Culture and Art
Bodour Al Qasimi crowns the winners of the "Tarjuman" and "Sharjah International Book Fair" 2024 awards
The Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, honored the winners of the Sharjah Book Fair awards in its current edition
The Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, honored the winners of the Sharjah Book Fair awards in its 43rd edition, and the seventh edition of the Sharjah Translation Award (Tarjuman).
This came during a special ceremony held as part of the first day of the exhibition, which is organized by the Sharjah Book Authority from November 6-17 at the Sharjah Expo Centre, under the slogan “This is how we begin”.
In a message addressed to the winners, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi said: “Celebrating exceptional and distinctive creativity is an embodiment of one of the central values of the Sharjah Cultural Project. We believe that the mission of every creator in the creation and production of knowledge is embodied in presenting a role model for new generations to multiply the impact of knowledge and culture in building cohesive societies that possess the tools to communicate with their counterparts in various countries of the world.”.
She added: “We congratulate the winners on their achievements, and we assure them that we in Sharjah are committed to supporting their experiences and ensuring the sustainability of their results, whether at the level of translation, authorship, or publishing. We look forward to these awards being an incentive for more work and achievement, as the most beautiful thing about cultural work is that every goal achieved in it is a starting step towards bigger, broader, and more influential goals.”.
Nations rise only through their innovators
In her speech during the honoring ceremony, Khawla Al Mujaini, General Coordinator of the Sharjah International Book Fair, affirmed that the Sharjah Book Authority believes in the role of authors and publishers as a pillar of cultural and intellectual advancement, and said: “Civilization in all its forms, from literature, thought, art, sciences, and architecture… is nothing but the story of that creator who recorded the essence of his knowledge for generations, and history testifies that nations do not rise or progress except through their creators.”.
"The Dove's Necklace" wins the "Tarjuman" award
The Sharjah Translation Award (Tarjuman) was awarded for the translation of the book “The Ring of the Dove” by Ibn Hazm al-Andalusi into the Turkish language, which was translated by Dr. Muhammad Haqqi Suçin and published by Alpha Publishing Group.
Best Emirati Book Awards
The Sharjah Emirati Book Award in the "Best Emirati Novel" category went to Awad bin Hasoum Al-Darmaki for his novel "The Covenant of Wounds," published by Awraq Publishing and Distribution. The "Best Emirati Book in Studies" category was awarded to Ali Al-Abdan for his book "Emirati Songs: Their Early Paths and Ancient Sources," published by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre.
The “Best Emirati Book in the Field of Literary Creativity” award went to the poet Karim Maatouk, for his collection “Poems from the Valley of Genius” published by Karim Maatouk Publications, while Dr. Fatima Al-Buraiki won the “Best Emirati Book in the Field of First Novel” award, for her novel “Westernization by the Crow’s Pen” published by Sama Production and Distribution House.
Best Arabic and foreign books
Among the "Best Arabic Book" awards, the "Best Arabic Novel" award went to novelist Issa Nasseri for his novel "The Mosaic," published by Meskelliani Publications. The "Best Foreign Fiction Book" award was given to author Elizabeth Loudon for her novel "A Stranger in Baghdad," published by the American University in Cairo University Press. The "Best Foreign Nonfiction Book" award was won by authors Siddharth Kak and Leela Kak Bhan for their book "Love, Exile, Redemption," published by Rupa Publishing in India.
Awards for the best local, Arab, and international publishing houses
As for the 2024 Best Publishing House Awards, Ashjar Publishing and Distribution won the "Best Local Publishing House" award. Meskelliani Publishing House in Tunisia won the "Best Arab Publishing House" award, while DC Books in India won the "Best Foreign Publishing House" award.
Honoring sponsors and partners
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi honored the sponsors and supporting partners in recognition of their contributions to the success of this cultural event. She honored Al Marwan Group, the sponsor of the “Tarjuman” award, along with Emirates Telecommunications Corporation (e&), the official sponsor of the exhibition, Arada Group, the development partner, Investment Bank, the banking partner, and Bee’ah Group, the sustainability partner.
The Sharjah Broadcasting Authority was also honored as an official media partner, Abu Dhabi Media Network as a media partner, Expo Centre Sharjah as a strategic partner, and Skiply as an educational solutions partner.
Culture and Art
Ahmed Ezz's marriage and his assistant? Zeina sparks controversy, and the artist denies it
Actress Zeina announced that her ex-husband, Ahmed Ezz, had married his assistant, reigniting the controversy. Ezz denies the news, while their legal battles over child support for their twins continue.
Renewed controversy between Zeina and Ahmed Ezz
The case of Egyptian actors Ahmed Ezz and Zeina has resurfaced after the latter dropped a bombshell on her official Instagram account. In a sarcastic post, Zeina announced that her ex-husband and the father of her twins, Ahmed Ezz, had married his personal assistant, who manages his artistic career, sparking a storm of controversy on social media.
Details of Zeina Ward Ahmed Ezz's post
Zeina wrote sarcastically in her post: "Congratulate the father of my children... he married his assistant. Now she'll work more diligently, and he's also saved his salary. A truly brilliant plan... and let's all listen together to 'Oh, World!'" This post did not go unnoticed, as it spread rapidly among followers and the media.
In response, Ahmed Ezz categorically denied these reports. In press statements, Ezz asserted that all the rumors circulating about his marriage were completely unfounded. He explained that if he ever decided to get married, he would announce it himself to the public, dismissing the idea of keeping such a matter secret. He added jokingly, "Who would get married in this cold weather?".
Background of the long-standing conflict between the two stars
This controversy is just the latest episode in a long-running saga of disputes between the two stars, which began years ago when Zeina announced her secret marriage to Ahmed Ezz and the birth of their twins, a claim Ezz consistently and completely denied. The matter escalated into a protracted and complex legal battle that captivated Egyptian and Arab public opinion for years. This battle concluded with a final ruling from the Egyptian Family Court establishing the paternity of the twins, Ezz El-Din and Zein El-Din, to their father, Ahmed Ezz, despite his continued refusal to acknowledge them or to marry their mother.
Impact and significance: an issue that transcends art
This case gains significance because it is no longer just a personal dispute between two stars, but has transformed into a public issue sparking widespread debate about paternity laws and the rights of women and children in society. With each new development, the public is divided between those who sympathize with Zeina in her fight to establish her children's rights and those who support Ahmed Ezz, who remains steadfast in his position. The continuation of this conflict highlights the challenges women face in family matters and places the lives of celebrities under constant media and public scrutiny.
Ongoing legal battles over alimony
The case didn't end with the paternity ruling; it extended to other legal battles concerning financial obligations. Recently, Ahmed Ezz's defense team filed a formal complaint against the family court rulings that obligated him to pay exorbitant sums in child support for the twins. These sums, exceeding 2.5 million Egyptian pounds annually, include child support, housing and custody fees, as well as the cost of a maid and school expenses. His defense team argued that these amounts are "exorbitant and cause significant harm," noting that they represent an unprecedented sum in the history of the Egyptian judiciary. This underscores that the conflict between the two parties continues to rage in the courts, away from the public eye.
Culture and Art
Ahmed Helmy: Returning to radio drama and cinema in Ramadan 2024
Superstar Ahmed Helmy returns to the art scene in Ramadan 2024 with a comedy radio series, "First Year of Marriage," and a new film, "The Weakest of His Creation." Learn more about his projects.
A strong comeback for star Ahmed Helmy in Ramadan 2024
Egyptian star Ahmed Helmy is preparing for a major artistic comeback during Ramadan 2024, appearing in two different projects, reaffirming his strong presence and diverse roles. This artistic activity comes to quench the thirst of his fans who have been eagerly awaiting his new work, as he combines radio comedy with complex cinematic drama.
"First Year of Marriage": A radio comedy with a Ramadan flavor
After a hiatus from radio drama, Ahmed Helmy returns to this intimate art form with the series "First Year of Marriage," which will air on Nile Radio Network. Radio dramas are an integral part of Ramadan traditions in Egypt and the Arab world, maintaining a loyal audience who enjoy them at various times of day, whether at home or on the go. Helmy's choice of this format represents a return to his roots and a direct connection with a wide range of listeners.
The series belongs to the genre of light social comedy, humorously and wittily addressing the paradoxes and situations faced by newlyweds in their first year of marriage. This topic resonates with many people, ensuring a wide audience engagement with the storyline. Alongside Helmy, the cast includes a distinguished group of actors, most notably Aisha Ben Ahmed, Emad Rashad, Arifa Abdel Rasoul, and Laila Ezz El Arab, promising a rich comedic experience built on witty dialogue and outstanding performances.
The importance and impact of radio drama
Despite the dominance of television drama, radio drama still holds its own. It relies primarily on voice acting and imagination, giving actors a unique space for creativity and listeners the opportunity to visualize characters and events. The return of a star of Ahmed Helmy's caliber to radio not only enriches the Ramadan season but also enhances the value of this art form and attracts new generations of listeners.
“His weakest creation”: A highly anticipated return to the cinema screen
On the cinematic front, Ahmed Helmy is preparing to return to the big screen after his absence since his last film, "Wahed Tani," in 2022. His new film, "Ad'af Khalqoh" (His Weakest Creation), promises a different artistic direction. The film blends drama, suspense, and dark comedy, reflecting Helmy's artistic maturity and his desire to explore new acting territories beyond the straightforward comedy for which he is known.
The film boasts a stellar cast alongside Helmy, including the renowned actress Hend Sabry in a highly anticipated reunion after their previous successes, as well as Hanan Youssef, Karim Kassem, and Mahmoud Hafez. Directed by Omar Helal, the film is expected to be one of the season's standout hits, thanks to its unconventional storyline and exceptional cast. This cinematic comeback reaffirms Helmy's status as one of the most prominent box-office stars in Egypt and the Arab world.
Culture and Art
Zeina and Ahmed Ezz: A hint of a secret marriage reignites the controversy
Actress Zeina sparked controversy with a cryptic post about Ahmed Ezz's alleged secret marriage. The story details the ongoing legal battle between the two stars and its impact on their careers.
The case of Egyptian actress Zeina and actor Ahmed Ezz has once again taken center stage in the media, after Zeina dropped a bombshell on her official Instagram account. Through a sarcastic and veiled post, Zeina hinted at a possible secret marriage for Ahmed Ezz, sparking a wave of speculation and controversy on social media platforms and reviving memories of the long-standing feud between the two stars.
The post, which didn't explicitly name names, contained scathing words that the public interpreted as being directed at the father of the two children. Zeina wrote: "Congratulate the father of the two children... he married his assistant. Now the work will be done with more integrity, and he'll also save on his salary... a very clever plan." Within hours, the post became a major topic of discussion, with followers linking it to unconfirmed rumors about Ezz's relationship with his assistant, believing that Zeina was confirming these rumors in her own way.
Background to the conflict: A story spanning years in the corridors of the courts
To understand the dimensions of this new controversy, it's necessary to revisit the roots of the dispute that began nearly a decade ago. In 2014, Zeina made a startling announcement, revealing her secret marriage to Ahmed Ezz and the birth of their twin sons, Ezz El-Din and Zein El-Din. Ezz vehemently denied these claims, refusing any marital relationship and refusing to acknowledge paternity. This sparked a long and fierce legal battle that captivated Egyptian and Arab public opinion for years. Ezz refused to undergo DNA testing to establish paternity, a refusal that the court later relied upon, along with witness testimony, to issue its landmark 2015 ruling establishing his paternity of the twins. This was followed by a series of other cases concerning alimony and school expenses, which continue to unfold to this day.
Impact and importance: between personal and professional
The significance of this case lies in its transcendence of the stars' personal lives, becoming a matter of public opinion that has brought to light issues of paternity and women's and children's rights in society. It has directly impacted the public image of each of them. While Zeina garnered widespread sympathy from the public, who saw her as a mother fighting for her children's rights, Ezz faced considerable criticism for his stance. This latest hint from Zeina only deepens this divide, especially as it coincides with new legal developments in their financial dispute, making it more than just a passing comment.
Parallel artistic paths
On the professional front, both stars are enjoying successful careers. Ahmed Ezz continues to solidify his position as a leading box-office star in Egyptian cinema. Following the phenomenal success of his film "Welad Rizk 3," which broke box office records, he is preparing for a major film project titled "7 Dogs," co-starring Karim Abdel Aziz and international star Monica Bellucci. Meanwhile, Zeina maintains a steady presence in the industry, having achieved notable success with her recent series "Fi Riwayat Ahadam - Ward wa Chocolat," which aired on the Yango Play platform. She is also preparing for the release of her new film, "El Shaytan Shater." Thus, the story of Zeina and Ahmed Ezz, a blend of personal drama and professional success, continues to captivate audiences and spark controversy, just when everyone thinks it has reached its conclusion.
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