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Classical dancer Dr Sahana Bhat performed at the Indian Cultural Centre's Wednesday Fiesta. Indian embassy's deputy chief of mission Sandeep Kumar was the chief guest.

To strengthen patriotism and nationalism among young Indonesians in Qatar, the Indonesian embassy conducted the second edition of the 'Civic Course' from September 10 to 15. The event brought together over 40 Indonesian teenagers residing in Qatar. They actively participated in a series of discussions and intensive activities aimed at deepening their understanding of crucial topics, including State’s ideology of Pancasila, Indonesia’s natural landscapes, religiosity, role of young Indonesians on the global stage, among a host of other subjects. The inaugural day of discussions kicked off with the theme, 'Nationalism and Indonesian Youth,' facilitated by Dr Anto Mohsin, a faculty member at Northwestern University in Qatar. He discussed the historical roles of youth and how young Indonesians can actively contribute to addressing future challenges. Putri Handayani, an employee and an accomplished mountain climber, facilitated a discussion on the extensive natural landscapes of Indonesia. In addition to addressing the challenges of environmental stewardship in Indonesia, participants also actively presented and exchanged their viewpoints. The event concluded with a closing address by the Indonesian ambassador to Qatar, Ridwan Hassan. This was followed by a special guest lecture delivered online by Dr Darmansjah Djumala, member of Expert Council of Indonesia’s National Agency for Fostering Pancasila Ideology and former ambassador to Austria. Dr Djumala emphasised the pivotal role of Pancasila as the driving force as well as a bridge between nationalism and internationalism (humanity). He, among others stressed the importance of Indonesian young diaspora to have the spirit of nationalism. However, the Indonesian youth also should have capacity to respect the nationalism of other nations. “Our nationalism is not built by underestimating other nations,” said Dr Djumala added.

Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology (Govt. Engineering College, Kottayam) Alumni Association Qatar (Ritaaq) members and their families celebrated the Onam festival at an event titled 'Aarattu 2023: A Day of Unity and Tradition.'The day began with members showcasing their artistic flair in crafting intricate 'Pookalam' (floral carpet) designs. Chairman Sheffin Shahab welcomed the gathering followed by a brief introduction about the purpose and importance of the event by general secretary Mohamed Hashir and a vote of thanks by treasurer Rishad Payyapatha.The cultural performances featured Kerala's traditional dances and a fashion show depicting the beauty of traditional attire. The highlight of the day was the sumptuous Onam Sadhya, a grand feast prepared and served by the members themselves.A touch of nostalgia was added with the inclusion of the traditional game of Vadam Vali (tug of war).

Tulukoota Qatar, an associate organisation of Indian Cultural Centre, won the maiden MAT Kabaddi Trophy at a tournament it hosted recently at Aspire Dome's multipurpose hall.Indian ambassador Vipul was the chief guest and Indian Sports Centre president E P Abdul Rahman was the guest of honour.Tulukoota lifted the championship trophy and received a cash award of QR3,333. Qatar Indian Friends was the first runner-up winning a cash prize of QR2,222 and trophy, while SKMWA bagged the second runner-up trophy and cash prize of QR1,111. Adars of Qatar Indian Friends was adjudged the best all-rounder of the tournament, Vishwaraj (TKQ) won the best rider award and Ashiq (TKQ), the best defender award.The day-long tournament featuring eight teams had 12 league matches before the semifinal and final. The viewership both online and onsite exceeded 10,000. Earlier Tulukoota president Kiran Anand welcomed the gathering.

Rajasthan Pariwar Qatar Ladies Wing had a chill-out session recently with RJ Swarna from Radio Olive 106.3 FM.

The Indonesian embassy in Doha held an “Embassy Day” event as part of the Qatar-Indonesia Year of Culture and to mark the 78th anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence.The embassy invited around 60 Qatari children to visit the embassy and see the cultural diversity of Indonesia. This activity is the result of collaboration between the embassy and Qatar Reads.As part of the programme, the embassy introduced traditional dance, folklore, batik drawing, angklung (traditional music instrument) and a variety of traditional Indonesian games.Indonesian ambassador Ridwan Hassan and his wife, madam Lita Hassan, also did a storytelling about Indonesia's unique animal, namely the orangutan.Eight-year old Abdullah, a participant at the event, said he enjoyed the activity, saying “I am very happy to get to know Indonesia more deeply through the Embassy Day activities.”The Embassy Day is one of the mission’s efforts to increase awareness among Qatari children about Indonesia."With good knowledge about Indonesia, we hope that these kids can be ‘ambassadors’ who can strengthen relations between Indonesia and Qatar in the future," Hassan said.This year, the embassy collaborated several times with Qatar Reads, including the organising of the Family Reading Programme."We express our highest appreciation to Qatar Reads for all these excellent collaborations," the ambassador added.

An exhibition of the currency collection of the Indo-Arab Numismatic-Philately Association was held at the British Modern International School in Doha.From the period of monarchy to post-independence India, as well as notes, coins and stamps from various foreign countries, a vast collection of currencies was displayed in the exhibition.The exhibition also showcased rare commemorative coins, gold and silver coins, tickets and other Arabian heritage items. Guests including Indian Cultural Centre vice president Subramanya Hebbagelu and Indian Community Benevolent Forum managing committee member Abdul Rauf Kondotty, participated in the exhibition which took place as a part of Team Qatar Orchestra's Onam celebration.The exhibition was aimed at raising awareness about currency and stamp collection among school students in Doha and initiating philatelic clubs. The organisers informed that the event was supported by Dr Moideen Kutty, Dr Arya Krishna, Dr Abhishek Krishna, Subair Areekkad, Abdusalam, Ranjith Chemmad, Shanu Valiyakath Kovath, Sibi Sethu, Venugopal Vijayan, Khais Rasvi, Jayan Orma, Suresh Babu, and others, who contributed their extensive collections to the exhibition.

In the realm of art, where brushstrokes transcend the mundane and immerse us in worlds both real and imagined, Filipino painter Gordon Lee stands as a luminary, using oil painting as his medium to craft masterpieces that resonate deeply with the human spirit. Lee possesses a unique eye for storytelling, effortlessly weaving narratives that transcend time and space, leaving viewers entranced and captivated by the lifelike portraits and whimsical scenes that grace his canvases.Lee's mastery lies in his ability to breathe life into his subjects, creating portraits so vivid and realistic that one might mistake them for living beings. Through his meticulous attention to detail, he captures the essence of his subjects, revealing their innermost emotions and vulnerabilities. Each stroke of his brush tells a story, capturing not only the physical likeness but also the soul and spirit of his subjects. His portraits are windows into the human experience, allowing viewers to connect on a profound level and see themselves reflected in the narratives he presents.Yet, Lee's art is not confined to the realm of aesthetics alone. It is intrinsically linked to his personal journey and his quest to unravel the deeper meanings of life. His works transcend mere visual representation, becoming conduits for introspection and contemplation. Through his art, Lee explores the intricacies of the human condition, the vastness of our emotions, and the interconnectedness of our experiences. His oeuvre is a testament to the transformative power of art, as he evolves alongside his creations, constantly seeking to understand and convey the complexities of existence.Drawing inspiration from mythology and folklore, Lee creates whimsical narratives that transport viewers into enchanting realms brimming with symbolism and allegory. Each painting tells a beautiful story, interweaving elements of fantasy and reality to evoke a sense of wonder and awe. From ancient gods and goddesses to mystical creatures and ethereal landscapes, Lee's art invites us to suspend disbelief and embark on a magical journey where the boundaries of imagination are limitless.For Gordon Lee, art is not merely a passion; it is his lifeblood—an ever-present energy that emanates from the depths of his being. His belief that "the energy of art is from the soul" reverberates through his works, infusing them with a vitality that touches the hearts of those who encounter them. Guided by this philosophy, Lee channels his innermost self into each brushstroke, imbuing his art with an intangible essence that resonates with viewers on a visceral level.In today's fast-paced world, where instant gratification often takes precedence, Gordon Lee's approach to art stands as a testament to the enduring power of slow art. In an era where everything seems rushed and ephemeral, his meticulous process reminds us of the magic that unfolds when we take the time to truly immerse ourselves in a creation. Lee's art is a celebration of patience, inviting viewers to slow down, reflect, and find solace in the unhurried beauty of his canvases.Beyond the realm of aesthetics, art plays a crucial role in our society, particularly in shaping the minds and perspectives of the youth. Artists like Gordon Lee have the power to inspire, provoke thought, and foster empathy. Through his thought-provoking narratives and vibrant compositions, Lee encourages viewers to explore their own truths, challenging them to question their place in the world and their connection to others. His art serves as a bridge between generations, sparking dialogue and fostering an appreciation for the intangible, the sublime, and the everlasting.In the ever-evolving landscape of the art world, Gordon Lee emerges as an artist of extraordinary caliber, leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of our world.

Indian Cultural Centre felicitated Bigg Boss Kannada 9 winner, actor and RJ Roopesh Shetty recently in Doha.

Safari Friday Fifa Manjeri FC beat defending champions City Exchange FC 4-3 on penalties to clinch the City Exchange QIA Champions League 2023 title at Doha Stadium recently. Sharaf P Hameed, CEO of tournament title sponsors City Exchange and former Qatar volleyball team captain Saeed Juma al-Hitmi presented the trophy to the champions, while QIA advisory committee chairman Mibu Jose, tournament head Safeerurahman, and Indian Sports Centre (ISC) general secretary Nihad Ali awarded the winners' medals. The runners-up trophy was presented by ISC president E P Abdulrahman. QIA officials Abdul Azeez V, K C Abdulrahman, Jayaraj, and Abdul Rahim gave away the medals. Abraham Joseph (Indian Cultural Centre), Mohamed Kunji (Indian Community Benevolent Forum), Mohamed Ashraf (QIA advisory committee), Khaleel A P (QIA vice president), and Narayanan (QIA advisory committee), presented mementos and participation trophies. QIA organising committee heads Azeem, Abdul Rahim, Ashif, Rafeeque, Abdulrahman, Hamsa and Aslam, gave away trophies to the individual award winners. Orbit FC won the Fair Play Team award. Farukh Choudhary of Safari Friday Fifa Manjeri took home the tournament's Best Player award, while his teammate Rehenesh was named the Best Goalkeeper. Mousoof of City Exchange FC won the Top Scorer award with a tally of seven goals. Prabin Tigga of SFFM was chosen as the Man of the Match in the final.

Kerala Women’s Initiative Qatar (Kwiq) conducted a makeup workshop recently at the Indian Cultural Centre.The objective was to educate the attendees on basics of using makeup, daily face care routine and also included tips and tricks for anti-ageing facial care. The resource person Lekshmi G R Nair, director, Lechu’s Beauty & Spa, started with her suggested daily face care mantra that one should follow – “cleanse, moisturise and sun-screen,” and showcased a detailed demonstration of simple and easy techniques of applying makeup. ICC managing committee member Sumaa Mahesh Gowda was the chief guest. "We will be conducting more workshops on topics pivotal for women," said Kwiq president Bini Vinod.

Marathi Toastmasters Club recently celebrated its 75th milestone meeting.President Ajaya Rogiye welcomed the guests. Master of ceremony Ravikeerti Patil introduced the theme, 'Celebrations.'Speeches by Priya Shembekar and Atul Hardas were evaluated by Shweta Patil and Sameer Karmarkar, respectively.The role players were Sourabh Shelar, Pradip Sadiye, Deepa Ramakrishnan, and Atul Deswandikar. The topic master was Sujit Khanloskar. District 116 director Rajesh V C gave the keynote speech. Programme quality director Ravishankar spoke. Division B director Chandrashekhar Dudhe congratulated all the club members for grabbing 54 awards at DTAC 2023.Chandrashekar Angadi who won District 116 Humorous and Table Topic Contest was feted. General evaluator R S K Naidu gave the feedback. The club's officials, Abhijit Kuwalekar, Madhuri Borgave, Usha Patil and Ravikeerti Patil were instrumental in organising the event.

J K Menon, director and chairman of ABN Corporation, Qatar, addressed the Loka Kerala Sabha session held in New York recently. Also a director of the Department of Non Resident Keralites' Affairs (Norka), he suggested establishing a mental health counselling centre and a legal cell for the benefit of expatriates. Loka Kerala Sabha was established to study expatriates' problems and to formulate the necessary welfare schemes, he stated. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and other dignitaries were present.

Soft music, cozy interiors and decor, soothing surroundings and a coffee shop. Don't get carried away by thoughts of a plush foyer of a five-star hotel; this is the new normal in Doha's working environment, reflecting the metamorphosis in the country’s office market.It is exactly what Qatar's colourful and vibrant co-working spaces have to offer as an ergonomic solution to the rising demand, especially from millennials as they scout for such unconventional spots that can unleash and enhance their productivity and save on overhead costs.Co-working is a new style of workspace where people from variegated entities share an open common space rather than work in a private office. It is a better way to work; sharing space with other like-minded professionals not only creates a more dynamic workplace, but it is also a lot more cost effective than a regular office space.Interestingly, the co-working space helps break the monotony of working from the same place with some of the providers offering flexibility to work from any of their places in Qatar."There is plenty of demand for these trendy, alternative places to work from, especially among people who have studied abroad, and there isn’t yet that much offering available," said Pedro Caetano, head of Ecosystem, Vesuvio Labs, who is a client in M7, one of the co-working spaces in the country.At present, the flexible offices account for around 8% of the total office stock in Amsterdam and around 5% in London.In Qatar, occupancy is catching up in the co-working sector in view of flexible working models in a post-pandemic world. It is an indicator of growing acceptance due to the proactive approach towards fintechs and other such establishments.Opportunities are abounding for the sector and appurtenant services in view of the growing entrepreneurship in the fastest-growing economy.According to reports, the co-working office spaces in Qatar are slated to see a compound annual growth rate in excess of 5% during 2022-2027, driven by the organisations’ drive to strike a balance between productivity and cost optimisation.This also comes in view of the demand for flexible workspaces, especially among startups, real estate, SMEs or small- and medium-sized enterprises, and consultancies.Doha is witnessing a surge in demand for flexible office space, which has the potential for higher returns. This is helping not only small and medium-sized businesses find new opportunities but also the millennial generation that finds entrepreneurship more rewarding because of the encouragement and support from the government and other stakeholders.Qatar Development Bank (QDB), which offers financial services, had in 2021 launched a hackathon, which was held in collaboration with Workinton, the fastest-growing entrepreneur in the co-working sector, as the venue partner.This hackathon was held to address many contemporary challenges that aim to unlock the capabilities and innovative ideas of Qatar’s aspiring entrepreneurs, its brightest thinkers, innovators and businessmen.Among the key providers of co-working space in Qatar are Servcorp, Workinton, Co-worker, Easy Cowork, Alliance Business Centres Network and Regus.Australia-based Servcorp is the frontrunner in bringing the co-working space concept to Qatar and it has three locations – Tornado Tower, Doha Tower and Commercial Bank Plaza.Regus has nine locations - Shourmouk Towers, Al Ghanem Building, Lusail Twin Towers, Alfardan Towers, Al Muntazah Commercial Centre, Bank Street Blue Building, Jaidah Square, D-Ring Road and The Pearl Island.Smaller suites and serviced office space have been seeing an upward trend in demand as they become more affordable and many businesses can be seen relocating in search of better deals.The launch of Workinton M7, an intersection of an art gallery and a working space, marks a brand-new concept that will be home to talents in the creative and technology fields. Workinton M7, a creative and tech startup hub opened its fourth co-working space in the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha last year.M7, a fusion of art and technology yet not losing the essence of Arabic architecture, has fast become the new place to be for design, innovation and entrepreneurship, dedicated to empowering creative talents to explore, collaborate and grow into successful entrepreneurs."Usually I work from the M7 downtown Msheireb branch, but sometimes it is good to change the view for a couple of days, and without further notice, I can work from Workinton’s Lusail or Bank Street branch. That means a lot to me," Caetano said.The global co-working space market size is expected to reach $19.05bn this year from $16.17bn in 2022, translating into 17.8% CAGR. It is slated to further grow to $34.99bn in 2027 at a CAGR of 16.4%.According to a recent study, by 2025, flexible workspaces will make up more than 60% of the total office demand in the Gulf Co-operation Council.

The 75-day programmes of Fosa Qatar, the alumni association of the Farook College in Kerala, as part of the 75th anniversary of the college recently, came to an end. Fosa conducted many events including Legends Route, Global Meet, Medical Camp, Basic life support training and various other contests and events. The valedictory event was inaugurated by Dr K P Abubacker, an alumnus of the college. Principal Dr K A Aysha Swapna, while addressing the event online, appreciated Fosa members for their contributions and works. Dr M Abdul Jabbar also spoke. Fosa Qatar president Askar Rahman presided. Organising committee chairman Mashhood V C, Shumais and Zaheer were present. A musical feast was led by Syed Mashhood Thangal, Riyaz Babu and Rajina Poyil.

Some 24 candidates are competing for the prestigious titles of “Ginoo at Mutya ng Kalayaan 2023” in Qatar, at a pageant that will be a highlight of the Philippine Independence Day celebration on June 23 at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort and Convention Hotel.The day-long event promises to showcase the vibrant Philippine culture, featuring festivities, performances, and a range of exciting activities.The contenders gathered on June 3 at the Millenium Plaza Hotel for their official pageant photos. The pageant committee for the much-anticipated event unveiled the names of the 12 candidates competing for the prestigious title. These talented young women hail from various cities and provinces across the Philippines.Among the candidates are Hazel Faith Catulong from Cebu City, Lylene Alyana E Arcobillas from Bacolod City, Grace A Padiernos from Laguna, and Mikaela L Espiritu from Binan, Laguna.Other candidates who made the list include Christine Hanna G Masarete (Nueva Ecija), Mary Kristine C Talite (Iloilo City), Melit Bangsoyao (Benguet), Queen Criztyn Don Villanueva (Rizal), Janice Boston Batareche (Sultan Kudarat), Rona Charisse Francisco (Zamboanga City), Karen Kate P Miranda (Pasig City) and Kaila N Taduran (Quezon City).The 12 candidates who will be competing for the title of Ginoong Kalayaan 2023 are: Jesmmie Michael C Pabillore (Cebu), Ian Matteo D Campos (Cebu City), Jeffrey Bassim O Dela Cruz (Cavite), Lorenz C Lugatiman (Marikina City), Ronald A Padua (Iriga City), Rodge Leo Valdez (Albay), Kyle Ashley Palingayan (Cagayan Valley), Lenard Christie Pineda (Oriental Mindoro), Charlie R Jose (Nueva Ecija) Keith Rolan Bugahod (Misamis Occidental), CJ Mark M Concepcion (Pampanga), and Joemar O Navarro (Pampanga). Filipino expatriates in Qatar have the chance to show support for their favourite contenders through social media voting. The voting system will use LOVE and WOW reactions, and the campaign period will run until June 22.

Qatar KMCC Eranad Constituency organised a members' meet.Prominent scholar and orator M M Akbar delivered the keynote address. The new state and district office-bearers and panchayat office-bearers under Eranad constituency were given a reception at the function. KMCC Qatar president Dr Abdul Samad inaugurated the members' meet. Ajmal Areekode presided and Ahamed Niyas Moorkanad welcomed the gathering. KMCC Qatar functionaries P S M Hussain, Abdul Akbar Vengassery, Rafeeq Kondotty, Abdul Jabbar Tanur, Mohamed Layis Kuniyil and K Mohamed Essa were present.

The Philippine Human Resources (HR) Practitioners - Qatar (PHRP-Q), the first Filipino HR society in the country, hosted its first general assembly recently with a 100-strong gathering.The dignitaries included Philippine ambassador Lilibeth Pono , other embassy officials, Philippine Professional Organisation in Qatar chairman, architect Marvin Tejada, who was honoured as the adviser of PHRP-Q and awarded honorary membership for his invaluable guidance.The occasion also served as an opportunity to introduce the Board of Directors, composed of Allyn Lylle Amo, Amie Andrada, Dorily Macaraeg, Efren Soliman, Atty Joseph Tolentino, Maria Sharon Tamaray and Richard Valdez. PHRP-Q’s BOD Richard Valdez introduced the officers.Donavan Cabantac, chair of the CPD Committee, unveiled a comprehensive lineup of L&D programmes for the remainder of 2023, which include updates from the Migrant Workers Office (MWO).Vice Consul Monica Calangian provided an overview of the MWO's latest progress. The events committee is dedicated to fostering member engagement across various domains, including mental and professional development, as well as community outreach, social initiatives, physical activities and environmental campaigns.PHRP-Q welcomes Filipino HR practitioners from various companies and job positions to become members.

Bihar Social Forum's (BSF) star performers Shweta Kumari, Vidyabala Pathak and Slesha Trivedi led by famous choreographer and singer Smriti Trivedi hogged the limelight at the Rang Tarang 2023 organised by Indian Community Benevolent Forum recently, to mark the culmination of International Labour Day celebrations. BSF founder Irfan Ansari and president Satyendra Pathak lauded the performers.

Indian Cultural Centre (ICC), under the aegis of the Embassy of India, officially inaugurated the permanent LED wall installed at the Ashoka Hall for better audio and visual provision. Indian embassy first secretary and ICC co-ordinating officer Xavier Dhanraj inaugurated the LED wall and lauded the ICC managing committee.ICC president Manikantan A P, general secretary Mohan Kumar, secretary Abraham Joseph, finance head Ashraf Ali, cultural activities head Sumaa Mahesh Gowda, school activities head Shantanu Deshpande and a number of prominent members of the community were present.