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JAN 30 – FEB 05 • ISSUE 255 • WEEKLY
KING KHAN’S coURT’ Bollywood royalty Shah Rukh Khan shows his vulnerable side to Y
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A culinary magnum opus revealed
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TICKETS TO SEE SHAH RUKH KHAN Welcome to the new look Y Tabloid - your indispensable guide to everything modern Oman has to offer. It’s the hottest ticket in town and guess what? We have ten to give away. See Bollywood royalty, including Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif, perform live at the Automobile Club in Ghala on February 13. The event, called Temptations Reloaded, is already causing a stir as Khan, otherwise known as the King of Romance, has personally requested fans to come and see him on Valentine’s Eve. To win one of ten tickets all you have to do is answer the following question: What was the name of the recent Bollywood film in which Shah Rukh Khan starred alongside Katrina Kaif ?
Please send your answer to prize@y-oman.com Andis excestrunt, nusanis by February 10, 2013. autem dolupta tessinus es et
Fast forward I
have to admit that my Bollywood knowledge stops at Slumdog Millionnaire and Shilpa Shetty. So, with the imminent arrival of Shah Rukh Khan and a whole heap of other A-list stars to Muscat, it was time to find out why masala is so much more than curry. In this very special Bollywood edition, we interview King Khan to discover more about the man behind the mask. We also explore Mumbai, Asian make-up and the various Indian gems found here in Muscat. And for those of us bereft of a little black passport, there’s even a beginner’s guide to all things bling and Bollywood.
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*Competition apply. Winning quodipsumrules quunt, siti andusci tickets to be collected psamus, corrore rspienisfrom ulpar Y Tabloid in Seeb. Cat que sedi velit ut laborum int que nest, aut veratur, torum 0971 1234 5678
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EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Eihab Abutaha CONTRIBUTORS Kate Ginn, Joe Gill, Tariq al Haremi, Laura Shergold
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JAN 30 – FEB 05 / ISSUE 255
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contents
FEBRUARY 05 2013
10
18 King Khan Bollywood Star Reveals All 22 Bollywood Guide All You Need To Know About the Indian Film Industry
Your Oman 06 The Big Interview Indian Ambassador 08 Voice of Oman Readers’ Letters 10 News Sporting Heroes Support Road Safety
Food & Drink 27 Restaurant Reviews The Bollywood 28 Recipe Butter Chicken Curry 31 Gallery Brilliant Banking
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Features
This Week 13 Movies Listing Race 2 14 This Week American Ballet 16 Gallery Designer Watches
14 Health & Beauty 32 Fashion Sari Sari Nights 34 Shop of the Week Malabar 35 Health Laughter Yoga 36 Beauty Bollywood Beauty
22 Cars & Outdoors 38 Outdoors Purifying Waters 40 Destination Mumbai 42 My Hood Ruwi 44 Y-Fi Fabulous Phones 46 Car of the Week Mercedes
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J.S. Mukul, Ambassador of India in Muscat Words: Penny Fray. Photo: Jerzy Wierzbicki
Tell us about your professional journey thus far: Having joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1981, I have had the privilege of holding diplomatic positions in Damascus, Abu Dhabi, Kandy, Colombo, Geneva, Riyadh, Munich and now as Ambassador of India in Muscat, apart from postings at Headquarters in the Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi. These varied assignments have involved both bilateral and multilateral diplomacy covering political/disarmament and economic-commercial work. What have been the highlight and lowlights of your ambassadorial role in the Sultanate? Contributing to further deepening and diversifying the very unique and special relationship between India and Oman, which is now in the nature of a strategic partnership as well as continuing the Embassy’s efforts to promote the interests and provide quality services to the over half a million Indians working in the Sultanate. I am yet to come across any lowlights of my assignment in Muscat. What do you love most about Muscat? While I admire the infrastructure, cleanliness and beauty of Muscat, it is really the people – both Omanis and Indians – with their friendship, kindness and hospitality that is the most attractive feature. Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif are coming to town – are you a fan of Bollywood movies? I do enjoy the occasional Bollywood movie with my family. In fact, Bollywood today constitutes an important component of India’s soft power that has built bridges with different peoples including Omanis, many of whom enjoy Indian movies and are ardent fans of Bollywood actors. I am absolutely delighted that Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and others are coming to Oman during the Muscat Festival as that will constitute yet another strand in the rich people-to-people interaction between our two countries. What do you enjoy doing in your spare hours? I am interested in reading, cricket and travel. How do you manage your team? An Embassy, like any organisation, can only be efficient and effective if members are motivated and morale is high, for which one has to take along colleagues as a team to be able to deliver results. THE AMBASSADOR’S PHILOSOPHY Qualities of head and heart like hard work, a balanced approach and sensitivity towards the weaker sections of society should stand any Indian diplomat in good stead professionally.
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FEB 06 – FEB 12 / ISSUE 256
Gallery
INTERVIEW
The Voice of Oman
RUMAITHA AL BUSAIDI TALKS ABOUT HER LOVE OF THE BEAUTIFUL GAME
correspondence Making it and sustaining it big
Winner! Reply of the Week
Dear Editor,
I
may be labelled a Jane of all trades for being a radio personality, Y columnist and researcher in environmental and marine sciences, but there’s one thing that always surprises people. Wait for it. I used to be a footballer. Yup, I used to bend it like Beckham. In fact, the beautiful game was my stepping stone into the media arena. It was also a sure fire way of shocking people. The moment I revealed what I did, jaws would drop, eyebrows would be raised and the lectures would begin. Not that it ever worried me. In fact, I often it found it flattering, especially since female footballers in Oman have done pretty much the impossible in our conservative society. How many times did I hear the phrase “football is such a masculine sport, ma zain”? . I would ask ‘why?’ and the reply would often be “because it is aggressive and does not suit the build of a woman”. Funny, then, how we are a nation that boasts of having female teams in volleyball, basketball and handball. Are these games not just as competitive? By the way, I’m so excited that it’s February. Not just because it’s Valentine’s Day but also because it’s Champions League, baby! Boy, I am so charged up for the matches scheduled this month. Hope you are too. Next week: COOL COMMUNICATOR Isobel Spaven-DONN
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FEB 06 – FEB 12 / ISSUE 256
In the article ‘Making it Big’ (Issue 255) we heard from some of the country’s successful entrepreneurs who have already made a mark in their chosen field with their hard work and dedication. This article is an excellent source of inspiration for budding entrepreneurs who have the will and firepower to start their own business. The stories of Deidre Harvey, Ghada Al Harthy, Yusuf Al Harthy and Penny Fray can provide some impetus to the emerging youth in Oman. Hopefully, in the future, we can see more and more small businesses making it big and, most important, sustaining their enterprise. Thanks to Penny Fray for the 60-second master class which is thought provoking for new-generation entrepreneurs. Also thanks to Yusuf Al Harthy for his special advice “Think bigger than Oman”, which can also help the entrepreneurs to expand their wings while placing their feet firmly in other parts of the world. KR Anand, Muscat
The best things in life Y Facebook fan page - (Y not?) I must admit I’m one of your most avid readers. I do get sad whenever I miss a copy. Your tabloid is undisputedly the best in Oman, especially with its excellent new look and fresh features. You educate and entertain both young and old (my kids read you, too). Yes it’s a ‘family tabloid’ – but you don’t stop there. You run an equally interesting, informative and interactive Y Facebook fan page, which I suggest every Y reader should try and see. Just now I’ve read this: “Get ready for lots of exciting reader interaction with our new Y website, due to launch next month!” That’s great! I can’t wait to see that… Thank you so much for doing all of this for free. You have so much love and dedication. The society owes you a lot. More power Y team!
Harvest of words Dear Y Team The feature ‘Book Famine: How We Read in Oman’ in Issue 252, has indeed been the talk of the town. I do hope to see more features of this style, which is the theme of the English project I have submitted to school. Thanks and with warm regards,
Andrew Aludino
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YOUR FEEDBACK IS IMPORTANT TO US
Debate of the Week We asked:
LETTERS
E-MAILS
Vijayalakshmi Shetty It is the same every year with a few programmes added on, but for the people who visit it for the first time, it is something different. Anyhow this year the location has changed so I will go to see the new set-up.
Arshi Sarfaraz There should be more events – like dance and music shows, lucky draws, games and competitions for all age groups. They should change the theme every week with lots of surprises. Muscat Festival should rock the whole country.
Sab NZ Yes, mostly it’s the same every year! But I like the different performers from different countries, and the clothes and jewellery – fireworks too! I’ll go there next week, Insha’Allah....
Lovely Queen Yes it’s always the same... It matters because we are looking for changes and different events happening at the festival so that we have a reason to visit it!
Afshan Asafali Yes it’s almost always the same every year, though there have been a few improvements like the laser show, circus, food festival etc, and the location has changed. Still, I’m looking forward to more changes.
Is Muscat Festival always the same year after year? What can be done to improve it?
Sherrin Finoj Actually it’s the first time I have gone to the Muscat Festival and I have big hopes for it. I’m looking forward to the best in fest.
FA C E B O O K
I'm a reader
This Week’s Debate: What is the most romantic gesture you have done for someone else or they have done for you? Tell us on facebook on Facebook.
Sarah Pinto was spotted with a copy of Y Tabloid at Central Business District in Ruwi
Saad Nasser I’m disappointed that for the last four years they always have the same old rides which makes it boring. Before, when it used to be at Al Khuwair and in Azaiba, it was crazy. Now Naseem Gardens is a bit too far and not as good as expected. But I hope this year will be good, and I’m looking forward to it. Mysterious Fefe For a fan of MF it doesn’t matter much. Yeah, I agree that it’s almost the same – sometimes good, sometimes bad. But the crazy atmosphere makes me want go again and again. The road construction, which is incomplete near Naseem Park, may cause jams. I’m not looking forward to that! The get-together of family and friends is the best Muscat Festival can offer. Nigar Sultana I felt the Azaiba location was best...after that it became boring when it was switched to Naseem Park. We hardly see any special or uniquely designed products. And price matters. Vikas Singal The authorities should bring something new. I have been to the Dubai Shopping Festival three or four times and it is always eye catching and different. There should be more performances. Sarfaraz Akhtar Khan It should be bigger and more rocking than Dubai Shopping Festival. Moreover, we need new attractive themes with daily draws and prizes. Put the most reasonable price on all the products to attract people from all corners of the country.
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FEB 06 – FEB 12 / ISSUE 256
09
ASK OUR SURGEON ? Lump in my thyroid contd.
NEWS
Gallery
Interview
Stay safe says Al Habsi
Last week we were talking about the different way of examining the lump in the thyroid. Once the fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNA) is done we may yield the following results: The nodule is benign (noncancerous). The nodule is malignant (cancerous) or suspicious for cancer. The biopsy is inconclusive. The biopsy may also be inadequate.
How are thyroid nodules treated? All thyroid nodules that are found to contain a thyroid cancer, or that are highly suspicious of containing a cancer, should be removed surgically by an experienced thyroid surgeon. Most thyroid cancers are curable and rarely cause life threatening problems. Thyroid nodules that are benign by FNA or too small to biopsy should still be watched closely with ultrasound examination every 6 to 12 months and annual physical examination by your doctor. Surgery may still be recommended even for a nodule that is benign by FNA if it continues to grow, or develops worrisome features on ultrasound over the course of follow up.
Dr. Biji Thomas George MS, Dip NB, FRCS (UK), MNAMS Consultant General & Laparoscopic Surgeon Send in any queries that you have on thyroid to …
askdoctor@y-oman.com +968 24557200 / 98088705
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FEB 06 – FEB 12 / ISSUE 256
Footballer leads road safety campaign Words: Kate Ginn Photos: Jerzy Wierzbicki
M
ake a pledge to be a better driver and help save lives, was the message from Ali Al Habsi and other sporting stars at the launch of a new road safety campaign this week. With a fatal road accident happening very eight hours in Oman, the initiative is appealing directly to drivers to change their behaviour on the roads. Footballer Al Habsi, a national hero, lent his support with an appearance at Muscat Festival venue Al Naseem Public Park on Monday night (February 4) where he was mobbed by excited fans. The player, who is goalkeeper for English Premier League team Wigan Athletic, flew especially to Oman a few days earlier – straight from a football game in the UK – to be part of the ‘Make The Pledge for Safer Roads’ event organised by Safety First, a non-profit road safety awareness group which he co-founded with international rally driver, Hamed al Wahaibi. “The whole community in Oman is concerned about road safety, which is now a national health issue,” said al Habsi. “Both Hamed and I will use our public profiles to reach out to all road users – young and old, pedestrians and drivers.” Along with six other sporting stars, Al Habsi signed a pledge to work towards safer roads in Oman. An average of three deaths per day happened on the country’s roads in 2011, according to Royal Oman Police statistics. Safety First wants to reduce road traffic accidents and deaths by 50 per cent by 2020.
Professional Omani tennis player Fatma al Nabhani, who joined al Habsi in pledging her support, spoke of her own personal experiences in losing a loved one on the roads. “I have lost people close to me, a relative and a friend, from a car accident, so I know how it feels to lose someone close. It really hurts,” she said. “That’s why I am doing this. I really want to see a result. I really wish we could all make an effort to stop the number of car accidents in Oman, we have too many. “We need to send out the message to everyone to take care on the roads.” Other sporting stars at the Al Naseem event was Hamed al Wahaibi, Oman’s top racing driver, Ahmad al Harthy, Mohsin al Busaidi, one of the country’s most accomplished sailors, and fellow footballers Imad al Hosni, who currently plays for Al-Alhi Sports Club in Saudi Arabia, and Hussain al Hadri, a striker with Omani club Dhofar. Al Busaidi said: “Too many people don’t seem to care about themselves and their families with the way they behave on the roads. “We have lost youth, fathers, sisters, mothers and brothers, sometimes from just a small mistake.” Also at the venue during the Muscat Festival is the ‘Tell A Friend’ National Road Safety Campaign, the first phase of a five-year project initiated by Petroleum Development of Oman (PDO), which also aims to lower the number of road accidents in the Sultanate.
THIS WEEK
MOVIES MOVIES THIS WEEK’S MOVIES
Race 2 Directors Abbas and Mustan return with a sequel to their 2008 thriller Race, bringing back Saif Ali Khan and Anil Kapoor from the original for the ride. We are in familiar Abbas-Musan territory, as one would expect from a glossy action sequel from the masters of all-action entertainment. New to the cast are Deepika Padukone, Jaqueline Fernendez, John Abraham and Ameesha Patel. The movie begins with a car explosion that kills Sonia (Bipasha Basu) and takes Ranveer (Saif Ali Khan) off the radar, only for him to reappear at a casino run by Vikram Thapar (Rajesh Khattar), Ranveer seeks vengeance for the murder of his girlfriend after working out that blood money was paid by Arman Malik (John Abraham). He enlists his old friend RD (Anil Kapoor) who, along with his new squeeze Cherry (Ameesha Patel), bring a comic angle to the story. Khan romances Malik’s half sister Elena (Deepika Padokone) and at the same time has his eyes on his girlfriend Omisha (Jacqueline Fernandez).
The film has various twists and turns, which result in Khan and Abraham becoming enemies and battling it out to see who will win the ‘race’. The film has been shot in exotic and beautiful locations and contains all the wealth and glamour you can imagine. Though it lacks any script to speak of, the fast pace holds the attention for the most part. As you would expect, the action sequences are enjoyable except for the climax – which is implausibly over the top even by Abbas-Mastan standards. Both Khan and Abraham carry the weight of this film. Khan does a decent job in keeping it alive but with Abraham’s limited acting skills, it’s too much of an ask. The women in the movie are props put there to bring in the ‘ooph’ factor – which they do in truckloads. Kapoor is engaging as a fruit-eating sidekick though his underwritten character does not do justice to his talent. Overall, Race 2 is energetic at best but as a package it’s an average offering – see it if there is nothing else on. Reviewed by Abhudit Greene
PREVIEW
Gambit
Remake alert. When the Coen brothers decided to revisit British classic The Lady Killers, the question was ‘Why?’ Now they’re at it again with Gambit, originally a ’60s caper starring Michael Caine and Shirley Maclean. Step forward Colin Firth, playing an art curator seeking revenge on his abusive boss by conning him into buying a fake Monet, with the help of a Texas rodeo queen (Cameron Diaz).
COMING UP NEXT WEEK Broken City
Murder 3
For more information and times, go to: City Cinema: citycinemaoman.net Al Bahja Cinema: albahjacinema.net Star Cinema: Tel +968 24791641
help of another outcaste, Ailur, a reincarnated black panther now in the body of a red panda (don’t ask), and a girl called Paula. But once outside the zoo dangers are everywhere. Children’s animation.
Kamath & Kamath Snowflake The White Gorilla What do you do when you are the only albino gorilla in the zoo, or in the world for that matter? Snowflake’s fellow gorillas are none too kind to him, even though children love him and flock to the zoo to see him. Snowflake enlists the
A new Malayalam star vehicle about the sibling owners of a chain of vegetarian restaurants in Kerala, played by megastars Mammootty and Dileep. They face opposition from a biryani specialist who has a restaurant just opposite their own, until this plot element is resolved, and the story switches into ‘damsel in distress’ mode. Baburaj as the driver of the Kamath brothers at least raises a few sarcastic laughs but this dinner belongs in the dog.
Y’s TOP TWO Kadal (‘Sea’) 1
Tamil romantic thriller about the lives of Christian fishermen overcoming the odds thrown at them through the harsh lessons of life. The film is directed and co-produced by Mani Ratnam and features newcomers Gautham Karthik, son of actor Karthik, and Thulasi Nair, daughter of Radha Nair, in the lead roles.
Aala Gosety (‘Over My Dead Body’)
2
Egyptian comedian Ahmed Helmy stars as Rauf, an interior designer who dies but whose spirit is stuck in limbo. He still wants to know what his friends and family think of him after his death. Unfortunately he discovers too late that they have a few home truths to tell about the way he lived his life. A comedy Christmas Carol in Arabic.
A Good Day to Die Hard FEB 06 – 12 / ISSUE 256
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T H E W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E
Gallery
Movies
February
06
Meant for each other
Grand Art In the suitably majestic setting of the Grand Mosque Auditorium, Muscat Art Festival presents a discussion on the creative process in Islamic art. Venetia Porter, assistant keeper at the British Museum’s Department of the Middle East, chairs a
THIS
WEEK
distinguished panel including Dr Ahmed Moustafa, the Egyptian-born artist and fellow at Oxford’s Centre for Islamic Studies, and Charbel Dagher, an eminent scholar of Arab and Islamic art from Beirut. Starts 7.30pm.
What to do. What to see. What to hear.
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FEBRUARY
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Despite getting a hard time from some of the British music press, ex-cavalry captain and troubadour James Blunt managed to break into America with his extremely catchy guitar ballads. His debut album, Back to Bedlam, was the best-selling album of the 2000s in the UK. If you want to sing ‘You’re Beautiful’ to your loved one in unison with fans at the InterContinental Gardens – and why not? – get your tickets now for this one-night gig. For tickets call 95 55 56 99 or email jamesblunt@aliveoman.com. Tickets from RO25.
FEB 06 - FEB 12 / ISSUE 256
The big night is fast approaching when soul mates come together for the ultimate Valentine’s quiz. Y’s very own live action Mr & Mrs event at Muscat City Centre promises to be touching, funny and unforgettable, as we see the lovely couples discover just how well their sweethearts really know them. Winners and runners up are guaranteed great prizes and the audience will have plenty of opportunities to join in the fun and take home goodies too. To come along and take part just email us at valentine@y-oman.com before Valentine’s Day.
Feb
Currie at the
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FEBRUARY
Palace
Justin Currie, the voice of ‘80s pop outfit Del Amitri, is performing for one night only at the Al Bustan Palace Hotel auditorium. The Scottish singer-songwriter has an impressive folk-influenced back catalogue, as one of two members of the group who stuck with it over the last three decades. Doors open 7pm. Tickets RO15.
February
American Splendour
The Suzanne Farrell Ballet of Washington DC is a celebrated fixture in American dance and is coming to Oman. The Royal Opera House is the place to see the company perform the works of legendary choreographer George Ballentine, co-founder of the New York City Ballet. Balanchine was one of the 20th century’s most famous ballet masters, and this is sure to be an unmissable event for dance lovers. They will be performing his ‘Divertimento No. 15’, an excerpt from Brahms-Schoenberg Quartet and Valse-Fantaisie.
The work of two highly original Omani artists is on display at the Bait Al Muzna Gallery, Al Saidiya Street, until Feb 26. Mohammed Al Maamari uses a combination of media and techniques to create an expression of
popular Arabic phrases and traditional Arabic calligraphy. Juma Al Harthy works with mixed media, such as wood and clay, to evoke Omani heritage and civilisation. Free entry from 9.30am to 7pm.
As readers know, Y loves the written word and we’re excited about the upcoming Muscat International Book Fair, to be held at the Oman International Exhibition Centre, which opens on February 27. The 18th annual book fair will be a showcase for a wide range of Omani, Arab and international books and writers. This is a chance for the literati and book lovers to mingle and enjoy a host of cultural events, lectures, poetry recitals and storytelling on the sidelines of the fair. For more information call 24 60 06 48.
February
WORLD OF WORds
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February 07-14
Blu for a red heart
If music be the food of love, Radisson Blu Hotel’s Olivos Restaurant and Terrace can offer you both in one. A sumptuous dinner buffet by candlelight, situated next to the pool, comes with live music and a five-course specially designed menu. All ladies get a rose and a surprise. For gift vouchers, contact the sales team at the hotel.
Believe in Magic Amid all the great events of the festival a little bit of magic will always go down well with the youngsters. Alex Krey’s Illusion Magic show, all the way from Russia, promises a lot of music and dancing as well as some great illusions and is on daily at Amerat Park main stage until February 13, running for 20 minutes, four times a day.
FEB 06 - FEB 12 / ISSUE 256
13 February
Sheer Talent
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The What’s On Guide
Patek Phillipe AL QURUM JEWELLERY opens new boutique for swiss watchmaker
Hamza Ali Awadh
Ali Awadh Ali, chairman of Al Qurum Jewellery
Thierry Stern, president of Patek Philippe
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FEB 06 – FEB 12 / ISSUE 256
Thierry Stern cuts the ribbon
Movies
GALLERY
Photographed by: Jerzy Wierzbicki
THIS WEEK
King KHAN
Welcome to the court of
SRK, the biggest star in Bollywood, talks about being the best, the price of fame and his fear of failure. Words: Feroz Khan and Kate Ginn Photos and Social Media: Neil D’Souza
‘I have a very simple life. People don’t realise it from the outside, all they see is me in Dolce & Gabbana suits with big cars and hundreds and thousands of people around me’
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FEB 06 - 12 / ISSUE 256
I
n a small room at the Taj Lands End hotel in Mumbai, a group of people are sitting and waiting at a round table. A sense of anticipation hangs heavily in the air. The excitement is so real, you can almost see it fizzing around the room and bouncing off the walls. The word is that it will be another few minutes or so. At this news, a ripple of movement works its way round the table, the shuffling of feet, the ruffling of papers and a nervous clearing of the throat. Footsteps approach. The door opens and in walks the King of Bollywood, one of India’s biggest film stars, Shah Rukh Khan. He’s dressed in an open-necked black shirt and is flanked by his PR, his secretary and one of his closest friends. A sort of hush descends as if we are in the presence of greatness. With a chair having been reserved for him, he takes his rightful seat, like a throne at the table, leans back and looks around, the ruler of all he surveys. Welcome to the court of King Khan. At the age of 47, Shah Rukh Khan is still at the top of his game, with the earning power to top the recent Forbes Celebrity India 100 list, still with the star power to be calling the Bollywood shots and still with the charisma to reduce one female journalist in the room to a simpering girl. He’s here to talk about his forthcoming one-off concert in Oman on February 13, ‘Temptations Reloaded’, when he will be appearing live for the first time with fellow Bollywood star, Katrina Kaif, at the Oman Automobile Club. It will be only his second time in Oman; the last was some 10 years ago for a night. “Everything will be as wonderful as we try to make it for the world tours,” says Khan. “Shows are like a party, it’s an evening out and the ideology behind the shows I’ve done is always to give value for money in terms of star presence on stage.” Like the seasoned professional that he is, Khan works the room, personally shaking the hand and asking the name of every journalist in the room. He is, of course, a polished performer who has been here a thousand times before. He’s heard almost every question there is to ask, starts to answer even before the person asking has finished saying it. He knows the script and knows the role that he is expected to play. Like every performance he has ever done during his career spanning more than two decades, he plays the part to perfection. Only once does the act slip when he is asked about the young Bollywood actors, snapping at his heels, intent on taking his crown. There is the slightest edge of irritation to his voice, a flash of annoyance detectable in those famous chiseled features. “The (question) is I think a little unfair,” he says. “I’ve been working for 22 years in 72 films. I don’t know if at any stage any of us really sit down and say ‘Oh, I have to shift my gear to run further away from the youngsters who are catching up on me.’ “I really believe I’m sitting in a car of my own, with its own gears, and the car is on a completely separate track from where all these wonderful youngsters are on. “It gives me little thought when people say this but maybe I’m in a position where everybody feels that everybody is competing with me, which is a nice position to be in and what I do, I do the best.” There is, it seems, no stopping Brand SRK.
Shah Rukh Khan at the Mumbai press conference. Below with wife Gauri and children Aryan and Suhana
Shah Rukh Khan was born in New Delhi on 2 November 1965. His name literally translates into ‘Face of the King’. He started off with a lead role as a soldier in a 1988 drama series, Fauji, and got his big screen break four years later in Deewana. The rest is Bollywood history and the stuff of childhood dreams: the most awarded Bollywood actor of all time in the Best Actor category, the most successful, a huge fan following in the billions and personal wealth estimated at over $540 million (RO208 million). He lives with his wife Gauri, an Indian film producer and interior designer, and their son and daughter, Aryan and Suhana, aged 15 and 12, in a huge mansion on the beach shore in Mumbai. Does he miss his old life in Delhi? “No,’ he says. “A lot of people crave for the normal life, I don’t. There’s a decision I made, I wanted to be a movie star, I wanted the world to know me for good and bad and I would never stray away from that, I don’t miss anything.” Such intense focus and determination is probably the reason why he has been such a success. In the past, he has spoken of being motivated by the loss of his parents – his father died from cancer when he was just 15 and his mother in 1990 after a long illness. There are no regrets. “If I’m asked to live this life all over again and have what I have, I would give an arm and a leg to have it. “I’ve got a lot more than I thought I would, ever in my wildest dreams, believed I could have. “I have beautiful children, a lovely wife, a fantastic set of friends. To be in a line of work where I’ve dedicated half my life to and enjoyed it as much as I did on the first day is the greatest gift that I have, more than the money, the names, the fame and the awards.” The price of this fame is public scrutiny, such as the recent controversy about his allegiance to his country, an old topic,
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sparked by an article he wrote. (SRK’s father was from Peshawar, Pakistan). He is refreshingly honest about the fallout. “Publicly, I keep a face where they don’t rattle me. Personally, I get very disturbed. As an actor, the biggest boon and the biggest bane, is that when you come out in front of the public, you have to act, you have to just be happy because that’s what people expect of you. “So, if I walk into a meeting where I’m not smiling or being kind, there’d be other controversies because of that. “I think it’s one of the negative takes of having a public life as an actor, that everybody wants you to be entertaining at any given time. “I have to face the world as a public figure and put my best foot forward and the best smile forward.” For all his success, he is looked on as one of the most humble and down to earth of the Bollywood pack. As grounded as a megastar can be, that is. He even laughs away his image as the ultimate romantic lead. “It’s a misnomer that I’m romantic, it’s not really true. I’m not generally romantic by nature. I’m caring and I’m sweet.” Treat the woman in your life as your equal in every area, is his advice. He adds that the three most important things in his life are, in order, his children, his work and ideas. His upcoming films are Chennai Express, about a man’s trip on a train from Mumbai to Rameswaram, and Happy New Year. Later, in an exclusive interview with Y, Khan unwinds a little, lights a cigarette, and talks of his success. “I never believed in a lot of the good things people say about me, because I think they flatter me too much and exaggerate it too much, similarly for the bad things. “I have a very simple life. People don’t realise it from the outside, all they see is me in Dolce & Gabbana suits with big cars and hundreds and thousands of people around me. “The work that I do is much more important than whom I am. I heard this line from Lady Gaga and I thought that it aptly describes, that if somebody wants to be successful, the art should be more important than the artist and I think that’s how I’ve led my life.” He is terrified of failure, he admits. It’s a surprising admission from someone who seems so supremely confident. “I’ve never thought of failure, I’m scared of failure, so I don’t think of it. “Because I’m so scared of it, I try to always succeed in what I’m doing.” Perhaps it is this that drives him, not so much the need to be successful but the fear of failing. Our audience with King Khan is almost up. His time and presence is needed elsewhere. “I think that I’ve been given so much and at the end of it, I’ll never be left with nothing,” he says. “I’ll always be left with the love. I met this girl at a press conference some months ago and she looked at me and said that for 26 years she’s waited just to say hello to me. “When you think that there was somebody who has waited all her life to say hello to me, you can’t take that away from me. “You can’t take away the importance and the happiness I feel that there was somebody in this world who had waited so many years just to say hello to me. “I don’t think I’ll be able to say that everything has been taken away from me, ever.” With that, he’s gone, along with his retinue. The King has left the building.
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The world’s biggest movie industry is 100 years old and still growing By Laura Shergold
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f Mumbai is the city of dreams then Bollywood is where the dreams are made. Bollywood is the fantasy held on to by millions of children with the posters of Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra on their bedroom walls, and hopes of being the Next Big Thing. Forget Hollywood. For sheer drama, glamour, showmanship, entertainment and excitement, the flamboyant theatrics of Bollywood are hard to beat. For a start, it’s the largest film industry in the world and celebrates its 100th birthday this year. With a current output of around 1,000 films a year, the bulk of which are filmed in Hindi, it far exceeds Hollywood in the number of productions and tickets sold worldwide every year. Sometimes, films are made so fast that actors shoot scenes for four different movies simultaneously. It is a huge money-spinner of an industry too. Bollywood is predicted to grow by $3.3 billion (RO1.27 billion) this year, according to a study by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry. It’s pretty clear, then, that Bollywood is massive, but what do you really know about this immense industry? If, like me, you are far from a Bollywood boffin, then you may be only vaguely familiar with the huge star of Shah Rukh Khan, you may have seen Aishwarya Rai on the billboards, but you could not tell your Sachin Tendulkars from your Salman Khans if they came and hit you around the face with a chapatti. To the uninitiated, the word Bollywood conjures up images of brightly coloured outfits, accompanied by choreographed singing and dance routines set in a world where nothing bad ever happens. Does this still ring true? How did Bollywood come about, what is the history behind this huge industry and what does the future hold? Is the scene set for a happy ever after?
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What’s in a name?
There are no prizes for guessing that the name Bollywood is a play on the world Hollywood, with the B coming from Bombay (the former name for Mumbai). Unlike Hollywood, the centre of the American film industry, Bollywood does not exist as a physical place. It does, however, have its own entry in the Oxford English Dictionary.
How it all began
You have to go back to 1899 when the first Indian short film was screened (Hiralal Sen’s The Flower of Persia). India’s first featurelength film Raja Harishchandra was released in 1913, laying the foundation for an indigenous Indian film industry. Just like in Hollywood, the films were silent to begin with and only became ‘talkies’ in the 1930s. After India became independent in 1947, cinema’s popularity soared. The ‘50s were the ‘Golden Age’ of Hindi cinema. Famous names in this era include Raj Kapoor, Nargis, Bimal Roy and Meena Kumari. Films expressed social themes, mainly dealing with working-class urban life in India. By the early 1970s, it was all about romance, with the big names of the day being Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila Tagore. Come the mid-70s, the darker side of humanity, such as gangster films, became the mainstay. Amitabh Bachan became particularly famous for his ‘angry young man’ roles. ‘Masala’ films also originated at this time, a name coined for movies that mixed genres in one production, for example comedy, action and drama. In the late ’80s and early ’90s, Bollywood went back to its roots with romantic, highly produced epics. Women directors were also coming into their own at this time, with the rise of Aparna Sen and Prema Karanth. In 2001, Australian filmmaker Baz Luhrmann borrowed heavily from Bollywood in his musical rendition of Moulin Rouge, the success of which saw a renaissance of sorts for the musical in Hollywood. A growing trend was for filmmakers to locate the action in the UK and Europe – London or the Scottish highlands becoming particularly popular. Bollywood connected with Hollywood once again in Danny Boyle’s 2008 Slumdog Millionaire. Recently, Bollywood filmmakers have signed a range of commercial deals with Hollywood production houses and stars, starting a trend for Holly-Bolly co-productions.
Top 3 films
If you are yet to watch a Bollywood film and have no idea where to start, these three classic films are a must to kick off with. Their influence can be felt in many Bollywood films:
Sholay
Inspired by The Magnificent Seven and starring Dharmendra, Sholay mixed action with romance and comedy. The film ran uninterrupted in Indian cinemas for five years
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
Starring Shah Rukh Khan, this romantic comedy raked in over $20 million (RO7.7 million) and became one of the biggest Bollywood hits ever.
Devdas
Devdas stars Aishwarya Rai and was recently included in Time magazine’s top 10 movies of the millennium worldwide.
Whats happening in Bollywood today?
The winning formula of a Bollywood musical is to provide escapism for the masses. However, it is no surprise that today’s audience is looking for something a bit more realistic. Bollywood has a well-established recipe that continues to bring entertainment to millions, but the county’s growing independent film movement is striving to put more grit in the oyster. This can be seen in the recent box office success of Akshat Verma’s Delhi Belly, India’s first close to the bone comedy.
The future
There’s no denying it. Bollywood influence is everywhere, in pop music, advertising and fashion. However, for all its prodigious output, a Bollywood film is yet to win an Oscar. Artistically, the very populism of the genre means mainstream Bollywood does not attract the kind of critical acclaim that, say, Iranian films do. Aamir Khan, one of the leading actors of Hindi cinema, came closest to getting Hollywood’s ultimate kudos when his epic Lagaan was nominated in the final Best Foreign Language Film category in 2002. Then Slumdog Millionaire swept the Oscars in 2009 – but, despite being based on an Indian novel and starring a mostly Indian cast, it was a British production. Meantime, major US film companies such as Warner Bros are setting up offices in India. Even with the trend towards more realistic portrayals of Indian life, there is still a need and love for the ubiquitous feel-good flicks Bollywood does so well. Whatever the future holds for Bollywood, whether the hero will always win, the lovers always meet, remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure, it guarantees to be bigger and better than ever in 2013.
Did you kno w? The first colo
ur film made in In Kanya in 1937 dia was Kisan The song . ‘Ab Tumhare Hawale Watan film of the sa Saathiyan’ (fro me name) is m the the longest H indi film son lasting 20 min g, utes! At the en d of 2012, Sa Bollywood’s lm an Khan was highest earner , commandin g $11 million (RO4.2 milli on) per movie The high . est-grossing film of all tim Bollywood e, 3 Idiots (200 9), a comedy starring Aam drama ir Khan, mad e $70 million (RO26.9 milli on) worldwid e.
Check out Masala Nights on Merge 104.8 on Tuesdays between 8pm and 10 pm when DJ Afaq brings you Bollywood news and gossip and the top 10 Hindi film songs.
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food and drink
Trend
New Restaurant
Reviews
Some like it hot. And living in Oman, it’s easy to see why. According to research, if you are living in a sizzling climate, spicy foods help keep you cool. Stimulating the circulation and raising body temperature, a curry will make you sweat more. Rack up the benefits by using paprika. Containing capsaicin, the antiinflammatory and antioxidant effects of this ingredient are said to lower the risk of cancer.
Did You Know?
One of the hottest curry dishes ever made is known as a Chicken Naga. Made with Naga pepper seeds, they’re 10 times hotter than jalapeno peppers. Ouch!
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Reviews
THE BOLLYWOOD
This fun, film themed vegetarian restaurant impresses Laura Shergold
C
ould there be a more aptly named restaurant to review in this week’s Bollywood-themed Y tabloid than ‘The Bollywood’ in Qurum Commercial Centre? Formally known as the Bollywood Chaat, this vegetarian restaurant is decked with pictures of Indian super stars and even has TV screens showing Bollywood films and music videos. Serving authentic Indian cuisine on a budget, it’s understandably busy but friendly nonetheless. Unfortunately, the Bollywood bombed with its menu. There were no accompanying descriptions of the dishes on offer. Great if you are a connoisseur of Indian dining, not so great if you’re not. Being from Birmingham, England, and having enjoyed a few meals in its ‘Balti Belt’, I was able to recognise a few of the dishes by name alone. However, we had to ask our waitress what some of the items were before we could make an informed choice on what to order. I chose the pattice cheese toastie to start, while my husband opted for both the pani puri and the snack platter, which came with complimentary soft drinks. Our starters were brought out less than five minutes later, smelling great and piping hot. My dish consisted of four toasted sandwiches with tomatoes and lashings of crisps. It’s a large portion, so if ordering this, you may want to keep that
Info Box
Contact number: 2456 5653 Address: Qurum Commercial Centre, Qurum, Muscat Opening hours: 3pm-11:30pm Average price: (for two people) RO11
in mind. It was tasty though with a slight spice to opted for a bhindi masala. We shared a plain rice, it. Meanwhile, my husband’s snack platter cheese naan and roti (grilled flatbread from contained chickpea dahl, pakoras, South Asia) to mop up our chosen bhajis, samosas and dips. His curries. exclamation of ‘oh wow’ when My dopiaza was packed it arrived matched up to his full of vegetables and had a reaction when tasting the real kick to it. I enjoyed it. various snacks. Being My only gripe was that the dutiful wife, I felt it seemed a little ginger it was important to heavy. have a nibble, and was My husband enjoyed just as impressed with his masala, but there the delicious array of were no notable ‘oohs’ goodies. His pani puri, this time, his end lightly fried spherical comment being that it pastries, were served was good but the flavours with spicy chickpeas and were a bit too intense. potatoes and also The breads however, were devoured within wolfed down, with the cheese minutes. naan possibly winning the vote for Our mains ‘nicest naan ever’. arrived when we After that, we were stuffed. Our hopes of were only half way through fitting in desert were dashed, although the ice cream, our starters. It wasn’t a fruit salad and array of traditional Indian puddings problem, but we did sounded very tempting. feel pressurised To call ‘The Bollywood’ a fast-food to hurry restaurant is slightly unfair. Yes, it is VERDICT: through ‘cheap and cheerful’ but if you come 10 our here looking for the same quality dining Great atmosphere starters experience as Mumtaz Mahal, then you and friendly service, before the will be disappointed. but the menu could mains went Our final bill, including my soft drinks, do with being more user-friendly. cold. We needn’t came to less than RO11, making it great have worried though value for money. as they were still sizzling Small glitches aside, the restaurant’s friendly when we tucked in. service and fun, family atmosphere gives you a real I’d gone for vegetable dopiaza, while hubby taste of Bollywood in the suburbs of Muscat.
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RECIPE
Spice up your life
Everyone has his or her favourite curry house and no amount of literary coaxing will convince you to forgo the usual vindaloo for something a little less hot – but you must try the butter chicken curry at Muscat’s Radisson Blu Hotel. It’s delicious. Now that friendly guy at the local takeaway is going to hate us for this – but we’ve managed to convince Christian Pageot, executive chef at Radisson Blu, to share his recipe with you. Enjoy! Ingredients Marinade 500gms of boneless chicken 50gms of ginger and garlic paste
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Forget about the predictable world of poppadoms and vindaloo, says Penny Fray – it’s time to curry favour with this butter chicken recipe.
100gms of yoghurt 1 tablespoon of mustard oil 1 teaspoon of garamasala 1 teaspoon of chili powder Salt to taste Sauce 100gms of onion 300gms of tomato 1 teaspoon of ginger and garlic paste 50gms of cashew nuts 50gms of butter 25gms of chilli powder 25gms of cumin powder 50ml of fresh cream
Method Cut the chicken leg in large pieces and marinade with the ingredients for at least half an hour. Cook it in a tandoori or grill. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a pan, add the chopped onions and cook until golden brown. Add the paste, chilli powder and cumin. Stir in the tomato puree and simmer for about 15 minutes. Add the cashew nuts and fresh cream, then the grilled chicken. Simmer for 10 minutes or until the sauce thickens. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve with naan bread or rice.
Presents
Lovebird
WIN big s prizes!
WE ’R E SO UL MA TE S’ ‘Y ow sh iz qu e liv e at im ult e th th wi y t ili Te st yo ur co mp at ib
Answer a series of questions about your spouse to win prizes at Muscat City Centre on Valentine’s Day. Get a chance to become a live contestant by telling us why you’re well matched at
valentine@y-oman.com by February 10, 2013. Associate Sponsors
Trend
s
New Restaurant
GALLERY
Brilliant Banking Bank Nizwa launches
Oman’s first Islamic bank
Dr Jamil El Jaroudi, CEO of Bank of Nizwa
HE Mohammad al Zubair (centre) and HH Sayyid Tarik Bin Shabib Al Said (right) with officials
Bank of Nizwa staff member
Sayyid Amjad Mohammed Ahmed Al Busaidi, chairman of the board of directors
HH Sayyid Shihab Bin Tariq Al Said officially opens the Bank of Nizwa’s Islamic bank
The guests
HH Sayyid Shihab Bin Tariq Al Said (centre) and other eminent guests enjoy the event
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HEALTH& BEAUTY
Health
Beauty
FASHION
Who says you have to go bright this season? Try metallic embellishments on a classic colour to look ‘sari’ sophisticated.
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Photo by Featureflash / Shutterstock.com
STAR STYLE
Indian actress Aishwarya Rai wears a designer sari during the annual Cannes Film Festival.
SARI, SARI NIGHTS Bling, bold and beautiful – here is Penny Fray’s sartorial guide to saris.
This stunning piece from Piaget drizzles with diamonds. Available from the Magic Garden collection at Khimji’s Watches.
T
he Indian equivalent of the little black dress – the sari remains the most versatile garment in any stylish girl’s wardrobe. The traditional six-yard sari allows for generous draping and an excuse to embrace this season’s embellishment in an extravagant way. But you don’t have to be conventional – you can tailor saris into cocktail gowns, downplay them with jeans or simply turn them into trendy tunics. If you ask me, there’s no better way to stand out in a posh party than to wear a reconstructed sari with lashings of jewellery. So, what’s hot right now? Well, according to Mrunal Khimji, owner of Mrunal’s Boutique in Qurum, Indian fashion is both influenced and influencing European trends. “Bright colours like pink, blue and yellow are currently big as are embellishments and embroidery,” she says. “Bollywood stars are also highly persuasive and can easily make or break a designer. As such, popular fashion names now include Manish Malhotra and Sabyasachi.” With more and more actresses making the most of their shapely figures in fitted dresses, the tendency for showing a bit more flesh has followed, especially among younger Indian women. “But the traditional sari is supposed to hide not show,” explains Mrunal. Fashion, however, is no respecter of custom and Mrunal is often asked to create readymade saris as well as customise old ones. High-street stores like Monsoon and Accessorize are also packed with Asian-inspired tunics, dresses and bargain bling.
If you just want a taste of India, try this Maharni Tunic, RO22, from Monsoon.
STYLISH SARIS Penny’s tips on how to wear a sari
1 Learn how to drape a sari online. There are lots of easy to follow videos on YouTube. 2 If you’re a sari novice, choose a synthetic material that is easy to drape and wear. Otherwise, get a good tailor to create a ready-made one. 3 Draw attention away from bare arms by wearing lots of bangles. 4 Pale skins tend to suit darker saris and vice versa.
Bright orange is the colour of the season thanks to its designer influence and happy vibe. From Mrunal’s Boutique in Qurum.
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p r o m o t i o n
SHOP
the week
Malabar Gold & Diamonds S ure, all you need is love but jewellery is pretty important too. That’s why we adore these Valentine’s Day heart stealers from Malabar Gold & Diamonds. To make the ultimate romantic statement, the Muscat-based jewellers have launched a pretty pair of heart-shaped pendants. Available in either yellow or white gold and featuring interlocking hearts with diamond centres, they ooze amorousness. And starting from just RO90, this range is wallet friendly too. This special V-Day offer is valid at their outlets in UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Bahrain. Of course, whoever said that money can’t buy you love hadn’t seen some of the store’s amazing statement jewellery. Dripping with diamonds and other precious stones, Malabar offers everything from necklaces and earrings to bridal sets and traditional Indian designs. Exclusive brands include Era, Ethnix, Starlet and Precia. We particularly loved the intricacy of Mine’s lace collection – gorgeous and bang-on trend. Other items on our wish list include a pair of Era emerald earrings and a stack of super cool Kashmeera bangles.
For more information on Malabar Gold and Diamonds, please visit www.malabargoldanddiamonds.com
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Beauty
HAPPY HEALING
Fashion
HEALTH
Laugh a little, live a lot – the latest yoga craze hits Muscat. Penny Fray reports
Y
ou’ve noticed the signs – contagious giggling, a better body and boundless energy. Uh-oh. It looks like somebody has just taken up the hottest health habit in Oman. Laughter yoga combines unconditional mirth with deep breathing to decrease depression and burn up to 400 calories an hour. It all started in Mumbai in 1995 and has since become a worldwide phenomenon with more than 10,000 classes in about 60 countries. Throughout India, thousands of laughter yoga clubs meet every morning in public parks. There are no jokes or comedy routines – just exercise. Most members say they haven’t missed a day in five years or more because it keeps them happy, healthy and invigorated. Having studied all manner of New Age therapies and heard about the benefits of this highly social class, Sayyida Basma Al Said decided to introduce it to her Whispers of Serenity clinic in North Azaiba. “These methods have been tried for years and people have found them useful,” she says. “I want individuals to accept these New Age therapies, feel the difference and not be confined to the old means of exercise and relaxation.” According to the mental health counsellor, laughter yoga has become the perfect solution for those who want to feel good without being confined to the gym. “People find it boring and are always looking for new ways to burn calories as well as have some fun,” she says. “Laughter yoga allows them to tone up their muscles and work on their breathing without it feeling like hard work. It’s fun and you can actually feel the difference at the end of the session. “Of course, many people are hesitant to try it and feel conscious to laugh in front of others but as the session progresses they loosen up and begin to enjoy it.” So, what’s the difference between ordinary yoga and laughter yoga? Well, according to Sayyida Basma Al Said, traditional yoga involves yogic breathing (Pranayama) and movements in a disciplined manner in order to achieve a goal. “In laughter yoga the concept of the yogic breathing is the same but it uses laughter instead of these planned movements,” she adds. “The idea is that anyone can laugh without relying on jokes or comedy. The concept of laughter yoga is based on a scientific fact that the body cannot differentiate between fake and real laughter. One gets the same physiological and psychological benefits.” Various studies suggest that a good chuckle not only helps you lose weight but it also lowers blood sugar levels – which is a boon for diabetes patients. “Our breathing is connected to the state of our mind,” explains Sayyida Basma Al Said. “When in a stressful or emotional state, the breathing pattern alters drastically. It becomes fast, shallow and irregular. Laughter yoga helps to get our breathing rhythm back to normal to reduce stress. “In this high-pressure, high-tension modern world, people have little or no time to exercise, so laughter yoga is a good distraction from the daily routine where you are working out and having fun at the same time. “Laughter yoga also has many health benefits for chronic illnesses like cancer, arthritis and diabetes, as well as most psychological issues.”
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HEALTH& BEAUTY
Health
BOLLYWOOD BEAUTY From black kohl to brow threading, Penny Fray discovers how India’s traditional grooming rituals are topping international trends.
T
his season’s carousel of catwalk shows embraced the statement eye. Everyone from Marchesa to Marios Schwab offered a modern interpretation of the Indian bride’s make-up. Whether smudged seductively in the inner rim or swiped in a fierce slash under the eye, kohl oozed Bollywood glamour amid fashionable circles this year. But it’s not just the Indian woman’s reliance on ‘look at me’ liner that’s recently enticed the beauty industry, there’s also the skill of perfectly groomed eyebrows. Thick, dark and perfectly arched, the brow du jour is distinctly Asian and can be achieved using the ancient art of threading. A natural method of hair removal in India, the cotton thread is twisted and rolled over the skin to grab and pull hair by the root. The process is quicker and more precise than waxing. Add a dark brown powder to the brow for more definition and voila – your eyes are more expressive than Aishwarya Rai’s. For long, lustrous locks, copy the Bollywood look by massaging your head with pure coconut or almond oil – this helps boost circulation and improve the hair’s overall health. Henna is then added for
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rich colour, while regular blow dries guarantee groomed, bouncy locks. Obsessed with the uneven pigmentation that comes from too much exposure to UV rays, sunblock and brightening products have become ‘must-haves’ for many Indian women. But they have one more secret to their facial armoury – Ayurveda. This ancient form of medicine has some proven tricks to make skin clear, soft and radiant without loading it up with chemicals. To keep dry skin, thinning hair and brittle nails at bay, you need to eat plenty of vegetables and foods that have natural, healthy fats like nuts and seeds. Stay hydrated with fresh ginger and lemon tea and release stress with yogic breathing. Finally, for some added Bollywood glamour, try wearing the bindi on your forehead. Traditionally used by followers of Hinduism to strengthen concentration and protect the wearer from bad luck, this decorative drop has become tres popular thanks to the endorsement of pop stars like Gwen Stefani, Madonna and Katy Perry. Sticker bindis are adorned with everything from rhinestones to sequins and have become a disposable substitute for the older and more traditional tilaks.
Beauty
Fashion
My Hood
Cars
Wi-Fi
CARS AND OUTDOORS
Divine Water
It’s been billed as the greatest gathering on Earth – millions of pilgrims wash away their sins at Kumbh Mela
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OUTDOORS
My Hood
Cars
Wi-Fi
OUTDOORS
CLEANSE THE SOUL
100 MILLION WILL BATHE IN THE SACRED WATERS Words: Kate Ginn
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n the northern Indian state of Allahabad something extraordinary is happening. A mesmerising mass of humanity is gathering, an ocean of people. The numbers swell each day to such levels as to become too large for the mind to comprehend. Imagine imagine such a huge collection of people in one place at the same time. This is Kumbh Mela, the mass Hindu pilgrimage of faith billed as the ‘biggest gathering on Earth’, in which Hindus assemble at a sacred river to bathe in the waters. Tens of millions of pilgrims make the trek. Trying to gauge exactly how many, however, is no easy task. There is no scientific method of ascertaining the numbers of pilgrims, approximates have to do. The last Kumbh Mela held in 2010 in Haridwar, was estimated by the authorities to have attracted up to 70 million people. In 2001, an incredible 25 million people were believed to have bathed in the water during a 36-hour period. Of all the four holy sites where the event is held, Allahabad is the largest and holiest of them all, due to its position at the sacred union of the rivers Ganges, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. It is estimated that more than 100 million will attend Kumbh Mela 2013. People started arriving in Allahabad (or Prayag, ‘place of sacrifice’) on January 14, the start of the 55-day festival. These tens of millions are coming for one main thing, to observe Shahi Snan (bathing) for purification from sin, and today (Feb 6) is one of the auspicious bathing dates, Ekadashi Snan, when the moon is either
closest or furthest from the earth. Devotees believe that by simply taking a dip in the water, they will be freed from their past sins and misdemeanors, and so become eligible for liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Crammed by the edge of the river, 20 or 30 deep, people wait patiently or clamour for their moment in the water, their moment of redemption; the feeling of divinity, of cleansing the soul, of
It attracts not just Hindu pilgrims from around the world but tourists and travellers, drawn by the monumental scale of Kumbh Mela. The British historian Michael Wood, who attended the mela in 2001 with his wife and two young daughters, told the BBC of the “extraordinary experience of being in the midst of an event on a scale that you would not witness anywhere else on earth.” They joined the canvas city, a vast
Fact Box Kumbh means a pitcher and Mela means fair in Hindi. The mela is held in four places where it is believed that drops of nectar fell from the Kumbh carried by the gods after the sea was churned. The four holy sites are Hardwar, Allahabad, Nasik and Ujjain. The times when the sadhus bathe is known as the Royal Bath. The earliest written accounts of the Kumbh Mela are 602-664 A.D. During the 1954 Kumbh Mela stampede at Allahabad, around 500 people were killed and scores injured. So far this year, 19 devotees including six women and three children were injured in a fire at one of the ashrams.
washing away the bad with a flow of pure goodness. There are other ancient rituals to observe, religious discussions, devotional singing, mass feeding of holy men and the poor, and religious assemblies where doctrines are debated and standardised.
encampment where pilgrims jostle for space to pitch a little home for the duration of their stay. Along the road approaching Allahabad, tents can be seen stretching as far as the eye can see. During the Kumbh Mela, this part of Allahabad takes on a life of
its own, moving and shaping into an ephemeral community, a settlement of devotees, transient travellers, the curious and the nomadic. Traders set up stalls on the way down to the Sangam, the junction of the rivers, selling chai, bottled water and cheap souvenirs. Booksellers, barbers and astrologers set up shop, waiting to tell your fortune while your hair is trimmed. Others simply spread cloths on the ground to showcase their wares to the passing mass of trade. Shyam Kaladi, a Y reader who has attended a Kumbh Mela, said: “It’s hard to explain the sound and feel you get being there, being part of the largest human gathering on earth. “There is the excitement of getting to meet hundreds of Naga Sadhus (holy men) and observe them.” In Hinduism, a sadhu is a wandering monk, who renounces all worldly goods and lives a monastic life in caves, forest and temples all over India and Nepal. Naked (or ‘sky clad’) Naga Sadhus are non-shaven, wearing their hair in thick dreadlocks, and devout followers of the god Shiva. As quickly as the city of pilgrims come together, they will have dispersed by March 10, the end of the Mela. The makeshift city of tents will all be packed away, the stalls and traders long gone with their rupees, the Naga Sadhus moved on, the solid lump of human spiritual solidarity scattering and returning to their respective lives. Until that is, 2016 and the next Kumbh Mela at Ujjain, an ancient city in central India. FEB 06 – FEB 12 / ISSUE 256
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From Slumdogs to millionaries, the city of Mumbai has it all and so much more Words: Kate Ginn
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The city was officially renamed Mumbai in 1995. (The name, according to some, is derived from the Hindu goddess Mumbadevi.) There’s a saying in India that everybody who goes to Mumbai leaves having made something – of themselves, or their lives or money. The belief is if you work hard enough you will be rewarded. It has also been said by those who have lived there that it has a similar feel to New York, the same permanent buzz of activity in the air, the sense of it being a place always on the move, always changing. And just like the Apple, it is built on an island-peninsula with a magnificent shoreline. Its business opportunities and potentially high standard of living attract migrants from all over India, creating a melting pot of communities and cultures. Go to the Victoria Terminus (VT) (renamed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus or CST), the city’s railway station, and you can watch wide-eyed youngsters arriving from rural India clutching a small suitcase and their dreams of making it big, say locals. Most will end up working in one of the call centres servicing a British or American bank. In the newer suburbs, modern buildings dominate the skyline. In 2009, there were 956 skyscrapers in Mumbai and another 272 under construction. The architectural flavour of the British colonial era remains, from the iconic Victorian-era Taj Mahal Hotel – attacked by terrorists in 2008 – to the horse and carriages offering tourist rides outside The Gateway of India, the arch
Chowpatti, and vibrant nightlife.
monument built during the British Raj overlooking the Arabian Sea. Once the centre of the textile industry, Mumbai reinvented itself as a hub for the service industries and as a major player in IT. Mumbaikars, as locals are called, often spend hours commuting to and from their work, facing a daily battle of heavily congested roads, packed buses and a suburban train network without air conditioning. This is overcrowding taken to a new level. During peak hours, ninecar trains built to take a capacity of 1,700 passengers actually carry around 4,500 passengers. If memories linger of the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks, in which 164 people were killed in 12 coordinated shooting and bombing attacks, it’s well hidden. Visitors can enjoy a cosmopolitan vibe of designer shops, beaches (although most are polluted) such as
The contrasting faces of Mumbai can be no better illustrated than the tales of Dharavi and Antilia. Dharavi once had the dubious honour of being the biggest slum in Asia and was used as the backdrop for filming Slumdog Millionaire. It is home to up to one million people. Not far away is Antilia, the most expensive house in the world. The billion-dollar 27-storey block built for India’s richest man, Mukesh Ambani, dominates the skyline. It’s an ostentatious show of wealth in a country where most people live on less than $2 (RO0.76).
HOW TO GET THERE
travel guide
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ow to adequately encapsulate all that is Mumbai within these two pages? It’s some task. This, after all, is the ‘City of Dreams, ‘The City that Never Sleeps’, the most populous city in India and fourth in the world. It’s growing so fast that by the time you finish reading this article, another skyscraper will have been finished or work started on one. It has a skyline that’s starting to look like Manhattan and an attitude to match. Even better, it’s just a two-and-a-half hour flight from Muscat, making it accessible enough for a weekend break, closer even than driving to Dubai. Little wonder this bustling metropolis has muscled its way to recognition on a global scale, Slumdog Millionaire or no Slumdog Millionaire. First of all, let’s get SDM out of the way. The 2008 British film set in Mumbai telling the story of a young man who appears on the Indian version of Who Wants to Be A Millionaire? was a phenomenal success, taking over $377 million (RO145m) worldwide and winning eight Oscars, including Best Picture, and making a star of the city. Yes, it catapulted Mumbai into the world’s consciousness but frankly Mumbai was already a world-class metropolis with a million stories to tell without the assistance of a film. With an estimated metropolitan population of 21 million (2005), Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra state, is a huge sprawl of humanity. It’s the commercial capital of India, one of the most predominant port cities in the country and the most fashionable. The jewel in its crown is Bollywood, the centre of the globally influential Hindi film and TV industries. It is also a city of contrasts: the wealthiest in India live here along with India’s largest slum population.
Flying time from Muscat to Mumbai is approximately two hours and 30 minutes. Airlines Oman Air, Gulf Air, Air India, Airways and IndiGo GPS Jet location all offer non-stop flights. Return of junction towith IndiGo flights from OR92 Bammah is : : Air, and OR144 with Oman including taxes.E59’08’45 N22’58’23
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RUWI
Photos by Jerzy Wierzbicki
The LowDown
For business, shopping and fast food, there is no place quite like it. The traffic and crowds can get to you but at least there are many brightly coloured distractions
The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
Shopaholics will be in retail paradise with all the little backstreet shops where a bargain can be found if you’re in the market for fabrics, souvenirs or a cheap Indian meal. It’s not perhaps as picturesque as other residential areas and can feel crowded. Traffic congestion can be exasperating to say the least and current roadworks in the area have sent driver stress levels soaring off the scale.
Living There It’s hard to imagine that less than 30 years ago, Wadi Kabir, the valley in which Ruwi lies, was more like a sleepy village. Today, it’s bursting with life and vitality with an authentic Indian thread running through the whole district. Wherever you may live in the district, you’re never far away from a school, hospital or shop, with everything and anything all within a convenient distance. The Pakistan School Muscat is here, although there are no education facilities that cater to western expatriates. With so many residents, it can feel crowded, so if you like a sense of space or splendid isolation, Ruwi is definitely not for you. One of the greatest complaints in Ruwi is that it can be noisy due to congestion. However, from a good height in a building, Ruwi is home to some spectacular views. Traffic is a nightmare during rush hour and as for finding a parking space, let’s not even go there. 042
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Not for nothing is Ruwi known as ‘Little India’. It’s home to a large Indian expat population and a vibrant community of restaurants and shops offering a taste of the subcontinent. Low-cost accommodation makes it a big draw for families with a plentiful supply of apartments and, to lesser extent villas, to choose from. It really comes into its own at night when Ruwi High Street comes alive, bustling with activity. It’s also where the Central Business District (CBD) is located, along with some heavyweight financial institutions. One of the oldest parts of Muscat, Ruwi was known for its narrow streets and old buildings some of which were demolished in the 1970s to make way for more contemporary structures.
Cars Why I live here: Everything is within easy reach, you just step out of your house and it’s all there. There’s a strong authentic Indian feel. In some parts of Ruwi, you wouldn’t know that you’re in Oman, it looks and feels like India. At the same time, it’s very homely and safe. – Helen Greene, teacher
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Places of Interest While it’s not a tourist hotspot, Ruwi still has much to offer for those willing to take time to wander its streets. The tallest building in the area and an architectural landmark, the Sheraton of Oman, is currently closed for refurbishment but you can still take in the Sultan Qaboos Mosque (not to be confused with the more majestic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque) and The National Museum and Islamic Library, where you can see displays of jewellery, costumes and a collection of boats celebrating Oman’s seafaring heritage. The central bus station, where you can get a ride to Dubai and beyond, is also here, along with the main taxi station. If things military float your boat, the Sultan’s Armed Forces Museum is housed in the Bait Al Falaj (in the army base). The Central Bank of Oman still has its headquarters here, although Bank Muscat has recently moved to a swanky new hub near Muscat International Airport. Muttrah Souq & Fish Market, the Sultan’s Palace and the Bait Al Zubair are only a 10-minute taxi drive away.
It’s well worth the trip to Ruwi to experience the myriad restaurants offering a taste of India and every other type of cuisine. However, the most famous eaterie in the area, The Golden Oryx, is renowned for having the best Chinese food in Muscat, attracting customers from afar for more than 25 years. If your budget is a more modest, you can get a decent curry or shawarma for a couple of riyals from the plentiful roadside Indian and Arabic restaurants and stalls. For your Bollywood fix, Star Cinema shows Indian and Arabic film releases, while City Cinema has some of the big Hollywood films. Muscat’s first Japanese restaurant, Tokyo Taro, is in the Al Falaj Hotel, which also lays claim to opening the first automobilethemed establishment in Oman, the unique Nuts & Bolts, which celebrates all things automotive.
Shopping Apart from the large LuLu Centre, there may not be a shopping mall as such in Ruwi but who needs one when it’s packed to bursting point with little shops offering anything the heart desires. It’s fantastic for little fabric stores, jewellery and cheap clothing and sunglasses. Hours can easily pass exploring the charming backstreets where those with an eye for a bargain can rifle through knick-knacks. The Ruwi Souq (High Street) is the place to go for anything from souvenirs to diamond rings. It’s also said that this is the place for top quality fake designer items. As the sun goes down, the real Ruwi shows itself as people emerge to eat and shop and the streets are where the socialising happens. FEB 06 – FEB 12 / ISSUE 256
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BLINGER RINGER
There isn’t enough money in the Monopoly box to buy some of these diamond encrusted phones, discovers Penny Fray.
THE TECH IN YOU
Diamond Rose iPhone 4 – RO3 million This iPhone is one of the world’s most expensive handsets thanks to the fact that it’s made from more than 500 flawless diamonds and the main navigation panel is made from platinum, featuring a single 7.4-carat pink sparkler available from stuarthughes.com.
Goldvish Revolution from RO200,000 The body of this bling-tastic gold phone is covered with diamonds and features a watch movement by Frederic Jouvenot. What it lacks in phone technology, it makes up with in jewels.
Vertu Signature – from RO2,000 Made from polished 18-carat red gold, white diamonds and a polished crystal face with designer graphics, this is the ultimate smartphone. This seriously luxe range from Vertu is available from Khimji’s Watches in Shatti Al Qurum.
MUST BUYS Calling all ageing rockers and music aficionados - bring your library right up to date with the ION iLP conversion turntable. The built-in dock allows you to transfer all of your vinyl music directly to your iPad, iPhone or iPod using the included EZ Vinyl and Tape Converter. This is a must have item for anyone who loves vinyl but doesn’t have a record player. Available from RO60 at ion.com
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Standing ‘upside-down’, this Lakeland mill won’t scatter its contents everywhere, while the see-through glass reservoir has a wide neck for easy filling. With ceramic grinders that adjust from fine to coarse, this is essential for all curry cooks at RO6.
FIND OUT WHAT’S HIP & HAPPENING IN GADGETS
NEW! PEBBLE E-PAPER WATCH Pebble connects to iPhone and Android smartphones using Bluetooth, alerting you with a silent vibration to incoming calls, emails and messages. It displays live Twitter updates, calendar reminders, text messages and is available in five colours. Cyclists can use Pebble as a bike computer, accessing the GPS on their smartphone to display speed, distance and pace data. Runners get a similar set of information displayed on their wrist. Pebble’s watch face can change instantly, thanks to its brilliant, outdoor-readable electronic-paper display. Available for less than OR60 from www.getpebble.com
APP OF THE WEEK
Put safety first. DriveScribe is a free app that monitors a driver’s speed and blocks calls as well as text messages while a car is in motion.
THE GIRLY GADGET
A good eyelash curler instantly lifts eyes, making them look bigger and more beautiful without lashings and lashings of mascara. That’s why this RO15 eye-curler from Panasonic is the perfect accessory for any Bollywood babe worth her weight in bling. Thanks to its rotating action, it curls lashes in a safe and comfortable way –no pinching or squeezing!
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Mercedes Benz ML 63 AMG Top Speed: 250kph 0-100km/h: 4.8sec Engine: V8 biturbo 5.5 litres Horsepower: 550
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Car of the week
The award-winning Mercedes Benz ML 63 AMG is a smooth and seriously powerful drive
Mercedes Benz ML 63 AMG
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Sports suspension with Airmatic air springs, independent damper struts, automatic level control and Adaptive Damping System (ADS) Active Curve System, which provides active roll stabilisation High-performance braking system with high-fade resistance, including ventilated and perforated brake discs Five-spoke, 20-inch alloy wheels coated in titanium grey high-gloss finish, and 265mm wheel base /R20 tyres High-tech safety system including Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Pre-Safe, which charges the brakes when it detects an impending impact Attention Assist – advanced driver profile system detects erratic driving and audibly suggests a driving break.
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he Mercedes-Benz M-Class swept the Middle East Motor Awards in November in the SUV class, taking Best Premium Large SUV for the ML 350 and Best Performance SUV for the new ML 63 AMG, the latter against the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8. It’s not hard to see why. The much garlanded ML 63 AMG 2013 has been praised for its ultra-smooth driving experience, spacious and luxurious interiors, distinctive design and exceptional safety features. The 5.5-litre twin turbo V8 engine reaches 525 horse power and 516 pounds per feet of torque. And that’s without the optional Performance Package that will increase its equine kick to 550 and twist to 560 pounds-feet. With all this extra heft under the bonnet, the new model’s engine still manages to improve fuel economy
by 33 per cent compared to the outgoing 6.2 litre model, although it still drinks hungrily. The seven-speed automatic transmission – AMG Speedshift Plus – comes with three driving programmes, including a Controlled Efficiency mode that saves on fuel with smart settings, often starting in second gear and skipping first altogether. This eco mode also automatically stops the engine when the car is stationary. The other modes are Sports and Manual. To distinguish it from other not quite so fearsome Mercedes marques, the ML 63 AMG sports distinctive front and rear fascias, side skirts and a sleak-looking front fender. Inside, the cabin comfortably seats five, and is kitted out with expensive leather, aluminum trim and double topstitching. Whether inside or out, the Mercedes Benz ML 63 is a star performer.