< PreviousYear-End Special – Bollywood 10 MASALA! PRIYANKA CHOPRA SHAHID KAPOOR Our desi girl had a mixed year work-wise. Her movies ( Isn’t it Romantic in Hollywood and The Sky is Pink in Bollywood) didn’t create ripples but she schmoozed with the best of the best in the company of her doting husband Nick Jonas. From the Oscars to the Met Gala, they were on every single enviable party list. Together, they are the Hollywood power couple. Beat that! DULQUER SALMAAN We wonder why Bollywood doesn’t take to South Indian stars too easily. But Dulquer Salmaan might just break the jinx. Sure, his The Zoya Factor did nothing to inspire confidence at the box office but it surely made him popular among the ladies up the Vindhyas as even those who were not familiar with his fantastic repertoire in Tollywood started googling him and looking up his movies on streaming platforms. ANURAG KASHYAP He did what he does best – create trend-setting content. His Sacred Games season 2 was brilliant albeit confusing to some. But this was a year in which his greatness as a filmmaker was once again established. Gangs of Wasseypur- the two-part gangster drama- was the ONLY Indian film to be listed in the venerable Guardian’s 100 best films list. HRITHIK ROSHAN The comeback superstar. After a lacklustre few years headlined by controversies, the graceful Hrithik finally shut his detractors with two huge hits in two very diverse films – the sensitive Super 30 and the testosterone-filled War . Welcome back Hrithik – into our hearts and the box office charts. What a year! He starred in the most controversial film in recent times and got away unscathed. Kabir Singh was Shahid Kapoor’s big moment at the cinemas and even if you hated the film and the character, you came away, mind blown by Shahid. MASALA! 11 Year-End Special – Bollywood MANOJ BAJPAYEE AKSHAY KUMAR Mr Patriot’s formula – of doing preachy films riding the current way of nationalism – held him in good stead. Kesari, Mission Mangal, Housefull 4 and the forthcoming Good Newwz. Bollywood clearly can’t have enough of Akki who straddles different worlds effortlessly. She is the quintessential outsider who has slowly yet steadily established herself as an actress of credibility and intelligence. A couple of years ago, there was Pink. But this year came Badla and then arrived Saand Ki Aankh, where she pushed her own boundaries and the Bollywood envelope. Meanwhile her frankspeak and candid attitude wins her more fans by the day. Mr Dependable. Manoj Bajpayee has a knack of coming up with spectacular performances every now and then, as if to remind us that despite the influx of talented newcomers, he will always be around – head and shoulders above the rest. A few months ago, we were reminded of his brilliance yet again with Family Man on Amazon Prime. Keep it up Mr Bajpayee! TAAPSEE PANNU THE FILMS OF 2019 GULLY BOY A poor Mumbai rapper’s rise to fame was the subject of this layered and sensitively told tale by Zoya Akhtar. Mumbai was rarely captured this raw yet so beautifully. KABIR SINGH Like it or hate it, you can’t just ignore it. Kabir Singh, remade from Telugu, gave us a protagonist we loved to hate. SECTION 375 It’s a pity that the film didn’t do too well but Section 375 walked the tightrope – about sexual harassment cases in the #metoo era – rather well. DREAM GIRL It had all the elements of a typical Ayushmann Khurrana film – small town setting, a sex-related problem and plenty of laughs. Predictable but Dream Girl delivered well on the entertainment quotient. ARTICLE 15 A searing subject – caste discrimination – and fantastic performances make this a must watch. Anubhav Sinha’s brutal tale will shine on Ayushmann Khurrana’s CV. URI: THE SURGICAL STRIKE This ode to the Indian army had a subject that was no doubt, controversial but it was also one of the most professionally made and gripping war films in Bollywood. WAR After a string of ‘small town’ realistic films came a full blown masala subject – two handsome men, stunning locales, jaw- dropping action set pieces, a wafer-thin storyline, good music and a hot, hot Hrithik.MUST-DOs Your guide to the best Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations in town! Clare Geeves puts together the most fun places and deals to enjoy this festive season Festive Spirit MISCHIEVOUS CHRISTMAS BRUNCH AT MASTI MASTI which translates into fun and mischief, has the perfect late brunch for those wanting to spend the morning unwrapping Christmas presents. The menu features reinterpretation of Indian cuisines and Christmas themed crafted mixed drinks with a live band to get you into the mood. Xmas with an Indian twist? Why not? Info: 2pm - 6pm; Clean Package (soft drinks) Dhs 250, Dirty Package (house beverages and hand-crafted drinks) Dhs 400; La Mer South, 800 MASTI A MICHELIN STAR CHRISTMAS AT MAREA Marea’s Michelin star chef, Michael White, has curated a stunning 3-course traditional Italian festive menu. Enjoy Tortellini en Brodo, Oven Roasted Turkey & Lamb served with all the essential Christmas day trimmings. Finish it all off, with Christmas cookies and eggnog, so traditional you will think you have been transported to a colder climate sitting in front of a roaring fire. Info: All day; Dhs 350 (Three courses with soft beverages) Dhs 700 (three courses with House Beverages); Gate Village 7, DIFC, 04 583 6366 THE SECRET PALACE BRUNCH This popular weekly Friday brunch is hosting a special one-off Christmas day brunch at the Palace Kempinski Hotel. Enjoy roaming entertainment, an incredible buffet selection and live band, perfect for those looking to party with friends and family, who like a good boogie on the dance floor. Info: 1pm - 5pm; Dhs 299 (soft drinks package), Dhs 399 (house drinks package), Dhs 499 (sparkling package); miX restaurant, Emerald Palace Kempinski Dubai, 04 248 8888MASALA! 13 Lifestyle MUST-DOs CHRISTMAS DAY UNDER THE SEA Celebrate this Christmas Day with a twist - under the sea at the award-winning underwater restaurant, Ossiano. With a Mediterranean-inspired seafood menu devised by celebrity chef, Gregoire Berger. Highlights include Gillardeau oysters with caviar, lobster and black truffle and organic quail. To top off the experience, the amazingly talented singer-songwriter Clarita DeQuiroz will provide the soundtrack to your day. Info: 12:30pm – 2:30pm, Set menu Dhs 540 per person,Atlantis Dubai The Palm, 04 426 2626 GET SPOILT AT BUBBALICIOUS Arguably one of the best brunches in Dubai, this adult wonderland offers an entire floor (both inside and out) of different food stations, 10 live cooking stations (also a secret dessert room) with so many food and beverages to choose from, you will be spoiled for choice and of course, fun roaming entertainment. Perfect for the entire family as it’s children friendly. Info: 1pm - 4pm; Bubbalicous package Dhs 795 per person with free-flowing sparkling and house beverages. Delicious package Dhs 595 per person soft drinks, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Dubai Marina, 04 511 7373 GO RETRO AT YALUMBA Bring in the New Year with the best decade known for wild fashion choices and of course the music, with an 80’s themed NYE party. Filled with fun, food, live cooking stations and free flowing sparkling, hops and house beverages. Dance the night away to your favourite 80’s hits and ring in 2020 with a vintage feel. Info: 8pm-12am, happy hour from 12am-3am; Dhs 529 (sparkling, hops & house beverages), Le Meridien Dubai Hotel, 04 702 2455 NEW YEAR’S EVE AT VIVALDI RESTAURANT Bid farewell to 2019 and raise a toast to the New Year with breath- taking views of the creek and Dubai’s iconic fireworks displays. Treat your taste buds to a delicious buffet dinner, including sparkling grape and a mouth-watering main course. Info: 7pm-Midnight; Dhs 699: Full NYE package, with main course served to your table & sparkling grape; Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel and Towers, 04 207 1717Lifestyle 14 MASALA! FAMILY FRIENDLY NYE AT ZOCO Welcome in 2020 with a dash of Latino flair in this stylish and funky Latin American restaurant. Ideal for a family- centric New Year’s Eve celebrations, enjoy traditional Mexican food, specialty dishes and an extensive buffet spread. DJ Jack will be spinning the hottest commercial tunes for the whole family to enjoy. The perfect night out for families, thanks to the children’s area, activities and children under 6 eat for free. Info: 7:00pm to 3:00am; Dhs 295 per person inclusive of soft beverages, Dhs 425 per person inclusive of house beverages and Dhs 625 per person inclusive of bubbly, The Atrium at Al Habtoor City, 04 437 0044 VENETIAN CARNIVAL AT ROBERTO’S With the most stunning views Dubai has to offer, celebrate this NYE at the hottest restaurant in Dubai, Roberto’s. Enjoy an authentic Italian 4 course curated set menu all while watching performers including acrobats and when the clock strikes twelve, ring in 2020 with fireworks over the Burj Khalifa. Info: 8pm – 4am; Prices start from Dhs 1,600; Gate Village, DIFC, Dubai 04 386 0066 CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY AT PALAZZO VERSACE No need to find a golden ticket to get into this party, ring in the new year with this Charlie and the chocolate factory New Year’s party at Palazzo Versace Dubai. Savour a night of magic and pure imagination, thanks to the magical setting and exquisite delicacies. With different restaurants to choose from, enjoy an exquisite buffet at Giardino, a five-course dinner at Vanitas or a festive family-style menu at Enigma. Celebrate the new year, pool side with a glass of sparkling grape. Info: 7pm-2am; Dhs 590 onwards; Palazzo Versace, Dubai 04 556 8805Say Hello to 2020! Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai provides the ultimate entertainment and dining options for your New Year’s Eve celebrations For all reservations contact: 04 405 2703; f&breservations.sldb@shangri-la.com MASALA! 15 Advertorial LIVE IT UP @ IKANDY ULTRALOUNGE Want to soak in the picture-perfect views of the Burj Khalifa and ring in the New Year under the stars while gaping at the astounding New Years’ fireworks display? Head to ikandy ultralounge! Party into 2020 with chart- topping hits from a live band, DJ and much more. INFO: 8pm-2am; Dhs 699 per person for those dining at one of Shangri-La’s restaurants (no seat guaranteed); including premium spirits; Dhs 1,111 per person (walk-ins); including an international buffet and premium spirits Dhs 2,020 per person, guaranteed seating; including an international buffet and premium spirits PARTY AT LEVEL 42 Party till the wee hours of the morning with panoramic views of the Dubai skyline in the background, unlimited premium beverages, gourmet canapes and bubbly, and live entertainment at the super swish Level 42 that is hosting a fabulous NYE bash. INFO: 10:30pm-12:30am, Dhs 699 per person for those dining at one of Shangri-La’s restaurants; Dhs 1,111 per person; Dhs 2,020 per couple and Dhs 3,500 per couple, with free-flow bubbly DINE AT DUNES CAFÉ Enjoy a divine international buffet dinner while listening to a live band and resident DJ playing today’s top hits. Indulge in style with your choice of oysters, sushi, honey- glazed rib eye, pan-seared scallops, confit duck and roasted King Crab! End your night with the perfect view of the stunning fireworks from Downtown Dubai. INFO: 7pm-1am; Dhs 350 per person, kids between 5-12 years; Dhs 700 per person, including soft beverages; Dhs 900 per person, including premium beverages CHINESE MAGIC An authentic Chinese 8-course set menu awaits guests at Shang Palace. With delicacies such as Cantonese-style golden garlic Boston lobster and pan-fried Wagyu beef with Chinese mushroom sauce, this is the gourmand’s way to enter 2020 on a delicious note. The festivities continue with views of Burj Khalifa fireworks from the hotel lobby. INFO: 7pm-1am; Dhs 588 per person, including soft beverages; Dhs 788 per person, including house beverages; Dhs 988 per person, including bubbly A VIETNAMESE CULINARY TRAIL AT HOI AN Do you prefer a sophisticated and refined celebration away from the noise and parties? Relish the 7-course set menu at Hoi An that will have you exploring all the flavours of Vietnam. There is much to choose from including wok-fried lobster and scallop ravioli, grilled wagyu striploin with black truffle sauce to name just a few. Enjoy a stunning view of the Burj Khalifa fireworks from Downtown Dubai by joining the party in the lobby. INFO: 7pm-1am; Dhs 788 per person, including soft beverages; Dhs 988 per person, including house beverages LOBBY LOUNGE FUN Be at the centre of all the excitement at the Lobby Lounge with an endless cheese and charcuterie buffet. Dance to a live band and DJ all night long. When the clock hits midnight, ring in the New Year with the ultimate view of the Burj Khalifa fireworks. Sounds super cool, doesn’t it? INFO: 7pm-1am; Dhs 399 per person, including soft beverages; Dhs 699 per person, including premium grape (Bubbly bar available to all guests on a cash basis) The wait is finally over. 2020 is just a few weeks away, and as we step into the last year of this decade, it’s time to pop the bubbly and get ready to welcome the New Year in style! 2020 will change a lot of things in Dubai and what better way to celebrate it than enjoy at a destination that offers the best of everything – food, views, vibe and entertainment. In other words, just head to Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai that brings a host of treats for those looking for a unique way to bid goodbye to 2019. Here is the complete list.MASALA! 17 In the Spotlight WORDS: MASALA!; PICTURE: SUPPLIED S he divides her time between London, New York, Hong Kong and Dubai, hobnobbing with the biggest and most inspiring celebrities of our times. But humanitarian and social activist Meera Gandhi is as down-to-earth and real as it gets. She is known for her stylish soirees and influential events but her real passion lies in social work and making a difference at the grassroots through her organisation, The Giving Back Foundation. Over the years, Meera has produced and directed a documentary, launched a music CD and coffee table book, all titled Giving Back, which includes glimpses of Meera’s prominent friends and their philanthropic endeavours. Included in the project are names like Cherie Blair, Kerry Kennedy, Patricia Velasquez, Kristi Yamaguchi, Steven Rockefeller, Francine Le Frak, Clodagh to name just a few. Deeply inspired by the late Mother Teresa, Meera – who grew up in India, England and Ireland – decided to devote her life to charity and helping those in need. Her work through the foundation covers several causes and social issues. Currently, Meera is on a new journey with the media. She has a show on a leading Indian news channel Times Now where she shares her life experiences and tips to lead a more fulfilling life, with viewers. On a mission to spread positive energy and the message of well-being Meera believes ‘giving back’ is the way to move forward as a race. The enterprising entrepreneur talks about her philosophy and her dreams for a happier world… On the journey of The Giving Back Foundation since its inception to present times…. It’s been an amazing journey that has gone from strength to strength. The mission of The Giving Back foundation has grown from the original mission of providing education to girls to our three-fold current missions… Empowering through education, the joy of being alive on this planet and Healthy Living. Apart from this, we are involved with 75 other charities globally as outlined in the Giving Coffee Table book. On her show on a leading Indian news channel… I have a show called Three Tips by Meera Gandhi on Times Now whereas Good Times Network is starting to air The Meera Gandhi Show. I feel viewers are at the beginning of an adventure with me. I hope by watching my shows and reading some of my life experiences and thoughts, you will find some answers you are looking for. I believe we have ALL the answers we seek, inside us. So if we are in perfect harmony with the universe by simple measures like eating right, sleeping well and not letting stress get the best of us, we can make the best decisions for ourselves almost intuitively! If we find ourselves hitting dead ends, we have to take some time to dig deeper, do some soul searching and then accept reality for what it is. But trust me, change, no matter how challenging or difficult, is always for the best! On the project that has given her the maximum satisfaction… It is the St Michael School Project. The foundation adopted the school in India and as per the programme, the children are provided with meals every day and they have also had their school and its grounds refurbished. On the role of the media in bringing people together in a conflict-ridding world. .. When I was growing up, I watched Mother Teresa on TV on weekends with my family. I am fortunate to have met her and learnt from her, some of the intrinsic values of giving back. None of this would have been possible without the contribution of the media. Now I am doing my bit to impart those values with the two television shows we currently have on air on Times Network and Good Times Network. My aim is to echo the sentiments of many other world peace leaders: Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds. On the rise of social media and differences… Social media is what you make of it. Our mission is pure and we have been very fortunate with our engagement on social media. On the latest projects of The Giving Back Foundation… St Michael School is an on-going commitment the Foundation has made for five years. Everything including the education, hostel, food, uniforms and books is taken care by us. In addition to this, the foundation has also supported Elton John Aids Foundation and Gabrielle’s Angel foundation in the fight against cancer. On the power of giving back… With each passing year, I have found more and more peace within me. I used to look for it outside and I realised peace came as a by-product of bringing a smile to another face, helping one in need. On making a difference at the grassroots… My recommendation and something that I personally follow is, be involved and stay connected to the projects you are supporting. I personally visit the St Michael School at least once a year. Every year we also organise a bumper sale to fundraise and connect with the local people at grassroot levels. It is a very touching experience. On her resolution for 2020… I am a mother of three kids and fortunately all of them are well settled in life now. In 2020, my mission is to expand the work of the foundation and focus on our product line. All the proceeds from these products go towards the foundation. On her message for the new year… My dear friends, the probability of being born on this planet is one in a trillion, so EACH one of us is very special. The universe, in turn, wants to take care of us. One way to maximise our health, both physically and mentally, is to exercise daily. My life experiences have shown me that movement is a joyful thing; especially movement in nature such as going for a swim, a walk or a bike ride. The practice of daily movement will support a healthy and vibrant life. THE JOY OF GIVING BACK Humanitarian and global philanthropist Meera Gandhi shares her vision for a healthier and happier world MOST INFLUENTIAL Their achievements have inspired us. They set new standards of excellence with their work and life. Their journeys have paved the path for others to tread. Presenting the most influential people from Dubai, India, Pakistan and beyond who exemplify the Asian success story in the best possible way. 2019Entrepreneurs Trendsetters Global Achievers Trailblazers Creatives (adjective) Relating to or involving the use of the imagination or original ideas to create something. (noun) A person who sets up a business or businesses, taking on financial risks in the hope of making a profit. (noun) A person who leads the way in ideas for others to follow. (noun) People who are the first to do something, inspiring others along the way. (noun) People who achieve a high or specified level of success beyond their own borders. (noun) Individuals who use websites and applications that enable users to create and share content or to participate in social networking. Social Media StarsNext >