Latest news with #GulfNews
Hindustan Times
11 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Shahid Afridi, Umar Gul were 'not invited': Kerala community in Dubai facing backlash issues statement
After a massive social media outrage over a viral video showing former Pakistani cricketers Shahid Afridi and Umar Gul receiving a warm reception from the Kerala community at an event in Dubai, the organisers have issued a clarification expressing 'deep regret' and offering an apology. The Cochin University Alumni Association (CUBAA), which organised the event, clarified that Shahid Afridi and Umar Gul were not invited by them. According to CUBAA, the ex-cricketers were at the venue on the same day for an entirely different event — a Guinness World Record attempt for the Largest UAE Flag made with Handprints. This detail was also mentioned in a Gulf News report published on May 27, 2025. The controversy stems from the Ormachuvadukal Season 2 inter-collegiate dance competition, held on May 25, 2025, at the Pakistan Association Dubai (PAD). Organised by the CUBAA, the event drew criticism after a video went viral showing Shahid Afridi and Umar Gul being warmly received by the audience, Mathrubhumi reported. As Afridi arrived, the community members paused their cultural performance and broke into chants of 'Boom Boom,' referring to the cricketer's famous nickname. Afridi responded by saying, 'Hogaya Boom Boom". The CUBAA has issued a formal clarification following backlash over the presence of Pakistani cricketers. In its statement titled 'Unplanned Appearance at Our Recent Event', CUBAA clarified that neither Afridi nor Gul were invited by the organisers. According to the organisers, Afridi and Gul made an unannounced and unsolicited appearance at the end of the event. 'No member of our team, officials, or alumni had invited them or coordinated this appearance. Our official event schedule does not list them as guests,' CUBAA said, adding that the brief encounter with the cricketers occurred too suddenly for the organisers to restrict access or control the crowd response. 'We deeply regret any confusion or hurt caused,' the statement concluded. 'It was never our intention to cause offense, and we sincerely apologize to anyone affected. We remain committed to upholding the cultural and inclusive values of our country.' Shahid Afridi has maintained a strong anti-India stance during the recent military and diplomatic tensions between the two nations. While speaking on Pakistan's Samaa TV in April, Afridi said even 'if a firecracker were to burst in India, fingers will always be pointed at Pakistan". He went further, blaming the Pahalgam terror attack on a failure by Indian armed forces, saying, 'Tum logon ki 8 lakh hi fauj hai Kashmir mein aur yeh ho gaya. Iska matlab nalayak ho, nikamme ho na tum log security de nahi sake logon ko (You have an 800,000-strong army in Kashmir and this still happened. It means you are inefficient and useless if you can't provide security to the people).' Afridi also mocked Indian media's coverage of the incident, likening it to a Bollywood production, and appeared to take a veiled jab at Indian cricketers for accusing Pakistan of involvement in the attack. The Resistance Front (TRF), an affiliate of the banned Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam terror attack. The clip, shared by an X handle with the caption, 'What a shame!! - Desperate Keralites welcome this Anti-India Paki with 'Boom Boom' at an event in Dubai, especially after Pahalgam terror attack and his venomous stand against India,' quickly went viral. Given the timing and Afridi's controversial remarks, the community's gesture drew sharp criticism online. One user reacted to the video saying, 'Patriotism gone for a a shame. Expected better from them (Kerala community)." Another wrote, 'How much Disloyal can you be to your nation…learn from the most literate people… Disgraceful!" A third user questioned, 'Don't they have anyone from India origin!! Shame to see these happen."
Gulf Insider
a day ago
- Gulf Insider
Saudi Arabia Shortens Friday Sermons And Prayers During Hajj Amid Extreme Heat
Friday sermons and prayers will be shortened during the 2025 Hajj season in Mecca and Medina to help alleviate the effects of extreme summer heat, according to directives issued by Sheikh Abdulrahman Al Sudais, President of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque. The decision is intended to ease physical strain on pilgrims and worshippers, particularly the elderly and those gathered in densely populated areas such as the Mataf (the circumambulation area around the Holy Kaaba), the upper floors, and the open courtyards. It also includes reducing the interval between the call to prayer and the start of the sermon, to further minimise exposure to intense heat. Sheikh Al Sudais stated that the measure reflects the presidency's responsibility to ensure a safe, comfortable, and spiritually uplifting environment for worshippers at the Two Holy Mosques, in line with the leadership's directives and commitment to the well-being of pilgrims. He emphasised that the move aligns with Islamic principles that prioritise the alleviation of hardship, particularly under challenging circumstances such as extreme weather, and considers the arrival of millions of pilgrims from around the world. In his address, Sheikh Al Sudais called on all visitors and pilgrims to diligently fulfil their religious obligations, including prayer, zakat, fasting, and the rites of Hajj. He also urged Muslims to embrace compassion, kindness, and generosity, especially during this sacred time, noting that such values reflect the noble character and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He concluded by encouraging pilgrims to seize the spiritual opportunities of Hajj, drawing benefit for both this life and the hereafter. Source Gulf News
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
How this Dubai man lost 40 kilos in 5 months (with clean diet and workout)
Image: GulfNews In just five months, Dubai-based Zubair Chaudhry transformed his life by shedding 40 kilograms, dropping from 135kg to 95kg. His journey began at the end of 2024 when he decided to make significant lifestyle changes. Chaudhry attributed his weight gain to long work hours, a sedentary lifestyle, and frequent consumption of fast food ordered through delivery apps. 'I was severely overweight. But it wasn't just the weight. I wasn't feeling good about myself, either physically or mentally. My doctor told me: I needed to 'fix' myself," he told Gulf News. 'I live alone in Dubai. As soon as I'd leave my office desk after long working hours, I'd go on these apps and order food. There were always offers. I'd go for fast food like burgers and pizzas but it was never healthy.' 'I'm not exaggerating but I probably used my kitchen five times in the past two years," he told the media. Weight loss strategy Determined to improve his health, Chaudhry eliminated junk food, started cooking at home, and developed a healthy meal plan consisting of salads, raw vegetables, and chicken. He also joined a weight loss challenge, where he lost an additional 34.6kg in just 12 weeks. He also did not indulge in cheat days except one on his birthday. 'It's not about cravings anymore. I've fallen in love with this lifestyle. I feel amazing physically, emotionally, and mentally. My self-confidence is growing," he said. Chaudhry credits his colleagues for their support throughout his journey, stating that their encouragement was instrumental in helping him stay consistent. With only one cheat day on his birthday, he remained disciplined and committed to his new lifestyle. His next goal is to reach the 80kg range by the end of the year and inspire others to make positive changes in their lives. What you eat plays a massive role in weight management When it comes to managing weight, what you eat plays a massive role. You can run all the laps and do all the crunches you want, but if your diet's a mess, it's like trying to bail water out of a sinking boat with a spoon. Good food isn't just about calories; it's about giving your body the fuel it needs to run well, burn fat, and stay healthy in the long run. T hink of your body like a car. If you fill it with junk fuel, it won't perform right. But give it high-quality stuff—whole grains, fresh fruits and veggies, lean protein, and healthy fats—and suddenly, things start running a lot smoother. Good food keeps you full longer, helps regulate your blood sugar, and boosts your metabolism. That means fewer cravings, more energy, and a better chance of sticking to your goals. It's not about starving yourself or cutting out everything you love. It's about balance and making smarter choices. Swapping fried stuff for grilled, soda for water, or chips for a handful of nuts can go a long way. The key is consistency, not perfection. And let's not forget the emotional part. Eating clean makes you feel good. Less bloating, better mood, clearer skin, your body starts rewarding you for treating it right. So yeah, good food isn't just about losing weight; it's about feeling great while you're at it. If weight management is the goal, your plate is your most powerful tool. Start small, stay mindful, and remember, it's not a diet, it's a lifestyle shift. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Mint
3 days ago
- Business
- Mint
Dubai lottery: Kerala man claims $1 million prize again, Pakistani winner unreachable
An Indian expat living in Dubai has won the $1 million jackpot lottery for a second time in less than ten years. Paul Jose Mavely, a 60-year-old from Kerala, has once again struck gold in the Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire draw, while a Pakistani winner remains unaware of his fortune as organisers have been unable to reach him. Mavely, won the Millennium Millionaire Series 503 with ticket number 3532, purchased online on 19 May, Dubai Duty Free (DDF) announced on Wednesday. Mavely, who has lived in Dubai for 38 years, previously won the same prize in November 2016, making him only the 11th person to win twice in the history of the promotion. Read | Kerala man, raised by single mother, wins ₹ 71 crore in lottery after years of financial struggle In 2016, he shared the ticket cost and prize money with nine friends. This time, he shared the ticket cost with 17 friends who have been taking part in the Dubai Duty Free draws since 1999, rotating names on the ticket among the group. Mavely is a father of two and works as a site supervisor for a small contracting company. Overwhelmed with happiness, he told Gulf News: 'I'm very thankful to Dubai Duty Free for this second win in your amazing promotion.' Read | Woman wins ₹ 40 lakh lottery in US – all thanks to numbers she saw in a dream Meanwhile, Kiran Batool, a Pakistani national living in Saudi Arabia, won $1 million in Series 502 with ticket number 2252, bought online on 5 May. However, organisers have not been able to contact him and he remains unaware of his win. Mr Batool is the 27th Pakistani national to win the draw since it began in 1999, DDF said. The Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire is a lottery scheme launched in 1999, offering participants the chance to win US\$1 million. Each draw is capped at 5,000 tickets, improving the odds for entrants. Read | 'Someone gave me $10 for pumpkin...,' North Carolina man wins ₹ 1 crore lottery prize, credits luck to pumpkin sales Tickets are priced at AED 1,000 (approximately ₹ 22,700), excluding 5% VAT, and can be purchased either at duty-free shops in Dubai International Airport or online via the Dubai Duty Free website. The draw takes place twice a month and is open to all nationalities, with no requirement to be present in Dubai at the time of the draw. Since its launch, 251 Indians have won this lottery.
Time of India
4 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Moon sighting for Eid-ul-adha 2025: When to watch in India, UAE, and Saudi Arabia
As Muslims around the world prepare for one of the most significant festivals in Islam, Eid-ul-Adha, the sighting of the crescent moon of Dhul Hijjah becomes a central focus. Known as the 'Festival of Sacrifice' or Bakri-Eid, Eid-ul-Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God's command and is observed on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. This year, moon sighting has already occurred in many countries, and this marks the opening of the Dhul Hijjah month and determines the Eid celebration dates. The Eid day is, however, dependent on the visibility of the moon in each country. Saudi Arabia confirms Eid date As per a report by Al Arabiya English and Gulf News, the moon was visible in Saudi Arabia on the night of Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Consequently, Dhul Hijjah started on Wednesday, May 28. Hence, the Day of Arafah (9th Dhul Hijjah) will be marked on Thursday, June 5, and Eid-ul-Adha will be commemorated on Friday, June 6, 2025, in the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia bases its lunar calendar on actual moon sightings, and the decrees it issues tend to affect most other nations in the region. UAE follows Saudi Arabia In the UAE as well, the crescent moon was sighted on the same evening by the moon-sighting committee. According to the Gulf News report, Eid al-Adha will also be on Friday, June 6, 2025, in the UAE. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like One of the Most Successful Investors of All Time, Warren Buffett, Recommends: 5 Books for Turning... Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Click Here Undo In the UAE, public holidays are traditionally followed according to Saudi Arabia, and announcements come out promptly after moon sightings. Eid date in India depends on local moon sighting In India, moon sighting is conventionally done locally. Usually, Indian Muslims sight the Dhul Hijjah crescent a day later than Saudi Arabia because of geographical variations. And so, an attempt at moon sighting will be made on the night of Wednesday, May 28, 2025. If spotted, Dhul Hijjah will start on May 29, and Eid-ul-Adha will be celebrated on Saturday, June 7, 2025. But if the crescent is not visible, the month of Dhul Qadah will have 30 days, and Eid will be celebrated on Sunday, June 8, instead, as per reports. Moon sighting is a fundamental aspect of the Islamic calendar. The visibility of the crescent moon announces the start and end of Islamic months. This ancient practice has religious importance and is a community event in most Muslim countries. Due to geographical positions and time zones, the dates of Islamic celebrations such as Eid would be different from one country to another. With the moon sighting confirmed in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, the preparations for Eid-ul-Adha are at full throttle. The people start buying sacrificial animals, making traditional food, and arranging community prayers. In India, the news will be officially announced after a local sighting on May 28; hence, Muslims all over the subcontinent are requested to keep themselves informed with announcements made by their respective regional moon sighting committees. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
