Black & White mag 22

Vol.1 Issue 22II October 7-20, 2010 Shawwal 28-Dh-Qaida 12

Round the world on a thumb p10 Do you have ADHD? p16 Tell your doctor everything p54

FREE Fortnightly

www.blackandwhiteoman.com

Who ate my Shuwa? p28

MADE IN JAPAN

October 21, 2010 @ 8pm

Featuring Hema Malini, Esha Deol & Ahana Deol

Parampara – a classical dance presentation in Odissi and Bharatnatyam featuring India’s ‘Dream Girl’, Bollywood actress Hema Malini and her two lovely daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol, paying homage to womanhood and traditions…

Venue: Oman Auditorium, Al Bustan Palace Hotel

N V LZ

Major Sponsors:

Travel Partners:

Black & White presents

Dance for a cause In support of: Mobile Mammography Unit & Home Away from Home initiative

More details: 24565697/98675976, blackandwhiteoman@gmail.com Black & White 5

Tilapia production brings in millions Your cover story (issue 21) was right. Pond-raised Tilapia is viewed as one of the fastest-growing fish industries in recent years.

At least two decades ago, this type of farming was virtually unheard of. But, today, tilapia production brings in millions of dollars in income for fish farmers in the U.S alone. Tilapia holds several advantages for commercial production as it is a hardy fish, highly resistant to many diseases and infections that commonly strike other fish populations. They are also excellent breeders and grow fast on relatively small, diverse food supplies. The most important element for successfully raising tilapia is proper environment and I am sure that Mr Hilal Al Rawahi’s main success in tilapia farming is this important factor.

Oliver Hackson, Al Khuwair

Stress-free fish hobby I am not too fond of fish farming, but I love aquariums and the varieties of fish grown in them. I have about three to four large aquariums and two cement tanks back home in India. But, here I have only one large aquarium and I love it – whenever I get free time, I arrange the tanks, clean them and add more attractions in it.

It is such a peaceful, stress-free task.

Shafeeque M, Qurum

Great fan of DanZak Wow, it is great to read about DanZak (issue 21). I am a great fan of DanZak and my favourite songs of his are: Wifey and She Wants Cash!

Mubarak K. R., Al Khuwair

6 September 21-October 6, 2010 October 7-20, 2010

11,001 fans for DanZak I am a fan of DanZak, but I never knew that he had 11,000 fans on Facebook! That is just great! May his fan base ever rise and good luck to him for all his future shows.

We will be there for him!

Anis Abdullah, Muscat

- Mechanical Engineering - Process Engineering

A story of success I am interested to know more about Taoun, the volunteers bank, which will be organised by Oman Sablat. If expatriates are interested in volunteering, how should they go about it and whom should they approach? Should we directly approach Oman Sablat? I guess, that is what is said in the article (issue 21).

I have been volunteering my services since the last many years and I was active during the times when turbulent weather conditions hit Oman. I think I can not only volunteer but also encourage others to volunteer too. I hope that this venture is a serious, deserving one and will benefit Oman. Let us hope Taoun turns out to achieve what it sets out to do and let it be a story of success.

Good luck to them and I am sure many like-minded people will be part of this noble venture!

N. Murthy, Ruwi

- Applied Geosciences - Urban Planning and Architectural Design - Sustainable Tourism and Regional Development - Applied Information Technology

Need of the hour!

Taoun, the volunteers bank, is the need of the hour. Congrats Oman Sablat! That is an excellent move and also all power to you Black & White for highlighting such relevant stories!

Keep up the good work!

K. Touqi, Al Hail.

- Integrated Urban Planning - Petroleum Geoscience E-mail: admissions@gutech.edu.om Website: www.gutech.edu.om Tel: 24493051 Mobile: 96160205 / 99844896 Working hours:

Mail your views and opinions at editor@blackandwhiteoman.com

Black & White 7

Sat -Wed: 8 am to 6 pm Thu: 9 am to 1 pm

Xclusive

Who ate my Shuwa? is an essential part of Eid Al 30 Shuwa Fitr and it is a typical Omani family style meal. Not only the ceremony around the opening of the pit (after the meat is thrown in), but eating the delicious food itself is a moment to cherish

Cover Photo: Najib Al Balushi

Round the world on a thumb

Some quick takes to build energy

10

say that increasing physical 14 Experts activity -- particularly walking --

Pierre Alban Fulchiron is an innocent young, uncorrupt man who is driven by just one passion: to travel across the world.

And his modus operandi of sticking out a thumb and plastering a large smile on his face has worked so far

increases energy. For walking, you don’t need training or equipment and you can do it anywhere

Six super foods every women needs are six super foods that will 58 Here help supplement women with

Contents

vitamins and minerals

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 8 October 7-20,Muscat, 2010 Oman Printed at Mazoon,

BPA Consumer Audit applied for December 2009

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

Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali Priya Arunkumar Adarsh Madhavan Beneek Siraj Najib Al Balushi S M Azeiez, Ali Al Raisi Swithun Fernandes

All about X, Y & Z

Who reads on FRIDAYS?

By Adarsh Madhavan

I remember the grand discussions many of my seniors used to have during my daily newspaper days.

Nobody reads on Fridays, some would say.

Bull – Awowed Friday readers would counter. A weekend offers better opportunities for us and many like us do read.

C’mon, what do you read? Maybe romance novels, but not newspapers…

We do, the pro Friday readers held on adamantly.

Oh yeah, what newspapers do you have on Weekends, especially on a Friday (note: at that time, there were no daily English newspapers coming out on a Friday)?

The Read-Friday faction defended their stance and began to reel off the names of other regional English dailies.

Pah, we meant local dailies, the Don’t-Read-on-Fridays faction countered.

Silence, followed by the statement that: well, if the newspapers come out, rest assured there are readers. We are there!

FACTS ARE FACTS Pah, go fly a kite! Well, the fact remains that the English dailies have come out with Friday editions and whether they are successful or not is unknown, but then facts are facts.

They have come out on Fridays and yes, there are readers, even if they happen to be only a handful. But, is there a real market? One wonders…

Which is what makes us wonder what happens during holidays, especially long holidays like the ones we recently enjoyed? What happens then? Who reads during holidays?

Who buys newspapers or who buys magazines? Is there a market for publications during holidays and should all publications be given free to bring about the reading habit among the public out there?

NO ONE READS DURING HOLIDAYS Weekends are time when the families get together and adults have their children with them and that is strictly family time, which they all enjoy together. Who has got the time to

read, especially boring newspapers and even more boring magazines?

And during holidays…well, during holidays, who will READ? Most are out of town; others have gone to the interiors to their villages, to be with their families and a few straggling lot are here…who, apparently are equally preoccupied with their own holiday plans or the lack of it to even think about reading (and that too reading newspapers and magazines!).

LIFE IS DEAD So, life is decidedly dead on the reading lane during holidays, especially like the recently concluded long ones.

Forget about reading. Just think how regular publications come out during holidays. For, who will put ads during the holidays save for the ones who have something topical during these days?

Ads, what ads, please don’t ask us for ads during the holidays, we will not put any ads during the holidays, even loyal and regular advertisers admonish us or doleful media sales staff who get an earful from their bosses after they trudge back empty handed from unsuccessful client visits.

It is indeed a bleak scene in the media ad segment during the holidays, so much so some of them take off on vacations during this dry month, just to escape the er ‘heat’. Yes, ads are there during the start of the holidays, but during the period itself, ads dry up and this is a very bad scene for the regular magazines in Oman. Most of them come out with dummy ads and have to wait for a lucrative season to plug the holes made during the dry holiday spell.

Life gets tough for media folks here, but unlike the adage, we don’t get any tougher or wiser.

Just older. editor@blackandwhiteoman.com

Black & White 9

ROUND THE WORLD on a thumb (and a large smile) What do you give a man who does not want anything?

He does not want money; he is not bothered about a roof above his head or a shelter; he is not worried about his next meal...

If he gets food, he eats; if he is not hungry, he does not even bother to eat. When he is tired, he sleeps in a corner of the beach, or a park, or even on a bench. He washes himself in the sea. If he wants to reach somewhere, he walks. When he gets tired, he sticks his thumb out and sports an innocent smile. If he is lucky, someone stops and if his luck is really good, the motorist may even drop him to his immediate destination. And then he walks again, until‌ The above description might fit a hermit or a hobo.

Pierre Alban Fulchiron, 26, a French national, is neither. He is just an innocent young, singularly uncorrupt man who is driven by just one motive; one passion: to travel across the world.

And his modus operandi of sticking out a thumb and plastering a large smile on his face has worked so far. He has been doing that for the last four months since he trekked out of his hometown in Lyon, the third largest city in France, in May this year.

He is jobless, almost penniless, but he is not a drifter. He has a post graduate degree in business development and finance management and he has worked in China. But, job dissatisfaction made him move and unlike others who trudged on even when they did not like their Playground

job, Pierre simply took the road less travelled by.

10 October 7-20, 2010

Black & White 11

JUST MOVED FORWARD, NEVER LOOKED BACK “I was disillusioned and wanted to be free from all limitations of being in a job that brought me no satisfaction,” he tells Black & White in a recent freewheeling chat.

He loved to travel and wanted to see the world, and so, without much ado, he plunged into his path. “I just moved forward. I did not look back.

I just filled a backpack with some clothes and 400 Euros in my pocket, left France in the direction of Asia.”

When I was in Iran, I got a message from my friend inviting me to an international trekking camp in Nepal in October. I checked around and realised that it was easier to reach the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and from there I understand it was easier to get to Nepal, via India through Oman and so I am here now

His first stop was in Germany, and then he hitchhiked across Austria, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey and Iran. He lost around 200 Euros in Iran, but then he managed get support from some friendly officials there.

“When I was in Iran, I got a message from my friend inviting me to an international trekking camp in Nepal in October. I checked around and realised that it is easier to reach the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and from there I understand it is easier to get to Nepal, via India through Oman and so I am here now.”

He has been in constant contact with the shipping agencies here to help him reach India. “I have obtained my visa, but am just waiting for a boat to take me; I hope to travel soon!”

In life one has to expect the unexpected and so, wasn’t he scared of the unknown and the unexpected? Wasn’t he scared of sleeping alone in beaches and wasn’t he worried that he might not find food one day?

“I have had some stray incidences but, I have taken all of them in my stride,” Pierre said, noting how in one country, he was accosted while he was sleeping and told to give all his money. “But, when the poor man realised that I did not have anything to give him, he just let me go,” Pierre says, chuckling.

“I would say that Pierre is a bit naïve -- although I mean it in the most positive way,” chipped in Florence Mazni-Quillerier – a well-known French fitness expert in town, who has made efforts to facilitate an easy and comfortable stay for Pierre here after she found out that he was sleeping in the beach and parks since his visit here.

EXPERIENCES GALORE For Pierre, each and every day of his travel is one big adventure. “Life should be an adventure, an exploration. I have lived many lives in the past few months, meeting a great number of people.

My hitchhiking trek has helped me meet many people of different sizes, colour and languages. There are days when I used to be so low that I just wanted to stop everything and return back home (to France). But, it was in the initial days and it soon got over.

Playground

“I met many wonderful people everywhere I went. I met many smiling, cheering, inquisitive, probing and suspicious, intriguing, even a few dangerous ones. I learnt to be patient, cheerful, content, and mostly free. I could sleep in a beach or a park; I could eat or not eat.

12 October 7-20, 2010

I had choices and I had freedom. I was away from all deadlines and limitations. I could smile and be friendly with everyone. I have learnt the most important lessons of life from my travel, from the people I met, those who helped me, offered me solutions, food and assisted me in my hitchhiking.”

THE HITCHHIKING PHILOSOPHER The journey has made Pierre into a mini philosopher of sorts. “Good life is in your hands, and when you win over the fear of the unknown, you will win over a majority of your fears and problems. Travel has made me more spiritual and content,” Pierre said.

MONEY IS NOTHING Life is easy, only if you chose it to be, he adds. “We load our lives with unwanted expectations, goals, and deadlines. Money is not everything; or rather I should say money is nothing, if you don’t have any wants, what can money buy?”

WORLD IS A UNIVERSITY Whatever course you take, no education gives you the practical handson learning experience that you get while travelling. “The world is a university you have to register with and learn. No classes, no tutors can teach you what the world can. Money becomes a focus when your need grows, and then along comes stress, anxiety and limitations. When you let yourself from all that which limits you and you go with the flow, you will learn much more than in any classroom,” Pierre said.

GET USED TO THE UNKNOWN When you get used to the unknown and accept life as it is, at the end of the road you will find more possibilities and opportunities. “When I started my hitchhiking trip, that is what I had in mind, maybe I might get an idea that I would fall in love with and that could be my life path… maybe, just maybe, life will take you forward,” Pierre said optimistically.

He also noted how travelling had brought him closer to God in a more spiritual way than before. “I believe in God and prayers, I see God in every person and living being that I meet, and in every person that helps me go forward!”

QUOTABLE QUOTES OF FRENCH HITCHHIKER PIERRE: “Just move forward – don’t look back!”

“Don’t eat if you are not hungry.”

“There is more to life than worrying about money.”

“The world is the best university.”

“Travelling is the biggest learning experience.”

“Money is not everything; money means nothing!”

“Money cannot buy you happiness.”

“What can money buy when you don’t want anything?”

“Don’t fear the unknown; fear nothing!”

“Travel and get more spiritual.”

“Free yourself from all limits.”

Black & White 13

Some quick takes to

BUILD ENERGY Low on energy? So, how do you get out of this state? Energy is a quintessential part of this highspeed world and so, how are we going to recharge our batteries when there is a constant drain on our resources?

Well, there are ways and means and here are some simple, time-tested ways: WALK AROUND THE BLOCK They say don’t exert yourself when you are tired/exhausted. But, don’t believe everything these people say for the reverse is true here.

Experts say that increasing physical activity -- particularly walking -increases energy. And, for walking, you don’t need training or equipment and you can do it anywhere.

A brisk 10-minute walk not only increased energy, but the effects lasted up to two hours. And when the daily 10-minute walks continued for three weeks, overall energy levels and mood were lifted.

GO ON, TAKE A POWER NAP Yes, go and take a power nap if you have an information overload and you have been pushing your brains too hard.

Just take a power nap, which is a short nap, usually between 10 and 30 minutes long. It will reinvigorate you for the next part of the day. Power naps are not like regular sleep, so you won’t be groggy after taking one. A power nap can not only reverse the mind-numbing effects of information overload, it may also help us to better retain what we have learned.

DON’T SKIP BREAKFAST Breakfast is the energy food for the day. It also puts you in a better mood.

Breakfast, many note, is the jolt of fuel that sets the tone for the whole day.

Also, bear in mind that missing any meal during the day leads to fatigue by the end of the day.

Men health

REDUCE STRESS AND DEAL WITH ANGER Are you stressed out? If you are, you are going to lose a lot of energy because stress is a big energy zapper.

Stress is the result of anxiety, and anxiety uses up a whole lot of our energy.

Like worry or fear, stress can leave you mentally and physically exhausted -- even if you’ve spent the day in bed.

Unexpressed anger can also expend all our energy trying to contain our angry feelings, and that can be exhausting.

14 October 7-20, 2010

Black & White 15

Do you have

A D H D?

Men health

By Antoinne Deloitte

I had a friend who was perennially anxious, had low self esteem, was not good at his work, was impulsive and forever temperamental, had major mood swings, was depressed and had problems with his family…

Is this typical of you too?

My friend had ADHD, or in other words, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Do you?

You would say no, but your child, or perhaps, your friend’s or your neighbour’s kid is diagnosed with ADHD and that it is a children’s disease.

16 October 7-20, 2010

Yes, ADHD is one of the most well-recognised childhood developmental problems. Such children are inattentive, hyperactive and impulsive. What many do not know is that these symptoms continue into adulthood for about 60 percent of children with ADHD.

to manage their symptoms, take advantage of their gifts, and lead productive and satisfying lives. You don’t necessarily need outside intervention—at least not right away. There is a lot you can do to help yourself and get your symptoms under control.

ADHD IN ADULTS Adults with ADHD may have difficulty following directions, remembering information, concentrating, organising tasks or completing work within time limits.

If these difficulties are not managed appropriately, they can cause associated behavioural, emotional, social, vocational and academic problems, experts note.

EXERCISE AND EAT RIGHT. Exercise vigorously and regularly—it helps work off excess energy and aggression in a positive way and soothes and calms the body. Eat a wide variety of healthy foods and limit sugary foods in order to even out mood swings.

The wide-reaching effects of ADD/ADHD can lead to embarrassment, frustration, hopelessness, disappointment, and loss of confidence. You may feel like you’ll never be able to get your life under control. That’s why a diagnosis of adult ADD/ADHD can be an enormous source of relief and hope. It helps you understand what you’re up against for the first time and realise that you’re not to blame. The difficulties you’ve had are symptoms of attention deficit disorder—not the result of personal weakness or a character flaw.

ADULT ADD/ADHD DOESN’T HAVE TO HOLD YOU BACK When you have ADD/ADHD, it’s easy to end up thinking that there’s something wrong with you. But it’s okay to be different. ADD/ADHD isn’t an indicator of intelligence or capability. Certain things may be more difficult for you, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find your niche and achieve success. The key is to find out what your strengths are and capitalise on them.

SELF-HELP FOR ADULT ADD/ADHD Armed with an understanding of ADD/ADHD’s challenges and the help of structured strategies, you can make real changes in your life. Many adults with attention deficit disorder have found meaningful ways

GET PLENTY OF SLEEP. When you’re tired, it’s even more difficult to focus, manage stress, stay productive, and keep on top of your responsibilities. Support yourself by getting between seven to eight hours of sleep every night.

PRACTICE BETTER TIME MANAGEMENT. Set deadlines for everything, even for seemingly small tasks. Use timers and alarms to stay on track. Take breaks at regular intervals. Avoid piles of paperwork or procrastination by dealing with each item as it comes in. Prioritise time-sensitive tasks and write down every assignment, message, or important thought.

WORK ON YOUR RELATIONSHIPS. Schedule activities with friends and keep your engagements.

Be vigilant in conversation: listen when others are speaking and try not to speak too quickly yourself. Cultivate relationships with people who are sympathetic and understanding of your struggles with ADD/ADHD. CREATE A SUPPORTIVE WORK ENVIRONMENT Make frequent use of lists, colour-coding, reminders, notes-to-self, rituals, and files. If possible, choose work that motivates and interests you. Notice how and when you work best and apply these conditions to your working environment as best you can. It can help to team up with less creative, more organised people—a partnership that can be mutually beneficial.

Men read

Power of the

18 October 7-20, 2010

INVENTOR THOMAS EDISON never went to bed and slept. He existed by taking several naps – cat naps, or what is today called the ‘power’ naps -throughout the day.

So, taking power naps fit nicely into his busy work schedule. Edison is credited with inventing the lightbulb, the tin foil photograph, and the Kinetoscope, just to mention a few of the more-than-onethousand patents he obtained during his lifetime. So power naps obviously helped fuel Edison’s creativity.

That does not mean we are all going to be Edisons just because we get power naps during office.

And, ‘napping in office’? You could even lose your job for such an indiscretion. But, researchers claim that ‘power napping’ (don’t confuse this with SWD or shift work disorder, wherein your body’s internal sleep-wake clock is out of sync with your work schedule) can help the office worker perform better.

Short periods of sleep have shown to improve alertness, memory, motor skills, decision-making, and mood. At the same time helping cut down on stress, carelessness, and even heart disease. With most of us averaging fewer than seven hours of sleep per night—and around 20 percent suffering from sleepiness during the day, some companies have turned to the humble nap in an attempt to stave off billions in lost productivity each year.

Today, companies in countries across the world are providing workplace perks like lactation rooms, gyms, and child-care facilities. Some top company workers now have access to nap-friendly ‘quiet rooms’ that can also be used for meditation.

Google, a forerunner in employee perks, has a number of futuristic napping pods scattered throughout its Mountain View (Calif.) campus.

Power naps are now being regarded by many as a necessity in the bustling world we live in. But the word “nap” still has a stigma clinging to it. If you take a nap, then you’re considered unproductive. So many power nappers are doing it, but they’re cat napping behind closed doors.

Cubicle workers are getting their 40 winks by escaping to the rest room, outside to their vehicle, or by inventing secret ways to get a little rest during their work days.

SOME DO’S AND DON’TS MAKE TIME AND SPACE All you need is a maximum of 20 to 30 minutes of napping. If you work straight shifts, the ideal period for a short nap is the second half of your lunch break.

Now, the question is where will you lean your tired head because the office desk may not be a viable option – if your office does not have a proper nap room, then you have to make sure that you find a suitable spot, or get a yoga mat, or better still, a parked car.

But, such a fad has not hit Oman. Many companies would clearly balk at the mere thought of offering power naps to their staff, primarily because companies do provide afternoon breaks, which include lunch and siesta time.

SET THE PROPER CONDITIONS In the dark our brains produce more of the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin, so close the blinds, turn off the lights, and consider using a sleeping mask. Keep the temperature on the warmer side. If you must nap sitting up, use a travel pillow to avoid the dreaded ‘nap nod’. And don’t forget to turn off your cell phone.

Yet, companies might benefit if short power naps are actually encouraged among the high-intense workers of top companies here.

CAREFUL WITH THE CHEMICALS Avoid caffeine for a few hours before a nap. The same goes for nicotine, diet pills, and antidepressants.

Black & White 19

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blackwhite Oman

By Adarsh Madhavan

My friend was furious. He had a flight to catch, but despite that, he gave me a ring from the airport. Hello, I said and he did not speak for a moment. Then he quietly said, “I read what you wrote in your last-to-last column.” Uh oh, I thought, and this time, I went quiet. God, why did he have to read it now? “Who do you think you are?” Why, what is wrong, I asked although I know exactly what had happened. “Don’t act so innocent, you are a big fake and a big liar and you know what…you will meet your prescribed destiny soon!”

And what is my destiny? “Well, you know. I don’t have to tell you,” he said ominously.

He did not have to remind me. Some months back, he had gone to an astrologer with my horoscope (because my mom told him to check out my future scene) and that fortune teller had sort of revealed my fortunes for the future or rather, the lack of it! Apparently, I was going to lose out in a big way in life and most importantly, in my finances too and the cash bubble was going to burst into smithereens in just a matter of time! The astrologer had said that chances were that I might even be out in the streets, come next January.

That would not be a good way to welcome the New Year, I had grimly thought at that time when my friend had revealed this to me. But, lately, as I see things happening for the worse, left, right and centre, I realise that the astrologer’s prophecy might just come true.

But, meantime, back to my fuming friend who was firing away his guns from the other end, his flight just some minutes away… I tried to find my way around from this phone mess, but without much success. Look, I was not talking about you in this piece, I told him. “Ha! Who else? With your behaviour, you don’t have any friends left, and even if there are, none of them will be foolish like me to come and advice you on your behaviour. What a lot of rot you have written!

“You have painted yourself as an angel sent from heaven to help the poor and the downtrodden while I have been portrayed as the devil incarnate. Anyone who reads your column and know both of us, will realise your ‘friend’ in the article is me, and when they understand that they will also visualise me as a mean, vicious and selfish man who would never ever help or assist anyone in distress.”

Off the wall

O

Out on the streets…?

f

he ft

wall

I did not write like that, I said, furiously trying to think if I had actually depicted him like that…

“Anyway, that is fine. But, you and I know who helps people the most and who is always around for the downtrodden, but, if I had advised you thus, it is only to make you realise that you are spiraling down a path of no return and it was my duty to inject some sense into you. But, then I have done more than my bit and enough is enough, I will never waste my time on you on anything.

“You will learn your lesson, anyway, when you are out in the streets, let us see whether your disease-ridden friends will come and bail you out?

“You know where you are heading and so I don’t have to repeat it here…”

Woah, hold on, there is no need to be bitter about all this, I said, trying to pacify him. I was in no way caricaturing you as some stingy scrooge.

It was just a way of writing; just highlighting some facts in a presentable way.

“Look, you write whatever rot you want to write about, but leave me out of it! And my final piece of advice is: open your eyes at least now! You know where you are going…” he said, cutting off the line.

I don’t know, I said to an empty receiver. And I don’t really believe that I am going to be so broke that I will be out in the streets in a matter of months. I don’t think an astrologer is going to chart out my life. I don’t think God is going to turn the tables on me in such a manner…I don’t think…

My lame words dully hit a silent wall and fell into more silence… adarsh@blackandwhiteoman.com

Black & White 21

Amouage launches Memoir Christopher Chong, Amouage creative director, launched the latest enigmatic Memoir fragrances for both man and woman recently at their flagship showroom at Sabco Commercial Centre.

Both bottles for man and woman are made of black glass crystal graduating from a dark to a lighter shade with silver metal caps accentuated by a multifaceted black Swarovski crystal. Memoir is presented in a silver-tone coffer with myriad shades of black to support the Black Swan feather motif and is available in 50ml and 100ml Eau de Parfum.

Bait Al Aqiq opens at Corniche

Omantel Ramadan charity campaign The charity campaign launched by Omantel during the Holy Month of Ramadan was met with great interest from all areas of the Omani society.

The campaign began before the start of the month of Ramadan with the distribution of food boxes to the needy and unfortunate families, in cooperation and coordination of Dar Al-Ataa Association, the ministry of social development, the Omani Women Societies and Al-Wafa Philanthropic Centers. The campaign continued over the month of Ramadan and was concluded with Omantel staff visiting hospitalised children in various hospitals.

Senior manager of events and sponsorship at Omantel Hamdan bin Moosa Al-Harasi said, “Omantel established a partnership with Dar Al-Ataa to help limited income families enjoy the spiritual moments of the Holy Month. The company shouldered the cost of distributing food boxes to 1200 needy families."

A new outlet on precious stones and gems opened at Corniche recently. The shop has a variety of beads from pebble to crystals, shells to pearls, and metals to silver, natural to manmade and common to unique. Customers can come in and design their own jewellery as per their choice. The jewellery can also be custom made. The designs are never repeated or copied. More details: legionintlllc@gmail.com

Month-long international food festival at all Spicy Village outlets

Wordpress

The Spicy Village chain of restaurants is hosting an international food festival this month (October), and each outlet will showcase a different kind of cuisine. Scribes and other invited guests were invited to a sample of the fest, recently at their Rusayl outlet. The festival will be held at all Spicy Village outlets in Rusayl (barbecue menu), Sur (sea food), Nizwa(South Indian fare), Sohar (Bengali) and also at their Al Khuwair (Chinese) outlet.

Also, guests whose bills exceed OMR15 get a coupon for OMR3, which they can redeem at their next visit! This promotion is valid at any Spicy Village outlet, throughout October.

22 October 7-20, 2010

Wordpress

International Higher Education in Muscat The German University of Technology in Oman (GUtech) offers students in the Gulf region excellent higher education according to international standards. “All our BSc programmes are internationally accredited.

The high quality of all programmes ensures that GUtech graduates will be prepared for a successful professional career. Our students will be competitive in the international job market and they will be able to pursue a career in the Gulf or anywhere else in the world,” said Professor Dr Burkhard Rauhut, Rector at GUtech and former Rector at RWTH Aachen University – one of the top universities of technology in Europe and GUtech’s German parent university.

The language of instruction at GUtech is English, German is taught as an additional language. The university offers a pre-university programme and four Bachelor of Science programmes in Sustainable Tourism and Regional Management, Applied Information Technology, Applied Geosciences as well as in Urban Planning and Architectural Design. All Bachelor programmes are full-time courses.

Moreover, this year the university has introduced a Pre-University programme for two Bachelor of Engineering programmes in Process Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. In addition, two part-time Master’s programmes in Integrated Urban Planning and in Petroleum Geoscience will start at the beginning of next year.

Contact: admissions@gutech. edu.om or 24493051

Dining experiences at

The Chedi Muscat Embark on a culinary journey of irresistible dining and entertainment pleasures at The Chedi Muscat. Whether you are in the mood for a fine dining experience with only the very best seafood and crustaceans or an evening outdoors whilst enjoying traditional Arabic grilled dishes with soft live Oud music playing in the background or just a relaxed tapas dinner by The Chedi Pool, you will find it all at The Chedi Muscat.

The Beach Restaurant has opened its doors from September 8 and is open for dinner every evening from 7pm to 10.30pm. A full spectrum traditional Arabic dining experience is available at the Arabian Courtyard.

Christopher Girsch, food & beverage manager at The Chedi Muscat said, “The choice of dining and entertainment options available at The Chedi Muscat is truly spectacular.”

Joyalukkas named Retail Chain of 2010!

Joyalukkas was named the Retail chain of the year at the Retail Jeweller India Awards recently. The Chairman of the Joyalukkas group accepted the award.

Photo: Joyalukkas Group chairman Joy Alukkas with the RETAIL CHAIN OF THE YEAR AWARD at the presentation ceremony of Retail jeweller India Awards 2010.

Also seen Rupak Sen, head of marketing, Gem fields & Asia Pacific and Shailesh Sangani, managing director, Priority Jewels

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Fil Khidma – Oman Arab Bank's new call centre Oman Arab Bank recently inaugurated its new call centre under the name ‘Fil Khidma’. Abdul Qader Askalan, chief executive officer of the bank officially opened the new call centre in the presence of the senior management of the bank.

After the inauguration ceremony, the Ceo was taken on a visit of the

call centre premises and was also provided with an overview of the new technologies that the customers will now be able to enjoy.

‘Fil Khidma’ will serve as the bank’s central communication link to provide timely and consistent handling of customer needs through its dedicated and highly trained

team assisting customers in a professional, knowledgeable and responsible manner. The stateof-the-art call centre provides personalised customer support to all of OAB customers. By simply dialing 24754444, customers will access a broad range of the best banking services from multi lingual staff.

Wordpress

Nawras IPO opens for subscription Nawras, recently announced that its initial public offering (IPO) is now open for subscription.

The IPO of 40 per cent of Nawras’ total share capital is open to Omani and non-Omani individuals and institutional investors and will close for subscription on October 14, 2010.

Following the listing of Nawras on the Muscat Securities Market, expected to be on October 27, the shares will trade on the ticker ‘nwrs’.

Nawras also launched a dedicated IPO website. The web site, at www.nawrasipo.com, contains detailed information about Nawras, the IPO and how to subscribe.

It can also be accessed to download a copy of the IPO prospectus.

Commenting on the IPO’s launch, Ross Cormack, the Chief Executive Officer of Nawras, said, “This is the moment when our customers 24 October 7-20, 2010

and investors across the Sultanate and internationally will have the opportunity to share in our future through participation in our IPO. Our focus on improving communication in Oman for the past five years has seen us successfully grow our business through offering our customers pleasingly different mobile, fixed line and broadband services.

Now is the right time for us to welcome new investors to participate in this true Omani success story.”

The IPO, Oman’s first since July 2008, is expected to value Nawras at between OMR 456 million and OMR 586 million.

The price range for the company’s shares will be set at Bzs 702 to Bzs 902 which includes an issue expense of Bzs 2. The IPO is expected to raise between OMR 182 million and OMR 234 million for the selling shareholders.

Howard Jones and Pat Sharp live in Muscat

ALIVE Entertainment and HiFM is organising a big 80s party night featuring huge 80s icon Howard Jones and his band, together with DJ and TV, Radio Host Pat Sharp for one night only in the Intercontinental Gardens on October 7.

Tickets are available at the Intercontinental Box Office, OUA in MQ and Bose in Qurum City Centre. For further information log onto www.hifmradio.com or call 95555699.

Khimji’s Mart Marhaba Ramadan Khimji’s Mart has brought together yet another unique SMS promotion coined 'Marhaba Ramadan' during Ramadan. Buyers had to just send the correct SMS to 90018 and win prizes worth up to RO 8000.

The SMS promotion revolves around the Ramadan theme; based on a quiz format. One winning entry on a daily basis will get a gift hamper.

Fourteen winners have been announced thus far.

The mega lucky winner selected out of all the correct entries received throughout the promotion period will drive home the grand prize “Nissan Altima” at the end of the promotion. Madhu Nambiar, general manager, CPG retail, Khimji Ramdas said, “Khimji’s Mart Marhaba Ramadan, SMS Quiz Contest is a true infotainment programme that will appeal to a large audience.

Nando’s Oman reopens with new gourmet chicken menu

Mazda ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’ Mazda Motor Corporation announced Mazda’s new design theme, ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’, and the design concept model, Mazda SHINARI, a pure expression of this new theme.

Since launching its first passenger car, the Mazda R360 Coupe, exactly 50 years ago, Mazda has spent many years exploring the concept of ‘motion,’ offering customers designs that are exciting both to view and to drive.

In particular, since the launch of the Zoom-Zoom brand message, Mazda has pursued the concept of more athletic and sporty motion, and has adopted dynamic designs for all Mazda models starting with the Mazda6 and followed by the RX-8 and the Mazda2.

In recent years, this motion-based design has been further extended to incorporate the theme of ‘motion inspired by nature’, embodied in the Mazda NAGARE concept car series and the all-new Mazda5.

Nando’s reopened its sole and flagship outlet in Al Qurum Complex following a three-month hiatus. The restaurant is now fully operational and prepared to serve customers across the capital its famous signature dishes after it was forced to close operations for refurbishment due to unforeseen weather conditions.

To coincide with the opening, Nando’s has introduced an exclusive range of new gourmet burgers especially designed by the restaurant’s master chefs from its home of origin Johannesburg, South Africa. On the occasion, partner and managing director of Bin Mirza International, Hani bin Ali Mirza said, “Nando’s has triumphantly returned with its rich Afro-Portuguese cuisine and global culinary heritage and to mark our opening, we have introduced a new selection of Gourmet Chicken Burgers to our growing menu that will cater to burger aficionados and enrich our casual dining experience.”

Seafood promotion at RBG The RBG Grill restaurant at the Park Inn Muscat will host a special week (September 15 to 24) offering the finest seafood. A four-course set menu will feature the best of the ocean cooked to culinary perfection by the expert chefs at the restaurant.

“Everyone with a passion for seafood should book in to savour the full delight of this gourmet seafood meal,” said Sandeep Kamal, executive chef. “It will only be available at dinner time from 7 pm onwards so it will be a time bound and exclusive affair,” he added.

Black & White 25

Taking the right decision?

Dr Anchan C.K, Ceo, Towell-take solutions

By Dr CK Anchan

Management talk

There have always been choices. In today’s life have so many choices for anything and everything. Every aspect has become more challenging; people are forced or are influenced to take decisions.

It is getting more complex and competitive have began to influence even the family life of individuals. Today we live a life where a decision has to be made where will be the child be born, the hospital, the locality, the country and so on...

It’s fantastic to have two or more brilliant choices ahead of you. Sometimes you have a choice between something ’safe’ and something which ‘can be great’.

Sometimes it’s a short-term over a longterm choice. If you’re making these decisions when you’re young it’s almost impossible to predict outcomes.

No one wants to be wrong after taking a decision. It is often found that people have trouble with making choices as they hate being wrong. As they are afraid of the consequences of making wrong decisions.

How do they know that they have truly found what they prefer, suppose they find something else is better and its too late?

Some people have trouble in setting priorities, which has a huge impact in their decision making process, to them every choice looks the same and there is no way to tell what makes one better than the other. Which certainly results in poor judgement.

Making decisions sometimes means making a commitment to a choice and sticking with it, but often there is an opportunity to find out something new, either about oneself, or about another person or topic. Having an opportunity to find out something can make decisions fun.

Most people get used to thinking of what 26 October 7-20, 2010

they like. Soon, many things become habit.

The best advice is to cover all bases and make sure you have a alternative 'Plan B' in case 'Plan A' doesn’t work out. It’s good to seek advice in these situations, and to get support. But it’s important to choose a confidante who is objective and constructive, not someone who will impose their opinions on you or tell you what to do.

While we know that we should follow our passions, sometimes we come into situations where different passions conflict with each other and make it difficult to decide. In such cases, we should go where our passions unify.

You are facing the journey of life, which will see you change your world view countless times, and take you down all sorts of different paths - all of which will add to your wide experience of life and development of wisdom.

Look at the events in your life, especially the recent ones. Can you see certain patterns in the events? Can you see where they are pointing to? The events that happen in your life often give you clues of the way to go.

Sometimes the events in our life give us a unique opportunity. They may open a door which normally wouldn’t. You might fail, but the important thing is to give it a try.

You can always learn from failure. Perfect situations will never come. There will always be something that makes you want to wait again; your time is limited, so don’t waste it by not doing or attempting.

People who dare to take risk and be different are those who will change the world. They are the history makers.

Don’t waste precious time. Expect to be successful at whatever you do. Wishing you all the best!

In Black & White

In Black...

Shuwa is an exclusive Omani dish, cooked in a traditional way since hundreds of years. It is a tradition that has to be passed on to our future generation Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali Editor-in-chief EID WITHOUT SHUWA IS INCOMPLETE They say that Eid without Shuwa is incomplete.

There was a time when I did not know much about it. As a young boy, I never used to understand the significance of this black meat, which elders in my family used to bring home every Eid. I remember someone casually telling me that it was Shuwa but the significance of it was lost on me, except for the fact that it had an unusually good taste.

Then, I slowly learnt about Shuwa and I was fascinated by it, especially when I saw for the first time how it was cooked.

When the packed Shuwa bags are placed in the clay oven underground and tightly closed, it is cooked slowly and fully in 360 degrees, like in a pressure cooker. Normally, any cooking is done with a source of fire from one direction, here it is all sides as it is buried in a clay oven with hot coal beneath and tightly closed with a lid from a top.

MAJOR FESTIVAL The preparation for Shuwa is like a major festival.

Friends, relatives and families join together to marinate and pack the meat, and then again to put in to the underground ovens. After 24 hours, it is again a celebration time when it is taken out. As they say, Eid without Shuwa is incomplete. Now, I am an expert at explaining at length to anyone about Shuwa.

But, one doubt always lingers: why was it always cooked beneath the ground? It could be because there will not be such a big oven to fit all the meat thrown in. Shuwa meat is not a singular or solo affair where one packet of meat is thrown in; it

involved many families and in other words, many meat packets. Which oven will fit in all of these meat packets, so the option would have been to dig a large hole and make an underground clay oven -- that is my theory!

A TRADITION TO BE PRESERVED Shuwa is an exclusive Omani dish, cooked in a traditional way since hundreds of years. It is a tradition that has to be passed on to our future generation and my humble request to all is to let us all join together to preserve this tradition.

Let it not die out in the sweep of modernity that is soaking into our lifestyles. I have noticed that Shuwa is still prepared in befitting tradition in the interiors and villages, while in Muscat region this is hardly the scene. Maybe it could be due to lack of space; the number of high rise buildings that has taken away the space for a Shuwa oven or plain lethargy.

SHUWA IN THE DESERT In my desert crossing trips, I have a good team of friends who keeps this Shuwa tradition alive in the truest sense.

Although we cook Shuwa in vessels, it is traditionally marinated and packed with herbs and banana leaves.

Though it is not cooked underground, my team cooks it in a unique manner and it gives our foreign tourists a taste of the authentic Omani Shuwa.

& White Black & White 27

B&W Xclusive 28 October 7-20, 2010

Who ate my

SHUWA?

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B&W Xclusive 30 October 7-20, 2010

LIGHT WAS FADING AS some young Omanis hauled heavy sacks and tins on a pickup and silently drove it to a clearing next to their homes one recent evening.

They stopped before two large smouldering ovens (some eight to 10 feet deep) and then as quietly heaved the sacks and tins and threw them one by one, in singular fashion, into the glowing red-hot pits. As many as 20 sacks (and tins) were thrown in. Sometimes one pit alone will have around 20 to 40 of these sacks and tins, some of the bystanders tell us.

We were in Sumail Al Ma’abar and witness to a yearly Eid ritual. Tightly packed in the sacks and tins was the meat of goat or cow.

And as many, including elderly members of the families of the young Omanis involved in this task, watched the proceedings, the youngsters dragged heavy lids over the two underground clay ovens and shut it tight, so tight that even a drag of smoke would not be able to escape.

Just to ensure that it was airtight, the youngsters covered the lids with a thick layer of earth and gravel. This final insulation was to extinguish the fire while retaining the heat.

The meat is then left in the pit to cook very slowly for 24 hours or more. The result is a deliciously spicy, succulent roast, which is served hot on a very large communal platter.

But, even after the task was complete, some of those who had gathered around were reluctant to leave the spot. In a quiet and

Eager boys bring in the meat (goat heads) on a plate

respectable way the juniors as well as the senior members of many Omani families celebrated the successful completion of their task with silent, swift smiles and little animated talk.

Then they moved on, went back to their homes, some just yards away and others distances away. They will not return until late next afternoon.

Traditionally, some are known to keep the meat in the pit for as long as 24 to 36 hours or two days.

EID INCOMPLETE SANS SHUWA “Eid Al Fitr is incomplete without the Shuwa (pit-roasted meat),” exclaimed Tawfiq Faraj Al Khalili, a retired member of the Royal Oman Police (ROP) who was supervising his son and nephews engaged in the task of putting the meat sacks and containers into the fiery clay ovens.

“The Shuwa is an essential part of Eid Al Fitr and it is a typical Omani family style meal. Not only the ceremony around the opening of the pit after the meat is thrown in, but eating the delicious food itself is a moment to cherish,” Tawfiq Al Khalili tells Black & White. Shuwa is usually eaten on the second or third day of Eid. ALL-MEN SHUWA EFFORT Tawfiq has been part of this ritual for the last 30 to 40 years and it is a tradition that has been passed on to him by his father and grandfather, which he will roundly pass on to his sons and grandsons. While women may assist in the preparation of the meat, right from slaughtering the goat to preparing the Shuwa and dumping it into the hot pit and taking it back, it is an all-men effort.

Black & White 31

TRADITION TO BE PASSED ON Earlier, he had told us about how they had prepared the meat for the Shuwa. “My mother had made the traditional spice mix for the Shuwa preparation. It was ready since morning; this special mix of spices differs according to different regions of Oman. It is used to marinate the meat. This dish takes lot of physical effort and it is the men who make the preparation. I learnt it from my father and I remember going with him to the grounds along with other family members and villagers to place our bag of Shuwa meat in the underground clay ovens.”

B&W Xclusive

One of the boys marinating the meat

ELABORATE PREPARATION The method of preparing Shuwa is elaborate. “The meat is marinated with red pepper, turmeric, coriander, cumin, cardamom, garlic and vinegar and then wrapped in sacks made of dry banana or palm leaves. Then, these sacks are then thrown into the hot oven, which is covered with a lid and sealed so that no smoke escapes. In some villages, the meat is cooked for 24 hours while in others it is believed that the meat tastes better after 48 hours. To make the meat extremely tender, it is impregnated with spices and herbs before cooking to give it a very distinct taste. It is usually served with rice,” Tawfiq explained.

32 October 7-20, 2010

GRAND EID CELEBRATIONS Omanis celebrate Eid in style.

With a unique heritage that reflects the authenticity of its people, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated in a grand way.

“The first day of Eid is a very important one for all of us, especially after one whole month of fasting.

Eid is an occasion to be together with our family members.

Homes are filled with children, ladies and elders and it may seem like a festival ground.

I would say it is a tough time for ladies, who would start to cook very early. When there are more crowds at home, the work increases too,” Tawfiq noted.

READY FOR SHUWA Tawfiq and his family had slaughtered a goat that morning and he had also shown us how they prepared and packed the meat. “It takes couple of hours. We need packing material. I am going to use a bag made out of palm leaves, woven together, and a thin metal lining for the outer cover. The meat after marinating in the spices will be placed in banana leaves and packed in the bag. We have two or three ovens at the grounds in Sumail Al Ma’abar and our family uses one huge oven.”

The wood used in the clay oven pit is from a tree called the ‘Sumr’, which is said to be ideal for Shuwa preparation. “It gives off a good smell and is ideal for the coal and heat required for cooking Shuwa,” Tawfiq said, adding that each family has a particular way of preparing the meat. The spice mix would be common.

The men are basically in charge of making the Shuwa right from the preparation, packing and dumping of the meat sacks into the Shuwa pit

TASTY ONES ON THE TOP “The preparation and packing of the meat itself is a celebration for all of us. It is the same everywhere.

Though in Muscat it would be less, but you can still find many underground ovens – called Tannoor -- in and around Seeb.

Our family owns three. Once it is placed in the oven, we come back for it late afternoon the next day.

We have hooks with which we lift these meat bags out. Every family has a Tannoor for their clan and these bags are also marked for identification.

The meat, in the topmost bags, are the tastiest. People use metal boxes, jute sacks and palm leaves for packing up their Shuwa bags.

“As I told you, it is a physically draining task. So it is the men folk that indulge in the making of the Shuwa. Though ladies at home help us out in making of the spice mix required for marinating, it is the boys who are in charge. I started off at a very young age and my children are learning it from me,” Tawfiq said.

EID FINERY During the preparation of the meat for Shuwa, cousins and nieces of Tawfiq rode into the family square.

They were all dressed in their most colourful Eid finery and seemed like little princesses in this quaint village abode of the residents of Sumail Al Ma’abar.

EIDHIYA Since early morning all members of the family were indulging in various Eid special cuisine, which includes arsiya, a dish of lamb meat cooked with rice; harees, which is made from wheat, mixed with meat; coffee and halwa.

Excited children hung around the scene smiling, chattering and enjoying the special attention to them, especially from the elders who made sure that they got new baisas and rials (Eidhiya).

Tawfiq noted how it was a tradition to give new money for their children, nephews and nieces, grandchildren and even neighbours’ kids.

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The heavy sacks are hauled on to the back of pick up trucks

B&W Xclusive

Eidhiya, handing out money to children during Eid festivities, is one of the long-lasting traditions in the Sultanate, which is the basis of joy and happiness for children on the occasion of Eid. Families also visit each other in an ambience of festivity, which not only reflects the character of social cohesion and the joy of this precious occasion.

People are accustomed to the manifestations of the feast, which they inherited from their ancestors.

These celebrations bring together members of the community, Tawfiq noted.

A FEAST FOR GUESTS Earlier, Tawfiq had invited us to join them for a simple celebratory meal, which comprised of fresh Arsiya, Torsha, ghee, and Kubuz Rukhal bread.

34 October 7-20, 2010

An Omani meal for the first day of Eid at Sumail is incomplete without fresh Arsiya. This is rice and chicken or meat cooked to softness with cinnamon and other spices. It is simple and filling and mild for the stomach. The combination is with a little bit of ghee, and a sweet– sour side dish made out of lentils, cinnamon and dried raisins called Torsha.

Arsiya is a festival meal, served during celebrations, which consists of mashed rice flavoured with spices and meat. The Rukhal bread is a thin, round bread originally baked over a fire made from palm leaves. It is eaten at any meal, typically served with Omani honey for breakfast or crumbled over curry for dinner.

SHUWA BOOTY Under a scorching mid-afternoon sun, the next day, another

contingent got on their vehicles to the pit area. This crowd was not like the quiet and semi-somber ones like the day before; they were actually a bit rambunctious, laughing and very excited.

Within minutes the lids were cleared of the gravel and earth and pulled to a side. While some of them tried to pull the sacks out of the pit, one of the braver member among them, leapt into the pit and began to throw them out one by one. The hungry and excited youngsters soon made off with their Shuwa booty back to their homes.

Half an hour later, Tawfiq slowly cut through his nearly 10-kilogrammes sack, pulled out the richly marinated brownish and succulent roast and laid it on a large platter. It was a nearly 25 to 30 hours endeavour – but, it was worth the time and effort.

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Young women in ethnic costumes and all types of finery

B&W Xclusive

He is just 16, but Yasser Amer Al Hinai is quite adept at preparing the meat for Shuwa. He has been doing it since last year and confessed that he was quite excited about it. “I can’t wait to take it out!” He had marked his tin can with an identification tag – a semi-crushed softdrink can.

36 October 7-20, 2010

Lunch on the first day of Eid is usually Harees and second day is Mishkak. Here, some boys are seen busily preparing the Mishkak

Festival dishes Special dishes are prepared for festive occasions.

The Islamic world celebrates two main religious festivals - Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha.

Eid Al Fitr is celebrated following the Holy Month of Ramadan when people complete their obligatory fasting for 30 days. Eid Al Adha is celebrated on completing the Haj, or pilgrimage, to Mecca, commemorating the sacrifice of Abraham. Dishes prepared during Ramadan are very seldom cooked on other occasions.

Food cooked on important occasions, such as Eid, is of an infinite variety. Omanis across the country serve an array of dishes. In Dhofar and Wusta, the festivities start with Ruz Al Mudhroub, a dish made of cooked rice and served with fried fish, and maqdeed, special dried meat.

In Muscat, Al Batinah, Dahira and Sharqiya regions, Muqalab, a dish of tripe and pluck cooked with crushed or ground spices (cinnamon, cardamom, clove, back pepper, ginger, garlic and nutmeg),

dominates the menu. Other dishes served during Eid festivities include arsia, a dish of lamb meat cooked with rice, and mishkak, skewered meat grilled on charcoal.

Lunch on the first day of Eid is usually harees, which is made from wheat mixed with meat. Lunch on the second day is mishkak, while on the third and last day, shuwa forms the whole day’s meal.

However, it is during Ramadan that one can experience Omani food at its best and two of the most popular traditional dishes served at Iftar, the breaking of the fast include sakhana, a thick, sweet soup made of wheat, dates, molasses and milk and fatta, a meat and vegetable dish, mixed with khubz rakhal, thin Omani bread, made out of unleavened dough.

Shuwa is a typically Omani delicacy prepared only on very special occasions. Whole villages participate in the cooking of the dish which consists of a whole cow or goat roasted for up to two days in a special oven prepared in a pit dug in the ground.

Text: Adarsh Madhavan & Priya Arunkumar Photos: Najib Al Balushi

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From meat to Shuwa...

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We have been thinking of it since quite sometime now. Finally, we have taken the plunge to bring home to you some offbeat stuff. Here goes, if you like it, give us the green signal for more; if not, just take it with a pinch of salt. For this fortnight, here is some nitter natter for the B&W Bitter Batter:

A time to reflect…?

It is a quiet and calm city.

And it was decidedly quiet in the last few days as the Eid holidays took its toll on the activities scene of Muscat. Very little was happening in and around town save for some South Indian actors visiting town for a function; then, there was of course, DanZak at the Muscat Intercontinental hotel, but other than that the city entertainment scene

Nitternatter

Taxi! No taxi!

40 October 7-20, 2010

wallowed in mute self pity. But, it was not a problem as there was no one to make a noise anyway. Holidays throw the city into a silent zone and maybe, just maybe, every city needs this quietness; a time to quietly reflect on the past, the present and the future… some solitude, some ‘Me’ time.

Except for the fact that even otherwise, even when there are no holidays, it is a quiet and calm city…

Those non-driving citizens and residents living in the inner lanes in and around Qurum, Al Khuwair, and Madinat Sultan Qaboos have always faced the problems of getting taxis or transport from their homes to the city lanes. But, this time, during the Eid Al Fitr holidays, many complained that taxis seem to have disappeared altogether. “We waited for nearly 45 minutes to get a taxi…There were none going in any direction. Are taxi drivers also having holidays,” irate passengers told Bitter Batter.

Well, why not? Taxi drivers also need holidays.

Everyone needs holidays, but…

The discordant note

Speaking of holidays…one wonders why banks need to be closed for so many days, those who were desperate to get some service at the banks during these protracted holidays tell Bitter Batter?

Banks already follow a five-day week having Friday and Saturday as holidays, and during the Eid Al Fitr holidays, they were closed from

Sunday to Wednesday (Saturday is already off). The banks opened on Thursday and then they were off again till Sunday. Nearly eight days with one half day thrown in between where the banking activity will decidedly be minimal. Duh? Well, you could say banking staff also need holidays, but, these many days, banking customers query.

Who destroys the poetry of a city?

Who throws into disarray the rhythmic stride of town life?

Who becomes the cog in the wheels of a town life?

Who tears through the fabric of a peace-loving society?

All of us – all of us, who don’t care, who does not bother, who spit, swear and desecrate; who are careless and

selfish; who ride our cars like there is no tomorrow; who scar and deface the town walls and have no thought for tomorrow or our neighbours or the city that we all live in. All of us – who live without any love, understanding and concern about the city and its people, are the jarring and discordant notes in a city as poetic and peaceful as our Muscat.

The happiest ones during recent holidays must have been those who have been complaining of not getting parking spaces in key locations in the city. Most often commuters complain that there is no parking available in the bank area in the Central Business District (CBD) during the peak hours.

Whenever they want to make an urgent bank errand, the parking slots are full and there would be no space even for double parking, but, at least now during these recently concluded holidays these complaints would not have emanated. Some consolation, what?

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

Black & White 41

Good News for Sudoku addicts!

Mail to sudoku@blackandwhiteoman.com and register yourself in the first ever SUDOKU community of Oman

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S QUARES Get exciting SUDOKU news SUDOKU puzzles SUDOKU events

Play

Be a part of SUDOKU events locally 42 October 7-20, 2010

By Dave Green

8 1 6 3 8 3

1 4

8 5

7 3

8 9 1

2 7

6

9 3 3 2

8 5

5 2 Difficulty Level

motris.livejournal.com

9 6

2010 Conceptis Puzzles, Dist. by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

2 6

7 3

8/09

By Thomas Snyder

SOLUTION: 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.

Black & White 43

Fun facts about

Cows are referred to as the foster mothers of the human race because they produce most of the milk that people drink. Cows are ruminants, which are cud chewing mammals.

Sheep and camels also are ruminants

•THE AVERAGE BODY temperature of a cow is 101.5°F •IT’S POSSIBLE TO LEAD a cow upstairs...but not downstairs.

•COWS ARE MILKED for an average of three to four years.

A cow must have a calf in order to produce milk.

Calves are fed milk until they are eight to nine weeks old.

•THE AVERAGE COW IS two years old when she has her first calf.

•A YOUNG FEMALE cow is called a heifer.

•A COW CHEWS her cud (regurgitated, partially digested food) for up to eight hours each day.

•CONTRARY TO POPULAR BELIEF, cows do not have four stomachs; they have four digestive compartments: The rumen holds up to 50 gallons of partially digested food. This is where cud comes from.

Good bacteria in the rumen helps digest the cows food and provides protein for the cow.

The reticulum is called the hardware stomach because if cows accidentally eat hardware (like a piece of fencing scrap), it will often lodge here causing no further damage.

The omasum is sort of like a filter.

The abomasum is like our stomach.

•COWS DRINK ABOUT A bathtub full of water and eat around 40 pounds of food a day.

•COWS HAVE 32 TEETH: eight incisors on the bottom front, six molars on the top and bottom of each side.

Kidstuff

A tough pad of skin instead of teeth on the top front.

Tongue twisters I wish to wish the wish you wish to wish, but if you wish the wish the witch wishes, I won’t wish the wish you wish to wish.

44 October 7-20, 2010

Black & White 45

PICK-UP POINTS MUSCAT WADI KABIR Bait al Zubair Bait al Baranda Marina Bander Al Bustan Palace Hotel Oman Dive club Shangri-La- Barr Al Jissah Sri Lankan School NHI Pencil Building (Stationery shop) Al Maha bunk –Wadi Kabir Ajay Enterprises (Khimji) – (Next to Jingles nursery) Hotel Golden Oasis Sana Fashions Al Maya markets – (Old Rawasco) Scientific pharmacy – Opp to al Maya market ( Arab Udipi Rest)

Circulation

CBD AREA TO DARSAIT Al Amana Building materials – Opposite Jawad Sultan Al Omaniya Financial Services office Oman oil bunk Khimji mart shopping mall – (Old shopping & saving) Khimjis Bait al Ahlam- CBD area Pizza Muscat (Opposite ministry of manpower) Pizza Hut/TFC – CBD area Centre point-Splash Muscat Securities market Times of Oman Shell petrol Bunk (Next to Sheraton) OCCI Library – Oman Chamber of commerce (OPP MSM) KFC – Ruwi Oman International Bank – Ruwi Palayok Restaurant – Filipino restaurant Ever ready supermarket New India Assurance Office Al Fair – Ruwi high street Lakhoos Money Exchange, Ruwi High street Damas Jewellery/office – Ruwi Oman UAE Exchange – OCC Centre Air Arabia Office- Shanfari Travels Ruwi Hotel Gulf air building – Gulf air office Saravanabhavan Restaurant Sarco – Samsung showroom Khimji Megastore – Swarovski showroom OTE Moosa Abdul Showroom – next to al Jadeed Toshiba Showroom Al Jadeed shopping Badr Al Samaa Samara video (next to Talentz, old bait al ahlam) after 5pm Ministry of Education – Opp Wearhouse – Ruwi Future management consultants -(opp Toshiba showroom) Haffa House Hotel Al 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 shop Al Rima Clinic Lama Polyclinic

46 October 7-20, 2010

Oman Air – CBD NBO- CBD area Bank Muscat Bank Sohar HSBC Standard Chartered Oman Arab Bank Harmony Music Centre – Next to OAB Bahwan Travel Agencies – CBD banks area OTTB – Oman Travels Bureau Air India office – CBD next to Costas Costas Papa John Supa Save – CBD Woodlands Bank Dhofar Horizon Restaurant – (Next to Moon travels) Oman post office Lulu Darsait Khimji Ramdas Head office, Muttrah (Kanaksi Khimji & pankaj Khimji) Majan College – Darsait junction (canteen) Indian Social Club Melody Music Centre – Next to ISM German Embassy – Hamriya roundabout Apollo Medical Centre Computer Xpress – Hamriya Roundabout Atlas Travels (Wadi Adai Roundabout (next to polyglot) Hatat House Passage to India Best cars Hyundai/Subaru/GM showroom Al Asfoor Furnishing Ahli Bank Shell marketing office SEAT car showroom- Wattayah DHL office- Wattayah Honda Showroom Sabco Head office wattayah NTT travels Wattayah Toyota Bahwan Advertising – Ist floor – Toyota showroom Lexus Ford showroom Shanfari Automotive Wattayah Motors- VW showroom Khoula Hospital Institute of Health sciences – opposite Khoula Kia showroom- wattayah QURUM AREA TOWARDS AL KHUWAIR Al Harthy ComplexPizza Muscat – next to Sultan Center in al Harthy complex Sultan Center Nissan showroom BMW showroom Muscat Private School Qurum city centre Pizza Hut – Qurum Capital Store Al Asfoor Plaza KFC Hardees Fono showroom next to Sabco centre Shah Nagardas Sabco Centre- Barista coffee shop only Al Araimi Panasonic Showroom NBO Qurum Al Khamis Plaza Al Wadi commercial centre – Coffee shop Mercedes showroom

CCC- Stand CCC Al Fair Bollywood chat Pizza Hut – Qurum Second Cup Nandos McDonalds Salman Stores Jawahir Oman Hamptons Business Services & Travel Amex office Ernst & Young buildg (OUA Travels) Starbucks Hawthorne institute- ELS Fahud Street, opp Qurum park Mumtaz Mahal Left bank Oman Association for the disabled Ministry of education (20 +20=20) Muscat Intercon Jawaharat Al Shatti complex- stand Oasis by the sea - crepe café stand LNG Office Al Qurum resort Bareek Al Shatti Complex Al Qandeel head office -, Entrance of Bareek al Shatti Al Shatti Cinema - Dunkin Donuts Al Sahwa Schools– principal’s office next to Ramada hotel Hotel Ramada Al Muriya Offices- next to Al sahwa schools Grand Hyatt Muscat Al Masa Mall Radio Shack Al Sarooj Complex Shell Petrol Bunk- Al Sarooj Al Fair Ramee Guestline Rock Bottom Classic Institute of Arts- next to Asas Oman Asas Oman Apartments Crowne Plaza Coral hotel Qurum Pvt school PDO Ras Al Hamraa Club Omanoil head office AL KHUWAIR/MSQ TOWARDS AZAIBA ELS – Al khuwair service road British School Muscat – MSQ British Council Oman oil- Madinat Qaboos Pizza Hut Khimjis mart – MSQ Kargeen Café Al fair Family Book shop- MSQ Tavola – Al Noor Hall buildg Starbucks Hana slimming centre – Ist Floor Fotomagic Al Noor Hall Al Jadeed Eqarat office Above Welcare Clinic – al Khuwair Domino Pizza Oman mobile Safeer Hypermarket Mustafa Sultan Souk Technia Omantel Oman international Bank – Al khuwair main office Ibis Hotel

Park inn Hotel Friendi Office Muscat Bakery Tropical Ice creams Subway Pizza Hut service road Ice Skating Rink National Training Institute Golden spoon Restaurant Shell Select- Al Khuwair Mcdonalds Mct holiday Inn Hotel Oman Bowling Center Halliburton Café Vergnano Khimji Mart – Next to Verganano Safeer suites Axa insurance (opp assarain Al khuwair) Zakher shopping Mall PAN Furnishing Harley Davidson Thrifty Al Amal Medical Centre – Dr Bashir Hotel Radisson Pizza Hut Al Khuwair Ozone Video Shop(Next to Pizza Hut) American British School Omar Khayyam Restaurant, next to V kool Grill House (next door) V Kool TAISM Centre for British Teachers – CFBT Baushar Complex Café Aviation Club Restaurant AZAIBA TOWARDS SEEB Lulu Hyper market – Baushar Oman Medical college College for Business & financial Studies opp Oman medical, baushar Azzan Bin Qais school - Baushar Muscat private Hospital Dolphin Village – Bausher Royal hospital Ghala industrial area – NTI National mineral water – Tanuf ( next to Al Madina Holiday Inn) Oman oil Azaiba Spicy Village – Rusayl Pizza Hut – Ghala Oman oil – Ghala Towell head office – Enhance & Ist floor Mazda showroom Mcdonalds – Azaiba Select shell Azaiba Oman Tribune – Al Watan office New India assurance Azaiba office Safeer Hypermart Nawras head office Zubair showroom and Yamaha corporate office(two places)- Yamaha Showroom – close to Zubair showroom – 1st floor Polyglot Institute GU Tech – Beach road Azaiba Chedi Muscat The wave Muscat corporate office NACA – national cancer Awareness Assn MCC – Crepe Café Al Bahja– Mood Café & food Court Al Maya Super market Oman air Seeb office (Below Flyover, before Golden Tulip) Oman Tourisn College Golden Tulip Hotel Air port Select Shell – Seeb Pizza Hut airport KFC

MUSCAT, SALALAH, SUR, SOHAR, NIZWA, BARKA, KASAB MUSCAT continued...

SALALAH

SOHAR

NIZWA

Muscat golf hills, SEEB KOM SQU – SQUH hospital , SQUH 2- canteen, 3Diplomatic Club, 4 – College of Commerce, 5 – Students banking area) Pizza Hut – al Khoud Sultan School al hail service road – principals’ office Caledonian college – principal’s office Oman Foot ball association

SHOPPING MALLS Lulu shopping center Al- Istaqarar shopping center (Salalah) Dhofar shopping center Bab Al- Salam market Al- Mashoor (Salalah) Al- Mashoor (Saada) Al-Khareef K.M Trading Al-Isteqarar (Saada) Al-Hoq super market Hamdan commercial market Fresh super market (Al-Sarat) Union Salalah Market Family bookshop

Spicy Village Restaurant Lulu Hypermarket Jumeirah Shopping Centre Khimji’s Mart Al Salem shopping Centrepoint Moosa Abdul Rahman – GMC Toyota Nissan Mitsubishi LG showroom Sohar Bakery Sohar University Bank Muscat Habib Bank Bank Sohar Oman International Bank Al Raffah Hospital Badr Al Samaa Oman Arab Bank Bank Dhofar HSBC Travel City National Travels and Tours Universal Travels and Tourism DHL Dhofar Insurance Al Ahlia Insurance Taeeger Finance Co Omantel Al Jazeera Group Narenjee Hirjee (International)

OIB, Nizwa OIB, Firq BankMuscat, Nizwa BM main branch, Nizwa BankMuscat, Firq NBO, Nizwa NBO, Firq Bank Abudhabi Toyota OTE Omantel Nawras Khimji, Nizwa Khimji, Izki Muscat Bakery, Nizwa Pizza Hut Discount centre Family shopping Al Diyar Hotel Safari hotel Al-Nif shopping, Izki Hungery Bunny, Nizwa College of Science College of Technic Nizwa Medical College Busmath Clinic Thalal Clinic Omanoil, Izki Omanoil, Firq Omanoil, Nizwa Omanoil, Marfa Shell, Izki Shell, Firq Shell, Nizwa Al-Maha, Firq Nizwa university -Dept of foreign lang Al-Maha, Marfa

RUSAYL AREA Rusayl Industrial Estate Oman Cables Sadolin Paints Jotun Paints Al waqia shoes Mehdi Foods Areej veg oils MINISTRIES AREA – AL KHUWAIR Ministry of tourism(Ghala, next to ISG) Ministry of social Development(next to Regional municipalities, Bank Mct) Ministry of foreign affairs

SUR Al-Hashar LNG LNG, Club Sur Sur Beach Hotel Sur University OTE, Sur Mitsibushi Rawaya coffee shop Toyota Nissan Sur Plaza Hotel Mazda Khimji Omantel Private Hospital, Sur BankMuscat Sur Hotel NBO, Sur Bank Dhofar, Sur ELS, Sur

HOTELS Crown Plaza Hilton Salalah Hamdan plaza Dhofar Hotel Salalah hotel Haffa House Redan Hotel Al- Hanaa Hotel BAMSIR hotel Al- Jabel hotel Al- Nile suite (Saada) Salalah Mariott MINISTRIES Ministry agriculture & fisheries Ministry of education Ministry of defense Ministry of housing & electricity Ministry of water Ministry of tourism Diwan of Royal court (Salalah) Ministry of primary court and justice Ministry of Commerce & industry Dhofar municipality (Baladia) Ministry of man power PETROL STATIONS, BANKS Shanfari filling Station shell select, al saada Oman oil Shell Salalah Bank Muscat Omantel Oman Arab Bank Pizza hut Dhofar University Al Maha souk

BARKA Lulu hyper market Safeer Centre Al Nahda resort Al Maha Souk Oman Oil Rumais Oman College of management OIB NBO Bank Muscat Shell OTE SARCO Nissan showroom Omantel

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Black & White 47

Your stars ARIES March 21-April 20 Business and social relations will be strongly defined by group opinion early this week. Expect complex emotional issues to be dealt with through group consensus or public opinion.

Physical energy will be low this weekend.

CANCER June 22-July 23 Over the next few days you will be offered an unusual advancement or new definition to a working relationship.

Go slow here and establish all facts and expectations clearly. Business expansion will be highly rewarding.

Enjoy outdoor hobbies and new leisure activities.

LIBRA September 24-October 22 Accept changes with enthusiasm: and expect others to follow your lead. The coming two weeks highlight quiet contemplation. Trusted friends and new companions will bring many rewarding moments.

Horoscope

CAPRICORN December 23-January 20 Social and employment changes will now lead to fast changes in perspective. Over the next seven weeks watch for key issues of emotional and financial security to be redefined. All is positive; so not to worry.

48 October 7-20, 2010

MOHANDAS KARAMCHAND GANDHI (OCTOBER 2, 1869 – JANUARY 30, 1948) was the pre-eminent political and spiritual leader of India during the Indian independence movement. He is officially honoured in India as the Father of the Nation. October 2 is commemorated as Gandhi Jayanti, a national holiday, and worldwide as the International Day of Non-Violence.

TAURUS April 21-May 20 Be encouraging and outline revised work or money strategies. For the next four days expect others to be sensitive concerning issues of security or goal planning. Refuse to be distracted by late plans and changing business priorities.

LEO July 24-August 23 A recent family or social plan may soon change. Expect recently planned events to be momentarily delayed. Watch for new information and don’t over react: private politics and hidden business obligations may soon be revealed.

An unusual few days: stay balanced.

SCORPIO October 23-November 22 Romantic communications and/or family power struggles may be a prime theme.

Listen and gathering insight: wisdom concerning subtle dynamics in relationships is now available. Avoid overspending: stay on budget and all will be fine.

AQUARIUS January 21-February 19 Planetary alignments now suggest that a past colleague or acquaintance may resurface in your life and ask for emotional clarification. Chances are that this person may be misinformed or overly dramatic. Key issues involve business or social triangles and/or incomplete information.

GEMINI May 21-June 21 Expect both romantic and business partners to propose a new plan for security or joint ambition. Finances and emotional comfort may now be strong issues in key relationships.

Listen carefully to others for clues to new directions and appropriate behaviour.

VIRGO August 24-September 23 Give loved ones time to contemplate recent social or family adjustments. The financial news is good: plan for steady improvement in the coming weeks.

Expect family events or unique gatherings to revised or greatly expanded.

SAGITTARIUS November 23-December 22 Aspects indicate that business relationships are subtly changing: partners, officials or long term colleagues may now be faced with difficult choices. Wait for issues of financial security and newly defined schedules to be settled. A demanding few days: stay alert.

PISCES February 20-March 20 Business associates may now request that you take on new activities or responsibilities.

All of this is positive as long as your approach new projects with caution and remain aware of the emotional needs of co-workers. At present group confidence in working relationships is low.

Cooking

Holidays can add on those extra calories you always dreaded… now that you are back to your busy schedule, here’s a list of great snacks you can grab and stash in your bag when you are heading out the door. Whether you are a busy person always on the go or not, it is a must to have easy access to nutritious low calorie snacks...

OATMEAL Oatmeal topped with raisins is a great option in colder weather. Pre-packaged packets make them portable and easy all you need is some hot water!

LETTUCE ROLL-UPS Roll luncheon meat, egg salad, tuna or other filling and veggies in lettuce leaves

SLICED VEGGIES Cut them up and keep stored in the refrigerator so they are ready to go. Think carrots and beyond such as sweet peppers both green and red, broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, snow peas, celery, cucumbers, fennel, and radishes…

SUNFLOWER SEEDS Get them in the shell so it will take longer to eat them

RAW ALMONDS You can carry them in your pocket, because they aren’t greasy the way roasted nuts are.

Because they are raw, you’re not as likely to overeat.

SMOOTHIES Smoothies are a great way to pack in your calcium and fruit servings. Use calcium fortified soymilk or non-fat milk, along with your choice of fruit (fresh or frozen), non-fat yoghurt and/or non-fat dry milk to boost protein. Ground flaxseed or wheat germ is a great addition. Canned smoothies are now available and can be toted to work or school. Watch out for the sugar content at smoothie chains!

FRIES AND NUTS Yes, fries and nuts are snack favorites of all.

To make this snack combination healthy, instead of frying the fries, bake them in the oven and instead of using flavoured peanuts, toast a plain one.

Black & White 49

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SHE

Tell your doctor everything

54

Not all of us are going to have a trusting relationship with our doctor, but if we do, it is better that we bare our deepest secrets

Six super foods every women needs Here are six super foods that will help supplement women with vitamins and minerals

58

Is it a crime?

60

When did it become such a terrible sin to grow old?

Why has it become so bad to be old today? Why is it a crime?

Are we, the older generation, criminals?

Will we be put behind bars? Is there no justice for people who get ‘criminally’ old?

Black & White 51

It is that time of the year when…

Laila, Omani graduate student of Nizwa University

Learning curve

By Laila Ibrahim Obaid Al-Gharbi

I remember, when we were little kids, how our parents used to insist us to go and visit our relatives. Sometimes the parents would get mad at their kids, when they show disinterest or when they flatly refuse to go.

I always used to wonder what these parents would gain from sending us kids there, and why wouldn’t they leave the choice for us to decide whether to go or not. But, finally I realised the secret behind visiting relatives and neighbours.

The more our lives got busy, the more our relationships got weaker. Indeed, this is what is happening and unfortunately when someone asks us why we don’t accompany our parents when they visit some relatives, we immediately begin to give out some silly excuses. It is really strange how good we are at giving excuses and break all the relationships that we have.

As I write this piece, I realise that even I am guilty of not paying enough attention to my relationships. But, earlier, I used to even ignore the feeling of guilty of not visiting my relatives.

We are supposed to understand how people would feel when we just say hello or even send a message to them! We really need to give more time for that because these relationships make us feel good. Our relatives don’t need anything from us, I guess. All they need is to see us in person and know that everything is fine with us. Young people, including myself, need to rethink about their relationships.

A person may have all what s/he needs but not strong relationships with family and relatives. I realise that even technology has affected our relationships negatively.

We thought that if we can’t visit; we can just send an email or make a call. We have already started replacing our friends whom we know since school days with friends through the Internet, people with fake identities and we care 52 September 21-October 6, 2010

about them more than others. It is true that our relationships are changing and we do nothing to protect them except looking for excuses. It is true that we prevent ourselves from lovely moments that we may have had with grandma or grandpa or an old neighbour. It is really true that we miss hearing the sound of laughter everywhere. And, it is true that we are replacing our physical world with an imaginary one through the Internet. It is true that our relationships are not like before.

However, it is strange how thirsty our souls are without a touch from a friend, or someone elderly.

It is strange how lazy we are although we are in a modern age where all that matters is time. It is strange how stupid we are when we break a relationship with a relative. It is really strange how selfish we are when we don’t take the initiative and call a relative or a friend who always care for us. It is truly strange when we know that we are wrong but we don’t care and it is astonishing that when we break a relation we deny the mistake we have made to that person.

Last but not the least, try to give your relatives some time and renew your relationship with them.

Be always there for them whenever they need you and give them some of your time. However, you are not a loser and the more you give, the more you will feel true happiness. Stop giving excuses and promise yourself to protect each single relationship by at least paying a visit once a week. It is you who need someone around to take care of you.

You are the one who needs to feel happy and comfortable in life. Don’t never ever think that you can have that without putting some effort.

Hope you have met the people whom you haven’t visited in ages during this Eid. Your family is the one who deserves your love and care... A belated Eid Mubarak to all of you! lalgharbi@yahoo.com

It's my life

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

By Vandana Shah

Since the past fortnight I am being asked “Vandy, what are you doing for your birthday?” At first I dodged the question ingeniously with… ummsawws…there’s still time, but as the date approached closer– September 25–my evasive answers failed and I responded enthusiastically, to a friend: “Wearing my birthday suit.” Of course, after that there was just a silence and a look that I can describe as frowning fury.

Wearing a birthday suit means that you are ahem ahem...But lets not look at the literal meaning. Metaphorically speaking, it suggests that you be true and honest in your feelings, thoughts, words and actions. It is so difficult when we have so many sets of commitments professional, personal and social.

We tend to easily slip on a mask each time we step out and either we have a plastic smile (this is usually where the boss is showing us his perfect family and we have to forcibly cuddle his bawling toddler) or we have a bored expression (this is usually at a relative’s or at an in-laws function where we dexterously combine both the expressions or at a function that your parent or spouse has convinced you to come to).

If you can’t get rid of the mask when you are with people at least you can be honest with yourself. There are so many reasons to be so, but the two of the fundamental reasons I can think of are self-improvement and an easy conscience. Only when you are true to yourself can you make a genuine effort to change.

You can also don your birthday suit skillfully by asserting that God made you different so you are not going to be a clone of whatever is the trend.

Make your own rules as you go along, defy convention and set new standards of excellence. Then go ahead and make it a habit.

After all, it is your birthday and if I remember clearly from my school days we were told that no one, not even you, can say 'No' to you on your birthday for anything.

Go ahead and celebrate being in your birthday suit, as for me…

Do send me your wishes, prayers and gifts (just joking!)!

Vandana Shah, Author 360 Degrees Back To life, www.vandanashah.com Email me what you’d like to say on 360degreesbacktolife@gmail.com Follow me on twitter Vandy4PM

Black & White 53

Psyche

If you have a trusting relationship with your doctor, tell them your secrets

54 September October 7-20, 21-October 2010 6, 2010

TellEVERYTHING your doctor

Are you telling your doctor everything? Like how many times you smoked; how many times you drank and that you were worried about your office layoffs or that you were going to be in a relationship with this man soon?

No? You better, researchers say. Yes, not all of us are going to have a trusting relationship with our doctor, but if we do, it is better that we bare to them our deepest secrets.

ADMITTEDLY, IT IS TOUGH to reveal everything: especially your marital problems, anxiety, or touchy topics like sex or bathroom problems like constipation.

But not telling could spell trouble -- even if you’d rather not admit to an inconvenient truth or two.

Everything from your stress to your sexual history to your use of supplements can affect your health and should be disclosed to your doctor, it is now said.

POPPING OTC (OVER-THE-COUNTER) PILLS? If you are in the habit of popping some over-thecounter (OTC) pills, herbal supplements or vitamins, then your doctor is the first person who should know about it. Do not bother if your doctor is going to like it or not, but imagine if you pop in something that does not go well with what the doctor is prescribing for you.

So, as far as these OTC pills or herbals are concerned, it is better to keep the doctor in the know.

And “natural” does not always mean “safe,” many doctors note.

TELL THEM HOW MUCH YOU SMOKE AND DRINK Don’t worry about sharing these secrets because you think your doctor will give you yet another smoking lecture or judge you. But doctors aren’t there to do that.

Plus, doctor-patient confidentiality laws ensure your information remains private. In most states, doctors can only break confidence if someone is an imminent danger to themselves or others.

What’s more, your doctor needs to know what you’re taking to protect your health, run the right tests, and diagnose correctly.

ARE YOUR STRESSED, DEPRESSED, OR ABUSED? If you’re often stressed or sad -- or if you’re in an abusive relationship -- speak up.

This doesn’t mean that doctors, who may not be licensed therapists, will be able to give you a full therapy on your problem, but every primary care physician who has been practicing for a number of years is a bit of a therapist because they have heard it all.

Your doctor can help in offering advice, referring you to the right specialist, or suggesting a counsellor to deal with stress. He can also evaluate if medication or therapy might help with depression.

YOU CAN’T SLEEP Now, don’t yawn when we say this. A sleep issue is not a simple problem. It can easily become chronic, but, never fear, it can be easily remedied.

There are so many factors to consider for people who are sleeping poorly, including stress, depression, menopausal changes, anxiety, or even serious medical conditions like sleep apnea, a chronic condition in which you repeatedly stop breathing throughout the night, leading to daytime sleepiness. So, tell your doctor about it.

YOU ARE LOW ON ENERGY Fatigue is a factor in many illnesses, though people just think it’s a byproduct of getting older. But usually there is a reason that accounts for a change in their stamina or energy level, and if you don’t tell the doctor, you won’t get relief and may miss something important.

Low energy levels could stem from illnesses, including stress, a poor diet, anaemia, depression, and thyroid function. So mention it to your doctor.

Black & White 55

EXERCISE

in your own

PRIVATE DOMAIN

Shape n sound

By Anita Danton

One of the biggest motivations for many of those exercising at home could be this: there is no pressure in renewing your membership fees! But, more than the money factor, it is largely found that we neglect exercise because of the one reigning excuse: lack of time.

EVEN THE STAY-AT-HOME exercisers are found to clutch at this straw of an excuse while sinking into a world of lethargy and physical neglect. It may be true that your hectic schedule may not allow you time and space to squeeze in a workout.

Those skipping their gym exercises have a variety of reasons: it takes too long to commute to the gym; a lady whom I spoke to the other day says that she found the social atmosphere in her health club too intimidating.

“They talk more and exercise less there and I opted out!”

And gyms can be crowded (which, in other ways is a good sign because

56 October 7-20, 2010

it shows that people are interested in getting fit) and many among them would be waiting in queue to use an equipment.

So, here is some good news for those wanting to avoid the gym – home exercise. Exercising at home has got its unique advantages. You train at your own time and; pace in your own private space. This is indeed an excellent solution for stayat-home moms, individuals who work from home, and also those with an erratic work schedule.

And last, but not the least, you don’t have to worry about paying the gym membership.

So, what are you waiting for, why don’t you set up your own gym at your home? It is very easy to plan your own routine, which may also include effective exercises to lose weight. A lady whom I know called up a fitness expert at home, got some training under him and then is now following the same routine alone.

Once she finishes that, she will call the expert again for an advanced course and then stick to the routine again on her own, she told me.

Before you begin, it is important to understand the advantage and disadvantages of home exercise. If you are looking at having a home gym, then you have to bear in mind

that there are too main things to consider: money and space. You need enough money to buy the equipment and set it up and then you need space in your home to lodge this equipment.

It is only after that you need to find someone who can help you to use the equipment. So, those with the money can opt for a personal trainer, but for the large number of people who want to have a small set up at home and train, there is enough and more scope.

Even strength training can be done in a safe and effective manner at home. You can get the free exercise

routines from the net and/or you can pay a small fee to a trainer to help you at the outset.

In fact, it is not as hard as you think.

Home exercise can be a lot of fun.

When you are committed mentally to pursue a leaner, energised and dynamic fitness level, the sky is the limit. So, what are you waiting for?

Grab a pair of dumbbells and an exercise mat and you will be on your way to an easy at home exercise routine. Recent studies have even spoken about the advantages of home exercise and it was found that those exercising at home were more likely to stick to it than those going to a club. So, prove it!

Black & White 57

6 Shape n sound

super foods

58 October 7-20, 2010

every woman needs

It is never too late to start eating healthier! So, here are some ‘super foods’ women should eat that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients associated with optimal health and emotional well-being.

Women’s bodies have special nutritional needs related in part to their capacity to bear children. Combined with a busy lifestyle, most women don’t eat as well as they should and may be deficient in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients associated with optimal health and emotional well-being.

1

OATMEAL

Oatmeal is a cereal made with oats, a whole grain. Whole grains have not been processed to remove the hull, which contains the most nutritional value.

Oatmeal is low in saturated fat, high in fiber and protein, and is a good source of folic acid and iron.

Studies show that consuming three to four servings of oats per day in bread or cereal for example, can help prevent heart disease and reduce high cholesterol levels.

Regular consumption of oatmeal has been shown to have positive effects for weight as well, some studies have shown. One study noted that foods high in fiber are lower in fat and calories and make a person feel fuller, helping people to eat less.

4

LENTILS

Lentils are a type of legume high in lignans, a phytochemical with weak estrogenic effects, and complex carbohydrates.

Lentils are low in fat, and high in protein, fiber, B vitamins, folate, iron, magnesium, calcium, and potassium.

Lentils can help to prevent colon cancer and reduce cholesterol levels. Fiber in your diet can prevent heart attacks and may be effective at preventing Type 2 diabetes.

The lignans present in lentils are important in preventing many types of cancers. Magnesium regulates relaxation in muscles, and is important in alleviating premenstrual syndrome.

2

ALMONDS

3

SARDINES

5

GARLIC

6

YOGHURT

Eating a few handfuls (approximately 35 kernels) of almonds every week is all that is needed to benefit from this nut. Almonds contain high levels of anti-oxidants such as vitamin E, as well as magnesium, a trace mineral that works with calcium to build strong bones. Almonds are an important source of alpha linolenic acid, which is the pre-curser of omega-3 fatty acids. Tryptophan, an essential amino acid, is also found in almonds.

Some studies indicate that foods containing tryptophan decrease the amount of time needed to fall asleep.

Sardines, a tiny, sleek and silvery canned fish, are one of the few foods that contain Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a nutrient found the body’s cells. In a nutshell, it’s believed to have antioxidant properties and is said to enhance physical energy. Studies have also found that CoQ10 benefits those with cardiovascular diseases, particularly hypertension and congestive heart failure. In addition to CoQ10, these little nutritional powerhouses are also ample sources of vitamin B12, selenium, omega-3 oils, protein, phosphorus and vitamin D. One to two servings of sardines per week helps prevent coronary heart disease, lowers high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, lessens the severity of rheumatoid arthritis, and may even help mild cases of depression.

Garlic is well known for its benefits in reducing the risk heart attack and stroke and in preventing hardening of the arteries. High in vitamins C and B-6, manganese, and tryptophan, garlic is also beneficial in lowering cholesterol and high blood pressure. Garlic has antibacterial and anti-viral properties as well.

Yoghurt is loaded with calcium, which is important in preventing osteoporosis. Yogurt is an excellent source of protein, as well as potassium, vitamin B-12, and magnesium. Yoghurt contains live bacteria cultures that are also found in the human body.

Eating one cup of yoghurt on a regular basis may play a role in preventing yeast infections Studies indicate it yogurt has anti-inflammatory properties and may benefit arthritis sufferers. Yoghurt is also a source of tryptophan.

Black & White 59

Is it a

By Andrew Symonds

CRIME…?

When did it become such a terrible sin to grow old? Why has it become so bad to be old today? Why is it a crime?

Are we, the older generation, criminals?

Will we be put behind bars? Is there no justice for people who get ‘criminally’ old?

WHEN I WAS A YOUNG MAN, the elderly were revered. Their wisdom was sought after, and the greyer their hair (and the less there was of it), the more respect they garnered.

It was a good thing to make it as far as old age, to become one of the “ancients” in some civilizations, an “elder” in others, or simply “grandfather” or “grandmother”.

NOT ANYMORE! Now men and (especially women) are so self-conscious about showing their age that we spray our heads with black paint that “looks so natural, no one will even know that it isn’t real hair”.

We spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on hair-growth shampoos and solutions of questionable efficacy.

We even spend thousands to transplant hair and we are now into ‘fixing’ (pun unintended towards modern day cricketers) hair!

Shape n sound

We fear aging so much that we are now into face ‘fixing’. We go and visit all these clinics and inject our faces with expensive medicines in the belief that this can help us become young or at least, look younger than what we are.

But it helps us to believe that we can look young. Others have expensive surgeons iron out wrinkles by stretching facial skin paper-taut over re-sculpted cheekbones and eye sockets.

60 October 7-20, 2010

Surgeons begin with an illusion that they are stripping away years, but our anti-aging addiction’s repeated quest for the perfection of agelessness soon turns us into grotesque caricatures of youth - and we convince ourselves it’s at least better than actually growing old.

You cannot be young by trying to appear so, or by dressing youthfully.

You must first get rid of the last vestige of thought that you are aging. As long as that is in the mind, cosmetics and youthful dress will amount to very little in changing your appearance. The conviction must first be changed; the thought which has produced the aging condition must be reversed.

If we can only establish the perpetual-youth mental attitude, so that we feel young, we have won half the battle against old age. Be sure of this, that whatever you feel regarding your age will be expressed in your body.

It is a great aid to the perpetuation of youth to learn to feel young, however long we may have lived, because the body expresses the habitual feeling, habitual thought.

Nothing in the world will make us look young as long as we are convinced that we are aging.

Nothing else more effectually retards age than the keeping in mind the bright, cheerful, optimistic, hopeful, buoyant picture of youth, in all its splendour, magnificence; the

picture of the glories which belong to youth — youthful dreams, ideals, hopes, and all the qualities which belong to young life.

One great trouble with us is that our imaginations age prematurely.

People who live on the sunny and beautiful side of life and who cultivate serenity, do not age nearly as rapidly as do those who live on the shady, the dark side.

Another reason why so many people age prematurely is because they cease to grow. It is a lamentable fact that multitudes of men or women seem incapable of receiving or accepting new ideas after they have reached middle age. Many of them, after they have reached the age of 40 or 50, come to a standstill in their mental reaching out.

It’s only a natural extension of our societal inclination to bury our age beneath creams and toxins and surgeries and other forms of denial.

Caught between these two forms of existential denial, you only succeed in losing out. What is essential is to live the life that belongs to youth. Do not be afraid of being a boy or girl again in spirit, no matter how many years you have lived.

Carry yourself so that you will not suggest old age in any of its phases.

Remember it is the stale mind, the stale mentality that ages the body.

Keep growing, keep interested in everything about you.

Black & White 61

Yes, dude?

Hooked

By Priya Arunkumar Hey dude, can you let me know if… her voice trailed off She used to always address me as ‘dude’ Maybe I am old fashioned and prude, but I feel offended every time she called me a dude!

Dude?

No, it does not mean friend, colleague or partner.

It is not a current usage like pal or mate.

I checked around the net; in fact in one my searches I found out the word is actually offensive and is sometimes used as slang for the private part of a camel!

Finally I told her quietly: Can you stopping calling me dude?

I have a name…

Yes of course dude, no offense meant, she grinned.

Again, I corrected her, I feel silly, and can you please call me my name?

It is a request…

She looked at me and said, dude you are strange, it is the coolest word I know off!

Yes, but it leaves me with an identity crisis, I retorted!

Identity? She looked puzzled.

Imagine a world full of dudes? All men dudes and lady dudes?

Then you have the kid dudes, animal dudes and plant dudes, I went on dramatically.

No one needs to have a name or even a pet name.

All of us can be institutionalised personally in to THE dude category, or rather species?

We will not have initials and surnames All in one common title – DUDE? How does it sound? I queried.

She said I am weird and of course got the usual tag of being rude!

When someone takes the liberty of calling me a dude, I don’t have the right to think it is rude?

Well, I should take offense, not you, I retorted!

Would you call your parents dude? I continued No, I won’t maybe, they are old, she replied instantly.

You know in the West all use the word dude, she started to justify.

They swear too, I reminded her.

Well, it is the ‘in thingy’, you know; I grew up that way; while I was abroad pursuing my education, I kind of picked up the word, she explained.

Now it is a habit that is difficult to kick off!

I didn’t want to dwell on it or start preaching, but any day I will prefer my name to any other ’thingy’ people address me with.

In fact I grew up with a pet name and lot of pet names as endearment. So did my brothers…

My parents are so used to my pet name, they hardly recognise if someone tells them my formal name.

And again, everyone in my street would know me by my name and of course some my pet name too.

But how can anyone make friendship through a common name dude?

How personal or emotional can you get with dude?

Names can bring smiles to your lips, dude can?

Maybe I am of an older generation…

Maybe I am that boring person who thinks everything is in a name…

But, yes I do dread the day my daughter would grow up and call me dude! priya@blackandwhiteoman.com

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