Issue31

Thursday, June 6, 2013 | Vol. No. I | Issue 31 | Price Rs. 10 | Pages 24 | www.goastreets.com

Chrystal clear jazz • pg 3 Decline of coconut trees • pg 7 Loretti:Warrior artist • pg 10

Heavenly Food 10 most gorgeous dishes in Goa

s Plu ete pl / com event d/ e foo ghtlif ni ide gu

80-year-old diner 15 • High on writing 18 • Healing schizophrenia 22

2

what’s hot this

June 6 Ladies Night Thursdays

At The Park on Holiday beach, Candolim @ 7 pm +918805028191

June 8

week

June 9 Sunday family brunches

“Rejuvenating cocktails, soul warming gourmet cuisine from around the world, activities to Keep the kids entertained and specially get in rhythm with Ashley.

At Latitude, Vivanta by Taj – Panaji @ 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm +918326633636

Retro Party

At ‘Rewind’ Arpora, near Go-kart @ 8 pm onwards.

Great 70’s ambience, home styled food, live retro music Featuring, Live Retro Band. +91 8007112200.

Party at Portico

With Goa’s hottest band Smoking Chutney Portico tavern at the Spazio resort, Anjuna @ 8 pm +919226226625

June 12 Cosmopolitan Ladies Nite Also introducing a pay for 1 JAGERBOMB and shoot another for absolutely FREE, along With free COSMOPOLITANS for the ladies all night long.

At Butter, Panjim @ 8 pm +918308838888

June 6 to June 30 Diwa Brunch

Kids Eat Free promotion with Pan Asian and Coastal cuisine coupled with delectable desserts At Alila Diwa, Majorda village Salcette @ 12 pm to 4 pm +918322746800

Thursday, May 30, 2013

Clubs/Bars/Lounges/ Live Music Butter Lounge

Indulge yourself &soothen your senses At Patto, Panjim +919822126262

Raissa’s Sheesh Mahal Lounge Delicious food and lovely music At Margao @ 10 am to 11.45 pm +918322712899

Club IANOS

Club & Global Cuisine Calangute, Baga Road 0832 6528283

June 6

Ladies Night Thursdays At The Park on Holiday beach, Candolim @ 7 pm +918805028191

Thursday Night

With DJs Yuri & Anthony At Cafe Mambos, Baga @ 9 pm +918322275028

Evolve

DJs Joel, Alison, Sunny At Butters, Panjim @ 8 pm

Thursday Night Live @ The Sofala

Smoking Chutney jamming live with Chrystal Farrell featuring Chrystal Farrell (vocals), Benoy Rai (guitar), Sancho Menezes (keyboards), Colin D’Cruz (bass) & Bosco D’Souza (drums) At The Sofala, Bhattiwaddo, Nerul @ 8 pm to 11.30 pm +918550919222

June 9

Party at Portico

With Goa’s hottest band Smoking Chutney Portico tavern at the Spazio resort, Anjuna @ 8 pm +919226226625

June 22

Sao Joan Rain Grind

At CRC Ground, Chinchinnim @ 3 pm +919767239123

June 22

1st Sao Joan Rain Dance

Music Promoters Charitable Society presents this Sao Joao Rain Dance.

Electrifying music by Tidal Wave, Forefront, Lynx, etc..

At Blueberry Hill, Verna @ 12 pm

June 23

Pool Party

At Woodbourne Country Club, Nuvem @ 12 pm +918390097909

June 24

Siolim Sao Jaon

At opp.St.Anthony’s Church, Siolim @ 2 pm

Straight No Chaser Chrystal Farrell lives the jazz life

A

By José Lourenço

funky vocal rendition of a jazz standard ‘Straight No Chaser’ by Chrystal Farrell has hit the Number One spot on the jazz vocal charts at Soundclick. com, an internet music chart. Chrystal is the vocalist of Smoking Chutney, a popular jazz band based in Goa, led by bassist Colin D’Cruz.

SoundClick is one of the largest online international music forums, currently hosting 4.5 million songs, 530,000 bands and artists, with over 4.5 million registered members.

Chrystal has had the extremely rare privilege of reaching the top of the SoundClick charts for the second time. About a year ago an original ‘Bablu’s Poem’ was at No. 1 for over three weeks from over 45,000 worldwide entries.

Music gripped Chrystal’s life right from her teen years, when she sang with Big City Band, who reigned as a top band for weddings, beat shows and other events. In those days Chrystal (32) would work at the Marriott’s hotel in the day and sing with the band at night. After 3 years of that came the moment of choosing between the hotel industry and a career in music.

“My father suggested I choose music,” says Chrystal. Her

turn to page 5

June 6 to June 26

music & nightlife | 03 Chrystal’s Jazz hit

Smoking Chutney Unplugged!

At Pan Asian Bowl, Miramar, Panjim @ 9 pm +918888662233

June 6 to June 30

Smoking Chutney live At Malts N Wines, Baga @ 9 pm +917875242960

lowdown | 06

On-going

Pickled Mango

feature | 07 Dwindling coconut palms

explore | 08

Multi Cuisine serving culinary delights from around the world. @ Resort Rio, Arpora @ 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm Mon: music fever Tue: in-house music Wed: karaoke burning Thur: in-house music Fri: one man band by Joe Sat: karaoke burning Sun: in-house music +918322267300

Souza Lobo

407 year old Loutulim house

arts & entertainment | 10 An artist’s fight for Goa

Oldest restaurant on Calangute beach With live music in the evenings.

At Calangute Beach @ 8 pm +918322281234 Mon: Nelson & Leo Tue: Nezz and neka Wed: Lui one man band Thur: Nelson and Leo Fri: Just Leo Sat: Victor & Sol Sun: Valentino

Top 10 luxurious dishes in Goa

food | 15 An 80 year old restaurant in Calangute

literature | 18 The saga of Sheela’s stories

interview | 19 Calangute MLA speaks out

Martin’s Corner

Authentic seafood and Goan cuisine Along with entertainment with Live music every week.

At Betalbatim @ 8 pm. +918322880061 Mon: Shane Tue: Karaoke by Jonny Wed: karaoke Francis Paul Thur: Ashley Fri: Karaoke by Johnny Sat: Shane.

Sun: Kenny 9822131676 bonny 9822166996

Night By Night Every Monday Karaoke Night

Live Filipino Band performance At O’ Goa, Hotel Fidalgo, Panjim @ 7.30 pm 2226291

Every Tuesday

sex | 20

give back | 12 Stop the suicides

Ladies Night

At Soul Souffle, Uddear, Verna @ 8 pm +918322782100/ +919404312100

Russian Ecstasy Nights

At Radisson blu resort, Cavelossim beach @ 9 pm +918326726666/+918888061199

Jam Session

A musical adventure with Goa’s one & Only Zezhinio At Sweet Chilli, Sinquerim @ 7.30 pm +91 9820820254

Retro, Rock n Roll & Old School With DJ Saby Fernandes spinning Retro, Rock n Roll At Resort Rio, Tambudki, Arpora From 8 pm to 10.30 pm +919552538203/ +919011015959

Wednesday Nights

Featuring DJs David and Ashley At Kamaki, Baga @ 7.30 pm +91 9923093408/ +918322276520

Retro, Rock n Roll & Old School At Resort Rio, Arpora @ 8 pm to 10.30 pm +918322267300/ +919552538203

DJ Roy Yod Live

At Saturdays, Varca @ 9.30 pm to 1 am +918326695066/ +918326695025

Every Thursday Salsa Night

At L’Orange Marquis Vaddo, Candolim @ 8 pm to 11 pm +919970173606/ +919823291413

Thursday Grill and Games Music, games & barbeque At Soul Souffle, Verna @ 7 pm to 10 pm 2782100, +91 9764694321

Every Friday

Ladies Night and Hoteliers Special At Radisson Blu Resort Cavelossim @ 9 pm +918326726666/ +918888061199

Retro Party

At ‘Rewind’ Arpora, Near Go-kart, @8 pm onwards. Great 70’s ambience, home styled food, live retro music Featuring, ‘The Music Company.’ +91 8007112200.

Retro & all Time Hits

Every Saturday

Every Wednesday

At ‘Rewind’ Arpora, near Go-kart @ 8 pm onwards.

Great 70’s ambience, home styled food, live retro music Featuring, Live Retro Band. +91 8007112200.

Retro hits played by DJ Aggie At Radisson Blu Resort, Cavelossim @ 9 pm onwards +918326726677 / +91 8888061199

New positions in bed

Also introducing a pay for 1 JAGERBOMB and shoot another for absolutely FREE, along with free COSMOPOLITANS for the ladies all night long.

At Butter, Panjim @ 8 pm +918308838888

Fort Aguada Beach Resort

At Sinquerim, Candolim @ 7.30 pm +918326645858 Mon: Estella pinto Tue: Mac Dorado Wed: Estella Pinto Thur: Savio Fri: darryll Sat: Natasha

cover story | 12

Cosmopolitan Ladies Nite

Tuesday – Country Rock

At Café Mojo @ 10 am to 11.30 pm +91 9850980091/ +91 9860010061

Retro Party

Funky Saturday are Back At Butter, Panjim @ 8 pm onwards

Thursday, June 6, 2013

from page 3 father is Clarence Farrell, a well known figure in the hospitality industry in Mumbai. Her heart agreed, and at the age of 19, she turned music pro. A great break came when she was chosen among the Top Ten at the Channel V Popstars contest in 2001.

“I sang Shakira’s Whenever Wherever for the audition. Since I didn’t have a classical training in Indian music like many of the other contestants, I ended up doing Hindi film songs in a jazzy funky way,” reminisces Chrystal. “Sandeep Chowta, a well known music director who was one of the judges said, ‘you have a jazzy voice, what can you do with Chura Liya (a popular Hindi track)?’...I tried singing it and it came out in a jazzy bluesy style.”

“That contest really launched me solo.

I became part of Viva, a band created

by Channel V through the contest. I was under contract for a year. That was one of the first reality shows in India.” But soon the band disbanded, and she was back in Goa. She then began singing with Neil Ribeiro, an event manager of Wiz Creations, doing gigs as a female solo performer to prerecorded minus-one tracks on an MD player.

After six years of singing with Neil’s events, she went solo, without a manager.

“I bought some equipment- a laptop, player, recorder - and starting writing and recording songs, and doing events on my own. I made my own demos, recording the melodies on a dictaphone.”

Composing songs had actually begun in the 9th standard at school, Presentation Convent in Margao. Her first song was ‘Come To My Rescue’.

“Those songs were only for myself. I didn’t have the guts to perform them in public, I didn’t want any criticism. But come to think of it, even those songs had a jazzy feel.”

In 2004, film producers Parth Aurora and Sartak Dasgupta shot a film called

Smoking Chutney Great Indian Butterfly. They approached Chrystal for the soundtrack.

“They wanted songs, preferably sung in Portuguese. They also asked if I had any original songs. They used two of my songs, strangely, the first two I had written when in school!”

By then she had composed over 15 songs. “One of them was a silly song called ‘My Gals’ – it was a tribute to my friends from the 7th standard. We even had choreographed steps to it and had some of our own ‘shows’. Those were the days when we wanted to be like the Pussycat Dolls, Ace of Base and Spice Girls.”

But the experience was also traumatic for the young singer. “They took my copyright for the two songs, I could never perform them in public. I was paid a pittance, at that time I had no manager, I signed the contract blindly.

It disillusioned me, I swore I would not get into this Bollywood thing again. It blocked me for some time, I stopped composing songs.”

But as she performed professionally with Neil Ribeiro as manager, she began to earn money, paid her taxes and built up herself as a brand. “You have to do it all on paper, do it legally, to succeed.

This way you can turn any hobby into a profession.”

Chrystal began performing solo at events. “I managed myself, people and corporates could approach me directly. I tied up with Essar Steel and some others.

I still do events for them.”

The most recent benchmark of her life has been jamming up with Colin D’Cruz and his fellow jazz musicians. She first sang with them at the Grape Escape event at the Inox courtyard in Panjim in 2008, belting out Maroon Five’s song Sunday

Morning in a jazzy improvisation.

“Colin pushed me on to sing original songs and more of jazz. You can do it, he said, you will get over your block. I then began listening to jazz music seriously.”

Smoking Chutney began playing at regular Thursday jazz nights at the Sol bar and restaurant, which later changed its name to Sofala. The band has become a musical laboratory of sorts. While they deliver the oldie jazz standards and tracks by bands like Manhattan Transfer, they also improvise on contemporary songs by artists like Sade, Chaka Khan, Stevie Wonder and Lynyrd Sknyrd.

Toro Loco, a track that was composed as a samba jingle, took on a life of its own after it was promoted by Colin on the Net. A collaboration with the American saxophonist and music academic M’Tafiti Imara produced Balu’s Poem and the latest track to hit the charts ‘Straight No Chaser’. The latest track is a vocal rendition of the classic jazz piece by Theolonius Monk.

“This was one of Colin’s mad ideas.

He said, ‘if Manhattan Transfer could put lyrics and vocals to Birdland (a jazz standard), why can’t we do it to Straight No Chaser?’” says Chrystal.

“Straight No Chaser is a jazz standard composed by Thelonious Monk, part of almost every mainstream jazz bands repertoire,” says Colin. “The version on top of the internet jazz charts, originated out of Jazz Goa’s studio in Sangolda.

This is a global project that’s going to be continuously updated with soloists from all over India and around the world. The first couple of minutes recorded so far have Chrystal Farrell on vocals, Bosco D’Souza on cajun drum, Sancho Menezes on piano and Colin D’Cruz on bass along with the first online collaborator Srinjay Banerjee from Kolkata on guitar. Along the course of time the track will evolve into a fifteen to twenty minute rendition with jazz virtuosos from all over the world contributing their solos online.”

Chrystal counts Adele, Ella Fitzgerald and Miriam Makeba among her favourite singers.

Does she drink or do drugs? “I drink the occasional glass of beer at events, to keep my throat hydrated. I don’t do any drugs. Music is my profession, my only means of putting my daughter through school. I have to concentrate on what I am doing,” says this doting mother of a four year old daughter.

Do fans and fellow musicians hit on her with unwanted affections?

“Sometimes at jazz events you get the elderly gents who are appreciative, and at clubs and parties you get the younger, aggressive crowd. I have my performing persona on stage, but off stage people find me quite reserved. After our show is over, we pack up and leave, we never hang on there.”

But the show goes on for Chrystal Farrell. She is working on a new song titled ‘Song For You’, a collaboration with M’tafiti and other colleagues. That’s one hell of a strong jazzwoman. Respect!  To see video of Chrystal Farrell performing, be sure to log onto www. goastreets.com.

6 The Lowdown

BJP Kingmakers in Goa Amidst Modi Suspense

By Ashley Do Rosario

B

haratiya Janata Party patriarch Atal Behari Vajpayee wasn’t sure he would go on to become India’s Prime Minister when he sipped tender coconut water on Miramar beach that cold December night, two decades ago.

He was Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha alright, what with the BJP riding the crest of the Ayodhya movement then. But a mere “let’s see” was his response to a pointed query of journalists who mingled freely with him and the other 200-odd delegates when the BJP National Executive met in Goa for the first time ever in 1994.

Circa 2013: The BJP National Executive meets in Goa again for a third time.This time, however, there’s no Vajpayee-like coyness among a significant section of the party’s top guns over projecting Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi as the party’s Prime Ministerial candidate in the run-up to next year’s General Election.

Goa’s health minister, Laxmikant Parsekar,

sent tongues wagging when he made a cryptic comment that the deliberations in the BJP National Executive to be held this weekend in Goa could “send out signals” that Mr Modi will be the party’s Prime Ministerial candidate in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

The statement made at a news conference early this week by Parsekar, who’s a member of the BJP National Executive and president of the Goa state unit twice, gave rise to myriad news stories extending the ongoing speculation around the Gujarat leader’s nomination for the country’s top political post.

The BJP is the only party which follows the strategy of projecting a prime ministerial candidate in advance of the polls, although India’s electoral laws do not require it. Under the current electoral scheme, the Prime Minister is chosen by the directly elected MPs of the party or alliance that wins a majority in the 540-member Lok Sabha elections.

In the general elections held in 1996, 1998, 1999 and 2004, the saffron party had projected Atal Behari Vajpayee. He eventually did go on to become the Prime Minister at the end of the first three general elections as head of BJP-led coalitions (in 1996 however he lasted only 13 days and quit after he failed to drum up support of more fringe parties in a hung Parliament). In 2004, the party suffered a shocking defeat and

lost its status as the largest party after Congress.

The story repeated in 2009 when LK Advani was projected as the Prime Ministerial candidate and the party lost again.

Officially, the question of finalising the leader who will be projected as Prime Minister at the next election does not figure in the agenda of the Goa meet. Not in the national executive meeting on Friday-Saturday and not even in the workers convention slated for Sunday.

That, according to senior BJP leaders, is the prerogative of the Parliamentary Board.

According to BJP national general secretary Smriti Irani, who was in Goa a few days ago, on the agenda of the Goa meet are issues related to the country’s national security which popped up following the recent Chinese incursions in Ladhak and the dastardly ambush by Maoists that claimed lives of top Congress leaders in Chattisgarh, in addition to corruption (with which the party hopes to pin down the Congress) and the general political scenario in the country.

Yet there’s enough hint that Mr Modi’s shadow would loom large over the deliberations from insignia, including posters where his is the only image of a BJP CM visible.

Also, party officials announced that the Gujarat CM will be the only one among half-a-dozen BJP CMs in the country who will address the National Executive. Not even Manohar Parrikar, who in an interview with Streets last December did not rule out taking up the job of Prime Minister if destiny propelled him to it, has this privilege, despite being the top political executive of the host state. 

‘What’s in it for Goa?’

Goa’s special status demand may figure in deliberations As top BJP national leaders converge on Goa this weekend, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar is expected to prop up the issue of Goa’s demand for ‘special status’ during the political deliberations.

Although Parrikar has not spelt out his strategy over raising the demand during his party’s national meetings here, the Goa BJP chief, Vinay Tendulkar categorically said it would be done.

“Goa’s special status demand will be discussed with our party’s national office bearers. We will ask them to pursue it vigorously with the Central government,” Tendulkar, a former legislator, told Streets.

The Parrikar government sprung a surprise in the budget session of the Goa legislative assembly when it piloted a resolution pressing for special status under provisions of Article 371 of the Indian Constitution. Special status under this provision entails certain curbs on buying and selling of land in the state and also grants it benefits in devolution of central funds for development.

The Lowdown Do you eat to live or do you live to eat? This week’s cover story is designed for those of us in the latter category – people for whom eating is much more than just nourishment. It’s true that food doesn’t have to be expensive to be good. But it’s also true that very expensive food can be really good. In this edition of Streets, we decided to take you on a little tour of some of Goa’s most luxurious culinary delights – from lobster thermidor to ravioli with rare black truffles to Japanese-style Yellow Fin tuna. In addition to providing some mouth watering suggestions, we hope our story will help shed light on exactly why Goa is fast becoming the culinary capital of India.

There’s something else that sets this issue of Streets apart. We didn’t actually plan for this to happen, but as we were laying out this edition, we realized that three of our stories deal with extraordinary women: a painter, a writer and a singer. What do Loretti Pinto, Sheela Jaywant and Chrystal Farrell have in common?

For one, stunning talent. For another, an ability to make outstanding contributions to the artistic and cultural life of Goa. We hope you enjoy reading about these three wonderful ladies as much we enjoyed interviewing them.

On these pages you will also find a dose of politics, some sassy relationship advice, in addition to stories about coconut trees and a new suicide hotline and the outspoken Calangute MLA Michael Lobo.

The monsoons are upon us. But that hasn’t kept us from providing you with comprehensive listings on everything there is to see, do and eat in Goa – come rain or shine. And that there are so many places to list – from nightclubs to restaurants to museums to galleries – is a testament to the fact that Goa truly has become a year-round destination. The rains are here. The land is turning green. It’s a season of renewal. Soon, we’ll be making some announcements that will show this is true not just for Goa, but for Goa Streets as well. Stay tuned!

The Goa Streets Team

Chief Advisor - Steven Gutkin Publisher - Marisha Dutt Editor - José Lourenço Senior Correspondent - Ashley Do Rosario Business Manager - Praveen P Sales Executive - Rajeev Radhakrishnan Sales Executive - Kedar Prabhugaonkar Data Entry Operator - Radhika Naik Photographer - Arun Pavaratty Administrative Assistant - Nilesh Shetgaonkar

Feature 7

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Coconut Trees Under Threat Nothing is more Goan, but will they last forever?

By Jonathan Rodrigues

N

othing of a coconut tree ever goes to waste. Right from the trunk that gives roof rafters to the nut that makes our curries tastier, the coconut tree sways in riches. The tender fruit is solidly coated, keeping the silky meat and shimmering water fresh as ever. It is no wonder then that those with huge coconut plantations were called bhatkars (landlords).

They undoubtedly possessed an asset that would give them food, water, shelter and security.

As surprising as it may sound, the coconut trees that we take so much for granted as a ubiquitous symbol of Goa, could be under threat in the near future. Due to an acute shortage of coconut pluckers and toddy tappers, many coconut farms are deteriorating and new plantations are few.

Though statistics show the total number of trees holding steady, a lack of sustained care has agriculturists worried.

Coconut cultivation is subjected to risk to climatic changes, natural disasters, pests diseases etc. In a bid to promote coconut farming, the government has even introduced insurance schemes for coconut palms. The government gives a support price of Rs 8 per coconut. That means if the market price is 3 rupees, the government pays out an additional Rs 5 per coconut to the farmers.

This huge amount of tax payers money shelled out as subsidy is justified only if it helps to maintain the picturesque palm fringed landscapes of Goa that have made our state a top tourist destination.

But looking around, one can see that most bhatkars (who are busy collecting subsidies) have virtually abandoned their coconut plantations and hardly anyone is putting up new saplings.

“The support price for coconut therefore has to be necessarily linked to the maintenance of coconut plantations.

Otherwise it only amounts to precious tax payers’ money being misused to support the lifestyles of the rich!” opines George Fernandes, who runs an ad agency in Cansaulim.

However, any alarm about dwindling coconut palms is dismissed by the Department of Agriculture. “The area under cultivation is certainly on a steady increase,” says a clerk at the department. “Maybe the older trees are not taken care of, but there are a lot of new and exotic species being brought in …”

Records show very little change over the years in the number of coconut trees in Goa.

In 2000-01 the area under coconut cultivation was 25,025 hectares, with a production of 125.12 million nuts. In 2011-2012 there were 25,730 hectares under cultivation with a production of 129.28 million nuts.

“One can see Tender coconut vending carts on the highways and in every nook and corner, which in itself is a good thing because tender coconut water has many health benefits as opposed to aerated drinks which are unhealthy. But the sad part is that most of these tender coconuts come from across the state borders. The State Government should ban this import as Goa is abundantly blessed with coconuts of much better quality,” opines George. However Mr Thadeo Rodrigues, the deputy director of the agriculture department says, “It is a good idea, but we are not selfsufficient to ban exports. In Goa, coconut is very much part of our diet and we use it for domestic purposes to the extent that there isn’t enough for sale. The demand doesn’t meet the supply.”

“We encourage people to grow the crop which is locally found in Benaulim and Calangute, which are the best,” he assures.

“The Government is also aiding coconut pluckers by conducting courses recently at Ella Farm, Old Goa and Netravali. Under the coconut Board scheme, we have also invested in new climbing equipment which makes the job more secure.”

If effective measures are not taken to safeguard the coconut tree, the beautiful landscape of our state dominated by tall swinging palm trees could drastically change.

Formerly locals would rush to plant new saplings at the first showers, but this rush has now mellowed down, if not vanished. An officer at the Zonal Agricultural Department in Margao blames this on the lack of pluckers and toddy tappers.

The same source is quick to add, “The Government is doing its bit, but today’s generation doesn’t want to take up a job on the tree. The horticulture department does conduct training sessions for coconut plucking and toddy tapping but the percentage of people who attend is reducing every year.”

Coconut pluckers today charge anything between 750 and 1000 rupees per session in addition to the coconuts they take. “It has become very expensive today, so if one has a big property with a many trees, then it is worth it. Also, the locals who would climb the tall swaying trees have now grown old and the younger lot who are usually non-Goans do not have the skill to ascend these lanky trees,” says Mr Jacques, a retired banker from Majorda. 

8 Explore

Drive to the South reveals unexpected treasure A stunning 407-year old house and its very proud owners

By Sanket Sharma and Richa Narvekar

O

n a recent drive to the village of Loutolim in South Goa, we suddenly came across an imposing Indo-Portugese house that was unlike any other – to the point where it made us screech our car to a halt. There was something particularly regal about this beautiful and stately home. Our immediate reaction was to wish we could get a little tour. Almost at the same time, a middle aged lady waved at us from the imposing balcao.

Without much hesitation, she invited us in and informed us that it was a functioning museum. What luck!

The house is a true example of the proper ‘Luso Goan’or Indo-Portuguese style, with one storey built under expansive tiled roofs, and a long stretching front-facing verandah on either side of the balcao, lined with a series of double doors that opened to the ‘salas’ inside. We learnt that it was built in two stages. To the right was the older part, built 407 years ago.

The left wing was built two centuries later, and was thereby 200 years old (and is ironically called ‘novem ghor’, new house). Our guide explained that the house is one of the biggest in Goa, which we could not contest.

As we waited for her mother, who would give us a personal tour of the house, our conversation with the lady began to carry us back in time, to a culture repossessed, to values and ideals long forsaken. She told us that they had been pressured to sell the house many times, and as the whole family was now settled in Portugal, it was quite a convenient proposition, but her 83-year-old mother, the next

heir to the house, staunchly stood her ground and refused. The house was their family’s heritage and held the memories and dreams of all their ancestors.

The decision not to sell is particularly noteworthy given that it would fetch multiple crores on the market, showering the family with funds.

Soon we were introduced to Maria de Lourdes Figueiredo de Albuquerque, the lady’s mother, a charming old lady, who led us through a high-spirited tour of the house. “No pictures please,” she warned us curtly. Our elderly guide was not only extremely active and energetic, but also blessed with a fantastic memory. As she took us from room to room, she wove seamlessly between stylistic details of the house and cute little anecdotes about her learned and aristocratic family. It was clear that both women were avid proponents of a belief seldom seen these days in Goa: that life was better under the Portuguese.

All of the rooms had tall ceilings with beautiful motifs and wall borders painted into the stucco. The ceiling was made with well preserved wood slats, some in a cross hatched pattern, allowing air to reach the tiled roof. In the central court garden, Maria pointed out vents under the plinth, which allowed air to circulate through the house and was largely responsible for the fact that the house never really grew hot. No portion of the interior of the 200-year-old house had ever been restored or replaced!

While comparing the windows of the two portions of the house (old and new), Maria pointed out that all the windows were made in the Baroque style but that the older house had windows with oyster shell screens, as there was no glass available when it was built, and that this was a practice unique to Goa.

A question about whether the beautiful old prayer room, with its fantastic altar was still used, was met with a prompt “Of course!” She said “Perhaps not much, but we do still pray, my child!”

Maria nonchalantly waved us across ‘French style armchairs’ and ‘English style sofas’ all carved out of wood with nylon matted surfaces. Louis the XV furniture and porcelain from Japan, China, Persia and England, all seemed to have very minute differences to us, but were apparently worlds apart, and often one of a kind pieces, as informed by Maria. A chest of drawers that occupies a prime spot in the hall had an intricate surface made from four different kinds of timber and ivory, all inlaid by hand! It is one of only 10 such pieces in the world, and this is the only one with wood carved lions at its four feet.

Next was a music room, which had a few paintings of her family members who she said were all lawyers. Then came the dining room, which had a lot of oriental crockery of different kinds. The dining

room accommodated large numbers of people, who would visit the family for various functions. After that we entered the last room of the house, where we saw 80-year-old Japanese kimonos owned by Maria’s late mother, and a camera from the early 1900s, among other things.

During the tour, she also told us of her upbringing and how she had spent 62 years of her life abroad. She explained that her only motive to come back was to save this house. A treasure like this, she said, needs to be preserved. The government of Goa hasn’t been of much help, and instead of a formal ticket system, they keep a donation box for the visitors, where they expect Rs 150 a person. She said previous Chief Ministers had turned their back on her but that she hopes the present government would help her in preserving the house. Our tour was over by now, and we had certainly made an unexpected yet pleasant afternoon out of this. 

9 Thursday, June 6, 2013

June 8 to June 31 Workshop on the Basics of Handwriting analysis and Cookery classes Specializing in grill and roasting methods At villa spice aquarious kad developers, Marna, Siolim @ 10 am to 12 pm and 4 pm to 6 pm +919975986938

June 6 -11 Garment and Linen care workshop At St. Inez, Panjim @ 3 pm to 5 pm +919423883396

June 6 & June 7 Embroidery Workshop At Naree Artisans Movement, St.Inez, Panjim @ 3 pm to 5 pm +919423883396

June 7 to June 9 Crafting Fiction At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula @ 3 pm to 6 pm +918322452805-10

August 11 to 18 August Monsoon retreat The 8 limbs of Yoga At Sushumna Yoga, Morjim @ 12 pm +919923219230

June 15 to July Language Courses For the Monsoons Communicare Trust is offering language courses in Portuguese and Konkani in Dona Paula, Margao and Vasco.

Also offering German and Spanish in Dona Paula, Spanish in Mapusa and Spoken English and Marathi in Vasco. +919822586058/+918975440381

Until June 11 Magsons announces the Reduce, Recycle & Reward campaign on World Environment Day At Magsons, Panjim @ 2 pm to 5 pm +919370491214

Every Friday Free Swimming Guidance Organised by Walter Macarena At International Center Goa, Dona Paula from 5 pm to 7 pm +919822911161

Every Sunday Tailoring Classes Near Holy Family School, Porvorim From 3 pm to 6 pm +919765731003

Everyday

Yoga for the Body, Mind & Soul

By Ms. Hoor Girglani Monday to Friday At International Centre Goa, Dona Paula @ 8 am to 9.30 am & 5 pm to 6.30 pm +919765404391/ +918322452805-10

Want to be Fit & Healthy

Presented by Calburn Fitness Solutions in association with the ICG At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula. +919811511595/ +919823578880

Tuk Tuk

From apparel to jewellery, bags to accessories, everything at Tuk Tuk is handpicked from across India. At A104, Pereira Plaza, Opp. Hospicio, Margao @ 10.30 am 1 pm & 4.30 pm to 6.30 pm +919049017182

Monday & Friday

Taekwondo Sessions

Martial Arts, Fitness, Health & Self-defence Trainer: Vincent Rosario, Introductory Fee: Rs. 400 per month At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula @ 5.15 pm to 6.15 pm +919823696138

Spice Farms

Tropical spice plantation

Elephant rides, authentic Goan cuisine, mini bird sanctuary and a boat to row or paddle.

At Arla Bazar Keri, Ponda Call: +918322340329 or Email: tropicalspice@rediffmail.com

Sahakari Spice Farm

Guests are entertained by folk dances, elephant rides, art of climbing the tall betel nut palms and swinging from one stalk to the other. Lunch in earthen pots and banana leaves.

At Ponda Belgaum highway, Curti.

Call: +918322312394 or Email: info@ sahakarifarms.com

Savoi Plantation

Dolphin Sighting Trip

Four to five hours trip includes Bbq, Free beers and soft drinks. Also offers No See – No Pay policy as far as dolphin sighting is concerned.

Sinquerim – Baga beach stretch +91 9822182814/ +918326520190 or johnsboattours@gmail.com

Splashdown

Water Park that boasts of 5 pools, a variety of slides, flumes and other interesting features. At Splashdown Waterpark, Calangute-Anjuna +91 9637424023/024, +918322273008,

Museums Goa Chitra

Ethnographic museum that preserves its universality in its collections of artifacts representing the culture of ancient Goa. At Goa Chitra, Mondo-Waddo, Benaulim @ 9 am to 5 pm +91 9850466165/ +918326570877, Email: goachitra@gmail.com

Big Foot Cross Museum

Houses 80 classifications of crosses of around the world.

At Big Foot, Loutolim @ 10 am to 5 pm +918322777034

Ancestral Goa

A center for Preservation & Promotion of Art, Culture & Environment started by Maendra J. A. Alvares. At Big Foot, Loutolim @ 9.30 am to 6 pm +918322777034, info@ancestralgoa.com

Casa Araujo Alvares

Goa`s first automated sound and light museum.

A 250 year old mansion showcasing traditional inheritance.

At Loutolim @ 9.30 am to 5.30 pm +918322777034

Offers traditional Goan Saraswat cuisine served in mud pots and banana leaf plates along with seasonal fruits grown in the plantation.

At Ponda +918322340272/ +919423888899 or Email: savaiplantation@rediffmail.com

Courses LANGUAGES

Water sports

Learn French courses, Panjim 2420049/ +91 9922813950

Scuba Diving

Attractive corals, coloured and beautiful, shells and fishes all invite exploration.

At Scuba Diving India, Alfran Plaza, M.G. Rd, Panjim @ 9 am to 5 pm. +918326711999

Alliance Francaise St. Britto

Learn French, Mapusa 2293812/ +91 9049018214

Bertha Pereira Cooking Classes

Fatima’s Ballroom Dance Classes

Vandana’s Bakery Classes

Maxie’s Guitar and Dance Classes

2734589. Margao

Caranzalem. 2462163

Meena’s Cooking Classes

Margao. 2786191

Panjim. 2230178

Caranzalem. 2462163

Osler Furtado Dance Classes

GESTO Culinary & Hospitality Academy

Simply Ballroom,

Margao, 2730873

Branca’s Cooking Classes Panjim +91 9822131835

David Furtado Dance & Aerobics

Porvorim. 9822481695

The Western Dance Academy Vasco. 2528272

Raeconz

Porvorim. 9923826572

@ Panjim, Mapusa, Porvorim, Candolim, Aldona and Saligao.

Learn Salsa, Jive Waltz for Adults & Bollywood, Hip Hop & Contemporary dance for kids +91 9975914195

Music

Fatima Moniz

Porvorim. 9822386385

Cooking courses, Margao.

2776035/ +91 9370275702

Dance

Dance for Life Academy Mapusa +91 9823765523

Cyrus Da Costa Dance Classes Monday to Saturday Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot, Cha Cha Cha, Jive, Margao 2715906/ 9921039537

Dr. Martin & Dance Illusions Team

@ Panjim, Vasco, Margao Waltz, Jive, Cha ChaCha, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Salsa +91 9823014397

David Furtado Dance & Aerobics @ Panjim, Mapusa, Porvorim, Candolim, Aldona and Saligao.

Learn Salsa, Jive Waltz for Adults & Bollywood, Hip Hop & Contemporary dance for kids +91 9975914195

Cyrus Da Costa Dance Classes

Monday to Saturday Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot, Cha Cha Cha, Jive, Margao 2715906/ 9921039537

Jason and Sylvia dance academy

Rhythm House Margao. 2714299

Binow Zacharia music classes B X Furtado and Sons Margao. 2715719

Pilar Music School Pilar. 2218595

Bondo Percussion Porvorim. 6452492 Brianne Music Classes St. Cruz 9503968920 Diniz’s Piano Practice Parlour Panjim. 2430943 Gabriel Music Classes Calangute. 9850463544 Indo-Western Music Academy Margao. 9890942949 Joe Gonsalves Guitar/Piano Panjim. 9850339418 Maesto Camilo Xavier’s School of Music Margao. 2714656 Maestro Fernando Music Academy Panjim. 9890008424 Molly’s Music Classes Panjim. 9822137298

Odxel. Beginner’s German language course

Hip/Hop, Bollywood, Latin American, Jazz Ballet for Kids Panjim/Mapusa 9822161652/9822151614

A dive shop and training centre established

by Ajey Patil - marine engineer, naturalist, raconteur and PADI certified dive instructor.

At O’ Pescador Resort, Dona Paula, Panjim. +91 9325030110

COOKING

Snaden Shawn dance and aerobics

Margao +91 9970037242

Learn dancing Mapusa 9890163433/7798609859

Barracuda Diving India

Cooking Classes for foreigners

Nritya Sankul

Margao 9823936483/9689468712

Ronnie’s Guitar Classes Porvorim. 2410339

Taeng’s Cookery Classes

Kalangan

Savio Noronha (Classical) Panjim. 2540532

Fatima Menezes E Moniz

Asha Shivam

Solfa Music Classes Mapusa. 2212166

Cynthia D’Souza Cooking Classes

Dance Illusions

St John Baptist Music Academy Mapusa. 2252717

Dive Goa

Pool parties and underwater celebrations among other water sports activities.

At Sun Village Resort, Baga, Arpora & Chalston Beach Resort, Calangute +918322269409/ +91 9822182402

Goa Aquatics

Offers Scuba Diving Equipment retail at competitive international price. At Little Italy, Opp Tarcar Ice Factory, Calangute +91 9822685025

Don Bosco Provincial House

Theresa’s Cookery Classes

Detroit Institute +91 9822131835.

Margao +91 9822585944

Cooking classes, Raia. 2776035 Verna. 2783281

Margao. 2735191 Porvorim. 2410357

Panjim 9823014397

N E Diniz Music Institute Margao. 2738645 Peter Nazareth Music Centre Mapusa. 2253936 Placido’s Music Classes Near Panjim. 2218402 Quadros Music Classes Margao 2787043

Thursday, June 6, 2013

June 19

Natyageet Contest

At Anant Temple Precincts, Mangueshi @ 6 pm. +919527166018

June 23

Leap of Joy

At Santa Monica, Panjim @ 10 am to 4 pm +918322438754/+918322438754

June 6 to June 10 Pretty home exhibition At BPS Sports clube, Margao +919822937100

June 28 to June 30 Marathi Films Festival At Maquinez Palace, Panjim At Kala Academy, Panjim At Inox, Panjim +919822100567

Everyday

Art Chamber

Casa Popular

Galleria de Belas Artes At Gauravaddo, Calangute @ 10 am to 1 pm & 4 pm 8 pm +918322277144

At Municipal Market, Panaji +918322262135

Gallery Gitanjali

Ruchika’s Art Gallery

At Opp Panaji Inn, Fontainhas From 9 am to 9 pm. +919823572035

Ruchika`s Art Gallery displays fine arts, performing arts and new forms of art.

Opp. Goa Marriott Resort, Miramar. From 10.30 am to 6 pm. +918322465875/ +919850571283/ +919881836400

Yemanja Art Gallery Painting Art Gallery At Betim, Reis Magos +918322416930

Carpe Diem

Carpe Diem, a newly opened art and learning centre in Majorda.

At Majorda From 10 am to 6 pm +918888862462

Surya Art Gallery

Here contemporary works of canvas paintings on Goan subject and art crafts are displayed.

At Bandawalwada, Pernem +919404149764

Kerkar Art Gallery

Installations and sculptures and paintings by Dr.Subodh Kerkar. It also showcases works by contemporary artists from all over India.

At Gauravaddo, Calangute From 10 am to 7 pm +918322276017

Panaji Art Gallery

Promotes Goan Art Figurative and individual works of artists.

At Panaji Art Gallery From 9 am to 8 pm. +919822168703

Xavier centre of historical research

With particular emphasis on contemporary cultural and social issues affecting the State of Goa. At B B Borkar Rd, Porvorim +918322417772

Exhibition of paintings

Art Escape

Art Escape Goa is a knowledge sharing our of home experience through learn-by-doing workshops which include painting, Pottery, photography, theatre, dance, films, yoga, recycling & waste Management.

At Art Escape, Benaulim +919892286666/ +919881568756/ +919323590051

The Gallery displays paintings on canvas of original art & international print arts. It also showcases works by contemporary artists from India & abroad.

At Arte Douro Art Gallery, Calangute from 9 am to 9 pm +919822147148

Big Foot Art Gallery

Display of works by various artists from India and abroad.

At Big Foot Art Gallery, Loutolim From 9 am to 6 pm +918322777034

Warrior Artist Loretti Pinto

By José Lourenço

T

he sharp-toothed claws of four excavators reach out greedily in a painting by Loretti Joyce Pinto of Siridao. These earth moving machines are synonymous with mining in Goa, as well as the ruthless destruction of sand dunes and paddy fields. In another work ‘Goa To China’, gaping wounds of a mine in Goa lead to barges and on to the high-tech towers of China’s modern cityscape.

There is no escaping the anguish and rage that haunts Loretti’s painting. This young artist graduated from the Goa College of Art in 2003, and then completed her Master’s degree at the Maharaja Sayajirao University at Baroda. Her artistic ouvre covers media from charcoal, pencil and dry pastels on paper to watercolours, etchings and acrylics on canvas.

Loretti, a shy and unassuming woman, is a member of Goenchea Xetkarancho Ekvott, a group that is fighting industrial and private projects that imperil agricultural lands in Goa. She maintains a low profile, preferring to focus on empowering villagers whose lives and lands are at stake.

“When I visited mining areas, I found the people protesting there every day,” says the soft spoken artist. “Everything was covered

Flight to Paris

Arts&Entertainment 11

Thursday, June 6, 2013

with orange dust. A traditional house would be standing alone, with excavation going on around it. Children had to wade through mining debris to go to school.”

Their protests brought on warnings, threats and bribe offers from the project owners. “The mining lobby forces its victims to wear masks, they can’t breathe, and then they stifle our voice as well.

Crores of tonnes of our Goan soil was being taken to China, where the wonders of the world are being built. And what happened to us in Goa? We have no land, no trees, no paddy fields.”

Another painting ‘Make Hay While They Are Fast Asleep’ shows a cash-rich seductress tempting a farmer with a gold casket with heavy chains attached, while his wife and daughters sleep unknowing.

Loretti is a meticulous painter. She throws open her drawing cabinet to show me sketches that range from college days to her travels in France, where her parents live and work. Anatomical studies are in plenty. Figures of a clenched fist, sleeping women, tired men and even a sketch of Michelangelo show that Loretti takes her drawing very seriously. I see a drawing of the three sleeping women, a study for the Make Hay painting, and am struck by the play of light on their faces, reflecting even their troubled dreams.

Loretti has watched her fishing village change. The exodus of young Sirdonnkars to France, UK and other parts of Europe is captured in her painting ‘Flight To Paris’. A huge oil on canvas, it shows two contrasting queues of people. One line of men strains to pull in a fishing boat and another shows men and women standing in line at an airport counter, getting ready to fly, or perhaps flee.

But she is also proud of her people.

“They are survivors. Our men could climb coconut trees, pull in nets, work in fields. They would go to work at 3 o’clock in the morning. News reporters come to our village at 10 o’clock, see no one around and then call Siridao a sleepy little village! What cheek! The kids from fishing families would help their parents at work and then attend school, they would feel sleepy and couldn’t concentrate. They had so much traditional knowledge. Our universities could have learned from them and gained. Instead we are taught by rote, and to seek white collar jobs.”

“Our boys went to France and survived there. They didn’t know French, but learned it. They supported Goan agitations from their expat lands...the Konkani language agitation...they helped our ailing tiatro artistes.”

I appreciate a watercolour of ramponnkars, traditional fishermen, on her wall. How does she paint, I ask. Does she paint on location, or use photographs?

“I first capture the movement of the scene and characters by pencil on paper, based on how I want to show the image.

Or I ask my models to pose accordingly.

Photographs then help to add in details.

Just photos alone always distort the image, they don’t give you the movement or the line that you want to capture.”

As we chat in Konkani, Loretti pulls out a work titled ‘Io Ami Kombeani Kellum-ia’. This refers to a game that

Make Hay While They Are Fast Asleep Academy choir. In Indian art, it is believed that an artist must paint, sculpt, sing, dance...Painting after all is frozen music.

And architecture is the culmination of them all, art, music, sculpture and dance.”

I look around her studio apartment at Siridao, at the watercolours of houses and paddy fields, at the mining horrors, at fishermen lost in work, at a charcoal face that screams like Edvard Munch, at a little girl pouring rice water into a pig’s trough, and I am truly blown. I am humbled. This artist walks the talk. She is shy and reclusive, and yet a warrior.

Her fingers and hands are slender and light, but they have the strength of the muscular limbs of her anatomical studies.

Rage, rage, against the dying of the light...that’s what Loretti Pinto seems to tell us. 

children play, using two gulmohur stems with pods (bonge, in Konkani) attached.

A tussle between the combatants ends up with one pod losing its head. Loretti is absolutely at ease with Konkani, talking softly in a Bardezi dialect. She is enigmatic, her face looks like a Goan Mona Lisa, I tell her so, and Mona Lisa smiles.

She is equally at ease sketching Gothic churches and houses at Rue Hoche or Chateau Vincennes in France. The black ink drawings are very impressionistic.

She talks about sketching a church in Wales. “My pen froze in the cold,” she says. “So did my bottom. I was sitting on a granite slab over a grave.”

“They are all gone,” she says every now and then. She is referring to the models who posed for her paintings. Her

childhood girlfriends, the men pulling at the fishing nets, they have all emigrated to Europe on the wings of Portuguese passports. She shows a sadness, but a calm acceptance as well.

Is it all dark in Loretti’s world? Will all her vigils with the protesting, truckblockading women at Bicholim, and the fighting against field-filling mega projects in the scattered villages eventually drive her to despair?

“My father fought during the Opinion Poll in Goa, my grandmother was a midwife who delivered and healed sick babies and their mothers. My family has always helped people in need. I have to do this.”

Is there time to do anything else in her life, other than art and activism? “I like to sing,” she smiles. “I sing with the Kala

12 Cover Story

By Pedro Menezes

10 Truly Luxurious Dishes in Goa

E

ver hear about the guy who likes to order a fish thali plate and then mix all the components in the middle of his plate, gobbling it all down as a single, indistinguishable blend before declaring, “It all ends up in the same place anyway”? Our cover story this week is not for this fellow.

This is a story for people who appreciate food. Really appreciate it. Here, we’re talking about heavenly concoctions that are to be savored and loved. Dishes that transform you and take you to a better place. Our sunny state has become a Mecca for these kinds of foods. Many of them are expensive because of imported ingredients or simply because of the expertise that goes into their preparation.

With a large number of foodie Goans as well as jet-setters coming down to party here, there’s no dearth of takers for these special dishes.

Seafood, of course, tops the list, with lobster at the top of the heap. These crustaceans come in three different sizes, large, medium and small, so the prices vary depending on the catch.

Tiger prawns follow along with giant crabs. Then come the imported meats like Kobe beef from Japan, duck breasts from France, lamb from Australia and New Zealand, smoked salmon from Norway, cheeses from Europe, truffles… the list goes on. These dishes can be found in Goa’s huge array of restaurants, be it European, Asian, fusion, Indian or others – for a price, of course. If you’re in the mood to splurge, check out these suggestions for a truly plush culinary experience.

Mixed Seafood Platter

Anywhere you go in Goa, a Mixed Seafood Platter is often the most expensive dish on the menu. This is because tourists, specially the highflying types, understand that seafood and Goa are inextricably linked. That’s

turn to page 14

Chicken and Scampi

Bistro Chicken

14 Feature from page 12 the backdrop to some of the incredibly expensive seafood available all along Goa’s coastal tourist belt. Now if you’re not accustomed to the world of breakthe-bank dining, brace yourself for this one. A Seafood Platter at Club Fresh in Morjim will set you back between Rs 10,000- 15,000 per portion, depending on the time of the season. It’s a favourite with the glam set. The platter offers a mix of tiger prawns, crabs, lobster, the works, all done in a subtle Oriental style.

A Seafood Platter at Hype in Baga during peak season costs even more. That’s not all, there are many other dishes like the Carpaccio which also cost a few thousand rupees. But then when you’re a millionaire what’s a few thousand bucks?

Surf’N’Turf

The Surf’N’Turf – a medium-grilled lobster with a nice fat steak – in Baga costs between Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000, depending on the season. The dish is one of Fiesta restaurant proprietor Yellow’s signature dishes and is a fusion of French, Mediterranean and other European cooking styles, and the taste definitely falls into the “heavenly” category. The flavours explode in the mouth and the experience lingers long after you’ve wiped your plate clean. Surf’N’Turf is available at lots of other coastal restaurants as well.

Lobster Thermidor

This is the classic lobster dish and is often the most expensive dish in a restaurant. Like with many other classic French dishes, the preparation is very elaborate – far more elaborate than the effort it takes to down it in an explosion of sinful pleasure. The classic Thermidor, invented in 1894 in honour of a play called ‘Thermidor’, by

a Parisian restaurant, is basically lobster cooked with cheese, egg yolks and cognac, after having been cut into pieces. But there are many variations of this, with different chefs using different types of cheese and other ingredients. Some use Gruyère and others Bechamel. It’s the most expensive dish at Souza Lobo’s in Calangute where they do a superb one with Bechamel cheese and select herbs. One portion will set you back by Rs 3,000.

Aragosta al Forno zaffarano

This is an Italian-style lobster served at the Il Camino at the Vivanta Fort Aguada. It’s grilled with pistachio and mint and served in a saffron sauce. Connoisseurs say it’s delectable. Only for Rs 1,850 plus taxes.

Ossobuco

This is yet another special dish at the Il Camino, one of the better Italian-Continental restaurants in Goa. The local version of Ossobuco, which is also available in some of the other five-star restaurants around the state, is braised Australian lamb shank with a risotto Milanese and served with a bundle of asparagus.

For Rs 1750 plus taxes.

Composition of Raw Yellow Fin Tuna (Tuna tartar, Tuna carpaccio, Tuna spring roll)

Almost all the ingredients are imported: Yellow fin tuna from Philippines. Wasabi paste from Japan. Organic baby lamb’s lettuce from Philippines. Organic baby rocket from Thailand. Organic red chard, spring roll wrapper. For carpaccio, Sashimi grade tuna, cut from the loin. The tuna has to be sliced as thinly as possible using a very sharp knife.

Many connoisseurs rate yellow fin tuna tartare and/or carpaccio amongst the best raw fish dishes available. If you’ve never had sushi or are a raw-fish virgin, this could be a good place to start.

The raw tuna is served slightly chilled and gets its kick from the spicy wasabi paste (spicy in a different, more nasal kind of way). The trio of raw Yellow Fin tuna is available at the Grand Hyatt in Bambolim for Rs 2,200 plus taxes. It’s a decent sized portion and is available from October to January only.

Organic Chicken with Steamed Langoustines

This dish with organic chicken breast, langoustines, organic spinach and other interesting ingredients is one of the

Tandoori Nisha Zafrani

specialties at the Verandah in the Grand Hyatt, langoustines being a type of lobster. According to their executive chef Shane O’Neill, all ingredients are sourced from within Goa itself. Available only from October to January, it will set you back by Rs 2,000 plus taxes.

Lobster Balchao

Some say this dish was one of the signature inventions of master chef Rego at the Taj Fort Aguada, now Vivanta.

Like with most fusion dishes, balchaos, too, have a complex history and are said to be derived from the south-east Asian ‘balichows’ or ‘balichaos’, a shrimp paste, which when it travelled with the Portuguese from Malacca and other such parts to Goa, became a prawn pickle with crushed dry shrimps used in making the masala. Goans have long been making balchao pickles of lobsters and tiger prawns.

Modern chefs seeking to create great tasting lobster dishes with a Goan flavour thus stumbled on Lobster Balchao, though the balchao sauce is now used lightly so that the succulent flavours of the lobster are not overpowered. The lobster is cut in two straight parts and then into smaller pieces and then cooked with the balchao sauce. Apart from looking and tasting great, it also smells great, a true feast for the senses.

The dish at some of Goa’s finer establishments can set you back by Rs 1800 plus taxes or more.

Ingredients include a good sized lobster, balchao paste, Goan toddy vinegar, dry shrimp, curry leaf, and are all sourced from within Goa.

Tender tiger prawns wrapped in a pastry crust and cooked in the tandoor.

Tiger prawns are the biggest in the business and have their own special flavor, which is given an extra dimension by the marinade of saffron eggs and yogurt and a host of other tandoori ingredients. Try it out at Latitude, the beachside coffee house at the Vivanta by Taj Village in Sinquerim.

Rs 1345 plus taxes

Raviolli di Cipolle e Porcini

Ravioli of caramelized onion and porcini with mascarpone-black truffle beurre blanc.

At more than 1,000 Euros for a kilo, truffles are amongst the most expensive ingredients used in cooking.

But then what is a special occasion without blowing a lot of money? For the uninitiated, truffles are a type of mushroom which actually grows in the soil in many parts of Europe and you need a pig’s snout to sniff them out. Their use in Italian and French cooking is a key reason these cuisines are considered among the best in the world. There’s something incredibly delicate and other wordly about the flavor of truffle. You can have a pasta with black truffles here in Goa at the Vivanta by Taj in Aguada. It’s called Raviolli di Cipolle e Porcini, ravioli being stuffed pastas. For Rs 775 plus taxes.

Malai Chingri

Bon vivants will recognize this as the Bengali dish of prawns, probably the most famous Bengali dish –Bongs being great seafood lovers like Goans. There are many versions, some of them exotic, like the prawns cooked inside the coconut shell, sealed, baked and wholly exquisite.

But they do it differently at the Spice Studio at the Alila Diwa. Although similar to the traditional Chingri Malai, this one is a dry version where the prawns are marinated with betel leaves for a particularly delicate flavour, along with extra virgin olive oil and green olives all blended together with lemon juice.

Because it’s dry, there’s no coconut milk involved. You can have it for Rs 575 plus taxes, a veritable bargain in the universe of luxury cuisine in Goa. 

15 Thursday, June 6, 2013

June 9

Lounge & Lunch @ The Sofala

Featuring live music by Jan Graveson (vocals) and Elvis Lobo (guitar) Join us for Goa’s most authentic Italian food at our new restaurant Mia Cucina Delicious homemade dishes and unlimited beer, wine, Sangria and selected cocktails for INR 1,000 plus tax per person Mia Cucina Restaurant at The Sofala, Bhattiwaddo, Nerul @ 12 pm to 4 pm +917774008822

June 11

Mia Cucina presents Pizza Feast @ The Sofala Unlimited pizza from our wood fired oven,beer, wine and Sangria for INR 1,000 plus tax per person Mia Cucina Restaurant at The Sofala, Bhattiwaddo, Nerul @ 8 pm to 11.30 pm +917774008822

June 6 to June 30 Diwa Brunch

Kids Eat Free promotion with Pan Asian and Coastal cuisine coupled with delectable desserts At Alila Diwa, Majorda village Salcete @ 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. +918322746800

Happy Hous on select brands At SFX, Fort Aguada beach resort, Candolim @ 12.30 p.m. +918326645858

Lunch & Dinner Buffet With Multi Cuisine At The Stone House, Fort Aguada Rd, Candolim @ 12.30 p.m. to 11.30 p.m. +918322479909

Lunch Buffet

With German Cuisine At Lila Cafe, Calangute @ 12.30 p.m. to 3.30 p.m. +919822150533

Multi Cuisine lunch and Dinner buffet At Cidade de Goa, Dona Paula @ 12.30 p.m. +919822130743

June 6 to August 31 Mango Fiesta

Enjoy mouth-watering mango milk shakes, aam panna, Spicy prawns with spicy papaya and mango salad, Goan Prawn mango curry, delicious mango–inspired desserts To exotic mango mojitos and coolers.

At Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim +918323011125

Everyday

Happy Hours

At Capiz Bar, Grand Hyatt Goa @ 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Enjoy 25% discount on non all beverages.

Time 11am-12 midniht stop food service, open everyday.

Happy Home hours, happier moments! delivery: 0832-2411959 & 9764159686 +91-832-3011125 Caterin Service Contact: Mr. Roland Rodrigues @ 9890422440

Pomfret fish stuffed with prawns

Souza Lobo

An old time favourite for Goan food

By Pedro Menezes

D

iehard fans might argue that the closest one can get to eating home-style Goan food in a restaurant would be eating out at Souza Lobo, the iconic and probably the oldest restaurant in Calangute. Started around 80 years ago, it is also probably the only Goan food restaurant based in Goa to have a branch outside the state, in New Delhi.

You cannot go wrong with the Goan food here. When you enter the spacious beachside restaurant, set in the verandah of a sprawling old Goan house, the delicious aromas will start to make your mouth water.

Find a seat facing the sea so you can enjoy the awesome sight and sound of the

turn to page 17

16 Food Every Sunday

The verandah view at Souza Lobo

Champagne Sunday Brunch

Enjoy brunch with French champagne with food from five interactive and live stations dishing out Asian, Italian, Middle Eastern, Indian Cuisine and desserts.

Rs. 2200 + taxes (includes buffet, champagne, wines and select drinks) At Grand Hyatt, Bambolim @ 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. +91-832-3011125

Sunday Live Brunch

Enjoy a Sunday Live brunch with live stations, a live band, best of live entertainment and an unlimited flow of wines! There’s live entertainment for kids too, including magicians, balloon sculpting and face painting, etc.

From 12:30 p.m. to 03:30 p.m.

At Waterfront Terrace & Bar, Goa Marriott Resort & Spa +918322463333

Sunday family brunches

“Rejuvenating cocktails, soul warming gourmet cuisine from around the world, activities to Keep the kids entertained and specially get in rhythm with Ashley.

At Latitude, Vivanta by Taj – Panaji @ 12.30 p.m. to 3.30 p.m. +918326633636.”

Baga, Calangute & around Eat Street

It’s a place to dine, drink and dance the night away, specializing in Multi- Cuisine At Calangute @ 24 hrs a day +918326636000

Casa Portuguesa

Housed in an 18th Century colonial house, it offers Portuguese cuisine along with some dishes reflecting Goan influences, complete with the pleasant ambience of Fado Music At Baga Rd. @ 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. +91 9822122960

Biryani Palace

Fish Tales

Italian cuisine with a blend of Italian imported ingredients and local organic produce.

At Resort Rio, Arpora @ 12.30 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. +918322267300

Specializing in Seafood At The Glitz, Calangute @ 12.30 p.m. to 2.30 p.m. & 7.30 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. +918322281800

Ciao Bella

Specialised in Italian Food At Assagao, Badem Rd. @ 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. +919767557673

Artjuna

Set up in an Old Portuguese house surrounded by a beautiful garden. The café serves up chilled café au lait, milkshakes, sandwiches, juices and baked goodies, homemade dips, iced lattes, blended coffees and more.

At Monteiro Waddo, Anjuna @ 9 am to 6 p.m. +918322274794

Flame

Multi- Cuisine Restaurant At Double tree by Hilton, Arpora, Baga @ 7 am to 11 p.m. +9183266556672

Anjuna & around

Alcove Restaurant and bar Specialising in Multi-Cuisine At Alcove Resort, Ozran beach, small Vagator, Anjuna @ 8 am to midnight +918322274491

At Anjuna beach road, Anjuna @ 11 am to midnight +918323257586

Mamma Mia

Blue Tao

Specialised in Italian, Seafood, Organic Food At Anjuna beach Rd., Anjuna From 9 am to 11 p.m. +918975061435

Candolim Flambé e

Specialised in Chinese, European, French, Goan, Indian At Souzawaddo, Candolim @ 9 am to 11 p.m. +919326114271

Chilihip

Specialised in Thai At Fort Aguada Road, Candolim @ Noon to 3 p.m., 6.30 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. +918888610500

Beach House

Specialised in Goan, Portuguese, Seafood At Vivanta Holiday Village, Sinquerim @ 7.30 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. +918326645858

O’Asia

Specializing in Pan Asian At The O Hotel, Dando, Candolim @ Noon to 3 p.m., 7.30 p.m. to 11 p.m. +918323047000

Panaji & around Coros Velvet

A multi cuisine fine dining restaurant specialised in ravioli, steaks and pasta At Miramar, Panjim @ Noon to 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. +918605020020

Giardini

Live Music on most nights, Specializing in Multi-cuisine At Curca, Bambolim @ 11.30 am to 11 p.m. +918805873335

Forrest Veg Food Court

Specializing in Chinese, Indian, Italian At Bhagwan Mahavir BAL Vihar, Panjim @ 11 am to 11 p.m. +918326454353

A’tona Bar and Restaurant

Specialised in Goan and Portuguese food At Carina Desa, Betim From 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. +919823129239

George Bar and Restaurant

Specializing in Goan, Seafood At near Mary Immaculate Conception church, Panjim @ 10 am to 3.30 p.m., 6.30 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. +918322426820

The Verandah

Is the signature grill restaurant, serving fresh Market produce of seafood, meat and vegetables. At Grand Hyatt, Bambolim @ 7 p.m. to 12 am +918323011658

Alfama

Well known for fado evenings At Cidade de Goa, Vainguinim Beach @ 7.30 p.m. to 11 p.m. +918322454545

Baba’s Wood Cafe

An Italian wine bar and restaurant with pizza oven and homemade gelato. Wide choice of pure Italian dishes with beef fillet and fish always on the menu.

12 p.m. to 3 p.m. & @ 6 p.m. Monday to Sunday.

Closed on Tuesday At Mala, Fontainhas, Panaji +918323256213/ +919923414098

Chilli ‘n’ spice

A carnival fusion cuisine, a bar to enlighten your spirits, Specialised in multiCuisine At Hotel Fidalgo, Panjim @ 7 p.m. to 2 am +918322226291

Tamari

“A Pan Asian restaurant serving Chinese, Thai & Japanese cuisine.

Specialty to try is the fine style Sushi.

At Vivanta by Taj – Panaji Lunch @ 12.30 p.m. to 03.00 p.m. and dinner @ 07.30 p.m. to 11.30 p.m. +918326633636.

Cantina Bodega

Pizzeria, bakery & cafe. Owner Vandana utilizes her expertise earned from her years as a top pastry chef in New York City.

At Sunaparanta Centre for the Arts, Altinho, Panjim @ 10 am to 7 p.m. +91 9011662233

A Pastelaria

Bakery & Confectionery Gateaux, Pastries and Cookies.

Chocolate and strawberry flavoured the mousses are soft and melting, a treat for the kids. Its maska all the way At Hotel Mandovi, Panaji From 9 am to 9 p.m. +918322426270/+918322426273

Courtyard

Specialised in world cuisine, fusion At Hotel Campal, Panjim @ 11 am to 3 p.m., 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. +919822384084

Global Shore Restaurant

Global Shore Restaurant is a multi-cuisine restaurant and we specialize in Goan Seafood/Chinese/Thai/Indian & Tandoor.

At Hotel chandrageet, Porvorim +91832 2414125/+9193731113205

Viva Panjim

Goan cuisine & seafood. Linda and Michael’s place has long been a favourite for those in search of very tasty Goan food.

At Fontainhas, Panjim @ 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. +918322422405/ +91 9850471363

Ritz Classic

Known for Goan fish curry rice and seafood.

Very popular for lunch, especially with the Panaji office crowd.

At 18th June Rd., Panaji @ 11 am to 11 p.m. +918326644796

Chulha

Indian Street food and Tandoor At Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim @ 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. +91832-3011125

O’ Coqueiro

Goan Cuisine in Porvorim, made famous not just by its tasty food but also as the place where international criminal Charles Sobhraj was arrested.

At NH 17 Rd, Porvorim @ 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. +918322417806/ +918322417271/ +918322417344

Food 17

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Pan Asian Bowl

Chinese, Malaysian & Thai cuisine. Some of the finest Asian food in Goa. At Miramar, Panjim @ 12.30 p.m. to 11 p.m. +91 9923499429/ +918326455547/ +918326455548

Entrance of Souza Lobo restaurant

City Pride

Specialised in Seafood At Opp. Vivanta by Taj, Panjim From 11 am to 11 p.m.

Cafe Mangii

Popular Dishes Risotto Champagne, Fusilli Mama Rosa, Baked Lasagna, Stuffed Chicken, Lobster Tail, Grilled Pork Rib, New Zealand Beef and Lamb and many more At Madhav Ashram Building, Panjim +919370898848/+918322230773

Delhi Darbar

Known for Tandoori, kebabs, biryanis & naans At M.G Rd Panjim @ 11.30 am to 11 p.m. +918322222544

Tea Cafe

Cakes, Coffee and other goodies. A newcomer to the Panjim cafe scene.

At Fontainhas, Panjim @ 11 am to 7 p.m. +918322223050

Barista Lavazza Outlet

Barista Lavazza’s famous beverages like Flavoured Hot Coffee, Cold Coffee, Hot Tea, Ice Tea, Mojito, Smoothie, Ice Cream Shakes, Juices. In bites section we offer Sandwiches, Calzones, Muffins and Cakes.

At Shop No. 15, 16, & 18, First Floor, Navelcar Trade Center, Opp. Azad Maidan, M G Road, Panjim +918322422130

Café Azul

All day dining restaurant offering buffet combo option.

At Cidade de Goa, Vainguinim Beach @ 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. +918322454545

Cafe Mojo

Arguably Panjim’s best pub. Innovative, fun and lively.

At Salida Del Sol Hotel, Panjim All day. +91 9850980091

Upper House

Goan and continental cuisine.

One of the tastier and more elegant restaurants of the capital.

Good bar, too.

At Panjim @ 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. +918322426475

Margao & around Boat Quay Grill

Specializing in World Cuisine, European, Grills At Royal Orchid beach resort, Uttorda @ 7 p.m. to midnight +918805013553

Fig & Olive

Flavours of the Mediterranean, Arabian & Italian. At Holiday Inn Resort, Cavelossim @ 9 am to 11 p.m. +918322871303

Bistro

At Alila Diwa Goa, Majorda @ 7 am to 10.30 p.m. +918322746800

Spice Studio

Goan dinner. Elegant outdoor restaurant in a well-appointed resort in the South.

At Alila Diwa, Majorda @ 7 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. +918322746800

Betty’s Place

Specializing European, Goan, Indian, Seafood At opp. Holiday inn Resort, Mobor, Cavelossim @ 6.30 p.m. to 11 p.m. +918322871038/+918322871456

Cafe Mardi Gras

24 hrs cafe serving seafood, Goan, North Indian, Coffee & snacks At Holiday Inn Resort, Cavelossim @ All day +918322871303

Shandong

Asian-cuisine restaurant with fine dining ambiance At Radisson Blu Resort Goa, Cavelossim Beach @ 11 am to 11 p.m.

6726666

Peppers

Known for steaks and other meat dishes At Pajifond, Margao @ 11.30 p.m. to 11 p.m. +91 9822133506

Gavin’s Restaurant & Pub

Specialised in Goan cuisine, Goan Curries, Cafreal At Verna, around a kilometre off NH-17 +919822177179

Upper Deck

Coffee shop offerings traditional coffee along with light snacks and drinks.

At Radisson Blu Resort Goa, Cavelossim Beach @ all day +918326726666

China Gate

Dedicated Chinese Cuisine At Fatima High School, Margao @ 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. +918322704655

from page 15 huge waves crashing on Calangute beach and get a drink. They have an extensive bar menu with a never-ending list of wine, whiskey, champagne and everything in between including decent caju feni. But make sure you check the prices before ordering if you don’t want a nasty surprise later.

Order a ‘Prawn Peri Peri’ to go with the drinks. You get the taste of old-style Goan seafood with just that right blend of pungency and saltiness. The portions here are generous and the prices quite affordable.

It’s true Souza Lobo has its good days and its not-so-good days. But when it’s good, you’ll be praising the lord that he guided you to Souza Lobo.

You might want to try the ‘Prawn Curry Rice’ with a side serving of ‘Mackeral Recheado’, both done the traditional Goan way. You get three mackerels with some salad on the side, the right amount of the red masala stuffed inside and the fish coated with the perfect amount of ‘rawa’. Just the way they do it in decent Goan homes. Other noteworthy dishes include the ‘Crab Curry’, ‘Crab Xacuti’ and the ‘Kingfish Masala Fried’.

If you’re not in the mood for seafood, try their traditional Goan pork dishes like ‘Sorpotel’ and ‘Pork Vindalho’. You’ll be hardpressed to decide which one is better, but we would say the Sorpotel is better; a nice, rich, sweetly-pungent gravy which is best had with sannas, though even the regular bread would do.

Souza Lobo also offers pastas and some Chinese dishes like ‘Golden Fried Prawns’ which, however, could leave you a bit disappointed when compared with the exquisite taste of their fish recheados. But I do like pairing the Goan-style fish dishes with

a ‘Veg Fried Rice’, for example, when I’m not in the mood for the Fish Curry Rice.

If Chinese is there, can tandoori be far behind? The tandoori chicken here is a big hit with the foreign tourists. They also serve quite decent tandoori seafood like kingfish, crabs, and lobsters, but who goes to eat tandoori food in a Goan restaurant? Their continental servings like pastas and steaks are also quite good, while the management is proud of their ‘Lobster Thermidor’, the all-time classic lobster dish, the recipe of which has been given a slight Goan twist here. Very flavourful.

If you’re in a grand mood then we suggest you go for the ‘Mixed Seafood Platter’ which comes heaped with crabs, squid, oysters, king prawns and fillet of red snapper or chonak as it is locally known.

To round off your meal I recommend the ‘Bebinca’, the layered Goan-style cake-pudding made with coconut milk and beaten egg, which is done to perfection here. But they also have their signature ‘Crepe Souza Lobo’ which combines ice-cream and grated coconut wrapped in a milky crepe. Makes for an unusual dessert.

The best part of dining out at Souza Lobo or just going there for the drinks, besides the great view of the beach, is the warm, friendly service, with the stewards always sporting genuine wide smiles, the service the epitome of old-style graciousness.  The Food: As Goan as it gets The Ambience: On the sea. ‘Nuff said The Service: Gracious The cost: Doesn’t break the bank Where: Souza Lobo, Calangute beach, Calangute.

Tel: 2281234, 2276463, 9822120516.

18 Literature

Writing Gives Me A High S

heela Jaywant, a prolific writer of short stories tells Streets Editor José Lourenço of her writing saga and offers advice for budding writers.

Where did you do your studies?

I schooled at Bombay Scottish in Mumbai and did my college at St Xavier’s.

I fell in love with Chandrashekar Jaywant, who was a fighter pilot then, and got married before the final exam of my Science degree! I did a correspondence course in writing, one of those frivolous courses. But the teacher there was very encouraging, every time I sent in a lesson answer, he would say – please send this for publication!

Researching for articles was quite tough those days. I would go to the University library and beg people to borrow books for me. I used to keep millions of news cuttings in those cheap files whose metal clips get eventually rusted and which begin to play host to all kinds of insects and little creatures.

How did your writing career develop in the early years?

When I first started sending articles to newspapers, I used to write under a pen name ‘YZ Prabhu’, those initials didn’t mean anything actually! I would type on my father-in-law’s baby Hermes typewriter and send off the middles, features and stories to periodicals.

Finally BG Varghese, the then editor of Indian Express sent me a handwritten note – “Don’t use a pen name, use your real name.” After that I began to write as Sheela Jaywant.

My first story collection was titled ‘Quilted – Stories of Middle-Class India’, containing stories that had appeared

in Savvy, Woman’s Era, Eve’s Weekly, etc. It was published in 2003 by a small publishing house – Hindon Publishers in Mumbai. They also published Melting Moments, a collection of middles published in Times of India, Indian Express, News Time and other papers, as well as my second volume of stories called ‘The Liftman and other stories’ in 2007.

In 2010 I had done some editing work for Himalayan Journal, and those editors recommended me to Woodstock School, the organisers of the The Third Mussoorie International Writers’ Festival at Mussoorie. I read out an original poem at that festival - ‘I sold my soul to a corporate goal’.

The series ‘Chicken Soup for the Indian Soul’ has around 15 of my stories in their six volumes. My story ‘Yoke Mates’ was among the winning entries in the 2012 Random House competition ‘She Writes’, for women writers in India. Two stories also appeared in Unisun’s anthologies Vanilla Desires and City of Gods.

Which authors do you like reading?

I like Vikram Seth’s novels for his ideas. I also like Amitav Ghosh’s books. I read a lot of Marathi stories in the Diwali issues.

How did you benefit from being a member of Goawriters, the writing group?

At the Goawriters group meets in Panjim, I met people who thought like me. It was exciting to read what people were writing fresh, straight off the hot pan. I learned to see a story with a critical eye. I have a science background, I worked as a manager at Hinduja hospital,

but GW taught me to say with pride that I am a writer.

The folks at Sasialit (South Asian Literature) guided me a lot. I joined that group through Caferati, a writers forum.

I submit my stories to contests that I come across via email or other sources. I came to know of the contests of Random House, Unisun Publications and the Fundaçao Oriente contest in Goa 2012 through Goawriters. My story Symbiosis won the third place jointly with Ramnath Gawde’s Pisheak Peepal.

How do your stories come about?

Where do you get your ideas from?

My stories are always about what someone else has experienced or told me. I store these little anecdotes away and they emerge in my stories. I edit my stories as I write. I don’t make drafts, I just write the final thing.

I don’t give my stories to family or friends for criticism. I put them up on forums online to anonymous readers, like toastedcheese.com. They are experts who read and offer feedback. They don’t know my gender or whether I am Chinese or Eskimo. When someone says I have written a good story, I can’t tell you how much it thrills me, that’s my charas.

Writing gives me a high.

Have you written stories with an erotic element to them?

Three of my recent stories have an erotic tone, thanks to Roselyn D’Mello, who is editing an anthology of erotica. I sent in three stories to some proposed anthologies, but they were all rejected.

If I can describe someone eating or digging his nose, why not about lovemaking? I am trained as a zoologist, after all! Perhaps in past decades I may have been shocked by erotica. Sometimes people walk into the boutique where I now work, wearing skimpy clothes, I don’t react to that. But we must wear appropriate clothes for the location and situation, of course.

What advice would you give new writers?

Those people who live without any creative activity, their lives become desolate. They don’t have an overall perception of what’s going on. If your child doesn’t do well in studies, you mustn’t go into depression; you must give him an alternate course. Often you can’t do it because you yourself don’t do creative work. A child should have physical activity like sports as well as academic and creative activity.

For budding writers, I would say, please hold a day job and do writing as a very serious hobby. You need time to read extensively; without reading you cannot write. How will you get ideas?

How will you improve your language? Be disciplined, don’t give up halfway through a story, finish what you start. Get your story critiqued by good critics who don’t know you, don’t just ask your next door neighbour. Don’t feel bad if the critics tell you it’s not a good story. Work on it and make it better. 

Thursday, June 6, 2013

20 Hot Streets

In a difficult position

Dear Acaricia May

I

had often heard of these infamous parties in Goa where spouse-swapping takes place.

Recently a friend of a friend gave me some hints of where I could join in if I was so inclined. I would have to bring my wife along, of course, I can’t take along a fake companion. Our sex lives have dried up of late, and I am now tempted to try out this naughty option.

How should I broach the issue with the missus? Are there any risks in these swapping encounters?

Michael S, Margao Dear Michael,

You might already have a sense of whether your wife is the type of person who would go for such a thing. Wifeswapping, or swinging (the preferred, politically correct term), is certainly not for everybody. If you’re not sure how she would react, you might want to float a trial balloon rather than blurt out an in-your-face question. Here’s what you

might NOT want to say: “Honey, if you let me swap you for another woman I’ll let you sleep with another man.”

And here’s what you might actually say.

“Honey, I heard there’s swinging going on in Goa. What do you think of that?” If she expresses interest or at least doesn’t immediately puke, then you could take the conversation to the next level. As for the risks, the physiological ones are the same as in any sexual encounter, pregnancy and disease being the obvious ones (condom use would be highly recommended). Of course depending on the particular swingers’ state of mind, there could be psychological and marital risks as well. If you decide to do it, be sure you both want it, and keep the communication lines open.

You know Michael, there are a lot of other ways to spice up a sex life besides swinging. Read the kama sutra, give a hot oil massage, watch a flick, cook each other dinner, light some candles…

Whatever you decide, here’s to hoping the heat returns!

Love, Acaricia May

Dear Acaricia May

M

y wife has recently undergone some orthopaedic surgery and this has had a side effect in our marital bed. There are some of our old favourite positions that she can no longer assume. I hope you understand what I mean. Now some of these positions are absolutely vital to me, as important as coffee for breakfast as compared to tea. I hate tea. Our sex life has since suffered as I feel compelled to perform in positions that do not turn me on. I am driven to the point of frustration, where I have contemplated going to another woman who can suitably oblige me. What do I do, I still love the old girl.

erotic phrases, touch each other all over.

Did you read what I wrote to Michael in Margao? When was the last time you gave your wife a hot-oil massage? What adventurous sexual act have you always wanted to engage in but never actually done? Remember, the most important sexual organ in the human body is the brain. Use it!

Talk to your wife about this, and see what fun, mutually satisfying ideas you can come up with together to make up for the loss of these positions. When faced with subtraction, you must use addition. Good luck!

Love, Acaricia May

Rajiv, Mapusa Dear Rajiv,

Innovate, dear sir! Open your mind and your heart, try out some new positions, think of fun ways to spice up your intimacy, watch a movie, whisper

If you have questions about sex, relationships or any other matter relating to the heart, please write to Acaricia May at acariciamay@goastreets.com.

USEFUL STUFF www.goastreets.com

Thursday, June 6, 2013 Police 100 Ambulance 108 Coast Guard 1718 Women Helpline 1091 Goa State Aids Control Society 1097 Child Helpline 1098

Airline Offices Air Arabia Airlines 9225906416/15 Indian Airlines 18001801407 Air India 2431100/04 Jet Airways 1800225822 Spice Jet 18001803333 Kingfisher Airlines 18002093030 GoAir 1800222111 Singapore Airlines 2438813 Qatar Airlines 7930616000 Ambulance Services Goa Medical College 2458725 Vintage Ambulance +91 8322232533 /+91 9823059948 Ambulance Trust (Margao) 2731759/2714464 Mapusa Ambulance Service (Mapusa) 2262372 Helpline (Dona Paula) 2453303 Super markets Magsons Super Market Miramar, St Inez, Caculo Mall, Caranzalem, Vasco, Verna and Varca 2463700/2463701/2463702 Orchard Stores

Anjuna. 2273231 Newton’s Arcade Candolim. 2489056 Delfinos Super Stores, Candolim, 2356895 / 5235685 Maple Leaf Supermarket Porvorim, 6454099 Parsekar Stores Mandrem, 0832 2247345/2247900 Bus Services Kadamba Road Transport Corporation 133 Kadamba Transport Corporation 2438034/2438036 Manish Volvo 2444056 Paulo Travels 2438531 Neeta Volvo 2438088 Medical and Hospitals Dial-A-Doctor (Toll Free) 1911 Blood Bank 2458724 Vrundavan Hospital, Mapusa +918322250022/+918326713535 Apollo Hospital Margao. 2728888/ 6728888 Manipal Hospital Panjim. 3048800 Vintage Hospital Panjim. 2426650 Pharmacies Jeevan Rekha Medical Store Panjim. 2435946 Holy Spirit Medical Services

Margao. 2737433 Bardez Bazaar Mapusa. 2256620/2250618 Walson & Walson Calangute. 2276366 Nayana Medical Stores Porvorim. 2417818 Police stations Margao 2705095 Mapusa 2262231 Pernem 2201233 Anjuna 2273233 Calangute 2278284 Porvorim 2417704 Old Goa 2285301 Ponda 2313101 Colva 2788396 Vasco Harbour 2512234 Verna 2782325 Canacona 2633357 Post Offices Panjim GPO 2223706 Margao 2715791 Mapusa 2262235 Calangute 2276030 Department of Tourism 2438750/2438755 Goa Tourism Development Corporation Ltd 2226515/2226728 Govt. of India Tourism 2223412/2420529 Panjim Information Counter

2438520 Margao Information Counter 2715204 Vasco Information Counter 2512673 Railway Stations Canacona Code:CNO +918322643644 Madgaon Code:MAO +918322712790 Pernem Code:PERN +918322201283 Thivim Code:THVM +918322298682 Vasco de Gama Code:VSG +918322512398/+918322512131 Karmali Code:KRMI +918322285798 Safety Information Tourist Police Booths Miramar 2464260 Tourist Police Booths Calangute 2281238 Tourist Police Booths Vagator 2274031 GMC Casuality 2458725 GMC Casuality 2458725 TOY STORES Totally Toys Trionora Apartment, Panaji 2220304 Nilesh Store At Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Panjim 2230161

The

Corner

G

21

oa Marriott Resort & Spa brings to Goa the tantalizing treats of the world’s streets with the Street Festival at Waterfront Terrace & Bar from 25thMay to 5th June. Relish the exquisite flavours of authentic street fare amid pleasant conversation and a picture-perfect ambience!

Oversee the food preparation at the interactive live dispensing stations, and get that unique flavour that appeals to your palate! Gorge on some hardcore Indie favourites like the Vada Pao and the undying Ras Omelette, or savour the intriguing flavours of Kebabs and Kathi Rolls. Go westward with the all-American traditional Hot Dog!The calorie-conscious can opt for the tasty but healthful Som Tam (Green Papaya Salad), while those with an inclination towards mouth-watering Middle Eastern fare can try the flavourful Falafel Pita.

Treat yourself to the tastiest fare from the colourfulstreets of the world only at the Goa Marriott Resort& Spa! For reservations, please call 0832-246 3333.

North Goa Snip Salon Spas

At Padmavati Towers, Panjim @ 10 am to 9 pm 2420898/989 www.snipsalonandspa.com

Club Mud Spa

At Sorantowaddo, Anjuna @ Open daily 8 am to 8 pm 2274131, 9011071941, 9822162111. www.lagunaanjuna.com

Sephora Salon & Spa

A Dubai-based beauty services chain Nr. Don Bosco School, Panjim. @ 9 am to 9 pm, Open daily 2231314, 3260890

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22 Give Back Photographs by Edric George

When anxiety turns deadly A new suicide prevention hotline in Goa takes off

By Jonathan Rodrigues

Y

ou are going through hell. You have family problems, wrath of relatives, mean spirited bosses and unstable relationships. It’s all waiting for a trigger to explode. It could be an ordinary moment where a friend suggests that you are not looking good and should start working out or a colleague mocks you about how happening his life is. Your repressed problems suddenly swell until you can’t take it anymore. Suddenly, the simplest daily chores become impossible. And you are too stubborn to get help.

It’s a matter of seconds when an individual chooses to either turn a page or close the book. It is that period where the death instinct (thanatos) is pushed into overdrive and the life instinct (eros) resigns to the back seat. If those few minutes are spent in isolation, there are more chances that the person will go forward with a tragic act.

However, if that dark period is broken by a phone call or a friendly embrace, things could be different.

“We can conduct hundreds of programmes and seminars. But if no one is available to someone in need of help at the given moment, when the person is caught between life and death, then there is no point if we cannot actually save a life,” says Dr. Peter Castelino, co-ordinator of the suicide prevention program by the group called Cause Of Our Joy (COOJ).

“People have a variety of problems of different intensities. So compared to the stigma of going to a psychiatrist for help, this lifestyle of living virtual lives and depleted interaction skills may make the helpline a more familiar medium for them to communicate.”

The COOJ Mental Foundation basically deals with rehab and awareness for people with mental disabilities, conducting workshops and seminars. It also acts as a support group for families,

giving them an opportunity to socialize with people similar to them and then eventually move into a more mainstream environment. It also provides a chance to complete their education and get jobs.

The group began working in 2000 and was registered as COOJ in 2002. Cofounder Thereza Trinidade, who lost both her husband and her daughter to illness, joined forces with Dr. Peter, as it was her daughter’s last wish that her money be used as an aid for a rehab centre for people with mental disabilities.

“We follow a structured procedure here to bring them out of the stage of mental illness that they were admitted in. Even the work they do here, like making paper bags, gift bags, cards and paintings fetches them a stipend at the end of the month, which gets deposited in their bank accounts,” Dr Peter explains the functioning of COOJ. The centre caters to persons with mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and autism. “I believe they are much more alive here than simply sleeping isolated at home. Here, they learn to be more independent.”

Dr. Peter Castelino, who hails from Aldona, is an experienced psychiatrist practicing at Mapusa. “People may question whether the helpline is the ultimate solution to the problem of suicide; nevertheless it is surely a way ahead. It is in fact the responsibility of everyone in society. Family, teachers, law makers, law keepers and the health system should all join hands to make it succeed.”

A proposed mental health bill, yet to be cleared in Parliament, would classify suicide as a circumstance of an illness rather than a crime. Dr Peter explains that help is certainly around the corner. “The stigma in the society is reduced now, as education has prepared people to accept that mental illness is a biological disease and that treatment of mental health problems could be a very big factor is suicide prevention.”

COOJ also plans on conducting gatekeeper workshops - wherein trained professionals like teachers, policemen, clergy, nurses would learn to detect high risk people who are prone to suicide and deal with the crisis situation.

Donna Noronha is a volunteer at COOJ and now the Assistant Coordinator of the project. “I think my innate ability to

want to know people and understand them gives me that joy in my work,” says Donna.

COOJ is in search of more committed volunteers who are ready to sacrifice a few hours in a week and help a stressed soul. “They need to be compassionate, good listeners, mature thinkers. Being multi-lingual with the local dialects would be an added bonus,” states Dr Peter on the qualities they are looking for in candidates. “They would be put through an interview wherein their views on spirituality, crime, sex would be assessed to comprehend their general view of life.”

These selected volunteers will be trained on weekends over a span of 2 months by qualified staff from Pune and Bombay. With the hope of setting the phone lines open by September 2013, the core team is busy conducting meetings and interviews. COOJ has also roped in famed Goan musician Remo Fernandes as the voice for the suicide prevention program.

Anyone feeling inspired? Ask yourself one question: can I stay committed to my mission of coming to the centre (Mapusa) at my appointed slot and dedicatedly attend to the calls? If the answer is yes; call up Donna on 982298851. You can also log onto www.cooj.co.in for more information. 

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‘Couple’ by Ravindra Salve

Loha-Sparsh, an exhibition of metal sculptures at Kala Academy, Panjim

‘Dancing girl’ by Uttam Pacharne

‘Shiv Shakti’ by Kishor Thakur

Miss Summer Tulip India 2013 beauty pageant held at Casino Royale, Goa

Football veterans of North Goa and South Goa clash in a friendly match at Duler.

Thé à la menthe ou t’es citron? - Burlesque French theatre by Patrick Haudecoeur at Institute Menezes Braganza, Panjim

Inauguration of the new premises of Alliance Francaise in Panjim

Photo exhibition by Nolan Mascarenhas at the Alliance Francaise premises at Altinho, Panjim