BandraBuzz creating community connect
September 2012 | Vol. III Issue 9 | Published Monthly | To Advertise: 9820783686
www.issuu.com/bandrabuzz | bandrabuzz@gmail.com | 16 pages | Price: ` 2
Bandra Fairy Tale
Bandra Fair related articles on Page 2 & 3
INSIDE
Bandra Buzz wishes all our dear readers a very Happy Feast!
Bandra Town Market Turn to page 05
5 Trendy buys for this season Turn to page 11
Eco-Friendly Ganpatis Turn to page 12
02
September 2012
BandraBuzz
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Let's be fair about the Bandra Fair ‘September in Bandra’ is the most awaited time of the year, where fun and frolic is at its fullest. Lakhs of people throng the ‘Bandra Fair’ with smiles on their faces and joy in their hearts. It is the festive season that truly graces Bandra with a marvellous history and with an astounding recognition all round the world. As legend goes, the now venerated ‘Statue of Our Mother Mary’ had been found floating in the Arabian Sea between 1700 and 1760 A.D. Locals who believed that this was a miracle began celebrating this occasion annually ever since. To summarise - the Bandra Fair has approx. a 300year storyline to it. What makes the Bandra Fair so special? It is its ability to attract devotees & pilgrims of all faiths. Both the young and the old, the rich and the poor enjoy this fiesta without any restrictions. Ardent devotees flock to the Mount Mary’s Basilica to place their petitions and thanksgiving with faith, so that Our Dear Mother will intercede for them relentlessly. e Novenas and the Eucharistic services here imbibe spirituality and harmony in everyone. e ambience at the Mount is so magnificent and exquisite that no one can ever deny the fact that Our Mother is present there, advocating on our behalf. Just a look at Our Mother’s face and the Infant Jesus in Her loving arms is enough to touch our troubled souls and console us with Her motherly care. Mary constantly beckons us affectionately. Family and friends, irrespective of their differences go up the long-
winding stairs which lead to the Basilica and return invariably hand-in-hand with the assurance and the blessings that Our Gentle Mother offers them. Truly, “All Generations will call Mary Blessed!! Besides this religious atmosphere, the Bandra Fair is a socio-cultural mixture. is rejuvenates sad and weary faces, instilling in them the need to participate wholeheartedly in the celebration of Mother Mary’s birthday. Right from the Basilica to the fondly nicknamed ‘September Garden’, stalls with mouth-watering delicacies and sweets, goodies and toys for kids and various other miscellaneous items are patronised by one and all. rilling rides at various spots in this fair adds to the enjoyment. Even though there is a lot of perspiration, the inspiration in the minds of the people still remains strong. e best thing to admire about this awaited fiesta is that everyday is a novel experience for one to cherish and savour to their heart’s content. So come on Bandra – it’s our very own ‘Bandra Fair’ that always will stand out in it's splendour to create a melodious haven of serenity, happiness, peace, love and hope to all who believe in this eternal blissful ‘magical’ fest. September brings to all good hope, Joy mystically radiates on ev'ry road! Mary helps us always, our trials to cope.. In Her memory, the Bandra Fair will ne'er erode! Joshua Jonathan Norris
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Mother Mary and Me e title may sound presumptuous, but believe me, I have a direct connection with Our Lady. A kind of SOS button on my mobile phone designed for very Senior Citizens. By and large, I am not a very devout Catholic - not the alms giving, rosary reciting type. My faith is kind of wishy washy. More wishy than washy. I attend prayer services to pray for rain - and then forget to carry an umbrella. I refuse to rush with hundreds of others to see a cross at Vikroli, whose crucified hands are dripping blood. But Mother Mary is a totally different of relationship. Quite confident about her phenomenal memory I do not say “Remember O most blessed Virgin Mother……….” I press the SOS button - and talk to her like I used to talk to my mother. Long chats - late into the night, my head on her lap. Conversations filled with tears and laughter, anguish and hope, anger and forgiveness. In the best of times I can experience her miraculous presence in my life. At the worst of times the conversation is deeply therapeutic. e last time I wrote about Our Lady’s Feast on the Mount, all hell broke. It was sometime in the ’60s - and at a time when I wrote a great deal for ‘e Times of India’. e old girl had taken my four-yearold son Christophe to the feast. I was away in Germany at that time. It appears that watching a hawker selling paper alligators that moved on the road shaking their tails, he (my son) got completely detached from his mother's hand, which he had been holding a few minutes earlier. Adults on the other hand, were watching the shapely movements of the rear ends of women making their high heeled way to the shrine, lost in their own naughty thoughts. I wrote about this experience, adding in my usual playful style that one benefit of the feast was that you could discover the ailment of your friends, neighbours and secretive relatives from the wax offerings they made to Our Lady. As I said earlier, all hell broke loose. ‘e Times of India’ was flooded with letters from devout Bandraites, asking that I be lynched - and my corpse be consigned to Bandra’s tidal waves. Ironically I moved to Bandra some years later - and now Bandra Buzz is asking me to do a piece on the Feast. MIRACLES Let me say that there had been many miracles in my life. Getting married to the most beautiful and accomplished woman in the world was one. As a passenger surviving a belly landing in an Indian Air Force aircra that had lost power in all its four engines was another. We landed in a field of daises, miles out of Paris - during my 4 year stint with the Indian Embassy. But the first miracle on Mount Mary was that our son was found. And our belief in the ability of our Lady to respond to crisis in my family was cemented right away. It gradually got stronger - and stayed pothole free with the passing years. When the ‘alligator-watching son’ was again saved by Mother Mary from certain death - if not permanent crippling, She became “numero uno” in my life. It was Diwali - and we were holidaying
on the island of Divar, where we have our ancestral home. Christophe was riding on the pillion of a friend’s bike, when they hit a bullock cart. Knee smashed and bleeding profusely in the paddy fields (and while the bike rider rode back to inform my family) Christophe regained consciousness - and tied a tourniquet round his leg with his handkerchief. Count the miracles. A passing rickshaw driver heard his cries, put him in the vehicle and drove to the ferry. Diwali had slowed down services. ey shouted, waved rags and when the ferry came across, they quickly ferried them across. Without pausing for a moment, the rickshaw driver drove to the hospital in Panaji - some 40 minutes away. He dropped Christophe, who was sinking, at the Casualty Department. All non-Christians were on Diwali leave. e doctor on duty, Carlos Baretto, an orthopedic surgeon - and a cousin of mine, rushed Christophe into the Operation eatre, gave him blood transfusions, called for reinforcements - and a well known surgeon operated on the knee. He was assigned to a bed crawling with bugs - and I spent the night declaring war on them, in a manner that would have displeased Maneka Gandhi. On the second day when the fever persisted and the knee was obviously infected, the old girl went to Old Goa and prayed before the miraculous shrine of St Francis Xavier - while I made arrangements to shi the patient, against doctor’s advice, to Mumbai. We required 5 seats on the flight. ree for the stretcher and two for the ‘over stretched’ and ‘over stressed parents’. In those days only Indian Airlines did the Goa Mumbai route. Only a miracle would help me, I thought. When I entered the IAC office I was greeted by the Manager. “Everything on board, Sir” he said. “I have transferred 3 passengers on to the evening flight, to make room for the stretcher. As you said when you raised the toast at my wedding years ago, “Let your le hand not know what your right hand is doing”. I blushed with embarrassment - and gave him a ribshattering hug. At Breach Candy Hospital, close to where we lived in Mumbai (before relocating to Bandra) the famous Dr Dholakia reoperated on the knee, cleaned up the infection causing stuff, and closed it up. “Will he be able to walk?” I asked the reticent doctor. He said, “If you believe in prayer – start praying !”. I have never stopped praying. Neither has Mother Mary let go her benevolence. It has been 31 years since that terrible time. My family and I have experienced many, many greater miracles - for which this newspaper column has no space. I must write a book.
George Menezes
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BandraBuzz
September 2012
03
Cement Road, that can help ease Bandra Fair Traffic - NOW OPENED!
We are concerned for the pilgrims to the Mount, the local citizens of Bandra - and the stall owners, during the Bandra Fair – as totally lakhs of people come every day for at least 8-10 days. For the past couple of years, during the Bandra Fair, the Police Department is illegally closing a Road known as Cement Road, which is sloping upwards and as we walk up it has steps. is road is just off the Bandra Band Stand road, exactly where the
211 BEST bus stops, next to Shah Rukh Khan’s Bungalow (le side of ‘Mannat’) and it takes you up towards Mount Mary Road. Being a public road, it can help ease the traffic, as a by-pass for pilgrims to reach the Mount Mary Basilica. Why is this road closed during the Bandra Fair? is road can be a great comfort to pilgrims (if kept open), since they can connect to Mount Mary Road from Bandra Bandstand Road in 10 minutes. e only other road to connect to Mount Mary Road is from Bandra Hill Road - via Mehboob Studio road and Kane Road. But during the Bandra fair, the entry to Mount Mary Road from Bandra Bandstand via Kane road is blocked – ie. made ‘one way’, to allow pilgrims who do not wish to go through the Fair area – to exit easily. Hence the only road available to pilgrims to reach the Basilica of the Mount is Hill Road - via Mehboob Studio – creating crowds – that can become difficult to manage at peak mass service timing. An official decision to allow pilgrims use this by-pass road can have a considerable impact in reducing the traffic going towards the Mount. Regarding this issue, we, the CROSS organisation had approached the Deputy Municipal Commissioner Shri Kiran Archrekar on 1st September 2012, requesting him not to close the cement Road during the Bandra Fair. He said that the road is closed by the
Police department and we should make our grievances with the police department. We have addressed letters dated 2nd September 2012 to the Senior Inspector, Bandra (west) Police Station and Senior Inspector Traffic, Bandra (west), requesting them not to close the said Cement Road during the Bandra fair, commencing from 8th September 2012 till 16th September 2012. Now, with fervent prayers and civic interaction – some results have materialized. Nine days of novena usually ends with the Feast Day. ey say “Pray fervently & your prayers will be granted.” but, it is also said “You do your best & God will do the rest.” e Bandra Mount Mary Feast was celebrated on 8th/9th Sept. but a different novena & feast day was experienced by Mother Mary’s children from Association of Concerned Catholics(AOCC), Catholic Residents Organisation for Social Service (CROSS) & Maharashtra Christian Youth Forum (MCYF) experienced a different Novena & Feast Day. eir members did the nine day novena from 2nd Sept to 10th Sept by sheer perseverance & hard work and were rewarded with a Feat Day on 11th Sept 2012. Members of the Associations took it upon themselves to ensure the re-opening of the road (steps) direct to the Basilica which was closed to pilgrims recently. Locals complained, that due to presence of certain celebrities, despite a 3 yr struggle
they were unable to get the road reopened. But as we believe, “When we have an International Celebrity – Mother Mary in residence, whose doors are always open to her pilgrims irrespective of caste, creed or religion, then how can the route leading to her home be closed ?” Almost daily trips by Association members (gents & ladies) to the Bandra DCP & Addl CP office & to the site finally bore fruit. A letter from the Rector of the Basilica supporting the need for the road to be opened to pilgrims, a letter to the DCP on 7th September - stressing that this was not an RTO but a regular Police matter, updates by media & proofs of preferential treatment given to entry of some vehicles on this a Non-Vehicular Road, while denying entry to pilgrims on foot on a pedestrian walking route of steps - finally ensured MISSION ACCOMPLISHED. Pilgrims are now allowed to use Cement Road as an EXIT from the Church. Also Senior Citizens & handicap persons can use this road to go up to the Church Although we were assured on 7th sept, that pilgrims would be allowed access to the road as an EXIT from the Church, the barricades still didn’t give much relief. We were also assured that post the fete a joint meting will beheld with us to ensure that the Cement Road would be used as an ENTRY to the Church & the services. e Associations place on record our sincere thanks to the Mumbai Police i.e Addl CP Vishwas Nangre Patil, DCP Pratap Dighavkar for their cooperation & sorting out the issue amicably. Our sincere thanks also to an ever active Judith Monteiro, Secretary – AOCC; the Media - especially MidDay, Dopahar ka Saamna & Bandra Buzz amongst others - who by their presence / sustained write-ups helped make this possible. We also appreciate those individuals / associations who may have done their bit too. I represent Catholic Organisation for Social Service (CROSS Organisation) headed by Shri Lawrence D'Souza – President, along with active trustees: John Fernandes and Sabestian Solanki. We are helped by Shiv Sena MLA Shri Shrikant Sarmarkar and Bunty Sarmarkar. Along with our group, there are other groups like Association Of Concerned Catholics (AOCC) headed by Mr. Gordon Jacobs, President - and legal advisor Joe Sodder and Maharashtrian Christian Youth Forum (MCYF) - headed by Agnelo Fernandes, President. We will be taking up this issue seriously, so that future generations are not harassed - and accordingly would be filing a PIL on the same, if need be.
Adv. Shane Cardoz
BandraBuzz
September 2012
Letters to the Editor
04
BANDRA FAIR Sadly by true, our own local residents are filing PIL's against our very own Mount Mary Fair - a 300 year old tradition. In my youth, there was the 'Wigwam', 'September Garden', 'Well Of Death', 'Mini Circus', 'King & Queen Contests' – and other good healthy entertainment that I enjoyed. I really miss those days! Will these same people have the guts to file a PIL against the Mahim Dhara feast, which is on main road connecting Mumbai with the surburbs? Will theses same people file a PIL against 'Celebrate Bandra', which has just started a few years back? Will theses disgruntled people file a PIL against our local Hawkers menance ? ? ? I wonder from where they get the money from to file PIL's ? Leslie Almeida ......................................................................................... I can't fathom the Bandra Fair without stalls - selling traditional home-made dishes like vindaloo, sorpotel, fugias, guava cheese, sausages, omelettes, kadio bodio (a Goan delicacy), mawa pedhas and halwas from Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Delhi. It will be like the kitchen without a knife. All devotees - irrespective of caste and creed, visit the Bandra Fair Stalls for their favourite sweets and religious offerings. BMC's rules without a human touch are no rules. With some good management, the fair can run smoothly. Rakesh Sawant ......................................................................................... I refer to the copy of your paper which I received today containing an article "How fair is the Bandra Fair” by Lilian Pais. In the first place, you should be aware that I am the Advocate who challenged this woman and a few others - first before Justice Ranjana Desai & Justice More - and won on all the 10 points in the prayer. I also won when the case went before Justice Majmudar & Justice Sawant - and then the Chief Justice bench. Her article had a lot of false statements. is woman ( I have said this before this Bench and also said this before the Chief Justice) shuts her eyes to the daily blocking of Hill Road by Bangladeshis till 11pm. She & the H-West Citizens Trust shut their eyes, nose & mouth to the daily blocking of the main Hill Road for the past 40 years. Well, our local elected representatives (read present politicians in power) are making Bandra like Assam - full of Bangladeshis. ey have no conscience - but to target the Maharashtrians - and not the Bangladeshis, who have made Bandra their home since they are vote banks for the ruling party. is woman does not realize this - and concentrates on maligning the Maharastrians. What about the Mahim Fair, which blocks the main arterial road to North Mumbai - and the numerous robberies that take place there during the Fair?. I have produced the copy of the Collector judgement against her to the Chief Justice . On Aug. 10th, Lilian Pais filed another Petition before the Chief Justice - why does she not write about the lambasting she and her Advocate got from him? As for the H-West Citizens Trust they say they are taking care about open places - damn lies! eir key member has usurped the Pali School Trust and closed down the Free school - utilising the ground for a club / cum Bar. Why do these women now claim to protect open spaces? Such people call themselves as protectors of open spaces and “Activists”?
LOCAL ACTIVISM Dear Readers, September is always special for Bandra. It’’s that time of the year when Bandra is centre-stage to Mumbai and her surrounding areas. Family & friends, who come to the Mount as pilgrims, visit the Bandra Fair for some entertainment - and then come over to renew old bonds of friendships or family ties. Music, Food & Beverages help create the correct climate for bonding. Families & old friend re-connect - with a lot of re-col-
It appears that your paper is a propaganda tool for the ruling party, from the letters to the editor - or else how can these persons shut their eyes to the mess that the country is in. Aer all, they have ruled this country for 55 out of the 65 years of Independence. Today, Bandra is no longer the Queen of the Suburbs - but a branch of ‘Bhendi Bazar’, with the influx of Bangladeshis – Please write about this – to let people know the truth. Adv. Desmond D’Souza ......................................................................................... is is in reference to the August 2012 issue of Bandra Buzz. Firstly to Shyma Kulkarni's article regarding Auto Rickshaws - and secondly, to Lillian Pais's article regarding the Bandra Fair. As of now, autos are 'Kings of the Road', because no authority has succeeded to control them. ese drivers have just one line in their mind, 'Who cares for your ears – when we don't care for your tears'. So our only option is to tolerate their 'dadagiri'. We hope the Traffic Dept. takes action to punish these errant drivers – who, besides the horrendous noise, refuse short trips & charge more than the meter. As per her article, Lillian is clearly not in favour of the Bandra Fair. She has boldly published incidents which had made her case weak in front of Adv. G. W. Matoos. She should remember that holding the Fair does not hold an entire locality to ransom. On the other hand, she should read and digest the page-long article in favour of the Bandra Fair – by Adv. Shane Cardoz. is article is really informative, interesting – and worth preserving. Lillian should pay heed to his suggestion – i.e. join “the new residents/migrants (who object to holding the Bandra Fair) to go for a holiday for 8 – 10 days”, to discuss this issue collectively with 'like-minded people' - and relieve their tensions. Incidentally, why has she failed to publish details of the order passed by the Chief Justice of the Division Bench – Mumbai High Court, regarding the Bandra Fair? Faust D. Gonsalves .........................................................................................
www.issuu.com/bandrabuzz pen?? You cannot walk, drive - or for that matter go out of your house for 8 days. ere is no peace & quiet. ere is dirt & noise everywhere. e only thing le is a disaster to take place, cause all the BMC wants is their "haa". More stalls the merrier for them. Mother Mary must be crying - looking at the money making & illegal stuff going on in "Her name"!! F. George ......................................................................................... . Why is the Church not protesting to all this nuisance that’s happening in its backyard. Is it turning a blind eye as its coffers get filled in this season? It is Catholics & others who stay in the vicinity that are getting effected. Maybe the Church needs to get its doctrine right from Matthew ch 21:13 - which reads, 'And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.' Sunny Fernandes ......................................................................................... HILL ROAD HAWKERS Get rid of those hawkers on Hill road!! Old people and parents with children have a nightmare walking on that ‘hell’ road... not forgetting the thieves hidden in the crowds. It’s high time something drastic is done about this 24 / 7 / 365 days a year menace. Anisha Henriques ......................................................................................... I hope that the sellers aren't evacuated.Instead, they should be given better options to be around legally. In this way it’s a win-win situation. Bandra is famous for her great variety of shopping areas on Hill Road - and Linking Road as well. Why spoil this suburb’s speciality? Shivani Kaikini .........................................................................................
Dereyk Talker has boldly led local people to fight for their rights - against illegal footpath encroachers, hawkers & other burning issues. I hope more will come to peacefully protest, when he next gives the call. is is a one week local event - and every year it is beAsif Ali coming more popular as many thousands come to the ......................................................................................... shrine and then visit the BANDRA FAIR. Lakhs of people from all walks of life and religions PERRY ROAD ISSUE come to this fair - and hence we need more stalls to I hope Bandra Buzz is taking up the issue of renaming meet their needs. I used to attend this fair every year Perry Cross Road. is is part of our heritage - hence, when I was a Mumbaikar. Inspite of all hurdles. I am it should remain the same. sure this Fair will continue for many more years. It is an integral part of Bandra and we the old res“Happy Bandra feast” to one and all. God Bless! idents of Bandra should decide... not have it thrust Evans Sumitra (NY) upon us. ......................................................................................... Sunil Sikand ......................................................................................... ARE THE VENDORS GONE CRAZY? As it is - in the new dra policy, the BMC have inAPPRECIATION creased the Bandra Fair stalls overall by a large I feel proud to hold Bandra Buzz - as it reflects the asamount, compared to previous years. pirations of the common people of Bandra. ere is chaos on the roads all over Bandra for 8 It covers not just our celebrities or politicians, who days. ere are residents who are fighting for the stalls just do not care for us - but highlights locals who are to be reduced & put in an area (like Bandra Reclama- making a difference. Please continue supporting local tion Grounds) which doesn't affect their daily life. causes for a better Bandra. Spare a thought for them. J. Alves Unfortunately the High Court (Justice Mohit ......................................................................................... Shah) in a freak decision has given the whole decision-making to the BMC - and totally ignored the Good work - Bandra Buzz Team, noble task...you’ve pleas of the residents. (at is the sorry state of the In- dared to highlight the real issues plaguing Bandra. dian Judicial System). Do not get discouraged. Keep it going strong! Where in the whole wide world would this hapRonny Williams
lection on, “How we enjoyed the good old days”. is tradition is still strong with the original residents of Bandra. Local activism has grown to a new level in Bandra. People have shown through recent activities, that burning issues, like illegal hawkers, encroachments, use of footpaths... will not be tolerated. Drains overflowing, garbage not lied, uneven rods, etc. Is not the BMC accountable? ALM’s and other groups are garnering public support to push their pleas & get results. As concerned citizens, we should share our time & resources to help these
worthy causes. Our elected representatives should realize that, if they do not help to resolve these sensitive issues in an honest manner, their political life will be cut short. Today, most people are smart enough to see through their ‘scheming’ actions. ey should read the writing on the wall - and react correctly. e upcoming festivals of many communities create a community connect atmosphere like no other. Ganpati is around the corner - with our Hindu brothers & sisters preparing for immersions and other rituals. is is the time to reach out to others
- in words & deeds. I take this opportunity to wish all our dear readers, “ Happy Bandra Feast”. May Our Lady Of e Mount, continue to bless Bandra - now & forever!
Regards, Merck N. D’Silva Editor-In-Chief
BandraBuzz
www.issuu.com/bandrabuzz
September 2012
05
How can we call this a market place? In the last edition, we brought to your notice the garbage dump near Bandra Town Market - which explained the sorry state of the area. Aer further probing, we realized that an unclean Bandra Market is what is remaining - of what was once a beautiful and busy place, where locals used to go to buy their meat and vegetables on a daily basis. We bring to you the different sections of the market and their sorry state of affairs in the past few years. Bandra Town Market is divided into five parts - in the form of a vegetable market, a fish market and in the meat section we have chicken, mutton and beef, which has been operating for many decades. We spoke to each of the sections - and this is what we came to know.
at least with bleaching powder, have gone unheeded. - e regular cleaning too is not carried out by officials properly. However, a regular mutton buyer and local resident of Bandra, Doris D’Souza says, “A few years back the condition was worse, it has improved a lot since then.”
VEGETABLE MARKET: Along with the others, the vegetable market has been a part of the market for a long time now. But in recent times, the market has closed down one of its parts, because of no sales - as the vegetable vendors along the pavement have taken all their customers, due to which nobody tends to come to buy vegetables from them.
FISH MARKET: e Beef section of the market had nobody available for comment. However Bandra Town Market (among other problems), also faces the problem of parking for vehicles. e people of the different sections in the market say, “e number of customers coming to the market has reduced, because the market doesn’t have proper parking facility and
MUTTON SECTION:
is part of the market contains around 10 sellers of mutton - and they haven’t had a good time in the past few years. Mohd. Imtiaz, a mutton seller for 12 years in the market says, “We are facing a lot of problems in the market as a whole as well as us mutton sellers separately.” Aer talking to some more sellers, here are their issues: Problems faced by Mutton sellers: - e dirt next to where mutton is sold is not cleaned by the BMC. Hence, they had to close down one of the entrances (see pic) leading to the mutton market. - ere was also a decrease in sales, as people thought it was stale meat. - e repeated pleas to the BMC by the sellers - to clean it
Fisherwomen in the market have been in the market since many decades. Over time the number of fisherwomen have reduced, due to decrease in sales and also physical fitness and old age. I happened to speak one fisherwoman, named Manju. She went on to say, “ey have lied to us, sometime back the BMC renovated this place but we do not have proper sanitary conditions here - and proper toilets too aren’t available for us.” e other fisherwomen went on to say that the BMC keeps the fish market clean - but they leave things incomplete - and finally never seem to do it. Among themselves, they have contributed and built a part of the floor for women and old people to walk properly.
hence they prefer going to supermarkets, where they can shop for hours without any worry.” e only people coming to the market are the originals residents of Bandra, as they prefer it compared to any other place. Being one of the oldest markets in Bandra, there are rumours of a mall coming up. Many vendors & people residing in this area do not want it to happen, as given to earlier instances of building new markets in Dadar by the BMC, have failed. So, there is uncertainty in the air – till something positive is done. Being an elite suburb, don’t you think Bandra deserves a cleaner & better ‘Town Market’? Nascimento Pinto
06
September 2012
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‘Christians should enter active politics for better representation’ An appeal to educated people of the Christian Community to get into active politics - to serve people
I, Advocate Shane Cardoz, request all Educated Christians to join active politics. e hour has come - when we Christians should have our representative in every political party. It’s very important to have a Christian representative - and we should start working towards this goal – now! e reason for this is our Constitutional ‘set up’. Every law put up by the Government gives immense power either to the ‘Member of Legislative Assembly’ (MLA) or to the Member of Parliament(MP). Hence, in effect, the law is in their hands. e issues today before us - are that
every other community has his or her representatives in politics, through whom they can voice the discrimination done to them - and they are taken care of by their elected representatives. But what happens to Christians? Although a majority of Christians are educated, they find their daily livelihood so tough. Most of the Christians, even though they are educated, find it tough to find a job. ey have no ‘Godfathers’. ere are active Christian’s groups who are fighting against the ‘wrong-doers’ to the Christians Community. Presently, the CROSS Organization is fighting for the Resident Stall Owners of the upcoming Bandra Fair. ey are trying to restore the Original Glory of the Bandra Fair. None of the ruling political parties are helping them. In this scenario, where and to whom do we go? Moreover the Catholic Organization for Social Service (CROSS), Associations of Concerned Christians (AOCC) and Maharashtra Christians Youth Forum (MCYF), Christian group had filed a FIR in the month of August 2012, against the Producer and Director of the Movie “Kya Super Cool Hain Hum” for insulting the Christian religion and its sacraments. Despite of the FIR, till date there has been no arrest. In this matter, none of the members of the ruling political party are helping us.
Hence, I request every Educated Christians to join active Politics. Don’t discriminate against any political party. Join a party of your choice - be it Congress (I), NCP, Shiv Sena, BJP, MNS, etc., since every party has an agenda to help people. We should join political parties and become ACTIVE members - and not just puppets. If we are not accepted, due to partiality or bias - then we can contest elections as an Independent Candidate. is is the answer to true empowerment of Christians. Most of our present politicians are either ex-smugglers, pimps, drug peddlers, bar dancers, tea stall vendors, bootleggers, land grabbers etc. eir ‘new found power’ aer being elected, goes straight to their head. is results in the corruption we see everywhere. Educated Christians have better prospects in politics, since we have a clear conscience to help people - and our community teaches us to honestly help and serve people. Being educated, it really helps to better the standard of our country - and we really need educated people to run our country. I hope that I have got my message across to the Christian Community, in the right spirit. You can call me on +91 98205 17020 or email: shanecardoz@rediffmail.com Adv. Shane Cardoz
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BandraBuzz
September 2012
BMC Heritage List and Sebastian Society Action Not willing to take things lying down, the St. Sebastian Homes sprung into action - when they learnt that the BMC had put some of the houses in their society under the 'Heritage List'. e Notice had been printed in an obscure newspaper, and that too with only 3 days le to protest! e Hon. Secretary, Warren Fernandes and Advocate Raphael D’Souza, with inputs from Architect David Cardoz; immediately draed a letter and sent their objections on 28th August to the concerned authorities. ey protested that this surreptitious list was prepared without any proper thinking process. Some vague listings were made such as ‘Villas on St. Roque Road’. On checking the MCGM records, it was found out that some of these ‘villas’ are actually society buildings – now! e Society also informed the MCGM that some of the plots on the proposed list belong to joint families who are considering developing them. Further, the affected members were
advised about their rights - and a dra letter was prepared for each such member. ose who had no access to computers had their letters typed for them, with all the relevant documents photocopied to facilitate the due process. e Society even arranged to deliver the members’ letters to the relevant Authorities. e Managing Committee of St. Sebastian Homes, ever pro-active, called for a Special Meeting to discuss the matter further - and intends to put up a suggestion that the Heritage List should be finalized concurrently with the proposed DP plan of 2014. In addition, the list should be finalized only aer approving the proposal that Heritage properties be granted certain benefits such as tax benefits/permission to sell their excess FSI etc. e Hon. Secretary Mr. Warren Fernandes said, “I also intend to propose a resolution at the AGM in October to further protect the interests of these properties by providing them with legal support to oppose this move. I will also
propose, that in case these properties still appear in the final list, the Society will provide them with some benefits like loans at nominal interest rates and support from the Society’s Architects and Advocates”. e St. Sebastian’s Society intends to put up a suggestion that the Heritage List should be considered aer considering the proposal given by the ex-municipal commissioner Mr. Subhudh Kumar, and also finalizing what benefits these houses in the final heritage list would get, besides monetary benefits from selling their FSI, tax benefits. e St. Sebastian Society would also suggest that the final Heritage List should be considered aer finalizing the proposed DP plan of 2014. Others in Bandra, who have been affected by the ‘BMC Heritage List’ and its consequences, should contact Bandra Buzz on 98207 83686, so that this issue can be collectively resolved. Bandra Buzz Team
Musical Cavalcade A fund raising music concert Navjeet’s thrust into rural India, took up the Katkari cause through integrated development of ten villages, using the three-pronged Health, Education, Community Development approach. A nutritional snack and milk are provided to the children who are malnourished and underweight. Medical camps are organized by Holy Family Hospital.. e villages hum with activity as the women are organized into Mahila Mandals and Self Help Groups. We have provided some with buffaloes and goats. Navjeet purchased 1 acre of land and built the Training Centre in 2010. “Utkarsh” is but a microcosm of the work that Navjeet has done in Mumbai’s urban slums during the last 30 years.In 1978, Navjeet Founders, Dr. Sr. Giovanna Alberoni and Dr. Ancilla Tragler started a pilot community health project in Bandra East. In
1985, the project is recognized as a Community Health Department and serves as a model for the urban health care sector. In 1996, Navjeet Community Health Centre, an independent entity, was established, with a broad agenda to revitalize slum communities. e Navjeet Health System is 3tiered – Primary at the doorstep; Secondary at the Navjeet Clinic; and Tertiary by referral to the Holy Family Hospital. To raise funds for their on-going work and future plans the Navjeet community centre is organizing a fund raising Musical Cavalcade produced by Felix Flor, on Saturday 13th October at St. Andrew’s Auditorium Bandra. A souvenir will be brought out for this occasion. We welcome donations of any value even below our minimum advertisement level
which is Rs. 3000/- and receipts will be issued for all such donations. Donations are exempt from Income tax under section 80G. Please send your cheques favouring “Navjeet Community Health Centre” to Sr. Bindhu, Director, Navjeet Community Health Centre, Holy Family Hospital, Hill Road, Bandra, Mumbai 400 050. Navjeet is a Work in Progress, constantly evolving with the times, widening its geographical limits, addressing newer problems, setting up fresh programs to bring the marginalized into the mainstream of society. We operate from “the Hub” in the Holy Family Hospital premises, but you can also visit us at www.navjeet.org and check on all the activities of the community centre. Sr Bindhu
Peaceful protest against illegal hawkers Sunday evening, 2nd September 2012 saw local activist groups launch their drive against illegal hawkers, encroachers… by first meeting at the Apostolic Carmel Grounds at 6:30 pm. Before the walk along Hill Road, some activists spoke about how the police & the BMC are avoiding the burning issues of Bandra, by some silly excuses. ey hinted that corruption cannot continue. is time the power of committed people will come forward as a united force. en, with police protection, around 70 protesters with placards of their mes-
sage to hawkers and concerned authorities, walked along Hill Road. Many onlookers & hawkers were wondering “what was happening”. e confident and determined group walked on the side of the road to allow normal traffic flow. But, when they reached, Ice Factory Lane – all hell broke loose. Emotions rose, with the group totally blocking traffic for about 5 minutes, as a protest against Hill Road hawkers, who are blocking traffic on a daily basis. en, in the middle of the road, angry protests of, “We want Hill Road Back! – Do not En-
croach on our Foothpaths – Save Bandra! ....”, were heard, to the amazement of all around. is brief session ended with all protesters and the police singing the national anthem with the national flag flying in the middle of Hill Road. en the peaceful protesters proceeded to Globus – and dispersed, promising to continue the drive with greater numbers & more determination. ‘United We Walk’ was a ‘Wake Up Bandra, Foundation initiative, spear headed by Dereyk Talker and supported by local ALM’s & the H-West Ward Federation. Bandra Buzz Team
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Interfaith Meet For the last seven years, Community ‘M’ of the Small Christian Communities of St. Andrew’s Parish, has been commemorating ‘Gandhi Jayanti’, 2nd October with an Inter-Faith Meet - in order to uphold the Gandhian principles of tolerance and greater understanding. To this objective, the themes have been universal; encompassing Love, Peace, Harmony, Truth, Justice, ‘Caring for Creation’ - and ‘Saying NO to Corruption’. is year the theme is ‘Service’ imbibed from the Gandhian quote: “e best way to find your self is to lose yourself in the service of others.” e core team have invited our unsung heroes who work at the grass root level for the good of the common man and bring to light an Exhibition of the tireless work they do, both through their involvement and their outreach programs. e purpose of this exhibition is to create an awareness, to focus on social service - and to sensitize our people, both young and old, to the needs of the less privileged. A number of NGO’S namely ‘ASEEMA’, ‘Teach for India’, ‘Ashray’, ‘SMILE’, ‘ANMOL’, ‘Navjeet Community Health Centre’, ‘SOSVA’ and ‘METTA’ will be participating. ey will exhibit the details of their outreach programs - and those involved in occupational therapy or ‘Train for Trade’ will sell their products. We exhort you. dear friends, to mark these dates on your calendar - and support our endeavour with your presence. Dates: 1st & 2nd Oct. 2012 Venue: Apostolic Carmel High School, Hill Road, Bandra Time: 1st - 9 am – 4 pm (especially for the children of schools in Bandra) 2nd – 4 pm – 8 pm (for people of all faiths) On the 2nd there will be a special talk show ‘KNOWING THE KARMAYOGIS’ from 6 to 8 pm at the same venue showcasing the arduous tasks of the Social worker and Testimonies of the Beneficiaries followed by fellowship. Come ONE, Come ALL ... You will not regret the time you spend here. Suzie Mascarenhas
Flashing Terror ere is a new eve teasing menace that has been plaguing the streets of Bandra recently - and as citizens we need to do something about it. ere have been incidents recently, where girls have been walking on the streets of Bandra and a man, who has been described to be in his 30’s, and about 5.2 tall has been known to harass them. is individual follows women - and in an attempt to eve-tease, he flashes his genitals at women in the open - and on the streets of Bandra! Shocking? Well there is more - he has been reported to have even fondled women. is is a very traumatic experience for many women who have been victims of this activity. Incidents have been reported to take place in lanes right next to the ‘Gloria Jeans’ and ‘Lemon Grass’ junction. is kind of terrorism and anti social menace needs to be curbed - and the police to take serious action against such behavior. We urge citizens to be more vigilant and non-lenient when it comes to this kind of behavior. We need to make it clear that his kind of behavior is not acceptable. We also urge those with any information, pictures or CCTV footage about this matter to come forward to the police and report this. It’s time to stand up for our community - and against this kind of anti-social behaviour. Ean Fessh
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BandraBuzz
September 2012
09
Mudd by the Sea Lunch in the Bay
Vegetable Quesadilla Picture this. It’s a lazy Sunday aernoon. rough sleepy eyes, I watch the tips of willowy palm trees swaying while sunshine flirts with my face. A pair of firm, yet gentle hands gives me a foot rub while I inhale the fragrance of green tea, reclining against a plush cushion. Could this be part of my Bali getaway daydream? No, it’s real! I am being pampered at one of Mudd Salon’s two outdoor hand and foot treatment stations. You too can have your slice of heaven, Bandra style, as we bring you the scoop on this Unisex Salon and Day Spa in this issue. Quietly tucked away next to Sea Bird building on Bandstand road (B.J. Road), it’s a little difficult to locate if you aren’t really looking out for it, making it the perfect urban retreat. at’s exactly the way it is positioned, by the way. e decor element is quirky and contemporary. eir range of take away products; lavish and mostly comprise natural ingredients. What is staggering is the extensive range of services offered, from the basic salon services to customized spa parties. Facials start at Rs 1295. You are spoilt for choice from the oxygen infusion hydrating facial (Rs 1395) to a lush lip treatment for dark or discoloured lips (Rs 895). ey also offer products from the Shahnaz Hussain line and the Christine Valley range. ere’s also a range of treatments exclusively for men. Ladies, they can customize a hair spa for your hair type (Rs 1695) or you can get
a classic hot oil massage (Rs 475). My barometer for pricing is always based on what a spa charges for a body massage or a body wrap. With prices for a basic Swedish massage starting at 1795 (40 mins), Mudd is on the expensive side. You get to choose from 6 different oils which promise to detox, energize or alleviate all your stress (Ahh, if only it were that easy). While I didn’t have a massage during this visit, I was told they have separate male masseurs for men and vice versa for women. ey have a strict ‘no cross massage service’ policy. On investigation I was told there are three massage treatment rooms but one shower, which I assume is common for all. I tried the Deep Moisturizing Pedicure, which lasted a whopping 1.5 hours but le my feet so so; they begged to step out in killer sandals immediately. What sets Mudd apart is the finer details. e attendant greeted me with a cold towel and a shot of rose water. During the treatment I was offered an eye pillow and a blanket encouraging me to dri peacefully into the land of nod. If you do the treatment indoors, the lighting is ambient although slightly dim with movable lamps for the pedicurist as she concentrates on buffing your feet to perfection. ey even retail their own CD of mood music which plays indoors, unlike many other salons I’ve been to. e green tea which I was offered didn’t come out of a mass produced tea bag, or at least it seemed that way. Bandra Buzz verdict, treat yourself to a Mudd treatment for those once-in-a-while treats when you invest in a little ‘me’ time or for a special occasion. Also, look out for their festival and special discount packages from time to time for real value-for-money deals or surprise a friend with a ‘gi certificate’. Mudd is run by Aleena Jetha, an aromatherapy specialist, creative hairstylist, beauty therapist and cosmetologist. It is highly recommended to make a reservation in advance, especially for the massage treatments to ensure availability of the masseuses. Address: Outside Sea Bird, Byramjee Jeejeebhai Road, Bandstand, Bandra (W), Mumbai 400 050. Tel: +91 22 2645 8756, 2645 3309. Timings are 10.30am to 09.00pm (Mon – Sun) Erica Desouza
When you step out for a bite in Bandra, you know you're going to be faced with an array of eateries vying for your patronage. But having so many options to choose from can be quite daunting. I usually narrow down on the type of cuisine I'm craving and head to the nearest place that serves it. But with all the new places mushrooming around I'm oen tempted to try out the new fare and keep my fingers crossed that I won't be disappointed. Lager Bay that has taken the spot on Waterfield Road where Zenzi used to be, fast became a favourite for a Friday night. It exudes a sports-bar vibe and has a cool and casual atmosphere that is very appealing. Little did I know that they were also opened for lunch all week long and so I headed over there the last time I had to pick a place to eat. Faced with a 4 course meal and a complimentary beverage on the menu you also have the choice to go a la carte. e food on the menu designed to go with the theme of this resto-bar consists of burgers and sandwiches, pastas and some really interesting finger foods that go down well with something chilled. Just enough choice on the menu to help strike a balance between missing something and having too many options. I've enjoyed most of their starters during my previous visits and have noticed that their 'Beer Batter Prawns' and the 'Sauteed Pepper Beef ' seem to be a unanimous favourite here. So for lunch we decided to eat light but instead ended up going into overdrive; you wouldn't blame us if you've had a chance
to sample their fare! Starting with a healthy Greek salad with goat cheese crumble there was no looking back. First up were mini Lamb Kibbe, which are kebabs that just melt in your mouth and my favourite the Stuffed Mushrooms with spinach and ricotta. e Chicken Quesadilla had a delicious filling which went well with the freshly made salsa. Just to warn you their special menu offers a complimentary pint of beer so if you're planning to head over on your lunch hour be sure to resist temptation! And for those of you who can't there is always the weekend! You can also enjoy a live Tapas counter if you step in for their Sunday Brunch which is dished out only on Sundays. Sadly Tapas aren't on their regular menu and so that is a good enough reason to go to Lager Bay on a sunny Sunday afternoon... ey also have a small selection of deserts that cover all the essentials like cheesecake, mousse, tiramisu and goooey chocolate brownies; for those of us who know that a good meal is only as good as its sweet ending. I'm glad they are opened for lunch so we can prance in savour some of their dishes in the day, I've got my eye on the Lamb Chops and Prawn Raviolli for my next visit. Address: 183, Waterfield Road, Bandra (W), Mumbai, Maharashtra, India 400050. Tel: 022 6736 9900 Francesca Mascarenhas
Grilled rawas with mashed potatoes and pan seared vegetables
10
September 2012
BandraBuzz
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The All Bandra Andrean Zonals 2012
e Andrean Zonals All Bandra Talent Contest celebrated 57 years this year, with new and old talents coming together in the form of Music, Dance and Drama. Parishes from all over Bandra came together in this Annual Spectacular which is held every year. e All Bandra Zonals lasted over three Sundays with fierce competition and intense preparations. As each zone of St. Andrew’s Parish were allotted extended Parishes to be a part of their zones and rope in fresh talent all across Bandra, the preparations began. As the first Sunday began, it was a month long preparation for the choirs. e Second Sunday was even
more exciting not only for the participants but also for the audience as they got to witness some extraordinary talent in vocals and dance. Star Performer of the day and of her Zone, Samantha Fernandes bagged the 16 to 20 Vocals, above 14 Duo Dance and won second for Vocal Duets. Elton Vessaoker stunned the audience with a stellar Vocal performance singing “I wish you well” bagging the 1st Place for vocals 20 and above. e Dance Performances were electrifying. is has been the case every year, since it has been introduced into the programme. e incredible thing was not just the talent, but the confidence with which
even the youngest child took the stage. e below 8 year dance duo was bagged by Sasha D’silva and Kenzo Lobo of the North west zone. Dance duo 10 to 16 was bagged by Alisha Pais and Althea Martis from the South West - and both group dances 10 to 16 and 16 to 40 were taken by the South west zone. e finals of the zonals were held over 2 consecutive days , 1st of Sept and 2nd of Sept - which was truly a spectacular where it all came down to the dramatics. With Best Actor Awards, Best Production, Best Sets and Best Director up for grabs - it was a treat for the audience, as it is every year with Debutant Directors at the Zonals, Deesh Mariwala, Harsha
Khorana and Veteran Director Daniel D’souza and Warren D’sylva. It definitely gave the audience their money’s worth. e amazing thing about the St. Andrew’s Parish All Bandra Zonal Talent Contest is the effort that is put in to make the performances as strong and as rich as possible. e calibre of the work is remarkable, even though there is only one performance and no regular public attends. Some Big names who have made it large into the Music, Drama and Dance scene owe it all to that very same Stage of the Zonals. e Audience was pleased with a couple of Stand Out performances by several Actors. However it was Dujon Fernandes winning Best Actor 3 for the Character “Dietrich” in the play “Beep” or (Back in the days before Mobile Phones had been invented) “, Janvion Rodrigues Winning Best Actor 2 for the Character “Agnes” in the play “Monkey Bizness” and Leandro D’silva Winning Best Actor 1 for the character “Daphne” in the Play “Monkey Bizness”. e Best Director was bagged by Warren D’sylva and the Best Production was won by e North East Zone for the Play “Black Comedy”. e North West Zone Coming Second for the Play “Beep Or (Back in the days before Mobile phones had been invented)” e South East Zone coming ird for the play Monkey Bizness and South West Finishing Fourth for the play “Second Chances”. However, what caught attention was the North West zone with almost a ‘no show’ last year -surprising everyone this year and finishing 1st aer 3 Sundays and winning the ‘Overall Andrean All Bandra Zonals Star Trophy’. It truly was a fitting end with over 1000 people involved in making yet another ‘Zonals Spectacular’ - and one to remember. Apart from Competition and providing a Platform for the younger generation, the Bandra Zonals has always been all about ‘Community Building’. Looking forward to Next Year, as always! Dujon Fernandes
Learn Digital Photography at SPICE DANCE FITNESS ACADEMY We specialise in Ballroom Dancing Rumba, Tango, Cha-Cha, Jive, Waltz, Wedding Dances, Salsa. We offer a trial class. Arpita Ranadive m: +91 9833050884 w : www.stepupindia.in e : arpita@stepupindia.in Art Loft Studio, Hill Road, Bandra(w)
ose who always wanted to learn more about photography, can now do so in Bandra itself -is course will provide an introduction to the fundamentals of photography. A systematic and thorough approach is emphasized in the area of image sensors and digital workflow. Students develop essential skills for obtaining consistent results and will lay a foundation in photography as a visual language. For those who want to make this a profession, an advanced course is also available. e course covers: Short history of pho-
tography, quality of light, aperture / DOF, image size, photographic optics & theory of perspective, portraiture, human figure, outdoor photography, architectural photography, landscape, basics of digital post-production in photography. Duration: 12 weeks, Instruction hours: Every Saturday/Sunday, 2 hours a day Course Co-ordinator: Prof. Hubert D'Souza (15 years of experience in teaching and Professional Photography.) More details on: www.spiceinstitute.com/digitalphotography.php
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BandraBuzz
September 2012
11
5 Trendy Buys For This Season
A bag that can brighten everyday - and every mood. A break into the monotonous life with pops of color, which is also in trend this season. Available at THE BIG C: Rs 995/-
When a print goes abundant on linking Road, you know its going to be in all the stores - and in trend for another six months. Available at Linking Road: Rs 150/-
The ‘sailor stripped dress’ that we are never going to get enough of - is a wardrobe must. It’s apt for almost any place with sunshine whether it’s a tropical holiday, brunch, lunch or sundown party. Available at Wardrobe: Rs 1000/-
The trend that is popping out everywhere this season is NEON. So, it’s the right time to ditch the dark and heavy - and embrace the ‘glow of neon’. Available at Wardrobe: Rs 500/Clever little shorts, that gives the illusion of a skirt. Makes you feel cute, young and flirty. Available at the Big C: Rs 895/-
Sonia Rijhwani
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September 2012
BandraBuzz
Eco-Friendly Ganpati celebrations opposite Bandra Lake
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Determined Dennis resolves Kantwadi drain issue It’s end August, and the choked drains near the New Kantwadi Cross were overflowing, as usual – causing a health problem in the area. It was smelly & very unhygienic. Our local resident, Dennis D’Souza le no stone unturned to help resolve the problem. Municipal Councillor Ward # 96 Karen D’Mello was called to see the situation first hand. Immediately, he got the BMC men to come and do a thorough job. Some locals also helped him to convince the concerned authorities that the choked drain had to be cleaned immediately. e underground drain flow from Pali Hill also brings a lot of non-degradable plastic items – that needs to be cleaned regularly. Using his own resources for the common good of his neighbourhood, ‘Determined Dennis’ – who is 76 years young, is seen shooting around Bandra on his scooter – always ready to help a worthy cause. Bandra definitely needs more people like him. Bandra Buzz Team
September is here, and so is Ganesh Chaturthi. At this time of the month, devotees are busy making preparations to welcome Lord Ganesh into their homes and localities. For those unfamiliar, Lord Ganesh is worshipped for a 10-day period before devotees, in ritual, celebrate through the streets, the sending-off of their God through immersion. During the 10-day period, Hindu priests symbolically invoke life into the statue by chanting mantras. ere are numerous ways of paying tribute, which include Vedic Hymns. A special multi-wick lamp is kept burning for the 10 days of worship. e aarti is done by community members each evening. On the eleventh day, the statue is immersed in the sea with euphoric chants of ‘Ganpati Bappa Morya,’ sometimes to the beats of drums amid much fanfare. Sarvajanik Utsav Ganesh Mandal-a cultural wing of the Shiv Sena(Vandre) -has, this year, organised an eco-friendly Ganpati calebration, where the statue of Lord Ganesh is made of mud, which dissolves
faster in water. e Ganpati Pandal is located opposite Bandra Lake. Mr. Chetan N. Varaskar, secretary of the Jari Mari Mata Mandir Sabhagrah says that this is the third generation of his family who are manufacturing idols of Lord Ganesha. is year they have made over 1,100 idols of various sizes & designs, according to requirements of their customers. He also mentioned how the new way of making idols of POP is creating pollution in our waters, with dangerous consequences. However, with POP, still many better designs were possible. He also elaborated, how in previous years, Ganesha idols were made of clay (black mud) in moulds, then polished, spray white-washed – and finally painted & packed for sale. is Ganesh festival is all about bringing home brilliantly craed idols of the elephant God, where until September 19th He will sit in state, aer which He will devotedly be immersed in water. Sir Minaz & Valerian D’costa
Vincy D’mello reminisces about his heydays Bandra Fair week brings out a lot of ‘old stories’, from the oldies of Bandra. is time of the year, the local younger generation gets to know many facts about Bandra on various issues from the past. We sat with an ever alert Ex-Municipal Councillor Vincy D’Mello at his ‘Grace Villa’ residence on D’Monte Park Road – and he was very nostalgic about his involvement with the development of the D.P.R.C. & e Bandra Gymkhana. He rummaged through old paper cuttings of “BOMBAY TIMES” dated 21st September 2002 to show us a ‘treasure within’. Vincy told us, “Interestingly, residents staying near D’Monte Park had no idea that a clubhouse and swimming pool was coming up. e tenders for the construction of the swimming pool, club house were issued by Architects Rusi Khambatta & Associates to seven contractors, out of whom four responded. e Managing Committee had selected K.Y. Fatehi construction’s offer.
Rahul D’Souza, a resident of Perry Road was excited about the new developments being carried out in the park. As, the then Secretary of the Salsette Catholic Co-operative Housing Society, I granted the request of the members; especially the younger ones - demanding a swimming pool, a jogging track and recreation centre. And so, D’Monte Park Recreation Centre stands tall. Simultaneously, Bandra Gymkhana got their swimming pool, two floors, a terrace, a restaurant and a badminton court through the efforts of my committee & me, when I was in office - with the help of Architects, Mr. David Cardoz and Mr. Archrekar. It is surprising and sad to note that the members of e Salsette Catholic Co-operative Housing Society and the Bandra Gymkhana, being two separate entities, have not given due acknowledgement to my contribution. In fact, I have not been featured anywhere in the Jubilee Celebrations.” Hema Joshi
Locals gives us an insight about Pateti and Navroz To get an insight about Pateti & Navroz, we interviewed two Parsi residents of Bandra. “Pateti is a repentance day, the muktad ceremony is a 10 day function in which we believe that all the departed soul come to earth and stay here for 10 days. In these 10 days we pray for the soul that they should rest in peace. On the last day (that is on the Pateti) we put a table and on the table we put a vaz made up of German silver or pure silver and we put some flowers and pray for individual soul - and we believe that on the closing ceremony of muktad, the soul goes back to their heavenly abode.
On Pateti night we pray for forgiveness of our sins, which we have knowingly or unknowingly committed. Next day aer Pateti is the New Year called ‘Navroz’ ”, says Mr. Freddy Kambatta (Head Priest) - Parsi Fire Temple (Bandra) “On Navroz day all houses are cleaned and decorated - new clothes are worn and elaborate menus are prepared. Aer the Jashan(thanksgiving prayers) in the temple, the rest of the day is spent in meeting and visiting friends and family - and wishing them SAL MUBARAK (Happy New Year)”, says Mr. Adi Pawaskar(Student). Sir Minaz
Rizvi College Youth Carnival Rizvi College Youth Carnival, under the guidance of Honorable Mr. Abis Rizvi(Secretary), Rizvi Education Society(R.E.S) and supports from all different principals kick started in a grand fashion with a table tennis tournament, a carrom tournament, football, a box cricket tournament, solo dancing, fashion show, group dancing, a debate, a quiz, instrument playing competition, a baskeball tournament, Rangoli making and Jam sessions. All the colleges of Rizvi Education Society took part in it with full vigour and en-
thusiasm - with the sole aim of winning each and every competition. ere was a large turn out of the participants from all the colleges with celebrity judges coming to juge various events - the fashion show was judged by Neeta Lulla, singing competition was judged by Raja Hasan and Mr. Sajjad Hussain. e Rizvi Youth Carnival was indeed an outstanding event in which the participants, the audience and the judges all enjoyed themselves. Sir Minaz
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BandraBuzz
Garbage Mumbai Most Unwanted
26th July 2006 is a date etched in every Mumbaikars mind. It is the day when floods stopped the entire City for 4 days. It's been more than 6 years since that eventful day. And the people seemed to have moved on pretty quickly. We fail to remember that it was our carelessness that led to these floods. rowing garbage here and there throughout the city led to the gutters getting blocked. is led to the rising of water levels on the road. A week back, a similar event occurred. Luckily God had the mercy to stop the rains aer a single day of heavy showers, but we all knew what could have been. e gutters were again blocked with trash, and we were on the verge of another calamity. It's about time we bring about a change. It's time to stop littering, Let’s keep Mumbai Clean. at is our motto. We the students of R.D. National college have started and Anti-Littering campaign named “Mumbai’s Most Unwanted”. We aim to teach people that Mumbai is our home, and we should learn to keep it clean. Over the past week, we have held many activities in order to educate about the harmful effects of littering. We have taken videos of Mumbaikars promising that they will not litter in Mumbai. With over 600 such oathtakers and supporters, this campaign has had a bigger impact than any of us expected. People say they do not have any incentive to walk till a bin to throw their trash, hence we provided them with one. We created a dustbin, made by our own group, and placed it at Infiniti mall. It is a dustbin that rewards every person who throws garbage in it. Every time you throw anything in a bin, the bin rewards you with a chocolate. is event of ours met with tremendous response. rough this activity, we aim to show people that it is rewarding to throw garbage in the bin, and not on the road. Excited by the tremendous response, we next shied our focus to getting more people attention. We peeked in to our dustbins and searched for trash which could be useful. WE found enough garbage to make ourselves 6 different out-
fits. Wearing those outfits, we roamed around the city trying to create more awareness about our cause. We held a huge event at Mega Mall next which met with an amazing response. We creating music using junk instruments like forks, spoons, buckets and coasters. is event was a catalyst to get people more aware about our cause. Besides these interactive activities we have been active on face book, uploading viral videos and creative photographs. We have kept our online followers (which has now crossed 500 people) updated about our activities. We are going to be associated with an architecture college. e students have prepared art work using only junk items, their work will be uploaded on the face book page which will help increase awareness. Currently we are working towards organizing a beach cleanup rally. Being just 10 days into our campaign, we have got some tremendous response from our fellow Mumbaikars. But we do not wish to stop there, next we will take up a challenge to clean up our most beloved areas in Mumbai. Like the Juhu beach. We wish to see a Mumbai without dirt, a Mumbai which looks as beautiful as the people that live in it. If all of you Mumbaikars would take an oath not to throw litter on the road, this dream can turn into a reality. Join our cause, Keep Mumbai Clean. Aman Sheth
September 2012
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Where the future of advertising meets the present
R.D. National College takes immense pride in announcing that our Advertising Seminar INNOVISION was a success. In its significant virtue, R.D. National College focuses on the all round development of the students with equal emphasis simultaneously on academics as well as extra and co-curricular activities, so they develop as individuals capable of facing all hazards of life. Interaction of advertising gurus and academics being the basic idea, INNOVISION witnessed stalwarts from the field of advertising who enlightened us with their expertise and brought in their profound knowledge which was an esteem gesture in helping students understand Brands, Advertising and Media better. e staff and students of RD National College [Bandra], had held an inter collegiate advertising & media symposium – INNOVISION. e seminar was held in the college auditorium from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm. 800 students from 21 colleges across Mumbai were a part of this seminar. e seminar was mainly about Brand building advertising. e students arrived at the college at 8.00 am and they were given folders containing feedback forms which they were supposed to fill during the course of the event, the programme schedule etc. e seminar started with a slideshow presentation welcoming all the students, teachers and the guests. e slideshow showed different aspects of Branding &
Advertising. e event was inaugurated by our Chief Guest, Mr. R Balki, the renowned Ad filmmaker and a highly respected Hindi filmmaker. He gave us an enlightening speech. e big shot managed to strike a chord within the students’ hearts and received a grand ovation. ere were four sessions held by topnotch advertising professionals like Ms. Sonal Dabral, Mr. Rajiv Rao, Mr. Arun Iyer & Mr. Agnello Dias who spoke to the students about the different aspects involved in advertising. ese sessions turned out to be extremely entertaining and informative. Aer lunch, Indian and International advertisements were shown on the screen. ese funny ads invited quite a lot of chuckle from the audience. Aer a short wait, the valedictory segment was started by the MTV MasterMinds- Raghu Ram & Rajiv Lakshman who made an appearance and made the hearts of many students beat a lot faster!! ey sure did add a lot of spice to our seminar and also handed over the certificates to the students who had helped organize the seminar. By the end of this symposium, the students had thoroughly enjoyed themselves and had definitely learned a lot from it. A perfect example of studies and fun going hand in hand. Archana Narayanan Photo Courtesy: HB Photography
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September 2012
BandraBuzz
FESTIVE MAKEOVER FOR YOUR HOME Tip: Don’t buy readymade brocade tablecloths as they may prove expensive. Pick up pieces of cloth with gold work from the many fabric shops in Bandra. Purchase a zari border & get a regular tailor to stitch it on. 3. New accessories make a house look made over without having to spend too much. Changing only the cushions or adding a new wall painting can immediately upli the look of the room and make it look different. Tip: Change the color of only ONE wall and hang a pretty brass framed mirror on it. It will make your entire living room look different by introducing a new focal point and topic of conversation.
ere is something in the air as one hits September. A sense of joyousness. Aer all, the rest of the year means one festival aer another. A time for family, prayers, cheer and new clothes. It is also a time when budgets notwithstanding, every one wants to introduce a sense of newness into 4. Try aromatherapy. Buy a couple of burntheir home. ers, add some aroma oil and let them burn Let’s a take a look at what one can do to through the evening. Burners allow candle make the house look festive and made over light to peter out, making them look charming. e aroma oil lends a feeling of without spending too much. 1. ere is nothing like lights to make a calm and happiness. house look festive. Buy 4-5 lengths of the Tip: Pick up aroma oils in scents of flowers. twinkling festive lights and string them up Eg Jasmine. both inside and outside the house. Tip: Take a vase and put in a bunch of 5. Invest in a couple of new lamps and flowers in it. Now take a string of festive change the lighting direction of your room. lights and wind half of it around the vase If you had wall lights, buy floor lamps and and let the other half rest on the flowers. if you had floor lamps, invest in pretty hanging lamps. e arrangement will look ethereal. Tip: Buy 2-3 colorful paper lamps from a 2. Introduce bling into the house. Brocade street shop and hang it in one corner. table cloths, brass or jeweled candle holdDipika Singh ers are good options.
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ACCOUNTANT Vernon Duarte (C.A.) Accounts, Auditing, Co-op. Societies, PAN Filing of Income Tax Returns Call: 9920767522 / 26435096. BEAUTY TREATMENT For a younger looking, wrinkle free face, botox and fillers, call Dr. J Peter Rodrigues 9820061317, 9820221667 BIZ OPPORTUNITY LOOKING for Honest, Hard working dynamic individuals to join my team. Remarkable company and unbelievable income. Call: 98925 69752 Imagine buying your dream house and/or car, better education for your children, Stress Free Life and much more. Age no bar. Call : 9619994713
have small nos. (15-20) Individual Masala, Vindaloo … Mrs. Monica Attention. Professionals for all Pereira 2645 9106 subjects. Contact Delano Aguiar HOME FOOD ITEMS 9819968961 / 26004989 or John Soda Machine (1950/-) exchange Pereira 9969656305 offer & repair, refill (all flavours). Babyland Nursery/Kindergarten Mini Washing Machine (2800/-) for boys & girls expert coaching Electric Tandoor (3990/-) Magic conducted for children above 2. Steam Cooker (3090/-) FREE Timings: 10am - 12noon Mon-Fri. HOME DEMO Contact: Noble 9821394504 / Coaching from Junior KG to IV Enterprises also available. Timings: 5pm on- 9146729782 / 9870639334 wards Contact Ms. Jean Ann INTERIOR DECORATORS Cordeiro. B-10, Nirmala Colony, St. John Baptist Road, Bandra(W), Sonia & Dhiraj Bhatia Mumbai 400050. Tel: 26452839 9167187856 / 9167187855 Mob: 9769722593 INVESTMENT CONSULTANTS Standard II & III. want to raise Joaquim Cardoz - Investment your child’s marks by solving Consultant. call: 9833006757. his/her problems in maths, Flat #3, 405, Patil Pada, Pitale reading, spelling or writing? Lane, Ram Mandir Road, Danda, Contact: 9029098873 (Only one Khar (w), Mumbai 400 052. For doorstep service. subject per child per month).
is could be THE opportunity of a lifetime. Just ONE call can change your life. Your’re in safe hands. Don’t hesitate... Call : 98330 58917
COMPUTER SERVICES One Stop Computer Solutions. Sales & Repairs of Desktops, Laptops, Networking, Data Recovery & AMC. Contact: Luke Almeida: 8097044010 / NO EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE 9969276108 required. We require your time, CORNED TONGUE sincerity & hard work. Unbelievable Earning Potential. For Corned Tongue and Meat Loaf Sunita Pereira Call for appointment 99207 90344 Contact: 98203 00751 (Home made and UNLIMITED Income. Start your delicious) own business with flexible hours. DANCE CLASSES Working, retired, unemployed, students or housewives. Call for Kathak dance class by experienced teacher for girls and ladies above Appointment 7738807085 age five. Contact House-wives, teachers - looking 26405758/9373302893 to earn an added income of ESTATE AGENTS Rs 5,000/- to 15,000/- per month Bernval Buying & Selling Of Flats, - Please Call: 98922 04016 Shops, Plots, Leave Licence,P.G, Best Business Opportunity in Etc. In Mumbai & Goa Bernard: Bandra. Successfully operating 9820391586 bernval_est@yahoo.com since 1978, now in 148 countries FRUIT VENDOR worldwide, 10 years in India. Part-Time / Full-Time, No Mohd. Naeem Fruits Stores - best Investment, No Experience Reqd. quality fresh fruits - widest choice No Door To Door Selling, Free - Opp. Society Super Market, Training Provided - GENUINE - Chimbai Road Bandra (w). For Earn 4,000/- to 40,000/- p.m Call FREE home delivery. Call: 98192 95265/98677 38152. Now: 8108352110
GUITAR CLASSES A little effort, time & desire is all you need to legitimately increase Call 8097694660 to learn how to your income from home. Contact play the guitar the easy way at your residence. All age groups are 8108222187 / 9820586240 welcome. CANDLE MAKING CLASSES GROOM WANTED Designer and decorative candles for all occassions. Candle making Goan R.C. homely spinster, 35, classes also conducted. Contact 5’2”, M.A., qualified teacher in a Shweta Oberai 9820736198/ reputed school, seeks alliance from qualified & well settled Mumbai 32673212 based R.C. bachelor up to 39 years – with good family values & sober CAR RENTALS Kindly contact: Anne 9892862202 - Bandra to Air- habits. port (return) 500/-, 8hrs/80kms: 98193 57011 – and send your details with a recent photo to: AC 1500/- & Non-AC 1200/ferns.2007@rediffmail.com For trips in and around Mumbai. HOME ITEMS Call Vincent - 9820380742 D'Siree Caterers: Potato chops. Beef or Mutton. CAR BREAKDOWN Emergency repair or breakdown on Cutlets - Beefs, Mutton, Chicken, any cars CTC 24x7 Salim on Fish & Sorpotel.Pork Vindaloo Pork Tongue roast, Pickles,Prawn 9769061748 / 9987060041 or Dry Bombay Ducks. contact person: Xaverina D'Souza Mobile: COACHING CLASSES Shalom Classes Bandra. Attention 9167227296 Std. IX & X. Shalom welcomes you to come & experience . Batches Fugias, Coconut Cakes, Bottle
September 2012
Repairs: Washing Machine, Gas Stove, Microwave, Fridge, & A.C. Call Ramesh -9892387330 Bharat Service Centre, Pali Naka. RELIABLE INTER SERVICES Katrina Kaif, Kareena Kapoor, American School, Malaysian Embassy use F\X Wireless. Dependable Internet Service. Connects by Rf Frequency. Call Robert Blue Skies Telecom 9757289384 STITCHING CLASSES Learn to stitch your own clothes the easy way in Bandra(West)! Special classes for kids (age 10 and above) Learn the Basics in just 4 to 8 classes regular classes on Saturdays 10:00 am to 12 pm, 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Orders accepted for bridal gowns, communion dresses and formal outfits Designerz 9819471550/26411318
INTERIOR DECORATORS Sonia & Dhiraj Bhatia TAILORS 9167187856 / 9167187855 Knitting Crochet Embroidery Dressmaking Courses LOCAL TUTIONS 9820451695 For K.G. & First & Second standard private tuitions in Bandra (w) TAX CONSULTANT Contact Mr. Almeida Cyrus A Patel Tax & Legal 02265235090, 9224185090 Consultant, Since 1992. We undertake Income tax, Service tax, S.S Tutorials shied to Waroda Accounts writing for companies Road, Off Hill Road, Near Dunhill Proprietor concern etc, Pancard Bldg, Bandra(W) Mumbai 400050. application, Profession tax, setting SSC & HSC (Sci) all subjects. Reg- computerise accounts department. istrations for new batch started. We give personal visits. contact: Contact Santosh 9821121982 Tel: 28259037 Mobile: 9869280642 Veena Classes Highly Experienced USED CARS Teacher for Maths & Science Tu- Auto Palace (Oldest Organisation tion in Bandra for Std 5 – 10, SSC in Mumbai) offers best price for & ICSE Contact: 9833176442. used cars. Always available quality used cars Toyota, Honda, Maruti, LIQUID COOLING PC Hyundai, Benz, Ford, Skoda, etc. We specialise in liquid cooling Please call 9821499802 systems, custom built cabinets & computer networking. Get a free BEST PRICE for Used Cars Spot quotation right now!Contact Finalization, Any Make / Model / Sairaj Borkar on 9930399387 or Registration / Condition. Contact: mail us on Zuber - 9820030777. SMS imore sairajborkar@gmail.com. Shree 1209910 to 5667755 Mahalaxmi CHS, ground floor, Warin pada, Danda, Khar(w) VEGETABLE VENDORS Mumbai 400052 Harilal Yadav - 93245 52451.Chimbai, Opp Solanki Chemist, Bandra PAN CARD (w). (Home Delivery) Rs 200/- - Call Sam: 98330 58917 VRS KE BAAD REPAIRS & SERVICES MNC Company looking for sincere, 24 hrs Home, Sales & Service experienced and active people who (Bandra only) Gas Stoves, Hobs, want to earn Rs 10,000 – Rs 20,000. Table Tops & Chimneys. Contact: Ideal for those who have taken VRS. Mahendra Sales Shiv Asthan, Shop Outgoing attitude with healthy No. 7, Plot No. 31, 16th road, near habits is a plus point. Flexible hours. Shiv Sagar, Bandra (w). Please call 9619994713 Amrut 9323431633 / 26486525 Enjoy your post-retirement life. Refrigerators / Air Conditioners / Retired, yet active in mind & body? Splits / Frost Free Refrigerators / Need to earn an added income? I Indian / Imported. Guaranteed can help you – Call 7738807085 Repairs / Installations / AMC FRIZARE, 30th Road, Bansari WATCH REPAIRS Apartments, opp. H2O, Pali Naka, Reliance Watch Co. – Sales & Bandra (w) 9820197439 / 6544903 Service - specialist in Quartz, Automatic & Winding - 129, Bazar ree Star Repairs, Service, Rd, Near Variety Emporium, Installation, Buying, Selling of A/C Bandra (W)- Irfan-2640 7360 & Fridge. Contact George - (10-1 & 4-9) 9930951611. Chuim Khar (w). WELDER For Radio & TV mechanic BABLU - 93208 82433 - S.V. contact : Shantaram Yadav - Road, Khar, Near Masjid, Opp 98203 58155 - Mount Mary Steps, Beauty Center. Bandra (w)
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Call 9820783686 DISCLAIMER Readers are recommended to make appropriate enquiries and seek appropriate advice before sending money, incurring any expenses, acting on medical recommendations or entering into any commitment in relation to any advertisement published in this publication.BandraBuzz doesn’t vouch for any claims made by the advertisers for products and services. The Printer, Publisher, Editor and Owners of Bandra Buzz shall not be held liable for any consequences, if such claims are not honoured by the Advertisers.
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BandraBuzz
September 2012
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NOTHING BUT HOUSE e top elite entertainment company of Mumbai, Chrome, has made its buzzing presence felt in and around Mumbai. Ever since its inception in 2009, there has been no looking back for Chrome, and now is billed among the top elite companies in the entertainment sector. With a range of its entertainment services, Chrome considers Club Promotions, Artist management, Corporate Events, Exhibitions and Private Functions as their niche functions. ey say ‘you can only see how far you have come once you reach the end’ & looking at the zeal and the rate at which success seems to throne them, the epitome doesn’t seem too far. is time round, Chrome has brought Nothing But House, an electronic music community that will be taking over 4 prime cities in India by March 2013, to the island city. It launches in Mumbai on the 15th September, and moves to Pune, Delhi & Bangalore subsequently. e whole idea is to connect the niche group of EDM enthusiasts in the primes of India and give them a completely different music experience. Nothing But House will premiere in Mumbai on the 15th September at Bandra’s
luxury club - C’est La Vie. e event takes place at the poolside & sky bar transforming it into Sunset Party which will have breakthrough EDM spun by the duo of DJ Sharan & DJ Naren . e event focuses on portraying ‘Nothing But House’ as a niche EDM community associated with luxury brands bringing together the taste of fashion, glamour & music. Nothing But House connects with the niche crowd of the city and thus ties up with luxury brands only & works on giving them branding and mileage in the a very distinct way of subtle marketing. Being organised at C’est La Vie (A luxury club for members only), the event promises to be a grand one. Kingfisher will be the prime beverage partner, again suiting the taste of the niche. Gatsby and Paul&Shark are also the tentative associates. e Flaming Trio (Dubai Institute of Bar Tending & Creative Hospitality) will also be a part of this event. 15th September Aquanation . Sharan & Naren Cest La Vie, Bandra Valerian D’costa
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Call 9820783686 Vol. III Issue 9> R.N.I. No. : MAHENG/8-10-2010/12646 Editor: Merck D’Silva > Printed & Published by Creative Concepts, 401 Anica, 28 St. Paul Road, Near Bandra Gymkhana, Bandra (W), Mumbai - 400 050 Printed at Marwah Estate, Saki Vihar Road, Mumbai - 400 072