Vol.

2 Iss

ue 2

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January

7-2

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2011

FREE F

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6 S

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Bend it like Bend it like KhamisKhamis p30

New Year resolutions for men p10

Camels everywhere p17

Alternative methods to lose weight p58

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More details: oos@blackandwhiteoman.com

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C A U S E S & E F F E C T S

Dates to remember

Feb 9, Indian Republic Day event

March 2, Traffic

safety

run for kids

April 7, Sudoku Autism

awareness event

October 15, White Cane day, Awareness event for the blind

6 January 7-20, 2011

I know I am a little late in sending you my congratulations,

but, then, better late than never. I am a fan, no, I am an

ardent reader of Black & White magazine and have been

reading each and every one of them, save one (issue 3).

I have also read the current issue (issue 25) and I must

say that each one covers topics that are close to my heart

and about this country, which I can proudly say is mine

(and so many others).

As an Omani, I am not just touched, but overwhelmed

by the kind of stories that you have done on Omanis and

about Oman. Of course, I am not just singing praises, I

also want you to improve on various factors and also go

indepth into stories as well as find more and more tales

of Oman scattered across the country and not just in the

vicinity of Muscat. Yes, you have had done stories from

Sohar, Barka, Sur, Musannah etc, but go on, get out of

the usual path and try to get gainful insight of people

living in other pockets of the country too. I urge you to

do this because it is an education, not only for you, but

also us, the readers. Black & White is today one of the

main medium to tell the world about the tales of Oman

and giving us Omanis, in particular, one more reason to

be proud of this great country.

Said Suleiman Al Battashi, Seeb

(Ed. Thanks. You may please contact us to get a copy

(issue 3) from our office.)

Reading your interesting tale about the Baobab tree (issue

25), made me google the Baobabs in Oman and I came

upon a post in Omanholiday.uk where it was noted that

“Oman has about 100 Baobab trees, mainly in the south

and a few in the north”. The post also said that fruit of

the Baobab trees could be used in smoothies and cereal

bars. Hope this might be of some interest to B&W as well

as its readers.

Yahya Al Balushi, Muttrah

One more reason to be proud

Oman has around 100 Baobab trees

6 January 7-20, 2011

Mail your views and opinions at

editor@blackandwhiteoman.com

I am keen to know more about the healing side of the oldest Baobab

(Mashuu) tree in the village of Zahaimi. Where I come from (India), visitors

to sacred trees are quite common. In fact, in India, sacred trees are visited

by petitioners seeking blessings, especially for health and fertility. Some

are know to even leave food and flowers at the foot of the tree. Many also

tie ribbons of cloth or coloured wish bags on the branches of these trees. In

Africa, you will find the sacred Marula tree, which is known as the marriage

tree. Many trees in Europe (at least until the beginning of the 20th century)

were said to have magical healing powers. I see that you have downplayed

the healing side of the Mashuu tree, so, I guess, the only way to find out

more is to visit Zahaimi myself.

Arul Rajan, Qurum

I am a teenager, all of fifteen!

I'll tell you what people think of being a teen

You always think you're right, and when you get it wrong,

You blame it on the person who knew it all along

You boast about all the different things that you could do;

You sulk around for months if someone does it better than you

You never seem to care about what happens in the world;

You won't even want to know how to turn lead to gold

You'll always act as if you are the leader of the kingdom;

I think you'd guess that we would chose wealth over wisdom

Yes, as a teenager my mind might seem like a shallow pool;

But in fact I only need your strength and support to make it rule

There's more into a teen's mind than what you might have known;

We all have a desire to make Earth a better home

In every teen's heart there's an urge to face the world together;

Most acknowledge the fact early and embrace the truth forever

Yes, I am a teenager, I believe there will be a time,

Where teens will be looked up to for having such great minds!

Maisoon Mohamed Al-Mahrouqi

Healing powers of the Mashuu

A teenager's mind

7Black & White

8 January 7-20, 2011

Cover Photo: Najib Al Balushi

Published by: Muscat Press & Publishing House SAOC

Black & White

Postal address: P O Box 86, PC 115, Madinat Sultan Qaboos

Office location: Hatat House, Office no: 212, II Floor

Ph: 24565697 Fax: 24565496

Website: www.blackandwhiteoman.com

Editorial: editor@blackandwhiteoman.com

Printed at Mazoon, Muscat, Oman

BPA Consumer

Audit applied for

December 2009

Xclusive

The wizard of Asa

Khamis bin Bilal Al Balushi is a

master craftsman of the Asa in

Barka. This master Asa maker has

made over 10,000 Asiyas (plural of

Asa) in the last 25 years

30

Editor-in-chief Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali

Managing editor Priya Arunkumar

Work editor Adarsh Madhavan

Design & production Beneek Siraj

Photographer Najib Al Balushi

Advt. & marketing Swithun Fernandes

Aloni Mehta

Conte

nts

Bitter Batter

The language of upliftment

Weekend rates are different

If you are visiting a

supermarket this weekend,

please check the item rates

and see whether there are

any discrepancies

Sanskrit is not a dead language.

Although this historical Indo-Aryan

language cannot be used for

communication, Sanskrit is still

alive and well, a dedicated Sanskrit

teacher in Muscat tells Black &

White

14

44

Exercises after holidays

Women get more terrifying nightmares

Studies claim that women

experience far more

terrifying nightmares than

men

Check out for some easy-

to-do exercises right from

home

60

54

9Black & White

They ain’t WikiLeaks, but…By Adarsh Madhavan

I wanted to tell this to my media friends before the

year ended, but I couldn’t. Well, let me do it now.

But, before that: a whole round of applause to all

of you out there, especially the ones who have

slogged it out and made a great difference in the

media scene here. Go on, make a difference always

and forget the ones who are trying to bring you

down!

To the naysayers and the whiners, I want to say

this: please give the media guys, the journos and

the scribes here, a break! Let them be. If possible,

try to help them, instead of bringing them down.

Look at the scene today: someone conducts

fraudulent activity, gets caught and his case is

made known to the public; some case is in the

court and the newspapers report it, there is a crime

somewhere and it is flashed prominently; sources

from the authorities concerned are quoted (although

under anonymity)…then on the other end, social

problems like divorces, harassment of girls, rather,

eve teasing are all being discussed and exposed…

and hey, there was this recent story where a lady

won a case against some people who were trying

to give her a raw deal at a medical centre, which

she had created…isn’t this enough reason for us

scribes to cheer about? It is not about freedom or

anything. Let us not get over excited. All I am saying

is that the media – especially the print media – is

now doing more than its bit to bring some issues

out in the open and shouldn’t this be a reason

enough to roundly congratulate the ones who are

behind this change? Shouldn’t we all thank the

authorities concerned for letting us share a bit more

responsibility and enjoy a slightly better role in

spreading awareness than before?

Why should we only focus on the negative? There

are so many out there, especially the netizens,

who feel that net news was hotter than the print

media. Of course, the net scribes can pound away

with nary a care as they do not come under the

strict scrutiny of neither, the powers that be, or

the lawmakers. The print media operates under a

editor@blackandwhiteoman.com

All a

bout

X,

Y &

Z

stricter code and they don’t have the means or the

wherewithal to work under anonymity and reveal

stories by the dozen. Both exist and operate under

starkly different conditions and any comparisons are

simply put ‘odious’.

But, instead of wallowing in self pity, the local scribes

are slowly emerging from the woodwork and the

words are indeed flying, duly measured, but definitely

effective.

They cannot reach the level of whistle blowers

like WikiLeaks, but, today, more than decent efforts

are being made and why in the world isn’t anyone

appreciating these emerging brave young lot that

exist in Oman’s media scene? The web will continue

to evolve and produce scintillating stuff because they

rely less on official sources, while the traditional media

and reporting today, especially here, has to and must

(as per rules) depend on official matters. The day

this changes, you will see the traditional media also

unleashing some media rockets and land in some

hitherto unheard of planets and make big leaps for

mediakind. Until then, let us appreciate and promote

the scribes here because they need that sometimes.

A bit of applause, a bit of cheering and appreciation

and some warm pats on the backs for jobs well done.

Enough of looking down at them, especially with a

microscope…

So, dear friends in the media, I repeat: all of you are

doing a great job and you must know it…not to rest on

your laurels, but just so that you don’t get depressed

and drop your roles as scribes and start selling cars or

land (not that it is bad). You have started the change

and may you and your followers enjoy the fruits of your

hard labour. Let us doff our hats to all of you! God

bless you all!

And before we close, a li’l joke, which obviously has

been doing the rounds and most of us have been

tickled with the same. But, for those who haven’t:

“Dear kids, sorry, there is no such person as ‘Santa’/

Santa Claus.

“Those presents were from your parents!

Love, WikiLeaks!”

10 January 7-20, 2011

Men r

ead

let us resolve to…

2011,This

New Years and resolutions go hand in hand, and so here are some new resolutions

that you may need to take to have a better, livelier and enjoyable 2011.

Why not try some of them, or, if possible, all of them?!

It is not just about fit fitness; there are so many fringe benefits like a

better lifestyle, enjoyable quality of life and a feeling well being. A fit

man will also have a fit mind and are also good to look at as you are

also going to lose that bulge in the bargain. You are not just going to live

longer, but enjoy life in a better manner than ever before.

So, F is for fitness and regular exercise has been associated with more

health benefits than anything else known to man. Studies show that it

reduces the risk of some cancers, increases longevity, helps achieve

and maintain weight loss, enhances mood, lowers blood pressure, and

even improves arthritis. In short, exercise keeps you healthy and makes

you look and feel better.

BE FIT IN FITNESS

10 January 7-20, 2011

11Black & White

Yes, work should come first on most occasions, but there are times

when family and friends should take centre stage, what do you think you

workaholic or Ceo Sir?

For this year, take a vow to appreciate loved ones and spend more time

with family and friends this year. Make plans to meet up with family or

friends for camaraderie soirees at suitable locations.

Okay, you may have made this promise last year and the year before

and the year… No problems. This time you are going to win over

temptation to become a human chimney.

Even if you’ve tried to quit before and failed, don’t let it get you down. On

average, smokers try about four times before they quit for good. Start

enjoying the rest of your smoke-free life!

Okay you may not be able to be Mr Money Bags in a month, or even a

year for that matter (it is not the movies)! But, try to get rid of that one

big source of stress in your life last year. Let us all resolve to spend this

year getting a handle on our finances. It’s a promise that will repay itself

many times over in the year ahead.

It is not just about having will power, or finding the time…There is scope

for all of us to try out something new, learn something new… Let us

try to make a vow that this year (is going to be different from the ones

before) and that we will all try to learn something new. It can be anything

from a career change, learning a new language, or just how to fix your

computer… Whether you take a course or read a book, you’ll find

education to be one of the easiest, most motivating resolutions to keep.

Explore the altruistic side of your life. It is important that you also learn to

give. It doesn’t mean that you have to give everything away or think only

about the poor and the downtrodden. No, but, at least you could think

of them sometimes. At least once a week and start to do something for

them. You can try to volunteer your skills or services at the NGOs (non

governmental organisations) in town or if time is a constraint, at least

donate something (money or clothing or furniture or other household

items – which you don’t need) to causes that need them. Try, you will

enjoy this change.

Life is not about being miserable. Although there are enough reasons for

some of us to lope about in abject misery, that is not the order of the day

or the role we should adopt.

Just learn to let go and enjoy the moment, or the ordinary pleasures of

life. If there was a beautiful bird that has caught your attention, don’t just

stop gazing and run off to your errand. Let it wait for some moments.

Enjoy the bird, enjoy the sunshine, the cool breeze, the flowers, the

grass, enjoy this sheer form of life that you are living…why should we

find pleasure in materialistic things? Can’t we just enjoy nature for a

change?

SPEND MORE TIME WITH

FAMILY AND FRIENDS

STUB IT

GET OUT OF DEBT

LEARN SOMETHING NEW

HELP OTHERS

ENJOY LIFE

11Black & White

12 January 7-20, 201112 January 7-20, 2011

Men h

ealt

h

13Black & White

Treadmill vs walkingCALORIES ON THE TREADMILL VS

OUTSIDE WALKING

The basic motorised treadmill has

no incline. So, there you are likely to

burn lesser calories per mile than you

do outdoors. The moving tread does

some of the work for you, and you

have no wind resistance. According

to research, you can overcome these

by adding a slight, as little as one

percent. There are pros and cons of

using a treadmill. The problem with the

treadmill is that most of us may hold

on to the handrails while exercising,

but this will reduce calories burned

further, and wreck your walking

posture. It is best to train yourself to

walk a speed you can sustain without

holding onto the handrails.

ADVANTAGE WALKING

When we walk outside, the biggest

advantage in challenging your balance

and stability with all of the small

obstacles, dodges, starts and stops.

This will give you an advantage for

distance walking as well as overall

health as we age -- maintaining our

stabilising muscles. Here is what you

face walking outside vs on a treadmill:

Up and down curbs, steps, short

stairways, and stepping over small

obstacles. A little workout for your

climbing muscles.

Sloped sidewalks and road sides. A

challenge to your balance muscles.

Dodging people, puddles, and

poodles. A challenge to move side-

to-side as well as forward. Stops and

starts at street crossings. A challenge

to the muscles to come to a halt and

to start from zero. Treadmills only go

uphill or level, only very rare models

have downhill incline. Going downhill

challenges muscles in a completely

different way. On the treadmill, the

tread is moving and you may not be

giving yourself a good push off with

your back foot. Concentrate on doing

this correctly on the treadmill.

NO COMPARISONS

Actually, there are no comparisons.

The treadmill is a rich cousin of

walking. So, there is no substitute for

walking. Bbut treadmills are useful in

many ways, so let us not rule it out as

most of us have used it and benefitted

from it. Using a treadmill for your

regular workouts is a great way to burn

calories and give basic training to your

walking muscles and practice your

walking form.

Workout programmes: You may

enjoy the pre-programmed workouts

the treadmill offers to give you a

controlled workout challenge. The

treadmill may also have readouts for

heart rate, calories burned, etc. which

give you data feedback.

More Speed = more calories burned:

Most people set their treadmill workout

for time rather than for distance, and

can often go faster on a treadmill due

to lack of obstacles. More speed =

more distance for the same amount

of time = more calories burned than if

they walked outside for set distance

rather than for time.

Safety: If you don’t have access to

a safe walking route, a treadmill is a

good substitute.

Weather: You can usually control

the indoors weather, but never the

outdoors weather. Easy access to

restrooms, water, and changing your

gear.

Entertainment: Some of us are bored

with treadmill walking, while others

prefer watching TV or listening to their

music indoors to walking outdoors.

Fewer excuses: If your treadmill

is always available, you can’t use

excuses such as the weather,

darkness, etc.

WALKING INDOORS

Other options for indoors walking

include mall walking, indoors tracks,

walking the halls and stairs, and

marching in place.

If you have recently bought a treadmill,

you are going to be assailed with some

doubts. The first one would be: which is

better? Is it better to walk indoors on the

treadmill or outside on a track, sidewalk, or path? The workouts are similar, but have

some basic differences, experts say. Let us

hear them out:

(Source: various and Net)

13Black & White

14 January 7-20, 2011

Men h

ealt

h

14 January 7-20, 2011

15Black & White

SURE. YOU NEEDED THAT HOLIDAY. And yes, we

hope you’ve all had fantastic holidays. The last few weeks

were the season to be jolly, to be merry; to share the

spirit of giving and sometimes indulging...

In other words, all that self-imposed, strict '20 off by this

month' weight loss programme and on the other end, the

weight cum muscle training regime you must have had

prior to this holiday must have already gone down the

drain. You have been stuffing yourself up and probably

forgotten even what a long walk (forget running) feels like.

But, then it is going to be a long walk back to shape if

you don’t start off now!

So, how are you going to recoup? What are you going

to do now to get back into shape and action?

So, begin now. Don’t even waste a minute! Start by

getting into a small 20 minutes workout regime and then

slowly build up. And when you feel that you are ready

for a full muscle-building, gut-busting workout get the

necessary equipment or simply shift venue to a full-

fledged gym. Until then make do with what you have at

home and around:

WHERE THERE’S A WEIGHT, THERE’S A WAY

Do you have an old pair of rusty dumbbells in the

garage? Oh, only one dumbbell? So, what? Well, try

something else: if all that you have is paint cans, then,

use them in place of dumbbells. Perhaps your little

brother has a set of water weights. Even if one plate has

sprung a leak, the other will suffice. Pair it with a bar,

even a rusty lead pipe that’s been left out on the street for

the garbage man—and you’ve got all you need. In short,

if there’s a weight, there’s a way!

THE BARE NECESSITIES

The ‘bare essentials’ programme features two circuit

workouts—you’ll choose one depending on the materials

you have access to. To keep it simple, one workout is

designed for dumbbells (or paint cans, as the case may

be) and the other is made for a barbell (or any long,

moderately heavy, bar-like instrument). Both work the

entire body and are easily adaptable to your specific

environment.

The key is that nearly every other exercise in each

circuit works an unrelated muscle group. For example,

you might do a lift for your legs and then immediately

follow it with one that works your back. Since you don’t

have to wait for one muscle group to recover and can

move on to work another one, organising your workout

this way allows you to train your whole body in a short

time while doubling as a heart-pounding cardio session.

GO LIGHT, GO LONGER

As the song goes, “If you can’t be with the weights you

love, love the weights you’re with,”...or something like

that. Because your options for how much load you can

use on each exercise may be limited, we’re going to save

you the trouble of changing weights on each exercise

(which may not be an option, anyway, depending on what

you have). Instead, you’ll choose the heaviest weight you

can handle for 10 to 12 reps on the exercise that is most

challenging for you, and stick with it for every exercise

in the circuit. To ensure that your muscles get enough

resistance on the exercises that are easier for you, you’ll

simply perform each rep a little slower.

For instance, in the dumbbell workout, you may be able

to do 15 reps of the single-leg RDL (Romanian deadlift)

with the weight you have available. However, you may

only be able to complete 10 reps for the side plank w/

lateral raise. Therefore, perform your reps in a more

controlled manner for the single-leg RDL, so that you get

the same amount of fatigue in 10 reps as you would doing

the side plank w/lateral raise at normal speed.

(Source: various and Net)

Exercises

AFTER HOLIDAYS(But from your own home)

16 January 7-20, 2011

By Adarsh Madhavan

Days like these…

When you absent-mindedly hold a door to an office open

and a pretty young thing edges past you saying a happy

and warmth-laden thanks. You had no idea why you opened

the door, why you kept it open and why you are still holding

it, but, maybe, there must have been a reason…

Days like these…

When you crack a dry, boring and oft-repeated (ad

nauseum) joke and somehow it seems to have tickled the

funny bone in many; everyone seems to find it so funny and

roll on the floor with laughter…

Days like these…

When you speak politely over the phone to some caller

and the person is effusive in his/her compliments to you

for your “extremely polite and helpful nature”… and little

would they know that you had actually stifled a yawn and

was actually snapping at the person on the other line, face

slightly contorted in a mixture of bored annoyance cum

arrogance. If the caller would have seen my face…

Days like these…

When you accidentally smile at someone at an official

party and they return the smile and come to you and

become a strong media contact. The person you had smiled

at and exchanged notes and cards is apparently not just

‘someone’ but someone big and becomes your official ally in

all future endeavours…how did it happen? No one knows…

Days like these…

When you bump into some strangers and they in turn

stop and say that they recognise you and floor you with

compliments about “the way you write” and how it “has

touched them” and you are so afraid to not go into details

because of the fear that they might have mistaken you for

someone else and was actually talking about some totally

different articles…

Days like these…

When the person who owes you some dough and has

been avoiding you since long suddenly gives you a cheery

call, asks where you are then come directly there and hand

over the money you had thought had gone down the drain…

Days like these…

When the lady caller from the bank where you have taken

a loan and have been defaulting (for just some weeks,

yaaki) calls up and you pick up after the 21st ring as you

try to hunt for some realistic advice and she says that she

is calling you for an entirely different reason and the loan

installment can wait…

Days like these…

When you suddenly awake late one morning and

find that your alarm has not rung and you jump up

cursing because you cannot afford to be late to

office and then you suddenly realise that it is actually

an off day…

Days like these…

When you are all worn out, tired and dying for

attention then someone close to you comes to you

and say, hey, you look tired, how about going for a

quick drive, coffee, or a drink…and you just melt and

blend with the affection they wrap you with…

Days like these…

When you pour out your woes and someone close,

who usually expects you to listen come what may,

suddenly listening attentively to you and hearing you

all out…

Days like these…

When you need a strong shoulder, or any shoulder,

to lean on or bawl your head and from out of the

blue, a strong and steady one come and just offers

itself...

Days like these…

When somehow, due to some God-given blessing

you feel good about yourself and not down and

out like usual and people are good at you and the

ones you want to be with actually seem to like your

company and everything is hunky dory…

Days like these…

When you are given some moments for yourself

in some quiet and serene environment and you

dip down into your inner being, plunging into a

voyage of self discovery; a world where you can be

yourself and you revel in the untapped resources

of your heart, your being, your self and you learn

that sometimes, there is nothing better than being

alone…

O

ff th

e wall

Days like these…

adarsh@blackandwhiteoman.comOff

the w

all

17Black & White

Camels, camels,camels...everywhere

18 January 7-20, 2011

Om

an w

atc

h

All of them were in various stages of repose. Some, lying down, nose to the ground, others leisurely

chewing grass; some huddled together, while other loners, spread out, probably ruminating about their

future… It was a world of camels out there…Camels, camels, camels everywhere, in various sizes and

shapes. All leisurely resting (probably after a heavy meal) at the grounds opposite the Maidan Al Fatah

Stadium in Wattayah recently. These ‘ships of the desert’ had come from various parts of Oman, especially

Ja’alan Bani Bu Hasan to participate in the annual horse and camel show, which was held on a grander

scale this time as it coincided with the 40th National Day celebrations.

18 January 7-20, 2011

19Black & White 19Black & White

FREE 20,500 copies (being audited)

Circulation Enquiries: 98675976/24565697Advertisement Enquiries: 97679290/24565697

www.blackandwhiteoman.com

AVAILABLEall over Oman on 7th & 21stof every month

First Free Fortnightly magazine

Many years ago I wrote a piece about how we

con people when we cannot recognise them. Like,

heeeeeeeyyyyy, how are you, long time no see,(who

theheckishehaventthefoggiest) and I was thinking to

myself have things changed since then.

Do we say, sorry, can’t remember you?

Not really.

We now have more categories for the con.

Like when you don’t remember the name you go for

paternalistic quasi-religious: guruji, rajasahib, big man,

Singh is King, Sir, that sort of stuff.

If you can’t do that with panache go with the bold and

the beautiful angle.

For the women: Lovely lady, Gorgeous, look at you,

migoodness, is that Vision really you? (if only I could

remember your name!)

For the men: hello Chief, what a pleasant surprise,

you are looking well, you have lost weight. Deflect,

that's the name of the game. Flattery is the best bet.

If you don't want to say Chief, you have a clutch of

choices: Tiger, Champion, Big Boss, Captain, Hero

(declasse) Big Shot, take your pick. New ones heard

in this end of decade are Big Brother, Monsieur (utterly

mispronounced), Senor (too show how global you are)

Kemo Sabay (from a wilting generation that watched

Lone Ranger.)

Naturally, since we have no desire to be rude we

desperately try to camouflage our inability to dredge

out the right name at the right moment.

Here are some tips so that you might still aspire to

climb a couple of steps higher. If you can't figure who

that is sailing towards you at the next party quell the

panic and move resolutely forward, breaking his stride.

Hit him with it: Superman, imagine meeting you

here. Now, Superman is flummoxed, odds are he

doesn’t remember your name but the way you are

behaving you are obviously buddies. Now, wipe him

out by punching him on the shoulder in great display of

camaraderie.

If someone else joins in and now you have two you

don’t know a safe bet is always to say we go back way

when. That has a nice stretchy feel about it and no one

can argue.

Have you ever heard anyone say, no we don’t, we

only met last week.

‘Way back when’ is a complete winner.

Add “Remember the old days” and you are home

especially if you kill it with “those were the days.”

Neither of you have a flipping clue what you are talking

about but it works.

The odds now favour your having even less of an

idea what this guy’s wife's name is, so use similar

strategy. Ask how is the memsahib, the better

half(ouch) the Home Minister (double ouch) or with

splendid elan, where is that charmer of yours. Of

course if he doesn't have one or they have just split go

in to a corner and shoot yourself.

Never commit yourself through specifics. Pretty silly

you would look if you said, how's the textile business

doing? And he said, how the hell should I know I am

in the electronics trade. You would never win back

territory.

Play it cool. Ask how things are. ‘Things’ is a

wonderful word, it is flexible, it is wide ranging and

it covers up for rampant ignorance. If you want to

be more with it, sort of hep, ask him how tricks are?

Don't know what it means but it makes for great

performance. Another good one is, how's the world

treating you? For some reason members of the

human race loves answering this question, their vanity

reassuring them that you are fascinated by their

equation with the world. They will tell you.

If none of this works use the back up plan. Ask him

where he has been hiding himself. It is such a stupid

question but adults love responding. Like they do to

another question: been travelling? Amazing, isn't it,

that articulate, intelligent people mumble such inanity?

Finally, be careful of the tripwire. Your wife. Wives

have an uncanny ability to suss out when husbands

are faking it. And since they derive much pleasure

from putting said husband on the spot when you hear

your wife say, ah there you are, aren't you going to

introduce me to your friend, do the only thing you can

to save your self.

Spill your cold drink and go into profuse burst of

apology.

It might work. It might not.

You can always thump him on the back again.

The name of the game

By Bikram Vohra

Bikram Vohra, internationally-known Gulf based scribe

Sunny s

ide u

p

21Black & White

22 January 7-20, 2011

Word

pre

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Mazda Motor Corporation’s Hofu

Plant in Yamaguchi prefecture has

reached a cumulative production

volume of nine million units.

The cumulative volume rose from

eight to nine million units in just 29

months due to high volumes of the

Mazda Axela (known as the Mazda3

overseas), which commenced

production in November 2008.

The Hofu Plant is one of Mazda’s

major passenger vehicle production

facilities in Japan, together with

the Ujina Plant located near

the company’s headquarters in

Hiroshima.

The total production capacity of Hofu

Plant No.1 (H1) and Hofu Plant No.2

(H2) is approximately 481,000 units

per year. H1 produces the Mazda

Axela and H2 produces both the

Axela and Mazda Atenza (known as

Mazda’s Hofu Plant builds ninth millionth car

the Mazda6 overseas). Towell Auto

Centre provides quality service to

all models of Mazda and provides

efficient after sales service and quick

response time.

Muscat Private Hospital is

celebrating 10 years as Oman’s

leading private medical facility,

and looks set to continue this

high standard of care, since

announcing plans to open

seven new departments in the

next 12 months.

The 72-bed premier private

hospital will be entering a new

era by expanding its in-patient

and outpatient facilities to

offer an even higher level of

care to the population of the

Sultanate. A brand new sports

injury clinic is set to open along

with expanded heart centre,

breast centre, and weight loss

services. While expansion

plans for its emergency room

and surgical services facilities

as well as the opening a

new out patients department

building on the Hospital

campus, looks likely to happen

during 2011.

Muscat Private Hospital turns 10!

Park Inn and Radisson Blu hotels in Muscat recently teamed up

for a joint social responsibility initiative with the common goal of

tidying up a stretch of Oman’s well enjoyed public beach areas.

The sister hotels both belonging to the Rezidor Hotel Group

embarked on the beach cleaning drive displaying a true ‘Yes I

Can’ spirit in the process.

joint beach clean up

Radisson Blu and Park Inn

Swan Foods, an equal joint venture between Dawn Foods

USA and the bakery focussed Switz Group, inaugurated a

frozen donut plant in Sohar. The two giant manufacturers in the

bakery industry joined forces to utilise their years of knowledge

and experience to launch their unique frozen bakery concept,

which will be developed from Swan Foods’ new 8000sqm set

to produce 90million donuts per year for markets in the Middle

East and Far East.

Swan Foods new frozen donut factory in Sohar

23Black & White

The Muscat Singers brought festive

cheer to a sell out audience of over

500 at the British School Muscat

recently with a now familiar repertoire

of both contemporary and older

choral works.

Accompanied once again by the

Muscat Brassworks ensemble, the

choir treated the audience to a first

half that featured works by Daniel

Pinkham, Bach and Billings.

To celebrate the 300 anniversary

of the birth of composer Frederick

Chopin, pianist David Posnett started

the second half with a lively and

stirring performance of the Scherzo

No.3 in C sharp minor that earned a

standing ovation.

The choir then presented a selection

of tunes both old and very new

– including the world premiere of

Carina Kogh’s Personent Hodie,

a piece written especially for the

Muscat Singers in honour of His

Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, in

this the 40 year of the Rennaissance,

and his support and encouragement

of cultural and musical development

in the Sultanate.

This was followed by the haunting

Wexford Carol featuring soloists

Jason Drahos and Emma Lukey, and

a sultry interpretation of ‘Santa Baby’

by the ladies of the choir with their

feather boas.

To finish off the evening, the

audience joined the choir in a rousing

rendition of festive favourites such as

Silent Night and We Three Kings of

Orient Are.

Once again, the choir surpassed

all expectations with a performance

worthy of a professional group and

have well and truly set the bar at a

very high level.

Music director, Gwen Willson

commented, “It ceases to amaze me

how much we continue to improve

year on year.

Every time we start rehearsals for a

new season, I worry that perhaps we

are pushing ourselves too hard but

time and again, the choir steps up to

the mark and pulls it off.”

The choir now takes a well-earned

break and will start rehearsals for

their Spring Concert in the New Year

and always welcome new members

– no matter how experienced they

may or not be. Rehearsals take place

every Saturday evening from 7.30pm

in the main hall at the BSM.

Contact: www.muscatsingers.com

Muscat Singers premiere performance

Nawras launched MyNawras iPhone

app - another ‘first’ for Nawras

customers to enjoy. This free

download from the Apple Store is

designed to make it even easier

for Nawras iPhone users to check

their bills or prepaid balance and

easily manage their mobile accounts

anywhere and at any time.

After trying out the new app himself,

Ross Cormack, Nawras chief

executive officer, enthusiastically

welcomed this latest creative

development: “This is really cool.

After a simple registration I can now

get all the information on my recent

calls, my SMS and my bills, by just

clicking on the app. We are delighted

to be one of very few operators in

the whole region and the only one

in Oman to be offering our own

customer-friendly iPhone app."

MyNawras is now a free iPhone App

National Bank of Oman (NBO)

participated in the International

Cash Management Conference

– 'International Commercial Cash

Operations Seminars’, ( ICCOS),

held recently in Kuala Lumpur-

Malaysia. Over 150 delegates, from

33 countries participated in the four

day conference.

In keeping with its ongoing strategy

to develop talented Omani staff, NBO

deputed Abdullah Jaffar Al Obaidani,

NBO’s head of cash management

and off site ATMS, to represent

the bank at the

conference. He

was also the

only candidate to

have represented

banks from

Oman, at the conference.

NBO at cash management conference in Malaysia

24 January 7-20, 2011

Word

pre

ss

wins top banker award as ‘Bank of the Year’

BankMuscat

BankMuscat has notched another

rare distinction, winning for the

eighth time the ‘Bank of the Year

– Oman 2010’ award by The

Banker (Financial Times, London).

Reckoned the most prestigious

global banking award, the 11th

annual banker awards were hotly

contested this year by the world’s

leading financial institutions.

AbdulRazak Ali Issa, chief executive

of BankMuscat, received the award

at the grand ceremony in London.

Internationally acclaimed trainer,

motivational speaker and career

guidance specialist, professor

C. F. Joseph will be conducting

Born To Excel Leadership

and Personality Development

Programme for students during

the school vacations from January

4 to 6, 2011, at Al Falaj Hotel in

Muscat.

Prior to the three-day programme,

Prof. Joseph is also conducting

free seminars at Al Falaj Hotel.

All parents having children in the

age group of 10 to 18 years, are

invited to attend the free seminar

with their wards, to get an insight

of the real programme that brings

about positive transformation in

children.

programme in JanuaryBorn To Excel

A group of parliamentarians of different NATO countries (North Atlantic Treaty

Organisation) who are members of the Mediterranean and Middle East group

visited the German University of Technology in Oman (GUtech), recently. The

22 members of the delegation were on a two day familiarisation trip to Muscat.

The delegation is particularly interested in the development of the youth and

women in the Sultanate. Professor Dr Burkhard Rauhut, rector of GUtech and

professors of different departments welcomed the delegation and presented

the development of the university throughout the past three years.

NATO parliamentarians at GUtech

A top member of the Muscat

Priyadarshani Cultural Congress (OICC

– OPC) who had attended the recent

funeral of their leader, K. Karunakaran,

reminisced about the time spent with

him on an earlier occasion. “I had

met our late leader, Karunakaran, in

Ernakulam in Kerala. He had advised

me then to muster proper support

of the congress followers in Muscat

and I had come back quite energised

and ready to promote the cause

among the supporters here,” Ummer

Eramangalam, who is the founder

president of the unit and currently is its

advisory and executive member, said

here in a press note.

After this meeting, P. T.

Mohanakrishnan, former MLA

of Ponnani, visited Muscat and

inaugurated the Muscat unit and since

then it has grown from strength to

Priyadarshani congress member remembers ‘leader’

strength. “Our leader may have

passed away, but his spirit will

live on forever in our hearts,”

Ummer, said.

25Black & White

The GMC Yukon and Yukon Denali feature distinctive styling and spacious,

refined interiors. Along with the cars’ exceptional driving characteristics and

advanced technology, Yukon offers unmatched power, space, comfort and

capability that have helped it carve a niche for itself in the big size SUV

segment. The GMC Yukon represents the best the industry has to offer for

big families, big challenges and the toughest driving conditions. The success

of the brand in Oman has been enhanced by the trusted reliability of Moosa

Abdul Rahman Hassan & Co LLC – the exclusive distributors for GMC

vehicles in Oman.

GMC Yukon and Yukon Denali

Oman Investment & Finance

Co. SAOG (OIFC) has

extended an helping hand to

the Oman Association for the

Disabled by way of a donation.

Commenting on this donation,

OIFC’s general manager, HRA, Hamyar Nasser Al Ismaily

said: The Oman Association for the Disabled has been

founded for the benefit of the Sultanate’s handicapped

and at OIFC we hold the noble work carried on by this

national charitable organisation in high esteem.

We are honored to be supportive of their progressive

vision and efforts to benefit and empower Oman’s

disabled community and look forward for a continued

relationship with this worthy organisation.

Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Kalbani, board member at

OAD commented as follows: “I accept this donation

from OIFC on behalf of Oman Disabled Association with

sincere gratitude for their support.

We rely on donations from the public and private sector

to help us continue varied activities and programmes

intended to make life easier for the disabled of

the Sultanate in terms of education, employment,

rehabilitation and mobility.

OIFC supports Oman Association for Disabled

opens at Shatti Al Qurum

MEJI’S AROY THAI

Meji’s Aroy Thai restaurant, an

embodiment of authentic Thai, was

inaugurated in Shatti Al Qurum under

the auspices of the Thai ambassador,

Voravee Wirasamban, recently.

“To get that authentic Thai cuisine,

you need to have plenty of

experience and also well-selected

ingredients. These are the winning

combinations that our restaurant

cooks are endowed with. At Meji’s

Aroy Thai, every dish is freshly

prepared from the very best

ingredients. High-quality meat and

seafood are chosen to create our

delicious dishes.

To make sure every dish provides

nutritional value, fresh fruits,

vegetables, and herbs are skillfully

introduced in our cooking,” a

spokesperson of the restaurant said.

“Our chefs have more than 10-years

of experience in cooking locally and

internationally.

They were trained in traditional-

cooking schools in Thailand.

“It is the passion of our chefs to

always maintain freshness and bring

out the delicious Thai flavour. And

this will always ensure that a meal

at Meji’s Aroy Thai will offer you a

memorable experience.

Our chefs have always offered

special dishes and new menu

on several occasions,” the

spokesperson said.

26 January 7-20, 2011

Khimji Ramdas Group brings BiCE (pronounced

bee-chay) the Italian fine dining chain, to the

Opera Mall Muscat. The two established names

in the restaurants business formally announced

this partnership at an inaugural function at

the Grand-Hyatt, Muscat recently. Anil Khimji,

director, Khimji Ramdas said, “We’re very excited

about this new partnership, we believe that BiCE

will make a significant difference to the food

and beverages landscape in Oman. The Opera

Mall will make a perfect fit for this upscale Italian

restaurant. With our expertise in managing world-

class restaurants, we look forward to capitalising

our synergies to create this location as the hot-

spot for fine dining in Oman.”

In celebration of the Republic Day of India, NPA Events

under the auspices of the Indian Ambassador, Anil

Wadhwa will be staging ‘Colours of

Fusion’ on February 2 at the Indian

embassy lawns in Al Khuwair.

The fusion concert will see a host

of top artists performing, namely

Roberto Riggio on the violin, oud and harmonium,

Pravin Godkhindi (flute), Jason Mckenzie on the drums,

Snehasish Mozumder (Mandolin), Fareed Haque (guitar),

Subrata Bhattacharya (tabla), Kai Eckhardt (guitar),

vocalist Nirmalya Roy, percussionist Somnath Roy

(Ghatam, Dhambek, Ganjira and Kalimba), keyboardist

Partha Paul, percussionist Mongopal Dhar (Bangla Dhol,

Dhol, Darbuka) and Sanjoy Das (guitar).

‘Colours of Fusion’ concert

The landmark new

headquarters of

BankMuscat was formally

inaugurated under the

auspices of Lt.General

Sultan bin Mohammed Al

Numaani, secretary general

of the Royal Court Affairs

recently. The occasion

marks a milestone,

highlighting the 28-year

progress and achievements

of the leading financial

services provider in the

Sultanate.

BankMuscat grand opening of landmark headquarters

Khimji Ramdas brings BiCE, to the Opera Mall, Muscat

General manager Renzo Cavagliotti

was recently felicated by the

executive committee and team for

his achievement in winning the

'General Manager of the year' award

for Europe, Middle East and Africa for

InterContinental Hotels and Resorts.

Muscat Intercon GM wins 'GM of the year' award

27Black & White

Gulf Sports Club is all set with their third edition of Proton

Cricket Cup 2011 to be played on February 14 at Baldiya

stadium in Bowshar. This cricket tournament is the first

MRi cricket tournament to be played in 2011.

The draws of this cricket tournament will be held on

January 12 at McDonalds Al Khuwair outlet at 7.30pm

and the matches schedule after the draws can be

downloaded from omanicricket.com or muscatcricket.

blogspot.com .

This one day cricket tournament is sponsored by Proton

(Malaysia’s no. 1 car and Oman’s fastest growing

automobile company) and supported by Al Hashar Group

of Companies, Mustafa Sultan Exchange company and

McDonalds .The media sponsor of this cricket tournament

is omanicricket.com

Contact: 92382860 or omancricket@gmail.com

LG and OTE Group have announced the

launch of day and night customer service. This

is the first of its kind in Oman where customers

can benefit from the service from 8 am to 12

midnight.

The OTE group chairman – Sheikh Saad

Suhail Bahwan while announcing this, said

that this service is for consumers of LG home

appliances and air conditioners in Muscat.”

A veteran professional who is leaving Oman for good

after spending close to a decade and half in Oman

intends to leave a green legacy behind.

R. Prabakaran, a chartered accountant from India,

who was the general manager of Computer Stationery

Industry SAOG, its subsidiary Oman Printers, and has

lived here for the last 14 years, wanted to do something

in return for the country, which he has grown to love like

his second home. “I have fantastic moments to cherish

in my 14 years stint in Oman and I feel obliged to do

something in return to this great country before I move

back to India,” Prabakaran said. With this idea in mind,

he embarked on an initiative to green Oman. “I broached

the subject with my company heads and they were quite

keen on it. We roped in the Rusayl Industrial (PEIE)

authorities and also some other like minded companies

and decided to plant 1,000 neem tree saplings inside

Rusayl Industrial Estate,” Prabakaran said, adding that

they already planted around 250 trees as a start of the

green campaign. This campaign will be taken forward by

the Rusayl Industrial Estate officials and other supporting

partner industries this during January.

“I know this is a humble effort, but I always felt that I

should do something in return for all that this country

has offered me. I have enjoyed my 14 year stay in Oman

both on the work and personal front,” he said. During the

time he was the general manager, CSI won the HM’s

Cup for one of the best five industries in Oman (in 2005).

The subsidiary company, Oman Printers, won many

international print awards notably Dubai Print Awards

every year from inception (2007).

LG day and night service

Veteran professional bids adieu to Oman leaving a green legacy

Proton Cricket Cup on February 14

28 January 7-20, 2011

Managem

ent

talk

What’s in a NAME?...

Dr Anchan C.K.

managing director,

World Wide Business HouseBy Dr CK Anchan

BE UNIQUE

To be different enough to be memorable

works for a time, but as soon as the field

gets too crowded, you’ll be lost in the

mush of sameness with ever diminishing

name recognition. MSN Search, Netscape

Search, AOL Search, they all stayed in the

same category, so you could play it safe

and go with Stupendous Search or Super-

Duper Search. If you’re in it for the long

haul, better to break away from the crowd

with a name like Google or Yahoo.

BE LEGAL

Ensure that the name you have chosen is

not already being used and not confusingly

similar to someone else’s in your industry.

BE SIMPLE

We want to sound literate and not fumble

over pronunciations. So avoid tongue

twisters, or any name that’s unusually

long or foreign sounding. If you can’t find

a single- word name, don’t go over two or

three syllables.

AVOID ABBREVIATIONS

IBM, MCI and ABC have big recognition

and identity, but they also have spent

years and millions in virtually all media

to promote their image—using images of

people and situations that were warm and

fuzzy. Even Bill Gates chose Microsoft over

MS. Abbreviations lack personality and

communicates very little in terms of benefit

or brand character.

AVOID TRANSLATIONS.

This would be really embarrassing or

at times you may not be able to translate

to the right meaning with its best effect.

Most of us have heard the story of

Chevrolet introducing their 'Nova' in

Spanish- speaking countries. The car

tanked because ‘nova’ means 'doesn’t go'.

Fiat found they had to rename their 'uno'

in Finland, since 'Uno' means garbage in

Finnish.

BE WITH YOUR IMAGE AND

PROTECT IT

Rolls Royce had to pull the name of its

newest addition to the Silver Cloud line,

which they tentatively named the 'Silver

Mist', since in German, 'mist' means

manure. So build on what you have. A

good example: Google’s entry into online

shopping with Froogle. Incidentally, if you’re

wondering where 'Google' came from, it’s a

variation on the math term googol, a huge

number with endless zeros. If you’re like

most companies, you worked hard and

spent some real money creating the image

of your company. So it only makes sense

to protect your investment with a product

name that’s consistent with your existing

brands and image.

COMMUNICATE THE BUSINESS YOU

ARE IN TO:

If you don’t have a lot of media dollars

to spend on name recognition, try for a

name that conveys a benefit or describes

your business activities. Your business

name should reflect your identity. This is

an essential aspect of branding. You’ll be

promoting your new business name, getting

it in front of as many eyes as possible as

often as possible. How do you want the

public to think of you?

I am quite sure the brief overview will help

you in choosing the right name you always

wanted ….yes it’s the world of name game

…choose with utmost care…Good Luck!

(Continued from last issue...)

28 January 7-20, 2011

29Black & White

A TALE OF ASIYA

Memories of the Asa stick out in a painful fashion.

Why? Because the first stick that comes to my mind

is the one that was always brandished by my school

principal, many years ago. He was a very strict man

and the mere presence of the stick in his hand was

enough to get us going or obey any orders that he

gave us. It was not that he always used it to get

things done, but those who have got it from him for

disobeying orders was enough to make us shiver

and do exactly as he used to tell us to do. So, from

an early age itself I have had my experiences with

the Asa. The only thing was that it was just a cane

for me then.

Today, it is much more than a mere cane. It is a

‘must-have’ accessory for all Omani men on any

occasion that they have to be present. It is symbolic

in many ways and stands next to the khanjar as a

necessary item on the Omani male attire.

But, who has gone into the delicate creation of an

Asa? Do you know how an Asa is made? Read all

about it in the following pages.

I know that the Asa is part of an Arab tradition and

it is not a plain stick. A lot of effort goes in to the

creation of it. Above all, I am aware that it is a multi-

purpose stick.

I can understand the evolution of it from the olden

days…

A plain, strong natural tool, that is light weight,

can be carried as a support for walking, to guide

the donkeys, camels, for self protection and as

we progressed it became a part and parcel of our

tradition.

Oman is a country where citizens still prefer to wear traditional dishdashas to office, rather than a branded suit…

Mohamed Issa Al ZadjaliEditor-in-chief

In Black...

& White

In B

lack &

Whit

e

We all know customs and traditions originate within a

community and the whole community participates in their

formation. They evolve within a society through social

activity of the people. And then it becomes obligatory for

every member to follow this system. They are part of the

identity process. In Oman, the Asiya (plural of Asa) is a

decorative piece like the sword and dagger and has a

very significant presence in traditional ceremonies and

weddings.

I admire Khamis (refer story in the following pages) for

upholding the tradition and passing it on to the younger

generation. It is people like Khamis who pass on social

customs from generation to generation, and provide an

unbroken channel of continuity with the past.

Maybe, the modernisation and globalisation might take a

toll on the traditions, but Oman is a country where citizens

still prefer to wear traditional dishdashas to office, rather

than a branded suit…

I can proudly say, Oman might be the only country in the

world where its citizens wear their traditional wear to office

and well, at all times. Now, before I forget, let me wish each

and everyone of you a very Happy New Year! May all your

dreams and wishes come true!

29Black & White

B&

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30 January 7-20, 2011

The wizard of

ASA

30 January 7-20, 2011

31Black & White 31Black & White

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32 January 7-20, 2011

33Black & White

In a dark and tiny room, a nearly

50-year old man is seen seated on

a floor littered with crude work tools

and attempting to bend the top part of

what appears to be a wooden stick.

He holds the stick in a makeshift

clamp and then slowly bends it to the

desired shape.

Khamis bin Bilal bin Shambe Al

Balushi, 47, takes the newly born

walking stick and shows it in the light

like it was a baby.

You could almost say: Hey presto!

What once looked like a formidable

ram-rod straight stick had now a curve

on the top part and was suddenly

quite an agreeable and comfy looking

walking stick.

Khamis Al Balushi then posed for us,

displaying how the stick, or rather the

Asa (as it is known in Arabic; Asiya,

plural), should be held and how, when

held, it should slightly angle away

from the hip.

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34 January 7-20, 2011

35Black & White

INTEGRAL PART

The Asa is an integral part of an Omani man’s official wear. It has its

practical uses or it can be simply used as an accessory during formal events.

If an Omani man is attending an official function, or perhaps, an event or a

ceremony, he is bound to carry the Asa. Even children sport them at official

functions. If you go to a camel or a horse race in the interior, you will find

almost all Omanis holding an Asa in his hand.

Khamis had invited Black & White to his modest home in Qarat Balush area

of Barka to witness how the Omani Asa was made and also to give us an idea

of the various styles of this walking stick.

KING OF ASIYAS

Khamis entered the world of sticks when he was just a 12-year old. His

father, Bilal Al Balush, was a master craftsman of the Asiya in Barka. “He was

the most well known Asa maker in Barka and everything that I know today is

what I have learnt from my father.

"Since it is a family tradition, I quickly began to grasp the art of stick making.

Of course, it was not that easy, but I had in my father, an able guide, who

wanted to pass on the legacy to his children and so I had him coaxing and

urging me on to learn the art properly.” Other than his father, there was

another master Asa craftsman, Salmin Khamis Al Balushi (who had passed

away recently) in the same area. Today, in Qarat Al Balush, Khamis is the

king of the Asiyas.

FIVE YEARS TO MASTER THE ART

Khamis explained how he slowly learnt how to choose the wood, mix henna

for the colouring aspects and also how to make the intricate designs on the

curved handle of the Asa. It had taken Khamis a year to learn the craft. “But,

I devoted five solid years to master it. Today, I am proud to say that I am a

master at it!”

And, in the last 25 years, this master walking stick maker of Oman has made

over 10,000 Asiyas. Since he has his own unique style of making the Asa,

he is able to recognise his pieces from even a crowd of other sticks. “I can

recognise my make even if it is mixed with hundreds or thousands of others,”

he said.

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36 January 7-20, 2011

GOOD MECHANIC

But, Khamis was not just a stick maker. While he

learnt the craft of making Asiyas, on the side, he was

also learning to be a mechanic. “I was always tinkering

away with my hands and I had a natural propensity for

alls things mechanical, so I also explored my interests

in cars and soon became a good mechanic, which then

became my actual profession.”

His interest in the mechanism of cars got him a

decent job at the ministry of defence (MoD), where he

worked as a supervisor (of the MoD workshop). “So

many cars, Toyotas, Mercedes, etc… went through my

hands,” Khamis, who is now retired from this post, told

us.

ASA MAN

His official work took most of his time. But, whenever

he was home, he settled down with his kids, Rimah

and Yarub to make Asiyas. Today, Khamis is known in

Qarat Balush as the Asa man and few remember him

as a mechanic. “That is because I am still continuing

with Asa making. But, I don’t want to just call it my

career…Creating Asiyas is not a job, or a chore, it is

indulging in a passion; it is my calling! I love creating

an Asa and enjoy the whole process.”

100 PIECES A MONTH

Like his father, Khamis is keen that he passes on this

tradition to his children. “My second daughter, Rahima,

helps me in designing the Asa, while another son,

Hatim, is now showing good interest.”

Khamis is now prolific in his work and makes around

100 pieces in a month. “But, if the order is to make an

ornamental or special design, I might take around 10

days to make a piece.”

THE WOOD BENDS FOR KHAMIS

Asa making is a craft that needs more patience than

strength, Khamis explains. “So, the ladies can also do

it and I believe that in the olden days, the womenfolk

were part and parcel of this trade.”

The wood selected for the making of an Asa goes

through many processes. “It is mainly coloured using

natural henna, and then it is weathered using heat

and animal fat for days. The fat makes the wood more

flexible and it bends in my hands. Once it is bent to the

required curve, I tie it up and leave it for hours. The art

of bending the wood is a trade secret (smiles). I cannot

divulge that, but it is all based on the animal fat and

heat.

“The heat makes the wood stronger. Contrary to the

popular belief that fire burns wood, I would say, not

always! I get many orders for just bending, curving the

Asa. Some people bring wooden sticks and then ask

me to shape it for them. I do it for a nominal fee.”

37Black & White

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GOOD WOOD LASTS LONG

Asa sticks are mostly made from wood. But, not just

any wood. Craftsmen like Khamis takes great pain in

selecting the right ones as the good ones are, without

a doubt, long lasting. The most common, as well as

popular, wood used is from the Otum tree. The roots

of Kharat, Hatheeb and Sumr trees are very good and

strong for Asiya. The branches of Nimt trees are also

commonly used.

SUR HAS THE BEST ASIYAS

The Asa used for fighting and self defense is a little

shorter than the normal ones. The Asiya from the

Sharqiyah region are also short. “Every region in Oman

has a specific style and I personally feel that the Sur

design is the best. It is quite convenient and majestic

too. The curve/bend of the Asa determines the region

from which it comes. The Sur region design has a wide

curve and it is ideal for holding. The length of the Asa is

measured individually and is usually measured from the

middle of the neck. So it is a little more than the shoulder

length. Ideally it should be as tall as a man’s hip, not

more or less.

MAKING OF AN ASA

"The making of an Asa involves collecting wood,

cutting it to size, straightening, flattening, perfecting

texture, colouring it and finally and most importantly,

conditioning it with animal fat and heat. The ordinary,

cheap, ones are made just for show and we use plain oil

to condition it.

The fat is used to take away the brittle nature of the

wood and helps in avoiding breakage, splits and cracks

in the long run. I have a small workshop, custom made

for my needs and a tool bag, which includes most

commonly used carpentry tools. After the Asa is made,

I draw designs, mainly from what I see and conceive

of Oman, the hills and forts etc… My daughters paint

on it and give it that delicate touch to it too!” Khamis

explained.

GOOD ASA CAN COST OVER OMR1000

The cost of the Asa can vary. From as low as OMR5

to OMR1000. “A good, decorated Asa costs around

OMR1100 today,” Khamis said, noting how the market

also sold walking sticks for much lower rates. “But, some

of them can be fake ones and of poor quality.”

TRADITION WILL SURVIVE

Come Eid or other major festivals and the demand

for the Asiyas increase. “During the Holy Month of

Ramadan, I am literally overwhelmed with orders,”

Khamis said.

39Black & White

But, would the Asa survive the test of time? Wouldn’t the

current technological advances sweeping throughout the

world make such an old art form obsolete? What is the

future of the Asa? Especially the making part. Even if the

demand is there, couldn’t factories make better, slicker

looking Asiyas?

Khamis begged to differ. “I don’t think modernity will

take away real tradition or culture. Let it be any art form.

Traditional art forms survive because concerted efforts

are taken to preserve them. In the case of the Asiyas,

such problems do not ensue because there is always

demand and it is embedded in the tradition and culture of

Omanis. You can’t take the Asa away from the Omani.”

AN ASA A DAY KEEPS MODERNITY AWAY

Modernity or not, Khamis makes at least one Asa per

day. “Oman is a country that is known for its traditional

attire and I believe Asa is part of our lives. I am hoping to

start a small factory of my own to make mass production

of the Asiyas.

“Of course, the carving and custom-made pieces will still

be retained and the trade tricks and the art of traditional

Asa making will be passed on to future generations

without fail.”

AN ARAB TRADITION

Carrying an Asa is very much a part of the Arab

tradition. “It is a tradition of the region, though the style,

design and the usage differs. The Asiyas are found in the

United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain and other AGCC

states, but differ in the designs,” Khamis said.

In Oman, Asa is a very integral part of daily life, in the

earlier years. The stick was used as a multipurpose one,

mainly as a self defense weapon. It was also used to

carry things, to pull the rope of the donkeys or camels, as

an accessory for traditional Omani dances and weddings.

Over the years, it became a part of the traditional dress,

with Asa being used as a prestige symbol, decorated with

silver and other ornamental metal.

THE ASA FIGHTER

Arabs believe that when it is used deftly an Asa can be

more powerful than a sword!

“It is true. I can use the stick properly in self defense.

I learnt the art of stick fighting from a very senior friend

of mine, Khamis Ramadan Al Balushi, a real wizard Asa

stick fighter,” Khamis said as an introduction before he

took us to the small abode of this Omani stick martial arts

expert.

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40 January 7-20, 2011

Jamaiti, Khamis Ramadan’s nearly 100-year old grandmother,

reminisces of a time when the Asiyas were used by all and

sundry. Her father, uncles and grandfathers were all regular

Asiya users and knew to use them as a style statement as well

as wield it in self defense

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42 January 7-20, 2011

MULAKAFFA

“The art of Asa fighting is known as Mulakaffa,” said

Khamis Ramadan Balushi, sitting cross legged in the

portico of his home. “It is actually an art of self defense.

Mulakaffa is part of the Omani tradition and lifestyle,”

Khamis Ramadan said, adding that he could easily

defend and protect himself from five to six people at a

time.

He also noted that when properly used, an Asa in

hand was better than a sharp sword. Both Khamis

and Khamis Ramadan gave a quick display of the

Mulakaffa, with the latter attempting to stave off the

‘attacks’ from the former. “He (Khamis Ramadan) is just

humouring me now. When he is in full form, no one can

touch him – he can do wonders with the Asa.

“I learnt the basics from him and I think I can do quite

well, so imagine what he would be like,” Khamis said,

heaping praise on his modest friend.

Today, Khamis Ramadan is still asked to display

his Asa fighting skills at events, and other ad hoc

competitions, but not in such big scale as before.

43Black & White

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

SOME YEARS BACK, when Khamis

Bilal Al Balushi was renovating their

old home, he came across an old

Asa, probably a favourite of his late

father’s. “My father had safely stored

it somewhere and he had forgotten

about it.

“This was a very strong stick, and it

was probably around 30 to 35 years

old. I had seen it before and I was

also eyeing it since a long time until

my father hid it!

So getting it back was like

rediscovering a long lost treasure and

it had sentimental reasons attached

to it also as it was my father’s

favourite too.”

Khamis worked on the stick and

made it far stronger and sturdier than

before.

Then some years later, the Diwan

of Royal Court Affairs ordered Asiyas

from Sur, Seeb and Barka. “I made

12 Asiyas, and one of them was this

unique piece, and send them all off to

the Diwan.

“The authorities selected two from

Seeb, four from Sur and all 12 of

mine (in Barka). The 12 were taken

to His Majesty the Sultan’s collection.

I think till today that has been

the biggest moment of pride and

achievement for me.

“For any craftsman, it is acceptance

and appreciation that matters the

most. I can, today, proudly say that

the Asiyas I make are not just good

looking and strong, but unique too!”

Royal gift

The authorities selected two

from Seeb, four from Sur and

all 12 of Khamis Al Balushi's

(in Barka). The 12 were taken

to His Majesty the Sultan’s

collection

44 January 7-20, 2011

Wow, we are finally through with a year! So many things have happened. We

were in the midst of many crises, yet, we have managed to pull through…

it is hard to believe that the rough patch is over and now we may get some

breathing space this year.

Let us hope so. Should we call it another ‘annus horribilis’(horrible year)…?

Maybe it was that for us, but for many others, it might have been an ‘annus

mirabilis’ (year of wonders). So, let us give it a break. Yes, let us give it all a

break. We are planning so many things new this year and we want you all

to participate in a much bigger way than before, so looking forward to your

participation. Belated Christmas greetings and wishing you all a splendidly

successful New Year!

A young maid approached us with

a bit of a sorry tale. She is being

harassed in an unheard sort of way:

the poor young lady’s work starts at

the crack of dawn and she has to

work right past midnight, say around

one or two in the morning, making

endless teas and the like (for a

pittance of course). More than that,

she has to take care of the family

pet, which is more like a family

member and while that is not exactly

a problem, the worst is being forced

to take the dog out for endless walks,

even in the night and alone, where

she is often prey to eve teasers.

While a dog is indeed security, the

eve teasers, who were familiar with

the dog, takes advantage of this fact.

Worst, the dog and the lady have to

sleep in the same store room.

The maid wanted a break from all

of this and she tearfully approached

us…what do we do? We have

told them to stand up for her rights

and also approach the embassy

concerned, as her employers hail

from the same country as she did.

Now for some happenings in an

around town: Fraudsters are a dime

a dozen, some folks from Salalah

allege. Apparently, there is this

team, who seems to have begged,

borrowed and whatever from so

many people in Salalah, and have

now slipped off to sunnier Muscat.

But, if they think they have given us

the slip, they are so wrong, say the

victims, who have approached both

the embassy (notice…we are not

mentioning the embassy's name)

officials concerned in Salalah and

also contacted the embassy officials

in Muscat to help them nab these

alleged fraudsters. Some claims have

come from even poor workers who

allege that they have been gypped by

some members of this alleged group.

Will they be nabbed? Let’s find out in

the next episode of Bitter Batter.

Year of horrors

or wonders…?

Maid in distress

Fraudsters to be

defrauded soon

Nit

tern

att

er

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

A group of four enjoyed a sumptuous

lunch at a restaurant in the main

business area of the capital recently.

Everything was perfect until the bill

came and then the one who had

volunteered to pay quietly passed it to

others. Reason? Very simple. Some

people go to a restaurant with a very

clear idea of what they have to pay.

Similarly, this quartet had assumed

that the bill would not go beyond a

certain rate and they were shocked to

see that the rates were hiked suddenly,

without any warning. And the lame

reason given was that it was a holiday

and so the rates were increased.

Why should restaurants increase

their rates during the holidays? To

dampen the spirits of the revelers?

Or, was it because holidayers may be

in an exuberant mood and they will

not notice the increase in the rates or

the fact that this was burning a hole in

their pockets? Makes no sense…

Speaking of price hikes…many supermarkets and the like have this weekend

price hike on items that give weekend blues to regular buyers. We are aware of

this and have ourselves witnessed the new 'weekend rates' for the same items

that we have purchased on the previous night, some hours back.

When asked why they were doing that, the friendly store-in-charge tells us to

please adjust because they need to make some margin on the items somehow.

“Business is not like before, we need to make some money here and there…

but, Sir, if you want to buy these items at the usual rate, please do so... We

would not like to charge extra with regular customers like you!” Uh, what do you

make of such things?

Holiday price

hike leaves

bitter taste

Weekend rates

are different

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

45Black & White

46 January 7-20, 2011

Natu

re's Q

uest

Seyad Farook, ophiologist/

field herpetologist at the

Sultan Qaboos University

Skin

By Seyad Farook

Snake bodies are covered in overlapping scales composed of a horny

material called keratin. These transparent scales make up the dry, smooth,

outer layer of skin, whose primary function is to prevent water loss. Snakes

owe their colouration to pigment cells located in the skin layer below the

scales. Most snakes display drab earth tone colours to blend with their

natural surroundings. Arboreal species, such as the emerald tree boa, are

often vibrant shades of green, a colouration that helps them hide among

leafy foliage. Some snakes, such as coral snakes, have brilliant yellow and

orange stripes that warn predators of their venomous bite.

Snakes regularly shed the outer layer of their skin as they grow. Even in

snakes that are not growing, the scales become drab and worn over time,

and must be periodically replaced by a new, healthy layer. Some species

of snakes shed their skin about every 20 days, but other species shed it

only once a year. In the shedding process, a new layer develops below the

surface of the old one, which gradually separates in preparation for being

shed, or sloughed. The snake begins the shedding process by rubbing its

nose against rocks or other hard objects to separate the old layer from its

lips. After the old layer is loosened, the snake crawls out of its old skin,

typically shedding it in a single piece.

46 January 7-20, 2011

47Black & White

Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given

numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares

so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same

number only once.

SOLUTION:

By Thomas Snydermotris.livejournal.com

48 January 7-20, 2011

Kid

stuff

Happy New Year

KIDS!

48 January 7-20, 2011

49Black & White

It is simply the perfect time to take resolutions and make for

a fun-filled day. Invite the new year with open arms. Have a

blast!

Here are some New Year trivia…

HOGMANAY:

The New Year in Scotland is called Hogmanay. The people

in Scotland follow a ritual that appears nutty but actually has

a great significance. One can find barrels of tar set afire and

gradually rolled down the streets in the villages of Scotland.

This ritual symbolises that the old year is burned up and

New Year is going to begin.

BABY NEW YEAR TRADITION:

The tradition of using a baby to signify the New Year was

started around 600 B.C by the ancient Greeks, who, at the

start of a year would carry a baby around in a basket. The

purpose of it was to honour Dionysus, the God of Fertility

and symbolise his annual rebirth.

BURNING MR OLD YEAR:

In Columbia, Cuba and Puerto Rico families stuff a life-size

male doll with things and then they dress it up in old clothes

from each family member. At the stroke of midnight, this

‘Mr. Old Year’ is set on fire. This is done with the simple

belief that a doll thus stuffed have bad memories or sadness

associated with them, and that the burning of these will help

one to do away with all past griefs and usher in happiness in

life with the coming year.

EATING 12 GRAPES:

In Spain people eat 12 grapes as the clock strikes midnight

(one each time the clock chimes) on New Year’s Eve. This

peculiar ritual originated in the twentieth century when freak

weather conditions resulted in an unseasonable bumper

harvest of grapes.

EATING NOODLES:

Late on the evening of December 3 1, people of

Japan would eat a bowl of buckwheat noodles called

“toshikoshisoba” (“year-crossing noodles”) and listen for the

sound of the Buddhist temple bells, which were rung 108

times at midnight.

GIFTS IN SHOES:

In Greece children leave their shoes by the fireside on New

Year’s Day (also the Festival of Saint Basil in Greece) with

the hope that Saint Basil, who was famous for his kindness,

will come and fill their shoes with gifts.

CARRYING A SUITCASE:

In Venezuela, Argentina, Bolivia, and Mexico,

those with hopes of traveling in the New Year carry

a suitcase around the house at midnight. Some

even carry it around the block to ensure travelling

at greater distances.

BURNING CRACKERS:

The people in China believe that there are evil

spirits that roam the earth. So on New Year they

burn crackers to scare the evil spirits.

TIMES SQUARE CELEBRATIONS:

The first Ball Lowering celebration atop One

Times Square was held on December 31, 1907

and is now a worldwide symbol of the turn of the

New Year, seen via satellite by more than one

billion people each year. The original New Year’s

Eve Ball weighed 700 pounds and was five feet in

diameter. It was made of iron and wood and was

decorated with 100 25-watt light bulbs.

RINGS:

Many cultures believe that anything in the shape

of a ring is good luck, because it symbolises

“coming full circle,” completing a year’s cycle.

BLACK-EYED PEAS:

Many parts of the U.S. celebrate the new year by

consuming black-eyed peas. Black-eyed peas and

other legumes have been considered good luck in

many cultures.

WEARING NEW SLIPPERS:

In China, many people wear in the new year a

new pair of slippers that is bought before the new

year, because it means to step on the people who

gossip about you.

SEALED DOORS & WINDOWS:

During new year, the doors and windows of every

home in China can be seen sealed with paper. The

Chinese think that this will succeed in keep the evil

demons out.

49Black & White

50 January 7-20, 2011

WADI KABIRBait al Zubair Bait al BarandaMarina Bander Al Bustan Palace HotelOman Dive club Shangri-La- Barr Al JissahSri Lankan School NHIPencil Building (Stationery shop)Al Maha bunk –Wadi Kabir Ajay Enterprises (Khimji) – (Next to Jingles nursery) Hotel Golden OasisSana FashionsAl Maya markets – (Old Rawasco) Scientific pharmacy – Opp to al Maya market ( Arab Udipi Rest)

CBD AREA TO DARSAITAl Amana Building materials – Opposite Jawad SultanAl Omaniya Financial Services office Oman oil bunk Khimji mart shopping mall – (Old shopping & saving)Khimjis Bait al Ahlam- CBD areaPizza Muscat (Opposite ministry of manpower)Pizza Hut/TFC – CBD areaCentre point-SplashMuscat Securities market Times of OmanShell petrol Bunk (Next to Sheraton)OCCI Library – Oman Chamber of commerce (OPP MSM)KFC – Ruwi Oman International Bank – RuwiPalayok Restaurant – Filipino restaurant Ever ready supermarket New India Assurance OfficeAl Fair – Ruwi high street Lakhoos Money Exchange, Ruwi High streetDamas Jewellery/office – Ruwi Oman UAE Exchange – OCC CentreAir Arabia Office- Shanfari TravelsRuwi HotelGulf air building – Gulf air officeSaravanabhavan Restaurant Sarco – Samsung showroom Khimji Megastore – Swarovski showroomOTEMoosa Abdul Showroom – next to al JadeedToshiba Showroom Al Jadeed shoppingBadr Al Samaa Samara video (next to Talentz, old bait al ahlam) after 5pmMinistry of Education – Opp Wearhouse – Ruwi Future management consultants -(opp Toshiba showroom)Haffa House HotelAl Falaj Hotel Muscat Bakery- Near church Pakistan School (after temple & church Darsait)Naranjee Hirjee office (before Hotel Golden Oryx)Hotel Golden Oryx Bank Muscat corporate office (Opposite Hotel Golden Oryx)Kamat Restaurant Uptown Restaurant Turtles Book shopAl Rima Clinic Lama Polyclinic

Oman Air – CBD NBO- CBD areaBank MuscatBank SoharHSBCStandard CharteredOman Arab BankHarmony Music Centre – Next to OAB Bahwan Travel Agencies – CBD banks areaOTTB – Oman Travels BureauAir India office – CBD next to Costas CostasPapa John Supa Save – CBDWoodlandsBank DhofarHorizon Restaurant – (Next to Moon travels)Oman post office Lulu DarsaitKhimji Ramdas Head office, Muttrah (Kanaksi Khimji & pankaj Khimji) Majan College – Darsait junction (canteen)Indian Social ClubMelody Music Centre – Next to ISMGerman Embassy – Hamriya roundaboutApollo Medical CentreComputer Xpress – Hamriya Roundabout Atlas Travels (Wadi Adai Roundabout (next to polyglot)Hatat HousePassage to IndiaBest carsHyundai/Subaru/GM showroomAl Asfoor FurnishingAhli BankShell marketing officeSEAT car showroom- Wattayah DHL office- Wattayah Honda ShowroomSabco Head office wattayahNTT travels WattayahToyota Bahwan Advertising – Ist floor – Toyota showroomLexusFord showroomShanfari AutomotiveWattayah Motors- VW showroomKhoula HospitalInstitute of Health sciences – opposite KhoulaKia showroom- wattayah

QURUM AREA TOWARDS AL KHUWAIRAl Harthy Complex- Pizza Muscat – next to Sultan Center in al Harthy complexSultan Center Nissan showroomBMW showroom Muscat Private School Qurum city centrePizza Hut – Qurum Capital StoreAl Asfoor PlazaKFCHardeesFono showroom next to Sabco centreShah NagardasSabco Centre- Barista coffee shop onlyAl AraimiPanasonic ShowroomNBO QurumAl Khamis PlazaAl Wadi commercial centre – Coffee shopMercedes showroom

CCC- StandCCC Al FairBollywood chatPizza Hut – Qurum Second CupNandos McDonaldsSalman StoresJawahir OmanHamptonsBusiness Services & Travel Amex office Ernst & Young buildg (OUA Travels) StarbucksHawthorne institute- ELS Fahud Street, opp Qurum parkMumtaz Mahal Left bankOman Association for the disabled Ministry of education (20 +20=20)Muscat Intercon Jawaharat Al Shatti complex- standOasis by the sea - crepe café standLNG OfficeAl Qurum resortBareek Al Shatti ComplexAl Qandeel head office -, Entrance of Bareek al Shatti Al Shatti Cinema - Dunkin DonutsAl Sahwa Schools– principal’s office next to Ramada hotelHotel RamadaAl Muriya Offices- next to Al sahwa schoolsGrand Hyatt MuscatAl Masa MallRadio ShackAl Sarooj ComplexShell Petrol Bunk- Al Sarooj Al FairRamee GuestlineRock BottomClassic Institute of Arts- next to Asas OmanAsas Oman ApartmentsCrowne PlazaCoral hotelQurum Pvt schoolPDORas Al Hamraa ClubOmanoil head office

AL KHUWAIR/MSQ TOWARDS AZAIBAELS – Al khuwair service roadBritish School Muscat – MSQBritish Council Oman oil- Madinat Qaboos Pizza HutKhimjis mart – MSQ Kargeen Café Al fairFamily Book shop- MSQ Tavola – Al Noor Hall buildgStarbucks Hana slimming centre – Ist FloorFotomagicAl Noor Hall Al JadeedEqarat office Above Welcare Clinic – al KhuwairDomino Pizza Oman mobileSafeer Hypermarket Mustafa SultanSouk TechniaOmantelOman international Bank – Al khuwair main officeIbis Hotel

Park inn HotelFriendi OfficeMuscat Bakery Tropical Ice creams SubwayPizza Hut service road Ice Skating RinkNational Training InstituteGolden spoon RestaurantShell Select- Al KhuwairMcdonaldsMct holiday Inn HotelOman Bowling Center HalliburtonCafé VergnanoKhimji Mart – Next to Verganano Safeer suitesAxa insurance (opp assarain Al khuwair)Zakher shopping MallPAN Furnishing Harley DavidsonThriftyAl Amal Medical Centre – Dr BashirHotel RadissonPizza Hut Al KhuwairOzone Video Shop(Next to Pizza Hut)American British School Omar Khayyam Restaurant, next to V kool Grill House (next door)V KoolTAISM Centre for British Teachers – CFBT Baushar Complex CaféAviation Club Restaurant

AZAIBA TOWARDS SEEBLulu Hyper market – BausharOman Medical collegeCollege for Business & financial Studies opp Oman medical, bausharAzzan Bin Qais school - BausharMuscat private HospitalDolphin Village – BausherRoyal hospital Ghala industrial area – NTINational mineral water – Tanuf ( next to Al Madina Holiday Inn)Oman oil AzaibaSpicy Village – Rusayl Pizza Hut – GhalaOman oil – GhalaTowell head office – Enhance & Ist floorMazda showroom Mcdonalds – Azaiba Select shell AzaibaOman Tribune – Al Watan officeNew India assurance Azaiba office Safeer HypermartNawras head office Zubair showroom and Yamaha corporate office(two places)- Yamaha Showroom – close to Zubair showroom – 1st floor Polyglot InstituteGU Tech – Beach road AzaibaChedi Muscat The wave Muscat corporate officeNACA – national cancer Awareness AssnMCC – Crepe CaféAl Bahja– Mood Café & food CourtAl Maya Super market Oman air Seeb office (Below Flyover, before Golden Tulip)Oman Tourisn College Golden Tulip HotelAir portSelect Shell – SeebPizza Hut airportKFC

PICK-UP POINTSPICK-UP POINTS

MUSCAT

Cir

cula

tion

SHOPPING MALLSLulu shopping centerAl- Istaqarar shopping center (Salalah)Dhofar shopping centerBab Al- Salam marketAl- Mashoor (Salalah)Al- Mashoor (Saada)Al-KhareefK.M TradingAl-Isteqarar (Saada)Al-Hoq super marketHamdan commercial marketFresh super market (Al-Sarat)Union Salalah MarketFamily bookshop

HOTELSCrown PlazaHilton Salalah Hamdan plazaDhofar HotelSalalah hotelHaffa HouseRedan HotelAl- Hanaa HotelBAMSIR hotelAl- Jabel hotelAl- Nile suite (Saada)Salalah Mariott

MINISTRIESMinistry agriculture & fisheries Ministry of educationMinistry of defenseMinistry of housing & electricityMinistry of waterMinistry of tourism Diwan of Royal court (Salalah)Ministry of primary court and justiceMinistry of Commerce & industryDhofar municipality (Baladia)Ministry of man power

PETROL STATIONS, BANKSShanfari filling Stationshell select, al saadaOman oilShell SalalahBank MuscatOmantelOman Arab BankPizza hutDhofar UniversityAl Maha souk

OIB, NizwaOIB, FirqBankMuscat, NizwaBM main branch, NizwaBankMuscat, FirqNBO, NizwaNBO, FirqBank AbudhabiToyotaOTEOmantelNawrasKhimji, NizwaKhimji, IzkiMuscat Bakery, NizwaPizza HutDiscount centreFamily shoppingAl Diyar HotelSafari hotelAl-Nif shopping, IzkiHungery Bunny, NizwaCollege of ScienceCollege of TechnicNizwa Medical CollegeBusmath ClinicThalal ClinicOmanoil, IzkiOmanoil, FirqOmanoil, NizwaOmanoil, MarfaShell, IzkiShell, FirqShell, NizwaAl-Maha, FirqNizwa university -Dept of foreign langAl-Maha, Marfa

Lulu hyper marketSafeer CentreAl Nahda resortAl Maha SoukOman Oil RumaisOman College of managementOIBNBOBank MuscatShellOTESARCONissan showroomOmantel

MUSCAT continued...

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

SALALAH NIZWA

BARKA

SOHAR

SURAl-HasharLNGLNG, Club SurSur Beach HotelSur UniversityOTE, SurMitsibushiRawaya coffee shopToyotaNissanSur Plaza HotelMazdaKhimjiOmantelPrivate Hospital, SurBankMuscatSur HotelNBO, SurBank Dhofar, SurELS, Sur

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

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51Black & White

52 January 7-20, 2011

Horo

scope

Emotions run high this

week; expect family

members and close friends to be

easily distracted by social events

or new romantic information.

Remain focussed on positive gains

and worthwhile investments. After

mid-week rest and plan a new

employment strategy.

The next few weeks will

slowly bring change and renewal to

stagnated relationships: don’t avoid

emotional confrontations or difficult

but productive discussions. Revised

information or fresh instructions may

soon need to be integrated into daily

work routines.

Business routines, over the

next three weeks, may be temporarily

disrupted. Don’t be unnerved,

however; planetary aspects indicate

that new proposals and key projects

will soon arrive. Over the next few

days contact distant friends or

relatives: emotional support and

encouragement may be needed.

Unresolved emotions

in past relationships or painful

memories of yesterday’s

disagreements may now be

lingering: help loved ones choose

a more healthy and workable

path. A demanding and complex

week: expect social and romantic

relationships to be briefly disjointed.

For the next few days

business proposals will be complex

and socially demanding. Watch for

partners and colleagues to provide

conflicting information or incomplete

research. Someone close may soon

issue a deeply felt compliment or

new proposal. Watch for important

changes in public attitude.

Friends and relatives may

wish to discuss past events or recent

disagreements. Expect sudden

revelations or previously withheld

criticisms to be quite surprising:

wrongly interpreted actions or

emotional misunderstandings may

now rise to the surface. Be flexible.

Important business and

personal relationships will now begin

to change. Over the next three

weeks, expect close friends or work

associates to define their loyalties

and publicly ask for greater clarity.

Work routines, incomplete projects

or competing interests in social

relationships may all be key issues.

Work partners and

business associates will be confident

and talkative over the next few

weeks. News from a friend or loved

one may also arrive: financial

commitments, educational planning

or changed routines may be at issue.

Use this time to openly discuss

future plans and daily obligations.

A five month period of

business and home

restriction is now ending: don’t

avoid obvious growth, new career

advancements or a quick expansion.

In the coming weeks discuss future

business plans with friends and

relatives: revised pathways to

success will soon emerge.

Friendship and family

relationships will be particularly

rewarding now. Discuss future

plans with loved ones and gather

valuable advice. Expect both friends

and colleagues to provide positive

information or unique invitations.

Stay balanced.

Financial routines and

commitments may soon require

minor changes. You may now

find that investments offer steady

rewards or business officials

require detailed records. All is

well: begin a routine of gathering

research or opening new business

communications.

Past disruptions in

relationships or romantic discussions

will be a strong influence over the

next few days. Expect loved ones

to be nostalgic or curious. Family

matters will be less a concern. A

powerfully emotional few days:

carefully study the actions and

reactions of others.

March 21-April 20

June 22-July 23

September 24-October 22

December 23-January 20

April 21-May 20

July 24-August 23

October 23-November 22

January 21-February 19

May 21-June 21

August 24-September 23

November 23-December 22

February 20-March 20

Your stars

ARIES

CANCER

LIBRA

CAPRICORN

TAURUS

LEO

SCORPIO

AQUARIUS

GEMINI

VIRGO

SAGITTARIUS

PISCES

NICOLAS CAGE (BORN JANUARY 7, 1964) is an

American actor, producer and director, having appeared

in over 60 films including Face/Off, Gone In 60 Seconds,

National Treasure, Ghost Rider, Bad Lieutenant: Port of

Call New Orleans, and Kick-Ass. Cage, at age 32, became

the fifth youngest actor ever to win the Academy Award for

Best Actor for his performance in Leaving Las Vegas.

Cookin

g

Ingredients

• 1 pkg. (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup chopped cucumber

• 1 medium carrot, shredded (about 1/2 cup)

• 1 green onion, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)

• 1 tsp. lemon juice

• 1/4 tsp. dried dill weed, crushed or 1 tsp. fresh dill weed

• Pepperidge Farm Distinctive Cracker Trio

Method:

Stir the cream cheese, cucumber, carrot, onion, lemon

juice and dill weed in a medium bowl. Cover and

refrigerate for 2 hours. Serve the spread with the crackers.

Ingredients

• 2 8-ounce packages cream cheese

• 2 cups finely shredded smoked cheddar, swiss, or

gouda cheese

• 1/2 cup butter or margarine

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 2 teaspoons steak sauce

• 1 cup finely chopped nuts, toasted

• Assorted crackers

Method:

Let cream cheese, shredded cheese, and butter stand

at room temperature for 30 minutes. Add milk and

steak sauce; beat until fluffy. Cover and chill for 4 to 24

hours. Shape mixture into a ball; roll in nuts. Let stand

for 15 minutes. Serve with crackers.

Makes 3-1/2 cups spread

Make-ahead directions:

Prepare as above, except do not roll in nuts. Wrap

cheese ball in moisture- and vapor-proof plastic wrap.

Freeze for up to 1 month. To serve, thaw the cheese

ball in refrigerator overnight. Roll in nuts. Let stand for

30 minutes at room temperature before serving.

lovers, rejoice!Cheese appetisers are very popular and this probably topped by the fact that it

can be a time efficient means of providing a tasty platter of munchies. Served hot

or cold, cheese appetisers please even the pickiest eaters. You can put together

a simple cheese and cracker plate in a matter of minutes or use soft cheese as

the basis for a flavour filled delight by adding a few seasonings and smearing it on

bread. Melted cheese becomes an essential dip for bread, chips, or vegetables.

Easy cheese appetisers… try them!

GARDEN VEGETABLE SPREAD

SMOKY CHEESE BALL

CHEESE TIPS:

Chilled cheeses will go through the grater easier than

room temperature cheeses. To prevent cheeses like

Swiss or Mozzarella from becoming stringy during the

heating process, add a dash of lemon juice.

Store different flavours of cheese in individual bags to

prevent their flavours from intermingling. If a cheese

dip becomes too thick, add a dash of milk and stir to

thin it down. Cheese will dry out at room temperature,

so it is better to make a couple of small trays to switch

out as the supply decreases than it is to let one big

tray sit out for a long period of time. Heated cheese

appetisers will cook more quickly and smoothly if you

grate, crumble, or cube the cheese before melting.

53Black & White

54 January 7-20, 2011

Eve's d

rop

54 January 7-20, 2011

55Black & White

REPOSITORY OF WISDOM

She also feels that one cannot

totally rule it out as a non form of

communication. “Sanskrit is a vehicle

of expression for every aspect of life

including the arts and the sciences.

It is a language of upliftment and

enlightenment, a repository of wisdom

and values.

CLOSE LINK

“In fact Sanskrit is related not only

to all Indian languages but it also

has a close link with most Western

languages as well. More and more

universities in Western countries are

offering courses in Sanskrit as a part

of their programmes. So, lets us all

join hands and fight against this false

statement that Sanskrit is a dead

language!” Kavitha stressed.

UNIVERSITY TOPPER

Kavitha started learning the script

when she was just 12. “In India (or

wherever), as soon as a child starts

speaking, parents will start teaching

him/her their prayers. But, in my case,

it did not just die as a mere childhood

passion. As I grew up, I was keen to

know the exact meanings and then

chant the shlokas. “This took me to

a whole new world. I began when

I was just 12 and then eight years

later, I completed my post graduation

in Sanskrit when I was 20. I was a

university topper!” Kavitha did her

post graduation from the Bangalore

University, Karnataka state, India.

OLDEST AND RICHEST

“Sanskrit is one of the oldest and

richest languages in the world. The

word Samskritam is ‘Samyak’ +

‘Kritam’, which means well refined or

perfectly done. A language derives

its value not merely from its logical

and grammatical structure but from

the manner in which it has been used

and the richness of its literature…this

is primarily the main reasons why I

wanted to teach Sanskrit,” she said,

indicating that it was a rich language

legacy that she would like future

generations also to benefit from.

PLEASURE TO TEACH

In her current batch (25), she has

also eager housewives trying to learn

the language. In other batches, she

also teaches kids and working ladies.

“I have been teaching since 2008 and

it is a real pleasure for me to teach

anyone who shows interest,” Kavitha

said.

GENUINE PASSION

Most of the students learn the

language to acquire knowledge.

“Some of them have a real passion

for the language since childhood, but

did not have an opportunity to learn it.

But, now, they are utilising it and more

importantly, parents are sending their

children because they know about the

richness and beauty of Sanskrit,” she

noted.

UNTOLD JOY

“Though I am not a great scholar

and have not learnt the language in

great depth Sanskrit has always held

a strange fascination for me. I have

enjoyed listening to its sound and this

often brings an inexplicable joy for me!

MAJESTIC WORLD

"I always wonder how Sanskrit came

to acquire such a power; such strength

and magnificence… When ever I am

reading Sanskrit books or teaching

this ancient Indian language, I feel

as if I am entering a huge, majestic

and mighty world, which has been

intricately carved and planned to

precision!”

The language of

UPLIFTMENTSanskrit is not a dead

language. Although

this historical Indo-

Aryan language

cannot be used for

communication,

Sanskrit is still alive

and well, a dedicated

Sanskrit teacher in

Muscat tells Black &

White. “Whoever says

that Sanskrit is dead

is totally wrong – that

is a false statement,”

Kavitha Rama

Krishna, who has

been teaching Sanskrit

in Muscat since 2008,

and a rank holder

in the subject, says

passionately.

Laila, Omani graduate student of Nizwa University

New Year...new life

Life is full of blessings, which we

simply cannot count. As the New

Year dawns on you, blossoming with

everything new, we should make

attempts to positively enjoy this new

chapter of life bestowed upon us. Let

us open our eyes and see how much

far or close we are from our goals.

The New Year is not a mere change of

dates, so let not its significance be lost

on you. New Years are more about self

realisations and a flood of experiences,

which we all go through in life.

To celebrate the New Year in totality,

all you need to have is a few moments

of deep thinking. Look, all of us have

miles to go and promises to fulfil. So,

let us get cracking!

Students should look back and

evaluate their achievements and their

studies. Also, employers should think

about their past production and future

produce and most importantly, let

us all think of ourselves as the most

precious gift from God!

What better way to celebrate the New

Year than this. We all know that our life

is based on our choices so let us give

ourselves more time to think about our

paths and see if all things that we have

chosen so far have worked out as

planned. If not, then let us take charge

and be responsible for change and

make things work better for us.

Of course, to celebrate the New Year;

you may need a real friend who can

reflect your own personality to you and

honestly show you your weaknesses

and strengths, so that you can control

things. It is very important to look at

things again and again as time passes;

to feel the real change in the universe!

No wonder that most of us think

about what might happen to us during

this new chapter of life, to those who

think like that, I would say do not waste

your time and energy thinking about

the unknown.

Yes, the unknown as well as our

destiny, which we all believe, is in the

hands of the Almighty.

So, calm down and take things easily

because nothing would happen without

God’s permission. Pray to God to

support you to be the good person you

always want to be so and to help you

achieving your dreams.

Pray to God to make this New Year

as wonderful as a rainbow on a rainy

day, as peaceful as water in a lake

and as joyful as birds flying on the

sky. Pray to God to light your life

with strong faith as glittering stars

in the dark and keep in mind to live

with others and support the mankind

wherever you go.

Dear readers, keep in mind that each

day is a new day, new hope and a

new start so never cry nor regret about

what has happened in the past. Look

up and embrace your life with love,

caring, knowledge, sharing, helping

and inspiring the surroundings to feel

the significance of being a man as time

passes and being alive.

Happy New Year to all of you and all

the ones you love...Remember my little

wisdom, ‘New Year carries new life

to you, so make the best of it and be

thankful to God, always!’

By Laila Ibrahim Obaid Al-Gharbi

lalgharbi@yahoo.com

Learn

ing c

urv

e

56 January 1-20, 2011

2 G Scam…Radia Tapes…IPL Scam…Land Deregulation Scam…

US Diplomacy scam…seems the world is besieged by scamsters out

to make a quick buck come hell or highwater.Reminds me of a popular

nursery rhyme Old Mc Donald had a farm…..here a scam there a scam

everywhere a scam scam…

My whole mindspace reading these is: Is there any place for honest men

in this broad spectrum of “alliances”, “gifts”, “positions”, involving obscene

amounts of money (How many zeroes does 200 million dollars have?

Apparently the amount paid off in ahem donations. If anyone knows or

has personally counted so much money please do email me.)

Then you come across people like Azim Premji, Warren Buffet, Narayan

Murthy counted amongst the top 100 billionaires in the world, who have

succeeded in building billion dollar enterprises without paying even a

nominal “token of appreciation”. To top it all they are donating anywhere

between $ 4 to 5 billion to charity, all the while still driving humble cars

and flying economy class.

They are the ones who are our modern day icons who provide hope

to all those who still want to pursue commercial success following the

dangerous path of honesty. They have exhibited that all is not lost and

your clean money will not only help you to live but get rich in the right way

and you will be truly wealthy without hiding your money in other people’s

names and of course without the taxman knocking hard at your door.

I am hopeful and confident that there are so many Bufftes, Premjis on

a smaller scale in the world and therefore the world still survives and

thrives. Scamsters have not totally thwarted the inherent goodness in us.

What better time to remember this than during Christmas, which brings us

cheer, hope and joy and symbolises the birth of good.

I wish all my readers a Merry Xmas and hope that Santa fills their

stockings with all that they wish and desire.

Till next time, love.

Scamsters et. al(un) Ltd.

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

By Vandana Shah

It's m

y lif

e

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

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

Follow me on twitter Vandy4PM

57Black & White

58 January 7-20, 2011

Shape n

sound

Mind-body methods to LOSE

WEIGHT

58 January 7-20, 2011

59Black & White

FOR THOSE WHO HAVE MISSED out on this aspect,

this is a good time to get not only back to the basics

but also to get some breathers with the mind and

body methods. What we are saying is that it is time to

look beyond diet and exercise. And what would they

be? Well, try out methods like hypnosis, acupuncture,

meditation, prayer and traditional methods too.

ACUPUNCTURE

One of the best-known branches of traditional

Chinese medicine, acupuncture aims to remove

blockages in the flow of your qi, or life force.

Practitioners do this by sticking very thin metal needles

into strategic points on the skin. Acupuncture is an

adjunct therapy. It is not a panacea or a wonder cure

in the treatment of weight control. But, acupuncture is

effective in making it easier to lose and maintain that

loss if the patient is willing to change their lifestyle.

The exact mechanism by which acupuncture works

is unknown but we know that acupuncture needles

inserted into specific points on the body and in the

ear release endorphins which have a calming and

relaxing effect that makes it easier to deal with stress,

frustration and anxiety that can trigger overeating and

bingeing on fattening foods.

ACUPRESSURE

Like acupuncture, acupressure targets certain

points on the body. But it’s done with pressure from

the fingers or other devices, not needle sticks. One

of the more popular natural weight loss techniques

used today is acupressure. Acupressure weight loss

techniques involve massaging pressure points when

you feel the need to eat, reducing your appetite so

you eat less when hungry. Acupressure weight loss

doesn’t take any supplies, and can be done almost

anywhere as long as you know where the points are

located on the body. These pressure points come from

a variety of fields, including Japanese and Chinese

medicine, massage and acupuncture. This dieting

method started in Japan, and has slowly begun

migrating across the world.

AYURVEDA

A form of traditional Indian medicine, Ayurveda

strives for harmony and balance between body, mind,

and spirit. In modern India, Ayurveda is still widely

used, though not exclusively. A key to Ayurveda

is developing your “dosha,” or “life force” profile.

The three doshas are called kapha, pitta, and vata.

Your dosha balance is based on your eating habits,

behaviours, lifestyle, and medical history. For weight

loss, an ayurvedic practitioner will probably try to

rebalance your doshas through your diet. Ayurveda

is a highly personalised method that requires careful

guidance by an experienced practitioner. Also, be

careful about any herbal supplements prescribed.

MEDITATION

Meditation is about focusing your attention -- often

on your breath, thoughts and feelings, or mantra.

People use meditation to deal with anxiety, pain,

depression, stress, sleep problems, and just to feel

better. Meditation may assist people in losing weight,

especially in maintaining weight loss, but it would have

to be in combination with diet and exercise.

HYPNOSIS

Hypnosis may help you shed a few extra pounds

when it’s used along with other weight-loss methods,

such as diet and exercise. But there isn’t enough

solid scientific evidence about weight-loss hypnosis

to recommend for or against it. Hypnosis is an altered

state of consciousness, usually achieved with the help

of a hypnotherapist using verbal repetition and mental

images. When you’re under hypnosis, your attention

is highly focussed and you’re more responsive to

suggestions, including behaviour changes that can

help you lose weight. After proper instruction, you

can also try self-hypnosis for weight loss. Weight-loss

hypnosis is often combined with cognitive behavioural

therapy.

PRAYER

Anything goes with prayer. Or, it should be the other

way around. You can start off anything with prayer.

Whether you need to lose half a kilo or 10 kilos (or

more), you still need two essentials: Will power and a

sense of commitment.

Those things can readily be developed in conjunction

with prayer. Weight sneaks on gradually, and losing

that weight can be just as gradual. So don’t give up

if you don’t see results right away. Just keep praying

and pushing forward.

The tragedy: There is no magic bullet for solving weight loss problems.

The truth: You have to get down to the basics. That is eating right and

exercising.

But, wait, there are some more ways: The mind-body aspects.

59Black & White

60 January 7-20, 2011

Psy

che

Women have more

terrifying nightmaresVARIOUS STUDIES HAVE FOUND out that women

experience far more terrifying nightmares than men.

Their dreams are also more intense and leave more

of an impression when they wake up, scientists say.

Psychologists say changes in a woman’s body

temperature - caused by her monthly cycle - are

responsible for increasing the number of vivid and

disturbing dreams.

“Sweat-soaked sheets. A racing pulse. An

overpowering sense of dread.

For anyone who has ever had a true nightmare,

waking up in the dark with these symptoms is a

familiar experience,” a report notes.

Experts who have done research on the subject note

that women reported significantly more nightmares

than men. A previous study noted 30 percent of

women reported having a nightmare while only 19

percent of males reported it.

The study also found that women’s dreams were

more emotional and helped the brain ‘rehearse’

distressing and disturbing events that one is likely to

encounter in the future.

One of the things that people do is put all these

dreams under the umbrella term nightmares. There

are different types of nightmares and women report

more of them.

Some studies have identified at least three distinct

types of nightmare, all of which may allow the brain

to rehearse its reaction to a distressing or dangerous

situation.

One involves being chased or hunted. Another

involves the loss of a parent, child or partner. The

third involves weird and new environments.

The second is the existential nightmare, in which

the dreamer loses something or someone they

love. “Existential nightmares appear to be far more

disturbing for women,” experts noted. “They are much

more upsetting to women than the fearful nightmare,

and many women wake crying from them,” they

added.

These dreams in particular, were more commonly

reported among women.

Past studies have linked changes in body

temperature with dreams.

A woman’s temperature usually rises after ovulation

- half way through the monthly cycle --and falls again

just before a period starts. Experts also noted that

there was evidence linking dreams to temperature

changes in the menstrual cycle. Women who are

premenstrual tend to dream more aggressively, and

they are also more likely to remember the dreams.

Some dream experts argue that women don’t have

more nightmares but are simply better at remembering

and talking about them.

However, the study asked volunteers to record all

their dreams upon waking and it did look like women

are experiencing more nightmares and there were

significant differences in the way men and women

dreamed.

Other reports also noted that women always

remembered dreams more than men.

Dreaming is part of the normal sleep pattern and

happens every night, even for those who insist they

don’t dream.

Sleepers are most likely to remember nightmares

and bad dreams if they wake up during them.

New research once again demonstrates how women

tend to have better recall when it comes to dreams,

including disturbing ones. Other studies have shed

light on how women might “process” emotional

occurrences in their day-to-day lives. It seems to be

related to women being a little more inwardly oriented,

paying more attention to their feelings, and being

more self-critical said, adding that women would also

be more likely to carry [these feelings] into bed and

subsequently dream about them.

61Black & White 616161161611BlaBlaaaaaBlBl cccccckkkkkk kckkckc &&&&&&&&&&&& WWWhWhWhhhiteiteiteitet

He swore at me!

“*#@&%, just because you have a

bigger car, you want to overtake?”

I was too tired to even look at him.

The road was over crowded and the

traffic was not moving.

Three cars lined up behind me and

I was forced to move in front, so

as to not block the other way. But,

what the heck, the man on his side,

accompanied with his wife was too

angry with me and at the world!

I was exhausted, but since it was a

New Year day, I was determined to

pep up my energy level and was on

my way to the temple, when I got

sworn at by strangers!

Not a bad way to start the year, my

mind said.

The man at my side, very determined

not to give me way, was still bad

mouthing me.

I held on… maybe he has had a bad

day, caught in hopelessness.

But, the car behind me started

honking…

I decided not to respond. After a

good 10 minutes, I moved a little in

front and there the ‘angry not-so-

young man’ swore again.

This time, I told him to shut up, by

hand signals.

He wouldn’t.

That was it.

I parked the car on the side, walked

up to the man and swore back at

him, told him that with his attitude, he

will have a lousy year ahead, he will

never buy a big car and many other

things normally I would not have said.

At least not on my way to a place of

worship!

One silly man, a stranger, who had

no meaning in my life, could bring the

worst out of me, on an occasion the

whole world was rejoicing about!

I was mad till I reached home and am

still mad after a week.

So much for resolutions and new

years and new opportunities!

Why can’t people be nice to each

other for no reason?

Why should some people be always

grumpy and mad at the world?

Why let ourselves be trapped in a

cheerless world?

I don’t know.

They say some people bring out the

best in you?

I’d rather not believe that; I believe if I

can’t bring out the best in me, no one

else can!

But, there are a few that could bring

the worst out of you.

And I can vouch for that.

I am a born believer of the innate

goodness of human beings; I

inherited it from my parents.

My dad, an incurable optimist, rubbed

on his belief on humans on me.

Yet, the years have taught me that

humans have no innate moral sense

at all, they have only self interest

and people behave well towards one

another only because it serves their

own personally perceived desires.

And the only golden rule you come

across so openly today is: I won’t

disturb your self-interest, if you don’t

disturb mine!

And yet, I still believe in the innate

goodness of human beings, even

when I see myself losing it!

Maybe, just maybe, the way of

learning is none other than finding

the lost mind!

By Priya Arunkumar

priya@blackandwhiteoman.com

Hooked

Trapped in a cheerless world?

Tel.2478 0036, www.damasjewellery.com