Issue No: 14

Friday, February 13, 2015 | Vol. No. 3 | Issue 14 | Price Rs. 10 | www.goastreets.com | G-2/RNP/Weekly/Goa-05/2013-15

Valentine’s Day | Photo Fest | Garbage Woes

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Friday, February 13, 2015

The Inspiring Story of

Jolene Dias Music Is In Her Soul

TURN TO PAGE 4

6 Feature

te

a t S t s e h c i R s oor In India’

P e h t f o y r o t S The

dishes, dusting and even clothes washing done, by the ‘bai’ for Rs 800-1000, but here in Panjim, I need to shell out Rs 1800 (a month) just to get the bai to do an hour’s work (per day). She doesn’t even commit to doing all the tasks! These people make great money here!” says Meena Naik, a housewife and young entrepreneur who shuttles between Mumbai and Goa for work.

It’s true these folks earn more in Goa than they would back home. But the fact remains that their lot in life is not good, and, by world standards and all other standards of decency, their situation is atrocious. When their day’s work is finished, they return to poor health conditions, poor to nonexistent education for their children, outrageous social inequality, and the sense that they will never be able to escape this life.

Ramila (name changed), one such 'maid' who works in several houses in

By Richa Narvekar

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ith a per capita Gross Domestic Product two and half times above the national average, Goa is India’s richest state. With our restaurants and parties and “bikini and pub” culture, sometimes it’s easy to forget that the characteristic ill of the subcontinent – poverty – is very much present here as well.

Are there slums in Goa? Many Goans, when asked this question, reply instinctively, “No, there aren’t”. What well settled upper middle class families in Goa (where this opinion comes from mostly) don't seem to realise is that the people they see selling peanuts at the beach, the people that harass them for a few rupees in parking lots and outside markets, the people that clean up the beach after the tourists have finished their nightly fun, flinging trash all over without a second thought, the people who work in their homes, all have to live somewhere. And they surely cannot afford the property rates that Goa is selling at today. Those people who can so easily be ignored, live in Goa's slums.

Karaswada in Mapusa has had one of Goa's largest concentrations of slum dwellers for several years now. But ‘minislums’ have been springing up all over Goa at construction sites. The developers who are busy planning and building the dream second homes and 'investment' flats for the country's elite do scarce little for the impoverished labourers who populate the work sites. Construction in Goa thrives from the use of cheap unskilled migrant labour - migrant ex-farmers (and the like) and their families who have run to comparatively rich Goa from villages in Karnataka and Maharashtra where employment is hard to find. The view of the general public of these people is that they have run from a fate so bad that any treatment they get here, even if it is grossly sub-standard pay and appalling sanitary conditions, is

better than what they had at home, and hence is fair.

In Panjim, one notices one new such slum development in Caranzalem, among the most expensive residential land in Goa at the moment, right next to the public garden on the beach, along the road that connects Miramar to Donapaula. The workers are privately contracted by a developer, no doubt, and have a legitimate 'purpose' for being there. The fathers in most of the units in this 'slum' work in construction and the mothers work as maids in the affluent houses in the area. The children and young adult girls are often seen trying to sell balloons to pani puri eaters at the stalls around the beach. They try to make money in every way possible, and being situated in Caranzalem can be good for business. In the evenings, one sees the children - dirty, in tattered clothes and without slippers, running past the cafes that mark the end of DB road at Miramar (Carasid, Canape, Nescafe, etc).

Opportunists among them will have a

hand out asking for money.

They stick out so sorely from the rich, branded jeans wearing, smartphone wielding public that frequents these joints, that it is almost comical.

Their reputation among the wealthier classes is not good. They are often seen as thieves and disease mongers, unsightly and annoying.

Yet, at the same time, the middle classes also want their houses cleaned and their cars driven and their gardens tended to – and certainly would never do any of these tasks themselves. And then they complain about the high price of the migrant labour.

“In Mumbai,I can get my ‘jhadu-pocha’,

Feature 7

Friday, February 13, 2015

Miramar, came to Goa from Karnataka with her husband, four children and mother. They live on a prime tract of land on the banks of the Mandovi river, just minutes from the Marriott. They have been granted permission to stay on the land, building their shanty, by their ' Sheth', a private developer who employs her husband and other men in the 'shanty families' on his land on various jobs. They grow food for themselves on the land and go down to the river to bathe and do their toilet. The children entertain themselves by playing with spare tires and stray dogs. The youngsters have nothing on their feet.

It is quite astounding that these children live right next to children who attend the elite Sharada Mandir school, have Iphone 6s and go to the Marriott salon for their haircuts. Imagine the vastly different futures that await these two classes of children.

I think it’s a good time to remember that neither group is inherently better than the other, and that none of us asks which family to be born into.

Ramila and her husband earn enough, and have enough good sense to be able to send their four children to school, and, after being encouraged by some well wishing patrons that they work for, have managed to open an account in a local bank where they save money for their children's future.

When asked why she keeps five jobs and works so hard every day, scarcely sitting down in between, she says, "Meri teen ladkiyan hain na" (I have three daughters, you know), taking for granted that she is going to have to furnish a heavy dowry for her daughters, a social ill that she would dare not challenge for fear that her daughters will face repercussions.

From the standpoint of an employer, Ramila may not be a sterling maid. She often misses work, stating true and untrue excuses for her absence, refuses to do some of the jobs that her ‘Madams’ ask

family’s drinking water. It’s no wonder her children fall sick often, and she has a hard time finding proper healthcare for them.

She doesn't have Goan citizen status, and cannot expect free healthcare from state hospitals. Migrants like Ramila are at the mercy of NGOs. Although the government of India collects taxes from those say they want real upliftment of the Indian people, urban poor, including migrant labourers, fall at the fag end of the priorities list. Funding programmes that get sanctioned at the centre often fail to result in actual funds for the people who need them. Sometimes the reason is corruption. Other times the funds get lost amidst political infighting.

An urban planner who worked on the Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission on Panjim in 2008, explains, “The scheme allows for heavy donations to the urban poor, and comes straight from the Central Treasury. Many important studies were made for programmes, which if implemented , would have uplifted the poor in Goa in a big way. But the opposition party leader at the time flatly refused to let the ruling party implement the programme. He simply said that he didn’t want the funds from the centre!”

Children walking Tall/Mango Tree is one non-profit organisation, amongst many others, that provides food and makes up for hundreds of inadequacies,

her to and expects that her salary never be cut, no matter what. She capitalises on the fact that there’s a shortage of maids available in the area, and her services are in demand. But it must be noted that she gets no sick or casual leave beyond Sundays off, has no creche to leave her children when she comes to work and doesn't want to waste resources by boiling her

both small and large, in the lives of Goa's slum children. Started by a software developer from England who has settled in Goa and dedicated his life to this cause, the organisation makes a world of a difference to the slum dwellers.

You can read more about it at www. mangotreegoa.org There is a dire need for both the government and private developers to come up with a strategy for addressing the health, housing and educational needs of the tens of thousands of migrant workers employed in the Goan construction sector. The state’s extraordinary property boom has created these slums, and it’s high time some of the funds from the boom went to the people upon whose back-breaking labour the bonanza rests. Unless labour is hired out on proper contracts and given proper housing and allowances, the slum problem will only get worse. And as has been proven time and again all over the world, poverty goes hand in hand with crime.

As much as the ‘haves’ try to shield themselves from the unpleasantness of the ‘have-nots,’ in the end all our lives are intertwined. Every child has a right to be in school. Every sick person a right to see a doctor. Every family a right to have a roof over their heads.

If Goa is to truly live up to its status as India’s richest state, it’s not just about having the highest per capita GDP. It’s also about treating every human being with the dignity they deserve. 

8 Friday, February 13, 2015

Coastal Seafood Festival at The Park Calangute

By Shubham Gupta

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part from God herself (who said she’s a dude?), is there anything more Divine than lounging on a Goan beach at sunset and savouring a scrumptious seafood platter? Let’s face it, though. Seafood in this part of the world can be pretty darn mundane, the same old rawa fried this and masala fried that. What about inspiration? What about passion? Worry not, dear reader, because seafood nirvana is at hand, albeit for only a couple of days more. Until Feb. 15, an exceptional seafood experience can be had at Love Restaurant, the iconic modern world cuisine restaurant at The Park Calangute, which is celebrating an exclusive ‘Coastal Seafood Festival’ with an all new menu.

For all you Park Virgins out there, read closely. The Park means business when it comes to writing the book on culinary excellence in India. These are the same folks who have given Kolkata (aka Calcutta) a meaningful nightlife (if you don’t believe me, Google it), who are not afraid to think and act outside the box, who believe in pushing the hospitality envelope.

This diverse and yet crisp menu offers the Chef’s unique contemporary take on the best of Indian coastal preparations of seafood, keeping in mind the importance of plating, freshness, and, of course, the ingredients that smack all the taste buds with accurate flavors – all complemented with a mesmerizing sea view. At first, you can satiate yourself with some exotic coastal appetizers like Whitebait Bezule (crispy whitebait tossed in chilli and curry leaves), Coconut Cream Scallops (marinated in coconut, chilli and cumin cooked over a griddle), curry leaf and lentil crusted shrimps (served with ginger-coconut chutney), crab cakes with Alleppey (a place in Kerala well known for its backwaters and traditional malay food) style mango curry aioli, oyster fitters tossed in a signature kokum sauce and, lest we forget, the crispy squid ‘koliwada’ (a colony of fishermen in Mumbai) served with tamarind and carom seeds aioli.

One of the best bets (and also among the most innovative ones in my perception) among the starters was the oyster fitters tossed in kokum sauce. The gently spiced up sweetness of the kokum sauce and

the oysters together created a symphony of flavours. To be sure, it went incredibly well with my bourbon whiskey on the side. Another game changer Valentines Day Specials was the curry leaves and lentil covered king prawns that took @ The Black Sheep Bistro me by surprise. I never would This Valentine’s day experience chocolate like never have thought that a preparation before with The Black Sheep Bistro’s custom menu For so simple could make a prawnbased appetizer so delightful and valentine’s day.

Enjoy a spicy chocolate pasta or an Anjeer and light at the same time.

Mozzarella Salad, savor these delicacies with some What’s true about the food is fabulous offers on Rose wine or Pink Sparkling bubbly. true about The Park. Delicious, Swami vivekanand road, Next to ICICI bank, Panaji elegant and creative, the food is true to the concept of the resort Tel. 0832 222 2901 itself. That this hotel is smack www.blacksheepbistro.in on the shores of the Arabian Sea, that its creators believe in the lure of art, about this menu. With offerings such as that they’re not afraid to take risks and do kane fry fish with tempered vegetables, things differently, is reflected in both the herbed rice and gassi sauce along boutique hotel concept and the food. with a lobster with raw mango gratin, Back to the seafood festival, the main creamed cumin scented potatoes and course is where the ‘coastal’ feel behind the sautéed broccoli, be sure to come with an food comes to life. Choose from a variety of appetite. Subtlety abounds in this seafood fusion offerings like baked red snapper with extravaganza. But so do some explosive Kerala rice risotto, sautéed asparagus, and coastal varietals, including the crab masala chilli kodumpuli sauce. However, if you’re served with kottuparatha and pepper gravy. hankering for some Burmese cuisine, check out the banana leaf wrapped ‘karimeen’ with This festival is for all those who appreciate originality, creativity and delicious food steamed rice and banana blossom thoran. from the sea.  There is certainly nothing mundane

Food & Drink 9

Friday, February 13, 2015

Feb 14 (Valentine’s Day Special) Rekindle your romance at Grand Mercure Goa Shrem Resort This Valentine’s Day, express yourself with a celebration that suits your love story. Enjoy a romantic dinner by the poolside or in an exclusive Cabana as you serenade to live music or customize your own playlist for your partner on our dock station. Choose from exciting packages as below and make this Valentine’s Day a memorable one.

• A set menu dinner for 2 with nonalcoholic beverages – INR 3500 (All Inclusive) • A set menu dinner for 2 with 2 glasses of Chandon – INR 4000 (All Inclusive) • A set menu dinner for 2 with a bottle of Chandon – INR 5000(All Inclusive) • A set menu dinner for 2 with a Bottle of Moet e Chandon– INR 10000 (All Inclusive) At Goa Shrem Resort, Candolim +91 (832) 2494848 www.mercure.com A special Romantic Dinner Set up at the pristine and award winning “The Dining Room”, Grand Hyatt Goa will throw in a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, so that guests indulge in style and get a taste of the stars themselves.

At The Dining Room, Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim 7 pm to 11:30 pm +91 832 3011510 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com Valentine’s Day at A Reveria An evolved five-course menu eulogising love in its most instinctive form.

At A Reverie, Calangute +91 9823174927 areverie.com Valentine’s Day Specials This Valentine’s Day experience chocolate like never before with The Black Sheep Bistro’s custom menu For valentine’s day.

At Black Sheep Bistro, Panjim 12 pm to 1 am +91 832 2222901 Valentine’s Special at Park Hyatt Feb 14 to Feb 28 Freedom of Expression The experience will include a contemporary Goan menu curated by Chef Edridge Vaz At Casa Sarita, Park Hyatt, Cavelossim Feb 14 Italian Dining Indulgence (INR 6000 per couple) Renowned chef Saulo will dish out some of the Italian dishes in the world paired with a glass of pink bubbles At Da Luigi, Park Hyatt, Cavelossim +91 8322721234 or email parkhyattgoa@hyatt.com

Feb 10 to Feb 17 Duck Food Festival Choose from a vareity of traditional Duck delicacies, delicately crafted by our masterchefs At Pan Asian Bowl, Panjim +91 832 6455547./48/49 www.panasianbowl.com

Till Feb 15 Coastal Seafood Festival Love Restaurant, celebrating an exclusive coastal seafood festival by introducing a special menu presenting chef’s unique contemporary take on the very best of coastal Indian cuisine. The handpicked menu, crafted by expert chefs, include favourites like lip - smacking Lobsters and irresistible coconut cream scallops that are sure to delight your taste buds.

At The Park, Calangute 1 pm to 11 pm. +91 8805028194 resv.goa@theparkhotels.com www.theparkhotels.com

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 diwagoa@alilahotels.com www.alilahotels.com/diwagoa

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 diwagoa@alilahotels.com www.alilahotels.com/diwagoa Thursday - Seafood Night Market For a ‘Grand Goan Night Market’ ambience with artefacts, jewellery and handicraft stalls. Select from a variety of seafood delicacies and enjoy the unlimited fresh catch of the day, combined with live entertainment.

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

Every Saturday Barbeque Nights - With Caroline Treat yourself to assorted grilled delights from the live barbeque and more while losing yourself in the melodies of Caroline’s saxophone.

Rs 1500++ per person At Alila Diwa Goa, Majorda +91 832 2746800 diwagoa@alilahotels.com www.alilahotels.com/diwagoa

Brunches Every Sunday Champagne Brunch Begin your brunch with lobster and Champagne, then proceed towards five interactive kitchens – the salad counter, Indian, Italian, Grills and end at the dessert station. Pool is accessible to brunch guests, while your little ones enjoy various activities at Camp Hyatt.

At The Dining Room, Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim 1 pm to 4 Pm +91 832 3011510 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com

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

At Waterfront Terrace & Bar, Goa Marriott Resort & Spa. 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm +91-832-246-3333 tacita.cascar@marriotthotels.com www.marriott.com Sunday Brunches@ 899/head Burger Pizzas Beer Salads Cocktails Desserts House – Spirits Beverages At Cheenos, Baga 12 pm to 4 pm. +91 8806564991 Brunch at Cantina Bodega This is one of the more interesting spots in town to have a meal. Under the supervision of Vandana Naik, a former top chef in New York City and easily one of Goa’s most notable culinary experts, there’s a wide variety of delights on offer, including pizzas, soups, salads, hummus and meat balls, plus an eclectic mix of Indian, Mediterranean and other world cuisines.

That’s not to mention the desserts, another top draw here. Noon to 4 pm At Cantina Bodega, Sunaparanta, Panjim. +91 832 2421315 info@sgcfa.org www.sgcfa.org Bikini Brunch Sunday BBQ Brunch @ Rs. 950 ++ with unlimited drinks Enjoy Live Karaoke with Emmanuel At The Park, Calangute 12.30 pm to 4.30 pm. +91 8805028194 resv.goa@theparkhotels.com www.theparkhotels.com

Baga, Calangute and Around 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 www.baiadosol.com 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 www.gregorybazire.com Lila Cafe German think schnitzel, chicken liver pate and German sausages. Lovely tent-like setting At Baga Creek Road, Arpora Baga +91 832 2279843

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

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 www.acaciagoa.com

Anjuna and Around Mamma Mia Ristorante Italiano & Pizzeria An authentic Italian Restaurant Try Wood fried Pizza At Resort Rio, Tambudki, Arpora +91 832 2267300 fom@resortrio.com www.ResortRio.com 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 cotingarestaurant.com 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 www.tesogoa.com

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 www.vivantabytaj.com

SIMPLY GRILLS Your favourite outdoor restaurant serving up sizzling grills and barbeques is an interactive experience where you can take your pick, or simply place yourself in the hands of our accomplished chefs.

Choose from fresh seafood like snapper and lobster, premium meats like pork, tenderloin and German sausages or even seasonal vegetables; mix and match with marinades like BBQ, pepper sauce, Cajun spices, and accompaniments like exotic veggies, mashed potatoes or salad. A meal made to order with a view to die for!

At Simply Grills, Goa Marriott Resort & Spa. 7.00 pm to 11.00 pm +91-832-246-3333 CONFEITARIA, Grand Hyatt Goa Our patisserie serves homemade delicacies like bakeries, pastries, chocolates & desserts. Also take away a souvenir of your trip or order a designer cake for a memorable occasion. We are popular for our Indian, English or Cupcake high teas.

Christmas hampers will be available for sale from 7 December 2014.

At Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim Dinner: 7:00 PM – 11:30 PM +91 832 3011510 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com En - Route World Food Cafe - Bistro Bennet & Bernard Gastronomy and Hospitality brings to you a glimpse of the world palate on a plate. En Route is Goa’s first World Food Cafe Bistro.

At Kerkar Centre, Bambolim 7 am to 11 pm +91 8007480856/ +91 7720006864 bnbcustomhomes.com 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 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com

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 http://www.nrbgroup.biz/ A Tartaruga Goan, Seafood, Italian, Chinese, The restaurant opens onto the Coco-delMar 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 http://www.longuinhosgoa.com/

10 Cover Story

So what if it’s become commercialized?

New traditions and new memories are made

By Sheela Jaywant

A

s a child vacationing in Palolem with my maternal grandparents, I hadn’t even heard of the Carnaval. (Please note, I am using the Portuguese CarnAval on purpose, not the English CarnIval. We are in Goa after all.)

Middle-class Hindu households like mine, in remote villages, knew little about what Catholics did and celebrated.

We were aware of the compulsory Mass on Sundays and Christmases. Some of us maybe knew about Easter, maybe not.

My mother’s generation had migrated to Bombay (it’s re-christening to ‘Mumbai’ was decades away) and we visited Goa in the summer and winter vacations, none of which coincided with the Carnaval. That was another reason for the ignorance.

When I relocated to make the land of my ancestors my home, I took up a job in a hotel near Panjim. That was when I was introduced to the Carnaval. The hotel doctor, the kind Hugo Menezes’ wife told me about how, when she was young, she and her neighbours, cousins and their siblings made fancy dresses with laces and crepes for the event. They decorated their car (one of the few in Goa at the time). And they practised songs and silly verses. They spent money carefully, recycled curtains and hand-me-downs

and plucked leaves and flowers to use as festoons. Paper, paint, glue, twigs and very rarely some ornate curios gave expression to creative minds and skilful fingers. Ribbons were stitched into roses, doilies were converted into bonnets and borrowed high-heels were prettied up with mirrors and thin streamers.

This was the time to publicly display one’s talent.

Grandparents, great-uncles, toddlers and their parents, all participated. Well, mainly those who lived in and around the cities. The nonparticipating citizenry lined the traffic-free roads to wave, clap and cheer along familiar faces.

In sparsely populated Goa, everyone was either villagemate, school-fellow, colleague or distant relative.

Take her nostalgia with a pinch of salt, my young colleagues told me. It’s more fun today. The boring repetitive music is now peppy, even if it’s sometimes borrowed from Bollywood. Things change, some for the better, some not.

Over the years, thermocole, shiny papers and plastic have made the decorations bigger and more attractive.

More cars are on the road. People don’t have to spend out of their pockets, for there are sponsors to help them out.

More dances, more dancers participate.

Villages have got competitive. Religious connotations have been relegated, the element of fun has began to rule. Today, there are possibly more Hindus involved in this festival than the followers of Christ.

My mother’s generation sometimes refers to the Carnaval as ‘Intruz’ from the Portuguese word Entrudo. After 451 years of rule, Portugal left behind this colourful, cheerful legacy in Goa, the only state in India to celebrate it. Bands, floats, dances, parades are now organized throughout the state to entertain locals and tourists alike.

This year, the Carnaval is from 14-17 February. Lively processions will attract young and old, poor and rich to the route and time-table organized. It’s non-stop festivity for three days. Tradition has given way to contemporary music, clothes, activities. The strumming guitars and base voices are magnified through loud-speakers. Banners declaring the goodness of consumables will jostle for space. Stalls selling drinking water and toys for children will do good business.

Traffic diversions will allow us to see parts of the towns that we normally don’t.

Each year, on the last day, well night,

Cover Story 11

actually, in one of the by lanes of Panjim, a club holds its famous red and black dance.

Unusually, this festival was in decline in Goa during the last few years of Portuguese rule. Its revival with the liberation of Goa and its boost to tourism has helped it graduate from a homegrown thing to a big ‘do’ that attracts many hundreds from various Indian states and other countries. People dance with joyful abandon and riotous revelry from Margao to Vasco to Mapusa to Panjim.

This year’s King Momo, is Geovani Bosco Santimano. He will lead the parades in all four towns. He was selected by an event management agency through a contest. King Momo orders his subjects to party.

Thanks to the television, I now see the Carnaval sitting at home, sipping something chilled, snacking away at any

old hour. I hear taped (is this word obsolete now and must I use the word recorded again?) music blending with live instrumentalists and vocalists, all sounds magnified, but not obscenely so. I observe spectators watching the tamasha. I must enjoy this, their expressions seem to imply. It’s amusing that they’re willing to sweat out the humidity, suffer the travails and exhorbitant costs of Goa’s public transport system, search out loos when desperate just to have this compulsory fun.

Later, in the village, I will see the frame of a giant peacock or frog or fish/ shell/ ship begging to be burnt fully.

Wires, planks, large sheets of colourful plastic will be tossed inside a vacant plot whose owners live far away, across the Arabian or some other sea. Sister garbage from the Narakasura time will give it company.

In another dimension, the laughter of the participants, their families and friends, will echo around digital albums seen on screens in homes across the world, via skype or some other technical method.

More than Ganapati or Christmas, I believe this is the festival that Goans share most with outsiders. 

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Friday, February 13, 2015

Feb 14 to Feb 17 Grand Carnival Parade Feb 14: Panjim Feb 15: Margao, Ponda Feb 16: Vasco, Curchorem Feb 17: Mapusa, Shiroda Carnival Parade start at 3.30 pm at all locations www.goa-tourism.com

Feb 15 Combat Cage Fight This time International Fighter from Russia v India & Great Britain v India At Tito’s Courtyard, Baga Help Line: 7721820819 Goa-tourism.com

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

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

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

Transform them into boxes, baskets, bags, lamps and even furniture! Dania Rodriguez from Portugal and Simone Guercio from Italy will teach you how to recycle your old waste.

At Saraya, Sangolda +91 988656005 ria.saraya@Gmail.com

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

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

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

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

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

At Almeida Vaddo, Parra 6.30 am to 9.30 am +91 9881961071 Rahulalvares.com

Lifestyle & Fashion Cheshire Cat Jewellery Gallery This Gallery showcases jewellery, accessories and fashion, among other delights.

At Bairo Alto, Assagao 10:00 am to 7:00 pm +91 9822580898 vanandelandpeace@gmail.com vanandelandpeace.com Wendell Rodricks A state-of-the-art fashion boutique featuring a celebration of lavish apparels designed by renowned Goan designer, Wendell Rodricks Luis Gomes Garden, Campal, Panjim. +91 832 2234082 rns.wendell@gmail.com www.wendellrodricks.com Sacha’s Shop A little shop of resort wear, prints & stationary, bags, jewellery, art books, handmade soaps, leather lampshades and wooden toys!

Casa Mendes, Panjim 10:00 am to 8:00 pm +91 9823805897 sacha.mendes@gmail.com Baba’s Furniture Store The store displays some of the most breathtaking delightful pieces available anywhere in Goa. Open all the time but sadly closed on Tuesday Baba’s Wood Café, Mala, Fountainas, Panjim +91 99 23414098, (+91) 83 23256213 Sales@baba-goa.com

Shine Beauty Parlour We offer Herbal full body massages for ladies and Gents and also Face, Head, back,foot Massage, Sauna steam bath and bikini hair removal Closed on Tuesday At Shop No 8, Ground Floor, Landscape Shire Bldg, Calanzalem 9.30 am to 4.30 pm +91 8888947629/ +91 8888939715 The Private Collection Features an eclectic collection of sophisticated women’s apparel, bespoke jewellery, colorful accessories, lifestyle, furniture, design pieces and more.

Anavaddo, Candolim 10:00 am to 8:00 pm +91 832 2489033 theprivatecollectiongoa@gmail.com

Water sports Water Splash Cruises A large fleet of Catamarans, Boats, and Cruisers & Yachts: take to the water, the sea, the sky.

At Models Status, Dona Paula +91 8888864347 www.watersplashcruises.com Sea Wave Water Sports Enjoy parasailing, boat rides, banana rides, bump rides, jet skiing, water skiing, dolphin trips and more.

At Calangute +91 832 2276362

Museums Goa Chitra With a collection of over 4,000 artefacts, Goa Chitra is an ethnographic museum that focuses on Goa’s traditional agrarian lifestyle and technology.

At Mondo Waddo, Benaulim 9 am to 5 pm +91 832 6570877 Email: goachitra@gmail.com 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 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 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

King ‘Momo’ showing off his ‘steamy’ body at the Goa Carnival

Goa Science Centre The Centre has a science park with interactive exhibits, 3D shows, galleries on oceanic science, explaining mysteries of the underwater world.

Experience science through fun. There are some interesting exhibits explaining scientific principles.

At Miramar 10 am to 6 pm +91 832 2463426 Naval Aviation Museum Displaying a number of vintage aircraft and armaments used at different stages by Naval Aviation dating back to the 1950`s and a vast number of memorabilia related to Naval Aviation history.

Near Bogmalo Beach 10 am to 5 pm +91 832 2538668 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

Happy Valentine’s Day Gems & Jewellers Near Laxmi Narayan Temple, Mapusa Contact: +91 9822380996

The venue for Wedding Parties, Picnics, Pool side & Barbeque Party, Ample Parking space

Betalbatim, Salcete, Goa Mob: +91 9822 158 514 Phone:+91 8322 880 406 E-mail : jimmy.cota2010@gmail.com Visit us at www.jimsoncaterers.com

At opp. Delfinos Super Market, Candolim, Bardez, Goa Prop: Vishwanath Hebbalkar +91 9049019085/ +91 9822587050

Chandramohan V. Nasnodkar 27, Mapusa Municipal Market, Mapusa Tel. 0382 - 2262697

Veg & Non Veg

Prop: Shankar Kudalkar Hotel Madhav, Shop No. D-8, Pancharatna Complex, Behind Borkars Super Stores, Margao.

Tel. 9822167830

H.No. 1275/1, Bairo bondir, St.Cruz, Tiswadi, Goa M. +91 832 2445088/ +91 9822155012/+91 9823219267

14 Feature

The sad, uncomfortable truth about...

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By Goa Streets

o understand the gravity of Goa’s garbage problem, it’s necessary to avert one’s gaze outside the state – to all the places on the planet where there are NO piles of trash lining the roads, where drivers and bus passengers do NOT toss their litter out of the window, where once pristine countryside has NOT been transformed into a massive waste bin.

And now imagine yourself as a potential visitor trying to figure out where best to spend your hard-earned holiday. Do you choose a place like the ones described above, which are the world’s norm anyway, or do you choose the one major beach destination that’s allowed itself to become an unsightly rubbish dump?

Let us all take a deep breath and acknowledge the uncomfortable truth.

Goa’s garbage is completely out of control. It is defacing the state’s natural beauty. It is destroying tourism. It is diminishing our quality of life.

Now there are explanations for how we came to this unfortunate juncture, starting with the Portuguese legacy of criminally ignoring, especially in rural areas, civic amenities like sewage and waste disposal. For whatever reason, the infrastructure for effectively dealing with garbage was never constructed in Goa – and officials have consistently shirked their responsibility to clean up the mess, which has grown progressively worse as tourism took off.

Yes, it is true all citizens must do their part to segregate waste, recycle and not

litter. But with the magnitude of the crisis we’re facing, it’s important to be clear about ultimate responsibility. Around the world, garbage collection is a government undertaking – along with other basic services such as education, health care and policing.

For Goa’s garbage problem to be solved definitively, our elected officials must make it happen. And the rest of us must hold them accountable.

We know the government can do it if it wanted to. Do you remember last year’s panic when the Lusofonia games were two weeks away and authorities had not yet completed the sports stadiums?

All stops were pulled out and they were miraculously completed on time. Imagine if all the money and energy that went into accomplishing that feat had been directed at solving the garbage menace.

With garbage strewn everywhere, one can’t help but wonder why public resources are being devoted to wine festivals and tourist hotels and boat excursions. It’s like neglecting to stock up on groceries so you can purchase a BMW. When the BJP came to power three years ago, it made this promise in its Vision Document: “Goa to be plastic free within a period of three years. Garbage management for the entire state within 18 months in consultation with all stakeholders.”

Knock knock government of Goa. Anyone home?

Check out this rant from one professional working in Goa: “It not only destroys the aesthetics of our beautiful sunny state, but also creates a lot of health hazards. With cows eating polythene and pigs breeding around the filth, there are a lot of other pathogenic creatures that come into being like mosquitoes and houseflies. The situation is likely to worsen as the monsoon hits.”

Or this, from another resident with a seaview home in North Goa: “I’m flabbergasted at the amount of garbage now on Goa’s roads. I think it’s more out of control now than at any time I can remember. Recently, I wanted to take the family for a picnic, but every area around our house overlooking the river and sea is literally inundated with garbage and litter. It is deeply sad.”

Of course, it would not be correct to say authorities are making no efforts to address the problem.

The Solid Waste management cell working under the Department of Science and Technology has set up a system of collecting “non-recyclable dry waste” from each village panchayat. This plastic, which is mainly packets, wrappers,

carry bags and sachets, is then baled and sent off to incinerators in neighbouring Karnataka.

“145 of the 190 village panchayats in Goa are on board with this initiative and we collect the waste from them and send it to our sorting centre in Sarvan, Bicholim, from where it is sent for incineration,” said José Manuel Noronha, Chairman of the Goa State Pollution Control Board.

Through this initiative, the State collects as much as five tons of plastic a day or 150 tons of plastic a month.

This, of course, is a small fraction of the total. According to the Goa State Pollution Control Board, about 170 tonnes of waste is generated on a daily basis across all municipal areas. Along

Friday, February 13, 2015

with the 189 village panchayats, that number comes close to a whopping 400 tonnes, 50 per cent of which is non-biodegradable plastic. (By the way, burning of plastic is a major source of air pollution in Goa, often raising particulate pollution to dangerous levels) The system’s weakest link is the local village panchayat, or the municipal body.

As part of this system, the local body is supposed to collect waste lying along the roads or go door to door, segregating waste - wet from dry, recyclable from the non-recyclable - and dispose of the waste accordingly.

The wet waste is supposed to go for composting, the recyclable to the recyclers and the non-recyclable for baling and incineration.

“While panchayats have agreed to do this on paper, when it comes to putting it into practise, many are falling short of their responsibility, especially when it comes to collection and segregation,” Noronha lamented.

It’s true the problem is worse in some areas than it is in others. Panjim, the capital, has undoubtedly done the best job, with citizens now regularly separating waste at source and collection proceeding. And Canacona recently acquired waste bins for citizens to place their litter (another big issue: how can folks be instructed not to litter if they have no place to throw it?)

For its part, the department and the Pollution Board have been going around educating village panchayats about their role. But after initial enthusiasm, many panchayats are found to be slacking.

While the government would like to

conveniently blame the local bodies for failing to pick up garbage from the roads, it hasn’t fulfilled its side of the bargain, either.

The much touted ‘German technology’ plant that is to come up on the Saligao Calangute plateau is yet to see the light of day. Even as the government has laid the foundation stone, the project is facing litigation before the National Green Tribunal in Delhi that has the potential to derail it.

But even simpler tasks have not been done, like the timely renewal of the contract of those who remove garbage along highways. Much of the recent garbage accumulation along roads occurred because the contract of the collection agency expired in late January and it took the government 15 days to renew it. In the interim, garbage continued to accumulate and will only now begin to be cleared away.

All this begs another question. Why do so many people – locals and tourists alike – feel so free to dump their garbage on the road? For starters, many people are unaware of the alternatives – from composting to recycling to the avoidance of non-biodegradables. It’s not just that, however. The public has to be taught that littering is unacceptable, and fines must be imposed.

Public awareness campaigns can and do work. A major one is required right now, and its title can be, “Keep Goa Beautiful.”  For more information about what you can do to help solve Goa’s waste management issues, log onto http:// www.greengoaworks.in/

DOLLY May be wearing a PINK collar.

Running with a limp.Crumpled ear.

Medium white.small skinny frame.

Missing since Jan 1st from Povorim.

Seen in Dona Paula Feb 4th Please call Urgent if you see her

98907 20441 Thank You So Much

REWARD AVAILABLE

Goatimeline Ponda Property Fair, is a Builders Expo

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his expo shall be held from 14thFeb 2015 to 15th Feb 2015 at Vishwa Hindu Parishad Hall, Ponda. It will be inaugurated by Shri. Ramkrishna Alias Sudin Dhavalikar | Minister for Public Works | Transport | River Navigations; Shri. Lavoo Mamledar | M.L.A. – Ponda | Chairperson of GSSIDC &Shri.Sandip N. Nigalye | Secretary of CREDAI - Goa | Managing Director – RAJ GROUP, Pondaon 14thFeb 2015at 11.00 A.M. Goatimeline Property Expo will be the biggest property expo held in Goa. There will be total 11 stalls of the Builders & other related companies.

Prominent names to exhibit are Associate Township Builders Pvt. Ltd. |Woodbourne Hills Residences | Cement and Metal Crafts | Civilco Engineers and Associates | Inorbit Mall (India) Pvt. Ltd. | Naiknavare Developers | Amrova Power Pvt. Ltd. | Raj Housing Development Pvt. Ltd. | SN Carpet & Furnishing |Akar Realty | A.N. Kumar.

Property Fair facilitate the Buyers and Builders meet, Spot Booking, Spot Housing Loans, Spot Vastu Consultancy under one roof. No entry fees and it is open for public from 10.00 AM to 9.00 P.M both days (Saturday & Sunday) There are lucky prizes for lucky visitors also.

Goatimeline Property Fair at Vishwa Hindu Parishad Hall, Ponda shall be the 10th edition of property fair from Goatimeline Group.

FASHION FUZION NITE

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t was an amazing night at Hotel ‘The Park’, Calangute with gorgeous models walking the ramp in a fusion theme with Indian, Indo western & Western costumes during the FASHION FUZION NITE. It was a unique setup of ramp over swimming pool, which gave an elegant look, a feeling that sizzling models were walking over the water.

Fashion Fuzion Nite - a fashion show conceptualised and organised by Media Waves in association with Real Drinks with the theme of fusion - was to promote up-and-coming talented designers and models.

Parisha Arenja, Designer from Indore along with Goan designers Melina Colaso, Supriya Morajkar, Malusha Dias, and Neya Masurkar, displayed their beautiful designs with a mix of traditional, western, ethnic and Indo western collections.

Three of the designers - SUPRIYA MORAJKAR, MELINA COLASO & NEYA MASURKAR - made their debut during the Fashion Fuzion Nite. The event also witnessed a few models walking for the first time but with a confident attitude.

Angel Goyal, Miss Himachal, and Kezaia Caldeira, Miss Goa, were the showstoppers for Fashion Fuzion Nite.

Celebrity RJ from Pune Mr Gavin Phillips MC hosted the show.

Ravindra performed a comedy filler and A-Unit perfomed dance sequences in between the show.

Goa’s pride Designer Melvyn Dominic Noronha, who has won several international awards for the best national costume segment in various

international pageants, was congratulated during Fashion Fuzion Nite. A signature mocktail in Melvyn’s name –‘MELON COOLER’ prepared by Mr Srimanta Dey, F&B Supervisor, The Park, Calangute - was presented to him during the FASHION FUZION NITE by Mr Saurabh Khanna, GM, The Park and Mr Praveen Vasisht, Manager F&B. The mocktail was prepared with ingredients including fresh water melon, ginger, lime, mint, basil and lemonade. Hon. MLA Mr Babu also felicitated Mr Melvyn.

‘Hotel Calangute Towers’ was the hospitality partner for Fashion Fuzion Nite and ‘Being Woman’ Lifestyle magazine is the magazine partner for the event. Photo Manipulationz were the official photographers and Sapna Dourado’s Dreamz Spa were the official make up partner for Fashion Fuzion Nite.

16

An Artistic Journey Of Paintings, Sculpture, Jewellery, Furnishings, Clothing and Other Assorted Wonders Gallery and Exhibition launching Tuesday, March 3, with unique creations by the artist Dr Nandita Desai

‘G

alleria by Streets’ is an idea born from a love of life, a celebration of all things beautiful and a commitment to pursuing that extra dimension – all that makes existence so interesting.

The new adventure starts with an exhibition intriguingly called ‘Beyond the Canvas’, by Dr Nandita Desai. The Mumbaibased artist is also a poet, academician (PHD in Maritime History), former Professor in the US, Cordon Bleu chef and sculptor all rolled into a 5 ft. 1” powerpacked frame.

She says that her foray from academics to art began organically. It was as if it had a life of its own! It started with oils on canvas, grew toward mixed media and Encaustic Art, and blossomed into painted jewelry- which she calls “Wearable Art”. Then the journey progressed into antique wooden sculpture, painted furniture, painted clothing, tiles, lamps, trays…the list will never end, she says, and who would want it to?

Nandita feels that her love for the vintage, organic, handcrafted and natural art has found its ‘idyllic setting” in the

100-yearold IndoPortuguese house that doubles as the headquarters of Goa Streets, the news & entertainment weekly you are reading now.

A section of this beautiful Indo-Portuguese house will now be devoted to Gallery by Streets. For the first exhibition, Nandita will be bringing to us antique wooden sculptures from her series called The Journey, vintage style and antique wood, oil and mixed media paintings, unusual wall art, hand painted vintage lamps, and antique hand-painted furniture.

Some of Nandita’s finest work is expressed in her jewelry. She uses wood, glass, metal, semi precious stones, rope, cloth, vintage pieces, silk, marble and shell to create her unique, bespoken jewelry.

No two pieces are alike! And she pairs them with her relaxed, organic painted lounge wear.

Nandita’s floral and nature paintings, featuring bold colours and a no-holds-barred technique, will be on the walls of Galleria by Streets in all their splendor.

Nandita’s works - including animal and bird paintings and photographic collages of abandoned homes – have been displayed in high-profile art shows and in the lobbies of such hotels as the Trident and Leelain Mumbai.

Be sure not to miss the opening of Galleria by Streets and Nandita’s exhibition ‘Beyond the Canvas’ on Tuesday, March 3, from 6 -9 pm. Take in the show, and enjoy a nice glass of wine and some yummy food.

It’s all happening at the Goa Streets headquarters on Chogm Road in Sangolda, not far from Union Bank, the Sangolda Lightning Club and Viva Delhi Restaurant.

Part of the proceeds of Nandita’s shows and sales are earmarked for ‘BalDham’, a home for boys aged 8-16, helping these street children in Lonavla find a better life.

Arts & Entertainment 17

Friday, February 13, 2015

Feb 10 to Feb 21 Goa International Photo Festival Organised by the One School Goa Feb 16 and Feb 20 – Photo Cruise (Backwaters) Feb 14 and Feb 17 –Photo walk (Goa Carnival) Feb 18 – Photo Walk (Flea Market) Feb 17 – Photo Walk (A Village in North Goa) At The One School Goa Campus, Uccassiam, North Goa 12 Pm Onwards +91 832 6520661 Info@theoneschoolgoa.com www.goaphotofestival.com

Feb 13 to March 7 Embellished An Exhibition of Paintings by Hesham Malik At Carpe Diem, Majorda 10 am to 7 pm +91 832 2881035/ +91 8888624642

Feb 13 to March 5 An Exhibition of Paintings by Anushya Sharma Art Chamber presents a series of Paintings titled "Fool Fantacy" by Anushya Sharma At Art Chamber, Calangute 7.30 pm +91 9823217435 artchamber@gmail.com www.goa-art.com

Feb 13 Onwards Kama, Interrupted Kama, Interrupted is a multimedia art exhibition featuring eighteen artists based in Goa. It is a unique event exemplifying the unbridled power and authenticity of the best talent in Goa today.

At Gallery Gitanjali, Panjim 6.30 pm +91 8806035195 gallerygitanjali@gmail.com

Feb 16 to Feb 21

Off The Wall A collectible of deeply astounding works of art displayed on daily basis at this thoughtful art cafe.

Fort Aguada Road, Sinquerim, Candolim 10:30 am to 11:30 pm +91 9820083497 | +91 9823289123 Panjim Art Gallery Get a dose of the local culture with figurative work of Goan artists.

Near Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim 9:00 am to 8:00 pm +91 9822168703 Mario Art Gallery Discover the original paintings and other memorabilia of the great Goan artist/ cartoonist Mario Miranda. Here you can buy “The Life of Mario”, as well as prints, mounted prints, frames, tiles, mugs, card sets and other books.

‘Houses of Goa’, Salvador-do-Mundo, Porvorim area 9:00 am to 5:30 pm +91 832 2410711 archauto@gmail.com www.mariodemiranda.com Gallery Gitanjali An elegant art gallery in Panjim’s Latin Quarter is worth hopping into when you’re in the area. Fontainhas, Panjim 9:00 am to 9:00 pm +91 9823572035 gallerygitanjali@gmail.com www.gallerygitanjali.com Art Chamber: Galleria de Belas Artes One of the more interesting and pleasant art centers in the state, featuring confident acrylic strokes that are somewhat three dimensional, put across the canvas by Yolanda De Souza and others. The musical acts here are worth looking out for.

Gaura Vaddo, Calangute 10:00 am to 1:00 pm & 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm +91 832 2277144 | +91 9823217435 artchamber@gmail.com www.goa-art.com

Festival of Ideas Organized by the Directorate of Art & Culture, this festival is organized to commemorate the birth centenary of the legendary DD Kosambi.

At Kala Academy, Dayanand Bandodkar Marg, Panjim 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm +91 8322404600

Moksa Art Gallery Here you will find some immensely conceptual paintings by Salvadoran Fernandez and others.

Naik Waddo, Calangute 9:30 am to 8:30 pm +91 832 2281121 | +91 9326717386 mokshart@gmail.com www.mokshartgallery.com

Till Feb 24

Sunaparanta- Goa Centre for the Arts The centre houses several exhibition galleries, a large multi-functional space for workshops and lectures, an in-house film club, sketch club, open air amphitheatre, pottery studio and an open courtyard that houses the al fresco café, Bodega. The red velvet cupcakes at Bodega are a must try!

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

Art Exhibition An art exhibition featuring several well – established Goan artists titled “Beyond Images” At Archies Art Gallery, Chandor 9 am to 6 pm +91 7875327347

Until February ‘Mutabilis’ Exhibition An exquisite collection of paintings, prints and illustrations

By Shireen Mody and Saffron Wiehl At Their Studio/Gallery, 33/1 Viegas Vado, Arpora, Goa. +91 9890009117/ +91 9890536062

Galleries of Note The Cube Gallery Feb 20 to April 20 Art of Wood Exhibition "Made in Goa" At Calizor Vaddo, Moira 11 am to 7 pm +91 832 2470415/ +91 9422806748 thecubegallerygoa@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 info@galleryattic.com www.galleryattic.com Arte Douro Art Gallery For those who aren’t really into very serious art but still want to look out for interesting pieces of art, this place provides a mix bag of originals and prints from international and local talents. Porba Vaddo, Calangute 9:00 am to 9:00 pm +91 832 22882266 | +91 9822147148

Goa International Photo Festival is a Photographer’s Paradise

By Shubham Gupta

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s the clock struck four at the One School Goa this Tuesday, all the students stood still to witness some of the legends in photography and photojournalism light the ritual lamp as a part of the inaugural ceremony of the Goa International Photo festival. The school premises were graced with dazzling photographs exhibited in various displays, both inside and out. With big names like Ed Kashi, David Turnley and William Albert Allard, it wasn’t surprising that the festival received over a thousand entries from all across the globe to be exhibited in this photography extravaganza.

The ceremony was followed by an informal discussion with the legends both from India and across the globe. Being a photographer myself, it was one of those discussions that I wished would never be over. Knowing about the experiences of these photography maestros and the struggles they had been through was an honor to behold. And that is just the beginning. There is a lot more in store to learn, practice, apply and improvise, with a great many interactive workshops and training camps that anyone can sign up for through their website. Held from the 10th to the 20th of Feb, this festival aims to become one of the

most celebrated photography festivals and help propel Goa as one of India’s creative hubs. The festival features over 75 artists and 500 exhibits over 10 days on the picturesque school campus located in Ucassaim village in North Goa. The festival features free entry but registration is required through the festival website at www. goaphotofestival.com The exhibition is being held at the exotic One School Goa campus which boasts of a 100-year-old beautiful Portuguese villa with lush green lawns, sit outs and pop-up cafes.

The festival also features a host of well-known photographers from around India, such as Prasad Naik, Prashant Godbole, Tarun Khiwal, Suresh Natarajan, Shantanu Sheorey, Mahesh Shantaram and Dinesh Khanna.

Today, more than ever before, photography brings the world together and deepens our connection with our surroundings.

Photography is a universal language.

The Goa International Photo Festival (GIPF) is where practicing and future photographers, artists, writers, filmmakers, bloggers and creative people from all over the world, come together, with a spirit of sharing their passion and vision through the most powerful art of visual story telling – photography. Admissions to the One School will be open from the 21st of February, directly following the festival.

18 Fashion

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Monty Sally’s adaptation of “Barberella” by Roger Vadim

he Crown Goa was proud to present Monty Sally’s construct based on the cult classic “Barberella” by Roger Vadim. A future as seen in 1968 is interpreted by the designer, a story of an interplanetary traveller exploring a different world. The designer introduces you to the most beautiful creatures of the future, “Barberella” and the “Silver Stratospherians” who make science fiction something else.

“Barberella” is a five star double rated Astro Navigatrix Earth girl whose specialty is love. Let us explore the universe with Barberella and the Silver Stratospherians in search of Durand Durand. And in our Journey be pampered by The Crown Goa’s galactic proportioned hospitality.

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Sundowner at Club Nyex

he Perfect Sundowner Party at Nyex Beach Club North Anjuna Cliff in collaboration with Starlight Events brought in a massive line up with lead Sets by Nawed Khan and Tuhin Mehta.

Party Started 2 pm and by 6 pm the dance floor was packed to catch the perfect sunset.

Three reasons to celebrate this Valentine’s at Park Hyatt Goa Resort & Spa

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alentine’s is that special day to show your loved one you care. And what better way to show your love than some luxurious indulgence in food, wine, art and spa.

The award winning Park Hyatt Goa Resort & Spa gives you an opportunity to celebrate the day of love with élan and opulence.

The 5-Star Luxury Resort presents three unique experiences that promise to leave a lasting impact on your hearts and minds.

For the food & art aficionados, the hotel offers an eclectic mix that will delight your senses and appease your palate. Aptly titled Freedom of Expression, the experience will include a contemporary Goan menu curated by Chef Edridge Vaz and distinct portraits depicting an expressive raw style of artist Shilpa Nasnolkar for the artistic indulgence. While Shilpa’s style will make you reminisce NeoExpressionists, Chef Vaz’s culinary skills will surprise you with an innovative menu crafted from seasonal ingredients.

The Freedom of

Expression experience will be held from 14th – 28th February 2015 at Casa Sarita.

Da Luigi, the chic & friendly Italian trattoria, invites you to an exquisite 5 course Italian Dining Indulgence (INR 6000 per couple) where renowned chef Saulo will dish out some of the Italian dishes in the world paired with a glass of pink bubbles making it an unforgettable experience on 14th February 2015 at Park Hyatt Goa Resort & Spa. And that’s not all; a 120-minute Chocolate Body Treatment awaits you & your partner at Sereno Spa. The treatment, INR 7000 + taxes per person, starts with a chocolate walnut body scrub that gently exfoliates your skin, followed by a romantic chocolate body mousse massage. With its antioxidant properties, the pure natural cocoa and walnut will make your skin look young, firm and rejuvenated on 14th – 28th February 2015 at Park Hyatt Goa Resort & Spa. Make your reservations now to woo your loved one with the most exquisite Valentine’s Day celebration at Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa. For enquires, please call +91 8322721234 or email parkhyattgoa@ hyatt.com