I started my dance training. After my father’s death, my mother used to work as a skilled wage earner. Our financial condition was so bad, I have to stop my kathak training. I continued my studies with my mother’s support and became Electronics Engi-neer. My family shifted to Baroda, Gujrat where I learned other forms of dance like Ras Garba.

I got married at the age of 18. My husband was in the construction field working in Nasik, India. After my marriage and two kids when I used to go to school for their annual day, I realized that small children have the ability to shine. Their principal proposed me to join as a dance teacher and take classes twice a week. I was a little hesitant to do so because it’s been long years I have not done practice nor I was updated. Then I went to an orphanage in Nasik, where I saw cute little kids were dancing in a program. I realized these kids need some training, but no one was ready to teach them. So I came forward to teach them free of cost. In Adhar Ashram, Nasik I started my Kathak training, attending Pt. Birju Maharaj workshop, and I again start-ed giving my Kathak exams. This is how I again drew back in my Kathak Nritya field.

Q Tell us what you love about teaching Kathak. A I love teaching Kathak to ardent kids

and students, as my guru trained me in the same manner. I used to teach in India at my dance academy and in school, colleges, and also love to teach those who are avid about dance, dedicated and have

a strong desire for learning dance. In Kath-ak, I really love to teach them Taal rhythm, padanyas (footwork) and expressions.

Q What has been the family influence? A I have no family background in the

classical field but my father used to do dramas in Lok Hitwadi Mandal, Nasik. My father never opposed me rather he always inspired me for this old form of dance. After my father passed away, my mother stopped my dance classes as in that era girls don’t wear Ghungroos (musical anklet tied on feet) and people used to tell my mother, sending your daughter for dance is not preferred in society. My mother was so poor. As she was not a deci-sion-maker in the family, and there was no one in the family to support me we had no option other than leaving Kathak. We didn’t have money to pay the fees for op-tional subject like (dance) and so she has to listen to our relatives. Finally, I stopped my kathak training. While returning from school, I used to watch kathak from a window. I learned dance from outside the window while other students used to learn dance in class.

One day my guru came to know about this and he called me in class, I was so scared that he will scold me. He asked me to show what I learned today, I was so scared but I showed him hesitantly. As I finished my piece of dance (toda), I heard the clapping shabbash (well done). My guru called me and asked me to join his class for free.

Q What are the key projects you have done as a Kathak dancer/artist or as an actress?A In India, I did many performances

at Doordarshan, given my interview for Marathi series “Mazi Mai” with my mother. Recently my movie was released in Marathi Mol. I am in supporting role in that movie as a journalist. My role is small but a bold one. I am in a music album, ahirani dramas, Gadhada na lagin as “ gangi “ Marathi drama in professional role, Janta raja, teen paisha cha tamasha, Mazi me-huni Mazi bayko as “mehuni”, Abhinetri, Andharun alay, for that I got “Maharastra Rajyanatya Puraskar” for “shante cha kart chalu ahe” etc.

Q What has been your experience performing in India and Qatar? As the year 2019 is declared as Qatar- India culture, how do you promote Kathak in Qatar?A I am amazed to see a positive re-

sponse from the Indian community in Qa-

tar. People still love to see Kathak and en-courage their children to learn this dance form. Most dancers seem to feel that Kath-ak is all about doing chakkars (pirouettes) and fast footwork. It is all filmi...inspired by Bollywood movies. Having seen many such performances, I wanted to teach students what Kathak is really about.

Sometimes, I organize free workshops to let kids come and attend it to explore their interest in classical dance form. The work-shop organized by my dance school, Skill Development Centre, in Qatar is meant to be an initiation into the dance form. In my recent workshop twenty five students attended the two-day workshop and the response was phenomenal. It has inspired students to enroll for regular monthly classes.

Q What is Bollywood Kathak? According to you, which dance form is most popular, Kathak or Bollywood Kathak?A Talking about Kathak or Bollywood

Kathak both are different but Kathak is always Kathak you can collaborate Bolly-wood songs with Kathak style but it will be not pure form of it. We can collaborate pure Kathak form with taal, pad, dhrupad, with raags, table, harmonium, santoor (musical instruments) live presentation with pure composition of shastriya taal and perform. But today’s generation like Bollywood songs only so we can collabo-rate with movie songs.

Q How can aspiring dancers of all ages connect with you on social media?A I inspire all dancers to connect with

me on social media with my student’s great performances and achievements from all ages. You can connect with me on Facebook Sonali Arnalkar Jadhav. On youtube, my profile is thereby the name Sonali Jadhav.

I would like to thank Skills Development Center and PN Baburaj for giving me an opportunity in Qatar.

RUCHIKA DUBEYis a long-time Qatar resident, former HR profes-sional and is a mother of two kids. In her spare time, she loves to socialize, dance, jewellery making and writing blogs on places in Qatar.

www.society.qa 25

Wealth of Wellbeing

The word wellbeing seems to be

quite popular in recent time but

what’s it really all about? Different

dictionaries show different answers, but

at its core, the definition of wellbeing

deals with how you feel inside. Feelings of

wellbeing are fundamental to the overall

health of an individual, enabling them

to successfully achieve what they want

out of life. In simple words it’s the feeling

of being comfortable, healthy and happy

in your own skin. A high level of well-

being would be when you feel satisfied

or feel a sense of excitement for life.

What is wellbeing?Wellbeing is the experience of good

health, happiness, and prosperity. It in-

cludes having good mental health, sense

of satisfaction, and sense of meaningful

life. Wellbeing is about every individual.

It is a complete package of many positive

things like feeling happy, healthy, socially

connected, and living with purpose.

Wellbeing is what gives happiness and

life fulfillment. It is more like having life

full satisfaction and great power of high

self-enjoyment, nothing can ever turn

you down when your sense of wellness is

very high and of course happiness comes

in when you are well which is known as

the power of satisfaction and happiness.

Your wellbeing is your utmost power of

achievement; nothing can be achieved

DR ARUNA DHADEMBA, PhD in Banking and Finance is a Senior Lecturer, freelance writer, poet, painter and a traveler. She has been living in Qatar for the past thirteen years.

Your wellbeing is your utmost power of achievement. Indeed, nothing can be achieved if you are not physically and mentally sound enough

26

cover storyFOCUS

Society

By Dr Aruna Dhade

www.society.qa 27

if you are not physically and mentally

sound enough.

Types of wellbeingAccording to the World Health Organisa-

tion, health is “a state of complete physi-

cal, emotional and social wellbeing.”

Physical Wellbeing. The ability to improve

the functioning of your body through

healthy eating and good exercise habits.

Emotional Wellbeing. The ability to prac-

tice stress-management techniques, be

resilient, and generate the emotions that

lead to good feelings.

Social Wellbeing. The ability to commu-

nicate, develop meaningful relationships

with others, and maintain a support net-

work that helps you overcome loneliness.

Physical Wellbeing: It is obvious that exer-

cise is integral to our physical well-being.

Working out makes us happy. It can give

energy boost; relieve stress, and helping

to regulate good sleep. In fact, physical

health is the most important indicator.

Even if you fulfill the goals you’ve set for

yourself, a physical health issue could still

throw you off track and negatively affect

your sense of wellness. In other words,

your physical health can play a significant

role in your feelings of wellbeing. No

doubt with regular exercise and including

healthy food in our routine diet we can

take care of what we have honoured as strength of our physicality.

It goes without saying that the healthier your diet, the better your physical health. But what you eat can affect your emotional health too. Eating a well-balanced diet will help you to feel more healthy and happy. Though healthy diet and exercise are great for your body, but we should not neglect our emotional health and wellbeing.

The strong connection between the mind and the body chan-nelises flow of energy to each other, both positive and negative way. Good emotional health leads to better physical health and prevents diseases.

Emotional Wellbeing: If you’re under too much pressure, it can have a negative effect on your emotional wellbeing. High lev-els of stress at work or at home can make it difficult for you to be positive. Some of the common signs of stress is that you may find yourself more irritable and lose temper easily than usual.

One can manage stress by taking few steps to reduce it routinely. Being aware of the present moment called mind-fulness. Mindfulness focuses on present. The righty’s mindful-ness can help to change the way you approach the life. It involves being more in tune with your present thoughts, feelings at the moment, your current situation and surround-ings. It encourages you to dispense with the things or

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thoughts that clutter up your mind and by doing so, it provides more clarity to your thought process.

The scientific studies evidence that your personal relation-ships are vital for your emotional wellbeing. It suggests how important social relationships are for emotional wellbeing, with experts believing that relationships offer ways to share positive experiences and as a way to give and receive emotional support. Fostering good relationship demands equal care and time for the people around you who you care, including members of your family, friends, colleagues and neighbours etc. By making an extra efforts to stay in touch with and support others, you may find they will treat you more positively too.

Physical activity is good for your emotional wellbeing. Exercise releases hormones called endorphins that can boost your mood. Outdoor exercise, gardening, visiting interesting locations may be beneficial, as studies suggest there is a positive relationship between exposure to nature and mental health. By ‘giving to others’ you can improve your emotional wellbeing. Studies suggest that it could extend your life expectancy as well as improving your relation-ships. There’s no doubt

that Yoga is beneficial to mind and body in a myriad of ways. Anyone can do yoga at any age. Those who do yoga experience feelings of wellbeing, happiness and overall contentment.

Social Wellbeing: is when we have good relationships, social

.stability and peace

We are social by nature. We not only crave interactions, but we require them. That’s what makes social well-being an integral element of our overall well-being. If we don’t have strong rela-tionships in our lives, our ability to thrive is limited. People are social creatures who are mutually dependent, relying on others for our wellbeing, just as they rely on us. To be well, people need to love and be loved. We have the need to belong and to be connected.There is plenty of research discussing the connection between social well- being and health. Healthy relationships can impact us mentally and physically.

They can help us live longer, manage stress, and become healthier. Even though building bonds takes hard work, a social support network has considera-ble benefits. These positive relationships are what helps make the good times

better and the tough times easier.

Overall wellbeing makes it possible to be happier and enjoy life to fullest.

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THE SPA SANCTUARYThe Tivoli Spa at Souq Al Wakra Hotel offers a number of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments for those who have trouble unwinding. Azqa Haroon tries one out for size

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FLAIRwellness

The LowdownLocated in an up-and-coming seaside district, near central Doha, Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli ─ a new five-star property blending Qatari tradition and top-end contemporary leisure in Al Wakra ─ you can find a tucked away spa retreat that promises to keep your mind and body at ease from hectic sched-ules. Their spa offers a truly underrated pampering experience that is guaranteed

to keep you coming back for more. And if that wasn’t alluring enough, Tivoli Spa also offers a wide range of body and facial treatments as well as massages. I had to give this sanctuary a try, one I wish I’d definitely visit sooner.

For the body Traditional Hammams and baths are definitely popular in Qatar and its spas, well luckily, The Spa offers a unique Vichy

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Shower Massage experience if you’re looking to indulge your senses into an innovative water and light therapy. In simple words, a Vichy shower is a shower you take while lying down on a floating wet bed and uses multiple shower heads attached to a horizontal bar above your body. After the optimal temperature is set, the treatment begins with the application of mask and scrub, which heavenly soaks into your skin under the vichy shower. The mask is followed by gentle silicon scrub to reveal a fresh and smoother skin. And to end the wonderful treatment the therapist cascades water over the entire body through focused Vichy shower heads.

This wellness treatment took about 60mins, subsequently, I was taken to another treatment room, where the spa’s professional, commenced the relaxing journey with a quick foot massage. Later, we began with our full body aromather-apy, which was soothing and perfectly paired up with a comfy bed to relax the muscles and body.

For the face And if you wish to experience a one-of-a-kind facial treatment, then this spa has you covered with exceptional treatments that blew me away with its eye for detail by the wonderful esthetician that clearly knew what she was doing. I tried out their hydrating facial that promises clearer and brighter skin with a notorious radiance boost. The facial came with a detailed cleansing, multiple Biologique Recherche Paris serums and mask application.

The roundupTo my surprise, the Tivoli Spa at Souq Al Wakra Hotel is a hidden gem that every-one needs to try out, from the friendly and accommodating staff to their amaz-ing technique and equipment within every single treatment I tried-it’s simply a must try.

AZQA HAROONis a marketing consultant, living in Doha for the last 15 years, with 10 years of experience in the local media industry. She loves to write reviews and blogs on travel, food, and lifestyle.

Breast cancer: How your mind can help your body

Although societal pressure to get everything back to normal is intense, breast cancer survivors need time to create a new self-image that incorporates both the experience and their changed physique

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By Sondra Hope

Sondra Hope is the founder of Yala Healthy, and focuses on customised nutrition and fitness coaching as well as a variety of health products. She is also a motivational speaker and does various workshops on cancer awareness.

FLAIRscope

www.society.qa 33

According to the National Cancer Institute more than 230,000 women in the United States learn

that they have breast cancer each year. Because many of them have no family history of breast cancer or other known risk factors, the diagnosis often comes as a devastating surprise. The emotional turmoil that results can affect women’s physical health as well as their psycholog-ical well-being. Psychological treatment can help you harness the healing powers of your own mind.

What impact does a breast cancer diagnosis have on psychological well-being?

Receiving a diagnosis of breast cancer can be one of the most distressing events women ever experience. And women may not know where to turn for help.Distress typically continues even after the initial shock of diagnosis has passed. As you begin what is often a lengthy treatment process, you may find yourself faced with new problems. You may find

your personal relationships in turmoil, for instance. You may feel tired all the time. You may be very worried about your symptoms, treatment and mortality. You may face discrimination from employers or insurance companies. Factors like these can contribute to chronic stress, anxiety and depression.

Why is it important to seek psychological help?

Feeling overwhelmed is a perfectly normal response to a breast cancer diagnosis. But negative emotions can cause you to stop doing things that are good for you and start doing things that are bad for anyone but especially worrisome for those with a serious disease. Women with breast cancer may start eating poorly, for instance, eating fewer meals and choosing foods of lower nutritional value. You may cut back on your exercise. You may have trouble getting a good night’s sleep. And you may withdraw from family and friends. At the same time, some women may use alcohol,

cigarettes, caffeine or other drugs in an attempt to soothe themselves.

A breast cancer diagnosis can also lead to more severe problems. For some women, for example, the news leads to depression, which can make it more difficult for them to adjust, make the most of treatment, and take advantage of whatever sources of social support are available. Some women become so disheartened by the ordeal of having cancer that they refuse to undergo surgery or simply stop going to radiation or chemotherapy appointments.

Depression can also decrease women’s survival, research shows. According to one analysis, mortality rates were as much as 26 times higher in patients with depressive symptoms and 39 times higher in patients who had been diagnosed with major depression.

How can psychological treatment help women adjust?

Licensed psychologists and other mental

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health professionals with experience in breast cancer treatment can help a great deal. Their primary goal is to help women learn how to cope with the physical, emotional, and lifestyle changes associated with cancer as well as with medical treatments that can be painful and traumatic.

For some women, the focus may be on how to explain their illness to their children or how to deal with a partner’s response. For others, it may be on how to choose the right hospital or medical treatment. For still others, it may be on how to control stress, anxiety or depression. By teaching patients problem-solving strategies in a supportive environment, psychologists help women work through their grief, fear and other emotions. For many women, this life-threatening crisis eventually proves to be an opportunity for life-enhancing personal growth.

Breast cancer patients themselves aren’t the only ones who can benefit

from psychological treatment. Partners can also be suffering. In one study, for example, men whose partners were diagnosed with breast cancer were nearly 40 percent more likely than other men to be hospitalized for severe depression and other mood disorders. Psychologists can help spouses manage the challenge of offering both emotional and practical support while dealing with their own feelings. Children, parents and friends involved in caretaking can also benefit from psychological interventions.

The need for psychological treatment may not end when medical treatment does. In fact, emotional recovery may take longer than physical recovery and is sometimes less predictable. Although societal pressure to get everything back to normal is intense, breast cancer survivors need time to create a new self-image that incorporates both the experience and their changed bodies. Psychologists can help women achieve that goal and learn to cope with such issues as fears about recurrence and impatience with life’s more mundane problems.

Can psychological treatment help the body, too?

Absolutely. Take the nausea and vomiting that often accompany chemotherapy, for example. For some women, these side effects can be severe enough to make them reject further treatment efforts. Psychologists can teach women relaxation exercises, meditation, self-hypnosis, imagery or other skills that can effectively relieve nausea without the side effects of pharmaceutical approaches.

Psychologists can also empower women to make more informed choices in the face of often-conflicting advice and can help them communicate more effectively with their health care providers. In short, psychologists can help women become more fully engaged in their own treatment. The result is an enhanced understanding of the disease and its treatment and a greater willingness to do what needs to be done to get well again. Psychological treatment may even boost women’s chances of survival. In one study, for instance, a decrease in depression symptoms was associated with longer survival in patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Such findings underscore the importance of psychological interventions. In one study, researchers examined

the impact of psychologist-led small group sessions that offered strategies for reducing stress, improving mood, changing health-related behaviors and adhering to treatment and care. The breast cancer patients who participated in the groups had a 45 percent lower risk of their cancer coming back and a 56 percent lower risk of dying from breast cancer. The results were even more impressive when the researchers excluded patients who attended fewer than 20 percent of the sessions: The remaining participants’ risk of dying from breast cancer was 68 percent lower.

What type of psychological treatment is helpful?

A combination of individual and group treatment sometimes works best. Individual sessions with a licensed psychologist typically emphasize the understanding and modification of patterns of thinking and behavior. Group psychological treatment with others who have breast cancer gives women a chance to give and receive emotional support and learn from the experiences of others. To be most effective, groups should be made up of women at similar stages of the disease and led by psychologists or other mental health professionals with experience in breast cancer treatment.

Whether aimed at individuals or groups, psychological interventions strive to help women adjust to their diagnoses, cope with treatment and come to terms with the disease’s impact on their lives. These interventions offer psychologists an opportunity to help women better understand breast cancer and its treatment.

Psychologists typically ask women open-ended questions about their assumptions, ideas for living life more fully and other matters. Although negative thoughts and feelings are addressed, most psychological interventions focus on problem-solving as women meet each new challenge.

A breast cancer diagnosis can severely impair a woman’s psychological functioning, which in turn can jeopardize her physical health. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Women who seek help from licensed psychologists with experience in breast cancer treatment can actually use the mind-body connection to their advantage to enhance both mental and physical health.

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Antonia Louise HeidelVictoria Skoromina

PHOTOGRAPHY: SAJIN ORMA

MUA: LEA ABO

CLOTHES: VIVA HOME

HAIR STYLIST: ALDO COPPOLA

DIRECTOR: SAJITH ORMA

MODEL OF THE MONTH

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FLAIRstyle

Full Name: Antonia Louise Heidel

Nationality: German

Occupation: Student

All time style icon: Bella Hadid

Favourite dress: On a regular basis, I like to wear sneakers and leggings with a vintage shirt or sweatshirt. For special occasions, I usually wear body-con dresses and heels.

Favourite cuisine: Lebanese and Indian

I like: I really enjoy travelling and discovering unique and non-touristy places in the world. I am very lucky to do so. Recently I went to Iceland and was fascinated at the scenery and the ways people live.

I dislike: The intensive animal farming industry and modern slavery which is happening right in this moment.

www.society.qa 37

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Hobbies: In my free time I usually train at the gym, play competitive netball or watch a TV series with my friends or family.

Country I’d like to visit: Japan. I›ve always wanted to try the sushi there, sleep in a capsule hotel and ride on the bullet train.

I want to change: Global warming. I try to do my part by advocating the message and avoiding cars as much as I can.

My biggest dream: To study medicine and become a radiologist while also having a family in the future.

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VICTORIA SKOROMINA

PHOTOGRAPHY - SAJIN ORMA

MUA: LEA ABO

CLOTHES-Viva home

Hairstylist - ALDO COPPOLA

DIRECTOR - SAJITH ORMA

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Full Name: Victoria Skoromina

Nationality: Russian

Occupation: Model

All time style icon: Renata Litvinova

Favourite dress: Iris van Herpen

Favourite cuisine: Mediterranean

I like: Sun and water

I dislike: Air conditioners

Hobby: Reading

Country I’d like to visit: Chile

I want to change: The problem of homeless animals

My biggest dream: Scuba diving

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Celebrate Diwali with the perfect

gifts your loved ones can enjoy

now or cherish as a keepsake

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The culinary DNA in Al Messila is distinctive and unique. It is a network where people get together to explore a journey full of flavours and experiences all anchored in the same place; The Al Messila Resort & Spa. The DNA of the creators of this experience is unchangeable and remarkable.

AN EPICUREAN DESTINATION

Chef Pino Lavarra

Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha, part of

the Luxury portfolio of Marriott International, has appointed

Chef Pino Lavarra, one of Italy’s most acclaimed Miche-

lin-starred chefs and a noted cookery book author, to over-

see operations of its eight innovative culinary experiences.

From the small village of Putignano in Italy to his illustrious

culinary journey through Europe and Asia, Michelin starred

chef, Pino Lavarra brings his craftsmanship and artistry for

the first time to the Middle East with his philosophy of ‘Excel-

lence in Taste’. Deli Kitchen is the reflection of his gastronom-

ic wisdom and imagination, where agricultural healthy in-

gredients converge with the interactive dining, shopping and

learning experience under the same roof, while collecting

the clues behind the codes of its unique homemade retail.

DELI KITCHEN

Deli Kitchen forges agricultural and healthy products in a

unique concept, where you can eat, shop and learn under

the same roof. Michelin starred Chef Pino Lavarra’s interac-

tive and transcendent culinary wisdom adds sophistication

in an effortless way.

SNØULL - All-day Nordic

Inspired by friluftsliv (open-air living), the Scandinavian phi-

losophy of reconnecting with nature, Michelin starred chef

Theis Brydegaard’s Snøull offers healthy, clean and freshest

of ingredients with Nordic flavours in their purest and richest

form. The flavourful and elegant plating of chargrilled sea-

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FLAIRhospitality

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food and meat with seasonal herbs brings

the essence of local farms on your plate.

VERITAS - Italian

A Northern Italian cuisine in an upscale

fine dining, offering traditional recipes

that are sensual in flavour and experi-

ence. Elegance and craftsmanship of

Michelin starred chef Stefano Ciotti brings

a unique twist to the Italian classics.

WA’HA - pool lounge

WA’HA a treasured venue amidst the

lush botanical garden, grand outdoor

pool, and warm sunny breezes isn’t an

ordinary pool lounge. Indulge in a unique

poolside dining experience where

refined gourmet cuisine meets casual

dining.

AL’AMMA - lobby lounge

Set against a backdrop of contemporary

arabesque design and lobby-side loca-

tion, the lounge is the ideal place to enjoy

rediscovered and infused tea or coffee

with family and friends. The specialty

afternoon tea is a definite must-have. Chef Pino Lavarra

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Someone asks you to bring a dessert to a block party, birthday or barbecue. Or

you’re heading out of town for a weekend getaway. Or you just need something to keep all the kids happy on a Saturday night. There’s really only one answer and it’s a thing everyone wants to eat: sheet cake.

Think of these as cakes that are as easy to make as a boxed mix but exponentially better-tasting.

First, a classic chocolate number that will end your search for the perfect chocolate cake. It’s moist and cocoa-y enough to win over the adults but not turn off the kids. Next, a buttermilk cake packed with so much lemon your cheeks will twinge: zest in the cake, a lem-on syrup to soak into the crumb and add moistness, and a final tart glaze for creaminess. Then there’s my favorite, an old-fashioned vanilla cake with shockingly vibrant pink icing. The colour is what my grandmother always stirred into canned frosting to

The only four CAKES you’ll ever need for entertaining

Here are four simple, no-fuss recipes that will end your search for the perfect cakes for entertaining

By Ben Mims

FLAIRgourmet

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make it feel special, so I can’t omit it. Finally, a candy bar slab that hits all the right nostalgic buttons: a fluffy white cake, drowned in butterscotch sauce, showered in chopped toffee or Butterfinger candy bars. All the cakes are served in their pans (you could use disposable foil ones for zero clean-up) and get iced only on the top — no pesky edges to deal with.

Present them with candles for the big blow-out, then set them on a card table for people to devour. If you have leftovers, they’re great for the kind of lazy snacking when the pork shoulder is on its sixth hour of cooking on the smoker or you just woke up from a nap and want a little something to perk you back up. There’s no one setting for these cakes, but they’re always there when you need them.

The only four CAKES you’ll ever need for entertaining

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1 hour. Serves 12 to 16.Ingredients:For the cake:

PINK BIRTHDAY SHEET CAKE

Nonstick baking spray2 cups all-purpose flour¼ cup dry milk powder3 tablespoons cornstarch1 tablespoon baking powder1 teaspoon fine sea salt2 cups granulated sugar1 cup whole milk½ cup vegetable oil1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract4 large eggs

For the frosting:¼ cup all-natural vegetable shortening2 tablespoons unsalted butter2 cups powdered sugar, sifted2 to 3 tablespoons heavy cream½ teaspoon vanilla extract¼ teaspoon fine sea saltRed liquid or gel food colouring (optional)

Method:Heat the oven to 325 degrees. Grease a 9-by-13-by-2 ½-inch metal baking pan with baking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, milk powder, cornstarch, baking powder and salt. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, whole milk, oil, vanilla and eggs until smooth. Pour the liquid ingredi-ents over the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake until golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the centre of the cake comes out clean, 40 to 45 minutes.

While the cake is in the oven, make the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the shortening and butter together with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth. With the mixer on low speed, slowly spoon the sugar into the fat mixture until completely incorporated and smooth; add two tablespoons cream, the

vanilla and salt. Slowly add drops of food coloring until it’s the shade of pink you want; go light for a baby pink or heavier for a more magenta-like hue. Continue mixing until the color is homogeneous; if the frosting seems too thick, add the remaining one tablespoon cream so that it is spreadable. As soon as the cake is ready, remove the pan from the oven and scrape the frost-ing onto the cake. Use a rubber spatula to quickly spread it evenly over the top as it melts. The frosting will separate into opaque and solid sections, that’s OK; continue spreading it as it melts until it no longer is separated and the frosting forms an even, solid layer on top. Let the cake cool until the frosting becomes a crackly doughnut-like glaze over the cake, then serve while still slightly warm from the pan. This cake is also great served cooled completely to room temperature.

1 hour and 15 minutes, plus cooling. Serves 12 to 16.

Ingredients:

LEMON BUTTER MILK SHEET CAKE

For the cake:Nonstick baking spray2 cups all-purpose flour1 teaspoon fine sea salt1 teaspoon baking powder½ teaspoon baking soda2 cups granulated sugar2/3 cup buttermilk½ cup vegetable oilFinely grated zest of 2 lemons, plus more to garnish6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract4 large eggs

For the syrup and glaze:1 ¼ cups plus 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, sifted

Method: Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-

13-by-2 ½-inch metal baking pan with baking

spray.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt,

baking powder and baking soda. In a medium

bowl, whisk together the sugar, oil, buttermilk,

lemon zest and juice, vanilla and eggs until

smooth. Pour the liquid ingredients over the

dry ingredients and whisk until just com-

bined.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and

smooth the top. Bake until golden brown on

top and a toothpick inserted in the centre of

the cake comes out clean, 35 to 40 minutes

While the cake is in the oven, make the syrup

and glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together

a quarter cup powdered sugar and three

tablespoons lemon juice until they form a

thin syrup. In a medium bowl, whisk together

the remaining one cup plus two tablespoons

powdered sugar and two teaspoons lemon

juice, the butter and milk until they form a

thicker, smooth glaze.

Remove the pan from the oven and let the

cake cool for five minutes. Using a toothpick

or the tines of a fork, poke the cake all over.

Slowly drizzle the syrup evenly over the cake

and let the cake cool completely.

Scrape the glaze onto the cake and use a

spoon to spread it evenly over the top. Scatter

more lemon zest over the cake, if you like, to

garnish. Let the cake stand for 10 minutes to

set the glaze before serving from the pan.

3 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted1 tablespoon whole milk

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CANDY BAR SHEET CAKE

1 hour and 20 minutes, plus 1 hour chilling.

Serves 12 to 16.

Ingredients:For the cake:Nonstick baking spray

2 cups all-purpose flour

¼ cup dry milk powder

3 tablespoons cornstarch

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon fine sea salt

2 cups granulated sugar

1 cup whole milk

½ cup vegetable oil

1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

5 large egg whites

For the butterscotch sauce and frosting:

1 cup packed light brown sugar

½ cup whole milk

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

¼ teaspoon fine sea salt

2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk

1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

1 cup chilled heavy cream

2 Butterfinger or Heath candy bars (2.1 ounces

each), roughly chopped

Method: Heat the oven to 325 degrees. Grease a 9-by-13-by-2 ½-inch metal baking pan with baking spray.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, milk powder, cornstarch, baking powder and salt. In a medium bowl, whisk togeth-er the sugar, whole milk, oil, vanilla and egg whites until smooth. Pour the liquid ingredients over the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake until pale golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean, about 40 minutes. While the cake is in the oven, make the butterscotch sauce: Combine the brown sugar, whole milk, butter and salt in a small saucepan and melt over low heat. Increase the heat to medium and cook, stirring often, until the sauce thickens, about eight minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the sweetened

condensed milk and vanilla. Pour the sauce into a bowl and let cool to room temperature or refrigerate until no longer warm. Remove the cake from the oven and transfer to a wire rack. Let the cake cool for 20 minutes, then use a half-inch-wide wooden dowel or handle end of a wooden spoon to gently poke holes three-quarters of the way down the cake, spaced about one inch apart. Pour the butterscotch sauce all over the cake, aiming to get most of it to soak into the holes in the cake.

In a large bowl, whisk the cream by hand or with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form. Scrape the whipped cream onto the cake and use a small offset spatula or table knife to spread it evenly over the top. Sprinkle the chopped candy bars all over the cake and chill in the refrigerator for one hour before serving from the pan.

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CHOCOLATE SHEET CAKE

1 hour, plus cooling. Serves 12 to 16.

Ingredients:

For the cake:Nonstick baking spray8 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature4 ounces unsweetened chocolate2 cups all-purpose flour1 ¼ teaspoons baking soda1 teaspoon fine sea salt2 cups granulated sugar1 cup sour cream1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract2 large eggsFor the frosting:2 cups powdered sugar, sifted¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, prefer-ably Dutch-processed¼ teaspoon fine sea salt4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

¼ cup heavy cream, room temperature1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Method:Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-13-by-2 ½-inch metal baking pan with baking spray.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter and chocolate with one cup water over me-dium heat, stirring occasionally. Remove the pan from the heat and let cool to room temperature.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda and salt. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, sour cream, vanilla and eggs until smooth. Pour the chocolate mixture into the sour cream mixture and whisk until smooth. Pour the liquid ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Pour the

batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean, 40 to 45 minutes. While the cake is in the oven, make the frosting: In a large bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder and salt. Add the butter and beat with a hand mix-er on low speed until evenly combined and clumpy. With the mixer still running, slowly drizzle in the cream and vanilla and beat, starting on low speed and gradu-ally increasing to medium-high, until fluffy and spreadable, one to two minutes.

Remove the cake from the oven, transfer to a wire rack, and let cool completely. Scrape the frosting onto the cake and use a small offset spatula or table knife to spread it evenly over the top before serving from the pan .

ScintillatingSWITZERLAND

FLAIRtravel

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ScintillatingSWITZERLAND

Switzerland offers an amazing array of winter activities for people of all ages. Read on and find out more

An amazing country that showcas-es natural beauty of the majestic Alps, the placid lakes, quaint

villages, cosmopolitan cities and towering castles. To add some shopping, taste some delectable chocolates and cheeses and so on. Not to forget the country’s castles are right out of a fairytale.

For being such a small country, Switzer-land offers a surprising amount of cultur-al variety. It’s divided into three regions, which are determined by the countries they border, and has four official languag-es.

Switzerland sits at the top of any serious skier’s bucket list: The country offers some of the most varied terrain in the world, picturesque peaks, and access to glacier skiing. Some of the world’s greatest mountains, including the Matterhorn and the Eiger, are in the country, along with 55 other peaks more than 4,000 metres tall. Museums play an integral part in Swiss culture, with Swiss museums attracting more than one million visitors per month. Art museums are the most popular, attracting 3.3 million visitors. Most Swiss museums are in German-speaking Swit-zerland, while Italian-speaking Ticino has the highest museum density.

Wide pistes, huge halfpipes, endless deep snow – all within quick and easy reach. Switzerland is the original winter vaca-tion destination.

TOP ATTRACTIONSSt. Moritz - The birthplace of alpine winter tourism. St. Moritz, touted as the ski resort “on top of the world,” has deep roots in skiing. The resort opened in 1864, built one of the first Swiss lifts in 1935, and has hosted the Winter Olympics twice, in 1928 and 1948. Located in upper Engadine, this high-end ski destination begins at an elevation of nearly 6,000 feet and only increases as you reach the tops of its surrounding peaks. Join the hordes of upper-class Swiss and international jetsetters who visit St. Moritz looking for a taste of the good life.

Zermatt - Experience classic Switzerland at the foot of the country’s iconic Matter-horn mountain, which soars 14,692 feet above sea level in a stunning, pyramid shape. Found in Valais, just six miles from the Theodul Pass, which borders Italy, Ze-rmatt is never short of fresh powder, avid

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skiers, and views of some of the highest peaks in the country.

Gstaad - Set in southwestern Switzer-land, in the German-speaking area of Canton of Bern, is Gstaad ski resort. In the recent years, the resort has become a hotspot for travelers in search of the most luxurious ski vacations. With well-groomed slopes that offer varying degrees of difficulty, the resort is perfect for a family trip. Snowpark Glacier 3000 will get snowboarders’ adrenalin pump-ing as they carve their own tracks down the mountain, and the resort even has a run for cross-country skiers.

Verbier – It is one of Europe’s largest ski resorts, features everything from some of the most desirable snow around to peaks reaching nearly 11,000 feet in elevation. With varying conditions and extremely steep runs, this compound in southwestern Switzerland is an ad-vanced skier’s dream. The area’s most famous off-piste runs, including Bec des Étagnes, Marlenaz, Croix de Coeur, Col des Mines, and Couloir de la “Banane,” are known and respected around the

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world. The resort’s renowned ski school, gives lessons to varying ages and degrees of ability. Keep an eye out for royalty and celebs, who often frequent the resort.

Swiss cities never fail to impress visitors by their scope. Nowhere are attractions, cultural centres, innovative gastronomy, insider’s tips and new favorite places in such proximity as in Switzerland. Anoth-er sport would be Kayaking in winter, it is everything except cold. Warming dry suits guarantee an experience of next-level comfort on the wintry Lake Brienz. Twinkling lights, enticing aromas, Christmas music and a magical ambi-ence. Amble over a Christmas market, enjoy a fondue in a tram, relax in the spa or whizz around an ice rink – Switzerland has something for everyone in the run-up to Christmas. Planning your next holiday? Visit Switzerland .

Book your holiday tour packages at Al Tawfeeq Travel.

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Driving pleasure REDEFINED

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The new 2020 Mazda CX5 reemphasizes Mazda’s drive

to deliver SUVs which break through the traditional

trade-off between driving pleasure and passenger

comfort

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Mazda’s determination to create a family SUV that

gives drivers pleasure every time they drive it and

make friends and family feel relaxed, happy and

outstandingly comfortable.

Winner leads the way

Mazda CX5, being a winner of many global awards and

accolades along the way, has everything required to get

recognized as the “best of the best” in the auto industry.

Mazda CX-5 was first launched in 2012 as the first new general

model featuring KODO design and SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY,

and has been acclaimed worldwide for its dynamic design,

responsive driving feel and excellent environmental and

safety performance. It proved to be a core model accounting

for approximately 25 percent of Mazda’s annual sales, and to

date 1.5 million units have been sold in around 120 different

countries.

Design & technology redefined

Leading to the realization of Mazda’s dream, the new CX-5 has

redefined every aspect of Mazda’s current technology and

design as a first step in this journey. For the design, Mazda has

settled on ‘refined toughness’ as a keyword and challenged

themselves to elevate the KODO design concept to a new

level.

The interior of new 2020 Mazda CX-5 is a beautiful combi-

nation of functionality and sophisticated design. The new

model is a five-passenger SUV with two rows of seats. The

KEY FEATURES:• 6 Airbags

• Multi-adjustable Power Front Seats

• Dual-zone Climate Control

• Smart Key and Push Button Start

• MZD Connect Infotainment System

• Apple CarPlay™ & Android Auto™ integration

• GPS Navigation System with Commander

• Bose Premium Audio System with 9 Speakers

• 2nd Row 40/20/40 Split-folding Rear Seat

• Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring System (ABSM)

• Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

• Smart City Brake Support (SCBS)

• Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR)

• Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go function

(MRCC with Stop & Go function)

• Smart Brake Support (SBS)

• Distance Recognition Support System (DRSS)

• Forward Obstruction Warning (FOW)

• Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)

• Lane-keep Assist System (LAS)

• Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS)

• Power Sunroof

• 19” Alloy Wheels

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cabin is very driver-oriented, with an excellent driving position

and outstanding visibility.

Breathing life into the carThe Kodo – Soul Motion design, breathing life into the car, has

been redefined by strengthening the low, wide expression of the

evolved Mazda identity. The thinner, lower-placed headlamps

and a signature wing emphasizes the breadth by spreading

across the face extending towards the headlamps. The mesh

form of the front grille adopts a detailed three-dimensional

pattern. This combines with the sculpted signature wing to add

depth and a bolder expression that heightens the sporty look of

the front face.

Supple and striking The CX-5 has added countless touches of premium materials to

the interior: premium leather seats (beige or black) sophisticated

trim and unique leather-wrapped steering wheel and ambient

cabin lighting to name just a few. These materials add comfort

for you and your passengers, heightening the senses no matter

where you look or touch. It’s a delight for both driver and passen-

ger.

Inspired by traditional Japanese crafts, Mazda has pursued min-

imalist aesthetics -LESS IS MORE CONCEPT, free of all non-essen-

tial elements. The result is a bold and premium-looking exterior,

and an interior that gives all occupants a pleasant feeling. The

new body colour, Soul Red Crystal, combines vivid highlights

and crystalline depths and further accentuates the design of the

new CX-5.

Pro-active safetyWith available i-ACTIVSENSE® safety innovations you’ll have

confidence, no matter the destination. To help provide driving

pleasure for everyone in the car, among the many proactive

safety features, standard Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross

Traffic Alert are included. Sophisticated radar and advanced

technologies used give you a sixth sense for safety, helping alert

you to hazards before they happen. To enhance the confidence

further, an Active Driving Display that promotes safer driving by

projecting information onto the windshield, and the Mazda Con-

nect car connectivity system comes standard in the new CX5.

Five-star safety rating The Mazda CX-5 has been awarded the maximum five-star safety

rating by the European New Car Assessment Program (Euro

NCAP), where the result will be shared with the Australasian New

Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) as well. The SUV managed to

score 95% in the adult occupant test, where it was noted to offer

good protection in the various individual tests (frontal offset,

side barrier, etc.). In other tests, the CX-5 scored 80% in the child

occupant test and 78% in the pedestrian protection test.

In the Safety Assist test category, the CX-5 scored 59% thanks to

its standard-fit autonomous emergency braking system. The

system worked at highway speeds and performed well in tests of

its functionality, with all collisions avoided or mitigated.

Driving dynamicsThe all-new CX-5 adopts G-Vectoring Control, the first of the

SKYACTIV-VEHICLE DYNAMICS technologies. Driving perfor-

mance has been polished in line with human sensibilities, realiz-

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ing dynamic behavior that corresponds with driver expectations

and a comfortable ride with minimal torso-sway for all vehicle’s

occupants. The cabin is quieter, allowing for more comfortable

conversation, and the rear seats provide greater levels of comfort

and usability.

PowertrainThe New CX5 comes with a SKYACTIV-G 2.5 direct-injection

gasoline engine. paired with the six-speed SKYACTIV-DRIVE

automatic-manual transmission. These powertrains provide

powerful acceleration delivering power output of 187hp@ 5,700

rpm and torque of 250Nm@ 5000 rpm (AWD).

Skyactiv Engine with higher compression ratio of 13:1 than the

conventional engines complemented by unique 4-2-1 exhaust

system and cavity piston gives superior driving performance

without any compromise in the fuel efficiency and less car-

bon-dioxide emission and environmental impact.

NVH performance and aerodynamicsTo realize a quiet cabin environment that enables occupants to

enjoy stress-free conversation while driving, specific effort was

devoted to reducing low-frequency road noise heard when trav-

eling on roads with coarse surfaces, as well as high-frequency

wind and tire noise heard when traveling at higher speeds.

Compared to the previous model at a cruising speed of 100km/h

(62mph), the new CX-5 achieves approximately 10% clearer con-

versation levels within the cabin and reduces noise by approxi-

mately 1.3 dB when traveling on rough road surfaces.

Connection without compromises Keeping up with your world means staying connected. Experi-

ence total mobile connectivity with available Apple CarPlay™

integration. Access your iPhone’s maps, playlists, contacts and

compatible apps with your voice through Siri. Siri will also read

incoming text messages and allow you to reply without tak-

ing your hands off the wheel. Android users can also connect

through available Android Auto™ integration. Everything you

care about is a tap or voice command

National Car Company offers the entire range of new generation

Mazda sedans, SUVs and pick-ups displayed in a state-of-the-art

showroom located in Fereej Al Nasr which is open 7 days a week

from 9am to 9pm except on Fridays when the showroom is open

during evening hours. For more information, visit: www.mazda-qa-

tar.com

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For many people, one of the first memories which comes to mind when thinking of their school

days will be that of a favourite teacher. Someone who not only enhanced your academic knowledge, but also inspired, challenged and guided you. At Compass International School Doha, we understand the lifelong impact that teachers have on a student’s academic, personal and social growth and ultimate-ly, their future success. It’s why we are committed to recruiting the very best teachers from around the world, selecting on average only one from every 24 appli-cations received.

“In addition to holding a UK teaching qual-ification, and bringing diverse expertise and experience to the role, we look for certain qualities which make outstanding teachers,” explains Simon Porter, Director of Quality and Staff Development. “Teach-ing in international schools requires flexibility of thinking and imagination. We look for talented and passionate teachers who have started to explore their own ‘voice’ and style. Our teachers need to be able to think on their feet and adapt their plans during the lesson to chart the best path for their students.”

Our parents see this commitment realised in school, with 91% believing that their child is taught by high quality teachers. We are committed to delivering an exceptional education and our teachers are themselves dedicated to continued growth and learning. To support them in maintaining the highest standards, we offer a world-leading professional devel-opment programme which continually shares innovation and international best practice. This investment enables every teacher to stay up-to-date with the latest educational thinking and techniques from around the globe, benefiting our students’ learning every day. Porter describes the approach: “Contrary to many schools, we don’t offer whole-school continuous professional develop-ment (CPD). Instead, we personalise each teacher’s training utilising a variety of sources. Nord Anglia University provides

The Power of Extraordinary Teachers

courses, forums, conferences and many other resources which enable teachers to develop their skills and share best practices. Our collaborations with The Juilliard School and Massachusetts Insti-tute of Technology give teachers access to specialist subject specific opportunities and we encourage teachers to join Nord Anglia’s residential leadership courses. We also encourage our teachers to pursue further qualifications and currently have seven teachers who have gained or are studying for a master’s degree, sponsored by the school.” Additionally, Nord Anglia’s Education Advisory Board, comprised of renowned educational experts, supports the evolution of teaching across our fami-ly of schools, and is an invaluable asset for our teachers.

Our teachers’ CPD has wider benefits for our students. “Certainly, students seeing teachers learning themselves, and our teachers are very open about their own learning and development, is a powerful incentive and example,” Porter elabo-rates. “I think Jim Henson said ‘Kids don’t remember what you try to teach them. They remember what you are’.”

This commitment to our teachers’ profes-sional growth and career development also contributes to the long tenures of our teachers, many of whom go on to teach

at other Nord Anglia schools worldwide. Compass in return benefits from other Nord Anglia teachers frequently choosing to join the school, bringing with them the same high standards of knowledge, skills, passion and dedication.

Just as importantly, our teachers are known for the care they show to students, and across our campuses, 92% of parents believe that their child has a good rela-tionship with their teacher(s). This leads to enhanced achievement - by develop-ing strong connections and understand-ing, teachers are able to tailor learning for each child, nurturing their social and emotional growth in addition to accelerat-ing their academic learning.

“Our teachers are flexible, open-minded and adventurous, creating exciting learn-ing opportunities which challenge every child,” said Porter. “They are excellent role models for our students and play an undeniably vital role in creating the engaging environment which ensures children love learning and coming to school at Compass. Our academic results are testament to this and speak for them-selves.”

To find out more about one of Qatar’s leading inter-national schools or to apply, visit www.cisdoha.com or contact Compass International School Doha’s Admissions Team at admissions.cisd@nais.qa

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