Global Pulse

分类： entertainment

  • UAE National Day 2025: Indian musician AR Rahman composes special song for Eid Al Etihad

    UAE National Day 2025: Indian musician AR Rahman composes special song for Eid Al Etihad

    Academy Award-winning composer AR Rahman has crafted a special musical tribute titled ‘Jamal Al Etihad’ (Beauty of the Union) in honor of the UAE’s 54th National Day celebrations. The exclusive English-language composition represents a departure from the Indian maestro’s typical cinematic work, conceived as what Rahman describes as “a therapy of smile” for the nation.

    The project originated in 2023 when Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, approached Rahman with the vision of creating a musical gift for the UAE. Despite beginning work two years ago, global circumstances prompted the team to delay the release until this year’s celebrations.

    In an exclusive interview with Khaleej Times, Rahman revealed his creative process involved developing multiple concepts before finalizing the current version. “It’s a simple, joyful tribute to the UAE and the values that bring the country together,” the composer explained. “The idea was to bring together the people who make this country what it is — workers, entrepreneurs, royalty, expats. Everyone is working towards something big for the UAE.”

    Describing the track as a “UAE-born creation,” Rahman emphasized its universal appeal. “It’s a vibe. Something you can enjoy in the car, in the desert, anywhere you feel like. It’s about being together, working together for greatness, and giving joy to each other.”

    The composition marks a rare English-language project for Rahman, who noted that creating music for a nation differs fundamentally from film scoring. “This is for hope,” he stated, capturing what he identifies as the UAE’s essential emotional quality: “If the UAE were a melody, it would be happiness.”

    The official unveiling occurred on November 29th at 9:30 PM at the Layali Al Wathba Theatre during the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi. The event, presented by Burjeel Holdings, featured free admission for all festival ticket holders, with doors opening at 7:00 PM. The musical presentation culminated in a three-minute fireworks display at 10:00 PM, creating one of the evening’s highlight moments.

    As the UAE approaches its 54th National Day, ‘Jamal Al Etihad’ serves as a musical embodiment of unity, generosity, and the joyful spirit characterizing the nation’s identity.

  • Dubai’s Global Village extends operating hours for UAE National Day

    Dubai’s Global Village extends operating hours for UAE National Day

    Dubai’s premier cultural entertainment destination, Global Village, has unveiled special operational adjustments in honor of the UAE’s 54th National Day celebrations. The expansive theme park will extend its operating hours throughout the festive period from November 27th to December 3rd, adopting the unifying theme ‘United’ to commemorate the nation’s historic milestone.

    The extended schedule features enhanced visitor accessibility with operations running from 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM from November 27th through December 1st. Subsequently, on December 2nd and 3rd, the park will maintain extended hours from 4:00 PM until midnight, providing ample opportunity for residents and tourists to immerse themselves in the celebrations.

    Beyond extended access, Global Village has curated an elaborate program of cultural festivities and technological spectacles. The celebration lineup includes sophisticated drone displays scheduled for 9:00 PM on December 1st and 2nd, complemented by pyrotechnic presentations from December 1st through 3rd. The entertainment roster features a special performance by renowned Khaleeji artist Khaled Mohammed on the main stage on December 1st.

    This strategic extension forms part of Dubai’s broader cultural initiatives to honor Emirati heritage and national identity. The extended operational framework allows visitors to experience the park’s diverse cultural pavilions, traditional performances, and culinary offerings during the celebratory period, enhancing the overall National Day experience for both domestic and international guests.

  • The Wiggles issue statement after appearing in Ecstasy music video

    The Wiggles issue statement after appearing in Ecstasy music video

    Australian children’s entertainment institution The Wiggles has found itself embroiled in controversy after two of its performers appeared in an unauthorized music video that appears to reference recreational drug use. The incident involves founding member Anthony Field (the Blue Wiggle) and his nephew Dominic Field (portraying the Tree of Wisdom), who were captured dancing in the background of musician Keli Holiday’s since-deleted ‘Ecstasy’ music video.

    The children’s group moved swiftly to address growing concerns among parents and educators, issuing an official statement clarifying their position. ‘The Wiggles do not support or condone the use of drugs in any form,’ declared a spokesperson. ‘The content being shared was not created or approved by us, and we have asked for it to be removed.’

    According to Australian media reports, the controversial TikTok video had amassed over 92,000 views before being taken down. The footage originated from this month’s TikTok Awards ceremony, where Wiggles members had participated in a family-friendly stage performance with Holiday (real name Adam Hyde) during his song ‘Dancing2.’

    The situation developed when Holiday independently edited and repurposed this footage to promote his new single ‘Ecstasy’—a track whose chorus contains the lyrics: ‘Hey girl, come on dance with me. You and your pocket full of ecstasy.’ His TikTok post carried the caption ‘The Wiggles get it,’ suggesting an endorsement that the children’s group vehemently denies.

    Despite acknowledging Holiday as a friend of the organization, The Wiggles emphasized that the video was ‘edited together separately and without our awareness.’ The group, which began as a university project in 1991 and has since evolved into a global preschool phenomenon, maintains stringent standards regarding its family-friendly image. Anthony Field remains the only original member still performing with the ensemble.

    Keli Holiday represents the solo endeavor of Hyde, who previously gained recognition as one-half of the electronic dance act Peking Duk. The BBC has reached out to Holiday’s management team for additional commentary on the situation.

  • Playwright Sir Tom Stoppard dies at 88

    Playwright Sir Tom Stoppard dies at 88

    The world of theatre and literature mourns the passing of Sir Tom Stoppard, the celebrated British playwright, who died peacefully at his Dorset residence surrounded by family at the age of 88. His representatives at United Agents confirmed the news, celebrating a life that profoundly shaped contemporary drama across seven decades.

    Sir Tom’s extraordinary career earned him global recognition, most notably an Academy Award and Golden Globe for his ingenious screenplay of ‘Shakespeare in Love.’ His theatrical masterpieces, including ‘The Real Thing’ and the groundbreaking ‘Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead,’ established him as one of Britain’s most intellectually vibrant and linguistically gifted dramatists.

    Beyond his theatrical achievements, Stoppard demonstrated remarkable versatility by writing for film, television, and radio. His adaptations included a critically acclaimed version of Tolstoy’s ‘Anna Karenina’ (2012), while his semi-autobiographical play ‘Leopoldstadt’ – exploring Jewish identity in early 20th century Vienna – recently garnered both Olivier and Tony awards.

    Born Tomas Straussler in Czechoslovakia, Stoppard’s life contained profound personal tragedy. He fled the Nazi occupation as a child, later discovering that all four of his Jewish grandparents perished in concentration camps. This heritage informed much of his later work, particularly ‘Leopoldstadt,’ which examined the very identity he had escaped confronting until adulthood.

    Before his dramatic career blossomed, Stoppard worked as a journalist in Bristol during the 1950s, though he humorously recounted his inadequacies in the profession. His true calling emerged with the 1966 premiere of ‘Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead’ at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which subsequently transferred to the National Theatre and Broadway, winning four Tony Awards in 1968.

    Honored with a knighthood by Queen Elizabeth II in 1997 for his services to literature, Stoppard leaves behind an unparalleled legacy. Tributes have poured in from across the arts world, with Rolling Stones frontman Sir Mick Jagger describing him as his ‘favourite playwright’ whose ‘majestic body of intellectual and amusing work’ would endure.

  • British playwright Tom Stoppard, who won Academy Award for ‘Shakespeare In Love,’ has died at 88

    British playwright Tom Stoppard, who won Academy Award for ‘Shakespeare In Love,’ has died at 88

    The global theatrical community is in mourning following the peaceful passing of Sir Tom Stoppard, the internationally acclaimed playwright and intellectual luminary, at his Dorset residence in southern England. He was 88 years old. His literary representatives at United Agents confirmed the sad news on Saturday, noting he was surrounded by family at the time of his death.

    Born Tomás Sträussler in 1937 to a Jewish family in Czechoslovakia (now Czech Republic), Stoppard’s life journey was as dramatic as his plays. Forced to flee the Nazi invasion in 1939, his family eventually settled in England where he reinvented himself, later describing how he ‘put on Englishness like a coat.’ Despite never attending university, he began his career as a journalist before revolutionizing contemporary theater.

    Stoppard’s extraordinary six-decade career produced some of the most intellectually ambitious and linguistically brilliant works in modern drama. His breakthrough came with 1966’s ‘Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead,’ which reimagined Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’ through the perspective of two minor characters. This established his signature style—a masterful blend of philosophical inquiry, linguistic playfulness, and profound humanism.

    His remarkable output earned him an unprecedented five Tony Awards for Best Play, recognizing ‘Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead’ (1968), ‘Travesties’ (1976), ‘The Real Thing’ (1984), ‘The Coast of Utopia’ (2007), and his final masterpiece ‘Leopoldstadt’ (2023). Beyond theater, his screenwriting achievements included an Academy Award for ‘Shakespeare in Love’ (1998) and collaborations with directors ranging from Steven Spielberg (‘Empire of the Sun’) to Terry Gilliam (‘Brazil’).

    While celebrated for his intellectual wit and verbal dexterity, Stoppard’s work increasingly revealed deeper emotional currents. His late-career masterpiece ‘Leopoldstadt’ (2020) represented a profound personal exploration of his Jewish heritage and family’s tragic history during the Holocaust—a subject he confronted only later in life after discovering that his extended family perished in concentration camps.

    Beyond his artistic achievements, Stoppard was a dedicated advocate for free speech, working with organizations including PEN and Index on Censorship. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1997 for services to literature. The theatrical world will honor his memory with London’s West End theaters dimming their lights for two minutes on Tuesday evening. He is survived by four children, including actor Ed Stoppard, and several grandchildren.

  • Which French Alps resort is perfect for Dubai’s luxury traveller?

    Which French Alps resort is perfect for Dubai’s luxury traveller?

    For Dubai’s sophisticated winter travelers seeking premium alpine experiences, two French resorts emerge as standout destinations: Courchevel and Val d’Isère. These iconic locations present contrasting yet equally compelling visions of luxury mountain hospitality, each catering to distinct preferences while maintaining exceptional standards of service and amenities.

    Courchevel establishes itself as the epitome of refined elegance, characterized by architecturally magnificent chalets and five-star hotels featuring convenient ski-in/ski-out accessibility. This resort attracts international celebrities and elite travelers through its atmosphere of exclusive sophistication, where Michelin-starred dining establishments like Le 1947 à Cheval Blanc and designer shopping boutiques complement world-class skiing terrain. The resort’s carefully groomed slopes provide ideal conditions for intermediate enthusiasts while offering access to more challenging runs for advanced skiers.

    Val d’Isère presents a contrasting appeal with its authentic alpine village ambiance that seamlessly blends rustic charm with contemporary luxury. The compact, intimate scale of this resort creates a genuinely welcoming environment, from its cozy mountain cafés to its expertly maintained slopes. Renowned for challenging pistes and exceptional off-piste opportunities, Val d’Isère particularly captivates adventure-seeking skiers while maintaining superb facilities for all ability levels.

    Both destinations offer serene alternatives for travelers seeking tranquility. Courchevel 1650 Moriond provides peaceful slopes and intimate accommodations slightly removed from the main resort buzz, while Val d’Isère’s Le Fornet village serves as a secluded haven with exclusive chalets and access to quieter skiing areas.

    Accessibility remains comparable between both resorts, with Courchevel offering a slight advantage at approximately 2 hours 15 minutes transfer time from Geneva or Lyon airports compared to Val d’Isère’s 2 hours 45 minutes average transfer duration.

    The après-ski experiences reflect each resort’s distinctive character. Courchevel’s nightlife exemplifies sophistication at venues like Le Cap Horn and Le Tremplin, where glamorous socializing prevails. Val d’Isère embraces energetic celebration through legendary establishments like Folie Douce and Cocorico, featuring live music and vibrant crowds extending festivities well into the evening.

    Non-skiing activities further distinguish these destinations. Courchevel transforms into a luxury shopping paradise with high-end boutiques and designer showrooms, while Val d’Isère emphasizes authentic alpine culture through local markets and traditional mountain activities.

    The selection between these exceptional resorts ultimately depends on personal preference: Courchevel for those prioritizing exclusive luxury and privacy, Val d’Isère for travelers seeking authentic atmosphere and adventurous spirit. Both destinations guarantee unforgettable winter experiences worthy of Dubai’s most discerning travelers.

  • ‘Neelofar’ Review: Fawad and Mahira Khan shine in gentle, honest, thoughtfully imperfect film

    ‘Neelofar’ Review: Fawad and Mahira Khan shine in gentle, honest, thoughtfully imperfect film

    In a significant departure from conventional South Asian cinema, the Pakistani film ‘Neelofar’ presents a refreshingly authentic portrayal of disability through the lens of a gentle love story. Directed with thoughtful sensitivity, the film features Fawad Khan as Mansoor Ali Khan and Mahira Khan as Neelofar, a visually impaired artist who refuses to be defined by her condition.

    The narrative unfolds as an evolving relationship between two individuals from different worlds, exploring themes of perception, dignity, and societal expectations. Rather than resorting to the clichéd tropes that often characterize disability narratives in regional cinema, ‘Neelofar’ opts for subtlety and nuance. The film’s strength lies in its quiet moments: a hesitant touch in a cinema hall, a rooftop conversation where Neelofar asks Mansoor to describe her appearance, and the tactile experience of charcoal painting.

    Mahira Khan delivers a career-defining performance, meticulously capturing the physical grammar of visual impairment. Her portrayal emphasizes auditory cues and tactile awareness, particularly in standout scenes such as an anxious moment in a car when Mansoor temporarily disappears and the carefree abandon during a dodgem car ride. Fawad Khan equally shines, bringing depth to a character that serves as both romantic lead and societal mirror, with the film subtly addressing themes of public perception and redemption that parallel the actor’s own experiences.

    Technically, the film excels in its atmospheric elements. Zeeshan Vicky Haider’s melodic score, particularly the layered renditions of ‘Tu Meri Zindagi,’ effectively mirrors the emotional journey of the characters. The cinematography presents Lahore not merely as backdrop but as a character itself, with authentic locations ranging from humble tea stalls to the majestic Badshahi Mosque providing cultural context.

    However, ‘Neelofar’ is not without its imperfections. The second half struggles with narrative consistency, raising logical questions about character decisions and resorting to predictable plot devices. The film occasionally undermines its own progressive messaging, particularly in an on-air episode that reduces Neelofar to conventional tropes and a conclusion that suggests romantic fulfillment might be contingent on restored vision.

    Despite these flaws, ‘Neelofar’ represents an important step forward for Pakistani cinema in its treatment of disability with dignity and complexity. The film challenges audience expectations and biases, offering a contemplative viewing experience that rewards patience and emotional investment. While it may not reach the groundbreaking heights of international disability narratives, it establishes a new benchmark for sensitive storytelling in South Asian cinema.

  • Fashion show highlights the diverse ethnic cultures of Yunnan

    Fashion show highlights the diverse ethnic cultures of Yunnan

    The ancient city of Dali in Yunnan province transformed into a living museum of cultural heritage on November 23rd as it hosted an extraordinary intangible cultural heritage fashion exhibition. This sartorial celebration brought together the province’s rich ethnic traditions through an immersive display of craftsmanship and contemporary design.

    The event presented a comprehensive visual narrative of Yunnan’s diverse cultural landscape, featuring more than 30 complete sets of traditional ethnic attire alongside over 100 modern interpretations. Representatives from all 16 prefectures and cities across the province contributed to this panoramic showcase, demonstrating the remarkable preservation and evolution of indigenous textile techniques.

    Audiences experienced an unprecedented interactive opportunity, being invited to examine the intricate details of the garments at close range and engage directly with the models. This tactile approach created what organizers termed as ‘wearable history’ – allowing participants to physically connect with centuries-old cultural expressions through contemporary fashion medium.

    The exhibition particularly highlighted the Bai autonomous prefecture’s distinctive heritage while embracing the collective cultural wealth of Yunnan’s 25 recognized ethnic groups. Each ensemble told a story of ancestral craftsmanship, from the elaborate silversmith work of the Miao people to the sophisticated batik techniques of the Dai community and the exquisite embroidery traditions preserved by the Yi people.

    This fashion presentation transcended conventional runway shows by creating an educational platform that bridges generational and cultural divides. It demonstrated how traditional motifs and techniques continue to inspire modern design while maintaining their cultural authenticity and significance in contemporary society.

  • Dubai to welcome Kerala’s grandest festival spirit with MMDE Thrissur Pooram 2025

    Dubai to welcome Kerala’s grandest festival spirit with MMDE Thrissur Pooram 2025

    Dubai is set to transform into a vibrant hub of Kerala’s cultural heritage as it hosts the sixth edition of MMDE Thrissur Pooram on December 1-2, 2025. The prestigious event, taking place at Etisalat Academy, represents the United Arab Emirates’ most authentic recreation of Kerala’s iconic temple festival, promising an immersive experience of traditional arts, rhythmic performances, and communal celebration.

    This year’s festival gains exceptional significance with the participation of Padma Shri awardee Jayaram as chief guest, whose profound connection to Kerala’s artistic traditions resonates deeply with the Malayalee diaspora. The event will also feature legendary percussionist Padma Shri Mattannur Sankarankutty Marar and Ilanjithara Melam virtuoso Kizhakkoott Aniyan Marar, creating an unprecedented gathering of Kerala’s cultural luminaries outside their homeland.

    The festival’s core revolves around eight traditional Ghataka Poorams represented by prominent Malayalee associations including Manaloor Desam, Anthikkadans, Abu Dhabi Malayali Samajam, and others. These groups collaboratively recreate the authentic Pooram experience, strengthening cultural ties within expatriate communities while maintaining connections to their ancestral roots.

    Visual spectacles include the magnificent Anachamayam procession featuring elaborately decorated elephant replicas, ornamental umbrellas, and ceremonial regalia that capture the essence of Thrissur’s temple grounds. The two-day program offers free entry on the first day, showcasing traditional Panchari Melam performances led by Paramekkavu Abhishek, recognized as Pooram’s youngest ‘Melapramani’.

    The second day culminates in a historic convergence of artistic masters presenting Ilanjithara Melam, Panchavadyam, Nadaswaram, and other traditional performances. Innovative elements include robotic elephants and a custom-built 40-foot Poorappandal structure, blending contemporary technology with ancient traditions.

    Organized by MMDE Thrissur UAE Official and co-produced by Equity Plus Advertising with support from HIT 96.7 FM and presenting sponsor 10X Properties, the event demonstrates how cultural heritage and community partnership can transform Dubai into a global stage for preserving and celebrating Kerala’s richest artistic traditions.

  • One week to go: Big Ticket’s Dh25 million grand prize could be yours

    One week to go: Big Ticket’s Dh25 million grand prize could be yours

    The anticipation reaches fever pitch as Big Ticket’s luxury promotion concludes and the countdown begins for one of the region’s most anticipated prize draws. With just seven days remaining until the December 3rd live event, participants worldwide await the chance to claim the staggering Dh25 million grand prize.

    The recently concluded Race & Luxury Yacht Experience campaign has already selected its winners, who will enjoy an exclusive weekend in Abu Dhabi. Meanwhile, attention now focuses on the main event where ten additional participants will each receive Dh100,000 in consolation prizes, creating multiple life-changing moments during the single evening.

    Adding to the excitement, Big Ticket’s Dream Car Series continues its premium vehicle offerings. The current month features the Maserati Grecale as the highlighted luxury automobile, with the BMW 430i scheduled for January’s showcase, providing automotive enthusiasts with additional incentives to participate.

    The ongoing promotional offer of ‘buy 2, get 2 free’ provides enhanced opportunities for participants to increase their winning chances. Tickets remain available through the official website www.bigticket.ae and at physical counters in Zayed International Airport and Al Ain Airport, ensuring accessibility for last-minute participants.

    As November concludes, the final week builds toward what organizers promise will be among the most thrilling events in Big Ticket’s history, offering participants one final opportunity to engage with the prize draw that could transform their financial future.