Issue No: 27

Friday, May 22, 2015 | Vol. No. 3 | Issue 27 | Price Rs. 10 | www.goastreets.com | G-2/RNP/Weekly/Goa-05/2013-15

Alila Diwa's Molecular Gastronomy

India's Compromised Police

Live Music Project Turns 2 plus complete food/event/ nightlife guide

Covering Up for The Monsoons

3

Friday, May 22, 2015

Kudos to Art Escape for Redefining the Music Scene in Goa

By Claron Fidelis Mazarello

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or those of us who watch the Goan music scene closely, the discrepancies can be mind boggling. Why are there huge entry fees for electronic music shows while live music performances at small venues are free? How come musicians in a four-piece band playing originals get paid less than a solo DJ act? Indeed, the trends are not always friendly for those in the music business in our touristy state. Sometimes, folks enter the music scene here for passion more than for money, and are willing to sacrifice to make a dream come true.

Enter Darryl Noronha and Vinesh Iyer, the founders of Art Escape, the venture that created The Live Music Project two years ago, transforming the way music is heard, played and appreciated in Goa and beyond. As they celebrate their 2nd anniversary, let’s look a little closer at their project and the excitement behind it.

“Luckily, live music listenership is growing gradually. But if this lopsidedness continues, it won’t be long before live music shows also have an entry fee, to at least break even, given their hand-to-mouth nature,” explains Darryl.

“Way back in about 2005, a musician would get paid Rs. 500 per gig. Now this has come to about 3000 per musician per gig. And working a non business model, but rather a people centric model, Art Escape has been responsible largely for a gradual increase in interest for live music,” says Elvis Lobo, a Goan guitarist of international repute, just returned from gigging in Japan.

Arguably the state’s most passionate promoters of live music events, Art Escape is

Turn to PAGE 5

4 Music & Nightlife May 22

Casinos in Goa

Elvis rumion, Herman Pereira, Steve Francis

Wet & Tech Monsoon Gathering, A night with Sweaty Techno beats Every Friday.

At Water's Beach Lounge & Grill, Little Vagator 9 pm onwards +91 9702025555

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D.Bandodkar Road, Panjim +91 9820 616515 or email: groups@ deltin.com (If you’re based in Mumbai) +91 7875 024455 or email: groupbookings@deltin.com (If you’re based in Goa)

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

Crown Casino The only vegetarian casino in Goa is where fun, relaxation and good times abound.

Bairo Alto Dos Pilotos, Jose Falcao Road, Behind Old Secretariat, Panjim For Group Booking Contact: Nimish Desai: +91 9158883464/ +91 832 6635878 nimish@crowncasino.in

Every Thursday Flower Power Night!

Featuring Alcatrazz Free flow of alcohol for all the ladies At Cheenos, Baga river bridge 9 pm onwards +91 8806564991

KeepGoaBeautiful

Live Music @ Bay 15 Thursday night live with Smoking Chutney, The Band that made mid-week partying a way of Life in Goa. At Bay 15, Dona Paula 8 pm to 10 pm +91 9561006715

On-going 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

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

Casino Carnival Casino Carnival Goa, offers premium entertainment in Goa, anchored in the Mandovi River overlooking the charming city of Panjim. Offers High Quality Entertainment and Live Gaming experience in Goa comparable with the best practices of international casinos.

At Goa Marriott resort & Spa, Panjim +91 8888885314/ +91 832-2465810

Keeping It Green Way to Go, Mircho Go! But Sorry You Don’t Like The Biogas

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arlier this month, Goa Streets ran a cover story on a new alternative energy source in Margao converting wet waste into biogas that can be used for cooking. The story was part of Streets’ ongoing Keep Goa Beautiful initiative, highlighting some of the state’s most notable efforts to rein in Goa’s deeply damaging garbage scourge. Our story stated that there were no takers for this special biogas, except for a single restaurant in Margao called Mircho Go. Goa Streets’ Claron Mazarello visited the restaurant after the story ran, in hopes of congratulating them for being the only establishment in the city brave enough to try out this eco-friendly fuel. What he discovered upon his arrival, however, was quite a surprise.

Mircho Go’s owners were not happy at all with the gas, and regretted their decision to acquire it. The problem, they said, is that it cooks too slow, and therefore is not

suitable for a restaurant.

“We were recommended this unit by a local politician. But this somehow does not work with commercial establishments like us.

LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) is much faster,” said Pratap Pujari, who manages the restaurant his cousin Prakash founded.

Contacted for comment, Parag Mody, who’s in charge of the Margao project turning wet waste like vegetable scraps into biogas, said the problem is not so much the gas as the lack of proper equipment needed to use it. This kind of gas, he said, requires a custommade stove featuring a wider burner with bigger holes that can accommodate a different air-to-gas ratio.

“I had made a 25-kilo stove and checked that it takes the same time for boiling water viz-a-viz when cooked with LPG. A little more investment into research and development ... and the perfect stove could be designed, manufactured and sold,” Mody said.

It turns out, however, that

the issue may soon become moot.

Mody’s current plan is to move away from using the biogas for cooking and instead use it for electricity generation.

In the meantime, the vast majority of this energy source created by transforming fish bones, meat entrails and vegetable waste into methane gas is burned in a large furnace each night,

engendering a nightly three-foot flame that symbolises the long distance the project must travel before it becomes effective.

This and projects like it have the potential to make an extraordinary contribution to the cause of a greener Goa. But just as the gas must fit the stove, action on the ground must fit the will for change.

Music & Nightlife 5

Friday, May 22, 2015

From PAGE 3

however struggling to keep the music accessible.

“If Art Escape were to continue and not die, we need to find a solution to support the number equation, lest we have to begin to charge an exclusive entry fee for a live music event, much against our wishes,” confesses Vinesh.

Vinesh, an architech by profession and Darryl, a web designer, met in Mumbai while collaborating on a project. From then on, they shared a single-minded vision for promoting music.

“It took us about six months of plainly vomiting out all the ideas that were in the head as we sat across the table and planned,” laughs Darryl. “So we began with nothing - no money, no land, no venue - but just this heartfelt vision based on the belief that consistency pays.”

From that point in time to today, when TLMP (The Live Music Project) was initiated two years ago to spearhead live music in Goa, things have come a long way.

“We have already had more than 100 bands playing original music in these two years of TLMP’s existence,” says Vinesh.

“Art Escape started in 2009 as a platform for all art forms to be showcased to the public and the world at large that came to Goan shores.”

In addition to holding workshops on art and performing arts, Art Escape showcases original music as much as possible, with doses of cover music in between, to keep the crowds coming.

“Only certain popular music genres like classic rock, blues and jazz pull crowds, but this is not the same for experimental music, which is where the problem lies,” says Darryl, recognizing that it’s easier to cover costs with popular music. And so The Live Music Project was born, as an off shoot of Art Escape to promote the cause of newer music and musicians.

Three elements are necessary for success: support from sponsors, support from venues (possibly taking care of the band and accompanying fees) and last but most importantly, public patronage (“Goa Streets and a few other media houses do their part to support the cause,” say the Art Escape founders.)

“Ultimately, public supporting this scene is of most importance, as then the circle is complete for everyone; i.e. the venue gets back profits on their F & B (food and beverage), and the sponsors get the mileage they deserve for sponsoring – all due to crowds coming to the event.”

“Baywatch, for instance, which is the only venue that TLMP has been playing at for the past few years, does not make back the money it invests at all shows. For an Elvis Lobo show or an Elvis Rumion show, profits are possible, as also for bands playing popular covers.

But for any new act, there are losses,” informs Darryl.

“The way I see it, people come when they believe in something. Even Dr. Sydney Moraes (proprietor of Baywatch) believes in this live music movement and thus his undying support, and that of a few other music enthusiasts,” reveals Darryl. He admits that obtaining consistent sponsorship has been a challenge, thanking Kingfisher for solely being on board so far. “As far as a venue is concerned, we are now planning to move up north, where many believe there are more takers for live music.”

And as for the crowds, here is an area where authorities could help by relaxing the end timings of live events. “This Sunday, it was nice to see girls head banging right in front, an international audience with a mix of many from other Indian states as well and the presence of Goan families as well,” inputs Savio, a live music fan.

“If a Goan wants to come for such an event, by the time he or she finishes work, travels home, and gets ready to come, it’s already nine. Then if the cops come to shut us down by eleven, it definitely cuts chances of making any profits at all,” Darryl points out, providing a bird’s eye view of the travails of organizing a live music event.

Goa recently got pegged as one of the best party destinations in the world, due to a leniency shown by police and other authorities who allowed parties and international music acts to flourish

even throughout the night at few venues that did not cause disturbances. If similar generosity were shown by authorities toward live music events, then the burdens of original music lovers would surely be lightened. Finally, with only continued public patronization, the live music scene will live on, without an entry, being a bottomline.

Darryl, Vinesh and the rest of the Art Escape crew have refused to let any of these myriad challenges get them down.

That’s good news for music in Goa – and for the cause of art, and the escape it provides. 

8

food & drink

3 music & nightlife Molecular Gastronomy

7

truth about tiracol

live music project turns 2

12

what's On

things to do in goa

environment

14 opinion India's compromised police

15 monsoons

10 festival The Purumentache Fer

covering up for the monsoons

16 arts & entertainment Who's in Charge?

Images: women in distress

Publisher Marisha Dutt Chief Mentor Steven Gutkin 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, Jeena Jose, Skyla Janice Pereira

18 nepal quake

Consulting Editor Aparna Raut Desai Marketing Co-ordinator Radhika Naik Marketing & Event Co-ordinator Rahul Rivonkar Marketing Executive Alvira Rodrigues Circulation & Accounts Co-ordinator Nilesh Shetgaonkar Circulation Vijay Gadekar, Sarfaraz Beig

Helping Out In Nepal

Environment 7

Friday, May 22, 2015

Tiracol, Land Battles and The Saga of

Goa’s Would-Be Golf Course

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By Crespo D’Souza

or many years, Tiracol was just a nondescript, agrarian village at the northernmost tip of Goa, known only for its run-down

fort.

Being the only Goa-held territory North of the River Tiracol—and one folks had to cross a ferry to get to, tides permitting - not a lot of people made the trek to Tiracol, not from the Goan side of things anyway.

All that is now history. If one goes by the sheer amount of money that is being pumped into the village, it can certainly claim bragging rights.

An INR 77 crore ‘iconic bridge’ viaduct and cable-stayed bridge modeled on the Sydney Harbour Bridge may soon connect Tiracol to the village of Querim on the Southern Bank of the Tiracol river.

A multi-crore investment is being executed by M/s Leading Hotels Ltd for a golf course and an accompanying starred hotel by the American Four Seasons hotel.

First, a few facts. Leading Hotels has “bought” 90% of the land available at Tiracol village, i.e., 13,00,000 sq kms of the available total of 14,00,000 sq kms, and has claimed it in its name. This excludes the village settlement, which forms the remaining 10%.

The rest is courtroom drama and pending decisions by respective courts where the cases are being heard.

There are three cases which are currently holding the project back - one against the bridge and two against the golf course project.

The case against the bridge, filed by the Goa Foundation before the National Green Tribunal at Pune, challenges the permissions given by the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) to construct the bridge. Permissions need to be sought from the Union Ministry of Environment and Forest and not just the state government authority, the petition argues, and further, that the question of permission is moot, since the bridge is being built right on the beach and too close to the sea, which falls under the “No Development Zone” under the laws of the land.

The petitions against the golf course project argue that part of the land on which the golf course is being

constructed is forest land and that trees are being felled without the necessary clearances; and more importantly, that the land which the Leading Hotels has bought is tenanted agricultural land and could not have been legally sold.

Under the Goa Land Tenancy Act, tenants cultivating land would become the deemed owners of the land, but they cannot further sell the land or convert it for nonagricultural purposes.

If the sale is ruled illegal, it puts the entire project in jeopardy.

Legal issues aside, the project faces opposition from civil society on various grounds ranging from “highhandedness”, contempt for law displayed by the promoters, and a whole

range of concerns such as Goa obtaining a water guzzling golf course, when its own residents face shortages of water.

Things came to a head when the promoters began moving machinery on to the site.

“The issue is being raised now because, now we have got all the permissions and are ready to begin work. All this while we maintained a low profile as we went about securing permissions and other authorizations,”

said Gerson Rebelo, communication officer for Leading Hotels.

He denied that they were doing anything illegal as alleged by the villagers and activists.

On the other hand, the villagers have alleged that the hotel has thrown all laws to the wind in its pursuit to go ahead and build a project despite a stay from the National Green Tribunal on felling of trees on the site as well as several cases pending before the various fora.

“We believe that the state machinery is completely on the side of the promoters of the golf course. When we file complaints against work being done illegally, they do not act against it,” said Francis Rodrigues, a villager.

Does Goa need a golf course? The opinion is divided with some saying that it will help bring in high-end tourists to the State. Is Goa’s would-be new golf course bending existing laws? That’s a question for lawmakers and civil society.

Friday, May 22, 2015

Liquid nitrogen kulfis with assorted flavours

What’s Molecular Gastronomy?

Ask Alila Diwa Goa!

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Ginger infused, vacuum pressed watermelon carpaccio with spiced coriander and peanut pesto, smoked with cherry wood copy

By Goa Streets

erhaps none of us should be particularly surprised that one of the most interesting food concepts to hit Goa in recent memory has come from the folks at Alila Diwa Goa, the resort in South Goa that prides itself on creativity.

Enter Molecular Gastronomy, also known as modernist cuisine, also known as culinary physics, also known as multi-sensory cooking.

A sub-discipline of food science, molecular gastronomy investigates the chemical and physical changes of ingredients that happen in cooking, taking advantage of innovations from science. It’s a popular part of the haute cuisine scene in many parts of the world, made famous by renowned chefs such as Heston Blumenthal (Master Chef Australia fans will recognize the name immediately!).

This past month, Alila Diwa has brought the experience to Goa, with a molecular gastronomy festival at their restaurant Spice Studio. Between the 8th and 17th of May, guests indulged in a five-course molecular gastronomy affair blending physics and chemistry, resulting in completely new and utterly appealing tastes and textures. The experience was shepherded by Indian Specialty Chef Bharath Bhat, who takes his inspiration from Blumenthal but came up with the utterly original idea of applying the modern concepts to Indian food. Yes, some may see this as a kind of defiance of culinary tradition, but the dishes were tantalizing and the revolution welcome.

Bharath brings with him more that 12 years of experience, having worked with international properties like the Armani Hotel, Dubai and the St Regis in Mauritius, amongst others.

Guests were invited to watch as the chef matched ingredients and created perfectly balanced dishes, showcasing innovative flavours, textures, aromas, shapes and colors, embracing the sensory with the artistic, social and technical.

Among the items on the menu were Deconstructed Paani Puri, Prawn Rechead with Coconut Foam, Char Grilled Black Chicken with 24 Carat Gold, Liquid Nitrogen Kulfis and a host of other gastronomical inventions.

This radical and modern culinary twist offered by Spice Studio was nothing short of exquisite. Let’s hope we see more of it at Alila Diwa Goa in the months ahead.

For Reservations at Spice Studio: 0832 274 6800. www.alilahotels.com

Laal Paani with Coriander Mist

Friday, May 22, 2015

Every Saturday Barbeque Nights - With Caroline Treat yourself to assorted grilled delights from the live barbeque station while listening to some lovely music.

Caroline on the saxophone.

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

Brunches Every Sunday The Waterfront Sunday BBQ Soal up the Summer sun as you splash about in our infinity pool & Unwind to the smooth tunes of Our live band.

1200 per person At Acron Waterfront Resort, Baga 11.30 am to 4 pm 77220 16888 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 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

South Goa Restaurants Da Luigi Experience flavours from the streets of Rome, Venice or Milan at this surprisingly authentic Italian finedining 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 Peppers Gourmet Cuisine Seafood, Tandoor Indulge into innovative desserts and local flavours at this exciting food joint.

At near Child care school, Margao +91 832 2711125. +91 9822133506 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.

At 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 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

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 Tato’s Fine Dining Goan, Indian, Chinese Tato’s fine dining makes its presence felt in the culinary circles in Margao.

At Opp. New Collectorate, Margao 12 pm to 3 pm and 6.30 pm to 11 pm +91 832 2758590

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

Off Chogm Rd, Porvorim 7 am to 11 pm. +91832241558 mail@casabelagoa.com www.casabelagoa.com Mum’s Kitchen Goan Among the best upscale Goan kithcens in Panjim, this restaurant draws foodies from all religions and walks of life.

At Panjim-Miramar Rd 11 am to 11pm. +91 9822175556 Marbela Beach Italian, Seafood One of the finest beach resorts in the state, Marbela Beach is an 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

Chicken Man The trademark dish here is their rotisserie Chicken.

At Off 18th June Road, Panjim +91 832 2423333 Hotel Sanskruti Chinese, Goan, Indian, Oriental It’s a pure vegetarian restaurant which is packed during lunch time.

It’s really good for south Indian food, Thali, and chaat.

At Near HDFC Bank, Porvorim 8 am to 11 pm +91 832 2414400/ +91 94233323822 Casa Bhonsle Indian & Goan All meals here are prepared in the authentic hindu Goan Style.

At Above Café Bhonsle, Near Cine national, Panjim Noon to 3.30 pm & 7 pm to 11 pm +91 832 2222260/ +91 9822100684 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 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 Forrest Veg Food Court Continental, Chinese, Indian Serves a wide range of fast food including chaat, noodles, pav bhaji, sandwiches, burgers et cetera.

At BhagwanMahavir BAL Vihar, Panjim 11 am – 11 pm +91 832 6454353/9225903392 George Bar and Restaurant This tiny little joint may seem tacky from outside but is clean and hygienic serving delectable Goan food.

Near Mary Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim 10 am to 3.30 pm, 6.30 pm to 10.30 pm +918322426820 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 is 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, contact: +91 832 2416671/ 73 At Porie Bhatt, Verna, Contact: +91 832 2782760/ +91 9881272080 At Bhueem Bhatt, St Cruz, Merces, Panjim, contact: +91 832 2448172/ +91 2448757 A Pastelaria Bakery It’s an ideal place for pastries, cakes, cookies and other baked offerings.

9 am to 9 pm At Hotel Mandovi, Panjim +91 832 2426270/ 73 Anandashram Hotel Chinese, Goan and Seafood This is one of the oldest eateries in Goa and is something of an institution for its affordable and delicious Goan Fare.

At 31st January Road, Panjim 1 pm to 10.30 pm +91 9823195245 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 Edu’s Restaurant Indian, Chinese, International and Goan Pizzas are one of their specialties.

There’s nothing fancy about it but has the vibe of a street café.

Next to Magson’s on the main DB Road in Panjim, Miramar. +91 832 2463777, +91 832 2463888. / +91 9822122085

10 Feast

Could Anything Be More Goan Than The Purumentache Fer?

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By Jeena Jose

o doubt that Xacuti made in an earthen pot has its own special flavour, but how many of us have had the privilege of savouring it? Steel, aluminium and plastic have found their way into every household, supplanting earthen pots not just at home, but also at the Purumentache Fer, the biggest pre-monsoon sales extravaganza in Goa. Still, even if modernity has encroached upon this most traditional of Goan feasts, it remains a favourite time of year for Goans of all stripes hoping to stock up on goods before the rains.

The feast (fest) and fair (fer) of Purument has held an exalted place in Goa for centuries. The Konkani word ‘Purument’ was derived from the Portuguese ‘provisão’, or provision. The Holy Spirit Church in Margao, where some 3,000 families worship, has been observing nine days of Novenas since May 15 in anticipation of the last feast before the monsoons, celebrated this year on May 24.

“It is a treat to the eye to witness such a large amount of people eagerly joining hands to maintain the integrity of the feast,” said the church’s Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Avinash Rebello. Of all the feast’s attractions, perhaps none is more notable than the fair, where people purchase monsoon provisions.

Traditionally, monsoons never guaranteed a standard supply

of day-to-day needs in local households, so Goans made the most of this feast by storing all sorts of provisions. Before, this fair was a major part of the lives of all people across Goa. Although it may not hold the importance it once did, the fair today manages to grab its share of limelight.

In earlier times, markets hardly existed during the monsoons, so people were forced to obtain goods ranging from food to furniture before the rains.

One of the greatest things about the fair is the appearance on the roads of items favoured by our ancestors but seldom seen today: the wide-mouthed ‘kunni’ mud vessels used to prepare curry; ‘budkulo’, a pot used for boiling rice; ‘mill`er’, a piggybank where people saved money; ‘Adoli’, a traditional stool with an attached coconut grater; and a cockfigured mud pot called ‘gulgul`et’, with its opening at the beak to pour chilled water in the times before refrigerators.

In decades past, mackerel, Bombay duck, prawns and other seafood were dried, salted and stored in

bulk. There were fish pickles called ‘paro’ and ‘mole’ along with mango, carrot and lemon pickles. Being able to purchase these items at the fair brings joy to Goans’ hearts.

Among the traditional items you won’t see at today’s fair, however, are the pork and beef previously stored in salt for the monsoons; the ‘gaunti taanti’, or local eggs; and ‘pantule’, or bamboo baskets; Mrs. Albertina Fernandes is a regular visitor to the fair every year. She is particularly fond of the spices, saying, “The quality of the spices has always been the best.

Those stalls are my target every year.” The stalls now also provide a large variety of cheap local clothes and footwear, in addition to accessories

and toys – giving portions of the event a distinctly untraditional flair.

Still, the motive of ‘Purumentache Fer’ remains the same, to stock up for the monsoons, and it’s something many people still do.

Mrs. Joaquina Remediana Pereira, an 86-year-old resident of Dongrim, Nuvem, Salcete, holds on to prized

possessions she obtained decades ago at the fair. She has a wide collection of earthen vessels and pots, and she passes on her authenticity to the younger generation. Her cooking techniques are seldom seen today, but they hold a prominent place in her kitchen and life.

She recalls fondly how goods obtained at the fair provided sustenance during her youth. She said, “I find solace in upholding my traditional ways and am proud to see that my children have a part of me”.

To be sure, times have changed.

But people like Mrs. Pereira, and the Purumentache Fer itself, reassure us that, in Goa at least, old ways die hard.

12

Friday, May 22, 2015

May 23 Paper and Jute Workshop Kids between the ages of 7 to 16 can sign up for workshop At Goa Chitra, Benaulim 9.30 am to 12.30 and 3 pm to 6 pm +91 832 6570877 Seedling Sale Green essentials and the international centre Goa has announced its seasonal seedling sale At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula @4 pm +91 832 245 2805

May 23 to May 24 Goa Educare Show At Panjim Community Centre, Panjim 10 am to 9 pm +91 8888848095 May 22 to May 24 Film Food Fashion Festival Live music by Lorna and band, brothers in Arms, Johny(One Man Jazz), Country Band (Russell & Marieke), Dj Manfred & Many more At Maquines Palace & Inox Courtyard, Panjim +91 832 2428111

May 23, 25, 30 AQUA YOGA Classes At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula Mornings from 6.30 am to 7 am +91 832 245 2805

Great Goan Experiences Wildernest Crocodile Safaris Offers boat safaris starting from Britona Jetty(Near Panjim) through the backwaters and mangrovelined 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 & 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 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

Notable Forts Aguada Fort Fort Aguada and its lighthouse is a well-preserved seventeenthcentury Portuguese fort Daily 10 am to 5.30 pm At Candolim

Reis Magos Fort This Fort, surrounded by sturdy laterite walls studded with typically Portuguese turrets, was erected in 1551 to protect the narrowest point at the mouth of the Mandovi estuary. The fort stands on the north bank of the Mandovi River at Reis Magos, and is visible from the Panjim side of the Mandovi River.

At Verem 10.30 am to 5.30 pm +91 832 2410711/ +91 832 2410715 Tiracol Fort The fort was originally built

by Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsle, the Raja of Sawantwadi, in the 17th century. Now, in a state of ruins, Fort Tiracol has been converted into a luxury hotel, the Fort Tiracol Heritage. Well worth a visit At Tiracol, Keri Cabo de Rama Fort Interesting fort named after Lord Rama. Inside the fort, check out the church of Santo Antonio, still used by devotees.

At Cola Beach

Museums

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

At Vagator

Water sports Water Splash Cruises Here you’ll find a large fleet of Catamarans, Boats, Cruisers & Yachts 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

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

At Mondo Waddo, Benaulim 9 am to 5 pm +91 832 6570877 Email: goachitra@gmail.com Museum Of Christian Art Open all days of the week 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

Naval Aviation Museum Displaying a number of vintage aircraft and armaments used at different stages by Naval Aviation dating back to the 1950`s and a vast number of memorabilia related to Naval Aviation history.

Near Bogmalo Beach 10 am to 5 pm +91 832 2538668 Archaeological Museum Check out the sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses, antiques from the Hindu period and currencies leftover by the Portuguese.

At Old Goa. 9 am to 5 pm +91 832 2285333 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

Homes & More 13

Friday, May 22, 2015

Now’s your chance to own a gorgeous sea-facing home in beautiful Goa! These are 2 and 3 BHK luxurious sea-view apartments near Bogmallo Beach, just 10 minutes from Goa’s airport. Brought to you

by Kurade Builders, this project is writing the book on delightful, modern, convenient and luxurious living in Goa, right by the sea.

EMBARK ON A SOULFUL JOURNEY WITH RESORT RIO, GOA As it introduces Special Wellness Packages

Features: Theme Landscape Garden.

Separate Swimming Pools for adults & kids.

Exclusive Club House with Gym. M.S. powder coated railings.

Oil bond distemper internally.

Apex paint externally.

Underground water tank.

Sewage treatment plant.

Attractive entrance lobby.

Designer entrance gate.

Counter basin with mirror.

Society office.

All flush doors & panel door for main door.

All walls will have Gypsum finish internally.

Specifications: Structure: Earth quake resistant R.C.C. framed structure.

Electrification & Cabaling: High definition (HD) TV connection in each flat.

Concealed copper wiring with modular switches.

Provision for TV points in living room & in all bedrooms.

Provision for inverter.

Tube light & fan in one room on inverter.

Windows: Powder coated aluminum windows with mosquito net.

Black granite patti at every cill level.

Adjustable aluminum powder coated louvered windows for all toilets.

Parking: Two tier parking i.e. basement & stilts.

Covered parking for each flat.

Lifts: Machine room less lifts with generator back-up.

Flooring: Vitrified flooring Nitco/ RAK equivalent make.

Kitchen: Black granite kitchen platforms with S.S> sink.

4’ height ceramic tiles dado.

Provision for water purifier, fridge, washing machine, chimney & microwave.

Toilet: Concealed plumbing with hot & cold arrangement for shower & wash basin.

Single lever Jaquar / equivalent CP fittings.

Coloured ceramic tiles up-to 7’ height level.

Provision for exhaust fan. Gas geyser point.

Perryware / equivalent make sanitary ware.

For Booking Contact: +91 9623689553 +91 9823326746

Head Office: M/S Kurade Builders, 709 / 710, Kumthekar Road, Sadashiv Peth, Pune – 411030 (Maharashtra) Goa: Plot No. L1 to L7, Sr. No. 23/1, Jairam Nagar, Dabolim, Mormugao, Goa Website: www.tathasturiviera.com

GoaTimeline Goa Educare Show – 2015

T

ake a break from your routine and escape into a world of calmness and healing as Resort Rio, Goa introduces Special Wellness Packages. With a series of authentic and highly effective ayurvedic, curative and rejuvenative treatments coupled with therapeutic massages, these carefully designed packages promise a unique healing experience.

Whether you want to relax and pamper yourself, detox or simply getaway, opt for one of these packages and discover a whole new way of living.

Spiritual Retreat: This All Meal- inclusive package with round - trip airport transfers consists of a three days Body Healing and Wellness Programme focused on detoxification, rejuvenation and correcting imbalances in the body. This programme has been thoughtfully crafted to bring a unique balance by combining ancient ayurvedic treatments and modern therapeutic therapies. The package also includes Lifestyle & Wellness Consultation by awell-qualified experienced Ayurvedic (B.A.M.S) doctor and professionally trained staff Package Cost: INR 16,999/- on double occupancy per night inclusive of taxes Validity: Till 31st July 2015 Healing Touch: If you are longing to take a break from your hectic life and pamper yourself and your loved one, this soothing breakfast- inclusive package will prove to be your ideal bet. Designed to recharge your senses and refresh your mind, Healing Touch includes private yoga and meditation sessions once each day, 60 minutes Royal Ayurvedic Massage and an invigorating session of candle therapy. This package promises to be a transformational experience. It will help you connect with your soul and discover a new you.

Package Cost: INR 10,999/- on double occupancy per night inclusive of taxes Validity: Till 31st July 2015 *The above package rates are applicable for a minimum of Three Nights / Four Days stay in Cozy Rooms For more information, please call: +91 9922996920/ +91 8322267302; E-mail: reservations@resortrio.com ; Web: www.ResortRio.com

G

oaTimeline Group brings forth an excellent opportunity for the students of Goa to explore the realms of higher education and get in touch with various institutes offering quality education in Karnataka, Goa and Maharashtra.

With an aim to bring forth the plethora of opportunities in today’s world, the GoaTimeline Goa Educare Show – 2015 brings together various educational institutes offering professional and vocational courses, coaching institutes and career counselors under one roof.

This Expo will be inaugurated by Shri. Vishnu Surya Wagh | M.L.A. of St. Andre Constituency & Chairman of Kala Academy | Panjim; Shri.Rohan Khaunte | M.L.A. of Alto Porvorim; Shri. Shubham G. Chodankar | Mayor | Panaji, Goa & Shri. Siddharth Kunkolienkar | M.L.A | Panaji, Goa, on 23rd May 2015. The event will be open for the public to attend (no entry fee) from 10.00 AM to 9.00 PM on both Saturday and Sunday.

KLE's C.B. Kore Polytechnic | Bina Punjani Hair Academy | Acharya Institutes | Goa Arts And Animation Academy | Samarth Consultancy | J K Shah Classes | Girijabai Sail Institute of Technology | Dhananjay Mahadik Group of Institutions | Indira Gandhi National Open University | Shaikh Group of Institutions | Rabindranath Tagore PU college | Institute Of Health Management Research | Bearys College of Engineering | R N Shetty Rural Polytechnic | KLE Dr. M.S. Sheshgiri College of Engineering and Technology | St. Ann's Group of Institutions | ICFAI University | Aakash-Medical, IIT-JEE, Foundation | LearntechEdu Solutions Pvt. Ltd. | Shreeyash College of Nursing | Bradford Aviation Academy |Indian Idol Academy | College of Non-Conventional Vocational Courses for Women [CNCVCW] | Brindavan college of MBA & MCA | Sunshine Worldwide School | KLS's Gogte Institute of Technology | Padmashree Group of Institution | SDM College of Physiotherapy| 3D Design Hub|Bisleri International&A.N. Kumar.

14 Opinion

Our Beloved Indian Police Whom exactly are they working for?

By Karan Bhagat

‘F

amily Plaint Refused Due to MLAs’ Calls’. I yawned as I read this headline in the Times of India. The article was about the Cuncolim police station, which apparently refused to record a complaint of assault made by a local family against their politically wellconnected neighbors.

It appeared that a policeman at the station had told the complainant that he would not record the complaint as ‘many MLAs had called him to tell him not to’.

When I first returned to India after spending many years abroad, I was shocked at reading headlines such as these. In most western countries there would potentially be a huge public outcry about such allegations and they would likely make front-page news. But here in India they often become small items tucked away in the local news section, to be recorded (perhaps) but quickly forgotten.

Can the media be blamed for this?

Not really. Because it’s pretty much an everyday story in our country. After all, where does the Cuncolim story stand when compared with that of a convicted minister who has managed to evade arrest for weeks from the moment of his sentence (and that too while finding the time to file petitions with the Supreme Court)? Or situations where horrific crimes have been committed by large mobs repeatedly over many days and nobody from government has taken responsibility or faced legal censure.

For that matter, how could what seems to be going on in Cuncolim shock one when over a third of the country’s MPs have criminal cases filed against them (a large proportion of which were acquired before they became legislators)? The natural conclusion that a thinking person

A Brief History Of (The Lack Of) Police Autonomy In India might draw, based on the poor record of successful prosecution of lawmakers, is that perhaps many of these people chose to go into politics to protect themselves from the law.

How did all this come to pass? As is often the case – and rather conveniently, to be sure – we can point to our old friends the British for at least some of the explanation.

The Police Act of (wait for it) 1861 remains the central piece of legislation that governs policing in India today. The act was forged on the anvil of the Indian Mutiny of 1857. It seems that the Brits were so alarmed at the effrontery of the natives in that episode of resistance that they decided to come up with an Act that would allow the rulers of the state virtually complete control over the police force. This would permit them to put down any incipient revolution with (even more of) an iron hand in the future.

Perhaps somewhat surprisingly, the advent of independence did not result in any substantive changes. Though a fair amount of other colonial legislation was replaced, the Police Act of 1861 was not. Political control of the police wasn’t removed. Nor were safeguards put into the legislation to make the police accountable to the public or to ensure that they gave priority to upholding the rule of law. The result is what we have today: a police force routinely placing greater stock on the needs of politicians than on law enforcement or serving the public. What we have can accurately be characterized as a ‘regime’ police force.

Since independence 65 years ago,

‘dereliction of duty’ by the police has become common. One might have expected that there would therefore have been some protest about this state of affairs. Well there has been, but not much.

In 1996 a police officer called Prakash Singh (who had headed up the force in Assam and subsequently in UP) raised a PIL at the Supreme Court. In it, he asked that the court direct the government to implement recommendations made by a government advisory body known as the Police Commission, which came up with 8 reports during its three-year existence.

The court responded favorably, ordering the government of the day to immediately set up a committee to review the Commissions’ recommendations.

During the next 7 years no less than 4 different committees were established one after another (including one that was headed by the senior policeman Julio Ribeiro and another by the former Attorney General, Solee Sorabjee). All these committees submitted reports making recommendations for reform.

Needless to say, none of these reports were translated into action.

Finally, in 2006, the Supreme Court decided that enough was enough and ordered that some basic reforms must take place. It directed state governments (policing is a state subject) to immediately implement 6 ‘binding’ directives. These were designed to curb

some of the worst excesses of political interference and misconduct in policing and were intended as initial requirements, which would kick off the process for further, more substantial, reform in the future.

In summary, the 6 directives were for each state to: Establish a ‘State Security Commission’ with a remit to ensure that the state government did not exercise unwarranted influence on the police and to evaluate the performance of the police in the state; Ensure that the chief of the police in the state, i.e. the Director General of Police (aka the DGP) was appointed based on a transparent, merit-based process and had a minimum tenure of 2 years; Ensure that other police officers were also given a minimum tenure of 2 years; Organizationally separate the investigation and the law-and-order functions of the police; Set up a ‘Police Establishment Board’ which would decide on the transfers, postings and promotions of junior officers and make recommendations on the same for senior officers; and Set up a ‘Police Complaints Authority’ to enquire into complaints made by the public against police officers in cases of serious misconduct.

Till date (from what I can tell) not a single state has complied with all six of these directives. Instead, a large number of them have filed review petitions with the Supreme Court (which, thankfully, have been dismissed by the court) and requested extensions for implementation (which the Supreme Court has repeatedly allowed). Most have implemented (at least superficially) a small subset of the directives. The court is in a pretty thankless position given the extensive non-compliance with its order. In 2009, while declining to rule on a contemptof-court petition brought by Prakash Singh against the states – for nonimplementation of the court’s orders the Chief Justice of India is on record for saying: ‘Not a single state government is willing to cooperate. What can we do?’.

One thing we can all do as a nation is fight to put this topic at the top of the political agenda. After all, an ineffective police force ignoring the interests of the people reduces our quality of life.

In the meantime, the court’s judgment stands. And the people of India wait.

Monsoons 15

Friday, May 22, 2015

Monsoon Prep: Covering Up Open Spaces

B

By Sapna Shahani

efore I delve into the nittygritty of how venues are protecting themselves from the coming onslaught of torrential rain, let me state a simple but important fact: The so-called “off season” in Goa is no longer! As the state increasingly becomes a year-round destination, especially for Indian travelers, more and more establishments are searching for ways to cover up and stay open during the monsoons.

It's a matter of days before the rains hit, and venues across Goa are grappling with decisions about how to cover up their gardens, decks, and other open space areas to continue operations.

Since the rains are so heavy in Goa, it is quite complex to decide how best to shield from it as no ‘one size fits all’. An ordinary choice would be to use tarpaulin and bamboo but there are many other options.

Advance planning, as with many things in life, works out best. In fact, it wouldn’t be necessary to cover at all if the needs of the place in question are known at the time of initial design. However, sometimes a place’s needs evolve over time and require alterations.

Designer Reggie Goveas says, "Choosing a roof structure depends on the situation, scope and profile of the

establishment.

Anything from temporary shacks with treated thatch or stretched vinyl canopies to fullblown structures with various roof sheet options or tiles are also possible."

So here are some things to consider as you start thinking about getting your very own rainproof roof.

Temporary versus Permanent – Can you cover the area in question permanently or is it better if you remove the roofing after the rains? Many venues in the tourist stretch prefer open spaces in the season as open-to-thesky venues have a special ambiance.

One may consider putting up a rigid frame so that covering material can be taken down after the rainy season.

For example, canopy awnings are permanently installed but the fabric may be removable.

Budget for Materials - There is a big variation here depending on whether you can afford only inexpensive plastic

sheets that may just last the monsoon or tensile Teflon fabric that costs quite a bit. Besides materials, there is the cost of a contractor and labour to consider, besides the down time for your venue being unavailable.

Assistance with Construction - One question you may have is whether you need to hire an architect. The good news is all you really need is a good contractor but it may also be worthwhile to employ an expert consultant, depending on the size of the project. And the materials are available at most hardware shops.

Acoustics Needed - Rain will sound different when it falls on different surfaces. Gaurav Arya of Hotel Tamarind in Anjuna says he prefers Mangalore tiles because it's permanent and the sound of rain is not as loud. The Cafe Cotinga area where he hosts live music nights is open currently but he is considering options for covering it up.

Nature of the Area in Question - Are there trees in the area you are trying to cover? These may be used for support but may also cause a hindrance to the design. It's important to earmark or define what needs and what doesn't need protection.

For example, retractable awnings may also be available but are better for small areas like balconies, entrance areas, etc.

Ventilation - One has to keep the place well ventilated and enclosing it too much makes it steamy, but keeping the sides open can also allow a driving rain to enter.

Plastic curtains are common but one would need a large enough space to place pedestal fans in different areas.

Aesthetics – You can build a pergola and grow vines over it to create a greener and more pleasing structure. Canvas as a material may look better but would need to be treated with waterproofing. Abroad, spray cans are available for this.

So there you go. Since Do-It-Yourself products aren’t available as much here as in other countries, people are forced to be more innovative. A little research and creativity can go a long way towards giving your space its own unique identity, yet still be resilient in the driving rain.

16

Friday, May 22, 2015

The Downtrodden, The Forgotten, The Brave

A Tribute To The Invincible Women of India Photography by Pascal Mannaerts

W

By Perin Ilavia

ho are these women who captured Pascal’s attention? They are not corporate honchos, movie stars or celebrities. These are outstanding Indian women who are fighting against prejudice, triumphing against all odds and, in the process, showing extraordinary courage.

Belgian photographer Pascal Mannaerts presents an exhibition titled ‘Fate Breakers’, a series of artistic photographs showing some of our nation’s most vulnerable – and noble - women. The exhibition was

previewed on May 13 at Alliance Française, Panjim, and was inaugurated by eminent human rights activist and lawyer, Adv. Albertina Almeida.

This is Pascal’s first exhibition India. The collection captures the grit and determination of Indian women who have overcome many odds in the face of stupendous challenges. It includes widows, acid attack victims, lowcaste women, sex workers, and others who have faced abuse and tribulations of every kind.

Curiosity and passion have been fused with a profound attraction to the human spirit, testifying to Pascal’s undeniable talent. The stories behind his pictures are as interesting as the theme captured on

Arts & Entertainment 17

Friday, May 22, 2015

May 24 Art Exhibition Paintings & Installations by Husmann/ Tschaeni At Saraya, Sangolda @ 7 pm +91 8888926811

May 31 Summer Art Sundays - Mandalas

By Vaishali Lall, Artist, Educator & Graphic Designer Open to age group: 10 yrs - 25 yrs At The International Center Goa, Dona Paula 10 am to 4 pm Call Vaishali Lall – 9420820890

Till May 27 Photography Exhibition An exhibition titled "Fate Breakers, Stories of Outstanding Indian Women by Pascal Mannaerts will be organised by Alliance Francaise panjim At Alliance Francaise, Panjim 9.30 am to 1 pm +91 832 242 0049

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 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 collectible 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 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

his lens. Spontaneous moments with specific details open an emotive dialogue, his questions creating bridges between people's feelings and realities.

The reticent white-widows of Vrindavan were apprehensive at first about being photographed, but with some cajoling queued up to be in his frame. A day at a beauty parlor, kidding around with the transgenders Amitava and Abheena, who wanted to buy a pair of heels and strut like the “boss”! Both are on a journey of self-affirmation, the acknowledgment of who they are.

Calling themselves ‘fighters’, not victims of acid attacks, Laxmi, Ritu, Rupa and Sonia have established a movement called ‘Stop Acid Attacks’. These and other brave souls are the subject of Pascal’s probing lens.

Check out the tale of Manju, a courageous woman who fights all threats and dangers to help sex workers of Shivdaspur district in Varanasi. She runs a school on a boat along the ghats, educating these women’s children.

This collection of over 40 photographs took 4 or 5 months to assemble.

Pascal was born in 1978, studied law, and got hooked to travel photography. Blending wanderlust and creativity, he has been recording his travel adventures in Asia, Africa, Latin America, North Africa and Middle East, China, for 15 years.

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 | +91 9823217435 artchamber@gmail.com www.goa-art.com Moksa Art Gallery Here you will find some immensely conceptual paintings by Salvadoran Fernandez and others.

Naik Waddo, Calangute 9:30 am to 8:30 pm +91 832 2281121 | +91 9326717386 mokshart@gmail.com www.mokshartgallery.com Sunaparanta- Goa Centre for the Arts The centre houses several exhibition galleries, a large multi-functional space for workshops and lectures, an in-house film club, sketch club, open air amphitheatre, pottery studio and an open courtyard that houses the al fresco café, Bodega. The red velvet cupcakes at Bodega are a must try!

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

He got his first digital camera in 2004. “I must tell you that having a digital camera, providing a direct feedback on your clicks taught me a lot.

Since then, I always shoot with a digital camera.

I do not deform reality. I adjust brightness and contrast and basic things. I sometimes use filters, but honestly I’m not a photoshop monster and I’m not into heavy post production processes,” explains Pascal.

Discovering a deep admiration for the Subcontinent on his first visit to India in 2000, he returned for a one-year’s visit to SE Asia and India.

He works with asylum seekers in Belgium, mostly women from Asia, Africa and Latin America.

“Travelling and photography have become my passions,” Pascal explains. The exhibition is based on women because of his personal affinity for issues women face in society.

“For over ten years, I have traveled around the world with my backpack and camera, getting totally immersed in the culture of each region/ country, to enable me to portray the ‘complete human being’ in my work,” he adds.

Pascal recently visited Iran, collecting life stories of the people there. He says, “It’s an amazing country not many know about, only what they see on TV in the political context. My stories and pictures are of people on a human point-ofview.”

With publication credits in Geo Magazine, Lonely Planet, Le Guide du Routard, among other European magazines, plus exhibitions in Europe and Brazil, this globetrotting photographer with the cool Mohawk hairstyle and goatee states, “According to me, the talent of a good photographer is capturing the moment, the emotions and reality of things that he/she has in front of him.”

This exhibition, created for the Alliance Française network, will be touring six cities in India.

On view till 27th May at Alliance Française, Althino, Panjim.

18 Nepal Quake

Helping Out In Nepal Editor’s note: Rajeev Radhakrishnan, a former marketing manager with Goa Streets and a one-time Times of India “I Lead India” winner, is on the ground in Nepal with Teach For Nepal in the aftermath of the earthquake that killed more than 8,500 people. This is his report from the scene of the devastation.

T

he floor beneath your feet is shaking violently. You can’t align your centre of gravity. The door is a mere foot away. If you don't get out now, you will have to die, but not before you feel the unimaginable pain of your bones breaking rubble. You cannot escape.

You scream your lungs out, but all so futile. Your heart is racing, pounding and the panic inside you is soaring.

You are exhausted and you can’t move.

Nothing anyone can do to possibly stop it.

Mother earth is shaking you, everyone else and every-thing else for miles around, and she will only stop when she feels like it. On 25 April 2015, people in Nepal were subject to this impounding, as an earthquake of 7.8 M jolted them followed by continued aftershocks and tremors, demolishing without remorse.

Eight thousand five hundred dead, twice as many injured. An estimated 2.8 million Nepalese displaced, over 191,058 homes completely destroyed, and another 175,162 homes damaged.

This is the most powerful disaster to strike Nepal since the 1934 Nepal-Bihar earthquake.

Sindhupalchowk’s people Devastation unravels - Khatrithok Us (TFN Team), along with our partner JDC (American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee), entered Sindhupal-chowk (within which is Khatrithok) with sponge-hearts, wanting to imbibe all the sorrows we could and barter them with momentary happiness.

Sindhupalchowk aftermath Sindhupalchowk is one of the worstaffected districts. Many communities have still not been reached due to remoteness and accessibility both in terms of roads and telecommunications.

This is also where one of Teach For Nepal’s very own, Sujita (TFN Fellow 2014) met her demise and another one severely injured.

Call to action

The districts worst hit are the ones TFN is focusing on. Do you have the CPI (capacity, philantrophy or interest)? Then we need your help. How? Two ways: 1) Personal Donations, 2) Your network, spread the word.

We are looking to raise Rs. 5,89,48,037.32/- ($922,498) to ensure sufficient basic supplies and short term rehabilitation for three months for the 5,888 families (29,440 people) who we will be directly supporting.

• Use Paypal and donate on: http://nepalrelief.teachfornepal.org OR wire the money directly to: • Account Name: Sarvodaya Shramadana Nepal • Account Address: Kupondole - 1, Lalitpur, Nepal • Bank Name: Sanima Bank • Bank Address: Narayan Chaur, Naxal, Kathmandu • Bank Account Number: 0140000031901 • SWIFT Code: SNMANPKA Those in the USA can also send a check to (payable to Sarvodaya USA): Sarvodaya USA, 1127 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53715, USA. Our partner organisations through the Teach for All network are also facilitating fundraising efforts. Please reach out to Shristi K.C, TFN Partnership Coordinator, at shristi@teachfornepal.org | +977-9803212056 for more details.

The road to Sindhupalchowk showed several landslides, newly opened springs, aerial views of several terrains of communities turned to plain rubble.

Amongst all of this, what stands out is the Nepali resilience. The people have accepted the devastation that’s been decreed upon them and are not looking back. They understand what’s happened and want to look ahead instead of dwelling in their sorrows.

Many husbands have returned home from their jobs abroad following what’s occurred and are struggling toward rebooting their livelihoods.

Rajan, a Khatrithok local working in Delhi, narrated his story with us while standing on his home which is now no more than scree and debris. With what remains of his cattle, 2 buffalos, and 3 goats, he intends to farm again in order feed his wife and 4 children. What was most touching was his generosity in insisting that we share his meal, despite his devastating situation. He, like several others, have built tents for shelter and are surviving under pretty deteriorated conditions.

Another family we met had a grandmother, who fed us the ekdum meetho Devi-pooja prasad and put tilak on our foreheads for good luck, something I wish she really had in face of such a disaster. She was 3 when the last earth-quake hit Nepal 80 years ago, and had survived this one too, a brave heart.