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SEP 26 - OCT 02 2019 / ISSUE 586 • WEEKLY
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HOW OMANI MUSICIANS ARE MAKING THEIR VOICES HEARD
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T H E
EDITOR’S
NOTE
Welcome to Y Magazine – your top guide to the best of Oman every week.
IN THIS ISSUE…
M
usic is a universal language that can unite people of various cultures, beliefs, and even nations. Yet, the dreams and hopes of an entire generation of Omani pop musicians hang by a string. They aren’t after your money or benefaction. All they are asking for is for you to listen to their music and throw your comments where they matter: out in public where the music is poised to mature among an audience that accepts popular – or ‘pop’ music. It’s hard to determine what music fits into the realms of pop music, but with a string of young Omani men and women taking to makeshift studios to create beats and music for the masses, there’s no way around it other than to accept its place in our culture. Let’s give credit where it’s due. Their music is catchy, bass-heavy, and rhythmic – and has a new-age digital flow to it that old-fashioned instruments just can’t produce. Perhaps that is why creating hype around themselves is important to these acts. As opposed to modern variations of pop (rap, R&B and hip hop) that fail to address relevant worldly matters, these Omani musicians focus on pressing issues at hand – and they yearn to be heard. This week’s cover story sheds light on the unsung pop musicians of Oman who struggle to find a place in an industry that’s long been accepting of traditional tunes, and how these singers are joining hands to create quality music. Also in this issue, we draw attention to the remnants of watchtowers peppered across the face of Oman; looking over us as they always have. We then uncover the secrets of the ever-enchanting city of Al Amerat and trundle along the streets of Muscat in a Jeep Compass for First Drive. Until next week, happy reading!
Team Y
EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi ADMIN MANAGER Yousef al Harrassi REPORTER Hassan al Lawati REPORTER Basma al Zadjali
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Acting General Manager Salim al Amri We’d love to hear your news and views. For editorial enquiries, please info@y-oman.com email Want to read Y on the go? Scan our digital issue here: Download any QR reader from iTunes or Google Play to read Y on the go
Write to us at Y Magazine, SABCO Media, PO Box 3779, Ruwi 112, Sultanate of Oman. SEP 26 - OCT 02 / ISSUE 586
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contents
SEP 26 - OCT 02 2019
Your Oman 08 News Surge in fixed internet connections in Oman 08 News New expo to shed light on Thai-Oman relations
This Week 07 Oud Nights Catch highlyacclaimed Lebanese composer and Oud player Marcel Khalife perform his awardwinning orchestral works at the Royal Opera House Muscat. 11 Movies Joel Kinnaman stars as an ex-con who teams up with the FBI to expose a drug boss in ‘The Informer’.
08 Cars and Adventures 22 Destination Al Amerat
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28 Game Review Top September game releases
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12 In tune Dive into the world of popular music to discover the trials and tribulations faced by artists in the Sultanate, and how young waves of Omani musicians are joining hands to create music with global stardom in mind. 16 Pillar of eternity Take a trip to the outskirts of Muscat to unravel the mysteries of the watchtowers that once served to help protect Omanis in times of war. 18 A Duet Coffee with Y follows the journey of a motherdaughter duo building a literary following with a joint book of self-penned poetry.
Food and Drink 32 Yummy Oman Edible flowers
Health and Beauty
24 First Drive Jeep Compass
Features
34 Taste Test moka&more
29 Health Heavy bag hazards 30 Fashion DIY dress sense
30
32 NEXT ISSUE... FEATURES / COFFEE WITH Y / NEWS / MOVIES / EVENTS / BEAUTY / DESTINATION / TRAVEL / FASHION / FIRST DRIVE
brity ch and the latest celeve got at w to ts tis ar e th e’ From e hits of the week, w gossip to your ultimat from the pulse of the music your superstar dose Radio Oman 100.9 FM world, with Virgin
Brits clean up at the Emmys It was a case of the ‘Brits are coming’ when the 71st Primetime Emmy Awards were announced in Hollywood on Monday. ‘Game of Thrones’ took home Outstanding Drama Series amid a clutch of awards while ‘Fleabag’ took Outstanding Comedy Series, and its star Phoebe Waller Bridge took Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy. Jodie Comer bagged Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama for her role in ‘Killing Eve’ while Ben Wishaw took home a gong for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series for his part in ‘A Very English Scandal’.
Phoenix rises Joaquin Phoenix is getting ready for the release of the ‘Joker’ film, which is out next week, and has had some rather mixed reviews. Some critics think the film glorifies violence, a sentiment to which Phoenix who plays the title role, has taken exemption to. In fact, the actor was so irritated at being asked if the film “might end up inspiring the kind of people it’s about, with potentially tragic results”, he walked out on an interview with a Daily Telegraph reporter only to return at the behest of his PR representative. Madonna misery Madonna has revealed she is ‘bored and lonely’ in her Lisbon mansion and is hinting she may soon move from the Portuguese capital. The 60-year-old Queen of Pop moved her family there two years ago so that she could support her son David’s promising football career. 06
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However, the owners of her rented £6m (RO2.8m) home are believed to be putting it on the market, and the singer will be busy on her Madam X tour until March 2020. Brit awards shake-up Organisers of the Brit Awards have announced that they intend to scrap the Best Male and Best Female solo artist awards. Instead, the award will simply be given to whomever is voted the best artist that year. The aim is to avoid defining people by their gender. Last year’s winners were George Ezra and Jorjia Smith, respectively. Next year, it is likely that the award will simply go to the Best Solo Artist of the year. Predictably, the move has attracted some criticism from some, who claim that female artists could be marginalised. However, it could be argued that an award bestowed to the best artist, regardless of gender, represents progress.
Lend us a Riyal The Forbes List of World’s highest paid hip hop artists for 2019 is out. Kanye West (US$150 million [RO390million]) has just topped Jay-Z on the Forbes List of the World’s Highest Paid Hip Hop Artists for 2019. West is at the number one spot, a jump of nine places from last week’s 10th position. Mind you, both are neck-and-neck in the overall personal wealth stakes; with both believed to have fortunes of around US$ 500m.
New music from Maroon 5 Maroon 5 are back with a new track called ‘Memories’. This is their first track of 2019, and lead singer Adam Levine tweeted: ‘This song is for anyone who has ever experienced loss. In other words, this song is for all of us’. The band’s last album was back in 2017, and was called ‘Red Pill Blues’. Bebe does Maleficent Bebe Rexha is all set for her new single for the sequel to ‘Maleficent’! Bebe joins the ranks of Elton John, Beyonce and others in writing a song for a Disney soundtrack. Her ‘You Can’t Stop The Girl’ has ‘classic’ written all over it. The movie ‘Maleficent: Mistress of Evil’ is out on October 18. Lauv in Lauv is out with a new track called ‘Feelings’, which comes after his ‘I’m Lonely’ collaboration with Anne Marie. This track will be on Lauv’s upcoming album ‘How I’m Feeling’ and it will be out in 2020. Be sure to keep it locked to Virgin Radio Oman 100.9 FM, and don’t miss your Tea Time with Maya Noise, daily on The Breakfast Show with Dan and Maya.
WEEKEND FUN
THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE Looking for a new and fun way to spend your weekend? A boat-and-beach full day programme hosted by Majan Compass awaits you and a friend this Friday. There will also be dolphin watching at the Bandar Al Khiran Reserve, breakfast on the beach and a chance to try out different water sports such as snorkelling, kayaking, and wakeboarding. To add to the excitement, there will be a lunch buffet of Omani and Mediterranean cuisines. The price per person is RO30 (excluding yoga) and it will be BYO (Bring Your Own Bottle/Beverage). For more information, contact +968 7944-6898.
MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS
Sep
27
Oct
02 Have you ever wanted to visit the Museum of Illusions at the Muscat Grand Mall? Omantel Makasib Wednesday is a great chance for you to do so as you can take a friend along using a ‘Buy 1 take 1 offer’ if you are a member of Omantel’s Makasib Rewards programme. Tickets are available from 10am to 10pm and rates would be RO3.5 for 5 to 15 year-olds and RO4.9 for 16 years’ old and above. Meanwhile, children who are four years’ old and below can enter for free. For information, call or send a message to 9144-4470.
OUD NIGHTS THIS
WEEK
Sep
26 -27 WHAT TO DO. WHAT TO SEE. WHAT TO HEAR.
S E P T E M B E R The Royal Opera House Muscat is welcoming fans of the highly-acclaimed Lebanese composer and oud player, Marcel Khalife. His orchestral works upholding the traditions and conventions of Arab music have been performed at prestigious venues in Europe and the USA. Marcel Khalife first performed at the Royal Opera House Muscat in 2015 and his return to Oman is one of this year’s highlights. Buy tickets at www.rohmuscat.org.om.
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YOUR
OMAN
O
man’s healthcare sector has welcomed another player to its ranks with Muscat Private Hospital (MPH), which has opened the Sultanate’s first JCI-accredited multi-specialty family clinic at Al Khoud. The inauguration on Sunday was held under the patronage of HE Dr. Ali Bin Talib al Hinai, Undersecretary of Planning Affairs, Ministry of Health. The family clinic aims to extend MPH’s healthcare by offering clinical advancements, co-ordinated care and an unparalleled experience to patients. Specialty services provided
HOSPITAL OPENS IN AL KHOUD at the clinic include Internal Medicine, Gynaecology, Paediatrics, Orthopaedics, Dental and Cosmetology, among others. Sandeep Kumar, Regional CEO of United Medical (UME), the international hospital management group that manages Muscat Private Hospital, said: “Having an international standard facility like MPH in the vicinity makes quality healthcare more convenient and accessible for the residents of Al Khoud and adjoining areas…we have created a care setting that is customised for seamless coordination, patient comfort, and convenience.”
THAI TRADE FAIR TO SURGE IN FIXED HIGHLIGHT THAILAND- INTERNET OMAN RELATIONS CONNECTIONS
A
trade show – Thai Trade Exhibition Oman 2019 – is slated to open its doors to showcase Thai businesses to the residents of Oman. The expo is for October 1-5 at the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre. The expo will bring together more than 100 businesses in food and beverages, beauty products, fashion and accessories, perfume and oud oil,
jewellery, hair care and health and wellness. It is aimed at giving local traders and visitors the insight, latest products and services to re-energise their businesses, enrich customer experience and drive performance. The show will also combine an exciting programme, daily surprises and a grand prize, which is a raffle draw for a trip to Thailand.
T
he Sultanate’s total fixed internet subscriptions surged by 9.2 per cent – reaching 463,131 – by the end of August 2019, when compared with data from the same period in 2018, according to the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI). The data showed that the number of fixed broadband internet connections – which have
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more than 256 kilobytes speed – also increased by 9.2 per cent to reach 461,007 by the end of August 2019. Meanwhile, the number of active mobile broadband subscribers increased by 8.8 per cent, reaching 4.476 million by the end of August 2019, when compared with 4.113 million subscribers at the end of December in 2018.
correspondence
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DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED:
The coming of new-age musicians in Oman is slowly opening up the entertainment scene. Do you think local artists are receiving the support they deserve – and what can we do, as residents of this country, to help them? MUTHUMARI PANDIAN
Oman is a music and arts-loving nation. This reflects its own unique culture and heritage. The Royal Opera House Muscat is a backbone of music, and a factory for cultural and musical artists. Many projects have been designed to develop music awareness and give an opportunity to students and budding musicians by the government. Many music lovers with the help of the private sector are raising musical awareness by providing more music education and by bringing free concerts to different venues around Muscat, and possibly throughout Oman. It’s good to see that many youngsters are coming up to show their talents in the music field, both professionally trained artists as well as selftaught passionate artists. The passion for music has led them to pursue the route of music. The artists have got unlimited support from family, friends, society and the government. And, many vibrant music lovers put them in prominent schools, which guide them in ways to acquire the depth knowledge of music. Also, the ‘Oman Post’ has launched four interactive stamps to celebrate the deep roots of traditional music. This proves that Oman is a music loving nation.
ANNA GONZALES
As a musician of nine years, I can safely say that Oman does have a strong connection towards more classical forms of music. This means there’s immense support coming in from nearly every avenue for musicians singing local tunes. But, the same cannot be said
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about pop artists. While there is a dearth of pop musicians in the country, it’s important to note how it could be due to dwindling support. Sure, there are some big names in the industry – like Ghazi al Balushi and the like – but they find themselves remaining in the grassroots level even though they possess some of the best vocals I’ve heard by an Arab musician. It’s a bit unfair to them and that puts the country’s pop industry at risk of extinction. I think it’s time we take a stand to support them; publicise their works and give them the chance they deserve.
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and that means their music is predominantly held within the community itself. There are plenty of great OmaniZanzibari pop artists who I know are reticent to publicise themselves fearing a backlash from others. This is true, as several artists have been shamed and called out for using cuss words in their music. But yes, there are some truly great singers who are changing that by putting out great pop music with the soul you’d best expect from a musician in Oman.
New Debate: The face of the transport industry in the Sultanate is changing for the better. According to you, which transport project has greatly affected the nation and its people, and how has it allowed industry to boom? Share your view with us and you could be in with a chance of winning dinner for two.
MONASTIR AL LAWATI
Pop music culture is a new trend we’re not quite accustomed to here in Oman. As we all know, the country is home to music – we even have our own opera house, The Royal Opera House Muscat – and that’s a matter of pride to us. But, pop is still a new form of music that has failed to catch on here due to the demographics of the people. Firstly, a great deal of the artists have Zanzibari roots
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MOVIES MOVIES
The Wedding Year Cast: Sarah Hyland, Tyler James Williams, Jenna Dewan
The Informer Cast: Joel Kinnaman, Rosamund Pike, Clive Owen Ex-convict Pete Koslow (Kinnaman) is on parole but is suddently sent back to jail to work undercover for the FBI. Agent Wilcox (Pike) orders him to muscle in on the activities of a drug boss, known as The General (Eugene Lipinski). Koslow finds himself over a barrel, as the crime boss targets his wife and daughter as insurance for cutting him in.
The Rookies
All he wants to do is go straight, and settle down, but then as famous mob boss Lucky Luciano once said ‘once in, there is no out’. This is a taut action thriller, with British stars Pike and Clive Owen giving the proceedings some class. With the era of Stallone, Schwarzenegger and Willis pretty much over, and Gibson and Neesom in the ‘dog house’, it could be Kinnaman will be the go-to action hero that avaricious producers beat a path to. And he can act.
He is forced to hook up with Special Agent Bruce (Jovovich) along with Officer Miao Yan (Pinna), an inept cop; LV (Liu Meiton), an unemployed doctor; and scientist Ding Shan (Timmy Cast: Milla Jovovich, Darren Wang, Sandrinne Pinna Xu) whose credentials are well, suspect. Yet this motley crue must master their brief and wrestle a device Extreme sports lover Zhou Feng (Darren Wang) gets himself in that can destroy the world from a group of deadly terrorists. a bit of a mess by being linked with an international illegal trade. Silly, but great fun.
Mara (Sarah Hyland) is an LA-based photographer who is not minded towards marriage. But when she and her new boyfriend (Williams) get invited to seven weddings in one year, the pressure on the couple to conjure up the conjugal bug becomes very real. Career girl Mara finds she might be the only unmarried one in her circle – and she is not entirely comfortable with the prospect. A chick flick that ticks all the boxes, and Hyland is a delight.
Cold Blood Legacy Cast: Jean Reno, Sarah Lind, Joe Anderson
Hitman Henry (Reno) is something of a recluse. Living isolated in a cabin by a lake, it’s fair to say he doesn’t care for human company. When the mysterious Melody (Lind) comes across his isolated idyll by crashing her snowmobile nearby, you just know he’s going to be in for a rough ride himself. He takes her back to his home and nurses her back to health. But who is she? What is she doing there? Who is in more danger; him or her? Suspense thriller that’s a slow burn.
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TIMES, GO TO: City Cinema: citycinemaoman.net Al Bahja Cinema: albahjacinema.net VOX Cinemas: oman.voxcinemas.com Star Cinema: Tel +968 2479-1641
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011
HITTING THE
RIGHT NOT
THE WORLD OF POPULAR MUSIC IS A FICKLE ONE. MEDIOCRITY IS NO BARRIER TO MEGASTARDOM WHILE THE TRULY TALENTED CAN STRUGGLE TO GET THEIR VOICES HEARD, EVEN IN A YOUTUBE ERA. WHILE THE SULTANATE’S FINEST HAVE YET TO FIND A FOOTHOLD ON THE GLOBAL STAGE, SOME ARE AS FOCUSED AND AS GIFTED AS THEIR WESTERN COUNTERPARTS, AS TEAM Y FINDS OUT 012
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TE
T
he pain of being a struggling musician can reverberate through their voice and music. This is the cornerstone of the global music industry. It’s a ruthless field that can make or break an individual. But whether the artist decides to bounce back or not with content is what drives the pop-culture industry to greater heights. Perhaps this is slowly where Oman’s pop music is heading towards; with a handful of artists pounding on the doors to fame, hoping for a response. While fame and fortune lies at one end, the flipside can be undermining. But that hasn’t stopped the youth from trying. Nine months ago, on a lowly December evening, Omani singer ‘Akram’ Masruri and producer Firas ‘Viirgo’ al Bakri sowed their hard work – a music video titled, ‘Phantom’s Intro’ – on YouTube. Filled with heavy R&B nuances, intimate lyrics, and showcasing vocal talents, the song is one of their best works yet. They subsequently released 10 more English tracks under the ‘Akram x Viirgo’ label, praying for the attention they deserve. While their videos have slowly received recognition – with a few thousand views (3,500 at the time of publishing) to mark their efforts – the rewards are still far beyond what artists from other markets would receive. “We need a change here. And we will try to be a part of that change,” remarks Akram in an interview at the Base in Al Khoud with Y Magazine. He is talking during the screening event of their documentary, which highlights the struggles they have faced while making music. “Music is a very important part of our lives, and it’s about time we give musicians a chance to shine in the mainstream media. “This is why we came together to create a documentary while making our music. We wanted to show people what goes into creating an English album in the Middle East from the ground up. “We’re also unknowns here trying to find our come-up, and we’re trying to show the youth how two complete strangers got together and created an album.” Pop itself is a new notion in Oman, and as Akram says, there’s an identity crisis among musicians, which could be the reason why a lot of their work goes unrecognised by the public. But, as history teaches us, the very underlying roots of popculture – or popular culture – is a changing identity to keep in line with the modern trends, be it in the field of music, art, fashion, and even movies. Pop-culture when relating to music forms the core of ‘pop music’. As explained by The Cambridge Companion to Rock and Pop – a study published by the Cambridge University – pop music is a genre that originated in its modern form in the United States and United Kingdom in the mid-1950s. This has since spread worldwide, with music being described as ‘pop’, if it appears in the charts. The study shows that pop music often borrows elements from other styles such as urban, dance, rock, Latin, and country; nonetheless, there are many core elements that define pop music. Identifying factors include generally short to medium-length
Music is a very important part of our lives, and it’s about time we give musicians a chance to shine in the mainstream media SEP 26 - OCT 02 / ISSUE 586
013
songs written in a basic format (often the versechorus structure), as well as the common use of repeated choruses, hooks and bridges. As Akram and his partner Viirgo’s album relies heavily on pop elements, their work classifies as pop music from Oman – and this is opening fresh avenues that were once unknown, as Oman has long remained rooted to its heritage and culture, thereby appreciating traditional forms of music. Ahmed al Wahaibi, a music teacher based in Oman, is quite critical of how we treat pop artists in Oman. He says: “Traditional music has had a strong place in the hearts of the citizens, and international music from parts of India, Pakistan, Zanzibar and Tanzania. “It’s probably the first time people are talking about this matter in the country. But, I’m all for any form of music – whether it’s R&B, blues, jazz or pop. Oman is predominantly heavy on music such as Aazi, Bara’a and Maydan. “But, there’s a lack of exposure for artists here, and that can be due to the pace at which we’re adopting English music. The youth is into more Western and international music such as Pop and Hip Hop, but you don’t see many people taking the initiative to create things locally. “This is probably why some of those who do don’t get the recognition they deserve,” he says. While failing to knock on doors and creating a legacy for themselves is a part of the problem, there could be bigger trouble stemming from accepting the music. At least that’s what Omani rapper Salim Ghalib says he has struggled with for the past decade or so. Having been active for long, the 35-year-old rapper is yet to find local success, even if his music has transcended internationally. His music is heavily inspired by artists such as Nas, Jay Z, 2Pac and Dr. Dre from the US. The singer of the hit single, ‘Shine’, tells us: “It’s very difficult to break into the music industry in Oman because it’s still in its early stages. There isn’t a pop market here, unless the music comes in from established markets such as the US, UK, Lebanon, Egypt and Turkey. “There isn’t any real Omani name that has gone global, except for Salah al Zadjali. But, we all are trying to change that. On a positive note, Oman is accepting of great music and it has superb tastes. “But, when it comes to local musicians of any genres, you don’t see one making it to great heights like they do from the West, or from India and so on. If you think about it, there’s no one who has broken beyond a certain point and become an international star from Oman.” Salim’s concerns are in line with those of Akram and Firas – but neither of them can pinpoint why the struggle is beyond their control. A quick research shows us the biggest international music name Oman has created in the pop music industry is Salah al Zadjali, a classical and pop singer; and Sham Maskari, an 014
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Omani Arabic rapper. It’s also worth noting that this means artists must hold full-time jobs to sustain themselves. For instance, both Salim and Akram hold full-time jobs in Oman, and must record in their free time after work. Meanwhile, Firas boldly claims he makes money selling his beats online to singers – though, he adds that making ends meet is a struggle as his income is limited. As Akram says: “Being a musician in Oman right now means you need to have a steady income to support yourself. You’ll need support from your family too. Otherwise, it’s practically impossible to sustain yourself and push the music you like outside. Despite their minor success, Akram and Firas’ project was completed in a makeshift studio at their home. They call their album a ‘DIY (do-ityourself) project’. Shabib al Zadjali, 27, an Omani music student at the Yale School of Music, chimes in: “Oman is not devoid of musicians or music. There have always been great singers and producers within the country.
Being a musician in Oman right now means you need to have a steady income to support yourself. You’ll need support from your family too. Otherwise, it’s practically impossible to sustain yourself and push the music you like outside “Some of these talented singers – like Haitham Rafi – choose to sing covers while others try to script their own music. That’s where artists like Akram Masruri, Ghazi al Balushi, Sham Maskari and Salim Ghalib come into play; they’re trying to make a new industry in Oman by showing the youth that it’s possible to create your own signature and style. “Things won’t change overnight. One of the reasons why pop music doesn’t do very well in Oman is because of the population count. The math is simple: the more the people, the more chances you have of getting a hit out and recognised. He says: “Oman has somewhere around 4.7 million people currently, and the ratio of Omanis to expats is somewhere around 52 to 48 per cent. Pop artists focus on both segments of the audience, as opposed to local singers to cater to the Omani audience. “The latter will be a sure win as they already have a strong ground to showcase their music.
But it’s the new-age musicians who will struggle as several singers fail to find an identity, whether it’s with their voice, style or lyrics.” It’s a statement with which Akram concurs. “What is our sound? What is our product? What is our style? That is a struggle, because once you put an identity out, people expect that from you consistently. But, then you need to know how to balance that identity and grow as an artist at the same time. “And being consistent all the time isn’t what music is all about. You need to adapt, learn and do the best you can lyrically and instrumentally.” With the nation’s roots running deep with influences from Zanzibar and Tanzania, and from Asian countries such as India and Pakistan, the Sultanate has long been touted as a multi-cultural nation. And with that comes a strong love for music. But as Shabib says: “You cannot force a new genre of music to someone and expect them to like it. Take for instance the coastal side of Oman like Muttrah. Their music is inspired from South-Asian music, while the Sharqiyah region of the pond is heavily inspired by songs sung by sailors. “And then we have a crowd in Oman with influences from Africa. They’re more inclined to genres such as pop, rap, hip hop and R&B. And many young people embrace that and carry the torch in Oman.” That said, the youth is on a mission to change the face of music in Oman – and they’re using social media to set their ideas in motion. Moreover, with singer Ghazi al Balushi founding the ‘Just Jam Sessions’ – a travelling platform promoting poets and musicians with the hopes of developing the local art scene; and young entrepreneurs such as Aisha al Bakry paving the path for young musicians by offering them publicity and support, there’s enough evidence to conclude that the future of music in Oman is bright. Addressing the 100-odd guests at their documentary screening event, Firas says: “It’s hard to say where our journey will end. But, what I can say is that ours has begun. We all are the future of the country, and together we will create something big.” His words are applauded, before a hip hop song takes over the speakers. But just as they close for the night, we catch hold of Firas to ask him if he truly believes that their struggles as musicians will come to an end. To that he says: “It will take some time to change this situation we’re in and I can’t see that changing overnight. “But, if we can change one person’s mind with this documentary, that will be worth it. And I can assure you, there’s no one more motivated than a struggling artist.” ■
All along the watchtower FORTIFIED MONUMENTS PERCHED ATOP HILLOCKS IN OMAN’S TOWNS AND VILLAGES ONCE SERVED AS SECONDARY STRUCTURES FOR DEFENCE. AFTAB H. KOLA LOOKS AT SOME OF THESE REMINDERS OF THE PAST
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very country has its principal historical relic and for Oman, it is the fort. Perhaps no legacy exudes a sense of history as much as a fort does. Some of the most potent symbols of Oman’s strikingly beautiful landscape are its thousand-or-more impressive forts, castles and watchtowers. Forts were meant to protect seaports and served as guardians of trade routes and
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populated areas. Castles were grand in design but the purpose was to house powerful men reflecting their status in society and wealth. Much has been written about the forts and castles of Oman but there's hardly anything about the watchtowers that are scattered all over Oman. Watchtowers were outposts to keep a watch or protect inland trade routes and to guard water supplies. They also served as
reconnaissance towers from where, upon sighting the invading enemy, warning shots would alert the garrison at a nearby fort. They were look-out towers from which, at the sight of incoming enemies, warning shots could alert the garrison at a nearby fort. In other words, watchtowers were considered as secondary defence, and were rallying points, permitting the besieged to make sorties under cover of artillery fire.
Like forts and castles, watchtowers have been scattered throughout Oman. While many have become victims to the vagaries of nature, others have withstood the onslaught, and continue to serve as reminders of the turbulent past. The highest concentration of watchtowers in this country is along the main mountain passageway from the coast of Oman to the interior. These are Wadi Samail, from Muscat to Izki; Wadi Jizzi, from Sohar to Buraimi; and Wadi Hawasinah, from Al Khabura to Ibri. There is a very picturesque grouping of nine towers in Biaq in Wadi Samail while five towers, on surrounding knolls, form a supplementary defence to the single tower of the fort in Al Hobe, 80kms from Nizwa. From the pages of history, we learn that the watchtowers found in and around the villages and wadis of the Dhahirah, were a scene of action during the late 19th century when the region went through scores of transference of power from one faction to another. The towers at Araqi, Subaiki and Yankal in Dhahirah region stand testimony to a bygone era. At Gheizen in Wadi Hawasinah, four towers remain at corners of what was once a wall around the village. The old towers have survived the rigours of nature and time better than their mud-brick counterparts. Wadi Jizzi, which runs through the northern range of the Hajar al Gharbi, connecting the oasis of Buraimi and the Batinah coast, has few tower ruins at Al Hail, Al Rabi and at Al Wais. Al Hail has two restored towers high above a wadi canyon. Al Rani’s tower sits on a pinnacle rock 60 metres high, but within a short distance of a small restored fort. The Persians built these towers preceding the advent of Islam, when Persia controlled the Batinah Plains. The Arabs controlled the interior and highlands. Some towers, like the one in Sur Al Qarat, have solid-walled first storeys, gun ports at upper
level and are topped with crenellated parapets. Muscat also has watchtowers. Besides the towers scattered in Muscat, the most prominent is the one at Quriyat, southeast of Muscat amidst the waters. At low tide, the tower is accessible on foot. A plan of Quriyat dating to 1635 AD shows the tower as a secondary defence to the town. Mudairib is yet another town that is punctuated by towers. These are towers among fortified mansions, near old walled town ruins, next to new homes and topping the hills around the city. Some of the many villages on the flat plains of Sharqiyah were formerly enclosed walls within walls and all had towers. Towers abound in Al Wasil, and several can be seen rising above the palm grooves which hide the village of Al Riddah. One large tower stands next to an open space surrounded by large shade trees in the centre of this village. The tower which is perched atop a large yellow sand mass also happens to be the most photographed tower
in Oman. In Bat, a watch tower is clearly visible. The architecture of towers is different from forts and castles. While some are tall and slender, others are short and squat. Tall towers increase the range of the guns and also offered better views. The material used also varies in texture. Some have a stone-andmortar base with a mud-brick top section and others are made solely from mud-brick. Oman’s rich array of forts, castles and watchtowers reminds us that life was lived long before we existed. Let’s hope that we can leave just as fascinating a legacy. I doubt it, though. ■
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Mum’s the word When an Omani teenager teamed up with her mother to produce a book of poetry, neither realised their efforts would make them a literary hit. They talk about their mutual artistic journey, in this week’s Coffee with Y
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he bond between a mother and daughter can be a thorny one at times. But the story of 18-year-old student Rishika Singh and her mother Shail Suman reveals a rapport far beyond most traditional parent-child relationships. It’s a sacred bond forged in ink – one that started when they began writing poems during their time together at a community group in Muscat. This has since taken the shape of a book, titled ‘The Duet’, where both cast their ideologies, thoughts and beliefs verse by verse – all poems written over the past five years and compiled into themes aimed at making the reader stop and think. It’s not just about inviting opinion. The volume is designed to bring to light the beauty of poetry – an art form that can evoke most, if not all, human emotions. The co-authored book, which was published at the end of last year, also features illustrations by Alex Gili, Rishika’s fellow student at British School Muscat (BSM), and contains a foreword written by the former Indian Ambassador to Oman, H.E. Indra Mani Pandey. This week, we visit the duo’s home to learn about the book that is creating a buzz among the literary crowd in Oman – and beyond.
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Publishing an anthology is a Y: great feat indeed. Can you tell us a bit
about the collection of poems that were published? Rishika Singh:
We decided to pick 11 themes in total. The first 10 themes were those that my mom and I had an inkling for – like radio, a medium that she absolutely loves. She grew up with it back home in India, and she has always had a passion for it. Furthermore, we have poems on love, relationships, dreams, and many more. But an impromptu one we had was on Oman. This was a poem I wrote, because I wanted to express my love for the country, having grown up here. My intentions were simple: I wanted to get my emotions and feelings and put them into a poem.
As a poet, do you have a muse or a Y: writer who inspires you? RS:
My favourite author right now is Margaret Atwood. I find her writing to be engaging and gripping; it’s not like anything I’ve never read before. Her topics are slightly dystopian in nature; like what would happen if society took a different path and how it would function in the long run. I recently read her novel, ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, and found it to be radical. There were so many elements that we could analyse in detail.
What motivated you to begin Y: writing poems? RS:
Well, it all began when we joined a poetry club here in Oman that we would go to once a month. There, the group would give us all a central theme to follow and each member would have to write a poem based on that.
Then, we’d have to read it aloud and discuss it in length with the group. It was a nice way to ease into poetry. After a year of doing that, both my mom and I had a short collection of poems – and she had the idea of turning it into a collection. By then, we both had an equal number of poems about similar themes. And, that’s how it all came together. Compiling and publishing it was her idea. Then we came up with the idea of splitting it into two parts: each theme would have two perspectives – one would be my mom’s and the other, mine.
When did Y: you start writing
poetry? RS: I started writing from a young age
– when I was 10 or 11. But it was when we went to the UK in 2010 that I got more exposure. I also became expressive in my writing. We came back to Oman in 2013, and I started to write a novel. It didn’t pan out as intended but we did get a book out of it. Even so, it was the Internations Poetry Club – where poets from different countries would come and contribute their poems – that gave us the exposure we required.
How long did it Y: take for the book to come along? Shail Suman: It didn’t take us very long to compile the poems for the book. All the materials were with us at hand. Then it was just down to getting the illustrations done by Alex Gili, who is also a student at the British School Muscat.
How great Y: is the difference
between both your styles of writings? SS: Rishika writes intense poetry with a bit more drama. Mine is different and a bit more soft and mature.
What can Y: you tell us about
the illustrations in the book? How challenging were they? Alex Gili: A lot of it is just me
expressing an idea of what I felt about a poem – it’s all about how I related to a topic as a reader. My favourite one is the one on Oman. It’s because I’ve been here for 16 years and I see it as home. It took me about one summer to complete all the illustrations so I didn’t have much time on my hands. But I worked on it every day. There were a few times when I would create a drawing and it wouldn’t go down too well. Therefore, I had to experiment and draw it again until I got it right.
Co-authoring a book Y: at the age of 18 is truly an achievement. What has the support been like from readers and your peers? RS: Everyone who has read the book
love it. We had a book signing event at school with teachers at the Winter Fair. We also launched our book there. Some were pre-ordered by people within the school itself. They loved the idea of a collaboration between a mother and her daughter. Some of our friends also bought the book as Christmas gifts. My friends at school have been very supportive. I’m very proud of it, but maybe not as proud as they all are of us. Our book is also special to us, as we have a foreword written by the former Indian Ambassador to Oman, H.E. Indra Mani Pandey, and the principal of the British School Muscat, Kai Vacher.
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WILD WADI
The wadis of Al Amerat offer a wilderness worthy of the hardiest, and most intrepid traveller.
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AL AMERAT Hibba al Kindi goes back to her roots and rediscovers the town that helped nurture her, while finding a few nuggets she missed the first time around 022
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wild fox or two, many a time. Al Amerat is home to the Wadi Al Sireen Reserve which was established in 1974. It is home to various wildlife species inducing the Arabian gazelle, the Arabian wolf, the Nubian ibex, the Blanford fox, and the red fox. The reserve is also home the Arabian Tahr, which according to the Ministry of Tourism is considered to be the rarest of all these animals. Many exciting and colourful events are held here, too. The most notable one is, of course, the Muscat Festival, which is always one of the flagship events of our year. I’m already looking at Al Amerat with fresh eyes, and renewed enthusiasm and pride.
Legend has it that the city used to be known as Al Mutahidamat, which translates roughly to ‘ruins’ from the Arabic. The rough terrain of the area and the multiple wadis made it hard for people to live in the area. However, that changed when Sheik Said al Kindi moved in the area currently known as old Amerat and took advantage of the agricultural resources Al Amerat had to offer. The state’s name was officially changed to Al Amerat after the renaissance, as more developments were brought into the area. Currently, the state can be reached by two main roads (the Wadi Adi road and the scenic Jabal road) and it is considered to be one the fastest-
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aving grown up in Al Amerat, it’s more of home than a destination to visit. However, I feel it often gets a bad rap and is sometimes derided, which I think is unfair. To begin with, the town is a great escape from the city. Surrounded by mountains all around it offers the visitor a calm sense of seclusion and serenity. The weather in the summer is bearable, and unlike other parts of Muscat, it does not get too humid. During the wintertime, it’s actually colder than other places in the country, which gives you the chance to experience an actual winter, in Muscat.
growing suburbs of the Muscat Governorate. Growing up in Al Amerat as a child was tricky. At times, I resented living so far away from the city (this was in the time before the construction of the Jabal road and the reconstruction of the Wadi Road). However, whether it was riding my bike through the stretches of wilderness or camping with my family, I knew that nature was always there at my backyard. One of my favourite things about Al Amerat is the scenery. The state has to 61 aflaj and 75 wadis and hosts a diverse ecosystem. It’s not unusual to see a herd of donkeys, or goats or camels passing by, and I have seen a
Al Amerat is a mere 15-minute drive away from Muscat. First, head to Wadi Adai and turn right at the Shell petrol station by the highway and follow the sign boards. Once you’ve driven through the mountains, take the first exit at the roundabout to head deep into the heart of the city. GPS Coordinates: N23° 32’ 22.758”; E58° 30’ 59.202”
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CARS ADVENTURES
JEEP COMPASS
FIRST DRIVE
F
or all its time in existence, the Jeep Compass has seemed like a fish out of water, with a jarring soft-roader image that has obscured Jeep’s vision of more than 70 years of building off-road-ready trucks and SUVs that can take on anything Mother Nature chucks at them. Yet, with growing demand for family haulers in this part of the world – where even SUVs run on smooth tarmac and are safely stowed away in garages – the Compass makes a return to form; albeit by ditching its softer tone for an image befitting the Jeep badge. Butch by appearance and practical by nature, the new Compass takes the red rag to the bull, fetching just about every quirk from its larger sibling – the Grand Cherokee – and shrinks it down to create something of an all-rounder fit enough to take home glory from the Asians who have been on top form of late.
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Team Y tests an SUV that aims to combine rugged reliability with practical style
The Compass boldly proclaims itself too. Whether it’s the dual tone fiery orange paintjob (that out tester came in), or the generous serving of Jeep badges and logos in and around the car, there’s just about enough to tell you that Jeep isn’t mucking around with its new crossover SUV. In this case, the looks aren’t deceptive. The Compass embodies the Grand Cherokee in shape and form – from the headlamps to the haunches around the fenders, the general side profile, and plastics around the bumpers and the wheel arches. The bumper, however, is carved out in good taste; with a handful of air intakes to help cool off the engine, and a modernised take on the seven-slot grille that’s both functional and striking to look at. Another subtle styling cue is a chrome strip that runs below the roof-line and then neatly flicks down to run under the rear window, and up again the
other side. It’s a proportional vehicle at first glance although we suspect the larger 18- and 19-inch alloys will round off the burly looks as opposed to the 17-inchers our ‘Longitude’ variant came fitted with. Built around the same adaptable Fiat-derived SCCS platform that underpins the Jeep Renegade and Fiat 500X, the Compass benefits from wheelbase length – 80mm more, in fact, than the sub-compact SUV, Renegade. This makes for better interior dimensions than the cutesy Renegade, and just about enough space for five full-sized adults. The seats on our tester were finished in soft fabrics – a blessing in this summer heat – though it can be had with leather as well. The cushy seats can lack bolstering, but they’re good on lumbar support and are positioned in a manner that mimics the height of an SUV but with enough leeway to lower it to levels more in line with the general height of the Compass. Luggage space is generous for this segment at 770 litres with the seats up or 1693 litres with the rear seats folded down. Keeping in line with Jeep’s design ethos, our tester came packing the 7-inch touchscreen running the brand’s UConnect system. UX and UI are in line with market standards,
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JEEP COMPASS Specifications: • Engine: 2.4-litre in-line four-cylinder • Transmission: Nine-speed automatic • Power: 184hp • Torque: 321Nms All-wheel-drive Reverse camera (optional) Cruise control Speed limiter Sunroof Electronic parking brake 17-inch alloy wheels ABS, EBD, and TC Hill Start Assist Auto hold assist 770-litre boot 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system
if not better, with quick responses to touches and quick flips through pages. Higher variants will receive the larger 8.4-inch unit, which packs navigation and a host of other off-road pages. Cabin ambience is among the best we’ve tested in an American SUV: the dashboard is neat and uncluttered, and there’s a generous dose of soft-touch plastics that ups the general feel. Also, hard plastics are kept to lower levels of the cabin that won’t meet your knees or even your foot… unless you are trying hard to reach them. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather, and there are controls on either side to control the cruise functions and the multi-information display (on the instrument cluster). We particularly took a shine to the set of buttons behind the wheel that control the music and its levels. In terms of safety, Jeep chucks in your usual arsenal of six front and curtain airbags, alongside traction and stability controls with electronic roll mitigation, as standard.
However, higher variants will receive Forward Collision Warning-Plus, Lane Sense Departure Warning-Plus, Blindspot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path detection, ParkView rear backup camera with dynamic grid lines, automated parallel and perpendicular park assist, and adaptive cruise control. A 2.4-litre in-line four-cylinder motor rated at 184hp and 321Nms does all the heavy lifting for the Compass. It’s a well-acclaimed gutsy motor that breathes hard (while producing an animated exhaust note) to keep the power flowing till the red line at 5,000rpm. Acceleration figures aren’t overwhelming by Jeep standards. The 100kph mark is achieved in about 10 seconds (or maybe lesser depending on the climate), and the nine-speed automatic transmission upshifts early to help the engine sip on fuel than gulp it down. It’s a fine match, and the Compass copes far better than expected on the highways – both noise and vibrations were kept to a minimum. On the expressway, and at speeds between 120kph and 140kph is where the SUV belongs. It trundles along fine with little to no hesitation and wind resistance rarely makes a mark on the way it rides. Throttling hard results in instant kick-downs, but manually overriding the system can often result in dithering shifts (especially when you’re trying to use enginebraking) that seem to be on a hiding to nothing. The electricassisted steering has some weight to it, but has an unexpected bite-in that can make for some fun when poking through the twists. Brake
THE COMPASS EMBODIES THE GRAND CHEROKEE IN SHAPE AND FORM – FROM THE HEADLAMPS TO THE HAUNCHES AROUND THE FENDERS, THE GENERAL SIDE PROFILE, AND PLASTICS AROUND THE BUMPERS AND THE WHEEL ARCHES. feel is great, with a fair bit of force from the get-go and linear progression that keeps the vehicle from tipping over. Even as it’s pegged an entrant in the lineup, the Compass pulls through as a fine off-roader with plenty of tricks up its sleeve. There’s about 148mm of ground clearance and an additional skid plate for protecting the underbody, and axle articulation is enough to keep you grounded and safe even during some spirited rock-climbing sessions (if you’re the one person that takes their Compass off-road). When the going gets tough, however, Jeep’s terrain select system will allow you to switch between ‘Auto’, ‘Sand’, ‘Snow’, and ‘Mud’ modes, though higher variants come with 4WD ‘Low’ and ‘High’ to help you. Progress transpires when you pick up on your mistakes and rectify it – and that’s exactly what the Compass achieves. It’s a well-rounded and value-for-money tank that’s backed up by great on-road dynamics and a tech-heavy cabin rarely seen in a vehicle at this price point. Gone is the run-down design and the hard-plastic interiors. It’s a no-brainer: Jeep’s Compass is among the best compact SUVs you can currently own today. Talk about scoring a bang for your buck.
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ALASKAN ADVENTURES The appeal of Alaska is hard to pinpoint, but its status as a wilderness worthy of the most hardy of travellers is hard to dispute
1. Drive on up to the Denali National Park and Reserve. 2. Gaze at the reflection of Mt. McKinley against the Wonder Lake 3. Kids can learn about local arts at the Anchorage Museum. 4. Explore the 19th Century Dolly’s House Museum Gift Shop. 5. Study arctic ecosystems at the Murie Science and Learning Centre.
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Paul Reddington recommends
ALASKA, USA S
mack me in the head and call me crazy; my perfect vacation involves cozying up into a ball in the peak of winter and in the middle of nowhere. I don’t care much for the Internet or amenities such as a movie theatre or café. Brace yourself to sprint far and long if you’re even planning on suggesting a night of club-hopping. In fact, I’d much rather be snowed inside (yes, I need snow!) a treehouse and start a fire to sit around and roast marshmallows. By all means, I’m describing Alaska. It’s a humble state up in the United States that I frequent every time I’ve racked up a few weeks away from work. It’s calm, serene, and could be the ideal home to those who’ve fallen from grace and just want to live out their lives in peace. Hollywood has done its share of bringing its name to fame but Alaska remains silent for most of the year - and I love it. The climate has a lot to do with that. Temperatures border in on the extreme minuses in winter while it hovers along the early-10s in summer. It’s hardly a call back to my days in Oman that I spend counting down the scorching summer days. First timers must know two things about Alaska: one, it’s ominously known as ‘the MOU land of missing people’; and two, the fabled but mythical Alaskan bushman could be SHADO NT DENALI C AS W OVER behind all the disappearances. T H E W O T S IT S NDER LAKE No jokes though. There are several mysteries (and rumours) surrounding Alaska, most of which do a great job in warding off too many tourists. Those that make it up here, meanwhile, do it to experience the sheer beauty of the snow-covered peaks and life in silent towns. All of that sets Alaska apart from other American tourist destinations. Crystalclear fjords, tall mountain peaks and greenery are its hallmarks - and all of this is best experienced while camping out in the forests. The scenery is mesmerizing, to say the least - and it casts shade over the state’s past. It’s worth noting that the Alaska we know today came into being when the United States purchased the land from the Russian Empire for US$7.2 million in 1867, thereby creating the country’s 49th state. I’d claim that it’s a wise purchase, for with its myriad islands Alaska has nearly 55,000kms of tidal shoreline to its name. While this allows for an abundance of fish to be consumed and exported into other parts of the US and the world, it has also made for some of the nation’s most lucrative oil fields. Like Oman, Alaska relies heavily on oil production. Much to our annoyance, Alaska also has long days - 19-hour-long days, to be precise! If you thought nights in Oman were short, try wrapping your heads around how exasperating nights in Alaska can get. TED AT E A R S S P OT That said, the trip is still worth your time in gold. The towners are friendly and will G L A C IE R B L PARK L I N A T IO N A assist in showing you around town if you’re strapped for cash, and there are plenty of THE DENA sights you can cash in on for some truly stunning Instagram posts.
My favourite place
Having settled into my very own campervan at the Williwaw Campground in Girdwood over a cold weekend, I go exploring the locale by foot. Here, you can interest your mates in fishing for some pink salmon, or trekking into the forest for some (legal) hunting or sightseeing. Setting a fire and gathering around it for some chitchat with friends at night works too – though it’s best to keep an eye out for animals and mosquitoes.
Highlights Alaska has plenty of pluses; most of them revolve around how it’s slowly becoming a lucrative locale to migrate to. While the cost of living is still on the higher side so are salaries. This means it’s welcoming more expats. Apart from that, it has long been believed to be home to adventurists looking to scale up mountains or head out skiing, and budding movie makers who can film a horror flick for little to no budget using only the surroundings for props. All of this means that tourism is slowly gaining traction – and the cold temperatures coupled with snow is turning it into a hub for sporting activities.
Lowlights The weather can be unforgiving – and it’s best to prepare yourself, with winter clothes. Temperatures can fall to -33-degree-Celsius in certain parts of the state in January. Souvenirs From spicy chocolates to Alaskan native art, there are plenty of options for you to go through when shopping. The latter includes woven birch baskets, handmade dolls, masks, trinkets and traditional ulu knives. Getting there There are no direct flights to Alaska from Oman. Your best bet would be to fly to Seattle with Emirates and then take a connecting flight to the nearest airport at Fairbanks.
ART D IS ANCHO PLAYS AT T RAGE HE MUSE UM
Where to stay Time and temperature willing, it’s best to stay at a campsite. The Williwaw Campground is a great place to pitch your tent. Meanwhile, hotels in the vicinity can set you back upwards of RO40 per night.
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-FI THE TECH IN YOU
Y’s Geek Squad gets geared up for autumn with a slew of slick, sporty and scary offerings guaranteed to keep you stuck to the sofa. Here are three of the best:
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romises of a fun-filled September are headlined by premiere titles that we’ve been dying to try out – and fortunately rank among the best releases of the year – thereby, infusing the ‘cool’ factor that has long been missing in an industry chock-full of drab (and gory!) zombie assault missions.
D e s t i n at i o n
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Gaming
Y-FI
September Game Releases
its way to the game, bringing some Futsal action to the mix. Gaming dynamics and the online transfer market is believed to be unchanged; meaning, you’ll still find yourself belligerently smashing your controller into bits. However, the developers say that this is their greatest take on the game so far. We’d like to believe Electronic Arts, but we’ve been stung before. Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
FIFA 20
There’s no easy way to put it: FIFA has endured as the unrivalled champion in football simulation games for the past decade or so (sorry, Pro Evolution Soccer fans) – and its latest take is its best yet, throwing shade on a rival that has long tussled for a share of the action in vain. The game keeps all its original elements – the 1v1 and 2v2 matches, Ultimate team, and career and online multiplayer modes, but an additional VOLTA Football mode – a gameplay reminiscent of that of FIFA Street last seen in 2012 – makes
Cars
GRID 2019
New cars, new tracks, and new rivals; Grid 2019 packs in the best of arcade gaming with the pizzazz of simulation racing to create a fun little title fit for casual gamers who don’t want the miseries of playing fiddle with an army of complex controls. The result is a funto-play game that lets you put your skills to the test against an AI engine (Nemesis System) that can exact revenge on you if you play dirty. Speaking of which, F1 racing driver, Fernando Alonso takes the role of your Racing Consultant, before finally challenging you in the singleplayer mode’s final event. If previous titles are anything to go by, this will be
a great game with plenty of hours' of gameplay under its belt. Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Google Stadia
LEGO: JURASSIC PARK
A lot can go wrong when you trail the paths of Jurassic Park alone; if anything, all the movies have taught us that. Dare enough and you may just come face to face with some killer dinosaurs from a bygone era that have been kept alive through breakthroughs in science. This forms the crux of the Lego game that was released on PC and consoles in 2015. This minor remaster of the game for the Nintendo Switch adds 20 dinosaur species, nearly 100 characters to play as, and faster loading times to complement a fine title that’s worthy of being in the Jurassic world (unlike the last two flicks!). Platform: PC, PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS Vita, Wii U, Mac OS, Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch
HEALTH
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BEAUTY
Fa s h i o n
Home
Fa m i l y
HEAVY DUTY Hefty school bags hauled around by today’s kids could mean back trouble for tomorrow’s adults. Swati Basu Das looks at how to take the weight off your children’s shoulders, and a load off your mind
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eighty, heavy and often a struggle, schoolbags carried over the shoulder might look ‘happening hipster’ but could actually be bad for your child’s health. Available in every shape, size and colour, the humble schoolbag can pose a threat to the backbones of children, experts say. While slouching over a screen is poor for posture, heavy bags can affect spinal health during the developmental years. Orthapaedic departments in the Sultanate have noted the problem, and doctors are keen to labour the point. In fact, an average teenager’s schoolbag or rucksack is packed to the gills, leading him or her to often bend slightly when they walk. When the pupil reaches school, the chances are that he or she will slouch in front of a desk or computer screen for the best part of the day. This habit – bad posture – can result in upper back pain and frequent headaches. The trendiest of backpacks can contribute to long-term muscle strains, disfiguring curvatures and other spinal abnormalities; experts say. Children’s spinal health – traditionally not considered a serious health issue – is now a matter for concern. School bags with impressive designs may cling perfectly onto the child’s shoulder but they can bear a load heavier than your child should have to carry. Dr. Rajagopal T.N, a specialist orthopaedic surgeon at NMC Speciality Hospital, Al Gubhra, says: “Undoubtedly, schoolbags weigh more than a child can handle. It is one of the reasons for back pain and is an increasing issue among school-going children, along with their sitting habits on the sofa or at the dining table. The word ‘spondylosis’ doesn’t come as a surprise to any high school student.”
Cases of children suffering from lower back pain are sometimes coupled with knee problems and recurrent headaches. The cause for these ailments could be the schoolbags, which can have a capacity of up to 30 litres. Dr. Baby Sam Samuel Kutty, Chairman, BOD, Indian Schools in Oman, says: “In the past decade or two as the curricula evolved, there has been an increased number of books. It is, unfortunately, resulting in heavier school bags. “Children also carry items beyond the timetables. Heavy bags that are ergonomically unsuitable for the height and weight of a child adversely affect him/her. This creates undue pressure on the back and spine disrupting the posture.” The doctors say bulky bags damage the muscle of the upper shoulder affecting the healthy development of a child. Dr. Rajagopal says: “Carrying heavy bags strain the entire vertebral column. Poor posture alignment leads to lower back, shoulder, and neck pain. Carrying such bags makes a child tilt the trunk forward, which is when they develop a forward head posture. “A typical backpack syndrome with a slight to sometimes severe deformity in body posture causes cervical and lumbar pain along with fatigue and headaches.” Children more often overlook the initial symptoms. They may not even experience immediate pain, but there are high chances of long-term effects that in future contribute to spine injuries simultaneously affecting the nervous system. Dr Rajagobal adds: “Medically, the recommended weight of a school backpack should never exceed 10 per cent of the child’s body weight. Children carrying bags greater than this mentioned proportion are at a higher
risk of developing asymmetrical gait pain. The asymmetric loading of intervertebral discs can lead to degenerative changes in the spine.” Whether ignorantly or consciously, school pupils are steadily crumbling under the weight and dragging the effects of this into their future. Dr. Rajagopal says: “There are at least two to three cases every week. The ramifications of getting back pain at such a young age could escalate potentially. A misaligned spine also results in lowered brain performance due to poor impulses, which is otherwise essential for us to excel in our field of work.” “The possible solution starts by reducing the weight and constantly educating kids on better posture that will enrich their overall health.” Dr. Baby Sam Samuel Kutty says: “As an educational system, we have been trying various ways, within our limitations to reduce this load on children.” Here are a few tips to help prevent posture problems: • Embrace the right posture: Get your child to stop slouching. Include a daily dose of exercises and sporting activities. Make sure your remind them to sit up straight and stand upright. • Squat to lift: Avoid bending from the back to lift the bag. Advice your child to squat and lift the school bag to avoid disc injuries. • Unload unnecessary items: Keep the bag as light as possible to ensure the child doesn’t slouch forward to carry it. • Distribute the weight: Wear the bag on both the shoulders. Tie the waist belt for an even distribution of weight. Make sure the straps are padded and 5cm thick. Team Y says: “This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the advice of a medical expert if you have any questions regarding a health issue.”
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HEALTH& BEAUTY
DIY DRESS SENSE
Fashion is all about fun, and making it work for you. That means those tried-and-tested titans of your wardrobe can still take you outside if you find fresh ways of wearing them. What can be better than stepping out in something new, coupled with the reliability and comfort of an old favourite?
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Health
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FASHION
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, reet ook t s l gh e hi get the h t d to you to n e gh ps e hi ra hel h t te From ela Es a Mik
Culottes are so cutting it right now. Effortlessly fashionable, always comfortable and infinitely versatile, what’s not to like? Going out? Then pair with stilettos or slingbacks. For a more dressed-down dynamic, don with a simple plain shirt and a pair of sneakers or sandals. You can find this pair at Splash, for RO9.25
Now that autumn is on its way, why not embrace your inner Princess Anne with a long, plaid or printed skirt so beloved of western countrywomen for decades. Worn with a plain top, or with sneakers; it’s a modern take on a look that is so To The Manor (or manner) Born. Buy this one from Max, for RO4.3
Denim needn’t be all about looking like you’ve gone to the Grand Ole Opry. Nope, denim comes in all shapes, sizes and colours. This bold russett number is a standout and just the ticket when paired with almost anything. It will look stunning with a white shirt or blouse, too. This one is at Matalan, for RO9.63
It’s practically impossible to go wrong with the ‘little black dress’ so enshrined in fashion history by Coco Chanel. Of course, it helps if you have a model’s gamine looks. But even if you don’t there are plenty of options available. Wear with a pair of killer heels and get ready to get the party started. Right now! Buy this one at Splash for RO7.34
With all the big brands selling chunky shoes, it’s easy to say that funky footwear with a firm grip is what you’re after. Chunky shoes can be your companion if comfort is your quest. This pair can be worn with almost anything, and can give you an air of sporty supremacy or urban elan. Buy these from Max, for RO8.38
Printed or bold tops be a godsend when you’re feeling lethargic about getting your look together. You can wear this with skinny jeans, wide-legged trousers, culottes or a skirt. Let the top do the work, and tie at the bottom. Yes, the early 80s are back with a vengeance. Buy this one at Splash for RO6.29
A good bag will surely complete your look. But don’t settle for an ordinary style when a round-shaped bag can be yours at an affordable price to perk up your look. You can take this bag to the mall or the beach. Buy this from Matalan for RO4.72
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Reviews
FLOWER POWER
Edible flowers not only look great in a spread, but also taste good and are rich in essential nutrients.
YUMMY
Coming up ROSES
Flowers are not just for decoration in cooking but can add elegance to the most ornate dish. Swati Basu Das take a look at some canny ways to make your food more fragrant 032
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Grapefruit Blossom Pot de Crème Ingredients: § Whisk the egg § A big handful of grapefruit yolks and sugar blossom petals together in a saucepan. § 2 cups heavy cream Add the strained cream (one§ 4 large egg yolks and-a-half cups) and the § 3 tbsp sugar grapefruit juice. § 1/3 cup freshly squeezed § Heat on medium, stirring white grapefruit juice constantly until the mixture just comes to a slight simmer and Method: thickens. Don’t boil. § Put the cream and the § Pour the thickened mixture blossoms into a heavy into small glasses or cups. You bottomed sauce pan and should have four servings. stir to combine. Heat § Refrigerate until fully chilled or on medium stirring overnight. occasionally until the § Garnish with a blossom or a twist mixture just comes to a of grapefruit zest if you like. simmer. Turn off the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Cover, put in the refrigerator, and leave overnight, making sure that the flowers are immersed in the cream. § Strain the cream through a fine mesh sieve. Measure out one-and-a-half cups (you’ll have a bit left over).
Flower and Herb Butter
‘A
flower never rushes to bloom’, and that’s what I learned from a rose harvester called Mohammed on a recent visit to the terraced rose gardens at Al Jebel Al Akhdar. Blooming when they should – flowers (be they roses or any other species) – can appease our senses while dispensing some wonderful aromas. A blush of fragrant pink petals contouring the high Hajjar not only serves a decorative purpose but also adds elegance to the most exotic dishes. Be it a cup of sweet-smelling chamomile tea or rose petal infused drinks, floral cuisine is a culinary trend that cannot be ignored. Robert MacLean, the principal of National Hospitality Institute, says: “Flowers add freshness; with colour bringing a decorative flair to the menu. “In Oman rose petals are used widely in cuisine. They are muddled to create jam, jellies and other rose-water. Rose petals are added fresh in salads, and their sweet floral flavour makes them perfectly palatable. The rose petals look stunning on top of cakes as well.” The most popular flower – the rose – doesn’t stand alone in the category of edible flowers. Many specimens are, in fact, edible and have made their way into mainstream cuisine. Choose only blossoms that you know to be edible and pesticide-free. Remove the stamens if you are prone to allergies and just use the petals. While some of my own favourites include lavender and chamomile petals, there are a few that can create some magic for your menu: • Nasturtium – Enjoy this edible variety cooked or raw. • Hibiscus – Well-known for its culinary and medicinal application, it is usually used for tea, relishes, jams and jellies • Borage – Slightly sweet flavour, this flower is eaten fresh in salads or as a garnish, added to soup and sauces. • Purslane – A succulent species, the tiny yellow flowers and the leaves are best served raw in salads and sandwiches Let the spring bloom in your kitchen with these following recipes:
Ingredients: Method: § 1/2 cup room-temperature, § On a platter or board, smear best-quality unsalted on butter 0.5cm to 1cm thick, butter using an offset spatula. Scatter § Small or torn fresh herb generously with herb leaves. leaves, including milderScatter with sliced green onion, flavoured ones (thyme, dill, flower petals, salt, and pepper. If and flat-leaf parsley) and you like, add cracked coriander stronger ones (tarragon, seeds, chili flakes, and poppy sage, and/or oregano) seeds. Serve with baguettes. § 1 green onion, sliced § Petals from edible flowers such as anise hyssop, marigolds, pansies, calendulas, nasturtiums, Johnny-jump-ups, and borage § Flake sea salt § Pepper § Cracked coriander seeds, red chili flakes, and poppy seeds (optional) § Baguettes or crackers
Cardamom White Chocolate Bark with Rose, pistachio and gold Ingredients: § 680g of white chocolate, roughly chopped § 3/4 teaspoons of ground cardamom § Chopped pistachios § Edible rose petals § Edible gold leaf
§ §
Method: § Fill a medium pot § with water and bring to a very low simmer. § Place a bowl over the pot so it sits just above the water. Melt the white chocolate, stirring constantly with a spoon. White chocolate burns very easily so make sure to keep the heat on low. Add the cardamom. When
it is mostly melted and there are just a few small lumps remove from the stove and continue to stir until the remaining chocolate is melted. Pour the chocolate over a silicon mat or parchment paper and even out the chocolate by tilting the baking tray. Sprinkle pistachios and rose petals over the white chocolate. Then using tweezers, place pieces of edible gold leaf on to the chocolate. Allow the chocolate to cool entirely in the refrigerator until hard. Break off into pieces
Team Y says: “When selecting flowers or plants for cooking, please verify that they are non-toxic. If in any doubt do NOT use them.” SEP 26 - OCT 02 / ISSUE 586
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New Restaurant
REVIEWS
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Info Box
MOKA&MORE Al Assalah Towers, Azaiba, Muscat Opening hours: 7am to 11pm Contact: (+968) 2411-7596 Dinner for three: RO24.2
Verdict : 8/10 SERVICE 8/10 FOOD 8/10 AMBIENCE
A café-styled eatery rustling up scrummy dishes that give upmarket restaurants a run for their money.
Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals
MOKA&MORE TEAM Y TRIES OUT AN EATERY THAT BOWLS ITS TRIO OVER WITH BISTRO-LIKE STANDARDS AND UNASSUMING CHARM
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he difference between a good restaurant and a great one goes beyond the food alone. The first impression – from when you walk inside for the first time, to the presentation of the menu and the friendliness of the staff – adds to the experience. From that account alone, the moka&more outlet in Ghubra hits all the right notes; taking a deep-dyed approach to dining that we can’t quite fault. Although it’s set up in an unassuming corner of Al Assalah Towers, the eatery remains buzzing, even through the night. Perhaps it’s the humble setting itself. Having an airy dining area decorated with décor you can buy (coffee beans, chocolates, and the like), and attentive staff that greet you upon arrival has its bonuses. We (three) friends take our seats by the counter. Each of us is soon presented with two menus – one for food and the other for drinks – and we quickly ask for servings of a salmon and cream pasta, penne alfredo with chicken, and a steak and mushroom sandwich, alongside a glass of minted lemonade with ginger chiller and a mixed berry smoothie. The drinks arrive first. We have it on good authority that the mixed berry smoothie is the
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best we’ve ever tasted in Oman. The freshness and texture of the yogurt base with the flavours of the berries make for a soothing treat after a long and hard day at work. This goes for the lemonade too. The icy base and the freshly-squeezed lemon juice makes for an enjoyable drink with just a firm kick from the grated mint leaves. Our food arrives a few moments later – all fresh from the pot with steam breaking away from the top layers of the pastas. Full marks go to the chef for presentation. The neatly cut-up sandwich is parted in the middle by a bed of fresh veggies and mushrooms doused in fresh balsamic, and steak (which is more accurately a brisket) that’s filled up to the brim. It’s hard to judge from our facial expressions alone and he throws us the cold shoulder to our request for a bite. Yet it turns out that the sandwich is up to mark. “The meat is cooked perfectly and vegetables in the salad are fresh,” he says, before going on to talk about how the cheese complements the texture of the beef, and how it all comes to life inside the freshly-baked brown bread. He claims it to be a brilliant sandwich although from the appearance alone, it can pass for a large sloppy joe. Tempting indeed. Much of our mate’s talk can be wheedling to keep us off our pastas, though it doesn’t take long for us to dive into our orders. A few bites in, we realise that the pastas have a charm of their own. Accompanying the dishes are two slices of fried brown bread, both crunchy on the outside but soft and fluffy on the inside. With penne that’s cooked to perfection in white sauce, and garnished lightly with herbs, olive oil and condiments, the pasta – especially the mushroom and chicken one – shines through the lot. The chicken is grilled but tender, and the smoky flavour from the meat emanates just enough through to the sauce to give it a touch of sophistication we’ve only seen in more elaborate pastas. For RO3.4, though, it remains a steal. However, this cannot be said about the salmon
and cream pasta. While we thoroughly enjoy its flavoursome white-sauce base and soft penne, the salmon turns out to be a bit too salty for our liking. For the most part, the dish is delectable but for the small slices of salmon, which we try to avoid. It’s the only letdown of the night. In fact, we even give our chef the benefit of the doubt and continue with our supper. After leaving our plates clean (and setting aside the salmon), we then turn our attention to pudding – the cheesecakes. We ask for the remaining three cheesecakes on the counter – Lotus, strawberry, and blueberry ones – which are brought to us in mere minutes. The cheesecakes turn out to be delightful despite being prepped earlier; though it’s the strawberry and raspberry ones that we take a shine towards. The cakes are easily the biggest we’ve had in a restaurant before. They’re also among the best we’ve had in Oman – with soft and creamy cheese, flavoursome topping and crunchy base – and is second only to what we’ve had at the Paul restaurant before. A little bird once told us that it’s wise to stay away from elaborate dishes at local cafes. But, with moka&more, we’re glad we set aside that advice. The folk here know how to throw a spread, and that alone is worth the dough we shell out. ■ Do you have a favourite restaurant that you’d like to see reviewed? Let Y know at editor@y-oman.com.