Issue No: 33

Friday, July 31, 2015 | Vol. No. 3 | Issue 33 | Price Rs. 10 | www.goastreets.com | G-2/RNP/Weekly/Goa-05/2013-15

04

Clash of the Taxis

11

Selling Books at Santana

12

Pen-Drive Music Album

A fight between taxi drivers and car rental operators heats up.

Drivers want the rentals shut down.

Renters are demanding licenses.

The government will have to take sides soon.

For the first time, books join the traditional feast fair at the Church of St. Anne at Talaulim. The Goan publishing industry benefits from the festive spirit and hunger for local literature.

First we had a gramophone. Then we had 8-track tapes. Then came cassettes, and then CDs. Now a Konkani music producer offers up a brand new format: the pen drive.

Inside:

• Quotes From Kalam • Cafe Lovii • Margao Super Mom • Stiletto Diaries • Classical Piano Blues • Clarice's Abstract Art • Bay 15

ALSO INSIDE: COMPLETE FOOD/EVENT/NIGHTLIFE GUIDE

Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, scientist, mentor, president and one of our nation’s most beloved sons, has joined the pantheon of departed Indian greats. In tribute to the man and his memory, Streets offers you these words of inspiration uttered and written by him. May all of us live up to Dr. Kalam’s noble example.

• You have to dream before your dreams can come true.

• We will be remembered only if we give to our younger generation a prosperous and safe India, resulting out of economic prosperity coupled with civilisational heritage.

• Those who cannot work with their hearts achieve but a hollow, half-hearted success that breeds bitterness all around.

• Man needs his difficulties because they are necessary to enjoy success.

• Educationists should build the capacities of the spirit of inquiry, creativity, entrepreneurial and moral leadership among students and become their role model.

• My message, especially to young people is to have courage to think differently, courage to invent, to travel the unexplored path, courage to discover the impossible and to conquer the problems and succeed. These are great qualities that they must work towards. This is my message to the young people.

• Why be afraid of difficulties, sufferings and problems? When troubles come, try to understand the relevance of your sufferings.

Adversity always presents opportunities for introspection.

• Excellence is a continuous process and not an accident.

• The sides of the mountain sustain life, not the peak. This is where things grow, experience is gained, and technologies are mastered. The importance of the peak lies only in the fact that it defines the sides.

• If a country is to be corruption free and become a nation of beautiful minds, I strongly feel there are three key societal members who can make a difference. They are the father, the mother and the teacher.

• We are all born with a divine fire in us.

Our efforts should be to give wings to this fire and fill the world with the glow of its goodness.

• Look at the sky. We are not alone. The whole universe is friendly to us and conspires only to give the best to those who dream and work.

• Within the mind are all the resources required for successful living. Ideas are present in the consciousness, which when released and given scope to grow and take shape, can lead to successful events.

By Rahul Rivonkar ‘Dance O Philia’ is a dance performing company based in Goa, a joint venture set up by Darryl D’Souza, Eby John and Glavan D’Mello.

I caught up with them to learn a little more about them and their plans for this new dance academy.

Rahul Rivonkar: Tell us something about Dance O Philia?

DP: We aspire to take international dance training to the next level progressively, through the philosophy of Kaizan which is a Japanese business philosophy, meaning continuous improvement. This would be a journey of shaping lives through dance and progressing towards excellence by inculcating good values.

RR: What is your group’s vision?

DP: We have come together from various parts of the country to raise dance education and performing arts in India to be on par with international standards in the coming years, by teaching authentic dance styles.

RR: What dance programs you offer?

DP: Dance for all Outreach

Program – Here we wish to let the masses enjoy dancing! But our experience in Goa tells us that people are reluctant to take dance classes despite their interest in it. This is because of travel inconveniences, unaffordable fees and unsuitable timings. We provide a solution with this program, where we reach out to the masses through professional classes in schools, colleges and corporate organisations.

RR: How is this program beneficial?

DP: We come to you with affordable fees so that you can get away from your busy schedule through music, fun and exercise RR: Anything for the community?

DP: We have evening classes in Mapusa, Panjim, Calangute, Margao, Vasco where we teach international styles of dance. Kids, teenagers and adults who want to perfect the art of dance are welcomed here.

RR: What are your future plans?

DP: We plan to have an intensive dance course for people who want to get professionally trained in various styles by getting international artists to Goa. We organise and choreograph corporate shows and events at a panIndia level. We are looking forward to expand the company and we aim to create a group of dancers who are professionally trained to be compared to any international dancers.

RR: Any shows coming up soon?

DP: Yes, we’re coming up with a stage show that will showcase the talents of our students. The show would also feature performances by the trainers of the academy.

RR: Do you have any advice for aspiring dance students?

DP: When people look for dance workshops, they first prefer low budget trainers and have big expectations. People looking for dance classes should check on the trainer’s background and qualifications. A good dance teacher will make sure your techniques are perfected over time.

Timings and rates are not the only factors, we believe in a continuous education program. We never force everything on a student. Please enquire everything about the dance workshop before you select one.

Trainer profiles: Mr. Glavan D’Mello has worked with choreographers like Ganesh Hegde, Remo D’souza, Vaibhavi Merchant and Ashley Lobo. He has trained in Mumbai under many international choreographers and worked with actors like Ranbir Kapoor, Nagris Fakri, Shah Rukh Khan and Anushka Sharma.

Eby John has trained under international trainers in Delhi and has worked with Ashley Lobo. He has been teaching dance for 5 years, and has choreographed colleges and schools in Delhi. Eby is also into philanthropic activities like giving free workshops for underprivileged children.

Darryl D’Souza has participated on many reality shows. He was a semi finalist for ‘Entertainment ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega’ in 2011. Darryl is a licensed Zumba Instructor. He won the ‘Open Bachata championship’12 which happens in Pune, and was second runnerup in the Asia Salsa Championship’2015, Bangalore. He was on the flash mob team for the launch of Goa Streets.

04 business

The Fight Heats Up Between Taxis and Rent-A-Cars

F

By Crespo D’Souza

or the moment, forget all the sob stories you are hearing around you about the plight of the taxi drivers or that of the rent-a-car owners.

It all boils down to cold, hard, free market economics—whoever offers the best service for the cheapest price wins the game.

For now, the triumphant are the new rent-a-car owners entering the market at a lower price point. The problem is that the vast majority are operating illegally, and licensed taxi drivers say the newcomers are destroying their business.

The cab drivers, faced with losing their livelihoods, are staging loud protests to shut down the unlicensed car rentals. The rental outfits, for their part, are making equally loud noises to demand their services be legalised in the interest of free markets and fairness to consumers.

The government to date has refrained from taking sides, though a decision is

expected soon.

Exacerbating the fight, of course, is the shrinking pie of Goan tourism. With fewer and fewer high-paying tourists coming to the state, drivers are struggling to find enough business even without the arrival of new players.

Taxi owners in Goa have enjoyed a long-standing monopoly on moving tourists from place to place. But now they are threatened by these new rent-a-car or rent-a-bike operators, as well as tour operators who move their groups about in large buses, referred to as coaches.

The tourist taxi operators are lobbying the government to change the rules of the game in their favour.

But history has taught us that rules of the free market point to only one direction—you either adapt or perish.

Whether it is large corporations or taxi drivers, the outcome is the same.

Let us paint a market picture for you.

Goa has more than 8,000 registered tourist taxis all of whom depend on getting customers, mostly tourists, to be ferried from one point to another. They

charge a minimum of Rs 200 per trip, that is up to five kilometres.

A four-seater tourist taxi for half a day (four hours) and a maximum of 50 kms will cost you Rs 900. Eight hours and 100 kms will cost you Rs 1750 with additional charges for additional kilometres and hours.

The rates are higher for a seven-seater taxi—Rs 1400 for four hours and Rs 2700 for eight hours.

Point to point rates without return fare are Rs 500 for the first five kilometres, 700 for ten kms and 900 for 20 kms. Each kilometre above the slabs is Rs 46 extra.

Luxury taxis come at a much higher price starting at Rs 5000.

By contrast, for Rs 900 one gets a small five-seater car for a whole 24 hours. A tourist can take the car (within Goa) wherever he or she wishes, at whatever time they wish. A seven-seater Innova can cost you Rs 1500 for 24 hours and an open top jeep a cool Rs 2500, especially during peak season.

What you don’t get is a driver to take you along, which of course could be a problem for those who don’t know Goa’s roads very well. Still, today’s smart phones are equipped with GPS devices that these days actually work in Goa. And remember, the driver is always around you, depriving you and your fellow holidayers of personal space, which is often preferred by younger groups of tourists, couples, families, etc.

Bolstered by cheaper prices and more flexibility, rent-a-car operators are having a field day along the coastal belt of the state, giving taxi operators genuine reasons to fear that their market share will dwindle.

Except for one problem—none of them have permissions for giving cars on rent.

In all these years the government has given permission to only one operator— one Pushkar Fernandes from Margao—to run the rent-a-car business. He has

around 200 registered vehicles. The rest of the players rent out private vehicles which they have bought.

Their argument is simple — “We are already part of the ecosystem, all the government needs to do is grant us the permissions, which we are legally entitled to and everyone will be happy.

We are not asking that any Tom, Dick or Harry be given permission. At least let those who are existing operators be given permission and let there be a stop on issuing permissions in order that the market does not get flooded with such operators,” said Ramadas Palkar, the president of their association.

The taxi drivers have a counter position—they want the government to shut the rentals down permanently, because they are illegal.

Taxi operators admit this is an issue of market share, without specifically saying so.

“We are only worried about the fate of the taxi drivers. Even in the existing situation, a taxi driver gets a customer once every four days. We who are on the Calangute-Candolim belt can manage to hold out during the lean season, but those in other less frequented beaches are at their wits end on how to pay back their loans,” said Vinayak Nanoskar, the secretary of the North Goa Tourist Taxi Owners Association.

He admitted that part of the problem was that there were too many tourist taxis, and that a stop would have to be put somewhere. “What else will the unemployed youth of the state do? This is the easiest business to get into. All you need a Rs 50,000 down payment and you can get yourself a car on loan and then you spend the rest of your years trying to pay back your loan while also saving something for your family,” he said.

Both the associations have separately approached the government and the Chief Minister to lobby for their respective demands. Both have also held their respective marches in the capital city to highlight their causes.

The chief minister has promised that he would take a decision on granting permissions for rentals after the current assembly session.

If permissions don’t come through, it will be yet another year of illegal operation for car rentals—an opportunity for officers, both police and transport, to make a quick buck while turning a blind eye to the illegalities, and a negative experience for the odd unfortunate group of tourists who finds themselves offloaded from a rented car onto the street by an honest cop just following the rules.

“In such a situation will this tourist return to Goa the next time?” Palkar asks.

Publisher Marisha Dutt • Chief Mentor Steven Gutkin • Acting Editor José Lourenço 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, Kanchi Mehta, Sapna Shahani, Jeena Jose, Skyla Janice Pereira • Marketing Co-ordinator Radhika Naik • Marketing & Event Co-ordinator Rahul Rivonkar • Marketing Executive Alvira Rodrigues • Circulation & Accounts Co-ordinator Nilesh Shetgaonkar • Circulation Vijay Gadekar

S

Warren Tricomi Salon & Spa Luxury amidst Nature

pread over 20,000 sq.ft, The Warren Tricomi Salon & Spa introduces wellness and grooming to you in a luxurious and natural environment at the Grand Mercure Goa Shrem Resort. One of Goa’s largest Spas, it is set in the midst of serene nature.

Warren Tricomi, known for its international treatments & best practices, has claimed to be the only Spa in Goa to feature a Couple’s heated stone Hammam bed. Its unique wellness and fitness retreats by Hollywood celebrity trainers like Ramona Braganza, make this the ultimate wellness getaway in Goa. The Warren Tricomi Salon & Spa boasts seven single treatments rooms, one Couple’s Suite, Goa’s only Couple’s Hammam Ritual Room, a nature pedicure area, a high end salon, a stunning Yoga deck & several relaxation zones.

The spa structure, imported from Bali, stays true to the tropical feel. International experts from Singapore have landscaped the Spa. “The theme of the Spa is to bring international wellness in a luxurious yet natural environment.

When in the Spa, our guest must not feel he is ‘inside’ a Spa, but rather on the outside and in the beautiful nature of Goa," explains Dr Sajith Chand, Spa Manager, Warren Tricomi Salon & Spa, Grand Mercure, Goa.

Each room has a built in shower, WC and outdoor showers. The Couple’s Suite has a private outdoor relaxation area and Jacuzzi. The heated stone Hammam Tables are the only Hammams in North Goa. There is also a high end Salon, a pedicure area, yoga deck, wellness Café and relaxation areas across the Spa. Trained by Warren Tricomi’s InHouse trainers and experts, the Spa has a team of 12 aestheticians and wellness experts. The Spa offers rejuvenating Massages, Wraps & Scrubs, refreshing Facials, holistic Ayurvedic Treatments and the Signature Hammam rituals along with Hair, beauty and Nail services.

Warren Tricomi Salon & Spa at Grand Mercure Goa Shrem Resort, Off Candolim Road is open every day from 9 am to 9 pm. For enquiries please contact - 0832 2494885 or Email:manager. goa@warrentricomi.in

06 Friday, July 31, 2015

Who Said Health Nuts Don’t Do Seriously Delicious Food?

O

By José Lourenço

ur Facebook pages are chockfull of tips on healthy eating, from the benefits of honey and turmeric to the cancer destroying power of the sour sop fruit. But when you are prowling like a hungry wolf on the streets of Goa, there’s only oily batatawadas and samosas available. Where does one go for all that healthy food?

There is indeed a place exactly for these nutritious cravings right in the heart of Margao—the newly set up Lovii Café. Having seen some delicious photos on their FB page I went over to check it out. Nestling in the heart of Comba, Margao’s old residential quarter, Lovii Café stands at the rear of the house of Fatima Figueiredo (Mario Miranda’s sister!), at the end of Abade Faria road.

The old judicial courthouse of Margao is just across the road, and there’s even a whitewashed colonial-era sentry box at the entrance of the café. The Figueiredo’s garage once stood where the café is now.

The café is part of the Oorja Wellness Centre which teaches yoga and also has a multi-specialty clinic. Lovii Café caters to the dietary desires of the Centre’s patrons, but is also open to the public.

Café Lovii is managed by the young couple Vasant and Vatsala Hede, from Margao. Vatsala holds a degree in fine arts, and takes care of the aesthetics of the eating experience. The crockery

and cutlery is chosen by her, and I am impressed by the long stemmed water glass that stands on my table, with an effusion of cranberry colour at its base.

“I have also studied a hospitality course and worked at the Marriott for two years, so I take care of our customer service,” she says. Her husband is busy at the kitchen counter, chopping and grinding away. The kitchen and eating area is all open plan and patrons can pretty much see every step of their sandwich or fruit shake being prepared. The café is open on three sides to the beautiful garden of the house. A spider crawls over to make my acquaintance.

I peer at the day’s menu written on a board mounted on a paint-splattered easel. Quail egg omelette. That’s a new one for me. “Quail eggs are smaller than the usual eggs, but are very nutritious,” informs Vatsala. “The eggs come from Ms. Figueiredo’s farm”. Fatima Figueiredo is the sister of Goa’s much loved cartoonist and artist Mario Miranda. This centuriesold Margao house is meticulously maintained, and stands as an elegant flourish at the end of all the heritage homes that line the Rua Abade Faria.

“We serve fresh juices, and beverages like ginger-tulsi green tea, which are rich in anti-oxidants,” says Vatsala. “All our sandwiches are assembled on the spot.

We don’t serve any pre-packaged snacks here.”

I know Vasant as the Placement Coordinator at Chowgule College, but it’s a fresh sight to see him confidently

grinding masalas in the kitchen. “He used to work at cafés in the UK when he was studying there, so he knows how to multitask,” Vatsala tells me, with an affectionate look in his direction.

The maître d'-cum-chef finally comes over to join us. “A masala tea can take ten minutes, as the spices are freshly ground,” says Vasant. “We like to make the tea the way we make it at home.”

Avocado sandwiches are popular here.

A fruit sandwich? I think of slices of apple in bread and I’m confused. “Avocado is very creamy, it’s not very sweet. It’s like in between a fruit and a vegetable,” explains Vasant. “They even make mayonnaise of avocado. We serve our fruit juices as delights, as in Watermelon Delight. It’s a combination, with one or two fruits dominant. Our Fruit Tower serving has mixed fruits and honey and sunflower seeds, etc. We also have fruit and yoghurt combos. Yoghurt has good pro-biotic qualities.”

“The clients of the Wellness Centre are on strict diets,” he goes on. “No onions, no

chillies, nothing heavy, no potatoes. It’s very sattvik. They need fresh vegetable dishes and salads.”

I notice the rates for the foods are quite reasonable, given the premium placed on health foods nowadays. Items range from seventy to ninety rupees, with a masala tea for thirty. “Given a choice of fat-heavy commercial snacks and our healthy foods at the same price, we want people to choose the healthier option,” says Vasant. The café is not even a month old, but eight to ten customers come in every day, with more numbers on weekends.

What’s with the name Lovii, I ask them. “That’s what we call each other,” says Vatsala. “And those two i’s at the end show our own individuality,” adds Vasant, gazing at her. This is a couple clearly in love, I decide, as I slurp off my Watermelon Delight. And food cooked with love can’t be bad for the heart!

Café Lovii is open from 9am to 7pm, closed on Mondays.

food & drink 07

Friday, July 31, 2015

July 11 to August 9 Monsoon Sizzler Festival A truely steamy fair with irresistible sizzling Specialities, using the finest raw materials, ingredients, aromatic herbs, spices and delectable sauces.

At Riorico, The Mandovi, Panaji +91 832 242627 0/73

Every Saturday Cheese and Wine @ Grand Hyatt Enjoy Grand Hyatt Goa's finest selection of wines and cheeses every Saturday at The Verandah. Treat yourself to an exclusive wine tasting and exotic cheese table, carefully crafted by our very talented Executive Chef Mark Long At The Verandah, Grand Hyatt, Bambolim 7 pm to 11:30 pm +91 832 301 1234

Brunches Every Sunday 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 Brunch Relish a sumptuous meal over five interactive food counters along with free flowing beverages and live music

by Goa's singing sensation - Chrystal.

Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and access to our outdoor swimming pool while the little ones are looked after at Camp Hyatt - the kids club.

At The Dining Room, Grand Hyatt, Bambolim 1 pm to 4 pm +91 832 301 1234 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 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/ +91 832 2267600 resv.goa@theparkhotels.com www.theparkhotels.com Every Sunday Myra Vineyards presents 'Sangria Sunday Brunch' at Sol de Goa Sangria Sunday Brunch with the amazing Helen and Xavier Peres.

Complimentary use of the pool for all customers.

Italian, Spanish and Mexican delights and unlimited Sangria, beer and cocktails.

Sunset set with Dj David Phimister Rs: 1200+ taxes per head, Rs: 600+ taxes for kids At Sol de Goa, Nerul 12:30 pm onwards 0832 671 4141

South Goa Restaurants Da Luigi Experience flavours from the streets of Rome, Venice or Milan at this surprisingly authentic Italian fine-dining restaurant.

At Park Hyatt Goa Resot and Spa, Cansaulim +91 832 2721234 Portofino Coffee Shop Multi-Cuisine This all day dining restaurant is an ideal place to head for a midnight snack or after party munchies.

At Kenilworth Resort & Spa, Utorda Open 24x7 +91 832 6698888 Ruta's World Café World Cuisine Located on a quiet street near the city’s Latin Quarter, Ruta’s offers some of the most delectable fares in Margao.

Dr Miranda Rd, Behind Nanutel, Margao 9 am to 6 pm +91 832 2710757 Alcoves Goan, Indian, Chinese Some excellent choices to be tried here would be Chinese Crispy Chicken, Cafreal, Veg Kolhapuri, Veg Crispy, and Chicken Vindaloo.

Near Cine Vishant, Aquem, Margao 8.30 am to 11 pm +91 83 22735062, +91 832 2730536 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

Chicken Man The trademark dish here is their rotisserie Chicken.

At Off 18th June Road, Panjim +91 832 2423333

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

Casabela Continental, European A cozy place to hang around with your folks, it has been around since the 70’s and has mouth watering hand tossed pizzas.

Off Chogm Rd, Porvorim 7 am to 11 pm. +91832241558 mail@casabelagoa.com www.casabelagoa.com

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

Mum’s Kitchen Goan Among the best upscale Goan kitchens in Panjim, this restaurant draws foodies from all religions and walks of life.

At Panjim-Miramar Rd 11 am to 11pm. +91 9822175556

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

North Goa Restaurants Aunty Maria This quaint little café in Hotel Fidalgo is an upscale coffee shop and bakery offering fresh home-made bread, cakes, cookies, chocolates and quick bites that could make for a wonderful breakfast or tea time snack.

At Hotel Fidalgo, Panjim +91 832 2226291 secgoa@fidalgogroup.com www.fidalgogroup.com Desbue European Fusion Modern European Restaurant A traditional Portuguese heritage home in the Latin quarter of Panjim.

At La Maison, Fountainhas, Panjim +91 832 2235555 Barrels & Bones BBQ - Steakhouse - Pizzeria Meal For Two: Rs.1000 At Fontainhas, close to the Maruti/ Hanuman Temple, Panjim 9673994064/7774078276 promobnb@gmail.com Goenchin Chinese, Pan Asian Yes the Chinese food here is Indianized. But is that necessarily a bad thing? It depends on your taste.

At Mandovi Apartment, Dr Dada Vaidya Road, Panjim Noon to 3 pm, 7 pm to 11 pm +91 8322227614 reservations@hotelmandovigoa.com www.hotelmandovigoa.com

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 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

George Bar and Restaurant This tiny little joint may seem tacky from outside but it is clean and hygienic, serving delectable Goan food.

Near Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim +918322426820 10 am to 3.30 pm, 6.30 pm to 10.30 pm 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 House of Lloyds Continental, seafood, and hearty Goan cuisine.

The restaurant recommends 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 Bombay Darbar Take Away and Catering Services A family restaurant, replete with surprisingly scrumptious Indian fare.

At Sairam Residency, Shop no 1, Alto St.Cruz Road, St.Cruz, Tiswadi +91 832-2458877 / +91 832 2458588 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

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

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

Chat Streets For a pop spicy and crunchy snack or fresh juice, this is the place to be.

On Sunday open only till 4 pm Near Don Bosco High School, MG Road, Panjim 11 am to 9 pm. +91 832 9922480076

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

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

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

Forrest Veg Food Court Continental, Chinese, Indian Serves a wide range of fast food including chaat, noodles, pav bhaji, sandwiches, burgers et cetera.

At Bhagwan Mahavir BAL Vihar, Panjim 11 am – 11 pm +91 832 6454353/9225903392

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. / +91 9822122085

10 explore

Tricks To Getting Better Travel Deals There are more ways to slashing travel expenses than haggling with the cab driver!

By Dielle D’Souza

If you’ve got a vacation on your mind, don’t wait until the holidays are upon you to decide what to do. There’s more than one way to crack a good travel deal, and knowing the hacks can keep your pockets fuller for all those things you want to splurge on.

1. Go incognito You know the little option that says ‘Use Incognito Window’ or ‘Start Private Browsing’?

That’s not just for those times you’re mucking around on suspicious websites.

Many international airline websites save browsing information and smack you in the face with a fake price hike when you log back in another day to scare you into buying immediately. Using incognito windows or private browsing lets you circumvent those sneaks and buy tickets at the original price.

2. Plan ahead This is true for airline tickets as well as hotels. Sign up for email alerts with your preferred airlines and hotels to give you an idea of sales periods and book when prices are at their lowest. But if you’re one of those who only travel when everyone else does, the earlier you book the better. The golden rule, however, is to price compare on websites such as Skyscanner and Kayak before making the final booking.

3. Don’t bother with stars With five-star hotels, you’re mostly paying for the name. It’s hardly possible

to use the swimming pool, gym, half a dozen restaurants and spa in the same spot over a period of seven days, and still fully experience a new destination.

So if you want a cheaper deal with the same quality, go for smaller boutique hotels. Even if they don’t have as many amenities, they offer comfort, more intimacy and more opportunity to get out and explore. If you still want the five-star deal, call the hotel directly. They might offer you a cheaper rate based on traffic.

4. Avoid hotels Better still, stay away from hotels.

Cabins, bed and breakfasts, homestays, farmhouses and vacation rentals are cheaper and have more character.

If travelling in groups of four or more, vacation rentals or service apartments drastically reduce expenses on what is simply a place to sleep for the night.

Monasteries and convents are cheap, clean options, but travellers will have to avoid being loud and late night partying is not a smart idea if they have curfews. If trusting is what you are, try mooching off someone’s hospitality through websites like Couchsurfing, Hospitality Club, Staydu or Global Freeloaders.

5. Free WiFi Yes, we know it’s important to keep shoving your travel pictures in your friends’ faces – apparently that’s why Facebook and Instagram exist!

But how about spending a little less on that Matrix card and piggy backing on someone else?

The easiest would be to stop at a chain restaurant or coffee shop, buy the cheapest thing on the

menu to get the password and use their free WiFi. But apps like WeFi and WiFi Finder show you available free WiFi spots, some even offline. Using 4sqwifi connected to your Foursquare app, you can source passwords from previous users without even going into the café.

Just make sure you’re inconspicuously leaning against the wall outside and not shouting it in the street.

6. Ditch the tour bus Tours are designed with your money in mind. It’s convenient to be dropped off outside the museum you are dying to see, but most programmes incorporate many places you couldn’t be bothered with spending time (and money) at.

With a little research before you leave, you can pick fewer places that you’re really interested in. It will also give you a chance to ride local transport. Many cities offer day or week passes, and Google maps helps you figure out how the transport system works. If slumming it with the locals during rush hour isn’t your thing, rent a bike or car. Don’t miss any of the tour guide information by doing some of your own research, or checking for free walking tours and free audio tours before you leave.

7. Travel off season and off route Just like Goa isn’t only about ‘season time’ from October to March, all places have a quieter, more local, charm when the tourists stay away. Travelling during low season offers the best deals on food, travel

and stay. Overseas flights are generally cheapest on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays and most expensive on Sundays.

The best time to buy tickets is reported to be Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Booking tickets to nearby cities or airports instead of the more popular ones is another great way to skimp on expenses.

8. Food finances Let’s face it. A lot of our travel budget goes on food. The first rule of getting the best deals is to avoid the deals. Go to where the locals eat, which will be inexpensive, unpretentious fare, but generally hygienic and delicious. It could be a food cart, a hole in the wall or a booking on websites like With Locals and BonAppetour. If you’re looking for a fancy meal at a renowned restaurant or hotel, try reserving a spot during weekdays and searching for coupons on websites like Groupon. If you can make a mention of a celebration during the reservation, you just might get free dessert! Many pubs also offer deals during the week and for lunch, which is often cheaper than dinner.

Happy hours are your friend and room service your sworn enemy. Hitting up student locales also ensures cheap, tasty food (and drink!) or if you’re staying in an accommodation with a kitchen, cook up some grub yourself.

Wherever you go and whatever you do, always read the fine print before you make a booking. Look for cancellation fees, extra charges and freebies, but don’t let it turn your vacation into a frenzied haze of penny pinching and haggling.

Travel wise, travel safe and when you’re ready to go, leave no footprints but the loose change from your pocket in the hands of the nearest homeless person.

literature

Friday, July 31, 2015

11

Local publishers hit on a new model for selling their books

T

By José Lourenço

he Church Feast at Talaulim, near Goa Velha, is popularly known as Touxeachem Fest, Feast of Cucumbers. At this feast, devotees pray to St. Anne (Santana) for various needs. 'Senhora, tomai colher, dai me mulher', means 'Our Lady, take this spoon, grant me a wife'. Newlyweds pray - 'Senhora, tomai pepino, dai me menino'. A cucumber for a baby boy.

But this time at the feast on last Sunday, many devotees took home something different—Books.

Frederick Noronha is the force behind Goa 1556, a prolific publishing house, based at Saligao. Leonard Fernandes runs Cinnamon Teal at Margao, providing print-in-demand services as well as commercial publishing. Tired of waiting for books to sell at retail shops, the three of us decided to put up a book stall at the Santana Feast. We loaded up our cars with folding tables and books and landed at the church at 7 am, as the first mass was in progress. Leonard was accompanied by his wife and publishing

colleague Queenie, and two assistants.

My son Earl came along to help out. We set up three tables close to the church, spread out our books and other literary products and waited. At the end of every mass (and there were three of them), curious attendees began to come over.

By 1.30 pm when we wound up, we sold over 12,000 rupees worth of books. So that was one hell (oops!) of a successful experiment.

The rains were kind to us. It drizzled only at one o’clock, and we instantly covered our books with the huge transparent plastic sheet I had carried. We were joined for a while

by Pantaleao Fernandes, who promoted his new book ‘Traditional Occupations of Goa’. The local MLA Vishnu Wagh also dropped by to support our book stall after attending mass. Another visitor, Ashley Vales from Dabolim, was very familiar with our books and owned many of them. He knew which books were recently launched and which were out of print. “If we have 800 Ashleys in Goa, our work is done!” exclaimed Frederick.

There were many other fascinating visitors. Mr Morajkar browsed my book on the churches of Goa for a long time. “My grandfather was the laundryman at the Bishop’s Palace at Altinho during the Portuguese days,” he said with a nostalgic look in his eye. “The Bishop told him, come, I will take you to see Rome!”

Visitors tipped over and

bought a book or product when they were told ‘25% to 35% discount today!’, ‘Half price!’, ‘You won’t get this offer anywhere else’, ‘This poster was made especially for this feast, it’s not available in shops’, etc. I had brought along a special poster of photographs of all the parish churches of Goa, from my architectural book, which sold quite well.

Just standing behind the book display didn’t work. We had to walk up to people passing by and tell them about the children’s books, etc, that were displayed, and had to actually lead the visitors to the stall. We were a bit shy at first, but after watching some brazen hustling by Frederick we all got into the act.

Children were attracted to the colourful display of English and Konkani books and urged their parents to buy them. Children are truly the keys to the kingdom of parents. Watching the visitors listen to our spiel and then to observe them making their purchase decisions was very educative.

Church feasts, temple zatras and other public events are excellent locations for book stalls. As an impromptu ‘publishers collective’, we have decided to set up frequent book sale stalls at such venues.

“Come to Pilar,” said one buyer. “Come to our church’s feast,” said another.

An attractive feature of such a sale is that the buyer can be given a hefty discount of up to 40 percent, which would otherwise be the retailer’s sales commission. Visitors also get introduced to books that they would otherwise not know of. And the festive mood helps in loosening purse strings, all for a good cause. The plastic toys and kaddioboddeo of the feast will perish, but the books will be read and remain in the mind and the house library for a long long time. 

12

Friday, July 31, 2015

Utsav – Delightful Music In A One-Of-A-Kind Format You May Not Have Heard Of This Before!

F

By José Lourenço

irst we had vinyl records and the turntable. Then we had eight-track tapes (anybody remember those?).

Then came cassettes, and then CD’s.

Now, thanks to an innovative Goan producer composing in our very own Konkani language, the latest format is here.

If you want to hear Damodar Naik’s soul-stirring songs, just buy his pen drive!

The musicians and singers of Goa have always had a knack for innovation. As recording technology progressed, led by European and American inventors, Goans were quick to use the new media.

The first recorded Konkani songs were released in 1910 on HMV Records. Joao Agostinho Fernandes, a pioneering tiatr artiste, was the first to record a Konkani song on a gramophone record by HMV Records in 1910. Alfred Rose recorded his songs on audio cassettes. Years rolled on and soon ‘Old Goan Gold’ by Remo Fernandes, one of the earliest Compact Disc albums recorded by a Goan artist, was selling like hot cakes.

The digital revolution has caused a storm in the recording industry worldwide, with music piracy badly affecting musicians and recording companies.

The industry is obsessed with finding ways of preventing original music being copied for free. But Damodar Naik actually uses this copying instinct to spread his music.

An actor and lyricist from Margao, Naik, popularly known as Damu, is offering his Konkani music album ‘Utsav’ (Festival) in a pen drive specifically because he knows it will spread more easily than in other formats. For him, extending Konkani music far and wide is every bit as important as revenues.

“I am happy if the pen drive album is copied, as the songs will reach more people. This helps the Konkani language,” says a pleased Damu. “It has already been copied by hundreds of people!”

Not by accident, Damu is also the Chairman of Ravindra Bhavan, Margao’s premier arts complex.

As head of his cultural group Dambabale Ghodde, he has produced this album in both CD and pen drive format. While his CD version (priced at Rs 150) sold out 5000 copies after its release on 18th July, the pen drive version (priced at Rs 300) has sold over 200 copies, with a further 350 orders yet to be supplied. The CD version also contains bonus karaoke tracks of the same songs.

Besides turning a threat into an advantage, the pen drive boasts other advantages. The pen drive album has 4GB capacity, on to which the producer has also loaded his previous

By Aliya Abreu

W

hen an interviewer once asked tennis champ Roger Federer about the secret of his success, a very modest Roger replied with a grin, “Well, it’s no secret: I’m obviously very talented.” While I laughed while watching this interview, it got me thinking about talent ... success ... and pianos. I said to myself—If Roger Federer were a pianist, and not a professional tennis player, no matter how talented he was, or how much he practiced, relatively no one would know his name.

There are thousands of great pianists around the world living in obscurity, and who can’t rely on piano playing to earn them their living.

I believe this is the reason why a lot of people today would rather enrol their kids for electronic keyboard classes, instead of classical piano classes.

The electronic keyboard has beats, and is fairly easy to carry around. The keyboardist can make a party come to life, and can accompany singers without much rehearsal. Besides, if your kid is not happy with learning the keyboard, and prefers being, you know, a rockstar, he can always go for guitar classes! Which is why you will probably tell me to go back to 1885 if I recommend learning the piano.

The piano is one of a few Western classical instruments that is taught in Goa, today.

Unfortunately, there are many things that kill a child’s enthusiasm when it comes to learning the piano:

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Sanitary ware, Tiles & Roofing Tiles Special Quality Prop: Patel Mob: +91 9326865976 Richard Complex, Agassasim, Tiswadi, Goa Near Arlem Chapel, Margao, Goa

14 music & nightlife

two albums—the soundtrack of his film Zagor and an album of devotional songs—as a bonus for listeners. The rest of the storage can be used for one’s personal data files. The pen drive is hinged onto a card which carries the names of the songs, their composers and singers.

The music director of this 9-song album is Ashok Patki of Mumbai.

Five Mumbai-based singers – Suresh Wadkar, Ajit Kadkade, Vinod Rathod, Devaki Pandit and Shaan – have lent their voice to the album along with Goan artistes Purnanand Chari, Akshay Naik, Sonia Sirsat, Oluv Rodrigues and Bindiya Vasht Naik. The songs, composed by Damu Naik, Purnanand Chari and Uday Bhembre, cover various romantic, festive and devotional themes. The album was recorded at Suresh Wadkar’s Ajivasan Studio at Mumbai and at the studio of the Art & Culture Department of Goa. “Yaad hi ponni, kella mastichi kanni …” sing Sonia and Oluv in one of the songs. “This is an old memory, of playing in the mud as children …”

The songs in the Utsav album may recall old memories, but the clever technology is brand new and set to create new trends in the music industry. 

July 31

Every Thursday

A Tribute to Late Mohammed Rafi Ek Shaam Rafi ke Naam... Dil ne Phir Yaad Kiya At Great Hall, Hotel Fidalgo, Panjim 7 pm to 11 pm +91 9158055222 /+91 9545554204

Funk’d up @ Eviva Get your feet stomping to some funk, soul, hip hop and R&B while feasting on some treats from the Moroccan grill.

At Eviva Club, Calangute 8 pm onwards +91 832 226 7900 On-going

Wet & Tech Featuring-Shaun Moses: Liquid Sky, Traum 280 Clifford Victoria: Leopard Valley Goa At Waters Beach Lounge & Grill, Vagator 8pm onwards +91 97 02 025555 Rafi and Mukesh Special Karaoke Nite Special programme 'Mahammad Rafi and Mukesh Special Karaoke Nite At Sincro Hotel, Margao 8pm onwards. +91 832 27414 08

August 1 Pre Friendship Day Bash Featuring DJ Evok & Prithvi.

At Cafe Lilliput, Anjuna 8pm onwards +91 9822137767' Russell & Marieke Country & Western Jive and Rock n Roll & Some Classics.

At Azzure, By Spree Hotel. Calangute 8pm onwards. +91 832 2267900 International Blues Music Day! Saturday Nite Live In Concert Feat.

Goa's Best of Blues Musicians At Soul Souffle, Verna 8pm onwards +91 9323590051/+9764694321

Every Tuesday Acoustic Sunlight With Anselm Francis (Flute & Vocals) and Rodden ‘Ollie” Dsouza (Acoustic Guitar & Vocals) At Tamarin, Near Calangute Mall, Calangute. 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm +91 9545477670

Bay 15 Enjoy an evening of jazz, blues, rock 'n' roll & Latin Every Wednesday: Mantra Every Thursday: Smoking Chutney Every Friday: Shine On Every Saturday: Triads Every Sunday: Amoderas de Music At Bay 15, A Justa Resort, Odxel beach, Dona Paula 7.30 pm onwards +91 7350146000 Cavala Every Wednesday: Cavala Acoustic Latin Retro Every Friday: Tidal Wave’s live act Every Saturday: Piano played by Bosco Cavala, Calangute - Baga Road, Baga 8:30 pm onwards. +91 832 2276090 sales@cavala.com www.cavala.com The Park, Calangute Every Monday: Retro Night By Jus Leo Every Thursday: Retro Night Every Friday: Karaoke Night with KDJ Tony Every Saturday: Ladies Night with DJ Sunil and Tania The Park, Calangute 8 pm onwards +91 8805028194, +91 832 2267600 resv.goa@theparkhotels.com www.theparkhotels.com

The possibility of turning 80 years old before being able to play.

It takes a long time to be able to play the piano fairly decently, say 4 to 6 years The scales!

Practicing scales is akin to learning verbs when you’re trying to pick up a new language.

Argghhh! Why can’t one simply skip the scales and create beautiful music? The same reason why it’s impossible to speak a new language fluently without learning vocabulary, grammar rules and verbs, son.

‘Friends’ of your parents.

Parents in Goa are a different cup of tea from other parents in the world. You see, they all know each other. You walk into a coffee shop with your mom, and a minimum of three ‘friends’ will walk up to say hullo. Woe to you if you are a nine-yearold kid, whose father is a musician. You will come to dread the question “Do you play anything? Like your father?” Folks, please, please refrain from asking a musician’s child if they can play or sing like their father...or mother! Remember, Roger Federer’s dad wasn’t the number one tennis player in the world!

It isn’t all downhill for young piano enthusiasts, however. There are lots of inspiring factors, like: Surprisingly, exams While a young learner’s life shouldn’t revolve round exams, exams sure help to keep one motivated. Regular piano classes are more about learning to play pieces. Exams look at the bigger picture—there are oral and listening components, sight-seeing, i.e. playing a new piece on the spot, and to top it all, you get a certificate from London, if you pass. Students in Goa usually answer exams either under the Associated Boards of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM), or the Trinity College, London. Both these examining bodies send an examiner from London to assess students, so the

same quality is maintained across the globe.

Playing the compositions of famous composers Pieces by Beethoven, Mozart, Handl, Bach and all the other greats are adapted even for beginners. This is exciting for young students as they don’t have to wait to become professionals to play famous compositions.

Keep calm and play on Playing the piano is therapeutic. It calms the player and is a way of relieving frustration. Like a song, a piano piece is interpreted by the musician.

Even a student brings his own experience and style to the piece.

We may not be living in the Victorian era where young maidens would play the piano in the evenings to while away their time, or impress young courters. But hopefully, playing the piano will not go out of fashion for a long, long time.

Granted, learning the piano doesn’t have ‘scope’ like the keyboards or guitar. But at least you will have the satisfaction that somewhere in heaven, when he hears you playing a bad rendition of his Moonlight Sonata, Beethoven will look down and give a half-smile.

P.S. Oops, I forgot Beethoven’s deaf, so he won’t hear your bad rendition. Oh well, maybe an angel will tap him on the shoulder and point to what you’re playing, and he’ll give a half-smile anyway.

P.P.S. I don’t know if this counts for anything, but Roger Federer also plays the piano during his free time. Go Roger! 

fashion 15

Friday, July 31, 2015

By Ethel Da Costa Reporting LIVE for India’s foremost fashion body, the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), Ethel Da Costa covers the ongoing Amazon India Couture Week from New Delhi showcasing 12 couturiers over 5 days of high fashion couture at the Taj Palace.

I

t's been a mad rush. I’ve been on an unusual caffeine diet the whole of yesterday ... first the packing, the right shoes, the coolest threads ... it is work and play, so chic comfort it must be.

By 3.00 am I'm beat. The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) has been on a roll in the past week, putting a LIVE face to India’s most awaited Couture Week at the Taj Palace at Delhi. The challenge is to give fashion a larger than life global reach. With 12 A-list couturiers doing serious path breaking work, it is exhilarating. They deserve it. I’m amazed at the flourishing of talent since my first FDCI India Fashion Week in 2005. The excitement backstage in the Media Room and Model dressing room is palpable, and measureable, if I had a thermometer.

Models move in for eats, chai, small chat, a little friendly gossip. Lithe, tall waifs who will be transformed into goddesses, thanks to uber-magical designer collections and cool make-up strokes. I make friends with date and honey cakes, I’m famished.

As I write this, my interview with designer Rahul Mishra, Gaurav Gupta and Anju Modi has gone LIVE, followed shortly by Monisha Jaisingh on @ TheFDCI (Twitter handle). There is a social media follower frenzy with posts and re-tweets feeding furiously off nervous energy.

The Opening Show with couturier par excellence Sabyasachi Mukherjee showed his sheer mastery over his craft, setting the mood for higher expectations and skyscraper heels, of which there are many. Titled `Bater’, the Indian name for quail, Sabyasachi’s collection spoke volumes of his command over the rich tradition of Indian textiles, fabrics, embellishments, craftsmanship and its varied artistic forms. The Art of Narration, I call it. A slice of medieval, modern goth with an edge so sharp you can cut a heartbeat.

Sabyasachi’s first time collaboration with showstopper French shoe couturier Christian Louboutin—who walked the ramp— featured the lusty signature red sole shoes. The collection of saris draped

over jackets, short dresses, long maxi dresses, skirts and trousers, capes, bandh galas teamed up with shawls, sherwanis and Nehru jackets with a strong accent on men’s wear.

The fusion was awe-inspiring. Spikes on clutches, wallets, handbags and head bands, the label motif on black golds, blood reds, breathless embroidered capes, fabric on fabric dress trails, bondage heels, a line of men’s wedding shoes, the ubiquitous red soles with metallic detailing all glided on the ramp like a hot knife through butter. My pulse was racing and not for the hunks walking.

The set design was reminiscent of English pirate ghettos, with bird cages and music, like haunting poetry ... so like old charm romance, it breaks your heart. A fleeting tribute tune to Raj Kapoor’s Joker. Goose bumps.

Sabyasachi's design philosophy is simple: Personalized imperfection of the human hand. Deserts, gypsies, prostitutes, antique textiles and the cultural traditions of India and the world have been a lifelong inspiration for him.

He believes that "clothes should just be an extension of one's intellect.” His use of unusual fabrics, texturing and detailing, 'fusion' of styles, 'patch-work' with gorgeous embellishments in a vibrant diverse colour palette evokes the feeling of going back to the ‘soul.’

Gen Next Top Guns Rahul Mishra and Gaurav Gupta are master craftsmen in their own interpretation of design, architecture, light and silhouette design philosophy for the modern Indian woman. The re-inventor of the kurti, luxury prêt and bridal mistress of flamboyance Monisha Jaisingh, the fiercely talented Anju Modi who has raised the bar on Bollywood costume design with Ram Leela and Bajirao Mastani, Manish Malhotra on his 25year tryst with divas, Rohit Bal’s urban narration of history ... Oh! I have died and this is my heaven. In the meantime, my excess baggage of shoes lined, polished and waiting for its 5 day run keeps me happy feet. Many compliments follow. I must be doing something right after all, darlings. See you soon, Goa. And stay locked to @TheFDCI. More couture magic follows. 

Ethel Da Costa is a Goa-based fashion and lifestyle writer, Media and PR Consultant, commentator and columnist of all things politically and socially incorrect. She has worked with Femina, The Times of India, Radio Mirchi and Herald Publications among others. She is passionate about music, fashion and travel.

Email: etheldacosta@ gmail.com Website: http://about.me/ etheldacosta

16 cover story

The Louis Berger Scandal Yes, Goa Wants To Attract International Attention.

But Not This Way, Please!

I

By Crespo D’Souza

f one party has admitted to paying bribes, the other must have accepted the bribes. The questions is, of course, who dunnit? And can it be proven?

But here’s an even more important question: Should it surprise any of us that one of the most high-profile international bribery scandals in recent memory has turned up on the shores of our very own Goa? The sad answer is no.

With suspicion falling on two former chief ministers belonging to previous Congress-led governments, with the sewer and water project under question expected to continue unabated, and with the current BJP government largely unaffected by the stunning accusations, it’s easy to forget a simple but paramount fact: Goa’s corruption is still out of control.

"The political reactions in the aftermath of the revelations were nothing but political theatre that has only served to reinforce one point: Both the Congress and BJP are only seeking to point out who is worse at corruption. In the melee the biggest loser is the people of Goa, whose money is being played around with," said Melisa Gonsalves, a political activist in Goa. So how did our little slice of beachside paradise get embroiled in this scandal of global proportions?

It started when Louis Berger International Inc. (LBI), a New Jerseybased construction management company admitted to violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and agreed to pay a $17.1 million criminal penalty to resolve charges that it bribed foreign officials in India, Indonesia, Vietnam and Kuwait to secure government construction management contracts. Two of the company’s former executives pleaded guilty to conspiracy and FCPA charges in connection with the scheme.

According to the U.S. officials, from 1998 through 2010, the company and its employees were involved in $3.9 million in bribe payments to foreign officials.

To conceal the payments, the co-conspirators made payments under the guise of “commitment fees,” “counterpart per diems,” and other payments to third-party vendors. In reality, the payments were intended to fund bribes to foreign officials who had awarded contracts to LBI or who supervised LBI’s work on contracts.

Among these projects lies the Japanese-funded Goa Water Supply and Sewerage Project costing Rs 1082.89 crore, for which the Government of India has been granted a loan of 22,806 million Yen (or Rs 1176.03 crore at today’s exchange rate).

Churchill Alemao (a former Chief Minister) was the Minister for Public Works when the project was awarded in 2009-10 and Digambar Kamat was Chief Minister. The two have been questioned and Anand Wachasundar, the project’s director until last week, has been arrested.

Digambar Kamat has proclaimed his innocence, denying that the file ever came to him. Alemao on the other hand, has claimed ignorance of technicalities, and that he was not involved in selecting a technical consultant for the project.

Louis Berger International along with several other companies won a contract to be a technical consultant for the project. For the record, current Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar has assured that work on the project will not be affected.

"If it weren’t for a lawsuit in the U.S., this information would have not seen the light of the day. Despite both parties being caught in this scandal, the issue will only be misused by the Congress to stall the monsoon session, and by the BJP to

salvage their dwindling fortunes in the forthcoming 2017 elections by armtwisting and leveraging political support from the likes of Churchill Alemao and Sudin Dhavalikar. Do you expect to see even a single rupee being recovered, or a single politician being brought to justice?" said Valmiki Naik a leader of Goa's Aam Aadmi party.

Naik added that only a healthy Right To Information machinery and an independent, strong Lokayukta corruption ombudsman can reveal scams like this in the future. Why have these important mechanisms been systematically rendered useless and impotent by the BJP government? Naik asked.

For its part, Louis Berger International has said that the bribes were paid by rogue employees who have since been sacked. The company points out that the bribery scandal has come to light through its own internal investigations, and that the firm has cooperated with

U.S. investigators.

The Goa Water Supply and Sewerage Project is popularly called the JICA project after its sponsors the Japan International Cooperation Agency gave an interest-free loan to the Indian government to execute the project.

It is expected to become the model for realizing the first 24 hours x 7 days water supply service in India, providing “safe and stable water supply and sewerage services” that will meet Goa’s rapidly expanding demand.

In Goa, the project has found that only 13% of urban residents have access to a sewage treatment system, much lower than the India average of 28%.

By all means, this is a project that is long overdue in Goa and going by Parsekar’s announcement, isn’t going to come to a halt. But what explains the BJP government’s enthusiasm in going after the Congress duo, especially when they have proceeded at a glacial pace in probing the mining scam, which everyone knows is of much greater magnitude.

The answer could lie thousands of kilometres from the shores of Goa, in the hallowed halls of the Government of India in Delhi.

The BJP is at the receiving end of opposition pressure over its alleged misconduct in the Lalit Modi scandal, the Vyapam scam and several other debacles, which have put them on the defensive.

Some argue this latest case is really about the BJP getting back at Congress.

How close are the police at clinching evidence against those who are believed to have taken money?

Police sources said that a team is in touch with Indian officials of the consultancy firm who are expected to give detailed sworn statements about who the bribes were paid to and how.

No resolution is expected any time soon, of course, and actual convictions could take years to achieve. It’s hard to know what’s worse – Indian corruption or the impunity that feeds it. 

the corner 17

I

t's monsoon, and The Park at Calangute welcome their guests with an all new Monsoon Menu in their “LOVE’’ restaurant.

The well designed new Monsoon Menu is just “NeuroGastronomic” which is focused on flavors, looks, appearance with tastes and temperature.

Starting with the Goan version of Cold Soup with Tomato, Kokum, Red Pepper and Herbs-KOKUM GAZPACHO - was served in attractive tube bottles which gave a beautiful appearance.

Pork Vindaloo Calzone -Stuffed Pizzas with spicy Goan Pork curry and Mozzarella and Dill Salmon Tikka -tandoor cooked Marinated Salmon were the other attractive dishes on the menu.

Health Salad with Marinated Feta, Broccoli, Borlotti Beans, Cherry Tomato and Salad Greens,

Salsa Verde Dressing were really healthy and tasty.

The main speciality in the new menu was NIHARI AUSTRALIAN LAMB CHOPS WITH NOISETTE POTATOES with an Indo Australian twist and Paneer Khubani - dish stuffed with cottage cheese with apricorts, cardamom and spices in a tomato based gravy was the main atttraction in the vegetarian section.

Chef Kapil made it a point to include Goan Tiffin with Goan fish curry rice, fried fish , Kismur , seasonal vegetables and kokam kadi and a veg meal namely Love Special Vegetarian Tiffin

The Cheers Group has grown beyond borders and reached the foreign shores with its world class award winning liquor brands. In the recent past, the cheers group has launched its flagship brands in the global markets. The brands that are rubbing shoulders with the international brands are: Royal Barrel Whisky, Single Vat whisky, Gran Barrel Whisky and Zinius Vodka.

The Cheers Group is an internationally acclaimed highly innovative beverage alcohol conglomerate having a stunning portfolio spread across wine, spirits and Ready-to-Drink (RTD). The group is manufacturer and exporter of a variety of new age beverages and has a presence in India and International markets with its award winning products.

Cheers Group is proud to have a distinctly successful track record in spirits business. Their brands are exceptional and classic, specially crafted by master blenders, which provides an extremely sophisticated tasting experience while maintaining its smooth undertones with a distinct character. Inspired by a desire to provide whisky lovers with the perfect blend to celebrate life’s special moments responsibly, their portfolio have been created for an unparalleled experience in the world of luxury whiskies.

Increasingly, bars at homes in foreign shores are seeing fancy, luxe brands added to the cabinet. Even liquor stores no longer stack just rows and rows of the mid-segment category, which are value products. Premium brands are prominently displayed and luxury labels, considered a rung above, are also found in all select liquor vends.

The Cheers Group is proud to launch these brands for the discerning connoisseurs who enjoy refinement and the unparalleled spirit of consistency.

The excellent range of portfolio is a benchmark of perfection beyond imagination.

It is targeted at those who appreciate the good taste and believe in living life in style and king size. Cheers!

C

with all veg special thali.

Desserts section was filled with Love The Sundae (Ice Creams With Dodol,Macaroon And Strawberry Coulis), Bebinca Flambe (Goan Layered Dessert Flambeed With Dark Rum Served With Vanilla Ice Cream) and The Park Banoffie Pie (English Dessert Pie Made From Bananas,Cream And Caramelized Milk) Chef Sharad Dewan,Regional Director-Food Production, the Park Hotels ensured the new Monsoon menu is truly Neuro- Gastronomic with flavors, appearance and taste.

A Tribute to Mohammed Rafi

onsidered as one of Bollywood’s greatest playback singers of all time, Mohammed Rafi was a phenomenal vocalist whose legacy of great music lives on. Hotel Fidalgo has been paying homage to the legendary singer since 2011 and once again brings to you ‘A Tribute to the Late Mohammed Rafi’ on 31st July 2015 from 7.00 pm – 11.00 pm at the Great Hall. This much awaited evening has been celebrated with great enthusiasm by his aficionados who look forward to being serenaded by the songs of the late singer.

So come together with family and friends to enjoy a gala evening sponsored by Kingfisher Premium and co-ordinated by Hemal Khanderia, which features singers Mahamood Hassan (Baroda) and Chetana Sahane (Baroda).

Tickets at Rs. 600 only, inclusive of a sumptuous Multicuisine buffet as you delight in the soulful music of the late Mohammed Rafi.

For more information contact: 09158055222, 09545554223, 09545554204.

18 profile

Pychologist, Counselor, Teacher and Woman of Spirit

By Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello

Nisha Gonsalves has packed a lot into her 33 years of life. She is a psychologist, counselor, teacher, businesswoman and mother, to name a few of her pursuits.

Streets’ Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello, a fellow psychologist, sat down recently with this woman of great spirit for a one-on-one interview.

N

isha Gonsalves describes her philosophy in life as “Live and let live.” But dig a little deeper, and you will see that her words reflect a certain wisdom well beyond her years.

“You can know everything you want to know in this world through education and experience,” she says. “But until you know yourself really well nothing else matters.”

A post-graduate in Clinical Psychology from St. Xavier’s College in Mapusa (2005), Nisha has taught at several academic institutions - Rachol Seminary for five years, Carmel College for two years, and Apollo Victor Hospital - Nursing for one year.

With such a rich academic experience of teaching to seminarians, graduates, post-graduates and nurses, Nisha says, “Teaching has been a great experience.

I am very passionate about my work, responsible and dedicated while dealing with students effectively. Maximizing learning opportunities in a diverse classroom setting has worked well with me.”

She has also worked for several

NGOs – El Shaddai, Childline - Sangath, Kripa Foundation and Komalsparsh.

She explains, “Working in an NGO has broadened my perspective in life. NGOs are involved in various activities such as organizing outreach programmes and forming support groups to make this society a better place.”

Speaking about her experience, Nisha says, “I have been working as a counselor for eight years now dealing with various age groups. Each individual being unique, every case is challenging and needs to be tackled differently.

I have counseled a variety of cases – alcohol and drug addiction, career confusion, personality development, relationship issues, etc.”

For the past three years, Nisha has been working as a counselor for Agnel

Ashram. Prior to this, she worked for three years with the NGO Komalsparsh as a clinician cum counselor.

The ‘Milan Lodge’ – a local hotel in Margao - is run by her mom Lily, catering to an Indian clientele. Both Nisha and her sister Nafisa help their mom run the place. Lily also owns the transport business ‘Milan Tours and Travels’ (20 seater bus). With two agents helping out in this travel business, they hire buses during peak season.

Nisha says, “Being a working mother, I don’t get enough time to balance work and family but I love my babe and my work. I am doing my best.”

Her biggest source of inspiration is her mom. Nisha says, “I am the way I am because she has made me the way I am –

an excellent mother and a great human at heart. I see a lot of her in me and I love her for that. She is my strength and my life.”

“If anything is important to you, you will definitely find a way. If not, you will find an excuse. You don’t have to be great to start and you have to start to be great,” opines Nisha, offering up even more that noteworthy wisdom.

Nisha lights up when she talks about her energetic and bubbly three-year-old daughter Kyra. And she knows exactly the kind of example she wants to set for this beautiful child.

“Create life which demands physical and mental strength. Have both – that is a proof of nature in you. Believe in yourself. Be strong. Be independent. You don’t have to listen to anyone.” 

19

Friday, July 31, 2015

July 31

Tiracol Fort The fort was originally built

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

Well worth a visit At Tiracol, Keri

Tribute to Kalam Tribute to late APJ Abdul Kalam has been organised by Samraat club Panaji with Green Triangle Society and shree Saraswati Mandir.

At The Fomento Hall, Shree Saraswati Mandir, Panaji 5.30 pm +91 832- 2312284

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

Friday Health Talk Heart Bypass Surgery

by Dr. Balamurali Srinivasan Organised by International Centre Goa in association with Manipal Hospitals At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula 6.00 pm to 7.00 pm ENTRY FREE & OPEN TO PUBLIC +91 832 2452805-10

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

August 2 The Earth Keepers Market Organised by The World United Doctors' & Healers ‘Association, On display & sale: Fresh organic vegetables & fruits, seedlings, saplings, fresh food, fresh juices, Cold pressed coconut oil, organic brown rice, recycled products made by Underprivileged women & children.

At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula 10.00am to 1.00pm Open to general public For inquiry: Darryl 8888409687 Friendship Day at Avlem Top Organised by Off Trail Adventures, Located deep inside Cotingao wilder life Sanctuary, Avlem Top used to be the abode of tribal people.

Special bus will leave from Panjim at 7 am and from Mabai hotel Margao at 8 am.

August 15 6th Annual All Goa Incredible India Quiz - 2015 Organized by SEQC in association with the ICG School Edition: 2.00- Liquid Sky – 5.00 pm Open Quiz : 5.00 pm - 8.00 pm At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula +91 832 2452805-10

Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday Yoga With Nikhila Trikha at Carpe Diem At Carpe Diem, Gomes Waddo, Majorda 4.30 pm to 5.30 pm +91 832 2881 035/+91 8888862462

Great Goan Experiences Monsoon Fun Park Open for public 10 am to 6 pm At Resort Marinha Dourade, Arpora +91 9921604457

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 , childrens pool etc.

At Pateipur, Nuvem +91 9823480057

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

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

Track I Goa Karting Single and tandem go karts are available for Rs: 180 for ten laps or Rs 200 for ten laps tandem At Panjim - Margao Highway, Nuvem 4 pm to 10 pm +91 832 2757899/ +91 9850736334

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

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

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

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

Go Karting

Track II Goa Karting Single and tandem go karts are available for Rs: 180 for ten laps or Rs 200 for ten Laps tandem At Anjuna - Calangute Rd, Arpora 4 pm to 10 pm. +91 832 2914526

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

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

Dance Classes Jason & Sylvia Dance Academy At Las Viegas Dance Studio, Taleigao +91 9822161652/ +91 9822151614 David Furtado Dance & Aerobics Dance styles such as Waltz, Jive Salsa, Cha Cha, and Merengue & Salsa for adults. And Hip Hop, Contemporary & Bollywood for children.

At Rosary Chapel, Miramar, Dona Paula Road, Caranzalem +91 9975914195 Snaden Shawn Dance Academy Dance Style: Hip hop, Bollyfunk, jazz, contemporary At All Over Goa +91 7798609859/ +91 9890163433

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

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

At Vagator Museums

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 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 Tussaud’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 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

20

Friday, July 31, 2015

Awakening to the Cosmos Within Take A Journey With Artist Clarice Vaz. And Awake.

“

By Perin Ilavia

While painting, I always listen to my heart. I do not follow any art rules but like to explore unknown areas of creativity, for it is only here that I believe I can be truly original! In complete silence, I am able to instinctively gather colours to form a pattern I have in mind. It's so surreal.”

Thus speaks Clarice Vaz about her exhibition of paintings titled 'Awakening to the Cosmos Within,' previewing at Gallery Gitanjali on 1st August.

Abstract art is not about what you look at, it’s about what you feel, and Clarice’s 37 abstract paintings lead you through her journey from grief to turning inwards in search of meaning and discovering the source

of joy and hope that lies within us. The fountain of divinity dwells in our being. We are an inseparable part of the cosmos. We need to pierce the veil of illusions and life’s dramas, have the courage to go within and reach this deeper space of ultimate reality. “This to me is awakening. I wait for my painting to emerge with an excitement of a child!” she says. “It has become a form of meditation too, as it keeps me in the present moment.”

Before marriage, she worked as a nurse, and then made a conscious decision to be a full time mother to her boys, while living in Muscat. After the boys left for further studies, she got back to her childhood hobby, which was painting. She now lives in Saligao village in Goa. Clarice is the village nurse. She makes house calls when needed, and is actively involved with church activities.

Her first exhibition was a group show in 2014.

She recalls that when the paintings were sold she was relieved to know that she had generated enough money to clean up the village cemetery, which was overgrown with weeds. The Gitanjali show is her second solo exhibition. Clarice uses

arts & entertainment 21

Friday, July 31, 2015

July 31 Exhibition The History of France told by Advertising is being organised by Alliance Francaise Panaji with the sport of Mairie de Paris and the Bibliotheque de Paris.

At Alliance Francaise, Altinho, Panaji 9.30 am onwards +91 832 2420049

August 18 Inter School Dance Competition Organised by Tiatr Academy of Goa in collaboration with Institute Menezes Braganza.

At Tiatr Academy of Goa, Panaji 9.30 am onwards +91 832 2230738

August 1 to Aug 10 Painting Exhibition Gallery Gitanjali presents 'Awakening to the Cosmos within' an exhibition of recent works by Clarice Vaz. At Gallery Gitanjali, Fountainhas, Panaji 10 am onwards 91 832 242 3331

August 15 to August 16 Photography Contest Goa Talkies is hosting a photography contest titled 'Monsoon Moments' At The Art Gallery, ESG, Panaji 91 8975386222 /+91 93705 02132

Every Saturday Expressions

By Artist Vaishali Lall, with a focus on exploring the skills of embroidery and mix media in painting.

At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula +91 9420820890

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

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

acrylic gel, inks and paints. She feels abstraction gives scope to express her innermost thoughts and feelings. She visualizes colours dancing on the canvas and is filled with a creative energy, and says it’s a great feeling to see an image emerge from the chaotic fluid flow.

Clarice admires the work of artist Mark Chadwick, Damien Hirst’s spin paintings, and Jackson Pollock's drip method. At their essence, her paintings do indeed tell us that the cosmos lies within everyone. The journey begins when we have the courage to go from darkness to light, piercing the illusions of life and finding our divinity. This happened for her, when she had to deal with the passing of Craig, her teenage son. This exhibition is a tribute to him.

As you view each work, the colours, lines and textures create an image different from the illusion of reality. The aesthetically pleasing works catch the viewer’s attention through the blend of colours dancing in tune with the light within, touching spaces and vistas not visited before. Each work reflects an exploration that needs its own space, wafting into multi-layered meaning. One can become aware that life is a mythic and magical mystery. Awakening to this mystery is what her exhibition is all about.

Her strokes float unanchored in fragmented thoughts of motifs, as she explores her individual journey, the complexities of life between hallucination and reality, between memory and the ‘now’.

Being a full time mother, housewife, parttime nurse and artist gives her very little

time to do anything else. She reads books on spirituality and metaphysics, and affirms she is a firm believer in destiny.

“I believe that everything happens for our highest good in the bigger picture of life. My own adversity isn't my weakness ... it has become my strength! We need to learn to accept and live from our spirit which is a vehicle for our soul. Our inner most core is divinity itself. Being a painter is the very thread that weaves the fabric of my life now.”

There are very few artists in Goa who work only in abstracts. Where does she see herself on the art scene in a few years from now? “I just aim to get better than before. I want to be free, following no rules. If people like what I create, then that to me is Art,” she affirms.

Clarice Vaz’s exhibition of paintings ‘Awakening to the Cosmos Within’ is on view till 10th August, at Gallery Gitanjali, Fontainhas, Panjim 

H

By Rahul Rivonkar

ave you visited Kudos in Baga to savour their one-of-a-kind woodfired pizzas and sizzlers? They are absolutely lip-smacking. If you have been travelling all the way from South Goa to sample their culinary delights, here’s great news for you folks. Kudos recently opened up a place at Colva, which is a mouth-watering delight for all you ‘pizza-holics’!

Yes, Kudos, with its focus on extremely high-quality sizzlers and pizza, is now in both North and South Goa – with outlets in Baga & Colva. Savio and Shawn are the chief honchos behind this enterprise. They teamed up to start something different in Goa – a restaurant experience that is inspired and passionate. With a contemporary, vibrant decor, Kudos entices the eyes as much as the palate. The Italian and European dishes with a very interesting Goan twist bring guests back here time and again. Kudos prides itself on a painstakingly created menu which has struck a chord with diners, most of whom are regulars here.

Food portions are large—wood fired pizzas with a perfect crisp base, and slow cooked simmering sizzlers in chicken, pork, beef and seafood. They specialize in Sizzlers, Wood-Fired Pizzas and authentic Goan Cuisine.

‘Wish Bowl’ is a concept wherein you can pick and customize your own pizza.

So come along with your friends and invent a great pizza!

Kudos will shortly be starting a micro brewery, the first one in South Goa. So if you like excellent beer, and some truly inspired food to go along with it, you won’t want to miss this one. It has to be said that Kudos is one of the few restaurants in South Goa with a fine dining feel to it.

We recommend you check out this excellent restaurant. Kudos is open all year, come rain or shine. Bon Appétit!

HIGHLIGHTS: • Sizzlers • Wood-Fired Pizza • Free Wi-Fi • Live Grill – Kudos, Baga • AC seating – Kudos, Colva • Live Music • Serves Alcohol • No Delivery

Average Meal for Two – 1300/-

Contact: Colva – 09689946216 (Also Baga- 09371370615) Address -Florida Gardens, Colva Police Station Road, Colva, Goa, India (also at Villa Bomfin Hotel, Calangute Baga Road, Calangute, Bardez) Restaurant Timings 12:30pm-3pm, 7pm-11:30pm