April 24

Friday, April 24, 2015 | Vol. No. 3 | Issue 24 | Price Rs. 10 | www.goastreets.com | G-2/RNP/Weekly/Goa-05/2013-15

Alternative Festivals in Goa | Fatherhood | History of Margao

Can the

y swee

p Goa, t

oo?

3

Friday, April 24, 2015

The Chameleon

By Kanchi Mehta

Call them conventions of the unconventional, powwows of the weird, concourses of the quaint. In the last few years, Goa has become known for hosting festivals focusing on offbeat themes. What makes Goa a favorable environment for these alternative gatherings, and how would they survive in larger cities like Mumbai or Delhi? What is the significance of these festivals and how are they shaping contemporary culture? In spite of minimal money and publicity, these festivals are thriving with the help of highly motivated volunteer staff, crowd funding, and hefty doses of passion and vision.

The Festivals World Mouth Harp Festival – The Mouth Harp is a small three-pronged instrument, which looks somewhat like a tuning fork. The vision of the World Mouth Harp Festival of India is to establish popular recognition for the mouth harp as a contemporary and versatile musical instrument within any musical genre. It is one of the most ancient instruments, and is found in all cultures globally. The festival is a platform for mouth harpists to collaborate with other musicians from India and around the world and to perform and showcase both traditional and contemporary styles of mouth harp playing. See http://mouthharpfestindia. worldharps.com.

Story of Light Festival – Explores the intersection of science, philosophy and culture through art and design.

It brings together a unique blend of artists, scientists, philosophers and educators from across the world to the city of Panjim to create interactive installations, conduct workshops and

street performances. During the course of the festival, the city of Panjim is buzzing with excitement. It was an exhilarating experience for the locals as well as for the participants. See http://thestoryoflight. org.

Vasundhara Festival – is an environmental arts festival, where environmental education and awareness

collaborate with music, film, performance, visual and healing arts to honor our earth, or Vasundhara. Specifically focused on Goa’s ecological sustainability, the festival intends to ignite our global community, and to take real action to protect and nurture the environment. During the festival there was a line-up of sustainability workshops, organic food markets, dance and meditation workshops, plus lectures on conservation and music. See http:// vasundharafestival.org.

Sufi Sutra Festival – Organized by Bangla Natak from Kolkata, the Sufi Sutra Festival is a traveling festival with authentic Sufi performers from seventeen countries from across the world, including Egypt, Morocco, Brazil, Spain, Tunisia, Rajasthan, and other places.

A magical festival spanning three days, it offered valuable workshops by some of the highest-level musicians. See http:// www.banglanatak. com/sufisutragoa15. aspx.

April 24 Beach Party Featuring Raimund Imo, Leon, Nigle, Funk sun, Mr.V At Cafe Lilliput, Anjuna Beach 6 pm onwards +91 9158432629

April 25 Open Decks @ Laguna Shake a leg, spin the decks, have a swim. We love it all . Featuring Axaoles Solar, Djo, Jiva Happy Hours 8 to 9 Buy one get one free! At Laguna, Anjuna 7 pm onwards +91 8554819309 Sat Elite @ Water’s Brand new night at Waters Saturday Sundowner with live acts, International Dj sets, and to top it all a beautiful sunset. At Water's Beach lounge & Grill, Little Vagator 5 pm onwards’ +91 9702025555

April 26 Black Party Dress Code: Strictly Black Featuring Vinayak'A and Tejas Belkond At Marbela Beach, Morjim 6 pm onwards +91 9158881180/82

April 30 The 4th Annual Rosary Ball Featuring Archies Band and Cascades Live At The Community hall, Taleigao 8 pm +91 9823504484/ +91 9421240999

May 1, 2, 3 The Final Wave In divide Featuring Tenisha, Anish Sood, Roy, ayusha and many more Dj’s.

5 pm onwards At SinQ, Candolim +91 832 247 9333

Every Monday LIVE MUSIC How about live music and seafood?

Catch Wahida Carmen Gomes live on vocals.

The Fisherman’s Wharf, Cavelossim 7. 30 pm onwards +91 832 2871317 Extraordinary Nights Make your Tuesdays extraordinary with Emmanuel Antao.

Gawin’s Restaurant, Varca 9:00 pm onwards +91 9822177179

Karaoke Mondays Jive to your own tunes at Karaoke night with Sabby.

The Backyard, Sangolda 8 pm onwards +91 9158372533 thebackyard13@gmail.com Every Tuesday Acoustic Sunlight With Anselm Francis (Flute & Vocals) and Rodden ‘Ollie” Dsouza (Acoustic Guitar & Vocals) At Tamarin, Near Calangute Mall, Calangute 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm +91 9545477670

Cantare There’s live music on Thursday.

The place fills up with locals (not many tourists), and its nonbeach location nestled amid the Portuguese-inspired architecture of Saligao adds to the great vibe.

Cantare, Saligao. 8:00 pm onwards +91 832 2409461

Every Wednesday Deafbeat The Headphone Party At Cleopatra Resort, Palolem Beach 9 pm onwards +91 832 324 5473 Wednesday Night Jazz Featuring Marina Xaviour, Bob Tinker, Lenny Heredia, Colin D'cruz, Lester Happy Hours 6 -9 pm At The Park, Calangute @ 8 pm +91 832 2267600 resv.goa@theparkhotels.com www.theparkhotels.com Every Thursday Flower Power Night!

Featuring Alcatrazz Free flow of alcohol for all the ladies At Cheenos, Baga river bridge 9 pm onwards +91 8806564991 Funk’d up @ Eviva Get your feet stomping to some funk, soul, hip hop and R&B. while feasting on some treats from the Moroccan grill.

At Eviva Club, Calangute 8 pm onwards +91 832 226 7900 Enjoy Happy Hours and Live Musical Performances Buy 1 + Get 1 one Drink. (Indian brands) At Clematis Boutique Hotel, Candolim +91 8381043266 reservations@theclematis.com theclematis.com Thursday's are to Tango Turn up the temperature with some sensual dancing while chefs whip up something really special to help you usher in the weekend.

Features a live band every Thursday At Soul Souffle, Verna +91 7720002282

Thursday Sizzling Karaoke Nite Discover the hidden “Indian Idol” in you with Saby Fernandez.

Kudos, Chogm Road, Porvorim 7:30 pm onwards +91 832 6510565 Silent Disco With DJ Mr. R & Flakey Spinning hottest EDM tracks Ain’t nothing ‘silent’ about this disco (unless you’re wearing headphones, that is).

Alpha Bar, Palolem 9:00 pm onwards. +91 9890281505

Every Friday Live Music Music Guru presenting new artists from around the world jamming to blues, jazz and even rock n roll.

Guru Club, St Anthony prise north Anjuna 9:00 pm to midnight +91 9823383257 | 9960956691 gurubargoa@gmail.com Freaky Friday Don’t freak out. It’s just another party place.

The Peters Pub, Utorda Beach Road Gates open at 7:00 pm +91 9922909432

Every Saturday Saturday Night – Music on Fire Have drinks and snacks with your friends and family around the fire with live music, before you head out to the Goan Night Market.

At Capiz Bar, Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim 9 pm till midnight +91 832 301 1234 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com

SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE @ Sol de Goa The all new Saturday Night Live @ Sol de Goa with The Anchors to give weekend partying an all new night-out address.

At Sol De Goa, Nerul 9.00pm onwards +91 9552134385

Friday and Saturday

Weekend Sundowners Embrace the sundowners in style with International DJ's/ Percussionists At La Brise Beach Restaurant, Candolim 5 pm to 10 pm +91 8411882760 h8861-re@accor.com www.mercure.com

On-going Live Music @ Guru Bar North Anjuna Every Monday: Live Classic Rock band called Electric Pulse Every Wednesday: Unique one man band with happy hours: buy 2 cocktails & get 1 free Every Friday: live experimental jazz blues funk music Sound OF Goa Collective Every Sunday: Music Guru live presenting new Artists from around the world At Guru Bar, North Anjuna 7:30 pm +91 9823383257 | 9960956691 | 08322273319 www.gurubargoa.com Cavala Every Wednesday: Cavala Acoustic Latin Retro Every Friday: Tidal Wave’s live act Every Saturday: Piano played by Bosco. Cavala, Calangute - Baga Road, Baga 8:30 pm onwards. +91 832 2276090 sales@cavala.com www.cavala.com

The Park, Calangute Every Monday: Retro Night By Jus Leo Every Thursday: Retro Night Every Friday: Karaoke Night with KDJ Tony Every Saturday: Ladies Night with DJ Sunil and Tania The Park, Calangute 8 pm onwards +91 8805028194, +91 832 2267600 resv.goa@theparkhotels.com www.theparkhotels.com

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

D.Bandodkar Road, Panjim +91 9820 616515 or email: groups@deltin.com (If you’re based in Mumbai) +91 7875 024455 or email: groupbookings@deltin.com (If you’re based in Goa) Crown Casino The only vegetarian casino in Goa is where fun, relaxation and good times abound.

Bairo Alto Dos Pilotos, Jose Falcao Road, Behind Old Secretariat, Panjim For Group Booking Contact: Nimish Desai: +91 9158883464/ +91 832 6635878 nimish@crowncasino.in Casino Carnival Casino Carnival Goa, offers premium entertainment in Goa, anchored in the Mandovi River overlooking the charming city of Panjim. Offers High Quality Entertainment and Live Gaming experience in Goa comparable with the best practices of international casinos.

At Goa Marriott resort & Spa, Panjim +91 8888885314

Music & Nightlife 5

Friday, April 24, 2015

Goa Photo – An international photography festival held across the streets of Panjim, this was the first time Goa was privy to exceptional contemporary photography, displayed on the steps of the church or large prints hanging off a heritage building, or along the waterfront. Goa Photo aims to synergize with the urban landscape and architectural heritage of Panjim and Reis Magos fort. The two-week festival featured workshops, collateral exhibitions, lectures and discussions related to photography. See http:// www.goaphoto.in.

In India, Goa has created a reputation for being a place where people can set aside their manic schedules imposed by city life. It is a coastal haven, where

one can find all kinds of arts, crafts, dance, music, food and celebration, these alternative festivals provide a quieter and deeper understanding of the vastness of a single subject. I eagerly wait for the upcoming editions of these festivals and encourage more and more people to experience them. 

one has the mind space to connect with their inner qualities. Over the years, many people from around the world and India have settled down in Goa, purposefully choosing a simpler and quieter life. There is a growing community of like-minded people in Goa who are adapting to conscious living with a healthy balance of rural and urban. This is why Goa has become a healthy environment for alternative festivals such as these.

Cultural festivals redefine the notion of a ‘vacation’, and a three- or four-day festival enables people from other cities to travel to Goa, support the festival and have a holiday with a learning experience. These festivals have a warm and communal vibe, because the themes are specialized to a specific genre, and they bring together like-minded people to contribute, participate, volunteer and enjoy. This collective effervescence is highly therapeutic and allows for people to feel free and rekindles the spirit of oneness.

I believe festivals such as these would be unable to retain this authenticity in a major city such as Mumbai or Delhi. The root

characteristics of the city itself would add elements of chaos and routine, not to mention the hectic mind-set of the participants. Even if the festival’s goal were pure, the outcome would not be the same as it is in Goa. Most of these festivals are still very new, with only one or two editions organized. It usually takes up to three relentless festivals for any venture to become a steady program, with a proper system and monetary plan.

However, after the seeds are sown, it’s only a matter of time when they sprout into flowering plants. That these festivals were able to find enough sponsorships and funding to get off the ground, usually against all odds, testifies to an amazing shift in our contemporary culture led by a new generation. The fact that they seek subjects such as conservation, permaculture, ecology, light and Sufism, involving the street culture and locals of the region, opens up a promising future, making way for more alternative festivals and higher learning experiences.

In relation to generalized cultural festivals such as the Go Carnival or the Kala Ghoda Art Festival, where

Ground Floor, Minaxi Building, Dr. Atmaram Borkar Road, Panaji.

Ph : 0832-6514454 E-mail: sinaridevelopers@gmail.com Web : sinaridevelopers.com

Form inquiries pleas call 9890928201/ 9766452605/9373349418

Wedding Hall in South Goa!

Cancio Mascarenhas +91 9823480057 Pateapur, Nuvem, Salcete, Goa Email: maccancio@gmail.com

3 music & nightlife 10 cover story

alternative festivals

7 feature why dads matter

14 what's On things to do in goa

aap in goa

13 fature park hyatt's cashew trail 2015

15 feature gay, indian and proud

Who's in Charge?

Publisher Marisha Dutt Chief Mentor Steven Gutkin

& 16 arts entertainment

book review

Content & Marketing Co-ordinator Shubham Gupta Correspondents/Writers: Ethel Da Costa, Sheela Jaywant,

Charlane Pereira e Rebello, Bina Datwani, Karan Bhagat, Perin Ilavia, Dielle D’Souza, Anzil Fernandes, Crespo D’Souza, Sanket Sharma, Richa Narvekar.

Consulting Editor Aparna Raut Desai Marketing Co-ordinator Radhika Naik Marketing & Event Co-ordinator Rahul Rivonkar Marketing Executive Alvira Rodrigues Circulation & Accounts Co-ordinator Nilesh Shetgaonkar Circulation Vijay Gadekar, Sarfaraz Beig

18 the corner happy birthday myra wines

Feature 7

Friday, April 24, 2015

By Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello

Being a dad is not all about playing ball and being tough. A dad’s role is equally important to a mom’s role, though not widely recognized in developing societies, says psychologist Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello. Here’s an insight into the benefits of Dad’s involvement in a child’s life.

B

eing a caring dad may not come naturally to many fathers. How many of us are dumbstruck when we see the heart-warming sight of a dad cooing and patting his baby’s back? As I was listening to the Sunday service at our local parish, a baby clung tightly to her father while the mother took a break from her babysitting duties.

Why should we be surprised when a father takes an equal share of the responsibility in parenting? If you’re a parent, no matter your gender, showing that you care and loving your kids is absolutely essential for the all-round development of the child.

“A dad is special in a child’s life,” says Rochelle Pereira, a Margao-based psychologist. “Recently, I saw a dad teach his son as well as daughter to swim. It was heartwarming to see the little girl cling to her dad in the ocean waves.

Though the Goan scenario is changing about father’s involvement, it has still a long way to go.”

In Goa and many other places in the world, fathers often don’t envision a nurturing role for themselves in the lives of their children. Holding a baby, changing diapers, soothing hurts and offering loving embraces is still too often seen as the exclusive domain of women.

But things are changing fast.

A middle-aged dad in Goa recently brought in his 15-year-old son for career counseling. Despite being in the shipping line, the father exhibited high levels of interest in his son’s academics, future career and opportunities of studying abroad.

Young Goan dads are increasingly

shedding the “unfatherly” habits of their own fathers and grandfathers and assuming a front-andcentre role in the lives of their offspring.

A dad should never step back in parenting! Ask your child about his/ her activities, show interest in his/her well-being, reassure them when needed and step back when they need to learn valuable life skills.

Healthy fathering includes fostering a positive relationship with the children’s mother (assuming she’s in the picture), spending time with children, nurturing children, disciplining children appropriately, serving as a guide to the outside world, protecting and providing, and serving as a positive role model.

All dads may not excel well in all of these parameters, but those who do well in most of them serve their children and families extremely well.

Clifford DeSilva, founder of Goa Institute of Counselling, says, “In a male chauvinist India, dads need to be educated about childrearing. Attitudes such as men are breadwinners and childrearing is a woman’s job prevail widely.”

Not all fathers are the same. Whether you help your child with her/his lessons or give her/him company while watching a good game of soccer, or organize funfilled family picnics, fathering can take many different positive forms.

Shared activities such a sweaty game of badminton with your son/daughter or cleaning the backyard together or simply doing the dishes with them,

teach valuable life skills to children. It also imparts responsibility, which is associated with greater self-esteem, and academic and occupational achievement.

Young 12-year-old Michael says, “I enjoy playing chess with my dad. Though he wins all the games, I have managed to learn the rules of the games with his help.”

Similarly, 20-year-old Clayton, the only child of his middle-aged parents adds, “I bond well with my dad who can talk on various topics from birds to books and soccer to sausages. My mom is more jovial and my dad is the serious guy in the family.”

Psychologist Eirine Flouri’s words ring true, “An involved father figure reads to his child, takes outings with his child, is interested in his child’s education, and takes a role equal to the mother’s in managing his child.”

Fathers have positive impact on their child’s well-being. Children of involved fathers have higher IQ’s (Gottfried et al., 1988) and have positive attitudes toward school (Flouri, 2005). Research has also shown that these children are more likely to have better educational outcomes, career success, occupational competency, and psychological well being.

Paternal involvement is positively correlated with children’s overall lifesatisfaction and reduced depression (Dubowitz et al., 2001), less fear and guilt (Easterbrooks & Goldberg, 1990), fewer conduct problems (Formoso et al., 2007), less anxiety (Jorm et al, 2003) and higher levels of self-reported happiness (Flouri, 2005).

It’s not just sons who benefit, but daughters too. Though sons might look up to their father as a role model in their lives and roughhousing partner, daughters of caring fathers achieve academic and career excellence.

Also, daughters who have a secure, supportive relationship with their fathers are less likely to get pregnant in their teens and are more likely to enjoy emotionally intimate and fulfilling relationships with their spouses.

Clifford says the government has an important role to play in spreading awareness about the importance of being a good father. And he said the Women and Child Development Department should “spare a few” schemes for dads as well.

In the end, this is about love. No gender has a monopoly on it. 

Friday, April 24, 2015

A

Perin Ilavia

300-year-old Portuguese house in the Latin quarter of Panjim, overlooking the Ourem creek, is the site of a Goan culinary institution. It’s the stuff of dreams, and Horse Shoe is Vasco Silveira’s dream-come-true. For Vasco, whose life journey is as interesting as his restaurant, there could not have been a better location.

Horse Shoe completes a mind-boggling 35 years this year, a commendable feat anywhere, but especially remarkable in Panjim, where restaurants sometimes open and shut before the public even hears of them.

So for 35 years, Vasco has been serving gourmet cuisine to Goans and visitors from the rest of India and beyond. It’s one of the few places in Goa where you can find truly divine Portuguese-inspired cuisine.

Vasco was born in Angola, Portuguese Africa. He left Angola due to the civil war in 1976, when he was 23-years-old, and went to Portugal to join family living there. His parents wanted to relocate to Goa, and Vasco, who trotted along on a holiday, ended up staying.

“I got interested in cooking when I was young, watching my mother cook different dishes from the local cuisine in Angola. I always wanted to be a restaurateur. I don’t have formal education or training and learnt everything I know on my own by experimenting with various ingredients and methods, which makes a statement.” says Vasco.

Thirty-five years ago, he started with a few tables, catering to the local crowd.

Back then, there were no pubs or nightclubs where people could chill out, and it didn’t take long for the Horse Shoe to become the local after-work watering hole, plus a place to grab a bite. The other restaurants operating in Panjim

Chef Vasco Silveira shares THE SECRET OF HIS SUCCESS with Goa Streets at that time were Olympic, Aliados, Capuchino and Marietta.

Initially, Vasco served only authentic Goan food, with fish curry rice being the star offering. Along the way, he introduced the Portuguese cuisine, and over the years, the restaurant has become famous by word-ofmouth. Vasco recalls that his restaurant was only the second one to open on Rua de Ourem street.

It was mainly a residential area with beautiful, old Portuguese houses along the stream and meandering streets.

He named it Horse Shoe, after one of his favorite restaurants which he visited regularly in Malange, the city where he lived in Angola.

Among the signature dishes at Horse Shoe are the Pao Com Chorico, local bread with Goan sausage; Caldo Verde, a characteristic Portuguese soup with kale leaves and potato puree; Feijoada (a Goan version of it), pork and butter beans in Goan masala; Bacalhau, cod fish cooked in Vasco’s inimitable style, and the irresistible Bolo Sans Rival, a delicious moist cashewnut cake.

Taking a peek into a day in Vasco’s world, we found that his day begins at 7.30 AM, when he goes to the market to get supplies. The condiments (masalas) are ground fresh every day, and he personally cooks most of the food listed on the menu.

Lunch opens at noon, his day ends after dinner. The focus is on freshness, and presentation.

There were few challenges then, reminisces Vasco. Now, with many cuisines being introduced to Goa, there is more competition. Three decades ago, it was easy to find labor, but today, his main challenge is to find skilled and honest workers.

The uncluttered interior of the 100 sq mtr restaurant was designed by his brother-in law Abel, and his wife Evelise, with inputs from Vasco himself.

“Through the years, many dignitaries and celebrities have visited my restaurant. One recent visit was by Mrs Sonia Gandhi, who complimented me on the food served to her”, says Vasco with a twinkle in his eye.

“Thirty five years is a lifetime!” he says.

What’s the secret of his success?

Hard work, perseverance, honesty and…divine intervention! Also, help and support from his mother-in-law, wife and daughter Myra.

“Most of my regular customers don’t even open the menu,” says Vasco.

“They ask me to make their preferred dishes and I’m happy to oblige, which I guess also enhances the popularity [of the restaurant].”

Over the years, Horse Shoe has become an institution for its GoanPortuguese cuisine, and achieved national recognition when it bagged the ‘Times Now Award, for Best Western Cuisine- Western India,’ in 2013.

• Food: Sublime • Service: Highly personalized, completely warm • Atmosphere: Understated, elegant • Something Special: The Goan Feijoada Horse Shoe- Rua de Ourem, Fonthainas, Panjim.

For reservations call – 0832- 22431788/9823240379

Friday, April 24, 2015

Everyday The Buffet at Vivanta Panaji are here again.

A wide range of dishes from around the world with an exotic menu and with live gourmet counters. Open for dinner.

At Vivanta by Taj, Panjim 7 pm to 11 pm +91 832 6633636

Every Thursday Thursday - Seafood Night Market For a ‘Grand Goan Night Market’ ambience with artifacts, jewellery and handicraft stalls.

Select from a variety of seafood delicacies and enjoy the unlimited fresh catch of the day, combined with live entertainment.

At The Dining Room, Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim 7 pm to 11:30 pm +91 832 3011510 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com

Brunches Every Sunday Sol de Goa Relax over the weekend with lazy Sundays by the poolside. Sol de Goa presents Mexicana-Spanish Brunch with Sangrias, unlimited food and LIVE acoustic entertainment.

At Sol De Goa, Nerul 11.30 Onwards +91 9552134385 Sunday Brunch It’s a different brunch every Sunday! If it’s an Italian theme one Sunday replete with homemade pasta and hand tossed pizzas, then it is comfort Indian the next with kebabs, charcoal grills, Tandoori, appams and stews. Yet another Sunday it is Mediterranean mezze, then expect international street food like burgers and Bangkok grills the next! With a free flow of premium Indian wines, French champagne, Australian wines, imported spirits and beers, for all you can nibble and guzzle!

At Waterfront Terrace & Bar, Goa Marriott Resort & Spa. 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm +91-832-246-3333 tacita.cascar@marriotthotels.com www.marriott.com Sunday Brunch Highlights: Free Use of Swimming Pool, Rain Dance with DJ, Lavish Buffet with live counters, Unlimited house brands alcohol & Cocktails & Games & Activities Cost: Rs. 1500/- inclusive of all Taxes (with alcohol); Rs. 1100/- inclusive of all Taxes (without alcohol) At Resort Rio, Tambudki, Arpora 12 noon to 3 pm +91 8322267300 / +91 8322267302 Champagne Brunch Begin your brunch with lobster and Champagne, and then proceed towards five interactive kitchens – the salad counter, Indian, Italian, Grills and end at the dessert station. Pool is accessible to brunch guests, while your little ones enjoy various activities at Camp Hyatt.

At The Dining Room, Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim 1 pm to 4 Pm +91 832 3011510 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com Bikini Brunch Sunday BBQ Brunch @ Rs. 950 ++ with unlimited drinks Enjoy Live Karaoke with Emmanuel At The Park, Calangute 12.30 pm to 4.30 pm. +91 8805028194 resv.goa@theparkhotels.com www.theparkhotels.com

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

That’s not to mention the desserts, another top draw here. Noon to 4 pm At Cantina Bodega, Sunaparanta, Panjim. +91 832 2421315 info@sgcfa.org www.sgcfa.org Sunday Brunches@ 899/head Burger Pizzas Beer Salads Cocktails Desserts House – Spirits Beverages At Cheenos, Baga 12 pm to 4 pm. +91 8806564991

South Goa Restaurants

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

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

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

At Opp. New Collectorate, Margao 12 pm to 3 pm and 6.30 pm to 11 pm +91 832 2758590 Cavatina Thai, American, Chinese, Italian, Goan A restaurant in Goa brings to the state a whole bunch of international flavours simulated for the local palate.

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

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

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

At Holiday Inn Resort, Cavelossim All-day. +91 832 2871303 www.holidayinn.com Café Rumba Serves Indian, Nepalese, Continental, and Italian food.

At Palolem Main Street, Palolem +91 9823911890 Cozy Nook Bar & Restaurant Serves Indian, Continental, and Goan food.

At Palolem Beach, Canacona +91 832 2643550 Peters Pub and Restaurant This is the place where you can spend your nights with live music and delicious food close to one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa. At Uthorda, Beach Road +91 9922909432/ +91 9049066470

Spice Studio Contemporary Indian and Coastal Cuisine Enjoy Dine in the Dark special theme nights.

At Alila Diwa Goa, Majorda +91 832 2746800 Ourem 88 French, Italian The charming and intimate courtyard seating area adds to the experience of sampling the seasonally inspired bistro menu.

Behind Rococo Pelton, Palolem +91 86 98 827679 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

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 info@hotelcalangutetowers.com www.hotelcalangutetowers.com 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 info@hotelriversidegoa.com www.hotelriversidegoa.com

Canacona Coffee shop.

There’s Indian, Goan, European and some Chinese on offer with a contemporary, fusion touch to the items. Buffet Breakfast At Intercontinental The LaLiT Goa Resort, Rajbaga, Canacona +91 832 2667777

Maracas Restaurant Drinks and Tapas Maracas is a relaxed, trendy little spot that is a lounge, a bar, but most importantly, a restaurant with good cocktails and a really interesting menu.

Opp. O'Coquero Restaurant +91 8805586728

Mamma Mia Ristorante Italiano & Pizzeria Italian. Some of the best Italian food in the state. Tastes the way someone’s grandma in Sicily might book it. Definitely worth checking out. Also try the wood-fired pizzas.

At Resort Rio, Tambudki, Arpora +91 832 2267300 fom@resortrio.com | www.resortrio.com

Fisherman’s Wharf Authentic Goan It’s a fantastic restaurant to celebrate a special occasion.

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

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 gurubargoa@gmail.com

North Goa Restaurants

Ciao Bella Restaurant Authentic Italian food The décor is charming and romantic, and the ambiance, relaxed and inviting.

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

Tropical 24x7 Restaurant, Bar and Pub Blistering Venue, Scrumptious Cuisine, Lip Smacking Drinks, Invincible Performers and more…

At Main Road, Calangute +91 9820115921 Not Just Grillz A Multi – Cuisine Food Court Specialty in North India (Punjabi Food) Daily Tiffin Service Also Available Undertake Outdoor Catering, Orders for Parties, Birthday, Meeting& All Occasion At Baga Arpora Road, Opp Baga River, Near Mackie’s Saturday Night Market, Baga 10.00 am to 4 am +91 8975515755/ +917720006193/ +91 7720006194/ +91 832 6515252 Mustard A Flavour to Savour Serving Bengali and European food, using mustard as a key ingredient.

The only Bengali restaurant in Goa! At House No 78, Mae de dues vaddo, Chogm Road, Sangolda +91 9823436120 Facebook: /mustardgoa Go With the Flow Brazillian, Mediterranean, Fusion In an enchanting location on the Baga river bank, offering stunning views of the river, and sea beyond. Oh did we mention? The food’s really good, too. Chef Guto from Brazil really knows what he’s doing. We mean it.

At Calangute, Baga +91 7507771556 contact@gowiththeflowgoa.com www.gowiththeflowgoa.com Caravela Goan, Indian, Chinese and Continental The lawn of the Goan Heritage offers a wide variety of well-prepared food and cocktails.

At Hotel Goan Heritage, Calangute Noon to 2.30 pm & 7 pm to 11.30 pm +91 832 2276761/64 sales@goanheritage.com www.goanheritage.com

A Varanda Chinese, European, Goan, Italian, North Indian, Thai.

Check out the seafood platter, fish curry rice, chicken cafreal and beaf Xacutti.

7 am to 11 pm At Resort Marinha Dourada, Arpora +91 832 2276780/ 84 resv@resortmarinhadourada.com www.resortmarinhadourada.com Alcove Restaurant & Bar Chinese, Goan, Italian, North Indian & Seafood. Dine on chilled avocado and prawn salad, or get stuffed with the prawn stuffed calamari. At Ozrant Beach, Anjuna 8 am onwards +918322274491/2273349 Avalon Sunset Bar & Restaurant Goan, Indian, Chinese, Seafood & European Some popular orders like paneer pasanda, fish masala, chicken vindaloo, seafood pasta, seafood sizzlers. At Anjuna Beach, Anjuna 8.30 am to midnight. +91 9822586268 The Clematis Aqua Maritime Mouth watering Seafood Specialty with Mock tails and Cocktails by The Pool Side.

Hookah Lounge: Enjoy the flavors of Hookah with Wine, Beer and Tandoori Snacks At The Clematis Boutique Hotel, Candolim 12 pm to 6 pm. +91 9582409058 reservations@theclematis.com theclematis.com Acacia Luxury Hotel Izgara Restaurant Mediterranean An open air roof top restaurant serves mouth-watering charcoal grilled food with a breathtaking view At H.No 586/a, Sequeira Vaddo, Candolim +91 832 6714777/ +91 832 2489361 reservations@acaciagoa.com www.acaciagoa.com

Koi True Asian , very tasty At Taj Road, Gaurawaddo, Calangute 12 pm to 1 am. +91 98733 42567 koigoa.com Caravela Chinese, European, Goan, Italian, North Indian, Thai A long-time favorite haunt among Goans and visitors alike. Another draw is the party scene on Friday nights, with lots of ladies letting their hair down.

At Vivanta Holiday, Sinquerim 7.30 am to 10.30 pm +91 832 6645858 vivanta.holidayvillage@tajhotels.com www.vivantabytaj.com 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 Addah Indian & Barbeque. Enjoy the sea view deck on the beach and the soft music of a live two-piece band, with appealing cuisine.

At The O Hotel, Candolim 7 pm to 10.30 pm +91 832 3047000/ 9/ +91 9890800073 www.ohotelsindia.com Banyan Tree Thai. An open air restaurant surrounded by lush green lawns At Vivanta Holiday Village, Sinquerim 12.30 pm to 2.30 pm & 7.30 pm 10.30 pm +918326645858 vivanta.holidayvillage@tajhotels.com www.vivantabytaj.com Barbeque and Grill North Indian, seafood, grills Live entertainment Seafood Bazaar is on Monday and Wednesday At Fortune Select Regina, Candolim 7.30 pm to 11 pm. +918323988444 nelisha.rebello@hotelfortunegoa.com www.hotelfortunegoa.com Not Just Grillz A Multi – Cuisine Food Court Specialty in North India (Punjabi Food) Daily Tiffin Service Also Available Undertake Outdoor Catering, Orders for Parties, Birthday, Meeting& All Occasion At near Neo Majestic, Alto Betim, Porvorim 9.30 am to 11 pm +91 8975515755/ +917720006193/ +91 7720006194/ +91 832 6515252 The Dining Room, Grand Hyatt Goa With Its Five Interactive Kitchens – The Salad Counter, Indian Cuisine, Pizza, Barbeque And The Dessert Section, The Dining Room Offers Buffet And A La Carte Options.

Breakfast: 7:00 Am – 11:00 Am Lunch: 1:00 Pm – 4:00 Pm Dinner: 7:00 Pm – 11:30 Pm At Grand Hyatt, Bambolim +91 832 3011510 Grandhyattgoa@Hyatt.Com Goa.Grand.Hyatt.Com Route 66 Smoke House n Grill From the owners of Tin Tin in Vagator, this joint offers up extremely well prepared American fare like burgers, pizza, steak and ribs. At Fontainhas, opp. Patto Bridge, Panjim From 12 pm to 11.30 pm +91 9623922796/ +91 8805389714 savio58@yahoo.co.in Pool Bar & Grill, Grand Hyatt Goa Nestled Right Between The Outdoor Swimming Pool And Bambolim Bay, Pool Bar & Grill Serves Excellent Cocktails, Mock Tails And Comfort Food. Watch It Turn Into An Australian Bush Barbeque From 7:00 Pm Onwards, Serving Great Meat In An Outdoor Ambience.

8:00 Am – 7:00 Pm (Food Service from 10:00 Am Onwards) Sundowners from 5:00 Pm to 7:00 Pm Australia Bush Barbeque: 7:00 Pm – 11:30 Pm At Grand Hyatt, Bambolim +91 832 3011510 Grandhyattgoa@Hyatt.Com |

10 Cover Story

By Aparna Raut Desai

F

or the casual observer, looking at it from the outside, compared with the giant strides the Aam Aadmi Party has made in New Delhi, AAP Goa might seem dead as a dodo.

This is a party that lost both Goa seats at the parliamentary elections two years ago, and more recently, didn’t bother fielding a candidate at all, at the Panjim by-elections, for the MLA seat left vacant

by Manohar Parrikar when he left to become the nation’s Defence Minister.

If in New Delhi AAP has proven itself as the one party capable of stopping the BJP steamroller, in Goa it’s hard to find anything of substance accomplished

by AAP besides posting on Facebook, sending out myriad press releases, some cursory photo-op cleaning of the space outside their Panjim office (with brooms), and a motorcycling rally with volunteers holding — what else, brooms.

Still, Parrikar’s departure and his replacement by the lackluster Laxmikant Parsekar has stirred a yearning in Goa for alternatives to the same old

political faces. Cracks in the BJP armor in Goa widen with each economic setback, each uncollected pile of garbage on the roadside, each month that passes without a dent in ubiquitous corruption.

It’s been nearly three years since the graft-ridden Congress Party held power in Goa, three years the BJP has had to prove its mettle, with decidedly mixed results. Growing pockets of discontent provide fertile ground for AAP, whose leadership insists the party is still very much alive.

I asked AAP Goa Secretary Valmiki Naik just how alive he’d say his party was on a scale of one to ten, and Naik picks

eight. Incredulous, I ask him to justify this figure, and Naik explains that there’s a lot more happening behind the scenes than the public knows about.

Over the last two months, says Naik, AAP Goa has had its nose to the grinding stone, with several meetings held to devise a way forward. More tangibly, they’ve launched a door-todoor campaign with a view to the 2017 elections, already covering as many doors as they can with their current membership of 100 people.

“We’ve also launched a project called Fyr Brigade (Fight for Your Rights), where volunteers are visiting the homes of the common man, introducing themselves and the party, and providing people with lists of the services and rights they are entitled to from the government, and phone numbers for various governmental agencies where they can seek help for the various problems they face,” says Naik.

As a follow up, after a month or so, AAP Goa will be sending those volunteers back to see how useful this exercise has been and how governmental agencies have responded to ordinary citizens.

“It’s true that we don’t have

TURN TO PAGE 12

12 Cover Story FROM PAGE 10

any seats in the assembly, and that putting pressure on the government will be a large part of what we will be undertaking,” admits Naik. “But we are also going to be doing a lot of work on the ground.”

Spurring the incumbent government to action will be one of AAP’s roles, he says. He cites the recent instance in which the Youth Wing of AAP Goa announced a clean-up drive in Saligao.

“The Panchayat heard about it and had the entire area cleaned before we got to it. In the end, the work got done.”

AAP Goa eventually hopes to cover the state cohesively, with the 2017 elections in mind. This would mean about three volunteers per polling booth, working closely with constituents in trying to help solve everyday problems. Numerically, this adds up to a figure of 5,000 volunteers/members, a far cry from the 100 they have today. Naik is undeterred by the discrepancy in the numbers needed and actually available so far.

“We are of course going to try and get as many new members as possible, but even if we can’t get all the numbers we need, we will still go ahead and do the work we can,” insists Naik.

“Conversely, if we get the magic 5,000, are able to spread the AAP message far and wide and find that we lose the elections anyway, it’s not like we’re going to pack our bags and go home.

We will stay on and fight the good fight.”

And what fight would that be without representation in the government?

“Agitation, legal action, whatever is required, depending upon the circumstances,” says Naik. “We will work with other organisations, NGOs and the like, to solve the common man’s problems.”

Could AAP make a dent in the current BJP stronghold over the Goan assembly? They certainly defied expectations in Delhi and won a spectacular mandate when no one thought they could. They did so by persuading voters disillusioned with both traditional parties that they were a viable alternative.

The number of Goan voters in that category is clearly growing. Take Gavin Alvares, a deep-sea diver from Nerul who voted for the BJP in 2012 even though his family had supported Congress “for two generations.”

Fed up with Congress scams and

corruption, Alvares picked the BJP largely because of their assurances on the subject of mining and transparency in governance. “Now, two and half years down the road, it appears that the BJP itself is as much in cahoots with the mining lobby as the Congress was, and they haven’t delivered on any of the other promises either. So whether it was the Congress that held power, or the BJP as it does now, the common person’s rights are just steamrolled under the interests of powerful lobbies.”

Would he vote for AAP Goa in 2017?

“Definitely,” says Alvares. “The Congress hasn’t delivered good governance, nor has the BJP. It’s time for a change, and I’m open to seeing if AAP could be the party that delivers that change.”

When Alvares talks about what he’d like to see if AAP were to form a government in Goa, he seems to encapsulate the feelings of a great many Goans.

“I’d expect good, inclusive governance, where the state machinery works for the ordinary person, and when it doesn’t, for someone accountable to hang. Transparency in governance is another change I want to see,” says Alvares.

I next speak with Dinesh Waghela, member of the National Executive for AAP (a rather cosy group of 25 odd members), and mentor for AAP Goa.

votes, form a government and do the work that would set an example to other states.

“Yes, Goa is going a lot slower than it should, but I expect things to pick up quickly over the next month or two, as we are beginning to attract more members, and have teams on the ground to enlist even more.

“We’re even being approached by members of other parties in Goa,” claims Waghela.

“Other parties?” I chip in, surprised.

“You mean the Congress and the BJP?” “Well yes,” chuckles Waghela. “You know they’re not all bad people in other parties. There are good people too, and we would be willing to work with them.

Just as assuredly, there may be a few bad eggs within AAP. In the end, leaders come from within the public, and we have to work with what we have.”

Waghela is also confident of a lot of support from Delhi, in terms of direction and guidance as well as physical presence on the ground, now that AAP has the national capital firmly in its electoral hands.

Next stop, Rajashree Nagarsekar, Convenor of AAP Goa, who recently sent out a press release demanding more

Waghela radiates confidence that AAP Goa is going to make huge strides in the coming months.

Of course, he admits, there’s no comparison between Delhi and Goa for now. What happened in Delhi, he explains, is that volunteers not just from the state, but all over the country and abroad worked diligently to make a difference on the ground, tackling the issues of the ordinary person that are largely ignored by other parties.

“We had a centre-focused policy, with the idea that we focus on Delhi, get the

attention to the needs of Goa’s elderly.

Among these are making it easier for senior citizens to procure the all-crucial Life Certificate required for access to social welfare schemes, a helpline at police stations, a special cell in the social welfare department to oversee senior benefits and the establishment of a geriatric ward at public hospitals like GMC in Panjim and Hospicio in Margao.

However, in stunning contrast with the determined confidence of Naik and Waghela, when asked about what AAP Goa’s plans are for work on the ground,

Nagarsekar’s response was hardly exuberant. “There’s not really much we can do, as we are not in power. As you know, it is the duty of the government to make sure the works are carried out and all we can do is put pressure on them.”

It seems that if AAP has any hope of changing Goa, they must first change themselves, starting with clarity of mission at the top.

Samir Kelekar, an IT professional and ex-member of AAP who recently ran (and lost) the by-elections for the Panjim seat independently, is dismissive about AAP Goa’s leadership. He describes AAP Goa as parasites, hanging on to the success of AAP Delhi. “They have no independent thinking, they just do what Delhi decides.

And where were they before Kejriwal stormed Delhi elections? They were nowhere. It’s only after AAP swept the elections in Delhi that they came out to make a show.

“They just do as Delhi dictates. What does that say about their independent thinking and capabilities?” Kelekar asks.

“In my opinion the members of AAP Goa cannot be counted upon to achieve much at all.”

Kelekar quit AAP a day before he filed his independent nomination at the Panjim by-elections in January. He has since lost faith in Kejriwal, who he says, “has lost the battle of perspective and PR.” Here, Kelekar is referring to the dismissal of Prashant Bhushan and Yogendra Yadav, which he finds disappointing in the extreme.

How would you respond to those who say AAP Goa is dead, I had asked Naik earlier. Our detractors, says he, are hoping that we are, and are working hard to create that illusion.

And what about the people who do support you and think so anyway, I persisted.

“Well those people need to make the effort to contact us,” said Naik vehemently.

“Hold us by the necks and demand to know why things aren’t moving as well as they should be. I admit that right now, they’re not. But we are, after all, working with limited resources at the moment, and if they are real supporters, they need to contribute. If they want to see the party do good work, join, or volunteer. Contribute in any way you can. Donate your time, donate your money, or simply show support. Now that would make a positive difference and would help to galvanise AAP Goa.” So would continued poor governance by the ruling BJP. 

Feature 13

Friday, April 24, 2015

pa r k h y a t t g o a Cashew Cycling traiL Bringing to life the farm to table expereince Every year during harvest season, Park Hyatt Goa traces the life journey of Goa’s beloved fruit, the cashew. Taking the harvest celebration a notch higher, in 2015, Park Hyatt Goa introduced an interesting event to its festivities list – The Cashew Cycling trail in association with Probyk, Propedalerz and Cycling Goa. The event was scheduled on Sunday, 12th April starting from 7 am to 1 pm. Bringing alive the farm to table experience, the cyclists covered the distance from the Madam Rosa Cashew Farm to the hotel and celebrated the journey of the fruit from farm to table over a delectable brunch with their families.

The beautiful Sunday morning witnessed around 35 energetic cyclists from across Goa as well as hotel associates gather at the fragrant cashew farm where the cycling event was flagged off. The energetic cyclists covered a distance of approximately 75 kms with fun stops for pictures, refreshments and more enroute the picturesque ride. The cycling trail culminated at Park Hyatt Goa where the cyclists were joined by their families for a delectable barbeque brunch and Feniinfused cocktails at Palms, the signature beach front restaurant.

the annual brunch The fourth season of Cashew Trail at Park Hyatt Goa culminates with a delightful brunch To conclude the fourth season of the Cashew Trail celebrations, Park Hyatt Goa hosted the annual Cashew Trail brunch on Sunday 19th April 2015 at the Magical Forest. The high-spirited family afternoon was a exciting event with a dedicated kids zone to keep the little ones busy with games, tattoo art, painting and more; a cashew fruit stomping area was also made for the young ones to celebrate the tradition and know more about the legacy of the Goan fruit.

spirited cocktail competition for seasoned bartenders across several hotels in Goa. The competition took place on 17th April with participants from hotels such as The Leela Goa, Grand Hyatt Goa, Vivanta by Taj Holiday Village, Vivanta by Taj Fort Aguada, Alila Diwa Goa and Goa Marriott.

Each participant had to create a cocktail infused with feni or urak to celebrate the legacy of the fruit of Goa – the cashew. There was also another round with mystery ingredients allotted to each participant to create a delightful concoction. The event was judged by industry experts such as Mr. Shawn D'souza from Goa, Mr. Sourish Bhattacharya from Delhi, Ms. Mini Rebeiro from Mumbai and Ms. Shatbhi Basu from

The enthralling afternoon was made even more memorable with an auction for a cause where a limited edition garrafon of feni was auctioned to raise funds for El Sheddai - an association engaged in the welfare of women and children.

Amidst the cashew stomping, sumptuous food and delightful cocktails - there was a cooking competition for couples. An array of delectable food lined the judging table as our participants created magic with cashew and its forms.

The enchanting music by the Latin Connection complimented the aroma of the sumptuous gourmet treats and the flavorful cocktails all through the afternoon. The guests returned home with a goodie bag filled with homemade cashew treats prepared by our chefs and a feni souvenir from the Vaz family.

COCKTAIL CLASH A unique event, with participation from bartenders across luxury hotels in Goa Every year during harvest season, Park Hyatt Goa traces the life journey of Goa’s beloved fruit, the cashew. Taking the harvest celebration to the next level, in 2015, Park Hyatt Goa announced a high

STIR academy Mumbai.

In the individual category, Shanti Kumar Singh from Vivanta by Taj Fort Aguada bagged the first place, followed

by Claude Pinto from Alila Diwa in second place and Rubina Rai from Grand Hyatt Goa in third place. In the group challenge, Alila Diwa Goa secured the first place followed by Grand Hyatt Goa in second and Park Hyatt Goa in third place.

COCKTAIL MASTERCLASS WITH SHATBI BASU FOR LADIES Ladies enjoy a spirited afternoon with Shatbi Basu as the little ones learn cooking with chefs Every year during the Cashew Trail celebrations, Park Hyatt Goa organizes a series of events and experiential for their guests.

To create another unique experience in 2015, the hotel invited Shatbi Basu – a name that needs no introduction in the field of bartending and spirits. Shatbi also heads the STIR academy in Mumbai and was our special guest during Cashew Trail 2015 and conducted a wonderful cocktail class for women over a delightful cashew theme hi-tea.

While the mothers were busy stirring up innovative concoctions, the kids were busy decorating jumbo cookies and learnt to make pizza from scratch with our chefs.

The participants for the master class and the kids cooking session enjoyed a memorable afternoon at Park Hyatt Goa

Resort and Spa as art of the fourth season of Cashew Trail.

Feni Tasting Master Class An exquisite evening of appreciating the spirit of Goa As the beginning of the fourth edition of the annual Cashew Trail event at Park Hyatt Goa, the hotel organized a fennylicious evening where our guests savored the spirit of Goa – urak and feni in their full glory courtesy Vaz family.

The 2015 season of Cashew Trail started on 10th April with a Feni Appreciation Class where a group of discerning connoisseurs enjoyed the rare collection of the choicest variants of Feni specially presented for the launch of Cashew Trail by Madam Rosa. The feni appreciation class was followed by cocktails that were a fusion of explosive flavours, blending spices and seasonal fruits with feni and urak to create the innovative Buenisima, Orange Sunrise and Fenirinha among others. The limited edition spiruts that was specially brought in by the Vaz family for the feni appreciation evening was urak, feni aged one year, oak cask 2012 feni and port oak cask 2010 feni.

Feni paired Goan dinner An exquisite experience under the masters of food and wine series In celebration of the fourth season of the Cashew Trail event at Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa, an exquisite feni and goan food pairing was organized at Casa Sarita – the award-winning Goan restaurant. The special five-course menu was paired with urak, feni aged one year, an Oak Cask 2012 edition feni and a Port Oak Cask 2010 edition feni. These feni selections were specially presented by the Vaz family for Cashew Trail 2015.

The dinner was a tribute to local culture, ingredients and flavours ; a story soused in traditions, of pioneering distillers and family heirloom. The guests indulged in a sumptuous five-course Goan dinner where each course was artfully paired with a private and exclusive collection of Feni from the Vaz Estate of

Madame Rosa Distillers.

Chef Edridge presented the traditional Goan cuisine with a refreshing contemporary twist. The menu offered innovative gourmet treasures like the Assiette of seafood peri peri, Cauliflower tondak served with first pressed coconut milk and salted cumin biscotti, Cinnamon feni sorbert and the Alle Belle Cold Cheese cake with Cashew Jam. 

14

Friday, April 24, 2015

April 25

April 29 to May 3

Ecommerce Jumpstart Workshop – start selling online in just 6 hours!

Indian Online Seller presents the Ecommerce Jumpstart Workshop for all aspiring ecommerce entrepreneurs in Goa - retailers, manufacturers, importers or exporters. Learn to ace the “information-heavy” ecommerce game and understand all the nuances of the industry including the basics, business models, operational aspects, pricing, inventory etc. (Entry fees @ Rs 3,000. Special discounts available for early registrations.)

Students and young professionals keen to know about the ecommerce buzz are also welcome. (Special rate @Rs 500 – valid ID card required) Grab your seat now (limited seats only – 30)!

At Palace of Maquinezes, DayanandBandodkarMarg, Altinho, Panjim 10 am to 5 pm +91 7774039132

Goa's Coconut & Cashew Festival 2015 The Goan Experience in a Nutshell At Bandodkar Football Ground, Panjim 5.30 pm to 10.30 pm +91 832 2437132

April 13 to May 15 BOOKWORM SUMMER CAMP A thoughtfully planned new theme for each week with a focus on fun and learning. Themes include Food-ing, Acting Out, Walk About, Write Stuff and Imagine & Create.

2 Age groups: 3-6 yrs and 7-12 yrs At Bookworm, Panjim 9.30 am to 12.30 pm. +91 9823222665

April 27 to May 2 Fabric Painting Workshop A workshop on fabric painting will be organised by the Goa college of Home science.

The workshop will be facilitated by pidilite hobby artists at the college premises.

Different painting methods such brush stroke techniques, stencils, and 3-D outliners will be used. Fabric will be provided.

Participants can carry their own paints and brushes.

Goa College of Home Science, Campal, Panjim 10 am to 1 pm +91 9404913354

It's said that whoever flips a coin into that well has his wish come true.

April 29 to May 2

A Fun filled Water colour workshop by Artist Shagufta at Off The Wall art gallery and bistro , Aguada Anchorage Resort, Fort Aguada road , Sinquerim.

At Off The Wall, Sinquerim 11 am to 2 pm +91 9823289123

Every Monday Go Fish Go out fishing with local fishermen, bring back your catch and ask our chefs to cook it to your liking.

At Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim +91 832 301 1234 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com

Every Friday Wellness Day and Sundowners Unwind and relax at “Shamana Spa”, spend your day indulging in yoga, meditation or get your own health package customized by trainers, or just pamper yourself with popular Balinese massage. Follow this up with a laidback evening with a special menu of frozen margaritas, as you soak in the sunset at Capiz Bar. At Shamana Spa and Capiz Bar, Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim 8:00 am – Sundown +91 832 301 1234 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com

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

At Kamat Centre, D.B Marg, Panjim +91 9595553799/ +91 9341112721 Seaeaglecruises.com

Canopy Eco – Tours Offers a wide variety of experiences including nature-treks, butterfly tours, dragonfly & damselfly tours, boat safaris on the Zuari River as well as their original bird watching tour.

At Housing Board Colony, Margao +91 9764261711, +91 9764052225 Canopygoa.com Goa Butterfly Park & Conservatory A small park on a hill that’s a great place to spot stunningly beautiful butterflies.

Near Tropical Spice Plantation, Ponda +91 832 2985174, +91 9822125474 Bcogoa.org The Bushmasters Owner Rahul Alvares is one of our state’s most experienced snake rescuers. Snake Watch programmes costs Rs. 1600 per person inclusive of transport and breakfast.

At Almeida Vaddo, Parra 6.30 am to 9.30 am +91 9881961071 Rahulalvares.com Off the Grid Offers a unique home stay experience in a secluded village in the Western Ghats At Western Ghats John +91 9623451758 Sylvia +91 9049081097

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

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

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

Tiracol Fort The fort was originally built

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

Well worth a visit At Tiracol, Keri

Museum Of Christian Art Open all days of the week Located at the Convent of Santa Monica, you may pray if you wish to, else just soak in the ambience of peace.

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

Cabo de Rama Fort Interesting fort named after Lord Rama. Inside the fort, check out the church of Santo Antonio, still used by devotees.

At Cola Beach

Goa Science Centre The Centre has a science park with interactive exhibits, 3D shows, galleries on oceanic science, explaining mysteries of the underwater world. At Miramar 10 am to 6 pm +91 832 2463426

Chapora Fort One of the most loved forts of Goa, it was built in place of an older fort on the same location after the MarathaPortuguese war.

At Vagator Water sports Water Splash Cruises Here you’ll find a large fleet of Catamarans, Boats, Cruisers & Yachts At Models Status, Dona Paula +91 8888864347 www.watersplashcruises.com

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

Sea Wave Water Sports Enjoy parasailing, boat rides, banana rides, bump rides, jet skiing, water skiing, dolphin trips and more.

At Calangute +91 832 2276362

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

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

It works!

Feature 15

Friday, April 24, 2015

Gay, Indian and Proud For The LGBT Community, Finding Acceptance Is A Tall Order

By Goa Streets

J

ust for a moment, put yourself in the shoes of a young lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender man or woman in Goa. “Sometimes it is difficult to be just oneself whether around family members or in a circle of friends or at workplace. The ridicule never stops,” says Sandeep, a college student from Santa Cruz (I’m not using his real name or that of several others in this story to protect privacy).

The Indian Supreme Court’s decision in December 2013 to reinstate Section 377, a colonial era British law banning homosexual acts, is the tip of the iceberg of intolerance that characterizes Indian society’s treatment of the LGBT community.

Here in easy-going, fun-loving Goa, attitudes toward homosexuality are perhaps more relaxed than in much of the rest of India. And yet gays describe lives filled with hardship, cruelty and rejection.

“I am waiting for the day Section 377 gets decriminalized and I have the chance of breathing the air of freedom.

Things won’t be tough as they are now,” Sandeep said.

Given the discrimination and preponderance of archaic attitudes, gays often fear coming out of the closet, even as other societies move toward greater acceptance of what scientific research shows to be a

natural variation of human sexuality (in other words, people don’t “choose” to be gay).

Acceptance is the key to physical and psychological health, including acceptance of one’s self.

Here’s what Tushan from Mumbai has to say: “Being gay or liking a person of the same gender has been like crossing a huge milestone in my life. It has boosted my confidence and made me happy, more so because of the honesty of it.”

Goa is clearly one of the more gay friendly destinations in India – with a robust business in gay tourism, a number of gay friendly clubs and beaches, and an overall attitude of openness not often seen in other states. The man who is arguably Goa’s most famous son – Wendell Rodricks – is openly gay.

And yet when the state’s tourism director several years back announced plans to attract LGBT tourism to the state, Hindu groups complained to police, the Catholic Church raised a cry and the “Goa International Travel Mart 2011” had to take back its pink promise.

LGBT individuals face many challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, issues with self-acceptance, taunting from peers and society, rejection, isolation, suicidal tendencies, shame, guilt, and face verbal abuse in schools/colleges (such as being called faggot or queer).

They also have to come to terms with homophobia (fear of or prejudice and discrimination against lesbian, gay and bisexual people).

The statement by a Goan minister this past January about training LGBT people to make them normal sparked quite a bit of controversy.

Just as noteworthy as the retrograde comment, however, was the outpouring of criticism from a great many Goans who recognized it as outrageous.

Still, the Supreme Court decision re-criminalizing homosexual activity has increased police harassment of gays here in Goa as in the rest of India, activists say. It’s also helped foster public discrimination that denies gays their fundamental right to live life on their own terms.

This is happening as other parts of the world are showing more acceptance of homosexuality than at any time in history. Countries that have legalized same-sex marriage include Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom and Uruguay. This is in addition to parts of Mexico and many states in the U.S. (where the Supreme Court is expected to rule soon on whether to legalize same-sex marriage nationwide).

Treatments such as “conversion

therapy” to change an individual’s sexual orientation from homosexual to heterosexual have stirred heated debate in United States and other countries. In the past, techniques have involved shock treatment to the hands and/or genitals, drugs, social skills training, spiritual interventions, etc.

In India, organizations such as Naz Foundation Trust and Udaan Trust have been constantly working for the rights of LGBT groups.

India’s position on homosexuality is a complex issue, with Hindu culture largely accepting it until the 18th century. Ours is one of the countries that recognize a “third gender,” with the Hijras, or transgenders, having been granted reservations in education and jobs. Despite the harsh penalties for homosexuality that are seldom implemented but theoretically possible, sex reassignment surgery is legal. Tamil Nadu was the first Indian state to have a welfare policy and welfare boards for transgenders. And in 2013, Swapna Madurai became the first transgender woman to take civil services exams in India.

Self-acceptance, a strong family support system, spirituality and occupational success help LGBT individuals to find their feet. What’s needed most is a general attitude of tolerance and acceptance, qualities which unfortunately seem to be in short supply in today’s India.

16

Friday, April 24, 2015

Valmiki Faleiro’s Delightful New Book Tells The Story Of Margao’s Espirito Santo Church

I

By Selma Carvalho

f you’re travelling by a hoppity scooter or car from Panjim to Margao, when you turn left at the communidade building you enter the largo de igreja (church square). For those of us without any claim to nobility, the area is simply known as the old market, beyond which lies a new market, a hodgepodge of unsightly buildings and traffic congestion which for years has had as its elected MLA, the ineffectual Digamber Kamat. The irony is, Margao today, abandoned by industrialists and even itinerant tourists, had been in centuries of yore, a bastion of political and economic power.

The rise of Margao is studiously narrated in a new book by Valmiki Faleiro entitled Soaring Spirits: 450 years of Margao’s Espirito Santo Church (publisher Goa, 1556). Brave is perhaps a strange word to use when describing a book whose primary focus is the history of a church. But in the perilous times we live in, when Christians are so easily vilified, Faleiro writes with the defiance of a matador. He does not flinch from stating that the arrival of Christianity displaced indigenous Hindu

settlements. But history is, if anything, a tumultuous wave of displacement, usurpation, revolt and counter-revolt.

Before the Portuguese had even arrived in Mathgram, the former name of Margao, the Maru (demon)-worshipping Mhars, the nature-loving Gonvllis, the Gawdas and the Kunbis had each made their indelible mark on the city. Each in turn subjugated previous settlers and usurped the commons. The Kunbis, for instance, established a hegemony so relentless, that every agrarian venture began with their tribal name Ku. The uncontested dominance of tribalism was to survive until the arrival of the Indo-Aryan Saraswats, a people who exploited cattle, rode the horse and chariot into battle, and who spoke an old form of Sanskrit, proclaiming the Rig Veda. While India’s ancient history may be subject to reinterpretation as more archaeological, carbon-dating, DNA and empirical evidence is collected, Faleiro relies on trustworthy secondary sources to draw his timeline. By the 1500s, the Portuguese had arrived.

The first church in Salcette, writes Faleiro, was built neither in Verna, which celebrated the first Mass, nor in Cortalim, which witnessed the first

Arts & Entertainment 17

Friday, April 24, 2015

April 23 to April 27 Kalarang Festival 15th kalarang festival The event will be inaugurated by film actor Shivaji Satam (popularly known as ACP Pradyuman).

At Ravindra Bhavan Margao +91 832 272 6980

April 29 to May 3 Goa's Coconut & Cashew Festival 2015 The Goan Experience in a Nutshell At Bandodkar Football Ground, Panjim 5.30 pm to 10.30 pm +91 832 2437132

Galleries of Note The Cube Gallery Every architect, since the beginning of time, has secretly tried to create a vision of paradise in the buildings they design. Discover one such paradise and much more At The Cube Gallery, Calizor Vaddo, Moira 11 am to 7 pm +91 832 2470415/ +91 9422806748 thecubegallerygoa@gmail.com Monsoon Heritage Studio Treat yourself to some amazing collection of mirrored mosaic art and handpicked artefacts at this upscale studio by Yahel Chirinian.

At Mainath Batti, Arpora 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM +91 9822122771 Panjim Art Gallery Get a dose of the local culture with figurative works of Goan artists.

Near Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim 9:00 am to 8:00 pm +91 9822168703 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, open air amphitheatre, pottery studio and an open courtyard that houses the al fresco café, Bodega. The red velvet cupcakes at Bodega are a must try!

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

Mario Art Gallery Discover the original paintings and other memorabilia of the great Goan artist/cartoonist Mario Miranda. Here you can buy “The Life of Mario”, as well as prints, mounted prints, frames, tiles, mugs, card sets and other books.

‘Houses of Goa’, Salvador-do-Mundo, Porvorim area 9:00 am to 5:30 pm +91 832 2410711 archauto@gmail.com www.mariodemiranda.com Gallery Gitanjali An elegant art gallery in Panjim’s Latin Quarter is worth hopping into when you’re in the area.

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

Gaura Vaddo, Calangute 10:00 am to 1:00 pm & 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm +91 832 2277144 | +91 9823217435 artchamber@gmail.com www.goa-art.com Moksa Art Gallery Here you will find some immensely conceptual paintings by Salvadoran Fernandez and others.

Naik Waddo, Calangute 9:30 am to 8:30 pm +91 832 2281121 | +91 9326717386 mokshart@gmail.com www.mokshartgallery.com Off The Wall Discover a collectible of deeply astounding works of art displayed on a daily basis at this thoughtful art cafe.

Fort Aguada Road, Sinquerim, Candolim 10:30 am to 11:30 pm +91 9820083497 | +91 9823289123

A

conversion to Christianity. Nor was it built in Margao, the principal village at the time. It was built as a chapel at Rachol in 1521. Numbers may have been grossly exaggerated by medieval propagandists but some 700 natives of Salcete are said to have been baptised in 1564 alone.

Proselytising efforts seemed encouraging.

Town criers went around villages proclaiming that those who converted will be ‘favoured and helped.’ Among the first converts was a Mangesh Shenoy who traced his ancestry to Bengal. On being baptised, he became Pero Mascarenhas.

By the turn of the 18th century, Margao had been thoroughly gentrified; the inhabitants of the largo, a curious mix of influential indigenous Goans, mestis (bi-racial) and descendentes (those who claim Portuguese ancestry). In the labyrinthine corridors of Goan history, it became increasingly difficult to discern between European and Saraswat stock. Both were relatively light-skinned and it is entirely possible that bi-racial ancestries and overlapping caste identities, particularly in the Margao area, were manufactured, just as they are to this day.

The worst excesses of Margao’s gentry were parodied by Francisco Joao da Costa (of the da Costa canning family), writing in 1896 under the pseudonym Gip. Despite its petty vanities and European affectations, Margao gave birth to republicans, parliamentarians, poets, musicians, printing presses, an indigenous clergy of the highest distinction, medical doctors, and an elite society which led the way in reformation, particularly

irAsia India further expands its wings by adding New Delhi, one of the most awaited destinations to its network. Flights from New Delhi to Bangalore, Goa and Guwahati and vice versa will be operational from 21th May 2015. This marks a significant milestone in AirAsia India’s operations.

To celebrate the launch of new sectors, AirAsia India is offering all-inclusive promotional fare from

in gender equality and education. All this has been insightfully chronicled by Faleiro, in the process revealing intriguing hidden histories. For instance, the houses were purposefully stacked together. If Margao came under attack, women and children escaped through the interconnected houses to emerge in the courtyard of the Santos Vas house.

Chardos and brahmins, save for periodic political rivalries, acted as one bloc. The people they disenfranchised, and whose histories are beyond the purview of this book, were the sudhir mundkars (tenanted labour) who lived on the periphery of the Church square. These mundkars led ruined lives until British India and East Africa presented them with opportunities.

Here, they made their mark as skilled carpenters, shoe-makers and tailors and produced seminal art forms. For instance, the humble house of Pai Agostinho, the father of Goan tiatr, is just a few minutes from the church.

This richly detailed book is a pleasure to read and a wonderful contribution to our understanding of Lusitanised Goa. By providing us a glimpse into these turn-of-the-century lives, Faleiro has left a trail for cultural anthropologists to build on. He derives his authority on the subject by being a proud gaunkar (native) of Margao and a resident of the largo, having carefully gathered oral histories and genealogies over the decades. We await his next promised book, an account of Margao beyond the church square. 

as low as Rs 1700 from New Delhi to Bengaluru and Goa and Rs 1500 from New Delhi to Guwahati and vice versa. Guests will be able to start their booking on www.airasia. com from 00:30 hrs on 21-042015 to 26-04-2015 for the travel period from 21-052015 – 31-05-2016 Mittu Chandilya, CEO, AirAsia India said, “We are very excited about coming into New Delhi and setting it up as our North region Hub. Our ability to provide our guests with a truly low cost and high quality mode of travel is what we truly believe in.

Our entry into New Delhi market is a sign of confidence in our business model and in our performance that we can come into a highly saturated market and help expand the market by providing connectivity to the undeserved. It would be an opportunity we would have to work hard for, but one where the passengers should be the distinct winners with more choice and lower fares. The new sectors will allow more people to experience air travel in India. We will continue to build our network throughout India through both our Northern and Southern hubs. “ 

18

M

yra Vineyards hosted a party to thank patrons for a successful first year in Goa. The elegant Sol de Goa was the destination of choice for Goa's glitterati over a cool Sunday afternoon with Spanish/ Mexican delicacies served by the poolside. Popular band Alcatrazz had fashionable names like Monty Sally, Isabel Hernandez Lelli, Marianne Borgo, Christopher Rego, Munir Kabani, Nikhil Chopra, Sunaina Misra and Tapan Acharya floating across the dance flo­or. Pitchers of red and white sangria made with Myra's trendy Two Headed Bird (THB) flowed, quelling the simmering heat. The equally glamourous CEO Ajay Shetty of Myra said "We look forward to set­ting new party trends in Goa and our gue­sts can look forward to many more of the­se in the coming months."

Mr. Shetty followed his passion for food and beverages when he founded Myra after a career in banking and plans to strengthen presence in the Western region with the help of Sachin Bhamri, who has been instrumental in accentuating sales.

Headquartered in Bangalore, the brand aims to demystify the wine-drinking experience as a younger generation of winedrinkers adopt the beverage as a lifestyle and health choice. Their portfolio includes the Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz reserves as well as the award-winning Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz in the non-reserve category. 

Ashley Thomas GM Sol de Goa, Ajay Shetty Owner Myra Wines, Sachin Bhamri Head of Marketing and Sales.

Nr Communidade Office, Titawado, Nerul,Goa +91 9822168377/ +91 9822586503

Shop No. 8, Pai Bhavan, Tonca, Miramar Tel: 0832 - 2465933 / 34 Mob: +91 9823063023 Email: unnatiflowers@rediffmail.com

• Stage Back Drop • Mandap Setup • Cruise Wedding • Church Decoration • Car Decoration • Hall Decoration • Beach Weddings • Bridal Bouquet • Decorated Stands • Other Decorations