Being Goan - SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2023

Volume 2

Issue 9

September 2023

COVER FEATURE

karisha shirodkar

A fashion designer whose amazing acting skills resulted in her becoming one of Goa’s most popular actresses

abhinay naik

The founder of the popular food blog ‘Ruch Ayli’

Cover Image: Karisha Shirodkar

mog: music of goa

A Goan band that aims to promote Goan music across the globe

samir kaisukar

A well-known Goan content creator

priyanka masurkar

One of Goa’s most popular influencers

Editorial

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the September issue of ItsGoa’s monthly e-magazine ‘Being Goan!’ This month, on our cover, we have featured the radiant Ms. Karisha Shirodkar, a name synonymous with exceptional acting and captivating content creation. Her journey from a relative newcomer to becoming a beloved figure among audiences is nothing short of inspiring. Dive into the pages inside to discover more about her incredible voyage as an actor and content creator.

Turning the spotlight to the digital realm, we delve into the world of influencers, starting with the enchanting Mrs. Priyanka Masurkar. Her Instagram prowess, particularly her passion for sarees, has earned her a massive following, and we explore the captivating stories behind her rise to social media stardom. We also uncover the culinary escapades of Mr. Abhinay Naik, one of Goa’s most popular food bloggers who documents his gastronomic adventures through his popular food blog, 'Ruch Ayli.'

Our magazine wouldn't be complete without celebrating the talents of the silver screen, and this month, we showcase the illustrious Mr. Samir Kaisukar. He's set to take the lead role in the upcoming Konkani film 'Tu Maje,' and we delve into his career, aspirations, and his pivotal role in Goa's film industry. Additionally, we feature Mr. Mithil Lingudkar, a charismatic content creator whose humor-laden videos have

garnered him a dedicated following on Instagram.

This month’s issue also features an exclusive interview with Mr. Colin D'Cruz, a member of the newly formed Goan band 'MOG’. In the interview, Colin shares insights into the band's origin, details about their debut album, their exciting plans for the future and lots more.

An article by Certified Life Coach Clive Coutinho, where he talks about low self-esteem and provides practical tips to overcome this challenge, also features in this month’s issue of our magazine.

The month of August, which was characterised by its aridness, reminds us of the importance of reflecting on the unusual weather patterns that have marked this year in Goa. The dry spell experienced in August, the driest since 1901, has left many wondering about the impact of climate change on our beloved state.

Apart from this, the gruesome murder of a young woman from Porvorim, allegedly at the hands of her boyfriend last week, has sent shockwaves through our community. The motive behind this heinous crime was said to be the termination of their relationship. It's crucial that we, as a society, come together to prevent such incidents from happening again. Sensitisation and training of men to respect women and their right to choose their relationships and break free from them is paramount. It's high time we confront the patriarchal norms that continue to persist in our society, perpetuating violence and inequality.

Well, that's all I have for you from my desk this month. I hope you enjoy reading this month’s issue of our magazine. Do share it with your friends all across the globe.

Until next month, cheers!

Jessyl Fernandez Editor

01 Karisha Shirodkar

02 Samir Kaisukar

03 Priyanka Masurkar

04 ‘MOG’: Music Of Goa

05 Abhinay Naik

06 Mister.Mithil

07 Empowering Your Self-Worth

Introduction

Editorial Team

Chief Editor

Jessyl Fernandez

Content Manager

Steve Antao

Sales & Marketing

Donald Fernandez

Graphics & Layout

Shashank Parab

Social Media Manager

Saviola Dias

For advertising queries:

9370502124 / 9209005127

ItsGoa Media Group

Nordic Intent HQ - Floor 3, PDA Colony, Porvorim, Goa 403521

Email : mail@itsgoa.com

Website: itsgoa.com

Goa, the tiniest state on the western coast of India, boasts golden pristine beaches, palmfringed avenues, flavourful food, delicious Portuguese-influenced sweets, and warm, hospitable people. Also known as the Ibiza of India for its partying. A tropical paradise of flora and fauna, from the very famous 'almi' (mushrooms) endemic to its forests, that grow only on the red mud anthills, to the solar prawns that are fished immediately after the monsoons, Goa is unique. Tourists are also attracted to Goa for its cultural heritage - from the famous old Portuguese churches like Se Cathedral in Old Goa, the 16th Century Safa Masjid in Ponda and Shree Mangesha Temple in Mardol, the legendary Arvalem or Pandava Caves where the Pandavas of the Mahabharat fame lived, to its two unique festivals - Carnival and Shigmo. Goa plays host to many festivals - the International Film Festival of India that promotes cinema, the Serendipity Art Festival, Sunburn Music Festival, to name a few. To showcase this varied heritage of culture, art, tradition, food, and people, in 2015 ItsGoa was born. The main aim was to make it the premier portal for all things Goa. We were able to showcase Goa like never before. Soon our blog-based website transcended the virtual space, with the ItsGoa magazine – a sought-after resource for visitors to Goa from countries like Norway, UK, USA, etc. www.itsgoa.com

A fashion designer whose passion for acting resulted in her becoming one of Goa's most popular actresses

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: Karisha Shirodkar

Meet Karisha Shashikant Shirodkar, fondly known as Kuku Shirodkar, a multifaceted individual who has captured the hearts of many through her captivating and relatable content. Born and raised in the quaint village of Nachinola in Aldona, Karisha's journey from a fashion enthusiast to a prominent content creator is a tale of determination, passion, and creativity.

A Childhood Dream Blossoms

From an early age, Karisha nurtured her dream of becoming a fashion designer. Her flair for creativity was evident not only in her choice of career but also in her participation in dance competitions and her impressive drawing skills. Her early ambitions laid the foundation for her future endeavours as a content creator.

Academic Pursuits

After completing her 3-year diploma course in Garment Technology from the Government Polytechnic at Altinho-Panaji, Karisha was wellequipped with the skills needed to excel in the fashion industry. As a Goan native, she found herself rooted in her culture and traditions while embracing modern trends. Her professional journey as a fashion designer and stage actor further solidified her creative capabilities.

Venturing into the World of Content Creation

Karisha's journey as a content creator began when she discovered the power of social media platforms. Her initial foray into the world of content creation was through Musically/TikTok videos, where her acting skills shone through. Collaborating with fellow Goan content creators, she honed her acting prowess and garnered a loyal following that appreciated her authenticity and talent. Today, Karisha has 58K followers on her Instagram page. (@kuku_shirodkar24)

Aesthetic and Collaborations

Karisha's content revolves around comedy based on true stories and promotional reels for restaurants, clothing brands, and her exploration of new places. Her content radiates positivity and and a zest for life, aligning with her happy-golucky persona. She has collaborated with prominent Goan content creators, including ‘Mister.Mithil, Amar Babu Fataski, ‘Ami Susegad’, and ‘Tutch_Paiiii’, which has contributed to her rising popularity.

Photo Credits: Ishara, Kenya

Karisha at Lilliput, Anjuna

Karisha at Vintage restaurant, pernem

Karisha acting in a reel Along with the ami susegad trio

Overcoming Challenges

Like any content creator, Karisha has faced her share of challenges. She encounters occasional glitches and bugs on platforms like Instagram, but her resilience and creativity guide her through such hurdles. Karisha's future plans involve enhancing her content with innovative ideas, aiming to connect with her audience through compelling social messages.

Her Role Model

Karisha draws inspiration from her late grandmother, Laximi R Shirodkar, a woman of pride who instilled invaluable values in her. Her grandmother's hard work and determination serve as a constant reminder for Karisha to strive for excellence.

Beyond Content Creation

Karisha's talents extend beyond content creation. As a fashion designer, stage actor, and dance choreographer, she is a creative force in various realms. Her active involvement in

judging competitions and cultural events also speaks volumes about her passion for fostering talent in others.

Her Message To The Youth

Karisha's journey is a testament to the power of self-belief and pursuing one's passions relentlessly. Her message to young individuals resonates with her own experiences: "Believe in yourself and make the impossible possible. Embrace your talents, live life to the fullest, and let your creativity shine." In a world where content creation has become a dynamic and influential art form, Karisha Shirodkar stands as a beacon of inspiration for Goan youth and content creators alike. With her unwavering dedication, contagious positivity, and innovative ideas, she continues to carve her unique path in the digital landscape while staying true to her Goan roots.

To catch a glimspe of Karisha’s amazing acting skills, follow her on social media:

Instagram: @kuku_shirodkar24

Facebook: @karisha.shirodkar.33

Doing a promotional video with Mister.mithil for dr. Shake Santosh Cold Drinks

Karisha Doing a Promotional Photoshoot

Karisha with Mister.mithil at the trailer launch of The konkani movie ‘Tu maje’

Karisha At Tamdi Surla

actor

Samir Kaisukar

A Goan actor who strives to promote the Konkani language and Goan culture through his short videos

Article by: Team ItsGoa

Images by: Samir Kaisukar

www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgoa

In the realm of digital content creation and entertainment, Samir Kaisukar, popularly known as 'krsammy', has emerged as a shining star from the vibrant state of Goa. With a journey that reflects determination, creativity, and a strong connection to his roots, Samir has carved a niche for himself as a Goan content creator and actor. His story resonates with the power of passion and the potential of turning dreams into reality.

A Goan Heart with Dreams of the Silver Screen

Hailing from the serene village of Mandrem in North Goa, Samir Kaisukar's story embodies the essence of pursuing one's dreams against all odds. With a qualification in hotel management, he initially embarked on a different career path. However, his heart always longed for the world of acting and the silver screen. As a child, Samir's ambition was to become a recognised actor, a dream he nurtured while watching Konkani tiatrs and plays, often imitating renowned comedians such as Selvy, Agostinho, and John D'Silva.

The Turning Point

The breakthrough for Samir came when he posted a funny video featuring his nephew on Instagram Reels, which quickly went viral. This marked a turning point in his life, propelling him into the spotlight as a content creator. His videos

mostly capture the humorous aspects of day-to-day family life, relatable to audiences worldwide. Through his content, Samir aims to highlight the significance of family bonds, weaving entertainment with life lessons.

Conquering Fear and Embracing Stardom

An offer to play the main lead in the upcoming Konkani film 'Tu Maje' posed a challenge for Samir . Despite his success in the content creation realm, the transition to acting in a feature film was daunting. With unwavering support from his family and friends, he overcame this fear, proving his mettle as a versatile artist. His parents, particularly his mother, have been his pillars of strength, championing his endeavours and celebrating his achievements.

Samir Kaisukar

Poster of Samir’s upcoming movie ‘Tu Maje’.

Collaboration and Impact

Collaborating with fellow content creators, Samir's network has expanded. His first collaboration was with content creator Vernon D'Souza (@being vens). These partnerships not only enhanced his reach but also contributed to the diversity of his content, showcasing his adaptability and willingness to learn from others.

Inspiration and Future Aspirations

In his journey, Samir draws inspiration from Bollywood's versatile actor Akshay Kumar. Like Akshay, Samir aspires to be multifaceted in his artistic pursuits. As he continues to create content and act, Samir envisions a future where his passion becomes his full-time career. His message to Goans across the world is to cherish and support the beauty of the Konkani language, fostering a sense of unity and pride in their heritage.

Championing the Konkani Language and Legacy

Samir Kaisukar's journey underscores the potential of chasing dreams with unwavering dedication. As a Goan content creator and actor, he continues to evolve, entertain, and inspire. His commitment to preserving and promoting the Konkani language reflects his love for his heritage and his desire to leave a lasting impact on the cultural landscape. Through his work, Samir is not just an artist but a cultural torchbearer, igniting pride and celebration among Goans everywhere.

Catch a glimpse of Samir’s amazing content on Instagram at: @kr_sammy_

Samir Starring in the reel ‘Fokana Padli Mharag’.

Samir - The Rising Star

priyankA MasURKAR

An influencer whose passion to showcase the beauty of sarees through visually stunning content resulted in her becoming one of Goa’s most popular figures on Instagram

Article by: Steve Antao Images by: priyanka Masurkar

Priyanka Masurkar is an Instagram influencer based in Goa who has carved a unique niche for herself in the digital realm. Through her posts and reels, she passionately showcases the elegance and beauty of sarees, while also sharing glimpses of her life's journey and vibrant personality.

Originally from the picturesque town of Kankavli in Maharashtra, Priyanka Masurkar has gracefully blended her Maharashtrian roots with the vibrant spirit of Goa, where she now resides. Following her marriage, Priyanka moved to Goa in 2015, bringing with her a sense of cultural diversity that resonates deeply in her content.

From Dreams of Dance to Saree Enthusiast

Priyanka's journey as a content creator was born out of a childhood ambition to be a dancer. Although her dancing aspirations didn't materialise, her love for creativity found a new outlet through social media. With a background in education and a diploma in home science, Priyanka's journey took her from being an Abacus Course instructor to a primary school teacher, reflecting her passion for nurturing young minds.

Unveiling the Saree Magic

Stepping into the world of content creation, Priyanka found her true calling – sarees. Inspired by her mother's graceful drapes and her fascination with Indian fashion, Priyanka embarked on a journey to celebrate the rich heritage of sarees through creative and visually stunning content. Her ability to experiment with different drapes, colours, and patterns has captivated thousands of followers.

From Viral TikTok Videos to Instagram Fame

Priyanka's journey as an influencer took off when she joined TikTok in 2017. Her quirky, entertaining videos quickly gained her a following. However, the platform's ban in India led Priyanka to explore Instagram, where she continued to create and share her content. The introduction of Instagram Reels provided a perfect avenue for her creativity to flourish, leading to her first viral reel alongside her husband Gajakant. Priyanka's amazing and engaging content has led her to gain nearly 144K followers on her Instagram page, making her one of the most popular influencers in Goa.

priyanka with her husband Gajakant

Doing a collaboration at Cremeux

Priyanka with her brothers Tushar and Dhiraj

A Journey of Collaboration and Support

Priyanka's journey has been marked by collaboration and support from family, friends, and fellow creators. Her family, especially her husband, has been her rock, offering unwavering encouragement. Her collaborations with Goan influencers, businesses like Cremeux, restaurants, and even renowned personalities like Indian TV host Miss Malini Agarwal, have enriched her journey and expanded her reach.

Overcoming Challenges and Setting Goals

Amidst the success, Priyanka hasn't been immune to challenges. Negative comments and harassment tested her resilience. However, with her husband's unwavering support and her own determination, she has risen above such obstacles. Her parents, Nilima and Nandkumar Masurkar, serve as her ultimate role models, inspiring her with their unwavering guidance and support.

Looking Ahead: Dreams and Aspirations

As she continues her journey, Priyanka dreams of meeting the iconic Madhuri Dixit, reflecting her passion for dance and creativity. Despite her busy life, Priyanka aims to embrace opportunities to promote sarees on a national level. Her advice to Goan youngsters is to chase their dreams relentlessly, converting passions into fulfilling careers. Priyanka Masurkar's journey as an Instagram influencer is a remarkable blend of creativity, culture, and passion. Her celebration of the elegance of sarees, combined with her vibrant personality, has garnered a loyal following. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring creators, encouraging them to embrace their passions and chase their dreams in the boundless world of social media.

Follow Priyanka Masurkar on social media: Instagram: @mrs_priyankamasurkar Facebook: @piyu.masurkar

with Goan content creators Rajesh Malgaonkar (Tutch_paii), Albert Rodrigues (Mr_voddalocks) and Puja Gaude (pujagaude.official)

with digital influencer and TV host Miss Malini Agarwal at a sundowner party at Azule, Ashwem-Goa

with Goan content creators Akash Kambli, Mithil Lingudkar, Kuku Shirodkar, and Samir Kaisukar at the trailer launch ceremony of The Goan movie ‘Tu Maje’

with Famous photographer Captain sai kiran and his team

BAND

‘MOG’ : music of goa

In an exclusive interaction with ItsGoa, Colin D’Cruz, one of the members of a newly formed band called MOG, shares details about the band, the idea behind its formation, details about the band’s debut album and lots more

Article by: Team ItsGoa

Images by: MOG

Colin D'Cruz is one of the most well-known names in the music industry here in Goa. Through the course of his glorious career spanning more than four decades, Colin has been a member of several bands in Goa and Mumbai. He has toured several countries around the world and has been a part of Sonu Nigam, Asha Bhosle and Shubha Mudgal’s bands as well.

Recently, Colin collaborated with Goan singer Hemaa Sardesai and a few other Goan musicians to launch a new band called ‘MOG’. The band released its debut album on the 20th of August on the occasion of World Goa Day. In a brief interaction with ItsGoa, Colin shared details about the newly formed band, the idea behind starting the band, details about the band’s debut album and lots more.

Can you tell us a bit about your newly formed band called ‘MOG’?

The band is called ‘MOG’. The word ‘MOG’ stand for ‘Music of Goa’. The band is composed of Hemaa Sardesai and Seby Fernandes on vocals, Daniel Miranda on guitar, Tony Dias on keyboard, myself on bass guitar and Prathamesh Chari on drums. The band’s debut album, which is also called ‘MOG’, was launched on the 20th of August 2023.

What was the idea behind starting this band?

The whole idea behind putting together this band was that for the first time, we are forming a band, composed of only Goan musicians, playing only Goan music. Every band in Goa plays a mix of different genres of music. I too have been doing the same all my life. I have played everybody else’s music for decades. And I suddenly realised that Goa is a musical state. It has got its own musical culture and unique musical identity. So, I felt that it was high time I took pride in the musical heritage of my home state and promoted it to the rest of the world. So for the first time, this band will play only music from Goa. Our debut album contains Goan songs that people in Goa enjoy the most. It also contains Konkani originals that we have

written and composed. The songs in the album are in three languages - Konkani, Portuguese and English.

Tell us more about the band’s debut album ‘MOG’.

The songs in the album have been sung by Seby Fernandes and Hemaa Sardesai, many of them individually and a few of them as duets.

The album has a playlist that every Goan home can be proud of. Goans are spread out all over the world today and MOG will take a piece of Goa to these global Goans.

Can you explain the story behind the name of the band and the album?

We wanted to come up with a title connected to Goa. ‘MOG’ is an abbreviation for ‘Music of Goa’. So, the name of the album as well as our band gives people an idea of what our band is all about and also the type of music we play.

On WHICH PLATFORM IS THE ALBUM AVAILABLE FOR LISTENERS TO ACCESS AND LISTEN TO? The album is available online as a free digital download at: www.jazzgoa.bandcamp.com/album/ mog

Is this the first time you have worked with Hemaa Sardessai and Seby Fernandes?

No. I have worked with both, Hemaa as well as Seby in the past. I have known both of them for many years. Both are wonderful human beings and working with them is always an enjoyable experience. Hemaa is a musical star in Bollywood while Seby is a local music legend. Apart from their awesome voices, both singers have an amazing stage presence and a strong audience connection. So doing live shows with them is going to be a superb experience.

Could you name any one particular song from the album which is your personal favourite?

My favourite song from the album is ‘Goa Mhojem’. It is a song about Goa in Konkani. It is an original track that I have composed and has been sung by Hemaa Sardesai.

Are there any emotions or messages you aim to convey to listeners through this album?

I have performed for Goans based in Canada, USA, Australia and other countries as well and I know how much they miss Goa. So the idea behind this band and album is to also perform for all these Goan communities based around the world. What we are essentially doing is we are taking a piece of Goa to different countries. And hopefully, apart from the Goan diaspora based in these countries, we will also get non-Goans based in these countries interested in Goan music. That's the whole idea.

Will your band be going on tours to other countries?

We plan on touring many countries because we have a whole string of inquiries lined up. We have to work out the logistics for these tours and then maybe, by the end of this year, we will start touring.

Hemaa Sardesai (Left) and Seby Fernandes (Right)

MOG Album Cover

food blogger

The founder of the popular food blog ‘Ruch Ayli’

Article by: Team ItsGoa

Images by: Abhinay Naik

In the digital age, where social media has become a powerful platform for self-expression and creativity, Abhinay Naik, a Goan food enthusiast, has taken the opportunity to showcase the delectable flavours of Goa through his Instagram page 'Ruch Ayli'. From humble beginnings to becoming a notable food blogger, Abhinay's journey has been one of passion, dedication, and support from friends and followers.

How It All Started?

Abhinay's journey as a food blogger began in August 2019 during his university days when he and his friends engaged in animated discussions about various types of food. At that time, Goa lacked prominent food bloggers, and Abhinay saw the perfect opportunity to share his love for food with a wider audience. Thus, 'Ruch Ayli' was born, purely as a passion project.

Embracing Local Flavours

Unlike many mainstream food bloggers, Abhinay has kept 'Ruch Ayli' authentic and true to its essence. He focuses on exploring local food joints in Goa, where the true essence of Goan cuisine lies. Abhinay's dedication to highlighting small food businesses has not only delighted food enthusiasts but has also contributed to the growth of local eateries.

Supportive Friends and Family

Throughout his journey, Abhinay's friends have been a pillar of support, especially his close friend, Aniket Kanolkar, who has been there with him from the very beginning. When he first started, even his parents were unaware of his food blogging adventures, but their recent discovery has only strengthened his determination to continue doing what he loves.

Overcoming Challenges

Despite the lack of sophisticated equipment and technical knowledge, Abhinay never let any challenge deter him from pursuing his passion. Initially, he faced difficulties in maintaining video quality with just an average camera phone, but with the help of his friends, he managed to create visually appealing content. He also taught himself video editing, a skill that has since become an essential part of his food blogging journey.

Exploring local flavours at Sunny Bar and Restaurant, Ponda

Attending a Food Festival at Fairfield By Marriott, Benaulim

His Role Model

Abhinay finds inspiration in the renowned Portuguese football star, Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo's story of hard work and discipline serves as a reminder that with determination, anything is achievable. Just like Ronaldo's passion for football, Abhinay's love for food and his willingness to experiment with local delicacies have made him stand out in the world of food blogging.

Future Aspirations

Although Abhinay prefers working solo in his food blogging ventures, he remains open to collaborating with fellow bloggers and content creators in the

future. Such collaborations have the potential to bring diverse perspectives and exciting content to his audience.

His Message to Goans

Abhinay’s message to all Goans to follow their hearts, give their best, and not worry about the outcome resonates with those who strive to achieve their dreams. Through 'Ruch Ayli,' Abhinay has not only discovered his love for food blogging but has also become an influential figure in promoting Goan cuisine and supporting local businesses. As he continues his journey, Abhinay will undoubtedly inspire many others to embrace their passions and carve their unique paths in life.

Exploring Goan seafood delicacies at Farmer Restaurant, Pilerne

Mithil Lingudkar is a passionate Goan content creator who has been creating waves with his unique and humorous videos on his Instagram page, 'mister.mithil.' A native of Canca village in Mapusa, Mithil’s love for acting was ingrained in him from his childhood. He showcased his acting skills through small skits during his school days, leaving glimpses of his immense talent even then.

A Journey Rooted in Passion

After completing his higher studies, Mithil's devotion to acting led him to explore content creation. He started his journey as a side actor in reels produced by his friends. However, inspiration struck him when he came across the videos of Bhuvan Bam, a renowned comedian and YouTuber. Intrigued and motivated, Mithil embarked on his journey as a content creator, ready to showcase his talent and humour to the world.

The Humorous World of 'mister.mithil'

Mithil's content primarily revolves around funny videos that tickle the funny bones of his audience. He also delves into social issues, using his platform

to raise awareness on important topics. Additionally, he takes pride in showcasing the beauty of Goan culture and festivals, aiming to make the Konkani language accessible to people worldwide.

A Support System of Love and Encouragement

Mithil's journey as a content creator has been possible because of the unwavering support of his parents. His mother, a theatre artist herself, provides invaluable guidance and assistance to him in crafting powerful scripts. Moreover, his friends, whom he considers as family, join hands in creating engaging content and remain a strong pillar of support.

Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Criticism

Like any content creator, Mithil has faced challenges on his path to success. He acknowledges that some individuals may try to bring creators down, but he treats such instances as motivation to produce even better content for his audience. Through the course of his career, Mithil has collaborated with several Goan content creators including Zeshan (@zeshan__46) , @tutch_paiiii and several others. He makes a special mention of Goan actress

Mithil doing a promo shoot at Lazy Bee Cottages

Karisha Shirodkar. He says that she helps him a lot in his ‘reel life’ as well as in real life. He adores her acting skills and considers her as his favourite female co-actor. He and Karisha help each other in coming up with new concepts and ideas for their respective videos.

His Role Models and Aspirations

Mithil finds inspiration in Rocking Star Yash, appreciating his simplicity and humility despite achieving tremendous fame. With a clear perspective and unwavering determination, Mithil aims to make his brand, 'mister.mithil,' reach a larger audience, all while promoting and contributing to the Goan pride.

A Future Full of Dreams

Looking ahead, Mithil dreams of creating long-form content on a bigger platform, expanding his reach, and continuously elevating Goan culture on the global stage. His passion and hard work pave the way for a promising future as a renowned content creator and perhaps an accomplished Goan actor.

A Message for Goan Youth

Mithil's journey is a testament to the importance of following one's heart and pursuing what truly makes oneself happy. His advice to Goan youngsters is to believe in their dreams, forgoing any future regrets, and being proud of their pursuits, regardless of the challenges they may face.

In conclusion, Mithil Lingudkar is an epitome of passion, determination, and love for his roots. Through his humorous and engaging content, he continues to charm his audience while spreading the essence of Goan culture and beauty to the world. With an unwavering resolve, Mithil envisions a future that celebrates the rich heritage of Goa and its people, leaving an indelible mark on the content creation landscape.

To enjoy Mister Mithil’s hilarious humour-filled videos, follow him on social media:

Instagram: Mithil Lingudkar (@mister.mithil) Facebook: Mithil Lingudkar (@mithil.lingudkar)

Mithil’s team who get ready for a shoot with just one phone call from him

Mithil with his favourite co-star Karisha Shirodkar

Mithil with his team who acted in a reel titled ‘Bollywood Memes In Real Life’

Article by: Clive Coutinho

Image by: FreePik

In a world that constantly bombards us with images of perfection and success, it's all too easy to find ourselves struggling with low self-esteem. The concept of self-esteem encompasses our overall assessment of our worth, capabilities, and value as individuals.

It's essentially the foundation upon which our selfimage is built. Healthy self-esteem not only affects how we view ourselves but also how we navigate our relationships, pursuits, and challenges

What is Self-Esteem?

Self-esteem isn't just a buzzword; it's a fundamental psychological concept that plays a significant role in shaping our lives. It's the lens through which we see ourselves and the world around us.

When our self-esteem is high, we're more likely to approach life with confidence, resilience, and a positive outlook. Whereas low self-esteem can lead to self-doubt, anxiety, and a diminished sense of our potential

Characteris cs of Low Self-Esteem

Low self-esteem is like a shadow that clouds our perception of ourselves and colors our interactions with the world. Individuals with low self-esteem tend to undermine their abilities, downplay their achievements, and often feel undeserving of positive attention or success.

Common characteris cs of low self-esteem

incl de

Nega ve Self-Talk: Engaging in self-deprecating and self-critical inner dialogues

Perfec onism: Setting unrealistically high standards and feeling inadequate when not meeting them

Comparison: Constantly measuring oneself against others and feeling inferior

Avoidance of Challenges: Fear of failure or rejection leading to avoidance of new opportunities

Lack of Self-Confidence: Doubting one's abilities and second-guessing decisions.

Diffic

lty Accep

ng Praise: Feeling uncomfortable or disbelieving when receiving compliments

Social Withdrawal: Shying away from social situations due to fear of rejection or judgment

Ca ses and Factors Contrib ng to Low SelfEsteem

Understanding the root causes of low self-esteem can help us address and challenge them effectively. Some common contributors include

Early Childhood Experiences: Negative experiences or criticism during childhood can significantly impact self-esteem development

Cri cal Self-Image: Developing a harsh selfcritical perspective due to societal standards, unrealistic media portrayals, or personal setbacks

Comparison C lt re: Constant exposure to curated images and successes on social media can lead to unfavorable self-comparisons

Tra ma and Ab se: Experiencing trauma, abuse, or neglect can erode self-worth over time

Lack of Posi ve Reinforcement: A lack of acknowledgment or validation for achievements and efforts can lead to doubts about one's capabilities

Unrealis c Standards: Holding oneself to impossibly high standards in various areas of life

Strategies to help combat low self-esteem

A. Prac ce Self-Compassion

Imagine treating yourself with the same kindness, understanding, and support that you offer to a close friend in times of need. That's the essence of selfcompassion—a profound act of treating yourself with the same warmth and care that you extend to others. It involves recognizing your own humanity, embracing your imperfections, and acknowledging that everyone faces struggles and challenges.

Self-compassion plays a pivotal role in boosting self-esteem because it shifts your internal dialogue from criticism to kindness.

Tips for Practicing Self-Compassion

a. Self-Kindness and Understanding

Start by acknowledging your self-talk. When you catch yourself engaging in negative self-talk, pause and reframe it with kindness.

Ask yourself: "Would I say this to a friend?" Treat yourself with the same gentleness you'd offer to others. Replace self-criticism with selfencouragement.

b. Mindfulness and Self-Awareness

Practice mindfulness by being present in the moment without judgment. Tune into your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. When you notice self-critical thoughts arising, observe them without attachment.

Mindfulness helps you recognize the impermanence of these thoughts and allows space for selfcompassion to emerge.

c. Recognizing Shared Struggles

Remember that you're not alone in facing challenges. All humans experience difficulties and setbacks—it's an inevitable part of life. Instead of isolating yourself, remind yourself that you're part of a broader human experience. This perspective can help soften selfcriticism and foster empathy towards yourself.

B. Challenge Negative Self-Talk

Our minds are like gardens, and the thoughts we nurture can either cultivate a lush, vibrant landscape or a thorny, desolate terrain. Negative self-talk is like the invasive weed that chokes the positivity and growth within us. Recognizing and addressing it is a pivotal step in overcoming low self-esteem.

Identifying negative self-talk patterns is essential because it brings awareness to the thought loops that contribute to low self-esteem. Often, these patterns are so ingrained that they go unnoticed. By identifying them, you gain the power to challenge and transform them. This transformation is not about denying reality but about reframing it in a way that's more balanced, compassionate, and aligned with your true potential.

a. Cognitive Reframing

Cognitive reframing involves consciously challenging and replacing negative thoughts with more rational and balanced ones. For instance, if you catch yourself thinking, "I'll never be good enough," try reframing it to, "I am constantly improving and growing, and my efforts are valuable."

b. Positive Affirmations

Positive affirmations are powerful tools to counteract negative self-talk. Craft affirmations that resonate with you and address the specific selfdoubts you face. Repeat these affirmations regularly, whether silently or aloud, to reinforce positive self-beliefs. For example, "I am worthy of love and success just as I am."

c. Keeping a Self-Talk Journal

Keeping a journal helps you become more aware of your thoughts and emotions. When you notice negative self-talk, write it down along with the situation that triggered it. Then, challenge it by asking yourself for evidence that supports and contradicts it. This process can unveil the irrationality of negative self-talk and provide a basis for change.

C. Set Realistic Goals and Celebrate Achievements

Setting and achieving goals is a powerful way to boost self-esteem and cultivate a sense of accomplishment. When we accomplish what we set out to do, whether big or small, it reinforces our belief in our abilities and showcases our growth potential. However, it's crucial to set goals that are realistic and aligned with your current circumstances. Unrealistic goals can lead to disappointment and further erode self-esteem.

Setting and Achieving Goals

a. Start with Small, Manageable Goals Begin by setting goals that are achievable within a reasonable timeframe. These goals must challenge and not overrun you. For example, if you are

working on improving a skill, start with a small task that you can complete in a short period.

b. Track Progress and Celebrate Milestones Keep track of your progress toward your goals. This could be through a journal, a digital tracker, or any method that works for you. As you make strides toward your goal, celebrate each milestone along the way. Recognize your effort and growth, no matter how small.

c. Gradually Increase the Complexity of Goals As you achieve your smaller goals, gradually increase the complexity and scope of your objectives. This incremental approach allows you to build on your successes and steadily expand your comfort zone. With each achievement, your selfesteem will flourish, and you'll gain confidence in your ability to tackle more significant challenges.

Final Words

Remember, building self-esteem isn't just about the destination—it's about the transformation that occurs along the way. Embrace this journey of selfdiscovery and personal growth as a testament to your strength and resilience. Every effort you make, every positive change you experience, contributes to a brighter and more empowered version of yourself. In closing, understand that you're more than capable of cultivating a profound sense of self-worth and embracing a life filled with confidence, compassion, and joy.

About The Author

Clive Coutinho is a Certified Life and Wellness Coach from the International Coaching Federation. His proficiency lies in the realm of the human mind, behaviour and communication. Meticulous insight, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to rehabilitate are at his core, ensuring every conversation with him is engrossing, constructive, and uplifting.

He serves as a Life and Wellness Coach at the renowned holistic wellness platform ‘YouCare By Luke Coutinho’.