February 2011 by Shailesh Amonkar

VOL 1. NO 10. FEBRUARY 2011, RS 25

E V I S U L C X E A O G A VIVA

F O T U O ‘LIFE T H G I L T THE SPO ’ A O G N I E R E H S I — JADE JAGGER

EDITORIAL NOTE

Jade Jagger – Live

oa has been a second home or even a secret hideaway for many foreign celebrities from the world of showbiz. Every now and then we hear of stars like the late George Harrison, or Richard Gere or Demi Moore or Liv Tyler being spotted here.But there’s been little by way of confirmation or photographic evidence, leave alone an exclusive interview. We are thus doubly pleased to present in the flesh and blood, as it were, the very palpable presence of Jade Jagger, daughter of rock icon Mick Jagger and indefatigable human rights activist Bianca Jagger. Jade spends much of her time in Ashwem and Morjim and is deeply involved in her ‘J Jagger’ store which houses her own array of ethnic designer jewellery. More importantly, she is as passionate about the degradation of the environment here as other concerned Goans. It is this concern besides her undoubted celebrity status, that has prompted us temporarily to put aside our avowed policy of only featuring Goa and Goans as our cover stories or to restrict her presence to our very popular column

‘Homing In’, where we feature foreigners who have made Goa their home. The interview is something of a scoop for us, especially as we are a monthly magazine without the advantage of daily or even weekly publication. We congratulate our regular columnist Sinead McManus for arranging the interview and our team, assistant editor Dielle D’Souza and our photographer Edric George for being right on the ball. In an exclusive chat, Ms Jagger comes across as a socially committed and down-to-earth individual, genuinely concerned with the degradation of the environment in Goa. Applause is also due to Isabel Vaz, professor of English Literature and indefatigable champion of theatre in Goa with her busy and hardworking group Mustard Seed. It is through her tireless efforts that scores of young Goans over the years have developed an enduring love for theatre. We are also pleased to feature the dynamic and self-confessed workaholic Victor Albuquerque of the Alcon Victor

Group. From modest beginnings to starred hotelier, to the shaping spirit behind the Victor Apollo Hospital, besides a nursing college, Albuquerque has been a truly self-made man. VIVA GOA salutes his many achievements, as it does social worker and head of the Goa State Social Welfare Board, Manisha Naik, who, in her own way, is another success story. We also wish every success to the Chaine des Rotisseurs, an exclusive French Gastronomic Society which has recently opened a Chapter in Goa. Bon Apetit! Till then, Viva Goa! Kedar Dhume

READERS’ RESPONSE You have a great photographer. The issue was great and the magazine is a good way to keep in touch with a growing, modern, fancy Goa from here. Shama Kenkre, USA The Art of Living community as well as friends praised the presentation, the photography and the contents of VIVA GOA. As for me, I take the publication as a medium for better service to society. I wish the entire team great success. Neela Navelkar, Taleigao

I’ve recently started reading your magazine and I find it a very interesting and good addition to the Goan magazine scene. Rosanna D’Souza, Calangute I liked the section on boating in the last edition. It is a very interesting subject and Goa is the new cruising capital for people from India and abroad.

I hope you continue with these positive editorials. I wish the magazine success. Kenneth Perreira, Vasco It is with great pride as a Goan that I read each issue of VIVA GOA. Vibrant photography and tastefuly chosen columns put me in intimate touch with the land I am proud to be a son of. I liked the thoughtful interview with Leander and wish his dreams of a Goan tennis academy come true and inspire Goans to international sporting acclaim. Lucius Lobo, Mumbai Deepa Awchat always manages to come up with exciting dishes that my family thoroughly enjoys. I am glad that her restaurant Goa Portuguesa recently received the Favourite Restaurant award and Best Goan Dish award. I wish her all the best. Vicky Rodrigues, Old Goa

Editor & Publishers Note

Goodbye Goa - a fabulous family holiday destination - welcome to India’s Las Vegas - Goa - Sin City of India. Gamble away all your hard earned money at casinos that run without any mandatory government regulatory supervision... Annand V Madgavkar Thank you VIVA GOA for the article on our house Kalyani Dempo

VIVA GOA invites comments from its readers. Letters should be short and relevant and can be sent to editor@vivagoaonline.com

The best letter of the month will get a free pair of ladies’ shoes from SENIOR

We make every effort to publish a magazine that is informative, entertaining and free of errors. Any omission or inaccuracies are entirely unintentional. Please do bring to our notice any item that may be incorrect or photography erroneously published. Also, we would be pleased to include any item or photograph that warrants our attention.We believe in the spirit of Goa and its warm and lively people, and do hope the content in the magazine brings smiles to our reader’s faces. As always, suggestions and comments are welcome on feedback@vivagoaonline.com

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WINE FESTIVAL

The Grape Escapade encapsulates the heady exuberance of Goa

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COUTURE

Goa is setting India’s fashion agenda with Resort Fashion Week Goa 2011 Editor & Publisher

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COVER STORY ‘Goa Has A Very Warm, Open Heart’

From her birthplace in Paris, to schools in London and Manhattan and finally homes in New York and Ibiza, Jade Jagger – the daughter of Rolling Stones legend Mick Jagger – juggles being mother, designer, businesswoman and celebrity from her new home on Ashvem beach

Kedar N Dhume

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editor@vivagoaonline.com

INTERIORS/ EXTERIORS

Shailesh M Amonkar

Principal Consultant

Kemistry Media Solutions Pvt. Ltd. shailesh@kemistry.in

Arch Siddha Sardessai examines the steep contours of Rashmi and Debkumar Sen’s home in Margao with the architects blending the pragmatic with aesthetic appeal

Editorial Consultant

Manohar Shetty

Assistant Editors

Emylou D’Souza Dielle D’Souza

reporter@vivagoaonline.com

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Photographer

Edric George

FEATURE

Dinners are a black-tie and evening dress affair and membership is by invitation only. The Chaine des Rotisseurs, an exclusive international gastronomic society founded in Paris is set to spark a culinary revolution in Goa by ushering in the fine dining experience

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AFTER HOURS Victor Albuquerque

MD of the Alcon Victor Group

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LEGAL BRIEF The Accountability Principle

By Advocate A N S Nadkarni

Design

Nagesh Naik

BIZ NOTES

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HEALTH Physical Activity During Pregnancy

By Dr Vinaykumar Pai Raikar

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HOSPITALITY Sur La Mer

By Sinead McManus

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FIRST LADY Manisha Naik

WELLNESS Zaara Spa at Resort Rio

Chairperson of the Goa State Social Welfare Board

By Parineeta Sethi

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FEATURE

GOAN CUISINE Valentine Specials

VIVA GOA discovers the magic of theatre with The Mustard Seed Art Company

52 page56 page60 page

By Chef Deepa Awchat

HAPPENINGS

VIVA GOA DIARY

Kemistry Media Solutions Pvt. Ltd. Manager Advertising

Tamara Faleiro

advertising@vivagoaonline.com Mob: +919850077993 Circulation

Satyawan Parsekar circulation@vivagoaonline.com Published by

M/S Advertising Associates [Publication Division], 703, Dempo Trade Center, Patto Plaza, Panaji, Goa 403 001, INDIA Tel : +91 832 2438999 Cover Credits Photographer: Edric George

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VIVA GOA SPOTLIGHT Avdumber Hede Goa’s Karting Champion

Printed at Akruti, 318, Parvati Industrial Estate, Pune Satara Road, Pune 411 009 All rights reserved. Republishing in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. All photographs unless otherwise indicated, are used for illustrative purposes. RNI registration applied and pending

COVER STORY

JADE JAGGER

‘Life Out Of The

SPOTLIGHT Is Here In Goa’ From her birthplace in Paris, to schools in London and Manhattan and finally homes in New York and Ibiza, JADE JAGGER – the daughter of Rolling Stones legend Mick Jagger – juggles being mother, designer, businesswoman and celebrity from her home on Ashvem beach 10

A VIVA GOA Exclusive | By DIELLE D’SOUZA Project Co-ordinator: SINEAD Mc MANUS

he loves her life out of the spotlight and enjoys quiet evenings under the stars, sifting soft sand between her toes. Stepping out from under her father’s massive shadow, Jade Jezebel Jagger has found Goa the perfect “home from home”, where she can spend time with her new store ‘Jade Jagger’ on Ashvem beach, Morjim.

For the six months of the year that she is in Goa, Jade loves being on the beach and now welcomes clients into the shop that she opened on January 9. The bright blue of the sea outside is muted by the royal purple décor, against which her collections stand. Rubies, sapphires and emeralds sparkle among rudraksha beads in her jewellery collection, while hand-picked fabrics,

vintage silks and brocade work feature on the shelves. When she is away, this painter-turned-model-turned-designer looks after her projects – including ‘Jezebel’, a music concept which she began in Ibiza, and her store in London. Her famous family notwithstanding – her mother Bianca Jagger is a social and human rights advocate and former actress –

COVER STORY

Pics by Edric George Stylist: Michelle Banarse

COVER STORY Jade has infused experiences from her wild life into her paintings, jewellery, clothing, music and concept designs. The 39-year-old has been famously babysat by leading American pop artist Andy Warhol, who she says helped her “see art in a new way”. With her two daughters Assisi Lola Jackson, 18, and Amba Isis Jackson, 15, at the centre of her life, Jade has left her mark on the fashion world with the ‘Jagger Dagger’, a sword boasting an 18-carat white gold hilt studded with diamonds, sapphires and lapis lazuli; a redesigned Guerlin Shalimar EDP bottle for the iconic perfume house and the interiors to plush homes in New York City including one owned by actor Orlando Bloom’s model wife Miranda Kerr. She takes some time off with VIVA GOA to speak about her store and her love for Goa. Why did you choose to open your store in Goa? I’ve wanted to open a store in India as I’ve been spending a lot of time

here on the beach. I thought it would be great to have a shop close by so I could keep an eye on it. I came up with the idea last year and have slowly been working towards it. We’re a little bit late because the monsoon just wouldn’t let up. I’ve spent time in Kerala as well, but I have more friends here. It’s closer to Mumbai and Jaipur and many of my friends from Mumbai come down here too. I feel like Goa’s a little more connected and plugged in. But I’m really happy that the store finally opened and it’s been quite a success. Tell us more about the store. It’s following what we created in London in that there’s a lot of black and gold. I like the way gold acts as an effective backdrop to colour. It really makes colour spring out for me. Gold is something that has been ever present. It started from my paintings, where I used a lot of gold leaf. As I moved on, I applied the gold to my jewellery, later in the brocade and then throughout. On the shelves in the Ashvem store is a selection of one-off pieces from my collections. There’s also the jewellery that I’m renowned for. Even though it’s on the beach, I’ve kept the essence of the store we created in London because we wanted to retain that synergy between all the stores. However, there’s a different feeling to the bricks and

mortar of the London store as we’ve used fabric instead of paints here in Ashvem, along with plywood and bamboo. Are there any Goan influences in the pieces you have in the store? The clothes are all made in Goa. The higher-end clothes are made here and the jewellery is made in Jaipur, so there’s nothing extra I want to add. It couldn’t really be any more influenced than it already is. Many of the fabrics have come from other parts of India, as well as the stones. I bring over some of the fabrics that I particularly want to incorporate, but it’s very influenced by the brocades and the whole palette. What are your thoughts on Indian fashion? I think what’s happening the world over with Indian fashion is very exciting. I love the glamour of India and think it’s something the rest of the world needs to step into. For me, India is the centre of handcrafted work and there’s such attention to detail, so we’re all grateful to have that incorporated more into the western world. When did you first come to Goa and what were your initial impressions of the place? I came here for the first time when I was about 18 and was renting a house in Moira. But I used to be around Baga near the river quite a lot. I felt like Goa had a very warm and open heart and attitude, and seemed like a very cosmopolitan place. What do you love about Goa and is there anything you would like to change? It’s sort of become a home from home for me here

COVER STORY

since I love being on the beach and it’s close to where I’m staying. I love being able to walk bare feet all the time. It’s quite different from the rest of India but it also shares so much of the spirit of bringing together so many religions and so many different types of people. It seems to me to be a little bit ahead of the game. I just love the landscape, but I sometimes feel a bit sad about what’s happened in Calangute and Candolim. The building activity has gone a bit out of control. There was meant to be a nature reserve in Ashvem, but some part of it is all built up. I just hope we can keep some part of it to be a nature reserve. If we keep encroaching, we’re going to lose some of its natural beauty and some of the things we all love about it. I worry over Morjim becoming the next Calangute. I don’t like to be around that kind of built-up community. I thought that we were saving the turtles and things like that with the help of all the laws. I think the laws are there for a reason and we need to keep them. Even my store is all going to come down at the end of the season. There’s no cement, we’re just in the sand. We’re going to build up again every season. How has your other project ‘Jezebel’ changed over the years? Jezebel, the music label we started in Ibiza, is very much a platform for new artists to create and inspire new movements. We have worked with many great talents from Mark Ronson to Lily Allen and love to champion new talent constantly, so seeing rising stars like Sam Watts who play for us regularly doing well is great

and keeps us at the forefront. It’s always been quite daring. We even created a T-shirt line that was a part of it. Jezebel is something fun, casual and a bit rebellious. It’s my middle name and something of an alter ego for me. It has a little bit of a naughty side, a night life side. But the passion is equal for both labels – my store ‘Jade Jagger’ and the music brand ‘Jezebel’. Describe Andy Warhol’s influence on your professional and personal life. Andy was an inspiration in the sense that he saw art in a new way. It was about team spirit, a group effort. I enjoyed working with other people too and feel like I need that relationship with my ‘factory’. That and the pop culture influences on my life have been quite big. What does style mean to you? I was born into such an iconic family so I’ve never felt the need to follow any particular person. I just followed my heart. If I follow anybody it would be my children Assisi and Amba and the ideas and youthfulness that they bring to me and my life. They’re a little more in touch with what’s happening on the street. I always feel like I’m on the outside of the whole fashion industry. Jewellery, however, seems to be a little

more independent. It’s something more timeless. My designs are about things you want to keep forever rather than for a disposable moment in fashion. I don’t want them to become seasonally obvious or ephemeral. What initially got you into designing jewellery and interiors? I was a painter initially and used a lot of gold leaf. There was a transposing of gild elements in my decorative artwork. I was also grinding my own paints out of lapis lazuli and other stones to get natural pigments. I suppose it was the desire to use true colour that led to my interest in using stones and the colours that came from them. My love of gold became some sort of a slight addiction! Have you ever wished for life out of the spotlight? I enjoy a lot of life out of the spotlight, especially here in Ashvem. When you’re on the beach, it’s easy to enjoy life and not feel too much under pressure. I love the country, I love the wild side of life and I like to be outdoors. n

COVER STORY

RAPID FIRE

Goa is… Sunshine, the stars and the quiet at night Fashion is… Fun Your personal style is… Quite playful. I enjoy dressing up The one thing you love about Goa…The food The one thing you hate about Goa…The trance music Your favourite Goan dish… Shell curry with fresh coconut Your favourite holiday destination… Here in Goa Your favourite spot in Goa other than Ashvem… Querim An unknown fact about you… I love to cook. I love simple dishes that the family like – tomato pasta and risotto Style tip… I think it’s important to dress from your heart instead of following other people. You need to follow what’s right for you Size 0 – good or bad… I love women with curves. It’s important to be fit and I don’t think anyone who’s starving herself is having a great life

FEATURE

Crust UPPER

Anja Matysik-Kroll, Bailli of Bangalore, with her husband Manfred Gunter Matysik, Bailli Honoraire

zesty shrimp cocktail, French-style artichokes or a flavourful foie gras with Cointreau, and other little-known delicacies bound to stimulate the taste buds of food aficionados — fine dining is all set to push its own boundaries in Goa. The Chaine des Rotisseurs was launched in India with the Bailliage or Chapter of Bangalore in 2008, dedicated to bringing together professional and non-professional gourmet connoisseurs who share a mutual interest in haute cuisine paired with fine wines, high table culture, good fellowship and gracious hospitality. The Bailliage de Mumbai came into existence last year followed by the Bailliage de Goa. “The diversity of Goan cuisine with its strong Portuguese influence was cause enough to put it on the Chaine des Rotisseurs’ map,” explains Manfred Matysik, a Bailliage Honoraire de l’Algarve who has been living in Goa for the last six months and asked to develop Goa for La Chaine. “Many Goans have dual nationality,” he says “which enables them to travel in Europe without a visa. So, they carry their Goan heritage and culture to several countries where La Chaine is at home. Despite being the smallest state in India, it is considered to be the most international with the potential to attract a new segment of tourists.”

It is sheer coincidence that the Chaine des Rotisseurs came to India. The idea was conceived at a Chapitre or Special Gala at the Ritz Hotel in Lisbon. “My wife Anja has been a member of Bailliage de l’Algarve for ten years. She has a soft spot for India as she has spent most of her teen years here. Since I’ve been a La Chaine member for the past 32 years and settled in India, the proposal to develop a society came naturally,” reveals Matysik. The gastronomic society is based on the concept of nouvelle cuisine or cuisine du marche, a light cuisine using the freshest possible ingredients, which has primarily evolved from classical French cuisine. Adopted all over the world, travellers embrace the diversity of gastronomy and incorporate the culinary experiences by either recreating the specialties or fusing flavours, giving birth to a hybrid cuisine. “It is a challenge for those who prepare the meal,” says Matysik. “For instance, a Goan menu was chosen during the Goan Diner Amical. The restaurant or hotel that hosts it

uses our directives to perform extraordinarily well. Also, the culinary team appreciates the occasion to get away from the daily routine as they face the challenge of creating an exceptional meal.”

FINE DINING REDEFINED: LA CHAINE AND GOA

La Chaine will organise four formal Diner de Gala and three to four less formal Diner Amical events per year. Functions are always held in a member’s establishment. The American-themed Gala Evening at the Goa Marriott Hotel on February 2 rustled up some extraordinary specialities. This will be followed by a Diner Amical at Le Poisson Rouge in Baga on February 18. The induction ceremony of new members, including a Grand Diner de Gala will be held at The Leela Kempinski in South Goa on March 26. Other events will span over April, May, June, October, November and December. Some prominent members with a strong Chaine history who reside in Goa are Confrere Joao Menezes de

Aguiar, CEO of Gate Gourmet; Confrere Maitre Hotelier Edouard Speck, owner of Presa di Goa, the boutique hotel; Maitre Hotelier Rajeev Khanna, the general manager of Taj Vivanta Aguada; Maitre Rotisseur Gregory Bazire, the owner of Le Poisson Rouge; and Maitre Rotisseur Conrad and Chef de Table Rovino Rodrigues, the owners of Coros Restaurant. Today, the Chaine brings together professionals such as chefs, restaurant and hotel owners and managers and non-professional members from around the world who appreciate and enjoy wine and fine dining. Established in over 70 countries with approximately 25,000 members, it devotes itself to promoting and developing gastronomic values while at the same time widening its focus on ‘table art’. While a confrérie is a brotherhood, women have always been welcome and they take an active role in the Society. Membership is open

WITH A SILVER SPOON: There are some rules to be followed at

Diner Amicals and Chapitres/Formal Dinners: l No smoking during the meal until coffee is served l No speeches during the meal l When water is being served, it shall not be mixed with wine l No mobile telephones to be used during meals l No salt and pepper on the table by invitation only to anyone who is either professionally connected with fine food or wine or who has a special interest in the culinary arts. Every member is assigned a ribbon, which refers to the different grades – orange signifying professional members, violet for non-professional ones, blue for the national and regional board of directors, green for the president, bordeaux for VIP honorary members and red for members of the international council. Another major objective of the non-profit association is the education and career development of young professionals like chefs and sommeliers. In India, this is a major attraction. The society organises an international competition every year in different countries for young chefs below 27 years called Jeune Chef Rotisseur. Fast food is frowned upon and chomping noisily is sure to get you banned. Impeccable conduct is to be exhibited at all times where something out of the ordinary is the order of the day. While dining on a meal to rival the queen’s, expect the unusual when you belong to the Chaine des Rotisseurs. n

AFTER HOURS

A column in which CEOs, political figures and other busy professionals reveal how they relax and spend their spare time

‘I Enjoy Being A

’ Workaholic

Passionate about his numerous companies, Chairman and Managing Director of the Alcon Victor Group VICTOR ALBUQUERQUE, a first generation entrepreneur, has made his story an inspiration for every young Goan. He shares his love for work with VIVA GOA

By DIELLE D’SOUZA

his self-confessed workaholic has pioneered many ‘firsts’ in Goa, starting with rent-back apartments way back in 1986, then moving on to the state’s most well-known super specialty hospital Apollo Victor in Margao in 2003, the first BSc nursing college in Goa and ‘Devaaya’, an ayurveda and naturopathy centre which promotes health tourism. Victor Albuquerque started off as an engineer with the PWD in 1966 and now heads a group of firms that has ventured into real estate, hospitality, healthcare and education. With more expansion plans in mind, including Radisson Resort Goa which is set to open in March and a new super specialty hospital in Panaji, Albuquerque hopes Goans will grasp the opportunities within the state before moving out I quit elsewhere.

ON HIS TYPICAL DAY

I’m a workaholic and I enjoy it. If you do something with passion, you enjoy it. If you want to achieve something, you will do all that is within your strength to try

At 40,

smoking. At 50, I quit nonvegetarian food. At 60, I quit drinking

My day begins at 9 - 9.30 am and ends at about 10 pm. I am in the office from about 9 to around 2, where I plan my business and monitor the various units – hotels, hospital, ayurveda and naturopathy centre and the nursing college. Then I hold meetings with the various unit heads. In the afternoon I devote time to visit the units and return home only at about 10 pm. I like being tired at the end of the day! Following a quick dinner, I put my head on the pillow and I’m off on an eight-hour sleep. Even when I’m asleep and I think of some things to be done, I wake up and jot down notes so I don’t forget the next day.

ON HIS PASSION

to achieve your final goal. I am passionate that all my businesses should run professionally and efficiently. I like doing anything that’s off the beaten path. I was at the forefront of rent-back tourism. When everyone was pursuing beach tourism, I began promoting health tourism and later hinterland tourism through the ayurveda centre. People laughed when I thought of building a super specialty hospital. But I am happy to say that it has not only become a great success, but has also saved many lives as people can now avoid going to Mumbai or Bangalore in case of an emergency. I then set up the first BSc degree nursing

college in Goa and following its success, it is my endeavour to begin new courses for youngsters to learn paramedical facilities.

ON HIMSELF

For me, work is everything. I used to have a good time when I was younger, but when I got into business I realised I had to be more serious as I would never get that time back. At 40, I quit smoking. At 50, I quit non-vegetarian food. At 60, I quit drinking. All this has probably given me the physical strength at 70 to continue working as if I was 50. My wife Sylvia is also a vegetarian and we started the Vegetarian Society of Goa, but it’s very difficult to propagate this philosophy.

ON WHAT HE LIKES ABOUT GOA AND WHAT HE WOULD LIKE TO CHANGE

I loved Goa, but now I am sad at the way it has changed. It was beautiful – there were hardly any crimes. But it has now been converted into a den. It is our nature of being hospitable that is responsible for this. When the hippies came in the 1960s, they behaved as they liked and we did not object. They would not have been able to behave the way they did in Punjab or any other place in India. Similarly, their countries would not have allowed us to behave like that. We are responsible for opening our arms to them and that has now spoilt our young boys and girls who are making a business out of drugs, corruption, liquor, womanising and other vices. Bad things come along with tourism, but there needs to be control. I would change corruption at all levels of public life. Corruption is not only monetary, it is also social, moral and material. Goa is a very funny place. People don’t work and don’t allow others to work as well. There is envy and backbiting.

ON UNWINDING AFTER OFFICE HOURS

I don’t have time to unwind. On Sunday, my grandchildren come over and that is my pass-time. I also get very tired over the week so I catch up on my sleep on Sundays. The best gift you can get is to be able to put your head on the pillow and get sound sleep What is the use of having pots of money and not being able to get a good sleep?

ON QUALITY TIME AWAY FROM WORK

I want to spend my quality time at my work. I’ve got my wife Sylvia, who is also an advocate, and children Vinay and Varun with me in the office. In fact when Saturday comes, I get a bit restless that I have a day off work. I want Sunday to pass quickly so I can get back to work on Monday.

ON BALANCING ONE’S PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL LIFE

Even when it is family, the conversations revolve around business. But I regret that when my children were growing up, I could not give them as much care and time that I wanted to. Mine is a rags-to-riches story. It was a painful growth that came at the cost of my family.

ON HIS HOBBY

ON FAMILY VACATIONS

ON GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY

ON HIS PHILOSOPHY OF LIFE

My hobby is my work, and work is my hobby. As soon as I am able to detach myself from work and hand over everything to my sons, my hobby would be to do charity. All the wealth and assets you have are not yours. I’ve got 1,200 people working for me and it makes me happy to know that I’m supporting 1,200 families. There is no question of giving back because everything belongs to society. You are the custodian of the wealth you create. God has given you the ability to do something and you should be thankful that you have that ability.

There are no vacations! I combine most of my business trips with pleasure. Portugal is a very nice place but the visits are so short. I enjoy visiting places that are very natural. I also love classical and country music. As soon as my sons take over, I’d like to go to the Gandhi Ashram regularly for absolute peace and solitude. We have come with nothing and we’re going back with nothing. Wearing good clothes or driving fancy cars does not make you big. Another hint of caution is that we are going to pass through some very tough times. I surmise that in the next 10 -15 years, there will be great difficulty over water and food. We have to train ourselves and our children to conserve our natural resources.

ON HIS MESSAGE TO YOUNG GOANS

You are the makers of your own destinies and you should choose wisely. We are destroying ourselves and cannot blame anybody else. We have sold our land for easy money. Don’t flaunt your riches which you have not earned.After the liberation of Goa, we were proud of our honesty. But can we say that today? We have become worse and more corrupt than people from elsewhere and this is very sad. n Sylvia and Victor Albuquerque

LEGAL BRIEF A regular column on legal affairs and philosophy

Atmaram Nadkarni is a Senior Advocate and former Advocate General of Goa

trine

e doc h t o t p u e ever wak y r t n u o c r Will ou tability? n u o c c a c i of publ 22

ith the change in the socioeconomic outlook, public servants – ministers, government officials and members manning public offices have been entrusted with several powers and functions, most of which are discretionary in nature in the area of distribution of government wealth in various forms. Time and

again, civilised jurisprudences of the world have recognised the accountability of public servants. No public servant can say “you may set aside my order or action on the ground of mala fide or bad faith, but you cannot hold me personally liable”. A concerned minister holds his portfolio with responsibility for the disposal of business covered under it. Ministers, on behalf of the government, distribute wealth in the form of

allotment of plots, houses, petrol pumps, gas agencies, mineral leases, contracts, quotas, licences and so on. The minister who is the executive head of the concerned department distributes these benefits and largesse. He is elected by the people and is elevated to a position where he holds the said office in trust on behalf of the people. He is required to deal with the government, meaning the people’s property, in a fair and just manner. He cannot commit a breach of this trust reposed in him by the people. The minister cannot act in a biased manner or in a manner which is pregnant with mala fides. Every

action on the part of the minister is required to have a justification which is transparent with an objective criteria and in the public interest for public good. The principle of accountability in public law and governance stems from the fact that misfeasance in public office by a public authority is actionable in tort and such authority is liable to pay damages. Indeed, misfeasance in public office is a species of tortuous liability; a breach of a statutory duty or a legal provision which gives rise to misfeasance in public office and includes malicious abuse of power. Misuse of power makes such public functionaries liable to pay damages for malicious wrongdoing. There need not be a personal loss to any individual for claiming certain damages against the public servant. It is enough that there was injury of the high principle to public law or there was some loss to the state exchequer. According to Francis Beaumont, “corruption is a tree whose branches are of an immeasurable length; they spread everywhere and the dew that drops from thence, hath infected some chairs and stools of authority”. Motivated, arbitrary and high-handed actions of a minister in a parliamentary democracy are not only questionable but liable to administrative law for such wrongdoing.

This law of tort is practically accepted all over the world. The time has now arisen in our country for all good citizens to make good use of it. The accountability principle extends to areas which not only cover matters of corruption or favouritism, but also actions which may not be motivated but have caused loss to the public exchequer. Take for instance my own example when I was travelling recently from Mumbai to New Delhi with Air India; departing Goa at 7am to arrive at Delhi at 10.45am. Just when we were approaching New Delhi at 10am, air traffic control informed the pilot that the runway had been closed for an hour on account of the rehearsal for the Republic Day Parade and as such, our flight remained airborne for the next hour burning up fuel worth several lakhs of rupees. In an hour’s time, I take it there were 30 other flights, which had been delayed.

Republic Day is on January 26 and the rehearsals begin a week or two in advance. Imagine if every day fuel running into lakhs of rupees is burnt on account of such ‘intelligent’ security restrictions which on examination, are nothing short of stupid. In what way can the landing and taking-off of flights affect the Republic Day Parade? One can perhaps understand some restrictions on January 26 itself, but why have rehearsals? There are no VVIPs attending the rehearsals. Who is responsible for the loss caused to the national exchequer? This kind of security expenditure on VVIPs is a burden on a poor country like India. The misuse of ministers’ vehicles and their personal staff by public sector enterprises is all well-known. It is ultimately the taxpayer who pays for it. Why should the taxpayer’s money be spent on such acts of self-aggrandisement? Most of these people are political parasites dipping into the economy at the expense of the taxpayer. Take a look at the roads in New Delhi. Every alternate path and on several days, you find that traffic is blocked for the safe passage of a VVIP. This is sheer loss of so many working hours of the public and the VVIP has a cavalcade of not less than 10 to 15 cars, including an ambulance and other vehicles. Even with millions living below the poverty

line, our ministers or netas are busy hosting dinners at which even alcohol is served at government cost by adjusting it as amount spent on food. Why should such a show of dinners be a frequent exercise? The Government of India has recently earned the wrath of the Supreme Court after it contended that people who have deposited money in Swiss banks are mere cases of tax violation and their names cannot be made public. Fortunately, the Supreme Court slammed the government and the Opposition did their bit, though not enough. This money has been transferred out of the country through havala dealings and instead of utilising it in our country, it has been stashed away in foreign banks. Apart from the fact that it is a crime – a violation of tax laws – it is nothing but a grave offence against the nation; this plundering of national wealth. These acts are unpardonable and the names of these persons must be disclosed prominently. Why is the government shying away from disclosing these names and going to the extent of claiming immunity for them,

A minister is

elected by the people and is

elevated to a position where he or she holds the said office in trust on behalf of the people. He or she must deal with the government, meaning the people’s property, in a fair and just manner. He or she cannot commit a breach of this trust reposed in him or her by the people.

something which should be claimed only in exceptional cases involving security issues like defence secrets? Take for instance another case, in the 2G spectrum and the Commonwealth Games scam. The CBI carried out farcical raids on the houses of certain persons after a gap of nearly one or two months, deliberately allowing them to destroy evidence and transfer the loot to a safer place. Is the CBI not accountable for this? Under the guise of investigation, can it act according to its own whims and fancies? When will our country wake up to the doctrine of public accountability? Will it ever be a reality or forever remain a myth? n

FIRST LADY

A column featuring women who have stepped beyond the shadow of their eminent husbands and are achievers in their own right

We Have Built a Positive Environment MANISHA NAIK, Chairperson of the Goa State Social Welfare Board, gives VIVA GOA a glimpse into her life as a dedicated social worker and family person

he has made her life’s calling her profession. Social work is something she began way before she even understood what it encompassed. Manisha Naik has been an active member of the Mahila Mandal, Margao from 1990 and has held several positions in the Lions Club of Margao. In fact, she was the first lady president of the club. Naik was also vice-chairperson of the Indian Red Cross in the Salcete area from 2002-04. In 2005 she was appointed as the chairperson of the 18th June Kranti Din Committee and is still a member. Also on the list is her association with MARG that works towards maintaining traffic rules. With the faith that future generations “will cherish the rich culture and heritage that Goa has to offer”, Manisha Naik, Chairperson of the Goa State Social Welfare Board, elaborates on why social service is so important to her.

How did you get into social work? Social work was something I began with even before I understood what it meant. I’ve always liked helping people, even as a child I can say I was into social work. Social work is something you do to help someone or society, so helping someone crossing the road too is social work. I started getting recognised for it when I joined the Lions Club of Margao where I served for 20 years. When I realised I could do more, I joined hands with the

government to help make a difference to the society. What more can the authorities do to further the social welfare issues? The authorities can work on the following issues: a) Enhancement in budget allocations in all existing programmes b) Special allocation of funds for NGOs to conduct and organise awareness campaigns on legal rights for women at the grass-roots level, on atrocities and violence against women, innovative projects based on local needs and problems faced by women at all levels. They could also fund special programmes (residential and non-residential) for the aged, widows and the destitute to be implemented through NGOs as well as orientation or training programmes and workshops for the sensitisation of gender perceptions and sex ratio, care of the aged and dependant. The role of the law enforcement machinery in dealing with cases is also important.

At times, activists are frowned upon for going overboard with their opinion and activism. Please comment. Social activists are required, but sometimes they do go overboard. This happens because Goa is a small state. Every individual is politically connected and it is easy to get into the public eye.There are many activists now and they are frowned upon because they have started to hinder the overall development of the state, while those who are genuine and want development suffer because of the groups who crop up just to make money. What do you love most about Goa and where do you see it heading? I love everything that Goa has to offer, especially its multilingual society. In Goa, the kind of harmony Muslims, Hindu and Catholics share is unlike in any other state. We have built a positive environment and this is because of the rich culture and heritage given to us by our forefathers. Finally, I believe ‘aami mathyechich manshaa’ – we are as rich in culture as the soil we are born in. Could you elaborate on your own sphere of activity? Since 2001, I have been spending most of my free time at Asha Mahal, a short-stay home for women in distress. The residents here are women who have managed to escape from a life of torture and pain, and they are in search of happiness and peace. I love to teach them new things and make use of the time they have by organising workshops. It is an amazing feeling at the end of all the workshops when ]they exhibit what they have done. Apart from this, whenever I get an opportunity, I spend time with street children, children with AIDS, at the senior citizens’ recreation centre and with freedom fighters. I have also spent time teaching art and craft to deaf and dumb children. Enjoyment is achieved when you are happy doing something. I love doing things for people and seeing them happy gives me a sense of

Manisha Naik with her husband Jayant, daughter Aaruta and son Atanu enjoyment and self-satisfaction. How do you strike a balance between the demands of your home and your own professional or personal interest? I have a very supportive family, and when everything and everyone is on your side, things just pan out the way you want and everything balances itself.

I believe

‘aami mathyechich

manshaa’ – we are as rich in culture as the soil we are born in.

What does your daily routine involve and how do you unwind after a day’s work? My day starts at 5 am with yoga for an hour with friends, then breakfast with family. I leave for the office or functions around 10 am after preparing lunch and return around 7 pm or sometimes earlier. The best way to unwind is with my family. We discuss our daily experiences over dinner. Do you think women suffer gender bias, even in progressive Goa? Yes, we may not accept it but it is true. We do suffer gender bias at various levels, at work, or even at your own house. We should have self-respect to expect respect from others. Our future is bright but I am waiting for the day when there will be no reservations for women, and men and women attain equilibrium in all fields. We have to feel equal to be treated as equals. n Pics by Edric George

PERFORMING ARTS

Discovering the magic of theatre with The Mustard Seed Art Company By DIELLE D’SOUZA

Mustard Seeds Ameena Bukhari, Mario Coelho, Kiran Bhandari and Michelle Noronha with Isabel Santa Rita Vas

t’s nothing complex or ‘arty’, just a pure love for theatre and an insatiable thirst to have fun. A group with no frills, no membership forms or ‘no strings attached donations’, The Mustard Seed Art Company was born out of a need to make the show go on. Professor, director and playwright Isabel Santa Rita Vas, a stalwart in Goan theatre circles and founder member of the group, narrates, “It all started off when my student Glen Viegas asked if I could help in a project to raise funds for his village. We got a few people together and began rehearsing. Half-way through, we realised it was so great fun and

Isabel Vas

couldn’t contemplate a scenario where it would be over in a few weeks.” Not long after, on November 10, 1987, the group registered itself on the day of their first show. With virtually no advertising and barely any funds, The Mustard Seed Art Company has come a long way from that first project. Their latest play ‘Ghosts At Large’, a comedy about Goan greats including Bakibab Borkar, Dharmanand Kosambi, Gerson D’Cunha and others, ran chock-a-block at the Black Box in Kala Academy, Sunaparanta in Altinho and St Xavier’s College in Mapusa in December. What they lack in advertisements, they make up for in

ROLE CALL –

A FEW MUSTARD SEED PRODUCTIONS JONATHAN LIVINGSTONE SEAGULL KATOR RE BHAJI ON THE HOLY TRAIL THE DANCING STATUE A HARVEST OF GOLD MY NAME IS GOA SLICE OF THE MOON OF MICE AND MEN SUDDENLY IN THE TWILIGHT MURDER IN THE CATHEDRAL IT’S A HOT DAY, THANK GOD

word of mouth referrals as more and more people hear about their activities and watch their plays. “Our audience is a mix,” explains Vas. “There are young people too who come because their friends are acting. Many come back later to ask whether they could act in our next play.” It is in this way that the number of members has swarmed to hundreds from the day they first began to rehearse. She adds, “A few Mustard Seeds like the late Dominic D’Souza, Glen Viegas, Dexter Pereira, Victor Joshi, Tamsin Pereira, Harvey D’Souza, Daegal Godinho, Michelle Rocha Pinheiro, Luis Dias and Joan D’Souza have been pillars of the group for many years.” While life has taken away many of them through work, family life and even death, new members are constantly added to the group. Ameena Bukhari, a student at Goa University, says, “I first heard about The Mustard Seed Art Company when I was in Dhempe College in Miramar. The group was performing ‘The Peacock Has Gone For A Walk’, and although I didn’t get a chance to watch the play, I had heard some good reviews about it. So I went for one of the meetings and things took off from there.” Her friend and fellow university student Michelle Noronha has a similar story to tell. But it’s not all the Mustard Seeds – that’s what the members call themselves – who have to rehearse lines before the cue. “Anyone who’s interested in acting has a very informal audition,” says Vas. “However, if someone is not keen on acting, he or she can help us with costumes, designing brochures or going around with an appeal letter for funds. But nobody is ever turned away.” As members get more familiar with the jobs at hand, tasks get

apportioned according to their skills. Some offer to choreograph a dance, others will write lyrics for songs in the next play, while actors sometimes take a bow in favour of a brush with costume or brochure design. But for all members it’s the sense of self-confidence and new friendships that keep The Mustard Seed Art Company so close to their hearts. Author of children’s stories Mario Coelho explains, “Being with the group has helped us grow in confidence and articulation. Even if a member was initially shy, being part of a play has helped shed some of those inhibitions. It’s such a vibrant atmosphere. “The energy and fun when working together for a play cannot be compared to anything else. Over the years, I have learnt that the end product does not really matter. It is the process that is far more important.” Kiran Bhandari, a teacher at Shantadurga

High School in Sancoale, finds an evergrowing family at his rehearsal sessions. He says, “There is so much co-operation that it feels like a family. Even though new faces join us every year, we still remain a group. There is always support and no ill will. We have no arguments, only discussions.” Noronha adds, “The process of theatre has helped me believe in myself. Everyone is very friendly and we have all helped each other grow. These are special friendships.” As far as possible, the group does two plays a year, sticking to the summer vacation (April-May) and the Diwali holidays (October-November) to rehearse and stage plays. During these times, they take control over a classroom at Don Bosco’s High School in Panaji, and practice for a few hours every

evening and the entire day on Sundays. Bukhari says, “Mustard Seeds give up a lot. We cut short holidays and postpone social activities.” Adds Vas, “One of our members lives in Chorao, teaches in Sancoale, goes to Santa Cruz to help students there and still makes it for rehearsals in the evening. He has a family with a young child and juggles all his work, but wouldn’t give up the play for anything.” Frayed tempers and freak accidents are known to happen as the excitement builds up towards D-day. And it isn’t always behind curtains and in air-conditioned theatres that they stage their plays. The area outside Mandovi Riviera and the terrace of a school in Pernem are some of the places where they’ve staged their plays. Even visitors to Dona Paula jetty were treated to a Mustard Seed musical

‘Jonathan Livingstone Seagull’ with a live band and dance. Their acting skills have taken them to Mumbai and Bangalore, and their workshops at Nirmala Institute of Education at Altinho and children’s library Bookworm in St Inez have introduced many to the joys of theatre. Vas believes there’s a bit of drama in everyone. “Life puts us into strait-jackets and when you discover theatre, you become free and your talent bubbles to the surface. In Goa, we know there is a lot of musical talent, but the dramatic talent at least for the English stage has not been tapped yet.” It’s been quiet on the Mustard Seed stage since ‘Ghosts At Large’ in December. And while the group is looking at a Konkani or Marathi play sometime in the future, they haven’t really thought about their next play. “But it seems like a possibility that we’ll have a play soon,” says Vas smiling. The curtain is sure to rise again. n Pics by Jayavanti Loundo

WINE FESTIVAL

GRAPE ESCAPADE 2011

UNCORKED The Grape Escapade encapsulates the heady exuberance of Goa

usion cuisine, exotic desserts, live entertainment acts, fashion shows, cheese and wine tasting sessions, music and dance, the Grape Escapade lived up to its promise as Goa’s food and lifestyle festival last month. Offering people a taste of wine-making, an added attraction was the wine stomping session this year. A fashion show by Monty Sally and the crowning of the Grape Escapade Queen were also on the agenda. Held at the Inox courtyard, the four-day event organised by the Department of Tourism and the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) was expected to attract more than 20,000 visitors. Shyam Satardekar, Chairman of Goa Tourism Development Corporation Ltd said,

“The Grape Escapade is gaining popularity with every passing year. This year too the festival was filled with great cuisine, fun and excitement. It is a boost to tourism in the state.” The perfect platform to showcase haute cuisine, hi-end luxury brands and lifestyle products, the Grape Escapade provided the perfect opportunity for international wine makers and connoisseurs, entertainers, foodies, professionals from the hospitality and lifestyle industry as well as food and wine enthusiasts to network and further business opportunities. Sula Wines,Big Banyan, and Champagne Indage were among the leading wine manufacturers and exporters from across India that participated in the seventh edition of the festival. Stomping grapes and grooving to the music, Grape Escapade encapsulates the heady exuberance of Goa.

Edric George captures the spirit of the festival through his lens

COUTURE

On what’s haute in the world of fashion in Goa

UNFOLDING A NEW

DESTINATION Resort Fashion Week Goa 2011 Goa is setting India’s fashion agenda with Resort Fashion Week Goa 2011, India’s first resort wear fashion week

the Bharat Vikas for designing women’s wear can barely contain her excitement with the launch of the nouvelle couture venture. “Its fantastic to showcase it in Goa, one of the world’s most beautiful resort destinations. Visiting Goa always brings a smile to my face because of all the great holidays I have enjoyed here with my friends and family.” In addition to the Indian design talent, Resort Fashion Week will host international resort segments in the form of designers, buyers and brands. Buyers from across the world and India will have access to the finest in design, quality and creativity across accessories, clothes and design. The business side will be addressed through unique business platforms and the ISAM (International Strategic Alliance Meet) where participants will have an opportunity to network directly in order to form future business partnerships.

IN GOOD TASTE

esort Fashion Week 2011 will feature India’s most outstanding design talent in the resort space. The three-day resort week is organised by Pallav Ojha who heads UV Advertising and Retail Pvt Ltd, a global creative and fashion company. Ojha has more than 12 years of experience in the fashion, lifestyle and luxury business as well as more than five national fashion week associations. The event to be held in association with Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), encapsulates the concept of a relaxed resort ambience in its design, layout and trend output while bringing to the forefront the emerging business of fashion and lifestyle. Renowned resort wear designer Pria Kataria Puri who was awarded the Bharat Yuva Ratna and

The Resort Industry in India lacks proper visibility and awareness on both a national and international level. Being one of the largest economic boosters, the resort industry requires a platform to increase tourism and business development opportunities. Resort Fashion Week aims at providing that annual awareness required for a stable annual growth increase. Harshad Daswani, one of India’s largest exporters of resort wear worldwide says, “The Goa Resort Fashion Week brings a new dimension to fashion in India, and is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our design talent globally. Also with the rapid growth in holiday travel in the country, and by Indians abroad, this is perfect timing.” Resort Fashion Week will be the ideal platform to showcase Goa’s immense potential as a destination for tourism, business as well as a fantastic opportunity to promote fashion celebrating the lifestyle of the sun and sand culture. n

INTERIORS/ EXTERIORS

An alumnus of the Goa College of Architecture, Siddha D. Sardessai casts an expert eye every month on distinctive and contemporary houses of Goa

Right Site

A House Set On A Sloping

The steep contours of the site have become a part of RASHMI and DEBKUMAR SEN’S home in Margao with the architect couple Binota and Sameer Nadkarni blending the pragmatic with aesthetic appeal

onjuring up an innovative design is a challenge that every architect is faced with, especially when confronted with a site with steep slopes all through the length of the property. But what happens when the architect strives imaginatively to meet these challenges and also retain the contours of the site? You get a house that flows with the contours

of the land and retains the feel of the hill. “The client was looking for a functional house with no frills attached. The land was sloping and he was looking for a development with minimal impacts on the contours,” explains architect Binota Nadkarni, who designed the house with her husband Sameer. “Not only the contours, there were other

Rashmi and Debkumar Sen with their family

aspects such as split levels and colours that were carefully considered while designing the house.” Today, the contours are not around the house, but the house stands around the contours. The design of the dwelling flows around the contours of the land and yet gives a whole and complete feel to the house. Each step towards and even inside is a discovery for the first-time visitor as there is a sense of mystery in the design. The entrance is deliberately kept low key sans the usual grand driveway and porch. The main landscape area is at the back and can be viewed only on entering the main living area. It’s from the lobby that the whole house becomes visible. The open kitchen adjoining the dining and the family living space that houses the television are all at the same level as the entrance. Below, a single flight of stairs takes you to the living space. The vast common ceiling encompasses all these areas and adds grandeur to these combined spaces which, during parties, links each to the other superbly. The living room has an attached library a few steps below and doubles up as a bedroom when the need arises. It also has a balcony overlooking

the lush green open space that invites one to spend hours gazing out. The furniture design has been kept to a minimalist dimension with unfussy lines but plush upholstery. The multilevel chandelier hung gracefully from the ceiling unifies the vast volume of space. Small little corners below the stairs have been decorated with curios, artifacts and paintings. Says Rashmi, “I didn’t have a say when the house was being constructed, but I have now taken over the house and added these artifacts that have enlivened the dead walls and corners.” The car porch level is a few steps above the entrance and it’s from here that you have a subsidiary entry, one that leads from a passage to the parents’ room. This was so designed to minimise the climbing of steps into the house, keeping in the needs of the senior Sens. Again a great use of the slope of the land to achieve an optimum level. Debkumar Sen recollects, “We were divided over which would be the front face of the house. I always felt the one behind the entrance should be treated like the front face as that is the one

you see as you approach the house. And yes, it is that way today.” Having grown up in Mumbai, Sen always wanted a house that was well spread out and insisted on the spaciousness. The upper levels have the more private areas, that is, the two bedrooms. The master bedroom with its wooden flooring breaks the monotony of the tiled flooring all through the house. An intricately carved bed occupies the coveted position in the room. Margo Raymond designed this bed as well as many other interior aspects of the house. Moving on, one notices a stark difference in the palette once it comes to the children’s room and the space obviously reflects more vibrancy and energy. Young Indraneel and his brother Abhimanyu have painted characters on the walls of the loft space and converted it into a vibrant and colourful space. Says architect Sameer, “Having been given a free hand, we could use the levels to the best advantage. Circulation and functional use of spaces related to the people most using a particular area of the house was important.” This house has been designed subtly and ingeniously and generates an interplay of privacy and openness. Though separate areas, each space seems to be connected to the other and one can notice continuity in design unified by the common ceiling. The end result is a design concept that has flawlessly weaved through the entire space in recreating the feel of the hill and successfully combining the functional with aesthetic appeal. n

Architects Binota and Sameer Nadkarni

HEALTH

A regular column on healthy living

Dr Vinaykumar Pai Raikar, MD, DGO, FICS, FICOG, is a senior consultant obstetrician, gynaecologist and laparoscopic surgeon. He has a diploma in laparoscopic surgery from Germany and is the director of the Raikar Nursing Home in Caranzalem

Physical activity during

Pregnancy Regular exercise can improve stamina during labour and speed up recovery after delivery

T 42

here was a time when pregnant women were encouraged to avoid physical activity. Fortunately, information about pregnancy has changed and medical experts now recommend regular physical activity as part of a healthy pregnancy.

IMPORTANT FACTS

Regular physical activity during pregnancy is great. It can: • improve your mood and self-image • help ensure appropriate weight gain • help you relax and reduce stress • promote better sleep • increase your muscle tone, strength and endurance • help build your stamina for labour and delivery

• speed up your recovery after labour and delivery • help increase your energy levels

START EASY AND PROGRESS GRADUALLY

If you’ve been inactive, start with mild activities like walking and swimming. Even five minutes a day will help. Gradually increase the time you’re active to 30 minutes a session. Before starting a new exercise program, you should consult your physician.

DON’T OVERDO IT!

You should be able to carry on a normal conversation during your physical activities. If you are feeling more tired than normal, take it easy and rest for a day.

KEEP COOL AND HYDRATED Drink plenty of water before, during and after physical activity to avoid overheating and dehydration. You should also refrain from being active outdoors on overly hot or humid days or during cold weather.

SUGGESTIONS

• Build physical activity into your daily routine. The type of activity you choose is up to you, as long as you feel comfortable doing it and your doctor says it’s okay. • If you are already active, think about how you can modify or replace weight-bearing activities such as running, high-impact aerobics, hiking and tennis as your pregnancy progresses. • If you are asthmatic, please exercise with extra caution.

FREQUENTLY ASKED

QUESTIONS I have never really been active, should I start now that I’m pregnant? Physical activity can make you feel better and be beneficial for both you and your developing baby. The decision to be active during pregnancy may be the first step toward a long-lasting healthy way of life for you and your family. Remember to speak with your doctor before you begin and start slowly. I’m already active, but now I am pregnant. Can I continue to exercise? If you exercised regularly before becoming pregnant, continue your program and make changes as you need to. Talk to your doctor about your current routine and when you may need to make any adjustments. Most importantly, listen to your body as it changes from one month to the next and only do what feels comfortable for you. Can I lift weights? Lifting weights is generally safe as long as the resistance is light to moderate. Using heavier weights could put too much stress on muscles and ligaments. Proper

controlled breathing is also very important. After your fourth month of pregnancy, experts suggest modifying exercises that require lying on your back so they are performed on your side, or while you are standing or sitting. Avoid exercises which put direct strain on your abdomen. How can I tell if I’ve overdone it? If you’re really tired and you feel like stopping, then it’s time to stop. If you still feel tired, give yourself a break for at least a day. Call your doctor if you’ve any of the following symptoms: • Persistent contractions • Bleeding from the vagina • Increasing back pain, pubic pain, or pain in the abdomen • Sudden swelling of ankles, hands or face • Dizziness or shortness of breath • Excessive fatigue • Difficulty while walking • Changes in usual foetal movements • Swelling, pain, and redness in the calf of one leg. n

HOSPITALITY

A column which reviews the best hotels in Goa

Haven of Sinead McManus has lived and worked in Goa for the last five years. She lives in Canacona, South Goa, but her job entails travelling extensively around India, promoting the country to the British/American Travel Trade and to the independent traveller

Elegance SUR LA MER in Morjim is a world apart with its personalised service and affable hosts

Its X Factor:

Pics by Edric George

The charismatic owner Aneel Verman and his lovely family.

link and you ‘ll miss it – in fact you won’t even see a signboard. Ensconced up a narrow dirt track you will find Sur La Mer. Fifty-six kilometres from the airport and 9 kms north of Mapusa, the resort is located away from the usually crowded spots of Goa and yet close to the beautiful, secluded Morjim Beach. Welcomed by the friendly and forever smiling staff who instantly take over tending to our every need, we entered the resort and were delighted by the setting that surrounded us. The first thing that captivated us was the length of the swimming pool. With 20 differently styled pool-facing rooms and the fabulous sea-view penthouse suite on the upper terrace, it was a delight to know that all water activities were in close proximity. The charming and charismatic Aneel Verman with his lovely family is what makes the resort so special. Originally from Delhi, Aneel spent most of his career in the export business. After some troubled times, he felt the need to get away from his metropolitan lifestyle and chose Goa. On the very first day of his arrival, he bought the land on which he built from scratch what Sur La Mer has become today. With his unique ideas, the hotel has a mixture of a colonial Goan/Portuguese and Moroccan feel to it, all furnished with delightful antiques, hand chosen by him. Each room is individually designed with spacious walk-in bathrooms and double doors, both at the front and back. The rooms on the top floor offer a special playful annex for families which allows space for

all. In contrast to the traditional style and evoking a touch of modernity, the rooms host a plasma screen TV with DVD player and a selection of DVDs to choose from. After settling in, it was late evening before I headed for the small bar. Steering his ship from here, Aneel is at his multitasking best. He directs his staff, entertaining his guests and gets involved with the cooking and final touches of the food being served. During the time that I was there, I observed that other guests would often get dressed up for a night out, but in the end they never did seem to leave the hotel. Similarly, I too was enthralled with the entertainment around me, the comfortable surroundings and being served endless cocktails and tasty snacks without once seeing a menu or a price list. A great evening altogether – meeting new and wonderful people and spending time with the owner, listening to his tales and enjoying his family’s hospitality. Aneel spent years travelling the globe, taking fancy cookery courses as cooking is his passion. Clam chowder, beef carpaccio, lobster thermador, baked goat cheese salad with balsamic sauce, ruccola and cherry tomatoes followed by brilliantly textured chocolate fondant and filo pastry is what I found myself indulging in. With the option of dining in the courtyard or from the sunset views of the terrace, I found it hard to choose between the two. The following morning I woke up to the picturesque sight of the flora and fauna peering in at me from the balcony and the sounds of mellow music wafting up from downstairs. It so happened that another international lifestyle magazine was shooting a fashion commercial, and cleverly using the settings of the resort as its backdrop for the campaign. Surrounded by this excitement, it was a great way to start my day. Sur La Mer Resort is not a ‘five star’ resort, but it goes beyond – with such personalised service in a unique setting, it is a haven of elegance and charm. n

When I left Delhi,

Sur La Mer became my home. Now my guests are my family and this is their home

– Aneel Verman, Owner

WELLNESS A regular column featuring the great spas of Goa

ZAARA SPA A Heady Mixture of Sun, Sand and Spa

Parineeta Sethi is the publisher and editor-in-chief of ‘AsiaSpa India’, ‘Asia Pacific Boating India’, ‘Millionaire Asia India’ and ‘Selling World Travel’. She is an authority on spas and has closely followed the spa culture in Goa

Experience the sensuality of Goa through Zara Spa at the Resort Rio in Arpora, the latest on offer in the state’s expanding spa culture

oa conjures up images of sparkling sand and water, spectacular beaches, an exquisite tapestry of quaint towns, magnificent churches and thrilling nightlife. Who wouldn’t want to holiday here? It is a perfect destination that indulges you in every way. The added attraction to this sun, sand and surf combination is the ‘spa’. The bubbling spa scene of Goa has injected more spice to the refreshing Goan flavour. The newest one to join this enchanting scene is the Zaara Spa at the Resort Rio in Arpora, North Goa. Spread over ten acres on the banks of the river Baga, the resort is just a five-minute drive from the famous Baga beach. Offering a sensorial experience in a serene environment, Zaara Spa is designed to revive and rejuvenate the mind and the body. Inspired by Mughal architecture, the spa interiors are nothing short of spectacular. The grand arched doors, long corridors with impressive wall carvings and the splendid sandstone flooring point to the fact that a keen and attentive eye has focused on the design of the spa. It immediately transports you to the era of kings and queens and entices you into a royal experience. Fresh flowers, heady aromatic candles and the murmur of waterfalls create a soft and peaceful environment for relaxation. The spa features seven treatment rooms, which include two for ayurveda, two for couple treatments with an in-built bath tub, steam and shower and one for Thai remedies. A wide range of treatments are on offer, from traditional ayurvedic to western, from Tibetan singing bowl massage, healing stones chakra massage to Indian jasmine and rosewater facials and other curative massages. After the treatment one can enjoy a drink in the relaxation room or indulge in the pleasure of a soothing head massage or an energising session of reflexology in the lounge area. The spa therapists are most well-mannered, trained and sensitive towards the needs of each individual. The team of therapists, headed by qualified ayurved Dr Vinesh Bandekar, consists of a therapist from Thailand, two from Tibet and four from India. With his wealth of experience in ayurveda, Dr Bandekar guides you to the right treatment according to the requirements of your body and lifestyle during the free wellness consultation session. The spa also boasts of a plunge pool, Jacuzzi, gym, salon and separate steam rooms. In addition, one can also enjoy the benefits of yoga by signing up for the Zaara yoga sessions. So go and live the sensuous life at the Resort Rio! n

GOAN CUISINE

A monthly column offering the best of Goan food and drink

alentine Specials

Let’s celebrate Valentine’s Day and cherish the love and friendship of those we treasure most. I thank you all for your love and eternal support. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Chef Deepa Awchat, originally from Mapusa, is the co-founder of ‘Goa Portuguesa’, ‘Culture Curry’ and ‘Diva Maharashtra’, Mumbai’s popular, award-winning restaurants. She is also the author of ‘The Goa Portuguesa Cookbook’ deepaawchat@ goaportuguesa.com

Chocolate Mousse

10 to 12 bo wls

Ingredients Cream ..................................................... 400 ml Dark cooking chocolate slab ................... 500 gms Egg ......................................................... 7 Castor sugar ............................................ 1 ½ cup (350 gms) Gelatin .................................................... 20 gms Water ...................................................... ½ cup (120 ml)

Method

Heat water in a pan and remove it when it starts to boil. Keep the chocolate slab in a metal container and place the container in the pan with hot water. Let the chocolate slab melt completely.

Beat the egg yolks and egg whites separately until fluffy.

Mix the beaten yolk and castor sugar in a bowl. Dissolve the gelatin in ½ cup of warm water.

Add the melted chocolate to the mixture of yolks and sugar. To this, add the dissolved gelatin and mix well.

Add cream and stir well. Refrigerate for 20 minutes.

Remove from the refrigerator and add the egg whites to this mixture. Stir well.

Pour this mixture into small serving bowls and refrigerate for an hour to set.

Arroz Refogado

(Mixed Meat & Seafood Pulao) Serves 4

Ingredients Long grain rice ........................................ 1 cup Breast and legs of a small chicken........... 2 pieces (400 gms) Peeled prawns ......................................... 200 gms Squids, cut into rings . ............................. 100 gms Clams on the shell ................................... 25 Shelled green peas .................................. ½ cup Olive oil ................................................... ½ cup Garlic, chopped ....................................... 8 cloves Onion, finely chopped ............................. 1 large Tomato, finely chopped ........................... 1 large Capsicum, finely chopped ....................... 1 medium Black pepper powder .............................. ½ teaspoon Cinnamon powder ................................... ½ teaspoon Chicken stock or water . ........................... 3 cups Saffron ..................................................... ½ teaspoon Finely chopped parsley (optional) . ......... 2 tablespoons White wine . ............................................. ¼ cup Salt to taste

NOTE You can also use crab meat, fish, mussels and sausages in the pulao. You can either open the clams or cook the unopened shells as they will open while cooking. You can also use a stock cube for added flavour.

Method

Cut each breast and leg into two pieces. Heat the oil in a pan and fry the chicken for approximately five minutes until brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

In the same pan, add the garlic, onion, tomato and capsicum and sauté until soft. Add the pepper and cinnamon powders and sauté for two minutes. Add the stock or water and cook until the chicken is tender.

Add the saffron, parsley and rice and cook for approximately 15 minutes

until the rice is half cooked.

Add the prawns, squid, clams, green peas, white wine and salt. Cook until the rice is tender and the water evaporates. You may need to add more hot water, if necessary, to cook the rice.

Serve hot.

Mori Ambot–Tik

(Hot and Sour Shark Curry) Serves 4

NOTE If required add two tablespoons of water while grinding the masala, since adding more vinegar will turn the dish sour

Ingredients Shark fillets .................................................400 gms Turmeric powder .........................................½ teaspoon Garlic-ginger paste .....................................½ tablespoon Dried red chillies .........................................10 Vinegar . ......................................................3 tablespoons Garlic ...........................................................8 cloves Ginger .........................................................2 inches Onion, finely chopped ................................1 medium Green Chilli . ................................................1 Black peppercorns ......................................10 Cloves ..........................................................8 Cinnamon . ..................................................1 two-inch stick Cumin seeds . ..............................................1 teaspoon Sugar . .........................................................2 teaspoons Oil ................................................................3 tablespoons Salt to taste

Method

Clean the fish and cut into one-and-a-half inch pieces. Marinate in a mixture of the salt, turmeric powder and half tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste for twenty minutes.

Heat the oil in a pan, add the remaining chopped onion and sauté until it changes colour.

2 3

Soak the red chillies in vinegar for 15 minutes.

Grind the garlic, ginger, half the onion, red and green chillies, peppercorns, cloves, cinnamon, cumin seeds and sugar with the vinegar to a fine paste.

Add the ground paste and sauté for a minute. Add one cup of water. Add the fish and salt to taste and cook for approximately 15 minutes until the fish is tender and gravy thickens.

Serve hot with pao, rice or any Indian bread.

BIZ NOTES

Win a dream date with Pankaj Advani

n the occasion of Valentine’s Day, the Silver Lining Group is presenting an opportunity for Pankaj Advani’s female fans in Goa to be able to win a dinner date with him at a premium five-star resort in Goa. One of the best sportspersons in the world, Advani has done India proud by winning seven world titles in snooker and billiards, and more recently, opened the country’s gold medal account at the Asian Games 2010 in China. He is one of the youngest recipients of the Padmashree and Khel Ratna Awards. The Silver Lining Group, one of the most dynamic and creative hubs in India, is promoting this initiative for Valentine’s Day. It will not only bring Advani closer to his female fans but will also spread the awareness of billiards – the sport that brought India its first ever world title. So, if you are female, 18 years old or above, and wish to have a dream dinner date with Pankaj Advani then enter a simple contest. For details, refer to the advertisement in this issue.

Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa offers Valentine’s Day package

n Valentine’s Day, Palms, the beachside and grill restaurant at Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa presents a four-course dinner menu with vegetarian and nonvegetarian options to choose from complemented by Champagne. Priced at Rs 9,000 plus taxes per couple, you and your Valentine will be welcomed by Besame Mucho, the Park Hyatt’s very own Valentine cocktail, serenaded by an instrumental duo and will end the evening with memorable giveaways. Located at the northern end of the resort, Palms offers guests with a relaxed atmosphere amid minimalist settings and understated élan offering an uncomplicated approach to seaside dining. Set on multi-elevated spheres, it further enhances breathtaking views of the pristine shores and carefully blends the rustic ambiance with simplicity. For reservations, call Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa on 0832 272 1234.

BIZ NOTES

GHRSSIDC holds exhibition to encourage Goan artisans

he Goa Handicrafts, Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation Ltd (GHRSSIDC) organised a one-of-itskind initiative in Arambol, Pernem in January to encourage Goan artisans. The four-day exhibition called Aparant Goa Handicrafts Expo housed 30 stalls which

displayed shell craft, coconut craft, crochet, batik work, embroidery, paintings, terracotta, fibre craft, brass ware, tribal craft and wood craft. The exhibition provided foreign and domestic tourists with an opportunity to directly interact with local artisans and

purchase products. Live demonstrations of the crafts and cultural programmes were also organised. The exhibition was inaugurated in the presence of chairperson of GHRSSIDC Sameer Salgaocar and the parish priest of Arambol church Fr Roque da Costa.

Former chief of Army staff General (Retd) S F Rodrigues releasing Mansion of Glass, the GKB Story by Krishna Gopal Gupta at a wellattended function held at Vivanta by Taj, Fort Aguada. Standing left to right are Usha Gupta, Veena Gupta, Vishnu Goyal, Gen Rodrigues, K G Gupta, R K Gupta and K M Gupta

GKB book Mansion of Glass chronicles Indian vision on ophthalmic front

ansion of Glass, The GKB Story by Krishna Gopal Gupta, Chairman and CEO of the Goa-headquartered Rs 120 crore GKB Ophthalmics Ltd, looks back on the experiences gained and lessons learnt as the group celebrates its golden anniversary. It all began as a tiny operation in the backyard of a home in Agra five decades ago. Today, the companies that GKB has spawned are well on the way to become Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first ophthalmic

multi-nationals. The GKB brand has led Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive to gain a global reputation with world-class ophthalmic lenses. This is a frank account of how persistence, striving for quality, and a global vision, helped propel the international reputation of a country which not long ago was struggling to offer quality eye-care to its own people. The GKB range includes brands like Marco, Sun Drive, Inspira, Brendro Salvani and Miyabi.

HAPPENINGS

BE FIT! Fitness enthusiasts Nivedita Dempo and Puranjaya Singh are now sharing their passion for healthy living with all Goans through their new holistic fitness and wellness centre Studio 101. Friends and family showed their support during the launch party at the studio in St Inez, Panaji. Nivedita’s mother Neela Dempo lit the traditional lamp to inaugurate the studio. Members from Nivedita’s zumba class checked out their new work-out zone, while many people also registered to avail of the yoga, floor exercise regimes and gym facilities. Guests also tasted the items from the Health Café, which has 100 per cent natural ingredients. The couple invites Goa to be fit, be healthy and be happy.

Pranjal & Uma Virginkar, Suhal & Gauri Karkal, Neela Dempo, Shrinivas Dempo, Nirupa & Vivek Agle along with Nivedita & Puranjaya Singh

Puranjaya, Manohar Parrikar, Siddharth Kunkolienkar & Sandeep Kundaiker

Jaiprakash Dempo Kanika Dempo

Babu Keni

Kalyani, Yatish, Akshaya & Kumari Dempo

Shraddha Tarcar

Rajesh & Bhakti Dempo

Gita Joshi

Jeeva Bhatt

Mariola & Roseanne Mathias

Priyanka Dempo

Anirudh Dempo

Anita Dudhani & Lisa

Leena Francis

Rakhee Salgaoncar

Vilas Sardessai

Roselynn

Pics by Edric George

Minal Bhandary

Vinni Timblo

Mrs & Dr Govind Kamat

Sangana Ghosali

Shweta Singh

Shweta Sethia

Sujoy Gupta

Rashna Javeri

Upendra Gaunekar

Vinita de Noronha

Sachin Wagle

Namrata Wagle

Priya & Ashish Vellekar

Louann Sequeira

Bipin Kanthak

The Studio 101 team

HAPPENINGS

Head Boy of the ‘85 batch Shrinivas Dempo

Jyotsna Naik, Cidalia & Amita Keni

SHARADA MANDIR REUNION OF THE CLASS OF ‘85

Shaking it up: The Sharada Mandir batch of ‘85 doing the Shakey - Shakey song, which they learnt in Class II

Head Boy of the ‘85 batch Shrinivas Dempo

The then headmistress Lucy D’Costa cutting the cake. Seen (from left) S Raju, Sheila Nadkarni, Rajani Sardessai, Anne Simoes, Filomena Dias, Lydia Palha, Bella Mascarenhas, Lucy D’Costa, R N Shejwalkar, Ann Baretto, Irene Barbosa, Ms Carmeline, Sanjay Usgaonkar, Oscar Gonsalves, Nirmala Rebello & Eunice D’Sa

The Sharada Mandir class of 1985 recently caught up at their reunion at the Cidade de Goa in Dona Paula 25 years after they completed school. The alumni and their families spent the evening reminiscing about their days in the classroom, while their teachers and principal joined in the fun too. The teachers enjoyed performances of action songs from Class II including the Shakey-Shakey Song, Bow-Legged Chicken and the Boogie Woogie Song. Head Boy of the ‘85 batch Shrinivas Dempo gave the welcome address and Suhan Karkal paid tribute to the teachers. Cynthia Chowgule Dias, Linda Augustine Sabnis, Sharon Nunes D’Melo, Prakash Rao, Lucius Lobo, Poonam Kochhar, Vanaja Mudaliar, Simrat Gill, Hanif Laljee, Verner Velho, Resha Dempo Kantak and Kedar Dhume were among those seen having a good time. The then headmistress of the school Lucy D’Costa gave a sentimental speech, while head of the senior school R N Shejwalkar cut the cake along with other teachers. Students of the class of 1984 were also invited, along with the present management of the school including administrator Oscar Gonsalves, principal Nirmala Rebello and junior school principal Eunice D’Sa.

Reunited after 25 years: Kedar Dhume, Sharon Nunes D’Melo, Poonam Kochhar, Prakash Rao, Suhan Karkal, Shrinivas Dempo, Cynthia Chowgule Dias, Linda Augustine Sabnis, Verner Velho & Resha Dempo Kantak

Pics by Edric George

HAPPENINGS

Girija catches the attention of her mother Pallavi Dempo

R N Shejwalker

Sheila Nadkarni

Lucy D’Costa saying a few words

Anne Simoes

Haneef Lalji & Verner Velho enjoying the games

Children enjoying the party

Rukhma Quenim

Cynthia Chowgule escorting the current school administrator Oscar Gonsalves

Sanjay Usgaonkar receives a momento from Simrat Gill

Rachita Velho with her children

Jyoti Panvelkar catches up with his teachers

The children of the ‘85 batch alumini entertaining the gathering with a song

Nirmala Rebello & Eunice D’Sa

VIVA GOA DIARY CHINMAYA AALOK ASHRAM SET UP IN PANAJI

he Chinmaya Aalok ashram was recently inaugurated in St Inez, Panaji, by His Holiness Guruji Swami Tejomayanandji, the head of the Chinmaya Mission worldwide, in the presence of H H Swami Purushottamanandji, the head of the Chinmaya Mission – western region. The mission will use the new location until they find a permanent house. Swami Tejomayanandji, the chief guest on the occasion, said, “The ashram is a spiritual powerhouse only when it constitutes the three elements – desire, knowledge and

service. If one wants blessings from God, then one’s desires must be followed by actions.” He also emphasised on the need for teachers for the ashram. He said that the 16th batch of their Vedanta course taught in their Mumbai ashram, which is meant to groom a person to be a teacher, will commence on September 1 this year and is open to all. “Chinmaya Alok means electrical powerhouse,” said Swami Purushottamanandji. “One is to have the study of the scriptures at the ashram and the other is to work for the society. It is not

enough to have an ashram if it is not utilised to its optimum potential.” Shrinivas Dempo, president of the Chinmaya Mission Goa, said, “I am determined to continue the search for a place to house the brahmacharis. We are looking out for a bigger place in and around Panaji to house the ashram.” Others present on the occasion included Bramacharini Dharanyaji, Bramachari Prahlad Chaitanyaji, Bramachari Kedar Chaitanyaji, Bramacharini Arpeeta and members of Chinmaya Mission Goa.

ARTIST SUBODH KERKAR’S INSTALLATIONS INAUGURATED Tourism Minister Nilkanth Harlarnkar at Subodh Kerkar’s installation in Anjuna

n installation titled The Earth Bowl or Prithvi Kund created by celebrated artist Subodh Kerkar was inaugurated by Minister of Tourism Nilkanth Halarnkar at Ozran, Small Vagator beach, Anjuna. The inauguration was followed by a sitar concert by Manab Das. The Earth Bowl is a two-metre diameter bowl carved into the rock projecting into

the sea. The artist argues that there are no barriers in the ocean and the continents are connected by the seas. The history of human civilisation from time immemorial is dissolved in the ocean, which are true vehicles of universal brotherhood. The Earth Bowl, a symbol of one world, is an installation, which will precipitate memories.

The Earth Bowl is the first in the series of public art pieces that the Department of Tourism has initiated to promote tourism. Kerkar created another temporary installation The Five Elements on the beach using flowers, balloons, charcoal and shells. A slide show of Kerkar’s works on a giant screen set up on the beach was also presented during the event.

VIVA GOA DIARY

REPUBLIC DAY CELEBRATED IN GOA

Chief Minister Digambar Kamat, Asha Kamat, Chief Secretary S Srivastava and Secretary to the Governor Narendra Kumar

Governor of Goa Dr S S Sidhu inspecting the Republic Day parade at Campal, Panaji

MPT OBSERVES REPUBLIC DAY

s India celebrates its 62nd Republic day, Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) marked the anniversary with vibrant celebrations held at the MPT grounds. While addressing the gathering, the chairman of MPT P Mara Pandiyan, IAS, said, “Tolerance, oneness in thoughts and action, mutual respect for one another, and transparency in public administration have been the hallmark of our society. “However, these values and virtues are being pushed to the back seat. We should

work hard to build a strong nation, putting aside all differences.” Pandiyan unfurled the national flag, inspected the parade and took the salute presented by the Central Industrial Security Force, Port Fire Brigade personnel. The students of Deepvihar Higher Secondary and Secondary Schools, Vasco Da Gama also joined in the parade and put on a colourful performance.

MPT Chairman P Mara Pandiyan, IAS, inspecting the Guard of Honour on the occasion of Republic Day.

TIMES FOOD AWARDS FOR GOA PORTUGUESA AND DIVA MAHARASHTRACHA

oa Portuguesa and Diva Maharashtracha, two of Mumbai’s leading restaurants, received the Best Restaurant Award by prestigious publication The Times Food Guide. The award was presented to owner couple Deepa and Suhas Awchat at a glittering ceremony at the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, Mumbai. Celebrities including Aamir Khan and Rani Mukherjee graced the occasion. VIVA GOA congratulates chef Deepa Awchat and wishes her a successful launch of their new restaurant in South Mumbai.

GOAN COMMUNITY IN AUSTRALIA CELEBRATE REPUBLIC DAY 62

he Goan community in South Australia joined Indian and Australian families in the colourful 2011 Australia Day Parade in Adelaide which coincides with India’s Republic Day celebrations. The Goan community and other Indian communities all came under the banner of Club India International SA Inc wearing the attire of different states. Chairman of the South Australia Multicultural and Ethnic Affairs Commission Hieu Van Le AO welcomed the gathering. Thousands of spectators lined up along the streets to greet the participants in the parade. Some Australians were quite impressed with the traditional Indian attire and inquired about design. The event came to an end with a grand fireworks display presented by the Commonwealth Bank.

Master Chef Deepa Awchat with husband Dr Suhas and son Sudeep at the Times Food Awards for the Best Restaurant

VIVA GOA DIARY

ISKON’S JAGRUTI SPIRITUAL FESTIVAL HELD IN PANAJI

he International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKON) organised Jagruti, a festival of spiritual awakening in Panaji on January 22 and 23. The annual two-day festival is aimed at creating spiritual awakening among the devotees of Lord Krishna and the public in general. Renowned spiritual counselor Sriman Gaur Gopal Das delivered the lecture on The Speaking River and The Power of Habits, which was followed by an exciting Q&A session. Head of ISKON’s Mumbai centre Shyamanand Prabhuji said the event would help expose Goans to the knowledge of our rich heritage. The event involved discourses, lectures, kirtans, video presentations and distribution of prasad. The programme was arranged by the Goa Chapter of ISKON under the patronage and support of Neela Dempo and Suhan Karkal.

HONDA INTRODUCES SUNROOF CIVIC

onda Siel Cars India (HSCI), a leading manufacturer of premium cars in the country, launched the new Honda Civic with a sunroof. The sunroof was the most desirable feature in the Civic based on customers’ feedback. The new addition further augments the style quotient of the car. Launched in 2006, the Honda Civic redefined the lower D segment of the passenger car segment in India. In the last four-and-a-half years, Honda has sold more than 50,000 units cumulatively and has won several automobile awards, including the Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) 2007 and topped the JD Power Initial Quality Study in 2010. The Honda Civic comes fully loaded with various active and passive safety features, including ABS (Anti-Lock braking system) with EBD (Electronic Brake – Force Distribution System) and Brake Assist, dual SRS airbags and pre-tensioner seat belts.

Honda’s Advanced Compatability Engineering Body (ACE) and G-CON (g-Force Control Technology) provide a high integrity survival zone that enhances self-protection and better

compatibility in collisions with other vehicles. The Honda Civic with the sunroof is now available with Coastal Honda, a Caculo Group Company in Panaji and Verna.

QUEST FOR MR GOA BEGINS

or the first time, a search begins across the nation for the man with matchless wit, incomparable style and endearing charm. The quest for Mister Goa 2011 will begin from February to March. The event is planned, managed and conceptualised by NRB Kaleidoscope Events and Concepts. Auditions will be held at various locations over two days. The 12 finalists will be selected by a renowned panel of judges. After the intense auditions, the contestants will then spend a week preparing for the prestigious title. They will be put through gruelling team tasks and adventure sports to test their strength and character. The final five contestants will then be grilled by the panel of judges, including eminent personalities from Bollywood and the fashion industry, to find the man who can bring Goa to the world. VIVA GOA, Goa’s First and Only Lifestyle Magazine, is the media partner for this contest. For further information, visit www.mrgoa.com

VIVA GOA DIARY

ODETTE MASCARENHAS’ TRAVEL FOOD BOOK WINS GOURMAND HONOUR

Culinary Escapade of Goa by Odette Mascarenahs won the Gourmand World Cookbook Award for India in the travel food guide category. The book has also been short listed to compete in the Best in the World 2010 Award. It will be pitted against entries from 75 other countries vying for the title on March 3, 2011. The book covers more than a hundred restaurants with top eateries for a culinary experience and contact details. From small dingy eateries to heritage places, the restaurants have been selected for the excellence of their food and their uniqueness. The book also covers the history behind Goan food, a taluka-wise guide for sightseeing that has handpicked spots also listing places to eat, places to visit, traditions, culture and cuisine of Goa. In 2008, Mascarenhas won the Gourmand World Cookbook Award 2009 for her book, Masci – the Man Behind The Legend. She has also written two other books, Alfie Alfonso: The Search For The Mystical Crystal and The Blot On The Canvas. Mascarenhas hosts a TV series on food, A Legacy For The Taste Buds on Goan television channel Goa 365.

Bhakti Kulkarni at the prize distribution event

BHAKTI KULKARNI MOVES A STEP CLOSER TO WGM TITLE 66

oa’s chess ace Bhakti Kulkarni has recently won the first norm of the International Woman’s Grand Master (WGM) in the Czech Republic. She says, “It is the dream of every chess player to achieve the highest title of Grandmaster and thanks to Goa Carbon Ltd, I am a step closer.” Kulkarni also stood second in the Men’s International Tournament in Marianske Lazne, Czech Republic. She will be a full-fledged WGM once she wins two more norms. Kulkarni is the goodwill ambassador for Goa Carbon Ltd, a Dempo company. The 18-year old was Goa’s first titled chess player – Woman FIDE Master, and has claimed honours at international events, including the silver at the Asian Girls Under 16 in 2007.

VIVA GOA DIARY

SESHAH HOUSE HOLDS COLOR ECSTASY EXHIBITION

Puran Singh Jhala

olor Ecstasy is an art exhibition by Puran Singh Jhala (Chota Chuda) held from Febriuary 12 to February 20 at the SeShah House in Saligao. The SeShah House, a new foundation for art appreciation brings to Goa an exemplary body of art comprising two series of paintings titled Butterflies and Parrots. The series of paintings titled Butterflies in Jahalaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature style exhibits extraordinary visualisation of natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beauty, and the ever delicate balance of our living world. Over the years, Jhala has made great strides in documenting ancient Indian graphic prints. He has copied, onto cloth, antique lithographs which illustrate the Ramayana with a view to preserve the precious Indian heritage. His works have been exhibited in several venues in Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Mumbai, New Delhi and Pune. Jhala belongs to the erstwhile Royal state of Chuda in Gujarat. He studied Fine Arts at M S University in Baroda and graphic design at National Institute of Design in Ahmedabad. In 1978, he joined the Nehru Foundation (now the National Institute of Environmental Studies) as a graphic designer and was involved in various projects pertaining to rural technologies. The Seshah House is inspired by the village of Saligao and is dedicated to the appreciation of art. The platform for artist support was conceptualised by Aparna and Jayant Sharma as an enterprise of creative rejuvenation after more than two decades of work in the field of deaddiction.

NAMAH CHORALE IN CONCERT

he 60-member Namah chorale is all set to present a heart warming concert powered with The Alcatrazz and the dynamic chorale ensemble from the Goa Institute of Management on February 28 at the Ravindra Bhavan in Margao. The concert will have the audience engaged in contemporary dance, Pop

Acapella, Brass band, and the nostalgic flavour of Brazilian music. The Namah Chorale, led by Christo Fernandes, began its journey five years ago with a similar passion of making music for the pure love of developing local talent and harnessing their musical creativity. With their first performance since 2007

they have integrated chorale singing with Indian and western art forms along with national and international artists. This young musical initiative has led the choir to perform at the National Centre of the Performing Arts Mumbai in the year 2007 and 2009, and have enthralled the audiences in Goa as well as in Mumbai.

VIVA GOA SPOTLIGHT

Avdumber Hede

Focusing on Goan achievers

A 70

two-time consecutive winner in the MRF Indian National Karting Championship in 2008, for Goa’s Avdumber Hede, go karting is more than just a sport. It was what he was meant to do – what began as a passion has shot to a full-fledged career. Avdumber is not short of a few trophies. In 2002, he hit the racing circuit and won the first place at both, the All Goa Karting Challenge and the All India JK Tyre National Karting Championship. Over the years he has also excelled in the Formula Mondial MRF Karting Championship and the JK Tyre Rotax Mojo Indian National Karting Championship. Goa’s karting champion ‘takes a brake’ with VIVA GOA…

Speed is… 220kmph on a bike and 200kmph in a car

and definitely want to continue racing professionally’

Racing is… more than just a sport to me. Over the years from what it started to and now, from a passion to a career, I have realised that this is what I was meant to do

Have you had any mishaps while racing? If yes, please elaborate. Yes, I did once have a small accident where a kart behind me lost control and crashed into mine from the side. I suffered a minor injury to my back. But God has been good to me and I have not been faced with any major accidents as compared to the mishaps which occur on the track.

The fastest car/bike you’ve driven… Bike – Kawasaki Z1000 / Car – BMW M3

The first time you raced, you felt… really good and thought to myself ‘I love this

The biggest challenge when racing… is maintain a steady level of concentration and keeping your mind calm to make quick decisions, while at the same time enjoying what you are doing! The silliest question you have been asked about go karting… “What mileage does the kart give?”

Besides go karting, you enjoy… playing football, riding fast bikes and adventure sports. I love the outdoors! The car/bike you dream to ride… Bike – Ducati 1198 / Car – Ariel Atom n