Issue No 37

Friday, September 25, 2015 | Vol. No. 3 | Issue 37 | Price Rs. 10 | www.goastreets.com | G-2/RNP/Weekly/Goa-05/2013-15

04

Ready For Tourists?

The torn-up Calangute-Baga road is just one example of tourism projects dragging on forever.

06

Music of the Spirit

12

Tiracol Saga

The Music Edition Where To Groove, Who's Hot And Tunes Of Every Kind

It's a little known secret that two of the world's most accomplished Bauls and Fakir singers have made their home in Goa.

Will a proposed new golf course destroy a way of life, or put Goa on the global tourism map?

Inside:

• Basilio's Gym • Turn The Tide • Colin D'Cruz • Best Music Venues • Bay 15 • Museum of Goa • Life Skills Academy • Keep Goa Beautiful

ALSO INSIDE: COMPLETE FOOD/EVENT/NIGHTLIFE GUIDE

By Goa Streets

T

he benefits of exercise are huge, and it’s not just about toning up or slimming down. It’s also about having more energy for your family or your work, and looking and feeling better.

Enter Basilio’s, the biggest and best gym in Goa. Exercise not just your body but also your options, which include weight-loss programmes, weight-lifting, kick boxing, kick aerobics, taekwondo, dance classes, karate, free weights, cardio workouts, personal training, group fitness and much more. The gym also offers highly competent and helpful trainers. All of this takes place in an environment that makes you feel at home, no matter what your current fitness level may be.

Basilio’s is for people who want to build muscles and for all those who just want to keep fit. The gym has the heaviest dumbbells, ranging from 05 lbs. to 200 lbs. It has state-of-the-art cardiovascular equipment, as well as heavy-duty machines, treadmill, elliptical spin cycle and many other machines to tone muscles and meet all your other fitness needs. There is ample area to work on your core muscles and to engage in free-weight training. There are more than 70 machines for every muscle group, easily accommodating some 200 people at one time.

Among the fabulous new additions to Basilio’s is a machine called the JXFIT Shape T. It is one-of-a-kind in India and available only at Basilio’s. The machine has the following stations: 1- Rebounder 2- Boxing 3- Power Rack 4- DAP 5- T-Bar 6- Multi-Pull 7- Battle Rope 8- Olympic Bar 9- Dip Station 10- Step Board

The gym is conveniently located so that people from surrounding areas can work their way to health.

Started on the 31st of March 2002, Basilio’s was later moved to bigger premises on the 7th of September 2007. Located in the heart of Panjim, it is more of a passion than a business for its proprietor Aldrin Basilio Soares.

The gym was named after Aldrin’s late father, the famous and beloved Goan footballer of yesteryears Mr. Basilio Soares.

About Aldrin Basilio Soares (Proprietor): Aldrin Basilio Soares has been into fitness for the last 26 years. In the early 1980s, he trained in martial arts in Shotokan (Karate) under Sensai Kishan at Don Bosco High School, Panjim, Goa. He moved on to Taekwondo in 1991, and trained under Sensai Oscar Luis. Aldrin started lifting weights in 1985, under the guidance of Mr. Premanand Naik at indoor stadium, Campal, Panjim-Goa. His father was Goa's best known goal keeper during his heyday, and sports runs in the family’s blood. Their desire is to give the people of Panjim more years to live by keeping them fit at Basilio’s.

HIGHLIGHTS • Health Club • Gym • Zumba • Kickboxing • Gymnastics • Taekwondo • Karate

Timings: Mon-Fri 6 a.m. 10 a.m. & 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. and Sat 6 a.m. - 10 a.m. & 5 p.m.

- 9 p.m.

Address - Angel Anne Arcade A-3, St Inez Rd, Santa Inez, Goa, 403001 Contact - 0832 222 8014/ 9822384909 Basilio’s Uses The Best Fitness Equipment Provided by JERAI Fitness Pvt. Ltd

About JERAI Since 1994, JERAI Fitness Pvt. Ltd has maintained its commitment to the goal of designing, manufacturing, and providing the best weight resistance exercise equipment in the country.

Jerai products are used and tested by more than

3,000 gyms across the country and used by more than 5 crore gym members.

JERAI Fitness has assembled the finest team of experts in the industry today, in the fields of engineering, computeraided design, manufacturing, sales and distribution. This, combined with a “can do” attitude, superior materials and workmanship, has enabled the company to produce the best state-of-the-art design and manufacturing technology. The JERAI Fitness team is proud to provide customers with the highest quality, safest, most functional, durable, and most economical exercise equipment in the market today.

FOR SALES ENQUIRIES & MORE INFO: jfpl94@gmail.com/ sales@jeraifitness. com www.jeraifitness.com Contact: 9820782900/ 9820027746

06 music special Sept 25

Every Fridays

Beach Party Featuring Monkey (Soupherb Records Jaipur), Leon, Ritesh Gonsalves, Mr.E, Funksun At Cafe Lilliput, Anjuna Beach 6 pm onwards +91 9822137767

Wet and Tech Gear up for an amazing session of electronic music acts playing Deep house, Tech, and tech house music At Waters Beach Lounge and Grill, Ozran beach, Vagator 8:00 pm till late +919767200012 & 9702025555 & 9850561111

Looney Go Round Featuring Looney Go Round, Mista Selecta, Iganatius Camilo, Tasha.

10pm to 6 am At Club Nyex, Anjuna +91 9619399117 Bollywood Fridays Featuring Rinton, Mr.E, AK -47 At SinQ Beach Club, Candolim 1o pm onwards +91 8308000080

Sept 26 Sold Out Saturday Get grooving this Saturday at Sol as DJ Zeeqar spins some tunes in sync with live percussionist Lenon.

At Sol de Goa, Nerul 8 pm to 12 am +91 832 6714141

Sept 27 Electric Pulse Rock and Roll All Musicians Invited for Jam Session At Guru Bar, North Anjuna 8 pm onwards +91 9960956691 Sunday Night Jazz Mac Dourado - Guitar, Colin D'cruz bass, Denis Coelho -drums At Bar Code Lounge & Grill, Porvorim 7 pm onwards +91 7050961335

Every Wednesday Free bird nights at Cotinga Free bird nights at Cotinga presents, Elvis and Anirban, with a classic rock and blues session, this Wednesday 8:00 pm onwards.

At Cotinga at the Tamarind Hotel, Anjuna 8:00 pm onwards +919822851155, (0832)6519999 Live music at Mustard Krishna Vamsee is live on Wednesday, only at Mustard playing the best in blues, mo-town rock, and country tracks, 8pm onwards.

Come savour the flavours that binds cuisines together at the the newest culinary destination in Goa. 8:00 pm onwards At Mustard, Sangolda +91 98234 36120

Every Thursday Karaoke Nite Come & be with Mojo Rockstar Kdj Seby At Cafe Mojo Pub & Bistro, Panjim 7 pm onwards +91 7774054353

Friday Night Live with Alcatrazz For the first time in Dona Paula : Retro, Pop and Dance music by the amazing Alcatrazz only at Bay 15.

At Bay 15, Odxel beach, Dona Paula 8:00 pm onwards 095610 06715

Music Spots in Goa Cavala Every Wednesday: Cavala Acoustic Latin Retro Every Friday: Tidal Wave’s live act Every Saturday: Piano played by Bosco Cavala, Calangute - Baga Road, Baga 8:30 pm onwards. +91 832 2276090 sales@cavala.com | www.cavala.com The Park, Calangute Every Monday: Retro Night By Jus Leo Every Thursday: Retro Night Every Friday: Karaoke Night with KDJ Tony The Park, Calangute 8 pm onwards +91 8805028194, +91 832 2267600 resv.goa@theparkhotels.com www.theparkhotels.com

Tale of Two Mystical Musicians From Unorthodox Strains of Hinduism And Islam

By Claron Fidelis Mazarello

kin to the Sufi’s mystics, the Bauls and Fakirs reject religious orthodoxy. Hailing from some of the most liberal and spiritual strains of Hinduism and Islam, the Bauls (whose members are both Vaishnave Hindus and Sufi Muslims) and Fakirs (Muslim ascetics and Sufis) follow few scriptures. Instead, they opt for a direct connection with God, minus the mediation of priests. Considered as fringe elements within the Islamic and Hindu folds for such beliefs,

A

Casinos in Goa Deltin Royale Casino Get lucky on a big boat.

D.Bandodkar Road, Panjim +91 9820 616515 or email: groups@ deltin.com (If you’re based in Mumbai) +91 7875 024455 or email: groupbookings@deltin.com (If you’re based in Goa) Crown Casino Crown Casino located on the first floor of The Crown Hotel, Celebrate and have fun in crown casino that offers the latest in Gaming technology. Enjoy an international experience right here in the heart of Goa! Hotel guests can avail of special casino packages as well.

Contact hotel reception on check in.

Bairo Alto Dos Pilotos, Jose Falcao Road, Behind Old Secretariat, Panjim For Group Booking Contact: Nimish Desai: +91 9049084848 or +91 832 2222833 reception@crowncasinogoa.com Casino Carnival Casino Carnival Goa, offers premium entertainment in Goa, anchored in the Mandovi River overlooking the charming city of Panjim. Offers High Quality Entertainment and Live Gaming experience in Goa comparable with the best practices of international casinos.

At Goa Marriott Resort & Spa, Panjim +91 8888885314

they use a common medium of music to express themselves, referred to as Baul and Fakir music – a symphony of music and mysticism as manna for the soul.

Bangla, a folk fusion troupe from Bangladesh, popularized and gave modern recognition worldwide to Baul and Fakir songs.

“The songs question oneself,” explains Bangladeshi artist, cultural activist, mother, entrepreneur, musician and singer Anusheh Anadil, about her own songs. “The very first song I wrote was questioning my existence,” she laughs, further revealing that it ultimately led to her decision to take up singing as a profession.

A little known secret is that two of the world’s most accomplished singers of this kind of music – Anusheh and her partner Seth Panduranga Blumberg – have chosen to live in Goa. Baul and Fakir artists sing their heart out, Anusheh says.

“They need absolutely no excuse to give it all they have got. You see

the ideology itself is about being in the moment all the time. So in their case, there is no practise.

Every time they sing, they sing.

It’s just what you got in that very moment,” explains Seth, a former student of the late maestro Ravi Shankar.

Seth played guitar for Ike Turner and the Kings of Rhythm when they won the Grammy for best traditional blues album in 2007. “I believe my professional career as a musician began when I met Ike in 1999.”

At the tender age of 18, he was introduced to and mentored by Jeff Moore in the guitar and the blues. Before that it was keyboards and samplers.

After living in New York for six years, he came to southern California to be near Ike. In 2004, he and some musician friends found themselves entertaining

the Shankars during their sixmonth stay away from India, in California.

“In the morning I’d be with Ike Turner and by the afternoons we’d come to Raviji and his extremely sweet wife (Sukanya Rajan) and Anoushka (Shankar’s daughter),” he recalls.

Ravi Shankar ended up offering Seth and his fellow musicians the opportunity to perform with him live in New Delhi, giving the new group the name Jazmin. After that, influenced by Baul and Fakir music, Seth spent five years in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Ravi Shankar’s Tabla player Tanmoy Bose was responsible

for introducing Seth to Baul and Fakir music. He was also apparently responsible for introducing Seth to Anusheh, who was then singing for Bangla.

“This cultural Baul and Fakir music originated in the rural areas of our country. But I was a city girl,” smiles Anusheh. “So we would travel from the city limits to the serenity of the villages like many Bangladeshi youngsters do, and sit among the Bauls and Fakirs in the villages and listen to their songs.”

Anusheh joined Bangla in 1998, and many members of a new generation of Fakir and Baul singers find themselves singing songs composed by Anusheh. In 2012, she came out with her own album, called ‘Rai.’ “We first played together at a concert in Dhaka, soon after India,” recounts Michiganborn Seth. His middle name Panduranga is a result of Blumberg’s mother and father having a south Indian guru, while his surname Blumberg is Jewish in origin. Today he lives in a calm village in Goa along with Anusheh and her two children.

“And it happens to be only now, that we are making music – just the two of us, without any other accompaniment, like never before, here in Goa.” “My guitar is finally getting to be one with her singing, now that it’s just the two of us,” he strums his guitar, hiding his softer emotions behind musical notes as he looks on at Anusheh, who simply smiles. “I’m happy to be here in Goa, a place I visited the last 22 years,” informs a humble Anusheh. She speaks softly, but sings rather loudly, in line with the ‘whole-hearted’ ideology of her preferred genre.

“Anusheh brought me close to the Baul and Fakir music scene and the ideology that I so love, which is about being in the moment. And this is how I always wanted to be,” says Seth. “It’s like you don’t ever mentally prepare yourself for a gig. There’s nothing like getting ready for a gig. Rather it’s the gig that is getting ready for you.”

That these talented and accomplished purveyors of Baul and Fakir music have decided to make Goa their home is not just a decidedly welcome addition to our state’s music scene, but also to Goa’s melting-pot culture in general. 

music special 07

Friday, September 25, 2015

Goa’s Jazz Guru No One In The World Has Done More To Put Goa On The Global Jazz Map

By Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello

When you think of jazz in Goa, one of the first names that comes to mind is Colin D’Cruz, musician, producer, promoter of Goan jazz. He has experimented with every genre of music and it’s jazz that has mesmerized his heart and soul. Colin has worked tirelessly to promote jazz and blues in Goa, and to promote local musicians of all stripes, through his studio in Sangolda, his social media presence and his website www.jazzgoa.com.

Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello recently interviewed this 55-year-old man of music, and here is her report.

B

arcode in Porvorim is the popular joint where Colin and his 5-piece band Jazz Junction belts out numbers from 8 pm to 10 pm on every Sunday. To hear Susan Rocha (vocals), Izel Sequeira (saxophone), Jason Quadros (piano), Clifford Sequeira (drums) and Colin himself at bass is awesome.

Many hang their work woes and unwind at Barcode before the Monday blues kick in. A mixture of crowd pours in! Colin quips in a light hearted manner, “Jazz is a form of improvised music. It’s not just about improvisation, it is about the meeting of minds and cultures.”

In the early 70s, Colin got the opportunity to play for Mumbai’s resident bands that echoed lovely numbers at the starred hotels. As Colin recalls his first assignment, he lightly says, “I was offered a job as a bass player in one of the bands without knowing a single jazz standard.”

“My first night on the job, I got a ‘just-keep-walking’ brief from the band leader. I thought that I was being fired.

It turned out, the term used for ‘swing’ bass was ‘walking’ bass and that was my first learning experience,” adds Colin.

It hasn’t always been a cakewalk for Colin to get where he is now. He

says, “Every song thrown at me was a challenge.” Touching 40 years into this glorious field of music, Colin laughs, “I had to work on hitting the right notes so that my fellow band members didn’t grimace at what I was doing.”

Starting at around 16 years old with no formal training, it is inspiring to see where he has reached today. With his home and studio ‘Jazz Goa Studio’ in Sangolda, Colin is at peace doing what he absolutely loves doing. Reading books on music and expanding his jazz vocabulary, today Colin is quite the music man who fans yearn to see and hear.

His organization ‘Jazz Goa’, started in 2008, brings together over 5000 jazz enthusiasts and boasts more than 100 original songs composed by locals and produced by Jazz Goa. Colin’s dream of producing more songs is unstoppable.

Many Goans have come to know Colin through his lively performances throughout the state (including the 2012 launch party of Goa Streets!).

He also hosted a two-hour weekly show on Radio

Indigo - 91.9 FM - called Goa Grooves.

With television shows also in his booty, Colin has been managing his website http://www.jazzgoa.com.

His wife Diana, the official photographer and videographer for Jazz Goa, has been helping Colin to manage his business. He says, “I am sure all this would have been humanly impossible if it wasn’t for my beautiful wife Diana whom I met soon after moving to Goa.” The two have been married since 2011, and glow in each other’s presence.

Colin has hosted International Jazz Day on 30th April every year ever since

UNESCO declared it in 2012. And he is ecstatic that jazz legends have been visiting our small state for the event.

Colin says, “Jazz is the medium I choose to express myself and communicate musically with my audience. I know a lot of people in the audience may not understand my intense shoo-bee-doo-bee-doo-bop and emotive ‘twidlee-didllee-doo-wop’ but there’s always the few who can ‘feel’ what they can’t figure.”

Appreciation for musicians and their art is not always a given in this country of ours. Colin recalls sadly, “The managers of Jazz by the Bay had a habit of insulting the performers onstage by switching on cricket matches on a huge television screen alongside the stage even while the band was performing.”

Here’s a limerick Colin composed when this jazz club was dying a slow death in Mumbai.

‘It started as Jazz by the Bay Then rock and pop joined in the fray Now karaoke nights Next Hindi-pop frights While jazz has been left by the way.’

With a philosophy of ‘something better will turn your way,’ Colin says, “The learning process for a musician is a never ending one, there is no such thing as a ‘master’ and I am sure most legends would agree.”

Colin has toured all over India and worldwide with Indian icons like Asha Bhosle, Sonu Nigam, Shubha Mudgal and many others. He draws inspiration from his favourite music artist Jaco Pastorius (and, he says, from the example of Mother Theresa).

He has been a member of several other bands such as Blues Power, Goa Grooves, Latin Connection, Smoking Chutney, Lounge Jazz Trio, Lounge Fusion Trio, Lounge Fusion Quartet, Lounge Fusion Quintet, The Bassman’s Band, The Brown Indian Band and The Suburban Jazz Ensemble.

Colin believes in recognizing local talent and giving them a foothold in the musical world, and that constitutes his life’s work at his delightful studio in Sangolda.

Colin adds, “I produce a song and broadcast it to the whole world the same instant.”

He says, “‘Make use of technology but don’t forget music is created by musical instruments and not by pressing the play button on a laptop.”

Colin says, “What’s good for me is a small smoky nightclub where the lights are dim, the band is smoking and the whisky is flowing. Though this might be totally out of sync with today’s music scene, it is completely in sync with my soothed soul.” 

08 the corner Roarrr Media presents Igor Butman Quartet at BAY 15 – A Justa Resort, Goa

T

hree years in succession, the Igor Butman Jazz fever continues to rise in the country! Roarrr Media & Public Relations in collaboration with Jazz Addicts presents Jus’ Jazz 2015 with Igor Butman and his quartet featuring Oleg Akkuratov live at Justa’s Bay 15, Odxel Beach, Dona Paula, Goa on 4th of October, 2015.

After mesmerizing audiences with an 18 member band (IGOR BUTMAN BIG BAND) last year, Butman is back to India, yet again with his quartet- Saxophone, Drums, Double Bass and Piano. This year, Butman is all set to outclass himself with an unimaginable presentation; Butman will be staging an astounding blind pianist and a vocalist, Oleg Akkuratov; it would be a musical treat to remember! A blind boy from a small Russian town Armavir, a great talent in full bloom, Pianist and vocalist Oleg is a

unique jazz and classic musician, participant of International Choir of UNESCO and winner of countless international contests, he has been awarded by the World Health Organization with "Health“ award entitled "For the will to live.“At the age of nineteen Oleg outplayed the sighted and became the winner at the International Piano Competition in Novosibirsk.

Saxophone in hand, Butman who has enthralled audiences all over the world, needs no introduction. Bill Clinton calls him ‘the greatest living jazz saxophone player, who happens to be a Russian’. Butman popularized jazz in Russia, which before had only known the Western Classics. With strong influences of Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, Coltrane and Sony Rollins, Butman combines the heart and soul of Russia and brings it all the way over to India.

The concert gets even bigger this year, as along with the annual Mumbai and Delhi concert schedules, Butman will shake a leg with his fans in the musical capitalGoa!

Get Re-Oriented at Marriott’s Wan Hao!

By Rahul Rivonkar

T

he Oriental restaurant at the Goa Marriott Resort & Spa recently unveiled an innovative new menu, with unique signature dishes as well as all-time favorites! The kitchen is led by the Sous Chef, Mr. Sundar K. Dalal who comes from the North Eastern region of India. His food captures your taste buds with authentic flavors of the Far East. The beautiful décor at Wan is enhanced by soft traditional tunes playing in the background.

Upon arrival, we were served Jasmine tea, which is customary in the Far East.

This makes sure you gain a good appetite and it’s healthy to boot!

Digging into the expert Chef dishes, first to be served were the appetizers, ‘Jeu Chai Jiao’ (Pan Fried Chinese Chive Dumpling), ‘Gone Bao Yang Jiao Dou’ (Crispy fried okra ginger and soya chili), ‘Shanghai Chicken dumpling’ (Pan fried mushroom and chicken dumpling) and ‘Konjee crispy

tenderloin’ (crispy fried beef tenderloin tossed with spicy tomato garlic sauce).

The tenderloin was my favorite and I craved for more, as it was simply delicious!

The ‘Jeu Chai Jiao’ is something unusual for a Goan tongue, but I found myself welcoming the flavor of chive.

The delicious appetizers were followed by ‘Ni Mong Tang Hai Xian Ji Shu Cai’ which is a Lemon coriander soup, and has deep flavours which give a feeling of warmth within.

A refreshing array of entrees which

then followed included ‘Stir Fried Tofu and Long Eggplant’, ‘Nor Mai Phad Hed Yee Poon’ (asparagus with shitake mushrooms), ‘Yao Guo Chao Ji Ding’ (Wok-tossed chicken, vegetables & cashew nuts in oyster sauce) and ‘Shuang Dong Niu Rou Si’ (Stir fry of tenderloin with bamboo shoot and mushrooms), all served with a delightful explosion of flavours! All of this ensures that your taste-buds are satisfied.

The rice and noodles dish that followed was ‘Chao Fan’, a well-prepared spiced wok fried rice with pork and seafood (Squids). I would

definitely come back for more of this!

As we neared the end of the delightful evening, we were treated with a great desert – Fengli Su, which is a buttery pineapple heaven served with vanilla bean ice cream. Wan Hao has hit exactly the right culinary notes, and it’s fair to say the result is pure ecstasy!

Wan Hao is open for lunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday, and open for dinner 7 pm onwards every day.

The choicest of Oriental cuisine this season only at the Goa Marriott Resort & Spa! For reservations, please call 0832-246 3333.

09

Friday, September 25, 2015

Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday Yoga With Nikhila Trikha at Carpe Diem At Carpe Diem, Gomes Waddo, Majorda 4.30 pm to 5.30 pm +91 832 2881 035/+91 8888862462 Great Goan Experiences

Experience in Goa Froggy Land Froggyland is a venue for all the water lovers. Some of our activities would include the wave pool, lazy river ,slides , rain dance , childrens pool etc.

At Pateipur, Nuvem +91 9823480057 Wildernest Crocodile Safaris Offers boat safaris starting from Britona Jetty(Near Panjim) through the backwaters and mangrove-lined canals, which are home to fresh water crocodile locally called ‘Muggers’.

At Kamat Centre, D.B Marg, Panjim +91 9595553799/ +91 9341112721 Seaeaglecruises.com Canopy Eco – Tours Offers a wide variety of experiences including nature-treks, butterfly tours, dragonfly & damselfly tours, boat safaris on the Zuari River as well as their original bird watching tour.

At Housing Board Colony, Margao +91 9764261711, +91 9764052225 Canopygoa.com

By Claron Fideles Mazarello

T

he fortunately named Goan musician Elvis Lobo is on a roll, and it’s not just rock n roll. It’s fair to say that the Saligao native has been anointed as Goa’s unofficial musical ambassador to the world, having travelled to music festivals throughout the world since 2009.

There’s a soulful quality to much of his music that goes beyond the confines of traditional rock n roll.

By the time he was in his early 20s, he had already toured some two dozen countries. And he had already worked with a wide array of bigwig Bollywood musician-singer types, from the Mangeshkar sisters to A R Rehman. From rock to Sufi to Indian classical and various fusions, his repertoire is varied and often delightfully experimental.

Goa Butterfly Park & Conservatory A small park on a hill that’s a great place to spot stunningly beautiful butterflies.

Near Tropical Spice Plantation, Ponda +91 832 2985174, +91 9822125474 Bcogoa.org The Bushmasters Owner Rahul Alvares is one of our state’s most experienced snake rescuers. Snake Watch programmes costs Rs. 1600 per person inclusive of transport and breakfast. At Almeida Vaddo, Parra 6.30 am to 9.30 am +91 9881961071 Rahulalvares.com Off the Grid Offers a unique home stay experience in a secluded village in the Western Ghats At Western Ghats John +91 9623451758 Sylvia +91 9049081097

Go Karting Track I Goa Karting Single and tandem go karts are available for Rs: 180 for ten laps or Rs 200 for ten laps tandem At Panjim - Margao Highway, Nuvem 4 pm to 10 pm +91 832 2757899/ +91 9850736334 Track II Goa Karting Single and tandem go karts are available for Rs: 180 for ten laps or Rs 200 for ten Laps tandem At Anjuna - Calangute Rd, Arpora 4 pm to 10 pm. +91 832 2914526

“I have been very lucky,” he is quick to douse the fire of pride, instead taking the focus to the music a collection of musicians called Goatika Creative Lab played across the globe this year. “This time Goatika did 4 festivals: Antaris (Germany), Ozora (Hungary), Sonica (Italy)

and Modem (Croatia).”

Elvis describes the electricity of the recent tours.

“It was definitely exciting to be part of 30 to 40 thousand people all dancing to the grooves created by various underground artists,” Elvis said.

The Goatika Creative Lab is essentially a collaboration of musicians from around the

Outdoors

Dance Classes

Tropical Spice Plantation The Tropical Spice Plantation guided tour is certain to refresh your senses and make you feel at one with Mother Nature.

At Arle Bazar Keri, Ponda +91 832 2340329

Jason & Sylvia Dance Academy At Las Viegas Dance Studio, Taleigao +91 9822161652/ +91 9822151614

Abyss Spice Farm Located on high hills amidst stunning surroundings near Ponda. Many tourists visit it for the medicinal herbs grown here on a large scale. The Plantation also offers ayurvedic massage.

At Sai Farm, Savoi Verem, Ponda Pascoal Spice Village A wide variety of spice plants and cash crops is grown here. For visitors there is a restaurant with an open-air party facility along with boating At Khandepar, Ponda +91 832 2344268

Snaden Shawn Dance Academy Dance Style: Hip hop, Bollyfunk, jazz, contemporary. At All Over Goa +91 7798609859/ +91 9890163433

Cabo de Rama Fort Interesting fort named after Lord Rama.

Inside the fort, check out the church of Santo Antonio, still used by devotees.

At Cola Beach Chapora Fort One of the most loved forts of Goa; it was built in place of an older fort on the same location after the Maratha-Portuguese war. At Vagator

Notable Forts

MUSEUMS

Aguada Fort Fort Aguada and its lighthouse is a well-preserved seventeenth-century Portuguese fort Daily 10 am to 5.30 pm At Candolim

Goa Chitra With a collection of over 4,000 artefacts, Goa Chitra is an ethnographic museum that focuses on Goa’s traditional agrarian lifestyle and technology.

At Mondo Waddo, Benaulim 9 am to 5 pm +91 832 6570877 Email: goachitra@gmail.com

Atreya Vedic Farms Set amidst nature’s abundance at the foothills of the Western Ghats in Molem is Atreya Vedic Farm, a unique ecotourism venture. At Bondu Mol, Mollem 9 am to 5 pm. +91 832 6570877

Reis Magos Fort This Fort, surrounded by sturdy laterite walls studded with typically Portuguese turrets, was erected in 1551 to protect the narrowest point at the mouth of the Mandovi estuary. The fort stands on the north bank of the Mandovi River at Reis Magos, and is visible from the Panjim side of the Mandovi River.

At Verem 10.30 am to 5.30 pm +91 832 2410711/ +91 832 2410715

Sahakari Spice Farm Relax under a dense forest cover and take in the aroma of a variety of spices grown in the farm. Also, enjoy a traditional Goan lunch served in earthen pots & banana leaves. At Ponda­Belgaum Highway, Curti, Ponda +91 832 2312394

Tiracol Fort The fort was originally built by Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsle, the Raja of Sawantwadi, in the 17th century. Now, in a state of ruins, Fort Tiracol has been converted into a luxury hotel, the Fort Tiracol Heritage.

At Tiracol, Keri

world with unique sounds.

Elvis had first played with a Goan rock band called Flesh n Blood that many Goans may remember from the beat show days. "Goan bands like Syndicate and the like had a major influence and so did this music culture of beat shows that now no longer exists,’ Elvis reminisces. He was also a member of the Bombay-based band ‘Aquaflow’, which enjoyed popularity in Goa as well for its live shows.

He contrasts Europe’s threemonth summer that lends itself to music festivals with Goa’s six month high season, from November to April, saying “I think that we are lucky to have such nice tropical climate to our advantage viz-a-viz Europe.”

“Here in Goa, the season is like a continuous festival with live gigs and parties happening every day to support tourism,” he adds. “These music festivals allow one to let one’s hair down and take a good break from the routine of life.” 

Naval Aviation Museum Displaying a number of vintage aircraft and armaments used at different stages

by Naval Aviation dating back to the 1950`s and a vast number of memorabilia related to Naval Aviation history.

Near Bogmalo Beach 10 am to 5 pm +91 832 2538668 Museum Of Christian Art Open all days of the week Located at the Convent of Santa Monica, you may pray if you wish to, else just soak in the ambience of peace.

At Old Goa From 9:30 am – 5 pm +91 832 2285299

Myra Vineyard launches its limited edition cuvee - MISFIT

M

yra Vineyards, a formidable name in India's growing wine industry. Myra very recently launched its limited edition cuvee Misfit in Goa and this first-ofits-kind product that will only be available across Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka in limited numbers.

With the selection being limited to only 300 cases, Myra is looking to showcase its prowess of bringing wines with balance, elegance and complexity.

Matured in French oak barrels for 18 months, the Misfit blend is smooth, medium-bodied and generous on the palate.

Given this rare cuvee has been kept unfiltered in conception, the natural characteristics have been retained to set unprecedented standards.

From attention to detail, right from the look and feel of the labels – where English fonts are

interwoven with Sanskrit lettering – to the striking aluminium packaged cases that normally accompanies hard liquor bottles; result in a very memorable product.

ABOUT MYRA VINEYARDS With the intent of demystifying the world of wines and giving thrust to the growing Indian wine disposition, Myra Vineyards came into being in early 2013. Founded by first generation entrepreneur, Ajay Shetty, Myra has its current establishment across Karnataka, Maharashtra and Goa. Given its firmly entrenched brand ethos of making wines accessible to one and all, Myra has segmented its portfolio across 3 distinct categories – entry-level, under the label Two Headed Bird, premium under the label Myra and super-premium under the label Reserve.

10 music special

I

t’s almost time to say goodbye to September, and with it the last of the rain clouds. Welcome to October – the first month of ‘The Season’ in our tiny, beautiful, musical Goa. With some of the best musicians, singers, entertainers, and DJs in the country, not to mention awesome seafood at beachside restaurants, there’s not a day without something musical happening just around the corner. Here are some of the best places to head down to for some delicious food, great ambiance, and musical entertainment that will make you wish nights never ended.

The Fisherman’s Wharf (Mobor/ Panjim) The Fisherman’s Wharf in both Mobor, South Goa, and Panjim, keeps you thoroughly entertained throughout the week. With live music every night, catch artists like Siddharth Cotta, Neil & Iggy, Darryl’s Three to Tango, and Singer Waheeda, at both venues on different days of the week. ‘Jukebox’ the duo Andre & Tania belt out some amazing tunes on Friday nights at Mobor, while the Valentino Brothers are on at Panjim, Saturday night. Also check out ‘Music Oasis’ at Mobor on Thursday nights. And for lovers of country music, check out Mariah & Russell in Panjim.

Cavala (Calangute) Different live bands perform at Cavala’s on different nights, leaving you with not a moment to feel bored.

Cavala’s line-up of Goan bands include Rhythm & Blues, Tidal Wave, Crimson Tide, Smooth, and Lace. Keep a look out for a band from Bangalore every once in a while, as well. Lots of ladies frequent Cavala.

Cantare (Saligao) Indisputably the best jazz club in Goa, set in a historic home tucked away in Goa’s hinterland, away from the madding crowds. The food’s also really good, especially the Malaysian Fried Rice.

Cape Town Café (Baga) Described by Viren Saldanha who frequents CTC as “a chilled out place with a really nice vibe”, CTC is the place to be on weekends. With a DJ rocking the party,

you can’t help but to head on down to the dance floor. The beef-steak here is a must-try.

Chronicle (Vagator) A really beautiful beach-side club, and if techno music is what you’re looking for, then Chronicle is the place to be.

Zuperb (Candolim) A delightful restaurant and bar that hosts a continous line-up of high quality live musical entertainment. Also check out their Parsi food.

Guru Bar (Anjuna) Aside from the excellent seafood and wood-fired pizzas, expect a superb selection of some of Goa's best musicians, including the versatile Elvis Lobo, written about in this edition (page 9).

Café Lilliput (Anjuna) A laid-back yet electric beachside club hosting some of the best parties in the state. Fridays are good day to come.

Club Cubana (Anjuna) Club Cubana is set on a hill, with a glorious view of land and sea, making it a very classy party destination where people literally “party in the sky”. The open drinks bar is an added attraction here. Anisha Gomes, who frequents this club on weekends, claims that pizzas made in the wood fired pizza oven are to die for. The place has a reputation for some crazy goings on, including bikiniclad pool girls, who have in the past provoked the ire of authorities.

The Backyard Restaurant & Grill (Sangolda) The Backyard has interesting entertainment with an open stage and mic on Wednesday nights. A perfect evening for anyone who feels like jamming. The stage is set, so all you have to bring is yourself, and of course, enthusiasm and an open heart. But for the days you’d like to just sit back and listen, Darryl & Sharon, Chrystal, and Harry Manning all give you wonderful tunes for listening pleasure.

Karaoke nights with Seby Fernandes also give you something to look forward to every Monday.

The restaurants A Reverie (Calangute), Decades Bar (Calangute), and Barcode Lounge & Grill (Porvorim) also provide live entertainment on

two nights a week each with artists like Krishna, Anika Noronha and Anselm performing. Hendrix – The Meating Grill (Anjuna) and Bay 15 (Odxell) line up some amazing artists every season, so keep your eyes and ears tuned for more updates.

South Goa too has amazing restaurants that bring you not just great food, but a variety of groovy live music as well. So if you’re in the South, put on your boots, and get ready to head out on a weeknight to beat those work-day blues, or on a weekend, to raise your spirits even higher!

Joe’s River Cove (Cavelossim) If you’re looking for a peaceful Sunday afternoon by the river, Joe’s is the place for you. With the River Sal flowing by, and the green Goan countryside with coconut trees across the river, you couldn’t ask for a

more scenic backdrop to match deliciously stuffed mushrooms and chicken cheese kebabs. Joe’s boasts live music four nights a week.

Spoon Café and Bistro (At The Acacia Palms Resort, Colva) The multi-cuisine restaurant at Acacia Palms brings you some sumptuous recipes. To work up an appetite, you can have a splash in the pool, or try your hand at table-tennis at the Activity Center. Spoon brings you live entertainment four nights a week. Their restaurant The Saltwater Pan which overlooks the sea will open once the season kicks in.

Firefly Goan Bistro Bar Equally well known for their assortment of Feni, awesome cuisine, and Karaoke on Thursdays, Firefly, Benaulim is extremely popular in the South. And with good reason! With live entertainment from Wednesdays to Sundays, there’s little else that one could ask for. Listen to artists like Mac Dourado with a little rock and retro, and Goa’s legendary Brian Bones.

Zeebop By The Sea (Utorda) This restaurant with a twangy name is right on Utorda Beach – perfect for a nice swim after some seafood starters and before a heavenly main course. Drop in on Wednesday and Thursday evenings for live entertainment.

Leda Lounge Restaurant (Skylark Resorts, Colva) A fine place for fine-dining, Leda has a continental menu, with a fun atmosphere. With a unique live-music line-up, Leda is a must-visit place on Friday nights for lovers of jazz. Mercy, another veteran Goan musician, enthrals the guests with his saxophone. Keep a lookout for live music at Leda from Thursdays through Sundays.

Chef Fernando’s Nostalgia (Raia) Nostalgia makes us remember the time the Portuguese were here. Very spacious, and with a lot of place to dance, Nostalgia has live entertainment Wednesdays through Sundays. 

12 environment

The Truth About Tiracol Will A Proposed New Golf Course Destroy A Way Of Life, Or Put Goa On The Global Tourism Map?

R

By Goa Streets

egardless of which side you support – the “Save Tiracol” movement or the proponents of building a major golf course in northern Goa – the outcome of the dispute is likely to be a turning point in the history of Goan development.

The truth is each side has a defensible position. Residents and activists say the proposed 18-hole PGA standard golf course will damage the environment and irrevocably destroy centuriesold ways of life. And the would-be builders, Leading Hotels Ltd, argue that a world-class resort and golf course will bring much needed development and employment to the area, attracting just the kind of high-spending tourists Goa says it needs.

At this point, it is impossible to predict which side will prevail in the battle for Tiracol, the stunningly beautiful seaside oasis at Goa’s northern tip. To say each side has a 50-50 chance seems accurate, given current support and opposition. Right now the matter is in the hands of the High Court and the National Green Tribunal, whose rulings – likely to happen within months – are almost certain to be appealed to the Supreme Court, which could take another year or more to decide.

Neither side is ready to give up the fight after the High Court and NGT rulings. For whatever reason – the rise of social media in Goa, public exasperation with corrupt business-government deals, rising environmental awareness – the Save Tiracol movement has gained a level of strength seldom seen before in the state. And the project’s promoters, who have already put in about Rs 270 crore of the Rs 1,300 crore expected

investment - making this the largest tourism expenditure in Goa - will not disappear into the night.

“We want to make Tiracol a global tourism destination that will compete with Seychelles, Punta Mita, Hawaii, Nevis, Bali etc and put Tiracol on the world tourism map,” says LHL spokesman Gerson Rebelo.

“We’ve been cultivating the land for the last 80-100 years. Leading Hotels Ltd tried its best to lure the people, but the people stood firm and didn’t give up their rights because we do not want this development but want to preserve nature,” said Francis Rodrigues, president of the St Anthony’s Tenants and Mundkars Association (SATMA) of Tiracol villagers.

The Goa government, led by Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar, favours the project. But whether that’s enough to counter the growing opposition is an open question.

A victory by the villagers and activists is likely to embolden them and send a strong message to would-be developers about the perils of trying to use traditional lands for capitalist ends.

A victory by Leading Hotels could set the stage for a new phase of rapid Goan development along the lines of a Bali or Phuket, and undermine preservationist forces.

Leading Hotels plans to build the golf course, a Four Seasons resort hotel and luxury villas in Tiracol, which is home to some 30 families comprising some 200 people. The company says it does not intend to enter the village nor displace anyone living there. On the contrary, it insists, the village will prosper with the project.

Leading Hotels Ltd had bought the land from the Khalap family, who owned the entire village of Tiracol for years as it

was gifted to them by the Portuguese.

Tiracol was then identified as an eco tourism zone by a regional plan committee headed by former Chief Minister Digambar Kamat, of which the legendary late Charles Correa was the Vice Chairman. Then Leading Hotels came into the picture.

The company insists the project is eco-friendly, with construction in only three percent of the total area, and the remaining 97% being a green zone.

“The opposition to the project is based on misperceptions or exaggerated fears of project impacts. The project will be one of the most environment friendly tourism projects in India as we’ve got a Gold standard LEEDS (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The company will also plant five to ten times more trees than those that will be cleared during construction,” said Rebelo of Leading Hotels.

Opponents, who, in an unprecedented show of solidarity, now include various NGOs and a growing alliance of villagers, musicians, writers, artists and professors, are unconvinced.

“We and our ancestors have been living in the village for the last 150 years and are completely dependent on traditional occupations especially cashew and coconut plantation,” said Rodrigues, president of the villagers’ association SATMA. “The land revenue department is to be blamed for all this. There is also an unholy nexus between the bureaucrats, politicians and corporates which helped Leading Hotels acquire the land for the golf course project,” added Rodrigues.

Leading Hotels says it has earmarked Rs 50 crores for modernizing and upgrading the village, pointing to a tie-

up with the engineering conglomerate Larsen & Toubro (L & T) to start a skills training program for young people in Tiracol and beyond.

“We want to make the villagers partners in progress, and our model village plan for Tiracol includes uninterrupted power and water supply, medical facilities, primary school, sewage treatment plant and other basic amenities now lacking in the village,” said Rebelo. “We will also be providing free training to the youth of Pernem so that they can be accommodated and get jobs. The first training program is already underway with L & T and many more will follow soon.”

Save Tiracol Save Goa, a movement started by Sudeep Dalvi and Benjamin Pinto (a former member of the popular Indian rock group Euphoria) initially had 6 members but now has more than 20 musicians performing throughout the state to fight the project.

Dalvi says “it’s a fight against injustice.

People are being cheated in Tiracol as Leading Hotels is fraudulently trying to take away their land. That’s why we are opposing this project.”

“All Corporate Social Responsibility promises made by companies are false.

How do they expect them to survive on CSR doles when they are taking away their livelihoods by taking away their agricultural land? If there is no food on their plates, how will they survive?” questions Sudeep.

The Government of Goa has appointed a fact finding committee under the leadership of Sandip Jacques to look into whether Leading Hotels acquired Tiracol legally. A physical site inspection will be carried out by the committee on October 7.

Tiracol has been neglected by successive governments for decades. The village is still dependent on Maharashtra for water and power and lacks other basic amenities like schools and medical facilities. It’s now up to the tribunals of India to decide whether Leading Hotels will get a chance to make good on its promise to rectify all that, or whether life in Tiracol will remain the same, with its cashews, coconuts and calm. 

13 Friday, September 25, 2015

For Stunning Sea Views, Lovely Food And A Piece of Paradise Right Next To Panjim

By Goa Streets

S

et over the secluded Odxel Beach in Dona Paula, the fabulous Bay 15 resort is close to all the conveniences of Panjim while still enjoying complete serenity. The resort, with its stunning sea views, yummy cuisine and live musical entertainment every night (this IS the Music Edition of Goa Streets, after all!), offers boutique cabanas, beachfront and indoor dining areas and fantastic grounds right on the water’s edge.

The cuisine is certainly a highlight, with a whole array of innovative dishes in their Mediterranean, Indian and Goan menus.

Chef Raheman shifted from the Maldives, where he worked with some of the island’s best hotels for 13 years. At Bay 15, he has brought his expertise to signature creations like the Crabmeat and Avocado Salad (that also uses mango when in season), Seared Scottish Salmon which he serves with saffron cous cous, Honey Ginger Beetroot Risotto, Achari Tandoori Red Snapper, Grain-Fed Cajun Spiced Chicken, Mustard Marinated Chicken Breast and Goan Pork Chop Masala.

“I look at each new day as a fresh challenge,” explains Chef Raheman, adding that if he had to choose his best plate, it would be the Honey Ginger Beetroot Risotto. This is clearly a not-to-be-missed dish!

Chef Raheman points out that Bay 15 has a separate master chef just for preparing Goan food – a pillar of the resort’s dining experience and a big draw for locals and visitors alike.

Bay 15 is ideal for a variety of activities for all ages and lifestyles. It has 50,000 square feet of manicured lawns and event space, with full catering services including a variety of party options for celebrating those special moments.

Cabanas By The Bay are fifteen beautifully done wooden Chalets, located

on the beach front among the coconut trees, right at the water’s edge.

Lounge Bar and Restaurant with a rustic yet contemporary decor, offers appetizers and entrées with a Mediterranean and Pan-Indian focus. The extensive beverage list features a great many beverages and wines as well as a very good collection of fine teas and specialty coffees from around the world.

Harbour Grill is a relaxed openplan space offering a seafood grill, inspired Goan curry menu and sparkling water views.

The décor and relaxed seating is complimented by amazing views of the sea.

When it comes to his own personal favourites, Chef Raheman goes for Indian cuisine, with Biryani topping his list.

There’s nothing in the world like home-cooked food, he says, and he brings that sensibility to his work at the resort.

“With Bay 15’s all-day dining, you can sit at any of your favourite restaurants and eat the cuisine you love,” Chef Raheman says.

The ‘Harbour Grill’ has a relaxed open-plan space where one can sample their seafood grill and Goan curry menu with the added benefit of one of the best sea views in the area.

It’s equally suited to lazy lunches as it is to intimate dinners. Many of the Goan specialties on the menu here are hard to find elsewhere.

Stuffed Crab, Cheesestuffed Mushrooms, Mutton Sukkem, Pomfret Recheado and Stuffed Squid are among the uniquely delicious offerings.

With a rustic yet contemporary design that features painted turquoise bird cages and an impressive bar, the indoor lounge bar up the stairs in the main building showcases Mediterranean and Pan Indian offerings with a wide selection of wines, fine coffees and teas. The outer deck offers an unrestricted view of the sea and the

lawns, with a clean sea breeze blowing throughout the day.

Staying in one of the 15 beachfront cabanas gives you the peace and tranquility that visitors look for in a Goan holiday.

There are large bay windows looking out to the Zuari River Bay and a swimming pool that steers you into relaxation mode. The wooden cabanas have covered balconies and relaxing chairs to lounge on.

Guests enjoy a wide array of five-star

amenities, from airport transfers, cars at their disposal, rooms with attached baths, wardrobes with safe deposit lockers, king size beds, telephones with direct dial facilities, internet access and televisions with satellite TV channels.

Bay 15 is also a popular wedding venue, since the resort has a very large seaside banqueting capability – the catering team is geared up to serve up to 900 guests.

Corporate travellers also favour Bay 15 because of the proximity of the resort to the main business and commercial hubs of Panjim, Verna Industrial Estate and Patto.

Gracing the shores of Dona Paula, Bay 15 is a delightful addition to our state’s hospitality and culinary scene. Check it out!  At Odxel Beach Dona Paula Ph: 095610 06715

14 food & drink Every Saturday

Cheese and Wine @ Grand Hyatt Enjoy Grand Hyatt Goa's finest selection of wines and cheeses every Saturday at The Verandah. Treat yourself to an exclusive wine tasting and exotic cheese table, carefully crafted by our very talented Executive Chef Mark Long At The Verandah, Grand Hyatt, Bambolim 7 pm to 11:30 pm +91 832 301 1234

Brunches Every Sunday

Super Brunch The Super Brunch at Vivanta Panaji is a decadent affair with an astonishingly wide selection of Live grills. Serving up the finest cuisine from around the world.

At Vivanta by Taj, Panaji, Off D B Bandodkar road, Panaji +91 832 6633636 Brunch at Cantina Bodega This is one of the more interesting spots in town to have a meal. Under the supervision of Vandana Naik, a former top chef in New York City and easily one of Goa’s most notable culinary experts, there’s a wide variety of delights on offer, including pizzas, soups, salads, hummus and meat balls, plus an eclectic mix of Indian, Mediterranean and other world cuisines.

That’s not to mention the desserts, another top draw here. Noon to 4 pm At Cantina Bodega, Sunaparanta, Panjim. +91 832 2421315 info@sgcfa.org www.sgcfa.org Sunday Family Brunch Live Music by The Actacy At Gawin's Restaurant, Verna 12 pm to 3 pm +91 9822177179 Bikini Brunch Sunday BBQ Brunch @ Rs. 950 ++ with unlimited drinks Enjoy Live Karaoke with Emmanuel At The Park, Calangute 12.30 pm to 4.30 pm. +91 8805028194/ +91 832 2267600 resv.goa@theparkhotels.com www.theparkhotels.com Sunday Brunch Highlights: Free Use of Swimming Pool, Rain Dance with DJ, Lavish Buffet with live counters, unlimited house brands alcohol & cocktails & games & Activities Cost: Rs. 1500/- inclusive of all Taxes (with alcohol); Rs. 1100/- inclusive of all Taxes (without alcohol) At Resort Rio, Tambudki, Arpora 12 noon to 3 pm +91 8322267300 / +91 8322267302 Myra Vineyards presents 'Sangria Sunday Brunch' at Sol de Goa Sangria Sunday Brunch with the amazing Helen and Xavier Peres.

Complimentary use of the pool for all customers.

Italian, Spanish and Mexican delights and unlimited Sangria, beer and cocktails.

Sunset set with Dj David Phimister Rs: 1200+ taxes per head, Rs: 600+ taxes for kids.

At Sol de Goa, Nerul 12:30 pm onwards. 0832 671 4141

South Goa Restaurants Cherry Tomato Burger Cafe and Italian Restaurant At Vanelim, Colva +91 9561379963

Cafe Lovii - Healthy Food with Love Health Food Restaurant, Sandwich & Coffee Shop At Oorja Wellness Centre, Next to Old criminal Court, Margao +91 8308794850

Cavatina Thai, American, Chinese, Italian, Goan A restaurant in Goa brings to the state a whole bunch of international flavours simulated for the local palate.

At Benaulim, near Joecons Resort, Salcete +91 832 2770607 Firefly Goan Bistro Bar Goan This happening bistro on Benaulim beach serves splendid Goan food and hosts live music acts all week long.

At Firefly Goan Bistro Bar, Benaulim +91 9822123535 Brews & Bakes Brewing Smiles & Baking Memories At Shop No: 250, Abade Faria Road, Comba, Margao +91 8308800080 brewsnbakes@live.com Café Mardi Gras Goan, North Indian, coffee & snacks.

Pan fried Pomfret Recheado, Chicken Xacutti, Pork Vindaloo and Goan Fish Curry are some of their most popular offerings.

At Holiday Inn Resort, Cavelossim All-day. +91 832 2871303 www.holidayinn.com Cozy Nook Bar & Restaurant Serves Indian, Continental, and Goan food.

At Palolem Beach, Canacona +91 832 2643550 Peters Pub and Restaurant This is the place where you can spend your nights with live music and delicious food close to one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa. At Utorda, Beach Road +91 9922909432/ +91 9049066470 Spice Studio Contemporary Indian and Coastal Cuisine Enjoy Dine in the Dark special theme nights.

At Alila Diwa Goa, Majorda +91 832 2746800 Casa Fiesta Mexican The menu is comprehensive, with Tacos, Enchiladas, Burritos, Fajitas and other Mexican dishes. Does it taste exactly the way Mexican food is supposed to taste? You be the judge 8.30 am to 11 pm At Palolem Beach Road, Goa +91 9823928548 Canacona Coffee shop.

There’s Indian, Goan, European and some Chinese on offer with a contemporary, fusion touch to the items. Buffet Breakfast At Intercontinental The LaLiT Goa Resort, Rajbaga, Canacona +91 832 2667777 Da Luigi Experience flavours from the streets of Rome, Venice or Milan at this surprisingly authentic Italian fine-dining restaurant.

At Park Hyatt Goa Resot and Spa, Cansaulim. +91 832 2721234 Portofino Coffee Shop Multi-Cuisine This all day dining restaurant is an ideal place to head for a midnight snack or after party munchies.

At Kenilworth Resort & Spa, Utorda Open 24x7 +91 832 6698888 Alcoves Goan, Indian, Chinese Some excellent choices to be tried here would be Chinese Crispy Chicken, Cafreal, Veg Kolhapuri, Veg Crispy, and Chicken Vindaloo.

Near Cine Vishant, Aquem, Margao 8.30 am to 11 pm +91 83 22735062, +91 832 2730536

Zeebop By the Sea Seafood At Opp. Kenilworth Beach Resort, Utorda Beach +91 832 2755333/ +91 9822154541 zeebopbythesea@gmail.com Allegria Goan, Portuguese This fine-dining restaurant at the Taj Exotica serves mouth watering food. On offer are all the classic Goan dishes like Chicken Cafreal, Pork Sorpotel, and Kullanche Mass Kottnim, which is crab meat in a shell, and of course, the all time favourite, Fish Curry Rice.

At Taj Exotica, Calwaddo, Benaulim, Salcete 7.30 pm to 10.45 pm +91 832 6683333 Peppers Gourmet Cuisine Seafood, Tandoor Indulge in innovative desserts and local flavours at this exciting food joint.

Near Child Care School, Margao +91 832 2711125. +91 9822133506 A Tartaruga Multi – Cuisine This eating space is a great venue for weddings and parties with sprawling beach front lawns that can accommodate up to 1000 pax. At Colva Beach, Salcete 7 am to 11 pm +91 832 2788068/69 Casa Sarita For truly outstanding authentic Goan Food.

Open only for dinner, this classy fine dining restaurant is a delightful place to explore Goan and Portuguese cuisine.

At Park Hyatt Goa, Cansaulim +91 832 2721234 Tato’s Fine Dining Goan, Indian, Chinese Tato’s fine dining makes its presence felt in the culinary circles in Margao.

Opp. New Collectorate, Margao 12 pm to 3 pm and 6.30 pm to 11 pm +91 832 2758590 Fisherman’s Wharf Authentic Goan It’s a fantastic restaurant to celebrate a special occasion.

At the riverside, near Holiday Inn, Cavelossim – Salcete +91 832 2871317

North Goa Restaurants

Suwadik The Coastal Cuisine This Shravan, treat yourself with some of the best veg delicacies.

Introducing Unlimited Shravan Thali @ 175/Limited Shravan Thali @ 140- / At Dada Vaidya Road, Near Mahalaxmi Temple, Panjim +91 832 6516159 Voltaire Restaurant An exquisite restaurant dedicated to serve authentic Goan cuisine with an attempt to tickle your taste buds with flavors ranging widely from vindaloo and caldine to khatkhate and uddamethi which we are sure to leave you nostalgic!

Opp.Ins Mandovi boat pool,Reis Magos Fort Road,Reis Magos +91 832 2402755/+91 9822588231 Veggie Deli Sharanam Green Resort One of the very few places in Goa that serve both alcohol and vegetarian cuisine at the same venue, with an all day restaurant.

124/3 Gauravaddo, Nr Calangute Mall, Calangute. +91 9545418554 Ciao Bella Restaurant Authentic Italian food The décor is charming and romantic, and the ambiance, relaxed and inviting.

At Assagao Badem Road, Assagao +91 832 2273065/ +91 9767557673 Ciaobella.goa@gmail

Gunpowder Indian At Cursino Villa, Sauntawaddo, Assagao Noon to 3.30 pm & 7 pm to 11 pm +91 832 2270091/ 92 Desbue European Fusion Modern European Restaurant A traditional Portuguese heritage home in the Latin quarter of Panjim.

At La Maison, Fountainhas, Panjim +91 832 2235555 Tropical 24x7 Restaurant, Bar and Pub Blistering Venue, Scrumptious Cuisine, Lip Smacking Drinks, Invincible Performers and more…

At Main Road, Calangute +91 9820115921 Mamma Mia Ristorante Italiano & Pizzeria Italian Some of the best Italian food in the state.

Tastes the way someone’s grandma in Sicily might book it. Definitely worth checking out.

Also try the wood-fired pizzas.

At Resort Rio, Tambudki, Arpora +91 832 2267300 fom@resortrio.com www.resortrio.com Bar Code Lounge and Grill Offers Slow-Smoked Regional BBQ and Grilled Seafood items along with the most exotic beverages Goa has to offer.

At National Highway, Porvorim +91 832 223200 Aunty Maria This quaint little café in Hotel Fidalgo is an upscale coffee shop and bakery offering fresh home-made bread, cakes, cookies, chocolates and quick bites that could make for a wonderful breakfast or tea time snack.

At Hotel Fidalgo, Panjim +91 832 2226291 secgoa@fidalgogroup.com www.fidalgogroup.com Barrels & Bones BBQ - Steakhouse - Pizzeria Meal For Two: Rs.1000 At Fontainhas, close to the Maruti/ Hanuman Temple, Panjim 9673994064/7774078276 promobnb@gmail.com Goenchin Chinese, Pan Asian Yes the Chinese food here is Indian-ized. But is that necessarily a bad thing? It depends on your taste.

At Mandovi Apartment, Dr Dada Vaidya Road, Panjim Noon to 3 pm, 7 pm to 11 pm +91 8322227614 reservations@hotelmandovigoa.com www.hotelmandovigoa.com Chicken Man The trademark dish here is their rotisserie Chicken.

With healthy, delicious, rotisserie chicken in quarter, half and whole cluck sizes. Chicken Man is a Top choice for every meal.

At Off 18th June Road, Panjim +91 832 2423333 Casabela Continental, European A cozy place to hang around with your folks, it has been around since the 70’s and has mouth watering hand tossed pizzas.

Off Chogm Rd, Porvorim 7 am to 11 pm. +91832241558 mail@casabelagoa.com www.casabelagoa.com Mum’s Kitchen Goan Among the best upscale Goan kitchens in Panjim, this restaurant draws foodies from all religions and walks of life.

At Panjim-Miramar Rd 11 am to 11pm +91 9822175556

Marbela Beach Italian, Seafood One of the finest beach resorts in the state, Marbela Beach is the ultimate destination to party or to unwind during the sunset with refreshing cocktails and decent food to hog on to.

At Morjim –Ashvem Road, Morjim 7 am to midnight +91 832 8450599 Goa Marriott Resort & Spa Open for dinner 7 pm onwards every day, Wan Hao is also open for lunch on Saturday and Sunday.

Re-orient your taste-buds with the choicest of Oriental cuisine all this season only.

At Wan Hao, the Goa Marriott Resort & Spa! +91 832-246 3333.

Avanti Bar & Restaurant Indian, Goan & Seafood Serves Goan specialties like Rawa fried prawns, stuffed squid, and gratinated stuffed crab masala among other Goan delights.

Near Patto Bridge, Panjim 11 am to 3 .30 pm, 7 pm to 11.30 pm +91 832 2435884/ +91 832 2427179 hotelavanti@yahoo.com Peep Kitchen Indian, Continental, Goan, Chinese A family restaurant with a bar run by a Goan family serves food with an authentic Goan and homely touch.

At Caranzalem, Near Petrol Pump, Panjim Noon to 2.30 pm and 7 pm to 10.30 pm +91 832 6454474 Hotel Sanskruti Chinese, Goan, Indian, Oriental It’s a pure vegetarian restaurant which is packed during lunch time. It’s really good for South Indian food, Thali, and chaat.

At Near HDFC Bank, Porvorim 8 am to 11 pm +91 832 2414400/ +91 94233323822 Casa Bhonsle Indian & Goan All meals here are prepared in the authentic Hindu Goan Style.

Above Café Bhonsle, Near Cine National, Panjim Noon to 3.30 pm & 7 pm to 11 pm +91 832 2222260/ +91 9822100684 A Lua Chinese, European, Goan, North Indian, Seafood 11 am to 11 pm At, Bella vista, Sangolda +91 832 2416671/ 73 At Porie Bhatt, Verna Contact: +91 832 2782760/ +91 9881272080 At Bhueem Bhatt, St Cruz, Merces +91 832 2448172/ +91 2448757 A Pastelaria Bakery An ideal place for pastries, cakes, cookies and other baked offerings.

9 am to 9 pm At Hotel Mandovi, Panjim +91 832 2426270/ 73 Anandashram Hotel Chinese, Goan and Seafood This is one of the oldest eateries in Goa and is something of an institution for its affordable and delicious Goan Fare.

At 31st January Road, Panjim 1 pm to 10.30 pm +91 9823195245 Edu’s Restaurant Indian, Chinese, International and Goan Pizzas are one of their specialties. There’s nothing fancy about it but it has the vibe of a street café.

Next to Magsons on the main DB Road in Panjim, Miramar. +91 832 2463777, +91 832 2463888

15

Friday, September 25, 2015

MUSEUM OF GOA (MOG) World-Class Art Space A Welcome Addition To Goa’s Creative Scene

Preview of Julian Opie Winter Exhibition

By The British Council At Sunaparanta - Goa Centre for the Arts, Panaji 7 pm +91 832 2421311

Every Saturday Expressions

By Artist Vaishali Lall, with a focus on exploring the skills of embroidery and mix media in painting.

At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula +91 9420820890

By Subodh Kerkar

W

ith great excitement, an open heart, and a true love for Goa, I want to announce the launch of a new contemporary cultural space, the Museum of Goa (MOG), on 6 November 2015.

This project is driven by my own personal engagement with the arts and culture. Art is not just my profession, but the very breath of my life. My life is inseparable from the creative quests that have nurtured me for the last three decades. Creativity is an essentially private activity, yet no artist speaks to himself alone. He needs an audience. He cannot sing in the desert.

I have also long felt the need to go beyond my personal artistic adventures and work towards creating a vibrant art scene in Goa. Unfortunately, a major part of our population is completely excluded from the opportunity to enjoy contemporary art.

There is an urgent need to break cultural barriers and take contemporary arts to the common people, ideally in their own language. I have decided to make a significant contribution to meeting this need by creating the ‘Museum of Goa’ (MOG).

This unique and inclusive space for the Arts, will bring together artists, curators, collectors, art enthusiasts, educators, students and audiences from all walks of life. It will not only be a space for exhibitions, but will also organize workshops, residencies, lectures, talks and art courses.

MOG will embrace a universal perspective and provide a platform to Indian contemporary artists to showcase their work and will also connect them with local and international milieus.

MOG is envisioned less as a repository of objects and more as a laboratory of ideas, where art forms – paintings, sculptures, photography, music, theatre,

October 1

Galleries of Note

design, video art, films, installations and many others are in constant dialogue with each other.

I believe that contemporary art is the universal language of the world today. Goa can be a part of the global conversation. However, in spite of being a prime tourist destination, Goa lacks contemporary art spaces.

MOG will showcase the best in contemporary art and put Goa on the international art map.

MOG offers 1,500 square meters of space to display art and is centrally located in Pilerne Industrial Estate, not too far from Calangute. The building, a three storey structure designed by the well-known architect Dean D’Cruz, stands between industries on one side and the forest on the other. It will house galleries, an Art Store, a café, an auditorium and studios for artists.

MOG’s first exhibition will present the works of 20 artists: sculptures, drawings, paintings, installations, videos and documentaries that explore the multiple strands of Goa’s history. It aims to stir up these histories, to dig into the recesses of historical archives and collective memories, celebrating the connectedness of the different cultures that have made Goa what it is today. In addition to being an artistic exercise, this maiden exhibition will also be a unique pedagogical experiment of narrating the vicissitudes of history in a contemporary idiom.

In Konkani, the word MOG means ‘love’.

It is in this spirit that we invite you to join us. 

Museum of Goa Plot No. 79, Pilerne Industrial Estate, Pilerne, Bardez, Goa – 403511.

Email: subodh@museumofgoa. com / mail@museumofgoa.com Web: www.museumofgoa. com Fb: www.facebook. com/museumofgoa

The Cube Gallery Every architect, since the beginning of time, has secretly tried to create a vision of paradise in the buildings they design. Discover one such paradise and much more.

At The Cube Gallery, Calizor Vaddo, Moira.

11 am to 7 pm +91 832 2470415/ +91 9422806748 thecubegallerygoa@gmail.com Surya Art Gallery This gallery is situated in a quiet location where contemporary works of canvas paintings from Goa and artifacts are displayed.

At Bandawal Wada, Pernem 10 am to 6 pm +91 9404149764/ +91 9422064754 Galleria Esperance Retrospective Art in oils, watercolors, crayons, still life photographs etc. on display Near Our Lady of Merces Church, Merces 4 pm to 7 pm +91 9922509704 Kerkar Art Gallery Exhibition of recent works of Subodh Kerkar “The Pepper Cross” & “Indigo”.

Besides a new series of Laterite Stone Sculptures on display.

At Gaura Vaddo, Calangute 10 am to 7 pm +91 9326119324 Mario Art Gallery Discover the original paintings and other memorabilia of the great Goan artist/cartoonist Mario Miranda. Here you can buy “The Life of Mario”, as well as prints, mounted prints, frames, tiles, mugs, card sets and other books.

At ‘Houses of Goa’, Salvador-doMundo, Porvorim area 9:00 am to 5:30 pm +91 832 2410711 archauto@gmail.com www.mariodemiranda.com TURN TO PAGE 17

Friday, September 25, 2015

arts & entertainment 17

Introducing: The Life Skills Academy A Delightful New Academy Offering Artistic And Life Skills Instruction Helps Pave The Way To A More Meaningful Life

By Rajyashree Dutt

M

y husband Deepak and I had a dream. We longed to set up a space where we could offer people – young and old – the opportunity to do something different and fulfilling in life, outside the everyday tasks that dominate daily existence.

And Life Skills Academy was born.

Our philosophy is simple. Get good teachers, keep the classes small and concentrate on giving the people of Goa a high that does not come out of a bottle or a weed. So the idea snowballed and we found a beautiful space in Nachinola – an old Indo-Portuguese house set in vast grounds, overlooking green fields and

a sparkling river on the horizon. The loudest noise is the shrieking of the woodpeckers.

And we found great faculty. And a manager to run the show. Our Academy, combining artistic, life-skills, career and language instruction, is being inaugurated this week and includes some of the finest teachers in the country.

While I was running an art gallery in Bangalore, I discovered that most people are born with a creative side but have never had the opportunity to explore it. Some are intimidated by the concept of embracing art.

And as for doing it themselves… you’ve got to be kidding! But then I ran some art classes. An introduction to art – nothing fancy. And when people actually got their fingers dirty they realized they were seeing things – colours, shapes, designs they had never noticed before.

And it gave them a new-found confidence in themselves and their artistic judgment. Some even went on to study it further. There’s no denying the high it gives you.

Francis Desousa, an alumnus of the Goa College of Art, is one of Goa’s leading artists, with several awards and exhibitions under his belt. His unique style is a celebration of form and colour and his paintings make the viewer think. He will hold classes in Drawing and Composition and Creative Expression, Design and Calligraphy. Apart from teaching his students how to draw and paint, he hopes to kindle in them a heightened aesthetic awareness and ignite their creativity.

We met Sanjay Harmalkar, also an alumnus of the Goa College of Art, wearing his Chairperson of the Institute Menezes Braganza

hat. It’s only after I did some more research that I realized what a fantastic portrait painter he is. He is a multi-faceted person, with interests in advertising, sculpture, politics and music. So you can imagine our delight when he offered to teach Figurative Drawing and Painting to the students of Life Skills Academy!

Verodina Ferrao Desousa is Goa’s celebrated award-winning sculptor. She has worked primarily with terracotta though she likes to experiment with other mediums as well. If you’ve seen the statue of Christ at the Shrine of the Miraculous Cross at Bambolim or the three (now two) fisherwomen sitting outside the old secretariat in Panjim, you’ve seen her work. Verodina has run workshops in Pottery and Sculpture in India and Australia. And now she will be running workshops at Life Skills Academy.

As for myself, I have been involved in theatre for almost 60 (yes, 60… that’s not a typo) years.

I have acted under several excellent directors, performed all over India, and received quite a few accolades for my work on stage and in film (one reviewer in The Hindu said I was among “… possibly the most talented Indian stage actresses we have…”, though I cannot be entirely sure that he was not on weed!). One of my career highlights was acting in a film with the legendary Waheeda Rehman… but that’s another story.

I have taught drama and elocution to children as well as adults. It is so rewarding, for both teacher and student. The ability to lose yourself in another world, take on a different persona, find yourself able to do and say much more with your body, your gestures, your voice – even just your eyes. Oooh! It’s addictive. Some people crave the allure of the footlights and bask in audience adulation.

But others are terrified at the thought of performing in front of others. To them I say, come and try it in an atmosphere that is completely non-threatening. You have fun. And it helps you overcome your fear. You may or may not go on to do great things on stage or in the movies. But you will certainly be able to stand up in front of a crowd and deliver a speech or ace an interview. You will feel good about yourself. It’s worth it.

I’m teaching Speech and Drama to all age

groups and Communication Skills to adults. All these classes will lead up to certification from the Trinity College of London.

Of course, the other side of the coin is dance. We are running a series of intensive workshops in the Indian classical dance form, Mohiniattam to be conducted by Jayashree Mundkur.

After years of training in both the classical forms - Bharatanatyam and Mohiniattam - and performing in India and abroad, Jayashree has developed a style that is distinct and graceful.

She currently teaches Mohiniattam in Bengalore and we are happy to have her bring this unique art form to Goa. Among the other offerings of LSA is Conversational English, for all those folks in Goa who need that extra push in the global lingua franca. For this we are lucky to have Maria Luisa Valdares, erstwhile lecturer in English from Carmel College, come on board.

And while one can certainly get by in Goa with English and Hindi, we are, after all, in the land of Konkani and we believe it’s important to learn to speak this wonderful language. Enter Berta Monserrat who is taking on the role of teacher of Conversational Konkani.

Then our thoughts turned to life skills, which one could actually use as a launching pad for a career.

So Kiran Rao, who owns and operates her own salon in Bangalore, will teach Hair Cutting and Finishing. It’s a valuable 16-day programme run by someone who combined a career of modeling and styling in Mumbai.

She honed her skills with Toni and Guy in Singapore and Vidal Sassoon in London.

And we’re running courses in Personal and Professional Make Up to be taught by Delhi-based Ishrat Mookerjee.

Ishrat trained for many years with the phenomenal make-up artist Vidya Tikari.

They handled personal and professional make up for many celebrities and fashion events. Ishrat also worked for Shahnaz Husain, the queen of herbal beauty products, as her personal beautician for three years.

We hope to add more courses as time goes by, so watch this space…

Life Skills Academy is ready to roll. On Friday, 25 September 2015, the Academy will be formally inaugurated. And the first classes start the next day.

Call now to book your place.

Remember, seats are limited Call +91 8308327100 or send an email to info@skills-academy.in Rajyashree Dutt Life Skills Academy 15-A (New 31) Zoidar Vaddo Nachinola Goa 403 508

FROM PAGE 15 Monsoon Heritage Studio Treat yourself to some amazing collection of mirrored mosaic art and handpicked artefacts at this upscale studio by Yahel Chirinian.

At Mainath Batti, Arpora 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM +91 9822122771 Off The Wall Discover a collection of deeply astounding works of art displayed on a daily basis at this thoughtful art cafe.

Fort Aguada Road, Sinquerim, Candolim 10:30 am to 11:30 pm +91 9820083497, +91 9823289123 Panjim Art Gallery Get a dose of the local culture with figurative works of Goan artists.

Near Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim 9:00 am to 8:00 pm +91 9822168703 Gallery Gitanjali An elegant art gallery in Panjim’s Latin Quarter is worth hopping into when you’re in the area.

Fontainhas, Panjim 9:00 am to 9:00 pm +91 9823572035 gallerygitanjali@gmail.com www.gallerygitanjali.com Art Chamber: Galleria de Belas Artes One of the more interesting and pleasant art centers in the state featuring confident acrylic strokes that are somewhat three dimensional, put across the canvas by Yolanda De Souza and others. The musical acts here are worth looking out for too.

Gaura Vaddo, Calangute 10:00 am to 1:00 pm & 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm +91 832 2277144 artchamber@gmail.com www.goa-art.com Moksa Art Gallery Here you will find some immensely conceptual paintings by Salvadoran Fernandez and others.

Naik Waddo, Calangute 9:30 am to 8:30 pm +91 832 2281121 mokshart@gmail.com www.mokshartgallery.com Sunaparanta- Goa Centre for the Arts The centre houses several exhibitions , has a large multi-functional space for workshops and lectures, an inhouse film club, sketch club, open air amphitheatre, pottery studio and an open courtyard that houses the al fresco café, Bodega. The red velvet cupcakes at Bodega are a must try!

At Altinho, Panjim 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. +91 832 2421311 info@sgcfa.org | www.sgcfa.org

Friday, September 25, 2015

Keep Goa Beautiful 19

(Or At Least Hate It Enough To Get Rid Of It)

By Kanchi Mehta

O

f all the issues facing Goa, not many are as critical as the garbage crisis. It blights the countryside, wrecks tourism, spreads illness and spoils the environment.

Ubiquitous untreated garbage on the roadside an elsewhere, I would argue, is one of the top barriers preventing Goa from reaching its economic, cultural and touristic potential.

Today, waste management is one of the top challenges of Municipal Councils and the Panchayats. However, the root of the problem is embedded in the sensibilities of local residents. This, in addition to the tourists who have multiplied enormously in the last few years, has generated uncontrollable waste and no proper systems at hand to manage it. Today we drive through Goa’s scenic villages with swaying trees, quaint homes, and piles of garbage. This sight has gradually numbed the people, and it seems most of us are just waiting for someone else to initiate the change.

This is very dangerous.

I did a little research and retrieved some valuable, though somewhat outdated statistics. According to the Goa state pollution control board report on MSW (Master on Social Work), the total waste generated across the

state including the 189 villages is approximately 400 tonnes a day (this information dates to 2012, so we can only assume how much it has risen since then). Roughly, half of this waste is nonbiodegradable and extremely harmful for the environment as well as humans (I am specifying humans, because we have obviously separated ourselves from the planet as an independent entity, unaware of our miserable actions towards the planet).The issue has become too large for the government bodies to keep under control. Inadequate waste collection and lack of transportation and disposal facilities have intensified this problem, especially in Goa's coastal villages where tourism has rapidly increased.

On a positive note, there are several privately run organizations around the state that are working hard to solve this. With knowledge about the issue and sufficient strength to fight insensitive people, they are successfully converting garbage into gold. By this I mean composting organic waste for plants, biogas for fuel, as well as solutions and guidelines for environmental hazard prevention,

such as overflow from septic tanks, environmental clearance and social awareness programs.

I drove to Mapusa to meet Espie Kandolkar, a local Goan lady from Anjuna who runs Green Goa Works, a not-for-profit organization that offers (as mentioned in the website), ‘a wide range of services that will help you harness the goodness of the earth while conserving the environment. You can also contact them with inquiries for any other environmental problems which you encounter during the course of everyday modern living.’ All their services are provided at low cost, allowing them to recover the actual cost of materials and labor without any profit. They also have a range of earth-friendly products like floor cleaners, vermin-compost, termite repellants, neem oil as well as food products.

Initiated in 2003, it was initially funded by UNDP (United Nations Development Program) and support from a few others like Goa Foundation, which isspearheaded by Claude Alvares.

But for the past few years they have been independent, sustaining themselves by consultancy projects and other services.

GGW (Green Goa Works)is backed by some important personalities like Wendell Rodricks, Architect Dean D’Cruz, Capt. Leo Lobo, among others. Aspie began her career in GGWby collecting plastic bottles around Anjuna. This led her to start collecting wet and dry waste from homes and hotels. Over the years, this project has toughened her. “It is not easy to deal with government officials, the Panchayat, corporates and home-owners.

The biggest problem we have is plastic burning, especially sanitary napkins and diapers. People don’t want to do this on their own, and feel it is the job of the housemaids, who are even more unaware of how to handle waste. You cannot blame the state alone. It goes both ways.”

We spoke of the garbage along the highways, and garbage created by hotels, music festivals and the markets. Aware of every loophole and undercuts, she knew the system well. “The long-term tourists are not the pollutants. They come from developed countries that have taken years to create highly effective garbage management systems. So they actually come here and do some good for the community. It is actually the Indian tourists who come to have a good time in Goa and litter the space and leave.

No one stops to think about this change due to urbanization because people only think of themselves.”There can be systems of penalty and rewards, imposing fines on the guilty and encouraging the heroes with honors. However, in a country where the people prefer to take short cuts, it would be hellish to micro manage.

Detritus Solutions is another Mapusa based organization, founded by Gaurav Pokla, Trivikam Prabhugaonkar and Siddhesh Thali, with the aim of eradicating the state’s garbage menace. They not only reduce waste, but also recover valuable resources, which results in creating clean renewable energy. Detritus, in biological terms means ‘dead organic material’.

Their organizationprovides services such as waste storage, cleaning equipment, waste water treatments solutions, rain water harvesting among others.

Goa is one of the smallest states in India, with only 3,702 square kilometers.

One would assume that there would be better management at hand to control not only garbage, but also many other infrastructural issues. However, it is actually the opposite and no one seems to understand the urgency of the situation. Even if every household would segregate their wet and dry waste with genuine intention, it could be a start. This would ignite a chain reaction, which would make the job of the garbage collector easy, which would further lead to better recycling systems.

The change begins with you.

Please visit the following links to learn more about how to manage your waste. www.greengoaworks.in www.typewriterguerilla.com www.detritussolutions.com www.goafoundation.org www.videovolunteers.org/garbage-goa