Community

The 'Malappuram Carnival' organised by Qatar Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre (KMCC) Malappuram district committee concluded at the Old Ideal School, as part of 'City Exchange Presents Malappuram Peruma Season 05' with various programmes.Among the highlights were cricket, badminton tournaments, cooking competitions and cultural programmes such as Oppana, Kolkali, Daf mutt, Muttipattu, Vattapattu and Ghazal, food stalls by 16 mandalam committees, and henna and face painting.State president Dr Abdul Samad, general secretary Salim Nalakath, K Mohamed Eesa, Zainul Abidin Safari, Adiyottil Ahamed, CV Khalid, Siddique Vazhakkad and others handed over the prizes.Muslim Youth League Malappuram district president Shareef Kuttoor, secretary Shareef Vadakkayil, KMCC leaders Abdul Nasser Nachi, PSM Hussain, other state and district office-bearers and leaders of various organisations visited the carnival.KMCC Malappuram district office-bearers Sawad Veliyamkode, Abdul Akbar Vengasseri, Rafeeq Kondotty, Mehboob Nalakath, Abdul Jabbar Palakkal, Ismail Hudavi, Shareef Valanchery, Mohamed Layis, Majeed Purur, Muneer Pattarkadavu, Shamseermanu and others took the lead. Malappuram peruma closing ceremony will be held in the third week of February.

The Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF) has launched a Legal Cell Panel to mark its 40th anniversary celebrations.The launch was in association with the Indian Lawyers Fraternity Forum, Qatar (ILFF-Q), a statement said.The Legal Cell Panel consists of nine experts from different fields. ICBF has planned a slew of programmes aimed at enriching community engagement and development as part of the 40th anniversary celebrations.Indian ambassador Vipul, who was the chief guest, stressed in his inaugural address the importance of legal assistance and community support in fostering growth and development.He also unveiled the ICBF's 40th anniversary logo and tagline, which was selected through a contest among Indian community members in Qatar. Contest winners, Ahmed Noushad (logo) and A Haja Mohideen (tagline) will be honoured at a later date.ICBF co-ordinating officer and Indian embassy first secretary Dr Vaibhav Tandale was also present. ICBF general secretary Varkey Boban K welcomed the gathering. President Shanavas Bava, in his presidential address, reiterated ICBF's commitment to provide for the needy Indian community members in various sectors. Zareena Ahad proposed a vote of thanks.

Hima Fatima (Grade 6) of MES Indian School has published her first book, 'The Story of Stromono Station’. The 11-year-old had been working on her book for two years. Though, Hima Fatima, like other children of her age, enjoys pursuing other leisure time activities such as drawing and crafts, she is most passionate about writing and storytelling which has inspired her to come out with a storyline about the wonder between a dream and reality. Releasing the book, principal Dr Hameeda Kadar congratulated Hima Fatima for the effort at a very young age and wished her success to make a mark as a prolific writer of stories and to shine in related genres.

Indian expatriate organisation Telangana Welfare Association – Qatar (TWA-Q) in association with Abeer Medical Centre - Abu Hamour, hosted a free medical camp for women.A total of 90 women were provided with gynaecology and general physician consultations, major tests, medicines and a CPR training programme.Indian embassy first secretary Dr Vaibhav Tandale was the chief guest. A total of 22 applications for the Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF) life insurance scheme was handed over by TWA-Q vice president Ramesh Pitla. ICBF president Shanavas Bava, general secretary Varkey Boban, secretary Mohamed Kunhi, treasurer Kuldeep Kaur and insurance head Abdul Raoof Kondooty were present.TWA-Q chairman Khaja Nizamuddin welcomed the gathering and presented the best social service award for 2023 to Telangana Praja Samithi Qatar chairman Gadde Srinivas. TWA-Q president Mohamed Abdul Rauf thanked sponsors, Intelligent Technology Systems Co and Qatar Institute for Speech & Hearing.A memento was presented to Abeer Medical Centre, represented by sales and marketing manager Midhulaj Nujumudeen and representative Abdul Nadeem. The ICBF officials were felicitated by TWA-Q ladies wing members Aditi Gaikwad, Padma, Pratyusha Shanker, Sandya Verdandi, Radhika Yemula, Hurmath Begum Sultana and Saleha Rakhsheen.TWA-Q officials Gulam Rasool, Naveed Dastagir, Mohamed Shoieb, Mohamed Salahuddin, Nagaraju, Syed Bakar, Talha Shabath, Primary Health Care Corporation's procurement head Badar Shaikh and Ashghal's senior engineer Venkata Rao Vustela supported the event.

The Indian Women's Association (IWA) organised a festive gathering which featured a mom and child, and dessert competitions recently.

United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) Qatar chapter celebrated its 13th anniversary under the leadership of the 2023-24 president Kriz Samed Quiogue and the current officers, a statement said.Themed 'Design - Build Services – As a Lawful Professional Practice of the Registered and Licensed Architect,' the event had the support and contributions of past leaders, notably the immediate past president Carolyn Camarao.UAP's national executive vice president Donato B Magcale and the Philippines ambassador to Qatar Lillibeth V Pono were among the dignitaries at the event that had among its highlights performances by Maharlikans Vocals Ensembles Philippines as well as games and raffle draws.Levante Trading, Jadara Trading & Contracting, Jotun Paints Qatar, Philippine Airlines and Lyndon Calibuso sponsored the event which had Joahnna Mae Escoba as the master of ceremonies. It was supported by photographer Lyndon Delarosa and confectioner Redentor.The other officials of UAP Qatar chapter are Ryan S Antonio, Nidjnel P Bakial, Cherry Joy C Aljas, Ephraim Deil S Navarro, Emmanuel O Tiglao, Ramil P Laxamana, Adrian Elmer M Bolalin, Sunny F Tuazon, Ruel P Sulit and Edwind R Mangalus.

Youth Forum Qatar marked the first anniversary of the 2022 FIFA World Cup final, by unveiling a commemorative souvenir named 'Bisht.' Indian Sports Centre president E P Abdul Rahman, presented the publication to Youth Forum president S S Mustafa. A number of community leaders were present.

Two bikers from India on a world tour were hosted by the Indian Cultural Centre in Doha. Deepak Gupta (Mountain Man) and Ankit Lamba (Dream Chaser) were felicitated by Indian embassy deputy chief of mission Sandeep Kumar. ICC officials and Students' Forum managing committee members got a chance to listen to and get inspired by the motivational stories of the adventurers.

Ananna - Association of Bangladeshi Women in Qatar, working to promote cultural diversity and women's empowerment, participated in the four-day 'Bijoy Mela 2023', organised by the Bangladesh embassy to celebrate the Victory Day.The fair was inaugurated by the Bangladesh Chief of Staff Sheikh Mohammad Shafiuddin Ahmed and ambassador to Qatar Md Nazrul Islam at the Bangladesh MHM School and College, Abu Hamour.A number of other nationalities also joined Ananna at the fair, a statement said. The Ananna stalls had traditional Bangladeshi food items, world famous Jamdani saree of Bangladesh, Indian and Pakistani salwar suits, jewellery, kids and men's wear, toys and various household products including mats and embroidered napkins.A wide array of traditional Bangladeshi food items were available. The visitors enjoyed the music and culture show each afternoon. Among the musical bands which performed at the fair, Chirantan Baul, Shrabon, Boishakhi and Freedom got huge applause. Ananna won the second position as the best stall decorator.

Muslim League leaders P Chekku Musliyar of Kuthuparambu in Oorgattiri panchayath and V Hamsa Iruvetti in Kavanur panchayath were selected for the 4th Eranadan Prathibha Award organised by Qatar Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre (KMCC) Eranad Constituency Committee in memory of P Seethihaji.The awardees were announced by P K Basheer, a member of Kerala Legislative Assembly, at a function in Qatar. The other members of the jury were C P Saidalavi, Dr Abdusamad (Qatar KMCC state president) and Savad Veliyankode (KMCC Malappuram district president).The award, which carries a cash prize of Rs50,000 and a citation each, will be presented in February at a function at the native places of the awardees. P V Mohamed Areekode, M I Thangal and M C Mohamed Haji were the last three winners of the Eranadan Prathibha Award. The awards announcement ceremony was also addressed by Qatar KMCC state vice-president K Mohammed Easa, Eranad Constituency president Ajmal Areekode, general secretary Ahamed Niyas Moorkanad, vice-president Safeerussalam Edavanna and treasurer P K Abdul Manaf.

A three-day Bijoy Mela (festival), organised by the embassy of Bangladesh in collaboration with the Bangladesh MHM School & College at the latter’s premises to mark the Great Victory Day 2023, will conclude Saturday.The event has generated tremendous interest among the Bangladesh expatriates in Qatar with people turning out in traditional attire and showcasing Bangladesh traditions, cuisine and handicrafts in 50 stalls.Thousands of Bangladeshis along with their families, students, teachers and several members of local and foreign communities gathered on the opening day of Bijoy Mela. Some renowned companies in Qatar including Ooredoo and LuLu and community organisations have set up their stalls. The Embassy of Bangladesh stall features books on the Father of the Nation and the history of the people’s struggles for right to self-determination and political independence. Consular services are also provided at the stall.Cultural performances are presented by students of Bangladesh School and various organisations including Srabon, Boishakhi, Chironton Baul, Titas, Freedom, Magician Mr Koko and famous Bangladeshi singer Ashique.Bijoy Mela was inaugurated on Thursday by Bangladesh ambassador Md Nazrul Islam and Bangladesh Army Chief of Staff General S M Shafiuddin Ahmed. The envoy, in his speech, paid rich tributes to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and recalled with profound respect the great contribution he made for the independence of Bangladesh.Ambassador Islam also paid homage to the national leaders and freedom fighters who made supreme sacrifices during the liberation war. He expressed satisfaction with the ongoing socio-economic progress of Bangladesh under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the last decade.The envoy urged the community members to support the development initiatives to realise the dream of the Father of the Nation. He thanked the foreign participants and sponsors for their support for the event.The ambassador also thanked the Bangladesh community in Qatar for their participation and for upholding the rich culture and traditions of Bangladesh.

Community members from seven Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) took part in the first-ever Asean Community Sports Day at the University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST).The event, organised by the Indonesian embassy in Qatar, was attended by Asean ambassadors in Qatar: Mohamed Bahrin Abu Bakar (Brunei), Ridwan Hassan (Indonesia), Zamshari Shaharan (Malaysia), Lillibeth V Pono (Philippines), Wong Chow Ming (Singapore), Sira Swangsilpa (Thailand) and Tran Duc Hung (Vietnam). UDST president Dr Salem al-Naemi and Maryam al-Hammadi from the Ministry of Culture were also present at the opening ceremony.According to the organisers, more than 220 players from the Asean communities in Qatar participated in various sports competitions, including football, badminton, table tennis, basketball, volleyball, and tug of war.In his speech, the Indonesian ambassador quoted Nelson Mandela, saying that: “Sports have the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire, it has the power to unite people in a way that little else does”.From thrilling football matches to intense badminton duels, the day celebrated not just sports but the harmonious blend of cultures within the Asean community. Spectators and families enjoyed a fun-filled event gathering with fellow Aseans, while also enjoying the traditional food delicacies from some of the countries at the food bazaar.Indonesia emerged as the grand champion of the tournament, securing gold medals for football, men’s badminton and men’s table tennis.

The managing committee of Maharashtra Mandal Qatar (MMQ) for 2023-24 organised a mega event, Swarotsav, featuring the acclaimed Indian classical vocalist and national award winner, Mahesh Kale. He was accompanied by Apurav Dravid (multi-percussionist), Omkar Dalvi (pakhavaj), Pandurang Pawar (tabla), Abhinay Ravande (harmonium) and Prathamesh Lad (flute). Indian embassy first secretary Vaibhav Tandale was the chief guest. Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) vice president Subramaniyam Hebbagelu, general secretary Mohan Kumar and Indian Community Benevolent Forum vice president Deepak Shetty were guests of honour. The event was attended by more than 600 members of MMQ. Achiever students of Grade 10 and 12 were felicitated by the dignitaries. MMQ's 2023 souvenir, 'Garja Maharashtra Maza,' was unveiled by Kale. MMQ president Rakesh Wagh, delivered the inaugural speech. Vice president Rachana Chaudhari compered the event. The organising committee comprised Manish Shah, Ajay Dhole, Siddhesh Zade, Nilesh Vaidya, Amruta Patil, Gayatri Modak, Vidya Mogare and Anilkumar Kadam. General secretary Parag Sonawane proposed a vote of thanks. On behalf of the Indian community, the ICC gave a community reception in honour of Kale. President Manikantan A P felicitated the renowned singer.

Indian Sports Centre's (ISC) second throwball tournament for ladies, featuring 12 teams, saw Tulukoota emerging as thechampions. Indian ambassador Vipul was the chief guest at the finals and closing ceremony.Karnataka Sangha Qatar was second and Mangalore Cultural Association third. Indira Ravi Kunder was selected as the best smasher, Vileeta Alvares the best catcher and Muriel Meryln won the best all-rounder award. The tournament had Indian national referee Jojimon Devasia officiating in the tournament in Qatar.ISC president E P Abdul Rahman addressed the gathering. Indian Cultural Centre president A P Manikantan, Indian Community Benevolent Forum president Shanavas Bava, ISC vice president John Desa, general secretary Nihad Ali, secretary Pradeep Pillai, head of Throwball Sujatha Fernandez, management committee members Purushotaman Appavoo, Trupthi Kale, Deepesh Govindankutty and Shalini Tiwary, were present.

A ‘Garba Night’ hosted by the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) was replete with festivities, dance and prizes.

Indian Sports Centre (ISC) hosted a community reception for the Indian chess players participating in the Qatar Masters 2023. The event at Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) was also in association with Qatar Tamizhar Sangam (QTS). Grandmaster Gukesh, representing his fellow players, took the stage and spoke on their behalf. Indian ambassador Vipul was the chief guest. Indian embassy first secretary Sachin Shankpal, ISC president E P Abdul Rahiman, ICC president A P Manikantan, Indian Community Benevolent Forum president Shanavas Bava and QTS president Manibharathi were present.

'Maha Bathukamma' celebrations were held by Telangana Jagruthi Qatar (TJQ) with a tribute to Chandrayaan-3, Aditya L1 replicas. President Sudha Pasupulati said the event under the guidance of advisory council chairperson Nandini Abbagouni reflected Indian and Telangana State culture and heritage. Ladies and girls were dressed up for the occasion to reflect the Indian culture and performed Bathukamma. With the objective to promote handloom and to support artisans, the committee distributed handloom sarees from Narayanpet and Siricilla districts of Telangana.

A Sri Lankan Football Tournament, organised by the Qatar Kottaramulla Society, saw Badurians FC emerging champions in the Elite Division and Wolf Pack FC winning the Veterans’ Division. Friends DC were the runner-up in the Elite Division and Black Square FC in the Veterans’ Division. Clean Nation Movement’s leader Isham Marikar lauded the organisers.

Team ‘Remembrance Theatre’ emerged as the champion of the annual cultural extravaganza by Youth Forum ExpArt 2023 for Indian expatriates in Qatar with 96 points. A total of 12 teams featured in 15 art competitions over three days. Team Chaayapeediya Qatar was second with 66 points, followed by Alumnus of Al Jamia Shanthapuram with 56 points. Shaanib M Shamsuddin of Team “Friends of City Exchange” was the standout performer, and Team “Ala Qatar” was the best team. The competitions included mono act, poetry recitation, Mappilappattu, elocution, mimicry, folk song, skit, group song, mime, story writing, poetry composition, cartooning, calligraphy, and painting. Film director Ameen Aslam, actor Prasanth Varma and RJ Jibin were among the judges. A highlight of the closing ceremony was a spectacular performance by violinist Sefin Fareed. Centre for Indian Community president Khasim T K , Youth forum Qatar president S S Mustafa, vice-presidents M I Aslam Taufeeq and Aslam Erattuppetta graced the occasion. The ExpArt Committee vice-chairman Salman Alparambil, and general convener Jazeem C K were the leads of the event.

The ICC-ONE Toastmasters Club, which completed 20 years in May 2023, held an Open House meeting recently. Founder president M I Farid and founder member R S K Naidu were among the guests.