Salaam Bahrain June July 2018

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June - July 2018 - VOLUME 11, ISSUE 5

we speak your language

BAHRAIN’S STRAY DOG MENACE

MIMI CHANGES PEECEE

MADHU’S EVEREST PICNIC

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we speak your language

Note from the Chairman

JUNE-JULY 2018 - VOLUME 11, ISSUE 5

the editorial team P.O. Box 50650, Arad, Kingdom of Bahrain Licensed by the Ministry of Information Publication Licence no : GASB 740

Chairman and Managing Editor Mahmood Al Mahmood Managing Director P.K. Ravi Editor Meera Ravi Contributor • Maharaja Features Pvt. Ltd. • Kashmeera S. Photography • Jomon • Sajid Butt Marketing P.R.M. Marketing Consultancy w.l.l

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The wiry hand of technology has brushed us in Bahrain finally. Everywhere we hear about fintech and bots and creating apps and now – robotics. This year, summer camps in Bahrain are offering children the opportunity to learn new skills which will undoubtedly stand them in good stead when they come to the workplace of the future. I hear that telecoms leader Zain is running a robotics boot camp where children can decode and put together robots. There are classes in other summer learning centres for those who want to brush up on coding and writing software.

These were opportunities that came to us only at university level but suddenly, children still at school are learning them. It is all a part of the emphasis on STEAM – a 21st century approach to education that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics as access points for guiding student inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking. Going by what I see youngsters in my family learning in school, it is not yet too popular in Bahrain’s schools and children have to rely on specialist approaches to crack this code.

We must change this standard – why can’t we make STEAM an integral part of our educational system as soon as possible? This will mean encouraging children to take thoughtful risks, persist in problem-solving, embrace collaboration, and work through the creative process. There are so many ways to widen the scope of STEAM teaching: providing mobile devices for students (sometimes in the forms of computer labs, and other times as devices for each student), afterschool STEAM Clubs, an overhaul of the curriculum and a challenging robotics programme at school level. These are some of the options.

The knowledge industry is one of the engines of future growth. West Asia - especially expat-reliant countries in the GCC - will soon find that they need their homegrown whizkids to bridge the gap.

Summer months when schools are closed are the right time to re-think the dynamics of our education system and reshape it to suit the needs of our times.

I urge educationists in Bahrain to come together with Ministry of Education officials and plan scientific and innovative ways to bring excitement into the classrooms of the Kingdom. We keep paying lip-service to the cliché of how the future belongs to our children – now let’s prepare them for it.

Capt. Mahmood Al Mahmood 2

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Highlights June - July 2018

26 ON OUR COVER

12 ADVENTURE

Summer Gyan to stay cool

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Madhu's Everest date

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Everything from choosing the perfect summer camp to chilled summer soups and eating a summer-Dosha friendly Ayurvedic meal. Here's how to spend a cool summer.

08 IN THE NEWS

Madhu Sarda lived her dream as the only woman in a team of 11 on Chef Vineet Bhatia's Himalayan charity trek

38 FASHION

Yoga Do's & Don'ts

Fashion for all

Bet you have taken yoga resolutions on June 21? These rules will guide you to a better yoga session

Fitness hero Milind Somal and Nida Mahmood, the 'Queen of Kitsch' brought a sporty vibe to their athleisure line of fashionwear

Mimi's the name Mimi Cuttrell has styled Desi Gal Priyanka Chopra into a red carpet diva! How did she do it?

28 IN FOCUS

COLUMNS

A dog's life

• 22 Ayaz Memon • 43 Shobhaa De

, HUP UPS G OD YWO OLL B X S E PI ..PLU CEN S Y T PAR

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Stray dogs are seen as nuisances. Will government and animal welfare agencies come together to solve the matter?

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A pledge to reduce plastic

World Environment Day (WED) was marked with two significant awarenessraising programmes in Bahrain. The first was at the Lulu Hypermarket, where reusable shopping bags were distributed to customers. These are “bags for life”, as Lulu put it and can be exchanged for new ones when worn out.

At the Indian embassy, a meaningful ceremony was held since India is this year the global host of the 2018 World Environment Day. The theme for this year’s edition “Beat Plastic Pollution” is aimed to combat single-use plastic

pollution. With the Undersecretary for International Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, UN

officials and other Bahraini and Indian dignitaries attending, Ambassador A.K. Sinha planted a neem tree sapling in the embassy lawn.

UAE Exchange Hosts Iftar for the elderly

The holy month of Ramadan is all about sharing and caring. Celebrating this spirit with the elderly women and men of an old age home was UAE Exchange who hosted a grand Iftar at the Muharraq Old Age Home in Bahrain.

Present on the occasion were MP Ahmed Abdul Wahid Qarata ( Manama),

MP Ebrahim Juma Al-Hamadi ( Muharraq) and Ruqaya Al-Hayki (Psychiatric Specialist) as chief guests along with the inmates of the old age home, media personnel and officials of UAE Exchange.

Speaking on the occasion, Vineesh Kumar, Executive Director & General Manager, UAE Exchange-Bahrain said, 6

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“We believe in taking care of the society we live in and Ramadan is one of those festive occasions which enables us to spread happiness around. It was a joy to see these elderly revel in the spirit and partake in the Iftar, motivating us to engage with them more and bring a smile to their face.”

Celebrating the Bahrain spirit of harmony

Under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, “This is Bahrain” Society held its annual Ramadan Ghabga at the Sacred Heart Catholic

Church in Manama.

Presiding over the event were Labour and Social Development Minister Jameel Humaidan, Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Environment and President of Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation (BREEF), Shaikh Faisal bin Rashid bin Isa Al Khalifa, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of the civil society institutions and invitees.

The Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Co-existence Dr. Shaikh Khalid 7

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bin Khalifa Al Khalifa lauded the unlimited support of HM the King to foster coexistence, peace and religious freedom.

The Deputy Chairperson of the Board of Trustees and Head of “This is Bahrain” Society, Betsy Mathieson praised religious freedom in Bahrain, describing the annual gathering as a reflection of the spirit of tolerance the kingdom is keen to promote.

The celebration also included a documentary spotlighting the initiatives of HM the King to foster religious freedom in Bahrain and promote the kingdom as an oasis of tolerance and co-existence.

in the news

Do’s & don’ts of yoga Yoga is simple and health-giving. Don’t needlessly complicate it.

By PADMAJA YADUGIRI (With inputs from Maharaja Features)

In 1949, Jawaharlal Nehru asked Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad, the Education Minister of India, for a favour- a grant to Kaivalyadham, a yoga institute in Lonavala, of Rs. 10,000. Rather apologetically, the then Prime Minister wrote in justification, “There is a great deal of interest in foreign countries now in the scientific aspect of yoga training… (and) I think that this work should be done in India”.

The whole world of yoga has changed in the last 71 years – to begin with, we have an International Yoga Day every June 21, as mandated by the UN, to promote yoga as a holistic health practice. Western nations, especially USA, are in the forefront when it comes to promoting yoga. This year’s IYD poster says it all – ‘Yoga Belongs to the World…but it has a home – India’.

The World Yoga Foundation estimated that in the USA alone, the annual spending on yoga (classes, DVDs and equipment) will reach $40 billion or Rs. 17,200,000,000.

Yoga Journal (a US health and fitness magazine) stated that there are more people practicing yoga in California than in the whole of India put together. While it is difficult to estimate the number of yoga centers in the USA, experts say it is upward of 5,000. Manhattan alone boasts nearly 200 small and large yoga studios.

Even in Bahrain, yoga has gained enormous following and the Embassy of India conducted June 21’s main yoga demo in association with the Ministry of Youth and Sport. There are many private and registered practitioners and most Bahrain health clubs offer yoga sessions.

Yoga can be used on its own or as a complement to cardio and weights to build a fitness programme that will add flexibility to your muscles and bones. The official Yoga Protocol designed by the Government of India is a crisp, scientifically designed guide that is accessible to even

As in every year, the Art of Living Foundation's Bahrain members put their stamp on the IYD celebrations with sessions against Bahraini landmarks such as the Tree of Life and the modern Manama skyline

beginners and elderly yoga students. Copies can be made from online resources promoted by the Indian government. Of course, like any fitness regime, yoga too should be done only after checking with one’s physician, especially if one has chronic health issues, back and joint pains.

Alas! Yoga’s popularity has kindled a frenzy of thinly veiled imitations. In their desire to attract clients, the new yoga teachers call their courses by different names, as compared to the original yoga sutras by the sage Patanjali. In fact Bikram Chowdhry, who calls his yoga techniques as Bikram Yoga tried to patent the yoga asanas. But the Patent authorities in USA refused to grant him a patent, as his list was almost similar to the original asanas prescribed in the Sutras of Patanjali. Power Yoga is more or less the same as Ashtanga Yoga.

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To approach yoga sensibly and maximize benefits, here are some do’s and don’ts: Do not attempt yogic asanas or so-called breathing practices without expert guidance.

Beware of ‘three-day or oneweek certified courses’, which promise quick cures for complex problems.

A good book is better than a bad teacher, but no book can ever hope to replace a guru / teacher (the light on Yoga' by B K Iyengar is considered the definitive guide and is called the bible of yoga says the British Wheel of Yoga based in the UK.) Do not attempt pranayama or meditative techniques without refining or culturing the body first through asana practice. To access the content within us (that is the tissues, mind, breath, consciousness etc), one has move from the gross towards the subtle and not the other way round.

Do not do asanas on a full stomach. Allow at least four or five hours between your asanas and your last meal before the yoga session. Eat half an hour after your yoga Session.

Do not hold or control your breath in the performance of asanas initially. When you pour water into a half-baked vessel, the pot cracks and shatters. Similarly if you load the half-baked body with breath (control) it will damage the nerves and internal organs.

Bahrain stretched together for yoga! Introductory sessions at the Bahrain Businesswomen's Society, a session for 100 ladies at the Indian Embassy, a workers' session at Al Amin Group and a mega yogathon at the Isa Sports Stadium were the highlights 9

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Do not assume that yoga demands fasting and excessively regimented food habits and lifestyle. In fact the proper practice of yoga will effectively guide you to choose the best food and a healthy life style.

in the news Do not practise Jal neiti, Dhatuti and Nuali for the simple reason that these practices have been superseded by more evolved and safer yogic techniques.

Do not practise asanas in random or in isolation. The correct asana practice is usually a group of postures, which help you to not only target your problem, but also deal with it holistically.

Do not do shirsasana (head balance) without a teacher’s help. And if done, shirsasana always has to be followed by cooling postures like sarvangasana and the forward extensions.

Do not experiment on others. Learn to be a student before becoming a teacher. A lifestyle cannot be mastered in a day, or a week or a month.

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A Bahraini-Chinese Ghabga

The Nine Training Center, a leading training provider in Bahrain hosted a traditional Ghabga in association with HanVang Education and Training - the first educational establishment of Chinese Language and Culture in Bahrain and Medpoint, a well reputed events’ organiser at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel for their valued clients and media. The chief guest

was the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China, Anwaer. The Ghabga was replete with various traditional Bahraini and Chinese entertainment like Bahraini story Telling, live cartoon sketching by a Bahraini cartoonist, henna Artist, Chinese Sing Poem of Tang, fan dance jasmine flower, children Wushu, Chinese calligraphy,

Chinese tea art, Chinese paper art and knot, selfie booth, quizzes, and raffle draws followed by a grand dinner.

The Nine Training Center has formally announced that they are extremely pleased with the partnership with the HanVang education and training and are working hard to introduce the Chinese language classes shortly.

Al Rawabi team Ghabga​

The ​Al Rawabi Private School held ​its Annual Ghabga a​ t the Crowne Plaza Hotel for staff and faculty.

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adventure

A gourmet trip to Mount Everest

Painter Madhu Sarda was part of a thrilling and dangerous trek with Chef Vineet Bhatia’s charity team. The prize? A meal in the skies, personally prepared by the Michelin Chef. Here are extracts from her mountain journal Day 0 – 23rd May 2018 I’m embarking on a dream come true: I’m leaving on a charity trek led by the Michelin-starred Chef Vineet Bhatia and team as the only lady in the team of 11, trekking through one of the most difficult routes.

The trek will raise awareness and funds for the rehabilitation of Nepal's quake victims and Vineet's Heart for India Foundation for the education of underprivileged children (he's the charity's Ambassador).

Although I was thrilled about joining the trek, convincing my family, loved ones and friends was a different matter. It was only after a lot of emails and fact-checking and intense conversations that I got the

green light. First in the line of cheerleaders were hubby Sandip and daughters Sejal and Sumedha and a few close friends.

Couldn't have made without their support. I had to pump up my gym, yoga and fitness routine in preparation.

the Makalu Adventures, is the trip organiser. As a starter, we went on a local Kathmandu tour and was stunned anew with Boudha Stupa and Pashupatinath.

Day 1 – 24-5-2018 Reached Kathmandu

6 a.m. Waited for the weather to clear at Lukla Airport which is supposed to be one of the most dangerous in the world.

The owner of Thamel Eco Resort and 12

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Day 2 – 25/5/18 – Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding

Despite modern aviation technology, we are at the mercy of Nature and we waited while mechanics scurried around fixing the plane. After finally taking off, we fell short of our destination because of poor weather and landed at an unknown place called Phaplu.

During our 3 hour wait, we looked on longingly as many helicopters landed and took off. Finally Lady Luck smiled at us, as Chef Vineet said and we reached our destination, the starting camp in Phakding.

Our 2 main guides, Jeere and Ashmit, joined us here. After a hearty meal, we trekked to Phakding. It took us three hours and the way is so beautiful and clean with lots of Tibetian engravings, mani stones and Buddhist prayer flags on the way.

The skies were clear and the weather was crisp and cool.

Day 3 – 26/5/18 – Trek to Namche The Namche leg of the trek was supposed to be one of the longest and also represented an altitude gain for approx.

500 meters. We trekked through Sagarmatha National Park – it was like connecting to my country. In our Nepalese school

books, we are taught about Sagarmatha - what a beautiful place to be. Lovely huge green mountains, Dudhkoshi river flowing in its roar. So many Jhulunge pools (swinging bridges) to be crossed. Sky peeping through tall pine and fir trees. I reached the fastest to the lunch rendezvous but the second half was not as easy.

The uphill trek was very tiring, but whenever I would stop to catch my breath, the views were head-spinningly lovely. Crisp fresh air, clouds floating, mist forming, and the rhododendron flowers (nation13

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al flower of Nepal) growing all over the mountains.

When I broke my shoe, I just tied it up temporarily with masking tape since the spares were in the other bag that porters were carrying. Every effort is dedicated to the trek and extra action is avoided.

Reached Namche. I had a corner room at Hotel Khangri, and had a view of the mountains on both sides. That night was a full moon one and I will never forget the signt of the whole countryside bathed in moonlight.

adventure Day 12 – 5th June 2018 – Thursday Woke up at 4 am. Couldn’t sleep properly because of the freezing temperatures.

There was a snow blizzard the day before and that really scared me. We trekked that day from Gorekshep to the Base camp and it started snowing midway making breathing and trekking extremely difficult. But what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger..

At night even after four or five layers of thermals and clothing plus a sleeping bag in the tent, sleep escaped me. Restless, I peeped out of the tent. Lo and behold!

The most clear, pitch black sky studded with jewel bright stars. I felt I could see the whole Milky Way and right into another Universe. What a surreal feeling. It was like being one with nature, me being a tiny part of it and it being all of me. That instant made all the pain, aches, fights and everything worthwhile.

I almost always get up before everyone else, do my daily yoga, meditation and stretches, (it has really helped me a lot in this journey, specially the breathing techniques, with all the acclimatization, altitude and oxygen issues ). And then the first rays of sun start falling around. I am surrounded 360 degrees by the Himalayan range, which is all silver now because of

the snow, I chose the direction of sunrise where the first rays of sun kiss the mountain range and make it blush rose and golden. Its magical and mesmerising.

You have to see it to believe it.

I wish my family were around me in a big warm blanket. Someday.

Then everyone started waking up. We all met in the dining tent for breakfast. It was a big day for everyone. Fine dining at Base Camp. Yes. Chef Vineet and his team pulled out all stops to make this happen!

And if you know how difficult it is to even carry drinking water up the tracks because

of altitude sickness and lack of oxygen, you will find a deep appreciation for the smallest morsel of roti. And here we were, sitting down for a gourmet meal by Chef Vineet Bhatia! What a miracle.

Also all this is being documented by 2 very professional cameraman, creating a documentary.

The sun is shining, a beautifully table is laid out with the finest traditional Nepalese brass cutlery. We are seated and chefs lay out the most exquisite meal of my life, with delicate gourmet touches of seasonal Nepalese ingredients.

The Menu: Here’s what I remember eating: We started with Veg Momos and Dal and Wild Juniper berry Shorba.

Main course was Chilli Garlic Chicken and Cauliflower, Yak Butter Rice, Stir-fried Vegetables and Mushroom with Schezwan Sauce, Fish Masala and Chicken Masala.

Dessert was Saffron Sooji Halwa with Gold Leaf and Beetroot Dust…followed by a piece of warm heaven in that weather, Chai, Coffee and Chocs.

Although the taste buds change at that altitude, there was no denying the deliciousness of every bite. The memories on that dining table and of the team and trek will be etched in my mind and heart forever!

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financial advice

A Life Plan for businesses Businesses run on assets. Hence, insurance for offices, factories and other important enabling assets of a business are crucial. However, a business never runs solely on material resources. A very important resource for any business is the manpower. Ensuring this manpower’s safety and sufficient supply is what will make a business grow and complement the company’s other assets.

Regardless of what a business does, as long as it has people in it, a life insurance is necessary. A well-planned life insurance and benefits plan will make the company function much better.

Life Insurance also helps the company tide over any financial crisis which may result due to sudden exit of key person/ partner due to death or other reasons.

Therefore, Business owners should definitely get life insurance for themselves and their employees in order to protect the assets that are the most important for any business to grow.

Getting group life insurance has more benefits than just ensuring the health of your employees.

It can also have benefits for your business.

• Attract/retain the top talent The security that comes with life insurance does not go unnoticed by employees. The world has moved far beyond a whip-and-chain system where staff worked out of fear. Employees understand that their employers also depend upon them.

Employees today are driven with their own passions and ambitions. They work hard for the success of a company if they feel they belong in it. Employees also expect the company to provide for them as they conform to all its requirements and nurture it with all their hard-work.

A company that understands its responsibility towards the employees is always preferred by the employees, as

it gives them a sense of belonging. A business can set itself apart from others in recruiting and retaining the top talent with this small measure.

This way, any business is sure to find and produce hard-working and loyal employees who will effectively contribute to the growth of your company.

• Business Capital & Generation of Revenue Life insurance set up by a company for the employees means that the primary owner of the policy is the company. This gives the company the first rights to the cash-value of the policy. This amount can come in handy at times when the business needs it.

Owners can choose to leverage against this cash value when the business needs a boost, and later, the capital can be redirected to the life insurance. This amount is ready to be used again when need arises.

This way life insurance not only becomes beneficial for the employees but also helps in the growth of the business.

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• Succession Plan/Exit Policy Life insurance plans can be specially drafted to fund a buy-sell agreement for the sake of the company. Most businesses have multiple partners/owners. Upon the death of an owner, the death benefits can be used by the company to buy their share of the company.

However, the shares/interest of the deceased owner will be bought at a previously agreed upon price, owing to the buy-sell agreement. In case an owner leaves the company simply due to retirement, illness, disability, etc. their policy benefits go directly to the company — serving as capital since the cash value will solely be received by the other owner(s) upon death.

• Key-person insurance A life insurance is very useful in protecting a business at the time of the death of a key-person.

Since this insurance is paid to the company, it gives the business owners the required funds to hire a replacement

financial advice or get an alternate arrangement in place.

pay off the loan(s).

• Mortgages and loans

• Retirement security

Small businesses often require investments and owners may have to take a loan to meet these if the funds are not available. In case of the death of an owner before the repayment of the loan is completed, the death benefits from the life insurance can be used to

Business owners and employees all need supplements for retirement, and a life insurance can help in providing this security. Such a plan is very helpful as well as attractive, but it is important to structure the plan correctly so that execution is also done properly. It is

important to consult professionals for this kind of an investment, but is definitely worth the effort for the advantages it offers.

LIC International Bahrain can offer excellent Business Insurance/ Group life insurance solutions to companies. Call 39936618 for more information.

buisness news

Bahrain’s first AI product launched by Rsquare

Bahrain Business Women's Society members at Rsquare Ramadan Majlis

Roshini, Raja, Shanthini & Roshan

Launching of Sara BH the first Artificial intelligence Chat bot in the Kingdom of Bahrain, attended by business community leaders

Rsquare Technologies, a Bahrainbased IT solutions provider, has launched a chatbot – which is said to be the kingdom’s first artificial intelligence product. Held during a Ramadan Majlis at the Bahrain FinTech Bay, the launch event saw the firm’s founder, chairwoman and chief executive Shanthini Raja demonstrating the solution.

“The key features of the chatbot are 24x7 bilingual (Arabic and English) support and no staff costs. It will increase the efficiency of customer service and deliver a quick response on queries. It can handle many customers at the same time and can be tailor-made to business needs,” she said.

According to her, the implementation 16

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is very easy and the tool can be integrated into platforms like websites, apps and Facebook messenger.

“We have developed a user-friendly backend with dashboard. And the bot has machine learning and natural language processing capabilities.”

The launch was also a celebration of the company’s 9th anniversary.

salaam society

Women entrepreneurs platform in EM ghabga

Under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa, Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover brought together a number of female entrepreneurs and businesswomen to showcase their innovative products and services, while interacting with one another in a relaxed environment at the Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover Showroom.

The showroom was specially modified to reflect Ramadan’s rich and festive nature by wholly embellishing it in a traditional Arabian theme. Along with the networking aspect of the event, the invited guests were extended a 5-star ghabga to mirror the benchmark standards set by Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover through their products and services.

INJAZ Bahrain is a non-profit organization that was established in 2005 as part of

BCICAI adds fun, charity to list

Because all work and no play – you know the rest… And also because, as the Prophet (PBUH) said “A man’s true wealth is the good he does in this world”, the BCICAI added some charity and fun

times to its roster of activities. Chartered accountants and their families participated in a Ramadan blood donation drive and also played a leading role in distributing iftar packs in the Lulu Hypermarket’s Joy 17

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of Giving CSR activity in the Riffa Suq. The group also had fun at a special picnic in the LPOD water park and cheering their fave teams at the special screening of the thrilling IPL finals of CSK vs. SRH.

new in town

Al Hilal promise to invest in Bahrain healthcare With the opening of its third state-of-the-art medical centre in Adliya, the Al Hilal Healthcare Group has confirmed its decision to pump BD 100 million into the private healthcare sector in Bahrain. The facility will be added to the already existing hospital and medical centre chain in Bahrain (Muharraq-Riffa-Adliya).

The Group will also be shortly opening a medical centre in Salmabad.

The mega health project which is still in early stages and comes in line with the Group’s commitment to Bahrain’s healthcare sector, said Abdul Latheef, adding that Bahrain’s investors’ friendly climate and health regulators’ continuous support and encouragement have made Bahrain a preferred investment destination for Al Hilal Healthcare Group.

“By end of June Al Hilal Centre Salmabad will be opened and by the year-end two more facilities will bolster Bahrain’s private healthcare sector, making Al Hilal the leading healthcare services provide in the Kingdom of Bahrain,” said Director, Abdul Latheef.

A state-of-the-art health centre with an experienced team of doctors and nurses costs about five million US dollars to build and start, he said.

Meanwhile, the Adliya medical centre was inaugurated under the patronage of H. E Dr. Faeqa Bint Saeed Al Saleh, Minister of Health, by Dr. Mariam Al Hajiri, Assistant Undersecretary of Ministry of Health, in the presence of Indian cricket star Irfan Pathan and South Indian cine star Bhavana.

Al Hilal Launches Privilege Card As part of the celebrations marking the 120th Independence Day of Philippines, Al Hilal Hospital and Philippines Professional Organization with the support of the Philippines Embassy and various Filipino organisations, announced a major health collaboration. Chief Executive Officer of Al Hilal Healthcare Group, Dr. Sharath Chandran and Ambassador of Philippines, Alfonso Ver joined hands to launch a privilege card to facilitate the health requirements of the entire Filipino community in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This privilege card will allow the community to avail healthcare facilities at a discounted rate.

For more information regarding the Privilege Card call +97332172444 or +97333601404.

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salaam society

An Eid Open House Well known Pakistani community figure Ashfaq Butt (Chairman of Fidha Decor ) celebrated the festival of Eid with an Open House at his residence in Aziz Garden. The festive occasion was attended by community leaders, bankers, Pakistan Club officials and others.

A melodious show

On the second day of Eid, the famous Pakistani singer Nooran Lal treated more than 800 fans to a melodious festive concert. The evening was graced by chief guest Murad Ali Wazir (Acting Ambassador, Pakistan Embassy) and Guest of Honor Sajid Sheikh (former Board Member of the BCCI). It was sponsored by Sharaf D.G. and Pigeon Traders w.l.l.

Iftar at Pakistan Club Engr. Rehan Ahmad (Chairman, Pakistan Club) and board members arranged an Iftar dinner in honour of leading community members. The guests praised the Club's members for holding the Iftar as such traditional Islamic community gatherings serve to strengthen the bond of relationships. The chief guest was Murad Ali Wazir (Acting Ambassador, Pakistan Embassy).

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salaam society

BMM's community get-together The Bhatia community is a pioneering one with pages of gold in the history of contemporary Indo-Bahrain relations. The Bhatia Mitra Mandal is the face of the community today and their annual bash is much-looked forward to as it celebrates the unique Bhatia culture, offers a wonderful networking opportunity and gets the younger generation involved in the spirit and culture of the Bhatia 'hood.

The BMM Executive Committe with Ambassador Alok Sinha & buisness leader Kooheji

Indukumar Bhatia & guests

Members with families enjoying the Event

Prisha, Ayushi, Urvi, Diva

Sushil Muljimal & Baboo Kewalram

Bina, Mala, Minz, Bharti, Manjita

Traditional Bhatia play

Vinod, Sangita, Roshni & Raj

Young dancers

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Lulu”s record CSR effort – 5000 Iftar packs distrbuted Lulu Hypermarket marked its annual ‘Joy of Giving’ Ramadan CSR effort with the distribution of over 5,000 Iftar food packages to the fasting public in five locations simultaneously, including to workers in two work camps.

The top management of the Lulu Hypermarket was joined by members of various communities and associations – the American Women’s Association, Awali Ladies Hospitality Group, Italian Bahraini Friendship Association, Thai Club, Filipino Community, Chartered Accountants of India and MWPS. “This year, the Joy of Giving CSR programme set a new record by distributing over 5,000 Iftar meals in one day to the public,” said Lulu Group Director, Juzer Rupawala, “It was an opportunity to celebrate the spirit of togetherness and we are very happy that our Joy of Giving brought together the community. This concept of reaching a

nutritious and wholesome Iftar meal directly to the community has been Lulu’s Ramadan campaign for some years now and the Joy of Giving is multiplied by the Joy of Sharing.”

Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover Distribute Iftar Meals Euro Motors, the exclusive importer and distributor for luxury automotive manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover in the Kingdom of Bahrain, this year marked the Holy Month with their ‘Give Back’ campaign that saw 200 full-course Iftar meals distributed to the public every day of Ramadan.

The Iftar meals reached the public in Jaguar Land Rover vehicles which were appropriately equipped to store and distribute the meals all over the Kingdom of Bahrain. Speaking on the significance of the initiative, the General Manager of Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover, Stephen Lay said: “It brings us great joy to be able to utilize this opportunity at this

auspicious time, as distributing Iftar meals is the best way in which we exemplify our commitment to supporting the social ties between all the different communities of society, bringing them together."

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YGC queens sizzle in May

Gorgeous Hana Ali swept the titles at the Young Goans Club Bahrain (YGC) May Queen 2018. The well-organised show packed an entertaining punch. Chevonne Menezes and Richen Kong Navacilla were first and second runners-up. In addition to the main title of May Queen, contestants were also judged and awarded for other categories. Judges for the event were Dr. Dean Gomes, Jennie Fher Cadelinia and

Stacy Dias Banji.

Hana also sashayed off with the audience poll title of Miss Popular, which for the first time allowed people to vote for a category.

The winner won with the maximum facebook likes of 918. She added a third title of Best Smile to her winning bounty, dazzling all with her brilliant smile.

Best Hairdo was won by Jayvee Agbulos and Ayat Shaikh was given special mention 23

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salaam society

and award for her sporting personality and ethical maturity. Choregraphy of the pageant was done by Shamima Noorani Each contestant received fabulous gifts thanks to the event sponsors.

salaam society

ILA offers friends network & charity channels

Ramadan Ladies Night - celebrating culture

From members' fashion shows to outreach programmes with the elderly and Workers Welfare Uttar meal distribution, ILA packs a full events calendar 24

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The Indian Ladies Association has been very active with a host of events that showcased glamour and culture as well as community support programmes.

"This year, we are treading a very different path of self-exploration and style!" exclaims bubbly President Thanuja Anil, "That's why every event is a 'walk' : our stylish saree fashion show that framed the different textile histories of India, the drapes and the modern take on the saree was put together by members and was a big hit!"

More than 150 ladies attended the April saree show ‘Walk The Ramp’ which also featured some exquisite showstopper jewellery from members’ private collections.

Meanwhile, May was a busy

month too with three events stacked up for the members and guests too.

First there was ‘Walk into the Kitchen” – a cookery demo by Chef Akon Mukherjee of the Elite Grande Hotel in Seef, who meticulously demonstrated the preparation of a multi-course meal, complete with useful cooking tips, methodical cooking, delicious aromas and fantastic food!!

Then artist Madhu Sarda led a beautiful workshop “Walk into the world of Madhubani painting” as part of the ILA’s Share Your Skills sub-committee. This was followed by a talk on empowerment and motivation through meditation: "Walk the talk" by self-development trainer and executive coach, Prakash Chugani in collaboration with the Bahrain Meditation Centre and a short film-making course by noted director Raveendran.

The ILA also brought joy to others with visits to the Old Age Home Dar UCO and sharing a meal with construction workers of the Al Ajlan Co. “At 62, our association is the oldest expat women’s group in the GCC and our belief in service to the community still holds strong,” said General Secretary Anita H., “We welcome new members – the demographic profile of the Indian expat woman has changed so much in the last decade and we want to see more women members interested in sharing their talent, making friends and helping to raise funds for charity, especially our own Sneha Recreation Centre for children with special needs – it’s free and open to all nationalities.”

Thanuja added, “Right now, we are searching for a bigger clubhouse that will double as a Sneha centre and give the children more therapeutic sessions to engage and develop their motor skills and focus: one that may accommodate a small garden – or a sunny indoor patch if it is an apartment, a bigger play and exercise area and more room for member activities.”

To become a member of this zesty club, call 36310050 or 33493140 or 34124846.

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It’s a dog’s life in stray ‘hoods Volunteers are calling for a government-supported CNR programme to stop the stray dog menace. Will their plea be heard?

By Kashmeera S. Not long ago, a friend visited an office in the Sitra industrial complex. When she came out after the meeting, she found to her horror that her car was surrounded by a snarling pack of stray dogs fighting over a carelessly thrown piece of meat.

She had to get help from the ‘locals’ there who were familiar with the pack, to make her way into the car and speed away.

In a quiet neighbourhood on Adliya, a pet-owner set off a explosive chain

reaction when she indulgently started feeding a couple of strays during her dog’s mealtime. To her neighbours’ distress, the road was quickly taken over by a prowling pack of strays of all sizes, who hung around to be fed and chased after fast food delivery bikes. Parents started worrying about their children playing their after-school cricket.

Have stray dogs in Bahrain attacked anybody? No – in fact, we hear more 26

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often about the dogs being ill-treated – recently, a string of dog poisonings alarmed animal lovers, and animal welfare workers have often complained about strays painted with toxic colours, having their faces shoved into empty tin cans etc. But for those who don’t like dogs, a pack of strays is definitely an alarming sight and there is no denying that the risk of a nipped ankle or a full frontal jump is always present.

in focus Stray reasons Animal welfare activists agree that improper waste management and abandonment of pets who then become strays are among the main reasons for stray dog packs growing. Stray dogs converge in places where they can find food and roam around in packs. Donata Baars, a wildlife manager by profession, says, “When the streets are free of rubbish, the number of strays roaming around diminish.”

Improper residential waste disposal, too many restaurant clusters which do not dispose their food waste properly and people who feed dogs stoke the stray dog issue. Even volunteers with the animal interests at heart say that balancing animal and human concerns is a difficult act. Fathiya Al Bastaki, founder of Bahrain Strays (Dog Rescue) is active in ensuring the welfare of strays – yet even she says, “Residencial areas are places for families to stay, and I am against feeding of strays in the neighbourhood.” Fathiya’s group was established in the year 2013 and supports neutering, feeding and rescuing dogs through volunteering and fund-raising. Another animal welfare volunteer Alise Lappo, a Gudaibiyabased sales supervisor, started feeding strays in remote industrial areas such as Ma’ameer, Sanad, Isa Town and Seef.

Apart from feeding and neutering them at her own expense, Alise has rescued several dogs and has given them a safe place to live in since 2013. Speaking about the volunteering network, she said, “Being a part of the volunteering group of Bahrain Rescues, we receive calls from people who pass information about them. After rescuing them from the said location and catering to their needs, we post information on our WhatsApp and Facebook group to ease the process of adoption.”

stop fearing strays and try to learn about their behavior and actions but their words fall on deaf ears since the public simply does not want to engage in any way with strays. To them, they are pests to be controlled.

In November 2017, the footage of an expatriate woman freeing dogs from one of the municipality cages and getting into a brawl with a local woman who was against that action, went viral on social media. It also highlighted the shortcut response of municipal authorities according to these groups. The animals are usually rounded up and put in shelters where they are caged and fed but not exercised or given vet attention. Baars says the so-called shelters for stray dogs is not an ideal solution since the dogs are confined in cages and just fed at regular intervals. Since they are animals that are used to roaming free and scavenging for food, confinement builds up aggression levels and also diseases and parasite infestation. “Keeping dogs in shelter homes is far from the ideal since they are not used to being confined. The best solution is to release them back in their familiar area after being spayed and neutered,” added Baars, “Shelters should only be a temporary experience from which dogs are rehomed, not a permanent dumping site.”

Still, it is probably better than the action taken in the mid-90s by the Ministry of Interior which regularly culled animals to keep their numbers in check. Highlighting the reason for euthanization, Carrie, a volunteer associated with Bahrain Strays said, “The rate of reproduction is faster among dogs, and by the time they finish neutering one, others would have produced a pack of five or six. So, elimination was an action plan in the past, which is now thankfully non-existent.”

Dogfather model Nuisance value The fact is that strays are just seen as a menace and a nuisance by most people. Donata and other animal welfare volunteers often appeal to the public to

One of the most humane care operations for strays was the Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre run till recently by the late, much-mourned Tony Waters, better known as The Dogfather. The 2327

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year old centre is famous for rehabilitating not just dogs but all animals in need of loving care - cats, birds, even a donkey and baboon! The centre took in animals that were considered beyond recovery mutilated, sick and the blinded and lame.

With Tony and his volunteers’ limitless love the animals recovered and lived lives free of pain and secure in receiving love.

Today this shelter houses around 350 animals. Apart from food and water, the center ensures that their every need is taken care of for the animals.

After his death, the centre is now managed by Tony’s close friend, a renowned Scottish singer, Sandi Thom.

You can donate to the centre by visiting the website and donating online, volunteering time or dropping off pet food.

The legendary Tony Dogfather, who passed away recently, changed the face of animal care volunteering in Bahrain

Vet rescue Almost all animal welfare volunteers agree that spaying and neutering is the way forward since it controls the population of strays. Baars says, “It is very important to control the population of strays to ease the process of looking after them. I am a 100% supporter of

spaying and neutering.”

The most commendable action today is that people’s concerns expressed on social media has seen the Ministry of Agriculture seriously backing a long-term and wide-ranging CNR (catch, neuter, release) programme, an initiative started

by Bahrain Strays (Dog Rescue) for the first time in the island. Ninety-eight dogs were neutered over four days in a first round by volunteer vets from a US-based organization called FarVets who came to Bahrain to support the scheme with their professional skills. These vets had been trained at the Cornell University Veterinary School.

The main objective was ‘Eradication of Euthanization’ said the organiser of CNR, Marwah Al Khalifa. “I am thankful to the Ministry for helping us secure the license in conducting the camp. Their valuable support is commendable as they provided medicines to ensure that our agenda was met without any hindrance.”

She also thanked the Chief Executive of the Supreme Council for Environment, Dr. Mohammed Mubarak Bin Dainah, who visited and kept a tab on the ongoing activities of the camp.

However, since time was of essence, it was decided that using local vets to continue the programme would be more effective. If successful, the camp would continue spaying and neutering dogs at Hidd and Askar, as they are the main areas for stray dog packs which animal welfare activists say have been dumped there by municipal cleaning services. Marwah says the process is time-consuming and has appealed for more volunteers to help with the programme.

“Acknowledge the problem of strays as well as your mindset towards them.

Work in a way, where they are safe and secure, and you are free of inhibitions against them,” says Lappo. It’s a two way communication – both humans and animals need to learn to live together but the responsibility of shaping the environment for the stray dogs is in our hands.

Bahrain Odias celebrate Utkal Divas…

By Arunita Praharaj

Gajapati Maharaja & Maharani Leelavati welcomed by the Odia kids

Dance by tiny tots

GCC Odias with the Gajapati Maharaja & Ambassadors of India, Nepal & Sri Lanka

Kanchi Abhiyan drama performed by Odia kids

The Bahrain Odia Samaj marked Odisha Day and Odia New Year at the Abdul Rahman Kanoo School Auditorium in a grand celebration. The event was graced by the Chief Guest, Alok Kumar Sinha, Ambassador of India to Bahrain and wife Mamta, Guest of Honour, Gajapati Maharaja Shree Dibyasingha Deb (First servitor of Lord Jagnnatha) and Maharani, Dr. Saj Mendis, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Bahrain) and Pawan Sundas, Ambassador of Nepal to Bahrain and his wife. All guests were honoured and felicitated by the Bahrain Odia Samaj for their wonderful efforts and contributions to society.

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Odissi dance performed by Odia girls

From the tiny tots to Odissi maestros, the entire community came together to bring the spirit of Odisha and Jagannatha culture in the limelight by performing acts such as the Kanchi Abhijan, classical Odissi, Bande Utkala Janani, Parade of Odiya Pride with Odiya costumes and so much more!

The Samaj also published and released a book, “The tradition of Lord Jagannatha” authored by Gajapati Maharaja Shree Dibyasingha Deb himself. A souvenir called Bahrain Utkalika 2018 was also launched at the event showcasing the story of Bahrain Odias and the beauty and pride of Odisha.

salaam society Tête-à-Tête with Gajapati Maharaja Could you tell us a little more about the history of Gajapatis?

The tradition of Gajapatis is embedded in the mists of time and swathed in legend. The title itself is fairly ‘recent’ – it dates to the 14th century! But the duties offered by our family to the Lord Jagganatha in the world-famous Puri Temple can be traced back many centuries before that when the King of Puri was initiated into the service to the Lord of Puri by his ancestor, the King Indradyumna.

The real role of the Gajapati is that of the Adyasevak or the First Servitor of Lord Jagannatha.

In history and across the globe, you are known as the ‘Thakur Raja’ or the earthly representative of Lord Jagannatha. What does it feel like to be so revered?

When I completed my education, I realised everything I had learned was modern with no spiritual inclination. I was supremely unfit, ineligible and unqualified for the duties of the Adyasevak. Thankfully, with the help of Gurus and Shastras, I was gradually moulded into an individual who understood the culture, tradition and spiritual wisdom of India in particular relation to Lord Jagannatha. I felt like I was able to serve the Lord in a better way – it took time but it was worth it!

Today we live in a global village wherein boundaries are disappearing and it is important to understand the idea of universal brotherhood, harmony and peace more than ever before. Spreading this message of universal oneness is equal to spreading the message of Lord Jagannatha.

Gajapati Maharaja felicitated by the Indian Ambassador Alok Kumar Sinha

What are your hobbies?

I really enjoy photography and wildlife. These are two of my biggest passions and work great when combined. It is something I do when I go on holiday – I become a true-blue tourist and there is no stopping my camera!

How was your Bahrain experience?

This was our second time on the island and it was a great experience! We were blessed with pleasant weather and had a great time going to Amwaj Island, seeing the animals at Al Areen and the Utkal Divas program was a big success, thanks to all the lovely Bahrain Odias who put in so much effort.

Lulu Mango Mania 2018 hits sweet notes

The mango season started in full swing when Lulu Hypermarket inaugurated its Mango Mania 2018 in the presence of Indian Ambassador Alok Kumar Sinha and Lulu Group’s Managing Director, Mr. Yusuffali M.A. Besides over 82 varieties of the fruit from 17 countries, the festival also showcased the fruit's versatility with a variety of savouries and desserts – relishes, pickles, cakes, pastries, juice and summer drinks.

Indian Ambassador Mr. Sinha said the mango is a symbol of India’s rich agricultural wealth and was much loved by the people in the GCC. “I am delighted to be in Bahrain for this delicious occasion,” said Yusuffali, “Lulu Hypermarket’s Mango festival is always a grand gourmet event."

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youngistan

SHS marks 46th Graduation

The 46th Graduation Ceremony of the Sacred Heart School (SHS) saw former student, Shura Council Member Nancy Khedouri preside over an energetic Class of ’18 who were definitely ready to take on the world. The guest of honour was Reverend Father Xavier D’ Souza, OFM Cap, the Parish Priest at the Sacred Heart Church.

In her address, Principal Sister Roselyn Thomas A.C. reminded the students and their guardians of the strengthening power of struggle, saying triumphs don’t come without effort and that when parents and teachers shield students from struggle, they are actually doing them a disservice.

The class valedictory address was delivered by the Head Girl Asma Ahmed 30

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and Head Boy Ushan Fernando.

Chief Guest Nancy Khedouri reflected on her student days and praised the SHS for its caring delivery of education, knowledge and a respect for truth to all students.

The SHS is one of the oldest schools in Bahrain and counts many illustrious former students and residents of Bahrain among its alumni.

salaam society

IIPA students prove artistic mettle

The 15th Annual Day of Indian Institute for Performing Arts (IIPA), titled Aaghosh 2018 showcased the talent of the students of all age groups who learn classical arts in the Institute. The full-day event was more like a immersive art experience and lasted from 10 am to 9pm. Nearly 250 students showed off their finely-honed talent in vocal music, instruments, dance and drawing and painting. Performers include school- going students to adults.

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A pop of business sense

Galleria Mall, Bahrain’s exclusive openplan shopping destination in New Zinj, joined hands with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization – UNIDO-ITPO and hosted a Bahrain Entrepreneurs’ Eid Pop-Up Market.

The event, featuring Bahraini entrepreneurs who are building creative businesses in fashion, food, traditional

crafts, floral décor and accessories was a huge success.

“The Eid evenings are all about family fun and shoppers will enjoy valuable retail therapy with products and foods made in Bahrain,” said a Galleria Mall spokesman, “We had pulled out all stops to make it entertaining for visitors with henna painting, face painting, balloons and 32

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popcorn for kids and shopping for niche products at the Pop-up market.”

Dr. Hashim Hussein, Head of the UNIDOITPO in Bahrain said, “We have many creative and successful entrepreneurs– this Eid Pop-Up Market platform at Galleria Mall gave them a great retail space to market their finished goods.”

A good time was had by all.

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R​aka's Parisienne evening

R​aka, Neel and h-ubby Ashesh

Awesome Foursome- Junutha, Raka, Jayati, Radhika

A walk with the style cats

Fun with friends - Rupa, Shobha, Raka, Suvasini, Tanuja, Anita, Chitra

Cake walk at the Parisienne party

A memorable evening for all

Lovely Raka M. celebrated an evening in Paris with her 'paries' for her birthday. With a stylish ramp walk and much dancing, this was an evening to remember.

Queens come to Indian Club

The Indian Club's Annual May Queen Pageant attracted an audience of 1500 plus from different walks of life. A total number of 19 contestants participated in a 3 round contest (Casual, Ethnic & Party). Prizes were given for Best Catwalk, Best Hairdo, Best Smile & Audience Choice.

The Indian Club BFC Queen was won

by Egyptian Ms. Marwa Mohamed

(Centre), followed by 1st Runner-up Amanda Rose from Sri Lanka & the 2nd Runner-up Philipina Jayvee.

The other winners were: Best Smile Gurjit Kaur, Best Hairdo Jayvee, Best Catwalk Amanda Rose & Audience choice Marwa Mohamed.

The event was sponsored by Bahrain Financing Company & Co-Sponsored by Twenty4 Fashion, Jet Airways & BMMI. 33

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summer gyan

The

Conundrum

Are you looking at summer plans for your kids? Here are pointers to help you choose the best camps.

By Aditi Nagappa The books are packed for the next three months, the swimwear is out and kids look forward with glee to the holidays of July-August and part of September Parents are already worried about how they can contain the energy levels of their children, get them to do their summer holiday revisions and push them to physical activity instead of just game-station and TV watching.

While children really do need some downtime to rest and recharge, summer learning loss is a documentable phenomenon. The U.S. National Summer Learning Loss Association found that giving kids the summer off causes them to slip an average of two months of gradelevel equivalency. That’s why, if you want your kid to retain their achievement from the previous school year, it’s important to make sure they keep learning and thinking over the summer.

For many parents, summer day camps can be the perfect solution. Not only do your children retain the routine of going to school, they are continually challenged to pick up new skills and use their problemsolving abilities. Best of all, many kids don’t even realize how much they’re learning

Bahrain scene In Bahrain, there are summer camps galore for children and while all are monitored by authorities there are several tricks that we must be aware of when choosing a camp for our kids this summer.

Parents have to ask questions of the camp organisers as well as the children themselves so that their interests are met and the camp selected is of good quality and safe.

When they attend summer enrichment

programs with fun subjects ranging from 3D printing to Minecraft, martial arts, robotics and even knitting.

Here are some pointers to help you choose the best summer camp for your child: 1) Talk about expectations Before you even start your research, discuss the idea of camp with your child. What does s/he want to do this summer? What new things would s/he like to accomplish? This will help you start a nice search. However, always factor in your parental intuition: if you know s/he could use a chance to meet new friends, or focus on her theatre skills as well as her love of animals, don't rule things out just because your child has a strong opinion.

Balance will be key to challenging kids while giving them the summer of their lives.

2) Consider the camp's focus In Bahrain the camps are run by clubs, schools and hotels. Sadly, over the years, many camps have become merely grubby child-sitting services for working parents, with little attention paid to learning in a structured way, to hygiene or to creativity and variety of activities. Moreover, many schools are increasingly innovative so there needs to be a difference in approach when children attend summer camp. For example, one clubhouse with a lovely, large hall invariably lines up the children on the floor with A4 paper and crayons and asks them to spend 45-60 minutes in ‘art lessons’. That’s no way to teach creativity and stimulate an interest in art!

On the other hand, we do have some 34

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camps that come back every summer with new plans and an enthusiastic programme team – your work as a parent is to suss out such camps for the kids.

Look for camps that offer a variety of skill-building activities. Just remember that three weeks of back-to-back art classes could curb interest in the activity.

Moreover, there must be a good balance of physical and intellectual stimulus, of traditional and modern skill-sets that will help your child to develop new academic and social skills.

3) Lend your support Since the community here is so small and most parents know the organisers socially, send in an email with ideas you would like to see implemented – like lessons on working with 3D printers, for instance.

Offer your skills or get friends with special interests to introduce your child’s summer camp to these new subjects – maybe a photography class or a session of pottery making, leading a bake-off, an astronomy class in the night…the scope is endless.

Unlike the commercial camps in big cities, in Bahrain parents and adults can make a huge difference just by offering their talent to perk up a camp.

Do NOT treat the summer camp as a commercial transaction and skimp on your enthusiasm. Remember, you may be paying for the service but you can make it an exciting learning experience for all the kids.

4) Get your child out of his/her comfort zone Children, especially the youngest ones, are notorious for resisting change. They want to hear the same story at bedtime;

Summer camps are a great way to explore new activities and break free of gender stereotypes.

5) Do Research

they want to eat the same foods for dinner.

But, kids grow when they’re challenged.

The best summer camps introduce children to new experiences, new friends and fresh learning opportunities. Help your child to explore new ideas and areas. Your son may want to learn dancing, for example and your daughter may want to learn coding. Supporting them as they challenge gender stereotypes is your responsibility and summer camps when there is less stress about school work, is the right time and place.

Now you're ready to look into reviews and prices. Tap the local network and ask around about their experience of camps. They might have favourite camps they rave about, to make your decision easy. Once you have a few choices, call the staff and ask some of these relevant questions: • How is staff hired, screened and trained?

• How old are the teachers?

• How do you handle conflicts between campers, or discipline?

• What type of child best succeeds at this camp?

• What is a sample daily schedule?

• What happens if my child takes medication?

• How do you handle separation anxiety?

• What are your safety and medical procedures?

• If there is a swimming pool or swim lessons, will a trained lifeguard always be on duty?

• What are the fees and are there special charges for field trips and the summer camp annual day?

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6) Ignoring the importance of STEAM Because of Bahrain’s blazing summer, field trips and outdoor activities are more or less restricted to the great indoors such as malls and museums. However, we live in a rapidly changing world economy. Children need to develop their skills in science, technology, engineering, art, and math to succeed in life. Consider looking for summer camps that give kids the chance to gain hands-on learning experiences in STEAM subjects such as computer programming, filmmaking, digital media and robotics.

7) Don’t overlook your needs Of course, you want your kid to go to a summer camp they’ll love, but some parents forget that their needs matter too.

When looking at summer camp options, make sure you consider your own work schedule and family obligations. If a camp is too far away, ends early in the day when you’re not available to pick your kid up, or has other obligations that will make your summer stressful, it might not be the best option. Summer is a time for relaxation and if getting your kid to camp stresses you out, your kid will pick up your unhappiness and enjoy the experience less.

summer gyan SUMMER SCHOOLS IN BAHRAIN 1.VENUE: British Council English Center DATE: July 1 – July 19, 2018 & July 22 – August 9, 2018 COST: BD 210 | AGE: 6-10 years old | ACTIVITES: Beginners and above English language learning CONTACT: 17266166 2.VENUE: The Ritz-Carlton (Ritz Kids Summer Camp) DATE: July 5 – September 5, 2018 AGE: 5-12 years old | COST: Varies as per membership ACTIVITIES: Water sports, swimming, culinary classes, arts and crafts, adventure games, and talent shows.

3.VENUE: Bahrain Ballet Center DATE: July 1- August 31, 2018 AGE: 5-10 years old | COST: BD 15 per day or BD 55 per week | ACTIVITIES: Sketching, story-telling, team building games, arts and crafts, singing and group choir, dance, accessory, and costume design.

CONTACT: 17693232 or 33719180 4.VENUE: Al Ouruba Club, Juffair DATE: July and August COST: BD 30 for 1 Month / BD 50 for 2 Months AGE: 4-8 year old & 9-15 year old ACTIVITIES: A football camp from MJD Salcete Sports offering professional coaching, covering activities such as skills and technique, on-the-ball training, teamwork, penalty shootouts and oneon-one sessions.

CONTACT: 36276661 or 39439427 5.VENUE: Inspire Bahrain DATE: July 1-August 30, 2018 COST: BD 50 for 1 week/ BD 40 for 3-5 weeks/ BD 30 for 6 weeks or more | ACTIVITIES: The Explorers Summer Camp includes music, art, drama, craft, science, cooking, physical and water activities, teamwork and band productions. Each week will have with all activities based around a theme and a final production/presentation at the end of each week for parents to attend.

CONTACT: 39047734 or 33394774 6.VENUE: SanAsad Art, Juffair DATE: July 1- August 30, 2018 COST: BD 30 for 3 classes a week AGE: 5-12 years old ACTIVITIES: Painting on canvas, clay, wood and T-shirts, creating works inspired by famous artists.

They will also be drawing instructions to help young artists improve their skills and confidence.

CONTACT: 33365906.

7.VENUE: Mad Science DATE: July 1- August 30, 2018 COST: BD 15 per day/ BD 45 for 4 days AGE: 5-12 years old ACTIVITIES: Join in with whacky experiments, such as the secret agent lab and producing homemade energy. There’s also Earth awareness, space phenomena, mad inventions, art projects and more.

The price includes healthy snack and sessions.

CONTACT: 17591136 8.VENUE: Riffa Views International School DATE: July 1-August 9, 2018 COST: BD 20 per day | AGE: 6 to 14 year old ACTIVITIES: Run by Life-Fit, there are three programmes at RVIS: a mixed sports camp for kids aged 6 to 14 years offering three different sports each day, a girls-only camp for 6 to 14-year-olds and the KG camp for little ones aged 3 to 5 years.

Each day the children participate in a mixture of basic sport activities, team games and ball games.

CONTACT: 17692424 or 33001261.

Nakhool & Nakhoola teach culture skills @ BSF2018

9.VENUE: Gulf Gate Hotel COST: Kids (BD 35 for 12 classes-Monthly), Adults (BD 40 for 15 classes-Monthly), Ladies (BD 40 for 15 classes-Monthly) AGE: Kids (4-12 years), Adults (13 years and above) ACTIVITIES: Swimming Classes (Ladies Special), classes conducted by Lady Trainer with aqua aerobics.

CONTACT: 33624099 10.VENUE: Indian Academy, Um Al Hassam DATE: July 1- August 20, 2018 AGE: 4-12 years ACTIVITIES: Abacus, finger mathematics, mental calculations, brain gym, brain games, yoga/exercise, art/craft, music/dance, public speaking, quiz, science experiments, non-fire cooking, A/V entertainment.

CONTACT: 35011737 or 35652627 11.VENUE: Indian Club DATE: July 1- August 16, 2018 COST: BD 60 full package | AGE: 5 - 14 years ACTIVITIES: Drawing, painting, music, dance, games, cartoons, yoga, karate, swimming, field trips, sports day, and grand finale CONTACT: 17523157 12.VENUE: Indian Club DATE: July 1- August 16, 2018 COST: BD 60 full package | AGE: 5 - 14 years ACTIVITIES: Drawing, painting, music, dance, games, cartoons, yoga, karate, swimming, field trips, sports day, and grand finale CONTACT: 17523157 13.VENUE: Kerala Catholic Association DATE: July 1- August 15, 2018 AGE: 5 - 15 years | ACTIVITIES: Summer Camp activities will include creative art, intelligence tests, crafts, drawing, drama workshop, group song, skits, soft skills, movies, picnics, photography classes, cooking, clay modelling, magic shows, group dances, badminton, karate, swimming, physical play activities, etc.

CONTACT: 33776020 or 36781705 14.VENUE: Indian Institute For Performing Arts DATE: July 1- July 26, 2018 COST: BD 30 for any three activities AGE: 5 - 15 years | ACTIVITIES: Summer Camp activities will include vocals training, instruments training, dance lessons, drawing, etc.

CONTACT: 17231717 15.VENUE: Kalabhavan Bahrain Music & Arts Training Centre DATE: July 1- August 31, 2018 COST: Varies as per package | ACTIVITIES: Activities will include games, outdoor activities and various vacation courses that includes instrument training, classical dances, drawing & painting, Carnatic & Hindustani music training, karate & yoga, etc.

CONTACT: 17717271 16.VENUE: Syro Malabar Society DATE: July 6- August 18, 2018 ACTIVITIES: Activities will include pencil drawing, coloring, clay modelling, art and craft, dance lessons, personality development, karate, acting lessons, field trip, etc.

CONTACT: 39594999, 32313141, 39824254 36

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Held under the slogan “Muharraq Capital of Islamic Culture”, the 10th edition of the Bahrain Summer Festival will run till August 18 with a thrilling two-month programme! The Nakhool Tent at Arad Fort with its friendly palmtree mascots Nakhool and Nakhoola, has already been welcoming children for artistic activities, cultural workshops and traditional experiences such as a round of traditional games, learning to conserve heritage neighbourhood monuments, a traditional crafts market, children’s cinema festival, dolls exhibition at the National Museum, cartoon workshop, puppet shows..the list is varied and endless. The Nakhool Tent events run daily from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Adults can enjoy the Mohammed Bin Fares Band, the pride and joy of Bahrain, Sudanese Folklore Show, Malay Zapin dance, performances by the Bahrain Police Band, by artists of Musicians Without Borders.

While much of the programme is built around Arab and Bahraini culture, music and dance are seamless and can be enjoyed by all, so take a dekko and understand your Bahrain better!

Complete details can be had online at

http://bahrainsummer.bh/ event/

cuisine

Brrr…time for a chilled summer soup Soup may be a novelty in Indian menus, but the modern palate seeks this under-rated opening item’s flavoursome start for all seasons – so here’s the summer collection.

By Rashi Simon

In all its wondrous dictionary of tastes and textures, traditional Indian cuisine has paid scant attention to soups. Sure, we have come around to referring knowledgeably to shorba but then most Indian soups are designed for winter or monsoon at the most. Shorba or Chorba is a kind of a hot soup or stew relished across Middle-East Asia, South and Central Asia, and North Africa. Believed to have originated in the Persia, Shorba is traditionally prepared by simmering meat in boiling water along with salt and flavored with aromatic curry spices and

herbs. Over the years, vegetarian variants of Shorba have become popular as well.

Shorba is derived from an Arabic term, 'Shurbah', meaning soup.

Chef Sadaf Hussain, contestant of Masterchef India 2016 shares, "Shorba is an Arabic word 'Shurbah', meaning soup. People have been making the stew since ancient times. Central Eurasians (8th to 4th Centuries BC) used to put the flesh into an animal's paunch, mix water with it, and boil it over bone fire. This can be referred as the first ever stew in human history. The modes of preparation 38

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changed over the years, and Shorba evolved with the addition of spices.

Another theory also tells us that when Mughals came to India, they brought a lot of dishes, Shorba being one of them."

Tonic Shorba is also seen as having health benefits – in India and Pakistan,'Kharode Ka Shorba' or Paya Soup, a soup stock, made by boiling animal bones in water with subtle spices and some vinegar is a popular home remedy to treat illness and boost immunity. The bone marrow of the

animal is believed to be packed with several valuable nutrients like magnesium, calcium, phosphorous, sulphur and potassium.

The cartilage found in animal joints such as chicken feet, or lamb knuckles, and ribs is slow-cooked and simmered for hours in water. This shorba is known to enhances strength, and alleviate irritability, fatigue and anxiety. The cartilage is a great source of collagen. Collagen is a kind of a protein which is an essential component of muscle building. It is also beneficial healing the gut and helps promote immunity.

In Kashmir, this shorba is served as Yakhni, a yogurt and saffron based stew made with mutton. One of the earliest

documented Yakhni recipe is found in Ain-I-Akbari (Life of Akbar), where the stew is described as one of the many mutton based dishes relished in the Mughal courts. Yakhni is prepared like any other Shorba, but with an addition of yogurt. Mutton and mutton shanks are boiled in water with spices to make this Shorba. Then, the meat is removed and yogurt and saffron are added to the stock. The color of Yakhni is pale yellow due to the addition of yogurt and saffron.

Vegetarian variants of Yakhni are also popular like the Paneer Yakhni and Lauki Yakhni.

Shorba is usually served after separating it from the meat and vegetables, as a starter or as part of the main course. This

is one of the very few characteristics that separate Shorba from a soup. Soup is often served as the first course but Shorba can also be served as an accompaniment to the main dish or in between courses.

A traditional shorba is a very watery soup that is really strong in flavour so 'pepper-water'. They are mainly vegetarian and can be made with anything from tomatoes, to cauliflower to ginger but meat stocks, trotters are also frequently used.

Although the original shorba is a spicy north Indian dish originating from Mughal cuisine in the South dishes like the wonderfully warming Rasam are similar.

The spices and how the dish is produced are different. The Rasam is all about hot

Naatu Kozhi Rasam / Chicken Rasam - Soup This Tamil Nadu rasam-style soup is Recipe chicken soup for the soul indeed. A very simple and robust naatu kozhi rasam / soup made using country chicken bones and home made rasam powder. A very delicious Tamilnadu style recipe.

Ingredients For Rasam Powder •1 tsp ghee •1 tsp black pepper •1 tsp coriander seeds •1 tsp cumin seeds •1 tsp fennel seeds ( sombu ) •5-6 dried red chillies

For Chicken Broth / Stock •350 gms chicken bones with little meat •1 tsp turmeric •1 tsp salt •1½ litre water

For Tempering • • • • • •

1 tsp ghee 1 tsp cumin seeds 2 sprigs curry leaves 1 medium sized onion, chopped 1 medium sized tomato, chopped 1 tsp salt

Instructions 1. Roast all the ingredients listed under rasam powder in a teaspoon of ghee until slightly brown and fragrant. Grind the mixture to a very fine powder. You may have to pulse it several times to get a fine powder. Use a heavy duty mixie or a spice grinder.

2. Boil the chicken bones with turmeric, salt and water for 10 minutes in a pressure cooker – about three whistles.

Switch off the flame and let the pressure from the cooker release naturally,

3. Strain the stock and remove the chicken flesh from the bones. Discard the bones. Set aside.

4. Heat ghee in a pan and add in the cumin seeds and curry leaves.

5. Add in the chopped onions and fry for a couple of minutes.

6. Add in the chopped tomatoes and the salt. Saute till the tomatoes are cooked.

7. Add in the ground rasam powder and saute for a couple of minutes.

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8. Add in the shredded chicken and mix well.

9. Add in the strained stock and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

10. The soup should be light, flavoursome and thin. If needed, add more water when simmering.

11. Serve the soup hot. Its full-bodied flavour and contrasting light texture make it an ideal appetizer drink.

Tibetian Thukpa Thukpa is a Tibetan noodle soup, which originated in the eastern part of Tibet and eastern and northern part of Nepal. Amdo thukpa is a famous variant among Tibetan people and himalayan people of Nepal.

and sour spicing using curry leaves, tamarind and even lentil water but what they do have in common is that there is nothing better then this spiced water to wake up the mouth and the soul.

Brit idea

Ingredients • 2 chicken legs • 1 onion, chopped • 1 carrot, sliced • 5 gm ginger, julienned • 7 spring onions, chopped • 3 green chillies, slit • 4-5 cloves of garlic, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste • 1/2 lemon • Few sprigs of coriander leaves • 1 tsp honey • 1 tsp soy sauce • 2 Tbsp olive oil • A handful of egg noodles (you can use regular noodles also)

Preparation 1. Heat olive oil in a heavy bottomed vessel and fry the chicken untill it turns light brown.

2. Now add the chopped onion and carrots and saute for 1-2 minutes.

3. Then add ginger, garlic, spring onions and green chilies, and saute for another minute.

4. Sprinkle salt, pepper and some fresh coriander leaves and saute for 1 more minute.

5. Add 200 ml of water and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Then

squeeze in the lemon juice.

6. Add soya sauce and honey, and stir the broth gently. Then cover it with a lid and simmer for 10 minutes.

7. Remove the chicken from the broth and shred it.

8. Add handful of egg noodles in the broth and cook for 5 minutes.

9. Now add the shredded chicken back into the broth and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.

10. Garnish with some spring onions, green chillies and fresh coriander.

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Food experts say Asian curries, whether Indian, Pakistani, Thai or East Asian, make up for the lack of a soup course with liquid curries that are mopped up with bread or rice. But as we grow more sedentary, having a light soup, chilled or hot, as the centrepiece of a summer lunch, seems tempting indeed.

The British, who always adapted ideas from their colonies, were the first to introduce soups in India and because the weather often made dairy-based condiments such as sauces and cream curdle, they adapted local culinary flavours into soups. The world-famous Mulligatawny is pepper rasam from South India which has been Anglicised with the addition of chicken stock.

Come summer, Indian chefs add a variety of cold soups to their buffets – it used to be the usual Spanish gazpacho and the French Vicchyssoise but these days, as in economics and politics, Asian flavours are taking centre-stage. So you have Korean cucumber soups, Japanese miso-based summer chillers, Thai soups adapted to summer temperatures and the trendiest additions – contemporary Indian summer soups.

The best way to have these soups is to serve a large bowlful with a crisp salad.

We have collected a selection of recipes here that span the spectrum of tastes and will enliven your lunch table. From Tibetian Thukpa to Chilled Thai Beet Soup, a soymilk based Chilled Japanese Ramen to a delightful Goan Cashew, Pineapple and Sweet Potato Iced Soup and a spicy-hot Tamil Chicken Rasam, we have got a range of flavours here in these pages. And then, because tomato soup in all its avatars are so popular, we decided to travel beyond Asia and bring you a delightful Tomato and Orange Chilled Soup.

cuisine Chilled Ramen with Soy Milk and Chili Oil The homemade Sichuan chili paste and chili oil yield more than you need for this cold ramen recipe, but they will keep for weeks and make for great all-purpose condiments. Or you can just make this dish over and over. This recipe is from Nakamura in New York.

Ingredients Sichuan Chili Paste • 1 1-inch piece ginger, peeled, very finely chopped • ¼ cup toasted sesame oil • ¼ cup vegetable oil • 4½ tsps crushed red pepper flakes • 1 tbsp paprika • 4 tsps toasted sesame seeds • 1 tbsp mirin (sweet Japanese rice wine) • 1 tbsp raw or granulated sugar • 1 tbsp red or white miso • 1 tbsp sake • 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns

Miso Tare • 2 scallions, thinly sliced • 1 1½-inch piece ginger, peeled, finely grated • 1 apple wedge (about ⅛ of apple), peeled, finely grated • 2 garlic cloves, finely grated • 2/3 cup white, sweet white, and/or red miso • 1 tbsp mirin (sweet Japanese rice wine) • 1 tbsp sake • 1½ tsps toban djan (chili bean paste) • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Chili Oil • • • •

¼ cup vegetable or other neutral oil 2 scallions, thinly sliced 1 tsp paprika Kosher salt

Noodles and Assembly • 20 ounces frozen ramen noodles or 12 ounces dried ramen noodles • Kosher salt • 3 dill cucumbers, cut into ½-inch pieces • 1 small red or orange bell pepper, ribs and seeds removed, very thinly sliced • ½ cup thinly sliced radishes

• ¼ cup thinly sliced basil • 4 cups soy milk or other nondairy milk or regular milk •1 3x1-inch strip grapefruit zest, very thinly sliced •2 tbsps white or regular soy sauce •Plain unsweetened granola or fried shallots, garlic chips, unsalted, dry-roasted peanuts, and/or any other store-bought crunchy toppings you want (for serving)

Preparation Sichuan Chili Paste • Bring ginger, sesame oil, vegetable oil, red pepper flakes, and paprika to a gentle simmer in a small saucepan over medium heat. Let bubble gently 30 seconds, then remove from heat. Add sesame seeds, mirin, raw sugar, miso, sake, and Sichuan peppercorns and whisk until sugar is dissolved. Return paste to a gentle simmer, then let cool.

• Do Ahead: Sichuan chili paste can be made 1 month ahead. Cover and chill.

Miso Tare

• Cook scallions, ginger, apple, garlic, miso, mirin, sake, toban djan, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring, just until warm (do not let it simmer) and garlic no longer tastes raw, about 5 minutes.

• Do Ahead: Miso tare can be made 1 month ahead. Let cool; cover and chill.

Chili Oil

• Heat oil in a small saucepan over medium-high until very hot but not quite smoking. Add scallions and paprika; season with salt. Cook, swirling pan often, until scallions are browned and oil is deep red, about 2 minutes. Let cool.

• Do Ahead: Chili oil can be made 1 month ahead. Cover and chill.

Noodles and Assembly • Cook noodles in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, then immediately chill in a bowl of ice water.

Drain again.

• Toss cucumbers, bell pepper, and radishes with 3 Tbsp. Sichuan chili paste in a small bowl until well coated. Season to taste with salt. Toss in basil.

• Whisk miso tare into milk in a medium bowl, then whisk in grapefruit zest and soy sauce.

• Divide noodles, then milk mixture and vegetables, among bowls. Toss granola or other crunchy toppings of choice in a little chili oil in a small bowl and scatter over noodles; drizzle with more chili oil.

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cuisine Cashew, Pineapple, Sweet Potato Ingredients • 30 gm butter Cold Soup

• 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped • 150 gm cashews • 150 gm pineapple (peeled, eyes removed and cut into chunks) • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 4 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced • 450 ml vegetable stock • 100 ml vodka substitute (a mix of 3 parts white grape juice, 1.5 parts apple cider and a squeeze of lime) • 150 gm fresh cream • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste • Tiny croutons for garnish

Preparation 1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add onion and sauté until soft, stirring it often. Add garlic and sauté for an additional two minutes.

2. Add pineapple, potatoes, vegetable stock, vodka substitute, cream, salt and pepper.

3. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium, and simmer for 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.

4. Process it in a blender or food processor until smooth. Strain and chill.

Serve cold, garnished with tiny croutons

salaam society

SGS bring Gujarat to Bahrain

Shree Gujarati Samaj used the May 1 Gujarati Day to remind Bahrain that they were an enterprising and hard-working community.

The club's function featured the rich folk culture of the state and a series of slick interviews on Gujarat - from the Chief Minister of Gujarat to local achievers!

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summer gyan

Plan a Dosha-friendly summer diet Ayurveda offers a time-tested, 3000+ year-old medicinal way to beat the summer heat

By Aditi Nagappa

This year in Bahrain, June has felt as if summer was trying to catch up on failed efforts that made May such a mild delight.

The weatherman has reported real-feel temperatures exceeding 45 degrees on many June days, which coupled with the Ramadan controls, have left many of us looking for natural solutions to curb the effect of heat.

The ancient Indian system of Ayurveda records that summer is hot, bright and sharp, the season of pitta. Thus, it is recommended to keep cool and not allow pitta dosha to become aggravated.

Ayurveda recognizes our uniqueness and

gives us a knowledge and perspective that is empowering; that allows us to manage our own health in a very personalized manner. Ayurveda is the ancient science of whole living, not a fad. It has been around for over 3,000 years, is time tested and individualized in its approach.

According to Ayurveda, our human physiology is a reflection of the laws of the universe, and our bodies possess the natural intelligence to process the foods that are closest to nature, such as fresh whole grains and organically-grown fruits and vegetables. Processed foods, 44

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genetically-modified foods, and foods to which artificial preservatives or other synthetic chemicals have been added are no longer alive with the intelligence of nature.

This makes sense when we consider that we have evolved as a species over millions of years eating whole, natural foods. It is just in the last few hundred years that artificial ingredients and toxic pesticides have been introduced into the food chain. It is no wonder that the incidence of cancer has exploded in the last few centuries. Whenever possible, choose organic, unprocessed foods.

Here are the top 12 rules to follow for a healthier, cooler Ayurvedc summer: 1. Eat pitta-pacifying food It is common sense to eat pitta-pacifying foods in summer. This means choosing more alkaline foods such as onions and green vegetables, choosing water-rich foods to hydrate the body – vegetables such as pumpkin, squash, tomato, cucumber, asparagus, cabbage, broccoli and fruits like melons, plums, pear, berries and prunes - in order to fight the heat in the body. These vegetables also have antioxidants that keep you healthy.

Basically, you should ensure that there is no dryness that may heat up the body.

2. Timing is important Always eat when your digestive fire is at its strongest, which is during lunch (midday). Missing your lunch during summers is equal to upsetting your pitta dosha and makes you feel irritated and cranky.

If you are a salad eater, try eating your raw veggies at lunch, giving your body plenty of time to digest your food. During the early afternoon hours when the sun is highest in the sky, our digestive agni is working at its maximum potency. And as the sun goes down, so does our agni. So to burn our largest meal of the day, we eat it at lunch — we add it to our strong digestive fire at noon.

fire that is responsible for converting food into energy. Drinking chilled is almost like putting off that digestive fire, causing various health problems. However, hot drinks are not the answer either as that may put your pitta dosha in overdrive.

Opt instead for drinks at room temperature.

5. Cultivate good eating habits

Did you always believe that a cool glass of lemonade is a summer drink? According to Ayurveda, we should avoid sour fruits, citrus fruits, beetroot and carrot as they generate heat when digesting. Limit the intake of garlic, tomato, sour cream, chilli and salted cheeses as they strain your system. Try avoiding dark meats as they heat up your body.

Our busy lifestyles can lead us to eat on the go, eat while working, skip meals or eat "junk" foods. However, ayurveda holds the belief that we can add life to our years and years to our lives by following a good eating routine. This healthy ayurvedic routine includes: eating three regular meals at about the same time each day; making lunch the main meal of the day (heavy dinners can tax digestion and disrupt sleep); and cooking and eating fresh food. Leftovers are considered less sattvic than fresh foods, and when convenient to do so are best avoided.

Additionally, giving gratitude, according to our tradition, for the food we eat, and sitting quietly during and for a few minutes after the meal, are recommended.

4. Room temperature is best

6. Avoid Strenuous Exercise

Ice cold drinks only inhibit digestion and create toxins, also known as ama in the body. Your digestive system has a digestive

It is always good to exercise early in the morning as it is the coolest part of the day. Engaging in vigorous exercises

3. Foods that are not summerfriendly

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during other parts of the day may heat up the body only to cause harm.

7. Don’t go raw Eat loads of fruits and vegetables, not only for their nutritional value, but also because they are good natural internal cleansers. The specific food guidelines for the three doshas - Vata, Pitta and Kapha -can help us pick a variety of fruits and vegetables suited to our physiology and the season.

Ayurveda prefers bioavailable foods – this means cooked vegetables, rather than raw. Although raw veggies “may” contain more vitamins and nutrients, they can be harder for our bodies to metabolize in most cases.

Think of a piece of cauliflower. If it is raw, how long does it take for our digestive enzymes (digestive fire) to penetrate completely to its core and break it down? Now imagine a cooked piece of broccoli. Whether steamed or sautéed, in either case, room has been created in its cellular structure for our enzymes to penetrate and much more quickly digest it. With the exception of predominantly Kapha types, most individuals will not respond well to eating primarily uncooked veggies.

Vegetables do not necessarily have to be just separate dishes. Add them to grains,

summer gyan stuff them in breads, toss them in stews and soups — there's always room for your favorite veggies in every dish.

8. Be spice-wise Spices not only add flavor and aroma; they also bring therapeutic value to any meal. Spices help boost natural immunity, and most of them can rev up our digestion so our bodies are able to absorb and assimilate the nutrients from the foods we eat!

on our predominant dosha makeup. For example, a Vata-predominant person will favor heavier meals with sour and salty tastes. A Kapha-predominant person may favor more pungent meals, and a Pittapredominant person more sweet flavours.

Remember, having all six tastes in our meals means that the spice is present, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that we may overtly taste each flavor.

Ayurveda has a range of spice mixes in the form of medicinal ‘churna’ and herbs in the form of syrups called ‘lehyam’ and decoctions called ‘kshayam’ that can be used to stoke or calm the digestive fire.

Check with an Ayurvedic doctor in one of Bahrain’s Ayurvedic centres for advise.

11. Cleanse from the inside out The build-up of ama — digestive toxins resulting from improper digestion — in

be in bed around 10:00 p.m. or before. c. Eating raw veggies or heavy meats that are harder to digest. d. Having weak digestion, due to an imbalance, or due to stress in our lives. e. Poor hydration. When the body is not hydrated, it cannot remove impurities from the lymph system properly. Blood production and flow may be negatively affected, possibly inhibiting our body’s ability to carry and maintain oxygen and nutrients.

Completing a cleanse during every change of seasons, to detox and rid the body of ama, is recommended for optimal health. Detoxing is particularly recommended in the early spring, because that is the time nature starts the annual cycle of regeneration as well. During cleansing, we can eat light, yet nourishing foods such as mung bean soup and khichdi, reduce oil consumption and drink lots of warm water through the day. Sip detox tea, reduce dairy products and opt for unsweetened freshly-squeezed juices.

12. Drink to your health!

9. Bring Oils To Your Rescue According to Ayurvedic practice, rubbing 5-6 ounces of coconut oil on your body before taking a bath in the morning will give a cooling and soothing effect to the skin. You can also used sunflower oil – but always, unrefined is best.

Sandalwood, jasmine and khus-infused oils too are calming. Not only do they have a soothing aroma, but also are known to have cooling properties. You can mix a few drops of these oils with a base oil – either coconut or sunflower – for best effect.

10. Deal with Dosha According to ayurveda, each meal should contain all six flavors: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, astringent, and pungent. The dominance of the flavors will be based

the physiology, is, according to ayurveda, the root cause of most disorders. Improper digestion can be the result of a few habits: a. Eating late in the evening when the body is ready for rest and not prepared for the heavy work of digestion. b. Eat a lighter, well-cooked meal at least three hours before bed, and try to 46

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When possible avoid caffeine, alcohol and carbonated soft drinks, and switch to life-giving, vitality-boosting beverages.

Start with water, that most basic yet most overlooked drink — drinking lots of warm water through the day helps to rehydrate our system and flush toxins out of the body. Avoid drinking ice-cold water, especially before, during and after meals. If you have a lot of Pitta to balance, drink it cool; otherwise, roomtemperature or warm water is best. When we drink ice-cold water, it slows blood flow in the region of the stomach and slows the action of digestive enzymes.

Blood flow and digestive enzymes are directly responsible for strong digestion, and anything we can do to support blood flow and enzyme action will help our digestion.

Ayurvedic herbal teas or drinks suited to our physiology, formulated to correct a specific imbalance, can assist in bringing our bodies into balance. Try boiling milk with a slice of fresh ginger, or blended

salaam society with a spoonful of gulkand (rose petal jam) with a pinch of nutmeg and cardamom at bed time to aid sleep. Mix and match according to taste. Kapha-predominant types or those prone to congestion (Kapha imbalance), may find that a nice cup of hot water with lemon is a good evening drink rather than heavier milk.

KIMS Group Ghabga party

13. Eat for your soul Balanced health goes beyond physical wellness to well-being in mind, spirit, emotions and senses as well. The food we eat can nourish our mind, body and emotions, not just our body.

Cooking and eating in a harmonious atmosphere turns food into nectar. A pleasant, tidy, cheerful environment and the nurturing company of friends or family will actually make mealtimes more nourishing.

14. Experiment with what you eat Eating the same dishes several times a week? Does your grocery list have the same items on it each time? Break out of that rut and experiment with new foods and flavours! Resolve to try at least one new recipe a week. Eating with friends can be a great way to break out of our routine.

If you have a favorite vegetable or grain you like to eat often, try preparing it differently (sauté, steam, boil, roast, or bake), or combine it with other grains, vegetables or herbs for variety. Eating should be an adventure, not a chore!

The KIMS Healthcare Group marked Ramadan with a Ghabga get-together for staff and media at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. Present were ​Ahmed Jawahery - Chairman of KIMS Bahrain Medical Centre and President of Royal Bahrain Hospital, and Dr. Sheriff Sahadulla - Chief Executive Officer - KIMS Healthcare Group and J​acob Thomas - Executive Director - Operations & Projects (GCC) KIMS Healthcare Group.

Al Hilal’s Iftar meet

And finally…….

15. Remember, the world is our table: Did you know that, according to ayurveda, we metabolize with all five senses? We don’t metabolize just our food….everything we hear, touch, see, taste and smell becomes part of us, so choose wisely and live a healthier life.

In its tradition of generous hospitality, the Al Hilal Health Care Group hosted a grand Iftar party. The location made the event extra special – it was in the tented parking space of the new Al Hilal Medical Centre in Adliya.

Over 1500 guests from various nationalities representing all communities attended the event along with diplomats and community leaders. The Directors and CEO of the Group played warm hosts "The gathering was truly representative of Al Hilal’s widespread interaction with the community and garnered much praise,” said Dr. Sharath Chandran, CEO of Al-Hilal Health Care Group.

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fashion

“Fashion has its roots in everything you do” Nida Mahmood She’s best-known as India’s Queen of Kitsch – Delhi-based Nida Mahmood’s colourful, modern eye for fashion blends a carefully curated selection of contemporary elements with an outrageous sense of fun. Plus, of course, a skilful sense of cut.

Let’s hear what she has to say for Summer 2018 “For me fashion goes way beyond clothing, but rather extends to lifestyle in general. The kind of phone you carry, the kind of apps you use...even in choosing a basic colour. If you are wearing something, there was a design sensibility that went into creating it.

Everything comes under the purview of fashion.”

How I became Queen of Kitsch “After a lot of introspection, I knew I was highly inspired by the Indian streets and kitsch. I was fascinated by the high importance of little things in life like chai, a newspaper et al. My initiative was to turn boring into dramatic. My first collection 'High on Chai' was launched at the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week in 2008. The idea was to bring people like street vendors, chudiwaalas, chaiwaalas and people from several other walks of life onto the ramp and present them in a fashionable manner.”

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Best-dressed celebs Sonam Kapoor-Ahuja, Kangna Ranaut, Sonia Gandhi, Madhuri Dixit, Shobhaa De and Amitabh Bachchan.

Women dressing men “It's funny to see how a majority of Indian men are still dressed by the women in their lives. It's sad to see how many people don't understand fashion if they don't belong to the fashion circles.�

Common Fashion Mistakes I don't understand why peple never give importance to wearing the right kind of shoes. Every shoe doesn't go with every dress.

Also, women should stop wearing dresses that are three sizes smaller. It is okay to be plus-sized, there are clothes available for the same, too. But leaving your body gasping for breath is just not understandable.

Men with pot-bellies should stop wearing bright thick horizontal stripes. They definitely don't make you look thinner.

And, the fad of wearing sports shoes with formal clothes or jewellery with sporty clothes kills the entire ensemble.

Over-accessorising not only kills your outfit but also makes you look like an accessory tree. Minimal is the word these days.

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fashion

Age defying fashion show At the Deivee fashion show in which Nida showed sports-inspired fashion for supermodel-actor Milind Soman’s athleisure brand, Soman walked the ramp for the designer. But, for once, Soman wasn’t the hunk the audience was rooting for on the ramp. Instead, the two women walking besides him - 101-year-old Mann Kaur from Chandigarh, who won a 100m race at the World Masters Games held in Auckland, New Zealand, in May 2017, and Coimbatore’s V. Nanammal, a 98-year-old yoga teacher, who stole the show.

It was a fashion show which defied age, fitness and expectations. The enthusiasm of the two senior citizens on the ramp was so infectious that the audience kept rooting for them long after they’d finished their routine. Mann Kaur even sprinted across the ramp with Soman, who had to stop her just in time before she ran over the edge. After running back, she refused to go backstage and continued dancing on the side.

Nanammal is known for performing age-defying yoga poses, some of which she put on display during the show. She was given the Nari Shakti Puraskar Award by the President on International Women’s Day on March 8 this year.

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Challenging the saree “When I first broke out of the mould of designing a saree and started draping it around jeans, people laughed at me. It’s created a huge statement though; there’s always a market for quirky things.”

So last century!

Well, that definitely has to be the animal print. Join some initiative to save the tiger, but don't increase its footprint by wearing the poor thing across your neck.

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fashion

Mimi’s the word

Mimi Cuttrell. If you haven’t heard of Priyanka Chopra’s millennial genius stylist, you’re obviously marooned on a deserted island. The NY-based Californian shot to instant fame when she recast supermodel Gigi Hadid into a magnificent fashion-plate.

With Priyanka, the challenge was to polish the superb desi star looks into edgy, red carpet international glam.

Mimi had a willing client who put in a lot of hard work into looking effortlessly beautiful and who could take the leap from IFFA to Golden Globe without batting an eye.

Mimi brings a sharp visual talent to her work and an encyclopedic knowledge of brands and trends…well, most of the trends are started by her clients!

Here’s more of Mimi in her own words: - I’m from Santa Barbara, California and currently live in New York City. I’ve been styling for over five years and I absolutely love it. I live with my dog, Mazie, I’m obsessed with her!

- After college, I assisted different celebrity stylists in LA. After 4 years, I was ready to go off on my own and was able to get my own clients through my network.

- My personal style is classic, simple, and I love being comfortable. Professionally, my style varies between clients.

- I’m always obsessed with funky sunglasses, always hunting for the latest and greatest. I love fun shapes and colors, like the Cat Eye from Illesteva.

- What every girl should have: I’m huge on denim, especially when it’s high-waisted and has a frayed hem. You can wear it anytime, anywhere. Same goes for a white T-shirt, especially if it’s by Redone.

- Wearing a look that hasn’t been properly tailored is always my pet peeve.

- My favourite fashion icons are Princess Di, and I loved Gwyneth Paltrow’s looks from the 1990s too.

- A big fashion challenge is travelling with a bunch of luggage is always a challenge! Imagine one person with six duffle bags…it takes a lot of strength!

- You can instantly upgrade an outfit with killer frames and out-there sneakers.

Mimi Cuttrell, 26 year old celebrity stylist taking the world by storm through her clients which include Sara Sampaio, a Portuguse Model best known for being a Victoria`s Secret Angel & Kaia Gerber, a American Model and daughter of Cindy Crawford.

Mimi Cuttrell is however more famous for the work she has done with Gigi Hadid, a American Model who never fails to make

a fashion statement.

Mimi Cuttrell is now fast becoming the household name in India, all thanks to the amazing work she has been doing with Desi Girl turn Global Fashion Diva — Priyanka Chopra.

Priyanka Chopra is many things - a singer, a humanitarian, a great dancer and an actor unparalleled. For as long one can remember, Priyanka Chopra has been counted amongst the most successful actors in India. Now with her seeming plan for world domination and, of course, her role as the protagonist in hit American TV series, Quantico, Priyanka's is a name that is known globally. Even while being so admired and looked up to, there was one thing that wasn't the most obvious when one thought of Priyanka Chopra - that was her as a fashion icon. Priyanka Chopra might have been many things and also always well turned out, but she never really was counted among the most stylish people in the world. Well, not anymore.

Here's another feather Priyanka Chopra has added to her cap and it's all thanks to a woman named Mimi Cuttrell.

It's hard to deny or debate that Priyanka Chopra's red carpet style has always been suave, and we've got to give the girl props

for having great taste. But with Mimi Cuttrell having taken over Priyanka's everyday looks, the girl has soared to new sartorial heights. 2018 is seeing a new Priyanka walk down the streets of New York City. Her style is more avant-garde, trend-setting and definitely more fitting to the person the world perceives her to be - fierce.

Have a look at some of our most favourite ensembles worn by Priyanka that were curated by her stylist Mimi Cuttrell.

Walking on the street looking like Priyanka Chopra dressed head-to-toe in bright orange is not everyone’s cup of tea.

Just recently we stumbled upon her Instagram post and we couldn’t get our eyes of her monotone look. Wearing striped separates from Alejandra Alonso Rojas she layered this look with a Viviene Westwood jacket. We love how this outfit looks on her and that low-neckline makes her look so much sexier. Hollywood celebrity stylist Mimi Cuttrell styled this look with pointy heels from Christian Louboutin in a similar hue. With her hair pulled back in a sleek ponytail, she opted for red lips with her all-orange ensemble.

Also, the retro, pitch black sunnies add the perfect finishing touches to her look.

salaam society

Pakistan School hosts Iftar

Pakistan School, following its long-celebrated tradition, hosted an Iftar during Ramadan at its Isa Town premises. The event was attended by leading members of the Pakistan community, Chairman and members of the board of Pakistan School, Principal, parents and teachers. Bahraini Member of Parliament Khalifa Al Ghanim was the chief guest.

The chief guest in his Iftar address expressed his happiness in joining the school for the Iftar and said that he had special love for the Pakistani community and would be happy to assist them when ever possible. He thanked the school for inviting him and appreciated its efforts for keeping the tradition of Ramadan. He further wished the school success.

The School Chairman, Sami ur Rehman appreciated the school staff and Administration for their efforts in arranging the Iftar gathering and invoked the blessings of Allah Almighty on the world during this holy month.

​Pakistan shows off expertise Pakistan took part in the Gulf Property, Construction and Interiors Expo 2018 in Bahrain for the first time, thanks to the guidance and help of the Support of Trade Development Authority (TDAP) and the Acting Ambassador of Pakistan. More than 30,000 visitors interacted with the exhibitors who represented a number of reputable companies from Pakistan including Federal Government Employees Housing Foundation represented by its joint venture partner EHFPRO (Pvt) Ltd, Fauji Cement Company Ltd and salt lamp manufacturing company Hakson Global (Pvt) Ltd. Salt lamps turned out to be the hottest item, Fauji Cement also got good contracts and expats showed a lot of interest in

exploring different options for construction back home.

The newly opened Commercial Section headed by Ms. Saadiya Noori aims to enhance bilateral trade and strengthen already existing deep economic ties between Pakistan and Bahrain.

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youngistan

ISB Honours 220 ​s​tudents for a ​ ​cademic ​ e​xcellence

The Indian School Bahrain organized an Award Ceremony to felicitate the school toppers of the CBSE class X and XII examination-2018 at the school auditorium in Isa Town campus on Thursday. Around 220 students were honoured with medals and certificates for their excellent academic performance in the academic year 20172018 at the ceremony.

Class XII school toppers Blessy Joy Sathya (97.2%), Karthik Madhusoodanan (96.4%), Namitha Ann Binu(96%) and Class X School Toppers Johan Agith (97.4%),Ashwina Ganesamurthy (97%),Nitin Jayadeep (96.8%) received the trophies from the Embassy Second Secretary Anand Prakash.

Principal VR Palaniswamy who presented the highlights of the CBSE results pointed

out that 99.3% is the best pass percentage of the Indian school in the past seven years and the 77.8 % is the best ever school average. ‘I take this opportunity to appreciate the handwork of the students, commitment of the teachers, cooperation of the parents and the support and guidance of the Executive Committee, he said.

Vidya's melodic return Young Carnatic musician Vidya Viswanath's classical music concert 'Swaramadhuryam' at the Kerala Catholic Association was well-attended and the former Indian School student proved that she had fully lived up to the promise she showed as a school girl here. A winner in all major interschool and inter-club cultural events, Vidya started her training under Bahrain-based teacher Suma Unnikrishnan and later moved to India to pursue training in music and has been making a mark in concert circles there.

She was accompanied by Sri Sajith Shankar on the mridangam and Sri Jayakumar of IIPA on the violin.

The event was co-ordinated by Jose Francis.

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health

Second Shifa al Jazeera offers spacious health facilities

Health Minister Faeqa bint Saeed Al Saleh inaugurating new Shifa Al Jazeera Medical Centre

The new 80,000 square feet sevenstorey multi-specialty Shifa al Jazeera Medical Centre was formally opened by Bahrain’s Health Minister, Faeqa bint Saeed Al Saleh. National Health Regulatory Authority CEO Dr. Mariam Jalahma was the guest of honour in the function.

Manama MP Ahmed Qarata, former MP Hassan Buccamas, Shifa Director & CEO Habeeb Rahman AK, Director Shabeer Ali PK, Medical Director Dr. Salman Ghareeb, Medical Administrator Dr. Shamand, Consultant Dr. Sujeet Lal, Shifa al Jazeera Doctors, Shifa Al Jazeera Riyadh General Manager Hamza Pookayil, Nazeem Jeddah Medical Centre General Manager KT Younus, New Gulail Polyclinic General Manager Harshad Noufal, KP Mohammed Kutty, eminent social workers in the Kingdom, administration managers and staff were present at the function.

Minister Faeqa Al Saleh said that she

Health Minister Faeqa bint Saeed Al Saleh and National Health Regulatory Authority CEO Dr. Mariam Jalahma touring the new health facility

was impressed with the facility and its state-of-the-art equipment and top-class doctors, which will benefit to the people of the kingdom. “We are expecting such multi specialty medical centres in the kingdom as it can take care of our people very well. Our aim is to avail best treatment to the citizens and residents of the kingdom. We will give all support to such endeavors. And Shifa’s step in this regard is remarkable,” she said.

Dr. Mariam Jalahma congratulated the management of Shifa saying, “Shifa Al Jazeera has implemented a unique model in terms of structure, engineering wise, the spaces, and the equipment. I am really impressed with its size because it located centrally in Manama area. So, it will respond to the demands of the population. Another good thing is that it is a multispecialty centre that can be expanded further.”

This is the second branch of Shifa in 56

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the Kingdom and it is equipped with state-of-art technologies, cutting-edge facilities and modern laboratory equipment. The inauguration marks 14 years of Shifa’s dedicated service to Bahrain.

“This second centre is my dream project,” said Shifa Director & CEO Habeeb Rahman, “During these 14 years, Shifa has become the favorite of expatriates and locals alike. Our effort is to keep treatment cost affordable for all sections of society. We have shifted most of our departments except dental to the new medical centre. We are planning to change the first centre into a super specialty dental centre with more dental OPDs and specialties.”

The new Shifa medical centre is offering a wide range of services and has specialties in most of the streams. CT, mammography, echo cardiogram, and TMT are the special attraction of the new clinic.

Teen binge-eating a summer bane Many of us spend the hottest months of the year glued in front of our favorite TV shows, but research shows that this can foster unhealthy eating habits. A psychologist explains why this is especially troublesome for teenagers Binge-watching our favorite TV shows has become a popular way of escaping the summer heat across the Middle East.

But research has shown that staying glued to movies or our favorite box-sets can often lead to binge-eating – and this trend may be especially dangerous for teenagers.

“Teens can be up until two in the morning binge-watching their favorite show and then the next day, they aren’t as focused and they lose concentration,” said Susan Albers, PsyD, a clinical psychologist at Cleveland Clinic in the United States.

“Even if they miss an hour or two of sleep, this affects the appetite hormones and makes them more likely to eat more the next day.”

Dr. Albers said when we sit in front of the TV for an extended period of time, that’s also when we tend to go for more snacks – which, she said, often serve the same escape as the screen. Just like adults, teens will use television as a distraction from the everyday world and sometimes even an escape from their feelings, which are the same triggers for emotional or comfort eating.

The average teen spends about six hours a day in front of a screen, and according to Dr. Albers, teens who spend at least three hours in front of the TV are at risk of eating too many snacks – anywhere from 200 to 500 extra calories a day.

To combat the binge-watching and binge-eating cycle, Dr. Albers recommends that parents talk to their children and set limits on how much screen time is appropriate.

She said it’s okay to snack every now and then, but to make sure that those

KCA marks Nurses Day ​It is a well-known fact that the maximum number of nurses around the world come from the tiny state of Kerala in India. The Kerala Catholic Association, which counts many nurses among its members, honoured 30 nurses on World Nurses Day for their dedication and skill. The occasion also marked Mother's Day and ​N ​ irmala Jose (Principal & Director of New Horizon School) delivered Mother’s Day/Nurses Day message which was followed by a cultural programme.

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treats are well thought-out in advance.

“If you do have a snack, as you’re bingewatching TV, make sure to portion it,” she said, “Don’t eat out of a bag or box, but, rather, portion out your snack before you sit in front of the TV.” Dr. Albers also said keeping hands busy with crafting or even moving on the treadmill can help curb binge-eating.

She adds that it’s better to watch TV earlier in the day, if possible, because we tend to engage in binge-eating more frequently in the evening.

youngistan

Scholars of NMS-DPS recognised

The New Millennium School, DPS Bahrain honoured its meritorious students from Grades IX -XII who proved their mettle in the field of academics in the academic year 2017- 18. The solemn occasion was graced by the Chief Guest, Geetha Pillai, Managing Director, New Millennium School.

The school applauded the Gulf Toppers,

Femi Anna Ivan (Humanities Stream – 97.6% and Shukti Jain (Commerce stream – 97.4%). Both of them were awarded with trophies and Swiss 24 K gold coins.

The island toppers and the school toppers Balusu Bhanuram (Science stream), Femi Anna Ivan (Humanities stream), Shukti Jain (Commerce stream) also received mementos and certificates.

About 320 students were awarded Scholar Badges, Scholar Blazer, Scholar Tie Gold Medals and Silver Medals. Sixteen students received distinguished scholar awards for their consistency in academic performance. Six students were awarded with mementos for securing 100% marks in two subjects in SAT exam.

​Team 26 for ISB Council

A team of 26 students from Class 3 were inducted to the Prefect​s ​Council ​of the Indian School Riffa Campus​ for the academic year 2018-19​. The s ol e mn ceremony took place in the presence of

Hon EC Member-Health and Environment Ajayakrishnan V, Principal Pamela Xavier , Head Teachers and Coordinators, ​teachers and peers.

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of thanks by Head Girl Aysha Abdul Mishel Hamza and a soulful performance of the School Song by the talented" All Boys Choir of the Junior Campus".

Shukti & Femi speak from the heart SHUKTI JAIN “In the workplace, marks mean nothing” Topping with an unbelievable 97.4%, Shukti Jain, one of the Gulf topper from New Millennium School is calm and composed. Tasting success gulf wide, she credits her immense confidence from the relentless support she gained from her parents, teachers and friends.

“When you expect the least, you get the most. Success is like a bird. The more you chase it, it runs away further,” the teenager said philosophically. All geared to embark on a five-year program in accounting, her brilliant marks have paved her path towards Nottingham University in the United Kingdom. Speaking about the equal opportunity high scores would open at the workplace, she said, “Times are changing. It is amazing to see many women do wonders at workplace. When one joins at work, nobody asks, ‘What was your score in Xth and XIIth?’ What a workplace sees is not just academics, but a well-grounded personality that can benefit their organisation in the long run.

This world does show preferential treatment, but, being true to what we feel and giving the best shouldn’t create any inequal opportunity at work.”

Health Minister H.E. Faeqa bint Saeed Al Saleh and National Health Regulatory Authority CEO Dr. Mariam Jalahma touring the new health facility

FEMI ANNA IVAN “Stand up for what you feel is right” Humanities stream topper, Femi Anna Ivan stood first with 97.6% and is just months way from enrolling for an International Relations program at Kings College, London.

Beaming over the success she achieved, she credits the world to have always been kind to her. She said, “As a person, I have always enjoyed school and have been active even in extra curriculars. Whenever I won prizes for anything and came back home, that recognition made me happier. Today, I bask in the glory as a Gulf Topper.”

Aspiring to be a foreign analyst, she wishes to represent the United Nations and be the voice of the changing nation. Talking about the equal opportunities bright marks pave at the workplace, the public speaker and debater said, “Over the years, women have been discouraged despite being immensely talented. In the film industry for example, why are women voicing against unequal pay and roles? Nobody is going to bother about marks when one joins the workplace, but one must project one’s talent, be well-grounded, assertive, and willing to make a mark. Since, times are changing, one should always raise their voice, even at workplace if they think, the treatment meted at them is not right.”

NIS celebrates its 28th foundation day The New Indian School, Bahrain celebrated its 28th Foundation day on 8th May, 2018 with an elegant programme. The function began with a blessing song by the school choir followed by a speech by the school Principal, Mr. Gopinath Menon. Present were Chairman, Dr. T. T. Thomas, Director Dr. V. Gopalan, Executive Director Jaan Thomas and the faculty and students. It was a time for recollecting the challenges that had been overcome in making the school a beacon in the education of the future generation.

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salaam society

A celebration of the good word

The Full Gospel Church of Philadelphia organised an exciting Inter Church Bible Quiz competition, Bible Fiesta 2018 in which twenty four teams from various churches in Bahrain participated.

The event was graced with the presence of Rev. Hani Aziz, Vice Chairman of Bahrain Association of Religious Co-existence & Tolerance. The quiz masters, Prof. Joel Indrupati, Dr. Moses J. Kantipudi and Tiji Matthew made the varied quiz rounds very interesting and enjoyable.

The event was sponsored by Al Taitoon Contracting, Lulu Group International, VKL Holdings and Al Namal, Mr Prakash Devji , Devji Group, Bank of Bahrain & Kuwait, Dadabai Holding, LIC International, Jet Airways, Bahrain Financing Company and many others.

The moderators of the competition, Rev Dr. Koshy P Mathew, Senior Pastor and President of Full Gospel Church of Philadelphia, Dr. P.C. Abraham, Senior Pastor of Brethren Assembly and Rev. K.L. Bhaskaran Senior Pastor of Good

Zain Bahrain's tech camp for kids Zain Bahrain organised a Zain’s Technology Camp for kids to keep children occupied during the summer holidays, as part of Zain Bahrain’s new STEAM Robotics Programme to stimulate ongoing educational technological awareness to improve creative education styles among the next generation.

The camp was organised in partnership with AlRuwad Centre for children between the ages of 6 and 16 and will run till August 30.

The Technology camp activities include learning the basics of building robots, STEAM projects, game development and mad science as well as other entertaining activities such mental games, arts and

crafts.

“The Technology Camp is a continuation of Zain Bahrain’s efforts to support the community. Our children are the future and Zain Bahrain’s aim is to improve the intellectual, social and technological education awareness amongst the next generation. We stress on fun but at the same time we want our children to learn and Zain Bahrain’s Technology Camp will allow children how to engage in aspects of game development and real-life robotics technology.” said Shaikh Abdulla Al Khalifa, Zain Bahrain Director of Corporate Communications Investor Relations.

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Shepherd Four Square Church, did an excellent job of keeping things fair.

The Malayalam congregation of the Full Gospel Church of Philadelphia bagged the first position, Sharon Fellowship Church won the second position and Household of Faith won the third position.

The winners were awarded trophies, medals and certificates by Rev Dr. Koshy P Mathew, Senior Pastor and President along with Rev. Jacob Chandy the Vice President of the Full Gospel Church of Philadelphia.

youngistan

Students prove their point The atmosphere was heady and the adrenaline flowing strong and sharp at the NMS-DPS School’s first-ever Inter-school debate event titled Reverberations. In its maiden attempt, NMS had invited participants from all the CBSE schools around the island.

The debate provided the much needed impetus to young debaters on the island to showcase their extraordinary debating skills. The objective behind organizing the debate was to kindle the analytical and critical thinking skills of the students and to bring, the best of best under one canopy.

The chief speaker and adjudicator for the debate was Salaam Bahrain Editor Meera Ravi, who congratulated all the contestants for putting forth their views and arguments skillfully and convincingly. Overall, ­­­­­­­­­­­­The Indian School was adjudged the Winner of the Rolling Trophy.

Junior (VI –VIII) Category

Senior (IX –XII) Category

Grace Anil , The Asian School -1st Position Akshat Pradeep Kumar - 2nd Position Ananya S Nair , New Millennium School-DPS – 2nd position (tie) Devisree Sumesh , The Indian School – 3rd Position

Liya Ann Mathew , The Indian School – 1st Position Nandini R Nair ,The Indian School – 2nd Position Rohda Ann Roby, The Asian School – 3rd Position Arzoo Barianna, New Millennium School – 3rd Position (tie)

All the participants were given participation certificates. The Winning team along with their escort was presented with a glittering trophy and received applause and appreciation of the audience. The Chairman, Dr. Ravi Pillai, the Managing Director, Geetha Pillai and the Principal and staff congratulated the students for this laudable achievement.

Urdu debate brings alive linguistic skills Pakistan School with its tradition of organizing various inter-school competitions, hosted an Inter-School Urdu Debate competition celebrating the spirit of the Holy month of Ramadan.

Four other leading school - The Indian School Bahrain, Ibn Ul Hytham Islamic School, Pakistan Urdu School and New Indian School, where Urdu is taught, also participated in the competition.

A leading scholar of Arabic and Urdu, Dr.Shoaib Nigrami was the chief guest and the chief judge of the event. The participants put

Winners: First position - Hafsa Akbar of Pakistan School Second position - Muhammad Ali Moazzam of Pakistan Urdu School.

Third position - Mumtaz Fatima of The Indian School.

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forth their convincing and fiery arguments in favor and against the topic ‘Hum Zinda Qaum Hain’ (we are an alive nation).

celeb chakker

Even Rajini fans are larger than life

When superstar Rajinikanth’s latest film Kaala was announced in Bahrain movie theatres, a group of dedicated fans led by banker Shyam Krishnan and wife Padma got busy. Hundreds of phone calls were made, t-shirts were printed movie-hall in Seef Mall was booked so that fans could get together and share their love for their Thailavaa (Leader).

Having shared the experience once before when Kabaali was released, we had an up-close experience of Rajini mania in Bahrain. Fans are given whistles and clapper sticks and urged to use them when Rajini appears on the screen or delivers his ‘punch’ dialogue. The audience hums along with the songs that have usually become hits by the time of the release and everything is wrapped in misty wreaths of hero-worship and the delicious aroma of caramel popcorn!

This year too, with the release of Kaala, fans were given the clarion call by Shyam and many gathered at the Seef Mall to celebrate their hero’s return to the silver

screen. Although in Bahrain, most of the fans were Indian, Rajini’s appeal extends to many nationalities. For instance, in Japan, it is estimated that in Tokyo alone, over 3,000 people are part of a Rajinikanth fan club. This, apart from clubs in other Japanese cities, such as Osaka and Kobe.

A few of his most ardent fans in Japan have reportedly even imported auto rickshaws, run a South Indian restaurant, worn T-shirts emblazoned with his face, grown moustaches and even speak Tamil so they can follow his movies better.

Some are known to even take life lessons from films such as Muthu, which a Japanese fan was quoted as saying taught her the value of learning to live with less money. Of course, as many may recall, there is even a book “Rajini’s Punchtantra: Business and Life Management the Rajinikanth Way” by PC Balasubramanian.

Then there is Malaysia. Remember the specially painted Air Asia flight that brought over fans to Chennai for a screening of Kabali and the official dinners 62

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hosted for the star by the Malaysian government? Of course Kabaali, despite being a movie about drugs and dons in Malaysia, did boost Malaysian tourism greatly in India and then there is the great Tamil diaspora in that country!

His feats in some of his action films have caused fans and the general public to create memes that present him as a force of nature, similar to the pedestal Chuck Norris is placed upon in the West. Among his most recent pop-culture appearances is the viral, rib-tickling meme that depicts a Kabali doll, ‘suited and booted’, hands in its pockets, towering over the fallen dolls of the dissipated (hopefully, this is no longer a spoiler) Avengers.

Every time a Rajini film releases, it is the norm in Chennai for fans to pour milk over giant promotional cut-outs of the movie star, just as they would over the idols of Gods in temples.

We may not see such extreme gestures in Bahrain but hey, our Rajini fans are no less enthusiastic!

Shweta Bachchan’s celluloid encounter Uff! The headlines are screaming that Shweta Bachchan-Nanda is making her first acting debut opposite father Amitabh.

Even as excited fans of this articulate lady riff through the news item, it unfolds that the “film” in question will be an ad for Kalyan Jewellers, which has Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya and Aishwarya already as brand ambassadors.

Shweta, who is well-known for her sharp fashion sense, is seen in a pretty de-glam avatar in the ad, sporting a gharelu salwar kameez opposite an oldman Amitabh in very ordinary dress.

Now only Abhishek is left out of the deal. Does this mean even ad film makers don’t want the Bachchan ghar ka laadla?

Brave Bobby Deol wins the race Behind the spotlight on Bobby Deol in Race 3, is a story that many denizens of the cruel and bright world of cinema suffer in silence. Sometime ago, the actor joked that producers were scared of approaching him for small roles, because his father Dharmendra and brother Sunny were such big stars. At that time he said publically that he was ready to do any role and people smiled at his modesty.

Recently, when speaking to movie critic Anupama Chopra, the actor stirred hearts by emotionally admitting that his confidence had been so shaken by lack of work, that he had almost turned alcoholic. How did he keep his faith in himself? "It's my family, my kids! I wanted them to see their father, in his best. I wanted them to not look at him and say, 'He's a loser' or 'He's given up'. I wanted to be their inspiration, as my father is to me and that's the most important thing for me and my wife, who believes so much in me."

Well, his admission of failure has increased our respect for him. In the self-obsessed, selfpromoting world of Bollywood, such an admission takes guts!

Here’s wishing Bobby Deol all the best.

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Heard in passing…

A: “Now I know that Salim Khan’s sons are thugs.”

B: “Why only now?”

A: “Salman ran over pavement dwellers and blamed his driver; he shot endangered black buck and he was infamous for allegedly abusing his girlfriends. But this…”

B: “Something WORSE?” A: “Yeah look at Arbaaz Khan and this IPL betting scandal, losing money and not paying the maskeen bookie and also probably match-fixing attempts!

Only depraved, immoral people would do that!”

Hmmm.. people have the most bizarre values!

Quote of the Month It is not necessary that every film which is about women has issues. Sometimes, films can be made on women in the commercial space which are fun. I think everything made on women doesn’t have to have a social issue. Yes, it can, but I am saying it doesn’t have to.

- Firebrand feminist and outspoken actress.

Swara Bhaskar

says she enjoyed out-glamming co-stars and style icons, Kareena and Sonam, in Veere Di Wedding. She points out that a women-led film need not always be rona-dhona and can actually be a light-hearted chick-flick and still show a woman’s perspective. “(In the 100-year old film industry) There are films like Mughal-E-Azam, Bandini, Mother India to name a few. But, broadly you will find a male perspective in Indian cinema. Now, women are becoming producers, directors and writing. I think when women start writing, directing and taking control, you will see the change in perspective and that’s what is happening in Veere Di Wedding.”

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celeb chakker

Ileana makes Tolly comeback Delicate beauty Ileana D’Cruz is no stranger to Telugu filmdom.

Indeed, she was a reigning star there with hits like of Pokkiri, Kick and Julayi under her belt when she sought bigger pastures in B-Town.

Now she is planning to reunite with co-star Ravi Teja with whom she acted in big hit Kick. They will star in director Sreenu Vaitla’s upcoming film Amar Akbar Anthony, in which Ravi plays triple role.

Just recently when fans celebrated 9 years since Kick (what does one call all these anniversaries for past movies?) Ileana hinted via a tweet that she may team up with Ravi Teja soon. The actress took to Twitter and wrote: “9 years! I think Ravi and I need to do another film again! This one was so special though. Naina was one of my funniest characters till date.” Ravi and Ileana had also worked together in 2012 Telugu film Devudu Chesina Manushulu, directed

by Puri Jagannadh. It was also her last Telugu outing.

Everybody wants Cake!

Pakistan is ahead of the curve when it comes its TV series but its film industry, which goes by the name of Lollywood is still fledgling. However, everybody is raving about Cake, a family reunion film that was the first from the country to premier in Leicester Square.

A foul-mouthed irreverent mother, independent daughters, one of whom works abroad and the other nonchalantly changes the tyres of her own car, a Pakistani Christian male nurse - the universe is refreshingly subversive and challenges conservative norms. Asha Bhosle’s song, Piyu Tu Ab Toh Aaja from the 1971 film Caravan also features in the film. “I wanted an item song in my film and what’s better than to bring back the mother of all cabaret numbers!” said the film’s director Asim Abbasi, “Music plays an integral role in our memory and often forms the basis for many emotional triggers. “Piya tu” has a youthful quality about it, and the original spoke volumes about the mother’s character. And the cappella version rendered the pain in the

latter half. The idea was to take a classic and turn it into something completely different.”

That’s not the only Indian connect. Cake is edited by Aarti Bajaj, the editor of Bollywood films like Jab We Met and Paan Singh Tomaar amongst others.

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editor's view

There has been a quickening of reprisals from companies in different parts of the world to signs of intolerance and inappropriate behaviour. As the swift dismissal of Michelin star chef Atul Kocchar by J.W. Marriot Marquis Hotel in Dubai showed, when he tweeted an Islamophobic comment, we have to think and rethink our thoughts before we put them out on social media or utter them even in private conversations.

But wait – surely there is more to filtering our thoughts and feelings than just putting out some sort of ‘right’ image? I mean, is it enough that we make the right noises if we continue to harbour the age-old (or even some new) prejudices deep in our minds? Surely the key goal as humans is to dismantle prejudices and reset our default perspective so that we see the world as one?

Increasingly, the anonymity of our engagement with the world through the internet emboldens us to unmask ourselves and reveal bigotries that we would otherwise keep hidden. But the world is getting wiser. More and more companies are tracking employees’ real stance on things through their social media posts before hiring them. Does this mean those who hold differing views can be victimised? No because laws are stricter about companies that do so. At the same time, online bullying and harsh advocacy of one’s stance can be seen as dangerous.

I heard recently that in India, where arranged marriages are still quite the norm, families not only exchange horoscopes but also check the prospective groom and bride’s Twitter and Facebook accounts to see if they have ever trolled or bullied others online as a warning of any overt bullying tendencies.

It is a pity that the Gulf region, with its celebrated diversity does not do more to change innermost perceptions. While I have never faced opposition to wearing a saree to work, I have friends who teach in schools and universities, who have been told to wear Western clothes because a traditional Asian dress like a saree or salwar kameez may send out the wrong signal to the Arab children who have only seen such clothes on their domestic staff.

There is no official filter either that quickly isolates casual sexism and racism in the work place and in social settings. I have never heard of companies giving staff clearly enunciated lessons in political correctness, inclusiveness and tolerance. If we think that’s not necessary, we’re wrong because these ideas help to build a stronger work team and raise the professional bar too.

How often have we seen notices on walls for accommodation specifying nationality – there are telephone numbers but we do nothing about reporting such rampant racism. The excuse usually trotted out is that living with different people” in confined spaces is difficult. It’s not an insurmountable challenge and no more difficult than living with students of many nationalities in college dorms.

Of course Bahrain is a more harmonious country that many others but to strengthen this natural inclusiveness, the time has come to reinforce the ideas of tolerance – unwritten rules are fraying and we need some steel woven into the thread of harmony that binds s all.

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