Issue No: 35

Friday, August 1, 2014 | Vol. No. 2 | Issue 35 | Price Rs. 10 | www.goastreets.com | G-2/RNP/Weekly/Goa-05/2013-15

Rockin' at Cheenos | Sea Turtles| A Deltin Date

Off-Beat Monsoon Adventures plus complete food/event/ nightlife guide

3

Friday, August 1, 2014

Art Escape - The Live Music Project Sat Nite

Celebrating International Blues Music Day (Ibmd) Feat.

Kanchan Daniel & The Beards From Bombay & Cliff. Shayne & Joe From Goa & Finale Blues Jam The action is at Live Lounge, Baywatch Resort and will continue Every SAT NITE with new bands & more....So be there for your weekly dose of live music!

On August 02 At live lounge, Baywatch, Colva 7.30 pm onwards +91 9323590051/ +91 9881568756

Cheenos

Goa’s New Dance Destination

By Sapna Shahani

F

irst it was Alcatrazz, the six-member band that is known for playing the right song at the right time on Saturday Jive Nights, and teaching people choreographed dance moves right on top of the bar! And now Cheenos, the two-level pub opened not too long ago on Baga River Road, is organizing more theme music evenings with a simple goal in mind: setting the dance floor ablaze!

On Friday, August 1, Rahul D’Mello, formerly with the popular band, The Syndicate, will don his distinctive sarong and perform with his new band Raggas 2 Riches at Cheenos. Rahul, who formed the band only a year ago says, “Our music is the people’s music. We play everything that people want to hear.

We do all kinds of music from soul to ballads to rock and progressive dance.”

On Wednesdays, the venue often being called ‘the new home of live music,’ has started Tribute nights with bands and solo performers paying homage to their favourite artist. On August 6, Aayushi Jagad will come up from Pune to sing

Something Hot Is Always Happening her favourite diva songs by the likes of Adele and Rihanna. Along with bandmate Roy Kulkarni on keyboards, the duo found their wings when they won a local competition at Hard Rock Café in Pune.

Goa’s own Chrystal Farrell also paid tribute to her favourite icon, Madonna on Wednesday July 30.

Chrystal, who performed a mix of her hits as well as mashups, says, “I used to watch all her music videos and loved everything I heard. What’s best was that as I grew up, Madonna’s music grew up with me. Her sounds and looks changed and her versatility just blew me away.”

Along with partner Sancho, Chrystal worked on different arrangements of Madonna’s originals, giving them a unique twist. They covered the famous ones like ‘True Blue’ and ‘Material Girl’ to the lesserknown ‘Live to Tell’ and her modern songs like ‘Hung Up’ and ‘Music’.

Other than more popular music icons, there will also be some alternative genres with Aviv Pereira on August 13 playing a selection of grunge hits by 90s bands like Nirvana and Stone Temple Pilots. Another

Turn to page 5

music & nightlife | 3 Rockin' at Cheenos

feature | 6 Taking Life for Granted?

August 2 Wet n Wild 2014 With DJ Ivan, Dj Notorious, DJ Jay, DJ Navin At Woodbourne, Nuvem @ 3 pm +91 9765947824 International Blues Music Day! Featuring Kanchan Daniel and the beards live!

At Baywatch Resort, Colva 7.30 pm onwards +91 9323590051

August 5

what's on | 7 Events in Goa

food & drink | 08 Cake Genius

cover story | 10 How to Embrace the Monsoons

cover story | 11 A Date with Deltin

feature | 14 Readying for Russians

give back | 15 Campal Creek

Karl Lutchmayer in Concert Piano Recital by renowned pianist Prof Karl Lutchmayer At Art Chamber, Calangute @ 7.30 pm 098 23 217435

August 9 A Tribute to the legend Chris Perry Glenn Perry in Concert Ticket - Rs. 1000 and Rs. 500 At Entertainment society of Goa, Panjim @ 7 pm +91 832 2428111

August 12 Friendship Day! Live Stage Ketan, Raj Naique, Jay Naidu At Zoya, Benaulim, South Goa @ 9 pm onwards +91 9920697163

Every Wednesday Tribute Night Anika tribute to Motown.

At Cheenos, Baga 8 pm onwards +91 8888713976 Rock is Alive With Charley and the Music Factory At Baywatch Resort, Colva @ 7.30 pm +91 832 2747744 Angels & Demons at Cafe Mambo At Cafe Mambo, Tito’s Lane, Baga @ 9 pm onwards +91 9822765002

Every Thursday

book review | 16 The Accidental Prime Minister

arts & entertainment | 17 Museums, Exhibits & More

wheels on streets | 18 Mercedes Benz

Every Thursday Indie Fresh Thursday Alisha Pais, Indie Singer, song writer from Bombay At Cheenos, Baga 8 pm onwards +91 8888713976 Thursday Sizzling Karaoke Nite With Saby Fernandes At Kudos, Chogm Road, Porvorim 7.30 pm onwards +91 832 6510565 Thursday Night Live With Smoking Chutney At Sofala, Nerul @ 8.30 pm +91 777400882

Sundown Karaoke With DJ Colett and… you, if you’re in the mood to help Colett with your voice and talent.

At Cocopazzo, Chapora 7 pm onwards. +91 9561212810 Silent Disco With DJ Mr. R & Flakey Spinning EDM. Nothing ‘silent’ about this disco (unless you’re wearing headphones, that is).

At Alpha Bar, Palolem 9 pm onwards +91 9890281505

Every Friday Reggae Friday

By Graeme Hamilton At Laguna, Anjuna @ 7.30 pm +91 832 227 4131 Friday Funk With DJ Lasker and Akshay At Cape Town Cafe, Calangute 7 pm onwards +91 95 27612070 Friday Vibes With DJ Jay & Brandan At Cafe Mambo, Baga 7 pm onwards +91 8322275028

Every Saturday Silent Noise Party With DJs Husman, Sam & Azgar Find out which is true, the silence or the noise.

At Neptune Point, Palolem 8 pm to 4 am +91 9822584968 Saturday Showtime With Ajit Pai & Jay Brainwash At Cafe Mambo, Baga 7 pm onwards +91 83 22279895, +91 83 22275028

On-going Cavala Every Wednesday: Cavala Acoustic Latin Retro Every Friday: Tidal Wave Every Saturday: Piano played by Bosco At Cavala, Calangute - Baga Road, Baga 8.30 pm onwards +91 832 2276090 Cantare There’s live music on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, but the big draw is the jazz duo Steve Sequeira and his wife Kittu on Monday nights, often accompanied by Brazilian chef and harmonica player Guto. The place fills up with locals (not many tourists), and its non-beach location nestled amid the Portuguese-inspired architecture of Saligao adds to the great vibe.

At Cantare, Saligao 8 pm onwards +91 832 2409461 The Park, Calangute Every Thursday: Retro Night Every Friday: Karaoke Night with KDJ Tony Every Saturday: Ladies Night with DJ Sunil and Tania At The Park, Calangute 8 pm onwards +91 8805028194 +91 832 2267600

Friday, August 1, 2014

From page 3 night to watch out for is August 20 when Fatima Gourdhan from the Phillipines takes the stage with her partner Maxwell Powell to do a tribute to Swedish legends, Abba.

Of course there’s also the Indie-Fresh nights on Thursdays, that get people off their seats with original tunes performed by solo singer-songwriters and bands, most of whom come all the way from Mumbai for this one special night. August

7 will feature the immensely talented Alisha Pais from the metro and equally admired singer-songwriter Gowri Jaykumar will be coming up from Pune on August 14.

So who should we be thanking for this welcome boost to Goa’s nightlife this monsoon? 26-year-old Arpan Gupta is at the helm right now and understands his market well. After all, he belongs to the same demographic. “I see venues opening and shutting down because they try to cater to everyone. It’s like being a jack-of-all-trades and master of none. You don’t need to tap 100% of the market, even 10% is great if you can identify your market and adapt everything in your business to cater well to your customers.”

But packing out a space as large as Cheenos is no cakewalk. He says although Goa is more competitive than Delhi, where the first Cheenos branch is in Noida along with Xian, his other restaurant venture, he’s learning more as he gets exposed to a more global market. Although he rues the fact that there are no fixed timings as a ‘resto-preneur,’ Arpan says, “This is something I’ve always been passionate about so when your passion becomes your profession, life can’t get any better. Apart from that, I get to meet new people every day and get to interact with different people coming from all walks of life.”

And there’s no stopping young ambition here. “I see Cheenos being one of the most popular names when it comes to nightlife and entertainment in Goa and should have its presence nationwide soon,” says the proud founder who even has the Cheenos logo tattooed on his arm.

Ben Lewis leading the group

6 Feature

awesome things we take for granted every day W

e are busy cramming up so many items on our ‘to-do-list’ that we rarely spend time reflecting about the wonderful things in our hectic lives. Psychologist Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello advises everyone to enjoy the ‘here and now’, and be grateful for all the wonderful things that just might slip under the emotional radar.

So... NEVER TAKE FOR GRANTED:

Your Senses Eyes to admire the red blooms, ears to listen to the melody of the humming bird, or taste buds to take in the yummy Prawn Pulao. Embrace other human beings. Even feel the annoying bite of the mozzies these monsoons. You see, dear reader, life is wondrous, and we must appreciate that we’re lucky enough to savour it as human beings rather than, say, amoebas or toads. The blind hear better than the sighted, and the deaf see better than those with perfect hearing.

You don’t need every sense to behold the beauty of nature and life. But it’s easy to forget to do it.

You hurriedly stumble out of your bed to wake up your kids and hubby. The tiny tots rub their eyes and your hubby mutters ‘5 minutes’ at least thrice. Then you find yourself shouting at the traffic in your rush to work, only to spend the rest of the day in a race against the clock.

Slow down! Take time to ponder, to love and to live. And remember, time is a gift, not to be taken for granted.

Three meals a day Consider yourself blessed if you enjoy 3 meals in a day and even more so if you snack in between to satisfy your rumbling tummy. According to the U.N.’s Food and Agricultural Organization, about 842 million people in the world do not eat enough to be healthy. That means that 1 in every 8 people in this world goes to bed hungry. And here in India, we happen to be living in one of the world’s capitals of malnutrition.

If your food portfolio includes things like Smoked Salmon or Portobello Mushrooms or Lobster Bisque, well, then, you’re more than just lucky.

Nature

Parents

or the ravages of winter, millions are homeless and sleeping under the open skies or in tents or staying in makeshift shelters. More than 100 million people around the world are homeless. So if you have a home, don’t forget to appreciate it.

Life

Loved ones

Do remember that somewhere someone loves you. Your parents, your spouse, your siblings or bosom buddies….

You share a unique bond with them. Do you show your gratitude to them? Do you remember them on special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries? It may be just another night, but you can make it special merely by whispering “I love you” to your partner of 20 long years!

Time Mornings are rushed for every working mother. The unwelcome ringing of the alarm clock by your bedside jolts you out of your deep slumber.

What is it about modern humans that so many of us actually prefer the concrete jungle to the magnificent countryside? Quiz the urban school going kids about bullfrogs. Many haven’t heard the loud croaking of these endangered amphibians. Nor have they seen the tiny crawling caterpillars or the fleeting butterflies or the gushing of the Dudhsagar Falls. There is a place for Androids and Facebook and ‘Two and a Half Men.’ But if we lose complete touch with the way homo sapiens lived for tens of thousands of years before the advent of Twitter, we lose a part of ourselves.

Having a roof over your head Thatched hut? Well, at least you have a shelter… Tiled roof? Cemented? Consider yourself lucky! As you lie cozily in the comforts of your sofa in a nice warm home, protected from the fury of lashing rains or soaring summer temperatures

We know that happiness is not necessarily a function of possessions or socio-economic status. Why do some of the richest countries in the world have the highest suicide rates? Well, for one, having all your basic needs met might free up time to focus on your inner malaise. But it’s worth reflecting on why you’re still unhappy if you have a cozy home, luxurious life, a wide social circle of buddies, and achievements that are applauded by many. Enjoy every moment; accept the sad ones and celebrate the joyous ones. Life is a rainbow and acceptance is the key. Be thankful that you are alive and breathing! And give a thought to the passengers on the two Malaysian airliners or the victims of Typhoon Rammasun or the patients of AIDS and cancer. Not because you’re not one of them, but in deference to the lives they might have led.

Your mom and dad may be touching 80s or 90s. Respect them as you owe them not only your existence but much more. For many of us, parents have been our foundation, from a bawling baby to a mature adult, offering unconditional love, affection, wisdom and support of every kind. Some say kids don’t owe their parents much because, after all, none of us actually ASKED our parents to do the ‘nasty’ and conceive us. We didn’t file an application to be born. But please remember that life is a gift, so we must appreciate those who gave it to us (unless, of course, they don’t deserve it – but that’s another article!)

Water Conserve it! It is impossible to survive without this elixir of life. Our health, cooking, bathing, cleaning, etc is highly water dependent. Flora and fauna of our precious Mother Earth thrive on water resources. And while you’re at it, do what you can to preserve the land and the air, all under grave threat in this age of modernity. The first step, of course, is not to take any of it for granted.

Memory Do you know who you are? Where you are from? Your education? Your culture?

Your relations? Do you draw from your enriching life experiences? Thanks to the neurons in your brain, you are able to recollect thousands of details from your memory bank and communicate in society. Sometimes we forget to trust our brain’s most important messages, ignoring our cerebral intuition. Our brains are like computers - complicated, nuanced and entirely delightful.

7

Friday, August 1, 2014

August 3 Monsoon Trek The Youth Hostels Association of India Margao unit will organise one day monsoon trek to Sulsulo Water fall in Bramha Karmali Village.

A Special bus will leave from KTC Margao bus stand. +91 9822484874/ +91 7798604188 Bird watching - early morning in the lovely village of Aldona The location of this month’s event will be the lovely village of Aldona, and will be led by Conrad Fernandez and Eveny Luis who know the place like the back of their hands and have been reporting some great sightings from there all through this monsoon.

The walk will begin at 7.00 am at the Aldona-Calvim Bridge and end by about 10.30 am. +91 9890141715/ +91 9923583824/+91 9822168887

August 1 to August 3 Trek to Dudhsagar Waterfall Aug 1 @ 3 pm to Aug 3 @ 6 am Cost: 1200/- (Inclusive of complete travel & Food for Saturday - 1 BF, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner) Booking Amount - 700/- (Train ticket amount for to & from journey) +91 8087969251

August 2 to August 3 TREK - Bike ride, overnight stay and a soul reviving forest trek Adventures and Native folks is organising a guided bike ride, overnight stay and a trekking event in the vicinity of Tambi Surla Add to it a heritage walk to ancient remains of Kadamba temple, Goan buffet breakfast, lunch, dinner and barbecue, with a stay at cottages. +918390651383 August 8 to August 14 Let’s Get Dirty Rainforest Challenge India Down & Dirty Calling all off-roaders to Goa this August!

At Goa +91 9818018893

August 8 to August 9 Workshop in Goa How to Win Sales & Persuade Customers to Your Way of Thinking Life begins to change the moment we start asking questions to ourselves.

The Crown Goa ( 5 Star Boutique Hotel) At Bairo Alto Dos Pilotos, Jose Falcao Road, Panaji 9:00 am to 5:30 pm 9015794343 / 9711484830 info@vactinternational.com www.vactinternational.com

Rs. 1000 Herbal Body Massage For Ladies and Gents Visit: Shine Beauty parlour caranzalem Call: 8888947629 ( Tuesday Closed)

Until 30 September STRETCH YOUR STAY WITH ALILA DIWA GOA’S SPECIAL ‘REDISCOVER GOA’ MONSOON OFFER At Alila Diwa Goa, Majorda +91 832 2746800

Mon to Fri Champion’s Chess Academy This leading Chess Training Centre in Goa is full of professional Chess Activities for Quality Learning. Learn Right Chess, moves from Pawn to King Level and moves in innovative style. Classes conducted at Ponda, Porvorim, Mapusa, Miramar, Dona Paula, & Margao.

At Champion’s Chess Academy, Ponda +91 9766109574/ +91 9764185747

Every Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays Art Classes By David Fernandes Learn to draw, sketch and develop your painting skills with Acrylic paints by either signing up for a 3 day course..

At Carpe diem, Majorda 10.30am - 12.30 pm and 3.30pm - 5.30 pm +91 8888862462

July to October White water rafting is the ultimate Goa thrill this monsoon The river rafting, subject to availability of rapids and adequate water currents, and suitable weather conditions. There will be two trips beginning at 10.30 am and 2.30 pm every day. The program is open to both adults and children above 10 years. White water rafting activities are carried out in accordance with the internationally accepted norms.

The instructors are highly trained and the operations run with a ‘safety first’ policy. Each passenger will be provided with safety equipments like life jackets, paddles following the instruction sessions from experts. reservations@goa-tourism.com.

Waterfalls in Goa Arvalam Waterfall With an altitude of 70 feet, it falls in a straight drop and is at its most glorious during the monsoons. The spectacle of the thunderous gush of water, with the mountainous terrain as background, is nothing short of stunning.

At Valpoi, North Goa

Dudhsagar Waterfall Another amazing waterfall best seen in the monsoons. It’s Goa’s largest and highest waterfall, and well worth a visit.

At Mollem, South Goa

Cycling Cycling in Monsoon Contact: Cycling Goa

Tamdi Surla Waterfall You have to make a quite a trek to get here, but once you do, you’ll be very happy. You pass through dense forest and a number of streams that make for a highly refreshing experience. Also in the area is the temple known as Tamdi Surla, made under the Kadamba style of architecture.

At Sanguem, South Goa

Big G Big G has eight levels of exclusive shopping with a restaurant, supermarket and the best of brands of various items to boot. At Margao, Salcete +91 832 2702995

Kesarval Waterfall Emerging from hard rocks and flanked by swaying betel palms, the spring is surrounded by fantastic tropical beauty. Also well worth visiting.

At Verna, South Goa Splashdown Waterpark At Calangute - Anjuna Main R, Anjuna +91 832 2273008/ +91 9637424023/024 www.splashdowngoa.com

Monsoon Adventures Water Rappelling/ River Crossing Best place to go are Cotigao Waterfall, vazra Sakla in virdi This Activity is done by Off trail Adventures, Eco trek Goa River Rafting At Uskem – valpoi, Mhadei and Dandeli Contact: White water rafting, Dandeli, Goa River rafting, Southern river adventures – Goa rafting Bird Watching It’s basically revolves around studying the diversity among birds, Contact: Birdwatcher Goa, Goa Birders, Wild trek adventures Off Roading DOT in Sanguem, Valpoi because it’s a forest area Contact: DOT Sanguem, Dirt Track adventures, Mapusa

Supermarkets In Goa

Maple Leaf Supermarket Maple Leaf Supermarket is a self-service grocery store offering a wide variety of food and household merchandise, organized into departments.

At Porvorim, Bardez +91 832 6454099 Magsons Supermarket Hopping off Shopping On At Caranzalem +91 832 2464704 At Porvorim +91 7507807004 Newton’s Supermarket At Major District Road, Candolim +91 832 2489056 Delfinos Supermarket In just a year Delfinos has gained a reputation that places it among the most sought after supermarkets in Goa. Not one of them has returned disappointed, for Delfinos HyMart has something for everyone—the widest range of items manufactured locally, in the country and imported.

At Candolim. +91 832-2489972 / 73

Lifestyle & Fashion Cheshire Cat Jewellery Gallery This Gallery showcases jewellery, accessories and fashion, among other delights At Bairo Alto, Assagao 10 am to 7 pm +91 9822580898 White Brick Wall Shopping & Retail Home and Fashion accessories At Shop No 4,5,6, Jusuit House, Travessa De. Panjim +91 9769062699

Maria Elena’s Wardrobe Elegant ladies party wear and accessories Behind Fidalgo, Panjim +91 9049079769/+91 7769043301 Wendell Rodricks a stylish boutique featuring luxuriously comfortable fashion items by celebrated Goan designers Wendell Rodrick At Luis Gomes Garden, Campal, Panjim +91 832 2234082 Bebel Boutique Designer fashion accessories Opp. St Anthony Chapel, Calangute +91 832 6451489 The Private Collection Features an eclectic collection of sophisticated women’s apparel, bespoke jewellery, colorful accessories, lifestyle, furniture, design pieces and more.

At Anavaddo, Candolim 10 am to 8 pm +91 832 2489033 People Tree Its first outlet in Goa, creating and selling contemporary crafts and cool clothing.

At Saunta Vaddo, Assagao 11 am to Midnight +91 832 2268091/ +91 9582018969 Sacha’s Shop A little shop of resort wear, Prints and stationary, bags, jewellery, art books, handmade soaps, leather lampshades and wooden toys!

At Casa Mendes, Panjim 10 am to 8 pm +91 9823805897 Baba’s Furniture Store The store displays some of the most breathtaking delightful pieces available anywhere in Goa Open All the time Closed on Tuesday At Baba’s Wood Café, Panjim +91 99 23414098, (+91) 83 23256213

8

Friday, August 1, 2014

By Charlane Pereira e Rebello

A

Mumbai-based corporate chef who gave up his high flying job to follow his passion and lives his dream in Goa… Brainard Colaco set up his own Cake Studio ‘Mog’ in Margao in 2012, revolutionizing this industry. Here’s Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello in an interesting chat with Brainard about his venture, aspirations and newer trends in ‘cakes and all things good.’

A casual visit to ‘Mog’ in Margao… And there were lots of yummy edibles that caught my eye… Ferrero Rocher Mousse Torte, The Irish Crème Cake, Chicken Bacon & Cheese Tarts, Chicken Sausage Swirls, Cheese Burst Chicken Muffins, Chocolate Mud Cake, Grissini, Cinnamon & Almond Straws, 73% dark chocolate bars….

You can see there’s something different about Mog the moment you walk in. Lip smacking delicacies and a unique décor…

Soon I see a sharp and witty middle-aged man emerging from an inner room. It’s Brainard, the man responsible for the yummy treats I had just eyed. A brief chat with Brainard Colaco and I knew that the man had a tale to tell….. That led to an appointment with this spirited entrepreneur a few days later. And I was not disappointed.

Brainard says, “The only thing that drew me to the hospitality industry was the yellow lights at the lobby of a 5-star hotel and the smiling faces at the front office. So, after my XIIth, I got myself into IHM, Mumbai for a craft course in Food Production and Patisserie only to realize that the yellow lights were white lights in the kitchen, no pretty faces, and vessels the size of myself.”

Armed with the specialized kitchen programme from IHM, Mumbai and a 3-year diploma from Rizvi College of Hotel Management, Mumbai, he started his career as Sous Chef with the Accor Group.

He was the corporate chef with Impresario Entertainment, Mumbai and has helped open the famous coffee shop chain Mocha across the country (2001-2010).

He was also the Corporate Chef with Oriental Cusines, Chennai for their bakery brand ‘The French Loaf’, with a presence in Bangalore, Chennai and Kolkata (20102012). Currently, he is a culinary consultant to a several restaurants and bakery brands in Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore.

He says, “I always wanted to have my

own quaint little café. I quit my high flying job to start my brand ‘Mog’, a brand that is connected to people. Also, Mumbai was getting too claustrophobic.” Today, Brainard is the very proud owner and cake designer of his venture ‘Mog’ along with his business partner and aunt, Mimi Colaco.

For about 6 months, Brainard researched every pastry outlet in the vicinity of Margao, Vasco and Ponda. He says, “Every shop looked the same. The style and presentation was the same everywhere. Though I was advised by brand consultants to start my business in North Goa, I found it too cliché.

Besides, I was more familiar with Margao.”

Brainard quit his job in May 2012 and remortgaged his house. Times were tough as he had to shift from Mumbai to Goa. Born and brought up in Mumbai, his wife Carolyn and his 2 kids (Zeke and Zinedine) are still based in Mumbai. With the green signal from his loved ones, Brainard worked on making his dream a reality.

Unable to afford the services of an architect, he marched forward, using his creativity as well as sharp business acumen to set up ‘Mog’ in September 2012.

Scouting for equipment, he made 12 trips back and forth between Mumbai and Goa. He shopped on Quikr and OLX, and picked up bricks from old houses and wood from shipyards, creating a rather funky look without breaking the bank. Adding to the allure are his grandfather’s old belts, cookie jars lamps and much more!

He continues, “People have questioned my sense of dignity when they have seen me taking huge sack of potatoes on the bike. I do everything from marketing, storekeeping, auditing, etc. That’s how Mog materialized.”

How did he choose the name ‘Mog’?

Carolyn suggested the word that means love in Konkani. That’s how it took off… “I mog cake” and “I mog life.”

Brainard is very happy with his team of 12 staffers, who he believes truly understand his style of work.

Mog is targeted at women and children, as Brainard knows that “men are sure to walk in with them.”

Prices start at Rs.10 for a puff and goes up depending on the item. For Brainard, it is more about quality. “A good cake is not cheap and a cheap cake is not good,” he says.

Every 3 months, he offers new delicacies to his customers. He says, “If I don’t like something, I don’t keep it. I have also taken popular items off the shelf. Change is good.

We need to educate ourselves or we tend to get too complacent in what we do.”

Brainard keeps himself abreast of the latest developments in the culinary world and has attended many international courses. As he talks about experimenting with new flavor profiles and pastry trends, including fruit purees, sugar veils and chandelier cakes, I find myself feeling a sense of awe for this designer of all things sweet.

He sums it up better than I can. “I am a dreamer,” he says, “I like to be different.”

Food & Drink 9

Friday, August 1, 2014

Until August 27 The Shravan Thali All month everyday for lunch. The menus will feature authentic Indian vegetarian food with daily variations.

At The HQ, Vasco +91 7709003237

Until September 15 Special Monsoon Lunch Soup or Salad and Pasta or Pizza Closed on Tuesday At Baba’s Wood Cafe, Fontainhas +91 99 23414098

Every Wednesday Grand Goans Buffet for lunch and dinner. Each week’s menu is again different.

Keeping Traditional Alive!

At The HQ, Vasco +91 7709003237

Every Sunday Sunday Family Brunches Rejuvenating cocktails, soul warming gourmet cuisine from around the world and activities to keep the kids entertained.

At Latitude, Vivanta by Taj, Panjim 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm +91 832 6633636 Sunday Brunch Unlimited Desserts At Delicieux, Panjim 10 am to 4 pm +91 7350413490 Italian Sunday Lunch Feast on an unlimited selection of antipasti, pizzas and home made pastas. Conclude your meal with decadent Italian desserts. The Sunday lunch is a perfect opportunity to simply unwind over the weekend and spend your afternoon basking in the pool.

INR 1199 plus taxes per person Complimentary use of the swimming pool, outdoor whirlpool and Camp Hyatt.

At Da Luigi, Park Hyatt Goa Resort and spa, Cansaulim 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm +91 832 2721234 Leisurely Monsoon Sunday Brunch The ultimate weekend brunch experience these monsoons with the reinvented Monsoon Sunday Brunch, Partake in a colourful spread traversing a range of cuisines and indulge in pleasant conversation over drinks, amid a cozy ambience musically enhanced with the light tunes of a live band against the backdrop of the pitter patter of raindrops outside.

At Goa Marriott, Panjim From 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm +91 832 2463333 Sunday Brunch Authentic food, 3-4 salads, 1-2 dips, 3-4 main dishes, 2 desserts Noon to 4 pm At Cantina Bodega, Sunaparanta, Panjim +91 832 2421315

Baga, Calangute & Around

Mum’s Kitchen Goan. Among the best upscale Goan cuisine in Panjim, drawing from Goa’s Christian and Hindu traditions.

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

Tropical 24x7 Restaurant, Bar & Pub All Day All Night. Check this place out.

Surprisingly lovely food offerings!

This resto is reviewed in the current edition of the paper.

At Calangute, Main Road +91 9820115921

George Bar and Restaurant Goan; Excellent local seafood Near Mary Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim 10 am to 3.30 pm, 6.30 pm to 10.30 pm +918322426820

Caravela Goan, Indian, Chinese and Continental The lawn of the Goan Heritage offers a wide variety of well-prepared food and cocktails. But the big draw is the party scene on Friday nights.

At Hotel Goan Heritage, Calangute Noon to 2.30 pm & 7 pm to 11.30 pm +91 832 2276761/64 Indian Jones House of Indian Food If you are hankering for some first-class Indian cuisine, look no further.

At Chogm House, Saligao, Calangute Road +91 9767655999 Casandre Goan, Indian, Chinese and European Set in an attractive old Goan house, this restaurant serves steaks, sizzlers and Goan seafood.

At Calangute Beach Road, Calangute 9 am to midnight +91 832 9453243/ +91 9890467062 Curry Leaf Chinese, European, Goan, North Indian and world cuisine.

A good place to grab a bite after hours.

At Hotel Calangute Towers, Calangute +91 832 6636000 Danny’s Grill European, Goan, Mughlai, Oriental With a varied selection of dishes including tasty Tandoori kebabs.

At Hotel Riverside, Baga-Calangute 7.30 am to 11 pm +91 9767591368

Anjuna & Around Guru Bar Chinese, European, Goan, Indian and Italian.

Great food, great music, chilled out ambience. What more can you ask for?

At Praisevaddo, Anjuna 7.30 am to midnight +91 832 2273319 Frangipani Global Cuisine Start with the chicken satay- skewered chicken grilled in Chinese marinade.

At Sun Village, Fankwadi, Arpora 7.30 am to 10.30 pm +91 832 2279409/14 Biryani Palace Goan and North Indian Fare Take a wild guess what this place specializes in?

At Anjuna beach Road, Anjuna 11 am to midnight +918323257586

Forrest Veg Food Court Continental, Chinese, Thai & Mexican Serves a wide range of fast food from different parts of India At Bhagwan Mahavir Bal Vihar, Panjim 11 am – 11 pm +91 832 6454353/9225903392

Blue Tao Italian & Seafood Organic Food Ever notice how many places these days are touting their ‘organic’ food?

We’ll take their word for it.

At Anjuna Beach Rd, Anjuna 9 am to 11 pm. +918975061435 Coba Indian, Grills, Seafood It’s at a five-star hotel so how bad can it be?

At Double Tree by Hilton, Arpora 10 am to 11 pm +91 832 66556672

Candolim House of Lloyds Continental, seafood, and hearty Goan cuisine.

The restaurant recommends you go for the Goan roast pork, apple salad with tender greens, crispy sardines, stuffed crab and steaks.

At Saipem Road, Candolim 7 pm to 3 am. +91 9823032273 Caravela Chinese, European, Goan, Italian, North Indian, Thai A long-time favourite haunt among Goans and visitors alike At Vivanta Holiday, Sinquerim 7.30 am to 10.30 pm +91 832 6645858 Casa Sea Shell Chinese, European, Indian, Seafood The European fare tastes excellent and is mostly made up of steaks At Vaddy, Candolim 7 am to 11 pm +91 832 2489131/ +91 832 2489555

Panjim & Around Black sheep Bistro The Black Sheep Bistro is Goa’s first casual fine dining concept restaurant Located in the heart of Panjim City At Swami Vivekananda Road, Next to icici Bank, Panjim 7 pm to 1 am +91 832 2222901

Bombay Darbar Take Away and Catering Services Surprisingly scrumptious Indian fare At Sairam Residency, Shop no 1, Alto St.Cruz Road, St.Cruz, Tiswadi +91 832-2458877 / +91 832 2458588 Route 66 Smoke House n Grill At Fontainhas, opp. Patto Bridge, Panjim From 12 pm to 11.30 pm +91 9623922796/ +91 8805389714 Saffron Restaurant An Authentic Indian Cuisine Home Delivery and Take Away Available At Model Marine ii, Caranzalem 11 pm to 3.30 pm & 6.30 pm 11.30 pm +91 832 6523353/ +91 7755927408 Baba’s Wood Cafe Classical Italian Pizza, Wine, Ravioli Pizza, Tiramisu etc.

At 49, Mala, Fontainhas, Panjim-Goa 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm & 7.00 pm to 11.30 pm +91 832-3256213/ +91 9823714098 TAO Asian Cuisine Asian Chinese Restaurant & Bar 12 pm. To 3 pm. & 7 pm. to 11 pm.

At Campal, Panaji 083222226262 Aunty Maria Coffee & Bites Available Fresh home-made breads, cakes, chocolates and cookies At Hotel Fidalgo, Panjim +91 832 2226291 Goenchin Specialising in Chinese and Pan Asian cuisine At Mandovi apartment, Dr Dada Vaidya Road, Near Mahalaxmi Temple Noon to 3 pm, 7 pm to 11 pm +91 8322227614 Casabela A cosy place to chill out with family, this establishment in Porvorim has been around since the 70s and Have good pizzas Off Chogm Rd, Porvorim 7 am to 11 pm. +91832241558

Chat Streets Indian snacks On Sunday open only till 4 pm Near Don Bosco High School, MG Road, Panjim 11 am to 9 pm +91 832 9922480076

Margao & Around 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.

Panfried Pomfret Recheado, Chicken Xacutti, Pork Vindaloo and Goan Fish Curry are some of the popular offerings.

At Holiday Inn Resort, Cavelossim All-day. +91 832 2871303 Café Tato All day pure vegetarian eatery. Menu offers puribhaji and lunch in Goan style At Apna Bazaar complex, Margao 7 am to 10 pm. +91 832 2736014 Ruta’s World Café Breakfast, Lunch, Coffee Located on a quiet side street right by the City’s Latin Quarter, a world away from the maddening crowds.

At Dr Miranda Rd, Behind Nanutel, Margao. From 9 am to 6 pm +91 832 2710757

Canacona 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 TheLaLiT Goa Resort, Rajbaga, Canacona +91 832 2667777

10 Cover Story

White water rafti

ng

Ideas for Embracing the Rain

Dudhsagar Waterfall

By Aparna Raut Desai

R

omance invades every aspect of every little thing in Goa. It’s greener, it’s prettier, it’s cooler, it’s the monsoon.

Even the banal mirchi bhajji and pao seem infected with the poetry of the monsoon. A steaming hot cup of chai will only enhance the ambiance. Wherever you wake up in our tiny state, a tiny shop somewhere is ladling out tomato bhajji with bits of potato and puris or pao in the vicinity.

If you’re in Ponje, no better place to start the morning than at Café Aram, that vintage breakfast nook on 18th June road.

Watch Panjim wake up, slowly, to the smells of coffee and sweet-spicy buns.

If it’s bacon and eggs you’re after, Hotel Venite is that spectacularly atmospheric hidey-hole, chockfull of trinkets and

FOR RESERVATIONS & WHITE WATER RAFTING, CONTACT BHAVNA: 9422691325 Head Off: 21, T-4, Link Garden Tower, Yamuna Nagar, Lokhandwala, Andheri (W), Mumbai-53.

Mob: Bhavna: 09422691325 - Brig. Bhasin: 094230 93607 - Col. Kohli: 09423091928 Camp: 263,Vill. Sutarwadi (Kolad), Tal. Roha, Dist. Raigad, Maharashtra - 402 304, Phone: 02194 - 255105 | 09226605055 Rupika: 09422691322

www.empowercamp.com

romance. Take the alley to the left just before Panjim Residency near the high court, and Hotel Venite with blow you away with their balcony seats offering a glimpse of the river Mandovi and a front-row view of the rain. With great breakfasts to boot.

Café de Goa in Saligao is legendary for lazy, picturesque brunches. Tucked away in the middle of pretty much nothing, surrounded by undulating fields and mango trees, CDG whips up exotic fare like French onion soup, Veg dumplings with mushroom ragout, à la minute buttermilk, slow roasted pumpkincarrot-lentils, fish in beurre blanc, mango salsa, etc.

Emily, the German chef and proprietor here can whip up the best cappuccino you’ll find in Goa, except of course if

Turn to page 12

Cover Story 11

Photograph by Shubham Gupta

Friday, August 1, 2014

By Shubham Gupta

Imagine yourself in a suit and tie; drizzles of romance and her by your side; away from a life that’s black and white; Where would you rather be?

N

owhere, of course!

For all those adventurous souls looking for something amazing to do during the monsoons of Goa, how ‘bout trying out a day and a night of pure decadence? How ‘bout grabbing your sweetheart and taking her on the perfect date, replete with culinary ecstasy, luxurious lounging, refreshing cocktails and a sail on the river? And then, suddenly, the excitement of winning the jackpot.

Welcome to the world of Deltin! If you’re looking for the perfect monsoon date, look no further.

Let’s start the date at the Deltin Suites, a luxurious, state-of-the-art all-suites hotel in the picturesque Goan village of Nerul – not far from the hustle of the Candolim beach belt but certainly far enough to provide serenity and solitude. Start by unwinding by the pool sippin’ on a frozen cocktail. If you haven’t paid your lady much attention during the FIFA World Cup, this is the perfect time and place to make up for it and pamper her till she melts. Moving from the breezy pool side to ‘Vegas’, a fine dining multi-cuisine restaurant, watch her face light up over the sumptuous blend of Indian, Continental, Chinese, Lebanese and Thai cuisines, while she sips on the finest collection of wines. Not to forget a mug of freshly brewed draught beer as you watch the melting process unfold. The aptly named Vegas (there IS something about this place that evokes the actual Las Vegas), you will discover a whole new dimension to authentic fine dining. From freshly whipped hummus & tahini to live pasta counters & mezze platters, the indulgence is never ending.

Having satiated your love-struck bellies, is it time to knead all your muscular tension away with an aromatic massage? Go for it at the all-natural-in-house spa! If by now she still isn’t telling you that it’s the best date she’s ever been on, don’t freak out. You have the whole night ahead to get lucky. Lucky, of course, at the Deltin Royale casino!

Here’s what you’re going to do. Go back to your suite after the massage, get dressed up, smell all good, and then have a chauffeurdriven car escort you to Deltin’s private jetty.

From here you hop on a boat. And guess where this boat takes you? To a bigger boat, of course! Now picture entering a royal abode, with lavish infrastructure, subtle lighting in a vibrant red ambience, hearing the gentle grinds of the turning roulette tables and the ticking of casino chips getting stacked. No, it’s not Las Vegas. But it is the Deltin Royale, the ever sparkling casino perched on the river Mandovi.

There’s a reason it’s called the Royale – with its four floors of ascending luxury fit for your Queen.

Now that you are dressed for the night, indulge

in gaming, entertainment and sheer, unadulterated fun. After calling the bets at the Royale Poker Room, India’s biggest dedicated poker station, have her groove the night away at Whiskys, a high-end lounge bar with an assorted collection of single malt whiskeys and French wines. Cherish every moment of bliss, pampering her with gourmet servings from a new a la carte menu.

A special program is on this upcoming Independence Day weekend, from Aug. 14 to 17, offered at exceptional value.

Entertainment will include performances

by MJ-5, international dancers, bands like Tidal Wave, A-26 and Musical Harmony, plus mingle magic, an interactive photo booth experience and a Kishore Rafi evening.

Of course the perfect date has still not ended. You can head back to the Deltin Suites, or perhaps the Deltin Group’s other property, the Deltin Palms, located at Brittona, another wonderful place to relax and unwind, replete with a great view of the river and bay.

Either way, she is going to love you! 

12 Cover Story From page 10 she’s pitted against the French. Patiserrie Delicieux in Santa Inez Panjim may not offer the same views, but it does do you a croissant and coffee at the delectable price of 100 rupees. Their pastries are gastronomic masterpieces. Word has it that Delicieux will be changing locations soon, so watch out for that. (During the season, they also have an outlet in Morjim).

Bodega in Altinho offers a range of wholesome breakfasts as well as quirky lunch bites, and is arguable the best location for a date with the monsoon.

Chef Vandana Naique made a name for herself as a top chef in New York City, and we’re quite fortunate to have her back here in her native Goa. She’s just back from a foodie tour of Spain and thereabouts, and the menu, which changes daily, is inspired.

If you’re looking for something simpler, Barista opposite Azad Maidan will give you just that, with a great view of the gardens and curtains of rain; if the heavens cooperate.

Mapusa market may not be anyone’s idea of a romantic destination, but on a Friday morning, this is the place to start your day. Grab a chai and bhajji pao-mirchi at any of the hundreds of little pit-stops just outside the market, and then head on to a kaleidoscope of colours and smells, with every imaginable Goan produce displayed at the market with frenzied bargaining and heated arguments adding flavour.

Now you have your breakfast sorted, take a stroll to the beach, and turn back. Bikinis are out, and not because the Minister of Pubs, Women & Dressing says so. The sea is too choppy for swimming, and the shacks are, by and large, shut. Fear not. Goa has so much more to offer, and especially when it’s raining.

Grab a copy of GTDC’s (Goa Tourism Development Corportation) monthly publication of what-to-do in Goa, available at their office and little bookstores everywhere. It’s a consummate guide to the more beaten monsoon path, as well as some hints on some extraordinary things you can get up to in Goa. Also check out the Goa Streets website, www.goastreets.com, for other suggestions.

If you’re feeling like a hike, take one.

Doodhsagar treks are organized on demand, for groups as well as couples.

If Doodhsagar, way down South on Goa’s border is too much work, a little village just after Marcel, on the way to Sankhli, hides an absolute beauty called Haravlem. With plenty of spots to picnic all the way down and a calmer stretch of river at the foot, a superbly serene temple and the best bhajji you’ll ever eat (tiny shop just near the temple), Haravlem is a treat for any rain-lover.

Take the ferry to Chorao or Divar, for resplendent rural landscapes and birds like you’ll never see in the city. Chorao’s bird sanctuary is among the most revered

Mirchi Bajjis

in India. Tiny chapels and temples dot the landscape, and the entire island, either one, is a photographer’s dream -come-true. Especially, of course, in the monsoon.

Or simply go fishing.

River Sal, behind Cavelossim beach in Mobor has uber-cool fishing trips where you board authentic fishing boats with real Goan fishermen.

The trip includes a sumptuous island meal of the catch of the day, and if you draw naught, they’ll feed you anyway.

Speaking of water, the latest monsoon craze in Goa is white water rafting. And these days you can catch some very fine Category 4 rapids, easily some of the best in India. A good place to start is with the GTDC, which is organizing trips along with several private outfits.

Dinner during the monsoons is a no-brainer. Along the hidden by-lanes of Nerul, are restaurants that will knock your gumboots off with their seafood and cheap beer. Feeling local? Gulp down some Feni with Sprite.

Or drive to Coco beach, where the cove will offer some respite from the lashing, and the shacks will fry you that perfect fresh fish.

To up the romance quotient, South Goa’s Alila Diwa turns out the lights on

the last Thursday of every month. Spice Studio, the Indian specialty restaurant, has a “Dining in the Dark” themed evening of mystique and romance with a 100-mile radius Indian “thali” to make your date come alive on every sensory front, from 08:00 PM onwards all for 900++. Only patrons above 12 years of age are allowed, so no wailing babies are likely to ruin the elaborate set-up. (Not to worry, the rest of the resort is extremely kid friendly!)

For a break from the rain, duck into Calculo mall in Panjim to experience “7-D” entertainment. Inox in the capital city, and Osia in Margao are great options to catch a flick or two while the rain rages. For a more local experience, try the smaller theatres. If you don’t mind rats.

Or the occasional paan spitter.

Like to shop? Margao’s market is a maze of jutting streets and alleys, with every imaginable thing you can eat, wear, carry or spray vying for your attention.

With prices much lower than in the North, the South is always a better place to pick up your trinkets.

Unless you’re looking to splurge, in which case Wendel Rodricks has a design studio in Campal, local designer Syne has showrooms behind Café Avanti in Patto and near the Fab India store in Fatorda.

In the quaint village of Assagao, which, for some reason has captured the imagination and domicile of the wellheeled from all over the North of India, the Indian Story houses ethnic-wear designed by the Swaika mother-daughter team. FabIndia has an outlet in Campal too, and has progressed beyond the starched ethnic kurta of the yesteryears.

Perfumes, soaps, shampoos, everything that’s organic, and even jewelry can be found here now.

If you think shopping is mindless, well, hey we have quizzes first Sunday each month that will strain your brain. The imaginatively coined SEQC: Sunday Evening Quiz Club, attracts the genie and other hopefuls of Goa to quizzes so tough I rarely can answer a question without cheating. Carve your way up the leader board at the International Centre Goa in Dona Paula, 5 PM first Sunday of the month.

For a softer blow to the IQ and ego, head to Maracas on Thursdays. With expertly prepared Greek and other Mediterranean food as the backdrop, there’s some eatand-drink quizzing, and a lively atmosphere with charades and guess-the-music-title. During the games, each table is a team.

For a spot of culture, head to Maquinez Placa in Panjim, Carpe Diem in Benaulim, Art Chamber in Calangute, and even the International Centre in Dona Paula, which between them host dance, art, music and other cultural fiestas regularly.

Kala Academy in Panjim and Ravindra Bhavan in Margao host a more local, vernacular flavour with flamboyant tiatrs and performances by local musicians and dancers.

If you’re looking to sway yourself, sign up for a short dance class. Goa is famous for its street dancing and for the sheer elegance couples bring to their floors. Learn to do the cha-cha-cha, waltz, foxtrot and other ballroom moves that will keep you in step with the average Goan at the church festivals.

The monsoon brings with it also a flurry of religious festivals that will take any connoisseur’s breath away. Starting with Naag Panchami which intriguingly fosters the worship of snakes, and culminating with chavat or Ganesh Chaturthi, Goa is ablaze with sweetmeats and firecrackers throughout the season.

To wind down, every evening, the Grand Hyatt in Bambolim envelopes Bambolim beach with lamps and lights.

Among its gardens sits Capiz Bar, a dimly lit foyer that also chairs up on the patio.

A smooth cognac will calm frayed nerves and soothe rain-drenched worries.

Goa beckons, and so do the monsoons.

14 Feature

even during the ‘off-season’ like it or not, it’s the future

(did you know the Lamani tribals along the beach speak fluent Russian?)

BY Crespo D’Souza

I

t may be the middle of the ‘off season’ in Goa, the rain performing its annual purge.

Sure, the coastline is more or less bereft of ‘whites,’ and yet below the surface, there’s a revolution taking place.

Small groups of Goan entrepreneurs huddle every evening. The reason? To learn Russian through classes being organized by the Russian Information Centre, which set up shop in Goa last year. The entrepreneurs - mostly men are comprised of shack owners, hoteliers and restaurateurs along the state’s coastline. For them, learning Russian is more than just a pastime, but something of an economic imperative.

It’s not hard to guess why. About 1.62 lakh Russian tourists arrived in Goa during this past year as compared to approximately 1.45 lakh tourists from Britain. The tribal lamani women who sell trinkets on the beaches now speak fluent Russian, as do many vegetable vendors in the local markets along the beach belt. It is the hoteliers and larger businessmen who are late to the party.

Besides offering Russian-language courses held at various locations across the state, the Russian Information Centre operates a 24-hour helpline for Russians, and also publishes a bi-monthly magazine in Russian called Krasta Goa (Colours of Goa), which is probably the first Russian magazine in India. It is distributed free at hotels, restaurants and other venues.

Diplomatic relations between Russia and India remain strong despite a slew of bad press for Russia in the wake of the downing of Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 by a surface-to-air missile allegedly provided by Russia. India remains one of the largest customers of Russian defence equipment, and a new direct flight from Goa to Moscow with a stop at Delhi can only mean good news for the tourism industry.

But industry insiders admit that the focus on Russians comes not from any great desire to lure this particular crowd, but rather because of an inability to attract anyone else.

“The Russian agencies themselves admit that the Russians who are coming to Goa are the extremely low end ones.

The uneducated, the ones who don’t have much to spend, and the like,” said Engelbert D’Mello, a tourism industry stakeholder.

a minor diplomatic crisis at both the local and national levels.

Russians and their supporters in the tourism industry argue that their presence in such large numbers clearly brings benefits to Goa. Alexey Mzareulov, a senior Russian diplomat in Mumbai, explained it this way: “If Russian tourists decide to move out, the silent majority of many families dependent on the inflow of cash brought in by the tourism industry would suffer.”

And others argue that the commonly held notion among Goans that Russians are involved in crime syndicates is overblown.

“It’s just 27 out of tens of thousands of Russian tourists who come to Goa. It’s a negligible crime rate,” Ekaterina Belyakova of Tara Travel, which works the Russian Information Centre, said when controversy last arose.

Going by the dozens of Goans wishing to learn Russian in the first year of the RIC’s classes, it seems clear not only that the Russians are here to stay, but that Goans know it.

Russian couple embracing Baga

One restaurateur who asked not to be named, added, “When they come to a restaurant, they do things one wouldn’t normally expect of a tourist like asking if they could bring their own bottle of booze.”

To be sure, this is a point that can be debated. Many restaurants along the coastal belt are actually quite pleased with the spending of Russians, many of whom don’t mind splurging on delicacies like lobster and cognac. And judging from the Russian-language menus at places like the Grand Hyatt Goa in Bambolim, there’s certainly a decent number of highspending Russians arriving in Goa. And while it’s clear the majority stay in smaller guest houses, lodges and budget hotels, businesses throughout the beach belts of Goa are preparing menus and brochures in Russian language, hiring Russian translators and coming up with marketing strategies to bring in Russian clients. Often this is done through tie-ups with the big tour operators, like Sita, who specialize in bringing Russians to Goa. Not long ago, all this was the exclusive purview of North Goa. Not so anymore.

Russians tourists have now fanned out across the state, both North and South – with a number even foraying into previously unknown territory, such as

Shiroda in South Maharashtra.

Many of these tourists, especially those who speak no English, keep to themselves.

Others, however, are quite adept at making friends with locals, keeping in touch throughout the year.

“They find out things like the weather, the political situation, new happenings, places to visit etc,” D’Mello said, adding that the next time they come they have a better planned trip.

The Russian influx has led to quite a few tensions in recent months, including several incidents of violence.

This past season, much of the troubles revolved around the monopolistic practices of tour operators who provided their own transportation to Russian tourists, often shutting out local drivers. The tensions peaked with the lastminute cancellation of an Indo-Russian rock concert, which caused

Give Back 15

Friday, August 1, 2014

A Source Of Great Inspiration For Public Works Across Goa!

By Armando Gonsalves

A

s the citizenry as well as the media world takes up the case of the Campal Creek with renewed vigour, we at Goa ForGiving feel delighted and thrilled that this project has the makings of bringing about a revolution in the way Public Private participation is seen. There is tremendous energy across Goa for this, and people from all walks of life are waiting with bated breath for the Creek’s revival, something which will herald a new zeal to look after the precious waterways of Goa. I have the highest regard for our Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, and very often, am accused of turning a blind eye to some things that he doesn’t get quite right. While I am not made of the stuff that will make me throw stones at anyone, I do disagree with people in a dignified manner. And that is what I am doing today, in saying that much more has to be done, much more should have been done all these years since Manohar was first elected to represent Panjim 20 years ago. But, this is where my opposition will end simply because I do believe that we must work together; and who better than him to push this long standing problem out of the way?

Now that the people have risen, and that they are asking for answers to their long standing questions, I am sure we can find a positive way forward in making the Campal Creek the pride of all Goans, a movement that will surely ignite passion amongst all, to ensure that Goa becomes the diamond studded crown on India’s head when it comes to environmental consciousness and all things cool and good.

Over the past two years, we have celebrated three Mother’s day programmes at the creek, where we have clearly shown that we can make it one for recreation as well, with our kayak and boating trips that we have organized over the years being the cynosure of all

eyes. With my own home nestled near the creek, we at the Gonsalves Mansion as well as my dear neighbours can open up various interesting things such as a Jazz Club, coffee shops, art galleries and the like, thus making it an interesting area that can then be maintained since it has economic reasons to be kept that way. Further, the slum dwellers can be involved in boating activities which can bring in new jobs too. Additionally, areas that are abutting the creek can also be converted into parks as well as open air restaurants thus bringing in energy and zing into an area which is hitherto completely

neglected. In addition, Goa ForGiving’s birding excursion in association with Goa Birders has also shown that Bird life is alive at the Creek, and that all is not lost, and that bird watching too can be added to the list of activities that can be encouraged. We are working with various forces that are keen on the revival of this once pristine waterway, and the way forward is in a unified approach to its solution, and this includes working with our Chief Minister whose support is vital if not all important.

More importantly, over the years, we have been working with the underprivileged children from the St Inez area. This work has included having workshops in music, art, chess and the like. It is quite amazing how intelligent and loving these children are, and we feel so happy that our proximity with them will only help in getting things done even faster since their shanties are bang on the banks of the Campal Creek.

On August 15 this year, we are planning a garbage management workshop in that area so that we can enthuse these children as well as their parents to the virtues of keeping the area clean, and that too, bereft of garbage. If anyone thought that

the success of the Campal Creek will only be in its cleaning, they are completely wrong, since, educating the people on the periphery of the creek is of utmost importance lest we want it to be once again in the same squalid condition due to the insensitivity of the people.

So, where do we go from here? Well, very simple! The Campal Creek is moving towards being the fulcrum of change, the foundation on which public works will be done in the future simply because accountability will be at its highest since the creek is in everyone’s eye.

The government will do well to form a citizen’s committee to oversee the work connected with this prestigious project, and when that happens, what more can we all ask for? Well intentioned as well as people fit for this job are Architect Manguesh Prabhugaoker, well known fashion designer Wendell Rodricks, philosopher engineer Ricardo Rebelo both of whom are Campal residents, Engineer Milind Prabhu and the like, all people who have already invested their time and energy in a project that is unfolding so beautifully. We look forward to support from across spectrum, and personally, I have no doubt that we are well on the way. 

16 Book Review

The Accidental Prime Minister - The Making and Unmaking of Manmohan Singh

By Perin Ilavia Unlike other countries, we here in India don’t have a lot of experience with former senior aides to national leaders coming out with tell-all books about their former bosses. But that’s exactly what’s happened with The Accidental Prime Minister – The Making and Unmaking of Manmohan Singh,

launched in our state on July 26th at the International Centre Goa. The book is authored by Dr. Sanjaya Baru, Singh’s former media advisor.

One of the book’s triumphs is its ability to retain its appeal despite stating what a lot of us already knew. That Singh, while certainly in possession of quite a bit of integrity and policy mettle, was actually an extraordinarily weak leader who

was completely subservient to Congress President Sonia Gandhi.

Still, hearing it straight from a person so close to the prime minister, replete with succulent details and inside-the-palace narration, carries a certain level of satisfaction.

The flowing script narrates how Baru was chosen as the PM’s media advisor after serving for many decades as a senior journalist and editor at India’s top publications.

Upon getting the post, he said Singh told him, “I want you to be my eyes and ears, tell me what you think I should know without fear or favour”.

The book analyzes how the “wheels within wheels” in the government turned, and who turned them. Manmohan Singh was an introvert, he wrote, never discussing personal matters, not even speaking much to family and friends. The former PM’s childhood and modest home in the desolate village of Gah in Sindh, Pakistan and his journey to Cambridge and Oxford, all remain an enigma.

Faced with criticism over his own criticism of India’s former

leader, Baru has repeatedly said that he was actually trying to paint a sympathetic picture of Manmohan Singh. And indeed, we do hear about how Singh made history by being the first PM from a minority community - a humble, uncorrupt man with integrity, who even at his worst was a cut above the competition. No one, Baru wrote, could match his combination of personal administrative experience and national and international political appeal.

But as people began to understand the system of dual control, with Singh’s own authority very much in question, and as numerous scams shook the public, Singh’s failure to assert himself or to chide his corrupt ministers proved fatal, badly weakening what little authority he had.

He maintained, “I want ‘my work to speak for me’. ‘I am an accidental prime minister.’” With those words and that attitude, he essentially surrendered his right to rule as prime minister, Baru writes, becoming a mask for Sonia Gandhi who had total command as a regent for the ‘crown prince in waiting’

Friday, August 1, 2014

August 4 Dido and Aeneas Giving Voice Society headed by Patricia Rozario and Mark Troop present a fully staged performance of Henry Purcell’s 17th century masterpiece ‘Dido and Aeneas’, the first great opera in English At Kala Academy, Panaji 7 pm onwards +91 832 242 0450

August 10 All goa dance compitition Performance categories may be hip -hop/ fusion At Dugrem Ground in Agassim. +91 7507437370

Galleries of Note San Thome Museum Go back in time and visit a real jewel in Goa’s treasure chest.

Free entry. At Varca 9 am to 8 pm +91 9822363917/ +91 832 2745017 Yahel Chirinian Interesting mosaic mirror sculptures by an exceptionally creative artist.

Free entry.

At Monsoon Heritage Studio, Arpora 9 am to 6 pm +91 9822122771 Panjim Art Gallery Get a dose of local culture: figurative, individual work by Goan artists.

Near Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim 9 am – 8 pm +91 9822168703

(her son Rahul). Singh had a trusting relationship with her, Baru explains, and acted as a gentleman, not a dictator or party boss. In the process, the author writes, the leader of the second most populous nation on earth turned into “just a rubber stamp.”

As media advisor, Baru knew he had his work cut out for him, in light of the widely held perception that Singh was controlled by Sonia. “Clearly my biggest challenge as media advisor was to establish the credentials and credibility...” writes Baru.

Over time, the scams and scandals and growing corruption led to the government’s downfall. The publishers of The Accidental Prime Minister, Penguin India, weren’t sure how many copies they’d sell, and didn’t have high hopes. The book was launched on 11th April 2014, and was sold out the next day. Bookstores called the printers for more copies. Since then, many tens of thousands of copies have been sold throughout the country in various languages.

Mr. Robin Gupta, the writer and journalist who introduced the book at the launch in Goa, said, “Dr. Baru has written an important political history in a timely manner. I do not subscribe to the view that he has been unfaithful to Manmohan Singh, or that the timing of publication is to pay back Sonia Gandhi.”

Whatever the motivation, an important book has been written about a man whose good intentions were not enough. 

Cheshire Cat Jewellery Gallery Fashionable wearables. It’s all about style ladies. Jewellery and accessories.

At Bairo Alto, Assagao 10 am to 7 pm +91 9822580898 Mario Art Gallery Original paintings and other memorabilia of the great Goan artist/ cartoonist Mario Miranda.

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 am to 5.30 pm +91 832 2410711 Art Chamber - Galleria de Belas Artes Featuring works by Goan artist Yolanda D’Souza and others. Whilst you’re there, check out their programme of musical performances.

At Gauravaddo, Calangute 10 am to 1 pm & 4 pm to 8 pm +91 832 2277144/ +91 9823217435 Casa Araujo Alvares A 250-year-old mansion showcases our heritage in Goa’s first automated sound & light museum.

Entry Fees Charged Rs.50 At Big Foot, Loutolim 9 am – 6 pm +91 832 2777034 Email: bigfoottrust@gmail.com

Gallery Attic More local talent on display: paintings

by Goan Artists.

Opposite Don Bosco, Panjim 9 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 7 pm +91 832 2420929/+91 2257931 Sunaparanta- Goa Centre for the Arts The centre houses several exhibition galleries, a large multi-functional space for workshops and lectures, an inhouse film club, sketch club, studios, open air amphitheatre, pottery studio and an open courtyard that houses the al fresco café, Bodega. Open to the public, and the food at the café is recommended. Brunch on Sundays.

10 am to 6 pm At Altinho, Panjim +91 832 2421311 Gallery Gitanjali An elegant art gallery in Panjim’s Latin Quarter; worth popping in when you’re in the area.

At Fontainhas, Panjim 9 am to 9 pm +91 9823572035 Big Foot Art Gallery Display of works by various artists from India and abroad.

At Loutolim 9 am to 6 pm. +91 832 2777034 Moksa Art Gallery Salvador’s paintings. Salvadore Fernandes, that is, and others.

At Naikawaddo, Calangute 9.30 am to 8.30 pm +91 832 2281121/ +91 9326717386 Gallery Esperance Go back in time: Retrospective of art in Oils, Watercolors, Crayons Portraits, Landscape and Still Life Photographs.

Near the Our Lady of Merces Church, Merces 9 am to 6 pm. +91 9545536437

Carpe Diem An extremely active art and learning centre that hosts a number of exhibitions and performances. Also look out for the workshops there.

At Majorda 10 am to 6 pm. +91 8888862462 Arte Douro Art Gallery Even if you aren’t into serious art, check out these paintings on canvas originals and prints, international and local.

At Porba Vaddo, Calangute 9 am to 9 pm +91 832 22882266/ +91 9822147148 Fundação Oriente Art Gallery Permanent exhibition of paintings by Antonio Xavier Trindade (1870-1935) – a well-known Goan painter of the time.

At Fontainhas, Panjim 10 am to 1 pm & 2 pm to 5 pm +91 832 2230728/ +91 2436108 Garden Central Gallery Permanent exhibits, paintings and sketches by artist Derek Monteiro.

Near municipal garden, Panjim From 10 am to 5 pm +91 9921372036 Kerkar Art Gallery This gallery exhibits installations and sculptures by local artists such as Subodh Kerkar and selected works by contemporary artists from all over India.

At Gauravaddo, Calangute 10 am to 7 pm. +91 832 2276017 Ancestral Goa A mock village depicting the culture & traditions of Goa from a century ago and perhaps even earlier. Great for history lovers.

Entry Fees Charged Rs. 50 At Loutolim. 9 am to 6 pm +91 832 2777034

18 Wheels on Streets

Mercedes-Benz launches exhilarating CLA 45 AMG eralding a new era of performance motoring in India, Mercedes-Benz launched the global style and performance heart throb - the CLA 45 AMG - in India. The CLA 45 AMG is all set to redefine performance driving in India as it boasts of the award winning ‘Most Powerful four-cylinder series production engine in the world’. It is for the first time in the history of the AMG brand, that a high-performance car powered by a fourcylinder engine is introduced.

The CLA 45 AMG is distinguished with its unmistakably sporty and emotive design elements that create a fascinating impression.

The CLA 45 AMG boasts a cd value of 0.23. The front section exudes of characteristic sporty AMG style, with the "twin blade" radiator grille encompassing the central Three Pointed Star.

A distinctive front splitter is situated at the bottom end of the central cooling air opening.

Like the twin-blade radiator grille, it is painted matt titanium grey. Standard equipment includes bi-xenon headlamps.

The side view features lines that blend perfectly with the side sill panels and the inserts are in matt titanium grey. The "TURBO AMG" lettering on the wing is an additional distinguishing feature of the CLA 45 AMG. The CLA 45 AMG features 5-spoke light-alloy wheels 45.7 cm (18-inch) AMG 5-twin-spoke two tone light-alloy wheels in titanium grey finish.

The distinctive AMG body styling ensures a dynamic appearance from every angle. The CLA 45 AMG also includes exterior design elements like front apron with inserts in the front splitter, rear apron with trim in and side sill panels with inserts all in matt titanium grey finish.

The interiors of the CLA 45 AMG greets with an AMG start-up screen on the centrally positioned TFT colour display. The sporty instrument cluster features round black dials, carbon-fibre design, silver/red needles and an attractive speedometer. The CLA 45 AMG has an instrument cluster with a distinguished 2-tube look. The CLA 45 exudes high-class appeal courtesy the use of high-grade materials and AMG's hallmark main menu in the central display. The central display provides the driver with information using three modes: "Warm Up" indicates the engine oil, coolant and transmission oil temperatures; "Set Up" indicates the current ESP® mode and the transmission mode ("C", "S" or "M"); the "RACE" menu includes the RACETIMER, which the driver can use to record lap times on a racetrack.

The CLA 45 AMG’s interior features AMG Performance Seats, AMG Performance Steering Wheel and Panoramic sliding sunroof. The sportiness of the CLA 45 AMG’s interiors are also accentuated by the AMG floor mats and illuminated door sill panels with “AMG” lettering which lend an exclusive character to CLA 45 AMG. The red designo seats belts of the CLA 45 AMG completes the sportiness of the interiors.

The newly developed award winning AMG 2.0-litre turbo engine is the most powerful four-cylinder series-production engine in the world. A maximum output of 265 kW and up to 450 Nm of torque are unmatched by any other mass-produced turbocharged four-cylinder engine worldwide. The high output and torque coupled with the performance-oriented AMG

4MATIC all-wheel drive fitted as standard make for extremely dynamic performance: the CLA 45 AMG complete the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and have a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

The CLA 45 AMG’s AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission transfers the engine power to all the four wheels. The three transmission modes which feature the CLA 45 AMG are “C - Controlled Efficiency”, “S – Sport” and “M – Manual”. The Controlled Efficiency mode is configured for most fuelefficient drive. The car also has a ECO start/stop function is available in this mode. The Sport mode has sporty gear-shift characteristics with shorter shift times, while the Manual mode has extremely fast manual shift times using the steering wheel shift paddles.

The CLA 45 AMG is one of the safest vehicles on Indian roads having best-in-class safety features and equipment list. From bi-xenon headlamps to PRE-SAFE® system, from tyre pressure loss monitoring system to the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) including ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist; the CLA 45 AMG prioritizes the renowned Mercedes-Benz safety aspects. The CLA 45 AMG also comes with 7 airbags.

The CLA 45 AMG is priced at Rs. 68.50 lakhs ex-showroom Delhi. 