Black & white magazine issue 73

The Muttrah Chronicles p20

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3 October–November 2014Black & White


Published by: Muscat Press & Publishing House SAOCBlack & WhitePostal address: P O Box 86, PC 115, Madinat Sultan QaboosOffice location: Hatat House A, II Floor, Suite No: 212, Wadi AdaiPh: +968 24565697 Fax: 24565496Website: www.blackandwhiteoman.comEditorial: [email protected] at Oman Printers

Xclusive

Chairman Mohamed Issa Al ZadjaliEditor-in-chief Mohamed Al BalushiManaging editor Priya ArunkumarWork editor Adarsh MadhavanEditorial Khadija Al ZadjaliMarketing Shalet D'SouzaDesign & production Beneek Sirajudeen

Cont

ents

While a man may not want to portray himself as weak in any manner, as weakness and men don’t mix, the truth could be quite starkly different. Now, unfortunately, this is not something that they would like to share, especially not with their women.

The hard-cover 338-pages coffee table Throw Down the Anchor by Maxine Burden is a reader’s delight, replete with historical photos, many informative maps, plenty of beautiful photos and loads of information.

Cover photo: Haji Ayathan, a trader at Muttrah Souq

34

45 shades of grey

Throwing down the anchor

When a man gets to his mid 40s, several doubts about his looks, his body, his abilities and yes, most importantly, his greying hair and balding head assail him. What to do when you are hit by a mid-life hair crisis?

The Muttrah chronicles20Muttrah’s several hundreds of years old souq is a delightful place to visit for tourists and residents alike. But, many feel that the souq, despite having good footfalls, is losing its authenticity and its genuine local flavour that has once made it a vibrant must-see-and-visit place.

8 50 The secret fears of men


Beat it even if you can’t hear it

By Adarsh Madhavan

What happens when a sudden emptiness fills your life? Maybe I should not describe it thus. Call it a vacation from your daily strides. Call it a rest for your tired mental and physical limbs. Good, you say, but then realise in the same breath that you are on the wrong train. For you are on the lethargy wagon and you may not be able to step down even when you reach the stop. Have seen it happen to some and I have seen it always happen to me. I go on this trip, or this vacation, or call it what you will, and I don’t come back rejuvenated or blazing with fire to work.

I would simply toy at the words that I have to write for hours and although the ideas jump about like tadpoles, somehow they don’t leap frog into sense when it is put on paper. Somehow, in the process or the journey from the mind to the screen or the paper, the message gets lost or the translation remains less meaningful.

Somehow, I would not even be able to pick up the pieces. I would stare for hours at the screen or at the notebook and would not be able to move an inch. If someone wanted to trace my outline for a picture of a man with the frozen arm and face theme, I am ready and stiff for them, like for a new sculptor on ‘frozen despair’ or ‘immobile thoughts’, I would make the right model for I would be able to sit still for hours at length only to pause for a sigh.

Oh my, why does that happen, I have no clue. And maybe I don’t even want to know. I would really like to get on with it, rather than spend more of my time on finding out what goes wrong with me and how my mental and physical limbs suddenly go limp and dry. My fingers don’t shoot out words of wisdom or even limber up thoughts to ponder on. I just get back empty and dry. I don’t have the ammunition to

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fight the doubts that assault me at every stretch of this vast emptiness that fills me. Like being helpless in a deadly, hot desert stretch with no life or civilisation in sight. Not even a ship (of the desert). Not even a stir of life, or even a footprint, or a slither of a snake or a twitter of an insect. Just this hot blaze of doubt that assails your sense and sensibility. You are left to the mercy of the elements with no self defence and you can’t even explode in rage or anger or pain, just this blatant emptiness. So devoid of reason; so starkly barren and bare of meaning. It is like a river being stopped for a period and then when allowed to reflow, the ground sucks it up dry and it doesn’t flow.

The more it tries to flow, the more it sucks it dry. So what do I do? What do people who get stuck in a mire of emptiness do? Where do we go? What do we do? Perhaps, it could be like beating a drum. You were an expert at it and then something dries up within you and you are no longer able to create the magic of that drumming. You have lost the art of percussion and now as your tired fingers catch hold of the sticks and try to bring a rhythm, it beats itself into dull thuds so empty of life and meaning that you cannot attempt it further. This limb has become lifeless. Not just sluggish or slow, but suddenly dead. As though it no longer exists and it is no longer there.

But there must be a way, I say, trying to get out of this vacuous state of affairs. I must have drained myself in someway, but as half baked as it may sound, I think I should once more hold the sticks, grip them tight and swing them in the memory of a past beat, somehow, however difficult the attempt, I should swing it up and down and up and down and find it, find that beat, somehow trying to wipe the cobwebs off that old memory of a drum beat, move my hands and even if I don’t hear it now will still beat the hell out of it until, until I hear that beat, that voice, which eludes me at the moment.


I agree totally with the letters of both Mr Sadashiv and Mr Anish (issue 72) on the subject of littering. We cannot just stand by and let these litterers destroy the beauty of Oman. The tragedy of long holidays is the sheer madness that will be littered along the length and breadth of this beautiful country. I am tired of thinking and wondering why it is being done and like the two have said in their letters, time is ripe for action. We should stop them! Folks, if you see someone littering, please don’t hesitate to go up to them and give them a piece of your mind. Of course, you may get into trouble. Of course, they are not going to like it, but if you really want to do something, then do it. Tell them very politely to not to litter. Even if they get angry and abuse you, do your little speech. And if they are not shamed into picking up the stuff they dropped, then, do it yourself! Pick it and dump it into the next trashcan. It is not going to hurt you. Just do it!

Amarudheen B., Ruwi

Pick it up yourself

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Mail your views and opinions at [email protected]

I must congratulate the organisers of the .Open Minds forum to have organised such a fine event. Most of all, I thank you for bringing my idol, Sami Yusuf to the forum.

Of course, I wanted to hear him sing, but his speech was fantastic. I never knew he could speak like this. Thank you!

Abdulla Hamed, Muscat

Singer can speak


I must say that I am one of the luckiest persons on earth to be in the same room as my beloved author/writer, Lord Jeffrey Archer. I had the good fortune to get a ticket for the .Open Minds forum and I used the opportunity to good stead. And I had the biggest stroke of luck by being able to shake hands with Lord Archer (one of the organisers arranged it for me). To be on the same planet as the author who wrote ‘Kane and Abel’ is itself a blessing, so imagine when I had that golden chance to hold his hand and get his signature on his own book was unimaginable. I will never ever forget this, Lord Archer! Will treasure this book (with your signature on it) for life and I want to wholeheartedly thank the organisers of .Open Minds forum for this unbelievable opportunity!

Sheela Ranganthan, Seeb

.Open Minds forum was a revelation in many ways. I, for one, never knew that there were such great speakers available locally as Sheikh Khalfan El Esry and Mohammed Al Barwani. And although I have never heard of Tom Whittaker (amputee mountaineer) and Candace Johnson (Sattlelady), it was great to hear their individual stories and the other unusual part was to hear Sami Yusuf speak!

Wow, what a speech! I have heard him sing and I never knew that he could also speak!And to top it all, it was quite a revelation to hear my favourite author, Lord Archer speak. I only knew him as an author, but what an orator! My hair is still standing!Wow to you all!

Hani Jaffer, Al Khuwair

I have been hearing Sheikh Khalfan El Esry’s speeches right from childhood and each time it is enlightening and opens my eyes to new facets of thoughts and ideas. Each time he speaks he sets me on a new course of action and I am proud to be an Omani and I am proud to have an Omani who can speak and inspire youngsters like this!

Khulood Mohammed Hassan, Qurum

Lucky to meet Lord Archer

.Open Minds a revelation

Inspiring speaker

Sahar Hashemi (issue 72) has said a simple truth: “What makes entrepreneurs special is the journey they go on: they are not special before the journey – the journey brings it out!” What else do we need to know about getting on the road to our own personal destination? Many of us feel that unless we are special, we cannot do anything. Most of us are afraid to even take that first step on our journey to success because we feel we don’t have it within us and we are not in that ‘special’ category of people who can make special things happen. That is the biggest mistake we make even before we start out and this is the time to let us cut ourselves free from the doubts and the confusion in our minds as we hesitate to put one foot forward in the beginning of our trek or climb to our goal. Because of this doubt in our mind and because we believe at the start itself that we are not special, we are unable to make the first step to discover the whole new world before us. Sahar and her brother Bobby were never hugely special or talented people, yet, they went ahead with their idea and made it happen. Let us also find our own way out and let us also make it happen!

Samrutha Bhasker, Qurum

Anyone can do it


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Don’t get me wrong. But, the truth is that in men, the panic sets in when they turn 45. For, that is the age when most men turn grey. Of course, the other major concern is when things get thin and thinner on top of your head. Then you may not have to worry about the colour. But, most men turn grey when they are 45 and then they go blue and red with concern. Of course, one may claim that men are less concerned than women when it comes to appearances. And, even if that claim is true, the unfortunate factor is that you have to admit that even this declaration does not say that men are not concerned at all. We only say that they are less concerned.

Rarely will you find a man today who cares two hoots about his appearance. For this is the age when man and woman wants to look good by all means and when they find that they are not looking so good, naturally they feel down and at a later stage when it does not look good for them, they panic. Some of them even believe that the moment the colour changes happen, it spells doom to their male empowerment cause.

Unbeknownst to many, the male over 45 is in a constant battle. He is in battle with the elements, his peers and his juniors. And, perhaps, the male grooming market must be benefitting from this desire among the not-so-young males who feel the need to try to maintain their appearance. That market is slowly growing. But, despite all that, men still lose sleep over grey and thinning hair. Why? Because grey hair is deemed as a sign of aging and those with grey hair are viewed as older than they actually are. Thus, such men are constantly pondering on both losing the colour of their hair and also at times, their receding hairline.

Greying, other than the age factor, is also caused by

excessive dieting, say experts. And while men are today on the fret frontier, women are always there, but as far as greying is concerned, it doles out its colour generously to both genders. A point to note is that it is noticeable on those who have darker hair.

And they don’t stop fretting about it. But it should not be noted that greying does not mean that the hair is dead. And brother, do you know how many hairs your scalps contain. Well, about 100,000. And each hair is said to grow only for two to six years. And, then, it falls out. Give it some time, and soon, from the same pore, hair will sprout. This is simply put the lifecycle of a hair. Which means that regardless of a problem, around 70 to 100 hairs fall out naturally every day.

“Although many don’t admit it, men are unhappy with their greying hair. And this coupled with balding and associated problems pose a major part of their mid-life crisis. Truth is, men who are 45 and above have to still work and they would be in direct competition with much younger andblack-haired male colleagues. Therefore their need to maintain their appearance would be equally more,” a resident expert on hair told Black & White.While cure for grey hair and baldness are yet to be found, the trick is to take good care of the existing hair on men facing such a mid-life hair crisis.

Easy maintenance of the hair include: • Sufficient nutrition • Improving blood circulation to scalp• Not indulging in extreme dieting or eating unbalanced meals• Shampoo and massage scalp daily• Never scratch hair scalp with nails• Rinse properly after shampooing• Don’t brush hair with too much force

shades of

GREY45

By Graham Pane


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You wouldn’t be far off if you first thought that this was a jewelry or luxury watches shop! And indeed, the jewels you see here are delicious and high quality Omani dates and Belgian chocolates, presented in various forms and elegantly packaged. And there he stands, Mr Shabib Al-Kindi, the founder of tamrah. You can’t help but think that the company is a reflection of this man; calm, confident and determined. While Shaquel, our photographer, is busy taking great shots of the place and products, Mr Shabib walks us through this museum-like shop and talks with pride about Omani dates. He explains how they are prepared and packaged by skillful Omani women in custom boxes and beautiful Omani handicrafts. It doesn’t surprise you, after such a tour, to find out that repeat customers

of tamrah include the Shangri-La Resort, InterContinental Muscat hotel, and Al Angham restaurant. You’d also expect quality conscious people to be frequent buyers. And indeed, Zulfah Al-Barwani, founder of the famous LILAC beauty center, happened to enter the shop while we were closing up the interview! When I asked Mr Shabib about choosing the Opera Galleria, he replied, “Positioning!” After spending about a year in City Center Qurum, tamrah is now in the Galleria for almost two years. The message quite simply is that this is a quality product worthy of a quality presenting stage. Furthermore, Mr Shabib carefully picks his suppliers and actively seeks high quality Khalas dates. He is then serious about giving the dates the quality presentation “they deserve,” as he explains it. Mr Shabib carefully

By Dr Hamed Al-Azri

When you approach the Opera Galleria, waves of feelings and impressions

flood your mind. As you park your car in the clean

paved parking area and be embraced by the

luxurious entrance of the mall, you start to form an

image about the kind of services and products

that are presented here. As you walk to the first

floor’s East Court, where tamrah is located, you

say to yourself, “this has to be an upscale

company.” And it doesn’t disappoint!

Dr Hamed Ibrahim Al-Azri



chose the brand name tamrah - meaning a “date fruit” in Arabic - for its simplicity and perfect representation of the product. His vision is to spread tamrah branches around Oman and beyond. With orders and interest already coming from the UAE and India, the doors to the future seem to be well opened for him. tamrah is a great example of how a few key principles of marketing can be well executed to the advantage of small businesses. Mr Shabib’s focus on patiently and gradually building the brand is critical. He believes, rightly so, in the importance of consistently providing the highest quality products to customers. This, nevertheless, is offered at reasonable prices, which leaves customers with a sense of value for money. In addition, you could clearly sense how passionate he is about Omani dates, which motivates him greatly along the journey. Top this up with the fact that the founder is strongly committed to serve his community, and you have a strong formula for success.


Not ready for freedomBy Adarsh Madhavan Off t

he wall

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Last night I had a dream. In this dream, a man of many years, flowing white beard and hair, gave me a few home truths. He often comes in my dreams and dish out words of wisdom, most of which I don’t like and others which I conveniently forget.

As usual, he spoke, I listened. “Son,” he said. “You’ve got it all wrong. You speak of the need of freedom to air your words to the public, but you forget to realise that if ever that freedom is given to you on a platter, you are going to misuse it!”

I was stung by this reference to misuse. I have never misused, abused any freedom given to me; be it at work or in my personal life and I am particularly touchy about this issue. I don’t misuse, period. I wanted to blurt out this fact, but I found that I couldn’t get the words out. Even in a dream, I can’t say what I want (to say), I thought angrily. Add getting tongue tied to my litany of health complaints.

“Don’t speak, don’t retort now,” the man said, reading my thoughts. In dreams people can easily read others’ thoughts. “Don’t bother to reply now,” he said, adding that my time would come, but that sounded rather too ominous, if I must say so myself.

“You have got to understand that you need to be responsible before you get your freedom,” he said stinging me again. I take everything personally, and when someone says that I am not responsible, it hurts.Misuse, abuse, irresponsible. What next, I wondered.“I am not trying to bring you down,” the old man said, although, in reality, I was groveling at his feet with all his word slaps. “All I am saying is that whatever freedom that you get, you must be in a position to use it wisely. So, if you yearn for anything, be it at work or on a personal front, make sure that your heart is ready for it. Make sure that you can handle it. Make sure you will be able to do justice to the freedom given…

“Otherwise don’t hanker for freedom and even if you do get it, don’t take it – you are too immature to handle freedom!”I must have woken up at this point, for calling me immature was the last straw. I couldn’t take it and woke up with a start. The room was dark and cold, so I pulled the blanket over

my head and dug in for some sleep. I can’t lose valuable sleep over a dream.

Later, when I woke up I forgot all about the dream. It was not until late evening when I remembered the dream. I couldn’t get it. What was the dream all about, I wondered. What was the freedom that I was craving for I wondered? Why was I disturbed by the dream? Well, not disturbed exactly, but I wanted to know what it meant.

I tried to rack my mind about how or where I was personally imprisoned that my subconscious mind worked overtime to rescue me…in my sleep. I had no clue. If it was not something personal, then, I realised it had to be work – maybe, it suddenly struck me, it could be my desire to be straightforward in my work; to employ a more direct approach to stories and telling the truth as it is. This game of diluting the truth and saying it in so many different ways than it should be was actually killing me and perhaps, that is why I had a dream like that; perhaps in my want to be part of a brave new journalism world had brought about this dream; perhaps this freedom bit was my unconscious need to be part of a brand new free media …and then it struck me what the old man – the old man with a white flowing beard and hair -- was trying to get into my thick skull: he was saying I was not ready for the freedom as yet; he was trying to say that I still needed some more time to mature so that I will be able to handle freedom in a more deserving manner. If that happened, rest assured I would not be suspected of misusing or abusing that freedom. Unfortunately, what it clearly meant was that despite all these years in the media, I was not ready yet for the freedom that I secretly hankered for.

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Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi’s leading tertiary care facility, announced the opening of its new medical centre, Burjeel Medical Centre (BMC) in Oman under the auspices of Dr Sultan Al Busaidy, advisor to the minister of health, J. S. Mukul, Indian ambassador was also present on the occasion. The official inauguration was held in the presence of Dr Shamsheer Vayalil, managing director of VPS Healthcare; Dr Charles Stanford – senior director – VPS Healthcare and the Ceo of Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi, Clancey Po. The 22,000 sq. ft. multi-specialty centre is conveniently located next to Al Meera

Hypermarket in Azaiba. The new centre has been established as an extension of Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi to expand its quality of healthcare services to the residents of Oman. Dr Shamsheer said, “The opening of the new medical centre demonstrates our focus on widening our expertise in healthcare and reaching out to communities beyond the UAE. Burjeel Medical Centre will continue to create synergies with communities and enhance the experience and win the trust of our guests. Burjeel Medical Centre’s wonderful team of dedicated physicians is happy to make a difference and reach

out to the people of the Sultanate.” Retnakumar Janardanan, Ceo, VPS Healthcare said, “We believe that there is no compromise when it comes to our patients’ health; and quality and comfort are an unwritten expectation from us. In keeping with this, we are certain that our Centre in Muscat will provide a wonderful ‘art of healing’ experience for all. Top in-house doctors and visiting consultants, supported by a keen nursing and customer care team will be our key strength.”

Burjeel Medical Centre opens in Muscat

The National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) revealed the latest figures for visitors to the Governorate of Dhofar during the 2014 Khareef season. The NCSI report showed that the overall number of visitors – including Omanis – in the period between June 21 and August 20 – stood at 352,755, compared to 303,365 in the same period in 2013, representing an annual growth of 16.3 per cent. Omani nationals comprised 74 per cent of the visitors, while 12.7 per cent were the UAE nationals and 4.9 per cent were from other GCC states. The number of GCC nationals who visited Salalah in the same period registered 323,153 visitors this year, compared to 275,556 visitors in t he same period of 2013, registering 17.3 per cent increase.

The number of non-GCC nationals also markedly increased to 6,410, up by 85.1 per cent on the 2013 figure of 3,463. Also, the number of European visitors increased by 1.2 per cent from 1,403 to 1,420, while the number of visitors from America rose by 39.1 per cent from 358 to 498. Visitors from Australia and New Zealand also increased by 32.6 per cent from 89 last year to 118 this year. Meanwhile, the number of visitors from Asia and Africa dropped by 6.5 per cent and 12.4 per cent respectively, from 22,374 and 121 last year to 20,922 and 106 this year. The NCSI report also noted that 100,078 Salalah visitors arrived by air, represented by 86,630 on domestic flights and 13,448 on international flights, while 252,677 travelled by road.

Over 352k visit Salalah during Khareef

The buzz was palpable and the excited voices indicated that all the ladies present were really excited to be back. The new season of the WGO was marked by the first registration morning at the mOre Café Opera Galleria recently, and the turnout surprised even those who were prepared for large numbers of both new and returning members. The WGO’s mission is to “offer fellowship, an opportunity for women to meet each other, to enjoy a varied programme of speakers and events, and to raise funds for charitable purposes”. At the first meeting, 13 women met at the home of Hilda Staal, including Eloise Bosch who still lives here in Muscat and is a WGO member to this day. The first bazaar and fundraiser, raised

OMR700. Since then the organisation has flourished and the membership of 2013/14 reached almost 2,000 members with around OMR24,000 donated to local charities. The 2014/15 season sees the line up of a number of exciting events through to the end of 2014, including the Christmas Lunch (Dec 7). All event details can be found on the WGO website www.womensguildoman.com and look out for our upcoming events through 2015. The WGO’s showcase event of the year will be the Crystal Ball to be held on December 12. The theme this year will be a ‘Masquerade’ Ball, so start looking for the perfect masked accessory for the occasion. Proceeds from this year’s ball will be donated to Oman Cancer Association.

A new season commences for the Women’s Guild of Oman (WGO)


With its ultra-dynamic proportions, elegantly sporty lines, low-slung silhouette and futuristic design features, BMW’s i8 plug-in hybrid sports car is expected to cause a sensation on the roads when it goes on sale across Oman this month. The BMW i8 signals the future of sustainable motoring and the BMW Group importer in Oman has opened its doors to customers keen to learn more about this phenomenal vehicle. Commenting on the arrival of the revolutionary BMW i8, Divyendu Kumar, managing director of Al Jenaibi International Automobiles said: “Demonstrating our commitment in delivering the best technologies and most innovative sustainable solutions, we are thrilled to announce the arrival of BMW’s revolutionary car, the BMW i8. Customers can now learn more about its

intelligence as it combines the performance and appeal of a sports car with the fuel consumption of a small car. Globally the car has been well received, and we are confident this will be the case in Oman.“

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Ahli Bank, one of the leading banks in Oman, and Ramsay Sime Darby Healthcare (RSDH), a leading one-stop healthcare providers in Malaysia, have joined hands to launch wellness and leisure packages.Under this arrangement, RSDH will offer an exclusive three days two nights wellness packages to the Ahli Bank’s debit and credit cardholders at attractive rates. The offers, which run from September to December 31st, will enable Ahli Bank cardholders to enjoy all inclusive wellness and leisure packages. Cardholders are entitled to two nights and three days accommodation in a world class hotel in Kuala Lumpur, daily breakfast, a prime time health screening at Ara Damansara Medical Centre or ParkCity Medical Centre, ground return transfer, and return airport transfer with the choice of KLIA Express VIP service or private transfer. To top it all, customers are also given complimentary half day city tour and other benefits. This all inclusive travel

and health screening packages will enable customers to experience Malaysia’s tourist attractions and affordable world class medical facilities. “Delighting our customers is our hallmark of service philosophy. Our customers deserve the very best, therefore we have selected the best brands and services to facilitate their needs with which they can enjoy exclusive privileges as cardholders,” said Lloyd Maddock, chief executive officer at Ahli Bank.

Ahli Bank launches wellness packages for cardholders

Al Nahda Resort & Spa has appointed Sonika Adlakha as the new director of sales for the 109-room resort, with responsibilities for The Jungle Restaurant, Bahja Hall and the new Dunes by Al Nahda, soon to open. Adlakha, from India, brings extensive experience in the hospitality industry with international hotel groups

including IHG and Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts in India and, most recently, from Las Vegas Sands Corporation, where she was responsible for driving sales from India to the Venetian in Macau, Venetian in Las Vegas and Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. Commenting on the new appointment at Al Nahda Resort & Spa, Krishna

Suri, resort manager, said: “We are delighted to announce this key new appointment to our management team and welcome Sonika who all bring a wealth of experience and expertise to continue to strengthen the success of the resort and lead the team as we prepare to open Dunes by Al Nahda.”

Al Nahda Resort & Spa new director of sales

The revolution of the sports car – the BMW i8 arrives in Oman


For small-to-medium sized enterprise, Geely has an excellent range of vehicles that are efficient and value for money. The SME businesses look at cost optimisation and Geely has just the perfect cars that offer reliability, safety and affordability. In a short span of three years, the Geely Emgrand range – GC2, GX2, Emgrand 7 (Sedan and Hatchback), Emgrand 8 and Emgrand X7 SUV – has become extremely popular in Oman for its stylish look, safety features,

performance and fantastic prices. A spokesperson from Towell Auto Centre (TAC), sole distributors of the range in Oman says, “Today all of us talk about developing SMEs in the country, and one way SMEs can do well is by saving their money through astute fleet management. Geely has cars which are loaded with excellent features and are a value for money. Moreover, when companies reduce their budget, their cars get smaller causing a discomfort to their employees. But Geely lets you

buy a big sedan or an SUV for the price of a small car. This helps the small and medium businesses both in terms of cost management and also to motivate their employees. Starting with a 1.3 L car up to a 2.4 L sedan and a SUV, Geely Emgrand range embodies versatility and latest technologies to provide vehicles at surprising values”.

Geely Emgrand for your business

A timepiece created with travelling horlogerie connoisseurs in mind, the new Cartier Tortue multiple time zone watch is now available in Oman exclusively at Khimji’s Watches. With its striking design and high legibility, the Tortue provides a large amount of time information and a level of ease of use that will greatly appeal to world travellers. Combining the simple lines of its tortoise-shaped case, available in pink or white gold and a version set with diamonds, the Tortue multiple time zone watch is an imposing timepiece that discreetly shows its

interesting sophistication. The Tortue has a dial incorporating a mobile disc carrying the names of major cities which each represent a time zone. In order to lighten the design of the watch’s face, Cartier chose to have these names appear in a window cut into the side of the watch’s case middle. To avoid the need for mental gymnastics, the time at the current location is clearly displayed by the principal hands while the time at the journey’s starting point is indicated in a semi-circular aperture in the lower half of the dial centre by a day/night hand incorporating symbols for

the sun and moon. This ingenious mechanism, allows the wearer to see the time, displayed in 24-hour mode, in cities corresponding to the 24 most commonly used time zones.

Khimji’s Watches unveils the Cartier’s Tortue for travellers

Mazda Oman has achieved a stunning benchmark in terms of overall sales in the first half of 2014. The convention-defying Japanese company hiked passenger car sales by 33 per cent between January and June this year, outpacing the overall market by a wide margin. All Mazda models - Mazda2, Mazda3, Mazda6, CX-5 and CX-9 - are exceptionally popular in Oman, as most of these SKYACTIV Technology-based models combine

stunning KODO designs and superb performance with class-leading fuel economy and Mazda’s patented driving fun. A senior spokesperson of Towell Auto Centre (TAC), the sole distributors of Mazda range in the country comments: “The growing sales reflect not only our excellent products and salesmanship but also our proactive marketing strategy, aggressive pricing and stunning styling which gives us a

rock-solid foundation for consistent customer satisfaction. It is indeed an overwhelming feeling that more and more customers are coming to appreciate the attractive ownership proposition that Mazda’s product line-up represents”.

Mazda Oman sales soar in first half


Under the patronage of Tariq Sulaiman Al Farsi, Ceo of Al Raffd Fund, and in the presence of Said Bin Saleh Al Kiyumi, chairman of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), Muscat Grand Mall celebrated the official launch of ‘Dar Al Herafiya’ outlet – a handicraft and small business initiative sponsored and supported by the ‘Manafeth’ programme by the OCCI.Manafeth, which is the Arabic word for ‘outlets’, is a programme established by OCCI, and it aims to support small and medium-sized

enterprises to start their own retail outlets in shopping malls, allowing them to promote their businesses and introduce themselves to the public. The Dar Al Herafiya store specialises in production, sale and promotion of traditional Omani handicrafts that are made by talented Omani craftsmen. The store aspires to establish reliable products following international quality standards in order to meet the clients’ demands locally and internationally. A variety of products are available at Dar Al Herafiya, from

silver products, table sets, Omani Khanjar, woodworks, leather goods, clothes, dates and frankincense containers, potteries, decoration ships, and many other original Omani handicrafts that are designed with international standards and that are capable to compete in the global market.

“Dar Al Herafiya” opens in Muscat Grand Mall

Nawras has launched their new 4G/LTE home broadband services for prepaid and postpaid customers – the first in the Sultanate to do so. Using their LTE network gives customers an online experience up to three times faster than 3G, for everything from surfing to movie downloads, music streaming and online gaming. The monthly plans come in a great range of options for both prepaid and postpaid customers, begins with an entry level bundle offering 10 GB for OMR15, then 25 GB for OMR19, 75 GB for OMR23 and 150 GB for OMR33.

Feras Al Sheikh, Nawras director of consumer sales, said, “We are the first operator in Oman to offer LTE Home Broadband in Oman and the only operator who is able to have customers up and running on high speed home broadband on the day that they subscribe. We believe customers should not have to wait for home broadband. Everything they need is in the box they leave a Nawras store with, so all customers have to do is plug in a start surfing. As of today, the Batinah coast and large parts of Muscat are covered with our LTE Home Broadband and we plan to roll out to the entire

Sultanate over the coming months. So everyone will be able to benefit from faster speeds on one of our great value packages which are designed to suit different usage requirements and budgets.”

Nawras launches Oman’s first LTE home broadband packages

It’s time to bring out the steins, dig into some juicy wurst and do your best impression of a merry Bavarian, because the Radisson Blu, Hotel Muscat has announced an amazing Oktoberfest celebration in town. The hotel lawns adjacent to The Lazy Lizard hosted hordes of jolly Germanophiles as they get together and say ‘Prost’ (cheers) to great food, drinks, music, dance, and fun-filled games, all in quintessential German

style. Says Marius Wolmarans, general manager at the hotel,” There is no doubt that the Oktoberfest is an international phenomenon, and not just a national festival. However, given that not everyone can go to Germany for the original thing, the Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat offers the next best option: an authentic slice of the Oktoberfest, right here at home! Like every year, we have worked hard to ensure that only the

best Bavarian food and beverages are served to our guests at the celebration. In addition, we also organised music, dancing and games for their enjoyment.”

Oktoberfest time at the Radisson Blu Hotel

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Over 2.1m tourists visited the Sultanate in 2013, according to government figures, up by 7.8 percent on the previous year. Oman is moving at speed to accommodate rising visitor numbers by rolling out several hotels and infrastructure projects. However, skills shortages in the local labour market risk hampering the sector’s fast-paced expansion. Sustained growth in Oman’s tourism industry is expected on the back of rising interest in the destination together with favourable economic conditions driving up disposable income and improved connectivity.Promising outlookTourism made a direct contribution of $2.5bn to the economy in 2013, equivalent to three percent of gross domestic product (GDP), according to a report released in April by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). The council’s Travel and Tourism Economic Impact 2014 report on Oman said it expected that figure to rise by 10.2 percent this year, after which it anticipates an average annual increase of 5.4 percent throughout the following decade. Once investment, the supply

Oman’s tourism sector poised for boom

chain and induced income impacts were included, tourism’s overall contribution to Oman’s economy last year reached $5bn, and is forecast to hit $10.1bn by 2024, the council said. By this time, the WTTC concluded, the industry should account directly for 4.4 percent of national employment. Oman has witnessed an increase in domestic business and leisure travel on the back of rising economic momentum. The domestic travel component accounted for more than half of all direct spending, according to the council’s findings.

The much coveted Rolex Deepsea with D-blue dial is now available at Khimji’s Watches – the one stop destination for luxury brands in Oman. A timepiece in commemoration of James Cameron’s historic solo dive to the deepest place on earth - the bottom of the Mariana Trench, the Rolex Deepsea is a new-generation divers’ watch.It is waterproof to an extreme depth of 3,900 metres (12,800 feet). Its 44 mm Oyster case, reinforced with the patented Ringlock System, is designed to exceed the most exacting demands of professional divers. And its D-blue dial represents the colours of the deep - from deep blue to pitch-black, it is reminiscent of the ocean’s twilight zone where the last

trickle of light from the surface disappears into the abyss. All in all, this new timepiece from the house of Rolex defines new standards of robustness, precision, functionality and reliability. Madhursinh Jesrani, general manager, Khimji’s Watches comments: “With the new version of the Rolex Deepsea equipped with a gradient D-blue dial, Rolex is celebrating not only its partnership with James Cameron’s historic expedition, but also its commitment to exploration, innovation and the

constant desire to push the limits of human endeavour. Indeed this new watch is the ultimate divers’ watch with exceptional strength, and will surely appeal all those who are fond of underwater exploration.”

Glimpses of AABS 1st anniversary celebration on Kerala Piravi day at Crystal Suites. The chief guest of the event was renowned malayalam poet and lyricist Murukan Kattakada. Other present include Girija Baqer, PM Jabir, Dr Jitheesh Kumar and Leena Francis. Various skits, dances and songs focusing Kerala's rich culture was performed on the stage.

Rolex Deepsea with D-blue dial now available at Khimji’s Watches

AABS first anniversary celebration on Kerala Piravi day


What is this thing women have with colour and why do men have to be dispatched on these hazardous missions to match the blouse to the sari or the used up favourite nail polish and carry little strips of cloth in an envelope when they go on business trips? Men are not equipped to handle these expeditions. Speak of misplaced confidence.

Men know of black and white and red, yellow, green and blue and if we are stretched we can figure out that VIBGYOR is the acronym for the colours of the rainbow. Wives, theyhave it all so complicated. Like my wife will say, but I asked you for Coral Pink lipstick, this is not Coral Pink, this is Dawn Radiance. What did you want me to do, my love, jump off a reef and check out the colour of the coral?

Have you heard wives discuss ‘now’ colours? Mine once called me up in Delhi and said I need Hot Magenta coloured cushion covers and they should have an Electric Lime outline. Here I am trying to get an interview with a minister and now I am on this multi-hue hunt. So, the shopkeeper says, sorry no Hot Magenta?

And I say, what about Cold?He says, there is no such thing as Cold Magenta.I say okay, how about Lukewarm. He gives me a frosty look, these textile types are in on this colour game and they are not on your side. He says, we do have Caribbean Blue though frankly, I prefer Deep Pacific. I look blank. He looks at me as if I was something sickly and downmarket and says, if Sir does not know his colours maybe it would be better if madame came and made the selection. I said Sir could go down to the West Indies and then return via the Pacific to see which colour would match but he does not laugh...no sense of humour these guys. At which point I call my sister on the phone and she says, the colour you might want to try could be Blushing Teal. That’s a duck, I say, a teal is a duck, we used to go teal hunting when we were young, how can it be a colour and why would a duck blush? So my sister says, look, you want help with your shopping list, sunshine, don’t give me attitude.

My sister is like that. She has been like that for 60 years. Kind, helpful, sweet. I say okay, Teal it is then. The shopkeeper says we have run out of Teal but we do haveFuschia.

Who?Fuschia, he says, it is a gentle colour, very endearing. So I get back on the phone and say, they have Foo something seeya. My sister says, no fuschia won’t do, it won’t go with the decor, your sofas are Midnight Blue aren’t they. Are they, I ask, I thought they were sort of blackish-greyish.

If you haven’t changed them since the last time I was there they are Midnight Blue so you could try cushion covers in Burnt Sienna.If it is burnt, I say, why would I want it, I mean, the stuff is already ruined.

It is the colour, silly, it is called Burnt Sienna. At which point my mobile rings and it is the Minister’s PA and he puts the Minister on and I say, hello Sir, I amlooking for my wife’s cushion covers, do you prefer Burnt Sienna or Foo-something seeya.He says, what colours are the sofa?I now speak with authority and say, Midnight Blue. I am a swift learner.He says, hmmmmm, you know I am an expert on colours, check if they have Royal Passion Purple.The shopkeeper says, no.

I jest again, having never been able to learn a lesson.Do you have the common man on the street variety? The shopkeeper sneers. The minister says,frankly, if you cannot get Passion look for Baby Blue?What’s wrong with the baby, I say, why is it blue, is it being choked? The minister says, you are so ignorant, how does your wife ever send you shopping? It is a question worth asking but I mean, look, guys, why would anyone have a colour called Baby Blue. When did you last see a baby go blue and everyone said, what a gorgeous colour? Right, the cushions have still not been bought. But I am a goner for Carnation Pink.

The colour of confidenceBy Bikram Vohra Bikram Vohra, internationally-

known Gulf based scribe

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LET US REVIVE THE OLD TRADITIONAL MUTTRAH SOUQThe other day, two of my guests from abroad were asking me about Oman’s culture. I started a lecture on the culture as well as tradition of Oman when suddenly a thought hit me. Hop in, I told them and took them both to the Corniche side gate of the Muttrah souq. “Go and explore this souq,” I told them, waving them inside the souq, “And then come out and tell me about Oman’s culture!”Of course, the Muttrah souq is nothing like it was before and perhaps, today’s souq may even send the wrong signals to visitors wanting to delve into the culture of Oman. But, despite the multifarious changes that the souq has gone through, embedded in it still lies the culture, the heritage and the real tradition of this several hundred years old souq, which is a real pride of Oman. In fact, whenever anyone queries me about the culture of Oman, the first image that comes to my mind is the Muttrah souq. But, having said that, I still feel that there is a stark need to revive the old tradition, which is slowly sinking in the so-called modernity that surrounds the souq of today. Oman is promoted and considered as a great cultural destination, so let us preserve the symbols of culture that our forefathers have created.Many countries in this region have renovated, redesigned and modernised their local souks, dressing it up for the visiting tourists, but in that process have taken away the soul of the souks. But I still feel nostalgic when I visit the Muttrah souq; it has

As an Omani national, who is proud of our nation’s rich and varied culture, I wish that authorities concerned will look in to reviving the old traditional Muttrah souq, bring back the original authentic Omani hospitality, culture and traditions

Mohamed Issa Al ZadjaliChairman

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still retained its essence, even though modernity has set in. The small alleys and the crowded evenings reflect the ancient culture and still retain the essence of the souq. However the old timers of the souq, the loaders, the barbers, the Omani food outlets, the predominantly Omani traders all are missing today. Where have they all gone?As an Omani national, who is proud of our nation’s rich and varied culture, I wish that authorities concerned will look in to reviving the old traditional Muttrah souq, bring back the original authentic Omani hospitality, culture and traditions, allow the old-time trade to bloom and bring back the magic of the Muttrah souq, without sullying it with the negative aspects of modernity. The local crafts and trades can be injected in to the shops, allowing the youth to grow their craftsmanship in authentic settings, allowing a healthy ground for the silver trade and crafts to shine, while still retaining our 300 to 400 year-old market’s history.The B&W highlights this need in this issue and also interviews Maxine Burden, the author of a new book – Throw Down the Anchor -- that seeks to find the history of the oldest souq of Oman.

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The Muttrah Your senses are teased and

tantalised by the aromatic smells of frankincense…but wait, there is something more, yes, incense and that distinct Arabic perfume wafting

through the air, mingled with a touch of fried food, tea and coffee,

giving an unusual mix of notes. This airy concoction is quite heady and

might act like an aromatic pied piper driving you astray.

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Chronicles


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A donkey brays in the distance while the chitter-chatter of children and the incessant murmur of the adults slowly fill the air as this market with narrow, zigzag alleys make it to the mid-afternoon bustle.

Khulood Mohammed and Habib Al Baksh are engaged in muted conversation, but their gesticulations could actually carve a story of their own.

Six-year old Ayesha’s grandmother, Batool, sits in a corner with an array of saleable items, which includes frankincense, kajal (kohl) and some knickknacks. Ayub Akhtar sits on the edge of a small wooden bench, sipping kahwa, while Abdul Rasool is seen trying to impress upon Mubarak the various essentials of a bottle of honey,

which he claims has been brought all the way from Nizwa.Mubarak is in two minds but tries to keep a straight face as he haggles with Abdul Rasool. Suleiman’s cheek and

chin are in a small layer of lather and he sits patiently waiting for Piru, the barber, who brandishes a mean-looking shaving knife, but seems to be lost in thought. The story is that Piru could be quite mercurial as well as

absent minded and was prone to leave his client half shaven if he suddenly remembers an errand that he had forgotten to attend to.

Suleiman loads his donkey with sacks of dried lime and then slowly follows it as the gentle animal moves nonchalantly but surely to its destination, a trek it has been habituated to in the last so many years.

Ayesha, who has been sitting patiently along with her grandmother, suddenly breaks into a big smile as she spots her favourite man in the whole of the Muttrah souq, one of the oldest souqs of Oman: Mahmoud, the

samosa seller. Suddenly, the near businesslike market scene bursts into a mini celebration. Young kids run to Mahmoud who tosses hot samosas into their palms for paltry amounts and the elders slowly sidle by, their faces

gleaming with anticipation.Suddenly, the air is lit with a further clink and clank, which is sweet music to the ears of everyone present and into the scene comes Salim, clinking the two fenjans (the small porcelain cups in which kahwa is served). Soon,

the crowd huddles around the duo and tuck into hot samosas and sip piping hot kahwa…Into this happy scene rolls in Abd Al Karim, one of the loaders of the souq, who has come from the souq

entrance in the Corniche and he pushes his wheelbarrow with the warning shout: “Balek, balek…” and the crowd parts for a moment and rejoins as the loader disappears into the sea of people.

After a while, the sonorous sound of the Azan is heard and the faithful retreat to their homes, the shutters of the shops in the souq are downed and soon not a life stirs in the dark there.



The ghosts of the past must have been dancing in front of photographer cum Muscat Municipality official Issam Kadoo’s mind as he painted this distinct picture of a long-lost scene that abounded the Muttrah souq of yore. Issam, an ardent lover and promoter of Muttrah and its several hundred years old souq, wistfully notes that such moments as he has painted with his words have sadly

faded into the mist. Gone are the days when one could visualise such scenes in the souq. Issam, who is the grandson of Kadoo, a highly revered figure in the Muttrah area, knew each and every corner of the souq and today, while he laments about the changed scene in the souq, which was fast losing the old world charm and the traditional Omani market outlook, is also quick to rise to its defense. “It may have lost its charm, but it is certainly not an artificial souq,” he says. “I have not given up on it – I will not let it become a mere artificial souq,” he added.

MUTTRAH BORN “I live in Muttrah and I would like to say that there is no other place in Oman that has the same charm as Muttrah. I know every nook and corner of Muttrah. The souq is in the heart of Muttrah and its rich history is in a way part of Oman itself. The souq would be over 200 to 300 years old. I have heard my father say how the souq used to be the hub of all activity, business and leisure. And the beauty of the souq was that everyone knew everyone else and you could literally buy everything from there. The dark alleys, the crowded lanes, busy shoppers in the morning hours and relaxed happy ones in the evening taking a bite of the favourite snacks and hot kahwa and tea… it was not just about business alone, it was about community, about bonding and togetherness. In the earlier days, 70percent of the businessmen and

Issam Kadoo

The old compound wall of Al Rahma hospital, (the oldest hospital) of Muttrah

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visitors were Omani, consisting of Lawatias, Balushis, and the balance were the Baniyan traders from Gujarat, India and Pakistan. The mode of communication was predominantly Arabic and Hindi and Kucchi.It was tough at times as there was no electricity. But until evening, the souq was a beehive of activity: a coffee man selling coffee, a samosa man selling hot samosas, frankincense odour and smoke all around, the hustle and bustle of business and gossip, bargains running aloud... I feel quite nostalgic when I say all this. I really wish we had the vibrant, original souq back. It used to be the symbol of our culture, authentic and honest in every way.My grandfather Kadoo, as he was fondly known, was a popular figure of Muttrah. He used to regale us with many stories of Muttrah and the souq. I will, in due course of time, pass on these stories to my children – I don’t want the stories to die!

KHOUR BIMBA AND DHALAM SOUQ“The main lane of the souq starting from the Corniche

side is called the Khour/Khawr Bimba. That place used to be the marsh area where the seawater flowed when the tide was high. People attach many descriptions to the name Khour Bimba.Some say that the name originated from the bamboos coming from Africa, which were used to make the thatched roofs of houses. These bamboos, which were used in place of beams, gave it the name ‘Bimba’.Others say that the name came from the Zanzibaris and Africans who were living along with Omanis. Today, while I walk along the Khour Bimba or along the narrow lanes of the Dhalam (earlier known as the souq of darkness because virtually no light would enter this area) which is not dark anymore and is powered by bright and coloured lights, I still wish I could see the old timers, the barbers on the sidewalk busy in their trade, the loaders shouting Balek, Balek, asking for the people to give way…



FOOD FOR THOUGHT“The souq is really a fantastic spot to visit during the festivals, especially during Eid. Even before that, during the Holy Month of Ramadan the spirit in the souq becomes more vibrant as well as serene, quiet in the morning of course but lively in the evening. Food was in abundance during the iftar breaks. Otherwise too, if you get in to the souq, you will come out only in the evening hours when the shops close. Everyone will come out with big smiles plastered on their faces, replete with tales and full stomachs; nobody would go hungry in the souq!Dates and kahwa would be available at all hours, and there would be snacks at regular intervals. The souq was one place where you will discover Omani hospitality at its best! I think what we have today is a watered down version of the earlier souq.

LIVING MONUMENTS AND LANDMARKS“Every person in the souq was like a living monument, a milestone fixed in their business and identity, at a specific

corner. You had Mahmoud the samosa seller; Piru Al Balushi the barber, Salim the kahwa man, Abdul Latif, the ‘Ustad’ home maker/mason, etc.And there were tales galore surrounding these souq characters; facts as well as myths. The story goes that Piru the barber, who, while being good at his job, was also quite absent minded. He had the habit of leaving a bewildered customer mid way during a shave or a cut when he suddenly remembered an unattended job at his home…

PORT, BUSINESS AND BROKERS“Though traditional, there was a ‘buy and sell’ wing in the souq. You could bargain and buy or sell anything for a small commission. All done in good faith and honesty and the souq was known for transparency. No one took anyone for granted and money and such transactions were done in a backdrop of simple values and pure ethics. Without degrees, without presentations, more business was done and customer services were at its

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The souq, said to be over 200 to 300 years old, used to be the hub of all activity, business and leisure. And the beauty of the souq then was that everyone knew everyone else and you could literally buy everything from there. The dark alleys, the crowded lanes, busy shoppers in the morning hours and relaxed happy ones in the evening are now a thing of the past…

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Issam Kadoo took us around the souq and also introduced us to various people there. He also got

us into contact with his father-in-law, Mohammed Ali

Suleiman, who used to live next to Issam’s home, but has now

moved out.

best. Today you are assailed by doubts on the authenticity of a product at the souq. The souq was the hub of all activity. People and traders from far and near reached the port through ships and dinghies bringing in merchandise that was traded there. Locals also hobnobbed with international traders at the souq. The Ibri camel market was the closest ‘land’ souq, while Muttrah was the ‘coastal’ souq, as it was considered in those days,” Issam said.

ISSAM’S LAMPWhile at his home, Issam brought out an old, single mantle Kerosene Petromax, which he had saved as a humble tribute – among other artifacts – of the souq’s past. “There is still kerosene left in it,” he told us as he shook it. Our last vision of Issam as we left him with his Muttrah souq’s memories was this: Issam, desperately rubbing a magic lantern in the vain hope of a genial genie jumping out and giving him a wish. And of course, we all know what Issam would wish for!

Men of Muttrah

souq



FOOD AND FESTIVITYOne of the key aspects that are missing in the Muttrah souq today are the traditional Omani restaurants. In the earlier days, these restaurants really added to the Omani flavour in the souq, giving it a real authentic aura.Mohammed Ali Suleiman recalls the early days and of course, the restaurants:“The best part of the souq in those days were the Omani restaurants, which were run by Omanis. They not only cooked but also served the customers themselves.I remember one Dawood Juma who had a restaurant, which served the fresh catch of the day, and various other delicacies, which can still make my mouth water.It was my favourite place for many years and it added great value to the souq and its tradition.For many of us who grew up in Muttrah, the souq was the heart and soul of Muttrah. Not a day passed by when we did not meet and greet our friends, had a cup of kahwa or chai with the famous hot and tasty samosas of Mahmoud, the chorus and bells of the nearby American Mission hospital church, the windmill and the well… And most of these items were available for 25 and 50 baisas.The souq was all about life and living, about food and festivity. Getting in to the souq was like celebrating a festival… kids running around, colourful and happy!”

NOSTALGIC EVENINGSThe evenings in Muttrah and at the souq were the best. That is the time when even the really old members come out of the homes and get together. Not one single day went by without them sitting together and chatting. Sometimes, not a word would be spoken, as the old men would sit silently letting the gentle breeze caress their face with memories of the past.

The Muttrah gate is one of the most favourite spots of Khalfan Hamood Al Mandhry, who is in his late 60s. “The Muttrah gate somehow always reminds me of my earlier life and my friends. And of course I also love to go to the bus/car parking area. It has always been good sitting on those benches near the gate, doing nothing, watching the youth walk past, happily lost in their own world," he said.

All activity was concentrated near the port area, from business, to trade to leisure and that is how the souq was created. It was the local bazaar of those days. Now it is all gone, just a few old timers, still reminiscing of the old times and sighing, and wondering why cheap and fancy things are being sold along with genuine ones. The Omanis are far and few there. I guess the younger generation of Omanis have got educated and have gone away pursuing their dreams. I do feel sad at times, but life has to go on.”

MUTTRAH GATEAfter getting to the other entrance of the souq, which is next to the Muttrah police station, we trekked to the gate and soaked in the scene. Omanis occupied both sides of the seating area and they were all busily engaged in chitchat. Some Omanis were sitting down, hunched next to the wall of the gates, selling groundnuts, salted fruit cuts etc.

We bought some groundnuts and asked them to pose for photos, sidled next to two of them sitting quietly on one of the seating areas and began chatting with them.

One of them, the amiable Saif Khamis Al Hosni, told us how the souq was an essential part of their lives, and the gate was a living monument of their past, as well as their present. “All of us who sit here are known to each other and not one single day of my life have I missed coming to the souq. We consider this place as our very own. We sit here contentedly, free of all worries. As we sit here, we think about the past, the old memories; our lively youth. We see our peers sitting next to us, reminiscing the good old days. My father used to have a Khanjar-making shop here in Muttrah. He used to be a very famous silversmith. We are all linked to the souq with our families, by our businesses. The souq is the heart of Muttrah.

Khalfan Hamood Al Mandhry

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If you are a Muttrah resident, you simply cannot stay away from the souq!”

Saif Al Hosni’s seated companion, Khalfan Al Hinai, who was in his late 60’s, echoed the same sentiments. He added:

“I live just next door to the gate. For me, the souq is like my second home. Never ask an old timer from Muttrah why he comes to the souq. The souq is his identity, his childhood, his family, his good times, his youth, his career, his business and in short his identity. It is part of our life, and it is incomplete if we don’t come here every day!”

MUTTRAH GATE STROLLS We strolled into the souq, enjoying the evening bustle as the admix of locals, tourists, expatriates walking, buying, or just staring at items there with the sellers, mostly expatriates, trying to woo in the customers with a smattering of Arabic and English still had a bustling market feel.

There were plenty of handicrafts including silverware, daggers, traditional cloth items, skirts, shirts, shoes and tourist-oriented curios. There were all kinds of spices, bukhours and of course the famous Omani halwas. But, of course, the scene was nothing like what the likes of Issam Kadoo had told us.

Khalfan Al Hinai and Saif Al Hosni

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We stopped mid way struck by the photo-ready seller of silver and trinkets Haji Ayathan, who whisked out a comb to groom himself for a quick shot and seemed to be quite adept at this task; probably he might have posed many times for tourists who would have had a field day taking his snap for a realtime souvenir of the souq. Haji was selling his wares displayed on a small sheet spread on the floor right outside another shop. “I do this every day,” he said, suddenly leaping up and bundling his items as he rushed to pray in line with the prayer call.

Walking into the seemingly meandering lane, we stopped at one of the most popular shops in the souq, the Ali Baba Gift Town. Its charismatic owner, Akhtar Rasool Baksh Al Balushi, quickly posed for photos for us and also give us his views on the souq.

“This is a souq that has had its roots in the real tradition of this country. You cannot find a souq like this anywhere in the world. Of course, it may not be like it was before but things change.

Our antique shop has been functioning since 60 to 65 years. We are following the path of my father who used to do business here. I am doing this business since I was a mere six-year old boy and I am in this shop since then. I have grown with the souq, learnt so much from it, its history, its ancientness, its rich heritage over the years. Yes, the souq has changed. And, the best thing about the good old days was the simple fact that everyone knew each other, from family to friends and there was not just an air of camaraderie, but also a clear bonding and togetherness.

EACH SHOP IS AN ISLANDModernity has set in and brought in more business through international tourists, but we don’t know our neighbours, each shop is an island of its own. Yet, I still believe that Muttrah souq is the essence of Oman’s rich culture and traditions and it can be revived back to its original glory. In the Middle East, almost every country has its souq, but none to match Oman’s own Muttrah souq. It is original and authentic.”

Modernity has set in and brought in more business through international tourists, but we don’t know our neighbours, each shop is an island of its own

Akhtar Rasool Baksh Al Balushi



AUTHENTICITY AND SIMPLICITY Akbar Lal Bukhsh Al Balushi, another trader selling handicrafts and readymade garments, had a lot to say about the winds of change in the souq and also expressed his disappointment on some of the negative trends that have crept into the souq. “Muttrah Souq is truly one of the oldest souqs in Oman, and it began functioning some 250 to 300 years ago. This information has been passed on to me from my father and grandfather. My father, Lal Buksh Mohammed, was a reputed businessman in the souq and Muttrah and I have learned the trade from him.Our family is one of the oldest businesses in the souq and we are very proud of this market and its rich heritage. Honesty and ethics were the qualities of the souq since time immemorial. My father used to tell us about the ethics of the traders of Muttrah souq and we learned the art of ethical business from our elders along with values of culture and tradition. Sadly, the ethics and business culture along with the authenticity has eroded and today you see a washed out version of the old model. I am often pained by the lack of business ethics of some of the traders here, especially the salesmen who don’t mind lowering their ethical standards and attempting to fool the buyers. Of course, such rotten apples will not spoil the true essence and spirit of the souq. There are more ethical traders and salesmen than unethical ones.Earlier, the buyers comprised people from all over Oman, even from far off places like Ibri, Sur and Salalah. They all used to come down to the souq to sell their wares as

well as to buy their requirements. It used to be like a big festival – a buyers, sellers and a bargainers’ festival. It was loud, noisy, full of life and spirit. There were no limits to anything, you could buy a goat, camel, silver, spices, food – you name it!There were no fixed prices, and so there was active bidding and bargaining and that was the fun part. A person who wanted to sell a goat would bring it along and would either walk in front of the shops or get into a shop and ask for a price. He had the freedom to go out to the next shop and ask for a better price and the highest bidder got the goat.Business was that simple.

OMANI SILVER THE BEST IN THE WORLD“Muttrah was famous for Omani silver and it still is. I would say the 999 and 925 silver are the best from Oman. Antique and traditional designs have captured many buyers and sellers. Even today, the pictures of the Muttrah souq reflect Oman’s traditional silver jewellery and artifacts.”

Akbar Lal Bukhsh Al Balushi

Akbar Lal Bukhsh as a young boy along with his father Lal Buksh Mohammed

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Throwing down the anchor in

Muttrah souqVisitors to the Muttrah souq have always found the maze of alleyways not

only quaint, but also alluring. The souq is always a draw to thousands of people, but despite many

footfalls, it’s past still remains an enigma. One of its usual visitors, Maxine Burden, has taken an earnest effort to

capture the past through the words of many people from the souq. She has come out with a coffee table book, which attempts to capture one of the

oldest market’s elusive past.


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The hard-cover 338-pages Throw

Down the Anchor by Maxine is a reader’s delight, replete with

historical photos, many informative maps, plenty of beautiful photos and

loads of information.The author notes that it is the first-ever book on the history of the Muttrah souq, and all that time, effort and

money put in to research and bring out this book has been an “extremely

worthwhile” exercise.But, although she has

managed to brought out this story, Maxine feels that the souq still has plenty more to say.

Now that she has made the effort to tell the tale

of the Muttrah souq through the words of some, more would be willing to unveil their memories and reveal

yet other aspects of the history of this several

hundred years old souq.



Text: Adarsh Madhavan & Priya Arunkumar, Photos: Ben

Excerpts:

What are the main reasons behind bringing out this book and why Mutrah souq?This book was written as a project for the Centre for Omani Dress to raise funds for the continuing research and collection of the traditional Omani dress.

Once you were convinced about the need to do this book, what type of book did you have in mind and has the end result proven to be just that?I had no idea how this book would look, or even if we would end up with a book. The final result is amazing and way beyond anything I thought we could possibly achieve.

What kind of research did you put in to write this book and how long did that take?The research back in November 2009, by visiting the souq every Sunday, pounding the alleyways and hoping we could get the merchants interested to tell us their stories.

Has the time, effort and money put in to research and bring out this book been worthwhile?Extremely worthwhile. This is the first-ever book on the history of Mutrah Souq.

In a nutshell, what is ‘Throw Down The Anchor’ all about? And how is the story told in the book?Throw Down the Anchor is the story of Mutrah Souq and its environs. It features the stories of the merchants who own the shops, live there or in the area, people who have grown up in or around the souq, and prominent people who know some of the history. The book is a series of stories from these people plus information on the many items that can be bought at the souq.

How many people have you interviewed in total and out of this how many are featured in the book?More than 40 people have their stories in the book. We talked to many more, some did not know the history of the shop as they only manage the shop for the Omani owner. Some were not comfortable to talk with us.

What, according to you, is the biggest draw of the souq; its uniqueness? And how would you describe the souq to a first-time visitor to Oman?It is a traditional souq over 600 years old. It is unique, being one of the oldest souqs in the region. The maze of alleyways are quaint and alluring, drawing you in to see

what else you can find.

The Mutrah Souq is a must see for any visitor to Oman. It is, and always has been the place to meet, share and discuss the latest news by the local community. Traversing the small alleyways gives a whole new outlook. Here you will find small shops filled to the ceiling with many and varied items. Especially some of the old remaining shops still working with silver and making the traditional Omani items.

You must have seen the souq in the earlier days too – has it changed a lot today and if so, how?The souq has changed since the 1990’s. To me it has less traditional items for sale. Progress and natural disasters has given way to improvements especially along the Corniche. Mostly it has gone the way of many tourist attractions and now offers what everyone else offers just with Oman on it. Very few items are truly Omani, this I find very sad.

After finding out the wealth of information from the souq, what do you think was the most illuminating fact?The undocumented history. Everything is remembered on events not dates.

Do you think that still more could be written about the souq…that you have just tasted a drop and that an ocean of stories still remains in the souq, yet to be unveiled?There are many more stories to tell from this amazing souq. I feel now that we have produced a book, many more people would be willing to talk about their memories and the history.

Tell us a bit about yourself: Are you an author based in Oman? Your previous books?This is my first book. I have been in print in Asian magazines having written articles on Australia while living and working in Western Australia prior to coming to Oman. I have worked within the travel industry in Australia as a cruise specialist, preparing cruises, flyers, advertising and taking cruise tours to various parts of the world for valued clients.

How many books are being printed; the size, cost etc of the book and is it being published as a ‘coffee-table’ magazine?One thousand books have been printed. It is a hard-cover coffee table book of 338 pages in full colour. Price is OMR29.


Are you a Strategic Thinker?By Dr CK Anchan

Dr Anchan C.K.managing director,World Wide Business House

As the end of the calendar year approaches, many boards are turning their minds to the strategic planning cycle for the next 12 months. Directors are now encouraged to ‘think strategically’. Indeed, it is now considered that a board’s role is to think strategically and oversee strategic planning. But what is strategic thinking?Strategic thinking is a powerful and invaluable skill, one that leads to greater chances of success in whatever professional and personal projects you’re involved in. It involves setting goals, developing long-range plans, anticipating the unexpected, analysing your environment, and even cooperating with your competitors.Strategic thinking is a way of understanding the fundamental drivers of a business and challenging conventional thinking about them, in discussion with others. Finally, strategic thinking is having an awareness of what has not yet taken shape, having foresight. Therefore, boards should encourage forward thinking.In a time of unprecedented uncertainty in the business landscape, strategic leadership is more critical than ever. The ability to think strategically and navigate change effectively is key to creating a sustainable organisation — yet true strategic thinking and planning skills are a rarity among most executives.It can be difficult to be strategic. But a strategic thinker is always searching for the unusual – something that is different – and is able to set

assumptions aside. They intentionally look at things from different perspectives and can resist the urge to let one decision dictate or forecast future decisions, thus avoiding the sunk cost trap. One of the worst things managers can do is always think they are right. You know the type. They dig in during meetings, refusing to listen to others. They grow red in the face with apoplectic anger that anyone dare have a different view. Anyone who does not agree with them is a fool or a knave. These people destroy an organisation no matter how talented or brilliant they are.Good strategic thinking uncovers potential opportunities for creating value and challenges assumptions about an organisation’s value proposition, so that when the strategic plan is created, it targets these opportunities. The first step is just to make sure you constantly question your own opinions. Second, don’t just read people who look at the world differently; surround yourself with them. You can do this either at work or by regularly setting up gatherings with friends who think in other ways.Make sure you recharge your brain and body regularly. Leaders who rise to the top are ones who constantly sharpen their strategic thinking by questioning their own views, by listening to different viewpoints, surrounding themselves by people with different expertise areas and doing anything else they can to gain different perspectives. M

anag

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C-R-U-N-C-H- Pitter Patter C-R-U-N-C-H splatter as the hot samosa burns my insides the raindrops cool my face upturned in the rain. Have I ever told you about the Bombay Monsoon? It is delicious and delectable like a beautiful young diva going out on her first date. Luscious and seductive in an innocent manner and before you know it you are under the spell. It tortures you yet leads you to unrivalled heights of ecstasy. You want to possess it and want the passion to last but you know it will never be completely yours and you grudgingly accept the fact. Everything seems so much better in its presence and when it goes the days are unbearable and the nights even worse. Nature shines itself bright for it as though putting its best foot forward and continues to gleam till it is around.

It comes with its pitfalls like heartbreak, muddy waters, wet clothes, its unexpectedness, the damage it brings in its wake and most of all the emptiness and destruction in its wake, and then trying to put your life together where you left off. Suddenly the zing from your life has gone and everything seems dull, drab and old and you in fact feel that the zing from your life has gone. Then you spend the rest of the year pining and it dominates your thoughts. Then when the time comes closer for its arrival you spend time in preparing for its onslaught and your unfinished love affair commences again.

Ahhhh you didn’t think I was talking only about the beauteous diva…for me the monsoon is that love affair with the diva.

I’m sure when Paul Newman sang that iconic song “Raindrops keep falling on my head" to Katharine in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance kid he was talking about the Mumbai Monsoons.

Till next time my lovelies!This is Vandana Shah signing off!

(Catch my new book Ex-Files published under the Shobhaa De imprint for Penguin.Drop me a line on [email protected])

Monsoon – The diva

Vandana, award winning author (‘360 Degrees Back to Life')By Vandana Shah

It's

my

life

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] me on twitter Vandy4PM



Kids

tuff

GeeseFun facts on



Great gray geese graze gaily daily

Facts are statements which are held to be true and often contrasted with opinions and beliefs. Our unusual and interesting facts about Geese,

trivia and information, including some useful statistics about animals will fascinate everyone from kids and children to adults.

Interesting facts about Geese are as follows:

• Geese are web-footed long-necked typically gregarious migratory aquatic birds of the family Anatidae. The family Anatidae also includes swans and ducks.

• Geese always fly in the shape of a ‘V’

• The female goose always builds the nest

• The female goose lays one egg each day, until a full clutch of about five eggs is obtained

• As each goose flaps its wings, it creates an “uplift” for the other birds to follow. By flying in a “V” formation, the whole flock adds 70 percent greater flying range than if each bird flew alone.

• When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It quickly moves back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front of it.

• When a goose tires, it rotates to the back of the formation as another goose flies to the point opposite.

• The geese flying in formation honk to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.

• When a goose gets sick, wounded or shot down, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. They stay with it until it dies or is able to fly again. Then they launch out in formation and try to catch the flock.



As we discuss the above price issue with others, one of our regular readers pointed out that the prices of some essential items have in fact come down. Like what, we asked.“Like medicines,” the man replied. Medicines? Yup, medicines. The price of several medicines have come down. How did he know, we asked, but the man shushed us. He is a diabetic patient and he regularly buys allopathic medicines for that from the pharmaceuticals. Recently when he went to get his usual meds, he found them to returning some baizas back. Thinking it was some calculation error, he tried to return that but the pharmaceutical man told him that no, the rate for the same meds was less by some 500 to 700 baizas. So, does that mean the price of many meds have fallen? He had no clue. And, neither do we. Could you folks out there check and get back, please?

The high price of conjecture

Change in the rates of medicines?

We have been thinking of it since quite sometime now. Finally, 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 month,

here is some nitter natter for the B&W Bitter Batter:

Nit

ter

natt

er

An interesting point made by one our readers has set us thinking: Is Muscat a highly priced city? So say some people. They have come to town recently and they find that the price of goods here are quite high. We did not want to argue on the same although we did not think of it in that manner. But we told them that many have found, on comparison, that the price of many goods here were much cheaper than theones in our neighbouring countries. Of course, if we compare it with Asian countries, we may find that the prices may vary, but that it is an entirely different issue. The lady who was speaking thus was also comparing the international phone rates (calling from there to here) from the country she hailed from to the phone rates here. But, when we spoke to a person who belonged to the same country, the man told us, in reality, if she makes a call from her country to here, the rates were either higher or surely equal to a call being made from here. This made us wonder: why are people so quick to judge a new country they have come to? Why do they automatically

believe that this is what a country is and this is how the rates are without checking, without comparing, without even understanding?


The drainage in the villa got stuck and so they called the clog busters. The one on the receiving end of the line said that this was going to cost, but the caller from the villa said not necessary as the payment part was already included in the monthly bill. Well, okay, said the receiver from the clog busters’ end and promptly they sent the guys to bust the clog. All well and done until the shock they sent across in the next bill. The villa folks were charged an exorbitant amount, that is a gross addition to their monthly bill. While the norm was that households would be charged a minimum amount to the monthly bill, this addition to their monthly account was rather too much and the folks have decided to complain to the institution concerned. But, for the time being, they are forced to shell out the amount asap as otherwise, the connection would be cut. Wish they had never cleared the clog, the folks mumble.

Sometimes good friends can turn foes over money. We were a bit perturbed by what this person revealed how his best buddy suddenly became his bad enemy over borrowed money. Our man had borrowed some money, personal loan, from his very best friend. The former had got into a financial spot and so he had gone around on a door-knocking spree to find someone who would throw him a rope and pull him out of the financial quagmire. Unfortunately, when you go around for financial help, you are viewed in the same category as a leper. But, as providence would have it, one of his dearest friends suddenly agreed to help him out and he did. Don’t worry, the generous friend said, you return it whenever possible! But, all of these were deemed empty words, because, as quickly as he had given the loan, one day, suddenly, the man changed his spots and rang up our good friend and said he wanted the money back urgently! What, said our friend, but I am not ready for the repayment. I want the money now and I mean now, friend’s friend said.

To clog or not to clog?

Friends turned foes

(Note: Readers who have something bitter to chatter about can either email on [email protected] or call 99218461)

But, spluttered our friend, you must give me time. I don’t have any money with me now, please understand!His friend would not listen. He went crazy, shouting and threatening the borrower with dire consequences. Not only has he threatened him in so many ways, he has now said that he would go legal. “He is not a stranger! He is my friend, like my own family member, but he does not even entertain my pleas. He has told me return my money or else!”And they were the best of best friends…today, the worst of enemies.


Don’t let good ideas go to waste this week by not acting on them quickly enough. You’re in a quieter frame of mind these days but it won’t stop you mixing socially, so if you’re going to make a move romantically, do so with quiet confidence. Tackle money matters.

Don’t overlook new business contacts as minor or menial especially if you’re self employed, as these connections could be really good for you long term if they’re pandered to right now. Mixing business with pleasure could work well in your favour. Just don’t go too far.

Your patience is being tried by various people and various matters, so you’ll need to try and get things under control before your head explodes. Important information comes your way over work matters, but store it in your brain for now until the time is right.

Although it will take you longer to reach decisions that normal, it means that decisions you reach will be positive and rewarding, especially over long term plans and ambitions. Turn your attention to sorting out finances as the week progresses. It’s time.

It will be hard to get your message across to others in both a professional and personal sense, but it will be worth the effort in the long run so don’t give up too easily. Love and romance build slowly, but by the weekend, expect fireworks, fun and passion.

You’d be well advised to leave some margin for errors when it comes to making decisions over work and money, as in your haste to make an impression, you may bite off more than you can chew. If things are too watertight there will be no wiggle room to get out.

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

Hor

osco

pe

KATHERYN ELIZABETH "KATY" HUDSON (BORN OCTOBER 25, 1984), better known by her stage name Katy Perry, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She had limited exposure to secular music during her childhood and pursued a career in gospel music as a teenager. After

releasing her debut studio album, Katy Hudson, in 2001, Perry moved to Los Angeles the following year to venture into secular music. She

recorded a collaborative album with the Matrix, which was released in 2009. Perry rose to fame in 2008 with the release of the singles "I Kissed

a Girl" and "Hot n Cold" from her second album, One of the Boys. Her third album, Teenage Dream (2010), was preceded by the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart-topping singles "California Gurls" and "Teenage Dream", and later produced the number-one singles "Firework", "E.T.", and "Last

Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)" as well as the number-three single "The One That Got Away". Perry has received many awards and nominations, including three Guinness World Records, and been included in the Forbes list of

"Top-Earning Women In Music" for 2011, 2012, and 2013. Throughout her career, she has sold 11 million albums and 81 million singles worldwide,

making her one of the best-selling artists of all time.



If you’ve been contemplating making a fresh start in your private life, there’s no time like the present to kick it into action. Enlist the support of family and friends in the planning stage, but once you get things rolling, pick up the pace at you own speed. It’s all change.

Encouragement from others makes all the difference this week, but whether that’s forthcoming or not, depends on how you’ve treated them in the past. Use the right words to make others fall under your spell, and show how warm and approachable you can be.

If your actions are well thought out and considerate to whom and what you’re dealing with, you should have no problem making changes to your professional or personal life this week. Your communications are crystal clear, and others will know exactly where you’re coming from.

Relationships and friendships improve under this present planetary trend, so you could find yourself in wonderful company, saying the right things to the right people and deepening existing attachments along the way. Words drip from your tongue like honey. You’re on fire.

You may have to go over tasks you’ve done if on reflection you feel you could have done better. Good for you for recognising the fact. If you pace yourself throughout the week you’ll get more done, and in a better quality, than if you ran at the issue full speed ahead.

The moon rolls into your sign this week, so you should find that almost anything you do will turn out better than you’d expected. Feeling out of sorts now becomes a thing of the past and you’ll move ahead stronger and more confident in both work and play.

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

SHAH RUKH KHAN ALSO KNOWN AS SRK (BORN SHAHRUKH KHAN; 2 NOVEMBER 1965) is an Indian film actor, producer and television personality. Referred to in the media as "Baadshah of

Bollywood", "King of Bollywood" or "King Khan", he has appeared in over 80 Hindi films in genres including romance, action and comedy.

His work in Bollywood has earned him numerous accolades, including fourteen Filmfare Awards from thirty nominations. For his contribution to film, the Government of India honoured him with the Padma Shri, and the Government of France has awarded him both the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres and the Légion d'honneur. Khan was the second-richest actor in the world in 2014, with a net worth of US$600 million. Khan started his career in theatre and appeared

in several television series in the late 1980s. He made his Bollywood debut in 1992 with Deewana. Khan is currently co-chairman of the motion picture production company Red Chillies Entertainment and

its subsidiaries, and is a co-owner of the Indian Premier League cricket team Kolkata Knight Riders.



Cook

ing

recipes

Easy

Many hate it, but broccoli is not going anywhere… love it or hate it, the truth is broccoli is a power food with many health benefits. It balances

your body and is a smart carb and is high in fiber, which aids in digestion, prevents constipation, maintains low blood sugar, and curbs overeating. And it is easy to cook at home… here are a few recipes.



Ingredients:1 pound broccoli, separated into florets 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons water 3 tablespoons butter 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 pinch salt 2 teaspoons lemon juice 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Method:Place broccoli florets in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir 2 teaspoons lemon juice into water in a small bowl and pour the mixture into the skillet. Cover and steam until broccoli is bright green and tender, 10 to 15 minutes.While broccoli is steaming, melt butter in a small

saucepan over medium-low heat and stir in garlic and salt; turn heat to low and let the garlic gently fry until golden brown, about 8 minutes. Drain water from cooked broccoli and return to skillet; sprinkle with 2 more teaspoons lemon juice and the butter and garlic mixture. Sprinkle broccoli with black pepper, toss to combine, and season with a bit more pepper if desired.

Ingredients:1/2 cup butter 1 onion, chopped1 (16 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli 4 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth 1 (1 pound) loaf processed cheese food, cubed 2 cups milk 1 tablespoon garlic powder 2/3 cup cornstarch water

Method:In a stockpot, melt butter over medium heat. Cook onion in butter until softened. Stir in broccoli, and cover with chicken broth. Simmer until broccoli is tender, 10 to 15

minutes. Reduce heat, and stir in cheese cubes until melted. Mix in milk and garlic powder. In a small bowl, stir cornstarch into water until dissolved. Stir into soup; cook, stirring frequently, until thick.

Ingredients12 ounces pasta (your choice)1/2 pound fresh broccoli florets 1/4 cup olive oil 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2 tablespoons pesto 1 cup chopped tomatoes 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 pound boneless chicken breast halves, cooked and chopped Salt to taste Ground black pepper to taste

DirectionsIn a large pot with boiling salted water cook pasta and drain. Meanwhile, blanch broccoli florets in a medium size

saucepan, remove with slotted spoon. In same pan saute the minced garlic and pesto sauce in the olive oil for 2 minutes. Add the chopped tomatoes and set aside.In a large bowl toss cooked pasta with blanched broccoli, cooked chicken, and garlic/tomato mixture. Add grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and ground black pepper and mix well. Serve warm.

Lemon Broccoli

Cheese Broccoli Soup

Broccoli- chicken pasta



Thesecret fearsof men…


Psyc

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While a man may not want to portray himself as weak in any manner, as weakness and men don’t mix, the truth could be quite starkly different. Now, unfortunately, this is not something that they would like to share, especially not with their women. As a woman, you will most definitely sense that there is something wrong, but will never be able to figure out what and knowing your own wide imagination, you would be thinking that your man is either distant, not interested, or worse, interested in someone else.The trouble lies in the inherent desire of all men to go it alone. The unfortunate part in this is that despite this desire, it would not get so easily fulfilled as even he does not know fully well what ails him.That is where you come in women. It is your chance to make him get out of this emotional block.And for that you need to know some of the key things your man is scared of. But, do bear in mind that even here all that you can do is to assist him, hand hold him and jointly try to steer him out of his doubts and fears but neither you nor anyone can actually help him out of this. He has got to do it himself. Your job is to understand what he is going through and not let him down because of this.

IS THERE ENOUGH MONEY?Money! God, if only there was more of it, most of the problems will be solved is what he could be thinking. But, in reality, it is more than mere money. It is what money represents. All the goodness, all the greatness, all the things that money can buy and also what it brings together. Money makes him alright as it gives him a sense of self value, it brings his family together, it gives him and those around him security and it also secures his and most importantly, his family’s future. So, there is this thought in him always gnawing his insides whether he is making enough, whether he will have enough for the future and whether he is going to have it what it takes to build a future for him and his loved ones.Yes, although he tends to act as if there is no tomorrow and sometimes even spends likewise, deep inside him, there is this silent turmoil eating him up. And the questions of can I, will I, would

I, would be boiling within. So, be there for him. Make efforts to pay the bills together, jointly. Quietly bring out this fear and say that “we” should address the future challenges and also make it a point to grandly appreciate what he is doing; and most importantly, tell him that you are proud of what he has done so far! That will give him the biggest courage he is so desperately lacking. And your pride in him will mean really quite a lot to him. How long will I have my job? Close on the heels of money is this perennial thought of whether he is slipping at work and whether he is going to lose his job. There are talks in the office of how good he ‘was’ and that was driving him a bit astray. Was he losing it; will he be kicked out? Those queries drive him to make a renewed effort at cleaning up his act in his job but that means extra time at work and more focus on his career than at home and it is this moment the family, especially you, the woman of the house, matters the most. For, if you feel that suddenly he is showing less interest at home, and therefore you also go through the topsy turvy world of whether your husband was suddenly losing interest in the family and whether it was all too much of a burden. But, this is where you need to put your foot down and understand that your man needs you and that you are there for him and that he definitely needs to work hard, but not to make too much of it and make himself stressed out. Most importantly, that you and the whole family are there right behind him and so, let him also be there for them – the rest was not so important!

AM I GETTING OLD?Of course, men too are often bitten by the old-age bug. They also worry about losing their ‘looks’! Their gray hairs, their panting, their stomach, their tiredness…all of them are suddenly giving them a sense of nagging mortality. But, you are an expert at this, right? Women have been undergoing this fear since a long, long time and even if you may find it hard to take it up for yourself, you can surely give him some good advice on how to climb out of the pit of self doubt. Let him know that for you, he is still your man, come what may!

(contd. in the next issue)

Sometimes women need to understand that even their ‘he’ man, ‘super’ man can be not so ‘super’, not so ‘he’ and maybe a bit anxious, a bit weak. Unless that is understood and accepted, most relationships might meet a

rocky end.

I will not get angry.I will not get cranky.I will not get grumpy.I will not get irritated.I will not react.Does that sound like an imposition? No, it is not. It is a prayer that I silently mumble to myself, many times a day, I repeat, many times a day. Not because circumstances are challenging, or that I am frustrated, or that I need a time out, but because I want to be a better person. Be it uncontrollable rage or a fleeting annoyance, we all know what anger is and we all have felt it. Recently someone very dear to me told me that I need to change. In a simple subtle way!She pointed out to a handsome looking ever angry hero in television soap and said that guy reminds me of someone - you! When you are not angry, you are a cheerful and optimistic person, you know… she softened the blow. When she grinned at me innocently, I thought it was a joke, and shrugged it off.I watched one of the episodes, and I realised a few vital resemblances to my behaviour.As usual the initial reaction was, don’t be ridiculous, I am not that ‘monstrous’. Well, am I? That’s just an exaggeration you know… I sound defensive. I am not always angry. Is anger only a negative emotion that deserves a bad reputation? Anger is normal, healthy human emotion; nothing to be ashamed of, right?Even the great Aristotle had once said that anybody can get angry, it is easy, but to be angry with the right person and to the right degree and at the

By Priya Arunkumar

[email protected]

Anger management

right time, for the right purpose is not easy!In fact getting angry sometimes gets me in to an energised mode; I get quite a lot of work done. At least I believe in the everlasting battle between what is right and wrong, anger tells us that something’s wrong. Anger cannot be blamed because it does not force you to feel a certain way; it just lets you know that something is out of place and needs to be attended to.I only get angry when I see something wrong, or something out of place or something not done right, something unfair, something unacceptable, something irrational…. rather a long list of irritants?I am impatient, I dislike hypocrisy, I hate apathy… but, then who am I to make this list of likes and dislikes? Though difficult to accept, I decided I will change.I will not let any number of irritants bring out the worst in me. Now, I know what I should be doing. The major challenge is how do I do it? Every time, I lose it, I remember the television hero, no, I will not behave like him, I will not be temperamental.I changed the version. Henceforth I will not get visibly angry, even if I find something irritating, I will avoid reacting. I will slow down, will not be quick to judge, be more tolerant to incompetence, I will not burn when I see hypocrisy. I will walk away from anything that angers me.It is a long road, but I will. Yes, I will master the art of acceptance.

Hoo

ked


Documents

Black & white magazine issue 73