Issue No: 47

3

Thursday, October 3, 2013

streetspicks

The Nightlife Convention Pre Party DJ’s Hamza & Latif + Vipul Join us for the 5th year celebration of www.mypurplemartini.com At Cape Town Cafe, Baga On Oct 3 @ 9 pm onwards +91 832 2275496

The Nightlife Convention The Nightlife Convention is around the corner, Oct. 4-6, bringing together the Who’s Who in the Indian and international nightlife industry. The festivities include the Nightlife Awards, fashion shows, pool parties, wine and cheese tasting and much more.

Presented by www.MyPurpleMartini.com Nightlife in India is at the threshold of a revolution. Goa Streets is a media Partner Presented by www.mypurplemartini.com At Resort Rio, Arpora Oct 4th -5th-6th for inquiry : info@mypurplemartini.com and for more info www.mypurplemartini.com

Weather, Audiences Give Panjim Event A Big Thumbs Up ‘Bloody - Hell’ Guitar Night! Live!

Art Escape presents the The Live Music Project Presents this Saturday.

Feat.Elvis Lobo,Shayne, Arjun Sen (HFT), ori & Richard!

Entry is free for all. Menu pricing is pocket friendly. Goa Streets is media partner with Art Escape On Oct 5 @ 7.30 pm At Baywatch Resort, Colva

By Sasha Pereira

H

e had the beat in this head and the rhythm in his soul as he enthralled the crowds on a ‘moisty’ September night.

Remo, Goa’s original rock star, had the crowds tapping their feet while fans of the legendary musician got groovy next to the stage at the World Tourism Day Celebrations 2013 in Panjim.

The star-studded night brought together musicians of different genres and generations.

Ignoring thunderstorm warnings, the young and old descended at the INOX courtyard, which played host to this curtain raiser of the tourism season. ‘Water and Tourism – Protecting Our Common Future’ was chosen as the theme of the two-day (Sept 27, 28) event organized by Heritage Jazz, the Department of Tourism and Goa Turn to page 5

music & nightlife | 03 Water, Tourism & Remo

lowdown | 6

Oct 3

Every Thursday

Every Sunday

The house band Smoking Chutney has featured some phenomenal local as well as international talent over the last year.

This time round it’s one of India’s guitar greats Benoy Rai who will be setting the band ablaze. @ 9 pm onwards. +91 832 6714141

Catch Lavina croon to some of the best pop hits and rock numbers followed by a jam session and Open Mic Time.

At Down The Road, Panjim @ 10 pm – 12 am +91 9637808867

Music and vocals by Regan. Sway late into the night with an eclectic mix of numbers courtesy the in-house artist.

At Wok & Roll, Sinquerim, Candolim @ 8 pm onward +91 9049022348

Thursday Night Live

Oct 5

Saturday Night Live

food & drink | 07 Cheese Mushroom Pies

‘Bloody-Hell’ Guitar Night Presented by Live Music Project At Baywatch, Colva @ 7.30 pm +91 9892286666

Every Monday

Electronic Dance Music

feature | 11 Karate-Chopping Women

At The UV Bar, Anjuna @ 4 pm to 10 pm +91 9822153440

Karaoke Night

Manic Mondays with Saby At The Backyard, Sangolda +91 9823593872

Every Wednesday

cover story | 12 The Nightlife Convention

Karaoke Night

At Resort Rio, Arpora @ 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm +91 832 2267300

Cosmopolitan Ladies Night

arts & entertainment | 15 Hypnotism’s Founder

Free Absolut Cosmopolitan cocktails all night long exclusively shaken & stirred for the fairer sex. Ladies Night, the Butter way.

At Butter, Patto, Panjim @ 8 pm onward +91 8308838888

Wednesday Nights

what’s on | 17

Catch the band Rhythm and Blues play live music every Wednesday.

At Cavala Beach Resort, Calangute @ 8:30 pm onward +91 8390055518

Wednesday Nights

feature | 19

With their frequent gigs, DJs David & Ashley entertained hordes of people with their act. Now they join hands together to make the crowds groove to their songs every Wednesday. The fun begins early at Kamaki.

At Kamaki, Baga @ 7:30 pm onward +918322276520/ 9923093408

Gandhi and Goa Writers

Driving women crazy

mind, body & soul | 21 Letting Go

hot streets | 22 The Internet Hippie

With DJ Nix & DJ Crodin Unlimited Premium Alcohol, music madness style Dress code: Stylish Best!

At Ianos, Calangute @ 8 pm onwards +91 8888662244

Ladies Night

Funky, commercial house, R & B, hiphop tunes with DJs Rinton & Mr.E. Open bar with free drinks for the ladies.

Dress code: Smart & Sexy At SinQ beach club, opp. Taj Holiday Village, Candolim @ 10 pm onwards +91 8308000080

Lavina Special Thursdays

Thursday Grill & Games Music, games & barbeque!

At Soul Souffle, Verna @ 7 pm – 10 pm +91 832 2782100/9764694321

Every Friday

Catch”the Valentinos”

Sunday Fun With Regan

Karaoke Night

With DJ Tony English - Hindi At Malts n Wines, Baga @ 9 pm onwards +91 8698694319

Every Saturday & Sunday

Live featuring Elvis on lead guitar & keyboard With the best of slow rock/retro & old school At Down the Road, Panjim @ 9 pm onwards +91 9823173757

Karaoke Night

Friday Night

Embrace the monsoons with Goa’s hottest bands!!

Go retro in the rain.

The Music Company, Live, Raw, Retro Music. At Rewind, Arpora @ 6 pm +91 8007112200

Crimson Tide Live Retro and classic with funk At Malts n Wines, Baga @ 9 pm +91 8698694319

Retro House

At Whispering Palm Beach resort, Candolim @ 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm +91 832 6651515

Every Friday & Saturday Monsoon Madness

On-going

Live rhythm n blues At The Park, Calangute @ 8 pm onwards +91 8805028194

Club Ianos

Mondays and Tuesdays are for commercial club and house music.

At Calangute, Baga rd @ 8.30 pm to 3 am +91 832 6528283

Singer & Songwriter Night

Vocal by Joanne Fernandes At Edge Bar, Alila Diwa Goa @ 7.30 pm onwards +91 832 2746800

Every Saturday

Sizzling Saturday

At The Backyard, Sangolda +91 9823593872

Sexy Saturday

Dj Joel, Dj Rinton, & Mr.E At SinQ, Candolim @ 10 pm to 4 am +91 8308000080

Funky Saturdays

A lot of youngsters can be seen hanging out at Butter for its Funky Saturdays where everything – from the music to the dress code and even guests’ hairstyles – have to be funky.

At Butter, Gera Emporium, EDC Patto Plaza, Panjim @ 8 pm onward +91 8308838888

Raissa’s Sheesh Mahal

Lounge

Delicious food and lovely music At Margao @ 10 am to 11.45 pm +91 832 2712899

One man live band show

By Wili Guitarist At Whispering Palm Beach Resort, Candolim @ 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm +91 832 6651515

Zuperb

Live Music on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Gauravaddo, Holiday Street, Calangute @12 pm – 12 am +91 9869076107/ 9820134503/9833156510

Cafe la Musica Lounge & Disco

At Appetite Classic, Housing Board, Mapusa @ 7.30 pm to 11 pm +91 9823107114

Events performed by professional international artists on a daily basis.

DJ’s are Raz & Mike.

At Red Square lane, lane parallel to Tito’s lane, Baga @ 8 pm onwards +91 7798932264

Every Saturday Exclusively

LPK Waterfront

Hindi Karaoke Live

Groove to the mixes of DJs Cris, Rosh, Milad, Xavier and Melroy.

Couple - 1000/- stag - 1500 At F Cube, Calangute @ 9 pm – 3 am +91 832 2275796/9822176572

Hip Hop/House /Bollywood. Free unlimited drinks. Ladies entry free with unlimited drinks.

At Nerul @ 9.30 pm +91 9096939351/ +91 9326733292

Thursday, October 3, 2013

The all girl band Indiva From page 3 Tourism Development Corporation. The goal was to make locals and tourists aware of the need for respecting the environment and not compromising it in the name of tourism.

Varun Carvalho, who has captured everyone’s attention with the release of his music video ‘Amchem Goa’, had this to say, “If Goa’s natural beauty is destroyed,

we won’t have anything to attract tourists to our land. We should stop playing the blame game and be a change in our own small way.”

“Music is a powerful medium to reach out to the masses and young musicians should take up this cause,” says Varun.

Daryl Vales, from Anjuna, was mesmerized by the performance of the charming four member lady band ‘INDIVA’.

“It feels as if we Goans had enough of

We asked Remo Fernandes to give us his take on the event and its meaning. Read on…

Jamming on World Tourism Day at Inox

The National Media is always labeling Goa as a haven for drugs and women. Can that perception change if we make music and culture the brand ambassadors for tourism in Goa? It’s not about labels and perceptions. It’s about making real changes. It’s about arresting all drug dealers, even if they involve ministers and their sons. It’s about arresting all murderers, instead of giving them protection in police stations.

Once that is done, we will send out a real message about being serious in changing Goa for the better and ridding if of the criminals running it.

Once that is done, we can then start working on projecting the good things of Goa. Then, and only then, having a yearly 3-day Goan Music and Dance Festival [everything from traditional folk to contemporary], a Goan cuisine festival, and similar Goan cultural promotions will work.

What is your opinion on the theme of the event “Tourism and Water - Protecting our Common Future”? How important is it for us to protect our water resources?

Themes and slogans are lip-service.

Indira Gandhi coined ‘Garibi Hatao’ in the 70’s, and our people are still dying of starvation and malnutrition in 2013. Our Government can’t say ‘Protect Water’ and then allow mining and other industries which pollute our rivers. It is actual action and ground work which count. Protecting our water is as important as protecting our oxygen. We can’t live without either.

the monsoons and were just dying to get out of our homes and enjoy a nice musical evening,” he said.

Part of the rationale behind the event – one shared by both Heritage Jazz and the Goa Tourism Development Corporation – was to help change the perception of Goa as a haven for drugs, alcohol and cheap thrills of every kind.

“Events like these accelerate the process of change in the negative image of the state. They help collaborate a social cause and entertainment,” said Nalisha Carrasco, the event’s emcee.

Armando Gonsalves, the evening’s organizer, explained his reasoning in eloquent terms. “To change the thought process of Goa – to change Panjim into another Berlin – we need to make art, culture and music the chief sources of income.

Today, cultural resource is as important as other resources. There are better beaches in Karnataka and Maharashtra, but tourists

Turn to page 6

6 The Lowdown

Indiva in action

The Lowdown

Nightlife is not just about bars and clubs and glitter. It’s also big business and getting bigger all the time. And about having a great time and enjoying life. Goa Streets is happy to be the local Media Partner of www.MyPurpleMartini. com’s fabulous Nightlife Convention, which, in addition to providing an excellent opportunity for networking and learning, promises to be a real blast – replete with fashions shows, pool parties, exhibitions, conferences, performances and, the big draw, the Nightlife Awards 2013. We hope you enjoy our cover story on the convention, and the out-of-thebox thinking that led to its debut.

We have many offerings to keep our readers entertained and absorbed in this edition. If you’re a visitor to the state, you may not know that the father of modern hypnotism was a Goan. Our story on the legendary Abbe Faria looks at his little-known birth home in Candolim, as well as his life and his portrayal in literature. On these pages, we tell you about a very special two-day event in Panjim that brought together some fabulous musical talents for the cause of environmentally sustainable tourism. We tell you about a martial arts master who teaches women how to get tough.

And in our Mind, Body & Soul section, we reveal the wisdom of ‘detachment’, of letting go.

This week marks the 144th anniversary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi. To mark the occasion we invited members of the Goa Writers Group to reflect on the man and his legacy.

We’re confident you will be pleased with the outcome!

All that, of course, is in addition to our weekly listings on everything you need to know about what’s going on in Goa. As we move into the high season, these listings will grow, as our beautiful state gears up for action. We can’t wait!

From page 5 come for the entire package called Goa and we need to redefine this package so that it doesn’t give away our age old yet rich heritage.”

Music, cuisine and culture, says Armando, should be the brand ambassadors for tourism in the state.

There were plenty of all three present at the World Tourism Day celebrations.

The event featured performances

by Jonney B Good with Bushka, Varun Carvalho and The Two Timers of VH1 Fame, Indiva (all women fusion band from Mumbai featuring Shruti Bhava, Hamslka Lyer, Vivienne Pocha and Merlin D’souza), Talking Drums featuring Carlos & Friends, and, of course, Remo Fernandes & the Microwave Papadums.

“Events like this are the right way for positive publicity. We need real role models that the youth could look up to and emulate so shows like this are an opportunity to showcase to the world what Goa really stands for,” said Hema Nagvekar, a fashion designer

from Calangute and a die hard Remo Fernandes fan who kept cheering him through the entire program.

Isabella Reast from England, who is down on a vacation with friends, summarized her love for Goa. “When I think Goa, I think vindaloo and violin and the enormous heritage it encapsules. The hospitality and love that exudes from the countryside is so real and warm that it makes me feel like coming back for more every year.”

Hirish Gaekwad, a business student from Mumbai, explains that he is not the typical domestic tourist visiting Goa. “I belong to that section of tourists who actually keep coming back to Goa for the music and food. There is a beat in every street and a flavor sailing from every kitchen window which makes a holiday memorable. I am aware of the negative image that is circulated in the media but I know there are people like me who take the effort in driving down here just for a spiritual rejuvenation of stomach and soul.”

The Goa Streets Team

Oh look, my style.

7

Thursday, October 3, 2013

streetspicks Curlies Beach Shack

Curlie’s is a beach shack, located on the Anjuna Beach strip.

What started as a small shack has today become a landmark, recently extending to a second floor, with plans for further growth. Facilities include a roof top lounge bar serving excellent liquor and cocktails, and a restaurant. It is host to party nights with international DJs. Curlie’s is open all day and into the night, and is great for watching the sunset, grabbing a bite to eat, enjoying drinks with friends and partying at night.

It is famous for its wood fired pizzas, Goan, Indian and International cuisine, and fresh fruit juices.

At Anjuna Beach +91 9822168628 goacurlie17@yahoo.com

Fat Fish Restaurant Fat Fish is a unique restaurant concept where atmosphere, culture and food blend perfectly into one.

Set in the fields behind the Baga River on the Calangute Arpora Road, the location is pristine.

The interior design is comfortable and contemporary.

It serves clams, oysters, shrimps, squids, lobsters, pomfret, king fish and more. There is a barbeque grill and royal Nawabi kebabs in the Tandoor section.

At Agra Waddo, Calangute +91 8806077550

Soul Souffle Near the Udiar Waterfall at Verna, this restaurant has a wide range of items on its menu and a wonderful reviews in tourist guides. European and Chinese foods seem to be popular.

The decor is cheerful and bright.

Recommended for those who have journeyed to the South for the day and want to finish the day with a scrumptious meal in great surroundings.

At Ambulor, Verna.

Time 11am-12 midniht non stop food service, Ph:2782100 or open everyday.

Home delivery: 0832-2411959 & 9764159686 9767694321 Caterin Service Contact: Mr. Roland Rodrigues @ 9890422440

Mini Cheese Mushroom Pies

By Kornelia Santoro

T

he best compliment for a cook is a hearty appetite. It is frustrating to put a lot of effort into preparing a lovely dish when you hear from your guests: ‘Only a tiny slice, please!’ I believe dinner parties are not the right place or time to think of losing weight and dieting. During a recent lunch party at our home, my guests ate almost everything.

That made me happy. The Mini Mushroom Cheese Pies vanished almost immediately.

Actually, I had prepared these pies by chance.

I had made a spannakopitta, a Greek spinach pie (http://www.mediterraneancooking.in/entrees/ spannakopitta), and I had some pastry left over. As I hate waste, I just threw the Mini Mushroom Cheese Pies together without a recipe. They turned out so well, that I decided to make them public. To be sure of the measurements and for the pictures, I made them again yesterday. Amazingly, my son and one of his friends (both teenagers) ate more than half of the two-dozen pies I had made.

These pies deliver a serious amount of calcium, always a good thing. The secret of the taste lies in the combination of three different cheeses; one of them is

smoked cheese. Nowadays, you can find smoked Edam or Gouda cheese made in India in many supermarkets.

I mixed this cheese with ‘mozzarella’ and goat cheese also of Indian provenance.

These Mini Pies are a great starter for a dinner party or a simple snack. You can prepare them in advance and just heat them in the oven before serving.

Mini Cheese Mushroom Pies

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Ingredients (for 24 small pies): 3 cups whole-wheat flour 6 tablespoons olive oil 8 tablespoons cold water 300 grams cheese, preferably three different kinds, one of them smoked cheese 2 eggs ½ cup cream 200 grams white button mushrooms 2 cloves garlic butter or ghee for the pie moulds salt pepper

Method: I am not an expert on short crust pastry but this savoury version works well for me. It is important not to over mix the ingredients. You don’t want to activate the gluten in the flour, which makes pastry hard. Pour the flour into a bowl; add the olive oil, the water and half a teaspoon salt. Mix everything with a spoon first and then bring the dough together with kneading it by hand – only until you have dough that sticks together.

You might need to add some more water. Never mind if it is not completely smooth. Cover it with cling film and let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the pastry shells from shrinking in your pie moulds.

The next step is preparing the filling. While watching Heston Blumenthal on TV, I learned that it is better to grate cheese finely when you want it to melt smoothly.

Turn to page 9

8 Food & Drink Oct 3 to Oct 31

The Brew Meister and his support team

Month for Starters!

Pick up any two starters and get a kingfisher to accompany At Pan Asian Bowl, Panjim +91 832 6455547

Every Sunday Champagne Sunday Brunch

Enjoy brunch at the Grand Hyatt with French champagne & food from five interactive & live stations dishing out Asian, Italian, Middle Eastern, Indian cuisine & desserts. At Rs 2,200 + taxes (includes buffet, champagne, wines & select drinks.)

At Grand Hyatt, Bambolim Beach @ 1 pm – 4 pm +91 832 3011125

Sunday Family Brunches

Rejuvenating cocktails, soul warming gourmet cuisine from around the world, activities to keep the kids entertained.

At Latitude, Vivanta by Taj, Panjim @ 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm +91 832 6633636

Bikini Brunch

Sunday BBQ Brunch at Rs 950 with unlimited alcohol. Enjoy live Karaoke with Emmanuel. At The Park, Calangute @ 12.30 pm – 4:30 pm +91 832 2267600/8805028194

Sunday Funday

Artjuna

Weekend with family, with breakfast, lunch, and hi tea.

Lots of entertainment for kids and ladies through the day.

For Adult Rs: 849 and for kids above 5 years: rs.599 At O Goa, Hotel Fidalgo +91 8806663865/+91 9158055222

Set in an Old Portuguese house surrounded by a beautiful garden, the café serves up chilled café au lait, milkshakes, sandwiches, juices &baked goodies, homemade dips, iced lattes, blended coffees & more.

At Monteiro Waddo, Anjuna @ 9 am – 6 pm +91 832 2274794

Sunday Brunch

Cocktails and Dreams

A glass of our delicious Sangria is free with your first a-la-carte or buffet purchase.

At SinQ Tavern By Bodega, Sinquerim +91 9011662233

Anjuna & Around Shore Bar

Specialising in Burgers, indian, Italian pizza, sandwiches, seafood, vegetarian At Anjuna Beach +91 832 2773134

Mamma Mia

Italian cuisine with a blend of imported Italian ingredients &local organic produce with a nice view of paddy fields and coconut trees of Baga’s backwaters.

At Resort Rio, Arpora @ 12:30 pm – 10:30 pm +91 832 2267300

Curlies

The restaurant serves you everything from charcoal fired oven pizzas/bakes to the best of Indian, Chinese & continental dishes, plus fresh seafood (Anjuna­style), with wine & beer.

At Anjuna Beach @ 9 am – 2 am +91 9822168628

Cantare

Cantare is perhaps Saligao’s best kept secret. This traditional mansion turned lounge offers a good selection of food & wines and a warm ambience.

At Cruzwado, Saligao +91 832 2409461

Cocktails Dreams is placed in the heart of Goa’s clubbing hubs i.e. Baga, Palolem and is Goa’s 1st and exclusive cocktail bar with ambience, lighting system, Sound and music.

At Tito’s Lane, Baga At Anjuna, At Palolem, At Morjim +91 832 6521516 / +91 832 2643113 / +91 9764269027

Cotinga at the Tamarind

Restaurant has a multi-cuisine menu, including Italian, Chinese and Indian dishes, seafood, meats and signature pastas and pizzas.

At Opp. St.Micheal Church, Anjuna +91 9810804063

Alcove Restaurant & Bar

Serves Continental, Goan, Portuguese, Indian, Chinese &Thai cuisine. Expect a variety of seafood with a range of barbeque & grills.

At Ozrant Beach, Small Vagator, Anjuna @ 8 am – 12 am +91 832 2274491/2273349

Baga, Calangute & Around CoBa

CoBa (short for Coastal Barbeque) is known for its starters, grills & steaks. The setting is a treat for the eyes, with the pool on one side and saltwater lagoons on the other. At Double Tree by Hilton, Arpora @ 10 am – 11 pm +9183266556672

Cavala

Specialises in Goan seafood & live music.

The restaurant recommends dishes like Country Captain, Trincomalee Prawns & Chicken Periperi. At Saunta Waddo, Baga, Calangute @ 7:30 am – 1 am +91 832 2277587/9552551422

KFC

Choose from a range of goodies like Hot Wings, Chicken Snacker Burger, Chicken Shotz, Hot n Crispy Chicken and Fiery Grilled Chicken. For vegetarians, there’s Veg Zinger Burger, Potato Krisper and Veg Strips. For dessert, check out the Kreamball Sundae and Soft Serves.

At Neelam the Grand, Post Office Road, Calangute @ 11am – 11 pm

Aquamarine Bistro & Bar Specializing in Indian, European/ Continental cuisine and seafood.

At Baga Land’s End, Baga @ 7 am – 10:30 pm +91 832 2276084/2275482

10 Calangute Beach Hotel

This boutique hotel located in the heart of Calangute is cradled amongst some of the most famous beaches in the world.

Refresh yourself with a drink.

At Gauravaddo, Calangute +91 9960524567

Candolim Zuperb

Unlimited breakfast offer between 8 am – 11 am for Rs 180 only. Open all days of the week. One of the few restaurants in Goa that serves Parsi food.

At Gaurro Vaddo, Calangute +91 9869076107

Banyan Tree

The garden restaurant at the Taj Village specialises in Thai cuisine set under a 300­year­old banyan tree.

At Vivanta Holiday Village, Sinquerim @ 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm & 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm. +91 832 6645858

Beach House

This Goan & seafood specialty restaurant has a live kitchen counter of Goan­ Portuguese fusion food. Signature dishes include Galinha Cafreal, Camarao Tigre Con Cilantro, and Clam Chops with Mango Chilly Sauce.

At Vivanta by Taj Fort Aguada, Sinquerim, Candolim @ 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm +918326645858

Wok & Roll

Ruta’s World Cafe

It’s in Margao, but it may as well be in San Francisco with its stylish interiors, comfy sofas, and a great selection of world music. Chef/owner Ruta Kahate spent 20 years in Northern California and you can taste it in her global menu. Everything is made in-house from scratch, down to the breads. Behind Nanutel, Margao @ 10 am – 8 pm 8pm (Closed Sunday) +91 832 2710757/www.rutas.in

A Multicuisine restaurant which serves Japanese, Thai and pan-Asian cuisine.

Restaurant recommendations include Honey Glazed Pot Roast, Pork Ribs, Thai Garlic Peppered Prawns and Deep-fried Prawns Tossed in Garlic.

At Sinquerim, Candolim @ 1 pm – 3 pm & 7 pm – 11 pm +91 9049022348

Café Mardi Gras

L’Orange

Fig & Olive

Tucked away in a cosy corner in Candolim, L’Orange also doubles up as an art gallery.

It’s open through the year & features a Multicuisine menu with homemade Goan delicacies, seafood & pastas.

At Next to Magnum Resort, Candolim Main Road, Candolim @ 12 pm – 3 pm & 6 pm – 1 am +91 9970173606

Addah

Addah specialises in Indian, seafood, European/Continental cuisine. Popular dishes include Paneer Zafrani Tikka, Dum Aloo Kashmiri, Maan Sahari Kebab Platter & Bhuna Hua Anjeer.

At O Hotel, Ground Floor, Dando, Candolim @ 7 pm – 10:30 pm +91 9890800073

Margao & Around Firefly Goan Bistro Bar

Firefly features classics which are prepared like they should be, with a touch of artistic flair. At Ground Floor, Vasvaddo, Benaulim Beach Road, Benaulim +91 9822123535

A 24­hour café serving seafood, Goan & North Indian cuisine, coffee & snacks.

PanfriedPomfretRecheado, Chicken Xacutti, Pork Vindaloo and Goan Fish Curry are some of the popular offerings.

At Holiday Inn Resort, Cavelossim @ All-day +91 832 2871303 Offers specialties from Morocco, Spain, Italy, Lebanon & Greece. The menu boasts tapas, fresh salads & seafood, paella & pasta, wood oven pizzas and homemade desserts. At Holiday Inn Resort, Cavelossim @ 9 am – 11 pm +918322871303

Spice Studio

The award-winning Spice Studio has a dinner menu that boasts the flavours of India’s southeast coast, the dum preparations of the Nawabs of Awadh & Hyderabad, Tandoori fare from the Northwest Frontier & Goa’s rustic flavours. At Alila Diwa, Adao Waddo, Salcette @ 7 pm – 10:30 pm +918322746800

Mog Café

A pastry shop with some innovative décor. Choose from a selection of cheesecake pops, cupcakes, crispy chocolates &lemon pie shots. Also offers ‘designer’ cakes, desserts and chocolates At Shop #3 & 4, Colaco Residency, Off Abade Sariya Road, Comba, Margao +91 8380078252/9892588252

Food & Drink 9

Thursday, October 3, 2013

Shandong

An Asian cuisine restaurant with a fine dining ambience focusing on fresh, in season ingredients.

At Radisson Blu Resort, Cavelossim Beach @ 11 am – 11 pm +91 832 6726666

Peppers

If your weakness is Goan cuisine, head to Pepper’s for a wide range of local delicacies cooked in a traditional style with a hint of modernity.

At Gold Road Pajifond, Margao @ 11:30 am – 11 pm +91 9822133506

Upper Deck

A lively coffee shop with an interactive kitchen & communal/bench/roundtable seating; Offers a creative a la carte menu with Continental & Indian fare.

At Radisson Blu Resort, Cavelossim Beach +91 832 6726666

Boat Quay Grill

Boat Quay Grill serves tropical cuisine in a romantic setting. Favourites on the menu include Grilled Tiger Prawns & Beer Battered Fried Fish.

At Royal Orchid Beach Resort, Uttorda @ 7 pm – 12 am +91 8805013553

In & Around Panjim Global Shore Restaurant

A Multicuisine restaurant serving Goan, seafood, Chinese, Thai, Indian & Tandoori dishes. The Chinese & Thai food here is very popular among its patrons.

At Hotel Chandrageet, Porvorim +91 832 2414125/93731113205

Doçaria

Doçaria is many things in one. A coffee shop, beverage counter, cake shop, games centre, snack bar and dessert lounge. It also has a late night menu. In short, it provides everything you want in a relaxed open setting. At Cidade de Goa, Dona Paula @ 8 am – 11 pm +918322454545

A Tona Bar &Restaurant

Nostalgia’s the first word that comes to mind when one walks in to A Tona (meaning ‘A Canoe’). Specializing in authentic Goan & Portuguese food, the menu here seems to be straight out of a grandmother’s kitchen.

At Carina Desa, Betim @7 pm – 11 pm +9 19823129239

AZ.U.R

Catch up with friends or colleagues at India’s first transition lounge with a variety of bites and drinks.

At Goa Marriott Resort & Spa, Miramar @ 8 are – 1 am +91 832 2463333

Baba’s Wood Cafe

An Italian wine bar &restaurant specializing in wood fired pizzas and homemade gelato. Choose from a wide range of pure Italian dishes with beef fillet and fish always on the menu.

At Mala, Fontainhas, Panjim @ 12 pm – 3 pm &6 pm –12 am (Closed on Tuesday) +91832 3256213/9923414098

Carasid

For quick bites like burgers, sandwiches, wraps, cakes & chocolates, The cheesecakes here are also quite nice, we hear. At Ground Floor Chanson Building, Near Hotel Solmar, DB Marg, Miramar +91 832 2465904/9326111476

Cantina Bodega

Pizzeria, bakery & cafe. Owner Vandana utilisesher her expertise earned from her years as a top pastry chef in New York City.

At Sunaparanta Centre for the Arts, Altinho, Panjim @ 10 am – 7 pm +91 9011662233

Chilli ‘n’ Spice

A carnival of fusion cuisine, a bar to enlighten your spirits, this Multicuisine restaurant serves up exotic traditional fare, with a focus on Oriental cuisine.

At Hotel Fidalgo, Panjim @ 7 pm – 2 am +91 832 2226291

Coffee Cove

A wide range of espresso and specialty hot or ice blended beverages with freshly ground beans. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and sample American-style treats - baked fresh daily.

At Opposite Bata Shoes, Above Rooster, 2nd floor, Porvorim @ 10 am – 11 pm (Sundays closed) +91 832 6528222

Confeitaria

The Grand Hyatt’s patisserie, Confeitaria serves homemade products. Ideal for snacks, light lunches & desserts, it also offers chocolates, cookie, teas & seasonal specialties. At The Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim Beach @ 8 am – 8 pm +91 832 3011200

Coros Velvet

Want gourmet food in Caranzalem? Head to Coros Velvet. It’s a Multicuisine fine dining restaurant which specialises in ravioli, steaks & pastas.

At Miramar, Panjim @ 12 pm – 3 pm & 7 pm – 11 pm +91 8605020020

Viva Panjim

Located in an old heritage house in the bylanes of Fountainhas is Linda and Micheal De Souza’s home and their restaurant Viva Panjim. Highly popular for its authentic Portuguese fare.

At Fontainhas, Panjim @ 11 am – 3:30 pm & 7 pm to 11:30 pm +91 832 2422405/ +91 9850471363

Maracas Garden Bar

Maracas is a tapas bar in Porvorim with indoor AC seating and a beautiful outdoor garden area with a water-body and wooden deck.

At opposite O’Coqueiro Restaurant, Porvorim @ 11:30 am – 12 am +91 8805586728

Forrest Veg Food Court

Serves a wide range of fast food from different parts of India: Mumbai’s Butter Pav Bhaji, Frankies & paani puri, Delhi’s Chatpata Chaat & samosas and the South’s dosas. Apart from that, there’s Continental, Chinese, Thai & Mexican cuisine to choose from.

At Bhagwan Mahavir Bal Vihar, Panjim @ 11 am – 11 pm +91 832 6454353

Edu’s Restaurant

A Multicuisine restaurant with Indian, Chinese, international &Goan food.

Pizzas are one of their specialties.

DB Marg, Miramar, Panjim +91 832 2463777/2463888

Giardini

An alfresco restaurant, the menu here is exclusively Goan­Portuguese with some authentic Goan Catholic fare.

There’s live music on most nights.

At Curca, Bambolim @ 11:30 am – 11 pm +918805873335

Sher­e­Punjab

Well-known for its traditional North Indian fare, the restaurant serves Punjabi classics like Sarson da Saag, Paneer Makhani, Dal Makhani, Butter Chicken, Chicken Tikka Biryani& Mutton Dry Fry. At Rue 18th June, Near Levis showroom, Panjim +91 832 227204/227975

Tamari

If a fancy evening out is on your mind, then visit Tamari which does Chinese, Thai & Japanese cuisine (sushi) in fine style. At Vivanta by Taj, Lobby Level, Off Dayanand Bhausaheb Bandodkar Road, Panjim @ 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm & 7:30 pm – 11:30 pm +91 832 6633636

Tea Café

Tea Café offers a lot of goodies (along with tea). Everything is made in-house, including a wide range of pastries, biscotti, quiches, a mezze platter, sandwiches, and its famed Red Velvet Cupcake. At Empresa Dempo, 31st January Road, Fontainhas, Panjim Contact: +91 832 2223050

Terry’s Restaurant

If you’re looking for a riverside restaurant with scenic views in Panjim and around, Terry’s should be a good bet. The menu offers a range of different cuisines.

At behind Betim Petrol Pump, Betim @ 10 am – 12 am +91 832 2411961/ +91 9823028448

Urban Dhaba

There is a definite fusion of the rustic with the urban. While the menu boasts a host of cuisines (Goan, Chinese, Continental), the Indian food here is noteworthy, particularly Tandoori Chicken, Daal Makhani and the fresh Naans.

At opposite O’Coqueiro, Alto Porvorim +91 832 3290939 Email: urbandhaba@yahoo.com

The Verandah

The signature grill restaurant at the Grand Hyatt serves fresh market produce of seafood, meat & vegetables.

At The Grand Hyatt, Bambolim Beach +91 832 3011658

A Pastelaria

This bakery & confectionery serves gateaux, pastries, cookies& traditional Goan sweets. The chocolate & strawberry mousses are hugely popular.

At Vaidya Marg, Panjim @ 9 am – 9 pm +91 832 2426270/2426273

Panjim Inn

They serve a mix of Goan, Indian and Continental cuisine, including alcohol.

At 31st January Road, Panjim +91 832 2435628

From page 7 Actually, that is a great tip. Sometimes, little things like this decide if a dish turns out just nice or great. Anyway, grate the cheese on the fine side of a cheese grater. I cannot do this with my Philips Blender because the holes of the grating disc are too big. Place the grated cheese into a bowl.

Peel the mushrooms, give them a quick rinse and chop them into fine cubes. If your mushrooms are clean, you might not have to peel them. I prefer to peel them.

Just don’t bath them in water: Mushrooms are like sponges; they soak up the liquid and taste horrible. Add the mushrooms to the grated cheese. Crack the eggs into the bowl. Clean the garlic, crush it and add it to the bowl. If you don’t like garlic just omit it. Add the cream, a pinch of salt (be careful if you have used salty cheese) and freshly grated pepper according to taste. Mix everything well together. You should have quite a solid mix. You don’t want it to be runny. This would turn the pastry shells soggy because we don’t blind bake them.

Now it is time to prepare the moulds. I use trays with small muffin moulds for this recipe. You can use any moulds or ramekins that you have in your kitchen. It is important to grease them properly with butter or ghee so the pies come out easily after baking.

Take the dough from the fridge and roll it out on a flat surface dusted with flour. If the dough cracks, try spreading cling film over it before rolling. That works most of the times. Take a glass that is big enough to cover the bottom and the sides of your moulds. Cut out circles with the glass and tease the dough gently into the moulds.

Preheat your oven to 190 degrees. Fill the mushroom cheese mix into the pastry shells and bake them in the oven for around 35 minutes, until they are golden brown on the top. I give them a few minutes under the grill in my gas oven to make sure they are properly cooked from the top. Remember that baking times vary according to your oven. The pies are done when they look cooked and there is a tiny gap between the pastry shells and the mould. Enjoy!

Take your daily dose of calcium!

Calcium is one of the most important minerals for our bodies.

They are needed for many different functions, but I guess the most important is the health of our bones and teeth. Teenagers especially need a lot of calcium to grow healthy bones. Also elderly people need quite a bit of calcium to avoid osteoporosis (check the list below).

Cheese contains on average around 1000 milligrams of calcium per 100 grams. If you consume 150 grams of cheese every day, you meet your daily requirements. Of course, cheese and other dairy products are not the only sources for calcium but they are the most easily available. Small fishes like anchovies and sardines deliver around 400 milligrams of calcium per 100 grams. Calcium rich foods for vegetarians are broccoli, spinach, sesame seeds and other nuts.

Our bodies absorb calcium easily when they are young.

However, you need vitamin D to be able to really use the calcium in your diet. Don’t be afraid of the sun. Around 15 to 20 minutes of direct sunlight helps your bodies to produce enough vitamin D. Recently, scientists discovered more benefits of high calcium intake. It may prevent weight gain because it helps the body to burn fat. It also shows beneficial effects with PMS, cancer prevention, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of calcium:

Children (ages 1-3): 500 milligrams per day Children (ages 4-8): 800 milligrams per day Youth (ages 9-18): 1300 milligrams per day Adults (ages 19-50): 1000 milligrams per day Adults (ages 51 or older): 1200 milligrams per day

Rara Avis Konkan From Delhi to Baga

A

bistro, or ‘bistrot’, is a small restaurant serving moderately priced simple meals in a modest setting. Bistros (the French version of our ‘dhabhas’) are defined by ‘home’ cooked, robust earthy dishes and slow-cooked foods like cassoulet.

There are various versions of the quaint French Bistro concept, the best along the Rhine. Say ‘bistro’ and knowledgeable globetrotters think of quaint eateries on cobbled streets that wind past Parisian apartments, being serenaded by a musician in a beret whilst eating La Gratinée.

Last Autumn, new Delhi welcomed its first traditional French bistro: Rara Avis. Partners Jerome Cousin, Laurent Guiraud & Rajiv Aneja raise a toast today to thank the city: Rara Avis is already a status symbol amongst discerning foodies.

And now, they’re bringing the joy to Goa. Rara Avis Konkan is poised to open in Baga this November. Authentic French fare at our doorstep!

Rara Avis (Rare Bird in French) celebrated its arrival with carte du jour, a menu inspired by Le Midi (that’s the South of France bordering the Mediterranean Sea), which hauls in abundant sea-food from its coast, harvests plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and has meat on hooves at all times (‘specially Lamb).

Summer kissed helpings of Cassolette de Calamars à la Niçoise (octopus in tomato brandy sauce) or Filet de Basa Sauce Vierge (Basa fish with virgin sauce) transport diners to the chic eateries in St Tropez. ‘Côtes d’Agneau’ (lamb chops) offer a glimpse into the kitchens of the Pyrenees.

Rillettes de poisson (fish pâtés) represent the regions of Gascony and Périgord.

Visitors are spoiled for choice. Perfectly grilled seafood and fresh meat are accompanied by a selection of wines to compliment both the season and the food.

Rara Avis opened under the guidance of Jerome Cousin, Laurent Guiraud and Rajiv Aneja. The 48-seater Bistro is located in the Greater Kailash-2 market in South Delhi, occupying two top floors of a building. A DJ helps one to get into the mood.

Frenchmen Jerome and Laurent skillfully combine the simplicity of home style cooking with flair. “The products we use are artisanal and everything is home-made from bread to desserts.”

Rara Avis has an unfussy décor that engages the diners while they choose their favourite cut of meat for grilling.

About the men behind Rara Avis: Jerome Cousin, the Chef, has been living in India for the past 9 years. Born in Franche Comté, to a French father and a Swiss-Italian mother, he was groomed at his family’s 3-generationsold restaurant. At the age of 6, he started learning the “piano” (that’s what the French call their cooking-range). His grandfather went to the extent of designing smaller pots and pans to smoothen Jerome’s induction into the culinary world.

Laurent Guiraud, the connoisseur, was born in Paris and, since the early 90’s, has owned a Michelin Star restaurant in South West France – ‘Pays Basque’. Guiraud has lived in Delhi for the past 6 years. He worked with the Alchemist Group for 4, and was Ramola Bachchan’s pivotal arm in the opening of Manre in 2007. After a stint at the Olive Group as their Vice President Business Development, Guiraud felt Delhi needed a bistro which would combine his passion for food and his culinary experience in India.

Rajiv Aneja, born in New Delhi, is an ardent globe trotter and a self-taught cook. Rajiv and Laurent have been friends for many years. Like the Frenchman, Rajiv had harboured a dream to open a restaurant. He added the required entrepreneurial acumen and the vegetarian items.

Welcome Monsieurs!

Thursday, October 3, 2013

Feature 11

My Gift to My Students

By Sheela Jaywant

E

ven after generations of women have worked as doctors, nurses, air-hostesses and pilots, Goans have apprehensions when their girls take up jobs in hotels.

The hospitality students whom I taught non-credit courses repeatedly asked me, as I had worked shifts in a hotel long years ago, how safe it was. When I said it was as safe as in any other industry with the possible exceptions of the Armed Forces and truck driving, they weren’t convinced. When the numbers of rape cases featured on television increased, their collective, smug faces said, “We told you so”.

At the end of the semester, I decided to gift them a class on ‘self defence’.

Facebook came to my rescue in my search for an expert in the use of limbs and extremities as weapons. A martial arts’ master from Vasco, Mahesh Kamat, agreed to spend two hours on a working day demonstrating to my ‘bacchas’ how to deal with unsafe situations. I was as concerned about the boys as the girls: I subsequently discovered that Mahesh believed that the girls needed more concentrated coaching. I didn’t mind.

Attitude, anticipation, strength and endurance can’t be taught in two hours.

But the seed can be sown, the will to react and respond aroused.

Mahesh, who created ‘We Tao Wellness’ programs for the aam junta (common man), is best known in his home town, Vasco. What he teaches gives the tongue as much exercise as the rest of the body: Tai Chi Chuan (a kind of meditation whilst on the move), and Qigong (pronounced Chi Kung), a Chinese version of praanaayaam. One aspect of Qigong helps give relief from back and joint pains.

Mahesh has won several prizes in international competitive martial arts’ events. He teaches corporate managers physical fitness, in addition to teaching his students how to increase mental strength. In self-defence, one can’t have a ‘poor me’ attitude. In fact, he repeatedly stressed to my staring class, “attitude, anticipation, strength and endurance” is what is needed to overcome opponents.

Opponents could mean eve-teasers, hooligans attempting petty theft, rowdies

wanting to pick a fight, anyone. He cautioned: “One can’t take on a trained fighter, and one can’t fight to win if terribly outnumbered. But the chance of facing an attacker singly is high. And the chances of getting hoodwinked or bullied have to be drastically reduced if one has to live safely.” Point taken, my class sighed in unison and relief as the boys and girls stretched, bent low, kicked high, breathed, punched and swung laterally as they absorbed their lesson.

“Girls,” Mahesh said with concern in his voice. “You need to be strong. And fearless.” I had to interrupt several times to remind him that my boys needed to be strong, too. And fearless. Why the reverse gender discrimination, eh?

Having said that, I appreciated the fact that whilst the whole country was bitching about nothing being done after Delhi’s Nirbhaya died, Mahesh was so angry about the whole episode, so affected by it that, unlike most of us who shook our heads sadly and went back to our jobs, he initiated PAPAS, a project to help women stay safe.

PAPAS stands for Prevention, Attitude, Preparation And Strategy. Common sense helps, Mahesh insists. Stay away from situations where trouble is possible. Keep fit regularly so that you can run/fight without huffing and tiring your heart (the docs with the many abbreviations after their names call it doing cardio-vascular exercise). Keep strategies in mind (uh – if the guy is coming to paw your bosom, it’s ok to kick him between his thighs, high enough to make him groan… That’s a strategy, could be a life-saving one, so don’t hesitate if your life is in danger. But don’t do it in play, for such a kick can inflict serious injury. Use only IF and WHEN in deep trouble.)

“The Look,” he stressed over and over again. “The Look in your eyes, must arrest a person. Get angry, focus that anger, it’s energy, concentrate it in your favour. And always, always, always, be alert.”

Words my class took with them.

Am I glad I could introduce my class to Mahesh and his work? At least twenty young Goan men and women are now aware of how stay safe. May the good force be with them. 

12 Cover Story

By Goa Streets

C

all it a glamour & glitz blowout, a celebration of the evening, a tribute to entertainment and the good life, a networking and socializing extravaganza. The highlight of India’s first Nightlife Convention, presented by India’s first Nightlife portal, is undoubtedly going to be the country’s first Nightlife Awards – honoring the best, the brightest and the chicest of the nation’s nightlife industry.

Yes, this is a story about firsts. From Oct. 4 to 6, the Who’s Who in the Indian and international nightlife universe will come together at Resort Rio at Arpora for

three days of conferences, fashion shows, pool parties, wine & cheese tastings, after parties, exhibitions and, of course, the first-ever countrywide Nightlife Awards.

In the end, it’s not just about fun. This is also an opportunity for serious networking, for the sharing of insights, for learning from the best in the business. The Nightlife Convention is the brainchild of New Delhi-based Saarthak Gupta and his www.

MyPurpleMartini.com, India’s first social networking nightlife and lifestyle portal – a kind of Facebook for nightlife. Goa Streets is pleased to be the local Media Partner for the Nightlife Convention.

The Nightlife Awards and Nightlife Convention add to the growing list of highoctane events, shows and conferences being held in Goa. Says Saarthak, the CEO of www.

MyPurpleMartini.com, “It is the first ever

Nightlife Convention in India and www.MyPurpleMartini.com is organizing it for the first time to celebrate our 5th year anniversary.”

Www.MyPurpleMartini. com was started in 2008

by Saarthak, a die-hard party animal, with the idea of revolutionising Indian nightlife. Why did he decide to have this event in Goa when Delhi, too, has a rocking nightlife? “One of the reasons for doing it in Goa was because it is a party town and Goa is a getaway place for everyone from across the country,” explains Saarthak. He adds, “Since Goa is a tourist spot, the nightlife here is more chilled out and relaxed as compared to Mumbai and Delhi.” In other words, delegates and participants in the Nightlife Convention can let their hair down and soak in the fabulous, relaxed, Goan

Turn to page 14

The Clematis Nestled in the vibrant hub of Candolim overlooking the sparkling blue Arabian Sea Rustic and earthy, laced with Goan influences, cobblestone pathways and tropical gardens.

A boutique four-star hotel.

Perfect for the leisure traveller shying away from conventionality.

Walking distance of the famous white-sand Calangute Beach.

Luxurious, hospitable, relaxing. ‘The Bamboo Shack’, with a view of Candolim Beach, far from the crowds.

Our Vision is to

be one of the finest boutique hotels in Goa: through Quality, People, Delivery Systems and Commitment.

The Clematis has 16 stylish, air-conditioned suites: The approximately 700 sq. ft Aqua Suites are furnished with king-size beds & Plunge Pool in each.

The approximately 550 sq. feet Palm Suites have king-size beds for extra comfort.

14 Cover Story From page 13 vibe. Unlike in the big cities, the clubs and nightclubs in Goa stay open till dawn, and the casinos, which have also become entertainment hubs, stay open round the clock, 24x7x365.

“The Nightlife Convention is a platform to network with the Who’s Who from the Indian and international nightlife industry. The aim is to structure the Indian nightlife and hospitality industry,” Saarthak says. Some of the confirmed names of nightclubs, DJs and other performers, and entrepreneurs expected to attend the convention this weekend include Raasta, Titos, Mambos, Moets Group, Kitty Su, DJ Aaron James (New York), Manhatten, DJ Hamza , Vipul Agnirish and many more. “There will also be a lot of celebrities and models who would be present at the event,” says Saarthak, who has a Bachelors degree in Human Resource Management from the University of Leeds, UK. “ Although www.MyPurpleMartini. com has been organizing events across the country in the last five years, “the Nightlife Convention is the biggest event we have organized so far,” he says.

The awards ceremony looks certain to be the highlight of the event. Awards will be given away in 21 categories, with the voting being done online at www.

MyPurpleMartini.com.

Categories include Most Popular Artist, Most Popular Hip Hop DJ, Most Popular Dubstep DJ, Most Popular House DJ, Most Popular Trance DJ, Most Popular Producer, Most Popular Bollywood DJ, Most Popular Techno DJ, Most Popular Electronica DJ, Most Popular Visual Artist, Best International Act, Best Music Festival, Most Popular Artist Management Company of the year, Most Popular Event Company of the year, Bar Awards, Most Popular Restobar / Lounge Bar, Best Venue for Gigs, Resto Bar / Lounge Bar with the best ambience, Discotheque / Nightclub with the best ambience, Most Popular Sports Bar, and Most Popular Beer Brewery.

Mambo’s, LPK Waterfront and Cape Town Café are some of the leading Goan nightclubs and party spots which have been short-listed for the Nightlife Awards 2013. Goan party spots figure in the nominations in six categories. Three popular live music places from Goa, Cavala at Baga, Malts N Wines, next to the Baga bridge, and The Sofala in Nerul, figure in the nominations for the Best Venue for Gigs. The Sofala has also been nominated in the Resto Bar / Lounge Bar with the best ambience category, the only Goan party spot to be nominated in two categories. The surreal LPK Waterfront has been nominated in the Discotheque / Nightclub with the best ambience category.

Sunburn Goa, the three-day annual electronic dance music festival held at Candolim in the last week of December, has been nominated in the Best Music Festival category. Mambo’s, the popular beachside bar in Baga, adjacent to

Saarthak Gupta, CEO/Founder, www.MyPurpleMartini.com

Tito’s, has been nominated in the Bar Awards category, where it faces tough competition from a large number of other posh and popular bars from Mumbai, Delhi, and other major cities.

Cape Town Café, also in Tito’s Lane at Baga, just down the road from Mambo’s, has been nominated in the Most Popular Restobar / Lounge Bar category where it faces tough competition from a host of other hot restobars and lounges from across the country.

Some of the popular nominations include DJs Nikhil Chinnappa and Pearl, the husband-wife duo, who are regular performers in Goa. They have been nominated in the Most Popular Artist category, while well-known DJs like Anish Sood and Ivan figure in the nominations for Most Popular House DJ. DJ Aqeel, who figures in the Most Popular Bollywood DJ

category, is also a regular in Goa and was based in Candolim for a season.

Surprisingly, there are no Goa-based artistes in the Most Popular Trance DJ category, even though Goa is considered one of the country’s trance music hotspots.

While the Nightlife Awards by www.

MyPurpleMartini.com are the first avowed awards devoted exclusively to nightlife and music, there have also been a number of other prestigious awards in recent years. The Times of India’s Times Food and Nightlife Awards also recognize achievers from the nightclub space, though they don’t have awards for artistes and performers. But the Times Food and Nightlife Awards are done only in select cities and destinations like Goa, Mumbai, Delhi, etc, and don’t have an allIndia award.

However, artistes, DJs and other performers and producers figure in a number of music awards done by TV channels, radio stations and magazines.

There is also the annual Battle of the DJ’s which picks up the best DJ’s in the country.

On a personal note, asked for his favourites, Saarthak says, “My favourite bar in India is Aer in Mumbai. I love Sirocco in Bangkok and my favourite artistes are Swedish House Mafia and Deadmau5.”

Which place in India has the best nightlife is a matter of debate. But with the Nightlife Convention – with its unique networking opportunities combined with high teas, pool parties, fashion shows and performances by talented artists – it’s fair to say that for the next three days at least, it will be Goa.

15

Thursday, October 3, 2013

streetspicks Jewellery Exhibition

By Phorum Jewels They will be organizing a gold and diamond jewellery exhibition.

At Nanutel Hotel, Margao And on Oct 9 -10 At Hotel Mandovi, Panjim Oct 6 to October 7 @ 11 am to 8 pm

Pop up store Oh My Goa and Mog will organise pop up store along with a grand cake buffet Will also showcase trendy designer clothing accessories and lifestyle products.

At Mog, The Cake Studio, Margao Oct 5 to 6 Oct @ 11 am to 8 pm +91 8380078252/ +91 9822160275

Tarunaya Presents Dandiya Dhamaal Vinesh live band Disco Dandiya Nite with DJ Nix At Hotel Mayura Hall, Mapusa On Oct 5 7 pm onwards. +91 9765508091 /+91 9637895075.

Oct 4 Street Play Contest

Topics for the street plays are Goem Mhajem Bhangarachem, Ahimsa Manav Dharm or Ayche Adunik Pilgi. At Manovikas English Medium School, Margao @ 8.30 am onwards +91 832 2759940

Concurso Da Cancao Portuguese 2013 Portuguese Song Contest 2013 Grand Finals At Ravindra Bhavan, Margao @ 5 pm

Oct 6 Goan Draamebazz

Presented by Rotaract Club of Panjim At Directorate of Art & Cultural Auditorium, Patto, Panjim @ 3 pm +91 9766543836 /+91 9423531074

Oct 1 to Oct 5 Beyond Barriers 2

At Ravindra Bhavan, Margao @ 9.30 am to 9.30 pm +91 832 2726980

Oct 2 to Oct 6 Painting Exhibition

Chaturang a Painting Exhibition

by Raksha Naik, Sneha Vedkar, Sagar Chari and Ramchandra Shet.

At Art Gallery, Kala Academy @ 10 am to 7 pm

Abbe Faria

A legend in life and in literature

By Pedro Menezez

H

ere’s a little factoid that every Goan not residing in hermetically sealed cocoon knows but that may surprise a casual visitor to the state: The father of modern hypnotism was a Goan born in Candolim. Besides his pioneering work in hypnotism, or perhaps because of it, Abbe Faria has also been immortalised in literature by French novelist Alexander Dumas who made him into a central character in his most famous book ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’.

Here’s another little factoid that is probably unknown even to most Goans. The house where Abbe Faria was born on May 31, 1756 still exists in a quiet corner of Candolim, about 100 meters behind Highland Resort. The house is now used as an orphanage for boys by Provedoria, run by the Government’s Social Welfare Department. Around 20 boys stay there at the moment. Besides a small marble plaque which has been embedded into the front wall of the sprawling house, there is nothing else to indicate that this is the birth place of Abbe Faria.

Abbe Faria, born Jose Custodio de Faria, was the son of Caetano Vitorino de Faria of Colvale, and Rosa Maria de Sousa of Candolim, and had an adopted sister, Catarina, an orphan. His parents later divorced, and his mother became a nun, eventually heading the

Santa Monica convent in Old Goa. He was baptized on the June 7, 1756 in the Candolim church of Our Lady of Hope.

Many of the thousands of European tourists who visit Candolim and who have been students of hypnotism or literature and are familiar with the stories and legends surrounding Abbe Faria, try to find the house where he was born. Usually they’re unsuccessful because there are no signboards or any indication to guide them to the house. There have been sporadic attempts, though, to celebrate the life of Abbe Faria in Goa, especially during his 250th birth anniversary in 2006, but nothing much seems to have come of those attempts.

Says Fermino Fernandes, ex-sarpanch of Candolim, “We know that Abbe Faria is a big man in Europe because some of the tourists ask about him, so we thought of doing something. We had formed a committee of prominent citizens of Candolim a few years ago, when Agnelo Fernandes was the MLA, and had decided to erect a statue of Abbe Faria at a

16 Arts&Entertainment Art Chamber

Oct 2 to Oct 6

Galaria de Belas Artes General displays of Indian Art At Calangute @ 10 am to 1 pm & 4 pm to 8 pm +91 832 2277144 / +91 9823217435

India Expo

Interior Consumer’s Exhibition At Taleigao community hall, Taleigao @ 10.30 am to 9 pm

Oct 2 to Oct 7

Arte Douro Art Gallery

Consumer & Household products Grand Exhibition cum Sale At Margao @ 10 am to 9 pm

October 3 & 5

Carpe Diem

Garba-Dandiya Workshop

Learn traditional Garba and Raas dances with Princy Mehta.

At Studio 101, Sai Building, St.Inez, Panjim @ 5 pm to 6 pm +91 832 22221011/ +91 9922921533

Oct 3 to Oct 5 Homemade Articles Sale

Organized by St. Xavier Welfare Centre under the aegis of Nirmala Institute of Education, sale of crochet articles, handmade machine embroidery, baby clothes, household linen and other items made by poor and differently abled women at the Welfare Centre.

At St.Xaviers Welfare Centre, Panjim @ 9.30 am to 6 pm

Sept 9 to Oct 9 A violinist virtuoso, Rasa

Zukhaukaite

Is coming from Germany and having workshops. She has been invited by Art Chamber through the Consulate General of Germany in Mumbai.

At Art Chamber, Calangute. artchamber@gmail. com. +91 9823217435

The gallery displays paintings on canvas of original art & international print arts.

At Porba Vaddo, Calangute @ 9 am to 9 pm +91 832 22882266/ +91 9822147148 Carpe Diem, the newly opened art and learning centre in Majorda brings to lovers of art, a number of exhibitions and workshops. At Majorda @ 10 am to 6 pm +91 8888862462

Fundacao Oriente Art Gallery

Permanent exhibition of paintings by António Xavier Trindade (1870-1935) – a painter from Goa. At Fontainhas, Panjim @ 10 am to 1 pm & 2 pm to 5 pm +91 832 2230728/ +91 2436108 Retrospective Art in Oils, Watercolours, Crayons Portraits, Landscape, Still Life Photographs. Gallery celebrates Franjoão Centenary. Everyday, 4:00pm to 7:00pm: Retrospective art of artist Franjoao.

Near Our Lady Of Merces Church, Merces +91 9922509704

Gallery Attic

Sept 21 to Oct 14 An Exhibition: The Pepper Cross At Kerkar Art Gallery, Gaurawaddo, Calangute @ 5 pm to 7.30 pm +91 832 2276017

October 7 to October 19 Concept of Drupad in Indian

Classical Music

A display of painting by Goan Artist.

Opp. Don Bosco, Panjim @ 9 am to 1 pm to 2 pm to 7 pm +91 832 2420929/+91 2257931

Gallery Gitanjali

This Art Gallery is a part of the three Heritage Hotels, showcased are the works of artists from Goa, Mumbai and Karnataka; Suhas Shilkar, Jayshree Patankar, Kerky & Devi Prasad @ 9 am to 9 pm At Fontainhas, Panjim +91 9823572035

Panjim Art Gallery

The Panaji Art Gallery displays figurative & individual works of art by local Goan artists.

At Panaji Art Gallery @ 9 am – 8 pm +91 9822168703

Ruchika’s Art Gallery

Ustad Baha’ud-din Dagar Nana Shirgaokar Chair visiting Professor in Indian Traditional Music.

At Goa University, Dona Paula rudraveena@unigoa.ac.in www.unigoa.ac.in

Ruchika’s Art Gallery displays fine art, performing art and new forms of art.

Opposite Goa Marriott Resort, Miramar @ 10:30 am – 6 pm +91 8322465875/9850571283/9881836400

Galleries of Note

Surya Art Gallery is situated in a quiet location where contemporary works of canvas paintings & artefacts of Goa are displayed.

At Bandawalwada, Pernem +919404149764

Kerkar Art Gallery

The Kerkar Art Gallery exhibits installations and sculptures by local artists such as Subodh Kerkar and selected works by contemporary artists from all over India.

At Gauravaddo, Calangute @ 10 am – 7 pm +91 832 2276017

Akasha Art Gallery

This new art space in the heart of Margao is the brainchild of Sidharth Yaji and Radhakant Divkar.

Near Yogita’s Lifestyle Store, Margao

Abbe Faria’s house now used as a shelter for orphans

Galleri Esperanca

Surya Art Gallery

Xavier Centre of Historical

Research

Catch exhibitions of paintings, rare books and symposiums with particular emphasis on contemporary cultural & social issues affecting Goa. At BB Borkar Road, Porvorim +91 832 2417772

From page 15 prominent spot in the village and also to name the main road from Ximer (CandolimCalangute border) to Sinquerim after him.

But nothing was finally done because we could not find a place to erect the statue.”

There are also others who feel that the historic significance of the house could be capitalized on, considering his pioneering work in hypnotism, and also because of the large number of tourists who visit Candolim.

The only monument honouring Abbe Faria in Goa is the statue of him hypnotizing a woman next to the old Secretariat in Panjim.

Perhaps the biggest reason for ignoring Abbe Faria in his own homeland is that all the major events in his life happened in Europe, where he was finally imprisoned and died destitute in France.

In 1771, his father, who had by then embraced the church and become Father Caetano Vitorino, decided to take his son to Europe. Father and son sailed on February 21, 1771, making their way around the Cape of Good Hope, and arriving in Lisbon on November 23, 1771. On the ship the men befriended some influential Europeans who were also travelling, contacts which came in good stead in Europe.

Whilst Caetano Vitorino became the doyen of the Goan community in Lisbon, the son Jose Custodio became a priest. In Paris he was accused of taking part in the failed Pinto revolt of 1787. During this time he befriended many notable revolutionaries, which was suspicion enough for Napoleon Bonaparte to throw him into the infamous Chateu d’If

prison for nearly 20 years.

In prison he had a lot of time on his hands to fine tune his theories on hypnotism. His work followed that of Franz Mesmer, who believed that hypnosis was mediated by “animal magnetism”. Faria departed from this view, and his theory that hypnosis instead worked by the power of suggestion has held for centuries.

As much as his role as a pioneer in hypnotism, Abbe Faria is famous because he is a central character in ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’. His character is considered to be one of the greatest mentors ever, with one critic asking, “How else do you explain the transformation of the young, innocent Edmond Dantès into the ultimate playboy, the beautiful brilliant, learned, debonair millionaire manipulator called the Count of Monte Cristo?”

It can be argued that Faria is responsible for awakening Edmond’s aggression. He says as much in Chapter 17: “I regret having helped you in your investigation and said what I did to you,” he remarked.

“Why is that?” Dantès asked.

“Because I have insinuated a feeling into your heart that was not previously there: the desire for revenge.” 

Thursday, October 3, 2013

streetspicks Trek to Vazara Entry fee Rs 120/The YHAI Panaji unit is organizing a one-day trek to Vazara Sakhala Waterfalls. Membership is compulsory.

Participants are requested to carry packed lunch and water bottles. Bus will leave from the Old Secretariat, Panaji. At Vazara Sakhala Waterfalls On Oct 6 +91 9822125868

Music Course

Oct 3, 4, 5 Workshop on Paper

Conservation

Krishnadas Shama Goa State Central Library, Directorate Of Art And Culture In association with CSMVS Museum of Conservation Centre, Mumbai is organizing this 5 day workshop of paper conservation.

At Goa State Central Library, Panjim +91 832 2437944

Oct 7 Yoga Course

Padmashri awardee and renowned singer Shubha Mudgal will conduct a Music Course.

The registration titled as Diversity, Hybridity and Experimentation in the Music of Contemporary India.

At Goa University, Taleigao Oct 3 to Oct 4 +91 832 2451345

Dance Ballroom

A ten-day Discover Yoga course, where participants can experience the true meaning and basics of yoga. The course is suitable for all age groups. At Prainha Resort, Dona Paula @ 7 am to 8 am +91 9324711522

5 October to 9 November A Festival of Gandhian Ideas

Learn Social Waltz, Foxtrot, Cha-cha-cha, Jive, Waltz, Tango, Salsa Burn the floor with Goa’s only exclusive ballroom dance school! Beginner’s course, stepping stone to be a champ! @ 10.20 am to 1 pm At Mayfair Hotel, Panjim Oct 6 to Nov 3 +91 9823014397

The Council for Social Justice and Peace, Panjim and Peaceful Society, Madkai is promoting ‘A Festival of Gandhian Ideas’ This is a series of 5 lectures delivered by eminent personages. At Don Bosco High School, Panjim @ 5 pm +91 832 2422821

White-Water River Rafting

Every Friday

This river-rafting adventure commences from Ustem village and ends at Sonal village covering a distance 10 km in 90 mints.

On Monday to Wednesday (at re.1400); Weekends (at Rs: 1700) @ 10.30 am onwards +91 832 2224132/ +91 832 2226515 www.bookings.goa-tourism.com

At Swami Vivekananda Society Junta House, Panjim @ 3 pm to 7.30 pm +91 832 2224098

Tabla Classes

Atreya Vedic Farms

Casa Araujo Alvares

Sahakari Spice Farm

Museum Of Christian Art

Set amidst nature’s abundance at the foothills of the Western Ghats in Molem is Atreya Vedic Farm, a unique ecotourism ventures.

At Bondu Mol, Mollem @ 9 am to 5 pm +91 832 6570877 Spend a day among the lush green environs of the 130 acre 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 Ponda-Belgaum Highway, Curti, Ponda +91 832 2312394 Email: info@sahakarifarms.com

Savoi Plantation

Offers traditional Goan Saraswat cuisine served in mud pots & banana leaf plates along with seasonal fruits grown in the plantation. At Ponda +91 832 2340272/9423888899 Email: savaiplantation@rediffmail.com

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

Goa’s first automated sound & light museum. A 250-year-old mansion showcasing traditional inheritance.

At Big Foot, Loutolim @ 9 am – 6 pm +91 832 2777034 Email: bigfoottrust@gmail.com Website: www.casaaraujoalvares.com Open all days of the week At the Convent of Santa Monica, Old Goa @ 9:30 am – 5 pm +91 832 2285299

Water sports Scuba Diving

Attractive corals, coloured and beautiful, shells and fishes all invite exploration.

At Scuba Diving India, Alfran Plaza, M.G. Rd, Panjim @ 9 am to 5 pm. +918326711999

Barracuda Diving India

Pool parties and underwater celebrations among other water sports activities.

At Sun Village Resort, Baga, Arpora & Chalston Beach Resort, Calangute +918322269409/ +91 9822182402

Dive Goa

A dive shop and training centre established by Ajey Patil - marine engineer, naturalist, raconteur and PADI certified dive instructor.

At O’ Pescador Resort, Dona Paula, Panjim. +91 9325030110

Every Monday and Wednesday Capoeira Classes

Oct 3

Oct 4

A Voyage Round My Father by

Time Management Classes

John Mortimer

At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula @ 6 pm +91 9765404391 / +91 832 2452805

One hour talk on Fashion

By Wendell Rod ricks At Goa University, Bambolim @ 11 am +91 832 2420604/ +91 832 2238177

Nrityasankul is organizing a

Kathak workshop

By Mr. Ayaan Banerjee (Mumbai) At Nritya Sankul, Vidyanagar, Aquem, Margao. +91 832 2724059/ +91 9011059845/ +91 9823936483

Creative Art Classes

With elements of Craft, Music, Drama interwoven to develop out-of-the-box Thinking Skills.

Or alternatively 4 sessions a month on Sunday Mornings.

At Caranzalem, Panjim +91 9763550980, +91 832 2462054.

In collaboration with Noreen Carneiro At Communicare Trust, Dona Paula +91 832 2456156/ +91 9850951505

Friday Health Talk

At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula @ 6 pm +91 9765404391 / +91 832 2452805

Join Tallulah D’silva and

Bookworm

At Bookworm, Taleigao @ 5 pm +91 9823222665

Oct 5 Sunday Evening Quiz Club

Organizing an all Goa regional quiz championship called In The Zone.

At Dr Carlos Medicos, Aldona Market @ 5 pm +91 832 2293766/ +91 832 2289883

Scott Kelby Photo walk

At Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa @ 4 pm

At Tito’s White House, Anjuna @ 7 pm to 8 pm. +91 9769341128

Everyday Free Swimming Guidance

Organized by Walter Mascarenhas; Everyday by prior appointment only.

At The International Centre Goa, Dr E Borges Road, Dona Paula @ 5 pm – 7 pm +91 9822911161

TukTuk

From apparel to silver jewellery, bags to accessories and souvenirs to curios, everything at TukTuk is handpicked from across India. At A 104, Pereira Plaza, 1st Floor, Opposite Hospicio, Margao @ 10:30 am – 1:30 pm & 2:30 pm – 7 pm +91 9049017182

Spice Farms 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

North Goa Sephora Salon & Spa

A Dubai-based beauty services chain Nr. Don Bosco School, Panjim. @ 9 am to 9 pm, Open daily 2231314, 3260890

Spa Sitara

At Fort Aguada Rd, Candolim +918888886084

Neomi Salon & Spa

Navelkar Legend Dhempe College Road Tonca - Caranzalem Ph. 2461674 / 2462147 F9, Joe Leitao Residency Opp. Hari Om Jewellers Naika Vaddo Ph. 6513658, 6513659

Sevanta Salon & Spa Pvt.

Snip Salon & Spa

the SNIP Salon & Spa offers an array of treatments specifically including massages, scrubs, ayurvedic therapy, hair treatments and anti aging facials.

At Calangute candolim road, Candolim +91 832 2275421

South Goa

Ltd.,

Park Hyatt Goa Resort

The Shamana Spa

Sereno Spa at Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa is a unique health and wellness oasis that offers holistic treatments through a blend of unique therapies.

At Arossim Beach, Cansaulim +918322721234/+919923207075

Shop No. 1/284 B, Gourawado, Calangute, 0832-6524999 Grand Hyatt Goa P.O. Goa University, Bambolim, North Goa, Goa, India view map +91 832 301 1603

and Spa

By Aren D’Mello Noronha (10 years old, student of Std. V at St. Britto’s, Mapusa)

Feature 19

Thursday, October 3, 2013

Gandhi and his followers, at Dandi, Gujarat, 1930.

Goa Writers Reflect on the Great One Gandhi Jayanti and the International Day of Non-Violence was celebrated on Oct. 2, marking 144 years since the birth of Matahma Gandhi. To commemorate the day, we asked members of the Goa Writers Group to share their reflections and memories on the man, his times and what his legacy means for us today.

F

ive of us were editing PTI despatches at the National Standard in Bombay when news of the Mahatma’s assassination came through.

We were all shocked, but it was Shankar, our lone Communist colleague, who burst into tears. I said, “Shankar, just yesterday you were villifying him, calling him a bastard!” Still weeping bitterly, Shankar said, “I have just lost my father.”

That night, in his address to the nation, a grieving Prime Minister Nehru summed up the mood of the nation when he said, “The light has gone out of our lives.” The light had indeed gone out, but it flickered back to life because, for so many of us, Gandhiji’s message is timeless.

T

he day after the assassination, on the way home from work I got off a bus in Byculla to see a small crowd beating two young cyclists at the junction of Mohamed Ali and Nesbit Roads.

The group was moving slowly towards Mazagon, but stopping every now and then to deliver some more cuffs and blows. I went up to one of the leaders and asked what was happening.

“These are the hoodlums that killed our Gandhiji,” he said. “They belong to the same caste as the assassin Godse.”

“But they are here in Bombay,” I said.

in their would sane mind why experiment with anyone truth to burn who want branded clothes wear dhoti especially if inner temple, london taste with any who want veggies the what habit about of goat milk costly, no away to stay from all best truths

“They had no part in what Godse did.”

At this, one of the two victims spoke up. “We are accepting the beating,” he said. “At least, this is our way of making some atonement for the killing.”

As I left, it seemed to me that the two victims had absorbed and internalized the Mahatma’s message far better than the men who were keen on avenging his death.

- Victor Rangel-Ribeiro

L

ooking at the state of his country, Mahatma Gandhi got up and went about fixing it. Today even if we know that the land around us is in shambles, we do not get up and fix it. If our village or town or city or state is in a mess, we should feel enough shame and anger to be stirred to action. That rarely happens.

Once in a while a man like Dashrath Manjhi will rise and singlehandedly cut a road through a mountain in Bihar. Once in a while we hear of a Bai Fang Li, the Chinese rickshaw man who continued pedalling away after retirement to educate poor village kids. Imagine what we could do with our education and resources.

- José Lourenço

I

Gandhi Afterthought

remember laughing out loud when as a college student I had read somewhere that Gandhiji’s wedding gift to Princess Elizabeth had offended her mother Queen Mary who mistook the crocheted piece made from yarn

no Mahatma now only Gandhis - Salil Chaturvedi spun by him to be a loin cloth! Well, some of Mahatma Gandhi’s other actions too have drawn annoyance, even resentment, rightly or wrongly.

As for me, Gandhiji was a great soul, a Mahatma, but he was not perfect.

He had his foibles, he made mistakes; but accentuating these rather than his incredibly courageous fights against injustice all his life, would be like spurning the radiant beauty of the moon and instead choosing to focus on her spots.

So when I think of Gandhiji, I remember that when he faced beatings unflinchingly in South Africa for protesting against racially discriminating laws, he was just in his early twenties. I remember how when he threw himself into the freedom movement he swept the whole nation along with the force of a tidal wave.

And I marvel at how till today he continues to inspire people of all ages and all nationalities from the Pakistani teen activist Malala Yousafzai to the President of the United States.

- Veena Patwardhan

T

ourists here ironically sport the Gandhian look: expose skin and wear cheap chappals.

If Gandhi was alive, he might have encouraged us to hawk Indian-

made maal on the pavements of enemy countries.

Take-over nonviolently, effectively.

Our politicians wouldn’t have known how to deal with his honesty and simple living.

MKG would have convinced the aam junta to yawn, stretch and participate literally and figuratively to clean up the country, lead by example.

Wherever you are, Bapu, please do something for India. Soon.

- Sheela Jaywant

T

o me, Mahatma Gandhi has been the pivot of the country’s chakra. It is his drive and ambition for freedom of humanity that has always driven me to stand up for rights of people and as I have grown older, to help students to recognize this.

Where there is no hope, there is no life.

My grandmother fought for Gandhi’s Swadeshi Movement, talking to thousands of women, empowering them. I feel her presence whenever I give up on a cause. I would like to close with a line from one of my favourite poems by Tagore.

“Where the mind is led forward by thee Into ever-widening thought and action Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake” - Anita Pinto

Mind, Body & Soul 21

Thursday, October 3, 2013

Peace isn’t always easy to come by, but here’s some ideas about how to obtain it

By Perin Ilavia

T

he language of competition is similar to that of warfare, where you are urged on to fight, beat them, crush them, stomp on them, blitz them. But is it possible that focusing too much on winning will lower your ability to function at the level that winning demands? Sometimes it’s the fight that weakens and harmony that strengthens.

Our body performs at its highest level when there is harmony within. Tension brings the levels down. This is the essence in the game of detachment. If you can master it you will reach elevated levels like never before.

We are taught to procure as much as possible, hold on to it before the other guy takes it away, and even if you have it you continue scrambling for more. The majority of our lives is spent in “climbing the ladder”, looking at future rewards.

Others, however, trust the universe to provide as they tread a path to enlightenment. They focus on the inner life. Our educational experiences have centred on ‘knowing’ rather than ‘feeling’.

It is worthwhile to examine what you believe about being successful. Is it material accumulation, money, objects, ownership? Perhaps it’s time to abandon certain entrenched beliefs.

Many feel that detachment is to give up a good life and not have anything.

Yet in truth it does not mean you have to sacrifice what you have worked for. When you measure your inner worth by external acquisitions, it’s impossible to feel detached from them.

Detachment means freeing yourself from ‘needing’ attachments. You can continue enjoying all the abundance you choose, but with the understanding that without them you will still be fine.

Detachment can be practiced in the realm of relationships as well. This does not involve adopting an indifferent or noncaring attitude. When applied to relationships, it is quite the opposite.

You love deeply and unconditionally without being judgmental, respecting others’ choices. Detachment, practiced wisely, can prevent us from becoming emotional slaves or having our relationships break down.

It’s a misconception that you must go out there and

rattle cages in order to survive. Many successful people are those who flow with life, rather than fight it, thus experiencing inner peace, avoiding the struggle to row upstream.

It’s possible to gather strength by flowing with our encounters, learning new ways to process the challenges we come upon. For instance, rather than judging the slow driver ahead of you who is not driving exactly the way you think is right, detach yourself from the idea that he is wrong, flow with him, send a good thought, leave room for him to drive as he pleases and let go of your idea that he must drive differently. Clinging to the fact that things are supposed to work only one way, ‘your way’ - makes you the victim.

If you depend on someone, it is they who control your life. Replace competition with cooperation. See yourself as someone who functions effectively and happily, when you are not competing.

Without a doubt it is important to compete, be it in sports, academics, your profession, but in the end not everyone can win and it’s really OK not to.

The rewarding way to keep everything circulating is to “let go.”

Sit in a still place keeping all doors open, follow nature be what it may with no further dreams of fame. A million requirements are resolved. Lie at peace in the moonlight, hear the splashing waters of the stream on the rock. It gives more pleasure than a million coins!

Foyan - a Zen Master says, “Don’t set up limits in boundless openness.”

22 Hot Streets

Dear Acaricia May, I am beside myself with worry. We have found a wonderful, responsible, clean-cut boy for our beautiful 23-year-old daughter and were hoping they would get married. Until three months ago our daughter was happy about this marriage. But then suddenly she announced that she has changed her mind and that instead she wants to be with another guy she met on the Internet who lives on the other side of the country. She has never met this man in person, but insists she ‘connects’ with him. I asked for his details and did some of my own checking. What I learned was pretty disturbing. I found out he was arrested as a teenager for breaking into some hotel rooms with his friends. He has long hair like a hippie and plays the guitar and for all I know probably does drugs. When I tried to warn my daughter about him, she said she knew all of it and doesn’t hold any of it against him. She said those were his younger days and that she prefers to be with someone like him than some ‘goodie two shoes.’ I’m at my wit’s end.

What do you think I should do?

Signed, Lidia in Panjim

Dear Lidia, Did you ever hear that Billy Joel lyric “I’d rather laugh with the sinners than cry with the saints. The sinners have much more fun”? Why are nice girls attracted to bad boys? I’m not sure, but I can tell you it’s not uncommon.

How many of us prefer ice cream over spinach and the Grateful Dead over Rachmaninoff? What’s good for us isn’t always what we want. And what we want isn’t always good for us. Now I’m not saying that your choice for your daughter is spinach or Rachmaninoff, and hers is ice cream and the Grateful Dead. For all we know, your daughter’s preference could turn out to be good for her, and your choice a real dud. You see, Lidia, the factors are complex. Youthful indiscretion does not a bad man make, and character is not reflected in hair length. A man can be clean, and he may also be mean. Of course I understand that you are a mother who wants what’s best for her daughter. And that you are much more comfortable with Mr. Clean than this Internet hippie. Who can blame you? Talk to your daughter, Lidia.

Let her know your concerns without hitting her over the head with them.

Guide her. Protect her as you always have. Warn her of the dangers of letting her heart lead her astray. But in the end, let the decision be hers.

Love, Acaricia May