NewsP4U

du unveils entertainment platform du Live!

2011-03-01T04:36:00.000-08:00

Special performances brought to life by du include Africa’s ‘Artist of the Year’ Tamer Hosny, guitar legend Eric Clapton, Tiesto, Atif Aslam, the epically talented Stevie Wonder and popular DJ Tiesto among others, as part of its sponsorship with Flash Events and Chill Out Productions

Whatever your choice in music, now you have a reason to celebrate. With ‘du Live!’ (http://www.du.ae/en/about/events/du-live), du’s new entertainment platform, the best music events and concerts will now be presented in a ‘live’ format throughout the year, including the first-ever World Music Festival, in association with Nokia.

du is also supporting a series of hotly awaited music events and concerts taking place over the next few weeks, which started with legendary guitarist Eric Clapton on February 11, followed by the popular DJ Tiesto on 17 February, and will be followed by 30 Seconds to Mars on 11 March, the epic Stevie Wonder on 18 March, as part of du’s sponsorship with Flash Events and Chill Out Productions.

Amit

du World Music Festival will take place at the Burj Khalifa steps in Downtown Dubai and The Walk in JBR from upto March 25, with performances by top-class artists from around the world such as Tamer Hosny, Mona Amarcha, Janet Kapuya, Mashrou’ Leila, Amit Chatterjee Alliance, Spongecola, Wust el Balad and many more!

“Music is an important aspect of every culture, and is the common language across all regions and nationalities. It brings a great deal of pleasure and comfort to those that listen to it. For this reason – true to our philosophy of adding life to life — we are introducing the theme ‘du Live!’ that will keep music lovers engaged and entertained through our numerous events — such as our World Music Festival,” commented Farid Faraidooni, Chief Commercial Officer, du.

Mashrou’ Leila

As part of the Skywards Dubai International Jazz Festival 2011, du was also the Official Sponsor for this year’s much-loved du Jazz Garden – which took place from Feb 8 to 15 — featuring British and International bands, in addition to supporting the exciting main Jazz Festival from Feb 16 to 18. The unique venue for these events, located in Dubai Media City, featured two stages, an arts and crafts bazaar, an exclusive VIP area and many other activities.

Rabbi

About the artists performing at the du World Music Festival

Among the talented international music bands coming to perform during du World Music Festival are Mashrou’ Leila, the new sensation from Lebanon attracting audience from all walks of life around the region, Wust El Balad — arguably the best fusion band in Egypt, celebrated Kuwaiti Arabic fusion guitarist — Kamal Musallam; Pakistani artist Sanam Marvi, Amit Chatterjee Alliance — a well-established US fusion band with strong Indian influence, Black Ghandis, Barcelona based Reggae superstars, Spongecola — the Filipino rock uber-band, Tunisian fusion legend Mounir Troudi accompanied by the highly appraised Lebanese Jazz/Fusion masters the Afif Brothers, India's most commended Blues and Rock ‘n Roll band Soulmate, Mona Amarcha, HFT, Rabbi Shergill, Miyah (Desert Heat), and the Uruguayan Tango diva, Janet Kapuya.

Also performing will be the sensational Tamer Hosny – live in concert, offering fans the chance to enjoy an exciting special performance by the talented star, voted artist of the year at the African Music Awards 2010. Hosny will be performing on March 25 at Burj Park, downtown Burj Khalifa.

Sponge Cola

Proving its commitment to providing the people with the very best in world-class entertainment, du has also supported a number of music events across the UAE. The company was the official telecom partner for Flash Entertainment’s Yasalam After-Race Concerts during the Formula One in Abu Dhabi, which saw performances by some of the biggest international stars, including Linkin Park, Kanye West, Prince, Sean Paul, Kelly Rowland, and Ahmed Al Sherif. du was also the official sponsor for Welsh singing sensation Tom Jones’ first-ever concert in the UAE.

Yogathon spreads awareness about Adopting Healthy Lifestyle

2011-03-01T04:17:00.000-08:00

Over 200 Participants Perform 108 Synchronised Rounds of Sun Salutations to Raise Funds for Dubai Autism Center

Fitness First, announced more than 200 enthusiasts participated in the ‘Fitness First Wellness Festival – Yogathon’.

Organised to spread awareness about adopting a healthy lifestyle, the event saw people from all walks of life enthusiastically joining the 108 rounds of sun salutation at the Safa Park.

Participants were also offered free blood glucose level screening under the ‘Beat Diabetes’ programme, a Landmark Group’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, along with the campaign’s medical partner Zulekha Hospital. The event was also used as a platform to raise funds for Dubai Autism Centre.

Gary Knill, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Fitness First, MENA, said: “At Fitness First, our continuous endeavour is to reach out to more people and educate them about the significance of adopting a healthy lifestyle. The overwhelming response to this event has encouraged us to offer many more similar platforms in the future and reach out to even more in the community. Fitness First is also privileged to donate the event’s proceeds to the Dubai Autism Centre.”

Type-2 diabetes, which is largely prevalent in the UAE, affects almost 20 per cent of the local population. Through its message ‘Beat Diabetes. Get Active’ Landmark Group seeks to support events that help spread awareness about leading an active, healthy lifestyle.

Bhuvana Acharya, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR, Landmark Group, said: “As a responsible corporate citizen in the region, Landmark Group believes it is imperative to spread awareness on diabetes and lead a healthy lifestyle. ‘Fitness First Wellness Festival - Yogathon’ is yet another step in the direction of persuading more people to adopt a healthy lifestyle and combat medical conditions including diabetes.”

Sun salutations are usually done early in the morning facing the sun as sunlight is a major source of vitamin D-producing ultraviolet B radiation that has a wide range of positive health effects. A 10-minute exercise provides a complete workout for mind and body. It also stimulates and conditions virtually every muscle in the body and helps eliminate toxins.

Fitness First conducts a variety of yoga classes such as Hatha Yoga, Dynamic Flow Yoga, Iyengar Yoga, Power Yoga and Gentle Flow Yoga to actively raise awareness on healthy living and as part of Fitness First initiatives.

Fitness First Wellness Festival - Yogathon

2011-02-16T03:34:00.000-08:00

On Friday, 25 February, wake up early and participate in the Fitness First Wellness Festival – Yogathon, organised in association with Landmark Group’s CSR initiative Beat Diabetes. Get Active.

Regional yoga trainer Peewee Sanchez
to head the Sun Salutation demonstration

Register at Gate No.2 - Safa Park at 7am to absorb the benefits of yoga from regional yoga trainer Peewee Sanchez and 15 other yoga instructors from Fitness First.

In addition to performing 108 continuous routines of the Sun Salutation exercise, participants can avail of the free blood glucose testing conducted by Zulekha Hospitals.

Fitness First and Beat Diabetes get active to host Yogathon

Registrations are open at all Fitness First outlets at a fee of Dhs45 for members and Dhs55 for non-members. Yoga enthusiasts can also register at the venue on Feb 25, prior to the event. Proceeds collected from the registration fees will be donated to the Dubai Autism Centre.

Yogathon Details:

· Registration at venue: 6.30am – 7.30am

· GX Demo: 7.30am – 8am

· Yogathon: 8am - 10am

· Kids yoga in conjunction with Dubai Autism Centre: 10.30am – 11.15am

Recycle your mobile phone to win an iPad from Jacky’s

2010-12-23T01:34:00.000-08:00

Jacky’s Electronics raises awareness on its Eco-exchange campaign via Facebook competition

Jacky’s Electronics, in connection with its Go Green campaign – ‘Eco-Exchange: Recycling that pays’ – is giving away an Apple iPad to one lucky Facebook Fan who will exchange his old mobile phone at any Jacky’s store. The old mobile phone could be in a working or non-working condition.

All Facebook fans of Jacky’s Electronics can enter the competition by taking interesting photos with a Jacky’s customer service executive whenever they exchange their mobile phones for a cash voucher from Dec. 20 to Jan. 19, 2011. Dubbed as ‘Go Green and win an iPad’, all photo entries must be uploaded on Jacky’s fan page – www.facebook.com/jackysuae/ – to get an entry into the draw for the Apple iPad.

“In October, we have enhanced our Go Green programme by launching the ‘Eco-Exchange’, which hopes to help in the proper disposal of electronic products in the country without any harmful environmental effects,” said Ashish Panjabi, Chief Operating Officer, Jacky’s Electronics. “Our partnership with The Green Foundation, a leading organisation specialised in electronics recycling, assures us that all devices including accessories are 100% reused or recycled to the highest industry standards through a strict zero landfill policy.

“This Facebook competition hopes to encourage more consumer awareness for recycling programmes such as this and to encourage recycling of old phones. The fact that you could be the proud owner of an iPad at the same time in addition to a cash voucher which you receive is a bonus for the customer,” he added.

Jacky’s Eco-Exchange scheme accepts up to five mobile phones in a single transaction as well as offers bulk recycling for larger quantities of mobile phones. In addition, customers can trade in their devices in whatever brand or condition. Jacky’s is offering value for non-working mobile phones, and if no value is available, the phones will still be recycled free of charge.

“As the region’s full service recycling company, we are focused on partnering with leading electronic retailers in the UAE to ensure that all electrical items are recycled to the highest industry standards. With Jacky’s Electronics’ significant fans on Facebook, we are able to promote the recycling of electronic products which are generally being set aside by users,” Dominic Gothard, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, The Green Foundation said.

All registered Facebook users should become a fan of Jacky’s Electronics page and post their photos with a Customer Service Executive every time they exchange their old mobile phones at any Jacky’s outlets in the UAE. For the official competition rules, please visit: http://www.facebook.com/jackysuae/.

RIM unveils BlackBerry Bold 9780 smartphone in UAE

2010-12-23T01:15:00.000-08:00

Research In Motion (RIM) announced the BlackBerry Bold 9780 smartphone for customers in the United Arab Emirates.

BlackBerry Bold 9780

As the newest addition to the BlackBerry Bold series of smartphones, the BlackBerry Bold 9780 is a compact and stylish smartphone that offers a compelling blend of features, performance and design. It supports 3G networks around the world, includes Wi-Fi and GPS for location-based applications and geo-tagging. It comes with a 5MP camera with a full complement of high-end features including continuous auto focus, scene modes, image stabilisation, flash and video recording. The new smartphone also provides 512MB Flash memory and an expandable memory card slot that supports up to 32GB of additional storage.

The BlackBerry Bold 9780 is the first BlackBerry Bold smartphone to come with the new BlackBerry 6 operating system, which retains the familiar and trusted features that distinguish the BlackBerry brand while delivering a fresh, approachable and engaging experience that’s powerful and easy to use. It integrates a new and rich WebKit-based browser that renders HTML web pages quickly and beautifully for a great browsing experience. The browser offers fluid navigation using the handset's optical trackpad, includes tabs for accessing multiple sites simultaneously and provides a zoom feature that can intelligently auto-wrap text in a column while maintaining the placement of a page's key elements for easier viewing.

The BlackBerry Bold 9780 smartphone will be available from Etisalat, du and leading UAE retailers.

Research In Motion introduces three new BlackBerry smartphones in UAE

2010-11-24T10:32:00.000-08:00

Research in Motion (RIM), the designer and manufacturer of BlackBerry smartphones, recently celebrated its exciting new product and service introductions to the UAE, including the arrival of three new BlackBerry smartphones at Prive in the Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa, Dubai.

BlackBerry Pearl 3G: This powerful smartphone is compact, smooth and un-put-downable. It lets you chat in real time, not next time, with BlackBerry Messenger and listen to music for upto 30 hours. There's a flash on the camera, apps and even BlackBerry Maps with GPS in case your best friends are really bad with directions.

BlackBerry Torch 9800: The new BlackBerry Torch 9800 features a full-size touch screen on enhanced media player, 5MP camera with flash and apps to download to your hearts desire. In addition it comes with a combined 8 GB of media storage out-of-the-box and includes a microSD/SDHD memory card slot that can bring the total storage memory to 36 GB for customers that want more.

Blackberry Curve 3G: The new Blackberry Curve 3G smartphone is fully and completely dedicated to helping you master your everyday. It is better for browsing, fast attachment viewing, quicker downloading etc. With 3G you can talk and surf at the same time, so multitasking is even easier. Wi-Fi helps you stay connected wherever you are. And with built-in-GPS, wherever is remarkably easy to find. In fact, navigating with GPS is almost as effortless as navigating the BlackBerry curve 3G with touch-sensitive optical trackpad.

RIM Unleashes BlackBerry 6

2010-11-21T09:37:00.000-08:00

Research In Motion (RIM) recently announced BlackBerry® 6, a new operating system for BlackBerry® smartphones that retains the trusted connectivity features that distinguish the BlackBerry brand while delivering a fresh, approachable and engaging experience that is both powerful and easy to use. BlackBerry 6 features a redesigned interface that seamlessly works with a touch screen and trackpad, expanded messaging capabilities that simplify managing social media and RSS feeds, an advanced multimedia experience that rivals the best in the industry, a convenient new Universal Search tool, and a new and efficient WebKit-based browser that renders web pages quickly and beautifully for a great browsing experience.

“BlackBerry 6 is the outcome of RIM’s ongoing passion to deliver a powerful, simplified and optimised user experience for both touch screen and keyboard fans,” said Mike Lazaridis, president and co-ceo, Research In Motion. “Following extensive research and development to address consumer needs and wants, we are delivering a communications, browsing and multimedia experience that we think users will love, and we are thrilled to debut BlackBerry 6 on the amazing new BlackBerry Torch smartphone.”

Visual, Fluid Interface
BlackBerry 6 has been redesigned making it easier and more intuitive, with clean, sleek visuals and natural, fluid navigation. Designed to be both fresh and familiar, the new interface enables a productive, fun and highly satisfying user experience whether using a touch screen or trackpad and keyboard.

Fast Rich Web Browsing
BlackBerry 6 integrates a new and efficient WebKit-based browser that renders web pages (as well as email) quickly and beautifully for a great browsing experience. It features tabs for accessing multiple sites simultaneously, a double-tap to zoom feature that can intelligently wrap text in a column while maintaining the placement of a page's key elements, and pinch to zoom.

Social Feeds and Text Messaging
The new Social Feeds application simplifies the management of social networking and RSS feeds and provides integrated access to the native BlackBerry® Messenger (BBM™), Facebook®, Twitter™, MySpace™, AOL® Instant Messenger™, Google Talk™, Windows Live™ Messenger and Yahoo!® Messenger applications for BlackBerry smartphones. Social Feeds streamlines the user experience, provides an integrated view of friends’ activities across multiple social networks, and let's users post updates across multiple networks simultaneously. Users can also easily add their favorite RSS Feeds from the Social Feeds application or directly from a website while browsing.

Engaging Multimedia Experience

The multimedia experience in BlackBerry 6 is designed to give users a more engaging and streamlined experience with album art everywhere in the new music and video players. The new BlackBerry® Desktop Software 6 integrates media sync for easily syncing photos and videos as well as iTunes® and Windows Media® Player music with the smartphone*.

Compatibility with Existing BlackBerry Smartphones
BlackBerry 6 will debut on the new BlackBerry® Torch™ smartphone (announced recently) available from AT&T on August 12 and it is also designed to run on select BlackBerry smartphones already in market. Subject to carrier certifications in the months ahead, the new OS is expected to be available for the BlackBerry® Bold™ 9700, BlackBerry® Bold™ 9650 and BlackBerry® Pearl™ 3G, as well as future BlackBerry smartphones.

Haider sets off journey through emirates on solar powered wheelchair

2010-11-21T09:08:00.000-08:00

Haidar Taleb receives the Guinness World Record certificate

Guinness World Record holder Haidar Taleb will set off tomorrow (Nov., 22, 2010) on a journey that will take him across all seven emirates in a solar-powered wheel chair. Haidar, a 47-year-old-Emirati, who built and designed the wheelchair himself, will travel more than 350km to promote innovation and renewable energy across the UAE in the run up to the National Day.

Starting in Fujairah, his 11-day journey will take him to schools, universities, police stations, and social centers for people with disabilities, before he finishes in Abu Dhabi’s Corniche on Dec. 2. Haider’s journey is sponsored by Masdar, Abu Dhabi's renewable energy initiative.

Haidar rose to national fame after setting a Guinness World Record for the longest distance travelled in a motorised solar-powered wheelchair, when he travelled 14 hours non-stop from Masdar City to Sharjah on Nov 11.

“With this journey I hope to raise awareness of disability and sustainability, as well as what we can achieve as individuals if we have the courage and determination to try. When we have this determination, there are no limits to our creativity. That is the message I want to spread,” said Haidar. “I set off in the hope of inspiring people across the UAE, but it is the overwhelming support I have already received that will be my inspiration until I reach Abu Dhabi.”

Haidar has already travelled part of the UAE with his first prototype of the solar-powered wheelchair, which he presented to the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL), a Masdar Institute initiative - part of the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) in 2010. Haidar will also participate as a speaker in next year’s YFEL in January 2011.

“With my upgraded solar-powered wheelchair, developed with Masdar’s support, I want to visit the seven emirates to demonstrate the value of renewable energy and sustainability,” Haidar said. “Investing time and effort to develop green technologies is very rewarding on different fronts. I believe there is a lot of talent in the UAE and one of the best ways to celebrate the National Day is by demonstrating what we are capable of achieving.”

TBS launches Cartoon Network Arabic 24/7 free-to-air channel

2010-10-15T00:41:00.000-07:00

Turner Broadcasting System Europe Limited (TBS), a Time Warner company, launches its free-to-air Cartoon Network in Arabic recently in a function held at Media One Hotel, Media City, Dubai. TBS regional officials and celebrities attended the official inauguration. The channel, broadcasting completely in Arabic across the MENA region, will feature over 500 episodes of the kids’ most popular shows including: Ben 10, Powerpuff Girls, Dexter’s Laboratory, Samurai Jack, Ben and Izzy and Fosters Home for Imaginary Friends, in addition to the Middle East’s popular 3D animation series, FREEJ.

The launch coincides with the opening of Turner Broadcasting System’s offices in Dubai Media City, the region’s leading media hub and a member of TECOM Investments.

With a reach of a potential 35 million homes in the MENA region, the new channel will be launched to target the growing audience base who are dedicated followers of Cartoon Network through airing locally produced shows, blockbuster movies and original productions.

In commemorating this announcement, Alan Musa, Turner Broadcasting System Europe Ltd. Vice President and General Manager, Middle East, Africa & Pan Region said: “Cartoon Network Arabic reflects TBS’s ambition and belief in local talent. Our initiative has come to life through investing in different strategic partnerships with companies such as ‘Lammtara’ and ‘Rubicon’. Both partnerships will result in generating new ideas and content in addition to distributing them outside the MENA region.”

Under the deal with Lammtara, the studio and creator of FREEJ, Turner will license and distribute FREEJ episodes and merchandise, and produce a local version of its original production, Skatoony, which will feature FREEJ characters, a first for the global animated channel. Rubicon Group, the creator of ‘Tareq wa Shireen’ and ‘Ben and Izzy will be working with Turner to air these series on Cartoon Network.

“We are thrilled to work with prestigious names such as Turner Broadcasting System and Cartoon Network. Their efforts and determination to create localised high quality content is admired and will be recognised amongst the industry. We are confident that our relationship with TBS will create new and innovative opportunities in the future.” says Mohammed Saeed Harib, Creator and Director of FREEJ.

Mohammad Abdullah, Managing Director of TECOM Investments’ Media Cluster, said: “We welcome Turner Broadcasting Systems to TECOM Media Cluster with the launch of its free-to-air Cartoon Network Channel in Arabic. This is particularly noteworthy as Turner will focus on original content creation for the channel in collaboration with regional companies. There is a huge demand for locally produced content and we believe this initiative will add definite value to the Arab media industry.

TBS’s efforts in publicizing and marketing Cartoon Network Arabic have manifested itself through various communication channels such as Print, broadcast and online. In addition to traditional media, community campaigns are being carried out throughout the region focusing on schools and mall visits to raise awareness among the targeted audience and educate them about the new channel and programs it will air.

Moreover, a website dedicated to the new channel was launched to provide detailed and up-to-date information about the channel and its shows.

Jacky’s Electronics and AMD announce Facebook winners

2010-10-15T00:17:00.000-07:00

Jacky’s Electronics, the UAE’s leading multi-brand consumer electronics retailer, and Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD) Middle East, have declared Naveen Kumar as the winner of their latest collaborative Facebook competition dubbed 'Every Store Counts' which concluded on Oct.10.

The event was held at Jacky’s Electronics, Mirdif City Centre, Dubai. Ashish Punjabi, chief operating officer, Jacky’s Electronics and Bernard Biolchini, AMD Vice President Sales and GM, Middle East, Turkey & North Africa were present at the event.

The winner Naveen Kumar, who visited 10 out of 11 Jacky’s outlets across the UAE, received an Acer notebook powered by AMD VISION Technology. Among the runners-up from the competition were Analyn Placides, Manu Gopal and Karen D’Souza. AMD Middle East selected the winners from participants who posted the most creative photo among the entries.

For more updates on the latest gadgets and technologies, please visit Jacky’s Electronics’ fanpage on www.facebook.com/jackysuae/

Alauddinte Adbhuthavilakku on Asianet

2010-10-08T01:07:00.000-07:00

Airing Time: Monday To Friday at 9.30

The new serial Alauddinte Adbhuthavilakku, started airing from October 4, depicts the classic Arabian tale of Aladdin and his magic lamp.

It begins with the story of Aladdin's forbearers and then goes on to depict Aladdin's story — his quest for the lamp, the strange events that happen to him while on the quest and how he must fight to keep the lamp and the genie from getting into the wrong hands.

Jacky’s and AMD launches latest Facebook competition ‘Every Store Counts’

2010-10-07T06:36:00.000-07:00

Wild hunts for the AMD staff are happening across all Jacky’s outlets in the UAE to win the newest personal computer with AMD VISION Technology.

Jacky’s Electronics and AMD Middle East, have launched the latest Facebook competition dubbed as ‘Every Store Counts’ from Oct 3 to Oct. 9. Fans must visit any Jacky’s store and look for a staff member wearing an AMD VISION t-shirt and take funky pictures of themselves with the so-called ‘AMD Visionary’ staff.

All Facebook users from the UAE and fans of Jacky’s Electronics can enter the competition. Participants must visit the Jacky’s Electronics Facebook page, and post their entries on the said fan page www.facebook.com/jackysuae/. Fans may post as many entries taken from different outlets. The more photos taken at various outlets mean the more chances of winning. Official contest rules are posted on the fan page’s competition tab.

AMD Middle East will select the most creative photo among the entries to receive a PC with VISION Technology from AMD. The winner will be announced on Oct. 10 in an award ceremony at the Jacky’s Mirdif City Centre outlet.

“Facebook is an effective way to directly communicate with our customers. Through our fan page, we manage to update and inform our loyal customers on the latest products available in the market as well as knowing their feedback on our services,” said Ashish Panjabi, Chief Operating Officer, Jacky’s Electronics.

“Holding competitions on a regular basis allows us to reward our fans with the newest gadgets such as an Apple iPad, Sony Ericsson Xperia and HP Envy Notebook. Together with AMD, we are giving away a computer powered by VISION Technology, a combination of cutting edge processing and video power for a remarkably vivid visual experience,” he added.

VISION Technology from AMD simplifies the PC buying process by embracing the contemporary ways in which consumers use PCs, rather than relying upon often confusing technical specifications. By combining powerful visual processing technologies, VISION Technology from AMD is ready to help consumers use their computers to enjoy high definition video entertainment, edit and share photos and video with friends, or collaborate and communicate online.

Bernard Biolchini, Vice President Sales & General Manager, AMD Middle East, Turkey & Africa said, “We are delighted to partner with Jacky’s for this Facebook competition. We believe that this social media activity will increase the awareness of AMD amongst the internet-savvy. This is only the beginning as customers will see more exciting activities from AMD and Jacky’s in the future”.

Jacky’s Electronics and HP Middle East announces Facebook competition winners

2010-09-23T11:32:00.000-07:00

Jacky’s Electronics and HP Middle East, who recently delighted shoppers with a range of great deals and promotions, announced the winner of Facebook competition in a press conference held at Jacky’s Electronics outlet Level 2, The Dubai Mall.

Raaghini Wazacz receiving her HP Envy Notebook

Ashish Panjabi, Jacky’s Electronics’ COO; Jimmy Patel, Jacky’s Electronics general manager and Suad Merchant, HP Middle East’s Retail and Trade marketing manager were present at the function.

Raaghini Wazacz won the latest HP Envy Notebook in the Facebook competition. The five runners-up were Mohammed Qubaisi, Joel Haddad, Hasina Nagaria, Abdul Mukit and Mudassar. HP Mini Raffle winners Purva Milind Khare, Renji M. Jacob, Ali Abdullah, Araman, Banschand, Min Guobring and Zuber Mohsen received HP Mini Netbooks.

3D enabled Blu-ray Disc Home Theatre Range from Sony

2010-09-04T05:57:00.000-07:00

Sony Gulf recently unveiled its latest 5.1 channel 3D-enabled Blu-ray Home Theatre Systems BDV-IZ1000 and BDV-E970W, and the 3D-enabled HT-CT350 and HT-CT150 3.1 channel sound bars.

The 5.1 channel surround systems feature Blu-ray Disc playback, DVD upscaling, the award winning XrossMediaBar XMB on-screen menu and Internet streaming, allowing access to a wide range of on-demand content and the latest cinematic technologies that allow consumers to experience the ultimate entertainment in their living rooms.

Both systems sport a slimline, minimalist look to match the stylish new BRAVIA(r) models. The Home Theatre Systems BDV-IZ1000W and BDV-E970W can play 3D content from Blu-ray via the latest 3D-enabled BRAVIA HDTVs. The first all-in-one home cinema systems, the two models from Sony can play high-definition 3D content from Blu-ray Disc, and can also access a world of online video entertainment from the BRAVIA Internet Video platform.

The Home Theatre Systems also include Entertainment Database Browser by Sony to access disc cover art, actor, and production information, as well as IP Content Noise Reduction technology and Precision Cinema HD Upscaling to improve standard definition and web video quality. Both systems are also DLNA Digital Living Network Alliance certified, enabling the system to stream content from a wide range of external devices that can be controlled with their own universal remote control or with an iPod touch or iPhone.

The BDV-IZ1000W and BDV-E970W are equipped with Sony's S-Master digital amplifier and both deliver 1000W power output. The BDV-IZ1000W delivers the full cinema experience via five ultra slim speakers, using a virtual 7.1 wireless rear speaker system, while with the BDV-E970W, a real 7.1 set-up is also possible with the wireless upgrade kit WAHT-SBP2. The BDV-E970W comes with four floor-standing main speakers for front and rear, left and right channels, a high-power subwoofer and a centre speaker as standard.

Linkin Park Go Live in Abu Dhabi

2010-09-04T05:49:00.000-07:00

FLASH Entertainment unveil top American rock band to headline at Yasalam 2010 concerts

FLASH Entertainment, the region’s premier live events company, recently announced double-Grammy Award winning rock band Linkin Park are confirmed as the act performing on November 13 as part of the Yasalam after-race concerts on Yas Island.

Originally from California, Linkin Park formed in 1996. They have since achieved critical and popular success with the albums Hybrid Theory, Meteora and Minutes to Midnight, as well as collaborations with artists such as Jay Z and Busta Rhymes. Last summer the band contributed to the score of the movie ’Transformers: Revenge Of The Fallen' which also featured the hit single ‘New Divide.’

John Lickrish, Managing Director, FLASH Entertainment, commented: “The FLASH team cannot wait to welcome Linkin Park to Yasalam 2010; the annual Formula 1 celebration programme in Abu Dhabi. Following the rock legacy of Aerosmith last year, Linkin Park will blow audiences away at the Yasalam After-Race concerts on Yas Island this year.”

Talking about Yasalam 2010, Chester Bennington of Linkin Park said: “We're looking forward to playing at the 2010 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Dhabi Grand Prix after-race concert this year. We can't wait to share our new music for our fans in Abu Dhabi.”

Yasalam, meaning wow, is the most diverse and ambitious city-wide entertainment programme ever seen by a Formula 1™ host city. The 2010 programme will offer a stunning line-up of entertainment on Abu Dhabi’s famous Corniche, Yas Island and across the Capital during the 2010 Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Further details of Yasalam 2010 and other headline acts are still to be confirmed.

The Yasalam After-Race Concerts are exclusively for Formula 1™ race-day ticket holders.

Entertainment for shoppers at Oasis Center's Ramadan Tent

2010-08-30T09:03:00.000-07:00

Children learn about the significance of lamps during the holy month, as they decorate their own lamps at Oasis Centre's Ramadan Tent

Oasis Centre has lined up an exciting calendar of activities for their shoppers this Ramadan.

A beautiful Ramadan tent in the mall atrium comes alive everyday at Iftar, after they break their fast with traditional kahwa and dates.

Shopper breaks his fast with traditional Kahwa and Dates at Oasis Centre's Ramadan tent

An array of artists has been commissioned at the mall, to keep shoppers engaged. This is led by calligrapher and micro-artist Mohamed Imran Anwar and his team, which skillfully writes the names of shoppers on grains of rice. Visitors can also enjoy other art-entertainment offerings such as ‘colour and glitter your moon’, ‘paint the pillar of Islam’, ‘colour your masjid puzzle’, ‘traditional kahwa pot painting’, ‘zakat jar decoration’, ‘clay art’, Islamic calligraphy and ‘henna painting’.

Writing on a grain of rice, Imran Anwar at Oasis Centre's Ramadan tent

The mall is also giving away 64 all-expenses-paid vacations to Kuala Lumpur through an exciting raffle being held through the holy month, and over 30 winners have already received their prizes.

Omar Abdel Rahim, one of the winners of this an all-expenses-paid trip said: “This promotion is a very nice gesture from the mall; a refreshing change during the holy month of Ramadan. We visit the Oasis Centre almost every day, because it is the most convenient shopping experience for my wife and I. We love the mall and are so excited about our holiday to Malaysia. Oasis Centre has given us the best opportunity to that our family out for a vacation!”

Oasis Centre’s initiatives for Ramadan run through the holy month, until the end of Eid.

Fight to glory at Arabian Center

2010-08-27T04:48:00.000-07:00

For the first time in the UAE, the mall hosts a Martial Arts tournament with karate apprentices training hard to prepare themselves

Arabian Center paves the path for a new karate kid in the UAE. The mall, the latest hotspot for shopping, leisure and entertainment in Dubai, is hosting the ‘Ramadan Martial Arts Tournament 2010’ as part of the festivities for the holy month of Ramadan. The competition will have a stunning display of martial arts skills and agility. The tournament started on August 26 and will be held on Aug 27 and 28 and September 2, 3 and 4.

Acting as apt inspiration for prospective candidates is Col. Magdy Eid Sulaiman, karate extraordinaire who holds the 6 Dan Black Belt and is recipient of over 60 international certificates in martial arts. “Karate is commonly referred to as a form of self defense. However, I believe it is a definition of your personality and character. Not only does it provide you with a skill to protect yourself, it also keeps you healthy, focused and disciplined.”

Commenting on the tournament, Mathew Thomas, Marketing Manager, Arabian Center, “We are very excited about hosting this unique tournament. Martial Art is considered a very noble skill to attain and we are proud to hold this tournament for children of all age groups. Arabian Center has always strived to provide different and enticing entertainment options for its patrons. We are positive that this event will be well received and enjoyed thoroughly by the competitors and spectators alike.”

The tournament is spread over three age groups: 5 – 12 years, 13 – 19 years, 20 years and above.

Arabian Center is home to over 200 internationally renowned brands ranging from clothing to home furnishings, electronics, jewellery, perfumes, fashion accessories, toys and games. Sprawling over a generous area of 80,000 square meters, the mall also houses a hypermarket – World Mart, which carries a wide variety of products fulfilling the daily needs of the shoppers. Arabian Center is also home to a large food court that offers a variety of popular eateries, apart from a number of scrumptious dining options available at the mall.

The mall has recently opened a fully digital Dolby CinemaCity, equipped with eight big screen state-of-the-art digital theaters and a highly scrumptious sushi bar. Catering to a large audience of Arabs, Europeans and Asians, the Arabian Center is a complete family destination for shopping, leisure and entertainment.

The mall houses many public utility services such as a medical clinic, a children’s day care center, banks, post office and immigration department, Dubai Naturalization and Residency Department (DNRD) and a travel agency, attempting to create a convenient one-stop-shop destination for all living requirements. Sporting Arabian architecture with a modern outlook, the mall houses a variety of shopping options for men, women and children, facilitating an effortless and fun shopping experience.

The quaint charm of Masafi Friday Market

2010-07-07T11:11:00.000-07:00

Friday Market, near the small town of Masafi, on the Dubai-Fujairah highway is a big attraction for people from all walks of life. The well known street market, where goods are comparitevily sold at a cheaper price is a favourite place of shopping for locals, expatriates and tourists, especially those who have bargaining skills. Unlike the fully air-conditioned departmental stores with dashing lights, decorations and special offers to magnetise the customers, the Friday Market, surrounded by mountains, have no such charms. The market is free of credit cards, branded products and computerised billing.

The asbestos roofed stalls at the Friday Market offer a wide range of products like fruits, vegetables, plants, toys, musical instruments, furniture and carpets. It is also famous for handcrafted rugs and antiques. Locally made pots and cups to bedding plants and trees are also available in several nurseries in the market. You will also find traditional pottery items made of local clay and the modern toys, which links the past with the present.

The shops are open all days, but business is good on weekends and public holidays. Even if you are travelling by the road at midnight there are sellers waiting for customers in the market. If you have no intention of making a purchase and show less interest, they will offer the wares for a lesser price.

Mohammed Hussain from Bengladesh, a salesman with a fruits and vegetable shop for the last six years said: "Most of the fruits and vegetables are fresh and locally grown. This is one of the advantages of buying fruits and vegetables from here. The market is open on all days, but business is good on weekends, especially on Friday." He added that the market is known as Masafi Friday Market for its popularity on Fridays.

All the people visiting the market are not necessarily buyers, but most of them break their journey here, get out of the vehicles and take a stroll around. They enjoy looking at the items in the market and chatting with the friendly shopkeepers. Most of the tour operators and people from Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman buy something from the market or at least stop here and experience the joy of bargaining.

Sherly Joseph, a housewife from Dubai said: "While going to Khorfakkan, we stopped here and the children liked the atmosphere here very much. They loved to taste the mangoes, corns and to buy toys displayed in the shops. We have recently shifted to a new flat and want to buy plants, pottery and handmade carpets on our return journey. I think the price of carpets is less than in the shopping malls."

Most of the vegetable and fruit shops here are owned by Bangladeshis. Carpet shops are the monopoly of Pakistanis and Afghans. Indians normally run cafeteria, grocery and toyshops. The sociable vendors in the fruit shops offer a piece of fruit to taste before you buy.

There is no fixed price in the market and one should use one's bargain skills especially in the carpets and antiques shops. When you ask the price of a carpet, initially they quote a high price. If you disagree and step out from the shop, the salesman will follow you asking, "How much you will give?" And finally, you can buy the product for half the asking price.

Though there are no special staffs for outdoor delivery, they help by delivering the purchase to your vehicle.

DPG hosts Bazaar for Al Noor Centre

2010-06-22T06:08:00.000-07:00

Dubai Properties Group (DPG), a member of Dubai Holding, hosted a two-day bazaar for Al Noor Centre at their headquarters in Dubai to support children with special needs.

The bazaar, which proved popular with the more than 1100 DPG employees, displayed a wide variety of handicrafts made by students at the Centre ranging from office stationery to home decor, ladies bags and wallets to homemade cookies.

The event also allowed employees to interact with the Centre’s inspiring students who attend Al Noor Centre for professional training, which allows them to integrate into the community. All proceeds from the bazaar were donated to the Centre.

As a builder of diversified communities, Dubai Properties Group seeks to connect people and support diverse strata of our society through community-oriented activities. DPG continuously endeavours to host events and activities that engage and support the community in which we live and work.

LG’s New LED Monitor promotion

2010-06-03T09:09:00.000-07:00

Launching its superb new E40 and E50 monitors, LG issues a worldwide call for touching stories with the promise of surprising prizes including a Volkswagen Wagon Golf GTI2, 2 travel vouchers worth AED 30,000 and full HD TV Monitors E2380VX

Marking the arrival of its new LED monitors series, the E40 and E50, LG Electronics Business Solutions (LG), launched Sincerity, an online campaign (http://sincere.lge.com/gf) that aims to elicit and share touching stories from LG consumers around the world.

“The LG LED ‘Sincerity’ campaign will be conducted simultaneously in 9 countries, with people sharing 2,073,600 sincere messages, one for each pixel on our new monitors,” said Mr HS Paik, President of LG Gulf FZE.

Sincerity Shared, Prizes Won

As part of the Sincerity campaign, which runs from May 15 to July 13 this year, participants will be asked to “show their sincerity” by leaving on the campaign’s website moving personal stories or their own personal reflections on what sincerity means.

Smartphone users can take part in this event through their phones. Using Pixel Soldiers, i-Phone and Android Phone users can contribute their sincere stories by simply tapping them into their phones. Smartphone users can also download “wallpaper” containing their own sincere stories.

Each participant will be allotted one of 2,073,600 pixels, which will collectively form a full picture with as many pixels as LG’s new LED monitors.

During the promotion, LG will display selected messages across all retail stores in UAE “LED Zones”. Better still, those winners will also receive one of a range of fantastic prizes, including a Volkswagen Wagon Golf GTI2, travel vouchers worth AED 30,000 and full HD TV Monitor E2380VX. There will also be special sweepstake prize draw where 30 lucky winners will take home an LED LCD Monitor E2350V.

A Smart and Fun Friend

By highlighting the amount of time we now spend with our computers, LG is using the Sincerity campaign to cast its new monitors as more than just products. In providing the perfect place for users to talk, see, work and play, the E40 and E50 series are aimed at becoming a true friend in the workplace or at home.

Through their smart technology, the E40 and E50 provide a host of “sincere” functions that make the monitors a delight to use. The E50’s Smart+ Package includes a dual web feature that automatically splits the screen to allow easy multitasking, an auto brightness function that measures the light surrounding the monitor to ensure optimal brightness at all times, and a cinema mode, which creates the perfect environment for watching videos.

The E40’s Fun Package, meanwhile, boasts various photo editing features, and an original ratio function that enables viewers to watch videos in their original 4:3 wide angle without any on-screen distortion.

The First Monitor with UL Environment Certification

Though providing features as strong as on any monitor on the market, the E40 and E50 series boast impeccable ecological credentials. As well as being 30 percent lighter, the monitors use 45 percent less energy and fewer hazardous materials, with no halogen and mercury at all. Thanks to these improvements, the E50V model has become the first monitor to be awarded environmental certification from the US safety testing organization UL.

For those looking for something a little extra from their picture, the E50VR model boasts super resolution technology, for a picture as vivid and sharp as anything on the market. And with all E50 models, a depth of just 17.5mm creates a sleek, elegant finish, while a detachable two-way stand makes the monitor even more convenient to use.

Equipped with convenient, smart technology, eco-friendly features, an exceptional picture quality and sophisticated design, LG’s E50 and E40 are set to raise the bar once more for the computer monitor market.

They are now available in all leading retail stores and will retail at AED 1199 (E2250V) and AED 1399 (E2350V).

Golden smile!

2010-05-27T04:46:00.000-07:00

Winners of World Gold Council and Malabar Gold on-air contest announced

The World Gold Council and Malabar Gold have announced the winner of their Akshaya Tritiya competition, which invited listeners on radio stations City 101.6 and Hit 96.7 to share their memories of a piece of gold jewellery they had received in their life, and explain why it will always be special to them — live on air.

“The Akshaya Tritiya radio competition provided a great opportunity for people to take part and enjoy the festivities, as well as demonstrating the cultural significance of investing in gold on this day. Tahira’s is a truly special story which really highlights the emotive value of gold jewellery and we would like to congratulate her on her win,” commented Yogaani Bhatia, Country Manager UAE, World Gold Council.

The competition, which ran over seven days in celebration of one of India’s most auspicious festivals and a holy day for Hindus, welcomed hundreds of entries, and was won by 30 winners, who each received gift vouchers to purchase gold.

“I’m very pleased to have won this competition and proud to have shared my story with so many people on the radio. Gold is considered an important part of our culture – and this precious investment is particularly celebrated during festivals such as Akshaya Tritiya. This day also represents good luck in any new ventures, and so this goes to show that luck really was on my side that day!” said Tahira, competition winner from City 101.6 FM.

Lakeland comes to the UAE

2010-05-19T11:01:00.000-07:00

The Mirdif City Centre outlet is the first international store of the UK-based leading creative kitchenware retailer

Lakeland International, the leading provider of creative and innovative kitchenware, recently marked the official opening of their store in Mirdif City Centre, Dubai. This is the first Lakeland outlet to be opened outside the United Kingdom. Lakeland has been brought to the region by Jawad Business Group.

The official inauguration event was attended by Faisal Jawad, Chairman and CEO, Jawad Business Group and Sam Rayner, Managing Director, Lakeland International.

Faisal Jawad said: “It is a pleasure to introduce Lakeland in the region. Over the years, this UK brand has set new benchmarks in innovation and convenience in kitchenware. We are certain that Lakeland will replicate its success story here too.”

He added: “Since its inception, Jawad Business Group has always strived to bring to the market leading brands and concepts that would enhance the lives of our customers. We have constantly been on the look out for opportunities that would enhance the lifestyle of our customers. It has been our endeavor to understand the customer needs and help provide solutions. We have been on a constant growth path, opening new outlets, bringing new brands to the region.”

Commenting on Lakeland’s opening in the UAE, Sam Rayner, Managing Director, Lakeland International, said, “We are pleased to open our first outlet in Dubai. There certainly is not a better place than this city to mark the opening of our first international store. This vibrant cosmopolitan city offers brands like ours the perfect platform to understand and serve to the preferences and tastes of different nationalities at one go.”

He added: “We are happy to have found a dynamic partner in Jawad Business Group. Lakeland offers a wide range of products that help prepare, serve and store food. Many items in our outlet are exclusive to Lakeland and all products are backed by their no-quibble guarantee. Every item is thoroughly tried and tested before the product earns its place in the Lakeland range. We are certain that the region will enjoy the Lakeland experience.”

Lakeland has around 4000 products in its range and delivers to over one million households around the world. The company has always endeavored to proactively look out for products to make everyday life easier and more enjoyable, be it for cooking, entertaining, doing the housework or searching for the perfect present.

As the years went by, the name Lakeland Plastics no longer reflected the wide range of products sold. So in 1997 the name was changed to Lakeland Limited, and a decade later, simply Lakeland.

LG UNVEILS WORLD’S FIRST FULL LED 3D TV

2010-05-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

Boasting full LED technology with superb contrast and expansive picture the LX9500 goes beyond mere viewing to take you to the heart of the action.

LG Electronics (LG), a global leader and technology innovator in the flat panel display and audio-video devices market, recently announced the launch of the LX9500, the world’s first Full LED 3D TV. Delivering a picture of outstanding clarity and brightness on LG's innovative INFINIA design, the LX9500 — a two-time award winner at this year’s CES and a winner of the reddot design award 2010 — invites viewers into an entirely new world of 3D TV viewing.

For the ultimate in 3D home viewing, the LX9500 employs shutter glasses-type technology, with glasses that add depth to an image by blocking one lens then the other in sync with the screen's refresh rate. The LX9500 is also the only 3D TV with dual IR-emitting sensors, which send signals syncing the lenses with the TV. Having dual sensors ensures a wider and longer viewing angle for the TV’s 3D pictures, creating a spectacular home theater experience for the whole family.

As the world’s first Full LED 3D TV, the LX9500 uses an innovative backlight structure to deliver its remarkable picture. Illuminated by panels of LEDs directly behind the screen, the Full LED display provides images of exceptional brightness and clarity, as well as a localized Spot Control for the ultimate in picture quality. With TruMotion 400Hz reducing image cross-talk and a picture further enriched by a 10,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, the LX9500’s mesmerizing 3D transports viewers right to the heart of the action.

As with all its features, the LX9500’s award-winning INFINIA design is geared toward creating the ultimate 3D experience. Slim and sleek, the LX9500 boasts a depth of just 22.3mm, and a 16mm super-narrow bezel that allows for a more expansive picture and 3D images that practically burst out of the screen. In recognition of its unparalleled design, the LX9500 this year won a reddot design award, one of the world’s top three design awards and a globally accepted standard for the very best in product design.

“Thanks to its superb picture quality, the LX9500 offers a 3D experience like no other, where instead of just watching scenes, you can actually be part of them,” said Mr H.S Paik, President of LG Electronics Gulf FZE. “Through advanced features such as Full LED and INFINIA design, LG is already pushing the technological boundaries for 3D. Along with our 3D Blu-ray disk player and 3D home projector, LG is well placed to become a true global leader in 3D home entertainment.”

Speaking from the launch of LG’s LX9500 at the Westin Hotel Dubai, event speaker and President of the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai, Dr. Mustafa AG Abushagur, PhD added; “Technology is moving at a faster pace now than it ever has and 3D is transforming the digital entertainment and education landscape.

“This new technology is creating visual experiences that offer new opportunities and challenges for educators, manufacturers and consumers alike. With its tendency towards early-adoption of new technology, the Middle East is on the cusp of widespread changes in technological development.”

Delivering unbeatable levels of entertainment, the LX9500 also displays regular programming and content in the very best, high-definition 2D. In addition, the TV is seamlessly connected to home AV devices thanks to a Wireless AV Link, while its NetCast™ function delivers instant streaming, via a broadband connection, of virtually limitless online content, including videos, movies and web albums. In another first for the industry, the LX9500 supports the Multi Picture Format (MPF) which enables user-created 3D content to be enjoyed on-screen without the need of a PC.

The ultimate platform for 3D viewing, LG’s LX9500 was officially launched today and will retail at AED 17,999 (55”) and AED 12,999 (47”).

Specifications:

· 3D TV (Shutter glasses type)

· Full LED Slim with Spot Control (Local Dimming)

· INFINIA Design

- Ultra Slim Depth, Narrow Bezel, Uni-layer, Uni-color

· Full HD 1080p

· 10,000,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio

· TruMotion 400Hz[1]

· isf Certification

· Picture Wizard II

· Crystal Gradation with Varying Light (Facet)

· Invisible Speaker (10W + 10W + 5W)

· Infinite Sound

· Clear Voice II

· NetCastTM

· Wireless AV Link

· DLNA ready

· USB 2.0 (HD DivX, MP3, Jpeg play, MPO)

· HDMI 1.4

· Intelligent Sensor

· Smart Energy Saving Plus

· ECO Flower

Gold festival mood upbeat

2010-05-15T10:51:00.000-07:00

BY KK Moidu

Although the price of the gold has touched Dhs149 per gramme for 24k and Dhs138.75 for 22k, the jewellery outlets across the emirates hope the high rates will not affect the gold business on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, which falls on Sunday.

The jewellers are gearing up to handle the surge of customers on Akshaya Tritiya, the day considered auspicious for the purchase of gold as per Hindu beliefs.

Pooja Arjun, a housewife in Dubai, said, "I have been buying gold jewellery on Akshaya Tritiya for the last 10 years without considering the increase in gold price. This year also I will buy not less than 10 grammes of gold ornaments on the occasion."

Like Pooja, many others trust that buying gold on this auspicious day will never be a business of loss and will result in wealth and prosperity throughout the year.

Sunanda Krishnan, who is residing in Sharjah for the last eight years and working in a private company in Dubai, said, "I started buying gold on Akshaya Tritiya after coming to Dubai. Last year, I bought 20 grammes of gold ornaments and this year also I am planning to buy some ornaments, but the quantity will not be that much due to the hike in the price of gold."

However, the World Gold Council, its trade partners and most of the outlets in the emirates offer special promotions such as minimal making charges, free gold coins, free Camera and Camcorder, 50 to 70 per cent discounts for diamond buyers etc.

"This region is renowned all over the world for its multi-cultural environment, where people from a number of nations and cultures live in harmony, therefore we are offering people the unique opportunity to appreciate different cultures and their practices. We are very pleased to announce our commitment to creating awareness about this festival - which is a very important event for the Asian community - and outlining the cultural significance of investing in gold for people on this day," commented Yogaani Bhatia, Country Manager UAE, World Gold Council.

In order to cash in the Akshaya Tritiya festival, World Gold Council's trade partners in the region also introduced their very own special-edition gold jewellery collections such as pendant, rings, bangles, diamond sets etc., as well as organising interactive competitions in honour of the occasion.

WGC and Malabar Gold launches interactive radio and print competitions for creating awareness of Akshaya Tritiya. The Akshaya Tritiya special-edition "Divine" collection available at Malabar Gold stores has been created in order to emphasise the importance of keeping this ancient heritage alive.

Malabar Gold is offering two gold coins for the buyers of Akshaya Tritiya Diamond set and half gramme gold coin free for those who buy jewellery worth Dhs6,000 and above. Joyalukkas gifts a Samsung Camcorder and Canon Digital Camera on purchase of the Exqusite Tyohaar Akshaya Tritiya Diamond Necklace worth Dhs17,000 and Elegenza Polki Set designed for Akshaya Tritiya worth Dhs15,500 respectively.

Sony Science Show in Dubai

2010-05-12T08:51:00.000-07:00

Show to Offer Students Experiential Insight into Realms of Science

Sony Gulf FZE announced it will host the fifth edition of the Sony Science Show in Dubai, following its phenomenal success over the past four editions that have drawn the participation of more than 11,000 students, from over 130 UAE schools, since its inception in 2006.

To be held from 12–13 May, at the Dubai Knowledge Village Conference Hall in collaboration with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the show will be led by renowned Japanese scientific entertainer Soichi Nishimura, who travels around the world to entertain and teach children about the magical world of science.

Japanese scientific entertainer Soichi Nishimura

Conceptualized to make science learning fun and encourage children to question natural occurrences that have scientific implications, the show will offer Grade-4 school children a wide array of interactive experiments and add a whole new dimension to scientific literacy in the region.

Pius Parackal, Director, External Relations, Sony Gulf FZE, said: “We are pleased to bring back the Sony Science Show to Dubai for the fifth time, following the unbridled enthusiasm the initiative has received from students. At Sony, we believe inculcating and fostering scientific thinking amongst children is vital for the future as it enables them to leverage their innovative best.”

Fatima Al Marri, CEO of Dubai Schools Agency, Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA, said: “We are delighted to work in collaboration with Sony Gulf to host the fifth edition of the Sony Science Show, as we believe such events successfully contribute to knowledge creation in the region. We encourage schools to participate in interactive educational initiatives as they help young children develop a growing interest in science.”

Soichi Nishimura will focus on topics such as conduction, air pressure and flight dynamics, allowing children to experience the joy of converting text book theories into practical experiments, using basic props such as balloons, paper and strings.

Soichi Nishimura conducts an experiment with help of a Grade 4 student

The Sony Science Shows are a part of Sony’s global community initiatives, which include the Sony Explora Science Museums in Japan and China and the Sony Wonder Technology Lab in New York, as well as various programs focusing on areas such as education, environment and health/welfare.

Graphic designer wins an iPad from Jacky’s Facebook competition

2010-04-30T02:49:00.000-07:00

Dubai 92 FM's Geordiebird; Ashish Panjabi, Jacky's Electronics COO; Glenn Roxas, 27, Filipino, Jacky's Electronics Facebook Competition Grand Winner of an iPad; and Dubai 92 FM's Catboy.

Jumping atop Burj Khalifa, changing their names to Jacky’s and a lot more creative and innovative ideas were among the things people would do to win an Apple iPad for free but an artistic video executing what the participant would actually do to be the new owner of the iPad has bested the rest and was hailed the winner of the first Facebook competition of Jacky’s Electronics.

Dubai 92 FM's Geordiebird; Ashish Panjabi, Jacky's Electronics COO; and Dubai 92 FM's Catboy.

Glenn Roxas, a 27 year old Filipino national graphic designer won an iPad from Jacky’s Facebook Competition — ‘What would you do to win an ipad at Jacky’s? from April 18 to 25. Close to 600 comments, videos and pictures were entered onto Jacky’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/jackysuae for the contest. After much deliberation, the judging team at Jacky’s chose Roxas as the best entry, which showed uniqueness and real creativity.

Ashish Panjabi, Jacky's Electronics COO; Dubai 92 FM's Geordiebird; and Catboy with the winners of Jacky's Electronics Facebook Competition.

The second runner-up Dana Salim, 15 year-old from Syria, received an iPod Touch. The third runner-up Nicoli Malabonga, 17-year old, from Filipine got an iPod Nano.

Ashish Panjabi, Jacky's Electronics COO; Tala Salim, 12, Syrian; Dana Salim, 15, Syrian, Electronics Facebook Competition Second runner-up winner of an iPod Touch; and Dubai 92 FM's Catboy.

Dubai 92 FM's Geordiebird; Ashish Panjabi, Jacky's Electronics COO; Nicoli Malabonga, 17, Filipino, Jacky's Electronics Facebook Competition third runner-up winner of an iPod Nano; and Dubai 92 FM's Catboy.

Jacky’s Electronics first Facebook Competition winners were announced in a function held at Jacky’s Electronics outlet in The Dubai Mall. Ashish Panjabi, Jacky’s Chief Operating Officer, Jimmy Patel, GM, were present at the event. Dubai 92 FM’s Catboy and Geordiebird distributed the prizes to the winners. Geordiebird also sung few karaoke songs to get herself an iPad while five shoppers also received iPod shuffles during the on-the-spot competition.

Dubai FM's Geordiebird sings few karaoke songs to get herself an iPad during the on-the-spot competition.

The Grand prize winner of an iPad, Roxas took a creative 1-minute video of himself to let everyone know about Jacky’s iPad competition by going around Dubai Superman-style, walking on the middle of Sheikh Zayed Road, and socialising with other nationalities.

“I shot the video one half day and I wasn’t really expecting to win. Thank you Jacky’s for holding the competition and I can’t wait to use my new iPad in rolling out my creative ideas,” said Roxas.
Ashish Panjabi COO Jacky’s Electornics said “Social networking sites such as Facebook are important tools for us to interact and engage with our customers. We, at Jacky’s, have always aim to provide our customers with updated information whether it’s on products, promotions or industry news in the UAE. This competition allowed us to not only reward our loyal customers with an iPad, but also know their feedbacks as well.”

“Right from the time we announced this competition, we’ve been inundated with feedback from potential winners on all the whacky and crazy things they would do for an iPad. With the craze for this product being unrivalled to anything else we’ve seen in a while, it was only natural we decided to have a contest based around this,” he added.

Accidental injuries prime death cause of children in the UAE

2010-03-25T06:17:00.000-07:00

A call for child friendly safe environments

Accidental injuries represent the number one cause of death among children up to the age of 14 years, in the Unites Arab Emirates, according to a study carried out by Dr. Michal Grivna, Associate Professor, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, of the University of the UAE, with the support of Johnson & Johnson Corporate Citizenship Trust — as part of their Safe Kids Middle East programme.

The findings of the study entitled “Epidemiology and Prevention of Child Injuries in the United Arab Emirates” were discussed during a policy session for injuries among children at the Arab Children Health Congress recently held in Dubai.

Dr. Grivna provided further insight on the types of injuries;

· with traffic accidents representing 63% of mortality cases

· Drowning and falls at 10% each

· Surveys among local population showed that over 90% had never used car seats before and that the majority of children were not restrained whether seated in front or at the rear of the car.

“There are also environmental risk factors that need to be addressed such as ensuring appropriate traffic and urban planning around schools and safe drop off and pick up sites for children. We have found for example there are few school warning signs, speed signs, bumps or radars to slow down traffic and that in about 80% of cases children are dropped off into the main road or opposite of the road instead of directly into the sidewalk”, added Dr. Grivna.

The report calls for the introduction and enforcement of child safety restraints, effective traffic calming measures in and around schools to ensure that speed is low enough and safe energy free drop off and pick up points as well as the dispersion of schools in quiet residential areas away from high speed roads.

Participating in a separate policy roundtable session, Johannes Pattermann, Chairman of Johnson & Johnson Corporate Citizenship Trust Middle East shared best practice and lessons learned of the Safe Kids Worldwide and Safe Kids Middle East initiatives, which focus on preventing unintentional childhood injury.

“Over the past 5 years, we have been working with various partners such as the Dubai Road and Transport Authority and Dubai Healthcare Authority on educational safety programs for children and families within schools and hospitals such as the Safe Kids Booklet, the Safety School Bus and the Baby Memories Programme.

We strongly believe that a comprehensive approach that is built on a relevant policy and legislative framework, building capacity and creating awareness and education on safety makes a difference in terms of reducing child injuries and fatalities”, stated Patterman.

Several representatives from government authorities, international organizations such as UNICEF, WHO and the Arab League as well as academics and young people attended the policy roundtable. Key policy recommendations included strengthening and combining efforts in the areas of surveillance and research, building capacity in these areas, developing a regional strategy on child injury prevention, identifying clear indicators and targets as well as creating a culture of safety through awareness and education campaigns towards families and children.

OASIS Karate Centre Sports Meet 2010

2010-03-10T09:24:00.000-08:00

OASIS Karate Centre, Sharjah, Sports Meet 2010 will be held at the Sharjah Indian Association Auditorium on April 16, 2010. His Excellency Sheikh Najeeb Bin Saqar Al Qassimi (Member of the Ruling Family) will inaugurate the annual meet and actor Captain Raju is the chief guest of the programme.

The students of Oasis Karate Centre will exhibit their martial arts skills in front of the audience. Distribution of Black Belts, Medals and Certificate to the winners will be awarded at the event. Karate Show participated by 25 Black Belt holders and 200 students of the Oasis Karate Centre and a Magic Show are the highlights of the event.

Sharaf DG opens 'Big Box' in Sharjah

2009-06-13T10:30:00.007-07:00

Dubai’s electronics retail powerhouse launches 50,000 sq feet store
in the Sharjah Emirate in Safeer Mall located at the Dubai-Sharjah highway on June 09, 2009.
Pursuing its aggressive expansion plans despite the overall recessive market conditions, Sharaf DG- UAE’s leading electronics retailer, extended its footprint and opened a store in Safeer Mall, Sharjah. The launch marks the retailers first entry into the Emirate and takes its tally of stores across the region to nine.
Commenting on the launch, Yasser Sharaf, Managing Director Sharaf DG said, “Sharaf DG has experienced tremendous success in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and recently in Bahrain, and we were looking for the right location and opportunity to launch in Sharjah for a while now. As a market for electronics & IT products, the Emirate has matured with residents becoming more conscious about brands and service quality, which is good for Sharaf DG”.

Sharaf added ‘’Residents of Sharjah can be assured of a treat of the widest range of all the reputed world class brands at the best possible value in the market, which is synonymous with shopping at Sharaf DG. Just like our stores in Dubai, the Safeer mall store will offer our brand promise ‘If we don’t have it, you get it free’. This means if any customer does not find what he is looking for; he can register his requirement with our sales team who will procure the product within a stipulated time. And if we cannot deliver as per our commitment, the customer will get the product absolutely free. This way we assure you that you will always find what you want at Sharaf DG”.
The choice of Safeer Mall as Sharaf DG’s first address in Sharjah was made considering its strategic location along the busy Dubai-Sharjah highway which ensures a steady flow of shoppers. The one-stop shop located on the first level of the newly renovated Safeer Mall will follow the big-box format of the existing Sharaf DG stores where customers will enjoy the widest selection of brands in the region across categories like consumer electronics, home entertainment, gaming, IT, telecom and photography. This, in addition to getting sound advice from trained staff, outstanding customer service and attractive promotions all year round. The store will also be offering a ‘Lowest Price Guarantee’ where any customer can get twice the difference in amount if he finds the same product at a lesser price at any other mall based store in Sharjah.
In line with its previous store openings, Sharaf DG is launching with a series of outrageous ‘Killer’ Store Opening Special offers across a wide range of products. The best of the picks on offer is a free 32 inch LG LCD with a Nikon 10 megapixel camera for only AED 1199/- and a Motorola mobile for just AED 1/- on purchase of any mobile worth AED 300/- plus. These offers are for a limited period only till stocks last.
The store will also feature a revolutionary concept in retailing - the ‘touch and feel’ display where real working models will be displayed in the open. The open display provides customers a hands-on experience of real models of cameras, mobile phones, MP3 players and other electronic gadgets to ‘test drive’ before deciding their purchases. Customers are thus reassured that the product they buy is exactly what they are looking for, resulting in guaranteed satisfaction which is a hallmark of shopping at Sharaf DG.
This year Sharaf DG has won four awards for retailing excellence, including the most recent ‘Best Retailer of the Year 08’ conferred by the prestigious Channel Middle East magazine.

Cinegoers miss South Indian hits

2009-02-05T08:29:00.000-08:00

BY KK MOIDU
THE United Arab Emirates is witnessing a boom in multiplexes which are mainly into screening English films, but several cinema halls screening movies of South Indian languages — Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu — have closed down.
Although many South Indian films are box office grossers, multiplexes are not keen to screen these pictures.
There are around 200 cinema screens in UAE. If a rough survey was to be done, one would find that about 80 per cent of these screens show English films, 15 per cent show Hindi films and a few select screens show Arabic films.
Less than five per cent of the cinema halls screen South Indian films.
After the closure of Al Nasr Cinema in Dubai, Metro Cinema in Sharjah, South Indian cinegoers are in despair as they do not have enough facilities to watch their favourite heroes on the silver screen.
Al Hamra Cinema in Sharjah was earlier showing Malayalam films but now it has started screening Hindi films.
Al Nasr Cinema in Dubai which had closed down early last year, used to screen Malayalam and Tamil films. The Deira Cinema which had closed down a couple of years ago was also another popular venue for screening Malayalam and Tamil films.
At present, Galleria Cinema I is the only theatre which has four shows for new Malayalam releases. On the other hand, Galleria II screens four shows of new Tamil movies. Although Plaza Cinema screens Malayalam films, there is only one show which is at 1:30pm. Donya Cinema in Jebel Ali also shows Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu films, but they screen it one or two weeks after the movie is released.
There are around 100 cinema screens in Dubai and 75 of them screen English movies. More than 15 screens show Hindi films, few screens show Arabic and Iranian films and the rest five screens have South Indian movies.
At present in Sharjah, Concorde Cinema is the only theatre which screens Malayalam films. The hall has four shows daily and a midnight show on first Thursday of every month. Earlier, Metro Cinema and Al Hamra Cinema used to have three shows for Malayalam films. Since Metro was closed recently, Al Hamra now screens only Hindi films.
Although Metro Cinema was in Al Khan, people residing in Dubai used to take pains to reach here. This was due to ample parking facilities available around that area. Al Hamra Cinema near Lulu Centre in Rolla, also has good parking facilities.
Concorde Cinema near Clock Tower is one of the biggest movie halls in the United Arab Emirates. But on weekends, people return without getting tickets for megastar movies. The lack of parking facilities is another problem for cinegoers who go to Concorde Cinema.
People from other emirates like Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah also come to Sharjah Concorde for watching the new releases.
This has happened because cinema halls in Northern Emirates screen new Malayalam movies, couple of weeks after their release in Sharjah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
So on the movie’s premier day, fans who have no patience to wait till two weeks, drive down to Sharjah to watch their favourite stars on the silver screen.
Sasi Kumar, a Sharjah reisdent who regularly watches Malayalam movies at Concorde Cinema on the first day of its release, said,”I couldn’t watch Maayavi which stars Mammootty and Chotta Mumbai which stars Mohanlal and Vinodhayathra which has Dilip in lead, for the first three days of its release as tickets were not available.” Kumar has solved this problem by going for the 4.30pm show.
Anjali Unnikrishnan, a working woman and mother-of-two, said: “I watch new Malayalam films regularly. Earlier, we used to go for movies on Thursdays and Fridays. But now, I don’t go even if I get a ticket because it is too crowded. I don’t like to watch with a huge crowd. I prefer to watch movies on weekdays so that I can watch it at peace.”
In Sharjah and Northern Emirates more than 50 screens are available, around 10 screens show Hindi films, Concorde Cinema screens new Malayalam releases. Granada Cinema in Umm Al Quwain, Plaza Cinema in Fujairah, and one screen in Dana Cinema Fujairah also screens Malayalam films one or two week after its release. Other screens only show English films and a few Arabic films.
The situation in Abu Dhabi, the capital of UAE is no different. Around 80 per cent of the screens in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain are reserved for English films. Around 10 per cent screens show Hindi films. Eldorado I and Eldorado II in Abu Dhabi have four shows for Malayalam and Tamil films. They also have morning shows on Fridays.
For major blockbusters they have two screens to play one film so that they can avoid rush. Club Cinema in Al Ain also screens Malayalam films.
In the coming days, the cinema halls screening South Indian movies are expected to attract huge crowds. High-profile Tamil movies like Sivaji The Boss starring Rajnikant and Dasavatharam starring Kamal Hassan will soon be released. Major Malayalam films like Mission 90 Days, Time, Nadiya Kollappetta Rathri, Nagaram, Goal, Khaki, Nazrani, Alibhai, Hello etc. will soon hit the screens. This will add to the already crowded atmosphere. During festivals like Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, Onam, Vishu, Christmas only a few cinegoers get seats and a huge section of the public returns home dissapointed.
Since English films have shorter durations, most theatres play six or seven shows in most of the screens. On the other hand, South Indian movies have a longer duration, hence there is no possibility of running more than four shows.
South Indian film lovers, who form a sizeable number among the expat population in the UAE, say they have a genuine grievance. They want more theatres to screen movies of their interest.

SaReGaMaPa Challenge 2009-Grand Finale on Zee TV

2009-01-20T03:20:00.000-08:00

Grand Finale of SaReGaMaPa Challenge 2009 on January 24^th, 2009 at 8:30pm (UAE) on Zee TV

CNN Enlists iReporters to Capture ‘The Moment’ of Obama’s Oath

2009-01-20T03:13:00.000-08:00

Network to Use Microsoft Photosynth and User-Generated Photos to Create 3-D Image of Inauguration

CNN plans to create the most unique view of the exact moment US President-elect Barack Obama takes the oath of office on Tuesday 20^th January at 8pm (UAE). Using Microsoft Photosynth technology, CNN and Microsoft Corp. will produce the first “synth” of a major historical moment.

Photosynth, part of the Microsoft Virtual Earth product family, enables users to create synths, detailed 3-D environments of photos that are identified by minute similarities and then fused together. In this case, the initial images comprise those captured on cell phones, cameras and mobile devices by inauguration attendees of the moment Obama is sworn in as president. From the vast sweep of the crowd to a close-up on the new president’s raised hand, every angle of this historic moment will be frozen in time. To see examples of synths, visit http://photosynth.com.

CNN is inviting people witnessing “The Moment” to take part in a special iReport assignment by e-mailing their pictures to themoment@CNN.com. The photos will post immediately to iReport.com, CNN’s user-generated news community, and shortly after the oath of office, viewers and users can see the resulting synths on-air and online. In staying with CNN’s long tradition of using technology to reinvent political coverage, the network will feature the synths on the Magic Wall. The use of Photosynth within the multi-touch environment will be made possible by the strong relationship among CNN, Perceptive Pixel and Microsoft.

Visitors to CNN.com will also be able to explore the images captured in this transformative moment on either their PC or Mac. Photosynth will allow CNN.com visitors to glide around the Capitol, virtually experiencing the occasion from every angle. For more details on sending in photos and to view the synths on Inauguration Day, visit www.CNN.com/themoment.

“We’re pleased to partner with CNN to bring this historic event to life through the eyes of those attending the inauguration,” says Yusuf Mehdi, senior vice president, Microsoft. “Microsoft Photosynth technology enables an immersive experience for CNN to share with all of its viewers.”

“As the nation watches this momentous occasion on Tuesday, CNN, through its partnership with Microsoft, will again make television history,” adds David Bohrman, CNN’s senior vice president and Washington DC bureau chief. “From the YouTube debates to the Magic Wall, CNN has proven itself as the network which embraces technological tools to engage viewers and allow them to witness news events in ways never before imagined.”

On 20^th January, CNN’s The Inauguration of Barack Obama begins at 2pm (UAE), with continuous live coverage of the day’s events, including the swearing-in ceremony, parade and official inaugural balls. Throughout the special programming, viewers can expect to see the synths their pictures helped create.

For more information on Virtual Earth, visit www.microsoft.com/virtualearth.

SCCI hosts business meeting with key representatives of Sharjah’s banking and financial sectors

2009-01-20T03:03:00.000-08:00

The meeting is a part of Chamber initiatives to enhance support to local business community.
The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) hosted a business breakfast on January 19, 2009 for representatives from Sharjah’s banking and financial sectors, at its new building. The event was attended by SCCI Director General Hussein Mohammed Al Mahmoudi; other senior representatives from SCCI; in addition to representatives from several banks and financial institutions in Sharjah.
This meeting is in line with the SCCI’s new agenda for 2009, which aims to improve communications and the exchange of views on vital issues with Sharjah’s economic sectors. The Chamber also wants to encourage dialogue on present and future challenges faced by Sharjah, ideas and visions on creating cooperative business opportunities, and strategies to enhance work performance in accordance with the highest standards of quality and excellence.
The event mainly focused on how the SCCI could assist the banking and financial sectors in overcoming obstacles to their optimal performance, especially in light of the global financial crisis. Discussions also highlighted the actions taken by the Federal Government to protect the national economy and the local banking system, including the development of convenient mechanisms to ensure more liquidity for banks in the short term; this would maintain the national economy’s high growth rates and protect it from global uncertainties.
The meeting commenced with Hussein Al Mahmoudi expressing his appreciation for the role played by the banking and financial sector in developing the local economy. He also noted the importance of organising this meeting and highlighted the Chamber’s continuous commitment to enhance its strategic relations with its partners in various sectors. He emphasized on SCCI’s role of facilitating the launch of new projects and initiatives that contribute to strengthening the process of sustained economic development in the business community of Sharjah and supporting economic concepts and practices that provide promising opportunities.
“This event is the first of several meetings that will be held by the Chamber during the current year with the various economic sectors of Sharjah. They will be part of overall initiatives to encourage joint cooperation with our partners and to create a superior economic working environment within the emirate. Actually, the business breakfast is an opportunity to attract new investments, forge new strategic partnerships and open communication lines with the private sector, as it provides a venue for interaction between businessmen and decision makers from government bodies. I would also like to thank all the parties in the banking and financial sectors for their efforts to develop their respective industries and to make the UAE a financial hub that gains the confidence of investors and attracts capital through a transparent regulatory environment,” Al Mahmoudi said.
The meeting also featured a general review of the economic conditions in the UAE at present, particularly of the banking and financial sectors. The participants also discussed the contributions made by the UAE’s private sector in promoting sustainable development.
“The following months will allow us to evaluate and review plans and strategies to enhance prevailing business realities. The implementation of principles of transparency at the regulatory level is a fundamental goal that must be achieved in Sharjah and throughout the UAE. The establishment of efficient governance practices for corporations is the ideal approach to attaining sustained development, especially in the banking sector. This shall be done by outlining qualifications and responsibilities expected from board members and providing them with insights on the latest developments in the financial sector, training them whenever necessary. As for the banking sector, there are plans to expand the scope of the regulatory and supervisory powers of the central banks to include investment banks and related financial brokerage firms,” added Al Mahmoudi,
According to data issued by the SCCI’s Information Centre, there are 36 banks operating in Sharjah; 22 are national banks while 14 are foreign banks. These institutions have branches all over the emirate, with eight branches of different banks in Khorfakan, four branches in Kalba, and three branches in Dibba Al Hosn.

Chilling out in desert: Safari tours pick up gear

2009-01-05T03:31:00.000-08:00

by KK Moidu

Talks of recession or job cuts do not seem affect Desert Safari tour operators. In fact, such tours are gaining popularity with winter providing inspiration for the common people to chill out.
Tour operators are offering special packages at convenient times covering morning, evening and overnight for adventure enthusiasts.
People who do not find the evening hours convenient, but interested in dune bashing and adventure, can enjoy a morning desert safari.
These two-hour morning package includes awesome dune bashing, quad biking, camel ride and sand skiing with free water and soft drinks.

Evening desert safari, a six-hour tour package, begins in the afternoon with exciting dune drive before reaching the first destination.
People can enjoy the gorgeous Dubai desert sunset, camel ride and sand boarding before reaching the camp. A delicious barbecue dinner, Shisha and belly dance around the campfire are also part of the package.
Overnight desert safari, a 17-hour tour of the desert gives an opportunity to experience a night in the desert under the stars and also enjoy the inspiring sunrise in the desert.
Dune bashing, camel rides, shisha, traditional costumes, buffet dinner and BBQ, overnight stay at the camp site and breakfast are the highlights of the tour.
One of the main attractions of the desert safari tour is the adventure sport, dune bashing.
A smart driving over sand dunes is a highly popular pastime in the UAE.
Tourists consider adventure journey to the desert of golden sand dunes as a great experience to share with their family and friends back home.
Although dune bashing is possible anywhere in the Arabian deserts, certain places like Liwa Oasis in Abu Dhabi are known as the real playground and are chosen by adventures for unending fun.

The climate here is suitable for dune bashing except at the time of sandstorms and heavy rains.
"But the travellers should plan their route much in advance with a map and a tricky driving on soft sands by looking for camel footprints, which are the signs of hard and compacted sand or depend on the service of an experienced guide," according to a tour operator.
"Dune bashing is definitely a good way to enjoy the beauty and peace of the desert in the comfort of an air-conditioned four-wheeler."
All experienced 4WD licence holders can enjoy adventure tour by exploring sand dunes. First timers are recommended to book a trip with professional tour operators, who specialise in dune bashing to learn a few lessons on driving in the sand. This will save the inexperienced drivers from getting stuck on the deserts which will harm the expensive vehicle and a long wait for the rescuers.
A professional driver with experience and skill should accompany the group for preventing accidents.
Larger sand sailing vehicles like Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol, Mitsubishi Pajero, Hummer etc. are comfortable, because smaller vehicles are not recommended by experts as they easily tend to get stuck in the sands.
"Those who want to enjoy the maximum, better seek a fully efficient driver, who can be arranged by a professional desert safari tour operator," he pointed out.
A vehicle can carry as many people but a working seat belt is a must.
Before entering the desert the tyre pressure must be reduced by half for increasing the footprint of the tire. A group leader can lead the vehicles through the desert in single file to prevent them from losing the direction.
An Indian expatriate, Ratheesh, explains his first desert safari tour with family as "real fun."
He said, "We were supposed to be picked up at 3pm, but as a Tunisian family arrived late, the Land Cruiser left Sharjah City Centre only at 4pm. The charge was Dhs150 per passenger. The vehicle was wonderful and the Indian driver from Mumbai was smart. Hence the bumpy, bouncy desert travel experience turned out to be highly enjoyable."
He added: "Up and down went the cruiser while sand splashed all around the vehicle for nearly 20 minutes. Taking photographs with traditional costumes, camel rides, watching the beautiful desert sunset and a henna session for my daughters made the safari really enjoyable. In less than six hours we were back in Sharjah at the pickup point after a wonderful dinner, which was part of the package."

People resolve to quit smoking on the New Year day

2009-01-03T02:15:00.000-08:00

KK Moidu

Quitting smoking is one of the most common New Year resolutions this year too like the previous years. Grocery vendors have confirmed that the sale of cigarettes fell on the New Year day.
Rafeeq, a salesman at Al Jaf Grocery, Sharjah said, only a few people bought cigarettes on the New Year day and some regular customers who buy cigarettes on a daily basis talked about their desire to quit smoking on the New Year day. Rafeeq added, "This happens every New Year and unfortunately most of them couldn't succeed in their resolutions. They return to the bad habit of smoking after a couple of days or within a week or month. But a few of them who succeeded in quitting smoking. Of 25 smokers who regularly bought cigarettes from the shop, only two quit smoking last year and fulfilled their year commitment."

Nishad, a 28 year old Indian, who decided to quit smoking on the New Year day proudly says, "I haven't smoke any cigarette on the New Year day and will try to fulfill my New Year resolution. I married recently and stopped smoking inside the house but still I was smoking half a packet of cigarettes everyday. I started smoking for a fun during my college days and it became habit and now I want to save my health by quitting the bad habit."
Fifty-year-old Abdul Muthalib, who smokes more than a packet of cigarettes daily quit smoking on the New Year's eve. He said, "I decided to quit smoking on the New Year day. My room-mate was admitted to a hospital due to health problems. He was a chain smoker and doctors warned him about the harms of smoking. Since he can't smoke, and If I smoke in front of him he may start smoking again, and I will become partially responsible for his ill health."
Although many people are taking New Year resolutions, but all of them are not confident about the success of their goals. Mohammed the owner of Abu Moosa Grocery said most of the smokers return to their bad habits later, but women smokers succeed more when they decide to quit smoking or lose weight.

Magsaysay award winners to be felicitated

2008-12-26T00:16:00.000-08:00

By KK Moidu

Dr Prakash Amte and Dr Mandakini Amte, winners of the prestigious Magsaysay Award 2008, will be felicitated at Al Nasr Leisureland, Dubai on Jan. I. Consul General of India, Venu Rajamony will be the chief guest at the function. Renowned musician Padmashri Padmaja Phenany-Joglekar will give a concert. Bollywood actor and social activist, Atul Kularni and Ajit Bhure, a well known film producer and journalist will also be present on the occasion.
The programme will start at 5.30pm with a prayer. The documentary Divine Messenger will be screened and there will be a talk show as well.

Dr. Prakash Amte

Dr. Mandakini Amte

The Magsaysay Award was constituted in the name of Ramon Magsaysay, the third president of the Republic of the Philippines after the World War II. The award is presented by the Ramon Magsaysay Foundation to individuals who address issues of human development in Asia with courage, creativity, integrity and selflessness and while doing so they make contributions in transforming their societies for the better.
Dr Prakash and Dr Mandakini were honoured this year with the award in recognition of their community leadership. The award is considered Asia's Nobel Prize.
The eminent doctors carry forward the great Baba Amte's legacy of compassion. The couple has been serving millions of tribal people, who are living in remote highlands and forests. For example, the Madia Gonds occupy 150 square kilometres of dense forest in eastern Maharashtra, bordering Andhra Pradesh and Chattisgarh states. They have been instrumental in setting up health-care and educational institutions, and transforming the tribal's life completely.
Their selfless service over the last three decades has now gained International recognition.

Unusual crowds expected at offices owing to long holiday

2008-12-14T02:10:00.000-08:00

By KK Moidu

Government offices and schools are reopening today after about two weeks of holidays. Unlike previous Eid holidays, which used to be around one week along with weekly offs, this year the National Day, Eid and weekly offs combined together extended the holidays to two-weeks for government and educational institutes.
Most of the employees who had left for their native places to celebrate Eid with their dear and near ones have returned to the emirate. Many members of the expatriate community utilised the long holidays for a short visit to their parents and relatives.
The airlines made brisk business carrying passengers up and down. Shopping malls also recorded big business.
The private sector, including banks, resumed work much earlier.
However, those who preferred to stay back decided to go to parks, beaches and shopping centres.
Children probably would have the happiest, as they got a rare opportunity to be with their parents and enjoying the holidays together.
But, for the first few working days, heavy rush is expected at government departments, especially at labour, immigration departments and the municipality.
Adbul Rahman, an Indian expatriate, said, "I am waiting anxiously for the reopening of Ministry of Labour for renewing my computer card. Another expatriate, Muhammad Ashraf, said, "I have finished all the immigration typing works in advance for applying for a visa for my new-born daughter, expecting big rush at typing centres during the first week. "
Many fear heavy rush on roads and lengthy queues at government offices. A Sharjah resident, Hari Kumar, said, "I plan to leave my home at least 45 minutes early for my office in Dubai on Sunday, otherwise I won't be able to reach in time."

FIC launches Fox Sereis in the Middle East

2008-12-01T04:15:00.000-08:00

By KK Moidu

Fox International Channels (FIC) announced in Dubai on Saturday the launch of its flagship channel Fox Series in the Middle East. The new channel is brought to the region through the strategic partnership between the media group, Rotana Media Services (RMS), which is owned by the media doyen Prince Al Waleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, (chairman of Kingdom Holding Company and Rotana Holding) and the Fox International Channels (FIC).

Speaking at the press conference held at Emirates Golf Club (Dubai), Ward Platt, president, FIC, Asia and Middle East, said, "Today's launch is yet another milestone for us in the Middle East. After the successful launch of FOX Movies earlier this year, today we find ourselves at the threshold of another success story with Fox Series, which is the region's first dedicated free-to-air series channel. We are confident that the channel through its vibrant, innovative and strong programming content will attract its own patron following that demands and believes in quality home entertainment." Ward told The Gulf Today that FIC will add more channels in the future but have no plans to make it a pay channel in the near future.

Nezar H Nagro, president of Rotana Media Services said, "Today's launch of Fox Series clearly reaffirms and demonstrates our commitment in providing the region's viewers the quality and the television watching experience that is unmatched anywhere in the Middle East. Fox Series adds one more important channel genre to our bouquet and enables RMS to provide an even more comprehensive solution to advertisers."

He assured that all the series airing on the channel would be edited keeping in view the family values. Fox Series will be telecast from Dec. 1. It will be the region's first free-to-air television series channel in the Middle East and North Africa offering viewers a line-up of award-winning television series, from the blockbuster series that have wowed audiences the world over like Desperate Housewives , Kyle XY , and CSI: Miami , to productions, which are never seen before in the region like Brothers and Sisters , Nip/Tuck , Crusoe and The Listener , and long-running popular smash-hits like The Simpsons and Stargate SG1.

The new channel is aimed at providing the region's demanding young audience a compelling entertainment experience that is engaging, charismatic and exciting.

Mumbai attacks worry expats

2008-11-29T03:53:00.000-08:00

by KK Moidu

Expatriates living in the UAE with close relatives or friends in Mumbai expressed worry about the situation in that city. Several residents said they could not reach their close ones as the telephone lines were jammed. Outbound flights from Mumbai's Chattrapati Shivaji Airport reportedly saw a flood of tourists trying to fly back home. Akbar Ahmed, who works as an engineer in Sharjah, said that Wednesday's attack in different parts of Mumbai city was the worst in its history. "But the people of Mumbai are quite brave and they know well to overcome such situations." He felt that the attack in Mumbai would badly affect the country's financial sector. "The central and state governments should take firm action to curb terrorism in the world's largest democracy." Hardev Bhatt, an accountant working in a private firm in Dubai, condemned the attack saying: "My pregnant wife is in Mumbai and I had planned to fly on Sunday. I am really worried about the situation and hope the city will return to normalcy soon." Robert D'Souza, who is working as a sales manager in a private firm in Dubai, said: "The attack is a cowardly act by a few individuals who are against peace not only in India but also the entire world. But the people of the country will stand united to fight against these kinds of actions." Some residents said they managed to reach their relatives on telephone and were relieved to hear that they were safe. A Sharjah resident, Rahul Anand, said: "After hearing about the incident, I called my sister in Mumbai and came to know that her family was safe. I felt relieved, but am sad about the loss of human life in Mumbai and worried about the hostages."

Switzerland to issue Schengen visas from UAE

2008-11-18T04:59:00.000-08:00

by KK Moidu

Switzerland, a member of Schengen Space, will start issuing Schengen visas from the UAE from Dec.12, Swiss Counsel General Gerhard Bruegger announced on Sunday at a press conference held at Sheraton Creek Hotel, Dubai.
Swiss Consul Urs. Lustenberger, Joerg P Krebs, Director of Market of Gulf Countries and Tawfik Melli, Market Manger GCC were also present at the press conference.
Bruegger said, "Swiss representation to issue Schengen visas in the UAE will be confirmed after a meeting of EU Minister Consuls on Nov.28. In case of any delay, it will begin on the first or second quarter of next year. Then also, the visitors will not miss the best tourist season which begins in June and remains till September."
Dubai will be the main centre for issuing visas in the UAE. Biometric visas will be issued in future after the EU decision, said Bruegger.

The main advantage of the Schengen Visa is that the traveller will have free movement in the entire Schengen area. Territorial responsibility for visa procedures are main destination, purpose of journey, period of stay and first state of entry. The visa categories are: A, airport transit visa, B, transit visa, C, short term stay visa, D, national visa and D+C combines both.
The diversity of the landlocked mountains is the essence of Switzerland and it gives the country its unique identity. The country is best known for its financial institutions, watch making industry, its scenery and excellent network of public transportation, Swisspass, which enables the traveler to tour the whole country with a single ticket.

Tawfilk Melli said: "During the last nine months, more than 15 per cent of increase in tourists visiting Switzerland from the Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE etc."
In order to attract more tourists from the Gulf countries, a workshop will be conducted in Saudi Arabia in February and Kuwait in May and at the ATM Dubai.

Gulf Mappilappattu Awards

2008-10-27T02:33:00.000-07:00

By KK Moidu
Winners of the prestigious Gulf Mappilappattu Awards 2008 (GMA) were announced at a press conference held at Sagar Hotel, Bur Dubai. The winners are selected by the jury committee headed by Khaleelulla Chemnad on the basis of thousands of SMS votes from the UAE audience. The cash awards and memento will be presented to the winners on Oct. 31, at Dubai Al Nasr Leisure Land, said one of the organiser Jamsheer C of Time Pass Entertainment. Other organisers and sponsors of GMA, Shamsudheen, managing director, Nellara Food Products, Razak Kochanoor, Dubai Gate managing director and chairman and Nasar Mannur were also attended at the press conference. The lifetime achievement award for senior male singers category will be given to two Mappilappattu veterans, Moosa Eranjoli and Peer Muhammad. Yesteryears leading female singer’s Ramla Beegam and Vilayil Faseela were chosen for the lifetime achievement award for the senior female singer’s category. Best lyricist and best music director awards went to Bappu Vellipparambu and Kozhikkode Abubaker respectively. Mappilappattu lovers have selected Kannur Sharif as the best male and Rahana as the best female singer. Nenjinullil Neeyanu is the most popular song and Snehamaanu Sundari is the popular audio album. The best newcomer male singer award was won by youngster’s favourite Shafi Kollam. The winners were selected through SMS votes from the UAE audiences for the first time in the history of Mappilappattu, said Khaleelullah Chemnad, chairman of the award committee. He also said “Mappilappattu is just five years older than the Malayalam literature itself but it has been neglected over the years and it couldn't achieve the expected progress. The GMA 2008 is playing an historic role by remembering the artistes and their favourite songs. These artistes played an important role in the high popularity of natural Mappilappattu.” Their valuable contributions will never be forgotten and GMA will honour the talents who sacrificed for finding the roots of Mappilappattu and its rich culture. GMA 2008 is directed by Basheer Changaramkulam. Dr BR Shetty and actor-director Cochin Haneefa will be the chief guests of the programme. The organisers guarantees the ishal night will be a different treat for the audience by the performance of prize winning artistes, violin maestro Bala Bhasker and a variety of entertainment programmes like Oppana, Kolkkali, Duffmuttu etc. GMA 2008 is only a beginning and the awards will be distributed in the coming years said the organisers.

European films to hit UAE screen

2008-10-15T01:16:00.000-07:00

By KK Moidu

THE European Movies Eighth Season (2008/2009) offered by nine European embassies in the UAE will screen quality films from Europe at Grand Cinemas in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Al Ain. Andreas Maager, deputy head of Mission, Embassy of Switzerland, Abu Dhabi announced on Monday at a press conference held at the residence of Consul General of Switzerland in Al Barsha, Dubai. The last seven seasons were great success and the eighth season will have another feast of quality European films, the organisers say. The films also provide the audience with an opportunity to explore different areas of European cinema production and history. Under the patronage of Sheikh Suroor Bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, the embassies of nine countries (Austria, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Spain and Switzerland), the organisers of the European Movies Eighth Season, are offering something more which would not be normally available in the region. Cine-goers will get an opportunity to watch 14 films of renowned directors from the past and the most recent releases produced in the nine European countries. The 14 films to be screened in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Al Ain are, Pas de Panique directed by Denis Rabaglia and Nordwand directed by Philipp Stolzl (Switzerland), the recently released Absurdistan, Die Fetten Jahre sind vorbei directed by Hans Wiengartner, Auf der anderen Seite directed by Faith Akin (Germany), superhit Le Petit Lieutenant and Mademoiselle directed by Philippe Lioret (France), Los Otros directed by Alejandro Amenabar and Lo que se de Lola directed by Javier Rebollo (Spain), Geboren in Absurdistan directed by Houchang Allahyari (Austria), Zelary directed by Ondrej Trojan (Czech Republic), Katyn directed by Andrzej Wajda (Poland), Simon directed Eddy Terstall (Netherlands), Mediterraneo directed by Gabriele Salvatores (Italy). The films will be screened in original languages with English subtitles and the screening schedules of Abu Dhabi Grand Cinemas, Abu Dhabi Mall every Sunday at 8pm, Dubai Grand Cinemas Mercato Mall, every other Tuesday at 8pm and Al Ain Grand Cinemas, Rotana, Oasis City, every other Saturday at 5pm and 8pm. Season tickets for 14 movies will cost Dhs 200 and can be purchased at the Grand Cinemas in Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi Mall), Dubai (Mercato) and Al Ain (Rotana). Tickets are also available at the Embassy of Switzerland in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of Switzerland in Dubai.

Gulf Mappilappatu Awards to be distributed on Oct. 31

2008-10-11T02:41:00.000-07:00

KK Moidu
The best talents in Mappilappattu (Muslim songs) will be honoured at a stage show "Gulf Mappilappattu Awards 2008", which will be held at Al Nasr Leisure Land Ice Rink, Dubai, on Oct. 31. The winners will be selected through SMS votes by the UAE audiences for the first time in the history of Mappilappattu. The fans of Muslim songs are getting an opportunity to select their favourite artistes, said Basheer Changaramkulam, Jamsheer and Nasser of Time Pass Entertainment, which is one of the organisers of the event. The awards will be given in different categories. The awards will be given to senior male and female singers for their valuable contribution to Mappilappattu. The other categories of the awards include the best lyricist, the best music director, the best male singer, the best female singer, the best male newcomer singer, the best popular song, the best audio album and the best song, said PT Saleem, managing director, Green Advertising and Shamsudheen Nellara, managing director, Nellara Food Products, which are the other organisers. Mappilappattu lovers can select the best senior male and female singers for their total contribution from the top ranking four singers. The male singers are Peer Muhammad, VM Kutty, Moosa Eranjoli and KG Sathar. The leading female singers are Kannoor Zeenath, Vilayil Faseela, Ramla Beegum and Sibila Sadanandhan. The best Mappilappattu lyricists will be selected from OM Karuvarakundu, Bappu Vellipparambu, Kanesh Poonoor and Baker Panoor. The top runners for the music director category are KV Abootty, M Kunhi Moosa, Kozhikode Abu Baker and Joy Vincent. The audience will have a tough time selecting the best male singer from Kannoor Sharif, MA Gafoor, Marcos and Ashraf Payyannoor, and the best female singer from Sindhu Prem Kumar, Rahana and Nazeem, said the organisers. The best newcomer male singer will be selected from four youngsters Afsal, Tajudheen Vadakara, Kollam Shafi and Salim Kodathur. The last date for SMS voting is Oct. 25 and the number is 7782 GM[space]. Businessman BR Shetty and actor-director Cochin Haneefa will grace the occasion as chief guests of the programme. The show will start at 7pm. Tickets are available at selected outlets in the UAE.

Dumping cleanliness instead of garbage

2008-10-11T02:36:00.000-07:00

By KK Moidu

Residential areas in Sharjah have garbage bins placed at right locations and the municipality has put a system in place to clear them promptly. Surprisingly, carelessness on the part of some residents is leaving waste to be deposited around the garbage boxes, instead of inside them.

"A few people carelessly throw waste bags outside the garbage bins and their irresponsible act not only increases the workload of the cleaning workers who empty the garbage boxes daily but also causes environment and health problems to the public," complained a resident at Al Wahda Street.

A resident, living with his family at the ground floor of a building in the Yarmouk area in Sharjah said: "The garbage box is very near to my flat and I am watching everyday that several people are depositing the waste from their houses carelessly outside the box. Some families have left the task of throwing the garbage with their children. These children cannot put the garbage in the boxes and instead just leave the bags outside and disappear."

A cleaning worker from the municipality said: "Most of the people are dropping the waste bags in the boxes, but a few irresponsible people do not even close their waste bags properly and throw them strewing all wastes outside the boxes."

Though the municipality workers clean the area, it's of no use as the stinking waste dumped around the box makes the place greasy and difficult to walk.

The garbage boxes are seen overflowing with wastes on public holidays and weekends as some residents leave their old furniture and other unusable household goods outside the boxes.

Although the workers of municipality start their work early morning next day, more garbage after weekends and holidays increase their workload.

"It's time the residents understood their own responsibility and keep the area clean and green," said a longtime resident of Yarmouk area.

Night of power and time for contemplation

2008-09-26T03:18:00.000-07:00

KK Moidu
The Holy Month of Ramadan is now in its last ten days and mosques all over the UAE are packed with believers, who taking part in special prayers and duas (supplications).
Although the whole month is full of blessings and rewards, the last ten days have a special status. Worshippers make long, sincere and deep duas during the last part of the odd nights, seeking forgiveness of their Creator.
Muslims, people of the world's fastest growing religion, offer more prayers in the last ten days of Ramadan than at any other part of Ramadan. It was common for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to pray the whole night during Ramadan. His family members profusely offered the night prayers.
Like Muslims all over the world, people in the UAE are also taking part in special prayers as Ramadan is drawing to a close. They seek Lailat Al Qadr (the Night of Power) on the last days of the Ramadan.
Lailat Al Qadr is better than 1,000 months (83 years and four months) and according to a tradition of the Prophet (PBUH), it falls on an odd-numbered night during the last ten days of Ramadan.
A majority of Muslims believe that the Holy Night falls on 27th of Ramadan.
Allah first revealed the Holy Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on this night. Therefore, praying, reading Quran and remembering Allah abundantly on Lailat Al Qadr is advisable.
Doing special duas for forgiveness on the night of Lailat Al Qadr, making prayers longer, deeper and more meaningful by reciting big Surahs is also important. Another important ritual in the last ten days of Ramadan is Itikaf.
People stay in mosques, which is Allah's House, with the intention of becoming closer to Him by offering salat and reciting Quran. During the Itikaf period, going outside the mosque, except in case of emergency, is discouraged. Therefore the worshipper stays in the masjid.
However, it is not compulsory that Itikaf should be offered for ten days together. Worshippers can undertake Itikaf of shorter periods also -- one night or a day, or for a couple of days or nights.
This was the practice of the Prophet (PBUH), especially during the last ten days of Ramadan. The Sunnah (sayings and traditions of the Prophet) of the Prophet (PBUH), of Itikaf has no specific time limit.
Believers can stay in mosques with the intention of making Itikaf for a longer or shorter period of time. But ultimately the reward will be according to how long one stays in the mosque.

Parks get more entertaining during Ramadan

2008-09-19T02:38:00.000-07:00

BY KK Moidu

THE arrival of the Holy Month of Ramadan and the end of summer season is attracting more visitors to parks. Parks like Al Majaz, Al Jazeera, Itihad etc. in Sharjah are fully crowded with families, especially during weekends. People, spending leisure time with kids and other family members in the parks, have increased in Ramadan because of the less working hours. The variety of entertainment programmes in the parks and other areas like Al Buhaira Corniche, Al Qasba etc. as a part of Sharjah Ramadan Festival is a new experience for the visitors.
Sharjah Ramadan Festival started on the first day of Ramadan is organised by Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry has arranged variety of surprise for the visitors. The beautifications, additional lights on the lamp posts, big banners and cut out make the parks more beautiful in the night.
Parks in the emirate also have special Ramadan programmes, especially for children and installed new playing equipments. The kids are enjoying different kinds of games and rides in the parks and family sits and talks on the benches and green lawns.
The Mini Train service at Al Buhaira Corniche is one of the main attractions of the people. Many families enjoy the beauty of corniche by a train journey and watch the Ramadan programme. The train with three boggies and an engine are encaged in service and some families book a full compartment for privacy.
Families are coming to the park with preparations of a picnic by carrying blankets, foods, juices and enjoys themselves underneath the cool shade of trees. They spend their time by participating in games along with children, discussing serious issues of international politics and also sharing jokes.
Some families are also using the parks as a venue for get-together. Jamal Babu, a visitor at Corniche Park Sharjah said, "we came to the park with food, juice and water. We break our fast and stay here for a long time. Instead of arranging an Iftar party at home or hotel, it is very convenient and economical. All of us prepare food from our home and eat in the park together. The main advantage of the get-together in park is the kids to get more freedom and can enjoy being engaged in differnet activities." During the Ramadan weekends, our family groups are joining in different parks for Iftar party and stay here until late night, says Jamal.
The families were spending their free time earlier in shopping malls. Muhammed Ashraf, father of two and a regular visitor at Al Majaz park in Ramadan said, "visiting parks are better than going to the shopping malls. A visit to a shopping mall will definitely harm the pocket because each and everything is charged in malls". Parks of the emirates are not only beautiful but also neat and clean and are fully maintained by the local authorities. A visit to the park is a best way to entertain the entire family and everybody wants to control their expense in the circumstances of increased cost of living. This is another reason for increasing the number of visitors in parks.

Renovation closing leaves Rolla Park deserted

2008-09-16T02:48:00.000-07:00

KK Moidu

THE closing of the always-crowded Rolla Park for renovation has left the place deserted, especially during Ramadan. This popular landscape has been one of the favourite places for the public during the Holy Month of Ramadan.
The Ramadan fair at the park used to be the main attraction for the crowds in the evenings. It used to look brilliant in the nights with the colourful illumination of the area.
The area not only provided entertainment but also allowed the visitors to buy everything at a discounted price. The Asian Village at the park was the prior choice of people for shopping.
The commercially vibrant area filled with shops, exchanges, hotels, etc. becomes more active in Ramadan days with extra shops built at the park during Ramadan. Now the crowds are very less compared to yesteryears during this season and it is also affecting the business, says shop owners.
Rolla Park was known as a favourite meeting point for expatriate labourers and other low-income group from all over the UAE. People working in other emirates come to the park on Friday evenings to meet their friends and relatives. They enjoy the evening with their relatives and friends discussing every matters under the Sun, sharing good food and a small shopping before returning home late night.
These get-togethers make the surrounding cafeterias, money exchanges, electronic shops, cargo, saloons etc busy until midnight.
But now closing of the park for renovation has stopped these people from coming to the area.
Although residents in the surroundings were disturbed by the shopping and socialising of these crowds on weekends, they also agree that the closing of the park has made Rolla "life-less," especially during Ramadan.

Asianet TV airs Onam Programme

2008-09-08T04:10:00.001-07:00

KK Moidu
Asianet TV channel has started airing a two weeks special Onam programme with an entertaining bouquet of interviews, films, special programmes and music based shows. The mind-blowing programme was started on September 2 and will continue till September 14.
On the Uthradam day on September 11, the channel will show two superhit films Classmates and Prajapathi. The other attraction of the day is Navya Nair's Navyame Sallapam. The other programme is Special Athithi, in which actress Kalpana visits poor homes with Onam gifts in this film. The other programmes of the day are Musical Chat Show (Super Star Mohan Lal with Idea Star Singers 2007) and mega stage show Ponnonam 2008, an event with full of dance, songs, skit and celebrity performance to be held at Dubai Al Nasr Leisureland for celebrating the 30 years of Superstar Mohanlal in silver screen.
The Thiruvonam day on September 12, starts with an interview with Meera Jasmine. The superhit films to be aired on that day are Keerthi Chakra, Balram vs Tharadas and Anachantham. Other special Onam programmes of the day are Onam with Kalabhavan Mani, the comedy skit by Cinemala Team, a humorous skit Onathinidayil Putuukachavadam by leading comedy/mimicry artistes of Malayalam cinema along with the second part of mega stage show Ponnonam 2008. Besides there will be an interview with Megastar Mammootty on that day.
On the third of Onam, on September 13, Dilip starrer Chess and Mammootty starrer Thuruppugulan will be screened. Interviews with Namitha and Kadhal fame Sandhya and a musical fusion with famous keyboard player Stephan Devasy Me Music Magic are the other attractions. A comedy talk show hosted by Kalpana with leading comedy artistes will telecast on the day.
On the last Onam day on September 14, the Asianet TV channel will air Jagathiyile Abmilikkala, a free wheeling chat show with leading comedy character artiste Jagathy Sreekumar. Mohanlal and Laila starrer Mahasamudram will be also premiered on that day. An interview with national award winning actress Priyamani Angeekarathinte Niravil and Sasneham with the laughing beauty Sneha will definitely grab the audience. The mega stage show Onanilavu 2008 features leading contestants of Idea Star Singer 2007 and musical fusion Me Music Magic are the other programmes to be aired on the day.
Asianet News Channel will also air special programmes for the harvest festival. Besides there will be Onam celebrations in different regions of Kerala.
Asianet Plus Onam interview with leading heroines like Meena, Sona, Mohini, Rasika etc are the highlight of the programme menu. The bouquet of programmes include comedy shows Onam de Pinneyum Vannu, music programme Pranamam, Sundarikalude Onam, 300th day celebrations of programme Crazy TV and many more.

Abra service gathers pace in Sharjah

2008-08-31T06:50:00.000-07:00

by KK Moidu

ABRAS are increasingly becoming a popular mode of transportation in Sharjah. The abra service, which started three decades ago in Sharjah’s, Al Mareija Corniche area, is the primary means of transportation between the two sides of the creek. Many people depend on the boat service for going to the Sharjah Court and Department of Sea Ports and Customs.
Rolla resident Abdul Wahab said, “I used Sharjah Abra for the first time for going to the court. It was very easy and comfortable than driving the car in traffic congested roads. Although I am a Sharjah resident for nearly a decade, I was not aware about the boat service.
“When I asked my friend working in a legal firm for the location of the court, he told me to use the boat service. I have a driving licence and own a car but I prefer boat service than driving. I parked my car near the Al Zahra Mosque and used the abra service to reach the other side. The abra service is time saving and if I go by road it will take an hour for going and coming back. If enough parking spaces are not available, then it will be another problem and I will go to the other side next time only on abra.”
Employees working on the other side in factories, oil companies and construction sites also utilise the water transport daily.
Many companies who have factories and sites on the other side drop their labourers near the mosque in the morning. These labourers cross the creek using the abra service. Buses pick them back in the evening.
Loading and unloading labourers are going up and down several times each day by using the abra. Talib from Pakistan, a loading and unloading worker said, “I go for work on the other side and use the abra service on a daily basis. If the boat service is not available here it will be very difficult for us to go for duty on the other side. Since I am a low-income earning loading worker, I can’t afford the huge amount for taxis.”
The boats pick passengers from Al Mareija Corniche area near the Al Zahra Mosque and drop on the other side in front of the Department of Sea Ports and Customs. More than 50 medium-sized single-engine craft with a capacity of more than 15 passengers are being operated by a single operator and are chugging up and down in day and night.
Around 1000 passengers are using the abra facility everyday and most of the drivers are from the sub-continent. The service is available round-the-clock. Although they work on alternate days, the boat drivers spend their full time in the boat in hot and cold weather conditions. They don’t rent rooms but eat and sleep in their boats.
Passengers are using the abra as an alternative to vehicles to reach the other side. Commuters prefer the abra service to reach the destination fast and save themselves from the traffic rush. The abra service not only saves time but also is economical.
The charge of the abra for a one-way trip is currently only one dirham and it takes less than five minutes to reach the destination.
The abra service in Sharjah was introduced nearly three decades earlier with a 25 fils fare and then doubled before twenty years as 50 fils. The new revised fare of one dirham was implemented in last November 2007.
Indian national Poonja Kera from Gujarat, Jamnagar, who is running the boat for the last five years, says, “I start my work at 4am in the morning and earn Dhs1,000 monthly after the diesel and sponsor fees. Around 15 trips on each working days costs Dhs80 for diesel and pays Dhs1200 to the owner of the boat every month.”
Another boat driver Indian National Bharath Raja from Gujarat, Jamnagar says, “I am operating the boat for the last six years. After the diesel expense, sponsor charge and food, the monthly saving is only Dhs500.”
“The number of boats are increasing but passengers are declining and that makes the situation worse. The boat services in this area are not used by tourists and the collection of public holidays and weekly off days are very less,” says Bharath.
The coast guards are monitoring the area all the time. They are fully equipped for providing immediate help in emergency conditions. The authorities conduct test of the engines and overall conditions of abra at the time of yearly renewal and make sure of the safety.
A grocery owner in the area said, “The area becomes busier during the evening from around 5pm to 7pm with passengers.” However, he is not benefitted from the abra service by getting more customers because his shop is not in front of the passenger picking point.

Children demand, parents adjust

2008-08-25T05:30:00.000-07:00

Traders set to benefit as Ramadan, school reopening coincides

by KK Moidu

THOUGH parents are worried about the hiked school fees and high prices of school bags, water bottles, dresses and stationeries at the time of re-opening of schools, they are ready to compromise on their children's choices in school items.
Retail outlets, on their part, are gearing up with displays and shopping offers with their back to school promotions.
As a coincidence, the reopening of school and Ramadan, is together and hence the leading outlets in Sharjah like Ansar Mall, Al Falah Plaza, Al Wafa etc. all have plenty of offers for the customers.
The advertisers target school children and parents for buying items latest and popular. The students' choices of super heroes such as Spiderman, Superman, Barney, Ninja Turtles, Winnie and Barbie are visible on their school bags, lunch boxes and water bottles.
Ambika Rajan, a housewife and mother of two, said, "bags and water bottles were purchased with pictures of their favourite cartoon characters on them at the beginning of the academic year in April, but the children are now demanding new bags and water bottles with pictures of super heroes they happen to see with their friends. They also demand branded items to show their friends that they are using the best."
Muhammad Fawaz, a KG I student at Sharjah Indian School has his own choice for school bag and water bottle. He started his school at the beginning of this academic year with a branded bag bought from a shopping mall. Now at the time of reopening of the school he is asking for another new bag and a water bottle.
The reason: He didn't get his Spiderman backpack bag of his favourite colour last time because it was not available in the market. This time he wants to go to school with his newly purchased bag in his favourite colour and water bottle with the picture of his favourite cartoon character.
Asma Jahangir, a Pakistani housewife living in Sharjah for the last eight years came to the shopping centre to buy a bag, water bottle and stationary for her nine-year-old daughter who is studying in the fourth standard. She says, "prices of bags, water bottles and all other items have increased exorbitantly. The bag which I bought for Dhs35 two years ago now cost Dhs60 and the water bottle of Dhs12 is now Dhs19.
If I had known that the prices had gone up like this, I wouldn't have brought my children to the shopping mall. The children insist on buying items of their choice without knowing the high prices and I don't want to disappoint them."
She adds, "We are already affected by the high rent and the increased cost of living. This year Ramadan and school reopening are coming together and it will definitely affect the family budget."
Although most of the retailers have attractive back to school offers for the customers ranging from computer to colour pencil, the National Bonds', the Sharia-compliant national savings scheme of the UAE, recently launched back-to-school rewards programme is different and attractive.
If a bond holder makes a minimum investment of Dhs500 before Aug.31, in his/her child's name, he/she may win Dhs 50,000 worth of tuition fees.
Six year old Ayesha's parent says, "I deposited Dhs500 in National Bonds on my child's name. I was thinking earlier also to deposit in National Bonds because of more than 25000 attractive monthly prizes. The back to school rewards programme is an addition to the prizes and I used the opportunity by depositing in National Bonds on my child's name."
Although promotions and draws are fascinating people, yet everybody can't be a winner. Except few lucky ones, all others, especially the low and middle-income groups will have an expensive month ahead.

Road facelift changes traffic scene

2008-08-19T02:25:00.000-07:00

KK MOIDU
The closure of Al Wahda Road for two years for the construction of road has virtually changed the scene of the locality. The motorists, residents and shop owners in the area are to face this situation for a specific period of time.
According to reports more than 200,000 vehicles were passing each day on Al Wahda Road and it is one of the busiest road in the United Arab Emirates.
Although authorities have arranged alternate diversions and installed new traffic signals in the area for the convenience of motorists, it is not enough to control the huge traffic. Some drivers' ignorance of the traffic rules may create problems.
The King Abdul Aziz Road was partially closed a couple of months back, and the residents in the surroundings as well as the motorists used the Al Wahda road as an alternative. The situation has changed after the closure of Al Wahda Road. The residents and motorists are unanimously complaining about the traffic congestions.
The closure of Al Wahda Road has increased the traffic rush in other areas like Al Qassimiya Roundabout (Old Spinney's Roundabout aka Mobile Roundabout), Al Khan Bridge and Mothercat Bridge. However the rush in Al Ittihad Road has decreased and the people staying in Al Nahdah and Al Taawun areas is enjoying a traffic free drive.
Sajeevan, a Sharjah resident, said, "Earlier I was taking half-an-hour from Gold Centre signal to Kuwait roundabout (Etisalat Roundabout) and now it took me more than one-and-a-half hour. Because the vehicles coming from industrial areas and alternative diversions of Al Wahda Road increases the traffic in the Al Qassimiya Roundabout. "It is a vacation time, and the traffic situation may not be so easy once the people will return after vacation and the school will re-open within a couple of weeks," says Sajeevan.
Mary Fernandez working in Dubai and living in King Faisal Street Sharjah said, "I reach upto Al Khan bridge in Sharjah without much traffic hurdle but the rush started after the beginning of Al Wahda and long queue of vehicles were in the mother cat bridge to reach King Faisal Road. It took me a long time to reach in my house after the closure of Al Wahda Road."
People leave early from their home and return late in the evening from their workplace. Most of the people living in Sharjah are working in Dubai, because of the high rent in Dubai compared to Sharjah. Although they are forced to spend their valuable time on the road, low and middle income earners are forced to choose Sharjah as their living place.
Sharjah located in the centre of the United Arab Emirates and people from northern Emirates like Ajman, UAQ, RAK, Fujairah are using Emirates road to reach in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for fear of the rush in Al Wahda Road.
However, a resident staying in Al Wahda near Liberty signal said, "She has to walk from the liberty signal to King Faisal Road to take a taxi to go to her office in Al Khan. Since I didn't usually join the morning rush hour and leaves home between 9.30am and 10am everyday, I had not been trapped in a traffic snarl which I noticed was too heavy on Saturday morning, the first working day after the closure of Al Wahda Road. She adds, otherwise it has been smooth-sailing so far up almost zero traffic to her office on Al Khan Road."

Gold glitters as prices plunge

2008-08-18T02:41:00.000-07:00

BY KK MOIDU
BY KK MOIDU
PLUNGING prices of gold
have helped retailers see an
increase in the sale of the
yellow metal. The price of
22 carat gold is Dhs 88.75
and 24 carat is 94.25.
A price decrease of
Dhs15 compared to last
year’s lowest price is attracting
budget-conscious
buyers.
Jewellery outlets in
Sharjah were crowded during
the weekend evenings
and more people were seen
buying gold.
Basheer TA, salesman of
Atlas Jewellery Sharjah,
Gold Centre branch said:
“The sale of gold ornaments
has increased more than 50
per cent after the sudden
decrease in the price charts.
For the last few days the
price of gold is reducing everyday.
The low income
groups from India and Pakistan
are utilising this
golden opportunity to buy
ornaments.”
A sudden steep fall in
the price of gold is rare and
people are considering it as
an apt opportunity to go
for their sought-after models.
“Although our sales promotion
started in June
2008, the sales volumes
were not good last month
because of high gold prices,”
says Basheer TA.
“But after the price of
gold started plunging, more
and more customers are
coming.”
The high price of gold
along with increased cost of
living had discouraged
many low-income groups
from buying jewellery. Only
the much-needed people
were opting for it.
Yousuf PK, a Keralite
from the Southern part of
India, said; “I am buying
gold for my daughter’s marriage
in December. I will be
going on leave for Eid Al
Fitr in the end of September
2008, but I am buying
gold because I fear the price
will again go up.”
Liyaqat Ali from Pakistan,
who was purchasing
gold ornaments for his wife,
said: “For the last couple of
years, I didn’t buy gold because
it was unaffordable. I
do not want to wait more
time because there are various
reasons behind the
gold price ups and downs
like oil and dollar. The price
of gold ten years before was
around Dhs30 per gramme
and now the price is nearly
Dhs90 per gramme. I think
after sometime the price of
gold will again increase and
that is why I am buying
now.”
Shameema Muhammed,
a housewife from Kerala,
said: “I did not buy gold last
time when I went for vacation
because of the high
prices, but now I can afford
it. I went to the jewellery
shop last week in The Gold
Centre Sharjah and the big
rush in shop made me postpone
my purchase. But the
price has come down again
for the last few days and I
am buying gold for cheaper
price than my friends purchased
last week.”

Boys turn any place into playing ground

2008-08-10T04:15:00.000-07:00

BY KK MOIDU
Lack of sufficient number of playgrounds in some localities virtually compels the sportsmen to depend on residential areas as their makeshift grounds. Yarmouk area in Sharjah is one of the favourite places for amateur cricket and football players. Most of the residents in Yarmouk area belong to low and middle-income groups.
Even in the hot weather condition, the enthusiastic youngsters and teenagers play their favourite games both in the afternoon on weekends and in the evening on weekdays.
Residents of these areas are worried that some of the sportsmen are utilising the areas as their playgrounds, especially for cricket. Playing a game like cricket, the bat-and-ball sport contested by two teams in residential areas have dangerous consequences for both the families of the area, as well as the parked cars.
Shanavas living with family in this area said, "I am not against those who play cricket or any other game, but they are playing cricket in residential areas with traditional cricket ball. Many time the children were hit by the cricket ball."
"Since there is not enough players available, there won't be much people for fielding and the chances of hitting the ball on public and parked vehicles are more," says the concerned parent.
Anjana Rajan, a school student said, "We used to ride our bicycles on the surroundings in the evening. Now we are helpless, because one area is engaged by the cricket players and the other area by footballers."
"We don't have much troubles from football players. But if we enter the area where players are playing cricket, they shout at us. She had also been hit by the cricket ball several times," says Anjana.
Beena Thomas, a housewife in the area said, "She spends some time in the evening with her friends outside their building with an occasional walk, and the children play in the surroundings. One day while she was trying to stop her three-year-old son from entering the area where cricket was being played, the cricket ball knocked at her face." She explains that the ball first hit the ground and then her face, then also she suffered giddiness.
Lakshmi Govindan, who lives in the ground floor of a building said, "Several times the balls reached in the flat's balcony. The players enter the balcony and take the ball without any permission." As the flat is in the ground floor of the building, the children cannot sit inside the house peacefully in the evenings. She also said once the ball even reached the kitchen and spoiled their food. The glass window was open at that time, otherwise it would have broken the glasses of the window.
"Players remain fully concentrated in their games and they do not worry about children and cars around them," says Gangadharan, a resident of Yarmouk, by showing his car damaged by balls. Nowadays, he parks his car on the other side of the building to avoid further damages to the car. He added, "This has happened to other cars as well."

Irresponsible parking leaves car owners helpless

2008-08-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

KK Moidu
IMPERFECT parking of vehicles by some drivers cause problems for many, who are already fed up with fewer parking space. Wrong parking is also a finable offense. Yet careless drivers park their vehicles close to other vehicles without leaving enough space for the driver to get into his parked car.
Although authorities have marked the paid parking and free parking areas with enough space for each car, a few drivers don't pay any attention to these stipulations, especially in the free parking areas.
If the vehicles are parked wrongly in the paid parking zone the authorities will impose fines on the violators. But the free parking areas are not monitored regularly and without any complaints chances of fines are rare.
Thomas Sebastian, an Indian national working as a marketing executive in a private company said, "several times I have encountered the problem of getting into my car because of irresponsible parking of vehicles close to my car. If it happens in the daytime, I could wait for the driver hoping that he would be back after a while. It can be worse at night that one cannot even wait hoping for the driver's return."
However, Thomas solves the problem by entering the car through the other door.
Sadanandan, a Sharjah resident working in Dubai says, while coming back after the work he finds most of the parking spaces are occupied and some cars are parked wrongly, in parallel, perpendicular or in angle. These erroneous way of parking often occupies space for two vehicles. "I don't understand what kind of pleasure they get from this wrong doing, which gives only troubles to others," Sadanandan says.
He also said some two-wheelers also misuse parking spaces by parking motorcycles in the centre of the parking boxes.
The situation in open grounds are also not any better.
Even when enough parking spaces are available, some drivers park their cars blocking the entry itself.
Some others park their cars without leaving space for the other parked cars to come out.
Irresponsible parking behind parked vehicles is common in Sharjah. Most of the drivers have often faced this problem.
A Sharjah resident working as a nurse in a hospital in Dubai said, seeing a car parked behind her vehicle at 5am one day literally shocked her. She could not take her car and had to hire a taxi to reach her working place on time. MM Kutty, a resident of Al Nahda area, working in Dubai said, many times he found difficulty in taking out his car from the parking because of other vehicles parked behind his car.
Although the public can inform the police if any vehicle is found wrongly parked, blocking the movement of the car in front, many don't use the facility for fear of inviting the wrath of the offender.

Hitmaker teams with superstar

2008-08-06T10:50:00.000-07:00

BY KK MOIDU

Eminent director Lal Jose isin the UAE for the discussionsof his upcoming filmCousins, which is based onthe script of Dr Iqbal Kuttippuram.
Dubai basedhomeopathic practitionerDr Iqbal and Lal Jose havemade superhit Arabikkathain the recent past.
The audience expectationsare all time high in thereunion of sought-after directorLal Jose and popularscenarist Iqbal Kuttippuramafter almost a year with protagonistsMohanlal andPrithviraj in the male leads.
Lal Jose features superstar Mohanlal for the firsttime, and youngsters’ heartthrobPrithviraj is joiningwith Mohanlal for the firsttime in Cousins.
Jose, whois always very careful not tobe stereotyped, tells afarmer’s story in Cousins.
“The film revolves aroundtwo cousins and their specialattachments,” Jose said.
Mohanlal and Prithvirajplay the two cousins role inthe film.
These two are theonly living members in theirfamily.
All others in the familydied in an accident andthese cousins keep a speciallove in their relations.
A newcomer will composemusic for the film.
Since the two leading actorsof the industry play prominentroles, the film will featuretwo heroines, and oneof them will be a new face.
Lal Jose made his directorialdebut with superstarMammootty in Oru MaravathoorKanavu a decadeago.
Lal Jose is a master incrafting superhit films andhe knows what clicks withthe audience.
His MeesaMadhavan and Classmatescatapulted young actorsDileep and Prithviraj tosuper stardom.
These filmshave the highest collectionrecords in the history ofMalayalam cinema and theracy narration made him afront-line director of the industry.
However, Lal Jose’s previousfilm Mulla didn’t dowell at the box office.
Josesaid the film was doing goodbusiness for the first weekand one of the TV channels’wrong assessment affectedthe collections.
He added,“The media sometimeskeeps silent on bad films oftheir favourites.
”Lal Jose is presentlybusy with his maiden Tamildirectorial venture MazhaiVara Pokuthu featuringDaniel Balaji in the lead.
After completing the Tamilfilm, Jose will start thework of his new filmCousins.

More heat, more accidents

2008-08-06T10:48:00.000-07:00

Proper vehicle maintenance need of the hour
BY KK MOIDU
AS SUMMER reaches its peak, cautious driving and special care for vehicles becomes very essential for preventing accidents, according to experts.
During the warm weather people should make sure that their vehicles engine, tyres and cooling systems are in proper condition.
Checking tyre pressure, coolant, changing oil, oil filters, air filters, belts, brake pads, brake fluids in time and careful driving in heat are recommended by experts.
Heat can destroy batteries, stress the cooling system and tires in warm weather.
The roads and the engines get heated up excessively, the mental stress of the drivers becomes too much thereby increasing the possibility of accidents in summer.
Although overspeeding, neglecting traffic rules and reckless driving are counted as the main reasons for accidents.
Other factors like danger of getting engine fire, tyre burning, broken windshields are some among the other risks of vehicles in peak summer.
The drivers should check the temperature of the vehicle and drive with concentration, that can prevent many accidents.
Mehmood, who is handling motor for the last 17 years in an Insurance Company said tyres related and windshield damages claim increases in summer.
Tyres keep everything on the road and the high temperatures put added stress on them.
The heat causes the pressure within a tyre to rise and it gets blast claims for new vehicles are very frequent in summer, he added.
Manosh Puthalath, the owner of Al Tasmeyah Auto Maintenance Work Shop in Sharjah said, “One of the main reasons for vehicle accident and breakdown in summer is radiator problems.
The cooling system works harder in summer than other climate to prevent overheating of the engine.
” According to Manosh, radiator cleaning and changing the damaged hoses connecting the radiator to the engine are the must for the smooth working of cooling system effectively.
He added that several vehicles are coming to the workshop with the complaints of cooling system in hot temperatures.
Proper care and maintenance of the vehicle, careful driving in summer reduce the number of accidents and safeguard the vehicles.

Kismat Konnection to premiere in Dubai

2008-08-06T10:01:00.000-07:00

BY KK MOIDU

SHAHID Kapoor and Vidya Balan starrer Kismat Konnection will premiere in Grand Cineplex, Dubai on Wednesday. The male lead of the film Shahid Kapoor, heroine Vidya Balan and director Aziz Mirza will grace the function.
The emotional and beautiful love-story Kismat Konnection is produced by Ramesh S Taurani under the banner of Tips Films and the premiere event in Dubai is hosted by Star Plus Middle East and UTV Motion pictures.
Shahid Kapoor, who
has delivered solo hits like
Vivaah and Jab We Met,
plays the role of Raj Malhotra
in Mirza’s latest directorial
venture Kismet
Konnection. Raj, the best student-of-the-year trophy winner from college is still struggling to find that One Big Chance to showcase his mettle even after four years of his degree in architecture.
Aziz Mirza, who previously directed hit films like Yes Boss, Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani, Chalte Chalte among others with front line hero Shah Rukh Khan is casting young hero Shahid Kapoor in the lead role for the first time.
One of Bollywood leading women Vidya Balan also first time pairing opposite Shahid in the film as a tough talking and stubborn girl as Priya, the lucky charm of the hero.
Former Bollywood heroine Juhi Chawla plays the role of a gypsy fortune-teller as Hasina Bano Jaan with typical colourful costumes. Om Puri also plays a pivotal role in the film.
Major portion of the film is pictured in Toronto, Canada and Mumbai. The music of the film composed by Pritam Chakraborty is on top of the charts. Shahid’s dance track ‘Aye Paapi’ (Tu Hai Meri Soniye) sung by Neeraj Shridhar has already won the hearts of youths.
Kismet Konnection with director Mirza’s tender humour, Pritam’s mind blowing music and super performance of crowdpulling hero Shahid Kapoor will definitetly ring the cash registers at the box office.
Kismet Konnection will hit the UAE screens on Thursday and world wide on July 18th Friday.
Star Plus will air behind the scenes making of episode on July 19 at 6pm and will repeat on July 26 at 6pm. The lead cast of the film will share their experiences and anecdotes on the making of the film.