ItsGoa - March 2022 Edition

Jolynn Carneiro

She runs an independent lifestyle brand called Nonsense Curry.

THE POTEKAR FESTIVAL

This Festival is held during the three days of Carnival, in the month of February.

JAPANESE RESTAURANTS PRIVATE VILLAS PORVORIM

sharlaine Menezes

A young woman from Margao, who had all the tools to master classical music, but chose to rap.

Mack vieira

He’s performed at practically every major music festival in Goa

Yellow Mehra

She spent her early years in the throes of the hippie movement, her name itself a vestige of its colourful sensibility.

PIZZA PLACES IN VAGATOR Japanese food has gained a lot of popularity over the years.

For those planning a staycation in Porvorim anytime soon

For those of you planning a pizza party anytime soon, here’s a list of the top pizza places in Vagator

People, Food, Travel, Hospitality

Editorial

Hello Friends, We are happy to be back with the March edition of our online magazine ItsGoa and guess what? It has a lot to offer, not only food for the stomach but also for the brain. Our interesting series on Humans of Goa, A Unique festival, Places of worship and unheard-of beaches that are a must-visit in Goa. For those looking for a staycation, ItsGoa.com has a list of the best Villas, budget hotels and even homestays that will help make your trip memorable. Goa comes alive once more as the spring festival of Holi is celebrated across the state. Also known as Shigmotsav or Gulalotsav, the main characteristic of this festival is the smearing of colour on everyone. Unique to Goa, Shigmo is celebrated on 21st March for 14 days with temple dances, throwing of gulal (red powder), music and float parades in major towns. Colourful dancers in traditional costumes line the streets swaying to rhythmic beats of folk music. Amchem Goem is a land of unity in diversity. Villagers come together to celebrate irrespective of caste, creed, colour or sex. Neighbours can be seen working tirelessly to decorate or cook for the entire neighbourhood.

It's the only festival where everyone gets to wear ordinary clothes, with no compulsory pujas or exchanging of gifts.

The month of March also celebrates Zero Discrimination Day on the 1st globally. That means everybody lives life with dignity regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, skin colour, height, weight, etc. Casteism is still rampant in our country especially in remote villages. Parity is being preached but not practiced. Another important day that is celebrated globally on the 8th of March is International Women's Day. Another day to accelerate gender parity. With access to education and a better support system, women are able to rise up the corporate ladder and balance home and work with ease. What needs to change is the male dominated society we live in. Imagine a kitchen or home where the husband and wife are ‘singing together’. What a glorious home and a happy family that would make!

Signing off on a positive note I wish you all a very happy March.

Get in touch:

Nordic Intent HQ, Lane 4, PDA Colony, Near Le Magnifique, Bardez Goa – 403521 +91-9765419976 mail@itsgoa.com

Index

01 Japanese Restaurants in Goa

02 Jolynn Carneiro

03 Pizza Places in Vagator

04 Mack Vieira

05 Villas in Porvorim

06 Yellow Mehra

07 The Potekar Festival

08 Delfinos Goa

09 Neyree Viegas

10 Authentic Goan Seafood

11 Chef Patrick Albert

Introduction

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, The Grape Escapade 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, Germany, UK, USA, UAE, etc. The Covid Pandemic in 2020 brought everything to a standstill and printing of the magazine was put on hold. Now that life is almost back to normal in Goa, and to maintain the covid norms, we have decided to launch our very own ItsGoa magazine online.

A little about our Magazine

Think of Goa! Think ItsGoa! Our magazine is known for its business listings of basically anything and everything found in Goa. We also produce uniquely written articles in regard to Goa. Some of these folk tales you quite literally will not find anywhere else on the net. These rich in content stories are passed down from generation to generation in the villages of golden Goa. We also provide up-to-date news and information on travel, food, and events that are taking place in this beautiful State of Goa. The content on ItsGoa is written by people who are passionate about calling this tiny state their home. Our writers come from all walks of life, and through our social media handles on Facebook or Instagram, we re able to showcase Goa through many different lenses.

The ItsGoa magazine is a single point of reference for news, lifestyle, and culture in Goa.

Japanese Restaurants in Goa To GIVE YOU THAT WASABI EDGE

Photograph: Marina Grynykha

Japanese cuisine encompasses the regional and traditional foods of Japan, which have developed through centuries of political, economic, and social changes. The traditional cuisine of Japan is based on rice with miso soup and other dishes; there is an emphasis on seasonal ingredients. Side dishes often consist of fish, pickled vegetables, and vegetables cooked in broth. Seafood is common, often grilled, but also served raw as sashimi or in sushi. Apart from rice, a staple includes noodles, such as soba and udon.

Japanese cuisine has transcended boundaries and has become very popular in different parts of the world. Dishes like sushi, ramen, and tempura are very famous and have found favour with Japanese food lovers in different countries. In Goa too, Japanese food has gained a lot of popularity over the years. This has led to several restaurants offering authentic Japanese cuisine opening up in different parts of Goa. For all you Japanese food aficionados out there, here is a list of the best Japanese restaurants in Goa.

Yazu Restaurant, Candolim

First on our list of the best Japanese restaurants in Goa is Yazu restaurant. This is a lovely shack located at Marquis Beach Resort, right on the shores of the beautiful Candolim beach in North Goa. Its ideal location on the beach provides a very pleasant ambience and the lovely music playing in the background adds to the overall vibe of the place. You can spend your entire day here and not feel bored. The food offered over here is good. For starters, you can try ordering the turnip cake and signature yazu chicken. The turnip cake is a must for veg lovers and is worth ordering. It is made with radish and loads of garlic. The yazu chicken is very juicy and is tossed with lots of cashew nuts and different sauces. For the main course, you must try the charcoalinfused baos, which is chicken mantou with pulled chicken and spicy cheese. It is infused with light sauces and has got lots of stuffing in it. The spicy ramen noodles are another nice comfort dish you can try. As the name suggests, it is spicy and nicely done with chicken and eggs. The restaurant has got a pretty good selection of drinks to offer. You can try their strawberry and orange muddle mocktail with mint leaves and ice cubes or their orange fusion mocktail served with basil leaves, sour mix, and soda. You can end your meal with any one of their delicious dessert offerings. Their apple crumble,

served with vanilla gelato is a very good choice for dessert. The apple crumble has a good amount of sweetness in it and is very crunchy

Sakana, Vagator

Next on our list of the best Japanese restaurants in Goa is a nice and simple restaurant called Sakana. Situated in a large green garden near the Vagator beach, this restaurant serves authentic Japanese food in a no-frills setting. The ambience of the place is very calm and pleasing. The space is airy, spacious and has a very high ceiling. There are lovely paintings and posters on the walls. For starters, one must try the smoked salmon avocado spicy rolls, followed by pork and shrimp gyoza, a Japanese dumpling dish. Their wasabi is also fresh and gives you the required taste. For the main course, one can try the beef yakiniku, which is beef cooked to the doneness of your liking with a thick sauce poured over it. The beef is served with miso soup and rice. Teriyaki chicken with sticky rice is another combination you must try. For dessert, you should try the frozen tiramisu, which is very sweet and delicious. You can also try their Japanese cheesecake. The service provided here is very good and the staff is very courteous. The food and drinks are also very reasonably priced.

Tataki, Panaji

Last on our list of the best Japanese restaurants in Goa is the Tataki restaurant in Panjim. This beautiful Asian restaurant, which is tucked in a nice spot in the main old market of Panjim, offers excellent Japanese fare. The restaurant is near the Mandovi River and offers beautiful views of the lit-up Atal Setu Bridge. The ambience of the place is very nice with interiors decorated in typical Asian style. The food served here is very authentic and delicious. Each dish is exquisite and is served in good portions. Everything on their menu is very tempting and delectable- their sushi, their skewers, curries, everything. And their cocktails are just too good! But best of all is their delicious range of desserts. Their jaggery cheesecake is very tasty and is the perfect choice to end your meal on a sweet note. So what are you waiting for? Head down with your friends to one of these amazing Japanese restaurants in Goa and have a nice time feasting on some delicious sushi, ramen, and other Japanese dishes. Bon Appétit!

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PEOPLE

jolynn carneiro

Jolynn began her career manufacturing custom lampshades for her father’s Mapusa lamp shop (Carneiro Frontier).

As her unique aesthetic gained traction, she began to expand her territory, occupying what she now refers to as “a tiny island” within the business.

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Hey there! I’m Jolynn Carneiro, a lifestyle designer running a business model called Nonsense Curry – with a sustainable approach.

Jolynn Carneiro runs an independent lifestyle brand called Nonsense Curry.

She designs and curates a variety of products (neckpieces, lamps, pillows, badges and notebooks). Jolynn’s specialty is customising each item to express your narrative the best way possible, and her pricing starts at INR 80!

Isn’t it lovely?

Jolynn began her career manufacturing custom lampshades for her father’s Mapusa lamp shop (Carneiro Frontier).

As her unique aesthetic gained traction, she began to expand her territory, occupying what she now refers to as “a tiny island” within the business. And what does this island have to offer?

All of her crafts, including neckties, bespoke pillows, novels, lamp stands, and other accessories. She tells us that ‘nonsense’ is her one-word take on life, and curry is a celebration of her Goan roots, which is why it’s called Nonsense Curry.

Despite the fact that she does everything from scratch, she now collaborates with a group of potters and weavers.

She puts the beautiful terracotta lamps, khadi pillow, and notebooks to life with their cooperation (she even designed one for the Fat Fish restaurant).

Jolynn takes delight in working directly with her customers since Nonsense Curry is all about individuality. She’s now working on a unique collection for a client and his unwavering affection for his long-lost dog. She’s even created pillows for a young child who is fascinated with space and the celestial bodies.

This is where her wit, humour, and love of doodling really come together in these exceptional collections. To save waste, she packages everything she sends in eco-friendly packaging made from leftover paper and scraps. And as a result, the finished product bears

her unique imprint while also looking stunning!

Tell us about yourself…

Hey there! I’m Jolynn Carneiro, a lifestyle designer running a business model called Nonsense Curry –with a sustainable approach. I define myself through my work- the best way to envision who I am and what I stand for. I live in Mapusa and my pet names are jojo banana, jo, jojo, or mojo jojo

What was that one moment that changed everything?

The spark to create was innate in me at a very young age. I just didn’t know which direction I would end up in- in my adult life. And looking back now it's so interesting to see the process unfold. It started with recycled bottle art and lamp shades, that evolved into lifestyle products like khadi bags and carry-ons head wraps and so on and so forth. But the itch to channel who I was into my products was evident, that’s when I gave in to my love for cartooning and never stopped ever since. I remember my energy level and creative juices being on full throttle, pumping out products after products that gave me an even higher rush to have them leave the shelves and into their new homes- in their natural environment/ element. I kept my head in the game, which is how it has evolved into what it has today. I can’t harp on it enough that ‘ Consistency is key’ for any venture you want to pursue.

Any funny or inspiring childhood story or memory you want to share that shaped your life… Where do I even begin? I am and have always been a naughty kid. From sticking keys into a live socketgetting mildly electrocuted and yelling ‘who hit me coz I’ve never quite felt that sensation before’, Sticking my lips in a 90’s freezer when they were chapped to act as Vaseline – only to get them stuck and ripped out with blood all over it, setting my

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tiny ant with a match. Yes I was a human test dummy by the looks of it. Picking up any and every street puppy or kitten and bringing them back home, a water baby that loved the ocean and spent a generous amount of time in it- that colored me into a brown pantone chart. Hmm, the more I reminisce the more evident it is of what a GREAT childhood I did have. I loved spending time in my village and would clock in hours and hours on my toasty terrace, just laying under a swaying coconut shoot and my first dog ‘Jeepoo’.

What’s the biggest challenge when pursuing this full time?

When you run your own thing and have built it from the ground up, and LOVE what you do – it’s hard sometimes to strike a balance between work and some down time for yourself. It’s a learning curve for sure. That and delegating work to someone else, when you’re so used to observing everything like a hawk and micromanaging.

A bit about your role models.

From Will Smith’s philosophies of life, to Trevor Noah for his comedy sketches and political ideologies and discussions, Tracee Ellis Ross for her independent spirit and a spot on love for laughter that we share, friends and family that keep me grounded.

incident you recall?

Absolutely !

From absorbing everything my older brother did –gaming, music and art as a kid to my pop’s keen eye for interiors, lighting and repurposing ways, habits that are innate and instilled in me since I was a kid. After my degree in fine art with a major in photography, I started crafting lampshades and sold them at my pop’s store called Carneiro Frontier as my base. This holds the standpoint of my entrepreneurial journey and I owe it all to my family.

What would you tell yourself if you went back in time?

Nothing ! Everything you learn is for a reason. There’s no point in regrets or hoping for a smooth ride without those pesky potholes that teach you life lessons.

What legacy does Jolynn Carneiro want to leave behind? And for whom?

That I contributed to this planet and peoples hearts in a positive way.

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Pizza Places in Vagator For Pepping Up With Pepperoni

For those of you planning a pizza party anytime soon, here’s a list of the top pizza places in Vagator where you enjoy a nice evening munching on some delicious mouth-watering pizzas

Photograph: Kelly Sikkema

The beautiful village of Vagator, located on the tourist belt of north Goa's coast attracts thousands of tourists every year from different parts of the world. The village is home to several restaurants which cater to the food cravings of these tourists and offer a variety of cuisines. Among these restaurants, there are a select few which specialize in pizzas. Pizzas are extremely popular among people all around the world. Many people, especially youngsters, go out together to enjoy a pizza party with friends, office colleagues or family members. For those of you planning a pizza party anytime soon, here’s a list of the top pizza places in Vagator where you enjoy a nice evening munching on some delicious mouth-watering pizzas.

Bueno Appetito Italian Restaurant

Starting the list of best pizza places in Vagator is Bueno Appetito. This is a nice Italian restaurant located on Vagator beach road. It offers delicious Italian food at extremely affordable prices. The place looks like a small shack with humble seating arrangements and a decent ambience. However the high quality of the food as well as the excellent service provided makes up for it. The place has a lovely wood-fired oven on display in which delicious pizzas are freshly prepared right in front of the customer's eyes. The places serve delicious thincrust wood-fired pizzas as well as other Italian dishes. The pizzas served here have a very thin crust and are made using the finest ingredients, some of which are imported straight from Italy. One must try their pizza Orientale, which is a pizza based on tomato sauce, mozzarella, chicken, pineapple slices and jalapenos. You can also add extra toppings such as imported cheese and salami to your pizza to make it more delicious and flavorful. They also serve amazing fresh handmade pasta with a variety of sauces and mozzarella cheese. Their pumpkin ravioli is also very good and amazing. One could end their meal on a sweet note with a nice serving of gelato dessert, which is a homemade flavour Italian ice cream.

Fusion Restaurant

Next on the list of amazing pizza places in Vagator is Fusion. Fusion is a nice restaurant located in a very cute little spot along the main road near the Ozran beach in Vagator. The place is surrounded by a lush green jungle garden. It has a lovely ambience and a very friendly staff.

They have nice floor seating in the back garden area, where you can sit on a cushion and enjoy some delicious food. The food that they serve is lipsmacking and delicious. They serve amazing wood fired pizza over here. Their ortolana pizza, made of mozzarella, mushrooms, olives, spinach and arugula sprinkled on a base of tomato sauce is the best you can find anywhere in Vagator. They also offer a nice variety of salads, soups and dips. One can end their meal with a few slices of cheesecake served with fresh strawberry sauce and pomegranate seeds.

Bistro Vagator

Located in Vagator on the narrow road that leads to Ozran beach, Bistro Vagator is a nice all-day dining restaurant set in a beautiful green garden. The entryway is a small lit walkway that leads to the outdoor seating area that is littered with cute table setups. The ambience is vibrant and the cool green outdoor area will certainly blow your mind. It is a perfect place to have a delicious meal with your loved one, be it a brekkie spot or for a co-working space. Their wide menu serves pizzas, pasta, burgers, waffles, small plates, fruits, croissants and much more. For starters, you can try the peri chicken wings, which are served with blue cheese sauce! You must try their fungi pizza made of wild mushrooms, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, red onions, garlic chips and olive oil, You can also try their Pizza di polo, made of tiny bites of smoked chicken, jalapenos, olives and a combination of rocket cheese, parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese. They have a liquor menu and an awesome range of cocktails and mocktails to offer. You can try their Plum caipirinha cocktail, made with a rum-based plum puree and the hazel walnut brownie frappe if you prefer something less sweet. They also have a nice range of delectable desserts. You must try their waffles with maple syrup, cream cheese and almond flakes. It is delicious and is sure to delight your taste buds.

Casa Playa

Located on a cliff off the Vagator beach, Casa Playa is a nice sea restaurant that offers an amazing view of the Arabian Sea with food to match. The best time to visit this place would be in the evening to enjoy the beautiful view of the sunset.

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chocolate brownie served with chocolate gelato and strawberries with chocolate. It is very sweet and delicious.

Piccola Roma Pizzeria, Vagator

Lastly, concluding the list of top pizza places in Vagator is Piccolo Roma. Piccola Roma Pizzeria is a nice Italian restaurant in Vagator.

waiting for? Head down to one of these amazing restaurants in Vagator along with your friends and have a nice time munching on some delicious cheesy pizzas. Book your tables now!

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“Music is something which makes you fully present and helps you fall in love with the moment.”

Based out of Margao, Mack Vieira is a professional DJ and music producer whose beats are enough to get your feet on the dance floor.

He’s performed at practically every major music festival in Goa and abroad, proving his worth. His music examines the relative importance of truth against absolute truth.

It’s a sound that comes from the intersection of zeros and ones, black and white, popular and underground music. For more than five years, he has been performing.

Mack’s favourite music genres include Bollywood and EDM, and he’s performed at a variety of private and corporate events and clubs.

We spoke to him about his beginnings from the sandy coasts of Margao to headlining some huge gigs across India.

Tell us about yourself…

People call me Mack but my actual name is Melito Vieira. I live in Margao and I am a Disc Jockey and a Music Producer. I am into music because it keeps me alive.

What was that one moment that changed everything?

Once I watched a DJ perform at a club and I was so excited yet thrilled to see the amazing way he expressed himself to the crowd through his music. That’s when I decided to one day become like him. Why DJing? Why not something else? What is it about this that makes you swoon?

Music has always been my thing since childhood. I used to be a dancer performing in hotels and a few competitions as well. One day, I happened to visit a club for the first time (I was 12 or 13 years old I guess) and experienced the ‘DJ way’. What they do, how they do it.

The respect they command when on the turntable,

and how the audience pours their love to them. The whole process from music creation to performance to delivery and the accolade. All this makes me swoon and makes me want more of it. Also, I look up to myself. Not many role models to follow.

Any inspirational moment you remember in your life that changed everything… Micheal Jackson!

I am a big fan. To be honest, becoming a DJ was never my goal. But my love for music and dancing grew by looking up to MJ. His fan following was something I have always been in awe of. My love for music grew eventually and by being a DJ I get a chance to show the respect I have for the music. That’s my love towards Music.

What was the biggest challenge when pursuing this as a fulltime career? And how did you overcome it? The biggest challenge was wanting to get onto the DJing scene. There was so much competition and such big names around. But there was nobody to give me a push. It all started at home when I got myself a console and started performing for myself. My loving mom showed me her support as being my audience, dancing and of course my dad too. My family stood by me and without their support I wouldn’t be where I am today.

What are some memories as a kid you’d like to share? Maybe when you saw a DJ do his thing or something from pop culture that influenced you? Childhood was all about music and dancing. DJing happened after a very long time. But I remember running to the market to buy a DVD just to listen to that one new track release. Haha!!

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stood by me and said “you are the best” even when I was at my worst

Who is the one person you’d like to meet from the past? And what would you ask him/her?

The ones who said I would do nothing in life but today I would like to ask them how are they doing today.

Can you write a couple of lines for us here on the topic of “Music is Life”?

Without music, life would be a mistake. Music is something which makes you fully present and helps you fall in love with the moment. Music is that one companion through all our times, be it the most happening or even the most dark times. Life becomes simpler with having music around. Music gives us memories of special people, our achievements, places, feelings and so much more…

What role did family and friends play? Any quick incident you recall that helped you overcome a hurdle or challenge in life with help from fam? Its sounds too good to be true but there was no such thing where I had to go through any difficulty in life because of my family’s support and my only friend Joyee, who stood by me no matter what. I am eternally grateful for it and will always be.

How did the entrepreneurial journey start? What were the DJ learnings that shaped you to grow? At the beginning, I used to think that being a DJ is easy and you just play some songs and can get famous just like that.

venue and after playing for loads of gigs I gained this free thinking as to what will and what won’t work for me. I was blessed enough to get an opportunity in Club Tito’s and my experience grew once I became a Resident DJ. Understanding what actual music is, creating sets, producing a few of my own music after listening to different genres for close to 10 years, is what has got me here today. Through my experience all I can say is to continue putting in the hard work, being patient, and staying humble, no matter what, will help you achieve your dreams.

What were people’s feedback (negative and positive), and who stood by you the most? My family and my friend were the only ones. They were constantly supporting me and stood by me through the bad times and celebrated all my successes too.

What is the legacy you want to leave behind? And for whom?

It’s obviously going to be for my mom. I want to reach a level and create a name that everyone will remember forever.

Private Villas in and around Porvorim

For those planning a staycation in Porvorim anytime soon, here is a list of the best private villas near Porvorim to stay at during your next holiday in Goa.

Photograph: Felix Fuchs

Porvorim is a suburban town located on the northern bank of the Mandovi River, in the Bardez taluka of North Goa. It is situated 3 km away from Goa's capital city, Panaji. It features beautiful independent houses, residential apartments, shopping centres, well-known hotels, guest houses, and restaurants. It is considered an upmarket residential and commercial hub, as it lies on the Mumbai–Goa highway. It is also well connected to the popular beaches of Goa. Mall De Goa, which is Goa's largest shopping centre, is situated here in Porvorim. For those planning a staycation in Porvorim anytime soon, here is a list of the best private villas near Porvorim to stay at during your next holiday in Goa.

Vintage Hideaway

First, on our list of the best private villas near Porvorim to stay at during your next holiday in Goa is a 100-year-old heritage property called Vintage Hideaway. This villa is located just a few metres away from Torda Creek in the village of Salvador do Mundo. The villa is just a 5-minute drive from Mall de Goa in Porvorim. It features Portuguese renaissance interiors and architecture.

There are four bedrooms in this villa - two on the ground floor and two on the first floor. Amenities such as a king-sized bed, AC, and Wi-Fi are offered in all the bedrooms. A TV is offered in the master bedroom on the first floor. All four bedrooms have attached bathrooms that are equipped with geysers, towels, and basic toiletries. Apart from these four bathrooms, there is also a common bathroom in the villa which can be used by guests visiting the property.

The villa has a spacious living room, which has seating for up to 9 people. The dining room adjacent to the living room has a dining table that can seat up to six people.

Guests can prepare their meals in the kitchen that is equipped with a gas stove, a refrigerator, a water purifier, a toaster and a mixer-grinder. Crockery and cutlery are also available. Alternatively, a chef can be arranged to prepare meals at an additional charge. Guests can also eat out in nearby restaurants like Food Point, Spice House, Hotel Grand Chef and Matsya Sagar Family Restaurant & Bar.

The host is not present at the property but is always accessible via call or message. A trained and responsible caretaker is present at the property to resolve any concerns and help you have a perfect stay.

Within the property, guests can enjoy a nice swim in the swimming pool or take a walk on the 70 sq ft lush green lawn. They can also play indoor games like cards, carrom and ludo.

The villa has an inverter that can support lights and fans for up to 6 hours during a power outage. Taxi services can be arranged at an additional cost. Should you wish to drive down in your car, secured parking space for up to four cars is available at the villa.

La Bougainvillaea

Next on our list of the best private villas near Porvorim to stay at during your next holiday in Goa is a gorgeous 5 BHK villa called La Bougainvillaea. This villa is a restored Portuguese heritage home with a royal touch. It is perfectly packed with all kinds of modern comforts and amenities and is an ideal place to enjoy a big group holiday.

The five bedrooms at this villa are air-conditioned and come with a wardrobe and a double bed. One of the bedrooms has a TV set. Fresh linen and pillows are provided in all rooms and extra mattresses are provided on request. All five bedrooms have attached bathrooms that are equipped with geysers, towels, toiletries and other essential items. The living room has Wi-Fi connectivity and has a seating arrangement for around 12-15 people.

In addition to these five attached bathrooms, the villa also has one common bathroom that can be used by guests visiting the villa. Complimentary breakfast is provided every morning to residents of the villa. Guests can prepare their meals in the kitchen which is equipped with a refrigerator, a microwave, an oven, a gas stove and a water purifier. Cutlery and crockery are also available. The villa features a large swimming pool where guests can spend their time on a hot summer day. The villa also has a lush green lawn, where parties, functions, and other events can be organised. The lawn has space that can accommodate up to 50 people.

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There are three bedrooms in the villa – two on the first floor and one on the second floor. All bedrooms are air-conditioned and come with double-sized beds. One bedroom on the first floor has a balcony. All the bedrooms have attached bathrooms that are equipped with electric geysers, towels and toiletries. In addition to the three attached bathrooms, the villa also has one shared bathroom, which can be used by guests visiting the place.

With this, we conclude our list of the best private villas near Porvorim to stay at during your next holiday in Goa. So, if you are feeling overworked and want to de-stress yourself a little bit, head down to one of these amazing private villas near Porvorim to enjoy a peaceful vacation in the countryside while being close to the city at the same time. Hurry! Make your bookings now!

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Photograph: Arno Senoner

PEOPLE

Yellow Mehra

She spent her early years in the throes of the hippie movement, her name itself a vestige of its colourful sensibility.

“I debuted in the modelling world at age 12 and started my own restaurant when I was just 19.”

Yellow Mehra was born in Munich to an Indian father and a German mother. She spent her early years in the throes of the hippie movement, her name itself a vestige of its colourful sensibility.

“My childhood was filled with haute couture, silks and brocades, the theatre and drama of fashion, and the path-breaking vibrancy of colour that her parents brought to Germany’s then muted palette.”

Both her parents were fashion designers, with her father being an overnight success after a particularly risqué show.

Passionate about the hospitality industry, Yellow started her restaurant Fiesta – A fine dining experience, at age 19.

Her restaurant was the first Italian restaurant in Goa and also the first to have a wood fired pizza oven in India.

“I debuted in the modelling world at age 12 and started my own restaurant when I was just 19. Initially I was a self-taught chef, but later I trained under a German chef. I always wanted to be in hospitality.”

Shuttling between Goa and Munich gave her a unique opportunity to learn under one of the best chefs in Germany, Alfos Schubeck, and used the knowledge to develop Fiesta into one of the best restraints in India.

“I loved the supermodels of the 90s. As a model I was not successful, I was sadly always at the wrong time at the wrong place. In India the industry wanted Indian models. And in Germany they wanted German models. Since I was mixed, there was no market fit for me at that time. People wanted stereotypical faces.”

“I started Fiesta Beach Resort in 2016 in a charming colonial home. Here you’ll find yourself far away from the bustle right outside, but as the sun sets and you step onto the strip, you’ll discover another world that awaits you outside those heritage wooden doors.” Yellow’s creativity expands to interior design as well. She has also designed the interiors for Hotel Clematis in Candolim, Club Fresh in Morjim, Coco do Mar in Candolim and Fiesta The Resort in Baga. “I think the moment that changed everything was the birth of my son, Kaii.”

Yellow has also indulged in modelling, and has worked for big brands in Europe and India, including Allen Solly, the Times of India, Wills Lifestyle and Fiama di Wills.

She has advertisement campaigns including Airtel, Fair & Lovely and Kinder Joy to her credit.

As a business woman, chef, interior designer, model and epicurean, she has brought creativity and passion together, and like a prism, dispersed it in many wonderful ways.

The owner of a restaurant, Fiesta, on Goa’s Baga beach, Yellow is also an interior designer and salsa dancer.

“The biggest challenge of being a restaurateur is that it takes a lot of your time and you are always working when others are on holiday.”

“I don’t want to leave a legacy behind, just a financial and emotional secure space for my son.”

“Between North or South? Well, North is work and South is my time.”

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Masked Parade Festival of St Mathias and Piedade or Potekar Festival

Almost similar to Halloween in the West, in Diwar, especially in the villages of St. Mathias and Piedade, the Masked Parade Festival or Potekarachem Fest is celebrated.

Almost similar to Halloween in the West, in Diwar, especially in the villages of St. Mathias and Piedade, the Masked Parade Festival or Potekarachem Fest is celebrated. This Festival is held during the three days of Carnival, in the month of February, before Ash Wednesday, beginning the austere period of Lent. Potekar literally translates to ‘shabby’

As part of the Carnival festivities, the Diwarkars celebrate the Potekarachem Fest. Poterkar literally translates to ‘shabby’. Therefore funnily it could be the ‘shabby’ fest. Why it was celebrated is still unknown. But it is unique only to these two villages in Goa.

The idea behind the Masked Parade of the Potekars is that all the villagers, young and old, rich or poor can celebrate together, with no distinction of caste or creed, wearing masked costumes. In the olden days Portuguese officials and their slaves wore masks in role play. The Portuguese authorities wore masks representing slaves and the slaves wore masks representing their masters and paraded around the village. The masks were usually made of white flour. The mask provided anonymity to the participants cutting across class and also during unbridled revelry. The exact origin and reason behind the Potekar festival is not known. Some folks believed that the scary masks were used to ward off evil. Gaunkars took it upon themselves to carry on the tradition

‘Gaunkars’ or sons of the soil as they are called, dress as ‘Potekars’ in colourful clothes, put on scary masks to hide their identity and parade the streets of the village. The masks that they wear resemble dreadful ghost-like characters. The Gaunkars camouflage their voices so as not to be recognized. They wear or carry clanging cow bells around their waists or ankles to sound the villagers of their arrival and create a festive stir among the audiences. Some of the Potekars carry sacks to frighten little children. It is said that though the Potekar festival may seem superstitious, children are taught moral values and good behaviour in exchange for their obedience. Significance in ancient times In ancient times, winters were harsh and deemed as evil. According to some beliefs, these masks would be a symbol of warding off the evils of winter and hailing the warmer spring time.

In Goa, earlier, the masks were made by hand or out of flour but today there are plenty of ready-to-wear types available online or in the market. Today the shabby clothing is replaced by proper costumes and fancy ready made masks of evil looking creatures and ghosts, one scarier than the other. This year it was celebrated with great fervour thanks to the untiring efforts of our very own ‘Goencho Festakar’, Marius Fernandes. Originally male members of the village donned masks but today it's more of a fun event for children and adults alike, which has encouraged participation from the female counterparts as well. Children are not afraid and join in the festivities. They even invited the Potekars into their homes for a treat. Marius Fernandez, one of the main promoters and sponsors of the Fest, and his famous “90 year young mother”, Antoinette Fernandes opened their home to the Potekars.

The Festive Part

The Masked Potekars would spring a surprise on the unsuspecting villagers, suddenly appearing from nowhere. Some even play a trick or two on the bystanders. Once on the streets they enter random village houses and demand food or snacks and drinks, as part of the festivities and the happy villagers comply. This Potekar festival of Goa also showcases the unity and hospitality of the villagers in Diwar and in general the people of Goa.

How to get to the Island of Diwar?

The villages of St Mathias and Piedade are situated on the Island of Diwar, an island off the coast of Old Goa, a beautiful island steeped in history. Accessible by ferry from Ribandar, Old Goa or Bicholim. The island celebrates its own festivals that are unique to it. One of them is ‘Bonderam’ or the Flag Festival and the other being ‘the Potekarachem Fest‘ (Potekar literally translated means ‘shabby’) or Masked Parade Festival of St Mathias and Piedade.

The Indian Mask tradition India is a culturally vibrant land. Mask making is a tradition practised in many states and villages. Frightful looking masks are common to states like Ladakh, Sikkim, Kerala, Dinajpur in West Bengal and Diwar in Goa. Some emulate deities while others were used to drive away all evil and usher in good fortune.

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Sharlaine Menezes

A young woman from Margao, who had all the tools to master classical music, surprised many by choosing to rap.

Sharlaine Menezes, a young woman from Margao, who had all the tools to master classical music, surprised many by choosing to rap. She makes her own music at a time when most aspiring musicians try their hand at covers or soulful interpretations of popular tunes. She has established a name for herself as a result of this, and has released songs such as 'Hush Baby' and 'Going Back.' One of her raps has lyrics that says, "It's not about the muscle, it's about the toughness of the soul. This is what we do, it's the real hustle!" I find it difficult to produce a lot since I work on other projects in addition to music, plus I'm asthmatic, so I need to learn to breathe better before I rap. Having said that, I sincerely hope that I can motivate many Goan youth, particularly women, to achieve their goals. She exclaims, "We need more female rappers!" "I've heard a lot of 'new' or' modern' music, and I really like the beats and melodies." What irritates me, though, are the lyrics and ideas, which mainly revolve around love, sex, or heartbreaks. This prevents me from playing them in the presence of seniors. My goal is to use thumping beats to produce songs that are truly about life or truth. I want people to realise that our generation isn't just about 'noise' as opposed to music," she beams. "I may not compose the 'greatest music,' but I am confident that what I do is unique,"

We spoke to her about her beginnings from the urban lands of Margao to creating her own empowering music for all ages.

Tell us about yourself...

I think I’m just a crazy person with a lot of passion. I am also a big time workaholic. My sun sign is a Leo which means I feel like I was born to be a sort of leader not in a bossy way but just help and inspire others to grow and do better. I’m a media person during the day and a musician at night. My loved ones call me Coffee as coffee fuels me, pain helps me grow, and what most people don’t know is that I fancy auto racing. I also enjoy writing for blogs or corporations. I’m Goa’s first female rapper with original tracks and the only Indian Artiste selected for the IBIS campaign 2020-2021. I won the PRCI YCC Best Youth Blogger of the Year Award, 2021.

What was that one moment that changed everything?

I was always a musical child, but that one steal-the-

show moment would be when I replaced someone for a competition to rap and people were impressed at the fact that females rapped too. As sexist as that may sound, it is the true state of affairs in the country.

Any funny or inspiring childhood story or memory you want to share that shaped your life.

I think just being a musician's daughter puts so much pressure on me, and since my dad I think just being of Musician’s daughter puts so much pressure on me and since my dad is a violinist everybody expected me to be one too. Also my dad really wanted me to be great at the piano but I couldn’t keep up to that either so I took a break from music for about 3 to 4 years where I stopped singing I stopped listening to a lot of music for a very long time and then there was a breakthrough when I got to the higher secondary phase of my life and took part in one of my competitions to regain my confidence. Rapping too came to me then. The funny story is that wrapping came to me by accident. I actually did not intend to wrap. I was just replacing another colleague for a competition and then while everybody was impressed I thought why not give it a shot and then soon started composing my own raps. It’s funny because I still don’t listen to a lot of rap music.

What's the biggest challenge when pursuing this full time?

I think the biggest challenge while pursuing a career in music especially as an independent artist is that money doesn’t come easy, you have to work really hard for it even if you have couple of albums are a couple of songs out you may still be broke and as well as being a female in the music industry specially hip-hop is not really that easy because of course it’s a male dominant industry so to get fame or success, is also pretty difficult.

A bit about your role models

I mean a lot of people keep different artists as their role models or just people in their life but for me I think I am myself and my own role model for a simple reason is because I have seen myself grow from nothing to something and I continue to push myself to grow even when there are days I do not want to wake up or I do not want to do anything but I manage to be productive.

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What role did family and friends play? Any quick incident you recall?

Initially, not everybody was supportive but as I started believing in myself everybody realised what I’m doing is probably the best. Family and friends eventually supported me even when I thought I would not be able to do some of the things I wanted to do. There’s one friend - Shikha Lagali, who always pushed me to my limit. She was always there for my shows and my recordings and I remember the first time I was asked to compose and perform an original for a project, I rejected the offer until Shikha kept telling me you have to do it and that was probably the best decision I ever made.

What would you tell yourself if you went back in time?

If I could go back in time and tell me something I think it would be the words “You got this! Stay amazing, and keep doing what you’re doing”

Any person/celeb you'd want to meet? Why? I think I’d want to meet Jacinda Ardern, because I believe she’s a really great leader and as a woman who has multiple roles to play, I'd love to have a little talk about how she manages all that and also gain some inspiration to learn as much.

What is the legacy you want to leave behind? And for whom?

Music can be made without mentioning a break up or containing foul language. I want the youth to know that a good song doesn’t need crazy lyrics or objectifying women. The older generation needs to know that rap or “modern” music is not noisy and can be well composed too. The last thing would be for all the women in India who aspire to be rappers to never be intimidated by their male counterparts, and soar higher in whatever they do.

Chef Sujatha Madhavan

Chef Sujatha Madhavan has worked her way up as an exceptional chef in a largely male- dominated industry and has transformed into an amazing educator at the leading hospitality and culinary institute.

Chef Sujatha Madhavan: Empowering the next generation of hospitality leaders

Chef Sujatha Madhavan has worked her way up as an exceptional chef in a largely male-dominated industry and has transformed into an amazing educator at the leading hospitality and culinary institute, V. M. Salgaocar Institute of International Hospitality Education (VMSIIHE).

We asked her about her experience and career as a woman in the hospitality sector in honour of International Women's Day celebrated in March each year.

Q & A with Chef Sujatha Madhavan

When did you realise you wanted to be a chef? I was always exposed to the world of hospitality from a young age as my family owned a restaurant in Goa. Later while completing my education in commerce I realised hospitality is my forte and not a banking job.

How has the transition into the field of education been for you?

While working as a mentor for interns at my previous employment, I realised that teaching is something I like. This helped me make a transition into being an educator. The skills I learned like patience, hard work and having a positive mindset made the transition a bit easier for me. I've taught at Kerala, Gujarat and Navi Mumbai before moving to Goa.

Which woman inspires you the most?

Since childhood I have always looked up to Rani Laxmi Bai. The vivid scene of her battling it out with her baby is etched in my memory.She was not only a good mother but an exceptional queen as well and I still look up to her when faced with any difficulty.

What according to you is ‘women empowerment’?

Women empowerment is all about being independent and standing up for yourself. The most important aspect is to be there for other women. Selfless support and atomic changes in attitude will definitely bring about changes in the society.

In your 17 years of teaching experience what would you say are the main challenges women face in the hospitality industry? Do you see any changes from then to now? There are some unspoken norms that must be followed in order to gain a foothold in the kitchen and prove your worth. Each day is a test of your strength not only physically but mental as well. The scenario has changed drastically. Men are now more considerate; they want women to feel comfortable. Acceptance of women is also a change she has noticed in the hospitality sector. There’s a change at all levels with seniors and juniors being accommodating to new trainees and your efforts are definitely recognized.

On International Women’s Day, what advice would you give to a young female thinking about their career? What skills and traits do you wish to instill in your students at VMS particularly the female students?

All students should have a positive and a strong mindset. Above all, students should put themselves first. I would like to recommend women not to be frightened of working in the hospitality industry as there are a lot of opportunities. Taking advantage of internships given by the college will definitely help one to get clarity. Being observant and motivated to learn should also enable you to achieve your potential.

Tell us a little about the institute you are presently with.

The VMSIIHE campus is serene and surrounded by nature. We are located in the beautiful and picturesque village of Raia. The campus is lively, brimming with students along with excellent coworkers. We have recently introduced a new program, ‘ B.Sc Culinary Arts’ which lets students explore a variety of cuisines with a strong focus on managerial and entrepreneurial skills. Additionally we offer B.Sc. International Hospitality Management and M.Sc. International Hospitality Management.

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