1May 26, 2016

page 6

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The right move

ThursdayMay 26, 2016

A talent in the air

Ramadhan with a sweet touch

magazine

06 Beyond the realm of beauty

28 Florence: in the home to architecture

38 The return of Mendoza

12 36 Take care of your teeth and gums!

18

24

A talent in the air

Of Syrians caught in the horror

40 Bridging the divide

06

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28 Fl i th h t

Oman

Community

Trends

Leisure

06

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28Of a different kind

Samuel KuttyEditor

magazine

ThursdayMay 26, 2016

Vol. 03, No. 28Content ConsultantYeru Ebuen

Editor-in-ChiefAbdullah bin Salim al Shueili

AdvertisingMs Ameena MaksoudTel: +968 24649486 GSM: +968 92474488Fax: +968 24649469 Email: nonnamaksoud@yahoo.comEditor

Samuel KuttyReporterLiju Cherian

Creative DesignShaji Varghese

Oman has an exceptionally diverse marine life and a number of marine cliffs, small islands, bays, caves, as well as coral

components for bringing revenue to the country. The sector is now undergoing a revival thanks to an upsurge in marine transport services that has taken tourism to a new level. Growing numbers of government and private sector organisations have adopted the idea of ‘sailing with family and friends’ aboard ferries and crafts customised for leisure purposes. This week we bring to you some of the attractions

cruises and island trips.Mohammed al-Sheikh is only 12 and he dreams of a

his almost unbelievable body contortions. He can bend his body in seemingly impossible ways, throwing his feet over his shoulders with reckless abandon or jumping into a spider-like pose. His antics earned this young Palestinian from the Gaza

with pride. The Weekend has this young Palestinian boy in

Over the last few years, the chess scene in Oman witnessed stepped up efforts at bringing more professionalism and meaningful appreciation into the game. Omanis now take the game more seriously, and are eager to participate in world competitions to enhance their skills. This makes the topic for the special report.Florence is home to the most magical art and commendable architecture as we already know. This makes

the city look like a movie set, naturally. Even an art lover may not be able to absorb so much in one go. The Duomo, Doors of Paradise and Michelangelo's David are a couple of highlights that the majestic city is known for. Read the travel log along with all other topics of your interest in the Weekend. With warm regards

1May 26, 2016

page 6

page 18

page 36

The right

move

Thursday

May 26, 2016

A talent in

the air

Ramadhan

with a sweet

touch

magazine

Enjoy our articles atomanobserver.om/weekend

Chess, the ancient strategy game, continues to enthrall all of us, and here in Sultanate the game is highly popular. In fact, chess—known as Shatranj in Oman — is an integral aspect of cultural life

especially in places like Salalah, enjoying the patronage of people young and old,

men and women, and across all strata of society.

6 May 26, 2016

The right move

Weekend Special

7May 26, 2016

Weekend Special

Sarnga Dharan Nambiar

Yes, every move has a purpose: To outwit, if not to make the other look like a chump. But what exactly inspires people to stay put for hours on end, gazing intently at, and occasionally prodding,

an eight by eight grid? Anyways, any mild suggestion

crafted hypocrisy always invites strong resentment. Also, can we deny the fact that when world champion Kasparov lost to the IBM supercomputer Deep Blue, it sent out ominous messages to the entire humanity? It was a moment when realization

dawned on us that we need to better our chess skills for humanity’s sake.Chess, the ancient strategy game, continues to

enthrall all of us, and here in Oman the game is highly popular. In fact, chess—known as Shatranj in Oman--is an integral aspect of cultural life especially in places like Salalah, enjoying the patronage of people young and old, men and women, and across all strata of society.Over the last few years, the chess scene in Oman

witnessed stepped up efforts at bringing more professionalism and meaningful appreciation into the game. Undoubtedly, on an individual basis, all the credit for enhancing the game’s stature in the Sultanate goes primarily to two resourceful persons:

Weekend Special

8 May 26, 2016

Amir Al Raisi, an Omani national; and Ismail Kareem Khan, a French national with Moroccan roots. And, on an organizational basis, the key contributors are the International Chess Academy of Oman (a private coaching centre); and the Oman Chess Committee, which functions under the Ministry of Sports Affairs.Amir and Ismail, as the cofounders of the Chess

Academy, have been doing yeoman services towards not just developing the chess skills of youngsters in Oman, but promoting the game as well. Thousands have been trained at the academy, and currently more than 50 students of diverse nationalities are mastering the nuances of the game at the academy’s two centres in Al Khuwair and Muttrah. The Classes are handled by Ismail, who is an International Chess Master and FIDE trainer; and

Ameer, who is a national chess instructor.Ismail speaks four languages, and the academy

offers lessons in English, Arabic, French and Spanish.“In today’s world, just knowing the rules of the

game is not enough; even if you know the basics of playing chess, and assuming that you are quite smart at it, still if you want to participate in international tournaments you need to know the professional way of playing chess. This is what we are doing here at the academy,” Ismail said.

organisations for chess enthusiasts to play and practise the game. “It was the International Chess Academy of Oman (ICAO) that made it possible, and

Weekend Special

9May 26, 2016

10 May 26, 2016

we successfully injected high professionalism into the game in Oman. We were also one of the major inspirational forces behind the establishment of the

He feels that what Oman needs is a lot more of tournaments at the local level so as to engage and motivate chess enthusiasts. Ismail, along with International Master Mohamed Tissir from Morocco, is also the brain behind the Bahrain Chess Academy in Bahrain. Ismail brings to Oman high end skills he learnt over a period of eight years at one of the best chess clubs in France: Clichy.On the other hand, Ameer Al Raisi has been

actively involved in organising several local tournaments and also teaching chess to the young generation of Oman since the 1990s.The academy hosted the likes of Kasparov (in

2014), and Anand (in May this year). “These ultimate chess masters were invited to the Sultanate, because we felt it would really boost the new generation’s enthusiasm for the game here. Children can interact with such great players and form a strong perspective about the game,” Ismail said.

The academy has introduced the basics of playing professional chess-- like strategic moves, writing the moves and using clocks—to over 700 students of French and Indian schools over the last couple of years.His students bagged several awards including

a bronze at the National Interschool Chess Championship held in India last year, and a third place at the International Chess Open at Abu Dhabi last year. “Certainly there are great talents here,” he noted.“Knowing how to play chess is important in that

the strategic principles of chess are applicable to any business or life situations. Chess teaches you effective planning, and the virtues of patience,

IQ, and prevents onset of Alzheimer’s. Enhanced memory and creativity and concentration also count

ICAO has plans to expand to other parts of the

We are working towards introducing professional

Weekend Special

11 May 26, 2016

11May 26, 2016

Weekend Special

chess to all students across schools in Muscat,” he said.He says Omani women are highly talented in chess,

and to promote chess among them, ICAO is offering free coaching to Omani women at the ICAO’s centre at Oman Club.

Academy, and is equipped with all the necessary infrastructure including a vast updated library, videos, special software, digital chess clocks. There is also a giant chess board to attract small children.“There is a paradigm shift in the approach to the

game of chess in Oman. Omanis now take the game more seriously, and are eager to participate in world competitions to enhance their skills. There is a clear shift of focus away from amateurism to professionalism,” Ismail said.In training, ICAO adopts a balanced approach. First

a love for the game is generated, by showing how

great grandmasters make fabulous moves. Then all the technical and strategic aspects are taught including tactics, patterns, positional understanding,

games of Grand Masters, modern chess preparation methods and end games. But apart from teaching the game, the association also focuses on enhancing the social skills of players like the ability to mingle with others, appreciate diverse cultures and manage stress.“Keeping your cool is important in playing chess.

As grandmaster Svetozar Gligoric noted, one must learn to play against pieces; not against opponents,” he said.Ismael, who previously served as Oman national

team coach, says the academy has diverse plans towards attracting more people to this brainy game, including hosting great chess players every year.“After all, chess is a nice game, isn’t it?” he asks.

11May 26, 2016

of a different kind

Digital Space

12 May 26, 2016

II ssppeenndd aa lloott ooff ttiime learning. Learniiinnngggga skill iis thhee crrucial part ffoorr anyy fieelldd iiff yyoouu wwaannnttt tttoooo sssseeeeee ppprrrrooogggrreessss. I rreeaadd ffoorrums anndddd wwwaaatttcchh ttutorialss anndd online classes,

anytthhing anndd eevverythiinngg that can iimmprrove mmmyyy kkknnnoowwleddggee.

13May 26, 2016

14 May 26, 2016MMaMaMMaayyy 2626262626, 20202011616

Digital Space

15May 26, 2016

"One of the dialogues from a movie called "The Guardian" has always stuck with me. The story revolves around a US coast guard who has saved countless lives.

But when his trainee asked him if he kept count of the number of people he saved, he replied, 'I only keep count of the lives I couldn't save'," Anfal Shamsudeen replied to my question of what motto he lived by.He explained, "It's a motto to live by in my opinion

because we lose more opportunities than we grab. Every 'normal' day is an opportunity lost to do something great."He added, "So we have to get out there and do

whatever you can to make the world a better place."And getting out is what this Digital Space

contributor has been doing.There is something familiar about Anfal's

Instagram account @anfalshamsphotography, they reminded me of things I've seen before. I tried thinking where and when I've seen them

exactly but it was only much later when I realized that they were scenes I see every day. I've gotten so used to them that they've become ordinary. But when Anfal captures them in photos, they become

something else. They were scenes I know very well, but for some reason, they were of a different kind.An engineer by profession, Anfal completed

his Bachelors of Engineering in Electronics and Communications from Waljat College of Applied Sciences in Rusayl a few years back. He was born in India but sees Oman as his home."Photography has been a passion for me for a long

time," he said. "I started taking pictures in my dad's phone way

back in 2005. The phone eventually became mine and from then on, my passion grew," he said.He added, "I am a big fan of nature. And that's

what I click the most — landscapes. Ever since I

motivated to take photos. For the most part, I am

spent learning the gear, progressing eventually to

different from others.""Which is why I love it. It's a challenge for me

lot of it is instinct, and a lot of it is hard work. I think photography is something which needs no language, and it is a great feeling to see my pictures get positive responses from the viewers. The social

Yeru Ebuen

Digital Space

16 May 26, 2016M 26 2016

Digital Space

PHOTOGRAPHER'S PICK:One of my most memorable days in photography was a few weeks ago, two of my friends and I found a new spot overlooking Muttrah Cocrniche. It was challenging to get this picture but hardwork always pays off.

Want to be featured? Follow and tag us on Instagram. Simply look for our handle:

@OmanObserver or you can also use #OmanObserver or #BeAnObserver when you post your photos.

networks available such as Instagram have been a great support to reach people from all around the world, something that was not possible a decade ago," he said.He added, "What changed in the past decade is the accessibility of

the craft to the general public. Now, the public can shoot and share their pictures with the help of camera phones and social networks."As to how he learned photography, he shared, "My generation has

been lucky to see the technological boom of the past decade, from

VGA cameras to pretty spectacular cameras crammed into small devices we carry daily. The internet is what I have to thank for my knowledge in photography. It's a vast ocean of knowledge. Famous photographers have online channels giving tips and classes every week. It's an extraordinary community. I spend a lot of time learning.

progress. I read forums and watch tutorials and online classes, anything and everything that can improve my knowledge."Anfal shared he is yet to have his own photo exhibit. For now, what

he was thankful about is getting an opportunity to showcase some of his works on Instagram and at times, the pages of Oman Observer.

A lot of it is instinct, and a lot of it is hard work. I think photography is something which needs no language, and it is a great feeling to see my pictures get positive responses from the viewers.

Name:

Anfal Shamsudeen

Location:

Muscat

Profession:

Engineer

Instagram:

@anfalshamsphotography

May 26, 2016 17

networks available such as Instagram have been a gre tttat suppuppopoopo trtrtrt to reach people from all around the world, something that was not possible a decade ago " he said

18

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a talent in

18 May 26, 2016

Achievement

the air

Mohammed found fame just after a devastating war in Gaza with Israel that left over 2,000 Palestinians dead in 2014. Despite the 50-day conflict interrupting his training,

he appeared on the TV show "Arabs Got Talent" in Lebanon, where his body-bending

act won 14 million votes.

19May 26, 2016

Achievement

Achievement

20 May 26, 2016

Mohammed al-Sheikh is only 12 and feels trapped in Gaza but he dreams of a Guinness world record for a series of

almost unbelievable body contortions.Mohammed, just 1.37 metres (four foot,

six inches) tall and weighing 29 kilograms, can bend his body in seemingly impossible ways, throwing his feet over his shoulders with reckless abandon or jumping into a spider-like pose.His antics earned this young Palestinian

from the Gaza Strip the nickname of

pride.Mohammed found fame just after a

devastating war in Gaza with Israel that left over 2,000 Palestinians dead in 2014.

his training, he appeared on the TV show "Arabs Got Talent" in Lebanon, where his body-bending act won 14 million votes.Though he didn't win, he now hopes to

writhe his way into the Guinness Book of Records from his home in the Tel al-Hawa area of southern Gaza City. Mohammed can perform four acrobatic

moves better than anyone else on earth, his coach Mohammed Lubbad, 26, insists.In an email seen, Guinness accepted his

bid for a record entitled: "Most full body revolutions maintaining a chest stand in one minute."In the video submitted as evidence,

pressed into the ground. His legs then spin around at 360 degrees

— his feet touching the ground at every angle in a feat of amazing dexterity.He achieves it 33 times in a minute, four

more than the current record of 29, raising hopes he will be crowned in the coming weeks.For his mother Hanan, he is already a

"world champion," but now he must "show his extraordinary gift and exceptional strength in world competitions".At these words, Mohammed, perched on

the coffee table, drags his back legs over his shoulders, picks up a glass with his toes and drinks from it.But for Mohammed, even more than

records he dreams of wriggling out of Gaza.The hardest thing, he says, is not

contorting his body into unbelievable shapes — though Israel's 10-year blockade of the strip means he can only learn via YouTube videos.The hardest challenge for a boy who

wants to travel the globe is to "get out of Gaza when all the borders are locked"."Many Arabs and people across the

world support me by clicking 'Like' on my videos on Facebook, and it makes me sad not being able to meet and interact with the world because of the blockade," Mohammed said.His coach tried to channel the talents of

young Gazans by opening a training centre for unusual sports including parkour, the urban acrobatics in vogue in Gaza. But after a year, he ran out of money and

had to close — to the devastation of the young boys and girls who practised there.

Achievement

21May 26, 2016

22 May 26, 2016

Achievement

The hardest thing, he says, is not

contorting his body into unbelievable shapes — though Israel's 10-year blockade of the

strip means he can only learn via YouTube videos.

The hardest challenge for a boy who wants to travel the globe

is to "get out of Gaza when all the borders are

locked".

23May 26, 2016

"By leaving Mohammed in Gaza we bury a unique talent," said Lubbad.

was offered a training contract abroad including support for 10 years, with coaching to help him qualify for Arab and international competitions. But his family refused, saying

Mohammed was too young to live abroad without them.Today, even if he impresses his classmates,

his mother, 48, insists it should not undermine the education of the youngest of her eight children. So he is left with escapism — braving danger

carrying out stunts on the back of a camel or a horse galloping on a Gaza beach, to the amazement

There, he said, he feels "free"."I'm in the air and there is no blockade."

Achievement

Entrepreneurs

Tourism

24 May 26, 2016

Tourism

Lakshmi Kothaneth

A folklore group from Quriyat had found a nice corner at Marina Bandar Rowdha. The bagpiper played the tunes and the lead singers and dancers followed the clue. The song and dance

suited the setting of the sea.This was a celebration of a group of

Marine Tourism companies based in the Marina. They are SMEs with successful stories. The owners of the companies

situated around the Marina. They wanted to celebrate by expressing their gratitude toward His Majesty, Riyada and the Raffd Fund. Marine tourism in Oman has become

an important platform for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with more opportunities yet to be tapped. The Open Day organized by Marine tourism companies that operate from Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, held under the

Secretary for Fisheries at the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Deputy Chairman of Al Rafd Fund, at Marina Bander Al Rowdha saw the launch of the wooden

Dhow named Asma. There are about 10 companies based at the marina. “We have seen from traditional wooden

dhows to modern vessels with new facilities and safety issues highlighted. What we can see that is the growth potential is very high. The infrastructure with which the government is trying to support, I think is the way forward. We, from the Rafd Fund and Riyada, are giving full support because this sector is run by Omanis. They know the Muscat Governorate by heart. They provide impressive trips and that is why it is beginning of summer, but their boats are full with tourists from Oman and abroad,”

but found a new role as entrepreneurs using their skill with the knowledge of the sea. Dolphins seemed cheerful and delighted

as they bounced and took small leaps in the air. Just as we begin to enjoy talking their photographs they disappear only to surprise us from another side. “The dolphins you are watching now are called spinner dolphins. They are here all the year around. You can watch them from 8 am till 12 noon. You can also rest assure

25May 26, 2016

Tourism

26 May 26, 2016

there is a lot of tuna around if

said

By the time we reach Bander Khairan, there are more youth employed in the sector to receive us and lead us through safety rules and water sports. The resting area is made out of natural materials and there are refreshments.“We want to encourage more Omanis to take

up the opportunities in this sector which will also

of Agriculture and Fisheries is building new

for marine tourism. “We are seeing interest from SMEs in marine tourism in Salalah, Al Sharqiyah and Musandam,” said Khalifa said al Abri, Chief

Fahad al Farsi has been in the business for the past 10 years and has never looked back and the experience has been similar for others too. Ahmed al Lamki’s business activities are water sports and event managed at Bandar al Khiran. “I have even students who come up on weekends wanting to work. Two of our captains came into

Tourism

27May 26, 2016

and they grew with experience and training.”

experts on locations for dolphin watching, water

of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos has taken up the venture pointed out Khalid al Haraib, Deputy CEO, Riyada. They have infrastructure backing of Marina Bandar Rowdha to realise their objective of being part of the marine tourism industry. This is a sustainable way of passing on the tradition of depending on the sea for their livelihood to the

and Al Raffd fund is that of supporting sustainable professions,” Khalid al Haraib, Deputy CEO, Riyada.Recently the Marina and the Marine Tourism

companies reached a sustainable agreement on how the companies formed by the locals should be operated. “A proposal was submitted to His Majesty and received his blessings as these professions are very important to move forward in a sustainable way because His Majesty has a long vision not just for tourism but involving locals in tourism. Development is nothing until the locals are involved in it. “Some of these companies have been working

for a few years now, but with Marina Bandar al Rowdha coming into the picture we are going to see a transition in an important way. The livelihood of the families are going to be enhanced as well. They are all from the villages around this place,” said Al Haraib. It is the knowledge of the sea that is gaining these entrepreneurs an upper hand.

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Travel

The fabulous city is home to the most magical art and commendable architecture as we

already know. This makes Florence look like a movie set, naturally. Even an art lover may not be able to absorb so much in one go. The Duomo, Doors of Paradise and Michelangelo's

David are a couple of highlights that the majestic city is known for.

May 26, 2016

home to architectureFlorence:

Travel

29May 26, 2016 29

Florence is an art historian’s dream. The Galleria dell'Accademia bursts with works by Michelangelo, who is entombed within the frescoed walls of the Basilica di Santa Croce. Budding photographers can snap pics of the Ponte Vecchio bridge, and

serious shoppers can spend a blissful afternoon wandering the shops of Piazza Santo Spirito. Tuscan cuisine pays homage to the region’s bounty. Swipe a hunk of crusty bread across a pool of local olive oil and you’ll be instantly transported to your happiest place.

The fabulous city is home to the most magical art and commendable architecture as we already know. This makes Florence look like a movie set, naturally. Even an art lover may not be able to absorb so much in one go. The Duomo, Doors of Paradise and Michelangelo's David are a couple of highlights that the majestic city is known for.

Florence is filled with many other churches stuffed with some of the finest art in the world: San Miniato al Monte, San Lorenzo, Santa Maria Novella, Santa Trinita, the Brancacci Chapel at Santa Maria della Carmine, Santa Croce, Santo Spirito, SS Annunziata, Ognissanti, and more.

Then there are the art galleries. The Uffizi and the Pitti Palace are two of the most famous picture galleries in the world. But the heart and soul of Florence are in the two superb collections of sculpture, the Bargello and the Museum of the Works of the Duomo. They are filled with the brilliant, revolutionary creations of Donatello, Verrochio, Desiderio da Settignano, Michelangelo, and so many other masterpieces that create a body of work unique in the world. And, of course, there is the Accademia, with Michelangelo's David, perhaps the most well-known work of art anywhere, plus the superb, unfinished prisoners and slaves Michelangelo worked on for the tomb of Pope Julius II.

In all, Florence has something over 80 museums. Among those at the top of most lists are the City hall, the Palazzo della Signoria (aka Palazzo Vecchio), a wonderful building with magnificent rooms and some great art; the Archeological Museum, the Museum of the History of Science, the Palazzo Davanzatti, the Stibbert Museum, St. Marks, the Medici Chapels, the Museum of the Works of Santa Croce, the Museum of the Cloister of Santa Maria Novella, the Zoological Museum ("La Specola"), the Bardini, and the Museo Horne. There is also a wonderful collection of works by the modern sculptor, Marino Marini, in a museum named after him. If you are interested in photography, you should not miss the superb collection of works

Travel

30 May 26, 2016

Travel

Palazzo Pitti

Mercato Nuovo

The Palazzo Pitti is a large 15th century palace

situated on the quieter south bank of the Arno

river The palace was long the residence of

Florence’s rulers until 1919, when it was handed

over to the Italian state, which transformed the

palace into a museum complex. In spite of its

metamorphosis from royal residence to a state-

owned public building, the palazzo, sitting on its

elevated site overlooking Florence, still retains

the air and atmosphere of a private collection in

a grand house.

The Mercato Nuovo (new market) is a covered

market located in the historic center of Florence.

It is so called to distinguish it from the Mercato

Vecchio (old market) located in the area of

today’s Piazza della Repubblica. Initially, it was

intended for the sale of silk and luxury goods

and then for the famous straw hats, but today

mainly leather goods and souvenirs are sold. Its

biggest attraction is the Fontana del Porcellino

(Piglet Fountain).

31May 26, 2016

May 26, 201632

Travel

by the early photographers, the Alinari brothers. The magnificent Strozzi Palace is the site of many special exhibits.

To get a great overview of the city, you have plenty of choices: climb the dome of the Cathedral or Giotto's Bell Tower which is much easier or head for Piazzale Michelangelo a large parking lot on the hillside just south of the center of town, or climb a bit further to the church of San Miniato al Monte, a sublime 11th century masterpiece, with superb Renaissance sculptures. At vespers, the monks add to the beauty with chants.

There are also a few places to buy things, from the high-end jewelry stores lining the Ponte Vecchio to some of the most famous shops in the world; Gucci, Pucci, Ferragamo, Valentino, Prada, Armani, Ermenegildo Zegna, Buccellati, Frette, as well as many more wonderful shops that aren't yet world famous. It is increasingly difficult to find bargains, but keen-eyed shoppers can still find good deals on smaller, side streets running off of those above and elsewhere in the center of town. The San Lorenzo market is now largely for tourists. There are also a couple of collections of "outlets" in the suburbs.

Great places to walk include along the Arno and across any of its bridges; through narrow, medieval back streets in the Santa Croce area; and in the Oltr'Arno - on the south side of the river, in many ways like Rome's Trastevere or Paris's Left Bank - but far, far smaller. There are also superb shopping streets, such as the Via Tornabuoni, the Via del Parione, and the Via Maggio.

But that's just the surface, if you dig deeper, you find the Baptistery, the spectacular old bridge, the historic center, Boboli gardens, Pitti Palace and more. The city of course has too much to explore. Any amount of visits here will not satisfy your curiosity of the hidden beauty of Florence.

Whether a local or a tourist, if you are in Italy, you definitely can't resist shopping. While different regions of the country sell different stuff, the city of Florence is known for leather. The historic center has a chain of outdoor shops while otherwise the city also has plenty of elite indoor shops. With a glance at the variety of leather goods, you're sure to return with a leather makeover for your wardrobe. Bags, belts, shoes, you name it. Besides, a leather souvenir sounds classy, doesn't it?

Florence is an ideal city when it comes to a holiday destination. The city has so much that it guarantees entertainment. Florence tourism has been on an all time high and the city has earned that very factor. A visit to this magnetic city will sure keep you engrossed with the mesmerizing beauty and won't disappoint you with even a single moment of boredom.

Travel

Basilica di San Lorenzo

Boboli Gardens

Situated at the center of the city’s main market

district, the Basilica di San Lorenzo is one of

the oldest churches of Florence and was the

burial place of all the principal members of the

Medici family. The church, originally designed

by Filippo Brunelleschi in the 15th century, is

an early example of ecclesiastical Renaissance

architecture. The façade of this church was never

completed, giving it a striking, rustic appearance.

Inside the church is pure Renaissance neo-

classical splendor.

The Boboli Gardens were created by the

Medici family in the 16th century. The beautiful

and varied Italianesque garden is home to a

large number of statues and fountains. The

gardens have passed through several stages of

enlargement and restructuring work. They were

enlarged in the 17th century to their present

extent and have come to form an outdoor

museum of garden sculpture that includes

Roman antiquities as well as later works.

33May 26, 2016

Take care

of your

gums!

Periodontal disease has long been known as the leading cause of tooth loss in

the mouth. Gum disease has also been associated with an increased risk of serious degenerative diseases.

Like our intestines, our mouths house complex ecosystems of bacteria, known as the oral microbiome. And as in the gut, different types of bacteria compete for space. When all the species are in balance, the gums are protected from disease-causing bacteria. Disturbing this balance provides an opening for pathogens to invade,

causing periodontal disease, which further disrupts the bacterial balance.Pathogenic bacteria initiate periodontal disease;

however, they aren’t the only—or even the major—culprits. “Yesterday we used to think that bacteria destroyed tissue; today scientists understand that it’s

tissue,” says Dr. Thomas Van Dyke, chair of the

Forsyth Institute.That is, the disease-causing bacteria trigger a

response from the body’s immune system, and the white blood cells summoned to eradicate them

May 26, 201634

Health

produce substances that not only destroy bacteria but also damage gum tissue.The effects of periodontal disease range from

mild redness and swelling of the gums (gingivitis) to complete destruction of the tooth’s bony support structure (advanced periodontitis), which is responsible for tooth loss.Over the years, people with periodontal (periodontitis)

disease have been found to be at higher risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, pregnancy complications, and dementia. We don’t yet know if periodontal disease actually causes other health problems, or if people with chronic health

and gums. “It’s an association, not a cause-and-effect

plays a role in all these conditions, seems to be the link.”Moreover, the association probably works both ways.

For example, diabetes research has determined that successfully treating periodontitis reduces the severity of diabetes and vice versa.Preventing periodontal diseaseThe following, which either help to prevent bacterial

to reduce your risk of gum disease.

35May 26, 2016

Health

Ramadhan with a sweet

touch

May 26, 2016

A host of exclusive offers to commemorate the Holy Month of Ramadhan, including a tantalizing Iftar buffet with a signature show-cooking chocolate station, a special room package to enjoy throughout the season,

and a Garangao celebration to remember for children

This Ramadhan, Al Bustan Palace gives a sweet twist to one of the most renowned Iftar buffet in town, with a delectable chocolate-themed station showcased during

Joergen Sodemann and his culinary teams have partnered

the passion and talent of two creative minds, Salma and Aisha,

This season, the talented ladies have imagined three delectable chocolate creations

will also offer RamadHan juices and smoothies revisited by Salma’s chocolates, as well

The culinary teams at Al Bustan Palace have created a mouthwatering selection of

Arabic Mezze corner will delight all palates, alongside some refreshing, colorful displays

Adults and children alike will succumb to the sweet temptation of the traditional Arabic

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Dining Out

37May 26, 2016

Sohour will be served in the spectacular Ramadhan

Tent in the gardens of Al Bustan Palace, with a-la-carte suggestions and selections of shisha to extend the night to the

will launch the Ramadhan celebrations on June 2 as they take part in a culinary challenge and

The students, currently in their second year of practice in the kitchens of Al Bustan Palace

Sodemann,, will team up to create their version

be added to the Iftar buffet each night during Ramadhan to delight guests and visitors at Al

will be invited to attend a memorable Garangao evening, traditionally organized on the 14th day

of Ramadhan in celebration of their

efforts in fasting throughout the holy

will host an entertaining night for children, including games, a

Additionally, The Ritz Kids team will be at hand throughout the summer to entertain the little ones, with activities such as henna painting, arts & craft and watersports, offered to children of

families at Al Khiran Terrace on the second day of

buffet of Arabic and International specialties in a

Bustan Palace, a summer package is available with an exclusive “Stay 3, Pay 2” offer, including three overnights in a luxurious room or suite,

Dining Out

The return of

Mendoza

"Ma' Rosa," which premiered last week at the Cannes Film Festival, tells the story of Rosa Reyes (Jaclyn Jose), a

woman who owns a convenience store in a poor neighborhood of Philippines' capital Manila, making ends meet with

her husband Nestor (Julio Diaz) by selling drugs.

Film

3838 May 26, 2016

39May 26, 2016

Mendoza spotlights Manila family's poverty in

Against the glamorous backdrop of the

a woman who owns a convenience store in a poor

neighborhood of Philippines' capital Manila, making ends

Both are detained at a police station after their home

"This situation is really happening back in the Philippines

and it's quite alarming because it comes to a way of life,"

"The small-time drug selling and all that is happening and

Mendoza believes the story has wider appeal as the

of bigger corruption that is happening all over the world

Ma’ Rosa hits a few bum notes, but Mendoza is relentless

amounts of drugs to supplement the income from her

immediately asks her for a bribe to make the charges go

A large part of Ma’ Rosa is taken up with members

of the clan scurrying about the city in search of

sequence that seems to be seeking humour from an

unsuitable circumstance, another boy sells his body to a

Film

May 26, 201640

Interview

May 26, 2016 41

Song of Lahore," the latest feature-length documentary from

filmmakers Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoyand Andy Schocken, follows the members of Pakistan’s Sachal Jazz Ensemble, a group of master musicians who find international

recognition after decades of opposition from dictators and

religious extremists

Arun Kumar

Smusicians' lives in a unique experiment blending classical music with Jazz to save the cultural

linked to humanity," says two-time Academy Award

what role she saw herself playing in this process as

we talk about the history, Mughals, and all the rich

grandfather's stories of a time in Pakistan which

"The musicians all played on the street and in orchestras," she said speaking of how restrictions on broadcasting non-religious music and dancing imposed by Gen Zia-ul-Haq after his coup in 1977

Bridging the divide

Interview

If you are a trekker — amateur or veteran — and want to take a hike in the countryside while holidaying in Shimla, known for the grand architecture of the Raj,

here's all the lowdown: Tracking the hikes dotted around the

periphery of this Himachal Pradesh capital, situated at an altitude of 2,130 metres, writer-cum-historian Raaja Bhasin traces the various paths, including the Mashobra spur and the overnight trail to the Shali 'tibba', which can test one's level of fitness.

And, of course, more than a reasonable level of interest in the hills too.

The 118-page book covers walks on the Tara Devi hill, the water catchment sanctuary — which is coated with Himalayan cedars — to Mashobra and further the Churat Stream, the trail to the Shali tibba as well as a three-day walk along the Unesco-listed Shimla-Kalka rail line.

Well-researched and interspersed with eye-pleasing photographs of sites along the way, as well as helpful tips, the writer, who was brought up in Shimla, says the villages located on the outskirts of Shimla still hold on to a pastoral way of life.

Fortunately, much of the old architecture of wood and stone with slate roofs still remains and has not completely given way to concrete blocks.

"Hikes and treks remain the best way of seeing, experiencing and sharing this place. And, yes, as far as I know, walking hasn't killed anyone," Bhasin says.

Tracing the history of the 'catchment area' trail, he says that in the 1870s, the thick woods of what came to be known as the 'catchment area' were leased from the ruler of Koti for Rs 2,250 a year.

Work to tap the springs and streams in these woods began and iron pipes were placed

below them. By 1883, the masonry work was also complete and large water tanks and reservoirs were ready. The same year, a steam engine had been commissioned at Churat. By the early 1890s, the little villages within this area had been relocated and detailed working plans (which were modified over the years) had been drawn up.

It stands testimony to the quality of workmanship and engineering that the systems are functioning well after all this time.

Wildflowers, ferns and a host of assorted herbs line the trails.

The writer has described in detail the flora in and around Shimla.

The whitish dry fungi-looking organism with twisted intricate designs on rocks and on branches, especially the fallen ones, are the lichens. This is a composite organism that has a relationship of mutual survival between a fungus and partner for photosynthesis.

The lichens can survive in minimal moisture and are an excellent index of air quality as they are highly sensitive to pollutants.

Locally called 'shila-pushp' or rock-flower in Sanskrit, these are used in Ayurvedic medicines,

as food additives and in traditional Indian perfumes.

The variety of ferns in and around Shimla is also enormous, says the book, and there are some two dozen general and around 124 species - and many grow along the walk trails.

A type of bracken, brake-fern is used as a popular local dish.

Called lingru or lungru, this is plucked before the fronds open and may be sauteed or cooked in yogurt. The plant is also pickled.

This is the author's 12th book, including "Explore Himachal on the Road" which got the national tourism award as the best tourism publication for 2014-15.

Vishal Gulati

Raaja Bhasin

Book: Easy Trails Around Shimla; Author: Raaja BhasinPublisher: Rupa & Co; Pages: 118

Book Review

May 26, 201642

43May 26, 2016

Some domestic planning will be necessary in the coming year as you may have neglected certain comforts for the home which will be needed soon. The new arrangement will mean a happier

home life for all the family. In business a journey may have to be postponed since certain contacts may be uncertain. Your lucky number for the day: 6Your lucky encounter for the week: Your lucky colour for the month: Blue

September 21-October 23 — If you do y our job in the way that you have been taught and take the proper time to do it, you can only expect success. Short cuts don't always work.

October 24-November 21 — ) If your partner develops an outside interest and tends to neglect you don’t' suffer in silence. Partnership indicates a sharing of assets and interests.

November 22-December 21 — ) A neighbour in trouble will be most grateful for your sympathy, but you must be prepared for his insistence that he can manage alone.

SAGITARIUS

December 22-January 19 — You are

charity shop. It is always interesting to poke around amongst the bargains and possibly aiding a charity at the same time.

January 20-February 18 — An accident encounter with a distinguished person will increase your ambition to make a special success in your chosen career.

AQUARIUS

March 21-April 19 — Beware of the use of doubtful methods in order to achieve your ambition. They cannot possibly form the sound basis you need for ultimate success.

February 19-March 20 — By being reluctant to accept greater responsibility which you are quite cable to cope with you may forfeit y our chances for early promotion.

April 20-May 20 — With a little serious thought and some experimenting, you may be able to devise a short cut that could quickly dispose of a very tedious and repetitive job.

TAURUS

May 21-June 20 — Prepare yourself well for a forthcoming test and realise that the examiner must be totally impartial and cannot make allowances for you.

June 21-July 22 — Even though you cannot always afford to indulge it, you will never lower your high standard of taste. You will always prefer well made things to cheap mass-produced stuff.

July 23-August 22 — A new contract on which you have been working very hard and which you are most anxious to secure should receive the necessary legal and formal signature in the next few days.

August 23-September 21 — An important letter should not be held over in hope that you will feel more like writing it later. Bet to get it over and done with right now.

hompostYourYourYour

hpYYY

IF IT’S YOUR

BIRTHDAY

Stars for You

44 May 26, 2016

ACROSS 1 Get over cantankerous? (5) 6 I’m a long time making a

picture (5) 9 Being not in gear, perhaps, is

an offence! (7)10 Grace goes to a party with a

lot of sailors! (5)11 Encouraged to be terribly rude

about Gateshead (5)12 Plants disturbed in a gale (5)13 In London, say, you need

money (7)15 Dad’s part in a soap opera (3)17 Lake in Eire? (4)18 It’s where the boats are,

woman! (6)19 He makes a change from

Jason (5)20 Sterling advanced by a fellow

in the city (6)22 Did the ancient Romans swear

by him? (4)24 Tasty? No thanks! (3)25 Reconnoitred by a venturer?

(7)26 It’s of consuming interest after

breakfast (5)27 A clan wandering by waterway

(5)28 She’s said to give Phil a happy

ending! (5)29 Disease causing wild alarm, I

note (7)30 One looking after a broken-

down racer? (5)31 Good omen, possibly, for a

guardian of wealth (5)

DOWN 2 Revolutionary vehicle at the

races (6) 3 An outing of a kind, that is (6) 4 Poles going round the youth

centre in daylight (3) 5 The usual procedure for

making holes (5) 6 Creatures taking a big part

building a sauna (7) 7 It’s only water (4) 8 Happens to be continuous

(4,2)12 He’d have needed a weekend

to make an anorak! (5)13 Nick’s accommodation for

groups (5)14 As worn in a pub in extremes

of poverty? (5)15 A number shoot out in turn (5)16 Prepared the way for parking

on the street, for many (5)

up (5)19 Good-humoured as a

strapping Scot? (7)21 Commonwealth capitalists’

centre (6)22 Boy or girl with no love lost (6)

25 Fight that breaks up the dice game (5)

26 Can such a duck make a meal? (4)

28 If rising with a light heart, you can eat it (3)

6, I’m-age

10, A-do-RN 11, Ur-G-ed 12, Algae

15, Pop 17,

Marina 19, Jonas

22, Jove 24, Sty 25, Scouted

29, Malar-I-A

31, G-nome

2, Red-car

4, S-u-N

6, Ig-uanas 7, Mere

12, Aaron

14, P-inn-y 15, P-IV-ot

19, Jocular

23, Vellum 25, Scrap

SOLUTION

Crossword

45May 26, 2016

Answer

Sudoku

Things that trigger a memory are many.

I was at my university canteen the other day, waiting for my friend to join. Next to the table where I was sitting were two girls, engrossed in talking. One of them reached for a glass of water and jut tripped it. One of the most common restaurant fact is the accidental knocking of water-filled glasses. I am sure this girl does it every time she visits a restaurant!

Years back when I was in high school, during one of our annual visits to India, we had gone to Bangalore, the city known as the garden city of India. My parents, like always, chose a hotel that had a lot of good restaurants nearby. So there was this nice vegetarian restaurant near our hotel. It was one of those old-time places where there was a boy assigned only for refilling water in all tables.

So every time I took a sip from my glass he would come rushing and fill the glass. Initially I didn’t notice this. But when I did, I couldn’t believe it! Not just that, he was also knocking glasses off the tables. Of course, not deliberately, but as if in a curse! The first time it happened, we thought it was an accident. We didn’t give it a thought again.

Since we were put up in Bengaluru for a fairly long period, and this restaurant

dished the best breakfast fare around, we had no choice but to start our day with them. It was then that we realized that this boy was suffering from knock-the-glass-of-water-syndrome.

It continued till the last day of our stay.After three years, and by now

Bangalore had become our second home, we went again to this restaurant, which actually was pretty far from our home.

As we sat to order the food, out of nowhere came the same chap with a jug of water. I almost stood up on seeing him and so did my brother! With an awkward smile, he came to our table. He too had recognized us, obviously! We must be top in his list of people who suffered his syndrome the longest.

Nothing much had changed at Bugle Rock Kamat. The food was fantastic as we remembered it. The service was fine and quick. And the water-bearer, had changed. We saw him carefully fill water every time anyone took a sip. No mishaps.

Then we saw him reach out to a guy to fill his glass. Whoosh, the glass slid from his hand and landed right on the guest’s lap. I was watching the scene, sipping water. And, like in a horror movie, he turned and walked towards me.

Nothing had changed!

Avaantica Ashok

avaanti95avaantica_ashokFollow her on

Knock-the-glass-of-water-syndrome

Campus Beat

46 May 26, 2016