Issue No: 05

3

Friday, December 5, 2014

Art Escape at Baywatch keeps alive the spirit of Jazz

By Shubham Gupta

T

he Goa International Jazz Live Festival, held from 28th to 30 of November, lived up to its promise of being one of the most iconic Jazz fests in the country. It was a three-day extravaganza inviting acts from France, Switzerland, USA, Canada, Brazil and of course, India.

The lovely Baywatch resort in Benaulim served as the venue, an apt setting for live performances especially for rock, jazz, blues and indie music. The Jazz Fest was packed with enthusiasts from around the globe, a fraction of them being hotel guests while the rest had travelled long distances just to listen to that soul stirring music. The start of

the festival couldn’t have been more electrifying.

The first act of the festival was led by Mishko M’Ba, a French bassist paying tribute to the ledendary Jaco Pastorius.

The way M’Ba moved his fingers on the fret board was hypnotic in itself while the bassline that one could hear was completely harmonized with the Saxophone, Guitars and Drums to back him up in a collective called Mishko M’Ba and the Jaco Pastorius Tribute Band.

Next up was the Tarun Balani Collective. It had Tarun Balani on drums, Juilie Hills from USA on Vocals, Derek Beckvold on saxophone from USA, Wesley Allan on Viola (Bass) from Canada and

4 Music & Nightlife music & nightlife | 3 Jazz Fest at Art Escape

corner | 6 Farmer’s Market Debut in Goa

feature | 7 Conglomerate of Michael Coutinho

food & drink | 8 A German Christmas Delight

Dec 5 Beach Party 2014 Starring Both2project (Rus), Eleena Jain (Rus) , Leon, Funksun At Cafe Lilliput, Anjuna 6 pm onwards +91 9822137767 Budweiser Presents MADE Stage in Goa Teddy Boy Kill, Func, Hashback Hashish, Don Bhatt, Vinny Bhagat.

At Baxters, Morjim Beach 6 pm madestage@budweiserindia.com Opening Party XP Voodoo Nitin B2B Starling, Iria At Sunset Ashram, Ashvem Beach 6 pm onwards +91 9953887818 Moo-Tala’s Primitive Soul Groove (From Japan) Drum, Didgerido, Japanese Drum Elvis Lobo on Guitar At Guru Bar, North Anjuna 7.30 pm +91 9960956691

Dec 6

cover story | 10-11 Getaways, Goodies & Gifts Guide

Sundowners With DJ Tania Electrifying Music, Unlimited Fun, Join the Madness At North 16 Goa Resort, Calangute 5 pm onwards +91 8554984854

Dec 7

corner | 12 Living Spaces by Sangolda Residency

what's on | 14 Events in Goa

arts & entertainment | 15 Interview with Prof. Edwin Thumboo

arts & entertainment | 16 Nikhil Chopra’s Confrontational Performances

arts & entertainment | 17 In Conversation with Wong Kar Wai

corner | 18 N16 Soon To Be Hard Rock Hotel, Goan Designs at Bebel

GALF 2014 - Smoking Chutney to jazz up the fest Goa Arts and Literary Festival SMOKING CHUTNEY Goa's sensational latin-jazz-funk-blues band At the International Centre Goa 8 pm onwards +91 9657574480

Dec 14 The White Party With Mouhini, Christ Burstein, Shaun Moses, Tejas Dress Code: Strickly White At Marbela Beach, Morjim 7 pm onwards +91 9158881180/85

Dec 5 to Dec 6 Lost in Goa - Full Moon Magic With Jibba, Chozen Jo, Philostrate, Brahmaastra and Many More At UV Bar, Anjuna 5 pm +91 9822153440 December 2014 at Art Chamber Programme Schedule For Art Chamber On Dec 11 Meaghan Alfonso - Western Classical, Piano On Dec 12 Shibani Sur - Indian Classic Vocals, Harmonium On Dec 18 Colleen Athparia - Western Classical, Piano At Art Chamber, Calangute @ 8 pm +91 9823217435

Karaoke Mondays Jive to your own tunes at Karaoke night with Sabby. The Backyard, Sangolda 8 pm onwards +91 9158372533

Every Tuesday Extraordinary Nights Make your Tuesdays extraordinary with Emmanuel Antao.

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

Every Wednesday The best of Bollywood Live Music By Saazish !

At Cheenos, Baga 8 pm onwards +91 8806564991 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 (trendsetting 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 Karaoke Night Bring out the nightingale in you at karaoke with Ashley. Route 66, Panjim 8:00 pm to 11:30 pm +91 9623922796 Deafbeat The Headphone Party At Cleopatra Resort, Palolem Beach 9 pm onwards +91 832 324 5473

Every Thursday Karaoke Night Host: Saby At Cohiba, Lighthouse Road, Sinquerim 9 pm onwards +91 7722031222 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

Every Saturday 'Nacho' Dance Night A floor breaking mix of Hip Hop, House and Retro music Guru Club, Anjuna 10:00 pm onwards +91 9960956691 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 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 Silent Noise Party With DJs Husman, Sam & Azgar Find out which one is true. The silence or the noise?

Neptune Point, Palolem 8:00 pm to 4:00 am +91 9822584968

On-going 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 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 The Park, Calangute Every Monday: Retro Night By Jus Leo Every Wednesday: Music Love & Peace By DJ Colin 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

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

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Every Monday

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

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

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: Mr. Nimish Desai: +91 9158883464/ +91 832 6635878 nimish@crowncasino.in

Reggae Friday Rejoice the laid back chilled out vibe with Graeme Hamilton Laguna, Anjuna 7:30 pm +91 832 227 4131

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 James Hill on the piano from Canada.

The last gig of the day was by a Canadian funkjazz-bop-rap band called Shuffle Demons. The band comprised of Richard Underhill on saxophone and vocals, Perry White on saxophone, Kelly Jefferson on Saxophone, George Koller on Bass and finally Stich Wynston on drums.

Just as the sun was dunking into the ocean right behind the main stage at GIJLF, the first act of the second day of the festival took the stage under a mesmerizingly purple sky. The performers who were obliged to perform at such an apt light setting were none other than the Goa Acid Fusion Jazz, a tribute to U. Srinivas.

With Elvis Lobo on the guitars, Hari Kumar on the Violin, P.L. Sudheer on Ghatam/Kanjiri/Konnakal, Lew Hilt on Bass, Shayne Ballantyne on side guitar and Ori Balak from Israel on drums, this band made their instruments have conversations with one another.

They were that harmonized.

The stage was then taken up by a spell binding act

by Louiz Banks Trio, with Louiz Banks, the godfather of Jazz in India, on the keys, Gino Banks on the drums and Sheldon D’Silva on the bass. This was followed by the most iconic act of the evening, a collaboration between Grammy award winging Ricardo Vogt and critically acclaimed singer (and Ukulele player), Veronica Nunes, both belonging to Brazil. The band comprised of Karla Pfützenreuter on percussions (Germany), Tarun Balani on drums (India), Derek Beckvold on saxophone (USA), and James Hill on piano (Canada).

The third day at GIJLF started off with a rather mellow and melodious tone with Generation featuring Mohini Dey on stage. Having produced a new project with A.R. Rehman and several Coke Studio and MTV Unplugged sessions, Mohini, the 18 year old prodigy killed it with her own project. The band comprised of Esani Dey on the guitar and Gino Banks on drums. This was followed by a special Jazz & Soul set by Pawan Benjamin Quintet with Pawan Benjamin on saxophone, Vaundhara Vidalur on vocals, Karim Ellaboudi on keys, Gino Banks on drums, and Sheldon D’Silva on bass.

Then came the saddest and the happiest moment for the Jazz lovers in Goa. Yes, it was the last act of the festival to come up. Greenwoman by Malcolm Braff from Switzerland kept the happiness levels up with their pop electro-jazz grooves mixed up with a volcanic energy by the maestro Malcolm Braff. The band further

comprised of Bjorn Meyer on bass, Claire Huguenin on Vocals, Lukas Konig on Drums, and Alexandre Gaeng on VFX. And so the evening ended with the wildest act of the festival. If you love live music, you must keep track of Art Escape’s upcoming gigs. The organizers, Art Escape, has a mission is to create cultural events that bring the creative community together and Gatecrash, who promotes international bands and develops the jazz scene in India, the main motivation behind this event is to get talented, innovative and modern jazz musicians to showcase their music on a single platform to a curious and openminded audience. 

Steven Gutkin, the venture’s chief mentor, is an awardwinning journalist who has reported from some two dozen countries in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and the Americas.

An international newsman for 25 years, Steven served as Bureau Chief with the Associated Press, the world’s largest news gathering organization, in Israel and Venezuela, as well as AP’s Chief of Southeast Asia Services in Singapore and Indonesia, and Senior Editor in the US. Steven covered the rise and fall of the Medellin and Cali cocaine cartels, rode into Kabul with a triumphant Northern Alliance and directed coverage of wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, Gaza and Lebanon. The Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar was caught because he lingered on the phone with his son to answer Steven’s questions, and the cops traced the call. Steven covered the killing of Daniel Pearl in Pakistan, hurricanes in Puerto Rico and Mexico, the death of Yasser Arafat, a coup in Fiji and the rise to power of Hugo Chavez in Venezuela. He also led AP's coverage of the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill. Steven has also worked for the New York Times, the Washington Post, Newsweek and CBS Radio.

Marisha Dutt, Publisher and Editor of Goa Streets, is a former Marketing and Advertising Manager with The Wall Street Journal in Singapore. She took a break from work to raise her two boys in Indonesia, Israel and the United States. She has a Masters Degree in Marketing from The University of Strathclyde in the UK and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in International Relations. She was born in Assam, India and spent her early years on a tea plantation overlooking a pristine wildlife sanctuary. When she was 10, she and her family moved to Calcutta, where Marisha had the privilege of working alongside Mother Teresa. Later the family moved to Goa. Marisha and Steven were married 11 years ago on the Candolim beach.

Shubham Gupta aka Shubhs, Content and Marketing Coordinator, is a 22 year old guy from Gurgaon. Being a foodie, music lover, and an avid appreciator of art, Shubhs has been previously associated with Times of India, Dentsu Digital, Channel V and AIESEC. Hippie at heart, Shubham loves to trek & travel to exotic destinations. In his meantime, he enjoys international cinema, singing, strumming the guitar, writing poetry and reading. With his knack in creative writing and passion for photography, he manages both visual and written content along with marketing operations.

Radhika Naik, Marketing Executive. A Mapusa resident, Radhika enjoys siestas and, when awake, spending time with family. She was always a big fan of the news and is thrilled to be part of that world today. Music with a slow tempo is her favourite playlist.

Nilesh Shetgaonkar, Administrative Assistant, is a happygo-lucky Morjim native who prides himself on living life to the fullest. He spent seven years in Dubai and loves football, cricket and trivia.

Krishna S. Halankar, An integral member of the distribution and collection team, Krishna enjoys music, driving and to everyone’s surprise likes to shake a leg, too. When asked about his favourite drive, he says nothing beats the good ol’ drive from Goa to Mumbai.

Vijay Gadekar, Distribution Team. Aside from being very handy in all things mechanical, Vijay is a big fan of football with an equal passion for quality beach time.

Correspondents/Writers: Ethel Da Costa, Sheela Jaywant, Charlane Pereira e Rebello, Bina Datwani, Karan Bhagat, Perin Ilavia, Dielle D’Souza, Aparna Raut Desai, Anzil Fernandes, Crespo D’Souza, Sanket Sharma.

GRAND HYATT GOA TO DEBUT THE FARMERS’ MARKET BY KAREN ANAND restaurateur-cumfood writer and critic Karen Anand

`The Farmers’ Market is a pioneering initiative by restaurateur-cum-food writer and critic Karen Anand and will be held exclusively at Grand Hyatt Goa on the 14th of December 2014 from 11am through 7pm.

I

n a bid to add to the mood and festivities of December in Goa, Grand Hyatt Goa and Restaurateur-cum-Food Writer & Critic Karen Anand introduce the Farmers’ Market to the state for the first time.

The Farmers’ Market has already completed 18 successful events across the country with participation from more than 80 local restaurants, dozens of avid home bakers, farm produce, gourmet goodies, organic lifestyle, amateur chefs, wineries and a whopping 100,000+ visitors.

In the age of home gourmet, culinary adventures and a return to natural foods, the Farmers’ Market will aim to be source of exceptional Indian produce for patrons who would attend the event. At the market – patrons would have the opportunity to explore new restaurants and old favourites in a ‘pop up’ experience while also looking forward to their favourite wineries. Grand Hyatt Goa, will also be showcasing some of their famed specialty cuisines including Indian, Arabic, Asian, Italian, Grills and Desserts.

The Farmers’ Market will aim to attract everyone from chefs, restaurateurs, passionate amateur cooks and people who just happen to love eating and drinking and those looking out for a splendid time with families and friends.

Commenting on the partnership, Karen Anand exclaims - “It’s not just the sheer quality of the food on offer that makes our Farmers Markets special – it is also about the people and the place.

We looked high and low to find a partner in Goa who lends itself to our concept… and we found it at the Grand Hyatt Goa with its stunning property and verdant

lawns overlooking the water - clearly the perfect venue. We hope to create a market which becomes a repository of culinary knowledge and understanding.

It’s a place to explore, to ask questions, to discover new flavours, to savour a unique atmosphere and to have fun!”

Commenting on the occasion, Jaco Le Roux, GM, Grand Hyatt Goa, says, “Goa is one of India’s premier destination for food and travel. At Grand Hyatt Goa, we believe in curating events that will not only be of relevance to the locals, but also, ones that have national and subsequently international appeal.

This event will mark the beginning of the numerous Farmers’ Markets that Grand Hyatt Goa will bring, every Sunday for this season; and we will close this season with another such grand Farmers’ Market by Karen Anand later in 2015. Since the hotel’s opening in 2011, Grand Hyatt Goa has been a trend setter in different aspects, be it being the largest MICE destination, versatile recreation options, or its gastronomic offerings; the Farmers’ Market only adds to the list.

“We had started to prepare for this big event approximately four months ago, we wanted to create this unique culinary experience for Goa and it’s every guest as another reason to enjoy Goa to its peak” stated Tufan Kobanbay, Executive Assistant Manager, Grand Hyatt Goa. Entry Free! For more details contact Grand Hyatt Goa’s Resort Centre by dialing+91 0832 3011510.

The Farmers’ Market will commence at 11 am and will continue the fun and frolic till 7pm when it will wind up.

Watch out for the Farmers Markets

by Karen Anand in your city: • Gurgaon: 21st December at The Westin Gurgaon • North Mumbai: 11th January at the Westin Garden City Goregaon • Bangalore: 18th January at The Royal Orchid, Airport Road • South Mumbai: To Confirm Follow PFM on Facebook: www. facebook.com/PuneFarmersMarket Website: www.punefarmersmarket.com Twitter: @PFM_India For media enquires for Farmers market please contact afra@karenanand.net

Feature 7

Friday, December 5, 2014

Landscaping, Boating, Rain Water Harvesting, Real Estate

By Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello

Zest for life! An exploratory mind and an adventurous spirit! That sums up Michael Coutinho, a self-made entrepreneur who believes in living life to the fullest.

Landscaping, rain water harvesting, adventure cruises, shipping, real estate… He has explored each of these avenues and proved his mettle.

Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello caught up with Michael at his office in Panjim.

A

s I hurried to make it for the 1.45 pm appointment with Michael at his office in Church View Apartments, I readied myself to face the 49-year-old man who has nurtured his adventurous spirit and basked in the luxury of exploring diverse fields to be the man that he is today.

Having graduated in Mechanical Engineering from the famous Goa Engineering College (Farmagudi), Michael’s love for the high seas had him join the shipping line as a marine engineer. However, the dream of being a businessman ever since he was a little boy gnawed at his heart.

As mechanical engineering did not have much scope in the early 1990s, a career change to civil works was apt.

Starting with landscaping, he gradually moved to full-fledged civil contracting.

Today, his firm ‘Coutinho & Associates’ deals in real estate, legal assistance, title clearance, mediation/dispute settlement, project planning, project finance, building approvals, liaison, project management.

Since 1994, the firm has successfully completed jobs such as site development, construction of premium villas, residential complexes, roads, large industrial foundations, and factory premises.

Having dealt in time-bound projects in various factories/industries, the firm

has delivered quality services to many corporate clients such as Madras Rubber Factory, Bits Pilani (Goa Center), Zuari Agro Chemicals Ltd., Sesa Goa Ltd., Videocon Group (Goa Energy Pvt. Ltd.), Metacopper, Cipla, Mormugao Port Trust, Linde Group, etc.

Other satisfied customers include Tata Housing, Goa Institute of Management, Rahejas, Mangrove Developers Pvt. Ltd., Coastal Developers Pvt. Ltd., and Ms. Ritu Kumar. Their ongoing project is a 35room hotel at Anjuna.

Michael explains, “We do everything right from purchasing land to handing over the key to your home.”

From 1994 to 2002, Michael dived into setting up a firm ‘Leisure Ventures’ along with his partner Agnelo Fernandes that ran adventure cruises for charter tourists. But due to non-cooperation from the Captain of Ports, he was forced to close down his venture.

With 3 fibre-glass boats fully equipped with safety equipment and a crew of 6 on each boat, tourists had a gala time touring Bat Island, and going scuba diving, crocodile and dolphin spotting.

Michael says, “I love the sea. It was a working holiday for me. I practically lived on the island.”

His canopy boats Divya, Patricia Anne and Rochelle Anne had lots of facilities.

He recalls, “I have taken more than 100 tourists on tours, and had to hire extra boats.”

He continues, “Nothing is as sweet as being at the stern of the boat and watching the sunset.”

Also, the tourists were taken for bird watching. He recalls the good old days, “One of the staff would ask the tourists, ‘Have you tasted kingfisher?’

The tourists’ reply of ‘No’ would be met with opening a Kingfisher beer bottle, followed by loud guffaws.”

The bird watching trips to the Cumbarjua swamps gave Michael a sense of peace. He says, “Seeing the grey heron, pied kingfisher, green heron, hornbill and many other birds, I felt that God is in His Heaven and all is right with the world.”

That’s not all to Michael! His landscaping projects for Goa State Museum, Goa State Guest House, plus the maintenance of the 50,000-square-metre garden at the Holiday Inn have added still

more feathers to his cap.

Using plastic films for small ponds in his landscaping projects gave birth to a fabulous concept of rain water harvesting, though it is still in its nascent stages in Goa. His first civil contracting client, Meta Strips located in Sancoale, gave him an opportunity to diversify his talent. Michael proposed the concept of rain water harvesting using plastic films.

Along with an expert from Pune, Michael built a tank that stored 5 ½ crore litres of water.

Also, the cost was 50% of what the company had estimated. It was a huge success!

In a joint venture ‘Sasha Enterprises’ with Savio Rebello, Michael dealt with repairs of sensitive oscilloscopes and telecom devices. Having pioneered burglar alarms, EPABX systems and CCTVs in Goa,

Michael’s short stint from 1995 to 2001 was commendable.

Michael also completed a course in Israeli self-defence system about 2 years back. Today, he is an instructor in Krav Maga.

As I eye several trophies lined up in his office, Michael lightly brushes aside his achievements saying, “They are BNI awards.”

Besides being a member of Business Networking Association, Michael has also been a member of the Rotary Club for a year.

Having 10 engineers and 5 regular staff, Michael manages his business smoothly. Meeting his staff on every Monday and Friday, he says, “My mantra is to meet at least 3 people in a day.”

Despite his busy schedule, Michael finds the time to exercise and read novels. His daily regime includes either a 6-km jog or weight lifting (250-300 pounds) and doing squats at the gym.

On a sober note, he advises youth of today, “Educate yourself and get self-employed. Stay in Goa.” 

8 Friday, December 5, 2014

Kornelia Santoro JUST IN time for Christmas, I take on the most traditional of all German Christmas sweets – stollen. For the first time in my life I made this cake, which is designed to last for some weeks. I have to admit that I used to regard stollen with mixed feelings. Traditionally, citronat and orangeat (candied lemon and orange peel) are added to the dough and I simply hate these ingredients. As a child, I used to pick them out from my mother’s stollen.

However, here in Goa, India, I never tasted a stollen I like so far. That’s why I decided to do my own version this year, based on my very own expert in German

Christmas sweets, my mother. She was nice enough to send me her recipe for quarkstollen.

The traditional stollen is done with yeast, but quarkstollen is raised with the help of baking powder. As quark is not available in Goa, I made a deliciously

rich curd (yoghurt) with cream instead of milk. Christmas is not a time to think about fat content or slimming, so I do not mind these calories. The curd made my stollen wonderfully moist. I balanced this richness by using whole-wheat flour, so at least we have some added fiber.

My ‘quarkstollen’ also features plenty of almonds and raisins and an indecent amount of rum to moisten the raisins.

All the extra moisture left me with dough too sticky to roll out, so I just took my hands and formed it into the traditional shape. You make a thick round and flip it over to get something which is supposed to resemble baby Jesus in a nappy. You need a bit of fantasy – or maybe a glass of Christmas punch – to discover baby Jesus in my Stollen, but I can assure you that it tastes nice.

Everybody who tasted it so far liked it.

Let’s hope you try this recipe and find it to your liking too.

Quarkstollen

Ingredients: • 1 kg whole-wheat flour • 250 g butter • 4 eggs • 2 cups sugar • 3 cups curd (600 ml) • 400 g almonds • 400 g raisins • 200 ml rum • 2 tbsp curd • 2 tbsp vanilla essence • 4 tbsp baking powder For the topping: • 100 g butter • 100 g icing sugar

Method: Tomake this stollen, you need to do some preparations the day before.

Boil about 1 litre of water and add the almonds to the bubbling water. Let them steep for at least 10 minutes, discard the water and peel the almonds. You should be able to squeeze the almonds out from the skin without effort.

If not, repeat the procedure and let them steep for some more. If you can buy skinless almonds, you can use these. It saves you a lot of work.

Quarter the almonds, don’t chop them finely. The almonds add texture to the soft and moist stollen. Check the raisins for any stems, place them into a container and add the rum. Close the container and let the raisins soak up the rum overnight. Place the cream into another container, mix well with the curd and let it sit overnight at a warm place. If you can buy quark, just take quark to make the stollen. You can also use extra rich yoghurt if you can buy some readymade, for example the Fage 10 percent Greek yoghurt.

The following day, you can make your stollen. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Crack the eggs into a big bowl, add the sugar and the vanilla essence and stir well. For this part of the process I use an electric hand mixer. Cut the butter into small cubes and stir them into the sugar-egg mix. Add the curd (or yoghurt or quark), the almonds and the raisins and stir well again.

Combine the flour with the baking powder and sift it over these ingredients.

Knead everything well together with your hands and form two big stollen.

As I have explained before, this dough is too moist to roll it out like traditional stollen dough. I just formed two big rounds and placed them on the tray.

Because I don’t like burnt raisins, I picked out as many raisins as possible from the surface of the stollen and stuffed them inside. Place the stollen on a buttered cookie sheet. I use a silicone foil to cover my cookie sheet.

Bake the stollen for about 70 minutes.

The surface should be golden brown without being too dark. Melt the butter and brush the stollen with it as soon as it comes out of the oven. Now comes my favourite part. Cover the stollen lavishly with icing sugar. It’s a bit like making snow; I love it. When the stollen has cooled down, wrap it well into cling film.

You can keep it for several weeks. Some people say you should dust it with more icing sugar before serving, but I don’t consider that really necessary. However, it looks nice.

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, December 5, 2014

Every Tuesday Goan Market Nights Experience authentic Goan dining in a vibrant market scenario with dancers showing off their traditional moves and local artisans displaying their talent in the form of lovely handicrafts and pottery.

Rs 1500++ per person At Alila Diwa Goa, Majorda +91 832 2746800

Every Thursday Dine In The Dark At Spice Studio Give your eyes a break while your other senses lead the way to a rather special dining experience. Enjoy an Indian thali in the dark at the award winning specialty restaurant, Spice Studio.

PRICE: INR 900++ (food only) At Alila Diwa Goa, Majorda 7.30 pm Onwards +91 832 2746800 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

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

Brunches Every Sunday Sunday Brunches@ 899/head Burger Pizzas Beer Salads Cocktails Desserts House – Spirits Beverages At Cheenos, Baga 12 pm to 4 pm +91 8806564991 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 Lazy Sunday Lunches With Acacio A welcome, lazy Sunday lunch that includes a generous spread of highquality cuisine and foot-tapping music

by Acacio.

Rs 1499 all inclusive food and house beverages At Alila Diwa Goa, Majorda +91 832 2746800 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

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

Baga, Calangute and Around Amigos Indian, Goan, Seafood Hearty food in an attractive village Below Nerul Bridge, Nerul 12.30 pm to 4 pm & 7 pm to 10.30 pm +919822104920 Aquamarine Bistro & Bar Indian, Goan, Continental Perhaps the top draw is the riverside location. Good place for golden fried prawns and a nice sunset view over the river.

7 am to 10.30 pm At Baga Land’s End, Baga +91 832 2276084/2275482 Café de Goa Attractive Café with lots of fresh small bites and innovative offerings.

At The Red Tower, Calangute 10.30 am to 5.30 pm +91 832 2279961 Le Poisson Rouge Local fish cooked a la French Style, with a slight touch of Goa; delicious fusion cuisine France, Seafood Opp. Baga Bridge, Baga 7 pm to 11pm +91 9823850276/ +91 832 3245800 Lila Cafe Germa think schnitzel, chicken liver pate and German sausages. Lovely tent-like setting At Baga Creek Road, Arpora Baga +91 832 2279843 Caravela Goan, Indian, Chinese and Continental The lawn of the Goan Heritage offers a wide variety of well-prepared food and cocktails. But the big draw is the party scene on Friday nights.

At Hotel Goan Heritage, Calangute Noon to 2.30 pm & 7 pm to 11.30 pm +91 832 2276761/64

Anjuna and Around Mamma Mia Ristorante Italiano & Pizzeria An authentic Italian Restaurant Try Wood fried Pizza At Resort Rio, Tambudki, Arpora +91 832 2267300 Hendrix - The Meating Grill BBQ and Grill Classic barbeque and grill, crafted, perfected and plated, with lip smacking flavours and Live Music At Anjuna, Bhatin 7 pm to 11 pm +91 8007599945

Mama’s Corner Chinese, Continental, Indian, Goan With a touch of Mama’s Love At Bay view Apts, Siolim +91 832 2270918/ +91 9223251259 Cotinga at the Tamarind Chinese, Indian, Italian Fresh and delicious is always in season at the Tamarind.

At Kumar Vaddo, Opp. St Michael Church, Anjuna 10 am to 11.30 pm +91 832 2274319 Gunpowder Indian At Cursino Villa, Sauntawaddo, Assagao Noon to 3.30 pm & 7 pm to 11 pm +91 832 2270091/ 92 Tin Tin Bar & Restaurant Italian, Mexican, Thai, Vegetarian At Vagator +91 9623973691/ +91 9623922796 Bean Me Up It’s a small garden restaurant in Anjuna specialising in world vegetarian cuisine At Deulvaddo, Anjuna 8 am to 11 pm +918322273479 Teso Waterfront Mediterranean, Italian, Goan A true treasure, Discover luxurious laid back living, here at Teso, a place infused with exciting influences of the Mediterranean.

At Vaddy Siolim 11 am to 11 pm +91 832 2270091/92 Café Lambretta Italian, European, Indian At Anjuna Mapusa Road, Anjuna Noon Onwards +91 832 26511001/ 91 8904014140

Candolim Café Chocolatti A coffee shop Good place for light fare and assorted sweet goodies At Fort Aguada road, Candolim 9 am to 7 pm +91 832 2479340/ +91 9326112006 House of Lloyds Continental, seafood, and hearty Goan cuisine.

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

At Saipem Road, Candolim 7 pm to 3 am. +91 9823032273 Acacia Luxury Hotel Masala Art Authentic & Contemporary Indian Cuisine Lobby Level Specialty Restaurant At H.No586/a, Sequeira Vaddo, Candolim +91 832 6714777/+91 832 2489361 Kebabs & Curries Indian At Holiday Street, Goan Heritage Hotel, Candolim. +91 832 6515279 Teama Bar & Grill Indian At Candolim Beach Road, Candolim +91 8060000600

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 Bomra’s Burmese and other Asian Cuisine Good option for Asian food At Souzawaddo, Candolim 6.30 To 11.30 pm +91 9767591056 Horizon Grill Restaurant BBQ, Continental, Oriental, Indian Horizon Grill is a welcoming and charming restaurant where you will love to pamper your taste buds.

At Vaddy, Next to Whispering Palms Beach Resort 5.30 pm to 11.30 pm +91 982246682

Panjim & Around Caramel Restaurant Bakery, Confectionary, Homemade ice creams, Souvenir & Patisserie Where the action is in the live stations.

Smell the coffee and freshly baked bread.

10 am to 10 pm At Vivanta by Taj, Panjim +91 832 663 3636 Black sheep Bistro The Black Sheep Bistro is Goa’s first casual fine dining concept restaurant Located in the heart of Panjim City At Swami Vivekananda Road, Next to icici Bank, Panjim 7 pm to 1 am +91 832 2222901 Chulha, Grand Hyatt Goa Take a culinary journey around India.

Chulha presents authentic Indian and signature dishes from across the region. This informal, local Indian ‘Home Style’ restaurant features an interactive kitchen, live tan door section and chaat counter.

Every Tuesday - Cook with our chefs at Chulha at 5:00 PM At Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim Dinner: 7:00 PM – 11:30 PM +91 832 3011510 Daawat - Feast the Soul Multicuisine Restaurant with Bar At Campal, opp., kala Academy,Panjim +91 832 6511010 Hotel Sanskruti Pure Veg. Filled with office workers at lunch time. Cheap and good.

At Porvorim 7 am to 10 pm +91 832 - 2414400 Bay View Lounge, Grand Hyatt Goa Goa’s most central meeting point + WiFi zone which turns into a cozy Wine Table by evening, with a selection of wines, free snacks and Wi-Fi. Wine Table: 6 pm – 11pm At Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim 8 am – 11 pm +91 832 3011510

Avanti Bar & Restaurant Indian, Goan & Seafood Serves up Goan specialties like rawa fried prawns, stuffed squid and stuffed crab masala Near Patto Bridge, Panjim 11 am to 3 .30 pm, 7 pm to 11.30 pm +91 832 2435884/ +91 832 2427179 Bombay Darbar Take Away and Catering Services Surprisingly scrumptious Indian fare At Sairam Residency, Shop no 1, Alto St.Cruz Road, St.Cruz, Tiswadi +91 832-2458877 / +91 832 2458588 Café Bhonsle Chinese, Goan, North Indian One of the Popular Eatier in Panjim Near Cine national, Panjim 6.30 am to 8 pm +91 832 2426000/ +91 832 2431499

Margao & Around Ruta’s World Café Breakfast, Lunch, Coffee Located on a quiet side street right by the City’s Latin Quarter, a world away from the maddening crowds.

At Dr Miranda Rd, Behind Nanutel, Margao.

From 9 am to 6 pm +91 832 2710757 The HQ Restaurant A pulsating business hotel in Goa which is located most conveniently in the heart of Vasco-Da-Gama city.

At Swatantra Path, Vasco +91 832 2500015 A Tartaruga Goan, Seafood, Italian, Chinese, The restaurant opens onto the Cocodel-Mar lawns overlooking the beach ahead making it the perfect location for your tropical dining experience.

At Longuinhos Beach Resort, Colva Beach Salcett +91 832 2788068 Zeebop by the Sea Restaurant Looking for a relaxed evening with an amazing sea view, delicious seafood & drinks, with a great ambiance, fun, entertainment, & beautiful sunsets?

At Utorda Beach, Utorda, South Goa +91 832 2755333/+91 9822154541

Canacona Big Fish Restaurant & Bar North Indian, Chinese, Italian, European Try out the bruschetta, the opensandwich-style bread with all kinds of different toppings, or the Marguerite Pizza, the Foccacia and, of course, the pastas.

At Palolem beach, Canacona 8am to 11 pm +91 9418097133, +91 9904312298 Ourem 88 European, Bistro Evening bistro menu changes weekly according to seasonal availability in the market to ensure a new & exciting experience on every visit.

At Southern end of Palolem beach, Palolem 6 pm to 11 pm +91 8698827679 Café Rumba Indian, Nepalese, Continental, Pasta At Palolem Main Street, Palolem +91 9823911890

10 Cover Story

Getaways, Goodies & Gifts Gearin’ Up For The Festive Season

By Dielle D’Souza

W

hat makes festive seasons so great? True that spirituality is at the heart of things, for without it, most celebrations would not exist at all. But in a secular sense, festivities base themselves on sharing of food and exchanging of gifts.

Christmas and New Year are one of the biggest festivals in the world for obvious reasons – the conquering missionaries took their faith to the

Goa Tanishq Boutique wins the ‘Grow to Glory contest in the Southern Region It’s even more exciting since they got the good news close to their first anniversary

I

t is hardly a surprise that Goa Tanishq Boutique is the final winner of the ‘Grow to Glory” contest held in the southern region from June to September 2014. The awards were given out in the recent mid-year cascades held in Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad. This was a pure growth based contest subject to target achievement and this program has played an important part in the region’s achievements of its half yearly targets.

As a newly opened Jewellery Franchisee in a very competitive market of Goa and in spite of all the hurdles, Goa Tanishq boutique has made it through and achieved this trophy with sheer customer’s love and the team‘s effort to achieve their goal.

Franchisee owners, Mr Naval Moondra & Sonali extend warm regards to all Goa Streets readers and wish you A Happy Feast and a Prosperous New Year.

Viva Goa, Viva Goenkars !

As from Goa Streets, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY GOA TANISHQ BOUTIQUE!

Sonali, franchisee owner at Goa Tanishq Boutique

ends of the world and no one can deny the excitement despite the rabid commercialisation of mythological creations such as Santa Claus and his flying reindeer.

Towards the end of November, when Americans celebrate Thanksgiving and Black Friday sales (and many others simply follow suit), consumers are faced with the start of an attention-seeking assault of business houses clamouring for their pennies. All this satisfies the vicious circle of demand feeds supply feeds demand, leading to an endless barrage of buying and selling until the season runs itself into the ground.

So even if the virulent stock of materialism starts to suck the spirituality out of religious celebrations, we’re still left with well-earned indulgences that come with ‘saving for special moments’.

Goodies

‘Tis the season to forget about diets and shove the weighing scale where the sun don’t shine (I only meant under the cupboard!).

There are many who resist desserts, and avoid butter and lard like the plague through the year, only to let go during the Time Of Many Temptations. And despite every fitness website harping how regular cheat treats are better than one-time binges, no other time of year justifies indulgence the way December does.

Gorging on goodies, in fact, starts long before Christmas. It begins with the Feast of St Francis Xavier, where everyone

pays homage to Goa’s patron saint and then turns their eyes to the ‘fest’ (and with this year’s relics exposition, occurring only once in a decade, it’s all the more reason to throw diet caution to the wind!). The omnipresent kadio bodio remain a favourite to tickle memories, no matter how posh or high society one tends to get. A great way to test the strength of your teeth, it finds prominence among other treats, particularly violently coloured laddoos at the sweets stalls, and fiery chouriço pao at the food stalls.

It marks the beginning of all things Christmas, first beginning with boozy cakes soaked to the skin in rum. Begin with tasting the fare at every wedding you attend, and then refrain from buying any of those poor quality rip offs. Try the drool-worthy ones by the Little Chocolate Box in Porvorim (who makes limited orders, so book early) or Rita’s Gourmet Goa in Vasco, or pop into one of the time tested patisseries on your town.

Every five-star hotel worth its weight in heavy bebinca is organising festivals and dedicated days to delicious food. You’re likely to find traditional western specialties from puddings and cakes, stollen, ginger bread, panetonne and lebkuchen at Grand Hyatt Goa or the Marriot Goa Resort & Spa among other hotels. This means that visiting foreigners can also engage in traditional holiday fare without missing home.

Prepare yourself for an onslaught of Christmas goodies from neighbours in the form of a kuswar, a tray filled with

Cover Story 11

Friday, December 5, 2014

popular sweets such as gram doce, milk toffee, pinagr, coconut ice, kulkuls, neuris, bolinhas, baath cake, dodol, bebinca, perad and nankhatias, all available at the local bakeries in your village.

Resorts and hotels make a killing on Christmas and New Year with lavish lunches and decadent dinners. That said, it’s probably worth giving the family chefs a well-deserved day off and treating them to a special spread.

And despite not being available in Goa yet, although it plans to stock sometime this month, Up Street has upgraded and reinvented the kind of table spreads made in India. From a special Christmas jam (with plum, port wine and walnuts) and Monkey jam (with coconut, pineapple and banana) to the candied bacon butter Oink! and orange-honeycinnamon butter, the Mumbai-based food writers and chefs will provide a touch of art to your breakfast table on Christmas morn.

Gifts

‘Tis the season to take out your wallet and return it to your pocket empty, even though your conscience says the bratty child does not deserve a new Xbox.

There are gifts, and there are gifts.

Most of the time, it’s the latter – accompanied by stressful grimaces, unending queues at check-out counters, and thankless children who find a reason to complain or break the new toy within the first three seconds.

At the office or in large families, one entirely viable option is to play Secret Santa involving a single gift and a single expense per person. One can be completely impersonal with a box of chocolates or put some thought into it based on personality quirks.

The virtual world helps immensely with every possibility, from new mobile phones, tickets to your favourite concert (Sunburn anyone?), shoes or even magazine subscriptions. You can also send a DIY without actually doing it yourself through Funk A Junk or surprise someone anywhere in the country while sitting at home with the help of Oye Happy.

For the people who love private mini parties on the beach – think full moon night, a barbecue pit and five close friends – invest in a portable music player and break out in a shimmy in the middle of nowhere. Or with fabric paints and a brush, create a self-designed pillowcase for your sailing boyfriend so he literally can’t get his mind off of you.

There are tons of gift ideas everywhere, from run-of-the-mill clothes at a department store to sports equipment. For little children prone to breaking new toys, wrap an instant gratification candy tasting box with tons of different flavours. As they get older, invest in piggy banks to help learn about

finances, Scrabble to get them thinking and perhaps as teens, a dictionary to get over terrible cyber spellings.

Crossword and Broadway bookstores are ideal options if trends are moving towards the classic. To be thanked in true festival spirit, gift the drinking buddy a copy of Tequila Mockingbird: Cocktails with a Literary Twist and bar ware to go along. Get pretty with home furnishings from The Linen Shoppe and FabIndia or perhaps something useful for the kitchen from Virani in Panjim.

If that doesn’t work, there are always spa coupons for the women, ties and cufflinks for the men, and Him & Her gifts for the couple who can’t keep their hands off each other.

Getaways

‘Tis the season to run away from the madding crowds.

When people are on the brink of a mental melt-down, one of the first things to do is step back and get detached from the stressor. December in Goa is synonymous with raging parties every week, wedding invitations falling like paper manna from the Heavens, three times the traffic, too much food and beverage, and an overdose of customary visits.

There’s nothing like ejecting one’s self from this exploding schedule carnival and zipping off to a private serene weekend. If you want to be close to the spice of a Goan December, but cut off from its brutal reality, try one of the Casa Hotels. There’s also Beach Street Resort bang on the quiet Mandrem beach, but close enough to a throbbing nightlife scene to avoid social media updates with a ridiculous #FOMO comment.

Something even more remote can come in the form of a weekend at the Nilaya Hermitage hidden away in Arpora, Off The Grid in the Western Ghats or Wildernest in the Chorla Ghats. Vivenda dos Palhaços in Majorda and Elsewhere in Chapora have been named among Goa’s ‘Big Six’ boutique hotels by British daily The Independent.

If ‘as far

away as possible’ is something on the cards to escape the mania that hits the streets in the last week of December, there are ways and means of getting to places outside the state before the Christmas candy hits the fan.

Make it really wild with a trip to the Jungle Lodges at the Bandipur national park in Karnataka, staying in camouflaged cottages, watching birds and spotting animals in the thick of the forest. It might be high season in Coonoor in the Nilgiri hills, but the scene is quite the opposite of Goa. They celebrate

Christmas Eve and New Year’s with an equal festive cheer, but mostly manage to steer clear of the raucous two-bit behaviour that comes with drinking more cheap liquor than a Mahindra Skorpio guzzles diesel and living on the beach with hundreds of similarly misbehaved party animals.

As far as the festive season in Goa is concerned, one must learn to dive headlong into the fray and enjoy it as much as possible, particularly with family and friends not seen at other times of the year. And when the time comes, kick back and give yourself a break too. Happy (and safe) celebrations! 

Y

ou must have always heard of Goa as the ultimate holiday destination. Our own mini Vegas, not just that but so much more with the hills covered with stretch of greens as far as sight goes, the vast stretches of blue emerald like sea, the roads with twists and turns make you feel like waiting for a beautiful surprise at the end of each turn and the weather gods showering their blessings with the aromatic air and occasional drizzles.

A week or two spent revelling in the languid luxury of god made beauty makes you think what it would be like to own a piece of this heaven. Will it not be a dream come true? Good news for you is Goa is a perennial favourite and second home paradise for home buyers.

Goa for decades has been considered a popular destination for owning a holiday home by Indians, NRIs and foreigners.

Goa state can be divided into two regions north Goa and south Goa. North Goa is preferred by real estate investors as it has more lively beaches, habited on larger scale and has many places for night long revelry.

Also it is preferred by tourist to stay because all the places ofattraction are in the vicinity.So it makes more sense to buy property in north Goa as appreciation of the property will be higher as compared to south Goa due to large inflow of tourists in this area. Here price for the properties change depending on closeness to the beaches and certain other preferred locations.

For the investors who are looking to buy property the analysis of returns is very important. If you look at the return on

investments, North Goa properties gives much higher returns. It is evident from the huge market growth in the last decade that North Goa has rich potential for investors and varied options to invest in.

The locations that were usually preferred by investors in this area were Calangute, Candolim, Baga, Mapusa, Anjuna but due to increasing prices and concentration, the prime location for making investments have been changing in last 4-5 years. Nowadays, the rapidly developing locales like Sangolda, Sucorro, Bambolim, Tuem, Amthane, Penha de Franca, Siridao, Ribandar and Merces are preferred and sure of giving high returns in near future according to recent studies made by real estate marketers.

Ranging from a cosy studio apartment to opulent bungalows and lavish villas, options are unlimited for you.

Sangolda among the mentioned locales isthe best upcoming neighbourhood in terms of location, situated in Porvorium North Goa, just 3 KMs from the capital city of Panaji, 6KMs from Mapusa, 6 KMs from Calangute beach and approximately 7-9 KMs from other north Goa beaches. Other tourists attractions are in close vicinity are St. Alex Church (4kms), St. Anthony's Chapel (4kms), Reis Magos Fort (5kms), Baga Night Market (5kms), Saturday Night Market (5kms), Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (6kms), Sinquerim Beach (6kms) and Goa State Museum (6kms). It is the ideal place for business and tourist travellers. This lush and hilly heritage village which is famous for its coconut groves and well preserved Portuguese villasis around 35 km away from Dabolim

Airport and 45 km away from Margao railway station.

This plush Goan valley is apt for people seeking sound investment options with varied investment models that fit individual needs of property buyers. Options available stretching from beautifully furnished and serviced apartments to holiday homes or traditional Portuguese villas if you are looking forward to own a beautiful legacy.This is also an ideal place to live if you are not a big fan of beach side property but enjoy greenery of coastal region. Good properties can be found near to the main road yet no traffic sounds just peaceful surroundings with lot of greenery. You can imagine yourself relaxing the cool wind and soulful chirping of birds with a panoramic view from balcony and a nice cup of tea.

The cool and serene surroundings are perfect for unwinding of mind and soul. Looking at the interest being generated in Sangolda, Saurabh Shroff of Emerald Developers, who are developing Sangolda Residency, believes that Sangolda is a an ideal buying option, it’s in the centre of North Goa with the perfect landscape, a good lifestyle and investment opportunity. “Sangolda is and will always remain an exclusive, green, prestigious neighbourhood.

We foresee unit prices doubling in Sangolda Residency every 3 years”, he adds.

It is quite clear that Goa real estate offers fabulous returns on investments and investors from all over the world very keenly home in to reap the rich dividends. So now you can go ahead and start planning to own a little piece of this heaven. Your dream property is waiting for you…..

14

Friday, December 5, 2014

Water sports Champion’s Yacht Club Unlimited fun on water. Drive exciting luxury cruise boats and enjoy other rides.

At Mayam Lake, Bicholim +91 832 6517080 www.championsyachtclub.com 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 www.watersplashcruises.com +91 8888864347 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 Atlantis Water Sports Everything under the sun and in the water, with a premium placed on safety and quality service.

At Baga Bazar, Next to Tito’s Lane +91 9890047272 www.atlantiswatersports.com Aqua Sports India Fishing, Motor Boat Rides, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Water Scooter Rides At 5th Floor, Nizari Bhavan, Menezes Braganza Road, Panaji +91 832 2231215, +91 832 2426967 Bogmalo Beach Park Plaza Resort Body Boards, Motor Boat Rides, Parasailing, Water Scooter Rides, Water Skiing, Windsurfing At Bogmalo Beach, Bogmalo +91 832 2538222 Dominic Water Sports Canoeing, Water Scooter Rides, Water Skiing, Windsurfing At Sinquerim Beach, Bardez Goan Banana’s Water sports Backwater Crocodile Cruise, Banana Rides, Boat Rides, Bumper Rides, Dolphin Cruise, Fishing, Parasailing, Water Skiing Special Feature Opposite Hacienda Hotel, Baga Road, Calangute, Goa +91 832-2276362

Water Park Splashdown Water park Calangute - Anjuna Rd, Anjuna 10.30 am to 6.30 pm +91 9637424023/024 www.splashdowngoa.com

The Camelot Water World Baga Road, Calangute 10.30 am to 6.30 pm +91 9740072377/+91 7722040888 www.thecamelotresortgoa.com

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

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

At Vagator

Dec 5 GALF2014 - Writing in colour As Anuradha Majumdar and Pierre Legrand examine the journey Pierre has made in the evolution of his art since the invention of the script that structures all his work, paintings, sculptures, reliefs or installations, together with a slide show. This will be followed with an open Question and Answer with the audience At International Centre Goa, Dona Paula 3.15 pm - 3.45 pm +91 832 245 2805

Nov 22 to Jan 4 Exposition of St. Francis Xavier This is the decennial exposition of the sacred relics of Goa`s patron saint, St Francis Xavier. See the Cover Story in this edition of Goa Streets.

At Se Cathedral, Old Goa

Dec 5 to Dec 7 13th State Youth Festival The Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Campal, Panaji will be organising a XIII State Youth Festival At Ravindra Bhavan, Margao From 9 am to 6 pm 9822484874

Dec 18, 20 Two interesting events at Carpe Diem Christmas Bazaar on the 20th of December 2014! For those of you interested in displaying for products, call or email to book your stall!

And art exhibition by veteran artists until the 18th of December.

The gallery is open every day from 10 am to 7 pm.

At Carpe Diem, Majorda +91 832-2881035/ 8888862462

Dec 19 to Dec 23 Camera Our City, OUR Angle An Exhibition of photography on the culture & heritage of Goa Dec 19 -23, 2014 - Gallery Exhibition +91 9370757910 | +91 9474990892

Till Jan 15 Unique Rosaries A collection of unique rosaries At Museum of Christian Art in Old Goa +91 832 228 5299 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

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

Supermarkets in Goa Borkar Supermarket Lake Plaza Building, Margao +91 832 2743680/ 2743699 Big G Big G has eight levels of exclusive shopping with a restaurant, supermarket and the best of brands of various items to boot.

Margao, Salcete +91 832 2702995 Maple Leaf Supermarket Maple Leaf Supermarket is a selfservice grocery store offering a wide variety of food and household merchandise, organized into departments.

Porvorim, Bardez +91 832 6454099 Ajay Supermarket Morod Village Road, Mapusa +91 832 6520196 Magsons Supermarket Hopping off and Shopping On! Caranzalem +91 832 2464704 Porvorim +91 7507807004 Newton’s Supermarket Major District Road, Candolim +91 832 2489056 Delfinos Supermarket Delfinos HyMart has something for everyone—the widest range of items manufactured locally, in the country and imported.

Candolim. +91 832-2489972 / 73

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. Mondo Waddo, Benaulim 9:00 am to 5:00 pm +91 832 6570877 Email: goachitra@gmail.com Museum Of Christian Art At the Convent of Santa Monica, you may pray if you wish to, else just soak in the ambience of peace.

Old Goa From 9:30 am to 5:00 pm +91 832 2285299

Goa State Museum It has some 8,000 artifacts on display including carvings, paintings, manuscripts, rare coins and stone sculptures.

EDC Complex, Patto, Panjim 9:30 am to 5:30 pm +91 832 2438006 | +91 832 2437306 Goa Science Centre The Centre has a science park with interactive exhibits, 3D shows, galleries on oceanic science, explaining mysteries of the underwater world.

Here you’ll find some extremely interesting exhibits aimed at explaining you scientific principles.

Miramar 10:00 am to 6:00 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 10:00 am to 5:00 pm +91 832 2538668 Archaeological Museum Here you can check out the sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses, antiques from the Hindu period, and currencies that the Portuguese left behind.

Old Goa 9:00 am to 5:00 pm +91 832 2285333 Monsoon Heritage Studio Treat yourself to a collection of mirrored mosaic art and handpicked artifacts at this upscale studio by Yahel Chirinian.

MainathBatti, Arpora 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM +91 9822122771 Wax World Museum A brainchild of Mr. Shreeji Bhaskaran, the man behind India’s first wax museum inOoty, here’s to you Goa’s very own Madame Tussuad’s. It has over 30 lifelike wax statues of the who’s who of India, including the most eminent personalities from culture, religion, politics, heritage and more.

Gandhi Circle, Old Goa 9.30 am to 7.30 pm +91 9970126202

Dec 4 to Dec 7 Goa Art and Literary Festival 2014 Conceptualised, organised and hosted

by The International Centre Goa. Goa Streets is proud to be a media partner.

At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula +91 832-2881035/ 8888862462

Dec 6 Art exhibition and sale ‘Wild and Free ‘ an exhibition and sale of Carl Dsouza Wildlife art At Dom Martin Art Gallery on Dec 6 at 5.30 pm At Goa Chitra, Benaulim 9 am to 6 pm +91 832 6570877

Nov 13 to Jan 12, 2015 An Exhibition of Selected Paintings Angelo da Fonseca Retrospective Monday to Friday At Xavier Centre of Historical Research, Alto Porvorim 10 am to 5 pm +91 832 2417772/ +91 832 2414971

Dec 6 to Jan 25, 2015 Sensorium - Sunaparanta Goa Festival of Arts, Literature & Ideas.

Anusha Yadav, Curator, Indian Memory Project - A People History.

Dayanita Singh - Offset.

Farrokh Chothia - Jazz.

Fausto Giaccone- Macondo, The World of Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

Gopika Chowfla- Flesh.

Jesus Clavero Rodrigues, Curator - Photo Poetry, Octavio Paz in India.

Regina Anzenberger, Curator Handmade Preferred.

Sohrab Hura - Life is Elsewhere.

Sooni Taraporewala- Screenplay to Screen At Sunaparanta - Goa Centre for the Arts, Panjim 10 am to 7 pm +91 832 2421311

Dec 6 toDec 7 Decent and Comedy Cantaram A Konkani singing completion. Each song, or cantar, does not exceed 7 minutes. A uniquely Goan event.

At the Black Box, Kala Academy, Panaji 9.30 am to 5 pm +91832 242 0450

Dec 11 to Dec 12 48TH Mando Festival Organised by Goa Culture and Social Centre in collaboration with Dept. Of Art & Culture A rich repertoire of Mandos/ Dulpods & Mando Dances At Kala Academy Auditorium, Panjim 5 pm onwards +91 9921207297 Nachom -IA-Kumpasar (a Konkani Feature Film) Let's dance to the rhythm A Tribute to Goan Music and Musicians On 4 & 8 Dec @ 7.30 pm At Ravindra Bhavan, Margao On 5,6,7 Dec @ 7 pm At Entertainment society of Goa , Panjim +91 832 272 6980

Until Dec 15 Children’s Tiatr Festival The 5th Children Tiatr Festival organised by the Tiatr Academy of Goa At Gomant Vidhya Nike tan, Margao Daily at 3.30 pm +91 832 271 0847

Until Dec 18 Goan Treasures Expressions By Contemporary Artists Featuring Sonia Rodriguez, Yolanda de Sousa, Nirupa Naik, Viraj Naik, Norman Tagore, and Sadguru Chendvankar At Carpe Diem Art Gallery, Majorda 10 am to 7 pm +91 832 2881035/ +91 8888862462

A Poem Never Ends...

Until Dec 31 Exhibition of Czech Castles An Exhibition of the National Museum of Czech Republic on the Czech Castles will be inaugurated by HE Miloslac Stasek At Kala Academy, Panjim 10 am to 7 pm +91832 242 0450

Galleries of Note 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 San Thome Museum Behold awell-keptdisplay of old machines and artefacts demonstrating technical evolution.

At Varca 9:00 am to 8:00 pm +91 9822363917 | +91 832 2771000 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 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 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 Casa Araujo Alvares Goan heritage at its best and even better when it’s automated. Rediscover Goan heritage at this 250 year old mansion equipped with automated lighting and sound.

Entry Fee: Rs.50 Big Foot, Loutolim 9:00 am to 6:00 pm +91 832 2777034 Email: bigfoottrust@gmail.com Gallery Attic Goan talent has no saturation point.

Experience a fine variety of paintings by local artists.

Opposite Don Bosco, Alfran Plaza, Panjim 9:00 am to 1:00 pm & 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm +91 832 2420929 | +91 832 2257931

15

Friday, December 5, 2014

In conversation with Prof. Edwin Thumboo, Chief Guest of the Goa Arts & Literary Festival

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By Perin Ilavia

he Goa Arts & Literary Festival, or GALF, has emerged as one of the premier cultural events of India. The fifth anniversary edition now taking place (Dec. 4-7) in Panjim is perhaps the best yet, with excellent literary and artistic delegations from Singapore, Nepal, Australia and Pakistan, as well as GALF’s usual mix of both established and emerging literary and artistic talent from across India and beyond.

Singaporean scholar, poet and literary critic Prof. Edwin Thumboo has been referred to as the unofficial poet laureate of the Republic of Singapore.

He’s the recipient of many awards, with more than 131 publications to his credit. He was the longest serving Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences of the National University of Singapore, and is now Emeritus Professor there. He has been a visiting fellow at universities in the US, UK and Australia.

He was the Chief Guest at the inauguration of the Goa Arts & Literarary Festival 2014. It was a great privilege for me to sit down and talk with him on various topics.

Excerpts: Perin Ilavia: Tell me about your childhood.

Edwin Thumboo: My grandfather migrated to Singapore from Madras during the 1880s.

My father was a primary school teacher of Indian (Tamil) descent.

I have a Chinese mother. I was born 22 Nov 1933, in a large family. My childhood ... was wonderful. We had a generator for electricity, had loads of opportunities to be in touch with nature, admire beautiful plants. Our sense of sound, taste and sight, the rhythms of life were enhanced being outdoors. My Japanese grandmother narrated many stories. I don’t speak Tamil, but my father did, we were rather Westernized, so English became my main language after the age of nine.

PI: Your poems are based on personal experiences, feelings, movement dealt with aesthetic and metaphysical themes. Why did you narrate it in verse and not prose?

WT: My first poems were during the period when poetry in English started to emerge. My influences were short story writer Goh Sin Tub, who ran a poetry circle for the magazine Youth, but it’s Eliot, Yeats and Poe, that engrossed me most.

I write in verse because it’s on top of the pile. It’s about craftsmanship, durability, sounds. The best words have to be chosen. That requires a lot of time. It must resonate, shout, be angry, but also must be quiet ... Poetry is a sharper use of language, more probing, intense ... Poetry is nothing but craftsmanship and requires fine distinctions. You have to use the craft to lift it into art ... My mother tongue was Teochew. When I was about 9 years old English became my main language. My teacher, a Scotsman, went out of the syllabus and taught us to recite and recall poems, to absorb the sound and rhythm.

PI: What is the inspiration behind subjects you write on?

ET: History enters my writing, as it ought to with other writers because of its importance in our lives.

Singapore was a former multi-racial colony created by the British. We need history for a sense of things, to re-inscribe ourselves and discover and define ourselves as individuals, in a multi-racial society.

PI: How do you describe your-self as a poet?

ET: I’m a myth-inspired poet. Myths are ancient narratives and structures which provide a stable point of reference for a multi-cultural society. Yeats' use of Irish myths and history provided much inspiration for my best-known poem Ulysses by the Merlion.

PI: You were presented the Raja Rao Award at the biennial meeting of the International Association of World English at the University of Illinois, for your contribution to literature of the Indian diaspora.

How did that happen?

ET: I knew him (Raja Rao) well. I first saw him at a conference in the West Indies, in 1970. The most significant statement he made was, “The most important thing for a writer is silence”. I didn’t get to talking with him, but years later met him in Hawaii. I remember at 3 am I heard a knock on my door and when I open it, I find Raja Rao. “Let’s go for a walk,” he said. I did, not only that day but for many days more. He spoke, I listened. He narrated experiences of the Independence movement, Shakespeare, the Quran. For me it was education. Being half Indian half Chinese not knowing any of the languages, I could only recover the hinterland of India.

PI: As an academic, you taught English drama, Romantic poets, Malaysian and Singaporean literature. Were there any girl students? What careers did they pursue?

ET: The majority were girls. Men preferred technical, medical, engineering...

PI: Your latest poem is titled Still Travelling. Is that about your ongoing journey?

ET: As you grow older our experiences get less, but you have more reflections. You realize a good question is better than a weak answer. Power is essential. Power bullies everything less than itself and steps aside.

PI: What can you tell me about the nuances of writing children’s poems?

ET: Try to get rhythm. I basically wrote these rhymes for my children. They played with a ball, see-saw. The poems were about what surrounded the children in that time. Now I wouldn’t be able to...

Children are living with texting and i-pads.

PI: Do you write every day?

ET: No, but you never stop thinking. And poems are never finished. I have a poem that says, “A finished poem is future text”.

PI: What is your view on literary festivals?

ET: It brings national items together and it’s significant in bringing writers together, the exchange of ideas and establishing camaraderie.

I went through the list of poets and writers at this festival, impressive! I’m happy and grateful to be invited, and I thank Damodar Mauzo, co-curator and organizers of this festival for this opportunity to be in Goa! 

16 Arts & Entertainment

The Chameleon

By Kanchi Mehta

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rowing up is never easy, especially when you are a teenager. It is just about the time when we begin to explore our bodies and define our sense of behavior, fashion and identity based on how we respond to primal emotions and developing hormones. But this gets very tricky. There is a predominant underlying issue of social conditioning that is embossed in our society. Girls are expected to wear pretty dresses and lipstick and to be coy, while the boys tuck in their shirts and get ready to woo the girls, prepare to become husbands and fathers who will eventually provide for the family. It is generally assumed that differences of skin color, financial positions or religious inclinations are factors that define peoples’ lives. But things can get tricky. What if I am a Hindu girl who does not want to marry, wants to be financially independent and have many men as lovers? Trickier yet… What if I prefer women? Herein arises a dilemma, and questions of how this choice will be socially accepted, because in many cases, (especially in India, where social status often trumps basic humanity), the individuals require copious amounts of strength and dignity to fight the trauma of rejection,

In conversation with Nikhil Chopra about his performances, his take on gender and sexuality within social structures as well as his own sculpted reality exile and humiliation. Sexual orientation or gendered sexuality is not only private, but also something we’re born with.

Yet the structure and functioning of human society is often at odds with the most basic realities of primal existence, creating anxiety and hardship.

I decided to drive over to the Heritage Hotel Artist Spaces in Siolim to speak to one of the Founders, Nikhil Chopra, who is also an international performance artist. His work engages with the issues of identity, self-portraiture, and the transformation of material and space. His past performances have blurred the boundaries of socially created outlines of men and women and how they should behave and perform based on accepted norms. Nikhil’s performances are confrontational, where he often loses the sense of self and his identity as ‘male’, and engages on a more mercurial character between masculine, feminine and androgynous.

It is a rare experience for an audience to observe his performance, which is slow and long drawn in real time. He recreates characters based on socially constructed stereotypes and in the duration of the performance, and gradually destroys the very stereotype, exposing the very private aspect of the character, a persona that would emerge only within closed doors.

This leaves the audience

discombobulated and pained, and enables them to empathize with the character and question the very fabric of society.

The infrastructure of ‘The Heritage’ consists of artists from different disciplines living and making work in the space. As Nikhil and I sat on the dining table discussing this topic, the other artists accompanied us, smoking cigarettes and drinking Port Wine with ice, listening and contributing to the conversation.

Here’s a sampling of Nikhil’s reflections.

On gender: Gender is very different from sexuality and the physicality of a person. The latter is something you are born naturally with, but gender is sculpted through interactions with the world and the influences it has on the make-up of your identity. It is performed, based on the choices that you make. Because gender is culturally created, it also signifies where a person is from. The role of a man or woman is in an urban setting varies from that in a rural village. Metropolitan cities have a heightened level of self-awareness due to the exposure they have to offer, whereas in a village the roles are defined in more rigid ways. However, in most cases, the roles are automatically imposed on a newborn as a ‘he’ or ‘she’, and the family is already making choices for them based on these genetics, as ‘blue for boys and pink for girls’.

I think it is important to question this, especially in the current scenario, where media and social networks are such powerful resources for individual voices to be heard, and when self-identity and actualization play an important role. For

creative people living in a liberal world, free expression is a way of life, and our work depends on how we use this freedom to corroborate our practice. In terms of the larger discourse around gender and sexuality, it’s not really about cities like Bombay or a particular neighborhood.

There is always a space and a platform for one’s desire to have a discussion and an exchange about it, you can. A boy from a small village in India is able to have a virtual discussion about his sexual preferences online, or even read about what’s happening in another part of the world. This subject is no longer out of reach.

His performances: If gender is chosen and performed, then it is being communicated, and at the same time, received. When you look the way someone presents himself or herself, you are already making assumptions of their socio-cultural background and their identity, based on judgments, stereotypes and even your own experiences. When I am performing, I am aware that everything in my body is being projected, and all the stereotypes and ethnocentric codes are translated through my actions.

In my performances, I am creating and sculpting my own reality and allowing myself to be ambiguous and fluid about who I am. This can swing either way with respect to gender. I can be male, female or none of the above. The transition of these roles I perform is as improvised as it is researched. If I am wearing a wig or nail polish and heels, I am very aware of it and even enjoy it. I enable myself to step out of my everyday life and travel into the world of another person, who is a figment of my imagination or derived from an existing social background.

The pressure of gender categories in society makes it difficult for us to live our lives in a ‘non-gendered’ way.

However, in recent years, there has been an augmented awareness in the nontraditional practices of the meaning of male and female within social structures, highlighting newer categories, which were originally serious taboos. Living is all about change and acceptance, creativity and intelligence. Without these, life would be completely lifeless. 

Friday, December 5, 2014

Arts & Entertainment 17

Up Close and Personal with Legendary Chinese Filmmaker WONG KAR WAI

By Bina Datwani

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Photographs by Tanvesh Chari

ailed as the father of new wave cinema in Hong Kong, Wong Kar Wai (WKW) is nevertheless not shy about appearing sentimental or even corny. His themes are free spirited like an infusion of fresh air and the style dreamy romantic with a luxurious feeling of colour. True, the women are usually off kilter but the films look classy and appeal to the trendy viewers who gobble them up.

One of Wong’s skills lies in giving the audience a sense of real time by focusing on a dormant scene. He’s known to have a dislike for rehearsals and sometimes spends years in editing. The tender ‘In the Mood for Love’ and ‘Chungking Express’ which deal with trying to understand the distance between people, are touted as two of the most romantic films of our time.

Despite being a departure from his usual style, ‘The Grandmaster’ received worldwide acclaim upon its release

last year and put this mega talented director back in the spotlight. The movie is based on the life story of the Wing Chun grandmaster Ip man, who was a remarkable martial artist and became posthumously famous as one of Bruce Lee’s teachers. It stars WKW’s favourite actor Tong Leung and the luminous Zhang Zyi and is minus the special effects of ‘Crouching Tiger and Hidden Dragon’.

Instead, it has a textured plot with thoughts running through that are meant to affect the senses plus fight scenes that feel intense and daring.

At the recent International Film Festival of India, I met up with the legendary Wong Kar Wai. Here is my interview with him: Bina Datwani: Lets dive into your epic masterpiece ‘The Grandmaster’; what kind of research did you have to go through to attain all the exhaustive background details?

Wong Kar Wai: I’ve always been a huge fan of martial arts but unfortunately, never had the opportunity to learn and practice the skills. This meant having to start from scratch re learning about the different schools, forms and regions which involved being on the road for almost two years. We travelled extensively, interviewing all the various masters of kung fu and dug through numerous archives. It was a lot of fun.

BD: I heard that Tony Leung said he felt like he was dying at one point but you said that he had to keep practicing; was the physical training very vigorous?

WKW: I’ve worked with Tony in seven films so far and know that he’s a dedicated actor. The choreographer was Yuen Woo Ping who is in his seventies and has worked on movies like The Matrix and Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon. Yes the training was very hard and intense; it went on for over a year plus Tony broke his arm twice. But he pulled it off.

BD: You’re well known for opting for accuracy over aesthetics; since films are typically works of fiction, do you think getting the facts right is always worth the extra time, effort and expense?

WKW: As far as I’m concerned, unity is far more important than aesthetics.

For a filmmaker, a movie is about

form and substance; form is related to aesthetics which in turn has to serve the content so the two have to go hand in hand. I feel a film will only look beautiful if it is right (accurate).

BD: There seems to be a common thread running through your films – reflecting on memories of the past. Is there any personal reason for this?

WKW: I think that when people watch my films they usually find love stories because longing and loving are very active human experiences. The objects of these passions and obsessions could be a man or a woman or it could be about life. Actually it could be about almost anything but it so happens that in my movies, it becomes a romantic story.

BD: Do you think that the current trend of kung fu films being made are too gimmicky?

WKW: I feel they have to be because today kung fu is also like a genre. The reason I wanted to make The Grandmaster was as an expression of Chinese martial arts – it’s not just about kicks and punches.

What I mean is that it’s

not a kung fu film; rather it’s a film about kung fu.

BD: Has your style of filmmaking altered after winning the Best Director award at Cannes in 1997 for ‘Happy Ending’?

WKW: I don’t look at it that way because we don’t make films to win awards – it comes as a bonus.

Of course it was nice to win and there was a feeling of success that followed but, for most filmmakers, the afterthought is more about what you’re going to say in your next movie.

BD: I’ve heard you like to play music during shooting; what’s the thinking behind this?

WKW: I feel that when a film is born with a certain type of music, it enhances the shooting process. And by listening to that music, the actors then get a sense of what I’m looking for in a particular scene.

PS - As a former resident of Hong Kong, I was especially thrilled to score an interview with WKW – conversing with him in Cantonese was definitely a highlight! 

Hard Rock International Announces First Hotel Property in India, Hard Rock Hotel Goa

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ard Rock International – owner of one of the world’s most iconic and recognized brands – announces Hard Rock Hotel Goa, the first of its kind in India. Projected to open in March 2015, the brand will transform the current North 16 GOA Resort owned

by Convention Hotels India (CHI)into the Hard Rock Hotel Goa. Catering to the evolving and distinctive needs of today’s cosmopolitan traveler, the 135-room property will offer worldclass entertainment, stylish design, unparalleled service and Hard Rock’s differentiator – music. The property’s location, in the heart of Calangute, is in close proximity to the area’s famed beach that attracts an influx of international and domestic travelers year-round.

Boasting a central location, just 22 miles from Goa International Airport, the property is easily accessible for travelers visiting the region.

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Hard Rock Hotel Goa will entice locals and worldly travelers with unparalleled live music performances and unique amenities, such as The Sound of Your Stay®, the brand’s all-encompassing music amenity program. The exclusive program is free for guests of the hotel, allowing for in-room guitar jam sessions and playlist download upon check-in.The

f you land in Goa and suddenly feel the need to upchic your wardrobe for your beach holiday, make a bee-line to the ever-stylish Bebel boutique in Calangute, near the quaint chapel-in-the-middle-of-theroad, and pick up a signature piece to glam up your resort style.

Most of Bebel’s clothing and accessories are exclusive, created by leading designers, unique to Goa. Choose from an eclectic mix of silk drapes by Goa’s own up and coming star designer Stephany D’Souza, boho-chic outfits from Scandinavian expats Hot Pink Cool Blue or cute shaded dresses from Panjim’s Syne label.

Stephany D’Souza was selected in the gen-next category of Lakme Fashion Week in 2013, and is designing an exclusive collection of resort wear for Bebel, besides having the largest collection of her brand housed at the store, exclusively in Goa. Hot Pink Cool Blue, is a brand new label out of Goa but the people behind it, have been designing and

boutique property will feature traditional offerings, including a premium threemeal restaurant, room service, openair pool and outdoor courtyard area, complemented by a poolside bar and grill. Additionally, the property will offerbrand-wide amenities, such as a Body Rock® workout facility and a Rock Shop®, featuring Hard Rock’s iconic

showing collections for over 10 years. Lena Falk has been designing and producing Pink India out of Bangalore earlier and her partner Fredrik Moethe has been running large stores in Norway.

Syne Coutinho, who also has a store in the Latin Quarter area of Panjim, offers a really personal and refreshing take on Goan fashion by mixing tradition and out-of-the-box features in her eclectic yet affordable collection.

You can also browse through over a dozen other clothing and accessories designers handpicked by owner Isabel Hernandez Lelli, (Bebel to her friends), a Spanish-Italian expat who has made Goa her home for the past several years. Isabel is especially excited about the exclusive couture collection by the iconic Bombay designer James Ferreira being displayed at her store. She is also partial to Australian resort wear designers Easton Pearson and global nomad Pia Pauro’s hand-embroidered tunics, skirts and gowns with eccentric prints. 

merchandise and meeting and event space.

“The Hard Rock Hotel Goa will be located in a destination rich inculture and entertainment, and sharing the same vibrant, free spirit of the Hard Rock brand,” said Hamish Dodds, chief executive officer of Hard Rock International.

“Our vision to bring an energetic brand like Hard Rock Hotel to India’s experiential travelers will soon be a reality with the launch of Hard Rock Hotel Goa,” said PrataapWadhwa, Director Convention Hotels India; owners of the Hard Rock Hotel Goa. “Tourism is core to India’s growth and our association with Hard Rock will enable us to reach a new market of travelers.”

Hard Rock Hotel Goa will be managed

by Spectra Hotels & Resorts, a joint venture between Convention Hotels India and Spectra Hospitality Services.

Convention Hotels India and Spectra Hospitality Services are also currently exploring other in-country hotel opportunities in partnership with Hard Rock International.

For more information or to book a stay at any of the Hard Rock Hotels, please visit www.hardrockhotels.com.