Issue 9 by Goa Streets

Three Seconds With A Saint | AIDS in Goa | BJPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pseudoscience

NEW YEAR BLAST OFF Start

2015

With a Bang

Saturday, December 27, 2014

Sunburn Goa 2014

unburn Goa 2014 was an outof-the-world experience, with fans from across the globe coming together to be a part of Asia’s #1 EDM festival. For the first time, Sunburn introduced “Sunburn Surprise”, an extra festival day featuring free entry to come experience the enchantment of an event of this scale. Just before 10 pm, Sunburn Goa 2014 reached its climax. The biggest beats were dropped, the brightest pyrotechnics blasted, the confetti rained down and fireworks filled the sky. On day 1 of the festival, thousands of fans were seen waiting at the box office to experience Asia’s biggest music festival. With DJ’s like Deniz Koyu, Shaan and friends, Danny Avila, Joshi, Anish Sood, Klingande, Sartek, Starlab, Fuzz culture, Quiver, Reggae Rajas, BLOT, Eelke Kleijn, Mojojojo, Nucleya, Klingande, Toyz In Panic, Sonic Species, Danny Avila, Kash Trivedi, Sunburn fans joined their favorite

DJs with full spirit. The Highlight of Day 1 was an electrifying set by Dutch DJ Sander Van Doorn who made the crowd go berserk. On day 2, fans were again geared up for an all new lineup of the world’s reigning DJ’S and to experience everything that they had missed the first day. They were also seen indulging in various activities like Hot Air Balloon rides offering a bird’s-eye view of the festival, ferris wheel, helicopter rides, cruises, flea market and many more. Legendary EDM artist Paul Oakenfold was back to Goa after two decades to create a magical EDM ambience to all his Sunburn fans. Paul Oakenfold, Krewella and Knife Party’s debut performance charmed the audience on the second day. Day 3 at Sunburn Goa also rocked, headlined by EDM Stars World #2

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Friday, January 9, 2015

FROM PAGE 3

DJ Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, making musical history by swaying lakhs of fans. It was a magical ambience with a never-seen-before mélange of lights, sounds and action. This year Sunburn Goa had introduced whole new attractions for music lovers to provide a complete grand entertainment experience. For the first time in EDM space, Sunburn introduced “Sunburn Surprise” for its beloved fans on the 4th day. Fans from got free entry to the festival on the last day to experience the world’s biggest festival in Asia. With 7 massive stages each with its own creative concept and a host of technological innovations, Sunburn brought 120

dance music superstars who blew the audience away with their mesmerizing dance numbers in a perfect mélange of light, sound and action. A Sunburn spokesperson said, “It’s been an incredible journey for us. Season 8 began with a bang and we loved the overwhelming response that we have received from all our fans. We thank Goa government for all the support that they have given us and special thanks to our fans from all across the world for their constant support as always. We promise to make it bigger and better next year.” Aiming to redefine the concept of live entertainment with never seen before experiences, Sunburn is now in its 8th year. Kudos! 

6 Heard on the Streets

Three Seconds With A Saint By Andrew Howard Editor’s Note: Andrew Howard, a 16-year-old high school student from Phoenix, Arizona, and his father Jim were among the hundreds of thousands of pilgrims who converged on Goa for the Exposition of the Relics of St. Francis Xavier. Here is his report for Goa Streets, part of a citizen journalism initiative called Heard on the Streets.

o be completely honest, the entire idea of traveling over 30 hours with my dad to see an incorruptible dead body, particularly one that's been around 500 years, did not exactly strike me as a good time, but I've been wrong before. A few years back, my dad was sitting on a cruise ship and began talking to the bartender, who was from Goa and attended a Jesuit high school. He brought up that every ten years in Goa they parade the remains of St. Francis Xavier and allow people to view his body. My father thought this idea was absolutely

Andrew and Jim Howard

Pilgrims making their way to visit the holy shrine in Old Goa

insane, and from that moment on he knew we would be going to India! India isn't exactly an easy place to get to from Phoenix Arizona (my home), and when you are stopping at churches along the way for blessings, it can really drag on. After a quick blessing from a Jesuit priest in Phoenix, we took a flight to Miami where we went to Christmas morning mass and, once again, stopped for a blessing. Later that night we took a flight from Miami to London, where we stopped at a third Jesuit church and received a blessing. These blessings were all meaningful, especially because they all had one thing in common - none of the priests had been to Goa for the Exposition of the Relics of St. Francis Xavier. Arriving in Goa was crazy to say the least. With all the big beach parties and music festivals, there was so much traffic it took us about three hours to get to the Panjim Inn. It was finally beginning to set in that we were all the way in India. Before we left Phoenix, I honestly thought that no one would be at the exposition, that it was some creepy religious thing that my dad had come across. To say I was wrong is an understatement. We awoke at six in the morning and when we arrived at the exposition at six thirty, there were probably 20,000 people already there. As we waited in line, we asked a man working there how many people attend in one day, and he said that because it was Sunday, around 100,000 people would be there. That's a lot of pilgrims, and most were from India. And now it was time to see the body of St. Francis Xavier, the co-founder of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), the saint who once called Goa his home and whose relevance has grown mightily now that we have our first Jesuit pope. Three days of travel to get from Arizona to Goa. Three hours of waiting in queue at the Se Cathedral. And then, at last, three SECONDS with the saint. Yes, the moment had arrived, but did it really count as a moment? The truth is these three seconds were highly memorable. And it wasn’t just about seeing the eerily well-preserved remains of the co-founder

of Catholicism’s most socially conscious congregation. The traveling and the waiting is what truly made the exposition special. Not many people journey from the United States to India, especially to see St. Francis Xavier, whose relics are displayed only once every 10 years. What was especially surprising was the amount of non-Catholics at the exposition. These people have such deep faith in God that it doesn't matter if it is their God or someone else's. St. Francis is very special to the people of Goa. He is thought to protect them and prevent bad things from happening, and this might be a reason so many people of other faiths journey to see him. The exposition, now completed, was very special. It was extraordinary to see so many thousands of pilgrims congregated in a single place with so much love and faith. And having the chance to share that experience with my father in such a wonderful place like Goa is something I will not forget.  Heard on the Streets is an initiative by Goa Streets inviting readers to write about issues they’re passionate about. If you have something you’d like to write about, send us your story or story idea at support@goastreets.com

Feature 7

Friday, January 9, 2015

Stigma, Anxiety and Ignorance Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello

Few things are as traumatic as being diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Here in Goa, the stigma of the diagnosis adds a whole new layer of anxiety to the already formidable health challenges. Dr. Charlane Pereira e Rebello gives a psychological perspective about the lives of these patients and the varied community efforts to educate the public.

amian, a 39-year-old man, has been an AIDS patient for the past 2 years. Being the only breadwinner at home, his illness has wrecked havoc with his family’s finances. He doesn’t know how long he will live. And now he has learned that his wife and 6-year-old son are also HIV-positive. As victims express shock and disbelief at the diagnosis, counseling is a must to help them cope. Feelings of shame and guilt arise as AIDS is often looked upon as somehow reflective of weak morals. Great strides have been made worldwide in fighting these outdated and uninformed attitudes. But there’s a long way to go here in Goa to spread the word about these basic facts: • You can’t get AIDS from casual contact • You don’t have to be gay to contract HIV • AIDS is no longer the death sentence it once was • AIDS patients have a right to live in dignity, free of discrimination Fears of discrimination or becoming a financial burden, lack of family support or being sacked from a job top the list of anxieties. AIDS patients have to work through their own feelings, tend to their self-esteem and, in some cases, come to terms with their sexual identity. Rochelle Pereira, a Margao-based psychologist says, “AIDS victims fear societal discrimination. A series of thoughts run through their heads, “How long will I live? How will I cope? Will my

family be able to manage the treatment costs?’” With about 1% of Goa’s population being HIV-infected in 2014, preventive and social measures need to be undertaken. The statement in legislative assembly last August that ‘Goa does not have a single village unaffected by HIV infection’ was a shocker for many. Rovina Fernandes, lecturer at Carmel College says, “Schools and other institutions of learning have to shoulder the responsibility of dispelling myths and spreading facts about AIDS. This will help not only the victims but also the public to overcome their fears.” From 2003 to 2008, Goa had recorded about 1000 cases annually. The numbers have gone down by half since 2009, mainly due to increased awareness among the public and other preventive measures. The Goa State AIDS Control Society, registered in 1997, has been working to reduce new infections by 50%, providing comprehensive care, treatment and support to those living with HIV/AIDS. Family Care Foundation, based in the U.S. state of

California, ran a clinic in Goa for people living with HIV/AIDS, and did medical checkups and provided medical supplies free of cost. Though the clinic is now closed, it continues to organize meetings and support groups so that these people have a positive outlook in life. With the national AIDS helpline 1097, information about HIV/AIDS and psychological support can be obtained with just a simple phone call. Mahesh Hiremath, one of the many who handles such calls, spoke in Hindi, “We have a 24 by 7 helpline available in English, Hindi,

Marathi, Tamil, Kannada, etc. We answer about 50 calls in our 8 hour shift.” Positive People, a non-profit organization, has been working towards HIV/AIDS prevention, empowering those infected and affected by it, and initiating research in this domain. Having branches in Margao, Panjim, Merces and Calangute, they work with sex workers, young people, drug users, migrants, industrial labourers and others. Many Goans may not know this, but AIDS is no longer necessarily a death sentence. Antiretroviral treatment, also known as the anti-AIDS ‘cocktail,’ can slow the progression of the disease to the point where many people can expect near normal life expectancies. Unfortunately, these medicines are expensive, and not enough AIDS patients in Goa have access to them. Those who do, however, are getting new leases on life, including Nazeema, a former prostitute in Goa who’s been taking antiretroviral drugs for several years now. Between 1987 and September 2014, the total number of HIV+ cases reported in Goa was 15,574, according to official figures. AIDS deaths between January and August 2014 totalled 1,040 in the state, a figure that makes it clear that much more work needs to be done to make the cocktail available to more patients. Various books have been written by scholars and organizations to enlighten the public. Dr. Savio Falleiro, Vice Principal, Associate Professor and Head of Economics Department, Rosary College of Commerce and Arts, Navelim has written a book ‘Economic impact of HIV/AIDS on households’ which was published this past July. The book ‘Containing HIV/AIDS in Goa (2003-04)’ by the Goa State Aids Control Society reports the majority of cases in Murmagoa, Salcete, Bardez and Tiswadi, the most predominant mode of transmission being the sexual route. A college teacher who did not want to be named said, “Quite a few students are sexually active nowadays. Starting out as experimentation in sexual play, the students get habituated to such risky behaviours at a young age. Lack of parental monitoring, improper knowledge, and practice of unsafe sex add to the unpleasant scenario.” Despite Goa’s high literacy rate and awareness campaigns to educate the public, the recent controversy involving parents’ refusal to allow their kids to attend school with HIVpositive children in regular schools is indicative of lack of adequate knowledge. “Alienation of victim children and other forms of discriminatory behavior should be considered a punishable offence. The country needs a new law to this effect to protect the rights of the affected. Awareness programs alone cannot change the negative mindset of the people,” comments Rovina. 

8 Friday, January 9, 2015

A Chef’s Kitchen is Not a Democracy... It’s a Dictatorship! The beautiful (and meticulous) culinary world of Vandana Naik By Kanchi Mehta Founder and Chef of Café Bodega, Vandana Naik speaks to Kanchi Mehta about challenges of being a chef, how her personality seeps into the kitchen, as well as her exciting plans for the future.

t wasn’t the easiest thing to get half an hour with Vandana Naik during the first week of January 2015. Alumna of the Culinary Institute of Art, New York, Vandana spent almost two decades in the Big Apple, much of that time starting up new restaurants. Along the way, she also acquired quite a few feathers

in her cap, working alongside some of the world’s most celebrated chefs in some of the world’s finest restaurants. Then she decided to return to her hometown, and bring a bit of New York to Goa. Three years ago, she started Bodega, a popular café amid the quaint hills of Panjim’s Altinho neighborhood, in the spacious courtyard of Sunaparanta Goa Centre of the Arts. “It could not get better than this,” she admits to me, “I have been really lucky.” I have known Vandana for three years now, and I have witnessed the growth of this café since the beginning. Firstly, it is not a walk in the park to come from New York into a small city like Panjim to set up a café. Her main challenge was availability

of raw materials as well as the standards of ingredients that she could use daily in her kitchen. One thing to keep in mind about Vandana is that she is a workaholic, and an unmitigated perfectionist. She is fastidious about how her food is prepared and presented and makes sure her staff follows her instructions to the very last element. One time I was at the café working on my notebook, sipping a coffee when I heard high-pitched clamor coming from inside the kitchen. I was about to get up to see if everything was alright, when I saw Vandana stomping out into the courtyard with a trail of the staff following her, a look of apprehension on their faces. For the next 30 minutes, there was an exhaustive stipulation by her in part Hindi, part Konkani, part Marathi, which climaxed in “…you only do what I tell you to do! DO YOU UNDERSTAND…?” I watched the limp nods of the staff as I hid low behind my desktop and giggled and said to myself, she’s downright crazy! Later in the day when I caught hold of the calmer Gestapo Chef, she explained to me “running a restaurant is not a democracy… It’s a dictatorship!” As it should be, I reflected. When feeding a large number of people it is imperative to maintain quality, hygiene and presentation. Herein comes the challenge of training a local Goan staff to be as meticulous as the chef and to understand the nuances of international cuisine.

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Food & Drink 9

Friday, January 9, 2015

Dec 26 to Jan 15

Awadhi Food Festival Follow the footsteps of the Nawabs again. Start with Galouti kebabs, Dum Biryani & Khameeri Roti and let this journey make all lost in the flavours, spices & textures of true Awadhi cuisine. Let Guest Chef Siddiqui make kebabs that will melt in your mouth and Dum Phukt that will melt in your heart. At North 16 Resort, Calangute +91 8554984843 reservations@north16.in www.north16goa.com

Every Tuesday

Goan Market Nights Experience authentic Goan dining in a vibrant market scenario with dancers showing off their traditional moves and local artisans displaying their talent in the form of lovely handicrafts and pottery. Rs 1500++ per person At Alila Diwa Goa, Majorda +91 832 2746800 diwagoa@alilahotels.com www.alilahotels.com/diwagoa

Every Thursday

Dine In The Dark At Spice Studio Give your eyes a break while your other senses lead the way to a rather special dining experience. Enjoy an Indian thali in the dark at the award winning specialty restaurant, Spice Studio. PRICE: INR 900++ (food only) At Alila Diwa Goa, Majorda 7.30 pm Onwards +91 832 2746800 diwagoa@alilahotels.com www.alilahotels.com/diwagoa Thursday - Seafood Night Market For a ‘Grand Goan Night Market’ ambience with artefacts, jewellery and handicraft stalls. Select from a variety of seafood delicacies and enjoy the unlimited fresh catch of the day, combined with live entertainment. At The Dining Room, Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim 7 pm to 11:30 pm +91 832 3011510 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com

Every Saturday

Barbeque Nights - With Caroline Treat yourself to assorted grilled delights from the live barbeque and more while losing yourself in the melodies of Caroline’s saxophone. Rs 1500++ per person At Alila Diwa Goa, Majorda +91 832 2746800 diwagoa@alilahotels.com www.alilahotels.com/diwagoa

Brunches Every Sunday

Sunday Brunch  It’s a different brunch every Sunday! If it’s an Italian theme one Sunday replete with homemade pasta and hand tossed pizzas, then it is comfort Indian the next with kebabs, charcoal grills, tandoor, appams and stews. Yet another Sunday it is Mediterranean mezze, then expect international street food like burgers and Bangkok grills the next! With a free flow of premium Indian wines, French champagne, Australian wines, imported spirits and beers, for all you can nibble and guzzle!   At Waterfront Terrace & Bar, Goa Marriott Resort & Spa.  12.30 pm to 3.30 pm   +91-832-246-3333  tacita.cascar@marriotthotels.com www.marriott.com Sunday Brunches@ 899/head Burger Pizzas Beer Salads Cocktails Desserts House – Spirits Beverages At Cheenos, Baga 12 pm to 4 pm. +91 8806564991

Champagne Brunch Begin your brunch with lobster and Champagne, then proceed towards five interactive kitchens – the salad counter, Indian, Italian, Grills and end at the dessert station. Pool is accessible to brunch guests, while your little ones enjoy various activities at Camp Hyatt. At The Dining Room, Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim 1 pm to 4 Pm +91 832 3011510 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com Brunch at Cantina Bodega This is one of the more interesting spots in town to have a meal. Under the supervision of Vandana Naik, a former top chef in New York City and easily one of Goa’s most notable culinary experts, there’s a wide variety of delights on offer, including pizzas, soups, salads, hummus and meat balls, plus an eclectic mix of Indian, Mediterranean and other world cuisines. That’s not to mention the desserts, another top draw here. Noon to 4 pm At Cantina Bodega, Sunaparanta, Panjim. +91 832 2421315 info@sgcfa.org  www.sgcfa.org Bikini Brunch Sunday BBQ Brunch @ Rs. 950 ++ with unlimited drinks Enjoy Live Karaoke with Emmanuel At The Park, Calangute 12.30 pm to 4.30 pm. +91 8805028194 resv.goa@theparkhotels.com www.theparkhotels.com

Baga, Calangute & Around

Go With the Flow Brazillian, Mediterranean, Fusion In an enchanting location on the Baga river bank, offering stunning views of the river, and sea beyond. Oh did we mention? The food’s really good, too. Chef Guto from Brazil really knows what he’s doing. We mean it. At Calangute, Baga +91 7507771556 contact@gowiththeflowgoa.com www.gowiththeflowgoa.com Fiesta Beach Shack Dinner: Every night 6pm onwards except Tuesdays. Lunch: on the weekends Friday, Saturday and Sunday 1pm onwards. First there was Fiesta. And now Fiesta Beach Shack. They’re both excellent. Highly recommended. Owner Yello Mehra, herself a show stopper, is part of the draw. At Tito's Road, Baga +91 9822104512 Caravela Goan, Indian, Chinese and Continental The lawn of the Goan Heritage offers a wide variety of well-prepared food and cocktails. At Hotel Goan Heritage, Calangute Noon to 2.30 pm & 7 pm to 11.30 pm +91 832 2276761/64 sales@goanheritage.com www.goanheritage.com Curry Leaf Chinese, European, Goan, North Indian and world cuisine. A good place to grab a bite after hours. At Hotel Calangute Towers, Calangute +91 832 6636000 info@hotelcalangutetowers.com www.hotelcalangutetowers.com Danny’s Grill European, Goan, Mughlai, Oriental With a varied selection of dishes including tasty Tandoori kebabs. At Hotel Riverside, Baga-Calangute 7.30 am to 11 pm +91 9767591368 info@hotelriversidegoa.com www.hotelriversidegoa.com

A Reverie  European, Asian   One of the finer establishments in the state. Popular dishes are seared fillet steak tournedos, smoked Australian duck breast, insalata caprese, basil oil, baby bocconcini, smoked tuna, chicken liver pate.  At Holiday street, Calangute 7 pm to 12 am.   +919823174927 /+919823505550 areveriegoa@gmail.com areverie.com

Anjuna & Around

Mamma Mia Ristorante Italiano & Pizzeria Italian Some of the best Italian food in the state. Tastes the way someone’s grandma in Sicily might book it. Definitely worth checking out. Also try the wood-fired pizzas. At Resort Rio, Tambudki, Arpora +91 832 2267300 fom@resortrio.com www.resortrio.com Guru Bar  Chinese, European, Goan, Indian and Italian. Great food, great music, chilled out ambience. What more can you ask for? At Praisevaddo, Anjuna  7.30 am to midnight   +91 832 2273319 gurubargoa@gmail.com Ciao Bella Restaurant Authentic Italian food The décor is charming and romantic, and the ambiance, relaxed and inviting. At Assagao Badem Road, Assagao +91 832 2273065/ +91 9767557673 Ciaobella.goa@gmail Biryani Palace Goan, North Indian Take a wild guess what this place specializes in? (Hint: let your eyes wander up two lines to the place’s NAME! No shit, Sherlock!) At Anjuna beach Road, Anjuna 11 am to midnight +918323257586 Coba Indian, Grills, Seafood It’s at a five-star hotel so how bad can it be? At Double Tree by Hilton, Arpora 10 am to 11 pm +91 832 66556672 doubletree3.hilton.com A Varanda   Chinese, European, Goan, Italian, North Indian, Thai.  Check out the seafood platter, fish curry rice, chicken cafreal and beaf Xacutti.   7 am to 11 pm   At Resort Marinha Dourada, Arpora  +91 832 2276780/ 84 resv@resortmarinhadourada.com www.resortmarinhadourada.com Alcove Restaurant & Bar Chinese, Goan, Italian, North Indian & Seafood Dine on chilled avocado and prawn salad, or get stuffed with the prawn stuffed calamari. At Ozrant Beach, Anjuna 8 am onwards +918322274491/2273349

Candolim Palms n Sands: With a view so mesmerising that the only thing that will compete for your attention is the food. Located bang on the shores of Arabian Sea, Palms n Sands has been catering a stupendous blend of Goan, North Indian and Continental cuisines along with refreshing cocktails since 1989. Dando, Candolim Beach, Bardez – Goa (T) 0832-2479171 (M) 9822149629 The Clematis Aqua Maritime Mouth watering Seafood Speciality with Mock tails and Cocktails by The Pool Side. Hookah Lounge: Enjoy the flovors of Hookah with Wine, Beer and Tandoori Snacks At The Clematis Boutique Hotel, Candolim 12 pm to 6 pm. +91 9582409058 reservations@theclematis.com theclematis.com Acacia Luxury Hotel Izgara Restaurant Mediterranean An open air roof top restaurant serves mouth-watering charcoal grilled food with a breathtaking view At H.No 586/a, Sequeira Vaddo, Candolim +91 832 6714777/ +91 832 2489361 reservations@acaciagoa.com www.acaciagoa.com Caravela Chinese, European, Goan, Italian, North Indian, Thai A long-time favourite haunt among Goans and visitors alike. Another draw is the party scene on Friday nights, with lots of ladies letting their hair down.  At Vivanta Holiday, Sinquerim 7.30 am to 10.30 pm   +91 832 6645858 vivanta.holidayvillage@tajhotels.com www.vivantabytaj.com Casa Sea Shell Chinese, European, Indian, Seafood The European fare tastes excellent and is mostly made up of steaks At Vaddy, Candolim. 7 am to 11 pm +91 832 2489131/ +91 832 2489555 Addah   Indian & Barbeque. Enjoy the sea view deck on the beach and the soft music of a live two-piece band, with appealing cuisine.   At The O Hotel, Candolim   7 pm to 10.30 pm  +91 832 3047000/ 9/ +91 9890800073 www.ohotelsindia.com Banyan Tree Thai. An open air restaurant surrounded by lush green lawns At Vivanta Holiday Village, Sinquerim 12.30 pm to 2.30 pm & 7.30 pm 10.30 pm +918326645858 vivanta.holidayvillage@tajhotels.com www.vivantabytaj.com

Avalon Sunset Bar & Restaurant   Goan, Indian, Chinese, Seafood & European   Some popular orders like paneer pasanda, fish masala, chicken vindaloo, seafood pasta, seafood sizzlers.   At Anjuna Beach, Anjuna   8.30 am to midnight   +91 9822586268

Barbeque and Grill North Indian, seafood, grills Live entertainment Seafood Bazaar is on Monday and Wednesday At Fortune Select Regina, Candolim 7.30 pm to 11 pm +918323988444 nelisha.rebello@hotelfortunegoa.com www.hotelfortunegoa.com

Baba au Rhum A coffee shop with a twist A favourite among the foreign crowd, this popular eatery offers lots of tasty choices. At Kudachwaddo, Arpora 8 am to 4 pm +919822078759

Bob’s Inn  Goan. Something of a Goan institution, this place offers up some fine curry rice and other satisfying fare. At Calangute-Candolim road, Candolim  11.30 am to 3.30 pm, 7 pm to 11 pm   +91 832 2489402

Panjim & Around

Route 66 Smoke House n Grill From the owners of Tin Tin in Vagator, this joint offers up extremely well prepared American fare like burgers, pizza, steak and ribs. At Fontainhas, opp. Patto Bridge, Panjim From 12 pm to 11.30 pm +91 9623922796/ +91 8805389714 savio58@yahoo.co.in Aunty Maria Coffee & Bites Available Fresh home-made breads, cakes, chocolates and cookies At Hotel Fidalgo, Panjim +91 832 2226291 secgoa@fidalgogroup.com www.fidalgogroup.com Goenchin Chinese, Pan Asian Yes the Chinese food here is Indian-ized. 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 cosy place to chill out with family, this establishment in Porvorim has been around since the 70s and has good pizzas 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 cuisine in Panjim, drawing from Goa’s Christian and Hindu traditions. At Panjim-Miramar Rd 11 am to 11pm. +91 9822175556 George Bar and Restaurant Goan Excellent local seafood Near Mary Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim 10 am to 3.30 pm, 6.30 pm to 10.30 pm +918322426820

Margao & Around

Brews & Bakes Brewing Smiles & Baking Memories At Shop No: 250, Abade Faria Road, Comba, Margao +91 8308800080 brewsnbakes@live.com Café Mardi Gras Goan, North Indian, coffee & snacks. Pan fried Pomfret Recheado, Chicken Xacutti, Pork Vindaloo and Goan Fish Curry are some of the popular offerings. At Holiday Inn Resort, Cavelossim All-day. +91 832 2871303 www.holidayinn.com

Canacona

Ourem 88 French, Italian The charming and intimate courtyard seating area adds to the experience of sampling the seasonally inspired bistro menu. Behind Rococo Pelton, Palolem +91 86 98 827679 Casa Fiesta Mexican The menu is comprehensive, with Tacos, Enchiladas, Burritos, Fajitas and other Mexican dishes. Does it taste exactly the way Mexican food is supposed to taste? You be the judge 8.30 am to 11 pm   At Palolem Beach Road, Goa  +91 9823928548

10 Cover Story

(Well, sometimes it’s more of a twinkle than a bang, but it’s still good!)

By Karan Bhagat

he question of whether a columnist should reveal his favorite hangouts in a ‘getaway’ place like Goa is debatable. On the one hand quality establishments deserve wide publicity. On the other, there is a natural inclination to keep the kimono firmly wrapped when it comes to talking about places that are charming, perhaps because the reason

Great Goan Culinary and Cultural Destinations This New Year they are so is because they’re not too crowded! I confess to facing such a dilemma myself when asked to write this article. But magnanimity prevailed. So here goes with my list of favorites for what they’re worth, secretly accompanied by a hope that not too many people will read this article (and if they do, will quickly forget its contents). Goa is perhaps best known for its eateries and beaches and

the focus here will be on those, but I will also list some favorite nongormandizing and non-swimming destinations.

Culinary: Some would say that the quality of produce should feature at the top of the agenda for any resto-bar review. But I beg to differ. Certainly food is important but in a comparison of 2 places, one of which has excellent nosh but zero ambience (and there are a fair few places like this in Goa) and another which has pretty good food but a great ambience – I would personally always opt for the latter. And thankfully, there are a few places where you don’t have to choose between the two. I also admit a distinct preference for the casual as against the formal. All the establishments below can be frequented wearing shorts and T-shirts, and none will make a big dent in your wallet. Bearing the above in mind, here is the list: Babazin. On the Reis Magos to Nerul road. Simple Goan food, stunning riverside setting. Baba Au Rhum in Anjuna. Nestling in the trees and overlooking paddy fields – beautifully laid out. Great pizzas and burgers. Also quality croissants. Enhanced by their consumption en plein air. Wok ‘n Roll. In Sinquerim, on the road to Fort Aguada. A jovial golden Buddha welcomes the scoffer to this sanctum of high quality Oriental food. Impeccable service and lovely views of the Nerul river enhance the experience. Art Café, Parra. Slightly tricky to find. Simple Indian and western fare, cooked with heart. A carom board and bamboo groves provide diversion while you wait for your juice and thali. Navtara. Branches in Mapusa, Calangute, Porvorim, Panjim and Margao. My favorite is the one in Porvorim. Don’t ask why. Just is. Bog standard décor and simple Indian veggie food delivered with

consistency. The background muzak score never fails to surprise. After all, in how many places can you get tearful over ‘Amazing Grace’ while scoffing your rava dosa. Bhojan and Naivedh – both on the CHOGM Road, virtually opposite the Porvorim Navtara. The former for its fish thali and the latter for its Gujarati thali. These are notable exceptions to my ‘ambience rules’ rule (as is Navtara, by the way). Babas Wood Café in Fontainhas, Panjim. Another one that’s tricky to find, but well worth the search. A tranquil setting and genuine Italian food. Great service too. Save some space for the tiramisu, which is molto bene. Route 66. Also in Fontainhas, Panjim. A relative newbie; it’s only been around for a year or so. I’ve just been a couple of times, but it’s firmly on my list. Good burgers and pizzas though they’d do well to put a bit more space between the tables. Beaches: Candolim. Among my favorites partly coz it’s my ‘local’. Though some stretches are crowded and the sand coarser than in the ‘South’, its steep raking and waves that can deliver an occasional slap in the face give it more character than some of the other better-known beaches. There are lots of shacks and a few are very good but I am going to be secretive about my favorites here. Sorry, but you’re going to have to ferret them out yourself. Ashvem. On this list mainly because of the superlative La Plage restaurant. A tad up-market (read expensive) but well

Cover Story 11

Friday, January 9, 2015

worth it given the high quality of food, and its beautiful setting on the beach. A great place to base yourself for a daylong excursion. Periodic dips in the sea can be rewarded with superior nourishment in a bourgeois bohemian setting. The only downside is their service, which can be a tad slow in high season – so place your orders early. Utorda. Coz it has Zeebop. A bit big to call a ‘shack’ & perhaps a bit too well known for my liking but well organized and the food here is more than competent. A good South Goan destination. The beach along this stretch is very wide and has fine white sand. The gradient of the shore is also gradual, so it’s a good place to visit with children. A peaceful time can also be had at nearby Varca. Books: The Literati Bookshop in Candolim. Books are only the half of it. Film screenings, readings, lectures and discussions all feature on the Literati calendar. Housed in a Goan bungalow with much character. Check it out. Nuff said. Films: Sunaparanta. The uber-discerning Sachin Chatte – ultra-reliable film critic,

radio jockey and much more, manages the film club here. Screenings are weekly and the choice of movies is eclectic. Warm almond polenta and cold coffee from the attached café help when slouching through lengthy art-house takes. Inox. The ‘main’ multiplex in Goa. Conveniently located on the main riverside drag in Panjim, it shows all the ‘major’ releases – both Bolly and Holly. If it has to be seen on a big screen, Inox is the place to do it. (Of course the downside to seeing any movie in the theatre in India is that they are often censored, which means you may want to make BitTorrent your best friend). Maquinez Palace. Across the courtyard from the Inox in Panjim, Maquinez Palace is the home of the

‘Entertainment Society of Goa’ (aka ESG). This is one of the outfits responsible for the annual mismanagement of the jamboree known as IFFI (the ‘International Film Festival of India’). Still, if you have the patience to put up with the shambolic administration of the festival (I have, just) there are some great films to be seen. The Society also hosts – much more successfully it should be said – some smaller festivals of films and courses at this venue during the rest of the year. Performances: Kala Academy. Also located close to Inox and the venue for some of the films shown at IFFI, the Kala Academy has one of the largest auditoriums in Panjim. It hosts a variety of performances throughout the year. I’ve seen musical performances, plays and the occasional film here. It is also the home to an annual Tiatr (a unique type of Konkani play) competition. Major downside is the website (checking it now – in

December – it shows a list of programmes for September but not for this month or the next one). Courses: Goa University Visiting Professors Programme. I’ve been mighty impressed with this ongoing program of short courses (on history, poetry, music, art – you name it), which is open to the public in addition to students from Goa University. Furthermore it’s free. Professors have included luminaries such as Romila Thapar, Sudhir Kakar, Madhav Gadgil, Jeet Thayil and Shubha Mudgal, among others. Something Special (Very Special): Turn to page 18 of this edition of Goa Streets. Nuff said. So there you go – the cat’s out of the bag (almost). Apologies to those of you who beg to differ on what constitutes ‘top-notch’ (and with the variety that’s on offer in Goa, this includes most of my friends). To you all I say, this column is open for contributions next year. Till then, happy exploring! 

Friday, January 9, 2015

Great Goan Experiences

Jan 12 to Jan 16

Wildernest Crocodile Safaris Offers a boat safaris starting from Britona Jetty(Nr Panjim) through backwaters and Mangrove-lined canals, which are home to fresh water crocodile locally called ‘Muggers’. At Kamat Centre, D.B Marg, Panjim +91 9595553799/ +91 9341112721 Seaeaglecruises.com

A Block Printing Workshop (Tie and Die) Organised by the Directorate of Art and Culture in collaboration with West Zone C At Sanskruti Bhavan, Patto, Panjim +91 832 2437941 aco4dac.goa@nic.in

Canopy Eco – Tours Offers a wide variety of experiences including nature-treks, butterfly tours, dragonfly and damselfly tours, plus boat safaris on the Zuari River as well as their original unique birding tour. At Housing Board Colony, Margao +91 9764261711, +91 9764052225 Canopygoa.com Goa Butterfly Park & Conservatory A small park on a hill that’s a great place to spot stunningly beautiful butterflies. Near Tropical Spice Plantation, Ponda +91 832 2985174, +91 9822125474 Bcogoa.org The Bushmasters Owner Rahul Alvares is one of our state’s most experienced snake rescuers. Snake Watch programmes costs Rs. 1600 per person inclusive of transport and breakfast. At Almeida Vaddo, Parra 6.30 am to 9.30 am +91 9881961071 Rahulalvares.com

Jan 11 Ayurvedic Healing Fire & Gong Experience The ancient ayurvedic healing fire ceremony known as “Agnihotra” to be followed by the Gong Experience. 5 pm Onward At SODIEM, Siolim +91 7798077543

Jan 12 FBB Femina Miss India 2015 Auditions An Opportunity to the girls of the city to change their destiny and witness magic. At Hotel Fortune, Candolim +91 832 398 2777 missindiaorganisation@gmail.com www.missindia.in

Jan 9 to Jan 11 Taste of Goa Festival Gino Bank - International Jazz Sensation Cyrus Todiwala - BBC Food Personality of the year Aditya Bal - NDTV Chal Le India’s anchor & Chef At Panjim church Square Garden +91 9822487818 armandogoa@yahoo.co.in www.goaforgiving.org

Jan 17 to Jan 18 Goa timeline Vasco Property Fair At HQ Hotel, Vasco +91 8888885180/ +91 98222000 support@goapropertyfair.com www.goatimeline.com

Dec 12 Onwards Scaravelli Inspired Yoga with Rupert Johnson Every Mon/Wed/Fri Drop in rs.500/At Shala 142, Assagao 8.30 am to 10am +91 9821138131 nancymendonsa@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/shalaonefourtwo

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

Every Monday Go Fish Go out fishing with local fishermen, bring back your catch and ask our chefs to cook it to your liking. At Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim +91 832 301 1234 grandhyattgoa@hyatt.com goa.grand.hyatt.com

Lifestyle & Fashion  Cheshire Cat Jewellery Gallery   This Gallery showcases jewellery, accessories and fashion, among other delights.   At Bairo Alto, Assagao  10:00 am to 7:00 pm   +91 9822580898   vanandelandpeace@gmail.com vanandelandpeace.com

Wendell Rodricks  A state-of-the-art fashion boutique featuring a celebration of lavish apparels designed by renowned Goan designer, Wendell Rodricks  Luis Gomes Garden, Campal, Panjim.   +91 832 2234082  rns.wendell@gmail.com www.wendellrodricks.com  Sacha’s Shop   A little shop of resort wear, prints & stationary, bags, jewellery, art books, handmade soaps, leather lampshades and wooden toys!  Casa Mendes, Panjim   10:00 am to 8:00 pm  +91 9823805897   sacha.mendes@gmail.com Baba’s Furniture Store   The store displays some of the most breathtaking delightful pieces available anywhere in Goa.  Open all the time but sadly closed on Tuesday   Baba’s Wood Café, Mala, Fountainas, Panjim   +91 99 23414098, (+91) 83 23256213   Sales@baba-goa.com The Private Collection   Features an eclectic collection of sophisticated women’s apparel, bespoke jewellery, colorful accessories, lifestyle, furniture, design pieces and more.   Anavaddo, Candolim   10:00 am to 8:00 pm +91 832 2489033  theprivatecollectiongoa@gmail.com Maria Elena’s Wardrobe   Discover an all new way of dressing up to a party with a range of readymade garments and accessories.  Behind Hotel Fidalgo, Panjim   +91 9049079769 | +91 7769043301  mari.land@live.com People Tree   Its first outlet in Goa, creates and sells contemporary crafts and cool clothing.   Anavaddo, Candolim   10:00 am to 8:00 pm  +91 832 2489033 peopletreeonline@gmail.com peopletreeonline.com

Water sports Champion’s Yacht Club Unlimited fun on water. Drive exciting luxury cruise boats and other rides. At Mayam Lake, Bicholim +91 832 6517080 www.championsyachtclub.com

Shine Beauty Parlour We offer Herbal full body massages for ladies and Gents and also Face, Head, back,foot Massage, Sauna steam bath and bikini hair removal Closed on Tuesday At Shop No 8, Ground Floor, Landscape Shire Bldg, Calanzalem 9.30 am to 4.30 pm +91 8888947629/ +91 8888939715 Water Splash Cruises A large fleet of Catamarans, Boats, and Cruisers & Yachts: take to the water, the sea, the sky. At Models Status, Dona Paula +91 8888864347 www.watersplashcruises.com Sea Wave Water Sports Enjoy parasailing, boat rides, banana rides, bump rides, jet skiing, water skiing, dolphin trips and more. At Calangute +91 832 2276362

Museums Goa Chitra With a collection of over 4,000 artefacts, Goa Chitra is an ethnographic museum that focuses on Goa’s traditional agrarian lifestyle and technology. At Mondo Waddo, Benaulim 9 am to 5 pm +91 832 6570877 Email: goachitra@gmail.com Museum Of Christian Art Open all days of the week At the Convent of Santa Monica. You may pray if you wish to, else just soak in the ambience of peace. At Old Goa From 9:30 am – 5 pm +91 832 2285299 Goa State Museum Has some 8,000 artifacts on display including carvings, paintings, manuscripts, rare coins and stone sculptures. A museum shop is planned soon with the aim of popularizing Goan culture through museum objects. At EDC Complex, Patto, Panjim 9.30 am to 5.30 pm +91 832 2438006 / +91 832 2437306

Goa Science Centre The Centre has a science park with interactive exhibits, 3D shows, galleries on oceanic science, explaining mysteries of the underwater world. Experience science through fun. There are some interesting exhibits explaining scientific principles. At Miramar 10 am to 6 pm +91 832 2463426 Xavier Centre of Historical Research See exhibitions of paintings, browse through rare books and attend symposiums with particular emphasis on contemporary cultural & social issues affecting Goa. At BB Borkar Road, Porvorim +91 832 2417772 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 Monsoon Heritage Studio Treat yourself to some amazing collection of mirrored mosaic art and handpicked artifacts at this upscale studio by Yahel Chirinian. At Mainath Batti, Arpora 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM +91 9822122771 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

Gift packs Cheer Festive Spirits! Actor Amrita Puri Introduces New Fashion Label at Goa ‘Pop-Up’ Store

hristmas and New Year are the most wonderful times of the year for the complete family especially for the revelers. In fact, the total beverage alcohol sales reach high during this festive season. It’s certainly special if your liquor packs meet the needs of customers who are time-poor and ready to spend big on last-minute premium gifts. The holiday season is around and has great reasons for revelers to choose their favorite tipple. The best way to truly relax and embrace the festival party spirit is to devote a good chunk of time and effort beforehand towards ensuring you’ve got everything you’re going to need the best. No wonder, jumbo packs always gives value for money. There are array of brands like Johnnie Walker Red, Blue and Black variants and Chivas Regal in 4.5 Liter jumbo packs. Then there are the Two-Liter jumbo packs of whiskies like: Black Dog, Antiquity, Signature, Royal Blend, Royal Challenge and John Rider. Jumbo packaging cues, such as Royal Blend and John Rider International Whisky, which attempt to convince the consumer they are buying a product that’s worth far more than others; a value for money product for a 2- Liter “special gift-carry pack” which is the first of its kind packaging in the liquor industry. Gifting remains a key driver of spirits during the festive season, particularly in the beverage sector where large numbers of spirit brands are given as gifts. Whisky remains the most popular sprits gifts in this channel. Retailers in Goa have already prepared for the Christmas and New Year rush. Alcohol is a big seller during the festive season and they don’t want to be left without stock. They have lots of promotions on various products, but will leave some space for gift-packs as people would often pick them up as a last minute present when they have forgotten to buy for someone. Spirits will do well during this season as consumers want to treat themselves over this festive season. Wishing all of you a Happy Holiday Season and a Happy New Year! With that we raise a glass and toast to 2014 a great year and to the coming of 2015. Cheers!

mutual love for fabric and travel have inspired actor Amrita Puri and her mother Anita Puri to launch their brand new clothing line‘Akuri by Puri’. The collection featuresIndian motifs and fabrics in contemporary silhouettes that has global appeal with casual, hipster and formal looks.Therange includesdresses, maxis, kaftaans, beachwear, kurtas, pallazos and Indian wear. This exclusive collection is the very first venture by the dynamic duo, who are thrilled to present their new collection here in Goa. The special showing of the clothing label ‘Akuri by Puri’ will be held on 11th January 2015 at the Acron Waterfront resort from 11:00 a.m. onwards. Amrita Puri is a well-known actress known for her critically acclaimed roles in films such as ‘Aisha’, ‘Blood Money’ and ‘Kai Po Che’. She has also worked in theatrical plays such as in Quasar Padamsee's‘Retellings View From The Stage’ and ‘The Interview’. Currently, she is working on an on going production of Rage Productions 'The Glass Menagerie'.With a flair for pulling off sleek and elegant styles, Amrita has always had a keen eye for fabric and attention to detail. Amrita describes their style as comfortable, all-occasion wear with an ethnic twist. The Indo-Western collection is heavily inspired by tie and dye in free flowing fabrics like silk and georgette. “A lot of our garments have an easy chic feel to them and a certain sensuality that these flowing fabrics lend to them. We have also used mirrorwork and Ikat that have been sourced directly from the interiors of Gujarat.” remarks Amrita. The brand name is derived from a Parsee preparation of scrambled eggs infused with spices, which sums up their aesthetic approach. Craftsmanship, quality and uniqueness form the essence of Akuri and their collection is currently on display at the ‘Mythology’ boutique in Singapore. Media Contact: Anuradha Visvanathan, Plug PR M: 8308803103 Email: anu@plugpr.in

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ct talents.” She and hone distin in the industry n io ct re di t gh e ri tors him or her in th iends and men as faculty together her fr te g in bu ri br nt to s co d an pl arts. e, an e for culinary on this ventur to collaborate te a unique educational spac in touch with s ea members to cr busy schedule, Vandana keep d is up to date e, an ob gl e th ss In spite of her ro ac in and colleagues s, chefs and culinary trends all her friends nt new ra ng au ni st ar re le of d er an with the turnov continuously experimenting ily. m fa d is iends an New York. She es and sharing them with fr g sure they isin akin flavors and cu r guests and m ng and always oking after he gi lo s an ay ch w er al ev is is e Sh , enu (which m e sitive criticism th po ith r w fo y always up are happ am at d th l an fu st rm be y ha m inviting). “I do hing negative or cause I live in be affected by anyt e but I am never y about me or the café. This is ch is my ultimat sa hi w to k, ve or ha w y m by people en iv , which is dr tural high”. my own bubble me happy and gives me a na dega’s Facebook es Bo ak m om priority. It quote this fr I ll, he ts nu a A lmiki. n apt To put it into n, written by Va with: “Maybe it was a io ct se ’ ut bo ‘a I conclude page in the don Vandana, which born in the same year as Gor description of ild th ch ence in e being a 60s cades of experi onality de o consequence of tw t os m al be it is a's pers Ramsay, or may world, New York, but Vandan at the e t th bu of g, ty tin ci ci l usly ex capita jump - precario d not have said it ee ng bu a e lik ul is co ly grounded.” I same time firm better. 

14 Wheels On Streets

Rally De Moto A Beautiful Ride

By Gautam Amonkar

ally De Moto was a ride of beautiful machines cruising down the roads of Goa on Sunday 28th December. With a wonderful year coming to an end, this ride was cherished by all those who made it to this rally – a celebration of freedom on the open road, a no-holdsbarred expression of strength and speed. Rally DE Moto was organized by Osborn Fernandes and Gautam Amonkar (well that’s me), with the sole aim of getting likeminded people and groups to a common platform to share their ride, experience and love for their machines. Rally DE Moto saw good participation from more than 20 bikes, which included 2 BSA’s, Lambretta’s, Vijay Super, Yezdi’s, Jawa’s, Vespa and a Puch which purred back to life after a gap of 25 years. The Ride also saw a Mr. Menezes, 82 years old, who came specially to meet us and also share a candid moment with his Puch 175 and his plans to restore grounds up. The ride began from Panjim with 8 bikers riding to South Goa, Margao. We then assembled at SPGDA ground to meet the remaining participants

and friends and a quick photoshoot. We were also joined by Mr. Olavo Desouza with his FIAT 1100 and Andrade with Standard Super 10. We then rode/drove to Colva Beach for the final photoshoot and to discuss the big Idea.

The BIG IDEA of Rally De Moto • Create a platform for likeminded people who own, restore, collect and have interest in vintages, classics and

machines of the past • To prevent the sale of Goan bikes and cars from being sold to people outside Goa • Preserve these beauties to be roadworthy and see them running on our beautiful Goan roads • To create a forum for easy buying of spares and access to expertise for restoration • Organize more such rides

• Get ready for the BIG SHOW

In all, the Rally DE Moto was very successful with riders enjoying every moment and coming away with a commitment to take this initiative further. A special thanks to Devesh, Fenelon Rodrigues and others who helped make this event possible. And thanks for Veer & Hercules for capturing the show! 

List of folks who made it for the Rally DE Moto (The list is alphabetical order of machines) Machine Name

BSA A10 BSA A7 FIAT 1100 Jawa 250 Jawa 250 Jawa 250 Lambretta PUCH 175 Royal Enfield Royal Enfield Yamaha RD 350 Yamaha RD 350 Yezdi Yezdi B model Yezdi B model Yezdi 250

Year of Name of the owner manufacturing Prajhot Pednekar Malcom Afonso 1962 Larsen De Souza 1973 Govit Morajkar 1973 Adolfo Carvalho 1969 Melvin Fernandes 1968 Royal Caeiro 1959 Larsen De Souza 1983 Altaf S Khalifa 1983 Irfan Chalf 1984 Vaibhav Salkar 1983 Gaston Serrao Joaquim Dias 1977 Melvin Fernandes 1979 Osborn Fernandes 1980 Jai Krishna Dessai

World View 15

Friday, January 9, 2015

The BJP’s Pseudoscience

By Steven Gutkin

or those of us who believe in the primacy of science and relish the progress of human knowledge, the recent Indian Science Congress held in Mumbai was a particularly troubling event. Alongside legitimate lectures on antibiotic resistance and the origins of life, a former pilot trainer spoke of how an ancient Hindu sage, not the Wright Brothers, invented the first airplane – and this one could fly in all directions, backwards, forwards and sideways, and even travel between planets. At the Congress, Indian Science and Technology Minister Harsh Vardhan claimed Indians, not the Greeks, discovered the Pythagorean theorem, and another minister remarked that a helmet from the Mahbharata was delivered to Mars. It’s one thing when regular folks mix mythology with science, and it’s quite another when it’s done by the government of the second most populous nation on Earth. If those in charge of setting national policy for India do not understand the role of science in human development – which places reality above human bias – then how will that policy address the true needs of the people? Science isn’t perfect, to be sure. But

By Steven Gutkin

nless you’re a member of ISIS, al Qaeda or the Taliban, your reaction to this week’s murder in Paris of 10 journalists and two cops at the French satirical publication Charlie Hebdo was certainly one of horror. Cartoonists were murdered because of their cartoons. Everyone who believes in tolerance, freedom of expression, democracy and pluralism is deeply affected by this atrocity at the hands of Muslim extremists in Paris. Yet among the more notable debates in the aftermath of the attack is between those who share the outrage over the carnage but differ over the provocative cartoons themselves. On the one side are those who say the correct response is to keep up the offending satire and even increase it, demonstrating that the inalienable rights of a free democracy – including the right to offend – cannot be squelched by an act of terror. “Following such attacks, there should be more satire,

when it comes to the advancement of the human race, it’s the best thing we have going. It’s the reason we have space travel and motor bikes and a polio vaccine and iPads. The essence of science is the discovery of reality, which frees us from the biases and delusions that emerged from the fact that our brains evolved from our animal ancestors, who were more concerned about avoiding predators than understanding the nature of the universe. The reason humans have advanced so much more in the past 300 years than we did in the previous 50,000 is because of the advent of the scientific method. All scientists understand that evidence must be followed regardless of where it leads. That one must attempt to prove theories wrong as much as trying to show they’re right. That the ultimate judge of truth is experimentation, not pre-conceived notions of how we’d like things to be. So when Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks of Lord Ganesha as a feat of ancient Hindu plastic surgery, or when his ministers seek to introduce outlandish, unproved claims in the national education curriculum, the bastardization of science is not the only reason for concern. To further the cause of development, to compete in the 21st century, to claim India’s rightful place in

the world of research and development, India needs a clear scientific vision emanating from the top. Before the latest Indian Science Congress, Dr. Ram Prasad Gandhirman, a scientist at NASA’s Ames Research Centre in California, organized an online petition – signed by more than 220 scientists and academicians worldwide – demanding the cancellation of the lecture on “Ancient Indian Aviation Technology” as an affront to the “integrity of the scientific progress.” "We as scientific community should be seriously concerned about the infiltration of pseudo-science in science curricula with backing of influential political parties. Giving a scientific platform for a pseudoscience talk is worse than a systematic attack that has been carried out by politically powerful pseudoscience propagandists in the recent past. If we scientists remain

Je Suis Charlie The Cartoon Murders

and this will be the case for our magazine as well,” Tim Wolff, editor of Germany’s most popular satirical magazine Titanic, told Deutsche Welle. “Of course, on the personal level, we are scared when we hear about such violence. However, as a satirist, we are beholden to the principle that every human being has the right to be parodied. This should not stop just because of some idiots who go around shooting.” On the other side are those who say the cartoons – including a spoof issue of Charlie Hebdo mockingly “guestedited” by the Prophet Mohammed – are racist, inappropriate and propagated by privileged

white people divorced from the daily reality of disenfranchised Muslims in places like Paris. “For us to truly honor the victims of a terrorist attack on free speech, we must not spread hateful racism blithely, and we should not take pride in extreme attacks on oppressed and marginalized peoples,” wrote one blogger, Jacob Canfield. This view that Charlie Hebdo had crossed the line had been expressed by several governments in recent years, especially after a virulently anti-Islam video in the U.S. depicting Mohammed as a womanizer and child molester resulted in some 30 deaths during violent protests. “Is it pertinent, intelligent in this context to pour oil on the fire?” French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius asked at the time. “The answer is no.” After this week’s attack that killed some of the most prominent cartoonists and satirists in France, however, the questioning of Charlie Hebdo’s judgment has been largely limited to bloggers and academics. Mainstream players, including the French government, had only kind words for the publication and angry ones for the perpetrators.

passive, we are betraying not only the science, but also our children," the petition says. Modern science is the most significant human adventure in history, responsible for unprecedented progress. Debasing it by confusing it with mythology is the exactly the wrong approach for a government that won its mandate on promises of development. 

That seems appropriate after a massacre of this sort. With those journalists murdered for exercising their right to free speech, anything else would come off as blaming the victim. Yes, while it’s legitimate to question Charlie Hebdo’s judgment, it’s not legitimate to question their right to say what they please. "Muhammad isn't sacred to me," Charlie Hebdo editor Stephane Charbonnier told the Associated Press in 2012. "I don't blame Muslims for not laughing at our drawings. I live under French law. I don't live under Quranic law." Charbonnier, whose pen name was “Charb”, was among those murdered on Wednesday. CNN journalist Fareed Zakaria has stated that he does not expect a groundswell of protest from ordinary Muslims because of their community’s deeply held attitudes about blasphemy – and that coming out too strongly against the attack could be seen as weakness in defending the prophet’s honour. And yet some of the most eloquent statements of condemnation have come from Muslims themselves, including this one from Islamic scholar Sheikh Omar Suleiman: “What is more insulting to the Prophet (peace be upon him) than satirical cartoons are those who murder innocent people in his name.” Steven Gutkin runs Goa Streets along with his wife Marisha Dutt.

Friday, January 9, 2015

At the Gallery Gitanjali in Panjim

Painting based on the refractive quality of water by Suhas Shilkar

By Perin Ilavia

n one of her earlier exhibitions, art curator Neeta Omprakash displayed a work depicting a goddess of water, and a spark was lit – giving rise to a fabulous group show now happening at the Gallery Gitanjali in Panjim, titled “Life of Forms Through Water.” The show, on from Jan. 5 to 12, features works of Indian, African and Iranian artists settled in the United States, among others. “Life as we know it began from water. Water in the womb cradles the beginning of our existence. We search for life on other planets by the existence of water in them. The potential of water to give life as well as take it away has intrigued humanity since its origin,” Neeta explains. Artists, she says, have long explored

water and its immense significance for humanity through religious rituals, myths, folk tales, poetry, music and paintings. This exploration transcends cultures and time. “Today, the world over we are grappling with the spill offs of greed and ignorance as our water bodies are fast disappearing or getting poisoned,” Neeta says. Among the artists displaying their water-related themes are Anjali Deshmukh, Amina Ahmed, Robert Kirschbaum, Afarin Rahmanifar, Krishna Reddy (the renowned printmaker), his wife Judy Blum Reddy, Gail Gelburd, Kathryn Myers, Vinode Dave, Peggy Blood and Gail Gelburd. The latter is a professor in the Visual Arts Department at Eastern Connecticut

Arts & Entertainment 17

Friday, January 9, 2015

Jan 9 onwards

Galleries Of Note

Lokotsav -2015 The department of Art and culture, will be organising the 16th National level art and crafts fair i.e. ‘lokotsav 2015 ( Folk Festival) in joint collabaration with west zone culture centre, udaipur & in assocition with kala academy, Goa & Sports authority of Goa fron january9 to 18 jan at Darya Sangam, Kala Academy, Panjim http://kalaacademygoa.org/

Off The Wall  A collectible of deeply astounding works of art displayed on daily basis at this thoughtful art cafe. Fort Aguada Road, Sinquerim, Candolim 10:30 am to 11:30 pm +91 9820083497 | +91 9823289123

Nov 13 to Jan 12, 2015 An Exhibition of Selected Paintings Angelo da Fonseca Retrospective Monday to Friday At Xavier Centre of Historical Research, Alto Porvorim 10 am to 5 pm +91 832 2417772/ +91 832 2414971

Dec 6 to Jan 25, 2015 Sensorium - Sunaparanta Goa Festival of Arts, Literature & Ideas. Anusha Yadav, Curator, Indian Memory Project - A People History. Dayanita Singh - Offset. Farrokh Chothia - Jazz. Fausto Giaccone- Macondo, The World of Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Gopika Chowfla- Flesh. Jesus Clavero Rodrigues, Curator Photo Poetry, Octavio Paz in India. Regina Anzenberger, Curator Handmade Preferred. Sohrab Hura - Life is Elsewhere. Sooni Taraporewala- Screenplay to Screen January 11: Artist Jitish Kallat will give a talk about curating the Kochi Biennale and how photography allowed him to plan out the same. At Sunaparanta - Goa Centre for the Arts, Panjim 10 am to 7 pm +91 832 2421311

Jan 11 to Jan 25 "The Mystery Returns" An Exhibition of Paintings by Suhas Shilker At Carpe Diem Art Gallery, Majorda 10 am to 7 pm +91 832 2881035/ +91 88888624642 www.carpediemgoa.com

Jan 14 to Jan 18 The Story of Light The Story of Light Festival explores the intersection of science, philosophy, and culture through art and design. At Miramar Beach hello@thestoryoflight.org www.thestoryoflight.org

Until February ‘Mutabilis’ Exhibition An exquisite collection of paintings, prints and illustrations By Shireen Mody and Saffron Wiehl At Their Studio/Gallery, 33/1 Viegas Vado, Arpora, Goa. +91 9890009117/ +91 9890536062

Panjim Art Gallery  Get a dose of the local culture with figurative work of Goan artists.  Near Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim   9:00 am to 8:00 pm  +91 9822168703   Mario Art Gallery   Discover the original paintings and other memorabilia of the great Goan artist/cartoonist Mario Miranda. Here you can buy “The Life of Mario”, as well as prints, mounted prints, frames, tiles, mugs, card sets and other books.   ‘Houses of Goa’, Salvador-do-Mundo, Porvorim area  9:00 am to 5:30 pm  +91 832 2410711 archauto@gmail.com www.mariodemiranda.com  Gallery Gitanjali   An elegant art gallery in Panjim’s Latin Quarter is worth hopping into when you’re in the area. Fontainhas, Panjim  9:00 am to 9:00 pm  +91 9823572035 gallerygitanjali@gmail.com www.gallerygitanjali.com Art Chamber: Galleria de Belas Artes   One of the more interesting and pleasant art centers in the state, featuring confident acrylic strokes that are somewhat three dimensional, put across the canvas by Yolanda De Souza and others. The musical acts here are worth looking out for.  Gaura Vaddo, Calangute   10:00 am to 1:00 pm & 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm   +91 832 2277144 | +91 9823217435 artchamber@gmail.com www.goa-art.com 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

State University, teaching Asian, African-American, Cuban, Japanese and Contemporary art. Her instillation depicts the aftermath of a tsunami in Japan. Judy Blum Reddy sees life as an inescapable struggle against disorder, and that’s depicted in her fathomless inventories and compilations. She exhibits a ‘heat transfer’ print panel of various names the river Ganges is known as in Sanskrit, translated into English. Afarin Rahmanifar is a leading Persian painter, with a vision that intersects points of eastern and western cultures. She specializes in Persian miniatures. Kathryn Mayer has visited Goa several times, and exhibited with Goan artist Prof. Hanuman Kambli. The photograph she took in Varanasi of a contaminated water body focuses on the individuality of each moment impacting the environment. Her style reflects unique energy of movement and gesture which is visually startling, quietly intriguing and always powerful. Robert Kirschbaum is a professor of fine arts at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. Prof. Reddy is an acclaimed printmaker and sculptor who received the Padmashri in 1972, the Jnanpith Award in 1993 and the Lalit Kala Ratna Award in 2007, for his outstanding contribution to Indian literature. Amina Ahmed, a Kutchi Turk Indian born in Africa, is a visual artist, educator, curator and activist. Her projects are inspired by her interest

in human rights and coalitionbuilding. Anjali Deshmukh’s work takes the form of conceptually related digital drawings, fiction, and paintings that examine relationships between the sublime, geopolitics, and mythology. Among the Goan artists, Prof. Hanuman Kambli has a print that could be described as the first “selfie” man would have seen of himself reflected in water. Other artists include Suhas Shilkar, Francis Desousa, Querozito D’Souza, Liesl Cotta D’ Souza, Fernanda Demelo, Chaitali Morajakar, Shilpa Mayenkar, Naini Arora, Raymond Pereira, Prashant Nageshkar, Swapnesh Vaigankar, Manjunath Naik, Loretti Pinto, Tanaji Shet, Sidharth Gosavi, Sachin Naik and Viraj Naik. All have depicted water in various forms, some with political overtones. We worship rivers but don’t hesitate to contaminate them. Those who can afford to buy bottled water for drinking throw the plastic bottles in water bodies, and in many places in India people drink contaminated water. This exhibition forms part of a Visual Project that also includes a daylong symposium entitled “Syncretic Religions and Eclectic Art Styles” held at Fundacao Oriente on 7th January and a printmaking workshop at Ray's Atelier in Colva from 9th to 16th January . The events are sponsored by Lalit Kala Academy and supported by Gallery Gitanjali, Fundacao Oriente and Ray’s Atelier. The exhibition continues till 12th January, at Gallery Gitanjali – Fontainhas, Panjim. 

18 Arts & Entertainment

Goa Has a New Entertainment ‘Playground’

It’s called “Omaggio” By Sapna Shahani

ruly, how often here in Goa do we get to see a spectacle beyond words? ‘The Playground’ is a theatrical contemporary dance performance with circus elements that opened January 2 at Tito’s Whitehouse in Arpora to a full house. When the lights go out, the audience is transported to a surreal world created with video projections, performers on balconies, aerial stunts and stilt walkers. The ‘Omaggio’ performing company’s 12 dancers appear in striking costumes and makeup, and are choreographed beautifully by artistic director Tino Sanchez. With famous musical tunes like ‘Aquarius’ from the classic Broadway show ‘Hair’, the Beatles ‘Come Together’, and Goa’s own Joanne Fernandes’ soulful composition ‘Think’, the show offers multi-dimensional entertainment for the whole family. And since ‘The Playground’ is the closest thing to the worldfamous Cirque du Soleil in India,

Omaggio’s trapeze performance

it is a wonderful new addition to the tourist itinerary. ‘Omaggio’ Performing Company are the group behind the show and the theme of the Playground refers to that of our mind. Former actor and VJ for Channel V, Peeya Rai Chaudhari plays the central character who is seeking to understand herself better. Her husband Tino Sanchez, who has extensive international experience in

Omaggio’s star performer Joanne London and Madrid, designed the show to invite viewers to contemplate the universal theme of self-discovery, in an entertaining format. The theme touches upon our modern identities, as projected through social media like Facebook, and the questions we ask ourselves in the process. The beautifully painted set and video projections reflect a city backdrop and the hectic pace that is imposed on us all. The characters yearn for more freedom, reflected by images of the 60s civil rights movement in the U.S., and people’s marches for love and peace that we can all relate to. The show is constantly evolving however, so viewers get to experience something new every time they attend. And there have already been loyal attendees who return with new friends at every show. Alka Patankar said she “Loved the singing, dancing and

Omaggio’s hands up

message of the Playground. So essential to find yourself, but so difficult.” Audience members are pleasantly surprised to see this kind of quality in Goa and find themselves enraptured with so many elements to look at, at the same time. Well-known Goa-based designer Miriam Strehlau is already working on a whole new set of costumes, and new songs are being added from the musical ‘Rent’. Joanne Fernandes says she and the other performers bring a bit of their personal lives into the show. “I’m really discovering who I am, I think everyone is. Tino pushes us to get better in every performance.” Joanne’s singing voice, reminiscent of Tracy Chapman’s, is definitely one of the highlights of the show. Expect to be hearing more about her in the future. A lot more. The intimate studio, where one gets a close-up view of the performers, seats 100 people at each show on Fridays at 7.30 and 8.30 pm as well as Sundays at 7.30 pm. Tickets cost Rs 500 each and are available at Lila Café which is also in Tito’s Whitehouse, from 10am-1pm and 4-6.30pm every day. The ticket cost also includes a complimentary cocktail or beverage after the show. The show will continue until March. More information can be found on Facebook or their website at www.omaggioperforming. com 