Issue No: 29 by Goa Streets

Sao Joao Bash | Radio Play | Bombay Goans

WORLD CUP 2014

From Brazil to Goa

Friday, June 6, 2014

PRE SAO-JOAO BASH AT ‘THE PARK’ By Goa Streets

o, the feast of Sao Joao is not yet upon us. But is that any reason not to party your brains out in anticipation of the upcoming storm of fun? Not if you’re a Goan party animal or any other kind of party freak who happened to be in the vicinity of the hotel The Park on June 1! That’s when the annual pre Sao-Joao bash was held, and fun it was indeed! Not just fun. It’s safe to say, dear reader, that this was a pre Sao-

Joao BLAST! A massive crowd of more than 700 people attended the pre monsoon pool party, on the gorgeous grounds of The Park overlooking the waves of the Arabian Sea. The event was organised by The Park and Jack events. DJ LINE UP: DJ TERI MIKO, DJ RYON NOGAR, DJ VARUN F, DJ AKSHIT, DJ JACK M, DJ FLOHTEK, DJ TEJAS, DJ AK47 MIC: MACKIE

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Teri Miko, Marc Gosh and Vishwanath Shelke

music & nightlife | 03 Sao Joao Pre-Party

what's on | 6 Events in Goa

food & drink | 07 Route 66 - For American Food

cover story | 10 World Cup Mania

Every Wednesday Rock is Alive With Charley and the Music Factory At Baywatch Resort, Colva @ 7.30 pm +91 832 2747744

feature | 12 10 Things to Stop Doing Now to Live Longer

arts & entertainment | 14 Radio Play

arts & entertainment | 16 Boimcar - Bombay Goans

arts & entertainment | 17 Book Reviews

the corner | 18 Grand Hyatt and Marriott Papa, do you think that if India’s population was 2 billion, we’d be in the World Cup?

Every Thursday Independent Music Bands At Cheenos, Baga 8 pm onwards +91 8806564991 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 Wicked Friday A journey through deep tech house, minimal tech and progressive house At Waters Lounge, Ozran, Anjuna +91 9702025555

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

Latin Night Live Music & Jazz At Fiesta, Baga 8.30 pm onwards +91 +91 832 227 9894 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 Park Hyatt Every Day Dinner with Music Thurs: Acaccio Live, Fri: Shalini, Sat: Savio, Sun: Edriya & Taniya At Park Hyatt, Cavellosim 7.30 pm to 11 pm +91 832 2721234 Cantare Every Monday: Live band with Lester Every Wednesday: Live band with Steve Sequeira and Kittu Every Friday: George and Group At Cantare, Saligao 8 pm onwards +91 832 2409461 Hippies Ocean Cafe Live Music Every Wednesday, Friday & Sunday At Hippies, Anjuna @10 pm +91 7507486444 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, June 6, 2014

Moses, Miku, Kashish, Alika, Maliza And Gang

Vishwanath Shelke

Joanne

From page 3

The hot, young, wonderfully happy crowd grooved to the DJs’ rhythms inside and outside the pool. The open air bar ‘PEACE’, the restaurant ‘LOVE’ and the swimming pool were totally jam packed. DJ TERI MIKO mesmerised the crowd with her usual performance, her vibrant tunes resonating throughout the venue and taking the young lot in hand within no time. It was a great musical feast for the people. Saurabh Khanna, Director, Operations, The Park, Calangute said, “It is a good start and we look forward for bigger events in the coming season” With the pre Sao-Joao bash, the expectations of the crowd has grown, with everyone waiting for the real Sao Joao bash in the coming days….! And if you love pools, a great party atmosphere and the Arabian Sea, we suggest you party once again at The Park when the real deal arrives. Good going, guys! 

Friday, June 6, 2014

June 6

June 6 to June 7

Health Talk Friday Health Talk on the topic: Lifestyle related Gastroenterological & Liver Problems: Measures to avoid them, by Dr. Jose Alvares: Consultant – Gastroenterologist. At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula 6 pm onwards +91 832 2452805

Sound Workshop By Music Director and sound engineer E R Vinay, from Karnataka At Institute Menezes Braganza, Panjim 10 am to 5 pm +91 832 222 4143

June 7 Gulzar’s poems with English and Konkani translations Konkani Lekhak Sangh is organising Uttejana – Encouragement: programmes on literature, art and culture. At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula 4.00 PM to 6.00 PM. +91 832 2452805-10

June 11 Electric suits, by Guillaume blanc Alliance Francaise Panaji will host a Dj Set combining live instrumental and electronic music. In its Electric Suites project, he presents original compositions of a high and rare quality. At Menezes Braganza Hall, Panjim @7 pm +91 832 222 4143

June 1 to June 30 Vipassana Courses Meditation classes for men and women. It’s a 10 days course for children they have separate classes. No age limit. At Vipassana Samiti, Alto Porvorim. 10 am to 4 pm +91 9422641206

June 4 to June 7 Peace warrior musical the musical is on the life of Saint Francis of Assisi. It is conceptualized, directed and produced by Fr. Agnelo Gomes and us of 80 minutes duration and have about 70 actors. The musical stars pillar seminarians. On 6th June – Kala Academy, Panaji. +91 832 2420450 On 7th June – Ravindra Bhavan, Margao +91 832 2726980

June 4 to June 8 Pretty Home Exhibition The exhibition has on display a wide range of items like electronics, home appliances, footwear, furniture, crockery items etc... At BPS Sports Club, Margao 10 am to 8.30 pm +91 9822937100

June 7 to June 29 Yoga for Kids The classes interweave story, song, games and poses, allowing children to learn in a multi sensory environment which explores visual, aural, interpersonal & intrapersonal learning. The classes will be conducted by Savita Khemlani in French language. At Alliance Francaise, Panjim 2 pm to 3 pm +91 832 2420049 June 14 to June 15 Two free World Busk Music concerts Child’s Play India Foundation in association with Gallery Gitanjali and Aldona Institute celebrates World Busk with two charity events; on Saturday 14 June 2014 at 6 pm at Gallery Gitanjali Fontainhas Panjim; and on Sunday 15 June 2014 at 5 pm at Aldona Institute. Entry free. Contact Dr. Luis Dias, Project Director, Child’s Play (India) Foundation +91 9011051950, +91 832 2224642 www.childsplayindia.org

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

Museums 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 Museum Of Christian Art Open all days of the week 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

Goa State Museum Has some 8,000 artifacts on display including carvings, paintings, manuscripts, rare coins and stone sculptures. A museum shop is planned soon with the aim of popularizing Goan culture through museum objects. At EDC Complex, Patto, Panjim 9.30 am to 5.30 pm +91 832 2438006 / +91 832 2437306 Goa Science Centre The Centre has a science park with interactive exhibits, 3D shows, galleries on oceanic science, explaining mysteries of the underwater world. Experience science through fun. There are some interesting exhibits explaining scientific principles. At Miramar 10 am to 6 pm +91 832 2463426 Xavier Centre of Historical Research See exhibitions of paintings, browse through rare books and attend symposiums with particular emphasis on contemporary cultural & social issues affecting Goa. At BB Borkar Road, Porvorim +91 832 2417772 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 Archaeological Museum Check out the sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses, antiques from the Hindu period and currencies leftover by the Portuguese. At Old Goa 9 am to 5 pm +91 832 2285333 Monsoon Heritage Studio Treat yourself to some amazing collection of mirrored mosaic art and handpicked artifacts at this upscale studio by Yahel Chirinian. At Mainath Batti, Arpora 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM +91 9822122771 Wax World Museum A brainchild of Mr. Shreeji Bhaskaran, the man behind India’s first wax museum at Ooty, here’s Goa’s very own Madame Tussuad’s. With over 30 lifelike wax statues of the who’s who of India, including the most eminent personalities from culture, religion, politics, heritage and more, it’s a huge attraction. At Gandhi Circle, Old Goa 9.30 am to 7.30 pm +91 9970126202

Pilar Seminary It’s one of the surviving two seminaries out of the four built by the Portuguese. Though it looks run of the mill from a distance, once inside you’ll be in for a surprise with the posh new chapel. It has an impressive marble platform and altar. The strikingly beautiful stained windows are the brain-work of a Goan artist and were made in Germany. Resting in the seminary grounds is the tomb of Father Agnelo, a notable point of interest for the ones on pilgrimage. Its location on a solitary stretch lends it an aura of reserved grounds and visiting it is a feat for many. A one room museum at the Once here, you can get a bird’s eye-view of St Andrew Church of Goa Velha down below, while the whispers that echo from the tree leaves make it an ethereal experience. At Pilar 8.30 am to 5.30 pm +91 832 2218521 Private Villas Ikshaa Loutolim, South Goa Ikshaa.com

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 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 Maria Elena’s Wardrobe Elegant ladies party wear and accessories Behind Fidalgo, Panjim +91 9049079769/+91 7769043301 Paper Boat Collective Specializes in ceramics, textile, furniture, clothes, children items and more. At Bella Vista, Chogm Rd, Sangolda From 10.30 am to 8.30 pm +91 832 6521248 TukTuk From apparel to silver jewellery, bags to accessories and souvenirs to curios, everything at TukTuk is handpicked from across India. At A 104, Pereira Plaza, 1st Floor, Opposite Hospicio, Margao 10:30 am – 1:30 pm & 2:30 pm – 7 pm +91 9049017182

Solberg A Scandinavian Designer in Goa At Pedro Martina Resorts, Gaura Vaddo, Candolim +91 9822364978 Fabindia The shop is famous for Indian inspired ready-to-wear garments for men, women, teenagers and children. At Dattawadi, Mapusa (also in Candolim and Panjim) 10 am to 8 pm +91 832 2253585 Artjuna An unusual boutique in an Old Portuguese villa showcasing, among other items, leather crafts. Also features a lovely outdoor café. At Monteiro Vaddo, Anjuna 9 am to 6 pm +91 9822686640 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 Bebel Boutique Designer fashion accessories Opp. St Anthony Chapel, Calangute +91 832 6451489

Great Goan Experiences Birds & Breakfast Have your morning breakfast watching birds. Note: The best time for bird watching is October to Mid April. At Gaurro Waddo, Calangute +91 832 2276711/ +91 9822149002 Horse Riding Majorda Beach Horse Riding offers riding on Goa’s longest beach. At Majorda. From 5 pm to 7 pm +91 9822586502 Canopy Eco – Tours Offers a wide variety of experiences including nature-treks, butterfly tours, dragonfly and damselfly tours, plus boat safaris on the Zuari River as well as their original unique birding tour. At Housing Board Colony, Margao +91 9764261711, +91 9764052225 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 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

Friday, June 6, 2014

Burgers, Steaks, Pasta, Pizza and Other Slices of America takes their food seriously. Very seriously. And that’s something of an irony, considering the ambience in both joints which, with its laid-back air, no-pretense décor and quiet simplicity, is not exactly ‘serious.’ Why dine at Route 66? For starters, there’s no better place in the state to get a true American fix (As an American myself, I know!). These aren’t just any old burgers. These are mouth-watering flavour bombs, meaty creations stacked high with bacon and sausages and patties and cheese and spicy Mexican peppers. Take the Wolverine, for example, a By Steven Gutkin

o truly understand Route 66, you have to know just a little bit about Savio Noronha and the passions of his life. A Savio is a world-class chef, an aficionado of Harley Davidsons and an unapologetic lover of American food, and it shouldn’t come as a major surprise that he and his wife Nicole decided to name their latest restaurant Route 66 – one of the original highways in the U.S. Highway System (it’s a legendary road, as evidenced by the hit song ‘Get Your Kicks On Route 66’). If you’ve dined at their Vagator restaurant Tin Tin, you know the couple

hamburger dish featuring a grilled beef patty topped with crisp bacon, grilled hot dog, chipotle chillies, adobo sauce and jalapenos. Prepared in full view on an open fire on the restaurant’s terrace, this is just about as good as any hamburger CAN be. The same goes for my wife Marisha’s S.O.B., featuring a grilled beef patty, a pork patty basted with a layer of ‘hell sauce’, with melted cheese, onion rings, hickory BBQ sauce, bacon, more cheese – all served on a toasted bun with grilled onions. The ‘wow’ factor comes not just from the extraordinary flavours, but also the price, which, at Rs 399 per burger, is something akin to the bargain of the century, if you consider the copious amounts of meat and cheese. (Why the terms ‘S.O.B.’ and ‘hell sauce?’ Not sure, but it must have something to do with the ‘bad-ass’ portions and taste!) Let’s rewind just for a moment. When I dined at Tin Tin with my two sons a while back, we were very pleased with the Beer Battered Prawns (golden fried and served with wasabi mayo). So Marisha and I ordered them again at Route 66, and again, they did not disappoint. Other noteworthy offerings at Route 66 include a nice selection of pastas (Penne Arrabiata and Pesto Penne, to name two), some lovely salads

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7th June to 22nd June The International Street Food Festival Nothing thrills the soul like the exquisitely authentic mouth-watering street fare dished out along the roads, beckoning one to halt and indulge in a carefree snack or two! At Waterfront Terrace & Bar, Goa Marriott Resort & Spa, Miramar +91 832 246 3333

Until June 15 It’s a Mango Celebration at Novotel Goa Shrem Resort! Celebrating the sweet and sour flavour of Goa’s favourite fruit this summer! Sip on refreshing Mango based concoctions such as Mango Mojito, Mango Margarita, Mango Colada and Mango Daiquiri, the perfect recipes to beat the summer heat. At Novotel Goa Shrem Resort, Candolim +91 832 2494949

April 3 Onwards  High Tea @ North 16 Goa   A rather lovely affair, with tea and coffee, finger sandwiches, amuses bouches, pastries and soufflés. The North16 Goa High Tea promises an afternoon of culinary indulgence at Grab N Go. If you’re planning a special event, you can also go for a tailored High Tea, specializing in birthdays, children’s events, and get togethers for small and large groups. High Tea is served daily at Grab n Go at Rs. 350 ++ per person.  From 4 pm to 6 pm   At North 16 Goa, Calangute  +91 832 674 5555

Every Saturday Saturday Brunch @ Rs. 950/- including taxes with unlimited Mojitos, Vodkatinis, Daiquiris, Frozen Cocktails Saturday Live Music - “Latin Connection” At The Park, Calangute 1 pm to 4 pm +91 8805028194

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 Bikini Brunch Sunday BBQ Brunch @ Rs. 950++ per head, with unlimited alcohol. Enjoy Live Karaoke with Emmanuel. At The Park, Calangute 12.30 pm to 4.30 pm +91 8805028194

Baga, Calangute & Around 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 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 Britto’s One of the most popular shacks serving Goan cuisine and seafood. Lots of tourists and even some locals still come, but true Goa-philes know this place has seen better days. At Baga Beach, Calangute 8.30 pm to midnight +91 832 2277331/ +91 832 2276291 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 Café de Goa Attractive Café with lots of fresh small bites and innovative offerings. Good Sunday Brunch and organic store At The Red Tower, Calangute 10.30 am to 5.30 pm +91 832 2279961

Anjuna & Around 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

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 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

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

Panjim & Around Route 66 Smoke House n Grill At Fontainhas, opp. Patto Bridge, Panjim From 12 pm to 11.30 pm +91 9623922796/ +91 8805389714

Candolim

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

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

Baba’s Wood Cafe Classical Italian Pizza, Wine, Ravioli Pizza, Tiramisu etc. At 49, Mala, Fontainhas, Panjim-Goa 12.30 p.m to 3.30 p.m & 7.00 p.m to 11.30 p.m +91 832-3256213/ +91 9823714098

Food & Drink 9

Friday, June 6, 2014

TAO Asian Cuisine Asian Chinese Restaurant & Bar 12 p.m. To 3 p.m. & 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. At Campal, Panaji, Goa, 083222226262 Aunty Maria Coffee & Bites Available Fresh home-made breads, cakes, chocolates and cookies At Hotel Fidalgo, Panjim +91 832 2226291 Edu’s Restaurant Indian, Chinese, International and Goan Pizzas are one of their specialties. Nothing fancy but has the vibe of a street café. Next to Magson’s on the main DB Road in Panjim, Miramar. +91 832 2463777, +91 832 2463888. / +91 9822122085 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 has good pizzas Off Chogm Rd, Porvorim 7 am to 11 pm. +91832241558 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 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 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 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 Kenilworth Resort Goa Kenilworth Resort & Spa offers 5 star luxury & is rated among the best leisure hotels in Goa At Utorda, Salcete, Utorda +91 832 6698888

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 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 9 am to 6 pm +91 832 2710757 Allegria Goan Fine-dining restaurant at the Taj Exotica and serves up some authentic GoanPortuguese items. 7.30 pm to 10.45 pm At Taj Exotica, Calwaddo, Benaulim, Salcette +91 832 6683333

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 AtPalolem Beach Road, Goa +91 9823928548

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(American Cobb Salad, to name one), a whole range of wood-fired pizzas and some exceptional entrees including Blackened Mahi Mahi, BBQ Smoked Pork Ribs, Flambe of Fillet Mignon and Himalayan Trout Grilled on a Cedar Plank. And for dessert, there’s Mud Cake (with vanilla ice cream), Belgian Waffles (with strawberry compote and vanilla ice cream) and an Americana Sundae (with waffles and ice cream). Route 66 has been open only a few weeks, but it’s already crowded. Word has travelled fast about the culinary power couple Savio and Nicole. As an executive chef at major restaurants, 5-star hotels and cruise lines, Savio has cooked for presidents and celebrities the world over, including the Middle East, Europe and the U.S. His German wife Nicole is currently the pastry chef (note I said THE pastry chef, not A pastry chef) at the Grand Hyatt Goa. Need I say more? Isn’t it wonderful how so many great new eating joints are opening up in Panjim? Of these, Route 66 is one of the best.

• The Food: World-Class. American • The Ambience: Simple and pleasant • The Service: Food this good takes time to cook, so be patient • The price: Savio and Nicole are writing the book on value for money. Gigantic burgers range from Rs 159 to Rs 399, pizzas are in the Rs 200 and Rs 300 range (except for the Meat Blast, which weighs in at Rs 419) and the entrees are mostly in the Rs 400 range

Baba’s Little Italy Chinese, Goan, Indian, Italian, seafood. Can’t go wrong here. Nice Italian menu. At Palolem Beach, Canacona 9 am to 11 pm. +91 9923749449 Bhakti Kutir European, Goan, Indian, Seafood Decent fare in this major party beach At Palolem, Canacona 8 am to 10 pm +91 832 2643472 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

• Something Special: The cocktail list is also worth checking out, from the Bull Frog to the Walking Zombie to the Tin Tin Mojito. Also check out the Shooters. Great fun! • Where: Rua De Ourem, Old Patto Bridge , Near Hotel Sona (+91) 96 23922796, (+91) 88 05389714, (+91) 83 22435884

10 Cover Story

World Cup mania grips soccer-crazy Goans And I’m not complaining! As the countdown to the World Cup 2014 in Brazil draws closer, most Goans in this football-loving paradise are placing their bets on their usual favourites: host nation and seven-time winner – Brazil. But if you look hard enough, you will find a good number of supporters of the defending champions, Spain, and others going for Argentina, Germany, Italy, England and, of course, Portugal. Writer Gary Azavedo takes a closer look at this World Cup season, and walks us through how it’s likely to be played out right here in Goa.

n Thursday, June 12, 2014, billions of football lovers all over the globe will be glued to their television screens to watch host nation Brazil kick off its samba-styled march towards the ultimate goal at the inaugural World Cup 2014 match against the emerging soccer powerhouse, Croatia. As the climax to the month-long tournament that will conclude on Sunday, July 13, draws nearer, the World Cup frenzy will have affected pretty much every Goan. Even those who don’t give a damn about football won’t be spared, as they’re likely to be drawn into the frenzy of Goans going gaga over the beautiful game.

Ultimate winners

Call it colonial solidarity, or just the moment’s craze. But Brazil is the overwhelming favourite among the people of Goa. Take professional footballer Gouramangi Singh, a midfielder for the IMG Reliance team. Singh remarks, “I favour Brazil to win because they are at home and do not have one big star. They have a brilliant player for every position and each of the 23 people in the squad have done well throughout the season. If they start well, they should go all the way.” Other Brazil supporters include Anuj Kichlu, the 27-year-old CEO of ‘The Football Edge’, a football management firm, and two prominent former international football players – Bruno Coutinho and

Brahmanand Shankwalkar. East Bengal coach Armando Colaco and the former footballer now turned artist Yolanda de Souza Kammermeier, are also rooting for Brazil. Joining their chorus is the Goa Football Development Council (GFDC) president Dr Rufino Monteiro, a cardiologist by profession, who exclaims, “My heart says it will be Brazil as they have the talent, the squad and the advantage of playing at home in front of their screaming fans!” Former chief minister Churchill Alemao, who is the patron of Goa’s popular football team Churchill Brothers, too, backs Brazil. But he still wants to see Spain and Portugal go all the way to the finals. The Goa Boxing Association former general secretary Lenny da Gama also backs Brazil, but wouldn’t be terribly upset if either Germany or Spain clinched the World Cup 2014 trophy. However, disagreeing with them is a 69-year-old retired National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) scientist, Stephen Dias. A resident of Dona Paula, Panjim, Dias is a veteran footballer who played for various teams during the Portuguese era. Nothing against Brazil, he explains, but he wants Spain to take the trophy. Supporting his views are two professional footballers – Dempo Sports Club defender Samir Naik and Sporting Club midfielder (on loan) Mohammed Ishfaq Ahmed. The 30-year-old player from Srinagar, Kashmir remarks, “Spain is my favourite because they have been playing some awesome football from the last World Cup and you can always expect great goals from all their matches.” The experienced East Bengal coach Colaco strikes a note of caution, stating that “anything can happen and one cannot write off the Netherlands!”

Surprise upsets

Belgium came up quite a bit when I asked Goans to talk about the World Cup. Says Kichlu, “The dark horses for the World Cup are Belgium but two other teams to watch out for will be Uruguay - being in South America, the weather

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Friday, June 6, 2014

conditions will suit them - and Japan, as their players acclimatise well everywhere and there isn’t any pressure on them.” Samir Naik, too, feels Uruguay and Chile will be the dark horses. While for Singh, it is Belgium and England. “This time there is not much hype about England and they are under rated so they have young players who are performing well,” he opines. But Mazarello tips Argentina, remarking “They are determined to prove they can do it again without the ‘Hand of God’.” Other nations that might just surprise us are former winners – Germany and France, Portugal, Colombia, Cameroon and Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Finalists

When it comes to predicting who will be the two finalists facing off against each other at the Maracana stadium on July 13, there are many possible combinations, from the two South American powerhouses Brazil v/s Argentina to other combos such as Brazil v/s Germany, Brazil v/s Italy, Spain v/s Argentina, Spain v/s Germany or the possible favourite clash of some Goans: Brazil v/s Portugal!

Golden Boot winner & ‘golden gloves’

The favourite strikers for the topmost scorer of the World Cup 2014, the winner of the “Golden Boot”, are Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal), Lionel Messi (Argentina), Neymar (Brazil), Luis Suarez (Spain) and Mario Balotelli (Italy). If you ask Goans, this year’s star goalkeepers

are likely to be Iker Casillas (Spain) along with Thibaut Courtois (Belgium), Manuel Neuer (Germany), Julio Cesar (Brazil) and Gianluigi Buffon (Italy). Kichlu remarks, “There are two goalkeepers to watch out for. According to me, first is Mat Ryan from Australia, particularly as his team will be on the defensive and Thibaut Courtois from Belgium who I feel is one of the three top keepers in the world.”

Best Coach

When it comes to coaches, Goans are big fans of Brazil’s Luis Filipe Scolari for his strict, no-nonsense attitude of getting the best out of his players. Scolari, through his adept tactical formations, has won the World Cup for his team before. Other admired coaches are Joachim Loew (Germany), Vincente Del Basque (Spain), Alejandro Sabella (Argentina), Cesare Prandelli (Italy), Paulo Bento (Portugal) and Roy Hodgson (England).

Where to watch the games?

For many, the choice of where to watch the World Cup matches is limited to the cosy confines of their home. Why? Because these matches are being telecast “LIVE” in the early morning hours of around 2.30 am or 3.30 am. But senior citizen Stephen Dias informs that he will visit Panjim’s popular Clube Nacional and Clube Vasco da Gama to watch the matches. For 25-year-old Mandar Bandekar of Porvorim, it will be a visit to J29 in Candolim. While Kolkata-based Kichlu and Colaco mention that they will watch

it either at home or in the social clubs in Kolkata, Shankwalkar discloses that he might watch the later stages of the tournament with his pals at the Down The Road (DTR) pub. Singh says that he “will follow as many matches as possible, especially of my favourite teams – Spain, England and Japan. I am doing a coaching licence in Goa for the first 10 days of the World Cup but I should watch the knockout stages onwards on holiday in Europe!” Meanwhile, there is some good news for the World Cup fans as the GFDC president Dr Monteiro announced that the GFDC will screen the weekly highlights as well as the finals “LIVE” at all the GFDC centres across the state.

Most memorable World Cup experience

For Shankwalkar, it was the 1970 Mexico World Cup finals when Brazil beat Italy 4-1 at the Aztec stadium, with Carlos Alberto scoring the penultimate goal off a pass from Pele. “I was a young lad around 15 or 16 years old and I recollect pushing out my father’s car from the garage into the lane to hear the commentary, as in those days there was no television. This memory is still fresh in my mind,” he says. Kammermeier, Alemao and Vaz wax nostalgically about the 1982 World Cup of the famous Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” victory for Argentina. Mazarello fondly recalls the 1994 World Cup when Brazil beat Italy. “Both were star-studded teams and it was pure joy to see them display their soccer skills.” Singh fondly recalls the 1998 World

Cup hosted by France wherein the host nation beat hot favourites Brazil 3 goals to nil. Singh remarks, “I remember Zidane (France) setting the World Cup on fire. Also Ronaldo (Brazil) was brilliant throughout the tournament but failed to click in the finals.” Kichlu adds, “I have watched five World Cups from 1994 to 2010 but for me, the 1998 WC was the best although my favourite team Brazil lost. There were many close matches other than the finals.”

Will India ever make it to the World Cup?

Goans, like most Indians, are sceptical, due to present levels of corruption, lopsided priorities of investors focussing only on cricket, and a host of other factors. But many are optimistic that change is possible if there is a revolution in the nation’s soccer body – the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and if the required infrastructure is created, with a firm emphasis on training at the grassroot level and proper exposure given to young talented footballers - providing them an opportunity to interact with outstation players and improve their skills. Setting up of academies and proper education for the coaches is also vital, points out Colaco. Spend a little time talking to Goans about football, and it’s clear the will for change is there. Soccer-crazy Goans, like most other Indians, are keen to enter the football big leagues. With The World Cup upon us, now’s a good time step up efforts to make it happen. 

12 Feature

10 things to stop doing right now if you want to live longer

n one of my many online voracious reading sprees, I came across this fantastic statement that captured my attention. ‘What do winning an Oscar, having a cat, and gardening have in common?’ This mind-boggling riddle had an essence of hidden truth as I read and reflected on the next line ‘all three things make you live longer’ (the moment of revelation). Why would Earthly beings like us want to say a premature “Hello” to St. Peter at the Pearly Gates of Heaven at a time that we are supposed to carve our destinies right here on Earth? Caught up in a maddening rat race, people think only about earning those extra wads of cash, kickbacks, harassing others, being rude, angry, downing feni or smoking Marlboro or gulping all those fizzy drinks….. Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello, a psychologist has prepared a ‘must-not-do’ list if you want to live longer. So here goes.

without regrets! Don’t forget to mutter the golden words ‘Please’ ‘Thank you’ and ‘Sorry’ when needed.

Being a loner

Skipping a good night’s sleep

Stressing Daily stresses of life such as ailing parents, rebellious kids, and harassing colleagues can take a huge toll on your health. Adopt a zen attitude, take deep breaths and don’t let the frustrations of the world get you down. Learn to destress! Try meditation exercises or yoga or engage in relaxing leisure pursuits. Find out the triggers to your stress – specific situations or certain people? No one to be your confidant? Give diary writing a shot. It is a safe catharsis to your negative emotions and your secret is safe with you.

Being a couch potato

Introverted? No close friends? Feeling lonely? Be social and stay social. Social relationships act as a stress buffer helping you to cope with day-to-day life’s hassles. Increase your social connectivity (not only online networking). Your friends will be supportive in times of crisis. For instance, emotional support when you are mourning the loss of your close relation or even timely financial help can ease your burden of clearing debts.

Smoking

Give the idiot box in your living room a break! A big NO-NO to that sedentary lifestyle of yours. Be active! Run though the driving monsoon rains, boogie board on the Goan waves, jump, hop, skip and frolic! And here’s something for all you maid-dependent folks to consider: How bout doing some of your own household chores? Sweeping, mopping, climbing stairs, washing, etc all burn calories. You don’t need to join a gym to be active or to tone those biceps and triceps. Even a regular brisk walk will up your longevity by 3 or more years.

Kick the cigarette butt! Get rid of the cigarette packs at your home! Keep the ashtray out of sight! Smoking is injurious to health and robs the smoker of a decade of his/her life, at least. Whether you quit or reduce your cigarette smoking, your body recovers. Reduce the risk of being a cancer victim. Stay tobacco free! Don’t be a passive smoker, either (meaning get out of the line of others’ smoke, too)!

Boozing

Taking life for granted French fries? Chips? Canned food? Chocolate Mousse? Doughnuts? Sugary soft drinks? Your body needs to be healthy. You wouldn’t want to have a heart attack in your thirties or forties. Or end up being a young diabetic patient. Grab a diet rich in fibre and antioxidants. Veggies and fresh fruits make a great choice. Cut down on your regular trips to the fast food outlets and pastelarias. Drink lots of water as it washes all the toxins from the body. Can’t do without your regular ‘chai?’ Opt for green tea.

Unfortunate victim of insomnia? Those 4 hours of sleep that you manage to snatch every night decrease your longevity, because they’re not enough. A good night’s sleep keeps diseases at bay and leads to better mental health as well. Adopt corrective measures if your sleep patterns have taken a toss. Darken your room with blinds or thick curtains. Shift the bedroom television to some other room. No distractions! Let the room be soothing and relaxing. If none of these tips work, it is time that you book an appointment with a health professional.

Thinking about making money 24/7

Stop: Eating fatty, oily and sweet edibles

family. No risk of cirrhosis or early death! No road mishaps! No chance of being given the boot by your boss for tardiness or inability to meet project deadlines. Your quality of life will improve. Moderate drinking is not an issue, of course. It’s when you lose control that things get out of hand.

Live each day as if it is your last day. Enjoy each and every moment of your life. Not only the joyous moments or celebrations, but challenges and setbacks ought to be embraced willfully. Watch the birds in the air! See the tiny bluishblack butterfly fleeting by! Watch the tiny blades of grass coming to life! Go stargazing when the skies are not cloudy! We are so caught up in our busy work lives that we forget to appreciate simple beauties of life. Even a rough day at work teaches important life lessons. Live life

Vodkas? Whisky? Rum? Go easy! Chronic alcohol abuse can cause a variety of mental and physical health complications. Give those liquor bottles a break! Spend quality time with your

Whether you’ve inherited a fortune or can’t pay your bills, financial struggles and obsessions are never a recipe for longevity. Your materialistic cravings and constant obsession with money can spell marital trouble, family disputes, chronic health issues and cause unnecessary anxieties. Remember, we are just mortal beings who don’t lug huge suitcases of cash or jewels to our graves.

Holding a grudge against anyone

From abusive youngsters and aggressive men to gossip mongers and conniving people, the world is not always fair or just. Don’t harbor negative emotions like anger or hatred. Negative emotions release cortisol, the stress hormone. High levels of cortisol have a deleterious effect on our bodies. Don’t hold a grudge against anyone. Forgive and march ahead! You will be more healthy and happy!

Friday, June 6, 2014

June 6 to June 8

An Enemy of the People

Marathi Film Festival Marathi film industry’s top cine stars will descend on Goa in the first week of June for the 7th edition of the Goa Marathi film festival. At Kala Academy, Panjim +91 832 2420450

A Lesson for Goa

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 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 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

A compelling radio play with an important message - sponsored by Goa Streets By José Lourenço

hen I was a child, I would often tune in to the BBC Play of The Week on the family radio, a compact Sony TR-812 with a lot of knobs to fiddle with. The transmission was very clear and every word was audible despite the typical rise and fall of shortwave sound. No TV, no Internet and no porn websites those days, so a young lad got some culture by default. That old radio now lies in our attic, long retired as its knobs failed and its circuit gave up the ghost. So when I heard that Bina Datwani, a fellow member of the Goa Writers group was producing a radio play, I was curious.

Bina and her Radioactive crew actually went ahead and did it. Sponsored by Goa Streets, they produced and broadcast a radio play on All India Radio’s 105.4 FM in two parts on 17 and 18 May 2014. It was titled ‘An Enemy of the People’, adapted by Bina from the original play of the same name by Henrik Ibsen. In its original Norwegian avatar the play was called En folkefiende and was first staged in 1882. Arthur Miller adapted it in the 1950s and the adaptation went on to television in 1966. The inevitable movie was made in 1978, starring Steve McQueen. What is the plot in Radioactive’s version of Ibsen’s classic? The play is set in Goa, around an environmental issue, of the kind we now regularly see in the dailies. A new health resort has been set up in a small Goan town, with springs that have medicinal powers bringing prosperity for everyone. But Dr Thomas Fernandes, the medical officer of the health spa, discovers dangerous bacteria polluting its water. He is determined to expose the risk and protect the community. The play tells the story of how the conscientious doctor goes from being a friend of the people to an enemy resented and shunned by everyone. Its central theme deals with the price of honesty and the need for moral courage. The play strikes a chord with the present scenario in Goa, where many issues make one unsure of whether they should be supported or opposed. The conflict between development and the environment stares every Goan in the face. A mining site at Sanguem brings in bucks for truckers and workers but sorrow to polluted fields. Quarries in Quepem make laterite and granite dealers rich, but ravage the pristine countryside. We crave fish, and often look away when trawlers raid the seas during breeding season. The price for opposing what one sees as bad in Goa can range from Income Tax raids, job transfers, bad press and social hostility. Then there are the allegations that a protestor is hand-in-glove with ‘vested interests’. As the play demonstrates, even the media can be manipulated to stifle protest and to serve as ‘spin doctors’ for a profitable issue. But the price paid for ignoring and drowning out the lone protestor is often terrible and permanent. In the play, the Salmon Spring Resort is contaminated by leachate from a waste dump. Such pollution in real life extracts a heavy toll. Most of the wells in Calangute, Margao and other towns are now contaminated beyond redemption by leaking septic tanks and industrial waste. Even diesel from storage tanks has made its way into drinking water wells! Where do

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Friday, June 6, 2014

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 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 in-house 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 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-do-Mundo, Porvorim area 9 am to 5.30 pm +91 832 2410711 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 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 Big Foot Art Gallery Display of works by various artists from India and abroad. At Loutolim 9 am to 6 pm. +91 832 2777034 Surya Art Gallery Contemporary art works - Goan canvas paintings & artifacts. At Bandawalwada, Pernem +919404149764 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 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 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 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

the townsfolk run when this happens? Rely on public water supply? That too has its share of e.coli and other nasty bacteria. The lead characters of Dr. Thomas Fernandes and his brother Peter who is the town’s Mayor are played by Dean D’Cruz and Salil Chaturvedi, respectively. The doctor’s wife Catherine Fernandes is well acted by Alice D’Cruz. Bina herself is the narrator in the play as well as Ayesha, a journalist at the Streets Daily. This combination could have been avoided, though Bina does justice to the ‘double role’. Monika Kshatriya plays two roles too, that of Priscilla and Savio, the doctor’s children. She modulates her voice well to switch between these two siblings. Kiran Bhandari, a regular at the popular Goan theatre ensemble Mustard Seed Art Company, plays Martin D Souza, the crafty father-in-law of the doctor. I would have liked to see Dean D’Cruz play the Mayor Peter Fernandes. Dean’s stentorian voice lends well to an authoritarian character like Peter’s that seeks to drown out the opposition. Salil Chaturvedi who plays Peter would have been better cast as the heroic Dr Thomas. The town could have been given a

name, perhaps a fictional one, like in Victor Rangel’s novel Tivolem. A name would have defined the character of the town and its people and could have worked as a good handle. There is a mention of the Sonsoddo waste dump at one point, so that town could well be Raia in Salcete. There are many powerful lines in the original play that could have been used well in this adaptation. “You see, the point is that the strongest man in the world is he who stands most alone” is expressed in the closing line of the Goan play as “The Strong must learn to be lonely!” Ironically, both statements ring true. He who fights alone is the strongest. And he who is strong must endure loneliness on the long road to redemption. This adaptation of Ibsen’s classic play is a clarion call for fence sitters in Goa to look long and hard at the problems around and take a stance today. You may be an enemy of the people today, but you will be hailed as a hero by their grandchildren.  ---------------To hear ‘An Enemy of the People’, log on to www.goastreets.com and click on the Arts & Entertainment story.

16 Arts & Entertainment Non-Fiction

Fiction

Biopic of Cancer Toms River

By Dan Fagin Random House Hardcover Rs1305 from Amazon 466 pages

his book feels very close to home. It tells the story of how an idyllic holiday destination was systematically polluted over a long period of time (sound familiar?) and of the devastating effects it had on the local population. It also describes the ultimate comeuppance, albeit after decades, of the polluter through the power of public protest. Along the way, Dan Fagin, an award-winning (this book won the Pulitzer Prize) science journalist and professor at New York University – tells many histories: that of the chemical industry in America, of epidemiology (especially relating to the causes of cancers), and the American environmental movement. Toms River is a picturesque small town on the coast of New Jersey, which derives its name from a river that runs through it. A massive Swiss-owned chemical plant is set up on the outskirts of the town in the 1950’s (interestingly it seems that a very large proportion of the biggest chemical companies in the world are Swiss-owned – as is this one, by CibaGeigy). Unbeknownst to the locals, one of the main reasons the plant has been set up in this relative backwater is to get away from larger conurbations where pollution is more likely to be detected. Both in order to save money and also due to a degree of arrogance, Ciba-Geigy

makes insufficient provision to treat and store the toxic chemical waste generated by its factory. Consequently carcinogenic chemicals within the waste leach into the soil around the plant ultimately finding their way into local aquifers and thence into domestic and public wells. The company also discharges toxic waste into the town’s namesake river and the nearby sea. This poisoning goes on undetected for many years mainly because of two reasons: One, the company is a big employer in the area (more resonances?), so very few people want to rock the boat. Secondly, linking the incidence of cancers to the waste discharged by a particular industry is a more difficult thing than you might think. After all, who is to say that the cancers weren’t due to some other factors altogether? At times this book can feel a bit turgid due to the subject matter. And Fagin does repeat himself a few times. But do plough on and you will be rewarded. It’s a sad but ultimately uplifting tale. The interest is partly sustained through extensive anecdotes about pioneers in medical research who helped establish links between carcinogens and cancers. Frequently moving between these and the stories of the actors who played central roles in the saga at Toms River also helps. In the end the story shows how a few people – in this case just a handful really – who go out of their way to fight for what is right, can make a big difference to thousands of lives. An important book and an

Norwegian Good A Man in Love

By Karl Ove Knausgaard Translated from the Norwegian by Don Bartlett Vintage Books. Paperback Rs 523 from Flipkart 523 pages

he book is billed as ‘fiction,’ but its feel and tone are anything but fictional. The names and incidents reflect the author’s own life. It’s also written in the ‘first person’, and entirely in the style of a memoir. Karl Ove Knausgaard is a phenomenally successful Norwegian author (he is reputed to have sold half a million books in Norway alone, a country of five million people), who has written a series of six autobiographical ‘novels’. A Man in Love is the second of these. The first, A Death in the Family addressed Knausgaard’s childhood and adolescence, a key event in which was the death of his father, a stamp-collecting schoolteacher who was destroyed by alcohol. It also talks about Knausgaard’s first drink and cigarette, early sexual encounters and his raging ambition. A Man in Love tells of the next phase in the author’s life. He is now in his mid-thirties, has left his first wife after 8 years together, has impulsively moved from Norway to Sweden (Stockholm – there are some great descriptions), has married again and had 3 children in quick succession soon after. What’s decidedly strange about this book – especially as it is a riveting read – is that nothing much actually happens. In much of the book Knausgaard simply describes – in what often seems like microscopic detail – mundane incidents from his daily life: a family visit to an amusement park, attending a child’s birthday party, quarreling with a difficult neighbour, and such like. Here’s a line from the birthday party ‘event’: ‘I grabbed the half-full two-litre bottle of Coke Light that stood on the floor beside

the chair and filled one of the glasses on the table. The screw top was off and the Coke was flat, so the taste of the somewhat bitter sweetener, which was generally lost in the effervescence of the carbonic acid, was all too evident.’ And so he goes on. And yet, it is gripping. One of the characters in the book (a friend of the author and a fellow writer) describes it well. He tells Knausgaard that he (Knausgaard) could spend six pages describing a visit to the lavatory, and still hold the attention of his readers (and he can, no pun intended). Seemingly the way he does this is by being brutally honest. No detail of Knausgaard’s life seems to have been left unexamined. If he feels hacked off with pushing a baby buggy through Stockholm when he would rather be writing, he says so. If he finds himself in a rage (and he often seems to do so) at seeing his wife lounging in front of the television when he comes back from ‘buggy duty’, he doesn’t hold back in expressing it. Sometimes the degree of honesty can make one cringe – many of his friends and relatives cannot have been happy with what he has said about them. Still, one can’t help but admire the courage it must take to be quite so candid. What also helps of course is that Knausgaard himself doesn’t come out smelling of roses. Self-centred, prone to anger, shallow and sexist may all be said to apply to him. Perhaps the greatest virtue of this book is that by seeing the writer’s honesty, it helps readers to be honest in examining their own lives. Do read it. 

Friday, June 6, 2014

Arts & Entertainment 17

Once upon a time... the Goan world of Bombay By Fredrick Noronha

nce upon a time, not very long ago, pockets of Bombay like Dhobitalao, Byculla, Mazagon, Grant Road and Colaba, were almost like village outposts of Goa. Food, music, feasts and lively Goan characters added flavour to the city’s life. Telling the story of one branch of the Goan “diaspora” can be a complex affair. Mumbai journalist Reena Martins paints a picture of the Bombay Goans through 31 short stories told in the words of those who lived through those times in the just-out book ‘Bomoicar: Stories of Bombay Goans, 1920-1980’.

Priced at Rs 200, it’s available at Golden Heart (Margao) and Broadway (Panjim). Says Martins, who traces her roots to the Salcete village of Velim: “I clawed for my roots (after shifting to a Bombay of the early 1990s) ... soaking in comforting stories of everyday folk -- Goan immigrants like me who had come in search of work, over half a century ago.” (Interestingly, in the early 1960s, about 100,000 Goans -- nearly onesixth the then population of Goa -- was estimated to have been living in Bombay.) Martins takes us to times when Bombay’s Chief Minister Morarji Desai imposed Prohibition in the city, raw Alphonso mangoes cost barely three annas, and to-become-famous Goan artistes frequented the “Goan Aunty’s” booze joint. Kudds (residential clubs) flourished in middle and lower-income Goan

ghettoes like Dhobitalao, Byculla or Mazgaon. India-versus-Portuguese conflicts also played out in the Goan population there, and through expat newspapers like O Anglo-Lusitano. Goan tiatrists and musicians form a crucial part of this story, seen on the cover itself which features recordbreaking singer Lata Mangueshkar and noted Bollywood musician Anthony Gonsalves of Majorda. Octogenarian writer Victor RangelRibeiro sketches his first impressions in the “City of Light” as a seven-yearold reaching Bombay by ship in the early 1930s. Elsewhere he tells of his love story with his wife of many years,

Lea. Journalist Sheela Jaywant, of another generation, tells the detailed story of summer holidays that the ‘Bomoicar’ undertook each May in Goa. UK-based Reginald Massey -- author of books on travel, Indian classical music and dance -- writes about the matchmaking he almost got snared into, and Bombay-based editor Veena Gomes-Patwardhan profiles life in the kudds. Cynthia Gomes-James meanwhile has another take on the Bombay-to-Goa steamer, a prominent figure in the lives of Bombay Goans. Elsewhere, she has an offbeat narration of the visits that the statue of Our Lady made to Bombay Goan homes in Mazagon.

Cotton Mary is the unlikely name by which a poverty-striken Anglo Indian lady was known, and Roland Francis reworks her story which won many wows when published earlier online. Matchmaking in the big city (Belinda Willard), Chef Masci, arguably the most noted of Goan chefs, the ‘Goan Aunty’, food and money-lending (Belinda Willard) reflect the life and times and feature in this 160-page book. Professors at St Xaviers, an institution that shaped generations of Goans in Bombay, including Prof Melky Alvares, are paid tribute to. Writer-photographer Edgar Silveira, who now divides time between Goa and Canada, has a paean of praise to simple Anton’s bangda-curry-rice. Other pages from the past take us to lives in Bombay and Goa (Otilia Pinto nee Figueiredo), and humour writer George Menezes’ shifting to Bombay. Bandra Fair, the times seen through nonagenarian Irene Heredia’s eyes, Konkani nightingale Lorna, and life in the Forties when a pound of beef cost a quarter-rupee are also featured. Julio and Edgar Ribeiro, the top-cop urban-planner duo, are among those featured. John Menezes ends with a closely-recalled story of the blockade years in the 1950s, when Goans had to reach Bombay via the southern border of Goa. This book adds to the growing -- but still inadequate -- stories of Goan diaspora lives and times. 

FIFA frenzy, around the clock

apiz Bar at Grand Hyatt Goa plays host to the FIFA World Cup from 13 June to 13 July, 2014. Cheer for your favourite team while relishing our new pub menu and unlimited beverage packages. The live games will be screened from 9.00 PM onwards. Never miss a match, catch the highlights everyday at 8.00 AM onwards. The spirit of FIFA gets turned up a notch with our live entertainment; we will be celebrating music from across the world with artists like Nezz and DJ Peppy. Chef’s recommendations from our pub menu are “Crispy Fried Squid”, “Tuscan Bruschetta”, “Australian Hamburger” ,”Spicy Peperoni” pizzas and much more. Make the most of our happy hours 25% discount with a round of pregame drinks between 7.00 PM to 10.00 PM daily. We also have special beverage packages starting from INR 750 onwards as below. Beer Buckets (which consist of 5 beers) @750+Tax onwards Capiz Governor’s package Two Hours @1500+Tax Beverage Package 4 premium Selections (Sparkling Wine, white wine, red wine, standard spirits, beers and other soft beverages) Capiz Grand Package Two Hours @1200+Tax Beverage package 5 IMFL and domestic selections (Sparkling wine, white wine, red wine, standard spirits, Beers and other soft beverages) Capiz Grand Cocktail Packages @1000+Tax: Premium cocktails For reservations, call +91 832 301 1234 or email at grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com.

International Street Fest at Goa Marriott!

oa Marriott Resort & Spa brings to you the myriad flavours of the world, with the International Street Food Festivalat Waterfront Terrace & Bar from 7th to 22nd June 2014! Nothing thrills the soul like the exquisitely authentic mouth-watering street fare dished out along the roads, beckoning one to halt and indulge in a carefree snack or two! Relish the tantalizing treats of the world’s streets at this very unique dinner buffet extravaganza. Acknowledging the universal appeal for street food, our expert Chefs are set to lay out an abundant spread of the most popular and mouth-watering fare sold off the roads that instantly delight both, the palate and the

heart. Savour the ubiquitous Chaats and VadaPav from the streets of Delhi and Mumbai, or the Kathi Rolls and KuttuParathas from the streets of Kolkata and Chennai. Go global with the yummiest of Crepes from France, Okonomiyaki from Japan, Tacos from Mexico, and Satay from Indonesia. Gorge on American Burgers loaded with your favourite meats, Italian Pizzas laden with the choicest of toppings, piping hot Kebabs and Wraps from the Middle East, and the humbly delectable Japanese Egg Rolls, to name a few. There’s plentymore to dig into at our scrumptious street fest! Street your heart out this June only at the Goa Marriott Resort & Spa! For reservations, please call 0832 – 2463333.

ABOUT Goa Marriott Resort & Spa With a stunning sea-view and glorious sunsets, the Goa Marriott Resort & Spa is the ideal destination for a stay in the land of sun & sand. Located at the edge of the Miramar Beach, it is perfect for a truly relaxing vacation. This charming luxury resort is one of the finest five star hotels in Goa for business and for leisure. Besides an exciting mix of fine dining, leisure activities and comprehensive business facilities, the Goa Marriott Resort & Spa also provides easy access to bustling Panaji, the capital city of Goa, rich in its history and cultural heritage.