Thursday, October 31, 2013 | Vol. No. I | Issue 51 | Price Rs. 10 | Pages 24 | www.goastreets.com
Diwali
And Its Unique Sparkle in Goa pg 12
International Jazz Festival pg 3 • A Goan Speakeasy pg 15 • Wine-Making Doctor pg 19
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Thursday, October 31, 2013
streetspick Internationally Acclaimed DJ Hamza From Delhi & Percussionist Manu Idhra From Portugal
First In Berlin, New York City, Geneva & San Francisco. Now in Goa! Performing a unique blend of East-West fusion and house music combining deep, tribal & funky sounds with strong world music influences. In association with Goa Streets. At Cafe Lilliput, Anjuna beach On Nov 2 @ 8 pm onwards +91 9822137767
Music Entertainment Events On 31 Oct enjoy an evening of Retro, Pop, Rock n Roll, Ballads, Standards, Country favourites and Classics with Dessie On 01 Nov Music Genres: Music Fever Pop, retro, Indian. Scintillating entertainment by Jona and Nash On 05 Nov Retro, pop, blues, ballads, Sing and dance with Nelly On 06 Nov Retro, classics, instrumentals, Enjoy keys, accordion and melodica with Sancho At Zuperb, Calangute @ 7 pm to 10 pm +91 9820134503
Oct 31
Smoking Chutney
Will feature Jazz Guitar Virtuoso Hideaki Tokunaga from Japan At Safola, Nerul +91 832 6714141
Art Escape Gets International Jazz Festival Back To Goa Celebrating Jazz in Goa for a Full Month
W
elcome to the International Jazz Live Festival, brought to you by Art Escape, Capital Jazz and Baywatch Resort – with Goa Streets as proud media partner! A month celebrating Jazz starting 2nd November (Saturday) 7.30pm – 10.30pm at Live Lounge, Baywatch Resort. OPEN TO ALL! FREE ENTRY! 5 special pre gig at LIVE LOUNGE – BAYWATCH RESORT to celebrate the launch of the International Jazz Live Festival in Goa. ALL SATURDAYS OF NOVEMBER featuring Jazz bands from Goa, India & Abroad. The venue: Baywatch Resort, LIVELOUNGE, Sernabatim Beach Road, Colva.
PRE GIG SCHEDULE FOR NOVEMBER
2ND November SATURDAY NITE 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm. A TRIBUTE TO JAZZY JOELegendary saxophone, clarinet & flute player from Goa. CURATED BY COLIN D’CRUZ JAZZ GOA. Art escape Goa- THE LIVE MUSIC PROJECT & Jazz Goa tie up to present a memorial concert A TRIBUTE TO JAZZY JOE featuring Jazzy Joe’s son Christopher Pereira who plays clarinet, along with some of Jazzy Joe’s students and co-artistes. Joe Pereira popularly known as Jazzy Joe, was one of the few jazz artistes worldwide to have a career spanning over six decades. He began playing the violin as a child and soon took up the saxophone as his main instrument. He also played the clarinet, flute, trumpet, violin, double bass and piano. He passed away at age of 86 on the 14th of June 2013. The concert will also feature world renowned Japanese jazz guitar
virtuoso Hideaki Tokunaga among other accomplished jazz artistes.
4TH November MONDAY NITE 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm. TRUE SCHOOL OF MUSIC BAND THE TRUE SCHOOL BAND (Mumbai/Manhattan) Coming from diverse musical backgrounds, the True School Band incorporates elements from various genres and styles into a polished and refined presentation
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Nov 1
music & nightlife | 03 International Jazz Festival
lowdown | 6 food & drink | 07 Diwali Favourites
Blenders Pride Magical Nights Fashion Fridays club night series 2nd edition rolls.... At Cape Town Cafe, baga @ 9 pm onwards +91 9822121012
Halloween Bash
Couple Entry: Rs 1500/- (Unlimited Pouring on Premium Brands) Ladies: Rs 500/- & Stags- Not Allowed At SinQ Beach Club, Candolim @ 9 pm +91 9552100700
Live Music
At Cavala, Baga @ 9 pm 83 90 055518
One Man Band
feature | 11 Diabetes in Goa
cover story | 12 Diwali
arts & entertainment | 15 A Goan Speakeasy
Friday Night Fever with Adrian’s Oldies Goldies At The International Centre Goa, Dona Paula @ 7.30 pm to 10 pm +91 9765404391/ +91 832 2452805
Nov 2
International Jazz Live Festival
Art escape The Live Music Project will be organising a JLF beginning November 2 for a month At Baywatch Resort, Colva Featuring band smoking chutney and jazz guitarist Hideaki Tokunga +91 9323590051/ +91 9881568756
Nov 3
Annual Party Project 2013
what’s on | 17 the corner | 18 Novotel’s Indian Debut
At Tito’s Courtyard, Baga @ 4 pm onwards +91 832 227 5028
After Party
At Guru Bar, Anjuna Beach Psychedelic Techno @ 10 am +91 98 23 383257
Hill top Season Opening Party At Hill Top, Vagator @ 4 pm +91) 9822151690, (+91) 9604772788
Nov 1 to Nov 3
feature | 19 A Leap of Grape
hot streets | 20 Her Kinky Boyfriend
feature | 21 Alcoholism: A Goan Curse
Everyday Flea Market
Mon - Dj Tues - Dance: Goan/ Portuguese, Hip-hop, Latin American, contemporary, Bollywood Wed - Karaoke Thurs - Dance: Goan/Portuguese, Hip-hop, Latin American, contemporary, Bollywood Fri - Belly Dance Sat - Live Football Screening Sun - Live Band @ 6.30 pm onwards At Baga Bazaar +91 9890182560/ +91 9011214748
Halloween Madness At Club Western, Saligao @ 6 pm onwards +91 9833696467
Nov 8 to Nov 10
Waves 2013 - hit the Rewind 8th November - DJ NYK, 7pm onwards 9th November - Monuments (British Progressive Groove Metal band) along with Nikhil D’Souza & Blackstratblues, 6pm Onwards 10th November - Vishal & Shehkar, 8 pm onwards At BITS Pilani, B irla Goa Campus @ 7 pm onwards
Every Monday Ride with Us
Low Rhyderz Sound System Dub, Reggae, Dancehall, Hip hop At Cafe Lilliput, Anjuna
Electronic Dance Music At The UV Bar, Anjuna @ 4 pm to 10 pm +91 9822153440
Every Wednesday
Karaoke Night
At Resort Rio, Arpora @ 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm +91 832 2267300
Cosmopolitan Ladies Night
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
Every Thursday
Every Saturday 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 Plazza, Panjim @ 8 pm onward +91 8308838888
Hindi Karaoke Live
At Appetite Classic, Housing Board, Mapusa @ 7.30 pm to 11 pm +91 9823107114
Every Wednesday & Saturday Karaoke Night
With Bony At Resort Rio, Arpora @ 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm +91 832 2267300
Every Saturday & Sunday Karaoke Night
At Whispering Palm Beach resort, Candolim @ 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm +91 832 6651515
On-going
Raissa’s Sheesh Mahal Lounge
Delicious food and lovely music At Margao @ 10 am to 11.45 pm +91 832 2712899
Wahida Gomes will rock you
One man live band Show
Thursday Grill & Games
Cafe la Musica lounge & Disco
At The Tease Bar, Vivanta by Taj, Panjim @ 8 pm to 11pm 9922947001/3 Music, games & barbeque! At Soul Souffle, Verna @ 7 pm – 10 pm +91 832 2782100/9764694321
Every Friday
Friday Ladies Nite
DJs Saj Akhtar & Kiran At Club Margarita, Colva @ 10 pm +91 9823259008
Wahida Gomes
At The Adega Camoes, Taj Exotica, Benaulim @ 8 pm to 11 pm 9922947001/3
Friday Night
Crimson Tide Live Retro and classic with funk At Malts n wines, Baga @ 9 pm +91 8698694319
A tribute to rock At Edge bar, Alila Diwa Goa @ 7.30 pm onwards +91 832 2746800
By Wili Guitarist At Whispering Palm Beach resort, Candolim @ 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm +91 832 6651515
Events performed by professional International artists on a daily basis. DJ’s are Raz& Mike. At Red Square lane, lane parallel to Titos lane, Baga @ 8 pm onwards +91 7798932264
One Man live band show
By Wili Guitarist At Whispering Palm beach resort, Candolim @ 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm +91 832 6651515
Park Hyatt
Every day Dinner with Music Mon: Indian Classical Dance Tues: Singers Band Wed: Solo Dance Performance Thurs: Acaccio Live Fri: Shalini Sat: Savio Western Music Sun: Edriya & Taniya @ 7.30 pm to 11 p m +91 832 2721234
Zuperb
Live Music on Thursday, Friday, Tuesday, Wednesday At Gaurowado, Calangute @ @ 7 pm to 10 pm +91 9869076107/ +91 9820134503
Thursday, October 31, 2013
From page 3 that is surely not to be missed. All graduates of the prestigious Manhattan School of Music, NYC and now teaching faculty at Mumbai’s True School of Music. A truly international faculty, these performers have played at the most prestigious venues and festivals across the globe. For the performance , apart from their original compositions, ‘The True School Band’ will present works by legends ranging from the Beatles and Joni Mitchell, to Stevie Wonder and Herbie Hancock, encompassing rock, jazz, soul and everything in between. Line up • Pawan Benjamin (saxophone), • Andrea Wood (vocals), • Jeffrey Koch (bass), • Sean Richey (guitars), • Philippe Lemm (drums) • Angelo Di Loreto (keyboards),
Website http://www.trueschool.in/ Facebook Page https://www. facebook.com/TrueSchoolMusic
9th November SATURDAY NITE 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm. JAZZ –WORLD FUSION BAND ‘MOONARRA’ FROM BANGALORE MoonArra means means ‘Three Streams.’ It’s about our fascination with beautiful sounds that emanate the world over, how sounds travelled from Northern India in the 13th century, journeyed through Persia, Morocco, and up to Andalucian Spain. Formed in 2006,
T
he Gypsy All Stars, featuring family and former band members of the legendary Gypsy Kings, brought down the house at Sofala in Nerul on Thursday, October 24th. Performing a stirring mix of Flamenco-inspired melodies fused with Rajasthani influences, the Gypsies, playing alongside two Rajasthani musicians, offered up a truly extraordrinary performance. Their
the band is inspired by Carnatic and Hindustani classical, the rhythmic and harmonic quality of jazz and a thousand other songs that we’ve grown up with. It’s a celebration of the human spirit – a journey that has no destination. MoonArra is a world fusion band on a mission to discover ourselves through our music.
Line up • Jagadeesh M.R- Guitars, Oud, composer and founder. • Madhuri - Singer songwriter and co founder • K.N.Prakash – Electric Bass • Carlos Gonsalves – Drums
Website http://www.moonarra.com Facebook Event Page Contact for Interviews: Jagadesh 9844245577 Email id: jaggi05@gmail.com
16th November SATURDAY NITE 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm. STEVE SIQUEIRA QUARTET – one of the living legends of Jazz Line up • Kitu – vox • Steve Siqueira – vox/Keyboards • Elvis Lobo - Guitar • Lew Hilt – Bass • Lester Coutinho – Drums
23rd November SATURDAY NITE 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm.
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appearance in Goa corresponded with new scientific findings linking the DNA of Gypsies (yes, band members Georges and Mario Reyes really are Gypsies) to the people of India. “Folks here are a lot like us Gypsies... and their music is almost the same as ours,” Georges, the son of legendary Gypsy Kings founder Nicholas Reyes, told Goa Streets.
6 The Lowdown ALBUM LAUNCH ‘ANSWERS’ INTERNATIONAL ACT - ADITYA BALANI QARTRET
The Lowdown
Line up • Aditya Balani - Guitar • Deveon Yesberger – Keyboards • Spensor Stewart – Electric Double Bass • Issac Haselkorn - Drums
MAIN FESTIVAL ACTS
DAY 1 30th November {SATURDAY– 6:30pm} Opening by & Felicitation of Brass Gonsalves Jazz Living Legend of Goa Opening act: Young JAZZ upcoming musician of the year performance 20mins. Scholarship at TRUE SCHOOL OF MUSIC 30th November {SATURDAY– 8:00pm} PLAISTOW – Post-Jazz / Minimalism/ Dub In collaboration with Pro Helvetia Swiss Arts Council Line up • Johann Bourquenez, piano • Vincent Ruiz, doublebass • Cyril Bondi, drums
30th November {SATURDAY– 9:15pm} YURI HONING QUARTRET– 70 MINS Yuri Honing, saxophonist / composer, the Netherlands DAY 2 1st December {SUNDAY– 7:00pm} OPENING ACT ELVIS LOBO PROJECT JAZZ VERSION! – GOA Line up • Elvis Lobo – Guitar • Victor Netesov – Trumpet • Joe Ferrao – Bass • Bosco D’souza – Drums
Featured artist Derek Julian – Living Legend Guitar from Pune Louis (Gumby) Pinto – Drums from Pakistan
1st December {SUNDAY– 8:15pm} Featuring LIVING LEGENDS OF JAZZ -HFT – (HIGH F**KING TIME)
Line up 1. Arjun Sen (AJ)– Guitar 2. Lew Hilt– Bass 3. Sam Shulla– Drums & Percussions
1st December {SUNDAY– 9:30pm} HEADLINE ACT ERIK TRUFFAZ QUARTET Jazz / Drum n’Bass In collaboration with Pro Helvetia Swiss Arts Council Line up • Erik Truffaz, trumpet • Marc Erbetta, drums • Marcello Giuliani, bass • Benoit Corboz, keyboards
CLOSING OF FESTIVALFELICITATION OF JAZZ LEGENDS OF INDIA –UNSUNG HEROES – 10.30 pm Brass Gonsalves – Goa – Saxophone Derek Julian – Pune – Guitar Steve Siqueira – vox/Keyboards/ drums- Kenya/Goa Lew Hilt – Bass – Delhi Arjun Sen (Aj) – Delhi
It’s the festive season in Goa. Diwali and the start of the High Season occur at the very same time this year, and you can feel the energy in the air. We hope you enjoy our cover story on the myriad ways Diwali is being celebrated in Goa this year, and if you read the story carefully, you may be surprised at some of the unusual celebrations that don’t usually make it to the public eye. (Take a look at what one wealthy Mumbaikar plans to do in his Goan flat this Diwali). Goa Streets is proud to be involved with an extremely exciting international jazz festival planned for November and organized by the innovative folks at Art Escape, Capital Jazz and Baywatch Resort. Highlights of the program are featured this week in our Music & Nightlife section. You may have noticed by now, but when we call ourselves the News & Entertainment weekly, we actually take the ‘entertainment’ part quite seriously. That’s why we’ve been working with the fabulous DJ/Percussionist duo Hamza (from New Delhi) and Manu Idhra (from Portugal) and organizing some terrific gigs for them in Goa these past few days. Already they’ve played at Shore Bar in Anjuna and LPK Waterfront in Nerul, and their next performance is Café Lilliput at Anjuna Beach this Saturday night. This is one show you don’t want to miss! The duo has performed all over the world – New York, Geneva, San Francisco, Berlin, etc – and we’re lucky to have them in Goa! And if we take the ‘entertainment’ part of News & Entertainment seriously, the same holds true for ‘news’. That’s why we’ve written a very compelling piece this week giving you the real story behind the enormous problem of alcoholism in Goa, and how it’s the ladies who often pay the biggest price. We hope our story on the alarming rate of diabetes in Goa serves as something of a wake-up call for the need to lead a healthy lifestyle. Our piece on a modern-day Goan speakeasy highlights a unique event that’s bringing together lovers of off-beat literature. Our story on Dr John Rodrigues explains this extraordinary Goan’s journey from microbiologist to wine maker par excellence. And of course, don’t miss this week’s sassy sex advice from relationship columnist Acaricia May. In addition, we hope you find our comprehensive listings on everything there is to do, see and eat in Goa to be useful.
Papa, you don’t need a scary costume. Just go as yourself.”
Lastly but certainly not leastly, we want to point out that Nov. 3 marks the one-year anniversary of the Goa Streets Flash Mob, when we brought together 100 dancers from across the state in a surprise dance on the Dona Paula jetty. The flash mob now has nearly 1.2 lakh hits on YouTube, making it one of the most viewed events from Goa in YouTube history. Goa Streets! Way ahead! Here’s wishing all our readers a very happy Diwali! The Goa Streets Team
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Thursday, October 31, 2013
streetspicks
CHAKLI (SPICY SPIRALS)
An Evening with Sizzlers This weekend experience excellent choice of cuisine & drinks with exceptional service ready to exceed your expectations. Whether it’s a family function, social get together or an office event. It’s all happening at Eat Street. Nov 1 to Nov 10
At Hotel Calangute Towers, Calangute +91 8888886700/ 03/ +91 832 6636000/ +91 832 2276597
A Taste of Diwali in Goa Time 11am-12 midniht non stop food service, open everyday. Home delivery: 0832-2411959 & 9764159686 Caterin Service Contact: Mr. Roland Rodrigues @ 9890422440
Oct 3 to Oct 31
Month for Starters!
Pick up any two starters and get a kingfisher to accompany At Pan Asian Bowl, Panjim +91 832 6455547
Oct 14 to Nov 3
Oriental Food Festival At Hotel Fidalgo, Panjim +91 832 222 6291
Nov 1 to Nov 17
Seafood Festival at Sweet n Sour
The Chef recommends Mandarin Fish, Tiger Prawns in Hunan Sauce, Crab meat in sweet and sour sauce. A complimentary offer of a chilled Pepsi or a Kingfisher pint or Signature Whisky (30 ml) or a glass of Four Seasons Wine. At Hotel La Paz Garden, Vasco @ 11 am to 3 pm & 7 pm to 11 pm +91 832 2512121 / 25
What do Goans love to eat this festive season?
Y
es, Diwali is the festival of lights. But it’s also a time to indulge in some excellent holiday eating. Below are our favourite culinary Diwali offerings in Goa, with recipes and instructions on how to make them yourself. Happy Diwali, and happy eating!
CHAKLI (SPICY SPIRALS)
Chakli is a crispy, spicy, spiral shaped treat, and a definite Diwali favourite in Goa. Ingredients • Rice flour – 3 cups • Gram flour (Bengal gram flour) - 1 cup • Udad dal flour (white lentil flour) – 1 tbsp • Butter – 2 tbsp • Coriander powder - 2 tsp • Cumin powder – 1 tsp • Red chilly powder – 2 tbsps • Turmeric – ½ tsp • Asafetida (hing) - 1½ tsp. • White sesame seeds (Til) - 1 tbsp. • Carom seeds (Ajwain) – ½ tsp • Salt as per taste • Oil to fry
Method Mix the flours, Sieve the flours together, add all the dry ingredients like coriander powder, cumin powder, red chilly powder, turmeric powder, asafetida, sesame seeds, carom seeds and Salt as per taste. Add the butter and mix with the flours. Mix everything well before adding water. Now add a little bit warm water and make a soft dough (dough should be softer than the chapati dough.). Taste dough and season with salt. Mix well. Keep for a while (about 10-15 minutes) for everything to come together. Now knead once more. In the meanwhile, heat oil on a medium flame. Put the chakli dough in the mould. Use the plate with the star design on it. Hold the chakli mould over the frying pan. Hold it a bit high as once the dough drops into the oil hot steam will come up and you can burn yourself with the steam. Press dough and let it pass though the mould as spirals into the oil or you can also alternatively press out spirals onto a baking sheet /plastic cover and then deep fry in oil on medium flame till golden brown in colour. Fry till they are crisp. Put the fried chaklis over a tissue paper so that it soaks extra oil. Once cool store it in an air tight container. Can be stored for a about a month if stored properly.
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8 Food & Drink Nov 2
Texan Style- Steak & Ribs Nite
An offer you can't resist .. BUY 1 GET THE OTHER FREE Serving of choice of Aged steaks Live Country Music by Sam Osera A welcoming choice to our Vegetarian guests too. At tin tin Bar and Restaurent, vagator @ 7 pm to 11.30 pm +91 9623922796 & +91 9623973691
Nov 3
Dazzling Diwali 2013
Scrumptious International Buffet, Live Internatinal Band & Dj, Fire Dancres & Traditional Maritial arts by Manipuri Troup, Display of Fire works Entry rs: 1500/- per person, inclusive of tax/ children 96-12 years) : Rs 750?- per child, inclusive of Taxes At Dona Sylvia Beach Resort & Radisson Blu Resort @ 8 pm onwards +91 832 2871320/ +91 8308834168
Burgers Vs Pizza Sunday Special Live Unplugged Rock music by Lenon Pires A welcoming choice to our Vegetarian guests too. At tin tin Bar and Restaurent, vagator @ 12 noon to 5 pm +91 9623922796 & +91 9623973691
Viva Goa
Goan nite at “Tin Tin Bar & Restaurant”, Vagator Goa. Live Performance by our popular Guitarist- Elvis Carvalho . We shall be serving you Traditional Goan delicacies. Caju Fenny shall be served on the house all nite long. Live Music by Elvis Carvalho At tin tin Bar and Restaurent, vagator @ 12 noon to 5 pm +91 9623922796 & +91 9623973691
Sunday Lunch
Starting this weekend, the lazy Sunday lunches are back at Alila Diwa Goa with this weekend being doubly special as it’s Diwali. A spread of delicacies and desserts, chilled beverages, activities for the little ones and live music will make this the perfect weekend recipe! At Vivo, Alila Diwa Goa. @ 12 noon to 4pm. +91 832 2746800.
Every Saturday
Goan Theme Nites
Traditional Goan Set Menu Rs: 499/Goan Folk Dances Goan Decor Music by Valentinos At Souza Lobo, Calangute Beach +91 832 2281234/ +91 2276463/ +91 9881888011
Every Sunday
Champagne Sunday Brunch
Enjoy brunch at the Grand Hyatt with French champagne & foods from five interactive & live stations At Rs 2,200 + taxes (includes buffet, champagne, wines & select drinks.) At Grand Hyatt, Bambolim Beach @ 1 pm – 4 pm +91 832 3011125
Sunday Lounge & Lunch
At Mia Cucina, The Sofala, Batiwado, Nerul @ 12 pm to 4 pm +91 832 6714141 / +91 8550919222
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
Mughlai, oriental. They have a varied selection of dishes from Tandoori kebabs-both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. At Hotel riverside, baga-calangute @ 7.30 am to 11 pm +91 9767591368
Fish Tales
Artjuna
Specialising in Seafood, a different masala used in every fish preparation. At The Glitz, Calangute @ 12.30 pm to 2.30 pm & 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm +918322281800
Sunday Brunch
Golden Eye
Make your own Meal This Season rediscover oriental cuisine at your Favorite Restaurant Wan Hao. With a new chef on board and a board and a brand new a la carte menu, every evening at dinner will unravel new secrets. At Goa Marriot Resort & Spa, Panjim +91 832 2463333
Baga, Calangute & Around Caravela
This Multi Cuisine Restaurant on the lawns of the Goan heritage, A Starters of prawns rolled with bacon and fried. Sit facing the poolside as you try some of the cocktails prepared at their bar. At Hotel Goan Heritage, Calangute @ Noon to 2.30 pm & 7 pm to 11.30 pm +91 832 2276761/64
Casandre
It is set in an old Goan house which attacks attention. It’s a Multi Cuisine restaurant; Casandre serves steaks, sizzlers and Goan seafood. At Calangute beach road, Calangute @ 9 am to midnight +91 832 9453243/ +91 9890467062
Curry Leaf
It’s a Multi cuisine restaurant which is specialising in Chinese, European, Goan north Indian, world cuisine. At Hotel Calangute towers, Calangute +91 832 6636000
Danny’s Grill
Its again a multi cuisine restaurant which is specialised in European, Goan,
Cotinga at the Tamarind
Specialising in multi-cuisine, it’s a place to dine, drink and dance the night away. At Hotel Calangute Towers @ 24 hrs a day +918326636000
Flame
Re-Orient Yourself
Specialising in Indian and veg food @ 12.30 pm to 3 pm, 7.30 pm to 11 pm At Resort Rio, Arpora +91 832 2267300 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
Eat Street
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 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
Jalsa
It’s a Multi- Cuisine Restaurant, rustic Indian flavours of the north from the regions of Punjab, awadh, Hyderabad and even goa. At Double tree by Hilton, Arpora, Baga @ 7 am to 11 pm +9183266556672 This family run restaurant serves the choicest Goan delicacies. Prawns amto, chicken in green curry with baby potatoes, and other seafood specialities. At Holiday Streets, Calangute @9 am to 3.30 pm & 6.30 pm to midnight +91 832 2277309
Infantaria
The food is nice too, with a selection of Goan-style pastries, cakes, Goan cuisine, Chinese and even some killer Mughlai, besides Continental dishes like pastas. There’s music, big TV, an upstairs area with pool tables. Maybe it’s the open-air vibe which gives the place its charm. Infantaria, At Baga road, next to Calangute Association, Calangute. @ 7.30 am to midnight +91 832 3291290/ +91 9922202526
Jamie’s Baga
The Menu is a mix of ecletic world cuisine ranging from specialty barbecue to carefully designed plated main courses. it also has an extensive imported wine list, which is very well prised. At Sauntawaddo, Baga @ 6 pm to 11 pm +91 9764362379
Anjuna & Around German Bakery It’s a bakery, Theirs a lot for regular foodies too, with everything from Italian pastas to fiery Goan vindaloos and recheados., and lots of Thai dishes too At Anjuna@ 8 am to 11 pm +91 9096058775
Guru Bar
It’s a multi cuisine restaurant specialising in Chinese, European, Goan, Indian, Italian, seafood. At praisevaddo, Anjuna @ 7.30 am to midnight +91 832 2273319
House of Lloyds
Serves continental, seafood, goancuisine. The restaurant recommends: Goan roast pork, apple salad with tender greens, crispy sardines, stuffed crab and steaks At Saipem Road, Candolim @ 7 pm to 3 am +91 9823032273
Café Chocolatti
It’s a Coffee Shop, At Fort Aguada Rd, Candolim From 9 am to 7 pm +918322479340/+919326112006
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
Stone House
Cantare
Susse Cafe
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
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
Mezcal
Specializing in Maxican, there are starters- bocaditos, salads, main courses, other side dishes and desserts too. At Small Vagator beach road, Vagator @ Noon to 3 pm, 7 pm to 11 pm +91 9604800246
Candolim O’Asia
Specialising in Pan Asian At The O Hotel, Dando, Candolim @ Noon to 3 pm, 7.30 pm to 11 pm +918323047000
Chilihip
Specialised in Thai At Fort Aguada Road, Candolim @ Noon to 3 pm, 6.30 pm to 10.30 pm +918888610500
Flambée
Specialised in Chinese, European, French, Goan, Indian At Souzawaddo, Candolim @ 9 am to 11 pm +919326114271
The restaurant started in 1989 by Christopher Dsouza serves multi cuisine. Christopher recommends: Seafood salad, tzaziki with papadam, Swedish lobster, and chicken stroganoff At Souzawaddo, Candolim @ 10 am to 12 pm +91 9890392347 A fine-dining restaurant specialising in European and fusion cuisine. Restaurant offers seafood dishes prepared in fusion and Goan styles. At Candolim @ 12.30 pm +91 9011379804/ +91 9822089818
Cuckoo Zen Garden
Serves a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian healthy food, as well as tasty and healthy herbal food & drinks. The Cuckoo Zen Garden opens from beginning of November to end of March. At Candolim @ 7 pm to 11 pm +91 9881773524
Panjim & Around Maracas Garden Bar
Maracas is a tapas bar in porvorim with both indoor AC seating and a beautiful outdoor garden area with a water-body and wooden deck. At Opp. O’Coqueiro Restaurent, Porvorim @ 11.30 am to 12 am +91 8805586728
Tarry’s Restaurent
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 cuisine. At behind Betim Petrol Pump, Betim @ 10 am to 12 am +91 832 2411961/ +91 9823028448
Viva Panjim
Located in an old heritage house in the bylanes of fountainhas is linda and Michael de Souza’s Home and their restaurant viva Panjim. At Fontainhas, Panjim @ 11 am to 3.30 pm & 7 pm to 11.30 pm +91 832 2422405/ +91 9850471363
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
Food & Drink 9
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Coffee Cove
A wide range of espresso and specialty hot or ice blended beverages with our freshly ground beans. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and sample our American style treats - baked fresh daily! At opposite Bata Shoes, above rooster, 2nd floor, Porvorim @ 10 am to 11 pm Sunday Closed +91 832 6528222
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
Global Shore Restaurant
Global Shore Restaurant is a multicuisine restaurant and we specialize in Goan Seafood/Chinese/Thai/Indian & Tandoor. At Hotel chandrageet, Porvorim +91832 2414125/+9193731113205
Courtyard
Specialized in world cuisine, fusion At Hotel Campal, Panjim @ 11 am to 3 pm, 7 pm to 11 pm +919822384084
Viva Panjim
Goan cuisine & seafood. Linda and Michael’s place has long been a favourite for those in search of very tasty Goan food. At Fontainhas, Panjim @ 12 pm to 11 pm +918322422405/ +91 9850471363
Margao & Around 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
Café Mardi Gras
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 @ Allday +91 832 2871303
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
Fig & Olive
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
Mog Café
From page 7
SWEET SHANKARPAALE
Shankarpaale, a very popular Diwali snack, and quite simple to make. This dish has a long shelf life and can last you even up to a month if stored well in an airtight container.
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
Vatana Usal
Canacona Café Inn
They serve some superb internationalstyle mini-meals and snacks, sandwiches, smoothes, wrap, salads, etc, which can be had at any time of the day. Take, for instance, their Banana Pancakes, which are flat, round cakes made with flour and bananas and drizzled with honey. It’s an old hippie favourite. Besides, they offer all kinds of herbal and healthy salads, juices, milk shakes, and some superb coffees. @ 8am to 10pm At near Wavelet Beach Resort, Palolem, Canacona
Casa Fiesta
Casa Fiesta is a good place to sample some choice Mexican specialties.The menu is comprehensive, with Tacos, Enchiladas, Burritos, Fajitas and other Mexican dishes. @ 8.30 am to 11 pm At Palolem Beach Road, Goa, +91 9823928548
Dersey’s
They serve excellent fish n chips with fillet of kingfish fried and their fish curry rice is delicious. Specialising in multi cuisine, European, Goan, Seafood At Agonda beach Road, Canacona @ 9 am to 11 pm +91 832 2647503
VeriFeni
Bar offering a variety of cocktails, Exotic fenitails, wines, beers, spirits, liqueurs and cigars. At Lalit, Canacona @ 12.30 pm to 12 pm 2667777/2667711
Gazebo
The poolside sunken bar with A Polynesian theme. At Lalit, Canacona @ 12.30 pm to 12 pm. 2667777/2667711
Morjim & Around Sur la Mer
Specialising in French, Indian, Italian At Morjim-Ashvem Rd, Morjim @ 11 am to midnight +918326453102/+919850056742
Marbella
The restaurant is located beachside, with full service extending to the sun bed area. Complete with lounge music giving the place a relaxed, creative, beach vibe. At Morjim. +919158881185/+918326450599
roll the shankarpaales a little thick. Once you’ve rolled the dough to your desired thickness, remove the rough edges by using a knife or pizza cutter. Now cut in to desired shape (usually squares or diamonds). Keep the oil hot and ready in a wok. Keep the flame on simmer when you add in the shankarpaale diamonds and let it be there on sim for a minute or 2. After this increase the flame, so that the dough gets cooked properly inside out when on sim. You must do this when you are rolling out thicker shankarpaales. Deep fry till it gets golden brown color. Allow it to cool down and then store in an air tight container or zip lock bag.
The below recipe is for making about 250 gms / ¼ kilo Shankarpaale. Ingredients • All purpose flour – 1 ½ cup • Semolina – 1 teaspoon • Sugar – ¼ cup • Ghee or butter – ¼ cup • Milk – ¼ cup • Salt – a pinch • Oil for frying
If you want to make about 1kg you need to use • All purpose flour – 6 cups • Semolina – 3 teaspoons • Sugar – 1 ¼ cup • Ghee or butter – 1 cup • Milk – 1 cup • Salt – 1 ½ teaspoons • Oil for frying
Method Sieve the all purpose flour, add the semolina and salt. Mix well and keep aside. In a saucepan, take milk and ghee and heat until the ghee melts. Now, add sugar and keep stirring until the sugar melts or up to 1 boil, whichever is earlier. Let this mix cool down. Once it’s cool, add this mixture to the all purpose flour, semolina and salt mix and start kneading the dough. The dough should be of says doctor the consistency of a Dear, a uld avoid we sho products chapati but will be soy eating e they can soft because of the u a bec s nted sexual ghee. nwa u ca se u rousal. a Make astiff dough that’s easy to roll. Now cover with a moist cloth and let this dough rest for about half an hour. Make small balls from the dough and roll like a thick paratha. The thicker ones come out soft and crunchy like biscuits and the thinner ones come out crispy like chips. It’s a personal choice how you want it. If you want it to be like a biscuit,
Another wonderful, spicy dish for Diwali, and a definite Goan favourite. Ingredients: • Yellow & green peas (dried) - 2 cups • Onion - 2 • Garlic - 2 pods • Tomato - 2 • Tamarind - small lemon size (soak in water) • Chilli powder - 1 1/2 tsp • Turmeric powder - 1/4 tsp • Goda Masala - 2 tsps • Garam masala - 1/4 tsp • Cilantro - for garnishing • Salt - to taste
Method: 1. Soak the green peas overnight. Pressure cook them, taking care not to over cook it. 2. In a pan add oil & saute the thinely sliced onions till their almost brown. Then add the minced garlic & saute for 2 mts. 3. Now add the chillie powder, turmeric powder & mix it well. Now add the finely chopped tomatoes & tamarind water.Stir it all well & cook this on a medium flame till the tomatoes are mashed up & masala leaves oil. 4. Now add the cooked peas, goda masala, garam masala & salt. Mix everything well & add water to bring it to a desired consistency. Bring it to a good boil. Garnish it with cilantro leaves & serve hot with pooris or rotis!
Unwanted? Is there such a thing?
Bart at SinQ Tavern
Mind, Body & Soul 11
Thursday, October 31, 2013
By Sasha Pereira
M
any people think of diabetes as a disease of the old. Young folks tend to see it at something they might develop when they are in their late 50s or 60s. They don’t feel they need to take any precautions to reduce the risk of contracting it. “People only develop diabetes when they are in their late 60s. Why should I worry about it now when I’m perfectly fine,” says Gauri Naik, 22, from Calangute who has a family history of diabetes. “Half of my patients are under 35,” says Dr Sheetal Varalwar, a consultant diabetologist. “Diabetes is a progressive disease. It worsens with age and young patients have their whole life ahead of them. There are many difficulties to be tackled. The pill burden and restriction on diet can cause frustration and affect the quality of life.” Out of Goa’s population of approximately 15 lakh, approximately one lakh people suffer from diabetes, according to a recent statement by Dr Digambar Naik, heading the Confederation of Indian Industry’s health panel. He said that among people 40 years of age or older, Goa has the highest rate of diabetes in the country. All of this is likely to due to the high incidence in Goa of obesity, one of the leading causes of diabetes. Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by high blood sugar, either because the pancreas produces insufficient insulin or because a person’s cells are unable to respond to the insulin that is produced. The main symptoms are frequent urination and increased thirst and hunger. The three main types of diabetes mellitus are Type 1, when the body fails to produce insulin, Type 2, insulin resistance and gestational diabetes, when pregnant women suddenly develop high blood sugar. Among the main complications of untreated diabetes are coma, cardiovascular disease, renal failure and retinal damage. Dr Varalwar has opened a clinic in Caranzalem exclusively dedicated to the treatment of diabetes; the treatment given is holistic along with the advice of a dietician. A common misconception about diabetes is that it is caused by eating sugary foods. Obesity is a major cause, doctors say. “Obesity is characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat through an increase in the size and
How Many of the Our Young Are Prone to the ‘Sugar-Disease’? number of fat cells. The higher the body weight the greater is the risk of not only diabetes but heart diseases, hypertension and other conditions like formation of gall stones, osteoarthritis [disease in joints], even cancer. Hence it is necessary to maintain the ideal body weight by comparing the weight to height ratio in terms of Body Mass Index (BMI),” says Aruna Naik, a retired employee of the Food and Nutrition Board. In the past young people were only diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes but today young folks are increasingly being diagnosed with ‘Type 2 Diabetes’. This ‘Type 2 Diabetes’ can often be prevented if appropriate precautions are taken, and taken early, specially for people with borderline or pre-diabetes. Diabetes and obesity are like conjoined twins. Sedentary lifestyles coupled with increasing consumption of junk food has been a cause of increasing waistlines. “There have been major alterations in lifestyle and activity patterns among all segments of our population - ready cooking gas is available for cooking, piped water supply, labor-saving gadgets and ready transport; there has been a reduction in physical activity and energy expenditure. Ice creams, fast
foods and other energy food items at affordable costs increase obesity in large segments of our population especially our younger generation. Good exercise, a healthy balanced diet and walking up steps instead of taking the elevator every alternate day would help reduce the risk of obesity and diabetes,” says Aruna Naik. With the increasing prevalence of diabetes in young adults up to 30 years of age and its associated complications, the scale of economic and healthcare burdens on the nation could become unmanageable. Diabetes is a chronic disease and has no known cure. The initial symptoms are silent but the situation grows adverse with the progression of the disease. “Young adults with a 32-inch waist circumference (women) and 35-inch (men) should watch out for signs of diabetes and go for a checkup if they see symptoms like weight loss, frequent thirst and passing of urine. Parents play an important role and healthy eating habits should be cultivated from
childhood ... A balanced diet includes roughly 40% of carbs, proteins, vitamins and minerals and less than 10% fat,” says Dr.Sheetal. Diabetes is not a psychosomatic disorder. Changes in diet, quitting smoking and other lifestyle modifications can prevent progression from the prediabetic stage to diabetes. “It is important for youngsters who are pre diabetic and obese to lose weight and make lifestyle changes to prevent becoming diabetic. This is also important for people with a family history of diabetes. Lifestyle changes include healthy eating, some form of exercise and a cut down on junk food,” says Dr. Sheetal. Concludes Aruna Naik, “A wellbalanced diet provides essential as well as non essential nutrients in the correct amounts. These are utilized to promote the highest level of physical and mental health and physical growth and development.” Good exercise, good food, good habits… and Type 2 Diabetes can be kept at bay.
12 Cover Story
Diwali’s Unique Goan Sparkle By Pedro Menezes
I
n one of those strange quirks of fate, Goa celebrates Diwali one day before many other parts of the country. So while Goa will celebrate the feast on Saturday, the rest of the country celebrates it the next day, on November 3. Which means those who come to Goa for their Diwali celebrations get to celebrate two Diwalis on two consecutive days and nights. The festival of lights also marks the start of the peak season in Goa as droves of holiday-makers pour into the sunny state to blow up their hard-earned Diwali bonuses. That, in turn, is ‘Diwali’ time for the tourism stake-holders as they rake in the moolah. This year, with Diwali popping up at around the same time as Halloween, many nightspots are also having Halloween-themed nights on Friday night when after partying revelers can segue into the Narkasur burning celebrations and parties in the early morning hours of Saturday. And with Goa’s double Diwali this year coinciding with the weekend, it’s going to be one long party. And guess where the action is going to be the hottest? In the casinos, of
The festival of lights in the sunny state
Diwali greetings: a traditional way
course. Nobody really knows when the tradition of gambling on Diwali nights started, but playing a game of ‘teen-patti’ (flash) all night long is a must with many. With casinos being hot attractions, the four off-shore casinos in Goa are expected to do upwards of Rs 500-cr business on the festive weekend, according to observers. The casinos will also glitter with hundreds of lights, because, after all, Diwali or its original form ‘Deepawali’ – means a row of lights. Resident Goans celebrate it one day before the main day, on ‘Narakasura Chaturdashi’. The action will start on Friday this year when late at night the effigies of the demon ‘Narkasur’ will be erected on various street corners and then burnt in the early hours of Saturday to signify the victory of good over evil. As per tradition,
Diwali marks Lord Vishnu’s victory over the demon Narkasur, also known as Ravan, who was slain by Lord Rama, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. Later in the evening Goans will light their ‘Akash Kandils’, the traditional Diwali lamps and place ‘diyas’, the small earthen oil lamps, in their windows and balconies to welcome Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, into their homes. The main celebrations will take place on Sunday, with people wearing new clothes and exchanging gifts and sweets. People gamble on Diwali day to try their luck. Winning is a huge blessing, and if you’re lucky enough to win, it shows you’re in the good books of the goddess of wealth and prosperity!
14 Cover Story From page 12 Delhi-based businessman Ghanshyam Sharda packed his bags and came to Goa for Diwali last year, and unlike many tourists who flock to Goa to soak in the atmosphere and cheap beer, the 53-yearold marble trader from Delhi spent most of his time in Goa’s largest casino, Casino Royale (now the Deltin Royale). Four years ago, Sharda had made a trip to Kathmandu where he wagered ‘chhota mota’ (petty) bets. In Goa, Sharda was more adventurous. After three days of playing American Roulette, Sharda won a jackpot and pocketed Rs 26 lakh. With the gods having smiled on him last year, he’s going to be trying his luck this year, too. Many Mumbaites, especially from the Sindhi community, love to come to Goa for famous Diwali night gambling parties, where entry is strictly by invitation. A leading Mumbai-based banker who we’ll call Sameer (he told us not to use his real name because of this association with partying as opposed to serious banking!) is gearing up for his annual Diwali-eve ‘teen patti party’ at his Goa pad. “Even though nobody talks business, it’s a great networking opportunity,” says Sameer. “Typically, we have three-five tables. The minimum buyin is Rs 2-3 lakh. It’s strictly by-invitation only, with single malt and vegetarian food,” he says. This is the Diwali many of us never hear about! Apart from the traditional Diwali celebrations, there’s also a lot of showing off of wealth and possessions, and plenty of gift giving. Many corporates and others give a Diwali ‘bonus’ to their employees, usually comprising of two month’s salary, which enables them to enjoy a hearty Diwali. Giving of traditional sweets, too, is an integral part of the festivities, and in Goa this usually means eating sweets made of ‘fows’ or puffed rice, besides other sweets like laddus, chaklis, sakkaparas and badam halwa, many of which are home-made (though now with people abandoning traditions, many buy sweets from shops). Explains Porvorim resident Gauri, “Giving a gift during Diwali creates a bond of togetherness and respect between you and the person who you give a gift to or take a gift from. Earlier people used to give more sweets and fruits or agricultural produce because society was more agricultural oriented. Nowadays that has changed and people who live in cities usually give things like chocolates, gift hampers, watches,
gift vouchers, etc. So the same tradition continues, but in a modern avatar.” A new ‘flea market’, with a promise to stay open every day, unlike the other weekly flea markets, has also opened up at Baga in time for Diwali. Jewellery shops are also holding special shows and launching new showrooms. With thousands of tourists pouring into Goa to celebrate the Diwali holidays, almost all leading hotels and nightspots have lined up a colourful array of events to dazzle the visitors. Five-star Alila Diwa Goa, for example, is hosting a Diwali lunch on Sunday at their Vivo restaurant where guests can indulge in a festive buffet with traditional delicacies and desserts, while professional babysitters take care of the kids and a live band provides foot-tapping music. It’s bonanza time for nightclubs and party hotspots which are holding Halloween nights that will effortlessly shift gears into the Diwali weekend. Of course there are those who don’t quite like the ‘modern’ face of Diwali. Says Pramod, a resident of Panjim who
is aghast that Diwali has turned into a big shopping-cum-entertainment festival, “It is sad that our festivals have degenerated into merry making and ostentatious displays of wealth. The fundamental principle of Diwali, which is to invoke the blessings of God to battle the evils around us, has been lost. We have replaced it with greed and the quest of acquiring material wealth at any cost.” The fact that many people still observe old traditions like lighting earthen diyas also enables traditional occupations like that of the potter to survive. The communities of potters which still exist in some parts of Goa like Pernem are kept busy at this time of the year, making thousands of tiny ‘diyas’ which are in demand during Diwali. Before Diwali, they were busy making idols of Ganesh. Says Arun Gawandi, a pottery artist from Pernem, “There is good demand for such diyas during the festival and that helps sustain us. We sell the diyas at wholesale rates to others and they sell them in the markets. One reason why we can still carry on with this profession is that the Goa Handicrafts Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation has been promoting the development of handicrafts in the state.” Diwali also benefits the artisans who make the ‘Akash Kandils’ in various shapes and sizes out of paper and wood, as also the makers of traditional sweets. Whether you’re a gambler or a potter or sweet maker or anyone else who happens to be in Goa at this time of year, chances are you will find something to make you happy this Diwali.
15
Thursday, October 31, 2013
streetspick Art with David
This Diwali brighten your horizons and learn the basis of drawing painting and craft with David Fernandes! A five day series of art classes for youngsters 6 yrs and above On Nov 4 to Nov 8 At Carpe Diem, Majorda @ 2 pm to 4 pm +91 8888862462
Nov 1 Voilin/Cello Concert At The Black Box, Kala Academy. Panjim +91 832 2432528
Till 31st October Photogenic is organizing a photography contest themed “Cherish and Share festival moments!”
Nov 4 to Nov 8 Art with David! This Diwali brighten your horizons and learn the basis of drawing painting and craft with David Fernandes! A five day series of art classes for youngsters 6 yrs and above At Carpe Diem, Majorda @ 2 pm to 4 pm +91 8888862462
Oct 26 to Oct 31 A fashion collection
Showcasing 5 designers At Paper Boat collective, Sangolda @ 11 am to 8 pm
Galleries of Note Surya Art Gallery
Surya Art Gallery is situated in a quiet location where contemporary works of canvas paintings & artefacts of Goa are displayed. At Bandawalwada, Pernem +919404149764
Moksa Art Gallery
Displays of Contemporary Art are displayed by Salvador Fernandes. An exhibition and display of contemporary works and paintings by Salvador, Lata P. & Ronsay for U.K. At Naikawaddo, Calangute @ 9.30 am to 8.30 pm +91 832 2281121/ +91 9326717386
Picturesque
Exclusive range of archival prints on Christian Art (life of Jesus Christ). The museum displays works of Original Art & International print arts. There is also a display of Picture framing, Custom framing & Archival framing, all done by Goan Artists. At Near Domino’s Pizza, Panjim @ 9 am to 1.30 pm & 3.30 pm to 7 pm +91 9822124245
Mario Art Gallery
Original paintings of Mario Miranda & “The Life of Mario 1951” new book has been released. Merchandise Available: Prints, Mounted Prints, Sets and frames, Sale of Mario’s painting tiles & mugs, Card Sets, Tiles (of his work), Mario de Miranda Books, Inside Goa & Akeru Barros Pereira’s original work displayed. At Salvador-do-Mundo @ 9 am to 5.30 pm +91 832 2410711
Garden Central Gallery
Permanent exhibits paintings and Sketches of artists Derek Monteiro. At Panjim @ 10 am to 5 pm +91 9921372036
Carpe Diem
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
Fundação 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/ +91 832 2436108
Nida Sayeed
A Goan Speakeasy Let Your Mind Talk By Nolan Mascarenhas
I
t’s a quiet, unassuming evening as I head down to the end of the bustling stretch at Sinquerim. Armed with a poem for my recital this evening, Wordsworth to be precise, I am anxious about my delivery and the crowd’s reaction. I arrive on time, perhaps a bit too early, and was greeted by well-appointed restaurant – SinQ Tavern by Bodega – that was about to be transformed into a modern day speakeasy. What is a speakeasy? These were underground establishments serving illegal alcoholic beverages that came into prominence in the U.S. during the Prohibition era (when alcohol was banned) in the United States from 1920 to 1933. Today a speakeasy can refer to any retro bar. The term originated because in the old days folks spoke quietly when referring to these places, or when inside them, so as not to alert the authorities. The speakeasy I was attending today in Goa also conjured up the feeling of an underground gathering, where activists, artists and the creatively inclined gather together to voice their opinions and recite poems and short stories. An eclectic mix of professors, students, artists, photographers, poets and entrepreneurs had their works ready for that perfect delivery. I was
delighted to see the turnout, but I wondered what we must have looked like to anyone looking at us through the large glass windows of Tavern. Would they see us as over-thinking intellectuals engaging in some kind of futile mental masturbation? Or would they see our musings as a refreshing embodiment of free expression? While it is true this might not be everybody’s cup of tea (some of the works can get a little heavy and fly ten feet over the cuckoo’s nest), the evening was definitely quirky enough to make it memorable. Take, for instance, the original piece recited by Rishi Jalan, called ‘Eternal Love’, about the art and intensity of lovemaking demonstrated by, of all things, your earphones. All tangled up and knotted together, the piece portrayed the earphones as lovers in the throes of passion. Or for that matter, consider the essay by Ashish Kumar titled ‘Why I am fat, dark and tall’, examining societal norms and the pressures of perfection. There was some heavy reading (not for the fainthearted) featuring the works of the great American ‘beat generation’ poet Allen Ginsberg and some poems by Neruda, recited both in Spanish and English. A Sanskrit shloka of the Eternal Wanderer by yours truly quelled the misconception that those who wander Turn to page 16
16 Arts&Entertainment Gallery Esperance
Retrospective Art in Oils, Watercolours, Crayons Portraits, Landscape, Still Life Photographs. Gallery celebrates Franjoao Centenary. Every day, 4:00pm to 7:00pm: Retrospective art of artist Franjoao. At Near the our lady of Merces church, Merces +91 9922509704
Gallery Attic
A display of painting by Goan artist. At opp. Don Bosco, Panjim @ 9 am to 1 pm & 2 pm to 7 pm +91 832 2420929/+91 832 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. From 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 From 9 am – 8 pm +91 9822168703
From page 15 are lost. A heart touching poem by Erica Pereira ‘The City Alive’ spoke about the city of Vasco and Apurva Kulkarni delivered a well-received assortment of five poems. One related to sensuality and touched on the Kamasutra (always a fascinating topic for us Indians). Sushila Mendonca, who was the compere for the evening’s proceedings, offered her sweet thoughts and readings at the beginning and end of the artists’ delivery, and elicited some chuckles along the way. Nida Sayed’s read her poem ‘I Wonder’ and others read works by Sarah Kay, William Blake and Wordsworth. All in all, a lovely evening interspersed with literary knowledge over a cup of chai at the SinQ Tavern by Bodega. The speakeasy is an initiative by Sapna Shahani. When I asked what inspired her with this brainwave of an idea, she mentioned the Spoken Word performance by Sarah Kay
Nolan Mascarenhas she attended in Mumbai. That, she said, was where the idea germinated from. She wished for a gathering of people who shared a love for literature taking place in a context of a social gathering. By now you might be wondering how to
Sushila Mendonca
Tammy Shahani
sign up. Yes, there is a Facebook page www.facebook.com/ groupiesindia where one can register and be updated with the latest happenings as ‘A Speakeasy’ comes to us once a month, mostly on the third Wednesday at 8pm. You could
also write to groupiesindia@ gmail.com and the moderator of the group will slot you in for your recital. It’s free, and everyone’s welcome. Till the next time we see you, here’s to speaking one’s mind.
DJ Garry
2nd Edition of Fashion Friday’s Club Night Series presented by Blenders Pride Magical Night, on Nov. 1st at Cape Town, Baga,
Lawanya Shetye
Megny design
Hemant Assotikar
Designer Megny with model
Thursday, October 31, 2013
streetspick
Oct 29 to Nov 1
Festive Dance Classes
At Candolim Beach @ 10.30 am to 1.30 pm
God Seekers Adventure Camp
India’s Premiere Ballroom Dance couple, certified member of The IDTA (International Dance Teachers Association) London, UK. Jason & Sylvia Dance Academy will be conducting dance classes for this festive season for kids and ballroom for adults. Kids between the Age of four years and 12 years will learn hip-hop, laton dances, jazz mallet, standard, Zumba & Bollywood. Adults will learn The Waltz, Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep, jive, cha cha and basic of tango & Salsa over span of three week. The Academy also conduct exclusive private dance classes and for wedding couple. They will be starting their new fitness workout batch for ladies & gents in the mornings at the Studio Nov 4 At Las Viegas Dance Studio, Taleigao Nov 5 At B.P.S Sports club, Margao. +91 9822161652/ +91 9822151614 / +91 832 2451167
Oct 30 to Oct 31
Nov 1
Nov 5 to Nov 10
Every Friday
At Loyola High School, Margao @ 9 am to 12.30 pm +91 9158540977/ +91 9845067371
Tabla Classes At Swami Vivekananda Society junta house, Panjim @ 3 pm to 7.30 pm +91 832 2224098
Michael Aloysius Cypriano Correa popularly known as Micky
Correa, was also known as the “Sultan of Swing” and the “Badshah of the Bombay Ballroom”. At Club Vasco Da Gama, Panjim @ 8 pm onwards +91 9822120198
Yoga Class
Organised by Synergy Yoga Therapy Studio At Dicarpale, Margao +91 9403273525/ +91 8408813062
Nov 1 to Nov 8 Mime Workshop
Drupad Gaonkar, mime specialist, will be conducting a Mime workshop organised by the Mustard Seeds At Don Bosco High School, Panjim @ 7 pm
Nov 2 to Dec 15 Iam Creative!
A Series of fun creative workshops using waste material and focusing on environmental awareness, Ages: 8 - 15 1. Sock Monkeys, Nov 2 to Nov 3 2. Soft Toys, Nov 5 3. Plastic Animals, Nov 6 At Carpe Diem, Majorda @ 3.30 pm to 5.30 pm & 10.30 am to 12.30 pm +91 888862462
Nov 4 to Nov 7 Trip to Coorg
At Coorg, Karnataka @ 8 am onwards +91 9158472864/ +91 9822123458
Kool Camp
Nov 6 to Nov 10 Holiday Camp
At Xavier Centre of Historical Research, Porvorim +91 832 2417772
Nov 2 to 3 Nov Pop Up Store
At Mog- The cake studio, \Margao @ 3 pm onwards +91 8380078252/ +91 9822160275
Nov 2 to 30
Conservation Workshop
At Santa Monica Convent, Old Goa +91 832 2230728/ +91 832 2436108
Nov 4 to Nov 8
Robo World Workshop
At Peoples High School, Panjim @ 10 am to 5 pm +91 7875238094
Personal Grooming and personality enhancement
Chowgule College will be conducting a three day certificate course on Personal Grooming and personality enhancement with Harshita Saxena, Miss India 2009 in Nov 2013 The Last date for Registration is November 4 +91 832 2722221
Workshop on Letter- Writing
At Rosary College of Commerce and arts, Navelim @ 10 am to 12 noon
WORKSHOP - Dashavatara Ganjifa System of Sawantwadi
The Directorate of Museums has organized a two-day workshop on ‘Dashavatara Ganjifa System of Sawantwadi’ @ 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. At Goa State Museum. Panjim +91 832 2438006
Dalima’s Professional Bakery Classes
At Panjim, Model Residency, St. Inez, On 31st to 2nd Nov +91 9096901516/ +91 9326101493
Every Monday & Wednesday Capoeira Classes
@ 7 pm to 8 pm At Tito’s White House, Anjuna +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
Museums
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
Naval Aviation Museum
It displays a number of vintage aircraft, armament and Sencois, used at different stages by Naval Aviation dating back to 1950`s and a vast number of memorabilia related to Naval Aviation history. At near Bogmalo Beach @ 10 am to 5 pm +91 832 2538668
Goa State Museum
The museum plans to introduce a museum shop with the aim of popularizing Goan culture through museum objects by creating different articles such as greeting cards, gift wrapping paper, paper bags, etc At EDC Complex, Patto, Panjim @ 9.30 am to 5.30 pm +91 832 2438006 / +91 832 2437306
Customer & Central Excise Museum
The museum is categorized into 4 galleries introductory, custom heritage, battle of wits gallery and seizure gallery. Various seizures in the original, such as arms & armor, bronze images, stones sculptures etc…along with several seals & gold beads. At opp. Captain of ports Jetty, Panjim @ 11 am to 1 pm & 3 pm to 5 pm +91 832 2437362
Big Foot Cross Museum
The only Cross Museum in India displaying a worldwide collection of 1458 crosses Classified In 92 different categories. At Loutolim, Salcette @ 9.30 am to 1 pm & 2 pm to 6 pm +91 832 2777034/ +91 9822585460
Archaeological Museum
The objects displayed in the museum reflect the history of Goa. You will also see 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
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, Old Goa @ 9:30 am – 5 pm +91 832 2285299
Spice Farm
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
Water sports
Water Splash Cruises
Experience the Boating lifestyle Water Splash Cruises specializes in offering luxury boating and yachting experience in Goa with a large fleet of Catamarans, Boats, Cruisers & Yachts in Goa . At Models Status, Dona Paula www.watersplashcruises.com +91 8888864347
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ovotel a name synonymous with style and luxury finally launches its first resort property in India. North Goa now becomes the address to Novotel Goa Shrem Resort. Located at a walking distance from Candolim beach and about 45 minutes from the airport, the epicentre of Goa’s happening beaches, nightlife, flea markets and cafes now has its own favourite resort as well. Novotel Goa Shrem Resort promises to deliver an exclusive experience of international hospitality with the right balance of luxury, family spirit and wellbeing. Each room of this property offers the scenic beauty of Goa which can be experienced from the balconies. Guests can indulge in world class amenities or just soak in the sea view as they relax at Novotel’s stylish rooms and suites. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Lokesh Sabarwal, VP, Development, Accor India Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka said, “Accor is a growing brand and with the launch of Novotel Goa Shrem Resort we have entered leisure hospitality space in India. We have found the right partner in Shrem and are looking forward to a rewarding relationship with the launch of this property.” “We are proud to announce the opening of the first Novotel Resort property in the country.” said Mr. Manish Dayya, General Manager, Novotel Goa Shrem Resort. “Goa is one of the most sought after tourist destinations by both Indians as well as International tourists and we are here to deliver a holistic experience to our guests comprising of excellent F&B options, Spa experience and lots of fun activities for the children. Keeping in mind the interest of the entire family, we look forward to providing our guests a relaxed and heartfelt family experience!” The property has 3 food and beverage outlets named The Square, the all-day dining restaurant that serves global cuisines and regional specialities; Deli and the Bar, which offers freshly baked goodies; and the Swim up bar which is a sunken bar that serves health drinks and sea food grills. Other leisure facilities
Lobby Image - Novotel Goa Shrem Resort
include Spa Service, outdoor swimming pool and an In Balance Gym.
Guestrooms and Suites The guestrooms and suites at Novotel Goa Shrem Resort are designed keeping in mind the comfort of the entire family. All the rooms are made to occupy upto two adults and two children while the suites are large and well designed for unforgettable family moments. Spending time with family becomes even better as you unwind with your loved ones on the balcony with a scenic view of the beach. The resort also allows you to personalise your stay by joining the Le Club Loyalty Program.
Meetings and Event Spaces Novotel Goa Shrem Resort promises to make your meetings successful by introducing you to a world of work where innovation meets technology. The Hotel with its expertise in organizing meetings will take care of your personal requirements as our teams work together to ensure that business meetings are a success. Designed in contemporary design with ergonomic furniture, the meeting facilities are designed to provide efficiency and comfort. The Ballroom consists of a pre function area which makes it ideal for larger conferences and social gatherings. The Ballroom can be divided into two sections and provides 260 square meters of banquet space and 185 square meters of pre function foyer area along with an outdoor area combination. Business travellers can also opt for customised menu options and theme breaks making sure that business
Room Image - Novotel Goa Shrem Resort meetings are successful and winning. The property also has 20,000 square ft of lawn space for weddings.
Restaurant and Bars Guests can choose from three food and beverage outlets – The Square, The Deli and the Bar and The Swim Up Bar. The Square, is a signature all day dining restaurant that serves global cuisine and regional specialities. The elaborate menu focuses on Asian and European specialities as the 24 hour diner will dish out freshly prepared meals cooked in front of you. Deli and the Bar, will offer the guests freshly baked goodies and takeways for the guests on the go. Located
in the lobby of the hotel and with regular entertainment events planned throughout the year, The Deli and the Bar is the perfect place to unwind over a cup of coffee and delicious cookies. The Swim Up Bar, offers a selection of health drinks and sea grills as you lap through the outdoor swimming pool. Spa and Wellness Facilities Treat your senses to a transcendent atmosphere and impeccable service at the Novotel Goa Shrem Resort spa. Rejuvenate your mind and your soul as the spa allows guests to get away from the daily pressures and transfers them into a world of physical and spiritual wellbeing.
Feature 19
Thursday, October 31, 2013
By Charlane Pereira e Rebello
D
r John Carmo Rodrigues’ foray into winemaking began at sixteen years of age, below the legal drinking age, when he made wine with jambools. Today, at almost eighty, his collection of wines - over 200 bottles - contain the nutritional benefits of the aloe vera, hibiscus flowers, mulberries and guavas he uses to make them. Dr Rodrigues was a young man of 75 when he bagged the first prize at the Konkan Fruit Festival for his ambado wine. “We had a lot of jambool trees at home. It would get real messy with all the jambools fallen on the ground. That is when I made my first wine – jambool wine. And it was good,” he tells me. Who is Dr John Carmo Rodrigues? He is many things: medical marvel, yoga guru, author, social worker and yes, grape stomping wine maker par excellence. It’s fair to say this elderly gentleman belongs on any list of the ‘most extraordinary Goans.’ And that’s not just because of his accomplishments in the field of medicine, pharmaceuticals, alternative therapies and wine. It’s also because the good doctor has spent a lifetime being just that: good. For him, the concept of giving back to the people he loves has always been a way of life. Dr Rodrigues, a graduate in medical microbiology, was studying to be a doctor when his participation in the Goa Liberation Movement cut short his medical studies and forced an early exit from Goa. He later did his doctorate in alternative medicine, becoming a yoga expert, author, social worker and donning
many other hats, including the one as stomper of grapes. After graduating, Dr John joined Hoechst (Germany’s largest pharmaceutical company) and worked there for over three decades. He reached a senior managerial position, but then decided to take early retirement, return to his roots, and dedicate himself to the good of the community. Today his achievements are many: setting up Konkan Sevadhan, an NGO working for the welfare of landless labourers, introducing the Foot and Mouth and Candur Rabies vaccines into Goa and organising the aerial spraying of cashew and mango crops against the dreaded T-mosquitoes in Gujarat, Ratnagiri and naturally, Goa. He has also organized medical camps in his village, Chinchinim. Other accomplishments include starting a yoga therapy centre and publishing three books on the benefits of urine therapy and other alternative healing practices (“Amaroli”, “Damar Tantra Shiva” and “Energy Healing”). He has trained many world famous personalities in Asthanga Yoga. Dr Rodrigues is fluent in several languages – Portuguese, French, German, Marathi, Konkani and Hindi, and knows a smattering of Gujarati.
Speaking of his father’s positive influence on him, he says, “My dad was born into a wealthy family but preferred to work hard and make his own way. I’ve tried to follow his example.” The glow radiating from the gentle doctor’s face is an endorsement of the philosophy of living life with a positive outlook. As he states with a wise smile, “I have dined with princes and lived with beggars with equal pleasure and ease.” Of all Dr Rodrigues’ extraordinarily diverse pursuits, perhaps none is more notable than his devotion to wine. Having a collection of two hundred exotic wines to his collection, he proudly claims the healing properties of each of them. He picked several bottles of wine lined up against the window sill and showed me the label displayed on each of them. Each tells of the composition, nutritional value and other health benefits, and contains references and website links. His wine
collection is impressive - jambool, ginger, papaya, cashew, aloe vera, muskmelon, custard apple, mulberry, chickoo, caronda, guava, onion garlic-ginger, mango spice and many more. As he showed me his collection, I was amazed at his knowledge and his innovative bent of mind. A wine made from hibiscus (what we commonly refer to as the shoeflower in our gardens) caught my eye. Then there was the curry patta wine! Most of the fruits that he uses for his wines are from his own orchard. His wines sell under the name of Goan Homemade Wines. He let me sample a few of them, and I immediately understood what all the fuss was about. And that Dr John understood the health benefits of moderate wine drinking well before medical science proved it in recent years, somehow didn’t surprise me. On a parting note, he says, “Don’t be attached to worldly things. Attachment is the cause of sorrow. ” He has a special message for our young Goans, “Chase the permanent things of life. Be one-minded no matter what you do.”
20 Hot Streets Dear Acaricia May, am a 28-year-old woman in a relationship with a guy I really like but who has a rather kinky side. He says he doesn’t think human beings were made to be monogamous and that he couldn’t imagine being with only one woman for the rest of his life. He said he thinks he could commit emotionally to just one lady, but that when it comes to love making, he needs more variety. We’ve been together for about three months now, and he wants us to have an ‘open’ relationship. He said I can sleep with anyone I want to and he wants to be able to do the same, but those relationships would be just for sex and that we would remain committed to each other. He also said he’d be interested in making love with me in the same room as another couple (though without touching them). Like I said, I really like this man. He’s smart, good looking, artistic, creative, funny and very interesting. How do I feel about his feelings about sex? I’d be willing to try unconventional things and maybe even join him on some adventures. But I guess in some ways I’m kind of a traditional girl with pretty simple desires. I don’t think I want him sleeping around if he’s with me, and how would this ‘open’ relationship really work? He said the others would just be for fun, and that his real emotional commitment would still be to me, but once you’re that intimate with another person, wouldn’t that lead to deeper feelings? What do you think I should do? Rina, Mumbai
I
Dear Rina, I think you should follow your heart on this one. Mr Have-My-Cake-and-Eat-it-Too might be able to find a chick who digs his scene, but I doubt it will be easy. Socio-biologists have long known that the male of the species – from a Darwinian, evolutionary standpoint – seek to spread their seed far and wide in the interest of propagating their genes. Females, who have an equal stake in propagating their own genes (evolutionarily speaking), must choose their mates carefully because of the high investment entailed in nine months of pregnancy. The reason I’m bringing up this short lesson in evolutionary biology is to make a simple point: men and women are different. Is your boyfriend the first to feel an aversion to monogamy? Of course not. But he may be in the minority if he can’t overcome that desire in the interest of obtaining and keeping a special lady who needs and wants his exclusive love. This is a long way of saying, dear Rina, that it looks like he needs to grow up. That said, if you really like him as you say you do, try talking things out and see if a middle ground can be found. Maybe you could trade an ‘open relationship’ for an adventurous, high-octane love life that suits both your fantasies. Whatever you decide, good luck! Love,
Acaricia May
Feature 21
Thursday, October 31, 2013
By Goa Streets
M
aria works as a maid in North Goa, staying at her sister’s place in Saligao with her teenage daughter while her unemployed husband stays back in Margao. Maria heads back home every Sunday and gives her husband a portion of her salary, which she hopes he will use to buy food but inevitably goes to the bottle instead. He starts drinking first thing in the morning, and by noon he’s drunk. The burden of the family rests solely on Maria’s shoulders, and she says she would have left her husband a long time ago were it not for her daughter. “Who will marry her if her parents are divorced?” she asks. Maria’s story is repeated thousands of times throughout Goa. Countless men while away their days in an alcoholic haze while their wives keep the families afloat. The high incidence of alcoholism in Goa – mostly among men but sometimes among women as well – is one of the main reasons behind the intense pushes by some sectors of the population to restrict bars, music and nightlife. And the government has yet to find the right balance between attending to the legitimate tourism needs of the state and answering to the constituents who want drinking curtailed. Indeed, Goa has yet to embark on a serious debate on how best to handle this enormous problem. Is closing down or limiting the hours of bars and wine stores the solution? Or is putting in place programs of prevention and treatment? “The tourists who come to the state,
Often the ladies pay the biggest price do not come here to go to bed early. We must offer them at least some avenues to nightlife,” said Nuvem MLA Mickky Pacheco, who was leading the charge of the coastal brigade in the recently concluded session of the Goa Legislative Assembly against a government decision to reduce the timings of bars and restaurants and not give a 24-hour licence. Keeping him close company, another coastal MLA Michael Lobo contended that such a decision would be the death knell of the tourism industry in the state. And here’s how Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar weighed in on the issue. “In the name of promoting tourism, we shouldn’t be promoting drinking among Goans. Go for yourselves in GMC (Goa Medical College and Hospital) and see… liver cirrhosis is the cause of maximum deaths in the GMC.” He added, however, that he was willing to make ‘localized corrections’ for the tourism specific areas.
Both the MLAs and their supporters want the government to go back to an arrangement whereby liquor stores could get an extension from 9pm to 11pm, which they were earlier entitled to after paying 50% of their original licence fee. The government has also disallowed pubs and bars to increase their timings from 11pm to 5am, which they were earlier entitled to do by paying 100% of the original licence fee. “Goans often tend to overlook the issue of alcohol especially since it is so closely related to our Catholic festivities,” says Dr José Pinto, a practising psychiatrist. “Every time there is an occasion, no matter how insignificant be it a cross feast, right up to a wedding, alcohol is served,” he added. “Goans are yet to realise the magnitude of the problem,” he said. Take for example the case of Aldona, a predominantly Catholic pastoral village towards the eastern border of Bardez along the Mapusa River. Its scenic setting makes it a perfect ground for litterateurs, intellectuals and academicians who seek a quiet village life. With a population of around 6,600 (more than half of whom are women), the Aldona Primary Health Centre has to deal with a shocking number of alcoholics, many of whom relapse after going through a bout of rehabilitation. “The doctors of PHC Aldona detoxify around 15-20 Alcoholic Dependent Syndrome patients a month on an average since June 2013. There was a need to help them stay abstinent,” Dr Roshan Nazareth, a Medical Officer in-charge of the PHC said. To help cope
they set up an Alcoholic Anonymous group which now meets every Thursday. Over the last five years the state has witnessed 15,137 cases of alcohol dependency detected across Goa. The number of alcohol-related deaths in this period totalled 1536 (one-tenth of alcohol dependents), with the greatest number of cases being in Salcete, the Catholic heartland of the state. Dr Anil Rane, a lecturer at the Institute of Psychiatry and Human Behaviour who has done several studies on alcohol dependency in Goa, has said that there was a strong correlation between alcoholism and common mental disorders. Quoting studies, Dr Rane said that there was prevalence of ‘hazardous drinking’ in 21% of industrial workers. He added that the problem was particularly acute among the Catholic community. He has suggested that bars and restaurants be given only a fixed timing to sell alcohol. “Sale of alcohol should be limited to specific hours of the day such as from 7-11pm. This will ensure that people do not drink at work and also discourages people who limit to social drinking from developing a more abusive pattern,” Dr Rane said. Statistics made available by the Directorate of Health Services for cases over the last five years. shows that every year around 5,000 new patients receive treatment for alcohol abuse and related diseases, out of which around 500 die each year because of liver cirrhosis or related complications. Another private psychiatrist Dr Jose Pinto has blamed lack of awareness for people taking to alcohol. “There is a misunderstanding that drinking alcohol is fine, but when they get into trouble they have no one to go to,” he said, adding that alcoholics often lose their jobs, which only causes further frustration and more drinking. He lamented the fact that despite the magnitude of the problem, Goa still does not have a single rehabilitation or detoxification centre for alcohol and substance abuse, and that awareness programmes conducted by the Directorate of Health Services are negligible. On the social front, wives of alcoholics have begun to realise the importance of having their own bank accounts. “Having joint accounts or allowing the man to have custody of the money only makes the situation worse. If I have my own bank account at least at the end of the day I have some secruity,” says Rosaline Fernandes, whose husband spends his earnings as a daily wage labourer on the drink.