SINGAPORE: Aamir Khan, the Bollywood superstar with a conscience, says his next movie about a small town teenage girl who uses the Internet to become a singing sensation will be much bigger than his last film, which was India’s highest grossing ever.
Khan, 52, plays a sleazy music producer in the film “Secret Superstar” and says he is second lead to teenager Zaira Wasim, playing a schoolgirl who defies her conservative Muslim family to pursue her dream of a singing career.
Khan’s last film “Dangal,” or wrestling pit, was based on the true story of a former wrestler who trains two of his daughters to become champions in the sport. It was the highest grossing movie for Bollywood, as India’s Hindi film industry is known, and was powered by huge collections in China.
“While both are about the empowerment of the girl child, I feel it (Secret Superstar) is a much bigger film,” Khan said in an interview in Singapore ahead of the movie’s release later this month. He and his wife have produced the film.
“While Dangal was about the dream of a father which a daughter fulfils, this is about the hopes and aspirations of a 14-year-old girl from a small town in India. I don’t know what the box office will be but it’s a bigger film than Dangal in what it’s trying to say.”
Three of Khan’s films are in Bollywood’s top four all-time hits. Besides Dangal, these include “PK,” in which he played an alien dealing with religious divisions in India, and “3 Idiots,” about the frailties in India’s education system.
All three have also done well in China, and Khan said he was “very happy with the type of relationship that’s building between me and my audience in this part of the world with each film.”
He also produced and acted in a popular television documentary series on social ills in India called “Satyameva Jayate,” or Truth Alone Triumphs.
That series led him to set up a non-profit to work on a project to ease the shortage of water in the western Indian state of Maharashtra, he said.
Despite the social messages in his movies, Khan said he has no desire to become politician, as some other Bollywood stars have.
“The desire in me to contribute back to society is something I can do very well in the field that I am in,” he said. “I don’t have to join politics. That’s an area I don’t ever want to go into.”
Khan was embroiled in controversy two years ago when he said his Hindu wife had asked him if they should move out of India over concerns about insecurity. Khan later said the family had no plans to leave.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has been accused of intolerance toward liberal and dissenting views.
Khan said intolerance had not affected his ability to express himself as an actor.
“For me, when I’m making a film, my primary responsibility is to give my audience a good time. Then if it’s giving a message which is important and creative, if it’s changing the way we look at things, great.
“If it’s giving a message which is highly negative, then I would not be a part of it.”
Bollywood icon Aamir Khan says next film will be biggest yet
Bollywood icon Aamir Khan says next film will be biggest yet
French-Iraqi artist’s calligraphic showcase enchants Riyadh
- Hassan Massoudy’s Calligraphies de Lumiere is a fusion of east and west
RIYADH: A captivating calligraphy exhibition by renowned French-Iraqi artist Hassan Massoudy is being hosted by the Hewar Art Gallery in Riyadh.
“Calligraphies de Lumiere” displays Massoudy’s unique fusion of cultures and expression on both canvas and paper.
The 80-year-old artist, whose journey from the streets of Baghdad to the studios of Paris has woven a tapestry of inspiration, told Arab News: “When I was a child, I loved to draw. On the other hand, my mother often took me to (visit) my theologian and calligrapher uncle. I watched him trace the letters with slowness and diligence.”
Driven by a dream to pursue art, Massoudy embarked on a transformative journey to France in 1969. Training at the School of Fine Arts in Paris, he immersed himself in the techniques of painting, drawing, mosaic, fresco, art history and figurative painting.
He said: “At the same time, to pay for my studies, I worked as a calligrapher as well as at an Algerian magazine. Little by little, I began to introduce letters into the colorful characters that I painted.”
He added: “During 1975 to 1980, I integrated more and more calligraphy, until the figurative painting totally disappeared, being replaced only by letters, first compositions then the key word of the sentence expanded to become the main ‘character’.”
Massoudy was influenced by painters like Matisse, Picasso and Soulage but, he said, “another civilization also brought me a lot, the Far East with Chinese and Japanese calligraphies. It allowed me to free up space, to make free and wide gestures, by enlarging my words to the size of the sheet of paper or the canvas.”
This added to the foundations of his original culture and Massoudy’s calligraphic compositions transcended linguistic boundaries, embodying a timeless essence of humanism and poetry.
The message his creations convey is very important to him. He said: “These texts come from both Eastern and Western cultures, as well as from the past and the present. By these poetic or humanist sentences, we realize that men can join altogether with their ideas and their sensitivity.”
Each canvas in the exhibition is an imprint of Massoudy’s soul, inviting visitors to embark on a journey of introspection and enlightenment.
He said: “The canvas whose calligraphic phrase is from the Indian poet Kabir, ‘O friend, don’t go to the flower garden, the flower garden is within you,’ has a composition similar to a large seed encompassing an interior garden, the promise of rebirth. As for Ta Kuan’s quote, ‘this day will never be repeated again, each moment is a priceless jewel,’ it reassures me and makes me aware of the beauty of life. Ibn Qalakis urges us to evolve and not remain in a static state, ‘travel if you like for certain value. By traveling the skies, the crescent becomes a full moon’.”
He added that visitors to the exhibition would “come into contact with the colors of the canvas, the geometry hidden behind the shape of the words, and the meaning of the text.”
During his apprenticeship with various calligraphers in Baghdad he learnt their favorite styles or little tricks specific to each one when creating a particular letter. In learning fine arts, he said he was privileged to have rubbed shoulders with both calligraphy and painting.
He said: “I have tried to merge them, to mix Baghdad with Paris or vice versa. This has given new impetus to my calligraphy. I have knowledge of classic styles of Arabic calligraphy with its strict codes, but what I learned at the School of Fine Arts of Paris I tried to apply to the letters, giving them all their freedom and not imprisoning them in rules.”
Wandering through the exhibition, one quickly becomes conversant with the rhythm of Massoudy’s brushstrokes, each one bearing emotion and grace. He says dance has influenced him a great deal.
“I had the pleasure of working live at shows with dancers, especially with Carolyn Carlson,” he said. “When I worked in collaboration with dancers, I had the impression of being the choreographer of my letters. This brought a lot to free my gesture, lengthen it, bend it, raise it, then make it dance on the sheet with energy.”
One of the key visitors to the exhibition has been Ludovic Pouille, the French ambassador to Saudi Arabia.
He told Arab News: “The minute I heard that French-Iraqi artist Hassan Massoudy was displaying his work at the Hewar Gallery, I knew I wouldn’t miss it for the world. The ‘Calligraphies de Lumiere’ is truly an ode to Arabic poetry and colors. Not to mention that I am a huge fan of art in general. Art is a universal language that brings cultures and people together and opens our minds to differences and new perspectives.”
Pouille says the exhibition serves as a catalyst for cultural exchange and understanding between France and Saudi Arabia, inviting visitors from both nations to explore and connect with unfamiliar cultural landscapes, fostering mutual respect and curiosity.
He said: “Saudis have been exposed to French art for a long time and they certainly express their appreciation and love of my country and its culture. Today, with the great transformation Saudi Arabia is witnessing, the French are eager to discover it themselves. That is what we have seen with the increasing number of French tourists.”
The French Embassy in Riyadh actively engages with local communities to promote cross-cultural dialogue. Initiatives include the ongoing Month of the Francophonie, where collaborative events across Riyadh, Jeddah, Alkhobar and AlUla with Francophone embassies, schools, associations and Saudi partners are taking place.
Pouille told Arab News: “The superb exhibition at L’Art Pur Gallery ‘Woven Portraits,’ by French-Swiss artist Catherine Gfeller and Saudi artist Daniah Al-Saleh, is a great example of artistic cooperation. It is an exhibition dedicated to celebrating the strength, resilience and creativity of women in Riyadh, set against the backdrop of the city’s dynamic social and cultural landscape.”
He added: “The French Embassy intends to present an exhibition of digital art by French artists Jeanne Morel and Paul Marlier in April at the Hayy Jameel Cultural Center. We also plan to strengthen cultural exchanges between the two countries by organizing a new artistic residency next autumn. I believe these programs are a great way for artists to create a long-term bond.”
Future initiatives will also promote artistic collaboration and cultural exchange between France and the Kingdom.
The ambassador said: “Our plans are continuous. The first official visit of the Minister of Culture Rachida Dati to Saudi Arabia (in March), at the invitation of her counterpart Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, is tangible proof of the constant French-Saudi cooperation at high levels.”
‘Calligraphies de Lumiere’ runs until April 18.
Saudi Chambers launch first national committee for military industries
RIYADH: Military industries are set to receive a boost with the Federation of Saudi Chambers announcing the formation of the first special national committee of its kind.
This marks the first time that a committee focused on the defense sector has been formed under the umbrella of the private sector, represented by the Saudi body.
Its purpose is to collaborate closely with relevant authorities and entities, such as the General Authority for Military Industries, the Saudi Arabian Military Industries, and others, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
This initiative aligns with the federation’s new strategic directions, aimed at aligning with the modern economic sectors highlighted in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
The vision emphasizes the organization and localization of the Kingdom’s military industries sector, with a target of achieving more than 50 percent nationalization by 2030.
The federation also announced the election of Salman Al-Shathri as president and Ziyad Al-Muhaimid as vice-president for the session 2023-2026.
The Federation of Saudi Chambers serves as the umbrella and sole legitimate representative of the Kingdom’s business community, encompassing all its diverse groups, sectors, and regions.
President Biden’s first contact with PM Sharif signals support amid regional challenges
- Biden’s letter is the first top-level contact between the two countries in a long time, signifying a thaw in their frosty ties
- The US president describes the partnership between the two countries’ people as ‘crucial for global and local security’
ISLAMABAD: In the first top-level contact between the United States and Pakistan in a long time, President Joe Biden assured Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday of his administration’s full support in addressing the critical challenges facing the region.
Biden’s letter to Sharif signifies a thaw in the frosty US-Pakistan relations following the strained ties during the withdrawal of international forces from Afghanistan and the subsequent allegations by Pakistan’s former premier Imran Khan of a US conspiracy against his administration.
The US president’s outreach marks a notable shift from the previously perceived indifference, evident in the absence of direct communication with Khan’s government.
The correspondence underscores a potential recalibration of bilateral relations, with the US president describing the partnership between the two countries’ people as “crucial for global and local security.”
“The US will stand with Pakistan in facing the most critical challenges of the time and region,” Biden was quoted as saying in an official statement released by the Pakistani authorities. “Public health protection, economic growth and education for all are shared visions that will continue to be promoted together.”
The US president also highlighted various areas where the two countries have been working together while promising to strengthen their joint efforts.
He specifically mentioned the US-Pakistan Green Alliance Framework, saying his administration would continue to work with Pakistan for environmental improvement.
Biden also spoke of sustainable agricultural development, water management and recovery from the devastating effects of the 2022 floods in Pakistan.
He also expressed dedication to protecting human rights and promoting development together with Pakistan amid previous US concerns over freedom of speech and expression in the wake of period social media disruptions in the South Asian country.
“The strong partnership established between the two nations will be strengthened,” he said in the letter.
From the corporate world to ‘Le Cordon Bleu’: the story of two aspiring Saudi chefs
- Generation 2030 facilitates Saudi students’ transition from Riyadh to French schools
DUBAI: “Le Cordon Bleu”, renowned French culinary and hospitality institution, is home to two aspiring Saudi chefs. Having moved from Riyadh to Paris to follow their passion for cuisine and patisserie, Ghadeer Ibn Khamis and Khulood Almukrain share their experience with Arab News en franҫais.
“I relocated with my husband to France and decided to take my passion for cooking to the next level,” said Ghadeer, a student at Le Cordon Bleu.
Once in the city of art, culture, and gastronomy, Ghadeer opted for the Cordon Bleu diploma, a one-year program to specialize in cuisine and pastry.
“I wanted to shift away from the fast-paced environment of doing business in Riyadh, to focus on a field I love,” added Ghadeer.
The full-time program is a scholarship through Generation 2030, backed by MISK. Generation 2030’s objective empowering youth in various fields, and enhance Franco-Saudi relations in arts, culture, fashion, as well as knowledge and talent exchange.
Generation 2030 facilitates students’ transition from Riyadh to French schools, namely “Le Cordon Bleu,” while bringing French students to Saudi Arabia.
Known for its vibrant hospitality scene, Saudi Arabia has been attracting fine dining restaurants over the past decade, mirroring a booming touristic activity, in line with Vision 2030’s ambitions for the sector. Culinary schools are part of the conversation, and Le Cordon Blue is expected to open in Riyadh in 2024-2025.
“I used to work at a bank, and I was happy in my role. I applied to Le Cordon Bleu program after watching Julie and Julia. In a couple of days, I made the decision to enrol. It was nerve wrecking, but I feel I made the right decision,” said Khulood.
Founded in Paris in 1895, Le Cordon Bleu is a large network of culinary and hospitality schools with more than 35 institutes in 20 countries and 20,000 students of over 100 nationalities trained per year through its certificates, diplomas, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees.
“In pastry, there are many things I never imagined I would be able to do, I never attempted to make croissants. At Le Cordon Bleu, they put you under pressure, a challenge, where you have to do something, you initially feel you won’t be able to do. Now I feel more confident and capable of doing anything, any dish, any desert,” confirmed Khulood.
French cuisine is about technique, and relies on seasonality, good quality products, and a balance of flavours. Blending Saudi flavours with French technique is an attempt to combine innovation and heritage, bridging cultures and reconciling tastes and preferences.
“French cuisine relies on veal meat, like “Blanquette de veau,” which is also the case in Saudi Arabia. (…) In adapting French cuisine to the Saudi taste, I don’t change the dish itself, I incorporate indirect changes. It is not easy, but it is doable,” said Ghadeer.
For her “make your own tart” exam, Khulood brought Arabic flavours to the making of a tart with an Arabic twist.
“The tart was inspired by the simsimiya. Applying the techniques of cream and dough making, coulis, and crust preparation, my idea was to deliver a tart with pistachio, simsimiya and rose water, surrounded by choux pastry, filled with crème pâtissière, pistachio praline and tahini,” said Khulood.
The centennial institution is a place for learning, for commitment and discipline down to the minute.
“I used to be late, and not finish my plates on time… Then I started delivering my plates among the first in my class. The best part about my experience is seeing progress over time, till I reached a point where the chef does not comment on the plating and the presentation of my dish,” shared Ghadeer.
For Khulood, Le Cordon Bleu’s experience culminates in meeting people from different cultures and witnessing their take on food.
“It is my first time travelling and living on my own, which is an experience by itself. The exposure, the amount of information I received, I am happy to learn and implement. You exceed your own expectations and your self-confidence increases,” said Khulood.
“French cuisine is the most technical cuisine. When you go to any other cuisine, having a French cuisine and techniques background will help you a lot,” she added Khulood.
Students receive the Grand Diplôme upon completion of the culinary program, followed by a second diploma in restaurant management. The objective, is to help students develop their business idea, understand the operational cost, designing menus, as well as marketing, finance.
“There is a lot more to learn, an infinite room for creativity, and a sense of achievement with the positive feedback and support of family and friends,” added Ghadeer.
Wearing the Cordon Bleu chef’s hat is the upcoming milestone before carrying the French experience back to Riyadh, with the aspiring chefs looking at heading towards food consultancy and restaurant management.
Pakistan’s finance minister eyes fresh IMF loan deal by fiscal year-end
- Muhammad Aurangzeb plans to discuss the contours of the new loan program during his meetings in Washington
- Pakistan has successfully completed the second and final review under a short-term IMF agreement for $1.1 billion
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan plans to reach a staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a new loan program by the end of the current fiscal year, said finance minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Friday, adding the issue would come up for discussion in his upcoming meetings in Washington.
Pakistan successfully completed the second and final review under a short-term IMF stand-by arrangement amounting to $3 billion earlier this month, clearing the way for the disbursement of the final tranche of nearly $1.1 billion.
However, the country’s fragile $350-billion economy continues to be in desperate need for external financing to shore up its foreign exchange reserves and escape yet another macroeconomic crisis. This was also indicated by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif who pointed out it was “inevitable” for his government to seek further IMF assistance after taking over the top political office of his country.
The Pakistani finance minister said he was going to attend the spring meetings in Washington where he would meet the IMF and World Bank officials and discuss the contours of a fresh Extended Fund Facility (EFF).
“Those discussions will go into end April, into May,” he informed. “We can expect, because no final discussion or agreement [with IMF] has taken place yet, but it is our desire that by the time we wrap up this fiscal year, so end June, early July, we at least reach the staff-level agreement [for the EFF].”
Committing to a new IMF program will require Pakistan to implement steps needed to stay on a narrow path to recovery. The country has already tried to implement stringent economic reforms like raising fuel and power rates that have led to spiraling inflation in the country.
Getting into another IMF program would further limit the government’s policy options to provide relief to a deeply frustrated population and cater to industries that are looking for government support to spur growth.