Issue No : 18 by Goa Streets

India's Daughter | Women's Football | Stunning Art

Intolerance Dark Clouds in the Modi Revolution

Friday, March 13, 2015

A World of Wonders Greets You On Chogm Road By Sanket Sharma

oa in its infinite beauty is host to many kinds of manmade structures, be it resorts, hotels, shacks or houses. Every season we see new restaurants, cafes, bars and other ventures mushroom up in different corners of the state. And yet surprises are rare to come by. Yet every once in a while comes a place that will make you feel excited and re-energized. Enter Saraya. Set right in the middle of the CHOGM road stretch, opposite Rust and next to Freedom Tree (and not far from Goa Streets!), Saraya is a beautiful, eco-friendly cafe/art gallery/ hostel that also features its own organic farm, tree houses and nightly events. A beautiful world within a world. The extended property has been designed by Saraya's mastermind/ owner, Deeksha Thind, who also serves as a chef/architect and curator of the space. Deeksha and her team (her family and a bunch of rotating volunteers) are ambitious in their zeal. "We are having events almost every day of the week including live music, Yoga and meditation classes and a variety of other fun interactive activities which change on a weekly basis. Plus we are also starting a library soon," says a happy and spirited Deeksha with no doubts in her mind.

Looking at the hostel and its beautiful rooms, you won't have many doubts, either. All of the rooms are built with a modern, forwardthinking mindset, respecting Mother Nature. The hostel has three kinds of rooms, Earth Rooms,Tree Houses and Tree Dorms. Most of the Earth Rooms have a big old tree right in the middle, elevating the space’s natural sensibility. The creatively adorned Earth Rooms are the most luxurious of the three, with an attached bathroom and occupancy for single or double. Tree Houses have similar features, but you must climb to get to them, with bathrooms at ground level. The Tree Dorms are shared dormitories on an elevated platform. As if building an eco-friendly hostel, mostly with mud and bamboo, wasn't a daunting enough task on a planet dominated by concrete, you only realise the depths of the achievement by considering the time it took to build it: 11 months! Yes that's right. The sprawling complex was built in less than a year (and when I say sprawling, I mean it!). The rooms are beautifully melded with the nature that surrounds them, and have a seductive charm. The vibe of the hostel is happy, positive, and inviting - welcoming you with a sense

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March 13

Dec 12 to Mar 27

Jazz Blues Funk Live Saints & Fools Featuring Aj & Shayne - Guitar, Steven - Drums, Atilla - Bass & Vox At Guru Bar, Anjuna 7.30 pm onwards +91 9960956691

JAZZ Friday Night Live The Bassman’s Band will be performing An exciting new live music ensemble featuring floating personnel that includes some of the most accomplished local as well as international artistes. The band’s line up and repertoire for each Friday night is curated by renowned bass player and music producer Colin D’cruz. At Grand Mercure Goa Shrem Resort, Candolim 7 pm to 10 pm +91 832 249 4848 h8861-re@accor.com www.mercure.com

Kinky Reggae @ Laguna Bring your tribe and enjoy Old school Goa rasta vibes with Graeme Hamilton, join us for a good time by the poolside under the Mango tree. At Laguna, Anjuna 7:30Pm onwards +91 832 2274131

March 14 Saturday Night Live@Sol de Goa The all new Saturday Night Live Introduces the Big Band night with Carlton Braganza OPUS Night (Bangalore) supported by Sylvester Pradeep and Sheridan Brass to give weekend partying an all new night-out address. 8.00pm onwards. At Sol de Goa, Nerul reservations@soldegoa.com +91 832 6714141 Website: www.soldegoa.com

March 16 'Dreams' Musical A Musical titled ' Dreams' Dedicated to the youth will be stages by Ambassadors of Christ Fr Noel Menezes is the composer of the musical, ignitius Rodriguez, rhythm and blues band, has arranged the music while john lino D’Mello has done cinematography for the events At kala Academy, anjim 6.30 pm +91 832 242 0450

Mar 17 The Redeemer A Lenten Musical Play Backed by 10 Piece live Band At Kala Academy, Panjim 7.15 pm +91 9822161942 Kashinawa Tribe Healing Music Concert with Amazon Spiritual Leaders Free Entry At Temple of Dance, Arambol 8 pm

March 15 to March 28 Inspire Trust International Artist Residency Goa 15 Renowned Artists from Germany, Brazil, Hungary, Japan, Iraq, Poland, India, Goa At Dudhsagar Spa Resort, Mollem +91 832 261 2319

North16 Unplugged @ North16 Bar North16 Bar is playing fabulous tunes all week long! From Mellow Mondays to Jazz and Blues Saturdays, from Rock n Roll Wednesdays to Indipop Thursdays, North16 Bar has all the best gigs in town. Enjoy unlimited alcohol packages starting at Rs.499/-, So Drink and Dance all night long. 7:30pm onwards. North 16, Calangute +91 832 674 5423/5421 reservations@north16.in www.north16goa.com

Every Monday LIVE MUSIC How about live music and sea food? Catch Wahida Carmen Gomes live on vocals. The Fisherman’s Wharf, Cavelossim 7. 30 pm onwards +91 832 2871317 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 Extraordinary Nights Make your Tuesdays extraordinary with Emmanuel Antao. Gawin’s Restaurant, Varca 9:00 pm onwards. +91 9822177179

Every Wednesday Wednesday - Ladies Night / Fashion Night Meet at the Fire Place for a complimentary welcome drink. Enjoy a midweek break with special themes on haute couture (trend-setting fashions) and beauty sessions and a 50% discount on food and drinks at The Verandah. Then end the night with live music at Capiz Bar with Jovan & Thelma. At Capiz Bar, Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim 7 pm till late 91 832 301 1234 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com 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

Deafbeat The Headphone Party At Cleopatra Resort, Palolem Beach 9 pm onwards +91 832 324 5473

Every Thursday 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 the Happy offer with Happy Hours along with Live Musical Performances Buy 1 + Get 1 Indian Drinks! 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. Every Thursday featuring The Band. 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 EDM. 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 Saturday night market or Goan nightlife At Capiz Bar, Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim 9 pm till midnight. +91 832 301 1234 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com Saturday Nite Jive Jive to the best of rock and retro classics in a rather electronic tone with Alcatrazz Cheenos, Baga Bridge, Baga +91 8806564991

Friday and Saturday Weekend Sundowners International DJ's/ Percussionists Watch the sun downer in Style 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 Electric Pulse Every Wednesday: Different style 1man Band WITH HAPPY HOURS BAY 2 COCKTAILS N GET 1 FREE Every Friday: live excremental jazz blues funk music Sound OF Goa Collective Every Sunday: Musica Guru live Presenting new Artists from around the world At Guru Bar, North Anjuna 7:30 pm +91 9823383257 | 9960956691 | 0832-2273319 www.gurubargoa.com

Cavala Every Wednesday: Cavala Acoustic Latin Retro Every Friday: Tidal Wave Every Saturday: Piano played by Bosco Cavala, Calangute - Baga Road, Baga 8:30 pm onwards. +91 832 2276090 sales@cavala.com www.cavala.com Cantare There’s live music on Thursday. The place fills up with locals (not many tourists), and its non-beach location nestled amid the Portuguese-inspired architecture of Saligao adds to the great vibe. Cantare, Saligao 8:00 pm onwards. +91 832 2409461 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 Deltin Jaqk Casino Fisheries Jetty, Fisheries Dept. Building, D. Bandodkar Road, Panaji  Emai id: sales@deltin.comOther: info@ deltin.com Call: +91 77 987 40004, +91 88 0666 3673

Music & Nightlife 5

Friday, March 13, 2015

From page 3

of warmth. That’s in addition to a strong sense of community, almost hippie, but without trying too hard to be hippie, and hence feels good and easy. The icing on the cake is the prices, which begin at Rs 500 for the dorm and reach Rs 1500 for the Earth Rooms and Rs 1100 for the Tree Houses (all include breakfast), which in my opinion are a steal. But before you reach the hostel, you first pass through the cafe and the art gallery. The cafe is currently open from 5 to 11pm (this IS the Music & Nightlife section, after all!). The pizzas (made by Zora, Deeksha's son - family business,remember? Her other son is unofficially employed in the cafe as well, and is mostly spotted around the place with a guitar and a 24/7 will to jam). The strudel is a personal favourite although everything on the vegetarian menu is delicious. There are hot and cold beverages, including fruit juices and several varieties of herbal tea (sorry lushes, no alcohol here!). There are Jacket Potatos, Stuffed mushrooms and veg burgers, to name a few of the food items. Once past the cafe, you enter the art

gallery, which currently has works from the 23-year-old local artist Godot. His art features the human form, personal tribulation and abstract settings, a lot of which are in the digital medium. The gallery is set in an old Indo-Portugese house, where the future library is also in progress. The Saraya team also comprises of volunteers who are offered free stay and food in return for their services, such as helping out with the orders, building a table/chair, helping organize events, etc. In line with their affinity for nature, Saraya also has a small farm on which ingredients are grown and used in the food. Various other aspects and side projects can be known in detail once you visit. Saraya in Sanskrit means "to begin, to flow." And beginning and flowing with creativity and spirituality is the philosophy upon which Saraya was created.

Event: Goatimeline Ponda Property Fair, is a Builders Expo. This expo shall be held from 14thMarch2015 to 15thMarch 2015 at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao. And it will be inaugurated by Shri. Avertano Furtado | M.L.A., Navelim | Minister for Labour, Employment & Fisheries; Shri.Dr. Jagannath (Desh) Prabhudessai | President of CREDAI – GOA &Shri.Damu Naik | Vice Chairman of ESG | Chairman of Ravindra Bhavan, Margaoon 14thMarch 2015at 11.00 A.M. Goatimeline Property Expo will be the biggest property expo held in Goa. There will be total 11 stalls of the Builders& other related companies. Prominent names to exhibit areCityscape Developers | Urban Alchemy | Prabhudessai Realtors | Crossroad Realtors Pvt. Ltd. | Saaket Builders | Inorbit Malls (India) Pvt. Ltd.| Saraswat Bank | Cement & Metal Craft | Goa Property 4 U |Woodbourne Hills Residences | A.N. Kumar. Property Fair facilitate the Buyers and Builders meet,Spot Booking, Spot Housing Loans, Spot Vastu Consultancy under one roof. No entry fees and it is open for public from 10.00 AM to 9.00 P.M both days (Saturday & Sunday) There are lucky prizes for lucky visitors also. Goatimeline Property Fair at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao shall be the 11th edition of property fair from Goatimeline Group.

"We want this space to be a hub for artists and creative people, and we want there to be continuous flow of creative energy", says Deeksha, who fills every day of the week with artistic and spiritual events. A musical jam happens almost every night, and anybody who feels the groove can join in. A few of the upcoming events are The Satori Music for Bliss workshop, teaching students various Prana movements through their bodies and allowing them to explore the possibilities of pranayama through sound energy created through a musical instrument. All events and activities for Saraya can be checked online through their presence on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and their own website http://saraya.in/. Saraya blew me away. I hope it does the same for you. 

6 Feature

Documentary Review:

India’s Daughter T

By Selma Carvalho

he moral outrage in India, both from the left-wing and the right, over the documentary India’s Daughter would be comical if it weren’t desperately frightening. Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu has called it a ‘conspiracy to defame India’ and columnist Amba Salekar accuses the documentary of ‘resorting to awful orientalist tropes’. The problem with crying wolf, offence and orientalism is an all too tried and tested method by Indian governments and activists, but it’s hardly the way to carry the conversation forward. Problems endemic in our society are not going to be wished away by banning books, films and documentaries which hold a mirror to them. Birmingham born actress and producer, Leslee Udwin, who spent two years making the documentary may have her point of view and politics all over the place, but those who have nit-picked at Udwin’s supposed poor research and lacklustre narrative, have missed the fundamental question she poses: how responsible are we as a society for the monsters we produce from within? Indeed, Udwin’s production achieves that rare thing: a heartfelt liberal advocacy on behalf of both the victim and the villain. Using very little voice-over by way of explanation, the documentary is edited in typical BBC fashion, to make a subtle point and leave much to the viewer’s interpretation. It begins with a brief reconstruction of the night of December 16, 2012 with an ominous bus trawling the darkened streets of Delhi. The story of Jyoti Singh then unfolds through her parents Badri and Asha. From her mother we learn of Jyoti’s arrival into the world: ‘we were given a gift of light,’ Asha says, ‘when she was born.’ Anyone who has ever given

Let’s Confront Our Demons, Not Hide Them birth to a daughter can only cry at this point. Jyoti’s tutor and close friend, the young Satendra tells us more about the family; they are incredibly poor, the father works as a labourer at an airport, Jyoti aspires to become a doctor, the family sell off their ancestral land to accommodate her wishes, Jyoti takes up a part-time job at a call centre to pay for her college expenses and hopes to open a health facility in her village. When Satendra askes Jyoti how she manages to juggle so many hats, she tells him, ‘I have to do and I can.’ Satendra describes her family as traditional. This is an India where the traditional has seamlessly merged with the modern, where aspiration can become reality by sheer dint of hard work. And soon we come across another India. Mukesh Singh’s India. The twentyeight year old Mukesh (occupation – driver) is serving a death sentence at Tihar jail as one of the men convicted of Jyoti’s rape and murder. He comes from Ravidas camp, a slum of makeshift and mud dwellings, condemned to indescribable poverty, where people can go for a whole day on just a cup of tea. Violence, suicide, alcohol, prostitution are not just commonplace, they are banal. Mukesh tells us that, ‘a girl is far more responsible for rape than a boy.’ Even more curious are his defence lawyer M. L Sharma’s utterings, ‘A female is just like a flower…the flower always needs protection. If that flower, you put in a gutter it is spoilt. If you put that flower in a temple it will be worshiped…she should not be put on the street just like food.’ What exactly is it that India finds offensive? That such views exist at all or that the documentary shines a light on them? The purdah on gender equality has been lifted. If Mukesh is a monster then he is our monster and we bear a collective responsibility for him. We have used archaic cultural motifs to justify gender inequality. And we have lived in denial about the importance

of education, housing, sanitation, aspiration and opportunity to those dwindling at the very bottom because we see them as nothing more than subsidised labour. We think of them as irrelevant in shaping the moral zeitgeist of our society. But if history teaches us anything, it is that societal reformation emerges from the bottom. Far from caricaturizing India as a regressive, developing nation, the documentary shows India in all its complexity. A strident cultural conservatism has been effectively juxtaposed against the liberal voices of Gopal Subramanjum, senior supreme court advocate and co-author of the Verma report, Amod Kanth, founder of the NGO Prayas, and Leila Seth, former chief justice. In the end, what we see is an India with an emerging modernity struggling against an ancient past, a young vibrant and highly literate population struggling with apathetic governance, and a fledging prosperity bobbing amidst the bleakness of desperate poverty. If we are to vanquish India’s demons then the first step is confronting them. Not hiding from them. Selma Carvalho is a columnist and author of ‘A Railway Runs Through: Goans of British East Africa, 1865-1980’. Between 20112014, she headed the Oral Histories of British-Goans project.

Feature 7

Friday, March 13, 2015

Goa for the Goans, or Goa for the Rich? The Story of Goan Gentrification

By Richa Narvekar

t is amazing how drastically the image of Goa has morphed in the last 20 years, from sleepy backwater to global hotspot. Developers have been quick to catch up with the new trend of migrant designers, artists, expats and entrepreneurs flocking to these shores. Consequently, construction and property values have exploded. Selling rates for 3-bedroom apartments in Caranzalem are now comparable to rates for 4-bedroom houses in Zone 2-3 in London! The term gentrification means a change in events surrounding land commerce that result in property prices soaring so high that they can only be afforded by wealthy people, pushing the un-wealthy, previous occupants out. A simple drive down the Miramar-Dona Paula beach road at night shows how this is already happening in Panjim. Hundreds of apartments loom over the street in swanky new buildings, all with lights out; they are unoccupied. All of these have been bought out, but very few of the owners actually live here. Goa has become a major destination for empty “investment homes”. As the global rich buy more and more of these investment homes, property values get inflated to the point where average folks are priced out of the market. Construction is booming all over the country, but ironically, so is homelessness. This process is in no way unique to Goa. Gentrification happens all over the world. In many parts of London,one can hear almost every language being spoken but English. This has happened because many English people cannot afford to live in London any more. As they moved further away in search of cheaper living, wealthy Arabs and other non-Europeans moved in to take their place. Closer to home, Andheri and Bandra in Mumbai were once green residential

suburbs which supported the commerce in 2004. And a few years later, the cheap in nearby Churchgate. Today this iron-ore market in China opened up, commercial area has swelled to include leading to iron ore pouring out of the these suburbs as well, increasing land state. The rest is history. Goa appeared and living prices tremendously. Hardly firmly on the map as the centre of anyone can afford to live even in Bandra festivity, energy, beauty, minerals... and, of or Andheri any more. What makes us course, cheap land. think that Goa will turn out differently? All these events continued to snowball The process often begins with a until we are where we stand now. With political decision or a grand event. A every 2nd TV ad and every 3rd movie proposal to turn Goa into a Free featuring a sequence in Goa. With every Port and Free Trade Zone in Indian 20-something dying to bring in 1998 was a turning point the new year in Goa, with every Delhi for Goan land values. businessman looking to spend their extra “When we heard cash on property in Goa. After years of about the Free waiting to be on par with the rest of India Port proposal, in terms of availability of international we realised fanfare, Goans have now had their that ‘dreams’ come true: malls, hotel chains, property multiplexes, Dunkin Donuts, KFC, Pizza would Hut have arrived in Goa. It is a sign, of become Goa going global, of

a state opening to the appetites of the global rich. Another sign is, of old dilapidated neighbourhoods suddenly coming valuable in Goa to life. A Panjim very fast; so my resident whom I’ll husband and I call Dr. Naik (not just came to Goa his real name), and picked up remembers the a lot of property,” says Sameeksha, an areas around Mala, where he grew up, architect and property owner from Delhi in negative terms. “Mala is the most who now lives in North Goa. miserable memory I have. Old houses In the mid-1990s, MTV Asia separated with no one to care for them. Old people from the Star TV network, and thus was with no money to care for themselves or born Channel [V] and soon after, MTV the houses.” Today, real estate in Mala/ India - two ‘shining beacons’ that direct Fontainhas is being bought and rented youth trends in the country. Picking up out by young entrepreneurs, and the area on the lost hippie and rave vibe, the two began holding high-profile parties like Bacardi Blast in Goa, helping catapult the state into a centre for youth tourism. When Bollywood officially recognised Goa as the ‘cool place to be’ with movies such as Dil Chahta Hai in 2001, the process officially began. Goa was no longer in slumber. It was suddenly ubercool. That and other movies helped spur a new wave of Indian migrants to Goa. Then came the first IFFI held in Goa

is home to cafes that sell coffee at prices much higher than what the average Mala resident can afford. Fontainhas is no longer the crumbling, old , poor ‘Mala’ but the quaint, charming ‘Latin Quarter’ of Panjim. A third essential forerunner to the formation of a gentrified state is the sudden mushrooming of art events. There are art schools, galleries and art event spaces springing up all over the state. But unfortunately, most of the attendees are not the average Goan youth, but young, affluent, alternative migrants. The former can hardly afford the Rs 300 cocktails or the Rs 400 mains served at these joints. Whole stretches of Goa, especially in the northern and southern beach belts, are off limits to average folks looking to buy land or even just have a meal at a restaurant. To be sure, gentrification is not a straight arrow up. For various reasons, high-end tourism has been declining the last couple of seasons, and many of the fancier establishments are finding themselves empty. But with India set to resume high growth and with a shortage of easy-going, free-spirited Indian destinations like Goa, the underlying processes of gentrification will almost surely continue. In light of this, informed urban studies that calculate the social and economic impact of every new development, and can create sustainable tourism and growth policies, are a dire and immediate need. Without this, we are doomed to become another culture-less hive of the global moneyed and the powerful - where the honey that drew them in the first place has been washed away. 

8 Friday, March 13, 2015

Please Don’t Tell Us What To Eat! Recipe for Beef Goulash This is, after all, an edition focusing on growing intolerance in India. In recognition of the beef ban in neighbouring Maharashtra, and the current extreme difficulty of obtaining beef in Goa, we thought this would be an opportune moment to present a delicious recipe for Beef Goulash, from celebrated cooking expert Kornelia Santoro. You may have to wait a bit longer before beef is once again available. But once it is, trust us. You won’t go wrong with this yummy recipe! By Kornelia Santoro

hat I present here as Goulash – I must confess – has come a long way from the Hungarian original. I also have to disclose I have never had the pleasure to visit this Eastern European country. However I have grown

up with my mother’s version of this dish. What I call goulash though is something else still: I don’t even use paprika to cook it – the main ingredient in a Hungarian goulash. Sometimes you can find paprika here in Goa and then occasionally it finds its way into one of my concoctions. Nevertheless I like my version of goulash

even without the paprika. My men, the main audience of my efforts in the kitchen, are happy with it. They never complain about my audacity of calling goulash what is mainly pieces of stewed beef in tomato sauce. Certainly you can offer goulash all year round, yet it is not really a dish for the hot season. You can appreciate it better on a cool winter evening or during the monsoon rains, as it is one of these meat dishes which thrive on a rich sauce. Ingredients (for around 4 servings): • 500 gram lean beef • best from a filet or silver roll • 4 carrots • 500 grams of onions • 3 cloves of garlic • 2 packets of tomato puree • 6 tablespoons olive oil • 2 tablespoons butter • salt • pepper • water

Method: Clean your beef and cut away all bits of fat. Cut it into cubes about 2 centimeters long. Clean the carrots, the onions and the garlic. Chop the vegetables in a blender or dice them by hand. I have to say, that when it comes to chopping big amounts of vegetables I rather enjoy the support of electrical kitchen helpers. Many of my friends have the help of a maid which cleans and cuts vegetables for them, but honestly, I don’t really like that. I am rather fuzzy when it comes to food and I don’t like the idea of a domestic helper touching what I put into my mouth. Never mind my opinions, please: You are your own boss and if you have somebody doing the boring bits and pieces I can only say: good for you. According to logic reasoning with this attitude I should avoid restaurants altogether…but I am a woman and I don’t live according to logic. I rather do enjoy eating out occasionally – but when I do it comes with a rather high price tag. Forgive my ranting: The important thing for goulash is to have your vegetables for the sauce finely shredded before starting to cook.

Now heat the olive oil in a big pot. I use the pressure cooker for this dish as it cuts the cooking time into half and it never fails to render even the toughest meat tender. Of course you can cook it in a normal pot as well. Throw your meat into the well heated oil and turn it around, so it changes color everywhere. You want a bit of the brown, roasted crust on at least some pieces of meat to give flavor to the sauce. Now add your onions and carrots and fry all together for around 5 minutes. Finally add the tomato puree and enough water to cover everything. Now put on the lid and simmer on lowest flame for around 3 hours in a normal pot. If you use a pressure cooker, add half a liter of water, put on the lid and cook the goulash for one and a half hours after the first whistle. I know, this sounds like a very long time, but the Indian beef tends to be quite chewy and needs long cooking to become really tender. The meat of the goulash should be so soft that you don’t need a knife for cutting it. Towards the end of the cooking time, add the butter, salt and pepper according to your taste. If you like your goulash spicy, add one tea spoon of red, ground chilies together with the tomato puree. If you use a pressure cooker, wait until the pressure drops, then add the butter, salt and pepper. Serve this dish with boiled potatoes which soak up the delicious sauce nicely. Kornelia is a German food writer living in Goa, India, with her Italian husband and her son. She has published two cookbooks, Kornelia’s Kitchen - Mediterranean Cooking for India and Kornelia’s Kitchen 2 - Cooking for Allergies. Both have won the Gourmand World Cookbook Award. All her recipes are easy, fast and delicious - the right kind of food to keep your family healthy and happy without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Food & Drink 9

Friday, March 13, 2015

March 15 Sol de Goa Sunday Brunch Rest your weekend blues with lazy Sundays by the poolside. Sol de Goa presents Mexicana-Spanish Brunch with Sangrias, unlimited food and LIVE acoustic entertainment with The Beardos LIVE. At Sol De Goa, Nerul +91 9552134385

Every Thursday Thursday - Seafood Night Market For a ‘Grand Goan Night Market’ ambience with artefacts, 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

Every Saturday Barbeque Nights - With Caroline Treat yourself to assorted grilled delights from the live barbeque and more while losing yourself in the melodies of Caroline’s saxophone. Rs 1500++ per person At Alila Diwa Goa, Majorda +91 832 2746800 diwagoa@alilahotels.com www.alilahotels.com/diwagoa

Brunches Every Sunday 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, tandoor, 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

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 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

Baga, Calangute &Around 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 Koi True Asian , very tasty At Taj Road, Gaurawaddo, Calangute 12 pm to 1 am +91 98733 42567 koigoa.com Chandni Chowk Indian Punjabi food rocks here .. Tikkas, Kebabs, Dhaba Murgh, Dum Biryani... so muchh more. At Baga - Calangute Road, Calangute 12 pm to 11.30 pm +91 9623922796

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 (withalcohol); Rs. 1100/- inclusive of all Taxes (without alcohol) At Resort Rio, Tambudki, Arpora 12 noon to 3 pm +91 8322267300 / +91 8322267302

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

Sunday Brunches@ 899/head Burger Pizzas Beer Salads Cocktails Desserts House – Spirits Beverages At Cheenos, Baga 12 pm to 4 pm. +91 8806564991

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

Champagne Brunch Begin your brunch with lobster and Champagne, 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

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

Anjuna & Around

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 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 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 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

Candolim The Clematis Aqua Maritime Mouth watering Seafood Speciality with Mock tails and Cocktails by The Pool Side. Hookah Lounge: Enjoy the flovors 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

Palms n Sands: With a view so mesmerising that the only thing that will compete for your attention is the food. Located bang on the shores of Arabian Sea, Palms n Sands has been catering a stupendous blend of Goan, North Indian and Continental cuisines along with refreshing cocktails since 1989. Dando, Candolim Beach, Bardez – Goa (T) 0832-2479171 (M) 9822149629 Caravela Chinese, European, Goan, Italian, North Indian, Thai A long-time favourite 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

Panjim & around 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 Goa.Grand.Hyatt.Com Aunty Maria Coffee & Bites Available Fresh home-made breads, cakes, chocolates and cookies At Hotel Fidalgo, Panjim +91 832 2226291 secgoa@fidalgogroup.com www.fidalgogroup.com Goenchin Chinese, Pan Asian Yes the Chinese food here is Indian-ized. But is that necessarily a bad thing? It depends on your taste. At Mandovi apartment, Dr Dada Vaidya Road, Panjim Noon to 3 pm, 7 pm to 11 pm +91 8322227614 reservations@hotelmandovigoa.com www.hotelmandovigoa.com Casabela Continental, European 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 mail@casabelagoa.com www.casabelagoa.com 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

Margao & Around Brews & Bakes Brewing Smiles & Baking Memories At Shop No: 250, Abade Faria Road, Comba, Margao +91 8308800080 brewsnbakes@live.com Café Mardi Gras Goan, North Indian, coffee & snacks. Pan fried 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 www.holidayinn.com

Canacona 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

10 Cover Story

The Tyranny of Utopia Intolerance and the Modi Revolution By Selma Carvalho and Steven Gutkin

Into that heaven of freedom, let my country awake - Tagore Only tyrants are suspicious; only secret evil doers are fearful – Johann Herder

erhaps we knew deep down that worse things were yet to come but we told ourselves they couldn’t happen. Not here. Not now. Dark clouds appeared on the horizon even before Narendra Modi ascended to India’s most powerful office in a frenzy of euphoric expectation. Publishing giant Penguin India announced it would banish all copies of Wendy Doniger’s book The Hindus: An Alternative History. Movies were censored, minorities were disparaged and all those who see India as “Hindustan,” a place where other creeds are stomached but not esteemed, felt wind in their sails. In those early days, Narendra Modi’s remarkable makeover from Devil of Gujarat to Saviour of India was still incomplete. His supposed crimes of commission and omission in his home state during sectarian riots still weighed heavily on the hearts of Indian progressives. But as it became clear that he was poised to decapitate the incumbent Congress Party like a god of mythical proportions, something changed. Modi’s success represented

the will of the people of the second largest nation on earth, after all. His promise of development resonated among millions who saw no future in an India tied up in socialist bureaucracy and mired in medieval levels of poverty. Then came the burning of churches, the banning of beef, the “welcoming” of Catholics and Muslims into the Hindu fold, and the suppression of an extraordinarily important documentary on rape. A new political environment emerged in which one politician felt free to call for the defilement of the corpses of Muslim women, and another asked his countrymen to boycott movies featuring men whose surname is Khan – Salman, Shah Rukh and Aamir - because they’re in relationships with Hindu women.

Suddenly, the question of Modi’s responsibility during the Gujarat riots is relevant again. Suddenly, Indians are asking the most fundamental questions of who they are and who they want to be as a nation. Yes, we want development. Yes, it’s time for India to assume its rightful place on the world stage. Yes, the prime minister looked like a rock star at Madison Square Garden in New York City. But at this early stage of the Modi Revolution, one must consider the costs. Can this much hopedfor development really occur in an atmosphere of growing intolerance? If the Muslims of Maharashtra are deprived of a main food staple, if the Christians of Goa are told their religion is unworthy, if hearts are hardened and minorities disenfranchised and violence intensified, how will India take its place in the sun? Behind the spectral lure of development is another aspiration, frothing and shrill, which now seems entirely possible: a Hindu Rashtra. Make no mistake, Gandhi too believed in a Ram Rajya (the rule

of Rama). But Nehru, ever the dapper, Cambridge-educated secularist, and always a little ill at ease with traditional India, managed to keep xenophobia at bay. Gandhi’s vision of Ram Rajya may indeed have been a liberal one; we will never know. But the Sangh Parivar’s version is nothing short of terrifying. To achieve this utopian state, this Akhand Bharat of the imagination, takes determination, concerted effort and stealth (let’s remember that real life is pluralistic, chaotic and unpredictable). It requires the purging of all that is foreign, with “foreign” defined as every non-Hindu influence in the country’s history, starting with the Muslim invasions and moving on to the Portuguese, the French, the British and every other interloper who crossed these shores and shaped the country’s destiny. It requires the abdication of a long tradition of liberal tolerance among foward-thinking Hindus, personified by people like Romesh Chunder Dutt, Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Ravindra Kelekar and other luminaries. It means a return to the purity of language (Sanskrit), of diet (vegetarianism) and sexual morality (moral policing of women and homosexuals); the regulation of the arts, theatre, film and literature, turning our backs on a centuriesold dialectic tradition. It means Turn to page 12

12 Cover Story From page 10

the only “true” Indians will be Hindu. According to the ideologues from whom the nationalists draw inspiration, Veer Savarkar and M. S. Golwalkar, Muslims look to Mecca and Christians to the Vatican (News Flash: Non-Hindu Indians are just as proud of our country as everyone else!). It means fixating on an ideal of an ancient past and, when there isn’t enough authentic material in which to take pride in, simply concocting it by conflating science, archaeology and history with spurious interpretations of mythology. Modi’s breathtaking rise emboldened extremists. A curious Ghar Wapsi, or “homecoming” programme, emerged, led by the VHP (Vishwa Hindu Parishad, or World Hindu Congress), encouraging “reconversions” to Hinduism. A spate of unexplained attacks on Christian churches followed, and Christmas Day became Good Governance Day, making it necessary for government employees to show up for work on the holiest day of the Christian calendar. The film censor board had a change of guard sympathetic to the BJP, with the new chairman, Pahlaj Nihalani, sending a fresh list of 28 objectionable cuss words to producers. Even the innocuousness of Valentine’s Day was compromised, with volunteers

from the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha patrolling public spaces to marry off all those caught kissing (are we in India, or Saudi Arabia?).This is the “pure India” of the right, where civil liberties are irrelevant. Two recent bans have sparked vocal protests: the ban on beef in Maharashtra and the nation-wide ban on the BBC documentary India’s Daughter. Cow slaughter is already illegal in most states across India, but the recent blanket ban on the slaughter of any bovine, the sale of beef and its possession now means offenders can face fines up to Rs 10,000 and a fiveyear jail sentence. The law criminalises consumption and harkens back to the grim days of alcohol prohibition. The ban on beef is particularly invasive because it disenfranchises minorities and seeks to impose a religious code of conduct in public life. The banning of the documentary India’s Daughter is of particular note, because it suppresses a valuable piece of journalism that holds a mirror to a problem in dire need of public attention. NDTV was coerced into cancelling its scheduled airing on 8 March. NDTV

am appalled at the short sightedness and ignorance of the incumbent government of India with their recent censorship activities. Whilst people are bound by their discretion to write with decency, criticism of any person or group of persons (governments) must be allowed. I was dismayed to see one of Mario Miranda’s works partially covered at Reis Magos Fort recently, which I’m sure was not censored before. It was maybe a little risqué but certainly not offensive. Art is a difficult subject for sure and will always offend someone. If one is offended by such jokes or cartoons or art, one should move on and leave it to others to enjoy, not penalising the majority for one’s own prudishness or bigotry. Anne Ketteringham, photographer, ornithologist, writer

think the single greatest threat that can arise from this culture of bans is when artists, filmmakers, writers begin to censor themselves during the creative process itself. There is the danger of losing out on so much artistic merit when that happens. However, it is possibly a proven fact that while fundamentalist regimes or conservative environments stifle the execution and distribution of ideas that run counter to its ideology, art triumphs over all this noise. Ideas cannot be stifled. Art is a dangerous thing. That is why it is so potent, and the source of so much angst for the powers that be. A great idea, a powerful one, a revolutionary one that has found its time cannot be repressed, not matter how many lives are at stake. Rosalyn D’Mello, art critique, writer

lodged a silent protest by leaving the scheduled time slot blank and running just a flickering candle instead. Eerily, these were tactics adopted by newspapers to protest against Indira Gandhi’s 1975 Emergency. When in February 1977, rapturous crowds gathered at the Ram Lila Maidan, it was BJP veteran, Atal Vajpayee who carried the day with his poem: “There are tales to tell and tales to hear; but first let us breathe deeply of the free air for we know not how long our freedom will last.” There is perhaps, a chilling irony here to party politics. Today’s champion of freedom can become tomorrow’s tyrant.

ensorship not only violates freedom of expression but it also curbs the creative impulse in society forcing its members to suppress their dissent for fear of disapproval. No society can grow under irresponsible censorship. Father Victor Ferrao, Dean of Philosophy, Rachol Seminary

he country is going through turmoil. The irresponsible statements coming from some newly elected MPs and the RSS heads are highly disturbing. Attributing motives to the selfless services rendered by Mother Teresa, the pressurizing of the censor board, call for Ghar Vapsi, attacks on religious places are some of the acts that threaten the secularism that our Constitution guarantees. There is an attempt to scuttle the rational voice. Dr. Narendra Dabholkar, writer and protagonist of secularism who fought the battle against blind faith was shot down by two gunmen in Pune last year. The same feat was repeated last month by the killers when Govind Pansare, another activist, was killed in Kolhapur. What surprises me is that the electorate, especially the Prime Minister and his cabinet, keep mum thereby giving candid sanction to these frivolities. If we do not voice our concern, the questionable state of affairs will go unchecked. Damador Mauzo, award winning Konkani writer

At first, censorship and bans may seem like small affronts. Trivial cracks in the wall of democracy can be taken in stride. But what happens when they are harbingers of greater evil? When the people become too weak even to protest? It was mid February, 2014, in what was an otherwise uninspiring news week, when Penguin India announced it would pulp all copies of Doniger’s book, which had sat for some time on the neglected shelves of Indian bookstores. Now suddenly many of us were frantically swapping PDFs of the book and scouring through its pages to see what was so objectionable. As the dust settled, one image remained: the solitary figure of Dinanath Batra, an RSS stalwart, slaying the fearful Penguin in a masterful stroke. No riots had taken place. No government had sought a ban. No court had ordered the books off the shelves. Yet Penguin crumbled. With intolerance on the rise throughout the country, the question is: Will today’s voices of moderation crumble, too? 

ban does not solve a problem. It is a barrier for negotiations and dialogue. What did prohibition do to any place? It increased illegal activities to a point that eventually the bans had to be lifted. The present bans in India display a juvenile mind; dangerous at a time when India would like to project itself as a progressive, emerging country. Bans will affect investment, progress and ultimately bring down the Government that began the bans. Wendell Rodricks, fashion designer, writer, environmental activist

he right to freedom of expression is not absolute nor is it to be exercised recklessly. If my opinion is going to hurt the feelings of another, I should not knowingly express it. In other words, my right should be tempered with responsibility. Regarding the Wendy Doniger controversy, my view is that a non-Hindu person should not attempt to write about Hindus and their way of life in a pejorative manner. People today are sensitive about their religion, that is often tied to nationalism, to give rise to fundamentalism that makes sense only to the fundamentalists. Writers need to exercise due care and judgment when writing about controversial issues. Ben Antao, journalist, author

ith a cheeky tag line ‘It’s Plucking Awesome’, a new fast food retail brand called Chicken Man is sure to attract young adults and busy mothers in Panjim with their rotisserie chicken, aptly titled ‘Wow’. The first outlet of many planned across India is now open on A.B. Road in the capital’s commercial district in February 2015. The menu comprises quarter, half or over-sized whole roast chicken portions for an introductory price of only Rs. 350 only, discounted from the regular price of Rs. 500.Three basic flavours are available… Original Wow, Hot‘n Mean, and Wow Crispy. The Chicken Man Wow Chicken is tastier and healthier than pizza or fried chicken since it is slow roasted in a rotisserie oven, rather than fried. There are also tasty side dishes such as coleslaw and vegetarian options such as wraps and mashed potatoes. There is something for everyone on the menu.

13 ‘Chicken Man’ Brand Provides Tasty and Healthy Options for Home Delivery!” Kids get their very own meal size, while those who like spice can enjoy the special Chicken Man hot sauce. Chicken Man has something for those with a sweet tooth too… dessert-lovers can feast on Mama Joy’s Bread Pudding with creamy custard, Genny’s vanilla or espresso puddings. Furthermore, new menu items will be introduced on a regular basis. The partners behind the brand have chosen Panjim as the location for the first of many outlets across India because they see great potential here. India is actually 70% non-vegetarian, according to a 2006 survey carried out by The Hindu/CNN-IBN. This statistic certainly reflects the inclination towards meat consumption in Goa and the recession in the off-peak season doesn’t apply to Panjim, where there is a lot of demand for tasty and hygienic meals from residential and corporate

offices all year round. One of the partners Sunder Aaron, a former Executive Vice President of Sony Television India left the media business to pursue ventures in the fast food industry. He says “We are witnessing a significant lifestyle change in India when it comes to food. Where people used to take tiffins from home, they now prefer eating out and fast food. There is also a demographic shift towards a younger population, and this generation is powering the growth of fast food in India. Fast food is projected to grow annually at 20-30% in India.” The other partners Mihir Nerurkar, Avatar Panesar and Aziz Lalani came together because they are passionate about the fast food industry. Lalani has a strong hospitality background in

Goa, as owner of a 4-star boutique resort AZZURE by Spree Hotels in Calangute, and a co-owner of Waters Beach Lounge & Grill in Vagator. Aziz is also a former owner and creator of a highly successful and first-of-its-kind fine-dine world cuisine restaurant chain called Flags in Mumbai & Pune. The management team has a strong leadership by women, who along with other staff have top-notch hospitality backgrounds having worked for the Taj Group, Domino’s Pizza and others. Chicken Man has a focus on food quality that is based on freshness, flavour and consistency. The management is proud of the international hygiene standards that are followed throughout the operation. The well-designed outlet is geared up for self-service and delivery within Panjim, which provides Goans with a great healthier and tasty alternative to ordering pizza or Chinese fast food for delivery. 

XPLOR: Party in a Can!

Go Green, be responsible

reat responsibility as aluminium cans reduces carbon footprint. The newly launched XPLOR highly inspirational ready to drink cocktails comes in fully illustrated lightweight, stylish and slim 250ml aluminiumcans. Research reveals that aluminium cans are the greener vessel because aluminium is lighter, which makes for a smaller carbon footprint from transportation than glass. From packaging footprint, aluminium can have a smaller carbon footprint than the glass bottle. Also, the bottle has a paper label on it, and paper has a lot of water content in it. Part of the reason the carbon footprint for an aluminium can is lower is that it has more recycled content than any other beverage container. Can product also chill faster, saving energy again! While drinking an Xplor RTD can, a responsible consumer gets to feel “So I’m being more environmentally responsible if I drink my stuff from a can than if I drink it from a bottle”. “With every cocktail in a can we make, we work to uphold our great responsibility. We produce great

cocktails and strive to make a difference throughout the lifecycles of each one, from implementing sustainable growing practices to encouragingconsumers to recycle our packaging after enjoying the finished product” says Dr. Mohan Krishna CMD, Cheers group. When it comes to the latest trends, consumers globally are starting to really embrace the convenience of a premixed drink in a Can. The pre-mixed can has become the rage and real traction world-over in the recent past. Xplor RTD in can is the first of its kind in India with exciting international flavours. ‘Convenience occasions’ are multiplying as we become busier and lazier, and even in the home – the one place we might have the time and tools to self-open, mix and decant – consumers are now seeking the easier option:Xplor RTD. “Consumers are not bartenders. In the main they want their drinks to arrive with the minimum of fuss. Complicated serving rituals, measures and alcoholto-mixer ratios involve input, effort and knowledge. Having it pre-mixed makes life easy. People like easy” says Ashwin, Director, Cheers group. 

Friday, March 13, 2015

Shigmo Utsav 2015

Great Goan Experiences

Float Parade March 14 - Panjim March 15 - Mapusa March 16 - Pernem March 17 - Quepem March 18 - Cuncolim March 19 – Sanguem

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

March 15 Combat Cage Fight India vs Great Britain At Tito's Courtyard, Baga 6 pm onwards

March 14 to March 15 Goa Farmer's Markets By Karen Anand At Grand Hyattt Goa, Bambolim +91 9823012901 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com

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 Saraya Second Life Workshop at Saraya Give your old newspaper a second life. Transform them into boxes, baskets, bags, lamps and even furniture! Dania Rodriguez from Portugal and Simone Guercio from Italy will teach you how to recycle your old waste. At Saraya, Sangolda +91 988656005 ria.saraya@Gmail.com

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 tour of birds. 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

Water sports Water Splash Cruises A large fleet of Catamarans, Boats, and Cruisers & Yachts: take to the water, the sea, the sky. At Models Status, Dona Paula +91 8888864347 www.watersplashcruises.com 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

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 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 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

Introducing‘Raymond Linen’ – ‘What’s Real, Feels Real’

aymond - the leading manufacturer, marketer and retailer of worsted suiting fabrics & finest cotton shirting fabrics today set a new milestone by announcing its foray into the Linen category with the launch of ‘Raymond Linen’. The launch of ‘Raymond Linen’was a grand affair organized at Grand Hyatt, Goa in the presence ofSanjay Behl, CEO – Lifestyle Business, Raymond Limited along with the Bollywood actor, RandeepHooda as the showstopperat a scintillating Fashion show.Distinguished fashion designer SuketDhircreated an exclusive collection for the show using the ‘Raymond Linen’ range. This suave new collection consists of the finest and purest linens that are natural, light-weight and comfortable making it an ideal fabric for a tropical country such as India. The event was attended by famous fashion designer Rajesh Pratap Singh and other eminent personalities from the industry. Speaking about this latest offering during the launch, Sanjay Behl, Chief Executive Officer, Raymond Limited said;“Raymond has always offered its consumers the finest quality suiting & shirting fabrics. Linen as a fashion fabric is internationally acclaimed and well suited for India which has tropical climatic conditions, especially in summer season. With our established leadership position in textiles and an increasing consumer preference for natural fabrics such as linen, Raymond is launching the widest range of 100% pure linen products across suiting, shirting and trouser segments. Raymond linen will be amongst the best a consumer can get anywhere in the world.” ‘Raymond Linen’ is an opulent range of ultraluxurious natural fabrics crafted to stand the test time. This 100% pure linen is produced from long staple fibers and offers a wide range that is available in counts from 44 Lea to 150 Lea (finest in the world).

Sol de Goa

Goa’s all new destination for Luxury Hospitality & Entertainment

ou’ll find the old world charm infused with a contemporary elegance. The walls speak the beautiful language of Goan heritage. The calm and serenity of the Sinquerim river and untouched fields. The timeless, luxurious décor by Tarun Tahiliani stays unparalleled. Experience the magic... This week at Sol de Goa: March 14, 2015: Saturday Night Live@Sol de Goa The all new Saturday Night Live@Sol de Goa introduces the Big Band night with Carlton Braganza OPUS Night (Bangalore) on March 14th supported by Sylvester Pradeep and Sheridan Brass to give weekend partying an all new night-out address. 8.00pm onwards. March 15, 2015: Sol de Goa Sunday Brunch Rest your weekend blues with lazy Sundays by the poolside. Sol de Goa presents Mexicana-Spanish Brunch with Sangrias, unlimited food and LIVE acoustic entertainment with The Beardos LIVE. Reservations & Enquiries: Carol 9552134385

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Friday, March 13, 2015

s ’ n e m Wo In

! t o o F r O . . . d n a H g n i p l e H Need of a

By Vivian Maverick Martins

Will anyone step up to rescue women's football from the doldrums and take it to the level expected from a state that boasts a proud soccer history or will the Goa Football Association continue to give women’s football the cold shoulder?

a o G n i l l a b t Foo

oan women have brought glory to the ‘beautiful game’ both at the national and international levels. Unfortunately, however, their state has been unwilling or unable to match their significant contributions to football with actual resources. The Goan Football Association recently celebrated International Women’s Day with great pomp at the Duler Stadium in Mapusa, felicitating women who have contributed to the game and unveiling plans for women’s football programs in Goa. So far, though, we’ve seen all talk and no action. In recent years, the number of activities bolstering women’s football in Goa promoted by the association total zero. To be sure, there is some reason for optimism. For one, Elvis Gomes, President of the Goa Football Association, is making the right noises. He promises that women’s football will be given its due recognition and plans are on to revive women’s football. Juliana Gujrao e Colaco, footballer

extraordinaire, has been handpicked by the GFA to head the women’s committee, leading the transitional phase of women’s football development in Goa. “I have sought to give as much importance to women's football as that of men and for that we’ve formed a strong subcommittee under Juliana Gurjao e Colaco”, says Elvis Gomes. Gomes’ vision and passion for the game is known to all, and there’s little reason to doubt the sincerity of his promises. A number of activities are in fact being carried out for the development of girls’ football by the Goa Football Development Council. But big questions remain over whether those activities and the women’s committee will receive the moral and financial support they require. According to a senior GFA official who did not want to be named because he was criticising his own association, the women’s committee lacks teeth and does not get the support it needs from GFA executive committee members. It’s little wonder women’s football has been neglected for more than a decade now. Clearly, one cannot blame past women’s sub-committees for inaction when executive committee members saw them as largely irrelevant.

Asked to comment on the same, Elvis Gomes promised that there will be minimal interference and that the current women’s subcommittee will be given all the support necessary to revive women’s football in Goa. “I have myself presided over their first meeting and assured all the support to them. Juliana has been given a free hand in reviving women’s soccer and I even deputed her to Delhi recently to attend a workshop on women's football. We have asked the subcommittee to give their report,” added Gomes. With Juliana Gujrao e Colaco leading the charge, women’s football may well be on the right track, especially if the GFA president manages to deliver on his promises by backing the committee. Juliana has big plans for women’s development, saying “Competitions for girls from 10 years onwards need to be encouraged, planned and incorporated in the GFA calendar and also a longterm development plan needs to be formulated” She adds, “Women’s football should also be promoted at the village level where parents, locals, clubs all work in unison and take responsibility to nurture

young talent.” Former top footballer Yolanda de Souza, a former India international star and an everlasting master class performer on the field, feels strongly that women’s football must be given greater importance. “They should try to give at least a third of what is given to the men in terms of thought process to develop women’s football”, said de Souza. “GFA needs to have a league for the women and all the clubs should have a women’s team so that there is some kind of equality between men and women”, added de Souza, former captain of the Indian football team. “How much can the schools do? It is high time there are age-group tournaments for girls just like the boys in the state, with the clubs participating. Some of the bigger clubs can surely afford it and it will give the girls the much needed support,” de Souza opined. As the GFA president awaits the first report from the women’s committee, it remains to be seen what comes out of it, whether the recommendations made by the committee are actually implemented or dumped and forgotten in a GFA cabinet, as has happened in the past. 

Team before the 6-a-side finals with Elvis Gomes,Victor Gonsalves, and Juliana Gujrao e Colaco

Friday, March 13, 2015

An Endangered Goan Treasure In Conversation With Heritage Expert Heta Pandit

By Perin Ilavia

aavi art, beautiful, intricate murals painted with red Konkan soil against white sandblasted backgrounds, representative of the early creative impulses of Goa, is dying. Much of the work was done hundreds of years ago, etched onto the walls of temples, shrines, homes and the occasional Roman Catholic Church. Many of the structures on which the art is rendered are owned by private families who lack the economic resources to properly maintain them. Heta Pandit, an independent researcher and writer on heritage issues, spoke at the Gallery Gitanjali

this past week about these highly endangered Kaavi murals, many of which feature images of lotuses or sunflowers and geometrical designs set on snow-white lime obtained by burning sea shells. Heta herself has led a rather exciting life. While on a voyage in East Africa, she met Dr. Jane Goodall, the world renowned anthropologist and chimpanzee expert, working for four years as her field and research assistant at the Gombe Stream Research Centre in Tanzania. Heta has long worked to protect the environment and heritage

sites, in addition to her stints as a copywriter and tea planter. Along with architect Annabel Mascarenhas, she co-authored the book “Houses of Goa”, published by the award-winning architect Gerard da Cunha in 1998. In October 2000, she won a two-year research scholarship from the Homi Bhabha Fellowships Council, Mumbai, to document the work of artisans and craftsmen in Goan house-building. This research took the form of an illustrated book, “Hidden Hands – Master Builders of Goa”. In

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Friday, March 13, 2015

Mar 3 to April 3 Galleria by Streets presents Beyond the Canvas An Artistic journey by Dr. Nandita Desai Exquisite show of painting, jewellery, furniture, sculptures, Clothing. At Our Office, Chogm Road, Sangolda 9.30 am to 7 pm +91 8975879394

Feb 20 to April 20 Art of Wood Exhibition "Made in Goa" At The Cube Gallery, Calizor Vaddo, Moira 11 am to 7 pm +91 832 2470415/ +91 9422806748 thecubegallerygoa@gmail.com

Feb 13 Onwards Kama, Interrupted Kama, Interrupted is a multimedia art exhibition featuring eighteen artists based in Goa. It is a unique event exemplifying the unbridled power and authenticity of the best talent in Goa today. At Gallery Gitanjali, Panjim 6.30 pm +91 8806035195 gallerygitanjali@gmail.com http://www.gallerygitanjali.com/

March 7 to Mar 19 Photography exhibition "A glimpse of Macau" Inauguration with the presence of the author Margarida Fernandes At Art Gallery, Sanskruti Bhavan, Patto, Panjim. 10 am to 5 pm +91 9763365050

March 15 to April 4 "A Peaceful Quest" a multimedia art exhibition by Eleanor Viegas At Carpe Diem Art Gallery, Majorda 5.30 pm onwards +91 8888862462

Untill March 15 Chitrasangam 2015 International Group Art Exhibition Organised by “Art Inspired” At Ujwal Art Gallery, Vagator +91 97648 47397

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. “Paradise” a stimulating place 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 artifacts at this upscale studio by Yahel Chirinian. At Mainath Batti, Arpora 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM +91 9822122771

Off The Wall A collectible of deeply astounding works of art displayed on daily basis at this thoughtful art cafe. Fort Aguada Road, Sinquerim, Candolim 10:30 am to 11:30 pm +91 9820083497 | +91 9823289123 Panjim Art Gallery Get a dose of the local culture with figurative work of Goan artists. Near Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim 9:00 am to 8:00 pm +91 9822168703 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 centers in the state, featuring confident acrylic strokes that are somewhat three dimensional, put across the canvas by Yolanda De Souza and others. The musical acts here are worth looking out for.  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 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

2002, she was recognized for her contribution to Goan literature by the prestigious Menezes Braganza Institute. She’s also published a book listing 1,000 historic properties in Kerala, wining an award from the Kerala Government. Her book “Walking with Angles” compares the architecture of Goan churches with that of Christian homes. She founded the Goa Heritage Action Group and The Heritage Network, conducting tours and other events designed to protect Goa’s historic legacy. Formerly a resident of Goa, Heta now resides in Mumbai. Perin Ilavia: How did your interest in preservation start? Heta Pandit: It began in Tanzania, East Africa in the 1980’s when I realized that buildings were evidence of history. In Dar e Salaam where I lived there were no buildings that reflected the history of the Africans, just buildings built by the British. I then saw the importance of buildings as extensions of people’s identity. PI: Why and when did you visit the Desprabhu House in Pernem? HP: I went to the Deshprabhu House, a beautiful mansion typical of Indo-European architecture with very few local features, for the book Houses of Goa in 1998. The Goan feature in interiors is the prominent Kaavi art.

PI: How did you meet Mrs Satvashila Devi Raje Bhosale, Maharani of Sawantwadi? HP: She is an artist herself, and custodian of the arts and crafts of Sawantwadi. When I heard that there were some examples of Kaavi in Sawantwadi, I went to see her as part of my research for the book “Master Builders of Goa”. That is when she shared many thoughts on Kaavi. In fact, I was introduced to some artists who knew about the technique, and noted that Kaavi has in fact come to Maharashtra and Karnataka from Goa. PI: Were you involved with Fundação Oriénte, and scholars José Pestana and restorer Miguel Mateus, who conducted preliminary studies on Kaavi, and restored the temple at Advalpale in Goa, in 2006? HP: Yes. PI: From the structures identified for restoration, who is going to fund the projects? HP: Governments have to recognize the value of this state and national heritage and fund the preservation. The wealth belongs to us all even if the property belongs to an individual or a family. According to me, the preservation of heritage buildings and these paintings are important because it’s evidence of our history, a documentation of a social life and period. 

Galleria by

18 Arts & Entertainment

r. Nandita Desai is a wonderfully talented artist from Mumbai who just this past week won the prestigious Prafulla Dahanukar Art Foundation’s Emerging Artist Reward Scheme Contest 2015 for Mumbai City in the category of painting. Nandita’s exhibition “Beyond The Canvas” is on display through April 3 at Galleria By Streets, at the Goa Streets headquarters on Chogm Road in Sangolda. It’s a rather extraordinary presentation. We hope you stop by! Open Monday through Saturday from 10 30 AM to 6 30 PM. Below, Nandita explains the thought processes and inspirations behind her show, which features painted furniture, clothing, jewellery and lamps, in addition to sculptures and paintings of various types. By Dr. Nandita Desai

Mixed Media Art I have the most fun, and bursts of creativity, while painting my mixed media collage pieces. I sit with my photos, scraps of paper, fabric, glue, gesso, bits of my old paintings and just go a little wild. Ink is splashed on the canvas, oils meet it, acrylics are not left behind, gesso is everywhere and as if organically, with a life of its own a mixed media piece is created. Unlike a painting which is planned, structured, drawn and balanced, my mixed media work is spontaneous and a little bit crazy. Vintage Art and Furniture To me, vintage furniture and artefacts are like old wine – mellow, churning, elegant and irreplaceable. Finding an antique or vintage piece is like searching for an archeological treasure – it looks unspectacular, covered in age old grime and yet almost peeping, from behind the dust curtain its beauty shines softly. I discover, clean and treat the piece and then think how should I paint this? My table and its trunk of “blue ladies” is reminiscent of an old haveli with ladies draped all over the structure. Vintage art was created also with using old print, printed collages which were painted and old sleeper wood frames. I discovered an old door with railway sleeper wood at an antique shop. It was decrepit and shabby – but after restoration and golden creepers painted on it, it came back to life!

Oil Painting As children we start writing with pencils and so I thought my artistic journey would start with pencils, crayons, waters, acrylics and then oils. But then I found myself jumping straight into the oil, linseed, and turpentine cauldron. I paint for me first and then for any other purpose, cause, or exhibition. That’s where the satisfaction lies – it’s mine, I created it. Lounge wear I like comfort in my dressing, with clothes that breathe. Cotton, mul-mul, silk, linen all are my favourites. I paint my comfortable lounge wear to match specific pieces of jewellery. The painted clothing is in harmony with its neckpiece – so that the jewellery and the dress are one entity! Buddha Sculptures: The ‘Journey’ The ‘Journey’ is a series of 9 wooden sculptures inspired by the renunciation and journey onto a spiritual path by the Buddha. The long flat sculptures symbolize both his actual journey on foot and his flowing spirituality and movement of his journey. The twigs, bells, bowls and birds are all part of his oneness with nature and his truth found within. The tree is symbolic of the Bodhi tree under which he gained Nirvana. The large sculpture celebrates his existence, yet, according to his desire for not being worshipped does not idolize him or deify him.

Galleria by

I chose an old (150 year old!) tree to create these sculptures for their sheer aesthetic beauty and naturalness and to symbolize the truth that the Buddha found in simplicity, nature and the oneness of being. Jewellery The idea of art in jewellery first struck me when I saw Anjolie Ela Menon’s painted pendant. The idea was further enhanced by Ms. Poonam Soni’s Gaudi inspirations. Yet, as always, I wanted my necklace to be hugely personal and unique. I started searching for ideas from the vintage pieces in the nooks and corners of my favorite haunt – the Chor Bazar in Mumbai. From Vintage brass chains, panchdhatu pendants, old brooches and photographs I gathered them all. I want my jewellery to reflect who I am – a person who loves art, all things organic and natural and hand-made and of course …… Vintage! From hand-made ceramic pendant, to pure glass, to cool white hand-cut marble, to paper to fabric to natural beads to laser cut wood, to solid wood pendants, to semi-precious stones, to real silver – I created, cut, pasted, served and painted my heart into my

wearable art! Every piece is hand crafted and or hand painted and each jewellery is different from the other. They are all be-spoke and no two are absolutely the same – much like the humans that inhabit our earth. Different and unique yet belonging to one family! Wear my pieces with elan and attitude – it’s you who will make them sing! Lamps Light has always fascinated me. I read with interest “In praise of Shadows” by Junichirō Tanizaki. It’s about the play of light and the beauty of reflection and shadows. We use light in all our festivals and in our homes. Could I make this source very personal – could I hand paint it? I sourced old brass wonders at a lamp shade dealer in Marve. Tucked away under loads of rubble and fabric, they stood forlorn and forgotten. They were the beginning. I went on to discover old glass coloured bottles, hand-made ceramics and felled trees I could transform into lamps. They were cleaned, polished, and given a new avatar while retaining their old quirkiness and special integrity. I then sourced the fabric for the lamp shades – they were then all custom made. Later came the finale – all shades were scrutinized for inspiration and were painted or hand crafted with embellishments. Enjoy my journey into the world of unique lamps and light up your homes. 

Friday, March 13, 2015