Issue No: 09 by Goa Streets

Remembering A Bygone Era

Awesome Travel Tips

Music of Germany

5 Stunning Views

Goans take to Facebook to reminisce on the colonial times.

A 30-piece Indo-German orchestra playing Mozart, Wagner and Schubert echoes through the St. Augustine Tower of Old Goa.

8 incredibly useful ideas for saving money on travel, including low fare web alerts.

Beholding the utter gorgeousness of Goa without a drone.

Also Inside:

• What's On- page 9 • Crishnaa Verencar: Feeding Strays - page 12 • Menopause - page 14 • Bookworm: Educate A Child - page 19 •

REGIONAL PLAN 2021 Will It Change Goa?

Pg 10

Tourism: Peak Season Verdict Pg 02

02 tourism

Christmas And New Year’s Are Over What’s The Verdict On This Year’s Peak Tourist Season?

By Crespo D’Souza

f you go by the traffic jams over Christmas and New Years, it would seem that Goa’s ability to draw in hordes of tourists hasn’t faded. If you go by the words of many taxi drivers and other tourismdependent Goans, it’s been the worst peak season in memory. If you listen to the reports of hoteliers, things aren’t so bad after all. So what’s the verdict on this year’s peak tourist season in Goa? It seems it’s as mixed as the opinions of the stakeholders. The numbers are there, judging by hotel occupancy rates and mobbed thoroughfares. But dig a little deeper and the picture changes: fewer foreigners and more domestic visitors, fewer charter flights and more buses, fewer families and more EDM fans, less glitterati and more multitude. After a slow start to the season, Goa’s tourism sector was hoping, praying that things would pick up by Christmas and New Year’s – and they have, but only for some. “This season is the worst I have known. The only trips we have been making are from home to where we park our cars awaiting tourists,” said a taxi driver whose lack of business may have as much to do with tourists’ changing transportation options as any insufficient numbers.

“While airfares have fallen considerably, hotels have been more stubborn in reducing their fares. One explanation for this could be the fact that many more couples and families are choosing to drive down rather than taking a flight simply because that gives them the mobility once they are here,” travel agent Giovanni Fernandes said. “The high taxi rates could also be a reason why tourists are choosing their own vehicles. Combine this with the option to hire cars from Zoomcar and others,” he added. Hotels in the state claimed 90% per cent occupancy during Christmas and New Year’s, especially around the time of the EDM (Electronic Dance Music) festivals Sunburn and Supersonic. Natalie Barnes, an Anglo-Indian from Mumbai, came to Goa specifically for the music festivals and was struck by the lopsided national profile of the attendees as compared to previous years. “It’s all the young urban Indians who are emerging. The international tourists are too few to be counted,” she said. Tourism Director Sanjeev Gauns Dessai assures that the department is making every effort to upgrade Goa’s stature as a preferred tourist destination. “Several new initiatives are being planned, including better facilities

along the beaches, sea planes, helicopter rides, amphibious buses as well as several other initiatives,” Dessai said. Official figures on the number of tourists arriving in Goa are not available for the last six months. Overall, Goa has shown growth in tourist arrivals in recent years, even if the biggest jump has been among low-spending domestic visitors. Today, around 4 million people visit Goa every year, around 13 per cent from foreign countries and the rest from India. Folks who in decades past could never even dream of taking a holiday in another state can now afford to do so, thanks to India’s impressive economic growth. The state has seen a decline in international travellers due to a number of factors, most notably the fall of the Russian ruble and a growing perception that Goa is losing its lustre as a pristine and peaceful destination. That said, all is not lost. The government is working hard to keep garbage off the major beaches and promote adventure, cultural, family and “eco” tourism. And while fewer Russians are arriving, there’s some indication that British and other European arrivals are slowly climbing back up. Most importantly, Goa remains a favourite among Indians of all stripes, including those who come here with lots to spend.

“Goa has seen a big draw for tourists. Especially the two EDM festivals saw many tourists in the state,” said Goa Tourism Minister Dilip Parulekar. He said that in the next year he expects to see as many as 7.5 million tourists visit the state, almost double what it is now. He cited the initiatives like seaplanes and hot air balloons as reasons why tourists will come in greater numbers. Parulekar and other tourism officials seem intent on pitching Goa as middle class India’s perfect “European” holiday. Stakeholders, however, remain disillusioned that the government hasn’t put in place promised infrastructure along the beaches such as better roads, footpaths, beach showers, toiletsand changing rooms. To be sure, Goa will need more than showers and changing rooms to achieve its tourism goals. The garbage that is still ubiquitous on roads throughout the state, price gauging, lack of infrastructure, and inadequate planning and strategy must all be addressed with urgency. Considering India’s population of 1.2 billion people, and that Goa stands out within this population as the most easy-going, fun-loving and free-spirited, and that India is now the fastest growing major economy in the world, a bright tourism future could be Goa’s for the taking. But let’s first clean up the garbage. 

Who We Are? Publisher Marisha Dutt • Chief Mentor Steven Gutkin • Contributing Editor José Lourenço Photographer Brendon Sapeco • Marketing Co-ordinator Radhika Naik • Marketing & Event Co-ordinator Rahul Rivonkar • Marketing Executive Alvira Rodrigues • Graphic Designer Amol Kamat • Circulation & Accounts Co-ordinator Nilesh Shetgaonkar • Circulation Vijay Gadekar & Valentino D'Cruz • Correspondents/Writers: Ethel Da Costa, Sheela Jaywant, Charlane Pereira e Rebello, Bina Datwani, Karan Bhagat, Perin Ilavia, Dielle D’Souza,

Anzil Fernandes, Crespo D’Souza, Sanket Sharma, Richa Narvekar, Vivian Maverick Martins, Claron Mazarello, Aliya Abreu, Kanchi Mehta, Sapna Shahani, Vaishnavi Pilankar

04 history

Peeping Into The Images Of Colonial Goa

By José Lourenço

s Goa copes with modern day problems of mountains of waste, choked roads, environmental and sociopolitical corruption, it is no surprise that many Goans look back to a bygone time when life in Goa was much cleaner and greener, though under colonial rule. What better place in cyberspace to harken back to those ‘good old days’ than the ubiquitous Facebook! Memórias da India Portuguesa is one such FB page where hoary photographs are posted by nostalgic members, who consist of Goans as well as Portuguese who were based in Goa at that time. Many younger Goan members are history and architecture enthusiasts. There are exclamations of delight at seeing old photos and some of the older members share their experiences of living and working in colonial-era Goa. This page which has gained 7193 ‘likes’, hosts photos covering a wide range of subjects. Churches, temples, buildings and even bridges are featured along with images of people at work, at home and at play. Many scenes in the countryside look like they could have been shot today. A 1957 picture of rural farming shows workers in the same traditional attire as today. The cobwalls of the fields, built with clumps of mud and straw to keep cattle out, can be seen in rural Goa even now. The salt pans of the 1940´s show the familiar heaps of salt piled up on the saltpan ridges. Military and political ceremonial visits are well documented. The Patriarch of the East Indies, Dom Jose Alvernaz is seen visiting a school in 1957. The present profile photo of the page is that of General Paulo Bernard

Guedes, the ‘Governador Geral’ of the Portuguese colonies in India circa 19531958, in full ceremonial regalia. There are also images of the military parade during the celebrations of the 5th October (Portuguese Republic day) in Panjim, and a video clip of Portuguese soldiers landing at Angediva Island. An 1895 photo shows a group of soldiers posing at a camp in a jungle, apparently assigned to quell the revolt of the Ranes, who were a warrior people, and a constant thorn in the side of the Portuguese regime in Goa. One of the most striking images is of a couple bearing an aristocratic mien— Constâncio Miranda, a lawyer from Goa and his wife Zulema Miranda. The man stands, casually leaning on a pedestal in the studio, while his wife is seated. This 1920s photo is significant, as a member informs us that the two are the parents of Mario de Miranda of Loutulim, Goa’s legendary artist and cartoonist. There are many family portraits on the page. The Quadros family photographed in 1904 shows the kin seated in three rows, the

lowest being the children seated on the floor. Double breasted coats and other formal attire for the men, frilly frocks and sailor suits for the children, the ladies’ hair all tucked up in a neat bun, all these show the contemporary western attire of that time. A 1932 photo titled ‘Dois acólitos de uma igreja em Goa’ (translated to ‘Two acolyte (altar servers) from a Goan church) shows two young boys in altar boy smocks. This triggers a discussion on whether they are altar boys or sacristans/sextons. They are too young to take on the duties of sextons, a member opines, so they must be altar boys. ‘Duas senhoras goesas vão á missa’ or ‘Two Goan ladies on their way to the mass - Goa 1932’ shows the women clad in frugal black dresses and veils. What is striking about that image is that the two are actually barefooted! A large group of women, girls and even infants can be seen in a photo titled ‘Orfanato feminino Nª Srª da Serra’, the Our Lady of Serra feminine orphanage in Old Goa, dated 1908. It is a poignant image that holds scores of untold stories, of love, abandonment and compassion. Love for one’s fellow man (and woman and child) can also be seen in the 1907 photo of the hospital for Hindus built by Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Goa, ‘for those who for religious reasons did not want to go hospitals where Catholics stayed’. ‘Caminho de ferro que atravessa os Gattes em Goa’ is an aerial shot

showing the railway passing through through the Western Ghats in 1894. Those were pioneering days for railway in Goa, with the metre gauge track built with British help. Traditional boats seen in the Mandovi river in 1914 were used to transport goods at a time when road transportation was difficult, informs a member Vrunda Kantak— “The smaller one is called vodem and bigger one is called kotwo which was used for sea transportation even from Goa to Damao and Diu.” A 1950 black and white photo shows a handsome bare chested Portuguese soldier waist deep in a river. Another has Portuguese soldiers posing with some local Goans. A couple of Portuguese soldiers can be seen literally horsing around on two concrete horses at the Parque Infantil Agakhan, part of the Margao Municipal Garden. The horses still stand there today. A rare photo of football teams of Portuguese soldiers before a match shows one team clad fully in white while the other has black jerseys on white shorts, all lined up along with their referee on a field with rather overgrown grass. The whistle blew on the colonial game more than fifty years ago. Goan history books tell of the pain and incarceration that freedom fighters had to endure during the colonial regime. Yet a story is only fully told when every facet of the tale has been glimpsed. These pages of memorable photographs and narratives help complete the story of Goa.

Friday, January 8, 2016

Indo German Confluence Fest Delights Music Aficionados in Goa By Perin Ilavia

usic is a demanding mistress, an indispensable force in integrating cultures. The Indo German Confluence IV Fest is an international music festival organized by Opus Ga La in collaboration with auswartiges amt, Jugend musiziert, Deutscher musikrat. This annual event is a collaboration of musicians from Germany and Goa. The venue of the concert, St. Augustine Tower, Old Goa, was studded with music lovers on 7th January, as they settled down to take in the 30 piece orchestra, conducted by Prof. Ulf Klausenitzer. The orchestra had twenty five musicians from Goa on strings, and five musicians from Germany, on wind instruments. They rendered sonatas by

the great German composers Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Richard Wagner and Franz Schubert. The movement of the violins, with wind instruments joining the strings at precise moments, crescendos rising and falling, melancholy notes expanding into half-tones, all propelled the music forward brilliantly. I met up with some of the musicians. 28-year-old violinist Sanya Cotta, studying for her Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Germany, has been part of this fest for several years. Sanyaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s solo recitals of compositions by Wagner and Shubert, bring her mastery over the violin to the fore. Treading on soft notes the upsurge gradually builds up, as her music engulfs you in a trance. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Coming to Goa once a

06 music & nightlife Jan 8th

Every Thursday

Nataraja Fire International Team of performer arrives to burn the Oshoanic restaurant in Arambol. Free entrance. It will be the first show of this new team. At Oshoanic Restaurant, Arambol 7:30 pm

Karaoke Nite Come & be with Mojo Rockstar Kdj Seby At Cafe Mojo Pub & Bistro, Panjim 7 pm onwards +91 7774054353

One @ One Degree, Vagator Featuring: Elvis Rumion- Vocals & Leads, Nolan D’Gama- Acoustic & Vocals. Soft & Acoustic rock live sessions Act II. At One Degree, Vagator 7 pm onwards +91 9657 79 3609/ +91 9167 82 5893 Beach Party Featuring Pacemaker supported act by Leon , Mr.e, Aloysius At Cafe Lilliput, Anjuna Beach 6 pm onwards +91 9822137767

Jan 9th Goa Reggae Sunspash Pre-Party Featuring: Filufferroots, Reggae Rajahs, Rudy Roots At Hard Rock Hotel, Baga 2:00pm to 7:00pm onwards +91 832 6745555

Every Fridays Wicked Fridays Wicked Fridays launches again this Friday! Gear up for an amazing season, and join us to welcome the 3rd season of Wicked Fridays in Goa!  At Waters Beach Lounge and Grill, Ozran beach, Vagator 8:00 pm till late +919767200012 & 9702025555 & 9850561111 Friday Nights @ A Reverie With Anika Noronha Live At A Reverie, Calangute 7 pm onwards +91 98231 74927 Live Music Jukebox - Andre & Tania At The Fisherman's Wharf, Cavelossim  @ 7 pm onwards +91 832 287 1317

Wild Bar Session Drink All You Can Special Performances At Nyex Beach Club, Anjuna 8 pm onwards +91 7387410421/ +91 9545550571

Fusion Live Music  Shanti Fusion A Fusion Of Indian Classical Music & Western Music. The Lead Instrument Is A Sitar Accompanied By Tabala, Drum Set, Saxophone, Keyboard & Double Base Guitar At Deltin Royale, Mandovi River (Offshore)   8 pm onwards +91 86985 99999

Every Wednesday

Every Saturday

Every Fridays & Saturdays

Free bird nights at Cotinga Free bird nights at Cotinga presents, Elvis and Anirban, with a classic rock and blues session, this Wednesday 8:00 pm onwards. At Cotinga at the Tamarind Hotel, Anjuna 8:00 pm onwards +919822851155, (0832)6519999 Live music at Mustard  Krishna Vamsee is live on Wednesday, only at Mustard playing the best in blues, mo-town rock, and country tracks.  Come savour the flavour that binds cuisines together at the newest culinary destination in Goa.  8:00 pm onwards  At Mustard, Sangolda +91 98234 36120 KARAOKE at GURU BAR Karaoke Night Kony Hindi, English & Russian Free entry At GURU BAR, Anjuna 8 pm onwards +91 98233 83257

Saturday Live Music Saby Fernandes At MUSTARD, Sangolda 8 pm onwards +91 98234 36120

Music Spots in Goa Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim Piano Evenings- Every Evening A sip of coffee or a selection of the finest wines and digestifs; enjoy late evenings at Confeitaria while Melanie enchants you with the melodious keys of her Grand Piano. At Confeitaria, Grand Hyatt Goa 10 pm – 1 am Fire Place - Every Thursday Gather around the fire place at the Capiz Bar for an evening of sundowners, performances by DJ Thelma and the acrobatic Safari Cats. Sunset - 00:00 midnight Alfresco Night – Every Friday Walk over to the Pool Bar and Grill and enjoy comfort food accompanied with live music by DJ Thelma 7 pm – 10:30 pm For reservations call +91 832 3011510

Cavala Every Wednesday: Cavala Acoustic Latin Retro Every Friday: Tidal Wave’s live act Every Saturday: Piano played by Bosco Cavala, Calangute - Baga Road, Baga 8:30 pm onwards. +91 832 2276090 sales@cavala.com | www.cavala. com The Park, Calangute Every Monday: Retro Night by Jus Leo Every Thursday: Retro Night Every Friday: Karaoke Night with KDJ Tony 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 Crown Casino located on the first floor of The Crown Hotel, Celebrate and have fun in crown casino that offers the latest in Gaming technology. Enjoy an international experience right here in the heart of Goa! Hotel guests can avail of special casino packages as well. Contact hotel reception on check in. Bairo Alto Dos Pilotos, Jose Falcao Road, Behind Old Secretariat, Panjim For Group Booking Contact: Mr. Rakshit Talwar: +91 9049084848 or +91 832 2222833 reception@crowncasinogoa.com Casino Carnival Casino Carnival Goa offers premium entertainment in Goa, anchored in the Mandovi River overlooking the charming city of Panjim. Offers High Quality Entertainment and Live Gaming experience in Goa comparable with the best practices of international casinos. At Goa Marriott Resort & Spa, Panjim +91 8888885314

Joanne D’Mello performing at the concert

FROM PAGE 5

year and playing with musicians here, needs a lot of practice,” says Sanya. She plans to open a music school in Goa some day. “Goa’s young musicians need to be nurtured and taken to a higher level,” she opined. Germany-based soprano Joanne D’Mello delivered a worthy rendition from the opera ‘Le Nozze di Figaro’ (Marriage of Figaro), drawing thunderous applause. Gorette Vaz and Teresa Figueiredo, who teach violin and cello respectively at the Kala Academy, find their students are dedicated and have a lot of potential. Flautist Susan Badyari, a German living in Goa for 13 years, gives private music classes. “To play with an orchestra you require team spirit, discipline, a ear for music and no ego. One false note can ruin the whole flow,” she says. 13-year-old Aron D’Souza who has been learning the violin for the last two years is the youngest musician in the ensemble. This is his first performance with the orchestra. For him, being in concert requires a good ear and interaction with musicians. The double bass is the largest string instrument in the orchestra, and with its warm deep tones provides a strong frame for an orchestra. Bassist Antonio Vaz, a former Portuguese translator, has been a musician for thirty years now. He maintains the structure of rhythm associated with individual characters, paces, and harmony of the performed piece. For the musicians from Germany, this is their first visit to India. Dr. Benedict Holt Bernd holds a PhD in musicology and singing. He served as artistic manager of the non-profit project company of the German Music Council. He has a deep commitment to the field of amateur youth music, German Orchestra Competition and the National Youth Orchestra. He promotes musicians, giving important impulses for the musical life in Germany. He chose musicians from the National Youth Orchestra, who are in the age group of 16-20 years, for their outstanding persona. He looks forward to bringing in new projects, collaborating with India and Goa. The bassoon is the largest and lowest sounding woodwind instrument in the double reed family, that typically plays music written in the bass and tenor clefts, and occasionally the treble. It figures prominently in orchestral, concert band, and chamber music literature, and is often compared to that of a male baritone voice, for its warm, dark and reedy timbre. Bassoonist Thomia Ehrhardt likes the instrument for its distinctive tone colour, wide range, variety of character and agility. French horn players, 16-year-old Felix Hutter enjoys music, and says one must have good rehearsals to move forward. 18-year-old Constantin Glaner, performing since he was eight years old, loves hearing and making music. The success of this fest is credited to Sonya’s father, music director Shubert Cotta, who recently composed music for the Konkani movie Enemy. The applause from the audience and the encores that followed were testimony to the quality of this remarkable event. 

travel 07

Friday, January 8, 2016

8 Ways To Save Money On Travel Right Now By Goa Streets

top right now and listen up. This is not your ordinary newspaper travel story. In a highly useful article appearing this week in the New York Times, Seth Kugel, freelance journalist and Frugal Travelercolumnist for the Times, offered up some pretty damn amazing tips on how to save money the next time you plan a trip. This is his high quality advice – so read on!

Find the cheapest spots Kugel says your first stop on the net before planning any trip should be Numbeo (numbeo.com/travelprices), which ranks cities and countries around the world in terms of cost-ofliving, hotel and restaurant prices and how much it costs to be a tourist in each place. Next web stop, Kugel says, should be Fareness.com, which tells you what you can expect to pay during the dates of your planned travel. A good practice, says Kugel, is choosing a place where you know people – friends or relatives or friends of friends or relatives of relatives, or any combination therein. These people “might provide moneysaving advice, a free meal or even a spare bedroom.”

Find the hidden deals It’s important to keep in mind, says Kugel, that not every airline in the world shares its information with major travel sites. Southwest Airlines in the U.S. is one example (you can book your flight on their site and no other). Another example of a “hidden” airline is Air Panama. Kugel recommends checking Wikipedia for lists of commercial airlines serving each country (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Template:List_of_airlines/countries).

4 2

Schedule your airfare purchases. Buying well in advance, says Kugel, might “lock in a decent prices, a good move for the disorganized.” But there are better ways to get the best price. To find an ideal time to buy, use Kayak’s (www.kayak.com) Travel Hacker global pages, which provides good estimates on when’s best for your destination and dates. The website www.airfarewatchdog. com enables you to set up an airfare alert so that you can be informed when the cheapest fares to your destination arise. Also check out hopper. com/research or their app, which also watches prices for you and lets you know when fares are likely to drop.

Go at the right time Kugel bemoans the fact that, on numerous occasions, he’s bought a ticket for travel at the wrong time – “a national holiday, or the first week of school vacation or some other time where hotels may be overbooked, local flights pricey, restaurants closed, streets deserted.” If you’re looking for great dining in Paris, don’t go in August. Kugel laments ending up in “Sumatra during Ramadan or Seoul during the Korean New Year.” Check the web, he says, for lists of holidays and festivals and how those might affect your holiday (Kugel did not mention, but should have, that arriving during certain festivals can also be a decidedly good thing).

Apply for a credit card Kugel says it’s worth obtaining a credit card that offers free airline miles just for signing up and using the card, especially when the cards are offered with no annual fee for the first year. What Kugel does, somewhat questionably (depending on the strength of your moral compass), is get the card, use the miles, and then cancel the card before the year is up, so that he doesn’t have to pay any fee at all. In the U.S., he recommends creditcards.com/ airline-miles.php to find out which cards offer which deals.

Be smart about your smart phone Before leaving for any international destination, contact your telecom provider and ask about roaming rates for data and calls. Most companies these days have pretty decent plans that will allow you to use your smart phone abroad without breaking the bank. However, by all means avoid data usage over public networks abroad, and use Wifi instead.

Rent the cheapest car Prices for car rentals “vary so widely and unpredictably across companies, locations and dates that it is insane for occasional travelers to pay extra so they can collect points or save a few minutes or get a free upgrade,” Kugel writes. Instead, go online and pick the cheapest rate from a “company you’ve heard of.” Kugel says it’s also important to check what your local insurance and credit card companies offer in terms ofcar rental, so that you don’t have to pay extra at the counter for stuff for which you’re already covered.

Crack the codes Shopping for deals online? Kugel recommends installing the Honey Browse Extension on Google Chrome (visit www.joinhoney.com), which enables you to automatically find and apply coupon codes when you shop online. Quite nifty!

08 the corner Renault India registers 160% growth in domestic sales in December 2015 Renault India, one of the fastest growing automotive companies in India, registered a growth of 160% with monthly domestic sales of 10,292 units in December 2015 as against 3,956 units in the corresponding month last year. In the calendar year 2015, Renault India sold 53,847 units compared to 44,849 units in the preceding year, registering a cumulative growth of 20.1%. With substantial efforts and developments on product, network and customer engagement, Renault India has entered a new phase of growth in India, and is gearing up towards making its products and services more accessible to customers across the country. Renault India has substantially increased its sales and service network reach in India, from 14 sales and service facilities in mid-2011 to 200 currently, and will reach 240 facilities by end of next year, which includes expanding its presence in existing and new markets in urban, semi-urban and rural India. ABOUT RENAULT: Renault India Pvt. Ltd. is a fully owned subsidiary of Renault S.A.S. France and currently

offers seven models in the Indian market – the premium sedan Fluence, the luxury SUV Koleos, the premium compact car Pulse, the segmentbreaker SUV Duster, the premium sedan Scala, the revolutionary MPV Lodgy and the recently-launched global compact hatchback, Renault KWID. Renault India cars are manufactured in the manufacturing facility located in Oragadam, Chennai, with a capacity of 480,000 units per annum. Currently, Renault India also has a widespread presence of more than 200 sales and service facilities across the country with benchmark sales and service quality. Renault India’s product line up and services have also seen strong recognition among customers and industry experts alike, winning more than 40 titles, including 31 accolades for Duster as well as awards for Pulse and Scala, making Renault India one of the most awarded automotive brands in a single year in India. The recentlylaunched Renault KWID has also bagged several awards.

SBI Life wins Golden Peacock Award for Risk Management - 2015

BI Life Insurance, the most trusted private life insurer, has won the 'Golden Peacock Award for Risk Management’ for the year 2015, by the Awards Jury under the Chairmanship of Justice M. N. Venkatachaliah, former Chief Justice, Supreme Court of India. Golden Peacock Award for Risk Management is a coveted and prestigious recognition of significant achievements in the field of Risk Management. The award stimulates and helps SBI Life to build its Brand equity on Risk Assessment and Management and gives SBI Life a competitive edge in today’s rapidly changing market – place.

HYATT CELEBRATES THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF HYATT PLACE GOA/CANDOLIM

yatt Place Goa/Candolim is the newest Hyatt-branded hotel to officially open in Goa, India. The hotel brings the Hyatt Place brand’s intuitive design, casual atmosphere and practical amenities to the Goa area.This is the fourthHyatt Place hotel to open in India, joining Hyatt Place Hampi, Hyatt Place Pune/Hinjewadi and Hyatt Place Gurgaon/UdyogVihar. Hyatt Place Goa/Candolim is ideally located in the heart of North Goaand is in close proximity to the state’s beaches, including Candolim Beach, Calangute Beach and Fort Aguada, as well as popular entertainment and nightlife destinations. Hyatt Place Goa/Candolim isless than 22 miles (36 kilometers) from Goa’s DabolimAirport and 12 miles (21 kilometers) from Thivim Railway Station. “The opening of Hyatt Place Goa/ Candolimis a significant milestone for the Hyatt Place brand as it continues to expand in India and across the globe,” said Kurt Straub, Hyatt’s vice president of operations, India. “Goa’s first Hyatt Place hotel will bea vibrant and dynamic hotel that combines comfort and style that fits right into the region’s holiday capital.” “The Hyatt Place brand is designed to offer seamless experiences suitable for both business and leisure travelers,” said General Manager Sanjay Patti, Hyatt Place Goa/Candolim. “We know that our guests will appreciate the comfortable

and functional amenities offered at Hyatt Place Goa/Candolim.”

Hyatt Place Goa/Candolimoffers: • 147 spacious guestrooms with separate spaces to sleep, work and play, as well as a Cozy Corner sofa-sleeper • Complimentary Wi-Fi and remote printingfrom anywhere in the hotel • Gallery Kitchen Breakfast, a free hot breakfast for guests available

daily in the hotel’s Gallery Kitchen, features signature breakfast sandwiches, fresh fruit, oatmeal, yogurt, cereal, fresh-baked pastries, and more • 24/7 Gallery Menu& Market serving freshly prepared meals anytime, day or night and perfectly packaged sandwiches and salads • Coffee to Cocktails Bar featuring specialty coffees and premium beers,

as well as wines and cocktails • Odds & Ends program for forgotten items that guests can buy, borrow or enjoy for free • Meetings Spaces offer flexible meeting/function space with a dedicated Meeting Host and state-ofthe-art audio visual technology • 24-hour Gym featuring cardio equipment • Outdoor swimming pool

Friday, January 8, 2016

Jan 8

Jan 12 to Jan 16

Film Club Imago, the fortnightly film club will screen ‘Over your cities grass will grow’. Discussions will be led by curator Apurva Kulkarni. At Gallery Gitanjali, Panjim 6:00 pm +91 832 2423331

Science Film Festival of India Science Filmmaking workshop and competition ‘Dream to Screen’ At Maquinez palace, Old GMC complex, Panaji, Ravindra Bhavan, Margao, VHP office, Khadpabandh, Ponda, Ravindra Bhavan, Vasco, Vidya Prabhodini, Porvorim, Mapusa 11:00 am to 4:00 pm +91 832 2428111

Jan 9 Relaxation camp Learn effective and easy to use relaxation strategies At Silver Linings: Guidance and Counselling centre, Borda, Margao 10:00 am to 12:00 noon +91 7769 86 7207

Jan 10 Find Your Inner Connection A contemporary dance workshop is being organized by Danza Performing Arts in association with ICG. Due to there being limited seats for the events, the last date for registrations is January 10th, 2016. At International Centre Goa 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm (Kids Batch) 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm (Adult’s Batch) +91 8322 45 2805 Talk on discovery and rediscovery Kumar Ketkar, former editor, writer, columnist and socio-political commentator will be speaking on the topic ‘Jawaharlal Nehru: Discovery & Rediscovery’ under the auspices of MARG’s Nehru Centre and Institute of Citizenship and Civic Sense Education At Ravindra Bhavan, Margao 10:00 am +91 8322 72 6980

Jan 12 The Literati Book club The Literati Book club will meet over potluck to discuss The Razor’s Edge by Somerset Maugham At Literati Bookshop, Calangute 8:15 pm +91 8322 27 7740

Jan 5 to Jan 9 New Year special Nuvem centre of Art of Living organizes “New Year special AOL Yoga Level 1”. This program focuses on techniques to keep your resolution taken for New Year. At Community hall, Ramcons residency, Piken-Nuvem, Seraulim road. 6:30 to 9:00 pm +91 8322 79 0136

Jan 8 to April 30 Vagator Night Bazaar Retail, Food, live music, shows, games At Vagator Hill Near thalassa, Ozran, Vagator 6 pm to 12 am +91 9172479697/ +91 7875233985

Every Tuesday Rejuvenate & Detox At Shamana Spa Designed to restore balance to your body system, cleanse it of toxins, and rejuvenate the mind. The program at Shamana Spa, Grand Hyatt Goa will include a combination of yoga, aqua exercise, lymphatic drainage treatment and royal wellness bath along with healthy drinks and herbal teas. Shamana Spa, Grand Hyatt, Bambolim 8:00AM – 1:00PM +91 832 3011510

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday Salsa Workshop A Series of Salsa Classes will be conducted. At Carpe Diem, Majorda 6 pm to 7 pm +91 88888 62462

Dance Classes David Furtado Dance Classes Salsa & Waltz for beginners At Casino Motel, Porvorim 6.40 to 7.40 +91 9975914195 Jason & Sylvia Dance Academy  At Las Viegas Dance Studio, Taleigao +91 9822161652/ +91 9822151614 Snaden Shawn Dance Academy Dance Style: Hip hop, Bollyfunk, jazz, contemporary At All Over Goa +91 7798609859/ +91 9890163433

Great Goan Experience Froggy Land Froggyland is a venue for all the water lovers. Some of our activities would include the wave pool, lazy river, slides, rain dance, children’s pool etc. At Pateipur, Nuvem +91 9823480057 Birds & Breakfast Have your morning breakfast watching birds The Best time of bird watching is October to Mid April. At Gauro Waddo, Calangute +91 832 2276711/ +91 9822149002 Horse Riding Majorda Beach Horse Riding It offers riding on Goa’s longest beach At Majorda 5 pm to 7 pm +91 9822586502

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

Sahakari Spice Farm Relax under a dense forest cover and take in the aroma of a variety of spices grown in the farm. Also, enjoy a traditional Goan lunch served in earthen pots & banana leaves. At PondaBelgaum Highway, Curti, Ponda +91 832 2312394 Email: info@sahakarifarms.com

Canopy Eco – Tours Offers a wide variety of experiences including nature-treks, butterfly tours, dragonfly & damselfly tours, and boat safaris on the Zuari River as well as their original bird watching tour. At Housing Board Colony, Margao +91 9764261711, +91 9764052225 Canopygoa.com

Book Centres

Goa Butterfly Park & Conservatory A small park on a hill that’s a great place to spot stunningly beautiful butterflies. Near Tropical Spice Plantation, Ponda +91 832 2985174, +91 9822125474 Bcogoa.org The Bushmasters Owner Rahul Alvares is one of our state’s most experienced snake rescuers. Snake Watch programmes costs Rs. 1600 per person inclusive of transport and breakfast. At Almeida Vaddo, Parra 6.30 am to 9.30 am +91 9881961071 Rahulalvares.com Off the Grid Offers a unique home stay experience in a secluded village in the Western Ghats At Western Ghats John +91 9623451758 Sylvia +91 9049081097

Outdoors Tropical Spice Plantation The Tropical Spice Plantation guided tour is certain to refresh your senses and make you feel at one with Mother Nature. At Arle Bazar Keri, Ponda +91 832 2340329 Abyss Spice Farm Located on high hills amidst stunning surroundings near Ponda. Many tourists visit it for the medicinal herbs grown here on a large scale. The Plantation also offers ayurvedic massage. At Sai Farm, Savoi Verem, Ponda Pascoal Spice Village A wide variety of spice plants and cash crops is grown here. For visitors there is a restaurant with an open-air party facility along with boating At Khandepar, Ponda +91 832 2344268/ +91 832 2344536 -39 Atreya Vedic Farms Set amidst nature’s abundance at the foothills of the Western Ghats in Molem is Atreya Vedic Farm, a unique ecotourism venture. At Bondu Mol, Mollem 9 am to 5 pm +91 832 6570877

Literati It’s a Bookshop and Café At Gauro Vaddo, Calangute 10 am to 6.30 pm +91 832 2277740 Broadway Book Centre Broadway Book Store offers great books at amazing prizes to passionate readers of all ages At Aguada Fort Road, Candolim 10 am to 9 pm +91 9860030339

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. 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 Maratha-Portuguese war. At Vagator

Museum of Goa Art Museum At Pilerne Industrial Estate, Pilerne 10 am to 6 pm +91 7722089666 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 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 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 Goa State Museum Have some 8,000 artifacts on display including carvings, paintings, manuscripts, rare coins and stone sculptures. A museum shop is planned soon with the aim of popularizing Goan culture through museum objects. At EDC Complex, Patto, Panjim 9.30 am to 5.30 pm +91 832 2438006 / +91 832 2437306 Xavier Centre of Historical Research See exhibitions of paintings, browse through rare books and attend symposiums with particular emphasis on contemporary cultural & social issues affecting Goa. At BB Borkar Road, Porvorim +91 832 2417772 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

MUSEUMS

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

Museum Of Christian Art Open all days of the week Located at the Convent of Santa Monica, you may pray if you wish to, else just soak in the ambience of peace. At Old Goa From 9:30 am – 5 pm +91 832 2285299

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

10 cover story

The 2021 Regional Plan Goa’s Blueprint For Development Will Soon Be Finalised By Crespo D’Souza

ifteen lakh Goans. Fifteen lakh opinions. We’re all members of the human race, so perhaps it shouldn’t surprise anyone that feelings are decidedly mixed on the Regional Plan 2021, meant to serve as Goa’s blueprint for development and conservation. First, a bit of good news. For the first time in 26 years, this little state of ours appears likely to finalise a regional plan (despite being required by law to do so every 10 years) – clearly delineating which zones will remain “green” and which can be built upon. The current BJP-led government is working to execute the Regional Plan 2021 – first “notified” (earmarked to go into effect) five years ago but never fully implemented. Last-minute alterations based on often conflicting agendas are widely expected to be resolved within the next six months. Whether the rest of the news is good or bad depends on your perspective. Many environmentally-conscious people are pleased that the plan designates 70 percent of Goa’s land as an “eco-zone” where construction is banned. Many pro-business forces are pleased that the plan allows for the building of large projects, including factories, hotels, resorts and a golf course. Yet these same forces bemoan heavy building restrictions. And environmentalists are up in arms over mega-projects. It is possible to keep everyone happy? Clearly not. Is the 2021 Regional Plan the best possible compromise? Probably not, and that’s why stakeholders are still ironing out the kinks. Is the Regional Plan 2021 Goa’s best chance currently to achieve the efficient zoning and infrastructure needed for sustainable growth? Yes is it. Apparently, enough people in Goa understand this to make it highly unlikely that increasingly strident calls for the plan’s “de-notification” will be heeded. For while the plan is far from perfect, the alternative – going back to the drawing board while politicians randomly approve whatever they please or are bribed to please – is unacceptable. “We have demanded a rectification of the plan because it is the most practical solution. If one wants to scrap the plan, then let’s … begin the process of making Regional Plan 2031, because that’s how long it will take to draw up a new plan from scratch,” said Sabina Martins, convenor of the Goa Bachao Abhiyan, a group of pro-environment activists.

Architect Dean D’Cruz, who was part of the committee that drew up the Regional Plan 2021, agreed the plan should be modified, not scrapped. “Corrections… just deletion of suspect settlement is possible within the present ambit of the law ...and this needs to be done,” he said. The last time Goa had a regional plan was in 1990 when the Regional Plan 2001 was adopted. The Regional Plan 2011 never saw the light of day as massive protests forced it to be scrapped in 2007. After that, then Chief Minister Digambar Kamat asked each village to draw up its own plan, which was then scrutinized by a State Level Committee. It took an additional five years for said committee to come up with the Regional Plan 2021. That it was opposed by the BJP was not surprising, as elections were just months away – even though leaders like Manohar Parrikar had initially supported the plan. It was notified in 2011.

Opposition reached a crescendo around election time in 2012, and when the new government came to power, it said it would keep the plan notified, but permissions for construction would be given only if the area was marked as

settlement in both the 2001 and 2021 Regional Plans. “The problem is with a system like this is that it involves a lot of discretion. And discretion often is a chance to extract bribes,” said Martins of the Goa Bachao Abhiyan. Her organisation took a leading role in opposing Regional Plan 2011, but now sees the Regional Plan 2021 as necessary, provided certain changes are made. What’s wrong with the plan? Many activists oppose “insertions” – such as a proposal to develop the pristine island of Vanxim – that were not part of plans sent upwards from the villages. Some of the plan’s details may seem sanguine on the surface, such as an ‘eco-tourism’ provision granting permissions to “low density” projects that don’t include high rises and where the built up area is less than four percent of a plot area totalling 20,000 square meters or more. But this provision has been used to approve a golf course on Goa’s northern tip – one of the most contentious development projects in recent memory. And yet de-notifiying the plan would mean going back to the 2001 version, which has no marked ecozones. “At least now we have something called eco-zone ... This has been reached after so much effort and fighting. It is the reason today we can 'go to court' if something goes against it,” said another member of the GBA, Reboni Saha. Still, those opposed to the plan are making their voices heard. Some want to freeze all approvals for projects other than individual homes, a policy they say will force the government to show some urgency in drafting a new plan. The Council for Social Justice and Peace, the social arm of the Catholic Church in Goa, also wants to put the current plan on hold until the Town and Country Planning Act for Goa (which mandates the formulation of regional plans) adopts a requirement that all such plans be drafted with the people’s participation. While activists spar over the best way forward, the government has maintained a studied silence, saying only that the plan is open for objections and suggestions, which will be taken into account before it is finalised. In the meantime, many projects continue to be approved outside the ambit of any regional plan. Given Goa’s fluid panorama of money, power and activism, it’s not clear how much would change even if the Regional Plan 2021 becomes the law of the land. 

12 profile

By Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello

Compassionate Young Crusader

Crishnaa Verencar, a college student and budding photographer has started a campaign to feed stray dogs and cattle. The project ‘Nanhe Taare’ to educate young minds has also been initiated by Crishnaa. She has bright hopes of opening her own NGO.

shopping visit to the SPGDA grounds at Margao last year, with her mother Madhavi, hit 20-year-old Crishnaa rather hard. “I saw stray cattle munching on waste plastic,” she says. “At that moment, I decided to do something about it.” That’s how her project ‘Munch Green’ started. With her friend Kaushik Fondekar, a student of Damodar College, Margao, in tow, this tomboyish young crusader visited the SPGDA market to collect a bag of green waste from vendors, for which they paid the princely sum of ten rupees. “Initially, we didn’t know what the cows ate. So we took the big bag of waste and tried feeding the cows in the fields. They began eating the waste after an initial period of hesitation. The cows know us by now,” smiles Crishnaa. Some days later, Crystal Fernandes from Rosary College at Navelim contacted Crishnaa on Facebook and pitched in her support for the campaign. With eight sacks of waste, the second Sunday was a huge success. An elated Crishnaa recalls,

“We check waste-bins for spoilt fruits and vegetables. The vendors know us now and say “Idhar aao and leh lo (Come here and take this). That day we got 7 watermelons, 12 oranges, 8 apples, 8 papayas and other vegetable waste.” Today, the group has four members, the recent being Shubankar Shah, a FYBA student of Chowgule College. Crishnaa says, “We call ourselves the Healers, with the motto – Hope, help and heal. We also feed stray dogs through the ‘Bark With Me’ project.” Crishnaa’s love for dogs started early. When she was barely 11 years old, she had started the ‘Woof Club’ at Manovikas High School in Margao. “I had noticed many students emptying their tiffins into dustbins,” says Crishnaa. “Seeing the wasted food, I thought of feeding the hungry dogs roaming in the area. So I announced my plan in every class. With the help of three friends, Sasha, Mysie and Shennon, I went from class to class with bowls into which students could empty their unwanted food items. I had named the dogs Snuffy, Dingo, Cooky and Sylvester. Often nicknamed as the mother of dogs, I was called if any dog was injured or in a fight.” The ‘Bark With Me’ Club started by Crishnaa two years back at Chowgule College now has 50 volunteers. “We have about five dogs who I have christened Bodyguard, Hrithik, Bunty, Extro and Bingo. All the dogs have collars and are fed. My mom has been kind enough to finance the collars.” She also worked on an internship programme with Tara Trust (Benaulim) in 2014, and volunteered her services for the South Goa Animal Welfare Trust (SGAWT). Her Nanhe Taare Project aimed at educating children about hygiene and good habits kicked off in February last year, with 25 kids from Davorlim attending the first day’s talk. That’s not all! Since December 2014, Crishnaa has done photo shoots for several events. She took to photography after a month long course with Prasad Pankar last year, and now showcases her work under CMV Clicks (www.crishnaamphotography. jimdo.com). She hopes to use her earnings to start up an NGO. She is grateful to her mother Madhavi, and her teacher Rebecca Paes for instilling good values in her and for encouraging her. Her advice to youngsters is “Do what you love. Don’t waste life in partying. If you do good to others and smile at the end of the day, it’s the greatest reward. Small acts of kindness matter a lot.” Crishnaa adds, “We should not forget that animals are also a part of our world. You don’t need to be an animal lover to be kind to animals. You just need to be compassionate.” Those interested in volunteering their services can contact Crishnaa on 9850532533.

Unlocking the extraordinary at the Garden of Dreams Grand Hyatt Goa hosts the second edition of New Year’s Eve ‘Garden of Dreams’

ach year, Grand Hyatt Goa transforms into a destination that celebrates the holiday season by creating memorable moments for every visitor.This year, Grand Hyatt Goa successfully hosted the magnificent New Year’s event. Garden of Dreams 2015 set the bar for a mystical night of entertainment, fiesta amidst great fanfare and grandeur. A theatrical music dinner show, this one-of-a-kind New Year’s event in Goa was truly an escape from reality. The Garden of Dreams saw participation from hotel patrons, international and domestictravelers all raising their glasses to welcome the New Year the grand way. The Garden of Dreams ensured that guests were transported to a bygone era of unparalleled enchantment through some of the most remarkable performances. A welcome stairway over smoky waters lead to the mystical lawns where Melanie Le Blanc welcomed guests with the melodious tunes of her grand piano raised mid-air. Each guest received a vintage garden drink that took over three weeks to prepare the perfect concoction infused with flavours of apples, cinnamon, orange zest and a variety of spices. Designed as

a gateway to the Garden of Dreams, each part of the palace lawns delivered whimsical and captivating performances. The garden weaved a dreamy tapestry of artistry, surrealism and theatrical performances sprawling across the lawns of Grand Hyatt Goa. With the backdrop of the 16th Century Chapel, a carriage with a white horse, the fallen angel, a garden temptress and the princess in a mirror came to life as guests indulged in canapés and appetizers. These were only a few of the many acts that lead to the stairway of the Garden of Dreams. Opening into the expansive lawns where the extravagant dinner spread and desserts were laid out,the celebrations beganwith soul-stirring lounge music by Latina-Americanogroup followed by the entry of the enchanting temptress. The jaw dropping aerial act and dance performance by V Company weretwo of the many acts that left the audience in awe.The Garden of Dreams Queen; VJ,actress and singer AnushaDandekarprovided spectacular performances leading up to the countdown of the most awaited night. Mudit Gupta, from Mumbai a radio contest winner who won a two

night’sstay and tickets to the Garden of Dreams expressed his delight saying, “I had planned some low-key affair with my family for New Year’s Eve, but when I won the contest I was besieged. Witnessing an event that rolled over an unimaginable concept was an out of the world experience for all of us. The performances and the food were simply amazing.” Jaco Le Roux, General Manager, Grand Hyatt Goa said“Last year we decided to do something different from the regular New Year’s Eve gala dinners and conceptualized theGarden of Dreams. We are glad that we have been able to create this theatrical evening for the second time where guests can experience a whole new level of entertainment in the form of a theatrical music dinner show.” The Garden of Dreams has now become an annual event in designing the extraordinary in every moment. 

14 mind, body & soul

Do you get hot flashes? Do you feel moody and irritable without rhyme or reason? Are you in your 40s or 50s, the age that carries special worry for women? Are you still in your prime yet feel fatigued, and pensive half of every month? Girls, listen! It’s just menopause. Beauty takes on many forms, and need not diminish with age. Embrace life, appreciate the changes in your body, live well. Goa Streets’ psychologist Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello tells us more about menopause and why hot flashes need not mean you’re not hot.

hough you may not know everything about menopause, here are a few educative facts to smarten up your health database. Menopause is the absence of periods/menses for 12 months at a stretch. There is no single age for the onset of menopause. The average age of menopause is 51 years old; menopause may occur as early as the 30s or as late as the 60s. The various symptoms of menopause can include abnormal vaginal bleeding, hot flashes, vaginal and urinary symptoms, and mood changes.

Menopause: Hot Flashes Don’t Mean You’re Not Hot You’re Not Alone, Ladies! Treatments are tailor-made for each woman and they’re each meant to alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. But make no mistake. Menopause may mean the end of periods and child bearing, but it’s often a new beginning. You are older and more confident. You have lived life, been there and done that. You are comfortable in your own skin, seen it all, and have the scars to prove it. And let’s face it. You’ve gone through menopause and hot flashes, but you’re still hot. There’s something special, very special, about an older lady. She is life. She is beauty. Dr. Ankush, a gynaecologist comments, “Physical symptoms of menopause include: lack of energy, joint soreness, back pain, heart palpitations, breast enlargement and pain, headache, dizziness, dry, itchy skin, thinning, tingling skin, weight gain, urinary incontinence, urinary urgency, heavy night sweats, interrupted sleeping patterns, etc.” A few women are lucky to sail smoothly during what are considered the most challenging times. Shalini, a

52-year-old woman says, “I always had a healthy menstrual cycle. Having got my periods at the age of 13 years, I had a 5-day menses and I got a daughter 2 years after I got married. My periods stopped 3 years back.” She adds, “I still have my uterus unlike many other women who have gone through surgery. Throughout the entire middle age, I had no complaints or visits to doctor or didn’t have to be hospitalized.” There are times, dear reader, when menopause can be confused with something very different. Listen to the tale of Priscilla. “I am a 43-year-old working woman. I have 3 sons and when my periods stopped 3 months back, I mistook that as a sign of menopause. However, a trip to the gynaecologist proved me wrong. Hurray! I was expecting my fourth child. My husband too was pleasantly surprised.” God bless this lovely couple and their family! Speaking of lucky couples, listen to what 60-year-old Manelia says about her decision to tie the knot with her

long-time sweetheart. “Though I heard many negative comments about my marriage, ‘Tem atam kazar zata?’ (Is this getting married now?) and ‘Ieso piraicher bhurgim koshi zatlim?’ (How can she get kids when she is so aged?), I am quite happy with myself and my husband.” Although Manelia might be too old to give birth, she has found a perfect groom in her husband Mcloyd. For years she craved for companionship. And she did just the right thing by taking the plunge. All power to you, girl! There’s no doubt that Menopause, also known as climacteric, entails challenges. Periods become irregular. Hot flashes lasting from 30 seconds to 10 minutes can include shivering, sweating and reddening of the skin. There may be mood changes, or vaginal dryness or sleep troubles. If you’re going through menopause and undergoing unpleasant symptoms, it’s important to work out a relief plan with your doctor. But rest assured. It’s a natural part of womanhood, and one which you can embrace with a wise, knowing smile. 

food & drink 15

Friday, January 8, 2016

Every Monday Hops & Nibbles Walk into the Capiz Bar to experience new flavours in beer and food pairing. Try something new every Monday as the pairing changes every week; Tapas, Yakitori and more to enjoy At Capiz Bar, Grand Hyatt Goa 4:00PM – 00:00 midnight INR 990 + taxes For reservations call +91 832 3011510

Every Wednesday Pizza Night @ Ciao Bella Dive into a selection of authentic Italian wood fired pizzas At CIAO BELLA, Assagao  7 pm onwards +91 97675 57673 Seafood Night Market A weekly seafood night market with a wide selection of seafood delicacies. If you can’t seem to get enough of seafood through the week, walk over to The Dining Room and enjoy an amazing selection of your seafood favourites and live entertainment. Every Wednesday INR 2500 per person At Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim +91 832 3011510

Every Thursday Pasta Thursdays Treat yourself to a selection of pastas At Bar Code Lounge & Grill, Porvorim +91 832 241 0027

EVERY Saturday  Spanish Nights Head over to the Grand Hyatt Goa Palace Lawns; where they give you an evening of live entertainment and food inspired from the Mediterranean coast of Spain. 7:00PM – 11:30PM INR 2200 + taxes At Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim +91 832 3011510

Brunches Every Sunday Sunday Brunch Happy Hours Buy one Get one free Lunch Buffet Starting 899/Pool Usage At Bay 15, Dona Paula 12 noon onwards +91 7350146000 Sunday-Champagne Brunch Relish a sumptuous meal over five interactive food counters along with free flowing cocktails, champagne and live music by Thelma. Every Sunday, the Dining Room, Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim 1:00PM – 4:00PM INR 2500 + taxes +91 832 3011510 Super Brunch  The Super Brunch at Vivanta Panaji is a decadent affair with an astonishingly wide selection of Live grills. Serving up the finest cuisine from around the world.   At Vivanta by Taj, Panaji, Off D B Bandodkar road, Panaji  +91 832 6633636

Sunday Barbeque Brunch Poolside Sunday grills with live music 12 pm to 5 pm At Banana Republic Bar - Cavala, Baga +91 832 227 7587 Sunday Brunch at Barrels & Bones 12 noon onwards At BARRELS & BONES, Fontainhas +91 77740 78276 Brunch at Cantina Bodega This is one of the more interesting spots in town to have a meal. Under the supervision of Vandana Naik, a former top chef in New York City and easily one of Goa’s most notable culinary experts, there’s a wide variety of delights on offer, including pizzas, soups, salads, hummus and meat balls, plus an eclectic mix of Indian, Mediterranean and other world cuisines. That’s not to mention the desserts, another top draw here. Noon to 4 pm At Cantina Bodega, Sunaparanta, Panjim. +91 832 2421315 info@sgcfa.org www.sgcfa.org Sunday Family Brunch Live Music by The Actacy At Gawin's Restaurant, Verna 12 pm to 3 pm +91 9822177179 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/ +91 832 2267600 resv.goa@theparkhotels.com www.theparkhotels.com Sunday Brunch Highlights: Free Use of Swimming Pool, Rain Dance with DJ, Lavish Buffet with live counters, unlimited house brands alcohol & cocktails & games & Activities Cost: Rs. 1500/- inclusive of all Taxes (with alcohol); Rs. 1100/- inclusive of all Taxes (without alcohol) At Resort Rio, Tambudki, Arpora 12 noon to 3 pm +91 8322267300 / +91 8322267302

South Goa Restaurant Palms Restaurant The Beachside Restaurant Palms with the Peruvian delicacy for the first time in Goa. Enjoy Ceviche delicacies and Peruvian drinks all night long! At Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa, Cavelossim +91 832 2721235 Allegria Goan, Portuguese This fine-dining restaurant at the Taj Exotica serves mouth watering food. On offer are all the classic Goan dishes like Chicken Cafreal, Pork Sorpotel, and Kullanche Mass Kottnim, which is crab meat in a shell, and of course, the all time favourite, Fish Curry Rice. At Taj Exotica, Calwaddo, Benaulim, Salcete 7.30 pm to 10.45 pm +91 832 6683333

Peppers Gourmet Cuisine Seafood, Tandoor Indulge in innovative desserts and local flavours at this exciting food joint. Near Child Care School, Margao +91 832 2711125. +91 9822133506

Konkani Restaurant Casual Dining North Indian, Konkan, Goan, Seafood At Jigisha Building, Varde Valaulikar Road, Margao +91 97638 22983

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

Pentagon Restaurant & Garden Pub Eclectic Asian, Indian and European menu. Sizzle your taste buds with awesome food at pentagon from starters to main course we have it all for you At Majorda Beach Road, Opp. Majorda Beach Resort, Salcete 12 pm to 12 am +91 832 2881402/ +91 9822091402

Casa Sarita For truly outstanding authentic Goan Food. Open only for dinner, this classy fine dining restaurant is a delightful place to explore Goan and Portuguese cuisine. At Park Hyatt Goa, Cansaulim +91 832 2721234

North Goa Restaurant

Tato’s Fine Dining Goan, Indian, Chinese Tato’s fine dining makes its presence felt in the culinary circles in Margao. Opp. New Collectorate, Margao 12 pm to 3 pm and 6.30 pm to 11 pm +91 832 2758590 Fisherman’s Wharf Authentic Goan It’s a fantastic restaurant to celebrate a special occasion. At the riverside, near Holiday Inn, Cavelossim – Salcete +91 832 2871317 Soul Soufflé Goan, North Indian, Continental, Chinese, Seafood Casual Dinning At off the Old Verna Highway, near Udder Water Fall, Ambulour Village, Verna, Margao +918322782100 Gawin's Restaurant & Pub Seafood, Goan, Continental, Chinese Enjoy Sunday Brunch every week At Cansaulim Road, Verna +91 9822177179 Cherry Tomato Burger Cafe and Italian Restaurant At Vanelim, Colva +91 9561379963 Dropadi Restaurant Casual Dining North Indian, Chinese, Continental, Seafood, Goan At Palolem Beach, Palolem, Goa +91 832 264 4555 Vasco Square Casual Dining North Indian, Goan, Continental, Seafood At 211, Joseph Vaz Road, Vasco, Goa +91 832 250 0644 Coconut Creek Serves Non veg, Alcohol, Outdoor Seating Goan, Continental, Chinese, North Indian, Seafood At Bogmalo, Bimut Ward, Bogmalo +91 832 2538100/+91 9823117647

Om Made Cafe @ Teso Waterfront A mélange of international and local cuisine is specially conjured to seduce and tease the epicure’s palate. Enjoy the taste of our food while being seated by an immaculate view of the river and coastal foliage, surrounded by the glimmering of the distant villages. Open 8 am - Midnight Breakfast: 8 am – 11am At Teso Waterfront, Siolim +91832 227 0091 Marbela Beach Italian, Seafood One of the finest beach resorts in the state, Marbela Beach is the ultimate destination to party or to unwind during the sunset with refreshing cocktails and decent food to hog on to. At Morjim –Ashvem Road, Morjim 7 am to midnight +91 832 8450599 Goa Marriott Resort & Spa Open for dinner 7 pm onwards every day, Wan Hao is also open for lunch on Saturday and Sunday. Re-orient your taste-buds with the choicest of Oriental cuisine all this season only. At Wan Hao, the Goa Marriott Resort & Spa! +91 832-246 3333. Avanti Bar & Restaurant Indian, Goan & Seafood Serves Goan specialties like Rawa fried prawns, stuffed squid, and gratinated stuffed crab masala among other Goan delights. Near Patto Bridge, Panjim 11 am to 3 .30 pm, 7 pm to 11.30 pm +91 832 2435884/ +91 832 2427179 hotelavanti@yahoo.com Peep Kitchen Indian, Continental, Goan, Chinese A family restaurant with a bar run by a Goan family serves food with an authentic Goan and homely touch. At Caranzalem, Near Petrol Pump, Panjim Noon to 2.30 pm and 7 pm to 10.30 pm +91 832 6454474 Hotel Sanskruti Chinese, Goan, Indian, Oriental It’s a pure vegetarian restaurant which is packed during lunch time. It’s really good for South Indian food, Thali, and chaat. At Near HDFC Bank, Porvorim 8 am to 11 pm +91 832 2414400/ +91 94233323822

Casa Bhonsle Indian & Goan All meals here are prepared in the authentic Hindu Goan Style. Above Café Bhonsle, Near Cine National, Panjim Noon to 3.30 pm & 7 pm to 11 pm +91 832 2222260/ +91 9822100684 O’Asia Pan Asian This is the ultimate destination for your pan Asian culinary fix. At The O Hotel, Dando, Candolim Noon to 3 pm, 7.30 pm to 11 pm +918323047000 A Lua Chinese, European, Goan, North Indian, Seafood 11 am to 11 pm At, Bella vista, Sangolda +91 832 2416671/ 73 At Porie Bhatt, Verna Contact: +91 832 2782760/ +91 9881272080  At Bhueem Bhatt, St Cruz, Merces +91 832 2448172/ +91 2448757 A Pastelaria Bakery An ideal place for pastries, cakes, cookies and other baked offerings. 9 am to 9 pm At Hotel Mandovi, Panjim +91 832 2426270/ 73 Anandashram Hotel Chinese, Goan and Seafood This is one of the oldest eateries in Goa and is something of an institution for its affordable and delicious Goan Fare. At 31st January Road, Panjim 1 pm to 10.30 pm +91 9823195245 Edu’s Restaurant Indian, Chinese, International and Goan Pizzas are one of their specialties. There’s nothing fancy about it but it has the vibe of a street café. Next to Magsons on the main DB Road in Panjim, Miramar. +91 832 2463777, +91 832 2463888  Sol de Goa  Relax over the weekend with lazy Sundays by the poolside. Sol de Goa presents Mexicana-Spanish Brunch with Sangrias, unlimited food and LIVE acoustic entertainment.  At Sol De Goa, Nerul   11.30 Onwards  +91 9552134385 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 Mustard A Flavour to Savour Serving Bengali and European food, using mustard as a key ingredient. The only Bengali restaurant in Goa! At House No 78, Mae de dues Vaddo, Chogm Road, Sangolda +91 9823436120 Facebook: /mustardgoa

Friday, January 8, 2016

5 Awesome Views in Goa

You Don’t Need a Drone Here By José Lourenço

very tourism destination has its vantage ‘Points’, where the beauty of the place can be enjoyed from high above. Goa is filled with such cherished viewing points, as hills and cliffs have been favoured spots for churches, chapels, temples and forts for hundreds of years.

Dona Paula Pergola and Statue, Dona Paula

Dona Paula is synonymous with a statue of a couple perched on a hillock, replete with stories of unrequited love. A pergola near the statue offers a glorious view of the Arabian Sea. For a few rupees you can peer into mounted viewing ‘scopes. The statue stands overlooking the cliff, just a few meters below the pergola. Walk down to the jetty and enjoy a dekho of the canoes and yachts lounging in the water. You could even hop onto a jetski and get some foam in your face.

Holy Cross Chapel, Betul

Chapel of Our Lady of The Mount, Old Goa If you want a bird’s eye view of The Rome of The East, and don’t have a helicopter or even a drone, this is the place to be. The Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount was one of the many votive chapels founded by Afonso de Albuquerque to mark his victory over Adil Shah. It overlooks the Mandovi River and the Monte Santo (Holy Mound), so from here you can spot the Se Cathedral, Bom Jesus Basilica, St Cajetan Church, St Francis of Assisi Church, Rosary Church, St Agustine’s Tower and lots more.

Bridge Over The Zuari, Agassaim-Cortalim A favourite spot for tourists, the Zuari Bridge offers splendid panoramic views on both sides. The western view shows the Bambolim plateau and Panjim to the right and the Vasco coastline to the left. Look towards your left and you can spot the whitewashed façade of the old Our Lady of Health Church at Sancoale. The rest of the church collapsed a long time ago, leaving only the front standing. The San Jacinto island can also be spotted further on. Mormugao harbour stretches on in the hazy distance. Canoes lie near the embankment, rocking quietly to the river current. The Konkan Railway runs on the eastern side.

Just a kilometer before you reach Betul in South Goa, a road climbs up to the left to the Holy Cross Chapel at the top of the Baradi hillock. A pedestal to the right of the nondescript chapel holds a cross, which can be accessed by spiral steps. The circular wall has niches for devotees to light candles. The truly spiritual moment comes when you stand at the topmost point and look seaward. The Arabian Sea sparkles in all its glory, and you can see the mouth of the River Sal, where it discharges into the sea. The Cutbona jetty, the luxury hotels of Mobor and the paddy fields and swaying palms make this a fantastic viewing point. You can light a candle as you descend, in gratitude.

Cabo Da Rama Fort, Canacona The rocky walls on the sea face of Cabo Da Rama fort fall off giddily to the foaming waters below. Built way before the arrival of the Portuguese, this fort in Canacona, the southernmost taluka of Goa, provided an excellent lookout and defense against invaders. Legend holds that Lord Rama visited the place, hence the name. Cabo means cape or promontory, in Portuguese. A Chapel dedicated to St Anthony stands inside the vast fort area. So go ahead and fill like a lord as you gaze from these heights. Then carry on your search for new strategic points to discover and conquer in Goa. There are some secret summits that we won’t even tell you about!

arts & entertainment 17

Friday, January 8, 2016

Jan 9th to Jan 31st

‘Through The Eyes of a Goat’ An exhibition of paintings by Mohan Naik will be inaugurated 10:00 am to 7:00 pm At Carpe Diem, Majorda 0832 288 1035

Nov 5 to Jan 25

‘GOPAKAPATTANAM – Exploring Goa’s histories through the lens of contemporary art’ Curated by Dr. Subodh Kerkar & Mr. Peter Mueller 10 am to 6 pm everyday At Museum of Goa, Plot No. 79, Pilerne Industrial Estate, Pilerne Email: subodh@museumofgoa.com / mail@museumofgoa.com Web: www.museumofgoa.com www.facebook.com/museumofgoa

Dec 25th to Jan 10th

Govt. Exhibition North-East Crafts Bazaar Demonstration, Exhibition-cum-Sale of Exquisite crafts from North-East & other States At Ravindra Bhavan, Fatorda, MargaoGoa 10:00 am to 9:00 pm +91 8322 72 6980

Dec 15th to Jan 15th

International Art and Craft Festival Goa will play host to the Spandan International Art and Craft Festival, A unique art and craft festival that will be held over 45 days in popular Locations of Goa like Panjim, Margao and Mapusa. At All over Goa

Dec 15 to Feb 15

Sensorium – Sunaparanta, Goa Theatre, Music, Arts 14 JAN: 7 pm: Performance by Bisaji Gadekar and Sajan Mani curated by Nikhil Chopra & Madhavi Gore, Heritage Hotel 17 JAN: 7 pm: The Shanghvi Salon with Bharti Kher 1 FEB: 7 pm: Performance and Talk by Nikhil Chopra 11 FEB: 7 pm: The Shanghvi Salon with Anju and Atul Dodiya 12 - 14 FEB: 7 pm: A Crossover Love Club, a participatory performance by Sanchayan Ghosh 15 FEB: 7 pm: Jeet Thayil curates a spoken word performance with Akhil Katyal, Mithu Sen, Aditi Nagrath, and Zachary Bushnell 8 pm Sensorium Closing Ceremony with the Musical Narrative on Amir Khusrau At Sunaparanta – Goa Centre for the Arts, Altinho, Panjim  +91 832 2421311 | info@sgcfa.org

Galleries of Note

The Cube Gallery Every architect, since the beginning of time, has secretly tried to create a vision of paradise in the buildings they design. Discover one such paradise and much more. At The Cube Gallery, Calizor Vaddo, Moira. 11 am to 7 pm +91 832 2470415/ +91 9422806748 thecubegallerygoa@gmail.com Surya Art Gallery This gallery is situated in a quiet location where contemporary works of canvas paintings from Goa and artifacts are displayed. At Bandawal Wada, Pernem 10 am to 6 pm +91 9404149764/ +91 9422064754

Galleria Esperance Retrospective Art in oils, watercolours, crayons, still life photographs etc. on display Near Our Lady of Merces Church, Merces 4 pm to 7 pm +91 9922509704 Kerkar Art Gallery Exhibition of recent works of Subodh Kerkar “The Pepper Cross” & “Indigo”. Besides a new series of Laterite Stone Sculptures on display. At Gaura Vaddo, Calangute 10 am to 7 pm +91 9326119324 Monsoon Heritage Studio Treat yourself to some amazing collection of mirrored mosaic art and handpicked artefacts at this upscale studio by Yahel Chirinian. At Mainath Batti, Arpora 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM +91 9822122771 Off The Wall Discover a collection of deeply astounding works of art displayed on a daily basis at this thoughtful art cafe. Fort Aguada Road, Sinquerim, Candolim 10:30 am to 11:30 pm +91 9820083497, +91 9823289123 Panjim Art Gallery Get a dose of the local culture with figurative works of Goan artists. Near Our Lady of 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. At ‘Houses of Goa’, Salvador-do-Mundo, Porvorim area 9:00 am to 5:30 pm +91 832 2410711 archauto@gmail.com www.mariodemiranda.com Gallery Gitanjali An elegant art gallery in Panjim’s Latin Quarter is worth hopping into when you’re in the area. Fontainhas, Panjim 9:00 am to 9:00 pm +91 9823572035 gallerygitanjali@gmail.com www.gallerygitanjali.com Art Chamber: Galleria de Belas Artes One of the more interesting and pleasant art centres in the state featuring confident acrylic strokes that are somewhat three dimensional, put across the canvas by Yolanda De Souza and others. The musical acts here are worth looking out for too.  Gaura Vaddo, Calangute 10:00 am to 1:00 pm & 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm +91 832 2277144 artchamber@gmail.com www.goa-art.com Sunaparanta- Goa Centre for the Arts The centre houses several exhibition galleries, a large multi-functional space for workshops and lectures, an inhouse film club, sketch club, 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

Mitsui, Tata Projects, IRCON consortium commence work on Western Dedicated Freight Corridor Project TATA Projects Limited, one of India’s fastest growing and most admired infrastructure companies, today announced that it is commencing work on the INR 4,328 Crore project to build the 320-kilometer stretch of the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor, a dedicated freight line connecting Delhi and Mumbai. The company, along with IRCON International Limited, is part of the Express Freight Consortium, which is led by Mitsui & Co., Ltd. of Japan. Segregating freight traffic from passenger traffic shall pave the way for high speed movement of freight, and is one of the most important Infrastructure projects taken up by Indian Railways. The consortium plans to complete the work in scheduled time of 48 months using latest technology of Automated Track Laying Machines. The machine lays the sleepers; special rails imported from Japan, and clamps all together in an automated manner simultaneously. The rails used are special `Head Hardened (HH)’ 250 meter long rails – which are welded together using Flash Butt welding machines, creating a smooth track. The axle load of the track would be 32.5 tons, at par with tracks in Japan, compared to the current Indian rail tracks of 25 ton axle load. The project, is for civil and track works and will be executed in 2 Contract Packages – Contract Package 12 between Vaitarana and Sachin (186 Km) and Contract Package 13 between Sachin and Vadodara (134 Km).

Film Screenings on Gender and Climate Change, followed by a panel discussion and music performance

creening three films produced by the Climate & Development Knowledge Network (UK), in partnership with TV for Environment’s Delhi office, the film festival’s objective in Goa is to galvanise discussion around climate change, its impact on Goa, the lack of representation of women in climate change negotiations and the power of film to spur discussion and action on climate change, especially amongst youth groups. The panel discussion following the film screenings will focus on the impact of climate change on Goa and the need for sustainable development. Panelists include Dr AK Saran, senior scientist from the National Institute of Oceanography, Tallulah D’Silva, architect and ideator behind the NOMOZO (non motorized zone) initiative in Panjim; and Sabina Martins of Bailancho Saad, an organisation that empowers women. There will also be a music performance by Prem Sena, musician and environmental activist. The three films: ‘For a Safer Future – Insights on climate

The Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) is an ambitious programme of the Ministry of Railways, Government of India, involving construction of two corridors: The Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor from Ludhiana to Dankuni, and the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor from Dadri to Jawaharlal Nehru Port, Mumbai. It is being implemented by Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Ltd (DFCCIL). The DFC project will eventually link the four hubs of Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata at the corners of India’s Golden Quadrilateral. The Japanese government has provided yen loans for the Western DFC project under the Special Terms for Economic Partnership (STEP). To execute the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor, Tata Projects will leverage its project execution expertise to carry out civil engineering work and lay tracks jointly with IRCON, while Mitsui will provide its established technical expertise.

resilience from India; The Forgotten Women in India’s Climate Plans; Climate Change and Migration in Bangladesh – Living on the Go,’ tell stories on the impact of climate change on diverse communities from Uttarakhand to Karnataka. Loss of livelihoods, distress migration, destruction of crops and fisheries, is the reality that many face on a day-to-day basis. And yet there are inspiring change strategies adopted by communities, such as in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, where different stakeholders, such as government, communities, and civil society have come together to create climate compatible development. Date: Sunday January 10, 2016 Time: 4 pm onwards Venue: International Centre, Dona Paula

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Friday, January 8, 2016

Bookworm – Bringing Books and Children Together Your Jumble Will Educate A Child

By Niju Mohan

n the last few years, thousands of eager books and delighted children have met each other through the efforts of a dedicated team working from a small house in Taleigao, in the suburbs of Panjim. Now comes that time of the year when you can help this ambitious group of volunteers. The Bookworm Library, which is now 10 years old, is a charitable trust committed to nurturing and facilitating readers—and the love of books—across all ages. It takes libraries to children who may not otherwise have access to storybooks, through the Mobile Outreach Program, and its Libraries in Schools (LiS) Program. The library at Taleigao has a varied collection of over 17,000 books. The Bookworm team, consisting of experts as well as young volunteers, led by seasoned educator Sujata Noronha, carries out a wide range of innovative activities through the year. One of the bold new ideas was to set up Book Stop, a free open-air, open-access library at

the Garcia da Orta Garden at Panjim, in collaboration with Corporation of the City of Panaji and Panaji First. Bookworm has also organized a conference for Library educators from all over India. Its Pre-School Morning program nurtures a love of reading in pre-literate, pre-school children. A community theatre initiative called Theatre on the Beach, a film club, a performance poetry workshop, as well as training workshops for schools and NGOs from all over the country are among the team’s many activities. In the past six months alone, the Bookworm Library participated in the Publishing Next Conference, as well as copartnered in the Goa Arts and Literature Festival (Young GALF 2015), and the Yo Ya Vachuya (Children’s Day celebration with the Goa State Central

Library). It also had an important place at the Bookaroo children's festival, and a continuing presence at the Original Bandstand at the Garcia Da Orta, Panjim. All of these affirm its significant literary presence in Goa. In the academic year 2015-16, Bookworm Trust’s Libraries in Schools (LiS) program continue to support eight under-resourced schools in different

parts of Goa, reaching 1244 children who receive books and a library experience. From June 2015 to October 2015 we have issued over 10,000 books to the children. The Libraries in Schools program (LiS) provides an active library experience and lends all library resources. The focus is on schools that do not have library programs or facilities. The Bookworm program includes book browsing, independent reading, book-related song and games, ‘book talk’, ‘read alouds’, extension activities, book lending and more, all aimed at building a connection with books. Bookworm organises an annual jumble sale to raise funds for the Libraries in Schools program. Last year the funds raised from the jumble sale contributed to 40% of the resources for the program. We are actively accepting jumble, preferably sorted and bagged. Books, toys, household items, electricals, electronics, art, furniture, shoes, clothes, accessories, plants and garden items, food, cash and love - all are welcome. The Jumble Sale of 2016 will be taking place on Sunday, 14th of February, at Indoor Stadium, Near Campal Swimming Pool, Panjim. Please call 9823222665 or 9767454121 for drop off or pick up details or email us at mail@bookwormgoa.in.