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Vol.
2 Iss
ue 2
9II
Marc
h 7
-20,
2011
FREE F
ort
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5 R
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Poetry Poetry out aloudout aloud p34
Shades for men p16
Glimpses of 'Dance of India' p20
Don't be embarrassed p60
Presenter
Bharata Nrityam
Special thanks to:
Soorya Krishnamoorthy,
Founder, Soorya Stage &
Film Society
(Recipient of "Padma Bhushan" Award from the President of India)
by the legendary artiste
Event Partners:
Organised by:
Dr PADMA SUBRAHMANYAM
As part of the Indian
THANK YOU
Dance
The Embassy of IndiaMuscat
Classical Dance
Dr GAYATRI KANNAN
MAHATI KANNAN
K. SHYAMAKRISHNAN
along with popular actor-dancer
A NRITHYODAYA PRESENTATION
(Chennai, India)
and
VINEETH
Republic Day celebrations
U SPONSORS
of India
Oman's first
comprehensive
online directory
More details: oos@blackandwhiteoman.com
www.omanonlinesearch.com
Coming Soon!
Announcing
On May 12, 2011
On May 4-5, 2011
Grand Finale
Preliminary
10 March 7-20, 2011
Congrats to the Black & White team for a well conducted
event (Dance of India show). Needless to say, Dr Padma
Subrahmanyam is a legend and having her in our circles
is indeed a blessing. Even though I am from India and am
a great dance lover, I have never had the chance to see
this great dancer. For this, I would like to thank the B&W
for making it happen!
Krishnagopal S., Wadi Kabir
‘Dance of India’ event staged at the auditorium of the
Indian Embassy was a grand success. I need not say this
because the crowd that spilled over from the auditorium
itself was proof of the interest generated and it did not fail
to impress. Words fail to describe Dr Padma’s dance and
her disciples were equally good. Vineeth and Dr Gayatri
were brilliant. I am still reliving those dance scenes in my
mind. Thank you Black & White and Indian Embassy.
K. Karunakaran, Qurum
If only you could have organised the ‘Dance of India’ show
at the embassy lawns instead of the auditorium, it would
have been great. I am not saying that the dance event
was bad; on the contrary, it was one of the best dance
event I have ever seen in my entire life, thanks to the
seamless organising and the effortless manner in which
the dancers danced. I only wished more numbers have
seen this unique dance event.
Anjoli Sharma, Seeb
Congrats to the B&W
Grand success
Lawns would have been better
10 March 7-20, 2011
Mail your views and opinions at
editor@blackandwhiteoman.com
This refers to the news of a veteran print professional who left Oman (Black
& White issue 26), but in a unique way. The news of the legacy he left behind
really touched my heart.
It’s indeed a good start by giving the idea of planting 1,000 Neem tree
saplings inside the Rusyal Industrial area.
The green campaign is a noble cause, which will help support the
environment. We can see how global warming is affecting the entire world
in so many ways, and thus this initiation by R.Prabakaran to make part of
the industrial area more greener by planting these Neem saplings, which
has so much of medicinal value shows the love and gratitude to his second
home, which he had served for 14 years. I wish him all the best in his future
endeavours back home!
Malar Mahen, Ruwi
Your feature on ‘Hot Hammams’ (issue 28) was quite timely. Well, at least
for me. I had visited the same hammam in Sunub area just couple of weeks
before your report and was surprised to see it. Most of the thoughts that went
through my head are there in that feature and it was as though I was reliving
it again. I am really glad that you featured this hammam for another good
reason: these quaint spots in and around Oman need to be highlighted to
the public. More and more people should go and visit it. That will add value
to it and perhaps more tourists will visit it. Touristic spots add revenue to the
government coffer and it is a requirement as a responsible media to spotlight
these unique places of Oman.
Habiba M, Seeb
Green legacy
Tourist spots will bring revenue
11Black & White
12 March 7-20, 2011
Cover Photo: Najib Al Balushi
Published by: Muscat Press & Publishing House SAOC
Black & White
Postal address: P O Box 86, PC 115, Madinat Sultan Qaboos
Office location: Hatat House, Office no: 212, II Floor
Ph: 24565697 Fax: 24565496
Website: www.blackandwhiteoman.com
Editorial: editor@blackandwhiteoman.com
Printed at Mazoon, Muscat, Oman
BPA Consumer
Audit applied for
December 2009
Xclusive
Poetic Extempore
Omani folklore poet Fadhel has
three listeners on his right, and
three on his left. He launches off
on an everyday topic, much to the
delight of his listeners, and they
cling on to the last word and repeat
it, which adds to the momentum of
the free verse
34
Editor-in-chief Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali
Managing editor Priya Arunkumar
Work editor Adarsh Madhavan
Design & production Beneek Siraj
Photographer Najib Al Balushi
Advt. & marketing Swithun Fernandes
Aloni Mehta, Priyanka Sampat
Conte
nts
Bitter Batter
Hippocratic or
hypocrisy oath?
Doctors are known to take the
Hippocratic Oath, swearing
to practice medicine ethically.
But, one of our readers claims
that the doctor she took her
daughter to must have taken
the Hypocrisy Oath
1644
Shades for men
Don't be embarrassed anymore
if you think you are the only
one afflicted with body-related
problems, think again, it’s more
common than you think.
For men who have a
passion for outdoor
activities, sunglasses are a
must.
60
13Black & White
Let's not beat our own tribeBy Adarsh Madhavan
OTHERWISE…
My usually amiable social worker friend did not
seem to be that friendly with me when I bumped
into him recently. His greeting was devoid of
warmth. He’d usually greet me with great amount
of joie-de-vivre, but this time he seemed to be a
bit moody, distracted. What happened, I wondered
and felt a bit uneasy.
I am a bit of an anti-social element and since I
don’t party, and am a bit of a mouse on the social
scene, my conscience went nibbling on the cold
reception I got. Although I don’t keep company
with any, I still assume that I am seen as a scribe
in need or if I may go the extent, I would say, a
friend in need, at least on occasions. This coldness
was a bit of a surprise and so I dug in deep and
tried to pull this social worker out of his suddenly
spun cocoon. I managed to break in and he said
quietly that I needed to speak to his wife, another
active social worker. But, she waved me off and
said we are in a public place, too many people, we
will speak later. Okay, I said, but then her husband
finally told me what had happened. “Your last
column, you sort of poked fun at a so-called social
worker…”
Yes, I said. “You know since some time now,
whenever you mention a ‘social worker’ it always
referred to me…so all of those who read it, asked
me why you were making fun of me?”
Uh oh, I thought. He was right. Off late, whenever I
mentioned the tag social worker, I had meant him. I
have not been mixing with any other social workers
and I was slightly off the scene myself. The only
slight contact I had was with this well known social
worker, who is also a scribe for a regional news
channel, and so what he was saying was right.
Everyone would have thought I was referring to
this man when I mentioned about the big-mouthed
social worker who never dirtied his fingers.
Oh, I never thought of that, I said sheepishly. “Yes,
I know you were not talking about me, especially editor@blackandwhiteoman.com
All a
bout
X,
Y &
Z
since we had not met each other off late, yet, you
know when people get talking…I was wondering
whether you were taking a swipe on me,” he grinned.
No, no, I said, why would I do that? So, this is why you
cold shouldered me, I asked him. He grinned again.
“No, that was just a ruse to catch your attention, he
said and you fell for it. Please correct the anomaly
in your next piece please. Otherwise…” he grinned
again. Well, I did. You know you can’t cross these
social workers. Otherwise…
BITING OUR OWN FINGERS
This column space was devoted to the surge in
socially relevant news articles by local scribes in the
English media here sometime back and the recent
front page school-related piece by A.E. James, in
Times of Oman, is one of the best examples in that
direction. Of course, a newspaper report has its
limitations. And this one too covered an issue in the
confines of the same restrictions. But since it was
critical of only one establishment, and it had some
lapses, which led to only one party getting all the flak,
the one at the wrong end of the stick revolted in the
only manner it knew best.
But, what pained us, the silent scribe tribe, is the
criticism against the journalist by his own fraternity
members. Instead of supporting a fellow scribe and
trying to douse the fire that he had unwittingly set,
many from the woodwork wormed out to throw muck
at their own fraternity member. Wrong or right, the
unwritten law among the journalistic fraternity here,
there and anywhere is that our kind stick to our own
through thick and thin! What a joke! The moment,
someone got into the limelight, everyone tried to
deride and mock and pull him down. Instead of
supporting him and trying to rally around him, many,
who have never ever tasted the first blood of a true
investigative report even was spitting venom into
the air…Now that the muck had fallen right where
it originated, could we stop beating our own tribe
members, please? Please?
14 March 7-20, 2011
Men h
ealt
h
Stretching should be a part of your daily routine, whether you exercise or not. There are simple stretches you can do while watching TV, on the computer, or getting ready for bed
15Black & White
Stretchlike a cat
If you’ve ever watched a cat, you may have been intrigued by the cat’s incredible agility and resilience. How can a cat fit into spaces that seem way too small for it?
How does a cat balance on the slimmest edge with the greatest of ease?
STRETCHING COMES naturally to
all of us too. You might notice that if
you have been sitting in a particular
position for a long time, you stretch
unconsciously. It makes you feel
good! In addition to that good feeling,
a consistent stretching programme
will produce large gains in flexibility
and joint movement. Be kind to your
muscles and they will be kind to you!
Simple question – can you touch
your toes?
CAN YOU TOUCH YOUR TOES?
No? Well, if you fall short of
touching your toes, as most guys do,
don’t blame your tight hamstrings,
instead blame yourself!
You have a major flaw in
your physique. And it is called
poor flexibility! Incorporating a
flexibility component into your
programme will also greatly reduce
the risk if sustaining a muscle strain
during your workout or your daily
activities.
Everyone can learn to stretch,
regardless of age or flexibility.
Stretching should be a part of your
daily routine, whether you exercise
or not. There are simple stretches
you can do while watching TV, on
the computer, or getting ready for
bed. If you are doing strength training
exercises, stretch in between sets.
It feels good and saves time from
stretching at the end of the workout!
Stretching elongates our muscles
which improves the range of motion
within our joints. Improving our range
of motion allows us to optimally
function throughout our daily
activities and performances.
Stretching has a positive effect
on our body’s proprioceptors.
Proprioceptors are receptors
located within our joints, muscles
and tendons that sense movement
changes and react accordingly.
Stiffness in your superficial back
line prevents you from working your
lower-body muscles through their
entire range of motion—for instance,
during a squat or a lunge. It also
leads to poor lower-back posture
when you’re performing these
movements. All of this results in a
less-effective workout and a higher
risk of injury.
HOW TO STRETCH
Now that the importance of flexibility
has been exposed and the benefits
are clear, the next step is to obtain
a thorough understanding of how
to optimally incorporate a flexibility
component into your programme. Of
all the fitness components, it should
be noted that flexibility is the easiest
to gain, however it is the first to go
when not maintained. This means
that in order to sustain the elasticity
of your muscles, stretches must be
performed quite frequently.
The recommended frequency
for optimal benefits is to perform
stretches 4 to 7 times a week, ideally
following your training sessions
as part of your cool down. Light
stretching is recommended during
your warm up, but to a lesser extent.
It is extremely important that the
stretches be of low intensity. As with
any new movement, repetition is key
for muscle memory. Performing three
repetitions per stretch is ideal for
the achievement of optimal results.
Also, you will notice that with each
repetition, you become more flexible
and are able to take each stretch
further than the last.
16 March 7-20, 2011
Men r
ead
16 March 7-20, 2011
17Black & White
IN TODAY’S WORLD, designer
sunglasses for men have become
hugely popular as a fashion
statement. And, most importantly,
they are also extremely comfortable
to wear and are very durable too.
For men who have a passion for
outdoor activities, sunglasses are a
must. All the more, these sunglasses
can block the harmful UV rays and
help in protecting our sensitive
eyes. These sunglasses work
extraordinarily to shield the eyes
from the harmful weather conditions -
whether it is snowing or rough terrain.
When men start choosing
sunglasses for themselves they
think about many things, besides
considering style and fashion. They
give equal importance to the quality
of the sunglasses which they are
purchasing, the comfort level of
such sunglasses, the fashion trend
prevailing at that time, status and
cultural factors too. It is not just about
walking into any store and getting
sunglasses for oneself.
So, why don’t you get yourself a
pair of stylish eyewear?
LOOK GOOD - FEEL CONFIDENT
Mild, bold, moody…the truth is quite
often that the type of sunglasses
you choose to wear reflects your
personality type. Even a moderate-
looking person can present himself
in the best possible manner by
sporting designer sunglasses from
top-notch brands and gives off an air
of confidence. When a person looks
and feels confident, he can carry
himself well and eventually face the
challenge of life very boldly. Did that
sound corny? No, you look good, you
feel good.
SHIELD FOR YOUR
SENSITIVE EYES
Designer sunglasses can not only
make you look dashing and stylish,
it also protects your precious eyes
from the hazardous UV rays emitted
by the sun. If you are a man who
spends a significant amount of time
outdoors, these shades can be more
than handy. Eventually various types
of eye-related incidents such as eye
fatigue can also be avoided.
SUNGLASSES FOR ALL
Okay, you don’t belong to the
wealthy bracket. But, who cares?
Gone are the days when only the rich
and the wealthy could afford to buy
designer sunglasses.
Investing quality time in browsing
the internet can be quite fruitful as
there a number of websites which
offer a sizeable discount on selected
models especially during the festival
season. Going in for renowned and
famous brand names would no-doubt
burn a hole in the pocket ranging
from a few hundred dollars up to
thousand dollars. Opting in for top
brands would give a good range of
choices.
SHADESUnlike women, men do not have a wide
range of accessories to deck themselves up
with. But, they have sunglasses! That is
one accessory in which they can look cool and
trendy. Sunglasses undoubtedly occupy
a lion’s share in most men’s wardrobe.
for men
18 March 7-20, 2011
By Adarsh Madhavan
Give me one more chance, I heard him say. I stared at his
broad back. Couldn’t understand what he was saying. Or,
rather, I heard what he said, but, he was standing, facing a
wall in his room.
Give me just one more chance, God, just give me one more
chance, these words hurled against the wall, ricocheting
off my ears. I suddenly understood what he was doing, he
was praying and since he was a big boy, his frame covered
the prayer spot from my sight. I pirouetted lightly and made
hasty my exit from the room. I had actually sneaked into the
room to frighten the living daylights of this irascible friend of
mine who was always upto some mischief; the party loving
madcap who always lived a hey-ho, high-five life.
In the sense he was the kind who was always the life of a
party, the perennial gung-ho type who was always full of
beans. He used to tease all of us a lot and he went around
with a cheerful and irreverent sense of humour, sometimes
dark, sometimes bordering on the supercilious, and
sometimes displaying a superiority complex. But, you could
never get angry with him.
Even when you fight with him, you could never stay angry
with him for more than a few hours, because he himself
would have forgotten about it and would be needling you
with some of his lip-splitting jokes. He and I constantly
took potshots at each other and we were in an age where
actually nothing mattered. But, I never knew he prayed
and I never knew that there was another side to him, which
was well, steeped in humility. I say it like that because, I
had never seen him bow before anyone, nor have I seen
him ask any favour from anyone or for that matter asked
forgiveness for any wrong he had done.
But, this larger-than-life boy was suddenly a different,
meek, humble and forgiveness-seeking version of himself,
something I couldn’t fathom…was something terribly wrong,
I wondered as I slipped outside of his home and waited just
outside the doorstep. It was too embarrassing for me and
I certainly didn’t want to embarrass him either. Anyway, he
came out of the room looking a bit down but the moment
he saw me, he transformed himself from Dr Give-
me-one-more-chance-God to Mr I-don’t-care-a-
dang type. I was quite nonplussed by this unusual
metamorphosis.
Was this really my friend? Yes, it was, but then, who
was that boy quivering before his God? I understand
all of us are different before mere mortals and
different before God, but, I was worried whether he
was in some kind of trouble. But, I never found the
courage to ask him ever, because in an year or so
he went off from college; his family had moved to a
different town. I later learnt that his dad committed
suicide, but I still couldn’t connect that boy praying
desperately before the lord and this boy who was
always full of mirth. But, that fervent prayer of his
stuck and I would often think of those words: Give
me a second chance. God, just give me a second
chance…and I don’t know whether it pained me or
brought me some kind of consolation.
Slowly as I also grew from a cocooned age where I
was king and nothing ever mattered to the concrete
jungle of life where anything and everything
mattered and I felt more like a puppet in the hands
of fate, and sometimes, even before people I
thought I was close to. I realised that perhaps, that
boy must have gone through a very trying period
in his life and he must have tried to sort out many
things that were going awry and that must have
been his quiet and private plea: Give me a second
chance! And I don’t know whether he got it, but
I believe he must have. I really believe that the
second chance comes, late maybe, but it comes.
And this is why, when the walls close in from all
ends, I also mutter, perhaps with that same intensity
and fervour: give me a second chance, God please
give me a second chance…
O
ff th
e wall
Gimme a second chance
adarsh@blackandwhiteoman.comOff
the w
all
19Black & White
Thank You readers
Thank You Well wishers and friends
Thank You Well wishers and friends
Thank You readers
Thank You readers
Thank You
ank You Well wishers andwish d
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20 March 7-20, 2011
Om
anw
atc
h
Dr Padma, Vineeth
‘Dance of India’In a spectacular dance performance, jointly organised by the Black & White and the
Indian Embassy, the world renowned Indian danseuse, Padma Bhushan (Dr) Padma Subrahmanyam, proved yet again why she is a "living" legend.
The Embassy of IndiaMuscat
The ‘Dance of India’ event, presented by Oman Air, at the
packed auditorium of Indian embassy, recently, saw the
legendary dancer unveil fascinating mythical tales of India
utilising a treasure trove of dance movements and steps
that had the audience glued to their seats long after the
event was over.
Sheer tales steeped in Hindu mythology, rich and lively
characters from the epic Ramayana came alive on the
compact stage of the embassy auditorium.
‘Paddukka’, as Dr Padma is fondly known, transported
not only herself into a spiritual dance bliss, but also
took the dance lovers along in this amazing dance
spectacle, organised as part of the Indian Republic Day
celebrations.
The crowded auditorium, which spilled over with
enthusiastic dance lovers, included the presence of
the guest of honour, Soorya Krishnamoorthy, Essa
bin Mohammed Al Zedjali, chairman and editor-in-
chief, Times of Oman, Philippe Georgiou, chief officer,
corporate affairs, Oman Air, and many other dignitaries
and top members of the Indian community.
The host, Anil Wadhwa, the Indian ambassador, were
present along with many officials of the Indian embassy.
The ambassador and Soorya Krishnamoorthy also spoke
on the occasion.
The organisers thanked the event sponsors, mainly
Oman Air (show presenter) and the others, which
included OMIFCO (Oman India Fertiliser Company), Al
Ansari Group, Damas and Spicy Village. The ‘Dance of
India’ event was a right mix of patriotism, integration,
tradition, art and a delectable slice of humour, according
to dance lovers that thronged the show.
Sanskrit teacher Kavitha Rama Krishnan’s Tanjore
(Thanjavur/Thanjavoor) paintings display also added an
extra element of beauty and culture to the dance event.
Some of the select 40 heritage and culture rich Tanjore
paintings were even displayed on the stage, other than
the hall outside the auditorium.
The dance performance started of with Padukka
performing the evergreen patriotic Indian national song
Velli pani malaiyin meethu penned by Subramanya
Bharathi, the national poet, followed by Jathiswaram by
Vineeth.
The troupe of artists from Nrithyodaya, Chennai,
comprising Balakrishnan Kannan, Dr Gayatri Kannan,
Mahati Kannan, Shyamakrishnan, Neeraja Nagarajan,
Radhika Muthukrishnan, Prabu Sriram, and Chittoor
Kumaresan Patanjali displayed a rich mix of talent and
variety, infusing patriotism, traditionalism, mischief,
humour and heritage, as befitting the occasion of the
Indian Republic Day celebrations.
For Padukka, dance means everything. “It is a means
of spiritual awakening,” the legend, who is a rare
combination of dancer, choreographer, music composer,
singer, research scholar, teacher and author, told the rapt
audience, post event.
Krishnamoorthy said the theme selected by Padukka
quite befitted the occasion, and it had enormous
grandeur, while yet being intimate. “I would call it an
intimate theatre, executed with élan and perfection!”
22 March 7-20, 2011
Om
anw
atc
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23Black & White
24 March 7-20, 2011
Om
anw
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25Black & White
26 March 7-20, 2011
Om
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The Embassy of IndiaMuscat
28 March 7-20, 2011
Word
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The NPA Events’ Colours of Fusion
event held under the auspices of Anil
Wadhwa, the Indian Ambassador
at the embassy of lawns was a
scintillating celebration of the Indian
Republic Day.
Roberto Riggio was superb on the
violin, oud and harmonium while
India’s national award winner Pravin
Godkhindi mesmerised the audience
with the flute.
The group included Jason Mckenzie
on the drums, Snehasish Mozumder
on the Mandolin, Fareed Haque on
the guitar, Subrata Bhattacharya on
the tabla, Kai Eckhardt on the guitar,
vocalist Nirmalya Roy, percussionist
Somnath Roy (Ghatam, Dhambek,
Ganjira and Kalimba), keyboardist
Partha Paul, percussionist Mongopal
Dhar on the Bangla Dhol, Dhol,
Darbuka and Sanjoy Das on the
guitar.
‘Colours of Fusion’ was held
in co-ordination with Subrata
Bhattacharya’s fusion band ‘Naad’.
As a special gesture, NPA Events
handed over a part of the proceeds
of the concert to the Centre for
Special Education.
Khimji’s Watches was the
presenter of ‘Colours of Fusion’.
Other sponsors were OMZEST,
Renaissance Services, OMIFCO,
Samsung, Oman & UAE Exchange,
Galfar, Talentz Centre and DTC.
Ruwi Modern Printers was the print
partner while Times of Oman was the
media partner.
‘Colours of Fusion’ wows audience
Laser hair removal is fast becoming a common routine for women and some
men too. Unwanted hair has always been restrictive, annoying and frequently
embarrassing. “The number of sessions required depends on the area of the
body being targeted, skin colour, coarseness of hair and gender. In addition,
since hair grows in several phases, laser can only affect the currently actively
growing follicles. Therefore, several sessions may be needed to reduce hair
growth,” said Dr Tayssir Jarbouh, a dermatologist at Kaya.
Kaya Skin Clinic laser hair removal
Making your loved one feel special became easier
during the Valentine season with Mazda’s promotion
– ‘spot the Mazda V-mobile’.
Spot the Mazda V-mobile as it cruises across
Muscat, click a picture of it and email it to club@
towellauto.com; the person who spots the most
number of Mazda V-mobiles (at multiple locations),
stood to win a premium gift hamper through a raffle
draw - a stylish Ray-Ban sunglass worth OMR100
and a weekend stay at Al Nahdha Resort & Spa.
As part of the Valentine’s promotion, on buying a
Mazda3, one could also win a premium gift hamper
(Ray-Ban sunglasses and weekend getaway at Al
Nahdha Resort and Spa), along with a Mazda TLC
package that includes giving your Mazda3 a tender
Spot the Mazda’s V-Mobile
loving touch with soft cushions and car perfumes and a five-
year extended dealer warranty.
29Black & White
Ernst & Young workshopErnst & Young, in yet another first-
of-its-kind enterprise, has facilitated
a workshop on enhancing leadership
capabilities. The workshop was
attended by senior business leaders
from leading companies in Muscat.
The German Industry and Commerce Office (AHK
Oman) has hosted two separate events for the business
delegation from Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany recently
at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Muscat. One of the goals of
this initiative of the ministry of economics, transport,
agriculture and viniculture of Rhineland-Palatinate was
to present a workshop on “Landscaping and Agriculture”
by Prof. Dr Roland Kubiak from the German Institute
for AgroEcology, which was warmly received by
representatives from the local private and public sector.
Workshop on landscaping and agriculture
The LG Electronics and OTE Group, announced
the Middle East launch of the 72-inch LZ9700,
world’s largest Full LED 3D TV. The LZ9700 will
let viewers see life-sized action on a beautiful crisp
picture. With Full HD resolution on an LED display,
the LZ9700 delivers pictures as large and colourful
as paintings at an art gallery. The extra spacious
screen size also makes the picture more immersive
than ever, offering viewers a 3D experience every
bit as good as the screen in the local multiplex.
LG Full LED 3D TV
Oman Air Holidays have come up
with unbeatable packages to Kuala
Lumpur and Salalah valid until March
31. For just OMR 199 per person,
the 3-nights Malaysia package that
includes flight, hotel, transfers and
taxes comes as a never-to-be-missed
offer that is sure to be extremely
popular with discerning travellers.
For those who want to travel closer
to home, Oman Air Holidays have
packages to Salalah partnering with
the 5-star Salalah Marriott Resort
and the 5-star Crowne Plaza Salalah
Resort to offer residents of Muscat
an opportunity to experience the
enchanting city of Salalah with 5-star
services and amenities.
The Salalah Break Package
includes return flights from Muscat,
complimentary hotel transfers with a
two nights luxury stay at one of the
5-star resorts on twin share basis
and complimentary buffet breakfast.
Packages start from OMR 99 per
person at the Salalah Marriott Resort,
and OMR 129 per person at the
Crowne Plaza Salalah Resort, which
also offers free buffet dinner every
night.
Oman Air Holidays offer to Malaysia and Salalah
30 March 7-20, 2011
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Johnson & Johnson distributed 40 laptops to
the winners of ‘win forty’ contest.
The event was conducted in commemoration
of the 40th National Day of Oman and drew to
a grand success with thousands of participants
making it a lively event. All it consisted of was
the purchase of Johnson & Johnson products
for just three rials and filling up the coupon to
take part in the promotional offer.
Held at Lulu’s Al-Burj hypermarket, the draw
picked up 40 winners at a glittering event.
“Obviously we enjoy a far better reach with a
tie-up with Lulu and make our presence more
solid in Oman,” said Alex Rajan, business
development manager, Ramniklal B. Kothary,
the authorised distributor of J& J products in
the Sultanate.
Johnson & Johnson gives away 40 laptops
The Park Inn Muscat has recently added two members
to its sales team who will take on the responsibilities of
handling separate sectors of the hotel’s business in Oman.
The newly recruited employees will fortify the sales efforts
for the four-star property in the local market.
Khalid Al Zadjali the new sales manager and a promising
young Omani has a background of six years of experience
in the hospitality industry in Oman. Raja Nair has joined
the Park Inn as assistant director of sales. He had
previously worked in a hotel in Oman in a similar capacity
and holds over a decade of work experience in total in
the hotel industry with prestigious hotel chains. Raja and
Khalid will come under the wing of Fahad Al Wahaibi,
director of sales and marketing.
Park Inn Muscat sales team
Apollo Medical Centre, an associate
of Apollo Hospitals Group, India
and the trusted and most preferred
healthcare provider in the Sultanate
has announced the launch of the
unique “Sun Rise Clinics”.
This concept is being introduced for
the first time of its kind in the private
sector health care in Muscat. Sun
Rise Clinics ensure early morning
Out Patient Consultations to the
people of Sultanate with specialist.
These clinics start from 8am instead
of the usual timing. In the initial
phase, Apollo offers Sun Rise Clinics
in the department of obstetrics/
gynecology.
Sandeep Kumar, Ceo of Apollo says
there has been demand for Early
Morning Clinics from the general
public and Apollo is now capable to
meet the demand.
He also added that apart from Sun
Rise Clinics, in Obs/Gynecology,
Apollo also offers continuous OP
services from 8am till 9pm with a
break on all week days. “We are sure
it will be beneficial and convenient
for the patients whom we can offer
our services at their convenient time.
It will also reduce the waiting time for
the patients” he continued.
“As Apollo is celebrating fifth
anniversary, we offer special
packages for ante – natal services
and deliveries. This package
includes special discounted rates,
exclusive counselling for husband
and wife, post delivery privilege card
facility for mother and child etc,”
Sandeep said.
Apollo Medical Centre has been
performing arthroscopy procedures
regularly and is also coming out
with laparoscopy services from
March. Both these services ensure
minimal invasive procedures which
will be beneficial for the patients.
Apollo is considered as one of
the best centres for mother and
child care and offers round-the-
clock emergency services in all
departments.
Apollo Medical Centre Announces Unique Sun Rise Clinics
31Black & White
Oman International Bank (OIB) is ahead of the other leading banks in terms
of return to investors based on an analysis of the bank balance sheets.
Evaluated on three critical parameters - the cash dividend declared, the
dividend yield and the Return on Equity (ROE), the OIB has emerged as
the market leader on return to its investor. The bank has not only generated
higher return for its investors consistently but also shared the same with its
investors through higher dividend payout and yield.
OIB outperforms its competitors
World renowned painter, M.F. Husain, the ‘Picasso of
India’ as Forbes magazine famously described him will
be holding ‘Between Two Lines’ – a two day exclusive
exhibition of 12 of his latest paintings on Calligraphy at the
Indian embassy.
Husain will be accompanied by his son Owais Husain,
also a painter and a multimedia artist with a growing
repute of his own. The latter will also be displaying 12 of
his personal creations on paper.
This exclusive event will be held on March 11 and 12
at the Indian embassy lawns and auditorium under the
auspices of the Indian ambassador, Anil Wadhwa. This
invitation – only exclusive event is brought together by
Blue Mosaic, Trinity Investment Partners and NPA Events.
'Between Two Lines' on March 11
As part of renna mobile’s strategy for growth,
a new distribution activity was announced in
conjunction with Sanad Service Centers in Muscat.
In an event held at Ubhar Restaurant in Bareeq
Al Shatti, Sheikh Samer bin Ahmed Al Nabhani,
executive director, Sanad Project, ministry of
manpower and Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef,
board member, renna mobile launched the activity.
The event was attended by the first 20 Sanad
Service Center owners, who have signed up
around Muscat Governorate, and media partners,
in addition to the renna mobile management and
distribution team.
Sanad to sell renna mobile products
Mars International L.L.C opened their eighth
outlet, and sixth in the Sultanate in Al Khuwair.
Sheikh Ibrahim Bin Yahya Al Rawahi, wali
of Bausher inaugurated it in the presence of
directors and staff of Mars.
Mars International is focussing on expansion
strategy as well as to support their growth.
Briefing about the future plans, Vinodan said we
had strategy budgeted for opening 3 new outlets
by 2012. The one in Barka is almost at finishing
stages and the ones to follow will be at Sur and
Sinaw.
Mars' eighth outlet
32 March 7-20, 201132
Naqvi gets lifetime achievement award
Word
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A captivating show by four Indian School
Ghubra (ISG) students at a programme called
Natyaarpanam, which served as the platform
for the arangetram (initiation) of Aiemy Mary
Sam, Anindita Purohit, Devasena Joshi and
Fairooz Rashid Sulaiman, at Al Falaj Hotel
recently.
The quartet, all disciples of the ISG teacher
Shailaja Sreekumar enthralled the packed
audience at Le Grand Hall with a variety of
dance forms.
Veteran sports personality Saiyed Ali
Sibtain Naqvi was recently conferred
with a ‘lifetime achievement’ award by
the ministry of sports. The minister of
sports affairs Ali bin Masoud Al Sunaidy
presented the prestigious award to Naqvi
at a function organised at Al Bustan
Palace hotel.
“It was the first award given to an Indian
by the ministry of sports,” a delighted
Naqvi said after receiving the award.
Natyaarpanam – an enchanting evening of dance
Muriya Tourism
Development
company has
announced the
appointment of
its first Omani
Ceo, Adil Taqi.
Formerly with
Damac, Taqi
brings with him years of prime real
estate experience and has also held
senior positions at large corporations
locally, including Alliance Housing
Bank (now known as Ahlibank) and
PDO. He aims to bring his distinct
Omani experience, insight and
attitude to ensure that Muriya’s
projects meet the needs of locals,
and expatriates and continue deliver
on time as promised.
Muriya appoints its 1st Omani Ceo
World Cup fever has hit the world. And at the Spicy
Village restaurants too!
World Cup décor, so you can live cricket, feel cricket and
even eat cricket! The restaurant offers a sixer of a buffet
all the way at all Spicy Village outlets in Muscat, Nizwa,
Sohar and Sur.
A spread that offers you the best of Indian, Chinese,
Thai and Continental cuisine. From breads to biriyani,
from starters and soups to salads and desserts – over
20 delicious items on the menu, every day. This lunch
buffet is available right through the World Cup, all for just
OMR2.900. What’s more, they have also got a fabulous
offer for you: Pay for four, and get the fifth free.
Contact 99224718
World Cup at Spicy Village
33Black & White
CREATIVE EXTEMPOREI watched and listened with great interest. The man
at the centre picked up an everyday theme and then
started to recite. It was a simple poem, but rich with
meaning and effective pauses where those who
couldn’t catch up had the time to register the words
and their meaning.
Watching from the side, I had the advantage of
thinking it was not only fun, but easy to do…the
main man picked up a topic and recited the lines on
that. The next one took it forward with great ease.
In those days, as a teenager, I used to watch the
Indian Antakshari shows on TV, and this seemed to
be a takeoff on that. It was quite engrossing and it
was a relay of poetry, which went on for hours. I am
not into poetry myself, but, it was always interesting
to watch and listen from the sidelines.
Every Friday the young and the old of a village
would get together to a leisurely war of words,
complimented by the traditional beat of drums,
the songs and the Omani kahwa. These forms of
Maidan poetry sessions were quite common in Al
Batinah, Sharqiyah and Dhahirah regions.
The beauty of the Arabic language is known
best when you hear it from the poets. It is very
fascinating to watch the simple, but very creative,
The beauty of the Arabic language is felt best when you hear it from the poets. It is very fascinating to watch the simple, but very creative, villagers fight it out with words on the Maidan
Mohamed Issa Al ZadjaliEditor-in-chief
In Black...
& White
In B
lack &
Whit
e
villagers fight it out with words on the Maidan. The
words just flow from the heart, from a simple topic of the
day like the sun rise to the most complex of debates, all
extempore.
Arabic is indeed a language that has passed the test
of time and remains one of the oldest and most unique
languages in the world. It is beautiful when spoken
and written and you will feel a sense of extreme
accomplishment when you start to understand it. Like
every other language, the Arabic language has its own
peculiarity and it has its own origin.
What could be a threat to the language is that a lot
of people tend to use it less and it is on the decline
nowadays. Blame it on the addiction to the modern
forms of entertainment, the television, music downloads
and mobiles.
In this issue, the B&W team has tried to capture the
beauty of the Maidan, poetry that is recited out aloud,
in one of the villages near Barka. Let us hope that our
attempt to reach the Maidan poetry to English reading
folks will widen its reach. Happy reading and reciting!
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34 March 7-20, 201134 March 7-20, 2011
35Black & White
P o e t i c E x t e m p o r e
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36 March 7-20, 2011
Fadhel Al Haddabi
37Black & White
Ya men wasalt barh Al Fuad,
Karayim ma’ah yem fithalto (fithalto)
News wasa’a Alyoum wa biyomeh wa
Ya’ani Al-khabar yooled fee yomeh (fee yomeh)
Yislam wasalkum birah wa fuad
‘Oqub ma wasaltu watafathaltu (tafathaltu)…
You who have come Have made us feel at ease
(talking to a man named Kariyam)
Kariyam, you have come with the horn made of silver (silver!)
What news today? What's happening?
Give me all the news that is born today! (today!)
Thanks, thanks for comingThanks for taking that extra mile
Your visit has gladdened my heart And it has opened up to welcome you, welcome…
(welcome!)
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IN A LITTLE CLEARING, in the
woody, date-palm fringed area of
Shirs Al Haddaba village in Barka,
Fadhel Al Haddabi, sits on a large
mat, reciting poems. Fadhel, who is a
well-known Omani folklore poet, has
three listeners on his right, and three
on his left. He launches off on an
everyday topic, much to the delight
of his listeners, and they cling on the
last word and repeats it, which adds
to the momentum of the free verse.
We watched the magical poetry
session from the side, making sure
we did not intrude or make some
disturbance that would break the
rhythmic flow. But, the group was
so caught up in the poetic throes
that they did not even mind the
flash lights from our cameras. One
could find strains of the Indian song
competition, Antakshari, in the
Maidan, at least in the quick take off
on the last word, but that is where
the similarity ends as the chorus
or the last word repetition does not
take the poetry off on a tangent.
They continued with a whole theme,
sometimes getting into different
aspects of the same theme.
After maybe half an hour or so of
some unusual poetic extempore,
Fadhel paused and smiled at
us. Almost on cue or more as a
continuation of the poem, all six
members of the poetic team seated
before Fadhel also turned and smiled
at us. We smiled back.
We were genuinely happy at having
watched a live Maidan in action.
Just an hour ago when we had
visited the Maidan it was silent and
seemed a tad bit lonely. The silence
was occasionally broken by a lone
donkey’s bray and some birds that
seemed to twitter and flutter around
the area.
Younger generation in their 20s finds Maidan interesting.From left to right: Mubarak, Fazal, and Khamis
Second side: right: Saleh, Abdul Hamed, and Saad.
39Black & White
Fadhel came and livened up the
scene with his homely version
of contemporary Maidan poetry,
which dwelt on reigning issues,
sometimes, even political. “But, we
always maintain a very simple and
light tone,” Fadhel slowly explained,
as though he was yet to come out
of the poetic trance he and his
fellow listeners and poetic partners
experienced just moments ago.
It maybe light and simple, but in
that lightness, and in that simplicity
were words weighted with import and
great amount of significance.
“This is Maidan!” Fadhel made
a dramatic declaration. A torrent
of words flowed from him, poetic,
rhythmic almost songlike in their
intonation, but the words had a
topical, newsy feeling. And, as our
interpreter noted, these were the
current news, the happenings in
the region, which he said in a light
manner, and with a little twist. At
one point, they were mentioning
something about Egypt…
WAR OF WORDS
“The Maidan is a war of words,
poetry, music… it is a part of the
Omani tradition of getting together.
We all meet together and recite
poems in Arabic; it is a sort of a
creative contest done in leisure.
All of the men in the village come
together in one field,” Fadhel
explained.
“Maybe in the olden days, this was
a means of passing on the richness
of the Arabic language. By passing
on the traditions of the society to
the newer generation; or maybe,
this was a means to keep the clan
together and enhance creativity on
the social front,” he added. Whatever
the reason behind it, the Maidan type
of poetry was not dead; in fact, it
was gaining more ground and even
youngsters were keenly following it.
All six of the Maidan participants at
the Shirs Al Haddaba areas were in
their early 20s.
While we only had a glimpse of the
Maidan-type poetry, a full-fledged
one would be like a major festival.
“Yes, you can call it that! People
come in large crowds, some with
family, and some with friends.
There will be lot of noise and cheer
and the womenfolk also take part
in the celebrations,” Fadhel said.
But, did women also partake in the
Maidan type of poetry? Did they
also take the lead? “Not exactly.
Their roles are slightly different
in the Maidan set up. Instead of
reciting, they take to singing and
also dancing. So, the poetry is set to
colourful music and dance!”
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40 March 7-20, 2011
41Black & White
FAMILY TRADITION
For Fadhel, the Maidan has been
very much like a family tradition.
“The art of Maidan poetry has been
passed down to me over the years.
I remember attending the Maidan
along with my father and uncles
when I was just a small kid. I was
both fascinated and little bemused
too. I couldn’t get the poetic Arabic
then…”
Fadhel has come a long way since
then. Today, he is still fascinated by
the creative verses that streams out
him and others, but, he is no longer
perplexed by the turn of Arabic
words. And, in the Shirs Al Haddaba
area, Fadhel now heads the Maidan
poetry sessions. “I can proudly say
that I am heading the Maidan just like
my father and grandfather did. I was
groomed to attend the Maidan as a
young boy. In fact I was not much
attuned to poetic Arabic and those
first few sessions were difficult to
comprehend for me.
But, I slowly got the hang of it and
then those little stumbles and groping
in the dark became a smooth flow for
me.
Now, I am not just interested in
the language and lyrics alone, but
also in the day-to-day news and
happenings. I have not outgrown the
Maidan and I don’t think I ever will.
Today, many men and women have
come to understand that Maidan
means that it is an opportunity for the
old and the young to come together
and exchange views and news
through a medium that is fun as well
as entertaining.”
POETRY TO CURE THE
POSSESSED
The Maidan is not just about poetic
sessions alone. We learnt that the
Maidan recitals were also called for
reading of the possessed and ill.
"It (the Maidan) is also used as an
arena to cure the possessed and the
sick.
“We recite to cure the sick and most
of the times we have been successful
at it. The reading and recitals for
the sick are part of our culture and
tradition too.
There are certain lyrics and music
that come along with it. I remember
one such case, a complicated one,
where the suffering man was ailing
for many years and could not find
any relief even at Ibn Sina or any
other traditional or modern medicinal
clinics. This man went through a
rigorous Maidan session of 3 to 10
days. After that, he came out totally
cured. These kind of curing recitals
are not religious; they are more of
curative recitals and the verses are
as mentioned in our holy books.”
DIFFERENT TYPES OF MAIDAN
The Maidan sessions are episodes
that run to two and half hours and
sometimes even goes up to a week.
People from far and near come to
attend it.
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42 March 7-20, 2011
42 February 21-March 6, 2011
The loser would be the one who remains silent and has no answers to the poems or recitals. The winner takes it all. You should see the tempers flaring up sometimes. It is a serious affair, sometimes funny, sometimes sad
43Black & White
Text: Adarsh Madhavan & Priya Arunkumar Photos: Najib Al Balushi
The Maidan (Al Sooriya) is done
after the I'sha prayers 9.30pm to 12
midnight, sometimes 8.30am to 12
noon and evenings 4pm to 6pm. It
depends on everyone’s convenience
and also the climate.
Al Zaffan goes up to a week or even
10 days. The other type of Maidan
called Al Miss’ab is a family affair.
The last Miss’ab was held some
three months back and is normally
held once or twice every year. Al
Miss’ab is a full family affair and the
families camp at the location. There
will be singing and dancing and the
drum beats run throughout the day
and night.
The usual poetic Maidan involves
literary participation and people who
are good in Arabic take part. The
Raisi Al Maidan starts the session
with any topic, from sun rise to the
current Egypt upraising, it can be
any topic decided by the head poet.
He recites; he voices his opinion
in rhythmic Arabic with a generous
dose of humour and light satire
added on to it.
The opponent may not be one, it
could be many. Whoever catches
on and replies in the most befitting
manner, rich in the language and
satire, wins the prize money! There is
always some sort of prize money or
gifts attached to the regular Maidans,
Fadhel tells us.
“The loser would be the one who
remains silent and has no answers
to the poems or recitals. The winner
takes it all. You should see the
tempers flaring up sometimes. It is
a serious affair, sometimes funny,
sometimes sad. There is a mix of
emotions involved and whatever
emotions are less or more, the whole
episode is a very passionate affair!
Lots of noise and laughter rings in
the midst of claps and drum beats.”
MAIDAN FOR POSTERITY
Maidan is a rich Omani tradition that
is practiced all over Al Sharqiyah,
Dhahirah and Al Batinah regions.
“It is not a custom that will just die.
The youngsters in my village still
participate in the Maidan. In fact
the youngest one is hardly nine.
Since it is part of the family tradition,
the young boys will attend at least
one episode and it becomes the
responsibility of the elders in the
family to pass on the heritage to the
younger generation.
I am in my late 30s and I was
initiated to this custom by my father
and grandfather. I believe that Omani
boys, will at some point of time,
attend at least one of the sessions
even if he is away from Oman.
The youngsters in my family are all
involved in Maidan and I feel it is
my responsibility to pass the poetic
message on. I am sure it will continue
for the future too.”
44 March 7-20, 2011
Doctors are known to take the
Hippocratic Oath, swearing to practice
medicine ethically. But, one of our
readers claims that the doctor she
took her daughter to must have taken
the Hypocrisy Oath. She was livid, so
forgive her, doc.
But, can we forgive you that easily
doc? Because according to this
Omani lady, she was referred to you at
a government hospital, but since you
were busy, and had a tight schedule
and a long patients list, running from
here to Sohar, you told the lady and
her daughter to come to a private
hospital. She did. You made her wait.
Finally, you saw her, made her tell
the complete story of her daughter’s
problem and then after listening to all
that just dismissed her saying that this
was not your area and you had to go
back to the same hospital and see a
different doctor. All that is okay… But,
doc, if you didn’t offer consultation, if
you merely hear out a person who is
not even your patient, why did you ask
her to pay?
Was that right on your part, doc?
Anyway, we don’t want to know, you
tell her directly, or reimburse her…
Still on the subject of docs, we have another Omani lady here who told us of
how she approached her doc who was at a government clinic for an ailment
she had. Her right leg was so painful that she wanted to cut it off, and so she
asked the doc for an appointment, but he was busy. So when could she see
him, she asked.
Well, he was busy and had to go to another private clinic where he offered
consultation. Could she come there please, she asked. She told him she was
in great pain. No, was the curt answer. Too many patients, too busy! But, she
was in real pain, was there a chance to meet the doctor anywhere? Could she
meet him tomorrow at least?
Tomorrow? No way! He was off. Weekend. Thursday and Friday. Golf! She
could meet him only next week. Okay, the lady in pain said. But, when could
she meet him, please? Ummhhh, there was no way she could meet him on
Saturday as he was going to the SQUH. But, but, could she come to the SQUH
to meet him, she pleaded? SQUH, ha, no way… At the SQUH he was quite
busy; he would have meetings till late afternoon…no, he can’t meet her on
Saturday. Ideally, let her come to meet him on Monday at another private
clinic... So, the lady in severe pain had no choice, but to wait. Is this the way
doctors should treat a lady in pain?
Hippocratic or
hypocrisy oath?
Lady is in
severe pain…
so what?
Nit
tern
att
er
We have been thinking of it since quite sometime now. Fi-nally, we have taken the plunge to bring home to you some offbeat stuff. Here goes, if you like it, give us the green signal for more; if not, just take it with a pinch of salt. For this fort-night, here is some nitter natter for the B&W Bitter Batter:
Now, all of the above might look like a diatribe against doctors (or those in the
medical field)…but, that is not what this is all about. It is just a coincidence
that we got two or three issues on doctors all at the same time, but, the point
to make here is that in both these cases we have two esteemed members
of the medical profession acting callously and without any care for their
patients. Have doctors seen too much of pain that it no longer matters to
them anymore?
We are disturbed. Let us hope that these incidences are just an aberration in
the overall picture and surely just two cases cannot have us calling the whole
medical profession as callous, cruel and heartless!
Might always rules. This maybe what people are accustomed to and many
believe it to be natural in the order of things. But yaaki, why is it that might
always wins; why are bullies always winning? What order is that? No, we
are not saying that the meek should always inherit the earth, but, shouldn’t
the meek, the weak, the deprived, the aggrieved, the pained, the injured,
the one who have lost…win occasionally, or at least once? We do not refer
to any particular incident, or citing just one topic, but a variety of them, all
in a cluster, but each one hankering for justice, separate and on their own.
There is too much injustice in this world (hear, hear!) and too much injustice
is heaped on those whom we know and we wonder, we really wonder why?
Just an
aberration
Why should
might always
win?
(Note: Readers who have something bitter to chatter about can either email on editor@blackandwhiteoman.com or call 99218461)
45Black & White
46 March 7-20, 2011
Do we negotiate enough? Dr Anchan C.K.
managing director,
World Wide Business HouseBy Dr CK Anchan
The ability to negotiate is one of the most valuable skills you can bring
to any job. Whether you’re after a pay rise, time off, a new job, getting
someone to back off, more help or more recognition, the ability to negotiate
will give you a much better chance of success. It is something that puts you
personally and professionally in the driver’s seat!
Negotiation in its truest sense means listening to the other party. Trying
to understand where they come from. In a world that goes out of its way
to keep buyer and seller separate, I find no substitute for face to face
negotiation and the fruits that come from it. The best negotiating tool will
always be the art of listening.
It is the ultimate art of looking before you leap and not jumping to the
handshake and the contract. Instead, the art is in refining what you want,
setting those unstoppable goals and also leaving some wriggle room on
stuff you don’t truly care about.
Negotiations are not emotional. Refuse to act emotionally and you are half
way there. In addition, remember that the person who says little and shows
the least cards maintains the most control.
Here are few tips, which have certainly worked for me, I am sure it will
work for you also:
1. Increase the goodwill on both sides viz: compliment the person you are in
negotiation with; use positive indications and words.
2. Keep listening and ask intelligent questions viz : understand what the
other person is saying and their point of view. To listen shows respect and
good intentions, and will make the other person feel valued.
3. Become aware of emotional climates viz: If the other person is angry, do
not panic, keep your cool and be pleasant, you will find the person settling
down within some time.
4. Be clear about the decision you are going to take in advance viz: whether
you are going to compromise, or not. Assess all aspects of the situation.
5. Buy time and keep your options open viz : Give yourself room to
manouveur. Make sure you have something to offer the other person, as
well as something you want.
6. Conclude with win – win situation viz: Both sides should leave the
negotiation feeling they’ve come away with something and that they’re
satisfied.
To conclude for now, Life is a process of negotiations, from negotiating
contracts with clients, buying your first house to negotiating your next salary
raise. So happy negotiating!
Managem
ent
talk
46 March 7-20, 2011
47Black & White
Seyad Farook, ophiologist/
field herpetologist at the
Sultan Qaboos UniversityBy Seyad Farook
IF YOU DRINK VENOM, WILL IT KILL YOU?
Poisons are substances that are toxic (cause harm) if swallowed or
inhaled. Venoms are generally not toxic if swallowed, and must be
injected under the skin (by snakes, spiders, etc.) into the tissues that
are normally protected by skin in order to be toxic. However, it is NOT
recommend drinking venom for any reason..
Types of Venom:
(a) Cytotoxin (cell-affecting venom)
Most of the slower venomous snakes have a quick acting component
in the venom (cytotoxin) that will cause an immediate burning pain.
Cytotoxins destroy cells and tissue.
A bite from a cytotoxic snake generally produces local pain and swelling
around the bite area. Depending on the exact nature of the venom,
discolouring and necrosis will take place. Most people bitten by cytotoxic
snakes survive. Bites from a puff adder, which has predominantly
cytotoxic venom, can cause disfigurement. This is because of a large
amount of necrosis and even gangrene which results in digits or limbs
having to be amputated.
Carpet vipers, horned vipers, Sand vipers and false-horned vipers have a
cytotoxin element together with a more potent haemotoxin.
What is the difference between poison and venom?
Natu
re's Q
uest
47Black & White
48 March 7-20, 2011
Kid
stuff
The colour of the first successful bubble gum was pink because it was the only colour the inventor had left
49Black & White
The oldest known sample of chewing gum is a piece of birch bark tar
estimated to be 6,500 years old. It seems to have been chewed by a person
30 to 40 years old with a cavity in one tooth.
People have chewed on natural materials for hundreds of years, including
thickened resin and latex from certain trees, sweet grasses, leaves, grains
and waxes.
More than 1,000 varieties of gum are manufactured and sold in the United
States.
100,000 tons of bubble gum are chewed every year.
According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the largest bubble ever
blown was 23 inches in diameter!
Cinnamon, spearmint and peppermint are among the most popular flavours of
chewing gum today.
The country using the largest number of chewing gum manufacturers is
Turkey, using more then 60 companies manufacturing chewing gum!
In A.D. 50, Ancient Greeks were believed to chew mastic, tree resin taken
from the bark of the Mastic tree. Grecian women favoured chewing this to
clean their teeth and sweeten their breath!
Humans are the only animals on earth that chew gum.
Greeks chewed gum thousands of years ago.
The ages of 12 to 24 chew more gum than any other age group.
The colour of the first successful bubble gum was pink because it was the
only colour the inventor had left. The colour “stuck” and today bubble gum is
still predominantly pink.
Detectives have been known to identify criminals by comparing the suspect’s
chewed gum to their dental records.
Because of gravity, you must measure bubble gum bubbles by their width, not
their height.
Swallowed bubble gum will not get stuck from your intestines, but it will pass
through your system, because gum base cannot be digested.
Tongue twistersDouble bubble gum, bubbles double
Did you know...?
50 March 7-20, 2011
Extremely revealing and, at
times, unusual messages
or statements from friends and
colleagues may be a key theme now.
Watch closely for subtle changes and
unexpected revelations from loved
ones. Renewed intimacy and rare
moments of tenderness are likely to
continue in the coming weeks.
A trusted friend or
companion will now reveal important
family information or ask for delicate
social advice. Timed events may be
a key concern: expect a variety of
questions concerning recent group
celebrations, public statements or
family gatherings.
After several weeks of low
self-esteem or deep romantic doubt,
most Librans will now experience
serious overtures of passion, loyalty
and dedication. To some degree,
this may also apply to business
partnerships or career ambitions but,
for the most part, will manifest as
social or romantic intensity.
Family expectations are
now on the rise. Early this week
expect a close relative or trusted
friend to present unusual ideas
for home expansion or improved
relations with older relatives.
Optimism is what is important here;
so be sure to provide plenty of
support and encouragement.
You will make peace
with several months of business
indecision, financial strain and
lagging confidence. Much of this will
affect career matters but, for some,
long-term romantic relationships
may also be at issue. If so, expect a
friend or lover to push for new public
promises in your home life.
No worries here, though:
at present, planetary alignments
suggest that recently withheld
passions, observations and ideas will
rise quickly to the surface. Accept
all comments as valid and let others
witness your empathy: it’s time to
make your feelings known.
Older relatives and key
officials may this week ask for more
your time, attention and loyalty than
is warranted. No long-term changes
are likely here, so not to worry. Do,
however, respond quickly to all
requests and instructions. At present,
both loved ones and long-trusted
colleagues will need reassurance.
New romantic promises
and expanded commitments in love
relationships will be a continuing
theme for much of the next two
weeks. Much of this will act as an
overture to deepen a key relationship
or increase emotional intimacy.
This is the right time to begin new
projects.
Don’t look back: really,
there is very little that could have
been done to affect change during
the past eight weeks. Beginning this
week, however, and lasting over
the next five to six months, honesty
will be greatly rewarded. Planetary
alignments indicate a new phase of
shared goals.
Employment decisions and
short-term financial obligations will
be a key topic of conversation during
this period. Eventually, all will work
in your favour; so not to worry. Do,
however, quickly clarify all missing
documents or time schedules errors.
Stand your ground: all is well.
Important phones calls,
messages or invitations should not
be ignored over the next few days.
Pay special attention to the social
habits, daily needs and ongoing
emotional expectations of loved
ones. Someone close may this week
reveal a surprising family conflict or
ask for discrete romantic advice.
Early this week expect
an older colleague or work official
to return to outdated and ineffective
practices. Group projects and team
assignments may be particularly
bothersome. The key here is to allow
others to briefly revisit old habits but
quietly encourage change. By late
next week all will work in your favour.
March 21-April 20
June 22-July 23
September 24-October 22
December 23-January 20
April 21-May 20
July 24-August 23
October 23-November 22
January 21-February 19
May 21-June 21
August 24-September 23
November 23-December 22
February 20-March 20
Your stars
ARIES
CANCER
LIBRA
CAPRICORN
TAURUS
LEO
SCORPIO
AQUARIUS
GEMINI
VIRGO
SAGITTARIUS
PISCES
STEVEN PAUL JOBS (BORN FEBRUARY 24, 1955)
is an American business magnate and inventor. He is
the co-founder and chief executive officer of Apple Inc.
Jobs also previously served as chief executive of Pixar
Animation Studios; he became a member of the board
of The Walt Disney Company in 2006, following the
acquisition of Pixar by Disney. He was credited in the
1995 movie Toy Story as an executive producer
Horo
scope
51Black & White
Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given
numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares
so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same
number only once.
SOLUTION:
By Thomas Snydermotris.livejournal.com
52 March 7-20, 2011
WADI KABIRBait al Zubair Bait al BarandaMarina Bander Al Bustan Palace HotelOman Dive club Shangri-La- Barr Al JissahSri Lankan School NHIPencil Building (Stationery shop)Al Maha bunk –Wadi Kabir Ajay Enterprises (Khimji) – (Next to Jingles nursery) Hotel Golden OasisSana FashionsAl Maya markets – (Old Rawasco) Scientific pharmacy – Opp to al Maya market ( Arab Udipi Rest)
CBD AREA TO DARSAITAl Amana Building materials – Opposite Jawad SultanAl Omaniya Financial Services office Oman oil bunk Khimji mart shopping mall – (Old shopping & saving)Khimjis Bait al Ahlam- CBD areaPizza Muscat (Opposite ministry of manpower)Pizza Hut/TFC – CBD areaCentre point-SplashMuscat Securities market Times of OmanShell petrol Bunk (Next to Sheraton)OCCI Library – Oman Chamber of commerce (OPP MSM)KFC – Ruwi Oman International Bank – RuwiPalayok Restaurant – Filipino restaurant Ever ready supermarket New India Assurance OfficeAl Fair – Ruwi high street Lakhoos Money Exchange, Ruwi High streetDamas Jewellery/office – Ruwi Oman UAE Exchange – OCC CentreAir Arabia Office- Shanfari TravelsRuwi HotelGulf air building – Gulf air officeSaravanabhavan Restaurant Sarco – Samsung showroom Khimji Megastore – Swarovski showroomOTEMoosa Abdul Showroom – next to al JadeedToshiba Showroom Al Jadeed shoppingBadr Al Samaa Samara video (next to Talentz, old bait al ahlam) after 5pmMinistry of Education – Opp Wearhouse – Ruwi Future management consultants -(opp Toshiba showroom)Haffa House HotelAl Falaj Hotel Muscat Bakery- Near church Pakistan School (after temple & church Darsait)Naranjee Hirjee office (before Hotel Golden Oryx)Hotel Golden Oryx Bank Muscat corporate office (Opposite Hotel Golden Oryx)Kamat Restaurant Uptown Restaurant Turtles Book shopAl Rima Clinic Lama Polyclinic
Oman Air – CBD NBO- CBD areaBank MuscatBank SoharHSBCStandard CharteredOman Arab BankHarmony Music Centre – Next to OAB Bahwan Travel Agencies – CBD banks areaOTTB – Oman Travels BureauAir India office – CBD next to Costas CostasPapa John Supa Save – CBDWoodlandsBank DhofarHorizon Restaurant – (Next to Moon travels)Oman post office Lulu DarsaitKhimji Ramdas Head office, Muttrah (Kanaksi Khimji & pankaj Khimji) Majan College – Darsait junction (canteen)Indian Social ClubMelody Music Centre – Next to ISMGerman Embassy – Hamriya roundaboutApollo Medical CentreComputer Xpress – Hamriya Roundabout Atlas Travels (Wadi Adai Roundabout (next to polyglot)Hatat HousePassage to IndiaBest carsHyundai/Subaru/GM showroomAl Asfoor FurnishingAhli BankShell marketing officeSEAT car showroom- Wattayah DHL office- Wattayah Honda ShowroomSabco Head office wattayahNTT travels WattayahToyota Bahwan Advertising – Ist floor – Toyota showroomLexusFord showroomShanfari AutomotiveWattayah Motors- VW showroomKhoula HospitalInstitute of Health sciences – opposite KhoulaKia showroom- wattayah
QURUM AREA TOWARDS AL KHUWAIRAl Harthy Complex- Pizza Muscat – next to Sultan Center in al Harthy complexSultan Center Nissan showroomBMW showroom Muscat Private School Qurum city centrePizza Hut – Qurum Capital StoreAl Asfoor PlazaKFCHardeesFono showroom next to Sabco centreShah NagardasSabco Centre- Barista coffee shop onlyAl AraimiPanasonic ShowroomNBO QurumAl Khamis PlazaAl Wadi commercial centre – Coffee shopMercedes showroom
CCC- StandCCC Al FairBollywood chatPizza Hut – Qurum Second CupNandos McDonaldsSalman StoresJawahir OmanHamptonsBusiness Services & Travel Amex office Ernst & Young buildg (OUA Travels) StarbucksHawthorne institute- ELS Fahud Street, opp Qurum parkMumtaz Mahal Left bankOman Association for the disabled Ministry of education (20 +20=20)Muscat Intercon Jawaharat Al Shatti complex- standOasis by the sea - crepe café standLNG OfficeAl Qurum resortBareek Al Shatti ComplexAl Qandeel head office -, Entrance of Bareek al Shatti Al Shatti Cinema - Dunkin DonutsAl Sahwa Schools– principal’s office next to Ramada hotelHotel RamadaAl Muriya Offices- next to Al sahwa schoolsGrand Hyatt MuscatAl Masa MallRadio ShackAl Sarooj ComplexShell Petrol Bunk- Al Sarooj Al FairRamee GuestlineRock BottomClassic Institute of Arts- next to Asas OmanAsas Oman ApartmentsCrowne PlazaCoral hotelQurum Pvt schoolPDORas Al Hamraa ClubOmanoil head office
AL KHUWAIR/MSQ TOWARDS AZAIBAELS – Al khuwair service roadBritish School Muscat – MSQBritish Council Oman oil- Madinat Qaboos Pizza HutKhimjis mart – MSQ Kargeen Café Al fairFamily Book shop- MSQ Tavola – Al Noor Hall buildgStarbucks Hana slimming centre – Ist FloorFotomagicAl Noor Hall Al JadeedEqarat office Above Welcare Clinic – al KhuwairDomino Pizza Oman mobileSafeer Hypermarket Mustafa SultanSouk TechniaOmantelOman international Bank – Al khuwair main officeIbis Hotel
Park inn HotelFriendi OfficeMuscat Bakery Tropical Ice creams SubwayPizza Hut service road Ice Skating RinkNational Training InstituteGolden spoon RestaurantShell Select- Al KhuwairMcdonaldsMct holiday Inn HotelOman Bowling Center HalliburtonCafé VergnanoKhimji Mart – Next to Verganano Safeer suitesAxa insurance (opp assarain Al khuwair)Zakher shopping MallPAN Furnishing Harley DavidsonThriftyAl Amal Medical Centre – Dr BashirHotel RadissonPizza Hut Al KhuwairOzone Video Shop(Next to Pizza Hut)American British School Omar Khayyam Restaurant, next to V kool Grill House (next door)V KoolTAISM Centre for British Teachers – CFBT Baushar Complex CaféAviation Club Restaurant
AZAIBA TOWARDS SEEBLulu Hyper market – BausharOman Medical collegeCollege for Business & financial Studies opp Oman medical, bausharAzzan Bin Qais school - BausharMuscat private HospitalDolphin Village – BausherRoyal hospital Ghala industrial area – NTINational mineral water – Tanuf ( next to Al Madina Holiday Inn)Oman oil AzaibaSpicy Village – Rusayl Pizza Hut – GhalaOman oil – GhalaTowell head office – Enhance & Ist floorMazda showroom Mcdonalds – Azaiba Select shell AzaibaOman Tribune – Al Watan officeNew India assurance Azaiba office Safeer HypermartNawras head office Zubair showroom and Yamaha corporate office(two places)- Yamaha Showroom – close to Zubair showroom – 1st floor Polyglot InstituteGU Tech – Beach road AzaibaChedi Muscat The wave Muscat corporate officeNACA – national cancer Awareness AssnMCC – Crepe CaféAl Bahja– Mood Café & food CourtAl Maya Super market Oman air Seeb office (Below Flyover, before Golden Tulip)Oman Tourisn College Golden Tulip HotelAir portSelect Shell – SeebPizza Hut airportKFC
PICK-UP POINTSPICK-UP POINTS
MUSCAT
Cir
cula
tion
SHOPPING MALLSLulu shopping centerAl- Istaqarar shopping center (Salalah)Dhofar shopping centerBab Al- Salam marketAl- Mashoor (Salalah)Al- Mashoor (Saada)Al-KhareefK.M TradingAl-Isteqarar (Saada)Al-Hoq super marketHamdan commercial marketFresh super market (Al-Sarat)Union Salalah MarketFamily bookshop
HOTELSCrown PlazaHilton Salalah Hamdan plazaDhofar HotelSalalah hotelHaffa HouseRedan HotelAl- Hanaa HotelBAMSIR hotelAl- Jabel hotelAl- Nile suite (Saada)Salalah Mariott
MINISTRIESMinistry agriculture & fisheries Ministry of educationMinistry of defenseMinistry of housing & electricityMinistry of waterMinistry of tourism Diwan of Royal court (Salalah)Ministry of primary court and justiceMinistry of Commerce & industryDhofar municipality (Baladia)Ministry of man power
PETROL STATIONS, BANKSShanfari filling Stationshell select, al saadaOman oilShell SalalahBank MuscatOmantelOman Arab BankPizza hutDhofar UniversityAl Maha souk
OIB, NizwaOIB, FirqBankMuscat, NizwaBM main branch, NizwaBankMuscat, FirqNBO, NizwaNBO, FirqBank AbudhabiToyotaOTEOmantelNawrasKhimji, NizwaKhimji, IzkiMuscat Bakery, NizwaPizza HutDiscount centreFamily shoppingAl Diyar HotelSafari hotelAl-Nif shopping, IzkiHungery Bunny, NizwaCollege of ScienceCollege of TechnicNizwa Medical CollegeBusmath ClinicThalal ClinicOmanoil, IzkiOmanoil, FirqOmanoil, NizwaOmanoil, MarfaShell, IzkiShell, FirqShell, NizwaAl-Maha, FirqNizwa university -Dept of foreign langAl-Maha, Marfa
Lulu hyper marketSafeer CentreAl Nahda resortAl Maha SoukOman Oil RumaisOman College of managementOIBNBOBank MuscatShellOTESARCONissan showroomOmantel
MUSCAT continued...
MUSCAT, SALALAH, SUR, SOHAR, NIZWA, BARKA, KASAB
SALALAH NIZWA
BARKA
SOHAR
SURAl-HasharLNGLNG, Club SurSur Beach HotelSur UniversityOTE, SurMitsibushiRawaya coffee shopToyotaNissanSur Plaza HotelMazdaKhimjiOmantelPrivate Hospital, SurBankMuscatSur HotelNBO, SurBank Dhofar, SurELS, Sur
Muscat golf hills, SEEBKOMSQU – SQUH hospital , SQUH 2- canteen, 3- Diplomatic Club, 4 – College of Commerce, 5 – Students banking area)Pizza Hut – al Khoud Sultan School al hail service road – principals’ officeCaledonian college – principal’s officeOman Foot ball association
RUSAYL AREARusayl Industrial EstateOman CablesSadolin PaintsJotun PaintsAl waqia shoesMehdi FoodsAreej veg oils
MINISTRIES AREA – AL KHUWAIRMinistry of tourism(Ghala, next to ISG)Ministry of social Development(next to Regional municipalities, Bank Mct)Ministry of foreign affairs
Spicy Village RestaurantLulu HypermarketJumeirah Shopping CentreKhimji’s MartAl Salem shoppingCentrepointMoosa Abdul Rahman – GMCToyotaNissanMitsubishiLG showroomSohar BakerySohar UniversityBank MuscatHabib BankBank SoharOman International BankAl Raffah HospitalBadr Al SamaaOman Arab BankBank DhofarHSBCTravel CityNational Travels and ToursUniversal Travels and TourismDHLDhofar InsuranceAl Ahlia InsuranceTaeeger Finance CoOmantelAl Jazeera GroupNarenjee Hirjee (International)
Circulation enquiries: 98675976/24565697
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20, 500 COPIES (BEING AUDITED)
53Black & White
FREE 20,500 copies (being audited)
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First Free Fortnightly magazine
55Black & White 55Black & White
By Praba Iyer
Praba Iyer is a graduate of the
California Culinary Academy
in San Francisco. She was
the Associate Chef at Greens
Restaurant in Fort Mason, SF.
She teaches custom cooking
classes in the bay area
Cookin
g
55Black & White
I have fond memories of my early years in Kanpur, India.
Situated on the banks of the Ganges, Kanpur was as
fertile as it could be. Our home had crisp green lawns
with roses of every hue.
My favourite pastime in the summer months was counting the
number of tomatoes on the vine, which stretched on to the side
walls of the house. I remember admiring the red plump fruit
against the faded brown wall. While my dad brought home red
juicy apples and healthy bunches of grapes, mom would cut a
bowl of fresh tomatoes and sprinkle a little sugar, for us to eat.
This was when I fell in love with fruits. My grand mother taught me
that fruits were natural cleansers and eating fruits everyday helps
remove toxins from our body. I also learnt to cut fruits from her.
We get most fruits the year round. When my boys were younger, my Wednesday morning
ritual was to head to the Farmer’s Market, and stroll the isles, sampling and buying freshly
picked fruits. All the colours and tastes were a feast for the eyes and the palate. Fruits are
a big part of our home menu, either as an evening snack or a salad everyday.
Here are some fruit recipes you can add to your menu. Now you can entice your kids with
a healthy alternative to yet another chocolate chip cookie or cheetos! Enjoy!
This is a versatile recipe which is
always a crowd pleaser. You can
be creative as to what you add, to
fit your cuisine preference.
•1 ripe mango, sliced into cubes/
strips
•1 corn, kernels separated
•1/2 English cucumber, sliced
into cubes/strips
•2 sweet peppers, sliced into
rings
•1/2 lime juice
•1 green chili
•2 tablespoons of cilantro chopped
•salt to taste
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl, refrigerate
and serve.
Variations: My Indian version has toasted cumin
and/or sprouted moong beans. You can turn it into
a Mexican mango salsa with grilled fish. Try it as a
Thai Green Papaya salad with Mangoes, by adding
mango to shredded raw papaya along with thai
chilies, lime and few roasted cashews.
This refreshing salad incorporates many green
fruits. It has Kiwi fruit that is high in Vitamin C
and antioxidants. Honeydew is a great source of
folate (folic acid). This salad is best when made
and served immediately.
•1/2 honeydew, skin removed, seeded and cubed
•2 golden delicious apples, cored, sliced into
cubes
•3 kiwis, peeled and sliced
•1 cup of green grapes, seedless, sliced into
halves
•1 banana, peeled and sliced
•Garnish with pomegranate seeds for color
(optional)
Dressing
2 lemon, juiced
1 tablespoons of honey
½ teaspoon chaat masala (optional)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon mint leaves julienne
Whisk all the ingredients for the dressing
together. Place all the fruits in a bowl, mix in the
dressing and serve.
MANGO SALAD GREEN FRUIT SALAD
Laila, Omani graduate student of Nizwa University
Accept the things you cannot change
Sometimes you may feel as your life is turning topsy-turvy. And
sometimes you may feel though there is no purpose. Indeed, there
are times when things seem to go awry. And then you feel so
helpless, like a little log tossed upon stormy seas.
It is normal to feel like that sometimes when things are not going
smoothly with you. Circumstances would determine the status of
your mood and your life in general. But, it need not be all that bleak
and bad. There are ways to overcome any such feelings.
Believe it or not, accepting things that you cannot change is very
important to keep your sanity! Truly, you cannot change the whole
world if your problem is with the world.
But when you embrace the problem and accept that there are some
things which cannot be changed, it will be of help to you. Because
acceptance will provide you with enough strength and determination
to make things work easily for you.
On the other hand, there will be many others who may face difficulty
in doing this. Even when things are upside down, take advantage of
it and charge your soul with strong belief in yourself and the ability
to succeed. And when things are down, fight it with everything you
have got and never ever give up. Then and only then will you feel
that you have got a better understanding of making a life of success
and happiness.
Sometimes going through a wave of ups and downs is just
wonderful as God has given us the choice to make our life. We
better appreciate our life and be thankful to God because there are
others who have succumbed drowning under the waves of ups and
downs.
On the other hand, those who have struggled and fought to make
the wave of ups and downs work for them, because they know the
purpose of their existence, are alive and kicking. So, ask yourself:
"Do you really know the purpose of your life?’’ Then, no matter if the
waves of ups and downs come to you or not, you are equipped to
meet these imposters in a very strong and neutral manner.
By Laila Ibrahim Obaid Al-Gharbi
lalgharbi@yahoo.comLearn
ing c
urv
e
56 March 7-20, 2011
50000 DOLLARS ….W-HA-AA-T, no you can’t be serious…well, if
it is, then I’ll just have to dream about it lustily…but really is it worth
that much? Does its cost equate its worth? After all it’s just a stone,
why should it be so unaffordably EXPENSIVE?
A solitaire is about 10 times the worth of a cluster of diamonds. So
a cluster of diamonds is like clutter in comparison to a single large
stand-alone diamond.
A solitaire expresses the power of one and the strength of
individuality. When you have the ability to stand apart from a group,
you become worth much more than a bunch of people huddling
together and still not making the same impact as an individual.
The minute you have the courage to take a different path
you become the SOLITAIRE whose brilliance outshines and
overshadows the smaller diamonds. It eclipses the other diamonds
not because it tries to but just by the virtue of its presence.
A solitaire has a different grading system from your usual run of the
mill diamonds and any jeweller will happily accept it back and pay
you a decent amount for it, unlike the other diamonds which have
almost a zero return value. It’s just so different from other diamonds
that a comparison between them seems a silent mockery of the
latter.
So why is it so difficult for us to be a solitaire and shine with our
brilliance rather than needing the crutch and support of a group to
barely exist in life? Why can’t we be bold and choose the untrodden
path, face a few challenges and eventually become priceless?
Needless to say it is going to be impossibly difficult but whoever said
the path to greatness was not brimming with obstacles?
Go ahead make a bold decision today and be a solitaire…while I go
and be one and hopefully buy one.
Till next time peace and love!
Make way for the S-OL-I-T-A-I-R-E
Vandana, award winning author (‘360 Degrees Back to Life')
By Vandana Shah
It's m
y lif
e
Vandana Shah, Author 360 Degrees Back To life, editor of Ex-Files. www.vandanashah.com.
Email me what you’d like to say on 360degreesbacktolife@gmail.com
Follow me on twitter Vandy4PM
57Black & White
58 March 7-20, 2011
shape n
sound
58 March 7-20, 2011
59Black & White
Any woman can have a BUFF bodyMAN OR WOMAN, WHO WOULD NOT love to have a buff body? Yes, you
may have to huff and puff to get a buff body, but more importantly, it is having
the right attitude. Whatever anyone says, there is nothing better than simple,
straightforward exercise and toning down of the food intake to make you take a
simple trip from the unfit fat lane to the slim and trim healthy path. Many women,
especially those who are about to tie the knot, would die to have a fit body, at least
before they get hitched. Whatever the reason, the need to have a buff body is a
genuine requisite for many a woman. Let us see if we can get somewhere with this
desire:
BE CONSISTENT
How many times have you started a fitness regimen only to discover that working
late, buying that almost-forgotten birthday gift, and cheering the kids at their
soccer game or fancy dress parties have eaten up all your planned work-out time?
A consistent routine helps. What is needed is to plan it out ahead of time. Working
out three days a week is ideal; irregular training makes for irregular results.
ALL-ROUND FOCUS
Sometimes what happens is that we tend to focus only on the problems parts.
That is not unusual because when you have a problem thigh, upper arms, stomach
etc., you may tend to work out those areas more than the others. But, experts note
that instead of focusing on one or two body parts, it is better to work on the whole
package. As you work on the entire body, the problem areas will disappear.
STOP TALKING, START WALKING
So, you want to be buff and what you do is just stroll around the block or take
your dogs out for short walks around the corner and you want to be buff?! Uh,
get a life woman! It does not work that way. A stroll around the block examining
the sidewalk won’t do much to get you buff. As they say, there is walking and
then there is WALKING! If you can’t do fast walk, at least walk briskly, and when
you walk for exercise, make sure you swing your arms rhythmically to boost your
metabolism. Also, keep your back straight and your chin up for better balance.
GOODBYE ELEVATORS
Ugh! You are right. Those stairwells in your office building do look ugly. But,
believe us, these ugly steps may can help tone your legs while you’re at work.
So, why not make an attempt at it? Climbing stairs strengthens leg muscles and
provides a good cardiovascular workout at the same time. Quadriceps, hamstrings
and glutes will benefit, experts note.
NO RESTING
Lifting weights can be exhausting, especially when you’re starting out, but how
long you rest between repetitions can make a difference in how quickly your
fitness level improves. Try not to rest for more than 45 seconds between sets. This
will speed up your metabolism and burn more calories.
59Black & White
60 March 7-20, 2011
Psy
che
60 March 7-20, 2011
61Black & White
anymore!
Don’t be
EMBARRASSEDSOMETIMES OUR BODY refuses
to cooperate. Especially when we
need it to cooperate with us the most!
It could be a sudden expelling of
gas, a hiccups attack, an overactive
bladder, and a belch you just
can’t swallow, to ill-timed yawns,
excessive sweating... life does not
get any worse than this. But if you
think you are the only one afflicted
with such problems, think again, it’s
more common than you think. And
there are ways to avoid such bodily
embarrassments:
BLADDER LEAKS
For some, it happens when they
sneeze, for others when they laugh
or cough, or when they exercise.
Small, small uncontrollable leaks
called urinary incontinence can
cause extreme embarrassment.
Known as stress incontinence, it’s
the most common type of bladder
control problem in women. Another
type, called urge incontinence or
overactive bladder, happens when
you have a strong need to urinate but
can’t reach the toilet in time. It is said
that every woman who has given
birth to at least one baby is going
to suffer some urinary incontinence
problems – it is almost unavoidable.
But, all is not lost. Here is what you
could do:
If you have an incontinence
problem, there are exercises
designed to tighten bladder muscles
that control the flow. These include
Kegel exercises that strengthen the
pelvic floor and bladder training --
stopping your urine flow mid-stream
every time you go to the bathroom.
Try to learn how to just stop it and
release it several times; this will
help build the muscle that controls
urination. You can also try emptying
your bladder before engaging in
activities that might bring on a leak,
such as exercising or dancing.
Experts note that you should avoid
coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate if
you’re going to be away from home
and a bathroom and also if you
know you have this problem, even
occasionally, make sure you wear
underwear, and carry an extra pair,
just in case.
BURPS, HICCUPS, AND GROWLS
It is a make it or lose it business
presentation that you have to make.
Just as you are about to begin it, a
loud growl is heard throughout the
conference room. You and the rest
of the people are as shocked as one
can be when confronting a beast like
that.
Something that makes horrible
sounds like that has to be a
beast right? Right? Well, you are
speechless as you look everywhere
for the culprit and realise that is none
other than your stomach!
Okay, now that is a beast from the
stomach, but what happens when
another ugly creature escapes from
the confines of your own mouth?
Yes, we speak of another monster
called the belch or that series of
monsters called the hiccups.
Belches and growls are usually due
to gassy foods; hiccupping is the
result of an irritation to the diaphragm
which can also be made worse by
gassy foods, medical experts note,
adding that anxiety can magnify the
problem.
Burping and hiccupping can come
on when you swallow a lot of air,
and that’s very common when we’re
anxious. If you’re a person who sighs
a lot, then you probably swallow air
when you’re anxious.
What can you do about it? Well,
the simplest form of defense is to cut
down on gassy foods in the hours
previous to when you want to be at
your best. These include cruciferous
vegetables like cabbage and
broccoli, beans, and for some folks,
dairy products and fried foods.
Drinking more water also helps. The
GI tract is more likely to spasm when
it’s dry, so keeping well hydrated
reduces the likelihood of hiccups,
burps, and nervous coughs.
EXCESSIVE SWEATING
It is but natural for many: when the
heat is on, you break into a sweat.
For some, just a bit of stress is all
that is required to make you drip.
There are some people who actually
have a problem with overactive
sweat glands, but for the most part,
excessive sweating that occurs
only in certain situations is all about
stress.
A by-product of stress hormones
such as cortisol, epinephrine, and
norepinephrine, nervous sweating
is a reflection of sympathetic nerve
discharge -- a manifestation of the
fight-or-flight response that kicks in
when we’re anxious.
But even sweat problems have
solutions: Let us learn to condition
ourselves ahead of time for facing
stressful situations. It’s a matter of
brain retraining. Gradually expose
yourself to the nervous situation, and
eventually your body won’t respond
as if you’re in danger. And if those
slick ads are true, well, the easiest
way to prevent excessive sweating
is simply to try an antiperspirant
deodorant. What do you say?
61Black & White
There is someone in our living room, madam!
The call from my maid was not eerie, but
definitely funny.
The first thing that came to the mind was that it
could be a burglar.
Man or woman? I queried.
I am not sure madam, but I think it is a ghost,
she declared.
Now it definitely sound funny for me, I laughed
But, my maid was pretty sure of her statement.
Can you please come home early tonight? I
didn’t want to ridicule her, so I agreed.
The night when I reached home, she went on
to explain the full story.
Every evening, there is this presence in the
living room, someone just moves around,
actually fleets past through the sliding glass
section and she pointed it out to me.
I have been living in this apartment for over
six years and I have never felt anything
supernatural.
But, how do you know it is a ghost? Ghosts
don’t loiter around as they wish; I tried to
convince her that ghosts don’t exist. But, her
mind was made up.
She said she was watching the television
and every time she turned her head, she saw
someone fleet past by. She went on to tell me
stories of her village where many have seen
ghosts in person.
All said and done, I promised her to keep a
watch; maybe, just maybe, ghosts do exist.
I convinced my maid that I am going to get rid
of the ghost and told her that ghosts generally
don’t harm good souls; it could be an angel,
guarding us all!
All of us hold on to our own beliefs and I
believe in guardian angels!
She was hooked. She believed the story and
slept well that night.
Let us clean up the living room and reset it, I
suggested. The hall was reset and everything
looked normal. And I jotted it down on my
fridge for Friday, ‘keep a watch for ghosts at
night/evenings”
I did and there weren't any ghostly visitors last
Friday. Maybe it was a day out for the visiting
ghost!
Two weeks have passed by and I still could
not spot anything.
Last week, while I was watching a movie and
well, I saw a fleeting shadow; unmistakably
something flashed past. It is all in my head,
my mind said. Your mind only believes what it
wants to, in fact your eyes see one thing, and
your mind believes another. Aren’t we all in
some way creating our realities in alignment
with our most dominant beliefs?
Suddenly the interest to watch the movie
fizzled out and here I was actually watching
out for any shadows through the corner of my
eye!
I changed positions, but, in a couple of hours
I saw many fleeting shadows. I pull up the
shades, and sat again watching over the
ghosts and angels of my room. This time the
fleeting shadow turned out to be a flashing
light! Flashing headlights of a car, turning at
the corner junction!
Every time a car turned in to our road, its
headlights flashed on to my window glass. My
home is located on a slope, right above the
corner! Caught the ghost finally!
For a moment, I did believe there was
someone in the room. It is true, we definitely
are the sum total of our experiences. It is the
emotions which are tied to these memories
that affect us. The conscious mind of course,
is the seat of our rational mind, but the
unconscious is the seat of our emotions, or
feelings. I believe when there’s a conflict
between our intellect and our emotions, our
emotions always win! Mine almost did. My
maid still believes it is something else, but
she is 90 per cent convinced that the car
headlights played the culprit. She prays a little
extra now, and lights up a few extra candles
too… ha!
By Priya Arunkumar
priya@blackandwhiteoman.comHooked
Of ghosts and angels
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