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Oman now a cultural hub p8
Mama haters are no good... p50
Vol.
4 Iss
ue 5
3 II
Decem
ber
7,
2012 -
January
6,
2013
FREE F
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Team Oryx - Team Oryx - A 'formula' for successA 'formula' for success p26
4 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
Published by: Muscat Press & Publishing House SAOC
Black & White
Postal address: P O Box 86, PC 115, Madinat Sultan Qaboos
Office location: Hatat House A, II Floor, Suite No: 212, Wadi Adai
Ph: 24565697 Fax: 24565496
Website: www.blackandwhiteoman.com
Editorial: [email protected]
Printed at Oman Printers
Xclusive
Editor-in-chief Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali
Managing editor Priya Arunkumar
Work editor Adarsh Madhavan
Design & production Beneek Siraj
Advt. & marketing Priyanka Sampat
Conte
nts
The key factor in prevention is
avoidance of many habits. Change is
the word. Try to adopt some lifestyle
changes and you can lower the
chances of acquiring many types of
cancer.
Holidays, holidays, holidays...
Everyone these days are bothered
about only holidays. Holidays
announced? Do you know when they
are going to announce the holidays?
54
42
12 Don’t let bad habits become a habit... Steps you can take to
prevent cancer
Bitter batter
Are you the type of man that
indulges in bad habits like smoking
and drinking, cussing in front of
people, leaving empty containers
everywhere, using more glasses and
cups than necessary, leaving the
toilet seat up…?
26 Team Oryx - A 'formula' for success
Oman will launch its first ever student formula one racing car next July (2013). A
group of students of a well-known private college in Oman are all set to put the country on
the student formula racing map with their single seat racing car, which is being designed
and produced at the college’s exclusive workshop. Once launched, it will be the first of its
kind, not just in Oman, but in the AGCC, the students behind this unique project reveal.
5Black & White
The supplements’ man
By Adarsh Madhavan
I may not remember the very first press notes that I
had done, but, I do remember one of the early ones. A
shocking disaster. Since I had to help out on the paper’s
supplements front, I had to go and get all the company
profile and information etc from specific companies and
that used to be a double chore. One, there was nothing
exciting about writing for supplements and the other thing
was that it was not journalism work. But as a novice, I had
to go up the ladder the hard way. And it was hard. Since
I was not journalist material and since I had this double
edge sword of shyness and reticence, every meeting was
a natural disaster.
I used to hate the thought of meeting such people and get
details from them about the company’s highs and lows
(and you can’t write about the latter) and also get exact
quotes, sometimes from company heads and other times
from the marketing guys who always indulged in plenty of
gobbledygook.
Marketing speak is still all Greek to me and it is a kind
of mindset. But back to what I was saying: Working
on supplements really made me want to get some
health supplements myself. The endless waiting for the
company heads to see me; and when they did, forcing
me to finish my interview in a fraction of a second and still
write “loads about them”; the frivolous manner in which
the information required is provided and when we carry
them in the same aforesaid manner, they will criticise
us; unnecessarily creating protocol (read barriers and
obstacles) for the supplements writer so much so he/she
will be unable to really get succinct information to write
about…the list is endless and as boring.
But, this meeting that I write of now has nothing to do with
all of the above. It was a comedy of errors by the clown
of all scribes that existed in Oman then. Had no clue
what to ask; what to say; what to do…the jovial general
manager of the company took me to meet a crowd of
Europeans all suited and booted. During those days
I had a bit of a problem meeting jacketed and booted
people. Somehow, I felt like an alien in front of them
and it reflected on my behaviour, which besides
being nervously reticent also became blunderingly
clownish. So, I sat petrified before these big guys – all
of the principals of the brand that this local company
was dealing with – and melted and melted. I had no
questions to ask because I was overawed by their
presence. But, since the general manager was such
a sweet, jovial man, I managed to escape the whole
session without having to do much. But, when I sent
them back the miserable piece that I wrote, they (not
the general manager, someone way down the order)
called me back and told me very politely that they will
be sending something else; they did not want what I
wrote. And oh yes, then there was this other company
personnel, who after receiving the first draft called me
back and abused me for the “swill that I wrote”.
But, my only ticket to fame was the matter that I wrote
about a then famous shipping company for a shipping
supplement. It was one of the most idiotic pieces I
had written then; in the sense, it was PR matter and I
delved on melodrama. But, not only did the company
head approve it; he was full of praise for it and sent a
note to the advertising head that it should be carried in
toto. And then all hell broke loose. The editor handling
the supplements called me and blasted me for writing
trash but he couldn’t trash it, because he had strict
instructions not to do so and thus I was the only one
on whom he could lump his frustrations. I took it
silently for sometime and then at the end declared:
You write in the old, traditional form of journalism, but
I have new ideas and new ways of writing. I represent
the new generation of journalists! The poor man could
not argue with me. But, when I reflect, I hang my head
in shame: it had nothing to do with journalism. Nothing
at all!
All a
bout
X,
Y &
Z
Mail your views and opinions at
Silver jewellery (issue 52) has a fantastic feel, which no
other jewellery can give. And, Omani silver jewellery has an
unusual and magical feel that has to be experienced. There
is a huge difference between merely looking at it and wearing
it. Silver jewellery is widely available in Oman and it is said
that the art of silver jewellery making is dying in Oman. But,
I feel that a lot is being done to not only encourage the art
of Omani silver making, but also in preserving the jewellery.
Of course, a traditional art is always in danger of drowning in
a sea of modernity, but in Oman, there is a delicate balance
between modernity and tradition and thus this is one industry
that is not going to die!
Tarik bin Saif Al Sharji, Seeb
It is quite refreshing to read about the exploits of Omani
women (issue 52). Yes, you are right about seeing more
men taking up this craft than women and souqs, which
host plenty of silver items, do not have women engaged in
the craft. But, there are women coming out of the Public
Authority for Craft Industries (PACI) who are now getting
engaged in this craft. Thanks to them this unique craft form
will attain resurgence in Oman!
Sharifa Salem Al Kindi, Al Khuwair
The story ‘Wagging tale from Bausher’ (issue 51) was quite
interesting! I am an avid reader of printed material, be it a
newspaper or a magazine or a book. Just holding a book
or a newspaper in hand develops connectivity with the
writer. Through social media networks like Facebook, I have
been able to connect with so many lost friends and distant
relatives. I am now connected to a friend with whom I shared
the same desk in school way back in 1971! Amazing indeed!
Rajeev Varma, Seeb
Silver industry will not die
Resurgence of silver jewellery
Writer’s connection
Reader's
colu
mn
Customer engagement is the buzzword for all businesses today for customer
attraction and retention. Hypermarkets in Muscat have worked out a novel way
to increase the engagement levels of customers – co-opting customers as part
time packing staff at the billing counters for the goods purchased by them.
This unique model is very efficiently facilitated by their packing staff by ensuring
their constant absence from the packing counters! As to the implications if there
are any mishaps to the goods while being packed by the ‘ untrained’ amateur
packers (customers), presumably the management of the hypermarkets
probably stand committed to compensate customers for doing what was not
essentially their duty in the first place. A win-win situation for all customers
get co-opted into the business to become ‘cusellers’, staff engagement levels
among the packing staff go up by the shifting of their work to a supplementary
(substitute?) workforce (customers), the hypermarkets get a cost-free shifting
work force! With a backward integration of this process, a day may well come
when customers get to prepare their own bills and manage their payments into
the cash register at the billing counters of the hypermarkets! !
Dr K. Rajesh Nayak, MBD
Customers become part-time packers
8 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
Om
an w
atc
h
9Black & White
Oman now a cultural hub:
ROHIT WALIA
World class musicians gig with budding Omani talent in a serene and
beautiful setting with a totally appreciative crowd. This has been the
winning story of the Global Fusion where artists and audience blend on a
common ground where talent flows in line with never-ending applause.
The same combination whipped up sweet magical music at the Global
Fusion’s recent concert held at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and
Spa’s amphitheatre. The fifth edition of the Global Fusion, which was
brought to Oman by Sarasin-Alpen (ME) Ltd, Dubai, together with its
investment banking associate, Alpen Capital LLC was a success and the
crowd was thankful that they had a chance to listen to top musical stars
and totally appreciated the performance by a young Omani – Hassan
Jumaa Sangour Al Balushi -- who mesmerised them on the mizmar
(a type of wind instrument). Post event, B&W spoke to Rohit Walia,
executive vice chairman and Ceo, Sarasin-Alpen and Alpen Capital Group
about their successful Global Fusion and tried to envision its future.
Excerpts:
Is there a bigger aim – other
than entertainment/customer
relationship – in bringing Global
Fusion to Oman? Is there any
intent to send home any message
to the public through such an
event?
Global Fusion is our flagship event
and is the outcome of our patronage
to the arts. It is a private client
event and we use this opportunity
to provide an entertaining evening
to our clients with the best in world
music. We also want to support
the local communities in every
country that we organise the fusion
in. This is why we try to identify a
talented local musician and give
them an opportunity to perform
with world renowned names at our
fusion concert. We first organised
Global Fusion in Muscat in 2008
to announce the launch of our
operations. Over the years, our
business activities have evolved and
we have established a presence
in this welcoming country and I am
happy to note that Global Fusion has
evolved with it as well.
What were the main highlights
of this year’s (fifth year) Global
Fusion?
This year we had a very exciting
line up lead by the sitar maestro –
Niladri Kumar. We also have a Swiss
representation through the Alphorn
player Eliana Burki, which is one of a
kind. We have among the remaining
line up excellent musicians from all
across ranging from Abbos Kosimov
on the Doyra from Uzbekistan or
Chloe Arnold who is a tap dancer
from the USA. We were also happy
to host the Omani talent - Hassan
Jumaa Al Balushi - on the mizmar.
What has been the feedback
of your clients for the previous
concerts and have you received
any suggestions from them; have
you tried to incorporate the same?
Our clients have always loved our
fusion concerts and we have always
received excellent feedback from
them on this musical event. If they do
have any suggestions, we are always
happy to look at them. We have tried
doing something different every year
with our fusion concerts and this has
been well appreciated by clients.
How different is Global Fusion
from the usual concerts and
events held in Oman? How would
such events help the music scene
in Oman or in general the events
profile of this country?
Global Fusion is a unique concept
put together by us. We bring together
musicians from all around the world
and encourage them to put together
an amazing musical performance.
Most people are surprised when we
tell them that this event is organised
in house and not by someone
external and that most of the
musicians are collaborating together
for the very first time. When we
started organising fusion concerts in
Oman in 2008, musical events such
as Global Fusion were rare in Oman
but now we are happy to see Oman
grow into a cultural hub.
Briefly track the evolution of the
Global Fusion in Oman and in
what areas has it bettered over the
years?
This is our fifth Global Fusion concert
in Muscat and our 17th concert
across the AGCC. We have had over
80 international musicians working
with us over these past few years.
We are happy that Global Fusion is
a recognised brand among artistes
and more and more international
names want to collaborate with us on
this concept. Each of our concerts
are centered around a theme and
every year we try and do something
different. In every country we also
showcase a local musician and
provide them an opportunity to
perform with internationally renowned
names. Global Fusion now also
has a visual element to it and we
incorporate dance with fusion music
which is also appreciated by clients.
Om
an w
atc
h
12 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
Men r
ead
HABIT…
Don’t let
become a BAD HABITS
13Black & White
Are you the type of man that indulges in bad habits? Bad habits like smoking and drinking, cussing in front of people, leaving empty containers everywhere, using more glasses and cups than necessary, leaving the toilet seat up…
Man, you are then asking for it! These are not exactly habits that the woman in your life
would like you to cultivate and these are not the things that she would like you to see
doing. Yes, everyone does something wrong every now and then, but if the bad habit
becomes a habit…you are going to drive her crazy and away! Some men do not evolve
from their bachelorhood to being a married man and this can be really difficult for a
woman to contend with.
Your wife is not going to like it if you are the type that leaves dirty dishes in the sink,
leaves the toilet seat up, does not show chivalry, bite your nails or pick your nose
(yuck)…
If you are determined to change, then you can really drop the bad habit, but it is not
easy to let go. Still, if you do, you are going to reap in the benefits, mostly long term!
Bad habits are basically stemming from a variety of deeper problems that men have not
had the chance to look into, but when these manifest in such silly problems, remember
that you also need to do a soul search, or maybe ‘shine that torch to your inner selves’.
Also, start from the basics and don’t make BIG promises to yourself even before you
begin. But, when you realise that you really want to change, then you have taken
your first ever step. After this, make it a pact to yourself that come what may, you will
change your bad habits. You need to be really passionate about this decision and you
should not just do it because, well, “everyone else is doing it” and because someone
else wants you to do it. Nope. That is not how you go about it. You must work yourself
up in such a manner that you should have a great desire to break that habit and make
that a top priority. Otherwise, it is not going to work.
SMOKING YOURSELF OUT
Of course, in today’s world, there are so many methods to stop yourself from smoking.
But like everything else, you need to make that move yourself, emanating from your
own genuine desire to stub the habit. The incentives are too many. Your woman is
going to love you for the difficult decision that you have taken. More importantly, you
will lose that unwanted guilt you have within you since the time she told you to quit the
habit and wouldn’t. If you have a family – with kids – then stopping the habit is not just a
matter of doing it right, it is a duty! So, go ahead and stub it for good!
CUSSING NO GOOD
Some of you may have a problem with profanity. Seriously. Swearing is a real bad
habit. But, if you realise that it is indeed a bad habit, then make sure that you will end
this problem. What you need to do is to think up innovative ways to break this habit:
what you need is to reward yourself for good behaviour. Whenever you feel that you
have managed to escape using a swear word, please put in a rial or some baisas in a
jar. And when you save up for a month or two, use it to buy a gift for yourself.
Most importantly, try to be aware of your problem at all times. If you always think about
your swearing issue, you will not let it leap out of your mouth. Also, learn to speak and
write slowly. In short, slow down your pace. When you slow down, you will realise that
you are able to form proper words and sentences which are not liberally splattered with
profanity. The more you practice it, the more you will be able to finally control this urge
to cuss.
14 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
I make lots of plans. Each one of them
is a gem. It looks so good on the first
take, zooming through the stratosphere,
guaranteed to be a big hit. I can see the
money rolling in and then I won’t have
to go to my bank manager and ask for
a topping of the loan, which is already
well overdue. I can see people pointing
to me as I walk past and say, see that
guy, that’s Vohra, made a million with
his brilliant ideas, like that hotmail guy
who was in town this week. Great plans,
really, full of potential and ready to take
the world by storm.
But my plans always get into stormy
weather. Either they break a wing or
go into a nose down dive and end up
looking like one of those crumpled light
planes in those news pictures you see
after they have crashed on the ground,
one little hopeful tail sticking up out of the
debris. I know the feeling.
Like this plan I had last month. It was one
of those hundred percent surefire things
and the people who were interested in it
had three meetings with me and it was
now just a question of signing the deal.
So, I am already planning how to spend
the money and then what happens, the
big chief has to leave for London, the
chap who knows the financier gets flu
and the contact I have says let’s put it on
hold and now it has been six weeks and I
am the one out in the cold.
Think of it. There are people out there
who have plans that just take off. A
couple of meetings and everything jells
into place, their principals do not get
flu or sudden desires to swan off to
London and spoiling all these wonderful
plans. They break even in the first
three months, make profit from then on
and shift from their apartment to a villa
and buy a car with a computer and go
from Saharanpur to St Moritz for their
vacations.
Me, well it is like Mr Lennon said, life is
what happens to me when I am making
other plans. I don’t know what category
you belong to but I have this sneaky
feeling that there are others like me
whose plans either just sit in the ground,
or go up ten odd feet then bump back on
earth and fold up. For us types, let’s face
it, there is really nothing wrong with the
basic idea we are just not lucky, we just
don’t belong to the plan brigade.
The one problem it does cause is one
of credibility. For example, if I turn to my
wife and say, I have an idea she makes
these rude little sounds in the lower part
of her throat. Then she leaves the room.
I have mentioned in passing that it
isn’t polite to leave the room when the
husband is talking but it hasn’t had much
impact. Every now and then I happen to
say that I have this plan and it is certain
to work and once we are rich she can
shop to her hearts content and never
have to avoid calls from the credit card
companies and she takes it very badly
indeed. Her face pales and she grips
the end of the chair and says, not again,
please let’s just bumble along in our
present desperate manner, no more
plans, anything but plans.
See what I mean, we failed plan types
don’t get support. Dash it, at least give
us some dollop of praise for trying. So,
okay, some of them come unstuck and
some don’t even start but how do you
know that one day one of these babies
will not pan out and become a high flyer.
Who’ll be laughing then?
That’s why I say to all of you whose
plans are doing the dirty, keep them
coming, you never know what’s around
the corner.
I have a planBy Bikram Vohra Bikram Vohra, internationally-
known Gulf based scribe
Sunny s
ide u
p
15Black & White
By Adarsh Madhavan
O
ff th
e wall
As she lay dying…
As she lay dying, unable to even lift her head or open her
eyes, the karate kids leapt around her, making guttural
sounds from their throats and some of their deadly feet
landing just inches away from her nose, swatting dust
into her nostrils…yet, she never woke, and her tail never
wagged.
As my Sundari lay dying, I watched from a distance,
helpless as ever, or with the usual excuse of not being
able to do anything constructive when bogged down by
a crowd. Too many people in a home can also be an
overwhelming affair. At least a dying dog should have
some kind of privacy. But, she, my faithful companion of
nearly nine years, had no such complaints.
She did not have any qualms that we went about our way
while she slowly inched her way to an endless sleep. After
two unsuccessful surgeries to remove her mammary gland
tumours in a space of six months, and the third set of
tumours reappearing, I was left with the usual veterinary
advice: look we have done all that we could; she is an old
dog and we cannot operate on her the third time. We have
to let her be and look at taking the next step when the
time comes. In the meantime, make her as comfortable as
possible; give her everything she wants; indulge her, love
her, give her even the things you would normally avoid …
That was like asking a prisoner for his last wish… What
would be her last wish, I wondered. When I asked her,
she looked at me and weakly wagged her tail. So, I did
what I could. Fed her the best; walked her to her heart’s
content or at least to her limit because she was going,
you see. Each day, slipping into that dark bottomless pit,
little by little. Hobbling out into the open with her grandson
one day, then unable to move the next day, then not even
raising her head the next, crying as she tried to relieve
herself…bit by painful bit, she was sinking…and the
more she sank, the more desperate I got. Wishing for the
impossible. Hoping and praying for a miracle. I indulged in
all whimsical fantasies as she lay, dying.
I scoured the net to see if there were any unusual
remedies for dying dogs of this nature. They tempted me
with plenty. Cottage cheese, flaxseed oil mix; fish oil…I
did what I could but my heart was not in it. Each day, the
same routine, painkiller pills in the morning and night...
So that I could go to my office, concentrate, do my work,
come back home, go shopping, take my child out, buy
him toys, laugh and be merry. Crack a joke, pull a fast
one on someone, shout at another, eat proper food,
go to sleep at the right time… all this while death
rattled around my dearest dog. Some nights, she saw
him, dark deadly Death, prancing around her and
she would attempt a weak but a bark nevertheless. It
scared him for a moment and then when she lay her
head down again, he came back with an even vicious
force.
I told another young vet to come and see her; pay
a home visit. He did. He was enthusiastic. He gave
hope, and even though I knew better, desperate, I
clutched at that straw. A day was fixed to give her one
last stab at life; one final surgery. I was game. I could
take the risk; it was not me who was dying! Folks at
home knew she was sick, but they were not seeing
death buzzing around her like flies…like I did. So,
they went about their daily grind. For all of us have
things to do; projects to complete; money to make;
responsibilities to attend to…dying is for the well,
dying. Even Sundari’s grandson, although sensing
something was quite a miss since a long time, still
went about living his little doggy life. And one late
night when I made that stupid mistake, giving my
own skeptical heart a glimmer of hope, she suddenly
went berserk with pain, crazy pain, so much so I
summoned the vet back in the dead of night to quickly
end everything; end her crazy pain with his shot of
kindness, but it seemed to go on and on... Finally, he
asked me to close her eyes as he did what he had
to do. And I closed my eyes too, like always, and let
my most devoted pal go. But it is never easy to let
someone like that go.
16 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
The ministry of education organised two educational
workshops to upgrade the teaching standards and levels
of the specialist language teachers, especially English,
recently.
The workshops were arranged by Siham Ahmed Al
Riyami, deputy director for educational programmes and
curriculum at the directorate of private schools.
The main aim was to upgrade the level of professional
development for all language specialists, especially
English, Siham Al Riyami said. “The workshops were
arranged to emphasise the importance of coordination
between the international edu publishers and
organisations with a view to reducing the load at the
education ministry on professional development.
“It also aims to strengthen the coordination between the
private and government schools,” Siham said. Those
attending the workshop included: English language
supervisors, English language trainers and teachers from
the government and special needs scholars.
The workshops were conducted by two trainers, Stephen
Graham, training and development manager and James
Ferguson, training and development consultant.
Graham is an educator with a wealth of teaching
experience. “He is a truly inspirational presenter who is
passionate about educating children. Stephen lives in the
real world and knows the issues confronting educators,”
Siham said.
James, meanwhile has extensive experience in working
in a diverse range of schools and settings during
his career. "He is committed to improving student
achievement through targeted professional learning. His
recent teaching and leadership roles in schools ensure
he has a realistic understanding of current educational
priorities and programmes," Siham said.
Two workshops to enhance professional
development among language specialists
17Black & White
Advertising International Company
LLC (ADINC) a leading advertising
agency in Oman and part of the
Omzest Group has signed an
agreement with DDB Worldwide,
making the agency the exclusive
representative of DDB in Oman.
DDB is part of Omnicom Inc the
world’s leading global advertising
and marketing communications
services company. The winner of
82 Lions at Cannes this year, DDB
has consistently been rated as one
of the leading creative agencies
in the world by the Gunn Report
(Nov 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010), the
International Advertising Festival
(June 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011),
Campaign (Nov 2007, Nov 2010),
Spikes Asia (September 2010),
Campaign Asia Pacific (December
2010), BusinessWeek (Feb 2008),
and Global Effies/WARC (June 2011)
as well as the European AME awards
(2011).
Advertising International Company
is now ADINC DDB
Of the new association in Oman,
Ehringer says, “DDB was among
the first international networks to
establish its presence in Oman way
back in 1996. And it continues to be
an important market for us.
When choosing a partner in any
market, we look for compatibility
with our beliefs and values, strong
local reputation of the agency and
the group it belongs to and most
important, the talent of its people. In
ADINC we believe we have found it
all and look forward to breaking new
ground in this market with this new
partnership. ADINC DDB clients will
now have access to global network
support, a vast corpus of knowledge
and skilled resources to help grow
the value and influence of their
brands. Radha Mukherji, has been
the face of DDB in Oman for the
last 16 years, so we are happy to
have her back on board full time as
the Ceo of ADINC DDB to make the
transition smooth and seamless.”
Adds Radha Mukherji, Ceo ADINC
DDB, “ADINC has been one of the
leading agencies in Oman since
it was set up in 1991, with several
national and international awards to
its credit."
Aimed at combating the rising
threat of diabetes in Oman, IMC
Muscat announced it has entered
into an agreement with Asia’s
largest healthcare provider Apollo
Hospitals Group, India to bring world
class diabetes care format offered
under the brand 'Sugar Clinic' to the
residents of Oman.
This state-of –art clinic would
aim to offer comprehensive care
under a single roof spanning
from consultation, education,
comprehensive diagnostics, eye
care to foot care. On the sidelines of
the World Diabetes Day- in-line with
the IDF theme -Diabetes Education
and Prevention – the Center also
announced the launch of a screening
programme focusing on screening
and education.
The campaign
open through the
month of November
focuses on early
detection and timely
diagnosis of pre-
diabetes and type-2
diabetes using
a state-of-the-art-FDA approved
non-invasive screening device. This
innovative technology ensures a
faster, safer and a more efficient
screening process.
Screenings have already begun with
the launch of the campaign and are
available for residents of Muscat to
avail at the IMC located at Ruwi.
Speaking on the occasion Shyam
Sailesh, executive director, IMC
'Sugar Clinic' in Oman
said, "Prevalence of diabetes and
cardiovascular disease in Oman is
reaching epidemic proportion. It is of
concern that unlike our counterparts
in west – we seeing a lot of young
adult individuals getting affected by
diabetes in our country. we are very
passionate about defeating diabetes
in this part of world and we are happy
to have received support from the
Apollo Hospitals Group, India in this
endeavour."
18 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
The first Aster Kids Group was inaugurated at the
Grand Hyatt Hotel with a massive turnout of over 200
children and families. In attendance was the chief
guest for the evening, Dr Yasmin bint Ahmed bin Jaffer,
general director of the family and community health
department. Specialised in mother and childcare, she
has been a known name in the ministry of health for
almost three decades and continues to serve the society.
She was joined by Dr Alia bint Mahmood Al-Khasaibi,
undersecretary office for health affairs, directorate of
private health establishment affairs.
The Aster Kids Group is an initiative of Al Raffah Hospital
in Oman, itself a part of the Aster Hospital group, one of
the largest networks of hospitals in the AGCC.
Seeniya Biju, chief operating officer of Al Raffah
Hospitals, and the driving force behind the Aster
Kids Group concept, said: "Our mission at the Aster
Kids Group is to empower children to be the brand
ambassadors of their own health as well as that of their
families and their community. We hope to encourage and
nurture our younger generation to adopt a healthy lifestyle
in a fun way."
Aster kids group
The primary and kindergarten
section of ISD celebrated Diwali in
a traditional style. The decoration of
arena with diyas, rangoli and lanterns
created a festive mood. The tiny tots
of KG II C and the little ones of grade
IV D and III C presented their special
assembly with fervour and energy.
The children narrated the essential
ISD primary glitter for three days
Children’s Day was celebrated at
Indian School Darsait recently.
The day commemorates the birth
anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal
Nehru, the first prime minister of
India.
In the primary wing, the little ones
were treated with chocolates
and entertained with a variety
entertainment programme by the
teachers who took over their roles
in conducting the assembly in the
auditorium. They presented an
anecdotal skit, melodious songs and
colourful dances. But the show-
stopper was a fashion show put-up
by the teachers, which turned out to
be a huge success.
Earlier Dr Subhash Nair, the
officiating principal, paid a floral
tribute to Nehru. Leena Francis, vice
principal (primary) reminded them of
the children who are deprived of their
basic needs.
She also made them take a pledge
to change themselves into the best
citizens of India.
Children’s Day celebration was
organised at senior school also.
A special assembly was held at
the school auditorium in which the
teachers conducted the procedures
of the day. The students, in turn,
mesmerised the audience in grand
style with a folk dance and a western
fusion.
Children’s Day celebrated at ISD
facts about the festival of lights.
The gala of five days festival was
depicted through the scenes of
Lakshmi Pooja, New Year greetings
and Bhaidooj. The main highlight
of the event was the foot tapping
dances the students of the three
classes did with diyas and candles.
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19Black & White
Omantel has launched new
enhanced Mada plans and
introduced the all-new Mada Liberty
Plus package recently. The new
packages provide comprehensive
solution and freedom for Omantel
customers to communicate through
voice, messaging and mobile
broadband at affordable rates
while availing special discount on
international calls.
Announcing the launch, Haitham
Abdullah Al Kharusi, vice president of
consumer business unit at Omantel
said: “We are pleased to launch the
new Mada packages which is a direct
response of listening to the needs
of our customers ensuring that we
continue to enrich the market with
innovative products that help bring
our customers closer together across
the country.”
“The new Mada packages give our
customers the opportunity to connect
to a community of more than 2.7
million Omantel subscribers, access
the internet on the go with our mobile
broadband service and moreover
get up to 30 per cent discount on
international calls to any destination.”
Hyundai has won the Best Hatchback award for its
uniquely designed Veloster at the 2012 Middle East Motor
Awards (MEMA), one of the most prestigious automotive
award ceremonies in the Middle East.
This year’s Middle East Motor Awards were held in
Sharjah, UAE recently.
The selection process was overseen by 17 highly
respected automotive journalists and experts from across
the region, including UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, Egypt,
Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Lebanon. Tom Lee,
head of Hyundai Middle East’s Regional Headquarters,
commented: “With the Veloster we wanted to create
something new, a car that boasts its own personality
and creates individuality, redefining its segment with
its 2+1 doors and more technology than expected in a
hatchback. The award is testament that we have been
successful with the Veloster, which is already proving
a big hit across the Middle East, especially with young
buyers.”
The OTE Group is the exclusive dealer of Hyundai’s
range of vehicles in Oman.
Contact 800-77007.
Dr Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad
Al Saadi, the governor of the
Dakhilyah governorate, met
with Alan Jarman, head of retail
banking and wealth management
and Amour Mubarak Al Hadhrami,
Al-Dakhiliyah district manager at
HSBC Bank Oman S.A.O.G. in
Nizwa recently.
During the visit, Jarman shed light
on the bank’s latest developments
and updates associated with
the recent merger with Oman
International Bank and reiterated
HSBC Bank Oman’s commitment
to the Sultanate and its people.
Jarman also informed Al Saadi
that the integration process is
on track and is scheduled for
completion before end of year
including systems migration and
refurbishment and rebranding of
OIB branches. HSBC Bank Oman
currently has the second largest
network in the country consisting
of 88 branches and provides a
comprehensive range of banking
and financial services to more
than 400,000 retail customers and
10,000 commercial clients.
Dakhiliyah governor meets HSBC Bank Oman official
Hyundai Veloster named 'best hatchback'
Omantel 'unlimited' Mada packages
20 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
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The American Express Middle East
Luxury Spending Tracker surveyed
a random sample of 1,000 residents
drawn from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait,
Lebanon, Oman, Qatar and the UAE.
It found that residents of Qatar are
the biggest buyers of luxury goods
across the Middle East, closely
followed by consumers in Bahrain.
As the biggest luxury buyers, Qataris
spend up to $5,000 a month on
luxury goods, while consumers in
Oman and Jordan are the most
conservative shoppers spending less
than $250 per month. “Consumer
attitudes towards spending have
begun to improve significantly and
there is a noticeable rise in spending
on luxury goods and experiences
across the region,” said Mazin
Khoury, chief executive officer,
American Express Middle East.
Luxury spending on the rise in 2012
A recently opened family restaurant in Wadi Kabir is offering a fantastic time for
kids wanting to celebrate their birthday parties. Ashok’s Grill House (above Al
Maya supermarket in Wadi Kabir) has come out with a special birthday party offer
to woo in kids to their outlet. “We are charging just OMR1.200 per kid as part of
our birthday party special offer,” Ashok Laungani, owner of this and the parent
restaurant, Grill House in MBD, said.
The offer includes snacks and beverages plus decoration. Ashok’s Grill House
comes from the kitchen of the popular Grill House, located in CBD, which has
been tantalising taste buds since a long time now. Families in Wadi Kabir area not
only have a brand new eatery to look forward to, but, their children also have a
chance to enjoy a unique birthday celebration option.
Celebrate unique birthday parties at
Ashok’s Grill House
The GranTurismo Sport improves on Maserati’s tradition
of offering rich sporting character and high performance
while also delivering comfort for four adults and
effortless elegance and sophistication. An evolution of
the GranTurismo S and the GranTurismo S Automatic,
the GranTurismo Sport delivers a range of technical
features that enhance its sporting character, both inside
and out. Unveiled at this year’s Geneva Motor Show,
the GranTurismo Sport has been designed to stand out
from the coupe market with aerodynamically efficient
design upgrades derived from the MC Stradale. While its
headlight shape remains the same, Maserati has fitted
them with new lighting technology, including LED Daytime
Running Lights. Capable of sprinting to 100km/h in only
4.7 seconds and reaching 300km/h, the GranTurismo
Sport carries the latest evolution of Maserati’s all-alloy,
4.7-litre V8 engine, boasting 338kW (460CV) of power.
Available with both six-speed automatic and electro-
actuated transmissions, the GranTurismo Sport also
delivers a new generation of the Sport Skyhook active
damping system and dual-cast brakes for maximum
stopping power. It sits between the GranTurismo and
the GranTurismo MC to provide the mid-point of the
GranTurismo model range. The GranTurismo Sport
carries on the traditions of the GranTurismo, which has
been one of the most successful cars in Maserati history.
Since its launch at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show, around
15,000 GranTurismos have been delivered all over the
world. Last year the 2700 GranTurismo sales accounted
for 44% of Maserati’s total. The United States was once
again the leading market with almost 900 GranTurismos
sold in 2011, followed by China and Italy.
Maserati GranTurismo Sport
21Black & White
Nawras has
partnered
with
WhatsApp,
the leading
cross-
platform
mobile
messaging
service in
Oman and globally. This exclusive
marketing agreement gives Nawras
the opportunity to introduce new
services based on this extremely
popular messaging platform.
WhatsApp is already being enjoyed
by more than a million customers in
Oman.
Martin Lyne, Nawras chief marketing
officer, said, “WhatsApp has quickly
become a very popular alternative
to SMS for messaging, allowing
customers to communicate instantly
with contacts across the world.
With this cross platform reach we
will introduce further choice and
flexibility for Nawras customers using
WhatsApp.”
He added, “Today we have launched
an exclusive weekly WhatsApp data
plan which provides customers with
50 MB of WhatsApp data as well as
50 SMS for just 500 Baiza per week.
Customers can dial *141*23*81#
to activate this exciting plan. We
will also be launching a number of
exclusive smartphone plans with
increased data allowances as our
innovation continues to enrich
the daily lives of people in Oman.
This is the same vision that has
inspired the creators of WhatsApp
to make an application that people
love to use and together we can
make communications easier, more
versatile and always a rewarding
experience.”
Nawras partners with WhatsApp
Suhail Bahwan Automobiles, the exclusive importers and
distributors of Nissan vehicles in Oman, unveiled All New
Nissan Altima 2013. The completely re-engineered Altima
is poised to become the new benchmark in the hotly
contested mid-size segment. This game-changing model
will raise segment standards to new highs with its upscale
styling, “class above” features and globally recognised
levels of safety. The all-new 2013 Altima is a modern and
charismatic vehicle over-delivering on the fundamentals
earned over four generations and two decades, for
quality and reliability and class-above in innovation, fuel-
efficiency, dynamic performance and premium style.
“All new Nissan Altima 2013 is a complete technological
package – overdelivers on the basics, boasts features
and innovative technologies never seen in its class
before. The new Altima also offers outstanding drive,
enhanced handling, acceleration and thoughtful
technology solutions not currently found in the segment”,
explained a senior spokesperson.
www.nissanoman.com or
www.facebook.com/sbanissanoman.
All-New 2013 Nissan Altima
Turkish ambassador, Kerem Ahmet Kıratli, recently
hosted a grand reception to commemorate the 89th
anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic
of Turkey. The reception, which was held at the
Grand Hyatt, saw top government officials, including
Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, minister responsible
for foreign officers, ambassadors and many other
officials present.
Turkish national day celebrations
22 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
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For the fourth consecutive year, Sabco Media has
announced the upcoming launch of Mediate 2013.
Mediate is a distinctive hybrid media directory specialised
in profiling a wide arrange of Oman-based businesses
operating within the local media and communications
world. Commenting on the upcoming launch, Eihab
A. Abutaha, chief executive officer at Sabco Group
- Communications stated, “Over the past four years,
Mediate has proactively evolved to suit the various
needs and requirements of media and communication
professionals across the Sultanate.
Since its inception, Mediate has firmly positioned itself
as the key reference guide for the local industry and an effective branding platform through its trusted,
comprehensive and value-adding information.”
Mediate 2013 to launch
Veteran
journalist, author
and historian,
late Alfred
D’Cruz, 91,
was honoured
posthumously at
the 20th National
Awards by the Journalist Association
of India (JAI), under the flagship of
the Journalists Federation of India,
with the Lifetime Achievement Award
at a well-attended award presentation
ceremony at the Siri Fort Auditorium
in New Delhi, India, recently.
Handpicked by the then British Editor
Sir Francis Low way back in 1947 at
a time when Englishmen were at the
editorial desk, Alfred D’Cruz was the
first Indian journalist to work at the
editorial department of The Times
of India, Mumbai. During his stint
with The Times of India, Mumbai,
India for 40 years from 1947 to 1987,
Alfred D’Cruz worked with luminaries
such as R.K. Laxman, Mario
Miranda, Frank Moraes, Khushwant
Singh, M.V. Kamath, M.J. Akbar,
Girilal Jain, Behram Contractor
alias Busybee, among others. His
son Sunil D’Cruz, who is based in
Muscat, accepted the award from
Satya Bahin, former member of the
Congress Working Committee. Also
present on the occasion were H.K.
Sethi, Secretary-General and Kusum
Chopra, President of the Journalist
Association of India (JAI).
Veteran journalist Alfred D’Cruz honoured
The Wave, Muscat, recently held the official ground
breaking ceremony to mark the start of construction on
Marsa Village Retail Centre in the presence of the Wali
of Seeb, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Busaidy,
members of the executive management at The Wave,
Muscat and representatives of tenants who have
committed to the centre.
With a diverse retail offering, striking architecture and a
welcoming ambiance, Marsa Village Retail Centre will
provide a convenient everyday shopping experience for
the residential development and reinforces the community
appeal of The Wave, Muscat.
Michael Lenarduzzi, Ceo, The Wave, Muscat said:
“The Marsa Village Retail Centre will be the main retail
and commercial focal point within the development,
creating an opportunity for job creation at the heart of
the development, giving back to the wider community
in Muscat and Oman. The Wave, Muscat’s assets span
diverse sectors and create a variety of opportunities: from
the golf and marina operations to the hotel and hospitality
industry, The Wave, Muscat is fast becoming the catalyst
for long term growth and employment in Muscat.”
The Wave, Muscat new retail centre
23Black & White
National Bank of Oman has recently re-launched its Al
Amaal Child Savings Account with reinvigorated and
exciting features to encourage all the parents to save
more towards children’s future. “Oman comprises of a
very young demographic and approximately 40 per cent
of the population is below the age of 15. As one of the
leading banks in the country, we are obligated to tailor
our products and services to meet, if not exceed our
customer’s need”, said Harsh Munjal, GM retail, private
and overseas banking, NBO.
The Al Amaal account is a unique child savings account
that bears an interest rate of 1.5 per cent per annum
thereby giving the parents a complete financial security
for their child’s future. It is also loaded with free life
insurance and permanent disability cover for the parent or
guardian for up to RO50,000 and provides free standing
order payments from the parents account to the child's
account.
“As the first child savings account in Oman, NBO has
established a correlation between saving money and
being rewarded for it. Such an incentive to save sets us
apart and distinguishes NBO from the market,” said Hana
Al Hinai, head of product development, retail banking
division. Al Amaal account requires a minimal deposit
of RO50 and is offered for children aged 18 years and
under. Parents with children aged 12 years and above will
receive a free debit card and monthly interest payments
will ensure that a customer’s saving for his child keeps
increasing the longer they save.
NBO re-launches 'Al Amaal'
Omran, launched its corporate social
responsibility programme ‘Zaree’ in
Khasab. Inaugurated by Sheikha
Safiya bint Hamdan Al Shehhi,
member of the state council and
chairperson of the Omani Women
Association in Khasab, Zaree is
an income generating project that
will sell special tour packages
exclusively to female tourists who
wish to visit Khasab Castle and
embark on a cultural experience of
a lifetime. Established by Omran
in association with the ministry of
tourism and a group of local women,
the programme aims to empower
communities in Wilayat Khasab to
become economically self-sufficient
and self-employed.
Maitha Al Mahrouqi, undersecretary
at the tourism ministry says, “Every
Wilayat tells a unique story and we
are pleased that the first chapter
of Zaree will be written in Khasab.
Choosing the iconic Khasab Castle
to be at the heart of the program’s
activities links Zaree to Oman’s
rich history. We have reached out
to our global offices to ensure that
the programme extends to a wider
audience through strategic tie-
ups with various cruise and tour
operators.
The tourism ministry is working
closely with Omran not only to
promote Khasab as a destination but
also to give tourists an opportunity to
explore Oman and develop a deeper
understanding of our traditions and
customs.”
At the launch event, Eng. Wael bin
Ahmed Al Lawati, Omran Ceo said,
“With around 50 cruise ships carrying
between 400 to 4,000 passengers
each expected to arrive in Khasab
over the course of this season, there
is no doubt that the Wilayat was the
perfect launch pad for Zaree.
The interaction between the
women of Khasab and the women
of the world will channel a cultural
dialogue between civilizations, one
that will make their visit even more
memorable and meaningful.”
Omran launches Zaree
24 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
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Suzuki has always been conscious of keeping its prices
very competitive. 2013 is poised to offer customers more
value than ever with unmatched features and special
price offer on all variants of 2013 models and even more
bargain deals on certain 2012 models. While the stylish
Celerio GLX A/T is now available from as low as RO
3,495 net, Swift DZire Sedan GL A/T is for just RO 4,395.
The SX4 SEDAN 1.6L GLX A/T will cost RO 5,395 net
and the ever popular Swift H/Back STD A/T, RO 5,595.
The newly launched Swift DZire Sedan, is not only
practical and cost effective; it is also equipped with great
interiors and exciting features that makes it stand out in
the entry level of sedans. Available in variants of GA,
GL and GLX models, the DZire is equipped with the
latest K-Series engine delivering an impressive 95 bhp
gross with Dual Airbags and ABS as a standard safety
option. Due to the low cost of ownership, the Swift DZire
has been a runaway success with most of the Rent-a-
Car companies, major corporate companies and the
Omani as well as the Expatriate community in Oman. For
the price, this vehicle goes to define the true meaning of
‘Value’.
Contact: 99242103 or 99268023
Suzuki offers
P.D. Nath,
managing
director, Silver
Star Corporation
L.L.C. has
announced
their upcoming
exhibition International Textiles
and Garments Exhibition 2012
from December 1 to 7 at Oman
International Exhibition Centre,
Sohar. Silver Star has created a
niche in the exhibition industry in
Oman and has organised a series of
trade fairs and exhibitions including
single country exhibitions like first
Omani Products Exhibition, five
Indian trade fairs, Indian diamond
and gold jewellery exhibition,
international diamond and gold
jewellery exhibition, consumer
fairs including Global Village in
Muscat Festival since the past few
decades successfully with sizeable
participation for the development
of trade, industry and commerce in
Oman.
International textiles and garments exhibition 2012, sohar
To mark this year’s
Tree Day, students in
years four, five and
six at The Sultan’s
School took part in
plant-themed activities
and lessons dedicated
to highlight their
importance and beauty.
The youngsters were joined by Kindergarten students to
plant trees in the school grounds, while budding writers
were encouraged to express their appreciation for them
through poetry. All students had the opportunity to buy
plants of their own to take home to feed, water and watch
grow as they learned about the value of trees. They were
given coconut juice and date milk to illustrate the natural
health benefits that they provide. The message of the day
was reinforced as the social studies club distributed their
monthly magazine, which was dedicated to Tree Day and
filled with facts, information and stories about caring for
trees and their role in the environment.
The Sultan’s School 'Tree day' celebrations
25Black & White
A RAY OF LIGHT
If you are sitting at a coffee shop with friends and
someone in the group tells you that they are going to
build a car from scratch, you are going to laugh into
your cup and spill your coffee. Sometimes people
would like to amuse you with jokes. But, believe it or
not, this is a fact and it is as true as this unique project
is shaping up in a private college right here in Oman.
It is neither amusing nor a joke as there are 25
serious young Omani engineering students – and
their supporters -- out there who are committed for life
to bring out a formula one car in a matter of months
and race it at a prestigious racing circuit in the United
Kingdom.
These students are not only serious and committed;
they have an inner flame within them that is spurring
them to excel not only in their field but for the cause
of the nation. They want to raise not just their own
profile, but the country’s profile with this unique
venture.
Team Oryx members are going to create the first-ever formula race car in Oman and the Middle East. These kids mean business and they are our true leaders of the future
Mohamed Issa Al ZadjaliEditor-in-chief
In Black...
& White
In B
lack &
Whit
e
Often, we have pondered on the reality of the world out
there where the industrial countries are thriving, Japan
being a case in point. The 70s and the 80s saw various
countries like Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan raise
their economic profile with fast-paced industrialisation.
Then, we wonder what is it that they have which we
don’t? We export oil, but we import almost everything else
as our manufacturing sector is still in its infancy.
This is why we see a bright ray of light in the darkness
with the endeavours of youngsters like those in the Team
Oryx, who are going to create the first ever formula race
car in Oman and the Middle East. These kids mean
business and they are our true leaders of the future.
And what they need is not laughter but support, and our
motivation and strength. We should also in some way
contribute to this endevour of national proportions. Good
luck Team Oryx! And merry Christmas and Happy New
Year, dear readers!
B&
W X
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26 December 7, 2012 - January 7, 2013
27Black & White
Oman will launch its first ever student formula one racing car next July (2013).
This dream will be realised thanks to the supreme efforts of a group of students
of a well-known private college in Oman. These young leaders of tomorrow are
all set to put the country on the student formula racing map with their unique
single seat racing car, powered by a Yamaha R6 motorbike engine, which
is being designed and produced at the college’s exclusive workshop. Once
launched, it will be the first of its kind, not just in Oman, but in the AGCC, the
students behind this unique project reveal.
B&
W X
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sive
28 December 7, 2012 - January 7, 2013
29Black & White
A ‘formula’ for success
B&
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30 December 7, 2012 - January 7, 2013
SERENE SURROUNDING
The scene outside the sprawling campus of the 17-year
old Caledonian College of Engineering (CCE), one of
the premier private colleges in Oman, is a picture of
tranquillity. Cars are slowly plying in both directions
before the CCE, and although there was limited parking,
visitors still managed to find a spot. Inside, students and
faculty members, walk with a very serious and studious
disposition, all going about their tasks in a very dignified
and single-minded manner. It is a picture of academic
serenity.
TRUTH OR CHIMERA?
But, walk a little towards a select corner of the CCE
building and you will see an animated group of students
aged 18 to 25 – all in striking red workshop overalls – in
a riot of words. They seemed so intense in their verbal
arguments that one would think twice before venturing
into their midst. From a distance, one would believe this
was some verbal spat between sworn enemies. But give
it some time and the war of words will automatically end
and the group will file out of the workshop, laughing,
joking and fooling with each other like any college
students. What? Weren’t we all just witness to some
heated argument amongst this lot? What happened?
PASSION FOR EXCELLENCE
Witnesses to the group’s animated discussions reveal
that this is an almost regular scenario in the unique
workshop facility of the CCE. However, these students
from diverse platforms and equally different backgrounds,
Omanis and expatriates, and with totally dissimilar
thoughts and ideas are bound together by one singular
outlook – a passion for innovative excellence and
entrepreneurial enterprise. It is this spirit of endeavour
that has united these students and making them strive for
excellence, despite all odds and challenges.
FIRST EVER FORMULA RACING CAR
Their aim is to build and race the first ever formula
racing car at the Student Formula competition, which
is the largest student motorsport in the world. The
competition is organised under the umbrella of the
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and administered
by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).
These students' mission is to build the first ever formula
racing car and partake in the Student Formula racing
competition at the Silverstone Circuit in the United
Kingdom in July, next year (2013).
NEW WORKSHOP FACILITY
The CCE recently inaugurated a workshop to provide
support to Caledonian Team Oryx - the 25-member
student team - to build a single-seat racing car to take
part in this prestigious international competition. The car
will cost around OMR60000 and the team has already
31Black & White
received sponsorships and funds worth OMR33000 from
various sources, the students said.
The Student Formula competition is an annual race
attracting 3000 participants racing over 130 cars and
representing universities from more than 30 countries.
CREATION OF THE ‘BABY’
“This is where our ‘baby’ is being created,” declares
Haitham Al-Saqri (project and team leader), waving at a
large platform in their single-room workshop at the CCE.
The platform had a rough sketch of the actual chassis
(bottom) and parts and other elements of a car were
strewn around.
Haitham was giving us an idea of their workshop when he
mentioned the above.
Others in the room included Maitham Al-Oraibi,
administration leader, Syed Haitham, Sulhil Chalapron,
Mutassim Al Mujaini (Engine Leader). These were the
core team and the rest*, who filed in at regular intervals,
stood around, respectfully, while the key members spoke
about their pet project.
Somehow, it didn’t actually feel as though it was a
simple college campus workshop – there was an aura of
solemnity and sincerity surrounding the students and the
usual flippancy that is usually associated in such college
settings was totally missing.
JUGGLING ALL ODDS
But, when your mission is to design, build and compete
for the first time (first higher education team from the
Middle East to participate in this competition) with a
formula racing car, and strive to be the first team in
the Arabian Peninsula to participate in a prestigious
competition and also handle an intense academic study
schedule, it is not easy going. “It is not easy – but we are
not daunted,” Haitham said, when asked how they were
juggling both the rigours of a tough work schedule and
uncompromising academic studies. “But, then that is the
main axiom that our whole work revolves around – we
wanted to push the boundaries and we believe that is
what we are achieving here.”
INITIAL SPARK TO FLAME
The initial idea for the project sprouted in the early days
of February this year (2012). The response to that was
beyond their expectations. “We had a fantastic response
from the students of our college.
“There was a panel set up for short listing the team and
here we are a select team of 25 engineering students,
supported by the faculty, advisers, sponsors and well
wishers. We are 24 boys and one girl student, with six
core team leaders taking the lead,” Maitham Al-Oraibi
explained.
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32 December 7, 2012 - January 7, 2013
BIGGEST STUDENT CHALLENGE
“Everywhere in the world they say
youth is the future of the society.
So we, the youth, felt it is time we
took up that responsibility seriously
and strive to make a difference to
the future. We have taken up the
responsibility of the biggest student
challenge ever attempted, not just
in Oman, but in the whole of Middle
East,” Haitham stressed.
EAM ORYX
“We named our team ‘Oryx’, because
the Arabian Oryx is a unique identity
to the Arab world. The project
selected was to create a formula
student car and participate in the
Student Formula racing competition
in the UK. This is going to be the first
ever attempt by a student team in
Oman and the Middle East.
“We wanted to attempt and do
something out of the box than the
regular engineering projects. As
young and budding engineers, we
feel that we can do much more
than limit our skills and thoughts to
bookish endeavours.
“And as engineering graduates,
out of college, we would still have
to fight it out in the open market
for our careers. Our technical
qualifications will be incomplete
if we are not good in marketing,
management and organising sectors.
This project is going to equip us with
the mental attitude and ability to
handle all aspects of a project, from
administration to management to
marketing functions.”
NO FORMULA CAR PRODUCTION
IN THE REGION
The main members also gave a
brief about the student formula
racing competition and how from
the understanding that a need
existed here their idea germinated.
“In our region we have two formula
circuits, one in Bahrain and the
other in Abu Dhabi. But our region
does not manufacture or produce
formula cars, it is getting exported
and worldwide events happen here.
This made us think and that is the
basis of the formula car project. The
initial idea sprouted in our minds in
February this year and by end of
March we had shortlisted the 25 team
members. Students from all streams
of engineering came forward to join
and an advisory panel shortlisted the
final 25 member Team Oryx.”
CRAZY ENGINEERS VS
TEAM PISTOL
Projects of all kinds happen in a
college campus and the CCE is
no different. Recently, there was
an attempt to prove engineering
excellence through creativity when
students put in teams to display their
engineering creativity.
Two student teams ‘Crazy Engineers
Vs Team Pistol’ displayed their
engineering creativity by making a
Khanjar and a robot respectively.
They were given the tasks to creating
something out of junk and waste
materials. The teams did well and
their creations also had a message.
Team Pistol created a traditional
Omani Khanjar out of waste material,
retaining the traditional design and
merging it with modernity, giving
the message that Oman is a nation
that has adapted modernity, while
retaining its traditional identity.
Crazy Engineers created two reading
robots, calling it ‘Mustafa & Mustafa’,
both reading, learning...conveying
a message that there is no end
to learning! These projects were
created with an intention to motivate
the students and make them realise
that engineering can be of use in
day to day life, the team members
explained.
THE PROJECT
The CCE inaugurated their new
centre for creativity and innovation,
recently. As part of the same
spirit of innovative excellence and
33Black & White
entrepreneurial enterprise, the college also launched this
workshop, thereby establishing support to the Team Oryx.
The workshop was opened by Dr Abdullah bin
Mohammed Al Zakwani, executive director, Industrial
Innovation Centre. “A centre such as this is not about the
building and the facilities alone – it is about the spirit of
endeavour that is fostered therein. The Team Oryx racing
car project is an embodiment of our determination as a
college to provide support to students who have a good
idea and who want to make that idea become a reality,”
noted Jenny Walker, the associate dean of professional
development, CCE.
The CCE and the Industrial Innovation Centre is providing
the major part of the team’s sponsorship. “We are
supported by members of our faculty and we would like
to thank every one of them who have backed us in this
venture of creating the first ever formula race car. It is
going to cost us OMR60000 and we have successfully
raised OMR33000 through sponsorship and well-
wishers until now. We are still approaching corporate
and companies for reaching our target. We are hopeful
and confident and look forward to making this project
possible. As a group of 25, we have to rely only on our
intellectual abilities and determination to succeed. We are
proud of each other and our core team has the exposure
and learning to create the car,” the members said.
NO MORE IN THE COMFORT ZONE
They added that as students they were normally learning
quite a lot of theory and were also protected by parents
at home and guided by teachers in the college. “Most
of us like this comfort zone and score good marks and
successfully complete our education. But, does education
and learning end there or when you get a job?
NO! Learning never ends and unless we start putting
education in to practical use, think beyond the
conventional methods, we cannot excel or create. We
will remain theoretical geniuses, unable to put learning in
to use for ourselves and for the society. This project will
make us face challenges in a healthy manner, understand
and share knowledge and propel ourselves in to the
global arena of students and competitors. Knowledge is
a weapon every student gets armed with, and what does
an unused weapon do? Get rusted and wasted! We want
to prove ourselves and our knowledge. The project is not
a fancy idea to indulge in. It is a responsibility we have
taken up, not for winning a prize or for personal glory. We
are taking up the responsibility of being the youth of the
nation and bringing name and laurels to our nation,” the
team members said.
COMPETITION VISITED
But, were they aware of the huge responsibility they had
taken up? Do they consider it an uphill task now or are
they confident?
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34 December 7, 2012 - January 7, 2013
“We know we have taken up a big responsibility
through this project. While we believe that our
confidence is our strength, we didn’t want to be naive
amateurs in this project. We visited the Silverstone
Circuit in the UK and experienced the whole process of
selection and participation. The organisers were very
helpful because we were the first Arab team.
By doing so, we learned the critical points of creating a
race car, and noted down the most common errors and
omissions that could happen.
It is rightly said that when you know the competition,
you are half way through it. We made a checklist,
asked and learned the processes and have decided to
avoid and prevent the common lapses. This was like
a small rehearsal for us and we hope to pass all the
normal hurdles of creating the right weight, size and
texture of the car. What we felt proud about during
this visit is that we were actually able to help out some
teams in correcting their shortcomings and put them
back on track. We were not lost in there, we knew what
they were all doing and learned whatever we could in
the process. We are sure we will be able to perform
better because of the direct interaction we have had.”
24 MINUTES TO GLORY
With such efforts, the team not only declared their
35Black & White
seriousness for the project, but also stressed that they were
more confident knowing what they were going to face in the
competition next year scheduled from July 4 to 7, 2013.
“Team Oryx members will be there a week before the event
starts. The event has standards, rules and regulations. They
are of course easy to learn and follow; the car we are building
has to be 250kgs, the driver 77kgs and 190cms height. Every
little detail is specified and all we need to do is to follow.”
But, while they aimed high, they were also quite practical
proving that all of them had a clear head above their shoulders.
“We are not just thinking of winning -- we would ideally hope to
be among the top 20 positions. Last year saw 147 teams from
50 countries and the coming year will once again have over
100 teams from many countries. Our deadline is two months
ahead of the event, so we can practice the five stages of the
competition,” the members said.
THE FIVE STAGES ARE:
• Design analysis test
• Scrutiny
• Tilt testing (dynamics)
• Business logics (marketing case plan)
• Endurance test
The total testing time is 24 minutes where five drivers are
required, which includes one lady driver too. According to the
competition rules, one out the five drivers has to be a lady
driver. “Our team member, Shamla Al Kindi, will
be there with four other core members for the final
competition,” Haitham said.
CHALLENGES GALORE
The team members all chorused that they were
lucky and proud to have a genius design engineer
in their midst. Unfortunately, Togay Yuvanc
(design leader), who has designed the car as well
as the logo of their team, was not present, but the
members pitched in with their favourite member’s
exploits.
“Togay has, as a hobby, been designing cars for
the last six years and has created an exclusive
design with all related features for this competition.
Our core team also has Haitham (Saqri) who
has seen and participated in formula car races.
There are two more members who are good at
modifying cars. Team Oryx has students who
are talented in different fields and all of it put
together makes this a winning team. Though we
are all from different streams of engineering, we
have taken up equal responsibility and created
four departments categorised under mechanical
works and administration. The mechanical side
takes care of design, engineering, electrical and
mechanical aspects while administration takes
care of general administration and marketing. We
also created a Gantt chart and we have a five
hourly work schedule everyday to meet up with,
five days a week.
“As of today, we are on schedule. Our college
has invested in us and provided a workshop
suiting our requirement and this has given us
an additional boost of confidence and a sense
of belonging. Today, we are here at our campus
workshop working with the bend saw. We know
we have quite a few challenges to meet, from car
parts shipped in internationally to raising funds
to complete the project. We are optimistic and
confident that we will make it to the end!”
THANK YOU ALL
“Team Oryx would like to thank Jenny Walker
who was instrumental in Team Oryx being put in
place; she has been an inspiration to our team.
We would also like to express our gratitude to
Amutha Kannan, Dr Ahmed Al Balushi, our acting
dean; all our sponsors and well wishers who have
supported us till now.
We hope to receive more corporate support and
this will help us realise this dream project and help
us place Oman on the international fast lane.”
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36 December 7, 2012 - January 7, 2013
Some of the team members noted how initially they silently wondered whether she would adapt to the rigorous daily
schedule that the team maintained ever since they took up the project. But, as is the saying, Shamla was always the
first one to come and the last one to go and always shining with positivity. Today, the same team members say that
she is the “bravest one of them all”. She was ready and raring to go for the big competition when we met her.
HAVE AN OPEN MIND
“I am very proud to be a part of Team Oryx. I am in the marketing function and am a civil engineering student. It may
sound odd that a civil engineering student is part of the team that is creating a formula race car, and is also going
to be a driver in the final stages of the testing. But, that is how it is going to be. For me, it is a great opportunity to
represent the students, and be part of a global project that will put Oman on the world map. I hope to make the
team, my college and my nation proud. As a female student, the opportunities are galore and with an open mind and
the creative energy, anyone can be a performer. I am glad that I am part of this fantastic team and hope that I will be
a right and live example to all the girl students out there. Omani women have all the opportunities to excel and prove
themselves and we should make the right use of the opportunities by being confident and brave!”
Bravest member of Team
Oryx
She is what you may call the ‘lone ranger’, but she is
certainly not the odd one out. Shamla Al Kindi, who is the
marketing leader of Team Oryx, is a cheerful, confident
and positive young lady.
Formula Student is a student engineering competition
held annually in the UK. Student teams from around
the world design, build, test, and race a small-scale
formula style racing car.
The cars are judged on a variety of criteria. It is run
by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and uses
the same rules as the original Formula SAE with
supplementary regulations.
The 2012 Formula Student event was held at
Silverstone Circuit in July 2012.
There are four entry classes in Formula Student,
designed to allow progressive learning. New teams to
the event can enter a car in any class they choose.
Cars are judged on a variety of static and dynamic
events including: Design, cost, acceleration, sprint,
endurance and fuel economy.
Formula Student
37Black & White
1. Haitham Al Saqri (project & team leader)
2. Togay Yuvanc (design leader)
3. Shamla Al Kindi (marketing leader)
4. Maitham Al Oraibi (administration leader)
5. Mutasim Al Suqri (welding leader)
6. Al Mutassim Abdullah Al Mujaiui (engine leader)
7. Essam Al Muqadam (suspension leader)
8. Ahmed AL-Badri (fabrication leader)
9. Nooh Mubark Al Bulushi
10. Khalil Ahmed Al Farsi
11. Syed Haitham
12. Hisham Qassim
13. Ahmed Rashed Al-Rahiliy
14. Humaid Al Toqi
15. Krishna Prasannan
16. Jaifer Sulaiman
17. Mohamed Ali Al Farsi
18. Laith Sultan Al Rashdi
19. Abdulrahman Al-Jahdham
20. Asif Muhammed Navab
21. Debjyoti Chowdhury
22. Sulhil Chalapron
23. Nadhim Ali Al Rawahi
24. Faisal Al Siyabi
25. Ahmad Al Ghdani
Text: Adarsh Madhavan & Priya Arunkumar Photos: Ben
Team Oryx Members
38 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
Managem
ent
talk
Have a great life ahead...
By Dr CK Anchan
Dr Anchan C.K.
managing director,
World Wide Business House
We all have a mental picture of who we are,
how we look, what we’re good at, and what
our weaknesses might be. We develop this
picture over time, starting when we’re very
young. The term self-image is used to refer
to a person’s mental picture of himself or
herself. A lot of our self-image is based on
interactions we have with other people and
our life experiences. If you want to feel better
about yourself, the first thing you need do is
stop being your own worst enemy! Even the
most successful people have to deal with
disappointment, but they’ve learned how to
use it to get to the next level of life.
Accept that you will make mistakes
because everyone does. Mistakes are
part of learning. Remind yourself that a
person’s talents are constantly developing,
and everyone excels at different things —
it’s what makes people interesting. View
mistakes as learning opportunities. If you
realise that you’re unhappy with something
about yourself that you can change, then
start today. If it’s something you can’t
change (like your body appearance), then
start to work toward loving yourself the way
you are.
Stop getting down on yourself when things
don’t go the way you would like. Feeling
better about yourself will take some work,
buy you can do it if you’re serious about it.
Don’t let that little voice inside your head
say, “I can’t do it” or “I’m going to mess
up.” If you let that voice continue, you’ll
eventually believe what it says..If you’re
used to focusing on your shortcomings, start
thinking about positive aspects of yourself
that outweigh them.
Remember that the world is not out to
get you and it does not punish you. You
do that to yourself. Learning to focus on
other opportunities or in another direction
can give you some perspective. Aim for
accomplishments rather than perfection.
Think about what you’re good at and what
you enjoy, and go for it.
Don’t let life’s changes throw you off track,
but remember that most extenuating
circumstances are temporary. Gain more
clarity by staying the course and channeling
your energy in a positive direction. Desire
can be a powerful motivating tool, but
wanting something too much can be
very painful and very expensive, so don’t
live beyond your means or covet the
unattainable. Seek your desire, but keep
your integrity.
Believe in your inner resources, no matter
what, and you’ll grow from the experience.
I believe that the answers usually lie within
and you are probably smart enough to figure
out what you need to do. Give yourself
a little time and have patience. Learn to
access and direct your strengths to the
highest good for all concerned. Believe that
your strength and intelligence can help you
deal with anything.
You do not have to be who you are today,
and your life is not scripted. Changing how
you feel about yourself means creating a
strategy, gathering some new tools, and
making yourself into the person you want
to be. A good way to start is to stop doing
things that hurt. Enjoy spending time with the
people you care about and doing the things
you love. Relax and have a good time and
avoid putting your life on hold. Have a great
life ahead...
38 November 7- December 6, 2012
39Black & White
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Difficulty Level7/05
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onceptis Puzzles, D
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eatures Syndicate, Inc.
Difficulty Level7/04
Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given
numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares
so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same
number only once.
SOLUTION:
34869
5
3
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6
8
2
6
9
5
3
6
4
2
7
3
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7
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2012
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40 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
it is…
41Black & White
• Mosquitoes are attracted to the colour blue twice as much as to any other colour.
• Butterflies taste with their hind feet.
• African Weaver Ants can carry prey weighing more than 1000 times their own weight, hauling it back to their nest for
food.
• A cockroach can live a week without its head. It only dies because without a mouth, it can’t drink water. Cockroaches have at least 18 knees.
• Cockroaches are some of the most ancient insects. Fossil records show their relatives have been around, virtually unchanged in appearance, for over 350 million years.
• The largest spider in the world is a species of tarantula found in South America - Theraphosa leblondi - where one specimen had a leg span of over 11 inches.
• Honeybees may make 10,000,000 trips to gather enough nectar to make
a single pound of honey. The total distance traveled by all the bees to create this much honey may equal twice the distance around the world. Their activity for this single pound of
honey means a total distance flown of 55,000 miles and over 2,000,000
flowers visited.
• The wings of honeybees beat over 11,000 cycles per minute, but their
average flying speed is only around 15 miles per hour.
Tongue TwistersThe big black bug bit the big black bear,
But the big black bear bit the big black bug back!
42 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
Kid
stuff
Some of the salesmen in one of the leading jewellery
shops seem to be either underpaid or are not getting
time out to finish their lunches, especially during festive
occasions like Diwali. Otherwise, why do they display
gross and uncaring behaviour when potential buyers
come in and show interest? Some of the Asian salesman
portrayed typical ‘don’t-care’ behaviour and had some
of the buyers storming out of their showroom. While
salesmen in most of the gold shops are known to display
exceptional polite and at times cheerful behaviour, some,
like in this well-known Indian jewellery showroom located
in a sprawling hypermarket, displayed real bad behaviour,
showing total disinterest in the buyers, mumbling vague
replies and literally yawning and fiddling on their mobiles
instead of properly attending to queries. At one point, one
salesman did his traditional rude nodding of the head to
a query asked by a buyer who almost walked out. The
latter has promised to never ever step into this jewellery
shop again. Why are gold salesmen behaving thus?
Probably because they know that despite the hike in gold
prices and whatever the cost or whatever behaviour they
may display, people will still keep coming back. In other
words, arrogance! But, such arrogance will have a price
to pay, sooner or later. Watch out!
Everyone these days are bothered about only holidays.
Holidays announced? Do you know when they are going
to announce the holidays? Why haven’t they announced
the holidays as yet?
When is the next holiday? How many days are we getting
this time? Only two? What a pity! How can they give us a
holiday on Saturday? Saturday is my holiday! This is not
right! We must complain to the authorities concerned!
Why is it that we are only bothered about the holidays;
how many days we will get; etc, etc... Why is it that we are
in the least bit concerned about the fact that the more we
shut down our businesses for holidays, the more we are
going to suffer? Why haven’t we looked into the fact that
if we don’t work, we are going to lose out big time?! The
more we shut down, the more our businesses are going
to lose…
By the way, when is the next holiday…?
Gold salesmen losing shine
Holidays, holidays,
holidays…
We have been thinking of it since quite sometime now. Fi-nally, we have taken the plunge to bring home to you some offbeat stuff. Here goes, if you like it, give us the green signal for more; if not, just take it with a pinch of salt. For this fort-night, here is some nitter natter for the B&W Bitter Batter:
43Black & White
Residents in Wadi Kabir area have issued a warning: take
care of your cars friends because car thieves, or rather
car burglary, are on the rise! Burglary in cars used to be a
thing of the past but, it is slowly rearing its ugly head once
again, folks from Wadi Kabir claim.
Two cars were broken into and some minor items were
stolen from that, the folks revealed. This happened in the
dead of the night and thus it was impossible to detect
or prevent it from happening. Earlier, quite a number of
untoward incidents have occurred in the Wadi Kabir area
and some of the residents in some locales were even
wondering whether they should shift. But, fortunately,
good sense prevailed and with the authorities swiftly
taking concerted action things were restored to normal.
And it has been quiet ever since. Very very quiet! But, like
the proverbial quiet before the storm, the incidents have
begun again and the residents are worried whether more
of it would follow.
Wadi Kabir is generally considered to be a residential
area with expatriate and Omani schools and various
supermarkets and medium type restaurants dotting the
landscape. So, few of the residents would want to move
from there. But, they are on the vigil and have vowed to
take care.
All is fair in love and war, they say. But, is it fair when
members of the media turn nasty and try to damage the
reputation of their competition? This unwanted behaviour
is not displayed by scribes, but others in the media; some
from the advertising side, others from the distribution end.
Those from the advertising side are known to bad mouth
their competition and the distributors turn even nastier
by discreetly picking the competition’s publications
from supermarkets/hypermarkets other showrooms and
dumping them in garbage bins!
This is not fair!
Wadi Kabir residents
on the vigil
Not fair
(Note: Readers who have something bitter to chatter about can either email on [email protected] or call 99218461)
44 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
With the confidence you
are exuding you can achieve the
impossible. All you have to do now
is to decide where your priorities lie
and, more importantly, with whom
as your chance to excel makes this
a week you will not forget in a hurry.
Channelling your energy
into your creativity gives you a much
needed emotional outlet, but early
morning absentmindedness could
lead to delays and mishaps so try to
focus more. Don’t be afraid to think
outside the box.
The new moon at the start
of the week kick starts a new phase
of co-operation over partnerships,
and either brings someone new into
your life, or sets a fire under existing
relationships. Friendships bond more
securely too.
Although subconsciously
you feel that everything will be ok
and things will turn out for the best,
you still have to get from A to B, and
its that which could prove stressful
for you. You’re still suspicious of
someone aren’t you?
Keep your expectations
over work money and love realistic
or you’ll be left disappointed when
things don’t pan out the way you’d
wanted. Be careful of crossed lines in
communication over work or money
matters.
Others see you as a guru
or leading light in many subjects,
so they tend to listen to your advice
when you give it out. Be direct and
honest when someone asks you for
your opinion this week. They have a
lot riding on it.
March 21-April 20
June 22-July 23
April 21-May 20
July 24-August 23
May 21-June 21
August 24-September 23
Your ARIES
CANCER
TAURUS
LEO
GEMINI
VIRGO
Horo
scope
DAME JUDITH OLIVIA 'JUDI' DENCH, (BORN 9
DECEMBER 1934) is an English film, stage and television
actress. Dench made her professional debut in 1957 with the
Old Vic Company. Over the following few years she played
in several of Shakespeare's plays in such roles as Ophelia
in Hamlet, Juliet in Romeo and Juliet and Lady Macbeth in
Macbeth. She branched into film work, and won a BAFTA
Award as Most Promising Newcomer; however, most of her
work during this period was in theatre. Not generally known
as a singer, she drew strong reviews for her leading role in
the musical Cabaret in 1968. Her film appearances were
infrequent until she was cast as M in GoldenEye (1995), a
role she continued to play in James Bond films through Skyfall
(2012). She received several notable film awards for her role
as Queen Victoria in Mrs. Brown (1997), and has since been
acclaimed for her work in such films as Shakespeare in Love
(1998), Chocolat (2000), Iris (2001), Mrs Henderson Presents
(2005) and Notes on a Scandal (2006), and the television
production The Last of the Blonde Bombshells (2001).
Dreaming about money
doesn’t necessarily mean you’re
going to get it, so let go of pie in
the sky schemes and focus on the
slow and steady means of gathering
cash. Hard work and saving. Make
economical changes and be practical.
There’s a lot to be gained
from getting on with others, but for
that you need to be totally honest
with yourself. Are you prepared to do
that? Warts and all? The new moon
stresses the need for friends in your
life. Make the effort.
The moon in your sign at
the start of the week gives you the
green light to map out the next few
days and it feels great being back
in the driving seat again. Don’t be
afraid to try new methods of doing
things at work. It’ll work to your
advantage.
Be responsible when
it comes to career matters or the
needs of parents or elderly relatives
as a cavalier attitude will only lead
you into problems. Old structures
are crumbling. Time to build new
foundations.
You’re not initially prepared
for background problems that seem
to rise from nowhere this week, but
as long as you don’t over react, over
reach or exaggerate you’ll weather
the storm. Avoid false hopes. Keep
it real.
If you’re uncertain as to
what decisions to make this week,
think with your head but lead with
your heart. You’re all about making
new starts so hold your nose, jump in
at the deep end and embrace what
fate brings you.
September 24-October 23
December 23-January 20
October 24-November 22
January 21-February 19
November 23-December 22
February 20-March 20
starsLIBRA
CAPRICORN
SCORPIO
AQUARIUS
SAGITTARIUS
PISCES
Top notes
Middle notes
Base notes
X SPRAY
E-MAIL: [email protected], Website: www.albahja.com
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47Black & White
My left palm formed a vise like grip and encircled my right wrist, which
seemed to have developed a life of its own. The fingers were like Usain Bolt
before his Olympic dash just itching to zip ahead. The right and the left hand
struggle continued for some time and out came sputtering my New Year
resolutions when my right hand broke free.
The left hand admonished the right hand and said, “Do not write out yet
another new year resolution where you will be thinner, eat healthier, lose
your temper less, write more, love more, embrace your relatives, pray more,
spend less, exercise more, look better, be at the top of your game… the list
is endless and is repeated by you ad nauseam every year”. The right hand
continued to listen.
The left hand continued, “For a change why don’t you just embrace yourself
the way you are, fat or thin, good looking or ugly, bright or dumb, good in
one thing and bad in another, dark or fair,angry or calm. You don’t have to
be superwoman 24 hours a day and always be on top of things. In fact, you
are fine the way you are and don’t need 20 New Year resolutions for you to
become a completely new person.
Sure we all can do with some self-improvement, but that is a step-by-
step process and woven seamlessly in your daily life. It’s the feeling of
inadequacy that somehow you are less than what you should be which
accompanies making these resolutions and that also leads to the dismal
success rate of these resolutions.”
The right hand interjected and said, “No more resolutions. Just love yourself
the way you are.”
The right hand clasped and interlinked its fingers with the left hand and both
of them hugging each other said “Happy New Year”!
Love, hugs and prayers and wish you a splendid New Year!
Bye bye, adios, ciao, sayonara… Resolutions Vandana, award winning author
(‘360 Degrees Back to Life')
By Vandana Shah
It's m
y lif
e
Vandana Shah, Author 360 Degrees Back To life, editor of Ex-Files. www.vandanashah.com.
Email me what you’d like to say on [email protected]
Follow me on twitter Vandy4PM
47Black & White
48 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
Ingredients
½ lb sole fish fillet, cut into 1 inch pieces
1 small onion, chopped
6 dried chilies, without seeds
2 Tbsp black bean sauce
2 green onions
3 tsp ginger
1 green bell pepper, diced
¼ tsp fish sauce
½ tsp white sugar
¼ tsp sesame oil
6 Tbsp olive oil
Method
In a large pan, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil. When
oil is heated, place onions, pepper and chillies and stir fry
briefly, 3-4 minutes.
Add cut fish in skillet and stir gently, cooking for 2
minutes.
Add black bean sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, and
sugar and continue cooking until fish is brought to proper
temperature.
Remove from heat, garnish with green onions, and serve.
Cookin
g
Black Bean Sauce
FishS.Velmurugan
Ingredients:
cashewnut - 250g,
sugar - 100g,
mawa - 50g
ghee - 1tbs,
green & red food colours 1/4tsp each,
cardomumm seeds 1/2tsp.
Barfi
Water melon
Syeda Basarath
Method
Powder cashew nut. In a pan add ghee, cashew powder, mawa, sugar.
Cook on medium flame till sugar melts. Keep mixing while on flame to
make a smooth mixture. let this mixture cool. divide it into 3 parts. Add red
colour to one part and green to second and third remains white.
Now take the green part and flatten it. Take the white part and flatten it. Put
the white part over the green part. Now make a sphere of the red part and
put it over the white part. Close the green making a sphere so that when
its cut , it appears like watermelon pieces. Cut into four-five piece, sprinkle
cardamom seeds and serve.
50 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
Opin
ionate
d
LIKE MAMA, LIKE WIFE
If your man is not close to his mother, then subtly try to
find out why. There are so many reasons why he is not
close and got himself estranged from her. This can be
a variety of reasons – some genuine, some not. It is the
latter we are worried about. For instance, if there are no
genuine reasons and he is just a spoiled kid – grown up
into a spoilt man – who has neither the patience, time
nor the heart to be with their mother, then it is a different
story. That means he doesn’t value his relationship with
his mother, who after all is a woman. If it is not borne
about some real and genuine relationship problem owing
to something very personal, then it can be forgiven, but
otherwise imagine the situation for a woman in your
man’s life. Will she face the same problem? Will your man
treat you the same way he treats his mom? Think.
HE WHO BERATES …
Yes, sometimes, some mother’s may have been terrible
to their sons. They may have done something horrible
to their son and they must have grown with that anger
and perhaps, hatred even. But, as a grown up man, he
should let bygones be bygones. Most importantly, he
should never berate his mother. Badmouthing the woman
who gave birth to you is unfortunately not a man’s way
of dealing with life. Everyone has fights with their parents
and they might even tend to badmouth them once in a
while. But constant badmouthing them, especially the
no good
Mama haters
are
There are two types of men – the mama’s men (we spoke about this in the last issue)
and we have the mama haters. As a wife, you might feel
slightly okay with the latter, but, do bear in mind that if there are chances that if she is rude and bad to his own mother; he
could do the same to you. Just a thought to
ponder!
51Black & White
mother? This clearly shows that he has no respect for
women. He needs to drop it or you drop him!
The same thing applies when he is disrespectful and
nasty to the first woman in his life. Admittedly, she was
pretty awful to him in the past and there are even genuine
reasons for his anger. But, when in public, there is
decorum to maintain, not just for society’s sake, but for
himself; for his mama’s sake. If he is nasty to his mom
in front of you or others, make sure that you don’t join
him with your silence. You need to tell him to stop being
mean and vicious to his mother, at least in public. Ask him
directly how he could be so callous to his mother in front
of you and/or everyone? Tell him honestly that you fear
by this behaviour that he may not hesitate to berate you in
public too.
LET MAMA CLEAN UP!
Now, this last is something you can easily cure (unless it
has reached mammoth proportions). There are some men
who think that their mothers are mere maids. There are
many men out there who still expect their moms to ‘pick
up their trash’ and clean after them. It is a fact! He is also
the kind who does not handle his adult responsibilities
well and it can range from anything small like filling up an
application to a real major responsibility like commitment.
On the small scale front, this problem can be handled
easily because these are basically men who are immature
and lazy. Now, you can handle that right?
52 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
Shape n
sound
prevent cancerSteps you can take to
Modernity has brought in its wake a newfound confidence in tackling the dreaded disease. Especially among women. Confidence is good, but over
confidence is deadly, especially when you are trying to prevent the disease or handling it incase you are afflicted. Let us look at the prevention side of it: The
key factor in prevention is avoidance of many habits. Change is the word. Please try to adopt some serious lifestyle changes and you are lowering the chances of
acquiring many types of cancer.
52 December 7, 2012- January 6, 2013
53Black & White
Top notes
Middle notes
Base notes
Poem
E-MAIL: [email protected], Website: www.albahja.com
For women
FAMILY HISTORY
Early warning signals should be scrutinised properly.
Also, check out whether there is a family history of
cancer. If so, it may put you at greater risk than others.
So, you have to double your checks and in fact get
early screenings and look up every unusual symptoms
or suspicious spots on your body. Those having a
family history should generally bring in a sense of
alacrity in them and start their check ups immediately.
There is no need to panic, but there is every need to
be serious about your health. Many cancers like breast,
colon, ovarian etc are known to be hereditary also.
40? GET A MAMMOGRAM
So, get yearly mammograms. Experts note that every
woman over the age of 40 should get a mammogram
every two years, if not every year. But, for those having
a family history, this does not hold good. They have to
start earlier and also they need to have regular monthly
check ups. Regularly check your breast for lumps.
EXERCISE, EXERCISE, EXERCISE
As in every advice, this is something that you cannot
do without. Exercise. The more you exercise, the better
you will feel. The better you feel, the better you will be.
Exercise succeeds in lowering your risk of developing
many illnesses and this includes heart disease,
diabetes and cancer. It is recommended that you need
to put in at least 30 minutes of exercise at least five
times a week.
EAT RIGHT
You are what you eat. Get that into your head. The less
animal fat you consume, the more chances you have for
reducing the risk of contracting many types of cancer. The
good part about exercising and keeping to a low fat diet is
that you can also reduce chances of being obese. Don’t
forget that obesity is also a risk factor for cancer.
STUB IT
If you are a smoker or you are in line for a lot of
secondhand smoke, then be aware of one simple fact:
smoking kills. Lung cancer deaths always show a high
percentage among cancer deaths and ideally every effort
should be take to stop smoking. And indeed, it is something
that we can all do. In fact, smoking increases the risk of
many other cancers too. So stub it if you have the habit and
if you are facing secondhand smoke, then ask them to stop
it too. The sooner the better.
SUN SCREENS
Everything in moderation, that is the key and so, keep
yourself out of the sun during peak hours. If you are
into outdoors big time, then make sure that you apply
sunscreen. If you are into swimming, then get waterproof
sunscreen.
PAP SMEARS
It is important that you get regular pap smears because
they are good at detecting any unusual changes in the
cervix. It has been found that regular checking can actually
aid in preventing cervical cancer.
Busy making New Year resolutions, my
friend asked.
Why, do I look like I need any resolutions,
I retorted.
You could do with a couple of them, she
grinned.
Like what?
Like, maybe stop retorting, back
answering, reacting, maybe be a little
more diplomatic and keep an open mind
perhaps…? Now she was definitely pulling
my leg I thought!
She made me look like a monster of
some sorts, negative, irrational and boor
headed!
So much for diplomacy!
No one makes resolutions for behavioural
habits, and habits could even be genetic.
I sounded defensive, but I voiced my
opinion. I am good at voicing opinions, am
totally opinionated!
Now, people tell me that I should do away
with that too.
I call it freedom of expression. What is the
point in mincing words, when you can be
frank and tell people what you think? You
sit in meetings, conferences and brain
storming sessions… And you are asked to
voice your thoughts and when you do so,
you are termed difficult and prejudiced!
I have finally decided this year.
I will not change, I will not do away with
habits and behaviour I am comfortable
with.
It definitely takes an open mind to accept
our faults and short comings.
So I believe I have an open mind. And
being opinionated is not a bad thing at all.
It takes quite a few years to get an
opinion, chew on it and keep that opinion.
In fact I believe it takes lot of courage and
maturity to know what you want to say, to
be strong in your opinions. To look at the
positive side, people become professional
consultants and get paid a fat sum for their
opinions.
I will not make a resolution because it is
the last few days of the passing year and
most of them are busy making a wish list
for Christmas or a resolution list for the
New Year!
If it is one resolution we all have to make,
it should be that we will look at our flaws,
faults, bad habits, and failed ambitions,
and resolve to do better in the future,
every single day and not at the end of the
360 plus days we passed by.
As a kid I was consistently reprimanded
for two little flaws – being talkative and
biting my nails. So, I used to religiously
make up my mind every year end to
reduce my talking sprees and stop biting
nails. Years have rolled by and these two
resolutions remain broken year after year.
It can be empowering or even trendsetting
to “just say no” to certain unwanted habits,
but parting ways with a longtime vice is
likely to leave you feeling deprived and
fraught in the long run.
As we all vow to do a whole host of things
most of us will not follow through on,
this year my resolution is not to make a
resolution.
I have no resolutions to make.
I don’t want to change.
I don’t want to believe that I am stuck in
the ways I currently behave.
I am not stuck at all; I am finally what I
want to be. And I cannot convince anyone
why I am how I am.
The secret to change is to reform our
desires. Though they say desire is the
root cause of all misery, who can survive
without desires?
And we rarely do what we don’t want to
do, then why is it people keep asking
what’s your resolution going to be this
coming year?
By Priya Arunkumar
No more resolutions
