Latest news with #MohammedalKindi
Observer
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Book on evolution of cinema in Oman unveiled
A book that documents the evolution of cinema in Oman in comparison to the global cinema scene was unveiled by Mohammed al Kindi, a renowned film-maker, actor and member of the Board of Oman Film Society (OFS) on Sunday. The 279-page book is the first of its kind to chronicle the journey of the film industry in the country over the past five decades. It also delves into the highs and lows that cinema experienced during the five decades since the 1970s, with a special focus on the transformative years under the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos. It also provides a detailed account of how various film-makers, directors, writers, actors and other technicians shaped a distinct art form called cinema despite various challenges, including limited resources. Speaking to the Observer, Mohammed al Kindi expressed his expectation for the book to serve as a reference guide for future generations and emphasised the book's significance. 'This book is an ode to the pioneers who ignited the cinematic flame in Oman. Their stories are not just about making films, but about building a movement, often against all odds. The book doesn't only highlight film-makers, but also pays tribute to journalists, theatre personalities and business leaders who played vital roles in supporting the growth of the medium,' Al Kindi said. The book shines a light on great film personalities who strived for an authentic cinema culture in the country, including key figures of the Omani film industry such as cameramen Taghlib al Barwani and Mohammed al Zubair, OFS founding members Haitham al Tai and Dr Khalid al Zadjali, veteran journalist Shaikh Hamood al Siyabi, and the late actor-director Salim Bahwan. The book includes dedicated pages for various film festivals that have taken place in the country, such as the Muscat International Film Festival (MIFF) and Oman Film Festival, emphasising their roles in nurturing local talent and fostering international collaborations to develop better film-makers. The book also has a section dedicated to the history of OFS, from its early days as a meeting place for film enthusiasts to its current iconic headquarters located in Al Seeb. Al Kindi mentioned that the idea for the book was purely coincidental and first came to him while preparing a lecture for a book festival in France in 2019. 'While researching for my speech, I discovered fascinating stories of film-makers across Oman. That's when I knew this had to become a book,' he said. Over the next five years, Al Kindi travelled and met with different people from across the country, spoke to movie buffs, and collected stories and archives for the project. He also mentioned that he plans to release a second volume covering the period starting from 2020 onwards. The book was recently showcased at the WAVES Summit in Mumbai, where Mohammed al Kindi was invited as a guest by the Indian Embassy in Oman. The book can be obtained from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth and is also available at the OFS library.
Observer
27-02-2025
- General
- Observer
Homes adorn spiritual aura
Muscat, Feb 27 As the holy month of Ramadhan approaches, families begin preparing their homes for this blessed time. Homes transform into artistic masterpieces, blending traditional decorations with a spiritual ambiance that reflects the sanctity and significance of Ramadhan. While decorating homes is an age-old tradition, the methods have evolved over time, now becoming a crucial part of the pre-Ramadhan preparations alongside stocking up on kitchen supplies and food. Weeks before Ramadhan, families start their preparations by thoroughly cleaning their homes, changing furnishings and adding Ramadhan-themed decorations. Warm colours like gold, blue and green dominate the decor, complemented by lanterns, crescents, stars and lights that imbue the home with a serene spiritual aura. Umm Saeed al Balushi, a housewife from Muscat, said, "Ramadhan is more than just fasting; it's a special time that unites families and cultivates a spiritual environment in the home. We begin by cleaning and rearranging the house, then adorn it with lanterns and soft lighting to create a tranquil and cozy atmosphere. Placing copies of the Holy Quran prominently encourages everyone to engage in recitations." The styles of decoration embraced by Omani families vary, with some opting for traditional elements while others prefer modern designs inspired by the Ramadhan spirit. Common decorative features include Ramadhan lanterns, which are iconic symbols that adorn entrances, balconies and living rooms. Also, soft lighting and wall decor inscribed with religious phrases like 'Ramadhan Mubarak' and 'Ahlan Ramadhan' are popular choices, alongside Islamic art-inspired decorations that enhance the aesthetic appeal. This is in addition to fabrics embellished with Arabic and Islamic patterns, such as curtains and tablecloths featuring Ramadhan motifs, contribute to the home's warm, traditional ambiance. The premises are also perfumed with aromatic scents and incense. Oriental perfumes and incense, like oud and musk, play a vital role in completing the Ramadhan atmosphere, infusing the home with a sense of calm and contemplation. Mohammed al Kindi from Nizwa said, "We've designated a special corner in our home for prayer and worship during Ramadhan. Here, we place prayer rugs, copies of Quran and a board inscribed with Ramadhan prayers and supplications. This space has become a favourite spot for our children, who enjoy sitting there after meals to read the Quran." Many Omani families involve children in the decorating process, allocating time for them to adorn rooms and create handmade decorations that enhance the festive spirit of Ramadhan. This practice helps children develop a deep connection to the holy month from a young age. Umm Khalid al Shaibani, a mother of three, affirms, "We love engaging our children in pre-Ramadhan decorating activities. They delight in hanging lanterns and crafting paper decorations, while we educate them on the significance of Ramadhan and the virtues of fasting in a fun and interactive manner." Differences in Ramadhan home decor styles are noticeable between rural and urban areas in Oman. Urban dwellers often favour modern decorations featuring contemporary lighting and pre-made designs, while rural families lean towards traditional handmade lanterns, henna motifs and palm frond decorations that exude a distinct traditional charm. Salem al Mukhaini, from Sur, notes, "In villages, we embrace our heritage through traditional Ramadhan decorations, using locally-made lanterns and incorporating designs inspired by ancient Omani architecture. These customs tie us to our roots and make Ramadhan even more special." The festive decorations extend beyond homes where neighbours come together to illuminate the streets with lights, fostering a joyful Ramadhan atmosphere that signals the imminent arrival of the holy month. Malls and markets across Oman also undergo a transformation, with storefronts adorned with festive decorations and hosting special events targeting families and children. Decorating homes to welcome Ramadhan is more than just a visual custom; it's a celebration of joy and anticipation for the month of mercy and forgiveness. From radiant lanterns to Islamic motifs and fragrant incense, these traditions cultivate a spiritual ambiance that unites family members, fostering tranquility and happiness in every heart.
Muscat Daily
16-02-2025
- Automotive
- Muscat Daily
Suhar arena opens as new hub for car drifting and motorsports
Suhar – North Batinah governorate officially inaugurated the Suhar arena, a dedicated venue for car drifting, on Friday. The opening ceremony, held under the patronage of Mohammed al Kindi, the governor of North Batinah, coincided with the conclusion of the second round of the Oman International Drift Championship 2025. The event drew attention of motorsports enthusiasts, showcasing intense competition among the participants. Suhar Arena is set to become a premier destination for motorsport fans in Oman, with plans to host a variety of other outdoor public events. This new facility aims to foster local economic and tourism growth by attracting both domestic and regional visitors. A key objective of the project is to reduce the prevalence of illegal street racing by providing a safe and legal space for car drifting and motorsports, which will help improve public safety and reduce accidents. In addition to its recreational purpose, the arena will promote a sports culture in Omani society, especially among youth who have a strong interest in motorsports. The project will also offer training programmes designed to improve safe driving skills and minimise the dangers of reckless driving. Furthermore, it is expected to create new job opportunities in areas such as event organisation, management, and facility maintenance.
