Latest news with #GVSrinivas
Observer
14-06-2025
- Health
- Observer
'Your blood donation means life to others'
Muscat: June 14 is observed as World Donor Day and in Oman, the Department of Blood Bank Services under the Ministry of Health has been conducting a campaign on the importance of donating blood. Community drives were also organised on the same day. On this day, blood banks around the world celebrate the heroes of life who give hope with blood. The theme for World Blood Donor Day 2025 is 'Blood connects us all: share a blood donation, save a life.' 'With every bag of blood you donate, you give a new chance to three people eagerly awaiting hope and bring a smile to their families' faces,' stated the campaign from Khoula Hospital. More than 100 million donations are collected annually in 170 countries. The Sultanate of Oman is one of the leading countries in blood donation campaigns. 'The Sultanate of Oman is a pioneer in efforts to promote a culture of donation and enhance safe stocks,' stated Oman's Blood Bank Services. Regular donations help save lives, support medical operations and care for mothers and children. Sami al Zedjali, who has a career in the banking sector; and enjoys biking and travelling, has been donating blood for 20 years. 'It has become such a natural part of my life that I hardly think twice about it. What motivates me? Knowing that a small act on my part can literally save someone's life, even if I never meet them. There's a quiet joy in that,' he said. When asked what he would like to tell others, he replied, 'It's easier than you think (the needle pinch lasts seconds; the impact lasts a lifetime). Your blood is always needed — someone, somewhere, is praying for it right now. You'll walk out feeling lighter (in your heart, not just your veins!)." The campaign on Saturday emphasised that in every bag of blood you donate, you give a new chance to three people eagerly awaiting hope and draw a smile on the faces of their families. There are 12,700 donation centres worldwide, but there is always a demand. Joining in the initiative, the Indian Social Club conducted a blood donation drive at the central blood bank in the Wilayat of Bausher; and the campaign was inaugurated by G V Srinivas, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman. Earlier this month, the Central Blood Bank announced that it needed 12 platelet donors to meet the needs of patients and support health institutions. Platelet donation is a new hope for patients who need you. Some of the conditions that have to be considered before donating blood are the facts that the weight of the donor must not be less than 50 kg, the donor's age must be between 18 and 65 years old; and blood pressure and hemoglobin must be within the normal range. The blood bank is open for donors from Saturday to Thursday from 8 am to 8 pm; and on Friday from 8 am to 2 pm.
Observer
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Antaranga's debut showcase of classical dance performance
Scores of talented dancers, aged between 6 and 55 years, showcased their prowess in traditional Indian classical attire on the grand stage of Oman Auditorium during a twilight event that captivated over 800 spectators. Each performer brought their unique energy and skill, traversing a spectrum of classical dance styles and leaving the audience mesmerised with their mastery and expressive storytelling. That same evening, Muscat witnessed an extraordinary celebration of classical dance as Sneha's Arts and Cultural Centre – Antaranga hosted its inaugural event, Nrithya Bodha, dedicated to awakening the soul through dance — truly fulfilling its theme 'A Stage for Each Child'. With 92 performers, the stage burst with energy, discipline, and artistry, reflecting the dedication and growth of each student as they delivered meticulously rehearsed and powerful performances. Nrithya Bodha was more than a recital; it was a dynamic display of technical excellence, cultural depth, and emotional expression. Each act demonstrated rigorous training, choreography, and an evolving mastery of classical dance techniques, captivating the audience and elevating the performance standards for all involved. Antaranga's debut showcase of classical dance performance The evening opened with a ceremonial Lighting of the Lamp by G V Srinivas, Ambassador of India to Oman, symbolising the auspicious beginning of this exciting showcase. The packed auditorium resonated with applause from families, dance aficionados, and dignitaries, all appreciative of the performers' dedication and skill. As a member of the International Dance Council – CID UNESCO and affiliated with the esteemed Nalanda Dance Research Centre Mumbai, Antaranga's commitment to performance excellence and cultural preservation was clearly evident. Under the visionary leadership of founder and artistic director Sneha Nambiar, the event exemplified discipline, passion, and artistic growth. 'Nrithya Bodha is more than an event; it's a celebration of dedication, expression, and community. Our greatest achievement was providing each child with a platform to showcase their talent and progress,' said Nambiar. 'This marks just the beginning of many milestones in our pursuit of promoting artistic excellence and cultural pride.'
Observer
15-05-2025
- Science
- Observer
Annual Science Fiesta 2025 from May 23-24
Oman will host two days of celebration of science with special focus on AI on May 23 and 24 at the National University of Science and Technology, Al Hail Campus, as part of the 70th year of Indo-Oman diplomatic relations. The annual science festival, organised by the Indian Science Forum (ISF), which is currently in its 18th edition, will see students from across the country vying with each other with their creative scientific ideas on the two days. For those children with a nack for science, the Annual Science Fiesta 2025 is a flagship celebration of science and innovation aimed at fostering scientific knowledge, curiosity, and creativity among them. G V Srinivas, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman, will be the chief guest. Organisers said that the two-day format reflects the increasing participation and growing popularity of the event, offering a broader platform for students to engage, compete, and showcase their scientific talents. "The Annual Science Fiesta 2025 promises a dynamic lineup of activities, including competitions, exhibitions, workshops, and interactive sessions. Over the years, ISF has successfully organised a wide range of science events such as the Sastra Pratibha Contest, Science Quiz, Science Debate, On-the-Spot Presentations, Digital Symposiums, Poster Making and Science Exhibitions—all of which have garnered enthusiastic participation from students, educators, and parents across Oman," organisers said. The highlight of this year's event will be the felicitation and award ceremony for the 18th Sastra Pratibha winners, taking place during the Science Fiesta. A battery of great personalities in science and technology along with AI will address th3 children during the two days. Dr. Monojit Choudhury, a renowned expert in Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Professor at Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), Abu Dhabi, will be the Keynote Speaker. Tariq al Barwani, a leading technology specialist and a prominent figure in Oman's IT sector, wi be the guest of honour while Syed Ahmad Salman, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Indian Schools in Oman, wi be the guest of honour. The presence of several dignitaries, academic leaders, and science enthusiasts will make this event a landmark celebration in Oman's academic calendar. Also, the winners of the Sastra Pratibhas for 2025 were also announced: Isha Fathima – Grade 5, Indian School Salalah Advik Aby – Grade 6, Indian School Al Maabela Richan Kumar – Grade 6, Indian School Bousher Mithil Sadhasivam – Grade 7, Indian School Al Ghubra Reha Mufeed – Grade 8, Indian School Nizwa Nazish Shoukat Mukhari – Grade 9, Indian School Al Ghubra Devraja Krishnan P – Grade 10, Indian School Al Seeb, winners of Sasthra Prathibha. A series of scientific events will mark the opening day of the celebrations on 23rd May 2025. On the second day, the science exhibition will be held during the morning hours, followed by the award ceremony and main function, which will commence at 2:00 PM. There will be an interactive session with Prof. Monojit Choudhury, on 23rd May 2025 at 2:30 PM. This special session, designed for the student community from various schools, promises to be a highly enriching experience for our younger generation. The event is being coordinated by Global Events. Dr. J. Retnakumar, Chairman, Suresh Akkammadathil, General Secretary, Latha Sreejith, General Coordinator, Gandhiraj, Treasurer, and Hala P. Jamal, Program Coordinator were also present at the announcement.
Observer
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
ISC hosts ‘Jashn-e-Deccan', cultural evening
MUSCAT: The Deccani Wing of the Indian Social Club (ISC) Oman hosted a vibrant cultural evening, Jashn-e-Deccan, at the CBFS Hall, captivating over 700 guests with a celebration of Hyderabadi music, poetry and spirit. The event was graced by G V Srinivas, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman, along with ISC Chairman Babu Rajendran and Vice-Chairman Suhail Khan. Ghazal maestro Ustad Nizam Ali Khan headlined the evening with soul-stirring renditions of works by legendary Hyderabadi poets Shaz Tamkinat and Amjad Hyderabadi. His performance evoked the lyrical elegance of a bygone era. He was joined by his sons, Faizan Ali Khan and Fareed Ali Khan, who added youthful charm and emotional intensity. Faizan's smooth vocals captivated the crowd, while Fareed energised the hall with powerful Sufi numbers. A standout poetry segment featured Dawood Khan, who recited 'Nai Bole Toh Sunte Nai' by Ghouse Mohiuddin Khamakha, earning warm applause. Musicians Sikander Khan (tabla) and Mohammed Rafi (harmonium) added rich musical depth to the performances. Omani guest Zaheer Al Din delighted the crowd with his presence, reflecting the strong cultural ties between Oman and India. The event began with a welcome from Dr Wasif, Convenor of the Deccani Wing, and was smoothly anchored by Samad. A vote of thanks by Sayeed rounded off the evening, acknowledging artists, dignitaries and guests. Jashn-e-Deccan stood as a heartfelt tribute to Hyderabadi heritage, uniting communities through the shared language of art and tradition.
