Black & white mag issue 65

Vol.5 Issue 65IIFebruary 7-20, 2014

Oman and Lithuania to explore new trade frontiers p12 Love teaches acceptance and tolerance p46

FREE Fortnightly

www.blackandwhiteoman.com

7-20 Rabiul 2

Following Thesiger’s footsteps‌ p26

February 7- 20 3 B&W 2014

Some stories you may not report

All about X, Y & Z

By Adarsh Madhavan As a scribe, what do you do when you have a story in your hands and are unable to report it?

It was a question I did not have an answer to. What can I answer? Quite often people come and argue on different facets of journalism with me. I tend to keep mum because such discussions never get us anywhere. I never had the ability to explain certain things about journalism to them and because of such a handicap I would often tie my tongue down and not allow it to lash out, which is in my nature.

Silence often breeds contempt and people who tend to provoke me, expecting a bitter reaction would go empty handed because I don’t fall for the bait nowadays.

Journalism. It depends on the context of what you are talking about. It depends from where you are talking about. It depends on who you are talking about. But, this man who asked me the query on why I couldn’t work on a story that had so much of relevance to the present context still did not elicit a proper answer from me.

When I was asked this question by this irritated member of the public who claimed that he had a fantastic lead I was forced to keep mum because of reasons best known to me. I remained silent because I knew such conversations never get anywhere. People often engage in great debate with me on the issue of journalism and although I agree that everyone has their own point, it is pointless to debate the same with me because it is irrelevant from where I come.

We were sitting in a smoky restaurant and he was defiantly puffing smoke onto my face trying to get me to do something on what he was revealing to me.

I had recently gone to India and we were in one of these joints that is somewhat of a favourite hub for people with loads of dough. Now, although I didn’t belong to that category, I still couldn’t resist going because somewhere within me there was still a longing for ‘breaking news’. Although I was no longer in that cadre of scribes that were regular news February 7- 20 4 B&W 2014

hounds, there still beat within me a heart that longed to take the pen like a sword and slash down injustice with a stroke.

But, I couldn’t bear to admit to this obnoxious man before me that although he was giving me a fantastic lead, it was not going to take me anywhere. I had hung up my boots in that arena and I was not even in that vicinity. Life has passed me by in that department and I was no longer in the reckoning. But, since a common friend insisted that I meet this man who was loaded with some news, I just couldn’t resist. So I faked it.

I pretended to listen to him as a full-fledged scribe and I even took down notes. But I was stumped when he asked me one direct question: when was I going to publish this and where? I was stumped, but I tried to play along, stating that I need to verify facts and also check on other sources.

“What other sources? What facts?” he said, raising his voice. “My dear kid, I am the source. I have the facts.

You will not get any of these facts from anywhere else.

He (our common friend) said you were a good scribe.

Well, if you are one, you would have realised that you are sitting on a bomb of a story!”

I nodded quietly. Then, I told him very softly that I may not be able to do the story. The man stared at me through the smoke and then suddenly slapped the table. “What?! Are you gypping me? You bloody fake, you bloody coward, you don’t have the guts to do this?

Then why did you meet me; waste my time?”

Listen, it is not that easy. I cannot just shoot off a story just because you told me about it. There is a process; there is a method; it will take time and even then I am not sure that I will be able to do it…

The man got up and hurled abuses at me as everyone’s attention turned to our table. He huffed and puffed and slammed out of the room while I sat there, empty, crestfallen and down. Neither did I have a story, nor, did I have the money to foot that expensive bill. editor@blackandwhiteoman.com

February 7- 20 5 B&W 2014

Xclusive 26 Following Thesiger’s footsteps‌ Ahmed bin Haroub bin Hamed Al Mahruqi is planning to cross the Empty Quarter, from Bidiyah to Shannah, a distance of approximately 184kms, in 14days from March 1 onwards

46

Love teaches acceptance and tolerance

Dr Said bin Hilal Al Busaid, partner at Al Busaidy, Mansoor Jamal & Co gives a whole new perspective of love in a proper setting of values.

and Lithuania 12 Oman to explore new trade

Contents

frontiers

In her recent visit to Oman, Boleta Senkiene met with top Omani officials to expand Oman-Lithuanian ties in the political, economical and cultural arenas

Published by: Muscat Press & Publishing House SAOC Black & White Postal address: P O Box 86, PC 115, Madinat Sultan Qaboos Office location: Hatat House A, II Floor, Suite No: 212, Wadi Adai Ph: 24565697 Fax: 24565496 Website: www.blackandwhiteoman.com Editorial: editor@blackandwhiteoman.com Printed F e b at r uOman a r y Printers 7- 20

6 B&W

2014

52

When you hit the lows...

Most often when you feel drowsy in the afternoon, just take a quick walk to wash your face, then get a nice cool drink of water, which is necessary as your body needs fluids to make it function properly.

Editor-in-chief Managing editor Work editor Editorial Design & production Photography Advt. & marketing

Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali Priya Arunkumar Adarsh Madhavan Khadija Al Zadjali Beneek Siraj Haitham Al Balushi Shalet D'Souza

Mail your views and opinions at editor@blackandwhiteoman.com

Life-changing experience Yesha (issue 64) is spot on with her comments on fire walking. I have walked on fire at one of these fire walking seminars (but not in Oman) and I have also come out unscathed, but the initial fear I had is akin to what Yesha mentions in her article. I was also quite apprehensive to step on the burning coals until a senior colleague simply said the magic words: “You are not going to know if it burns or not until you walk on it!” And I did. And the sense of elation, achievement etc that I experience then remains even today. It changed my life.

Abdullah Al Zadjali, Ruwi

Readers column

No need to walk on fire What we have to understand is that fire walk is a mere metaphor for all the problems we face and how we face or deal with these issues. You don’t really have to walk on fire to prove yourself competent to tackle the problem facing you. Like walking on fire, you have got to face the problem or challenge and climb over it. Whenever you are faced with a problem, understand one thing: there is no way but to deal with it. How you deal with it matters. You have to attack the problem in full faith and you should not be beguiled by doubt or sink in a sea of panic. This is where the literal walking on fire comes to play. Look at how it is: you have got some burning coals before you and you are left with no choice but to walk over it. When you walk over it, you realise that it is not that bad after all. In fact, most February 7- 20 8 B&W 2014

of us walk on fire without even getting their foot singed.

That brings about a confidence in them and they are then propelled on a path from which there is no going back. But, you don’t really have to walk on fire to elevate yourself to a new confidence level. Just attack your problem in full faith and you would have ‘walked on fire’! All the best!

Sharanya Gupta, Seeb

Fire walk changed my life I was delighted, to say the least, to read about the story on walking on fire (‘Walk on fire’ issue 64). Having participated in a ‘fire walk’ at one of the first few fire walking events in Oman, I can confidently say that the episode changed me completely. I was always a shy, hesitant and introverted man who was not progressing on the work front. Although I knew that I had it within me, I could never overcome my fear in many things. I was a social misfit and my career also looked in serious trouble. Luckily at this stage the company that I worked for decided to hold a fire walking seminar and although I really did not want to do it, I signed up for the walk. And it is not easy to put in words the sheer trauma I went through before the walk. I really did not have the guts to walk but somehow the trainer cajoled me to do it. The rest, as they say, was history! I am a man, yet, tears poured out of my eyes after the walk and the medics ran to me thinking I was in pain. Little could I convince them that it was tears of joy! Of being able to finally walk over a fear and conquering it. No, I don’t mean things changed immediately, but that was the spark for a change and soon I found myself getting confident by the day.

Today I am the head of the department and I have 12 staff under me. I have also walked six times on fire and each time I felt a layer of negativity getting peeled off from me. I will vouch for the fire walk with my life. For, it indeed changed my life!

Syed Hassan, Al Khuwair

Laughter the best medicine Laughter is indeed the best medicine (issue 64). At its worst, it is a splendid placebo for many ailments. I, for one, wholly believe in the theory and practice of laughter.

Life is filled with moments of dullness, boredom, pain and sorrow and we encounter gross injustices in our path. In such a scenario, laughter is not just the best, but the only

medicine. Laugh your blues away!

And I don’t believe that ‘he who laughs last, laughs last’.

Even if they did, they are still laughing. Look at the better side and continue laughing!

Parvez Shah, Al Khuwair

I am going to run Why fear when you can run? I read the article, ‘Run for your life’ (issue 64) with great interest. A variety of physical illnesses, coupled with depression had put me on the backseat. And I have now started walking in the evenings.

I have never exercised in my life so I am not able to run or do any of the usual exercises, but, I am slowly getting and feeling better. I will also try to run but I am yet to get into the rhythm. I will slowly pace myself and I know I want to do it because the initial results are themselves quite encouraging.

Sashindran. M, Muscat February 7- 20 9 B&W 2014

Men read

All work and no play February 7- 20 10 B&W 2014

Lately, Jack’s colleagues have been finding him to be rather dull. Studious, yes and work was also being done, but a certain amount of dullness seems to have set in him.

Yes, Jack is dull because it is all work and no play for him. Who have we got to blame but ourselves for this sad state of our affairs? While there are those who waste time and indulge in only play and not work, today, in this competitive world, the majority are hard core, serious, ‘workers’. They have no time for play. They are serious, industrious people who value time and would only work, work, work and work. And what is wrong with that? It is because they work that this world moves. But, shouldn’t they deserve a break? Shouldn’t they take some time out of this ‘work only’ mode and press the ‘play’ mode?

Maybe they should but who is telling them?

They live by the adage that they should spend time on only useful matters. It is them that we address here.

Why should you be under the constant belief that adults should not play; adults should not fool around; adults should not be goofy?

Is there some such rule, and if so, please show us the page and the lines that dictate this law? There isn’t. It could only be peer pressure that stops us from lightening things up even if we return home from a hard day’s work. Somehow, we have been told that only the serious ones win and in life you have to be pretty serious about everything. You are so right!

But, please give it a break! If you have been serious for eight hours in a day, take at least an hour or two to relax, getting outside, engaging in your hobby, playing with your children or generally goofing around…

The benefits accrued from engaging in lighthearted play are actually plenty. You will be better off mentally and physically after spending some time at play.

The benefits include relief from stress, good physical health, better self esteem and increasing confidence all of which helps your performance at work too.

HOW DOES PLAY REDUCE STRESS? Playing is about forgetting all of your serious stuff; your trial and tribulations at work; your woes and worries. It is not that you can be blind to it. But for the moment, let the

focus be on play.

HOW DOES SMILING AND LAUGHING HELP? If you tend to smile and laugh without any reason, they might book you into a mental asylum. Or, so, they say.

But, why? What is the crime in smiling and laughing (as long as you are not directing your smiles and laughter at someone)? Even if others do not understand why you smile or laugh, is there any reason not to? These are all unwritten and unwanted laws laid down upon us by our peers. Surely, we will laugh only when something tickles our humour or laughter buds. So, if you find something funny, go ahead and laugh your lungs out. Just indulging in a bit of play and enjoyment will bring that little dose of laughter out of you. Laughter, as they say helps relax your muscles, helps you breathe better and increase blood flow.

HOW DOES IT HELP IMPROVE YOUR SELF ESTEEM? Confidence does not come out of the blue. It has to be cultivated properly and then tended to in the right manner.

When you play, you relax and when you are relaxed, your balance is shifted to the positive from where confidence stems. Being a confident man can bring a lot of changes in your well being.

IS THERE A JOY IN DOING SMALL THINGS? Of course! If you are able to do all those small and little things that you like, then you will find yourself elevated into a better mood. Think about what made you laugh as a child and indulge in it. If you have forgotten how to play, watch your kids (or any kids). Play comes naturally to them and it is time that you learn from them.

February 7- 20 11 B&W 2014

Oman and Lithuania to explore new trade frontiers

Oman watch

The country with the largest ICT (*) industry in the Baltic States, which has already made inroads into this sector in Oman, is now exploring further trade aspects that would bring the two nations closer.

The Republic of Lithuania, a country in Northern Europe, and the largest of the three Baltic States, had made inroads into Oman through the ICT sector. Three years ago, IT companies from Lithuania attended the Comex exhibition and since then they have been working closely with Oman’s Information Technology Authority (ITA), which is responsible for implementing national IT infrastructural projects and supervising all projects related to implementation of the Digital Oman Strategy.

Since then the Lithuanian officials have visited Oman and the Sultanate has also become the first AGCC country to set up a consulate in Lithuania. Both countries are keen to expand their ties in the political, economical and cultural arenas.

A quick review on all these aspects was given by Boleta Senkiene, who recently took over as honorary consul of Oman in Lithuania. In an interview with the Times of Oman she made it clear that Lithuania was ready to offer expertise and cooperation in sectors such as ICT, agriculture, medical and education. “We are a strong economy and proud that we have achieved a lot within 23 years of gaining independence,” she told the TOI. Lithuania was the first Soviet Republic to declare the restoration of independent State of Lithuania in March, 1990.

In her recent visit to Oman, Senkiene met with officials from the ministries of education, health and transport and communication and also the General Reserve Fund and the Higher Education Council.

Senkiene noted how Lithuania entered Oman through the ICT sector and after attending the Comex for the first time, they followed up the visit, tied up with ITA and the rest was history.

Lithuania has the largest ICT industry in the Baltic States with an outstanding potential both for local as well as foreign expanding businesses. It has world class ICT infrastructure and is among the leading countries in ICT in Europe and the world. The IT services has been February 7- 20 12 B&W 2014

among the fastest growing industries in Lithuania during the past few years. The growth of Lithuanian IT services exports was three times higher than total services exports growth in 2012.While the number of persons employed in IT services was 6,800 in 2006, it has almost doubled to 12,000 in 2011. Such substantial increase was mainly the result of growing foreign investments in Lithuanian IT sector, statistics from Lithuania reveal.

An ITA delegation from Oman is expected to visit Lithuania soon and the culmination of the visit will be a tie up with its Lithuanian counterpart.

The Lithuanian minister of agriculture is also expected to visit Oman soon. Senkiene was confident that Lithuania could also offer expertise in the agricultural arena.

Another crucial area was medical tourism, which Lithuania is famous for. Lithuania was also planning to have a medical centre in Oman, Senkiene revealed.

Since Lithuania is seen as among the fastest growing economies in the European Union, ranked 17th in the world in the Ease of Doing Business Index, this was enough reason for Oman to look into investing in their country, Senkiene opined. Lithuania could also be a hub for Oman in the Baltic States of Estonia, Latvia and the country itself, she added, noting that Oman could also be used as a gateway for Lithuania to the AGCC, Iran and Mena region.

Thanks for Oman’s excellent relations with other countries and with a sound infrastructure in place, it offered a good scope for re-export.

Senkiene was also quick to praise the stellar efforts of Anees Issa Al Zadjali, honorary counsul of Lithuania in Oman, who she said had not only opened the doors for Lithuania but also took the relationship to newer heights.

She also thanked Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, secretary general at the foreign ministry for extending cooperation. (*) Information Communication Technology

Boleta Senkiene FFeebbrruuaarryy 77- - 2200 13 13 B&W 22001144 B&W

O

If the mountain does not come…

wall he t ff

By Adarsh Madhavan

There was a time when on the brink of tipping myself off the edge, I would quietly head for the mountains that were calling out to me. Get into a car with a friend and trek up one of the jebels. Yeah, just like that. I would go tell it on the mountain!

Trek up a solitary path, where the only thing alive would be the little pebbles tumbling down the side, or a shrub bending slightly in the wind. Oh yeah, there would be eagles soaring above, stray donkeys, and perhaps other solitary souls like us, who would not mind stepping off the path not because they wanted to avoid us, but just to keep up with their rhythm.

I would do nothing. Sit in a quiet top corner and stare in the distance. The wind would move in from somewhere, enter me and take a bit of me, disappear and then reappear. That Houdini of a wind!

I never saw it, but always felt it. The wind was my faith. Then and now I was in a perpetual mental quandary. A kind of illness within that I strived to down but ended up slipping over, like it were a banana peel.

I had no clue as to how this disease grew or who sowed the seeds, but it swelled. The mountains were an escape; a land from which this disease hid itself.

And when the wind washed my soul, I felt awake and I became what I often searched for. But I couldn’t remain there, cleansing my soul forever. I had work, I had a home, I had those who cared to whom I had to return. I had to get back to the clang and the batter of life where I was like a home dog thrown to the streets, hungry for a morsel and ill equipped to even find a bone. I stifled those whines and slung along the dark trails of my life, my tail tucked in. Naturally, I fought and hurt and trampled down on the innocents too, but always tried to make amends of the many mistakes I made.

But, each time, I went, up the mountain, each time it was like extending my life further. I sipped that unseen elixir and came back not just refreshed but flushed with pleasure.

The balance in my life was restored. Pride would be back in place, all in good measure and everything was alright with life, all’s well! Up there the cobwebs would dissolve and my general apathy would turn tail at a mere gust of wind.

I discovered so many things in my mountain treks, so many facets of life, so much wonder, each corner springing up a pleasant surprise and I used to drink in all that, let that breeze soak my bones with an undecipherable bliss.

God, I wonder where all that went and how that aura disappeared. I know. I haven’t been heading there lately.

In fact, I haven’t headed there in years and I feel now I cannot even put one foot over the other and even head to a spot where I could be alone and myself. The life I have led in these last few years have stultified my being and my useless self limps alongside my amputated spirit. Often when I reflect, I try to decipher the reason why I slipped down the edge, without even realising it. In fact, I did not know I fell for I never felt any pain when I hit the bottom. It is only when I pick up the pieces of a soul that never took off and soared that I realise where I am and the abyss I had fallen into.

And this is not the end because I know it is a bottomless pit and this realisation has set in probably because my sense was caught on the edge of an invisible ledge and I am falling again…I wish someone would catch me, break the further fall or at least throw in a rope… I know I have to climb back and head for the mountain again for the mountain is not going to come to me.

But, I hear it calling my name… adarsh@blackandwhiteoman.com

February 7- 20 14 B&W 2014

February 7- 20 15 B&W 2014

Oman Medical College holds White Coat ceremony for pharmacy students Oman Medical College, Bowshar campus recently organised a White Coat Ceremony for B.Pharm. final-year students. DrDarwish bin Saif Al Moharbi, undersecretary for administrative and financial affairs, ministry of health was the chief guest for the ceremony.

Khulood Mohammed Rashid Al Araimi, member, board of directors, OMC, Greta Holz, American ambassador and Ph. Ahmed Said Al Harbi, chairman Oman Pharmaceutical Society were also present during the ceremony. Dr Diana S. Beattie, dean pre-medicine and pharmacy programmes, OMC, gave a speech. The keynote address was given by Prof (Dr) Chandrakanth Kokate, vice chancellor of KLEUniversity, India. The talks were followed by a formal 'robing' ceremony. A total of 67 students received white coats marking their entry into practical training in pharmacy. They were cloaked by dean Dr Diana S. Beattie and associate dean Dr Yaseen

Moosa Malallah Al- Lawatia. Dr Mohamed Hamadan Al Rubaie, directorate of drugs and pharmaceutical affairs administered the oath of a pharmacist to the students after they received their white coats. Sumaiya Mohamed Aslam Hassan Al Balushi on behalf of all the final year students expressed gratitude to the parents and teachers.

The OMC also honoured the institutions supporting internships of the pharmacy students. The programme ended with a vote of thanks by Dr P. Jayasekhar, professor and chair pharmacy programme at OMC.

Fine Fair opens in Oman The U.A.E’s renowned international fashion brand, Fine Fair recently announced the launch of 15 family fashion stores across Oman. Five out of these 15 stores will target major locations in Oman like Al Khuwair, Al Khood and Al Seeb in Muscat along with Barka and Sohar. The group will be investing $10 million in their expansion plans for Oman. Since the opening of their first store in Ajman, U.A.E back in 2001, Fine Fair has become popular across the region for its offerings of fine quality at affordable prices. Speaking at the launch, Ismayael Rawther, Ceo and chairman of Fine Fair said, “Fine Fair has long been known for its affordable family format.

Oman presents the perfect opportunity for us with its quality and price conscious customers who now will be served better through our 15 store network. Muscat is one of the top 20 emerging markets in the world and we have five stores in the pipeline for the city alone. While catering to the specific fashion needs of the Omani customers, we also get a chance to contribute to the community by creating more job opportunities and helping the local economy as much as possible.”

Wordpress

Gallops of Oman set to launch The countdown is now on for Gallops of Oman, the Sultanate’s first ever horsemanship challenge, during a 180km ride across the Sharqiyah desert. The opening ceremony is due to launch on February 17 at Al Rakah Camp, near the village of El Mintrib. Brigadier Abdulrazak Alshawarzi, commander of the Royal Cavalry and Ceo of Gallops of Oman said, “Gallops of Oman is a prestigious event, organised with the blessing of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. It is the first event of its kind to be held in Oman and as a nation, we are proud of our strong historical link with the Arabian horse. Everyone attending the opening ceremony will be able to see for themselves some of the finest bred Arabian horses and also riders from countries such as France, Denmark, Spain, Italy and Oman, who have established their expertise in equestrian sports including February 7- 20 16 B&W 2014

endurance and racing. With 110 horses, the start line will be a spectacular sight, not to be missed. At the end of the fifth and final stage, the horses and riders will cross the finish line at Qudaymah.” From February 17 to 21, the Gallops of Oman will bring together 110 adventure-seeking riders from across the globe, who have signed up to ride the length of Sharqiyah Sands and appreciate the stamina and power of the Arabian horses that they will be riding. In total, 22 teams of five people, including two Omani teams made up of male and female riders will set off on a journey of a lifetime.

The TSC Experience Throughout 16 years of TSC existence in Oman, Sultan Center provided its loyal shoppers an exquisite shopping experience by furnishing state of the art service, quality and exclusive products.The year 2013 was a successful and eventful year for The Sultan Center.

It witnessed the launch of major retail initiatives where customers were the center of attention; that aimed at the continuous delivery of excellent customer service, focus on variety, quality and freshness of products, celebrating seasonal trends; making TSC everyone’s favourite shopping destination.

According to Fawaz Diab, chief commercial officer, TSC, “The

year 2014 will be the ignition of an increased focus on building up the retail chain’s image as an exclusive one-stop shop, which caters for all tastes and needs.

“This focus will be translated in up scaling our products variety and services throughout our different operating formats of service stores in Qurum and Azaiba, reaching to our wholesale centers at Al Khoud and Amerat; in addition to our community serving stores in Qurayat and Sumail; to avail our customers what they really need by creating an unforgettable shopping experience”, he says.

“Today we are closer to our customers through social media

networks. We listen and interact with our customers through social media channels on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. This is aligned with our core principles to give the utmost value to our customers,” explains Diab.

The ‘Eternal Newsman’ honoured with top journalism award The late Alfred D’Cruz, the first Indian sub-editor of the Times of India, Mumbai in 1947, and a stalwart of the Times Group, for 40 years, was honoured posthumously with the Laxmidas Borkar Memorial Award for Journalism in 2013 by the Bori Development Trust, Goa. The award, instituted in memory of eminent journalist, the late Laxmidas Borkar, was presented during the well-attended Bori Utsav celebrations, at the Narayan Temple Hall, Ponda in Goa, India, recently.

Sunil, son of the late Alfred D’Cruz, who is based in Muscat, received the award on his father’s behalf.

Way back in 1947, Alfred D’Cruz was hand-picked by the then British Editor, Sir Francis Low, at a time whenEnglishmen were at the editorial desk. His headline "India wakes up to a new life" adorned the front page of the Times of India, Mumbai when India gained Independence.

Besides editing countless newspapers and bringing out the daily edition of the Times of India, Mumbai, Late Alfred D’Cruz, who

passed away on June 1 last year, co-authored the book Saligao: Focus on a Picturesque Goan Village, brought out during the centenary celebrations of Mae de Deus church in 1973, the only church with Gothic architecture in Goa. In 2012, Alfred D’Cruz was honoured posthumously with the Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence inJournalism by the Journalist Association of India (JAI)

in New Delhi.

Born on November 23, 1921, Alfred D’Cruz contributed to the enrichment in the field of journalism for 65 years from 1947 to 2012 and is known by the newspaper fraternity as the ‘Eternal Newsman’.

Alfred D’Cruz was also the News Editor of The Sunday Observer, Mumbai and the Assistant Editor of The Kuwait Times.

February 7- 20 17 B&W 2014

Ahlibank launches Unique Dining Programme Ahlibank has launched an exciting program to tickle customers’ taste buds. ‘Al Maida’, which means the “Feast” in Arabic, is set to be the best dining programme in Oman. Ahli Bank’s announcement is yet another testament of the bank’s journey towards launching customer centric products and services.

With the partner network of over 100 plus dining outlets spread across the Sultanate, the customers’ can enjoy exciting discounts up to 30 per cent when using their Ahli Bank credit or debit cards to settle their dining bills. The discounts are valid till this December 31 for use as many times with no vouchers or coupons needed.

CB Ganesh, deputy Ceo banking group at Ahlibank, said: “We are committed to provide our valued customers an exceptional experience through the launch of various value added products and services. We are sure that

our customer will welcome the usage of Al Maida Mobile application to refer to the dining offer instead of carrying a bulky vouchers and coupons book”.

DHL express Oman new country manager DHL, announced the appointment of Ali Thabet, as the new country manager for DHL Express Oman overseeing the strategic development of one of DHL Express’ key markets in the MENA region. Nour Suliman, Ceo, DHL Express Middle East and North Africa commented on the appointment, “Our team has grown rapidly since we started operations in Oman over 30 years ago continuously focussed over the years on delivering innovative express solutions and high quality services to our customers. Today, we are pleased to welcome Ali Thabet to the DHL Express Oman Management Team. I am confident that his extensive industry experience will contribute highly to the growth of our business in Oman. In his role as country manager, Ali will ensure that DHL continues to deliver on our promise of excellence to our customers.”

Wordpress

Honda Accord named “2014 Green Car of the Year” The 2014 Honda Accord, has been named the “2014 Green Car of the Year®” by Green Car Journal. The award recognises the class-leading environmental performance of the Accord family of vehicles, including the fuel-efficient and low emissions Accord four cylinder and V-6 Coupe and Sedan. 2014 Green Car of the Year® jurors selected the Accord as the winning model for many reasons, not the least of which is its ability to offer an efficient choice for a wide range of buyers, from those seeking better fuel efficiency in a conventionally powered model to those desiring the milestone efficiency of a world-class car. In addition to the “Green Car of the Year” honor, the Accord was earlier honored as one of Green Car Journal’s ‘Top 5 Green Cars for 2014’ and additionally earned the magazine’s ‘Green Car Product of Excellence’ distinction. The 2014 Accord lineup February 7- 20 18 B&W 2014

features Honda’s innovative Earth Dreams™ Technology powertrains, including Honda’s next-generation 2.4-liter, direct-injected 4-cylinder engine with continuously variable transmission or 6-speed manual transmission.

Fuel efficiency is the best ever for Accord in the EPA Midsize class, with 4-cylinder models earning a 36 mpg highway EPA rating2 and the V-6 models garnering a 34 mpg highway EPA rating2.

Audi: more than 1.57 million deliveries in 2013 In 2013, the company sold around 1,575,500 automobiles worldwide, 8.3 percent more than in 2012. Audi sales increased by more than 100,000 units for the fourth consecutive year. Major growth drivers over the past year were Audi’s three biggest export markets, all of which reported double-digit growth: with China up 21.2 percent, the United States up 13.5 percent, and the UK up 14.9 percent. In Europe and China, the four rings again led the premium segment in 2013 as the top-selling brand. Audi concluded the year with a 18.4 percent growth to around 130,700 global deliveries in December, increasing sales in all regions of the world compared to the same month of 2012.

“We set an important milestone for Audi in the past year: We achieved our intermediate strategic goal of 1.5 million deliveries two years earlier than planned, and in fact comfortably exceeded it,” says Rupert Stadler, chairman of the board of management at Audi AG.

‘Our earth, our hour’ inspires creativity with design competition To mark Earth Hour 2014, the Environment Society of Oman (ESO) is challenging budding artists to create unique art work for a poster themed ‘Our earth, our hour’ that highlights the simple every day changes that can make a big difference to the environment by saving energy. From January 8, Wednesday until January 29, Wednesday, designers can submit their artwork and win the chance for their design to become the main

icon for this year’s campaign that will be displayed across the country to promote Earth Hour 2014 and win exciting prizes along the way.

The competition offers people the

opportunity to use their imagination to express their appreciation for Oman’s natural habitat and take part in the global challenge to conserve resources for the welfare of the planet.

Earth Hour 2014 will take place on March 29 as individuals, communities and organisations around the world pledge their support for energy conservation and green activities through their yearly campaign ‘I will, if you will’.

Mitsubishi organises team Pajero adventure General Automotive Company, the official distributors for Mitsubishi in Oman, organised a desert adventure for Pajero owners and enthusiasts between January 3rd and 4th, giving them a taste of an Arabian desert in the vehicle best designed to handle the challenge – the Mitsubishi Pajero. This was the first of three Team Pajero adventures to take place, with the next desert excursion scheduled for January 17 and the last on January 31. All Mitsubishi Pajero owners in the Sultanate are invited to register for the upcoming trips at the Mitsubishi showroom in Athaiba.

Commenting on the event Mark Tomlinson, the general manager of General Automotive Company, said: “We organise these excursions to the desert so that our customers and their families get the opportunity to fully test the capabilities of the Pajero in a safe, controlled and fun environment. The Team Pajero Adventure has received a terrific response every time it is conducted with an ever increasing number of Pajero owners taking part.”

February 7- 20 19 B&W 2014

Khimji’s Watches raises OMR46,699 at charity auction Pankaj Khimji, director, Khimji Ramdas, proved to be a persuasive auctioneer as he helped raise OMR46,699 for an exclusively designed special edition timepiece, created from the Chopard design studio, at a charity auction event held at The Chedi Muscat in November. This combined initiative of the Khimji’s Watches and Chopard leadership team resulted in the creation of a bespoke Happy Sport timepiece for Oman for the purpose of raising funds for a well-deserved community program. The Chopard Happy Sport special edition timepiece, which is unique and only one of its kind, has a beautifully handcrafted engraved Omani Khanjar in white gold and moving diamond, emerald, and ruby elements, representing Oman’s national colors. Dr Mohammed Redha bin Hassan bin Suleiman, chairman of the Association for the Welfare of the Handicapped Children (AWHC) said: “We are delighted that the event was such a success.

We value our continuing relationship with Chopard and

Khimji’s Watches. The children will truly benefit from more patronage and we thank all those involved.”

Anil Khimji, director, Khimji Ramdas adds, “The cause of the AWHC has always been close to us. Creating a bespoke special edition timepiece to be auctioned at an exclusive event helped us raise a meaningful amount to this cause. I would like to thank Chopard and all our well wishers in making this event a success.”

Nawras Free Wi-Fi celebrates double win at 2013 Global Cristal Awards The new free Wi-Fi ‘Piggybacking’ service from Nawras has been honoured with two awards at the 2013 Global Cristal Awards, part of the 13th annual Cristal Festival held recently in the French ski resort of Courchevel. Nawras struck gold in the highly coveted ‘Future is Now’ category and won bronze in the ‘Media’ section as the ‘Piggybacking’ campaign was rewarded for the best use of mobile technology.

Usama Al Saifi, Nawras Senior Campaign Supervisor, said, “Nawras is offering customers with a free wireless solution to help them stay connected. We understand that customers will try to find an open Wi-Fi

connection wherever they are and we have introduced multiple connections to share existing wireless services to provide a free service. This is part of offering creative communications in the Sultanate and we hope that customers enjoy the service.”

Nawras Piggybacking allows customers to connect to a free WiFi network by providing additional open signals from each modem to create a hotspot. Customers can connect to the free WiFi network by selecting ‘NawrasWiFi’, found at the top of the available networks list, and logging in to the service to enjoy fast broadband from Nawras for free.

Wordpress

Popularity of Fuso ‘Narrow Cab’ Canter grows Nearly one year after its launch, the Canter Narrow Cab models from Fuso Trucks have proven to be extremely popular in the market and have seen unprecedented demand from companies in search for cost efficient commercial city transportation. Fuso Trucks are represented in Oman by General Automotive Company. Commenting on the widespread popularity February 7- 20 20 B&W 2014

amongst commercial operators for the Fuso Narrow Cab Canter, Mark Tomlinson, general manager of General Automotive Company said, “With the Narrow Cab Canter, Fuso made one of the worlds most advanced, efficient and powerful light-duty trucks much more comfortable to drive within the confines of the city. In fact, since its introduction at last year’s ‘The Big

Show’, the Narrow Cab Canter has truly taken the market by storm. Its popularity is due to the attractive styling, comfortable interior and class leading performance, coupled with a low cost of ownership and a narrow profile that allows for easy access along tight city streets.”

Omran and Omantel sign MoU Omran recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Oman Telecommunications Company (Omantel) to construct its new headquarters in the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) Precinct.

The MoU signing was held at Omantel’s head office and was signed by Omran’s Ceo, Eng. Wael bin Ahmed Al Lawati, and Dr Amer Awadh Al Rawas, Ceo of Omantel.

The MoU appoints Omran as master developer for the entire project, assigning responsibility for procuring the necessary design and contracting consultancies and providing management services during construction.

The state-of-the-art Omantel headquarters will comprise approximately 40,000 square meters of built-up area as well as parking for more than 1,200 vehicles.

The proposed project will also incorporate several

environmental initiatives throughout its lifecycle to meet the globally recognised voluntary Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) criteria set by the US Green Building Council.

National Bank of Oman revamps Small Business Unit

National Bank of Oman (NBO) announced that it will revamp its Small Business Unit (SBU) in a bid to extend support to Oman’s SME sector. The bank will launch specific segment offerings under the Tijarati Banking Unit, a specialised department which will focus on financial and non-financial services for SMEs, to fully cater to the diversity within the segment, and offer efficient, targeted

support to customers. The Small Business Unit will now offer a comprehensive range of products including collateral backed and collateral free offerings.

Moosa Masoud Al Jadidi, deputy general manager and acting head of retail and private banking at NBO said: “At NBO we understand the importance of SMEs in developing a strong and diversified economy for Oman, and see entrepreneurs as the leading business figures and employers of the future. Our approach is designed to empower and encourage entrepreneurship in a bid to create employment. We take a holistic approach to supporting entrepreneurs and SMEs, which is not restricted to lending but also offering mentoring through all stages of establishing their business, and the services and products we offer truly reflect our understanding of the SME segment”

Oman Road Safety Association participates Oman Road Safety Association (ORSA), the first and only registered non-governmental road safety organisation under the umbrella of the ministry of social development, recently participated in an awareness activity on road safety - organised by ‘Risks of Bicycles’ project - talking topics of seat belts, child restraints, speed management and the importance of usage of helmets for motorcyclists in Wilayat Sur under

the auspices of Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamed Al Masroori, member of the State Council.

During her lecture on road safety awareness, Shaima Murtadha Al Lawati, Oman Road Safety Association Ceo stated the objectives of the association and its diverse range of activities. She also emphasised on the role of the community in leveraging and activating partnerships between the

association and general public to further educate individuals on traffic etiquette and practices.

February 7- 20 21 B&W 2014

Oman Oasis Water Company celebrates second win in His Majesty’s Cup Oman Oasis Water Company recently held an event to celebrate winning the ‘His Majesty’s Cup for Best Factories in 2013’ award. The event, held at the Oman Oasis Water factory, was attended by the company Ceo and a number of senior executives and employees.

About 48 companies participated in the 2013 Best Factories contest and Ziyad Mohammed Al Zubair, board member of The Zubair Corporation was on hand to pick up the HM Cup award on behalf of Oman Oasis Water Company. Initiated in 1991, the ministry of commerce and industry has been organising the competition annually to commemorate His Majesty the Sultan’s declaration of the years 1991 and 1992 as Years of Industry. Speaking on the occasion, N. Janardhan, chief operating officer – manufacturing sector, The Zubair Corporation said, “To win this prestigious award for the second time is a great

honour, and adds to the earlier success for the Oman Oasis Water Company in the Shield Award in 2010 and 2011”. N.S.S. Subramanian, general manager of Oman Oasis Water Company added, “This is another milestone achieved by our team and a prestigious moment in our journey. It is a dream come true for all of us to receive the highest recognition once again. The team has been taking these challenges year after year and consistently they are delivering value and innovation. These awards give our organisation confidence and motivation to work better and continue to deliver consistent results”.

Omanoil launches Code of Ethics Oman Oil Marketing Company (omanoil) has launched a Corporate Code of Ethics to further instill its values of integrity and transparency amongst its employees. Having achieved a decade of pioneering performance in the oil and gas industry, the company marks the beginning of its next ten-year journey with a strengthened promise to sustain ethical business practices as it continues to grow. The new guidebook was introduced by Assila bint Zaher Al Harthy, Oman Oil Marketing Company board member, at a special launch ceremony held at omanoil’s headquarters.

“Our success over the last 10 years has been built

on a foundation of personal and professional integrity,” said omanoil Ceo, Engr. Omar bin Ahmed Salim Qatan. “We uphold the highest standard of corporate governance, going over-and-beyond simply complying with requirements. We also share a holistic belief in ethical business practices with our employees, suppliers and partners who are passionate about serving this great nation with integrity.”

Wordpress

Oman Plast 2014 – perfectly timed The Second Oman International Plastics, Rubber & Packaging Industry Exhibition 2014 – 2nd OMAN PLAST 2014 – was held at the Oman International Exhibition Centre, recently.

The three-day event, which was inaugurated by Hilal bin Hamad Al Hasani, chief executive officer of the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (PEIE), was organised by Silver Star Corporation L.L.C. The OMAN PLAST 2014, in its second edition, showcased the latest technology and machineries used in manufacturing of plastics, rubber, packaging and petrochemicals. It was an ideal platform for Oman and February 7- 20 22 B&W 2014

its neighbouring states to source new technology and products. As the petrochemical industry is one of the main components of the Omani economy, the event proved to give great impetus to further diversify its growth, a press note said.

P.D. Nath, managing director, Silver Star, explained that the event was perfectly timed for the continuing boom in Oman’s plastics, rubber, packaging and petrochemical industry. Bahrain, India, Jordan, Pakistan, Qatar, Oman, the United Arab Emirates and the United States of America were the participating countries.

Jotun support to NACA In an effort aimed at extending a helping hand to the children afflicted with cancer, Jotun Paints has supported National Association for Cancer Awareness (NACA)’s Dar Al Hanan Centre for the third year in a row 2011 – 2013.

The agenda this year was to not only collect money but also to involve children in activities and to let them feel important by way of helping them earn. Jotun helped them earn money to support not only their but many other families during their treatments. Under the supervision of professional art teachers the cancer patients (age two to 10) painted some magnificent and colorful paintings using their hands. These painting were then sold to the corporates and well-wishers. Mahira Saqib, assistant marketing manager said that “we are happy to be a part of such activity, The idea behind was to not only support the organisation financially but also giving the children hope of doing something more than just being sick and treated’. ‘The contribution of Jotun Paints is a continuation

of the cooperation we started with NACA in 2011. We donated OMR5000 in 2011 and OMR5000 in 2012. This year too with the support of some of our dealers and well-wishers, we have collected OMR5000.” said Andreas Stolt-Nielsen, sales and marketing manager in Jotun.

“We feel that corporate social responsibility should not be coerced; it is a voluntary decision that every company must make on its own to support these non-profitable organizations, and we hope that many organisations will take efforts to support causes in future,” said Bjorn Skjelby, general manager, Jotun Paints Oman LLC.

DG Help – a one of a kind service in Oman!

Sharaf DG has launched a slew of services under its technical services division DG Help. These services are unique and have the stamp of exemplary quality which is not seen in the market. DG Help provides computer and mobile phone setup and repair services. In the near future DG Help will provide onsite services like TV/Home Theater system installation, relocation and troubleshooting requirements. DG Help will also launch special IT solutions for SMB (Small Medium Sized Businesses). Commenting on the range of services Nilesh Khalkho said “Every customer has a Mobile/Smartphone/ Tablet these days and use them for entertainment, personal and official work. On the one hand companies

are launching new models in mobiles and tablets every other day. On the other hand customers want to always use the latest model and the latest applications. This is where DG Help’s expert services come into play assisting customers to easily move from one model to another, install and upgrade software and enjoy features of the product. Currently DG Help offers both in warranty and out of warranty repair services to customers in Oman. Customers can also safe guard their electronic products by purchasing extended warranty on mobiles/ smartphones, tablets, laptops and desktops. Currently two year and three year extended warranty packages are offered to customers.

Dedicated website for Peugeot launched in Oman European Motors has announced the launch of its new website www. europeanmotors.om; that plays host to a new localized website for Peugeot (www.peugeot.om) in Oman. These websites have been designed to match the brand’s international standards in terms of design and aesthetics while at the same time promoting easy navigation and effortless access to information on both European Motors and the

multiple product lines offered; making it even easier for customers in Oman to access and experience the brands.

“It has always been our top priority to provide our customers in the

Sultanate excellent products and services at exceptional value.

Beginning from the vehicle purchase experience, through to the ongoing vehicle maintenance, our team constantly strives to deliver and an outstanding ownership experience for our valued customers; now that very same experience has been taken a step further in the digital realm,” Gurdeep Singh Multani, brand manager for Peugeot in Oman said.

February 7- 20 23 B&W 2014

Those were the days my friend, lalalala lalala

Bikram Vohra, internationallyknown Gulf based scribe

Sunny side up

By Bikram Vohra You know your age has passed the halfÂŹway house and it is all downhill from now on when: People tell you to take it easy, slow down, you are not getting any younger, lean back a bit - and you hate them for saying it. Everyone has advice on cutting out various foods. You never hear enough of it as they babble on about salt, sugar, coffee, tea, fried foods, cigarettes ...oh go away and leave me alone.

You actually read those "I am John's liver" type of articles in the magazines.

Your hypochondria gallops around like a young colt and every symptom you read about or see on TV you know you have it, no doubt at all.

You actually have memories and talk about the good old days.

All the young people suddenly get very busy when you say, `Let me tell you when I was your age...'.

You cannot believe what things cost as compared to your childhood and you can't wait to share the comparison if you can get someone to stay long enough to listen.

All the job ads are for people old enough to be your son.

Ads on herbal medicines and what they do to your system fascinate you.

Someone sees you jogging and tells you it is dangerous at your age.

Gravity seems to be winning hands down because now life is one big sag.

You wish your metabolism wasn't such a lazy sod.

You go around the house yelling about electricity bills and switching all the lights off.

You meet some young guy whose swash hasn't buckled and he reminds you of what you once were, and you loathe him for it. Then you go home and sadly realise you'll never run the 400 metres again. ' Someone gives you his card and you spend a minute squeegeeing your eyes to read it; is that number a 6 or an 8 or a 5 squint, squint.

You overhear someone call you that old eccentric.

Your kids tell you this is not your type of a movie, it February 7- 20 24 B&W 2014

is too `now'.

No one in this generation knows who Malcolm X is.

You find today's youngsters lazy, shiftless, spoilt, pampered, ill mannered louts ...not much different from what you were.

You go to a party and yearn for a chair to sit in; then you don't want to get up every time a lady comes in.

All your food intake is on a quota system. The doctor talks about you in third person, like what does he like to eat or how was he feeling this morning and you want to say, hey, I am here, okay talk to me.

You can't open a lid and you go red in the face trying, and then some kid comes and yanks it off and, upstaged, you go looking for Deep Heat.

Your whole breakfast is a saga in roughage and fibre and you actually read the ingrediÂŹents on the packet to see if you have had 60 per cent of your riboflavin - whatever that is.

You discuss the details of your flipping daily `walk' with others of your age...like who cares, did you ever think you'd do that?

If you do something young at heart your family is embarrassed, like not at your age...well, whyever not?

You actually find you bought a jar of antiwrinkle cream.

You can't believe this is the generation which is going to inherit your legacy, I mean what a mess they'll make of it.

You get all shmaltzy and gooey eyed in the movies, all that soppy sentiment for Mr Onetime Tough Guy. Your after-late-night morning recovery time is two mornings, and you like fizzy solutions like fruit salt and Alka Seltzer.

You find yourself obsessed by your digestive system and its mysteries.

You wonder where the time went, there was so much of it just yesterday ...it was yesterday.

Itwasitwasitwas.

In black & White

In Black...

The desert is like any other raw environment.

There are two ways to explore the desert -follow the Bedouin path or chart your own course Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali Editor-in-chief EXPLORE THE DESERTS Every piece of nature is a creation of the Almighty – unique, flawless and beautiful. There is no other beauty in the world that is as original as that of Mother Nature. Oman is a fortunate country that has been bestowed with the best of everything naturally. Oman has two deserts: the Empty Quarter and the Sharqiya sands, where kilometers of sand dunes join the Arabian coast, a unique spectacle to experience.

My tryst with the desert began in 1998, a hobby that has evolved into a passion today, initiated by a simple glimpse from a flight to a nearby country. From that height, the stretch of sand looked like a painting, fascinating as well as alluring. I was hooked!

WALK BAREFOOT IN THE BEACH As they say, walk barefoot in the beach, within the proximity of the water, sky and sand and you will experience pure magic. So if you need to experience the sand, walk barefoot. Unless you cross the sands, you will not know what I am talking about. You will be transported to a world, which is far from the maddening routines and tensions.

There is nothing to fear. The desert is like any other raw environment. There are two ways to explore the desert -- follow the Bedouin path or chart your own course. The Bedouins path is tried and tested one and there is little chance you will get lost. But, if you are an adventurer at heart, equip yourself with all the utilities, travel light with essentials and don’t forget your GPS! It is easy to get lost in the vast stretch of the sand, especially if you are a novice.

RESPECT THE BEDOUINS You cannot afford to be reckless in the desert, not just on the driving or safety front, but also in terms of basic etiquette. How would you like it if people barge in to your home unannounced? Similarly, you cannot just walk into a Bedouin territory without their approval. The desert is their home and it is not limited or confined to walls or cents of land as in a city. It is their natural dwelling and you have to respect that. A word of caution though: never disturb nature, respect the desert and its dwellers and they will in turn respect you. The Bedouins are genuinely simple and they are also very helpful by nature.

HISTORIC CROSSING The B&W team met with Ahmed bin Haroub bin Hamed Al Mahruqi, who is an explorer and lover of the desert.

Mahruqi is embarking on a historic trip, following the route of the great explorer, Wilfred Thesiger, who had crossed the Empty Quarter. While Thesiger skirted the route on the borders, Mahruqi hopes to make the crossing right through the centre. Let us all wish him the very best of luck in this historic crossing!

& White February 7- 20 25 B&W 2014

B&W Xclusive

FOLLOWING THESIGER’S FOOTSTEPS…

February 7- 20 26 B&W 2014

An intrepid Omani desert lover is planning to retrace the footsteps of the famous British explorer’s, Sir Wilfred Thesiger, journey of the Empty Quarter(*) which he undertook half a century or more back…

Ahmed bin Haroub bin Hamed Al Mahruqi, whose second home is the desert, is planning to go right into the middle of the sandy quarter, from Bidiyah to Shannah, a distance of approximately 184kms, in 14days from March 1 onwards. This brave bid to cross the desert is to bring to the fore the magnificent sands of Oman, which Ahmed Mahruqi feels can woo any adventure-loving tourist to the Sultanate…

FFeebbrruuaarryy 77- - 2200 27 27 B&W 22001144 B&W

B&W Xclusive

A lone Omani driver in a jeep was weaving his way up the sand dunes one late dark night in the Empty Quarter (Rub’ Al Khali) of Arabia. His vehicle’s lights pierced through the pitch black midnight darkness. Suddenly in the distance, the car’s headlights picked several dark figures huddled on camels.

They just stood there in his vehicle’s path like mysterious dark shadows and the driver instinctively slowed down. Men with lesser courage would baulk at the thought of encountering such sinister-looking rank strangers in the middle of nowhere, especially at night.

February 7- 20 28 B&W 2014

Ahmed bin Haroub bin Hamed Al Mahruqi was armed with nothing but a tent, some food and water and kahwa (Omani coffee).

“Perhaps they would like some kahwa,” Ahmed Mahruqi said under his breath as he tried to humour himself, waving out to those sentinels of the dark standing almost motionlessly some distance away from his rugged jeep. He got out and stood before his car’s front lights and raised his hand again in greeting. There was a sudden stir among the statues-like-men on the camels and they returned his greeting. “Mahruqi!” they said in unison, their voices decidedly warm and friendly. They alighted from their camels, came forward and embraced Ahmed Mahruqi. These were the tough, nononsense Bedouins who would normally not entertain strangers. But, they knew him by sight. He was not a stranger. He was like, almost, one of them.

FFeebbrruuaarryy 77- - 2200 29 29 B&W 22001144 B&W

B&W Xclusive February 7- 20 30 B&W 2014

KING OF THE SAND Ahmed Mahruqi was a common feature in the Empty Quarter. Unlike the tourists, he was not one among the odd ones out in the lonely desert sands. Most of the Bedouins knew him because this is one Omani who spends almost all of his free time in the desert.

During workdays, you will find him as any other dedicated and committed Omani at his workplace in the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, where he heads the health, safety and environment (HSE) department.

Weekends, Mahruqi quietly disappears into the cocoon of the desert where this father of four and grandfather of six metamorphoses into a semi Bedouin. He gets on his favourite and faithful red Jeep Wrangler of 20 years – aptly stickered ‘King of the Sand’ --and drives deep into the innards of the desert and let the sands absorb him, soak his soul under a canopy of stars, lit just for him. Most of the times, it would only be Mahruqi, and on some occasions, he would be accompanied by his family members.

But, largely, Mahruqi would be alone, enjoying the magic of the enigmatic dark desert night or the open wonder of a morning spent on the shifting dunes.

SOMETHING GENTLE, SOMETHING WILD There is something that is very gentle yet wild about this ardent desert lover. He had invited us over for an informal chat at his SQU office to discuss a unique desert trip that he is planning. Mahruqi is attempting to cross the Empty Quarter on camel and foot in a bid to recreate the same trip that the legendary explorer, Wilfred Thesiger, had taken 50-odd years ago.

Now, more than half a century later, Mahruqi was attempting this unusual trip, not skirting the borders like his idol, Thesiger, but actually cutting through the middle, from Bidiyah to Shannah, hoping to cover the

184kms in less than two weeks.

“I want to recreate the magic of the good old golden days when desert travellers relied on one single mode of transport – the king/ship of the desert, the faithful camel!” Mahruqi says with a certain amount of passion to the Black & White at the same time tracing the path on a map behind him. Mahruqi is training hard for this grueling desert trip, slowly dawning on him. If you happen to see a tall bespectacled man with a salt and pepper beard exercising a young camel in a field near his home, then you have stumbled on this unusual desert lover. Mahruqi is training himself with two young camels (Kleesa), costing OMR5000 each. “These camels can easily walk for around 400kilometres a day. I will use one to carry food and other utilities and I will ride the second one.”

EPIC DESERT CROSSING Mahruqi will embark on his epic desert crossing on March 1, this year. “As part of the 14-day planned schedule, I hope to cover the first part of Bidiyah to Shannah, a 184km trip, starting off with a farewell ceremony, which is traditionally organised by the villagers of Bidiyah.

I will be staying in Bidiyah from February25 onwards, gearing up for the trip,” he told us. But that is not

all. Mahruqi, upon reaching Shannah will continue on for another 184kms, doing the second stretch from there to Adam, which he hopes to do in another 14 days. “I hope to move at an easy pace, travelling around 30kms per day (on some days), starting at 6am until 5pm and resting after that,” Mahruqi said, gleefully adding that he hoped to do a night’s travel on a full moon day. He finds night travelling on the desert quite exhilarating. He has already done enough night travelling on his jeep, but not on a camel or on foot.

“I am not going on this trip to satisfy a personal goal or achieve self attainment. No, I love Oman. I want the world to know what Oman has to offer to the world tourists. Our desert will be an eye opener for many and they will be able to satiate their adventure needs.

My journey will also be a life lesson on patience. We are living in a fast world, building all our relationships on technology and speed, not pausing even for a minute. We live in a fast, fast world, from fast food to high speed driving on roads. Fourteen days in the desert will slow me down, giving me a lesson on patience, a self-realisation course. We all need to slow down a bit, look into ourselves, enjoy the nature and create a better world for our youth, filled with wonder and tolerance.

FFeebbrruuaarryy 77- - 2200 31 31 B&W 22001144 B&W

B&W Xclusive February 7- 20 32 B&W 2014

Most of the times, it would only be Mahruqi, and on some occasions, he would be accompanied by his family members. But, largely, Mahruqi would be alone, enjoying the magic of the enigmatic dark desert night or the open wonder of a morning spent on the shifting dunes

FFeebbrruuaarryy 77- - 2200 33 33 B&W 22001144 B&W

B&W Xclusive February 7- 20 34 B&W 2014

I have had the best of my time in the desert sands, from a childhood trip to my honeymoon and to many moments of sweet, calm, solitude.”

LOVE FOR THE SANDS The desert has been a second home to Mahruqi since his childhood. “I love the sand, the silence, the music of the desert, from the blowing wind to the drumming sands and the magic of the star-lit skies.

And I am also drawn to the night – there is something mysterious, dangerous and yet rejuvenating about nighttime. Few have really witnessed the beauty of the night sky. When you live in a city, you will not be able to witness this nocturnal spectacle. I have been lucky enough to experience the countless stars shining brightly above me,” Mahruqi said, sharing his enthusiasm about the wonders of the skies above a desert.

Oman could proudly boast of its naturally beautiful desert that could fascinate any human soul, he enthused. “The more you look at the desert, the more it looks like a visual treat. There are times when I feel this sand stretch (he indicated a portion on the map on the wall) looks like the neck of a whale when it leaps out of the water… it is not just a visual delight, it induce a calmness inside you,” Mahruqi said, stroking his salt and pepper henna smeared beard and then slowly took us back into his past.

DOWN MEMORY LANE Mahruqi was born in Tanzania. In the early 60s, he and several members of his family came on a ship to the coast of Oman. “We landed in the Mahout area. My family, consisting of my mother, my brother Arif and sister Asa travelled on camels to Adam, where our tribe was settled. I still vividly remember the rough camel ride but my love affair with camels began then and till date the passion has only increased. We, Arabs, are fortunate to have the kings of the desert with us, but fail to use them in our daily lives.”

The 60s did not see Mahruqi settle down in Oman. But however after His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said took over as the reigns of Oman, the former returned to Oman in 1971. “It was also a long trip from Tanzania to Dar-eSalaam to Nairobi to Pakistan and I flew on a Pakistan airline flight to Bait Al Falaj airport. I travelled from Muscat to my village in Adam then, travelling 24 hours non-stop,” he reminisces.

After his basic schooling, Mahruqi joined the Technical School in Darsait in 1974-75 and joined PDO as a fireman. “I served the PDO for 20 years from then and am currently employed with the SQU in the HSE department for the last 14 years. While I was in the PDO, I specialised in fire prevention and safety in England.”

FFeebbrruuaarryy 77- - 221 00 35 35 B&W 22001144 B&W

B&W Xclusive

ME AND A RED JEEP AND A DOG NAMED SALUKI His tryst with nature began when, as a hobby, he started climbing mountains.

“I pursued this passion until I was forced to give it up due to health reasons.

I then took up desert crossing. In the last seven years or so, I have crossed the desert in a jeep over 60 times, with my faithful saluki (also named Saluki) as my companion,” he said recalling how, while he was in the PDO in 1979, he drove the nearly 840kms Fahud to Salalah stretch on a Daihatsu, which he had only recently purchased from a colleague then.

Weekdays, he diligently attended to his work, but weekends he would disappear. “Weekends are very personal to me and I do not indulge in any engagements then. During the weekends, he quietly switches to desert mode and travels on the sands alone. “I become a different person then. But, I am able to identify with the locals in the desert and the Bedouins. Most of them have become my friends now. It is a different life and experience. I get into a unique world where I enjoy the splendour of natural beauty, amidst golden sands, wide blue skies, brilliantly lit nights…

You cannot switch on a mobile or turn on a music system there. Even if you attempt, within the next few minutes you will shut it down. Nature has its own way of entertaining us with its delicate music… I will not trade this experience with any wealth in the world!”

February 7- 20 36 B&W 2014

A HISTORIC TRIP TO THE GOLDEN DAYS Over the past seven years and a good 60-odd desert crossings has made Mahruqi realise that Oman harboured rich treasures in the desert, unknown to the tourists of the world. He is also enamoured by the famous British explorer and travel writer, Sir Wilfred Thesiger (also known as Mubarak bin London – ‘the blessed one from London’), who crossed the Empty Quarter of Arabia between 1945 and 1950.

“Even today many of the Bedouin tribes remember bin London as a famous and well respected explorer who crossed the Wahiba (Sharqiyah) sands.

My love for Oman and the desert has prompted me to cross the Empty Quarter 50-odd years after Sir Thesiger, charting almost the same route, not just the borders, but going right across the middle of the desert, with the hope of completing the 184kms Bidiyah to Shannah stretch in 14 days. I want to recreate the magic of the good old golden days when we were dependent on the king (or the ship) of the desert – the magnificent camel!”

DESERT IS YOUR FRIEND Mahruqi did not subscribe to the common belief that the desert was a dangerous place, where you could get lost and lose life. A small mistake can prove to be too costly in the desert. If good care is taken and proper preparations are made, the desert is as safe and as friendly as any touristic spot, he claims.

We have to respect the sands as our own. So when you travel, don’t litter, disturb or destroy any aspect of nature! Respect your environment, learn and follow safety measures, Mahruqi advised. The hazards exist, but, is there any place in the world that can be called entirely ‘safe’? You could get killed in the streets!

“But, do be careful of the snakes and scorpions in the desert. Never sleep in a sleeping bag as that will attract snakes that seek warmth and will sneak into the bag posing grave danger for you. Keep stock of basic medicines, water, light clothes and proper footwear.

“I have been part of two films on desert safety and survival, one for the PDO and the other with Hollywood actors for Discovery Channel (New York). When they approached me to guide them to the Wahiba, I told them that Oman had various untouched desert terrains and convinced them to come along with me to the Ghanim sands in the Dhofar governorate. They were wonderstruck. I am sure after my trip to cross the Empty Quarter, tourists across the world will look at the desert of Oman as the ultimate and unrivalled adventure destination still waiting to be revealed.”

During his desert sojourns, Mahruqi has also come across many like-minded desert lovers and adventure teams. “These include the Guide, Shabiq, Xterra and the F J cruiser teams, whom we regularly bump into during the crossings. I look forward to seeing them too on this historic crossing. They have also promised to extend support for me during the trip.”

THINK LIKE A BEDOUIN As Mahruqi saw us off, he spoke about the important

lesson that he had learnt from the Bedouins. As he spoke, he crouched on the parking lot, mimicking a normal pose of the Bedus, which he enacted to drive home a point. “Desert has taught me many lessons of life.

The Bedouins live a natural tension free life with a healthy attitude. Have you seen how a Bedouin react to a crisis?

Imagine they have a flat tire… They get out of the car, walk some five to 10metres away from it, squat on their haunches, take their pipe out and smoke. All this while, they will be staring at their car and the flat or whatever crisis/problem they are encountering.

They will smoke languidly, as though they are breathing out their anger and irritation out of their nostrils. In effect, instead of pouncing on the problem, they would allow themselves some time, where they would instill in them a free, confident and open mind. They will not resort to anger, irritation or show signs of fear or panic. After a few minutes of such calm scrutiny, they would attend to the problem at hand.

This ability may be ingrained in them because they have, over the years, aligned their soul with the soul of the desert, which leaves them free of inhibitions and fear. I have learnt so much from them. And I believe it is time that we all did, without any knee-jerk reactions spreading panic and fear.” (*) The famous Empty Quarter, or Rub’ Al Khali, is the largest sand desert in the world. It occupies the south western region of Oman, straddling the border with Saudi Arabia and the Yemen. It is an extraordinary moonscape of sand dunes, sparse thorn bushes and rocks.

FFeebbrruuaarryy 77- - 2200 37 37 B&W 22001144 B&W

The blessed one from London Sir Wilfred Thesiger was perhaps the last and one of the greatest British travellers among Arabs. Sir Wilfred, also known as Mubarak bin London (the blessed one from London), was a British explorer and travel writer. Born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Sir Wilfred spent his early years in Abyssinia.

He was educated at Eton and Oxford.

B&W Xclusive

When he was twenty three, Sir Wilfred made his first expedition into the country of the Danakil. In the Second World War, serving under Orde Wingate in Abyssinia, he was awarded a DSO. He later served with the Special Operations Executive (SOS) in Syria and the Special Air Service in the Western Desert.

“Sir Wilfred sought out the secrets of the desert in the years before Arabia was transformed forever by the oil beneath her sands. His reputation was established by two epic journeys he made in the 1940s across the Rub Al-Khali, or Empty Quarter – the most forbidding and least-penetrated region of Arabia and explored the interior of Oman. Accompanied by his two ever-present companions, Salim bin Kabina and Salim bin Ghabaisha, and other Bedu guides and hunters, the barefoot explorer achieved what few believed was possible. His travels from Abyssinia to Arabia to Afghanistan in the company of some of the world’s little-known and misunderstood tribes,” articles on him say. Sir Wilfred had always said that his fondest memories were of the five years he spent in Arabia, which he described as “the most important years of my life … the happiest period,” travelling from Hadhramaut to Abu Dhabi in the company of the Rashid and Bait Kathir, evading parties of Saar raiders, and enduring gruelling long marches.

He was the first European to visit the Liwa Oasis , in the UAE, and was the first to cross the Umm alSamim quicksands, the so-called 'mother of poison' in Oman, a report says. He was one of the first Europeans to cross the Empty Quarter.

His journeys have won him acclaim – the Founder’s Medal of the Royal Geographical Society, the Lawrence of Arabia Medal of the Royal Central Asian Society, the Livingstone Medal of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society and his writing also won him the Heinemann Award and the Fellowship of the Royal Society of Literature. He has been made an honorary D.Litt. by Leicester University and University of Bath, an Honorary Fellow of the British Academy etc. He was made CBE in 1968 and received a knighthood in 1995.

Sir Wilfred died in 2003.

His exploits have inspired many others and the current one to follow in his footsteps is Ahmed bin Haroub bin Hamed Al Mahruqi.

Text: Adarsh Madhavan & Priya Arunkumar Photos: Supplied

February 7- 20 38 B&W 2014

By Dr CK Anchan

In this fast changing world we need to balance how to think differently with how to grow expertise. The reality is to think differently we need to be good at thinking. To think differently you need to be conscious of where your intellectual and emotional energies are invested and when to switch. But to think differently you have to think well. Being smart becomes your platform, your expertise. To do that though we need to change something that is fundamental to how we function.

You need to put yourself into situations that expose the singular elements of your thinking, so you can grow multiple perspectives. The world’s most successful people have one thing in common: they think differently from everyone else. Devote 80 percent of your energy to the most important 20 percent of your activities. Remember that you can’t be everywhere, know everyone, and do everything. And avoid multitasking: it can cost you 40 percent efficiency. It’s important because the very act of thinking differently stimulates your logic and creative thinking and separates you from the masses, thereby making it easier for the right people to spot you and give you the right opportunities. It’s not the easiest thing to do. It’s important to stand your ground and think differently from the crowd. You want to improve your logic and thinking capabilities, separate yourself from the masses and draw opportunities to yourself from the right people who can easily identify you because you’ve separated yourself from the masses.

Raise yourself from the average masses and the right people and the right opportunities will identify you and start coming your way.The best thinkers plan ahead, while leaving room for some spontaneity. When you’re strategic, you reduce your margin of error. Simply having vague ideas of where you are and what you want to accomplish will get you no where. Henry Ford once said, “Nothing is particularly hard if you divide it into

Management Talk

Do you think differently...

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

smaller parts.”

Remember, it was Steve Jobs who jump-started the now-famous “Think Different” advertising campaign as a way to inspire consumers and recharge Apple’s innovation efforts. It worked.

Reflecting back on the campaign, Jobs said “The whole purpose of the ‘Think Different’ campaign was that people had forgotten what Apple stood for, including the employees.” And the best way to tell people what Apple stood for was to tell them who the company’s heroes were. The campaign reminded everyone — consumers and employees alike — that the “crazy ones…see things differently”.

Put positive seeds into their mind every single day.

All of us wake up with sometimes random thoughts that can debilitate. By proactively choosing the right words and actions, some people overcome those morning limitations set by the mind. They have certain rituals. A morning run, meditation, prayer or their morning cup of tea.

Accept imperfection. They don’t say, “It’s not a good time right now.” But they do say, “It’s always a good time right here and right now.” They know the right time will never come to them. They have to go out and make it the right time.

As a leader, how often do you think different?

How often do you brainstorm? How often do you hunt for solutions in new environments? Thinking different is easier said than done,it can transform good ideas into great ones that might even disrupt the world. We have found that most people can actually do this reasonably well if they choose to put in the time and effort that’s required to think different. That’s what disruptive innovators do, day after day. Do you? Can you?

Let’s work towards making 2014 a memorable one

by THINKING DIFFERENT! FFeebbrruuaarryy 77- - 2200 39 39 B&W 22001144 B&W

Fun facts about

otters There are 13 different species of Otters found in the world. There is evidence that they have been around for more than 5 million years.

Otters are fun creatures to watch and they are highly intelligent.

Otters consume mainly fish but many people think that they eat plants and berries.

Male Otters are called boars, females are sows, and the offspring are pups.

The Sea Otter is the only species that have a shorter and less muscular tail. The others use it as a powerful weapon and to navigate their movements in the water.

Otters spend the majority of their time on land but many people assume that they spend it in the water. The exception is the Sea Otter which does spend almost all of its time in the water.

Antarctica and Australia are the only two places in the world where they aren’t found. While they tend to live in the cooler waters, they have been known to reside where the water is warmer and the land is sandy.

Kidstuff

Otters are very closely related to badgers, ferrets and mink. They aren’t related to the beaver but they are often mistaken for them. They are also distant cousins of the skunk.

February 7- 20 40 B&W 2014

They have the ability to create and use tools just like beavers, monkeys, and apes.

The average life span for an Otter is 10 years. That can double though with one in captivity.

Otters can have a tail that is a foot long. It helps to protect them as well as to help them steer through the water. Generally the tail will make up about one third of the body.

An Otter can remain under water for up to 4 minutes. They can also dive up to 300 feet in search of food.

Otters love to sunbath during the day and they are very active at night.

They are they only known marine animals that don’t have blubber. They have their fur instead to keep them warm.

It can be hard to tell the pups from the mothers because the pups can be almost as long as their mothers at birth. Those that don’t know the males and females stay separated often assume this is a couple rather than a mother and a pup.

There are some great photos of Otters engaging in human behaviours including holding hands.

"Under the mother otter," uttered the other otter.

February 7- 20 41 B&W 2014

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

Let’s move to bring down accidents Terrible road accidents that blighted the start of this year pose enough reasons for a complete rethink and remake of the existing do’s and don’ts of the way we operate our vehicles on the road. Maybe we have not been affected but there are out there people whose lives have been cut short and whose families have to live with the loss of their beloved ones forever. At least for their sake, at least for the sake of the thousands others out there who are at equal risk, there should be a full, complete, concerted move to bring down the accidents here. If it means more stringent laws and if it means more fines and if it means even bringing down the speed limits or other extreme measures, let it be, say a bunch or really concerned folks who are devastated by the recent accidents that have taken innocent lives. “A move has to be made and it has to be made now,” they plead.

While so many different organisations have sprouted to fight for an ‘accident free Oman’, it would be great if all of

them team up for this common cause, instead of making independent pursuits. Everyone says that something has to be done, but then no one knows what that ‘something’ is. Hope someone is listening; hope someone out there knows what that ‘something’ is.

Nitter natter

Road bullies need to be reported Accidents are something that are waiting to happen, especially when we are careless and let ourselves be driven by sheer ignorance and apathy. But, even if we do everything, we cannot at times, change the course of fate.

Having said that, we bring to focus the complaints of some people out there who are, by all means, aghast at the audacious and reckless behaviour of some lay motorists in busy streets.

“Oh, when will they learn,” they lament, pointing out to the road shenanigans of these selfish speedsters who throw a peaceful street into chaos. Suddenly from somewhere these mean motorists emerge and twist and turn through traffic, honking and bullying over the slow moving ones, mostly forcing them to make mistakes.

“Some of them come very close behind, honking in irritation and urging them to illegally cross traffic, either while they are moving or are waiting to move from the signal. Many a time we are forced to move, making gross errors because February 7- 20 42 B&W 2014

they breathe heavily down our necks,” an irate elderly driver complained. They pleaded for better sense among such road bullies and also said that such intimidators need to be reported to the authorities concerned.

Sorry, no venue An organiser of a music and dance event received a setback recently when the officials of the venue he had booked and confirmed a month or so back suddenly did a volteface and said they had to cancel the booking. The organiser had already gone ahead with his event marketing and he had not only announced the date and the venue when he suddenly got this cancellation call from the venue officials. “It was less than a week away when I was told that I could not hold my event at their venue because of some official reasons and they gave me back the booking amount. I tried to plead with them, but they said they had no choice.”

Naturally, the organiser was devastated for all the preparations were made and since the event was less than a week away, there was nothing he could do but to postpone the event until he found a suitable venue, which is not an easy task.

Method to their madness Is there a method to this madness? Lately, it has been a fad for some, who have been invited to functions and dos, to walk in late. Pretty late! These are people who are counted on the ‘who’s who’ list anywhere they go and they do make an important presence at these functions. Besides being part of the glitterati, they are people with power and money and they also have the ability to turn heads, which make them important at functions, especially ones with a distinct social flavour. Unfortunately, this knowledge seems to have gone to their heads and they are deliberately walking in late, some expatriate function organisers claim. Since these big shots are also expatriates, there is decidedly a small anti wave against this lot who are trying to show their might in their tardy attitude.

But, this gang seems to have their own reasons for coming in late and if it is just to be noticed, well rest assured that they are achieving that purpose! They are not only being noticed, now they are becoming the centre of attention, perhaps enjoying more limelight than the chief or special guests themselves.

Way to go!

(Note: Readers who have something bitter to chatter about can either email on editor@blackandwhiteoman.com or call 99218461)

February 7- 20 43 B&W 2014

Your ARIES March 21-April 20

TAURUS April 21-May 20

GEMINI May 21-June 21

If a longed for wish inspires you this week, look for ways to give it a voice and you may find others in the same emotional tune. Be careful though during the weekend as the full moon incites aggressive actions and brings work versus home issues to the fore. Watch it.

Use your intuition and insight to tune into subtle intangible signals in communications and you’ll be surprised what you can learn. Negotiations and interactions cause strain mid week, but keep your eye on long term ambitions and know you’re working towards your goals.

You won’t get much off the ground this week as plans you’ve made seem to fall apart all around you. Get your head and heart on the same page when working out long term goals with partners, but keep your emotions out of the equation when dealing with money.

CANCER June 22-July 23

LEO July 24-August 23

The moon in your sign gives you an intuitive edge that helps you acquire insight into people, and your surroundings, but you may still have to work around an emotionally turbulent, explosive situation at the weekend. This definitely tests your ability to adapt to change.

The full moon mid week stresses the good and the difficult in taking care of yourself, partners and family. Inner needs and outer duties both qualify for needing a sense of security, but a discordant Venus/ Mars square gives more sparring than satisfaction.

VIRGO August 24-September 23 Use your instincts and psychic antenna to help you know what to do and say for the best this week. You’re restless and in the mood for change socially, but will that mean you have to change your circle of friends too? I’d go cautiously if I were you. Don’t burn bridges.

Horoscope

JOHN JOSEPH TRAVOLTA (BORN FEBRUARY 18, 1954) is an American actor, dancer, and singer. Travolta first became known in the 1970s, after appearing on the television series Welcome Back, Kotter and starring in the box office successes Saturday Night Fever and Grease. Travolta's acting career declined through the 1980s. His career enjoyed a resurgence in the 1990s with his role in Pulp Fiction, and he has since continued starring in more recent films such as Face/Off, Ladder 49, and Wild Hogs. Travolta was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor for Saturday Night Fever and Pulp Fiction. He won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor - Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for his performance in Get Shorty.

February 7- 20 44 B&W 2014

stars LIBRA September 24-October 23 Ideas that germinate during the day this week won’t actually materialise into anything, but at least you’ve got a blueprint for things when the time is right, so it’s not all been a waste of time. The full moon mid week illuminates stress at work and home. Be calm.

CAPRICORN December 23-January 20 Making the best of a situation this week takes imagination, but since you that in abundance, you won’t go far wrong. The mid week brings a stabilising influence and makes it a weekend of personal fulfilment. Focus on the needs of children or loved ones.

SCORPIO October 24-November 22 Creative thinking and imaginative concepts will only work if you take the necessary steps to actualise them. It doesn’t have to be this week, or even this month, but keep them on the back burner and be ready to swing into motion when the time is right. Be alert.

AQUARIUS January 21-February 19 Put off major decisions until all the facts are in place, and don’t even be tempted to share damning opinions. You’re confident over your intentions and your goals, but it’s just getting the time right to put them out into the collective, as you fear others may react badly.

SAGITTARIUS November 23-December 22 Emotional struggles over financial issues seem to be ubiquitous. Be realistic and try to realise you can only tackle things one at a time. Unstable moves could deplete your security, so take your time. Tackle the most pressing first, then the rest should follow naturally.

PISCES February 20-March 20 The relationship harmony and positive family interaction that’s been building for weeks suddenly takes a dip. Don’t back down just to keep the peace, but neither should you shoot from the hip before you know all the facts either. You’re walking a fine line, watch out!

MICHAEL JEFFREY JORDAN (BORN FEBRUARY 17, 1963), also known by his initials, MJ, is a former American professional basketball player, entrepreneur, and majority owner and chairman of the Charlotte Bobcats. His biography on the National Basketball Association (NBA) website states, "By acclamation, Michael Jordan is the greatest basketball player of all time." Jordan was one of the most effectively marketed athletes of his generation and was considered instrumental in popularising the NBA around the world in the 1980s and 1990s.

February 7- 20 45 B&W 2014

Love teaches acceptance and tolerance:

Valentines Day

Dr Said bin Hilal Al Busaid There is something beyond love. Beyond the mushiness, beyond the red roses, sparkling gifts and heady declarations, there is a love that does not scream from the rooftops or indulge in other dramatic demonstrations. There is love beyond this usual cacophony of Valentine’s Day celebrations.

We feel in this manner after having met a distinguished Omani personality, who, however brief our meeting, still managed to convey the essence of love in a relationship and explained how true love last forever.

Despite the trials and tribulations one would face in the pursuit of love, the real ones, those with true fire and strength and determination to weather the odds will win in the battle of love. That is how people who truly love view it.

Maybe, that is not what many seek in this modern age. Especially those whose interests -- in almost anything -- are shortlived. For them, love is a transient feeling. Today, they feel ardent love for someone, tomorrow, it is someone else. Love is a passing phase and they are in it for the momentary bliss. This feeling could be a sign of the times. But, let us not paint everyone with the same brush. Amidst the noise of the Valentine’s Day celebrations, a man who has seen the world and is today content with what he has achieved and still continues to push himself to climb further heights slowly reveals to us what is essential about love and loving.

Dr Said bin Hilal Al Busaid, partner at Al Busaidy, Mansoor Jamal & Co, who was a top former judge, and currently holding a very high governmental position, gives a whole new perspective of love in a proper setting of values. He has been married for the last 27 years with eight kids (three sons and five daughters).

February 7- 20 46 B&W 2014

LOVE UNCHANGED Love should be a constant, stable word, he says quietly.

“No matter what era we live in, love is something that would remain constant, unchanged. Its meaning cannot change. But, maybe the ways to express love has changed, or rather evolved over the years.

The young and the old are of course unified by the essence of it, rather than the means of expressing it. As an individual, father, husband, brother, friend, colleague, and donning different roles in society, I can only say that love is for all. Love is never ending and will continue on forever for there is no end to it. Generation to generation, the definition changes, but today, the only thing that can connect us all is love. So when it is a connecting and bonding factor, why celebrate it only on one day? We should ideally celebrate and cherish love throughout our lives with people that keep us in this world together. So always keep love in your heart. It teaches you acceptance and tolerance.”

TWO PILLARS OF LOVE: FAITH AND TRANSPARENCY Dr Said bin Hilal Al Busaid also noted that the value of the gift to a loved one was not the important factor, but the thought behind it. “You don’t have to prove your love with expensive gifts and presents. Let the gift be the most inexpensive one, more than attributing a reason or value to the gift, accept and acknowledge the thought behind it. You will realise the value and cherish the person more than the gift given. I love gifts too, but the definition of love cannot be limited to give and take or a one day act.

I believe that the two important pillars that keeps love lasting is faith and transparency.

Faith builds healthy relationships. The more we trust each other, our relationships will be transparent.

In a healthy relationship, there is mutual trust, and there will also be a greater level of transparency and accountability. We will know we are accepted and we will not be afraid of being judged.”

The town is pulsating and ready to receive the Valentine’s Day wave, replete with a red-carpet of goodies to suit the occasion and the mood. Love is in the air and it is going to be expressed in so many different ways, through the stomach, through gifts, presents and the like. Be it jewellery, chocolates, dazzling clothes, stylish shoes, exciting accessories and tantalising taste-buds tickling dishes, life in Muscat will move into the Valentine’s lane to engage in this never-ending tribute to love and all that goes along with it.

However much we may frown down on the changing times, or the sheer waste of an exercise in celebrating just one day for love, a timeless, forever feeling, one must admit that there is an array of goodies out in the market that can still woo the most recalcitrant buyer.

Let us take a look at some of the offerings in the market:

Pure Gold Jewellers’s diamond heart pendants for Valentine’s Day Pure Gold Jewellers has launched a stunning range of heart-shaped diamond pendants for Valentine’s Day. The romantic collection features a breathtaking double heart diamond pendant with a suspended solitaire in the centre. Created with a unique patented technology, the charming pendant is accentuated with sparkling diamonds around the outer heartshaped border. The dangling solitaire in the centre is a symbol of the love that binds the two hearts together.

This pendant is available for OMR 169 from all Pure Gold Jewellers outlets. According to Karim Merchant,

Ceo and managing director of Pure Gold Jewellers, “Choosing a loving gift for Valentine’s Day is no longer a challenge with our wide selection of diamond heart pendants. They are a message of love direct from

the heart. Our unique double heart pendant with the suspended solitaire is the first of its kind and will make for a truly memorable gift.” Pure Gold Jewellers Valentine’s Day collection also includes a heart shaped gold and diamond pendant for OMR 145, a beautiful key pendant showcasing an open heart at the top set with glittering diamonds for OMR 110 and a silver pendant with gold and diamonds at OMR45. Also in the collection is a unique crossover ring with two solitaire stones signifying togetherness. The gold and diamond ring is available for OMR 175.

February 7- 20 47 B&W 2014

Mouth-watering Valentine delicacies at Intercon Join the InterContinental Muscat this Valentine’s Day at one of their restaurants and enjoy a night of romance with your loved one, says a press note from the hotel.

“Since Valentine’s Day is a very special day for all, our executive chef Pascal has been busy putting together mouthwatering delicacies at all our three restaurants,” the note said. Señor Pico restaurant will make this valentine memorable; enjoy a three-course dinner with a choice of scallop carpaccio as a starter, roasted sea bass, or veal tenderloin as your main course and to finish it off with a chocolate feuillantine with a duo of raspberry-mascarpone and or mango mousse. Or just relax in Tomato with the beautiful romantic views of our gardens and let Chef Mario spoil you with his tantalising mouth-watering dishes, Jerusalem artichoke and hazelnut

Build-A-Bear Workshop’s Valentine’s Day items The Build-A-Bear Workshop - the world’s only global company that offers an interactive make-your-own stuffed animal retail-entertainment experience has got some new products available for Valentine’s Day at the Build-A-Bear Workshop this February: Fuchsia Hearts Hello Kitty (OMR11), Big Hearts Bear (OMR10), Pawrincess Bear (OMR11) and Purrincess Kitty (OMR11).

Velouté, Ossobuco Ravioli or Mahi Mahi plait, Finocchio allo Zafferano and raspberry tiramisu and passion fruit coulis. Trader Vic’s celebrates Valentine’s Day in style, with a menu that includes seared tuna, Ina-kaya with cilantro-ginger salsa, passion sorbet with orange liquor, plancha of scallops and prawns and red velvet cheesecake with Raspberry fruit jelly.

The hotel has also put together a one night valentine package, so why not take advantage of this OMR115++ for two people including breakfast and dinner buffet in the Musandam Café & Terrace restaurant? For reservation contact 24680000.

Online gift store - YallahOman.com YallahOman.com – Surprise your beloved with a flower or cake, by ordering online at yallahoman.com, making this Valentine’s Day a special one. For this valentine, Muscat residents can send flowers and cakes to someone special by ordering online within Muscat city limits. Payments can be done using credit or debit cards (PayPal) and bank deposit.

Top Option Trading chairman Abdullah Al Busaidi, launching YallahOman.com said, “This is going to be the best thing in the city, to shop from your home or your office, anytime, anywhere using your mobile or laptop, to be delivered by our delivery partners.’

Amouage: jubilation 25 special edition The House of Amouage’s special edition of its commemorative 25th anniversary fragrance has been composed to unveil rare and unusual top notes of Ylang Ylang, Lemon and Tarragon. Rose and Frankincense characterise the heart notes that combine harmoniously with additional floral notes of Davana. The fragrance is given depth and warmth in the base notes through the harmonious use of Amber, Musk, Vetiver, Patchouli and Myrrh.

Valentines Day

JUBILATION XXV SPECIAL EDITION The House of Amouage’s special edition Jubilation XXV has top notes of Rose and Frankincense that fuse harmoniously with bold ingredients such as Coriander, Blackberry, Orange and Davana. Orchid and Rose continue the floral theme in the heart notes and combine beautifully with notes of Bay, Cinnamon, Honey and Clove to create undeniable warmth. Opoponax, Myrrh, Ambergris and Patchouli give a stunning depth in the base notes, which are then masterfully completed by woody notes of Cedar, Moss and Oud. February 7- 20 48 B&W 2014 W

It's my life

Tiffany Bow gift box… for you and me

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

By Vandana Shah

The silent swishing of the effortless unwrapping of the gift beautifully decorated with the Tiffany bow and the peeping into the life size gift box at my doorstep increased my heartbeat by 277 percent.

As I peered inside excitedly, happiness, at being able to live another year to the fullest and hope, of positive experiences outnumbering negative ones, immediately leapt up and embraced me.In the next fraction of a second, love, from all friends, engulfed me in an expandable sheath. Just as I was revelling in it I felt the divine steps of prayer, enveloping me in a warm bright protective halo.

Then I saw retreating hazy figures of negativity, enemy of life and fear of the unknown, a dampener for growth. The haze also revealed grudges and anger, a constant source of energy sapping, bidding me goodbye, because they couldn’t get a hold of me anymore. Even hurt, pain, pettiness, sloth, greed, were beating a hasty retreat.

Ummm, this was amazing and then came words, hugging me and filling my heart with unimaginable joy at the ability to write and attach pieces of me and get love from millions of people through my writings.

Finally C-H-O-I-C-E-S filled up the room and gave me the ability to embrace the good over the bad, happiness over sadness, success over failure.

I looked around and saw that all of us had received this magnificent gift box of 2014 and now it’s up to us what are the gifts that we choose to take out of this and what we choose to put back.

HAPPY NEW YEAR once again!

Till next time hugs!

Vandana Shah, Author 360 Degrees Back To life, editor of Ex-Files. www.vandanashah.com.

Email me what you’d like to say on 360degreesbacktolife@gmail.com Follow me on twitter Vandy4PM

February 7- 20 49 B&W 2014

Cooking

SOUPS!

Nothing beats the winter chill like a steaming bowl of soup. Here are few fuss-free apple soup recipes filled with good-for-you veggies and more.

No matter whether you like your apples sweet and fruity or tart and biting, you can feel good about eating these healthy apple recipes. Apples are a good source of soluble fiber, potassium and folate. So go ahead and enjoy them in good health!

February 7- 20 50 B&W 2014

Apple and cheese soup Ingredients: 1/3 c margarine or butter 1/3 c flour 1/2 ts salt 2 1/2 c milk 4 c gouda cheese, shredded 1 c apple juice

Method: Melt margarine or butter in a saucepan over low heat. Blend in flour and salt. Gradually add milk; cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Add cheese, stirring until melted. Add juice; heat thoroughly, stirring occasionally. Makes four 1 1/4 cup servings

Apple and celery soup Ingredients: Fresh celery 2 large cooking apples 1 oz butter 60 fl stock 2 medium onions, peeled and diced Salt and milled pepper Milk to finish Chopped parsley and browned flaked almonds to garnish 1 ts soft brown sugar Method: In a large saucepan sweat off the diced onion in the

butter. Wash, trim and dice the celery, add to the onion and continue on a low heat. Remove and bruises from the apples and grate them into your pan, discarding the core. Cook for a further 10 minutes before adding the stock, seasoning and sugar – beware too much salt if you are using a stock cube. Bring to the boil, then simmer, lid on, for 30 minutes - don’t overcook or the celery flavour becomes jaded and the colours dull.

Allow to cool a little before liquidising thoroughly. Pass through a large mesh sieve to ensure there are no stringy threads of celery remaining. Check seasoning and consistency, adding a little milk if needed. Serve in warmed bowls, sprinkled with parsley and the browned almond flakes.

Hot apple soup Ingredients: 4 Green apples 4 McIntosh apples 2 1/2 c Water 2 tb Lemon juice 1/4 ts Nutmeg 1/2 ts Cinnamon 1 c Light cream Unsweetened whipped cream, for garnish

Method: Peel, core and quarter apples. Combine all ingredients except cream in saucepan and bring to boil. Simmer 15 min. till apples are soft. Puree; return to pan; add cream and heat through but don’t boil. Garnish each serving with a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

February 7- 20 51 B&W 2014

When you hit the

lows‌

Psyche

Ok, January has passed you by and so has that celebratory New Year feeling. Somehow it does not feel all that good and you have a feeling that you are not upto it a month after the celebrations. Especially, in the afternoons, at work. There is a general lowenergy episode that might often leave you drowsy and heavy lidded.

And to some of us, it may hit us almost every year after the wave of the New Year celebrations gets over and the general low energy feeling sweeps over you leaving you totally drained and down.

February 7- 20 52 B&W 2014

If you are dealing with such an episode of low energy and if you suddenly feel down in the doldrums, let us look at some of the simplest ways to get you up and swinging.

While these are not earth shattering tips to follow, there are also some don’ts to take care. Don’t reach out for a candy/chocolate bar, coffee or energy drink for a solution. They are not solutions but stop gap relievers that will still send you plummeting down the depths of grogginess.

Why do we have to fight fatigue in this manner? Why can’t we just look at boosting our energy in very simple ways? If these steps are taken, then you need not worry about slumping on your desk in a sudden attack of afternoon burnout.

Now, let us begin: what do you do in the morning? Do you have breakfast, or, do you skip it?

If you are doing the former, then continue with it, but bear in mind that it is better if you have high fiber foods like oatmeal as it will keep you safe from sudden hunger pangs. Hunger, as you may know, also leads to low energy.

For the latter, there is simply no excuse why you are not having breakfast.

How can you skip the most important meal of the day? So, by all means, go for a good, nutritious breakfast every day. If you do that, you will feel not only awake, but also alert. It has been proved beyond doubt that healthy breakfasts not only gives you a healthy morning, but sustains you throughout the day.

Most often when you feel drowsy in the afternoon, just take a quick walk to wash your face, then get a nice cool drink of water. Why, what is the big deal? Water is necessary as your body needs fluids to make it function properly. What happens is that every time we breathe, sweat, and answer nature’s call, we are losing fluids. Now, what have we done to replenish this? Most often, we don’t do anything. That is when you would feel drained and fatigued.

Let us not get into the eight glasses a day strain, as most people are not able to fulfill that task. But, there is no harm in drinking enough water to keep the body well hydrated. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, during spells of low energy, go take a quick drink of water. It will wake you up for sure.

Stretch. Now, that is easier said than done and you can’t exactly get into a yoga jig in your office. But there are certain stretch methods that you could easily adopt. Today, yoga is no longer an esoteric practice. Some of the postures are very simple and one should ideally take advantage of the health benefits of yoga. And studies have also found out that the practice can be an excellent measure against fatigue. So, why not try it out?

Always have a box of nuts next to you. The best nuts would be peanuts and almonds. These are rich in magnesium and folate (folic acid), which are essential for energy and cell production. Eat them in moderate quantities. But if there is a regular intake of these nuts you will surely be able to keep low energy at bay.

February 7- 20 53 B&W 2014

Just the way it is!

Hooked

By Priya Arunkumar This may be a painful process.

But it is essential if you intend to ever live peacefully with acceptance.

For starters you need to come to term with the fact that you are one!

You are not a mentally deficient entity.

But yes, you are an idiot.

Well, why change that? Be that idiot.

You’ll be fine.

Here you go: repeat yourself: at least a minimum of 100 times “I am an idiot.”

I am not exaggerating. Sometimes it can change your life.

It helps. How do you know you are an idiot?

You will know it when you see people assume they know everything about you.

When you start changing your schedules for other people.

When you eat what others want you to eat.

You will know it when you see people taking you for granted.

When you cannot say no to someone.

When people use your things without asking you.

When people don’t return what they borrowed from you and think you forgot.

When you keep company with the people who have no time for you.

When you fill in cheap raffle coupons to win a luxury car.

When you start a savings account to win billions.

When you buy four or more pieces of soaps or shampoos or even cooking oil to get a pen free!

When you shop for your favourite books and don’t read them.

When you read reviews to impress

people and call it research.

When your dog chews your foot instead of your socks.

Ha! And you happily allow all this to happen!

The list is long, not to mention the emotional side.

The sunny side of being an idiot is that you can attempt anything without inhibitions! Even something you don’t know anything about; once accepted universally in your circles, you are limitless. You can step out of your comfort zone and don’t listen to any of those wise men out there who wants to make an intellectual out of you.

Intelligence? What is that?

Tell them, you are what you are. Idiot.

Allow them to think that you are an idiot.

You will feel free when you accept you want to get out of the box, be yourself and be laughed at, criticised and judged. What is wrong with being an idiot, anyway!

Be normal about it. Blurt out silly things, and even inappropriate things, or make a statement out of the dozen slap-your-forehead mistakes. And shatter your fear for what people think of you. Use the word ‘whatever’ quite often. Who makes that decision that you are not allowed to be less than perfect? No one, I repeat, no one.

Shrug it off when things go wrong.

The world is not a safe, predictable place. Anything could go wrong anytime. And no one will hold you responsible.

That’s just the way it is!

Yes, be that idiot. You’ll be fine. priya@blackandwhiteoman.com

February 7- 20 55 B&W 2014