From the Editors: Return of the Sharjah Book Fair is heartening

NEW CHAPTER IN UAE’S NEW NORMAL: The return of the Sharjah Book Fair in a bigger and bolder format this year is heartening to say the least. At a time when the world is buckling under the pressures imposed by COVID-19, this much-awaited annual event has gone hybrid, ensuring that residents do not have to miss out on the expo because of the pandemic. With stringent safety protocols leave nothing to chance , those visiting the fair in person have little to worry about; and those that prefer not to, can still enjoy the vast offerings virtually. The fair, which runs till November 14, has indeed opened a new chapter in the UAE’s new normal. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

HEALING THE NATION TOP PRIORITY OF NEW US PRESIDENT: The wait continues. And if the courts are going to step in we will have to wait for a long time till the official winner of the US presidential election is declared. Whatever the result, the new president will take over a deeply divided country. It will take courage and true humility for the new leader to reach across the divide and offer a hand of friendship to those who hate, comfort for the distressed and empathy to those who are grieving. Healing the nation and putting the house in order must take priority over all other goals. [COMMENT BY: Alex Abraham, Senior Associate Editor]

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks to be on borrowed time after a farcical defeat to Istanbul Basaksehir in the Champions League. The manager said the loss was unforgivable, with the first goal in particular showing up United’s shambolic defending. United went behind after 12 minutes in Turkey when Edin Visca's pass found Demba Ba in space at the halfway line and the striker ran forward before finishing past Dean Henderson. "The first one is that we play a short corner and forget about the man up top. That's unforgivable ... We've not done our roles, it's my responsibility," Solskjaer said. He will be hoping his own bosses re more patient than he is with his players. [COMMENT BY: Matthew Smith, Sports Editor]

WHY WOMEN DON’T EAT Just like every year, Hindu women across India kept fasts for the well-being and long life of their spouse on Karwa Chauth, celebrated yesterday. They didn’t eat or drink water all day long, only ending it after the moon rose and rituals were done. Bollywood wasn’t immune to the fast-observation, just better dressed and more social media available than most. But while it’s nice to see smiling couples all gussied up for the evening, one does question whether it’s a voluntary behaviour or a societally imposed one. And, for Karwa Chauth 2.0, why aren’t the men fasting? [COMMENT BY: Karishma Nandkeolyar, Assistant Online Editor]