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ICC is all set to host Photography exhibition ‘India & Qatar: A Journey Through Captured Moments,’ featuring the works of 93 talented photographers from ICC Photography Club at ICC, Abuhamur, that is scheduled from today (December 15) till December 16.The exhibition aims to showcase a diverse range of photographic styles and subjects, offering a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and creativity of the art of photography. From breathtaking landscapes to compelling portraits, the exhibited artworks promise to captivate and inspire all those in attendance.The opening reception will take place today at 6.15pm providing an exclusive opportunity to meet the artists, engage in discussions about their work, and gain insight into the stories behind the images.

It was narrated on the authority of Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, that the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam (may Allah exalt his mention), said:“The Qur’an has been revealed in five divisions: the lawful, the unlawful, the precise (in meaning), the unspecific (in meaning), and the examples. Act upon the lawful, avoid the unlawful, follow the precise, believe in the unspecific and take lessons to learn from the examples.” [Al-Bayhaqi]No doubt, the lawful is evident in the Book of Allah Almighty; Allah Almighty says (what means):l {... and makes lawful for them the good things and prohibits for them the evil.} [Qur’an 7:157]l {... marry those that please you of [other] women, two or three or four. But if you fear that you will not be just, then [marry only] one.} [Qur’an 4:3]l {It has been made permissible for you the night preceding fasting to go to your wives [for sexual relations].} [Qur’an 2:187]Similarly, the unlawful is evident: Allah Almighty has made unlawful the evil things, as shown in His saying (what means):l {So avoid the uncleanliness of idols and avoid false statement.} [Qur’an 22:30]l {Prohibited to you are dead animals, blood, the flesh of swine, and that which has been dedicated to other than Allah, and [those animals] killed by strangling or by a violent blow or by a head-long fall or by the goring of horns, and those from which a wild animal has eaten, except what you [are able to] slaughter [before its death], and those which are sacrificed on stone altars, and [prohibited is] that you seek decision through divining arrows.} [Qur’an 5:3]The precise includes those Qur’anic verses of well-established meaning which give a specific legal rule like Allah’s saying (what means):l {Allah instructs you concerning your children: for the male, what is equal to the share of two females.} [Qur’an 4:11]l {[As for] the thief, the male and the female, amputate their hands.} [Qur’an 5:38]This should be followed and acted upon as mentioned in the hadith.The unspecific includes those Qur’anic verses whose meanings seem ambiguous to some people, like the letters in the opening of some Surahs such as: {Alif Laam Meem}, {Saad}, {Alif Laam Meem Saad} and the verses of subtle meanings, like Allah’s saying (what means): {The Most Merciful [who is] above the Throne established.} [Qur’an 20:5] The establishment (istiwa’) in general is known; but we do not know how it takes place for Allah Almighty is not like any of His creation because there is nothing like unto Him. The Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, ordered us to reflect upon the creation rather than the Essence of Allah Almighty. Despite the fact that many Qur’anic verses whose meanings seem ambiguous to some people are indeed precise and definite to those well-established in knowledge, and some verses which are unspecific and indefinite at a particular time may seem precise and definite at another time. It is incumbent upon the believer to believe in them all and not delve into their subtleties without knowledge.The examples in the Noble Qur’an from which one should take lessons to learn and receive instruction are, in part, reported from previous nations and, in part, similitudes of concrete things such as Allah’s saying (what means): {The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is All-Encompassing and Knowing.} [Qur’an 2:261] Allah multiplies good deeds, each one by ten to seven hundred times, as He pleases, to whomever He pleases, in the same way as He extracts seven hundred grains from a single seed; and Allah has power over all things. It is due on the believer to take lessons to learn and receive instruction from those examples.It is narrated on the authority of ‘Abdullah ibn Abi Awfa, may Allah be pleased with him, that he was asked whether the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, left a will, and he answered in the negative. He was asked how leaving a will was prescribed on the people whereas the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, himself did not do it. On that he said: “The will of the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, is his advice to us to hold onto the Book of Allah Almighty.” [Al-Bukhari, Muslim, At-Tirmithi, An-Nasa’i and Ahmad]The Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, was not to advise his Ummah to do anything after him better than to follow the Book of Allah Almighty. It is the Book which contains the will of Allah and His Messenger, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, to his Ummah after his death in which Allah says (what means): {And is it not sufficient for them that We revealed to you the Book which is recited to them? Indeed in that is a mercy and reminder for a people who believe.} [Qur’an 29:51]The rest of the will left by the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, is his hadiths and Sunnah, reported from him by the noble Companions, may Allah be pleased with them. Writing a will in the question refers to the statement of Allah (what means): {Prescribed for you when death approaches [any] one of you if he leaves wealth [is that he should make] a bequest for the parents and near relatives according to what is acceptable – a duty upon the righteous.} [Qur’an 2:180] Similarly, the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, commanded that he who has any wealth or debt worthy of bequest should make a will without delay since death is nearer to mankind than the strap of his sandal.It is narrated on the authority of Jabir, may Allah be pleased with him, that he said: Once, the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, addressed us with a khutbah (sermon) in which he praised Allah and lauded Him as befits His majesty and then said: “The best speech is the Book of Allah and the best guidance is the guidance of Muhammad. The worst deed is the introduction of new practices (which are not of the religion), and every religious innovation is misguidance.”Whenever a mention was made of the Final Hour, his eyes would become red, his tone loud and he would show anger as if he were warning us against an army, saying: “The Hour is about to attack you in the morning or in the evening. I have been sent (as a Prophet) ahead of the Hour as (close to each other as) such,” beckoning with his index and middle fingers. “He who leaves an estate, it belongs to his heirs, and he who leaves a debt or children (in helplessness), it is my responsibility to pay it off and bring them up.” [Ahmad]One of the main foundations of belief is to have faith in the Book of Allah and in its being the truest speech. Whoever has doubt in the truthfulness of anything thereof or takes any book other than it and gives it preference over the Book of Allah Almighty or believes that it is truer than the Book of Allah is indeed a disbeliever and an apostate. Next to it in the obligation of following is the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam.Religious innovation is any practice introduced in the religion which violates the Noble Qur’an or the Prophetic Sunnah or any of their principles. This definition is clarified by another hadith narrated on the authority of ‘A’ishah, may Allah be pleased with her, in which the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “He who innovates in this matter of ours (the religion) anything that is not of it, (his deed) should be rejected.” [Al-Bukhari, Muslim, Abu Dawood and Ibn Majah] To introduce into the religion anything that is not in it is indeed a religious innovation; whereas to do anything that is in the religion is not a religious innovation. For example, to dash the malicious allegations of the enemies of Islam with new arguments is of the religion and not included in the hadith of religious innovations: it is, rather, a good act. In this way we could know whether an invented practice is a good act or an evil religious innovation.It is narrated on the authority of ‘Ali ibn Abi Taalib, may Allah be pleased with him, that he said:I heard the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, say: “Indeed, there will be a Fitnah.” I asked, “What is the way out of it, O Messenger of Allah?” He said, “The Book of Allah, which includes the stories of those who were before you, the news of those who will come after you and the judgment on the disputes between you. It is a decisive statement and not an amusement. No tyrant left it but Allah broke him, and whoever seeks guidance in anything else other than it, will be misguided by Allah. It is the strong rope of Allah, and the wise mention. It is the straight path, by virtue of which inclinations never deviate (from the truth), nor are tongues confused, nor are scholars satiated from it, nor is it ever considered old regardless of its being repeated so often, nor do its wonders die out. It is that which prompted the Jinn, when they heard it, to say (what means): {... indeed, we have heard an amazing Qur’an. It guides to the right course, and we have believed in it. And we will never associate with our Lord anyone.} [Qur’an 72:1-2] Whoever speaks with it proves truthful, and whoever acts upon it receives reward, and whoever judges by it becomes just, and whoever invites to it will be guided to a straight path.” [At-Tirmithi]This Hadith, which includes the characteristics of the Book of Allah Almighty, is of great significance and should be deeply considered. It is a satisfactory answer to the way out of Fitnahs once they occur, i.e. to return to the Book of Allah Almighty, which contains:1- The stories of those who were before us, i.e. the previous nations, some of whom belied the Messengers, whereupon they were ruined, while others gave trust to the Messengers, whereupon they were rewarded.2- The news of those who will come after us till the establishment of the Day of Judgment and the Final Hour, like the descent of ‘Eesa (Jesus) son of Mary, may Allah exalt his mention, and others which are known to some and unknown to others.3- The judgment of the disputes between us, i.e. the rulings of qisas (legal retribution), personal affairs, dealings among individuals and communities at times of prosperity and adversity, war and peace, and so on.4- It is the decisive statement, i.e. its judgments are incisive and its fundamental rules established and as clear as a sword’s point.5- It is not amusement; all of it is serious and decisive: either lawful or unlawful, precise or unspecific, narrations or examples.6- No tyrant abandons it but that Allah breaks him because the Qur’an enjoins justice and kindness. Justice is the foundation on which dominion is based; and any ruler who abandons justice, Allah punishes him and seizes him with the seizure of One Exalted in Might and Perfect in Ability.7- Whoever seeks guidance in anything other than it will be misguided by Allah because no guide in any Sharia comes but from Allah; and whoever seeks for honour and power, for sure, it has all power and honor; and whoever goes astray from its guidance will be disgraced by Allah in this world, and the punishment of the Hereafter is more grievous.8- It is Allah’s strong rope, one of whose ends is in the Hand of Allah while the other is in our hands. Whoever adheres to it has indeed grasped the trustworthy handhold which never breaks.9- It is the wise mention: whoever likes to remember Allah Almighty, there is nothing better than the recitation of His Book, all of which abounds with wisdom.10- It is the straight path: whoever follows it will not be among those who evoke [Allah’s] anger nor of those who are astray.11- It is that by virtue of which inclinations never deviate from the truth: whoever seeks to be inclined to its interpretation and rulings, soon his snares will be discovered because Allah Almighty promised to guard it, saying (what means): {Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qur’an and, indeed, We will be its guardian.} [Qur’an 15:9]12- It is that by which the tongues are never confused because it is an Arabic Qur’an evident in wording and mutawatir in text (collectively contiguous) which no letter has been added to or reduced from.13- The scholars are never satiated from it because all Sharia sciences stem from the Qur’an and they take what they take from its inexhaustible spring; and whoever likes more will not be able to quench his thirst.14- It is never considered old regardless of its being repeated so often: every time one recites the Qur’an, he tastes a fresh sweetness in it, as if he is reciting it for the first time; new meanings appear to him, and the believer understands it with a new understanding; and no one feels it is old except him whose insight is blinded by Allah from the even path. Allah Almighty challenged all people to produce even a single verse like it, and this challenge will be in force till the Day of Judgment, and no human being will ever be able to produce a verse like it.15- Its wonders never die out: the wonders which emerged after the death of the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, were more numerous than those which appeared during his life, and what will appear in the future is even more.16- It is that which prompted the Jinn, when they heard it, to say (what means): {... Indeed, we have heard an amazing Qur’an. It guides to the right course...} [Qur’an 72:1-2] It is the Book of Allah to guide men and jinn, and what amazed the jinn amazes men more, and what guides the jinn to the right course guides men to a better right course.17- Whoever speaks with it is truthful because the whole of it is true and nothing else.18- Whoever acts upon it will be rewarded because if one acts according to its principles and laws, Allah multiplies, for him, one good deed by ten times the like of it, up to what Allah wills.19- Whoever judges by it will be just, whether with himself, his family, the community or the people. There is nothing but justice in it.20- Whoever invites to it will be guided to a straight path because it is the guide of the callers to Allah, the truth and the straight path.Does this hadith not have the most comprehensive, the most accurate and the most wonderful description of the Noble Qur’an? No doubt, the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, was given the keys of eloquent speech, and about him, Allah says (what means): {Nor does he speak from [his own] inclination. It is not but a revelation revealed.} [Qur’an 53:3-4]Article source: http://www.islamweb.net/emainpage/

In the realm of travel experiences, there are journeys that transcend mere transportation, offering a seamless fusion of opulence, warmth, and cultural richness. Drukair, the esteemed flag carrier of the Kingdom of Bhutan, takes the aviation experience to new heights, quite literally, as one embarks on a sojourn to the mystical land of the Thunder Dragon.From the moment you step into the realm of Drukair, the ambiance exudes a sense of regality. The check-in process is not just a formality but a prelude to the genuine hospitality that awaits. Warm smiles and attentiveness from their staff set the tone for a journey that extends beyond the confines of the aircraft.As you board, the first-class service unveils itself like a story of Bhutanese hospitality. The flight attendants, clad in traditional Bhutanese attire, seamlessly blend modern efficiency with the ancient charm of the Himalayan kingdom. Attentive without being intrusive, the crew ensures your comfort with a level of genuine care that defines the Bhutanese way of life.The flight itself becomes a delightful voyage, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas, a prelude to the enchantment that awaits on Bhutanese soil. The cabin ambiance, adorned with subtle Bhutanese motifs, imparts a sense of cultural immersion, preparing travelers for the soulful experiences that lie ahead.Their destinations read like a poetic ode to Bhutan's diverse landscapes. From the serene Paro Valley, home to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, to the untouched beauty of Bumthang, the airline facilitates access to the kingdom's most captivating corners. The carefully curated routes not only connect travelers to iconic landmarks but also unravel the lesser-explored gems, ensuring a holistic exploration of Bhutan's rich tapestry.Bhutan's beauty is only rivaled by the warmth of its people, and this airline serves as a gracious envoy, mirroring the nation's hospitality. This team’s commitment to impeccable service and a genuine desire to anticipate travelers' needs positions it among the elite in the realm of air travel. Drukair is not merely a carrier; it's a conduit to an authentic Bhutanese experience, where every detail is meticulously crafted to enchant and inspire.In the grand tapestry of global airlines, Drukair, Royal Bhutan Airlines, emerges as a jewel. Its combination of top-tier service, cultural resonance, and commitment to providing unique and soulful experiences elevates it to a pinnacle of air travel. For those seeking a journey that transcends the ordinary, they are more than an airline; it's a gateway to the mystical allure of Bhutan, a kingdom where the skies themselves seem to whisper tales of ancient wisdom and boundless beauty.For more info, visit www.Drukair.com.bt

The Administration Section of MES Indian School organised a staff recreational programme recently at Semaisma Park and Beach. A total of 55 staff members, led by principal Dr Hameeda Kadar participated in the picnic which featured fun games. Administration and Facilities head Mohammed Rashid and HR co-ordinator Syedda Umme Salma co-ordinated the event.

The Indonesian Film Festival concluded on December 12, featuring acclaimed Indonesian movies for six days at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA).The event, titled ‘Indonesia Through the Lens’ , was organised by the Indonesian embassy in Doha in collaboration with the Doha Film Institute (DFI), MIA, and the Ministry of Education and Culture Research and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia.Movies such as After the Curfew, Nussa: The Movie, What’s with Love?, Aruna and Her Palate, and Philosophy of Coffee, were screened along with several short films.As part of the event, Handoko Hendroyono, producer of the movie “Filosofi Kopi” (Philosophy of Coffee), and Catarina Muliana, inspector general of the Ministry of Education and Culture of Indonesia, attended the film screening on December 9.To enhance the complete movie experience, visitors also had the opportunity to savour the finest Indonesian coffee sourced from diverse regions across the country. The event was also enriched by a demonstration of songket, a traditional handwoven textile renowned for its exquisite patterns and cultural significance.The screening of the movie, "Filosofi Kopi," was attended by several distinguished figures from Qatar. “Films can promote cross-cultural understanding, challenge stereotypes, dismantle prejudices, and highlight the beauty of diversity,” Indonesian ambassador Ridwan Hassan said in a press statement.He expressed hope that the event would offer a glimpse into Indonesia's rich culture and serve as a comforting reminder for Indonesian diaspora longing for their homeland.The festival also serves as the culmination of the series of events held as part of the Qatar – Indonesia Year of Culture celebration in 2023.“Qatar-Indonesia Year of Culture may end this year but the legacy of the programme will last beyond 2023,” said Ali Murtado, the person in-charge for the activation of Qatar-Indonesia Year of Culture at the Indonesian embassy.

DPS-Modern Indian School conducted the second edition of its academic fiesta, Melange – A Fusion of Learning Experiences, for grades I–V.In line with the directives of the National Education Policy 2020 and the Sustainable Development Goals and in a bid to transcend traditional textbook education, the event brought students, teachers, and parents together.The event showcased a diverse range of activities designed to foster experiential learning. From interactive science experiments, mathematical displays, STEM activities, robotic and AI activities, language games and cultural displays to historical reenactments, students were engaged in hands-on experiences that went beyond the theoretical concepts taught and encouraged them to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.At the formal event that flagged off the fiesta, chief guest school director Rocky Fernandes and guests of honour directors Gopi Varadhan and Harish Kanjani and principal Asna Nafees emphasised the importance of experiential learning in shaping well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of the future.A choral performance by the students and a skit that paid tribute to the pioneers of hands-on learning and experiential learning were highlights of the formal event.The fiesta served as a testament to the school's dedication to providing students with an education that extends beyond textbooks, fostering a spirit of curiosity and a lifelong love for learning, a statement added.

Olive International School (OIS) celebrated its 10th annual day, Olivenite 2023-2024, at the Umm Salal Ali campus.Br Jerome Ellens, province leader, Patrician congregation of India and Ghana, was the chief guest. Dr Rosie Bateson (dean, College of General Education, University of Doha for Science and Technology) and Dr Muna Alzier (private schools specialist) were special guests.The event brought together students, parents, and faculty members for an evening of entertainment featuring an array of cultural performances ranging from traditional folk dances to contemporary music.The show was conceptualised, designed, and executed by the students and faculty of the three campuses of OIS.The highlight was the plays - ‘The Alchemist And The Six Mysterious Magical Cards’ by Al Thumama campus, ‘Charlie And The Enchanted Chocolate Factory’ by Abu Hamour campus and ‘Disney Award Night’ by Nuaija campus.Principal Jacob Mathew presented the annual report for the academic session 2022-2023, highlighting the exceptional achievements of the students and the school's continuous pursuit of academic excellence.The event proceeded with the prize distribution ceremony for academic and co-curricular achievers.Staff with 100% attendance and those who served five years in OIS were honoured with cash prize and a 8gm gold souvenir each.Vice chairman Rony Paul addressed the gathering on behalf of management.Vice-principal (academics) Anupama Sajith welcomed the gathering, and Al Thumama campus headmistress Priya Viju proposed a vote of thanks.

As many as 120 differently-abled students of HOPE Qatar Centre for Special Needs enthralled a capacity audience at Qatar Foundation's Awsaj Academy auditorium during their 17th annual day cultural extravaganza.Held under the theme 'Emoticons,' students with varying range of intellectual and physical challenges put on a performance that demonstrated their hidden abilities.The two-hour event had over 18 performances, each aligned to a theme of a specific emotion such as happiness, sadness, fear, courage and love to name a few.As in earlier years, the team at HOPE ensured that every student was given an opportunity to join in the event on stage. There was also a dance performance by the alumni of HOPE Qatar.Indonesian ambassador Ridwan Hassan in a message expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the teachers and management of HOPE Qatar who have opened up a host of opportunities for differently-abled children and youth in Qatar over the last 17 years.Bangladesh ambassador Md Nazrul Islam highlighted the efforts his country was taking to ensure that persons with disabilities are mainstreamed and given opportunities in all walks of life.In seeing the various initiatives that HOPE Qatar has put in place to ensure Help, Opportunity, Participation and Education which form the acronym HOPE, he sees an organisation that is implementing a similar approach in Qatar too.Indian embassy first secretary Dr Vaibhav Tandale in a message related how his past experience as a paediatrician has brought him closer to understanding the needs of neurodiverse children, and he could visualise the efforts put in by the HOPE Qatar team to ensure that all the students at the centre are given a platform to demonstrate their abilities in front of the audience.In her message to the audience, Eman al-Naemi, director of Special Education Centres Department at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education expressed her joy at the talents demonstrated by the children on stage.She appreciated the efforts of the centre in bringing out a positive impact in the children under its care.She was attending the event as a special guest together with other representatives of the ministry.HOPE Qatar founder and managing director Dr Rajeev Thomas in his message recounted his journey of life as a parent of a child with special needs, and related to the theme of HOPE's 17th annual day 'Emoticons' which is all about the various emotions individuals, especially parents go through when they have a child with special needs.He narrated the transition of emotions from happiness at the birth of the child, to fear and sorrow on identifying that the child has special needs. He said that this emotion would then become one of curiosity when the parents try to learn more about the condition of the child.Once the emotion of acceptance sets in, then parents could look forward to doing their best to ensure that the child is ready to face the world as they grow into adulthood, he concluded. He also reminded parents to be realistic in their expectations for their differently-abled children, and never to compare them with other children.Dr Mark David Hughes, executive director of Special Needs Education at Qatar Foundation, Omar Nasser al-Khanji who pioneered the formation of Best Buddies in Qatar, and a delegation from Nest International Academy and Research Center (Niarc) an award winning centre for special needs in India were other special guests.HOPE Qatar Centre for Special Needs, established in 2005, caters to students with a range of disabilities in the age group of four to 20. They receive a range of academic and therapeutic interventions at the centre.

Abha Ladies Toastmasters club, which conducts meetings in Al Khor, celebrated their 175th meeting on a traditional dhow in Doha. President Nivedita Ketkar welcomed the gathering. Priya Sathyavijayan was the Toastmaster of the day. District 116 CGD, Alar Mel Mangai, who was the general evaluator, and DHD Mani Roy lauded the club. Recently the club members participated as volunteers in Indian Community Benevolent Forum’s medical camp in Al Khor.

Winter or summer, the shade provided by Sidra trees across Qatar is a blessing. An iconic symbol of Qatar's heritage, Sidra trees are now in bloom. A Sidra canopy from a Doha backyard.

Chinese technology giant Huawei introduced the MatePad Pro 13.2 Tablet. This new beast coming to Huaweis tablet lineup has many notable features and upgrades that make it an attractive choice for tech enthusiasts.The motherboard of MatePad Pro 13.2 includes Huaweis cutting-edge Kirin 9000s chipset. This updated processor is equipped with 1+3+4 CPU configuration and delivers excellent performance.The tablets processing power is further highlighted by a new Geekbench score that puts performance on par with the regular Kirin 9000s and Qualcomms Snapdragon 865 chipset. The CPU configuration includes one high-performance core running at 2.62 GHz, as well as three cores running at 2.15 GHz and four efficiency cores running at 1.53 GHz.The device has a huge 13.2-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels and an aspect ratio of 16:10. The images are vivid and clear because the highest brightness value is 1000 nits. The stylish design of the tablet is embodied in its aluminum case with an impressive thickness of 5.5 mm.On the photography front, the MatePad Pro 13.2 features a 13MP main camera and an 8MP ultra-wide lens on the rear, offering users versatile photography options.The huge 10,100 mAh battery that powers the MatePad Pro 13.2 is complemented by 88W charging support for fast and efficient replenishment.Huawei is launching its MatePad Pro 13.2 tablet with a starting price of 1000, including a keyboard and an M Pencil, which are sold separately for 199 euro and 99 euro respectively. The device will officially go on sale in January next month.

Apple has launched the first beta version of iOS 17.3 update, which adds some new features to iPhones, including the feature of protecting stolen iPhones.According to Apple, this new feature provides an additional layer of security in case an iPhone is stolen and the passcode is obtained.Turning the feature on, specific actions will require biometric authentication to verify the identity of the device owner through the Face ID feature, including using passwords or passkeys, applying for an Apple credit card, turning off Lost Mode, erasing iPhone data, using payment methods saved on iPhone, etc; without the ability to enter a passcode when the device is away from home or work.Apple stresses the restrictions with this new feature when performing critical actions such as changing the Apple ID password, updating its security settings, changing the passcode or Touch/Face ID settings, turning off the Find My feature, where the security delay feature is activated for an hour away from familiar locations.

Samsung has introduced three new Galaxy A-series smartphones.The South Korean tech giant launched the Galaxy A25 5G, Galaxy A15 5G, and Galaxy A15 4G.All three new phones share 6.5-inch Super AMOLED displays with FHD+ resolution and Infinity-U notch cutouts. The A15 models get a 90Hz refresh rate while the A25 features a 120Hz panel which also peaks at 1,000 nits of brightness compared to 800 nits on the A15s.Samsung also fitted a 13MP front-facing cam on all three of its new Galaxy A phones and its new Key Island design which features a convex shape around the power and volume keys.Galaxy A15 is equipped with MediaTek's Helio G99 chip, 8GB RAM and 128/256GB storage which is expandable via the microSD card slot.A15 5G features the Dimensity 6100+ and 8GB RAM and 256GB storage which is also expandable.A25 5G brings the Exynos 1280 chip with 6/8GB RAM and 128GB expandable storage.Around the back, the A15 models get a 50MP f/1.8 main cam alongside a 5MP ultrawide lens and a 2MP macro cam. A25 features a 50MP main shooter with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide lens and a 2MP macro cam.All three new phones boot One UI 6.0 based on Android 14 and feature 5,000 mAh batteries with 25W charging support.

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.

Ideal Indian School (IIS) recently inaugurated its IT Club, marking the beginning of a new era in technological innovation underscoring the school’s dedication to providing students with a state-of-the-art learning environment. Dr Adnan Abu-Dayya, executive director at Qatar Mobility Innovations Centre (Qmic), the chief guest, inaugurated the club by unveiling its logo. Principal Shaik Shamim Saheb, heads of sections and heads of various departments attended the function. In his address, Dr Abu-Dayya urged the students, as future leaders and innovators, to adopt transformative technology and utilise their skills to make a positive impact on their community, society and the global stage. He expressed his hope that the Ideal IT Club would serve as a launchpad, providing knowledge, skills and aspirations to empower students as active contributors to realising Qatar’s digital vision, both within and beyond Qatar. Principal Shaik Shamim Saheb emphasised the school’s commitment in preparing students for the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital age. The office-bearers of the IT Club were officially invested with badges on the occasion, presented by the chief guest and the principal. They are: Boys’ Section - Akshay Keerthi (president), Mirza Jaffer (secretary), Mohd Farzee (editor). Girls’ Section - Heba Benny (president), Najla (secretary) and Mourine Mohd (editor). Earlier, the club conducted competitions in poster-making, video editing and logo design, and the winners were awarded trophies and certificates on the occasion. Najla (Class XI) welcomed the gathering and Heba Benny (Class XII) proposed a vote of thanks. Cultural secretary Akshay Keerthi outlined the aims and objectives of the club. Mohamed Arsh Syed (Class XI) and Farah Naaz (Class XII) hosted the programme. The Department of Computer Science head Sajith co-ordinated the function.

The Next Generation (TNG) School hosted its grand Teachers’ Day and Education Awards event at the Radisson Blu Hotel, which was an evening filled with gratitude, recognition and celebration. The event was graced by representatives from Qatar’s Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE), embassies of Pakistan, Spain, Turkiye, Bangladesh, Nepal and Indonesia, British Council, Microsoft, Doha British School and English Modern School and community leaders and members of civil society. The evening commenced with a welcome and appreciation speech for the educators across all seven campuses by TNG CEO Shagufta Bakali. “As we celebrate today, our hearts are filled with gratitude for the remarkable journey we have undertaken together, and we look forward to a future brimming with shared success and growth. Thank you for being the driving force behind our exceptional journey.” Unesco’s programme specialist (education) Farida Aboudan gave a keynote speech, followed by an address by TNG principal Ailia Rizvi, who recalled that “In Doha, TNG immediately felt like home, thanks to passionate educators committed to questioning and improving educational practices. “Over the years, critical conversations and a focus on research have become integral to our learning experience. The outstanding results achieved by our students both inside and outside the classroom stand as a testament to this unwavering commitment to excellence.” A panel discussion ensued, on ‘The Potential of Education Technology to Enhance Pedagogical Practices’, guided by chief technology officer Omer Faheem. The internal panellists included Emine Demir (headmistress, Nuaija Campus), Lutchmee Ramkhelawan (deputy headmistress, Ain Khalid Campus), Gagandeep Kaur (head of department, Commerce, Al Wakra Secondary Campus), Eisha Ali (teacher, Al Wukair Primary), Arif (head of department, Computer Science, Wakra Primary & Secondary Campus), and Aziz Ur Rehman (head of department, Science, Al Daayen Campus). Guest panellists were Simon Berry (principal, Doha British School, Ain Khalid Campus), Solange Jarjour (account manager, CTS, LSS on behalf of Microsoft) and Ahmed Javaid (CEO, Cytellite). The subsequent Education Awards presentation exclusively recognised the outstanding contributions of specific organisations devoted to supporting education. Among those honoured were Ashghal, Qatar Scouts and Guides Association, Awqaf, and the Ministry of Culture. The chief guests were MoEHE’s Assistant Undersecretary for Private Education Affairs Omar al-Naama and Pakistan ambassador Muhemmed Aejaz. They lauded the school’s visionary approach in leveraging educational technology to enhance student learning outcomes, highlighting the institution’s steadfast commitment to remaining at the forefront of innovative and effective teaching methodologies. Later in the programme, TNG director Riyaz Ahmed Bakali, took the stage and drew parallels between the irreversible transformation of a clay pot in an oven and the pivotal role educators play in moulding young minds. He emphasised that, much like the permanence of a baked clay pot, the impact of educators endures, shaping the future of the students. In recognition of their dedicated efforts, he assured the educators that their hard work would be duly acknowledged, promising that no professional milestone would be beyond their reach. This resounding commitment resonated throughout his address, amplifying the sense of purpose and unity within the educational community. The event reached its pinnacle as all seven campuses of TNG School were acknowledged for their exceptional contributions during the Campus Awards. The culmination of the evening was marked by a vote of thanks by CAO Shahla Riyaz Bakali.

It was narrated on the authority of Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, that the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam (may Allah exalt his mention), said:He who recites the Qur’an and acts upon what it contains, on the Day of Judgment his parents will be crowned with the crown (of dignity), whose light is brighter than the light of the sun in the world when it is bright among you: what do you then think of the one who acts upon it? [Abu Dawood]This Hadith clarifies the position and reward of him who recites the Qur’an and acts upon its laws and principles: his reward, indeed, transcends him to his parents (if they are believers; and if they are not believers, nothing will avail them even in the least).Why would his parents be crowned with the crown (of dignity) on the Day of Judgment although they neither recited the Qur’an nor did what their child did? For the reason that they were the cause of the rectitude of their child, by either teaching him the Qur’an or arranging for him to learn it or by supplicating for him; or by bringing him up on righteousness and feeding him lawfully.The Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “If somebody dies, his deed will cease except from three: recurrent charity, advantageous knowledge by which the people benefit after him, and a good righteous child to supplicate (Allah for a good effect) to him.” [Al-Bukhari in Al-Adab, Muslim, At-Tirmithi, Abu Dawood and An-Nasa’i] The one who died then caused those three things whose reward joins him not only during his life but also after his death.The crown, then, is the reward of the parents of the righteous child who recites the Qur’an and acts upon its principles and laws. It is they who guided him to good, and the guide to the good is like its doer (in reward). But Allah multiplies the reward for whomever He pleases. Of course, Allah’s multiplication of the reward to the doer of good is not like His multiplication to the one who guides to it. He may multiply the reward for the doer of good, if he is sincere in his intention to Allah, many times more than He does for the one who guides to it.It is narrated on the authority of An-Nawwas ibn Sam‘an, may Allah be pleased with him, that he said: I heard the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, say: “On the Day of Judgment, the Qur’an, along with those who used to act upon it in the world, will be brought together, headed by both Surahs of Al-Baqarah and Al ‘Imran, defending their reciter.” [Muslim]This Hadith explains the two previous ones. The people of the Qur’an are the party and selected people of Allah; and the Qur’an will come as an intercessor for its reciter who used to act upon it in the world, headed by the first two Surahs of the Qur’an, Al-Baqarah and Al ‘Imran, to intercede and defend the one who used to recite and act upon them. To be sure, whoever acts upon the rulings of Al-Baqarah and Al ‘Imran will have almost acted upon what is in the entire Qur’an in view of the great deal of rulings they contain.Abu Sa‘eed al-Kharraz, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:The first part of understanding the Book of Allah is to act upon it, because doing so includes knowing, understanding and extracting its meanings; and the first thing to do towards understanding is to listen while being present in mind because Allah Almighty says (what means):• {Indeed in that is a reminder for whoever has a heart or who listens while he is present [in mind].} [Qur’an 50:37]• {Who listen to speech and follow the best of it. Those are the ones Allah has guided, and those are people of understanding.} [Qur’an 39:18]The whole of the Qur’an is good and to follow the best refers to the wonders which are disclosed to the hearts when listening with attentiveness to it; and this leads to understanding and extracting its meanings. The first thing to do towards listening with attentiveness to the Qur’an is to listen to it as if the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, is reciting to you; and then you transcend that to imagine that you are listening to it from Jibreel (Gabriel), may Allah exalt his mention, while reciting it to the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, because Allah Almighty says (what means): {And indeed, the Qur’an is the revelation of the Lord of the Worlds. The Trustworthy Spirit has brought it down upon your heart, [O Muhammad] – that you may be of the warners.} [Qur’an 26:192-194] Then you may transcend further to imagine that you are hearing it from Allah Almighty.It is narrated on the authority of ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with him, that he said:O holders of knowledge! Act upon your knowledge because a true scholar is he who acts upon what he knows while his knowledge agrees with his deeds. There will appear a people who will carry knowledge but it will not go beyond their collar-bones: their deeds will contradict their knowledge, and what is in their hearts opposes what they show. They will sit with the people and vie in glory with each other, so much so, that a man will grow angry with his companion because he sits with someone other than him. As for those, the deeds they do in their gatherings will not rise to Allah Almighty. [Ad-Darimi]It was narrated on the authority of ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with him, that the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “He who recites and memorises the Qur’an, making lawful what is lawful in it and making unlawful what is unlawful in it, Allah will admit him to Paradise and accept his intercession for ten of his household, to all of whom the Fire has been affirmed.” [At-Tirmithi]The Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said:“The lawful is evident, and the unlawful is evident, and in between them there are suspicious matters unknown to a lot of people. So, whoever forsakes those suspicious matters (lest he may commit a sin) definitely keeps his religion and honour blameless; and whoever bravely indulges in these suspicious things is about to fall into the unlawful, like a shepherd who grazes (his animals) around the protected zone, and he is about to pasture them in it. Verily, every king has a protected zone, and the protected zone of Allah is His taboos.” [Al-Bukhari, Muslim, At-Tirmithi, Abu Dawood and An-Nasa’i]Both the lawful and the unlawful are evidently clear in the Qur’an. Suspicious matters should be avoided according to the command of the Hadith, for fear of falling into the unlawful. Whoever does so, Allah will admit him to Paradise and accept his intercession for his family.Intercession is proven in the Qur’an and Sunnah; and whoever recites the Qur’an and acts upon what it contains will be made to intercede for others because of his high position and superiority in the sight of Allah Almighty. The first for whom he will be made to intercede are his parents, and their worthiness of intercession goes back to their being the direct cause of this act, even though they themselves are not among the people of the Qur’an. The intercession takes place only by the permission of Allah by whomever He pleases for whomever He likes. There will be no intercession for him who does not believe in Allah and His Messenger, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam.Just as one’s intercession for his parents is a fact, the parent’s intercession for his child is also proven in the Book of Allah. Allah mentioned one’s supplication for his parents (what means): {“Our Lord, forgive me and my parents and the believers the Day the account is established.”} [Qur’an 14:41] Similarly, He mentioned the parent’s supplication for his offspring (what means): {“My Lord, make me an establisher of prayer, and [many] from my descendants. Our Lord, and accept my supplication.”} [Qur’an 14:40] A mention may also be made of the supplication of Ibrahim (Abraham), may Allah exalt his mention, for his descendants (what means): {“Our Lord, and send among them a messenger from themselves who will recite to them Your verses and teach them the Book and wisdom and purify them. Indeed, You are The Exalted in Might, The Wise.”} [Qur’an 2:129]For this supplication in this world and the intercession in the Hereafter, they are in dire need. Intercession is assured for the Prophets and Messengers as well as for the Qur’an, fasting, righteous deeds, and Allah’s righteous servants and pious allies.According to this Hadith, one will intercede, not only for his parents, but also for his family members to whom the fire has been affirmed. That is the bounty of Allah which He gives to whomever He pleases and the reward of reciting and memorising the Qur’an and acting upon its principles and laws in this world, and with Allah is the best reward.Just as the righteous will intercede for their parents and relatives, they will also intercede, by the leave of Allah, for their teachers and disciples, those who have a good favor on them, those whom they like and those who like them in (the religion of) Allah Almighty.It was narrated on the authority of Abu Shurayh Al-Khuza‘I, may Allah be pleased with him, that he said: “The Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: ‘No doubt, this Qur’an is a rope, one of whose ends is in the Hand of Allah and the other in your hands: hold fast by it so that you would never go astray nor be ruined after it.’” [Ibn Abi Shaybah]Allah Almighty says (what means): {And thus We have sent it down as an Arabic Qur’an and have diversified therein the warnings, that perhaps they will avoid [sin] or it would cause them remembrance.} [Qur’an 20:113]Allah only revealed this Qur’an to guide the people; and it is Allah’s uncreated, revealed speech which He says and continues to say; and that is why one of its ends is in His Hand and the other end is the mus-haf, which is in our hands. We have to adhere to it: it is the strong rope between us and our Lord which no falsehood could approach, neither from before it, nor from behind. Allah kept it from any kind of distortion or alteration. In confirmation, He, the Almighty, says (what means): {Indeed, it is We Who sent down the Qur’an and indeed, We will be its guardian.} [Qur’an 15:9]If things become difficult and the people fall into dispute and the ways are confused so much that no one will know what to do, the saved sect will be that which adheres to the Book of Allah (the Qur’an) and, after it, the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, as stated in a Hadith.Article source: http://www.islamweb.net/emainpage/

Every Wednesday, leave the beau at home. If you’re single, then perhaps the idea of beau at home as well. There is nothing better than a little pre-weekend, before the actual weekend and that too rolling deep with your best girl pack. Time to vibe, and its time to hang with your gal pals — all with a swipe of red lipstick and high dosage of estrogen. Roaring table with positive energy and laughter for days for everyone to hear. Wouldn’t you agree, the coolest groups have women in them, whether that means Spice Girls, Gossip Girl (Serena and Blair!), cast of Bridesmaids or Ms Swift’s endless squad goals with Blake Lively. And whilst you’re at it — dress for the occasion with some Instagram worthy looks.There are plenty of sartorial option that come with Ladies’ night in Doha, all mostly happening on Wednesday — but one new offering that we recently went for and couldn’t but swoon over was Ladies Night at The Highmore at The Waldorf Astoria Lusail. Where I do understand that the group energy has a lot to do with the kind of night you’re going to have — but this place is really something! Taking liberty to say that it was one of the best night outs I’ve had in Doha, actually we’ve had, would be an understatement. The food, the drinks, the weather and the service. Carpe diem!Where toast to “living, laughing and learning” and “having it all” was the order of the night, if you think about The Highmore restless indoor setting — you’re missing out on the balcony set-up they’ve just had.The atmosphere was hypnotic, illuminated by a flurry of flashing lights and pulsating beats that filled the sky. As the night transitioned into the darkest hours, the only thing that truly mattered was the fact that we were dancing the night away together, no one else in mind.In terms of food: Indulging in a culinary delight, our dining experience was a symphony of flavoirs and textures. To kick off the night, we savoured the explosive taste of Dynamite Shrimps, a spicy sensation that left our taste buds tingling with delight. The Jalapeno Poppers, oozing with melted cheese, provided a perfect balance of heat and creaminess. The Garlic Bread, astonishingly soft and reminiscent of a delicate pao bun, melted in our mouths with each bite, leaving a lingering satisfaction. As the crescendo to our meal, we succumbed to the allure of the Death by Chocolate dessert—a decadent concoction featuring gianduja, cocoa sponge, and salted caramel, offering a harmonious blend of rich and sweet and the finale, a Banoffee Pie, showcased layers of caramel, banana, and topped with velvety vanilla bean ice cream, creating a sublime conclusion to our culinary journey. Each dish unfolded a gastronomic story, leaving us satiated and with memories of a remarkable dining experience.There were no smashing hot dates or long-term partners—just the intoxicating thrill of burning beverages, the lush swatches of drinks that mixologist was preparing for us, and the collective surge of estrogen fueling the euphoria within our squad. It was an experience that had seemed almost impossible in the past five years, the time I’ve been in Doha for, but we made sure to make this night out count by pulling out all the stops—no holding back.For those seeking assistance in ensuring their evening plans are foolproof, The Highmore team always have your backs. They curate a selection of drinks, offerings that keep you feeling spritzed up throughout the night. With everything set in place, all that was left for us and our girl friends was to bust out our best moves until the thought of work the next day broke the news.No matter what you wear, once your whirlwind night is over, you’ll never feel better heading home with your best female friends on your arm—and a stellar outfit to match.

Located in the midst of the untamed landscapes of Tanzania's Serengeti National Park, andBeyond’s Serengeti Under Canvas emerges as a testament to unrivaled luxury. In the heart of the wilderness, this enchanting haven redefines the safari experience, providing an idyllic backdrop for an extraordinary escapade. This beautiful camp is not fenced from the wild so you truly experience real life in the savannah.Having explored the globe's most captivating corners, my recent odyssey with Serengeti Under Canvas etched an unforgettable chapter in my travelogue, solidifying itself as a rare adventure for any discerning wanderer. Here, dreams materialize, and the untamed rhythm of nature orchestrates a truly immersive journey.While the Serengeti boasts numerous accolades, its soul-stirring symphonies are incomparable. Picture yourself on the plains during The Great Migration—an event of nature that defies belief. Imagine your pulse quickening to the rhythmic stampede of wildebeest hooves. This primeval harmony, a convergence of multitudes of wildebeest and zebras, plays out before you—an encounter that awakens your soul and senses.Africa’s Great Migration, a spectacle captivating even the most seasoned explorer, delivers an auditory extravaganza of epic proportions. The anxious calls of wildebeests saturate the air as they assemble on the plains. Then, a collective gasp as the wildebeest dive into the river—a profound dance of survival. It's nature's heartbeat in its purest form, an unforgettable sound resonating through the Serengeti.Yet, the allure of this haven transcends the wild’s serenades. The service and hospitality exemplify nothing less than perfection. From your initial arrival, a palpable sense of warmth and kinship surrounds you. It's more than a safari; it's a feeling of being home. Every desire is met with a smile and an eagerness to give, share and provide.And then, there are the canvas abodes. Conjuring an ambiance reminiscent of a storybook, the tent walls embrace you in a refined fusion of rustic charm and opulent allure. Each dawn, you awaken to the Serengeti's harmony, and as the day unfolds, the retreat transforms into a sanctuary of tranquility amid the wild expanse.The allure of Tanzania’s wild is irresistible, its charm undeniable, and Serengeti Under Canvas stands as the gateway to an unparalleled odyssey. This is an adventure that undeniably earns its place atop your ever-growing list of experiences to embrace.

The MES Indian School quiz team secured second position in the inter-school Quiz Competition Season-3 ‘Insijamu Qatar -2023’ conducted for the students of Classes VII to IX at Rajagiri Public School, recently.A total of twelve schools participated in the preliminary rounds and five teams were selected for the final round. The MES team comprised Shaikh Affan (IX H), Amina Shahal (IX L) and Shreya S Venkitaraman (VIII L). Principal Dr Hameeda Kadar congratulated the winners. The quiz team was monitored by Jahfar Niyas, co-ordinator of Social Science and Qatar History. The students were accompanied by quiz in charge Randeer K K and Anu K S.