GOA’S FIRST LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE VOL 1. NO 4. AUGUST 2010, RS 25
FIFA WORLD CUP, SOUTH AFRICA SHRINIVAS DEMPO
‘I Did Marc’s Show and Things Took Off’ WALUSCHA ROBINSON
‘I STRONGLY BELIEVE IN GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY’
INOX GOA’S BEST
ENTERTAINMENT HUB
NITIN KUNKOLIENKAR
‘Making Goa Future Perfect’
LALITA JOSHI
LUXURIOUS GETAWAY
INTERCONTINENTAL THE LALIT GOA RESORT
EDITORIAL NOTE INOX – Live the movie
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ver since it opened its doors to the public in 2004, INOX has changed the concept of watching movies in Goa. The quaint old theatres had now literally to take the backseat to the new surround-sound effects, the plush seating, the multiple screens showing different films, the convenient online and tele-booking services, the spanking clean environment, spacious parking, and the variety of food and snack outlets offered by INOX. All in all, it’s a complete experience very aptly described in their slogan ‘Live the movie’. The latest Bollywood and Hollywood blockbusters could now be enjoyed to the fullest entertainment levels possible. INOX has truly made watching movies a memorable experience. And the credit for its successful commissioning
goes to the present Leader of the Opposition Manohar Parrikar. It was during his tenure as Chief Minister that INOX came up in record-breaking time. It was due to his concerted and dynamic leadership that this showpiece came into the picture and despite his own reservations (see Interview), full credit goes to him for setting up this landmark. The direct outcome of the setting up of this state-of-theart multiplex was the shifting of the prestigious International Film Festival of India to Goa. IFFI is now a memorable fixture in the social calendar of Goa, drawing scores of cinebuffs and film personalities from across the world. Despite the controversies surrounding it initially, IFFI now has a permanent venue in Goa thanks to INOX, and is the envy of other more supposedly ‘cineconscious’ states. VIVA GOA is proud to
READERS’ RESPONSE
Congratulations for launching Goa’s first lifestyle magazine VIVA GOA, which will help readers gain an insight into Goa and its way of living. The magazine is of a high standard with informative and interesting articles and is a treat to the eyes. We wish the team the best for a highly successful venture. Rajal K Shinkre, Principal Goa College of Home Science
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At the outset, let me congratulate VIVA GOA for daring to give a quality magazine to the people of Goa. I wish this magazine a big success. All the three issues so far have been very informative and entertaining. I am sure, this magazine will not only live up to the expectations of Goan readers but will win their hearts as well. As a journalist, the last issue which featured India’s well known TV personality Rajdeep Sardessai on the cover page, was of particular interest to me. I complement the VIVA GOA team
feature its Cover Story on INOX, Goa’s modern monument to good taste and a growing film culture. Not many from Goa made it to the World Cup Finals in South Africa. My classmate from Sharada Mandir and industrialist Shrinivas Dempo with his long and fruitful connection with soccer was among the privileged few. On my request, he was gracious enough to pen down his experiences of the finals at Soccer City Stadium, Johannesburg. We are also pleased to feature the svelte Walusha Robinson, among Goa’s leading models and a protégé of Wendell Rodricks, who gives a lie to the notion that beauty and brains don’t mix, while the dynamic past president of Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry Nitin Kunkolienkar shares how he unwinds after work in ‘After Hours’. We also have Lalita Joshi, an
for bringing various hitherto unknown facets of this versatile personality before Goan readers. No doubt, this article will inspire our budding journalists to take journalism seriously and aim high in their career. Niraj Naik, Editor, Digital Goa News Service, Panaji
Indian news channels have a long way to go and from the prominence given to certain stories on certain channels, we know they run on TRPs to some extent. Still it is commendable that journalists like Rajdeep Sardesai bring politicians and corrupt officials to the dock as it is these people who govern how India progresses. To know however that Rajdeep is the son of former Goan cricketer Dilip Sardesai was indeed heartening. It is something we should be proud of and every youngster must look up to these personalities and imbibe their values. Mahesh Prabhu, Parra
educationist whose progressive views on education and humanitarian outlook are exemplary. And as we celebrate Independence Day this month, we raise a toast to India and Goa, for the freedom to be who we want to be, to express ourselves, and yes, for even granting us the freedom to enjoy movies at INOX. VIVA GOA! Kedar Dhume
It was a very nice feeling going through a magazine that encapsulated the essence of Goa of yesteryears. I would like to vouch for Santosh R. Kenkre's suggestion in the July issue about Panjim 100 years ago. Your magazine is bound to take quite a few staunch Goenkar down memory lane. VIVA GOA! Dexter Pereira, Betalbatim Really a very nice issue…It presents Goa to Goans in a new and a fresh light... Ashwini Priolker, Via Facebook
VIVA GOA invites comments from its readers. Letters should be short and relevant and can be sent to editor@vivagoaonline.com
Editor & Publishers Note 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
FEATURE
VIVA GOA indulges in ‘Theobroma Cacao’, a quintessential chocolate and pastry shop in Panaji
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page
SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE
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Water Woes – Staying Safe During the Monsoon
page
36
page
COVER STORY
INOX – Where Movies Come Alive
COUTURE
As the centerpiece of IFFI, INOX, Goa’s first state-of-the-art multiplex has revolutionised the entertainment scene. A night at the movies has taken on a whole new meaning
A Splash of Colour By Michelle Banarse
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page
VIVA GOANS
One of the most recognised Goan faces on the catwalk, Waluscha Robinson traces her story to the top
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page
WELLNESS
Jiva Spa at Taj Exotica By Parineeta Sethi
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page
MONSOON TOURISM A cool and cosy rhythm…
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page
GUEST COLUMN
HEALTH
Playback South Africa Shrinivas Dempo on his ring-side view of the World Cup
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page
AFTER HOURS Nitin Kunkolienkar Vice-President of Smart Link Networks Ltd
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A Winning Smile By Dr Ajay Karande
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page
HOSPITALITY
InterContinental The Lalit Goa By Sinead McManus
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page
page
HOMING IN
LEGAL BRIEF Green Laws
Dr Katharina Poggendorf-Kakar on why she has made Goa as her own
By Advocate A.N.S. Nadkarni
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page
52
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page
GOAN CUISINE
FIRST LADY
Fasting Feasting By Chef Deepa Awchat
Lalita Joshi up close
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page
HI-TECH
Smart Grids and Cloud Services By Raj Sinai Dempo
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page
DIASPORA GOA The 10th Goan Convention in New Jersey, USA – bringing together Goans from America and the UK
CONTENTS
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page
55 page 56 page 57 page
HAPPENINGS
BIZ NEWS
VIVA GOA DIARY
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page
VIVA GOA SPOTLIGHT
Talasha Satish Prabhu
GOA’S FIRST LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE VOL 1. NO 4. AUGUST 2010, RS 25
FIFA WORLD CUP, SOUTH AFRICA SHRINIVAS DEMPO
‘I Did Marc’s Show and Things Took Off’ WALUSCHA ROBINSON
‘I STRONGLY BELIEVE IN GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY’
INOX
GOA’S BEST ENTERTAINMENT HUB
NITIN KUNKOLIENKAR
‘Making Goa Future Perfect’
LALITA JOSHI
LUXURIOUS GETAWAY
INTERCONTINENTAL THE LALIT GOA RESORT
Editor & Publisher
Kedar N Dhume editor@vivagoaonline.com Principal Consultant
Shailesh M Amonkar Kemistry Media Solutions Pvt. Ltd. shailesh@kemistry.in Editorial Consultant
Manohar Shetty Assistant Editors
Emylou D’Souza Dielle D’Souza reporter@vivagoaonline.com Photographer
Edric George Design
Nagesh Naik 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 Fax :+91 832 2437077 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
INOX
Back in 2004, the advent of INOX ushered in a virtual cinematic revolution in Goa. With its state-of-the art viewing and sound facilities, its luxurious and sophisticated ambience and as the centerpiece of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), INOX has changed the movie-going experience in Goa.
Goa’s Entertainment Hub
EMYLOU D’SOUZA traces its eventful beginnings and its growing stature on its contribution to film culture in Goa
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S
ix years ago, in a wave of expensive enterprise, INOX, Goa’s first state-of-the-art multiplex opened to the public, revolutionising the state’s entertainment scene. A night at the movies took on a whole new meaning. Watching a film in Goa has never been the same since 2004. Out with the endless ticket queues, the shabby, bug-infested seats and the dodgy sound system - the single-screen cinemas of Samrat-Ashok, El Dourado and others virtually faded into the background... INOX had arrived, bringing with it online, SMS and tele-booking ticket services. Also its free parking facilities, high levels of hygiene,
varied theatre food, spacious auditoriums, plush bucket seats, world-class modern projection and acoustic systems, and most importantly, a broad selection of movies offered patrons a whole new experience. Unit Manager of INOX, Goa, Joseph Pereira says, “In addition to being constructed to host the IFFI, the prime objective of setting up INOX in Goa was to inculcate the movie-going culture among people. Our highly trained staff makes sure patrons enjoy the international INOX ambience by keeping the auditoriums spick and span. INOX currently operates 35 multiplexes and 132 screens in 24 cities making it a truly pan-Indian multiplex chain.”
On a given Friday, one can expect a new Hindi, English and even a regional film to be screened, which was not possible before INOX entered the picture. For avid cinema-goer Vaishali Joshi, movies releasing in Goa at the same time as in other parts of the country, give her a chance to discuss films with friends across India. She says, “INOX puts Goa on the cinematic map and we can relate to national media reviews. Besides, INOX gives me a chance to socialise, especially during the monsoons, to catch up with family and friends on an evening out.” Adds Anand Palan of Manek Gem, Panaji, “I find the choice of movies quite good,
although there could be an improvement in the timings. Movies screened after 10.30 pm are too late for families.” Around 1,500 to 2,000 people in Goa patronise INOX on weekdays, while over the weekend, figures shoot up to an average of around 3,000 to 3,500 viewers. On July 17, 2005, figures sky-rocketed, hitting an all-time high of 5,671 people in just a single day. The minimum number of people required to screen a film is 20, but exceptions are made on a case to case basis. Hit movies have approximately 14 to 16 shows per day and if the response is good, they could run for as long as three months. Hindi films rule the roost when it comes to the number of patrons. Mainstream movies like 3 Idiots, Lage Raho Munnabhai, Krrish, Phir Hera Pheri, Rang de Basanti, Taare Zameen Par, Ghajini, Dhoom 2 and Chak De! India, witnessed movie buffs throng the state’s four-screen multiplex. 2012 was the only English film that broke the surface among all the Hollywood flicks screened at INOX. According to film critic Sachin Chatte, Hollywood blockbusters like Mamma Mia! and Pirates of the Caribbean (Dead Man’s Chest) were the top viewed English films but the sum total of the top two English films is less than 50 per cent of the people who have seen Munnabhai, let alone 3 Idiots! He explains, “There are several reasons for poor numbers especially with Hollywood films. Hindi cinema is more ‘family viewing’ oriented. So unless it is an
I am surprised when people say that Goa has no film culture. If that were so, then how has Goa produced so many film personalities — from renowned singers to film producers and cinematograhers? — Narendra Kumar Secretary, Information & Publicity, Govt of Goa
animation or children’s film, you won’t see the whole family coming for an English flick.” He adds, “Another reason for thin attendance is that in India, film viewing is ‘star power’ and entertainment driven, which works in Hindi cinema. This is not valid for English films - for instance, Leonardo Di Caprio is a big name but not many people saw Shutter Island because it was perceived as a ‘serious film’ even though an acclaimed director like Martin Scorsese made it.” Appreciating movies is at the core of film culture, and it shouldn’t be viewed as just a mere means of entertainment. Lack of quality regional cinema in Goa is the incessant drone and is at the receiving end of valid but many a time, unsound criticism. So, what role has INOX taken on with regard to regional cinema? Goan film producer Rajendra Talak has screened all four of his films at the multiplex, Saavariyaa.com being the most recent, and has no complaints. “In my experience, INOX has never given step-motherly treatment to regional cinema. In fact, they were kind enough to encourage and support regional film, even sharing a part of the
finance,” he reveals. However, writer-producer Jyoti Kunkolienkar begs to differ and opines that regional cinema receives a raw deal at INOX. “The main reason for this is that the average person can’t afford to watch a film there and in turn, producers of regional film find themselves out-of-pocket.” Regional films, especially the South Indian ones are well received even in Goa, primarily because the people from those states are crazy about their movies. Rajnikant’s Sivaji had three shows daily when it was released! This has not gone amiss with true cinema-buffs like Ritu Hemant Sharma. She says, “Although I like the selection of movies at INOX, I have hardly seen any Konkani or Marathi movies being screened there. It appears that there are more Kannada movies than Konkani ones.” Despite 13 films being produced in Goa in the last five years, barely two movies are screened at INOX on a yearly basis. An uphill task to generate a substantial audience for these films, one suggestion for the government to encourage Konkani cinema is to make it tax-free by default and make it mandatory for every Konkani film to be screened at INOX. “It is a question of demand and supply,” the Secretary for Information and Publicity, Government of Goa, Narendra Kumar states. “For instance, if people aren’t interested in watching Kannada or Telugu films, or even for that matter Marathi or Konkani films, then how can they be screened? It all depends on the market forces.” He maintains that ever since INOX has been in the picture, film culture in Goa is still “evolving and progressing”. Needless to say, the IFFI added a further fillip to the movie-going culture and perspective of Goans. The INOX boom in Goa could be a bubble ready to pop, unless tickets are made more affordable to the public. However it’s not just Goa feeling the pinch.
Joseph Pereira, Manager - INOX
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KNOW YOUR INOX! PROJECT DETAILS Estimated Contract Value
Rs 18.65 Cr Date of Commencement 21/04/2004 Date of Completion 7/11/2004 Date of Inauguration 12/11/2004
Total Built-Up Area
1 ac r e
SEATING CAPACITY 517 Auditorium 1 315 Auditorium 2 230 Auditorium 3 210 Auditorium 4 Total
1,272
Rent paid by INOX to the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) from November 2004 – May 2010
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Total
Rs 15.31 cr
Entertainment Tax paid by INOX to the Government of Goa from November 2004 – May 2010
Total
Rs 11.24 cr
By and large, the ticket prices here are more or less in line with the rest of the country. Says INOXs Joseph Pereira, “Our ticket rates are commensurate with the services and facilities we provide. They vary depending on the time of the day and day of the week - thereby ensuring that a cross-section of people can afford to see movies at the multiplex.” What is important to note is the entertainment tax levied by the Government of Goa, where the total tax collected on every movie ticket sold at INOX is 30 per cent, amounting to approximately Rs 1.5 crores per year. “New Delhi for example, has only 15 per cent tax and Maharashtra has 20 per cent. On one hand, the government boasts of promoting film culture in the state - the usual IFFI slogan - and onthe other, it levies such a high tax. Why can’t cinema be tax free in Goa, which will also help in reducing the ticket prices?” asks Sachin Chatte. Manoj Srivastava, CEO of the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), the nodal agency in the organisation of the IFFI, reveals that there is a substantial section in Goa that is well-informed about cinema. With a say in the selection of some films for the IFFI, the ESG takes over INOX for a period of 15 days to organise the prestigious event. Says Srivastava, “I would say that the IFFI has played the catalyst’s role in promoting a film culture in Goa.” Attracting 6,000 film makers to Goa every year, if one per cent return to shoot in Goa, the ESG has recovered everything it has invested in the IFFI. Other film festivals such as the recently held European Film Festival, along with several others including the South Asian Film Festival, the Marathi Film Festival and the Children’s Film Festival, lend their own flavour to Goa’s evolving film culture. Says Srivastava, “Every multiplex must have a mix and match between art-house and commercial cinema. At the ESG we promote both Konkani and Marathi films. The Goa government has launched a film finance scheme to help film makers with monetary support and by a subsidy to screen their movies.” Adds Narendra Kumar, Secretary for
Information and Publicity, “I am surprised when people say that Goa has no film culture. If that were so, then how has Goa produced so many film personalities from renowned singers to film producers?” Says Rajendra Talak, “Looking back, Goa has contributed a great deal to the film industry - to name a few, apart of course from the Mangeshkar sisters - there is editor Bhanudas Divkar, cinematographer K Vaikunth, music director Dattaram Wadkar, music composer Anthony Gonsalves, director N Chandra and many more.” Backtracking to the days of the local, single-screen theatre monopoly - National, Alankar, El Monte, Cine Lata and Vishant, among others - their contribution to the state’s entertainment scene cannot be ignored. “Personally, I got my dose of all Amitabh Bachchan blockbusters at these very theatres, the only source of cinema once upon a time,” Sachin Chatte admits wistfully. A dying brand, these ‘olden day’ cinemas paved the way for the one-stop shop for entertainment – INOX. With a built-up area of approximately one acre, INOX was spearheaded by the then chief minister Manohar Parrikar. Experimental marketing strategies were at the focal point when INOX started out. Former GM of INOX Deepak Srivastava’s plan of action was to liven things up and offer patrons more than just movies. From catering to various strata of society, to roping in brands that could operate from within the multiplex, like Broadway Books and Baskin Robbins, value for money under one roof was his USP. INOX realised that cinema-going was more than a vat of popcorn and a large Coke. Knowing the market was the key. 3D is the next big thing in film culture and currently the technical facility to screen these films is unavailable in Goa. Some opine that the need of the hour is for INOX to refurbish its standards, maintain them and draw more of a crowd. Also, the need for a biplex looms on the horizon, particularly to support the IFFI. Winner of the ‘ICICI Entertainment Retailer of the Year’ Award, the multiplex itself is something of a box-office hit. It is Goa’s hub of entertainment by far, and it’s up to INOX to keep pace.
'Only When My Name is Cleared, Will I Step into INOX' MANOHAR PARRIKAR
Manohar Parrikar in a conversation with Amitabh Bachchan during the first IFFI at INOX, Goa
Credited with the herculean task of setting up the entire infrastructure for the first International Film Festival of India (IFFI), including the INOX multiplex, former chief minister Manohar Parrikar exceeded all expectations by completing the project within six months. His IITian skills kicked in with sleepless nights, including personal supervision in the middle of the night to meet tight deadlines. He unravels several ‘mysteries’ of INOX in a freewheeling interview, when VIVA GOA caught up with him in the midst of the current Assembly Session One of the most remarkable features surrounding INOX was that it was built in record time. Could you take us through the criteria in choosing the current location? In Januay 2004, the present site was selected by a committee constituting of several dignitaries, including Shabana Azmi. Several government offices were rehabilitated there including Town and Country Planning, and Food and Drug Administration after the relocation of the Goa Medical College to Bambolim. This site was a complete eye-sore with vagrants inhabiting the discarded ambulances. There was even a defunct morgue on the premises with two of the current movie screens, the ones closest to Panaji market, falling within that area. Within a month of us viewing the selected area, it was vacated and cleaned up, and we were off to a flying start. Did you have any inhibitions regarding the selected site? I wasn’t very keen on this spot. I was eyeing Cavelossim and my personal favourite, Aguada. As the multiplex was a prime requirement of the IFFI, the birds-eye view from Aguada would have provided visitors with a breathtaking vista. Additionally in the future, several theatres could have been erected with no issues regarding space. The only foreseeable problem was in terms of the viability of this infrastructure after the
IFFI ended. In the city this is automatically generated, with INOX functioning as a centrally-located theatre.
You reportedly stated that unless the CBI exonerates you from its inquiry, you would not step into INOX. Why did you make this statement? I have only visited INOX twice after the IFFI 2004 – once during the second or third film festival to meet the national press in INOXs lobby, and the other was to watch a non-commercial movie screening by MLA Damu Naik, the producer of the Konkani film, Zagor. My nature is such, that only when my name is cleared, will I step into INOX. As a victory celebration, I will book the entire theatre with my money and entertain all my supporters there. The investigation has spanned over seven years, for a project which I completed within six months. For how much longer will the inquiry continue? What the CBI and others fail to grasp, was the task set before me to complete the multiplex before the first IFFI. The pressure was unbelievable. Whether it’s the CBI or any other authority that is left to clear my name, I will not step into INOX for a movie (till my name is cleared). It is a fact that INOX is the only government project that has recovered its project cost, till date.
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VIVA GOANS A regular column featuring eminent Goans living outside Goa
Role Model Waluscha – Making Dreams Come True By DIELLE D’SOUZA
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Finding her feet in the fast-paced fashion world, Waluscha Robinson opens up with VIVA GOA,
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aking flight as a fledgling model, Waluscha Robinson left for the “big city” to pursue her dreams when just 17 years old. Leaving family and friends in Goa, she found success in Mumbai as a popular model and carved a niche for herself in the country’s glamorous fashion industry. This former student of Our Lady of the Rosary High School in Dona Paula and Mapusa’s St Xavier’s College set her sights on the neon lights during a lecture on career opportunities. Friends and classmates set about choosing professions such as law and medicine, but Waluscha realised she was “never one to study”. She explains, “I wanted something that could fetch me a lot of money.” A friend suggested she try out for an audition for Wendell Rodricks, who Waluscha said she had no idea about at the time. She adds, “My friend helped me find a make-up artist and told me to be sure to go in late. I had to make an impact and be remembered. So I walked in late, and it worked!” The celebrated fashion designer was to
become Waluscha’s mentor and close friend over the years as she journeyed to heights in advertising campaigns and at fashion shows across the country. But she needn’t have tried her trick, as Wendell believes she was a cut above the rest right from the start. “I have no idea if she walked in late. But there was no need for that. She was head and shoulders above the rest and would have made an impression anyway.” The ace designer adds, “What was so obvious from the moment she walked in the door was the fact that she was 100 per cent model material. She was very young and came to the audition from school or college. One look at her and we ticked her in. “She had the height, the grace and a confidence beyond her years. I gave the finale gown to her despite having a roster of models that included Ujwalla Raut, Madhu Sapre, Nina Manuel and Jessie Randhawa. I had faith in her from day one and she never let me down.” Despite being selected to walk the ramp for
Wendell, the young model from Calangute found her father Adv Francisco de Sousa somewhat put-off by her career choice. “But he was very sweet about it,” she says. “He sat me down and told me: ‘It’s like drinking beer. The more you have, the more you want. It’s addictive’. “But I couldn’t turn down the opportunity with Wendell. In fact, it turned into some sort of an ego issue. If I didn’t take it up, the other girls would think I wasn’t selected, probably because I walked in late. My father finally put all his trust in me and as they say, where there’s a will there’s a way.” Still, Mumbai is seething with hordes of people looking for work and many find it difficult to make a life for themselves, sometimes taking up whatever comes there way. For Waluscha, this was not a problem. “I didn’t come to Mumbai looking for work,” she says. “I already had work when I got there. I was always called to Mumbai for work, so would keep shuttling between Goa and Mumbai whenever I had assignments.”
Soon, there was Lakme Fashion Week in New Delhi, and Waluscha made her mark in the capital too. With four to five shows every day, the models had to work with different designers and choreographers every few hours. Being under the spotlight and with a hectic schedule, Waluscha now had to keep a diary with dates full of shows. Through the course of her career, she earned the Body Beautiful title at the Miss India contest and featured in a Pepsi commercial with Bollywood badshah Shah Rukh Khan.
She also met model-turned-choreographer Marc Robinson, fell in love and got married. “I actually met Marc on work,” she says, as she traces their history together. “His model didn’t turn up and I was doing nothing that day, so I did his show and from then on, things just took off.” Waluscha decided she had met her “best friend and soul mate” and a year after they met, a wedding in Goa was on the cards. Fashion guru and friend Prasad Bidapa adds, “I’ve worked with Waluscha in the Miss India pageant and Marc began modelling and choreographing with me, so I was very happy
when they tied the knot.” Well-versed in the ways of the industry proved a plus point for the newly-weds as they found it easier to understand each other through their perspective of the fashion world. Although we might be encouraged to think they live the extraordinary lives of the rich and famous, Waluscha insists they are just a “normal” couple. “At home, we are just Marc and Waluscha – good Catholics, who attend church on Sunday and shoulder our responsibilities as parents!” she quips. The couple has three young children to care
tracing her story to the top as one of the most recognised Goan faces on the catwalk for and finds joy in raising daughters Chanel, soon-to-be eight, and Sienna, two, along with six-year-old son Brooklyn. With the birth of her children, the new mum found her priorities changing and modeling took a back seat. “I wanted a bit of glamour and I got it,” she reminisces, adding, “But I chose what I wanted after I met Marc. What you choose depends on your priorities – whether you want to continue or let life happen to you. I wanted to get married and settle down. I still do shows and with Marc in the same industry, we understand the pressures, the requirements and everything that goes with it. But priorities really change once you have children. They become your priority.” Still, she juggles both worlds and with her priorities set straight, Waluscha is back on the catwalk, doing what she does best. But it’s no easy life, with fitness the new age mantra and being zero the ‘in’ size. “When you look at runway models in New York, Milan and Paris, you’ll find them very skinny,” she
She had the height, the grace and a confidence beyond her years. I gave the finale gown to her despite having a roster of models that included Ujwalla Raut, Nina Manuel and Jessie Randhawa. I had faith in her from day one and she never let me down – Wendell Rodricks
explains. “Being size zero has hit the West and will definitely come to India soon.” She describes a model as something a designer uses “to showcase his or her clothes”.
“The model is basically a hanger,” Waluscha says bluntly. Although she personally favours voluptuous, bootylicious models, she admits that some designers usually want their garments to flow and fall in a certain way when a model wears them. Being very thin also avoids too much trouble with fittings. “But I think being size zero is disgusting,” she adds pointedly. Mentor Wendell too doesn’t “care for skinny models”. He echoes her words, “I like models with curves, which is why I loved Malaika from the minute I saw her. My clothes are not for rake thin models. In fact, I complain when I am allotted thin models.” So what’s the fitness secret of Goa’s yummy mummy? “It is quite difficult,” Waluscha confesses, “but the main thing is to be disciplined.” She adds, “You have to monitor what you eat. More than models who appear in print or television ads, it’s those who walk the ramp that have to be more careful.
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RAPID FIRE
Home in Goa is: Calangute We visit Goa: At every opportunity. The most recent visit was in May for three weeks during the children’s summer holidays My first professional photographer: Dabboo Ratnani Other photographers I enjoy working with: Farrokh Chothia and Subi Samuel
Yummy mummy: Waluscha and Marc Robinson with children Brooklyn, Chanel and Sienna
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“You have to make sure you eat right and work out a lot. I eat every two hours and I eat right, but I do indulge in chocolates and goodies on the weekends.” However, staying in shape isn’t enough. Hopefuls in the fashion industry face a lot of pressure and must cope with the rat race to success. “The competition has increased tremendously, especially in Mumbai,” she says. “The pressure has gone up, perhaps more now than eight to ten years ago. “I was fortunate to have the right people guiding me. Wendell got me the best photographers and also got me the Pepsi ad. You need to know how to market yourself well. I refused to do every show and picked the ones I did take very carefully, choosing only the good ones, so I had exclusivity.” Wendell believes that Goa has a lot to offer on the modeling front, with Iona Vaz, Vanessa Vaz, Phyllis Mendes, Audrey Cashmiro, Namrata Shirodkar, Milind Soman, Nina Manuel, Fleur Xavier, Anna Bredmeyer and Diana Penty among others leaving a trail of unforgettable runway shows in their wake. “It all depends on the model and how far he or she wants to go,” he says. “If they can brave the competition, turn their minus points to advantage and work hard, they can reach the top. “Go to the best in the business for advice. Our doors are always open for new talent and I put them on the right track.” But while at the top, a back-up plan is also very important, as is family and a support group. It’s a crazy world out there, with more and more aspirants clamouring for a piece of a very juicy pie. “There are so many girls in the industry that you have to compete with, as well as foreign models too,” Waluscha says. And that’s what this total professional has as advice to aspiring models today: “The competition in the Indian fashion world is cut throat and you have to be good at what you do if you want to succeed. You have to mix with the right crowd and find the right agency that protects your interests and promotes you.” Waluscha took her time and mixed with the right people, pushing herself to succeed. She has found fame and realised her dreams in a fashion world that could swallow people whole. Yet, it was the same world that gave her happiness in Marc and the satisfaction of doing something she loves.
My mentor: Wendell Rodricks, of course! Highlights of my career: Being selected by Wendell to do my first show at the Oberoi in Mumbai, Lakme Fashion Week in New Delhi where I became one of the most recognized faces of the season, the Pepsi ad with Shah Rukh Khan and the music video with Marc. Fitness secret: Eating right every two hours, weight training and cardio. I also have regular pilates sessions with Yasmin Karachiwala, who I consider a god of fitness. On the suicides of former models Nafisa Joseph and Viveka Babajee: I think what led Nafisa and Viveka to sadly take their lives was something more than work. Nafisa was a popular VJ and ramp model. She was very famous and very busy, so there was no depression there. From what we know, it was her love life that was stressful and sometimes when emotions are in play, anything can happen and it can lead to this unfortunate result. With Viveka, we are not quite sure. She was 37 I think and sometimes you need a back-up plan – what you want after a career as a model. I don’t know whether she had one and I’m not sure what led her to take her life. But I think it’s wrong to say it was being in the limelight that pushed them over the edge. It was something beyond their work.
GUEST COLUMN
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Playback South Africa The World Cup more than lived up to Shrinivas Dempo’s expectations and leaves him with memories to last a lifetime
By SHRINIVAS DEMPO
y plan has always been to attend every World Cup as long as I am physically able to, so there was no reason to miss this one. Several others opted out of the trip due to security reasons. I myself did not take my wife along over security concerns in an African country. But to my pleasant surprise, every expectation was more than surpassed. Right from the time we stepped into the country to the time we left, we were given an entirely different priority. The airport, roads, hotels were all geared up to receive people as World Cup guests. There were separate counters for ticket-holders, speeding up the pace to such an extent, that I was out of immigration within three minutes!
South Africa hosted the tournament with such clinical precision that it completely vindicated FIFA President Joseph Blatter’s decision to award them the honour. I have seen very impressive World Cups in France, Japan and Germany, and to be honest, set much lower expectations from this one. People had criticised Blatter’s stand, especially for taking a big risk with security in particular. But nowhere did we have a feeling of insecurity. All checks were done in a polite and subtle manner to ensure we were not intimidated by the security precautions at all. A few of my Goan industrialist friends and I decided to watch the fight for the third spot in a restaurant and went to a place called Monte
Casino, a 10-minute drive from the Intercontinental where I was staying. The 15 to 20 restaurants in the vicinity were buzzing with people from across the world, with casinos and live music. Being Goan, we opted for Portuguese cuisine and joined in with the Uruguayans and Germans who, among other nationalities, had come to watch their teams battle it out for the third position. Germany was one team I was very impressed with. Although not a big fan, performance counts and Die Mannschaft performed very consistently during the whole tournament. They deserved to be in the finals, but unfortunately didn’t make it. In fact, to my disappointment all my
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Shrinivas Dempo with Shivanand and Vivek Salgaocar in Johannesburg
Shrinivas Dempo before the Spain-Netherlands grand finale at the Soccer City Stadium
favourite teams lost. My first pitch was for Brazil, followed by Argentina and then as Goans, we have a soft corner for Portugal. Between Spain and the Netherlands for the finals, I felt closer to Spain, which also has an excellent team. Their midfield is probably the strongest we can find today, while quicksilver forwards like Fernando Torres and David Villa along with their near impregnable goalkeeper and captain Iker Casillas make them very tough opponents. Still reeling from the initial perceptions of what the organisation might be like, we set off for Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg a good four hours ahead of time to give ourselves leeway for expected traffic chaos. To our surprise, we were at the stadium in an hour’s time and didn’t know what to do. Such was the kind of preparedness that South Africa had, which is something for India to take away as we gear up for the Commonwealth Games, although the crowd will only be half as much as at the World Cup. Thanks to Alberto Colaco, President of the All India Football Federation, we had prime seating – just below the VVIP box shared by South African President Jacob Zuma along with Spanish and Dutch royalty. With less than a hundred metres to the middle of the pitch, we could see the players as well as all the performances during the fantastic closing ceremony very clearly. All we had to do during the prize distribution was turn around and click pictures of the players! Clad in our Spain jerseys we cheered on the team, which fortunately won. The whole stadium resonated with the sound of the vuvuzelas. It may have sounded irritating on
tv, but in the middle of a crowd of riotous colours, they just added to the atmosphere. The crowd too had to be complimented as they were absolutely disciplined, keeping very quiet when the organisers requested them to be during the closing ceremony. There were only two things that give me reason to complain about the World Cup: the final game per se and the weather, both of which were out of the organising committee’s control. The play did not seem very fair, especially in comparison to the wonderful way in which the third place match panned out. Also, the refereeing was not up to the mark, but we perhaps could put that down to the intense pressure. I think the weather took us by surprise. We were not as prepared as some of the others. I had three layers of clothing, including a sweater and a light jacket. But it didn’t work. Although the excitement of the match put the constant wind and cold conditions on the back burner, I came down with bronchitis the next day. It’s amazing how the players brave these conditions to play for more than an hour and a half. All in all, the whole show was impressive and I must admit, I have not seen as many Indian spectators in the other World Cups I have attended. From a four-year-old to a 65-year-old, all age groups of Indians attended. Every now and then in the stadium, you could wave out to an Indian. This just goes to show that the sport is gaining popularity in the country and the income level of people is also rising. On the way back in the Jet Airways business class, I saw something that was typical of cricket tournaments, which all the top entrepreneurs and business clique attend. Flying back home,
the plane was full of Indians, from bankers like HDFC Chairman Deepak Parekh and Hemendra Kothari of DSP Merrill Lynch, to celebrities like Anil Kapoor, and a bunch of senior executives from Mahindra Satyam, who sponsored part of the show. Delving into the hoopla surrounding the use of technology for refereeing, it might be safe to say that FIFA should categorise where it could come to good use and where to leave decisions to human judgment. I suppose the decision whether to use it should lie with the referee himself, when he is so perplexed that he can opt to use technology to help him make a decision. Overusing it and disproving his decision could completely remove the importance of humans in the whole game and demoralise the officials to a large extent. We must understand there is pressure not just on the players, but on the referees too. There is so much euphoria built over the World Cup. We as spectators felt the rush of adrenalin even with India not playing! One can only imagine what the players were going through. I do hope that some day India makes it to the World Cup. We are all in the game because of that. Either a change has to come over India or more outfits like the Mahindra team will go down. We must have a vision. There is no use holding cocktail circuit parties and saying we want to reach the World Cup. It is very sad that we have a billion people in the country and yet cannot reach that stage. Money must be invested first, as I have heard time and again from the FIFA officials and AFC President Bin Hammam who were also staying at the Intercontinental – one of the officially designated hotels for World Cup officials. Our country’s history speaks very poorly of the importance given to sporting events and with the Commonwealth Games coming up, the government needs to change the mindset of the people to see the games as OUR games. Parents and children also need to go that one step further and have the confidence to make sports a career choice. In Goa, we need a level where sports becomes an integral part of our lives. We have seen a few parents take the leap – the parents of Talasha Prabhu, Ivana Furtado and Bhakti Kulkarni, among others, have taken that call. But we need more people with a focus like that.
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AFTER HOURS A column in which CEOs, political figures and other busy professionals reveal how they relax and spend their spare time
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Being in the top ranks of one of India’s major networking products manufacturer is no mean feat, but as Vice President of Smartlink Networks System Ltd – formerly known as D-link Ltd, NITIN KUNKOLIENKAR manages to juggle work and leisure with ease. He shares with VIVA GOA how he spends his free time
‘Where work is a pleasure, life is a joy’
he man who spearheaded the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry to a national award for Best Chamber in 2006 during three subsequent tenures as president (2001-2009) is a very hard-working individual who enjoys spending time with his family and friends. Besides his official duties at Smartlink Networks System Ltd, Nitin Kunkolienkar is associated with a number of prestigious bodies including Vice Chairman of Goa’s leading financial and investment corporation EDC Ltd. He is also a member of national level commissions including the country’s premier trade body, the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) and Manufacturers Association for Information Technology (MAIT). Kunkolienkar has also been appointed by the state government to consultative committees including the IT Council, Health and Advisory Committee and Professional Management Group. VIVA GOA spoke to the recipient of the prestigious Jaycees Creed award for 2006-07 to find out how he unwinds after his hectic schedule.
music and old songs are a special favourite. I also have a fantastic collection of Konkani songs. Classical music, especially instrumental, enthralls me and I make it a point to attend performances of good musicians. Another of my favourite pastimes is going for long drives with my family and friends to enjoy Goa’s beauty. I love Goa from the bottom of my heart.
On his leisure activities After office hours, I prefer to be at home with my family. My children are a perpetual source of entertainment and help me unwind. I am a good host and love to spend time with friends over dinner or an evening walk or chat at home. I also love to read and to surf the internet. Basically, I am a seeker of knowledge and always enjoy learning and perusing different topics – especially economy and the changing dynamics of society. I enjoy Hindi
On the importance of quality time away from work and the balance between ‘work and play’ Either at work or away, in both cases, quality time is equally important. If your work environment is not good, obviously it will have an impact on your quality time at home or out of the office. Where work is a pleasure, life is a joy and where work is duty, life is slavery. This philosophy helps in maintaining a perfect balance between my work and play.
On ‘getting away from it all’ For me, this means being inaccessible – no phone calls, no emails, being absolutely incommunicado – a treat I get to indulge in very rarely. Only when I am abroad, do I allow myself such luxury.
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On his philosophy of life A selfish approach may restrict our development and growth, hence be selfless. Be open to help others whenever you are able to extend the support. This approach allows you to grow well in life and at the same time makes you to learn many more things.
Nitin with his wife Roopa and children Aashna and Ronit
On his favourite holiday destination We holiday at least twice a year, generally abroad. My favourite destination is Switzerland because of its breathtaking beauty.
His message to budding Goan CEOs and entrepreneurs Be proud that you belong to this beautiful state of Goa. Be proud that you are a part of this wonderful and vibrant society, and ideate and contribute to make Goa a world class destination.
On giving back to society I strongly believe in giving back to society a portion of one’s earnings and I practice without any expectation. Everyone should understand that it is due to the society we live in that we are able to do well. Hence, we should contribute to it and strengthen its future. I make it a point to use every forum to educate our people, especially the youth, about Goa’s economy and how they can be meaningful contributors to its growth.
LEGAL BRIEF A regular column on legal affairs
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he Stockholm Conference organised by the United Nations on the Human Environment, in which the Government of India participated and voiced its environmental concerns, led ultimately to the enactment of the Environment Protection Act, 1986. Concern for the environment had been growing the world over since the late Sixties. The gradual decline in environmental quality grew on account of various factors including increasing pollution, the decline in vegetal cover, degradation of forests and biological diversity, coupled with harmful chemicals in the ambient atmosphere. At the Stockholm Conference of 1972, the world community resolved to protect and enhance the environmental quality. Indeed, after the Conference of 1972, various measures were taken by the Government of India and many other governments to protect the environment. As far as the Government of India is concerned, these measures ultimately culminated in the enactment of the Environment Protection Act, 1986. We now have several laws protecting the environment and preventing its degradation.
Accepting responsibility Atmaram Nadkarni is a Senior Advocate and former Advocate General of Goa
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Realising at the very onset that the control and improvement in matters of the environment should be not necessarily at the dictates of only the Legislature, the Supreme Court accepted the principle that it is the obligation of the government to keep citizens informed on the environment and disseminate valuable information on it through television, radio, advertisement and other channels. One of the very early directions issued by the Supreme Court was to make ‘Environment’ a compulsory subject in schools and colleges. This obviously was intended to ensure that young minds become responsible towards realising the importance of nature and ecology in matters of development. Over a period of time since then, some schools in various states introduced the subject. Others did not. Some undertook only tree plantation drives once a year, while in some other parts of the country, these directions simply never reached them. Since then,
GREEN LAWS You, Me and the Environment India now has several laws to protect the environment and prevent its degradation. But there are, unfortunately, as many loopholes as there are laws
however, we have had Environment Protection Rules; the Air and Water Act; the Forest Conservation Act; the Wild Life Protection Act; the National Forest Policy; various regulations under Noise Pollution; Solid Waste Management; Ozone Depleting Substances Regulations; the Plastic Regulations; the Environment
Tribunal, and others. So much so, that in the Supreme Court and, thereafter in every High Court, we now have Green Benches manned by Judges who do their utmost to prevent degradation of the environment. The Supreme Court has, since T N Godavavarman’s case, been issuing various directions and virtually monitoring the conservation of forests and matters of deforestation taking place all over the country. Undoubtedly, the Judiciary by enlarging the scope and interpretation of Article 21 of the Constitution viz., the Fundamental Right to Life and Liberty and by including the concept of Green Lungs and Pollution-Free Life saved a lot of degeneration. Perhaps after the United States of America and in one or two other countries, the Constitutional Courts in India – the Supreme Court and various High Courts – have played a great role in environmental matters, discharging their responsibility under the Constitution relating to the environment. The Courts over a period of time developed principles such as Sustainable
Development; Polluter Pays Principle; Balanced Approach to Development and Environment; as well as Harmonisation of Ecology and Developmental Projects by terming it as the “order of the day”. But despite all this, day in and day out, we suffer rampant violations of our Environmental Laws, be it in the form of CRZ violations, forest degradation, encroachment on public open spaces or in matters of land conversion.
Faulty system
Unfortunately in our country, the basic fault lies with the system. Instead of actually prohibiting or not permitting a thing, our laws speak of control and regulation through the mechanisms of Law. These controls actually breed corruption. The Prime Minister must admit openly that the Ministry of Environment has become a den of corruption. The Environment Protection Act and Regulations require that before undertaking a project, environmental clearance has to be obtained by a party. The Supreme Court in M C Mehta’s case held that the EIA Notification required certain categories of industries and projects to obtain these environmental clearances and rightly so by interpreting the provisions of the law. As a result of this, everyone rushed to the Ministry of Environment to obtain clearances and the whole world knows how and in what manner these clearances were issued. The present Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh has openly stated that some of these projects require to be revisited and the clearances re-examined. Instead of helping protect the environment
and preventing its degradation, the effect of the exercise unfortunately turned out to be a violation of the environment under the authority of law as the violators proclaimed that they had secured environmental clearances for a particular project.
Sacrificing the environment
It is certainly true that we need sustainable development and this is one of the goals of the Environment Protection Act. There also has to be
a balance between the ecology and development and certain areas are undoubtedly required at times to be converted for use from green areas to commercial and residential ones to ease the pressure on housing and other activities. But this cannot be done by simply allowing concrete jungles to swallow green areas and by sacrificing ecologically sensitive areas. When the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification 1991 was issued, a draft notification was published inviting objections. This draft was circulated all over. The result of this notification calling for objections was that some people living in the coastal areas genuinely felt that their lands would now be useless once the provisions contained there were enforced. As a result of this, they started putting up haphazard constructions day and night, right up to the shoreline. Some areas in our state which were virtually open and free up to the coast and up to a considerable distance from the sandy stretches, were found fully covered once this notification was issued. The notification was issued pursuant to the Vohra Committee’s recommendations for good and weighty reasons. However, the manner in which it came to be issued, and later enforced, left much to be desired. Instead of simply providing for the freezing of lands, had the notification allowed the floating FSI/FARs of these lands to areas outside the CRZ, it would have made great sense and probably the working of the notification and its effect would have in fact achieved the ultimate object of protecting the environment.
Complex laws
The number of laws in this country runs into several thousands. Instead of simplicity, we have complex laws. Take the case of the Income Tax Act and its provisions, sections, sub-sections, clauses, sub-clauses, and one benefit given by one section is quietly taken away by the other section or by its interpretation. Similarly, in Environmental Laws we have several regulations, several authorities, and several controls; none of which unfortunately perform their duties or functions, but create only the menace of a kind of pollution called ‘corruption’. It is high time therefore that the citizenry awakens itself to such matters. It is a trend worth noting and mentioning that organisations such as the Goa Bachao Andolan which agitated against the Regional Plan, or certain other bodies which take an active part in matters on Environment, deserve special mention. Mother Nature is wonderful. Everything that is produced in the world comes out of Mother Earth. It will respect humanity and allow it to survive only if we respect it in turn. The way states are diverting river waters, constructing dams, destroying mountains, leaves one to wonder whether we are trying to change the course of nature and whether it is the right thing to do. If not, then it is imperative that we resolve to arrest further damage to the environment.
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FIRST LADY A column featuring women who have stepped beyond the shadow of their eminent husbands and are achievers in their own right
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Lalita Joshi, Executive Director and Professor at Vasco’s premier Murgaon Education Society (MES), on how our teaching techniques can be improved and aspects of Goa that are important to her
‘We Must Preserve Goa For Our Future Generations’ assing up an executive job in the Bank of Maharashtra, Lalita Joshi moved to Goa following her marriage to Paresh Joshi, Managing Director of Subrai Motors. Finding few opportunities in Goa’s corporate world during the mid-1970s, she opted to impart all she had learned to youngsters instead. So she began teaching Business Management to commerce students at the MES College in Vasco and also got involved in the family-run administration. As Executive Director of MES’ Institute of Management Studies and Research, Joshi put new courses on offer to students on a need basis, including Tourism and Shipping Management. Her foray into the graduate Business Administration course in 2000 gave her an opportunity to experiment with something new in management education. MES was one of the few colleges in the country chosen under the Innovative Programs Scheme of the University Grants Commission to offer industry-related, employment-oriented degree programmes. Joshi has been instrumental in taking initiatives to introduce eco-friendly practices such as rainwater harvesting, vermicompost units and recycling of paper and plastic on the college campus. She has worked with Dr Pramod Salgaocar, Dr Sabina Martins and
Adv Shubhalaxmi Naik of the Goa State Commission for Women to contribute to tackling various issues like alcoholism. With a profound interest in Marathi literature and drama, Joshi has taken the opportunity to compere programmes, including the World Marathi Conference in New Delhi, Akhil Bharatiya Sahitya Sammelan in Panaji and the 75th anniversary show of the Goa Hindu Association in Mumbai. She is also a member of the Indian Society for Training and Development (Goa Chapter), Institute Management Committee of ITI, Vasco and State Steering Committee of ITI. Under the Centre of Excellence Scheme funded by the World Bank, Vasco’s ITI is hoping to provide updated infrastructure and courses for their students. Lalita Joshi provides some insights to VIVA GOA on her professional and family life
What do you love most about Goa and is there anything you would like to change? Nature’s bounty bestowed upon Goa is what I love the most about this state. We can still breathe fresh air, enjoy a walk by the beachside and grow plants in our backyard! But it does concern me as to how long we will be able to enjoy this luxury. The attitude of people is changing and we are settling for short-term enjoyment and gains. It is this attitude that I would like to change and do hope that we realise that our piece of land is a precious gift and we need to take care of it. We have not inherited this world from our ancestors, but have borrowed it from our future generations. We need to hand it over to them, making it a better place to live in.
How would you best improve the quality of teaching in our
education system? I think we should first reflect on our education system. In today’s information age, where so much information is available at the click of a button, a teacher’s role is not to pass on more and more information, but to act as a facilitator – one who facilitates the learning process, one who can develop skills and pass on values along with imparting knowledge. There is a Chinese proverb that says that if you give a man fish, you feed him for a day, but if you teach him how to fish, you feed him for a lifetime. That is the principle that should be allowed in the education system. The quality of teaching will improve if we teachers understand that we need to change and keep pace with the changing environment. We often expect a lot from a teacher who teaches within the four walls of a classroom. But learning however, also takes place outside schools and colleges. If we are to groom our youngsters for the task of nation-building, we have to provide them with a better and healthier social and political environment.
Why do you enjoy your particular hobby so much? I am passionate about reading, particularly Marathi literature, probably because I love my mother tongue. I feel that your language is a strong link with your culture. I enjoy reading anytime and anywhere. In fact, I along with a few friends who share a similar interest, have started a Readers Club and I thoroughly enjoy my interactions with them. I also love dramatics. Right from my school days I have acted in dramas, participated in debates and compered various shows. I really look forward to watching good plays. We have a dramatics group called Amateur’s Dramatic Association which was started by my husband. One of the most satisfying experiences was when we staged a musical programme based in the literature of Marathi saints under this banner. We presented over 25 shows of the programme all over Goa and even two in Mumbai. The programme was highly appreciated by personalities like Asha Bhonsale and many others. It was indeed a memorable experience. Apart from my hobbies, I strongly believe that we owe some time of our life to society. So far, I have had the good opportunity to work for the Goa State Commission for Women, Gomantak Marathi Academy, Indian Society for Training & Development. It is extremely gratifying when you work selflessly without giving a thought to any kind of gains. What do you value most in a man? It is important for a person to be true to himself. I hold this quality of integrity in high respect. How do you strike a balance between the demands of your home and your own professional or personal interests? Support from you family and your partner is what one needs to strike a balance. I must call myself fortunate to have got that. Since I live
Lalita, husband Paresh and father-in-law Vasantrao Joshi with son-in-law Neil Joshi, daughter Shweta, son Vibhav, daughter Charuta and son-in-law Parag Mehta in a joint family, responsibilities at home get shared and it becomes easier to pursue my interests. Of course, one needs to practice time management and be multi-skilled.
What does your daily routine involve and how do you unwind after a day’s work? My day starts with 40 minutes of exercise which includes yoga. From 9 am to 3.30pm is college time. Evenings are either for social or family commitments. I have to read for at least an hour before I go to bed. I do watch TV once in a while but playing with my three-year-old grandson is a great stress-buster.
On living in a joint family: It is hard to describe how enriching living with people of different personalities and coming from different backgrounds can be. It completely changes your thought process and opens your mind to a plethora of views, opinions and perspectives. The adjustments and compromises you learn to make also prepare you to face the career challenges more easily. The Joshi family is traditionally involved in many social activities of Vasco. We have the Damodar Temple as part of our house – my father-in-law was an MLA and people from different strata of society would visit us. He also founded Vasco’s premier educational institution, Murgaon Education Society, which runs MES Higher Secondary School and College. Meanwhile, my husband Paresh juggles his job as Managing Director of Subrai Motors, a dealership for General Motors, along with his duties as Vice Chairman of Kala Academy and President of the Petrol Dealers Association. With each member of the family having their own set of business and social activities, I have the opportunity to interact with different types of people coming from various strata of society, which is very enriching.
How important is ‘space’ to you? My own inner space is most important to me. The great author and thinker Amruta Pritam has talked about the concept of ‘chautha kamra’ in a house. Your living room, bedroom and kitchen are for you family and outside people. But a woman needs that ‘fourth room’ that is her own space. But I think we need to create that space on our own. We do not get that on a platter in a patriarchal society like ours. Do you think women suffer gender bias even in progressive Goa? On the surface, gender bias is not so evident but somewhere deeply it does exist and women do feel it. When I was in the Women’s Commission, we constantly received complaints with regard to alcoholic husbands or problems related to properties. It was then that I realised that the problem very much exists although the percentage is not as bad as in other parts of India. We need a change in the policymaking process.
What do you think of the Women’s Reservation Bill, reserving one-third of the seats for women both in the Lok Sabha and the State Assembly? Is India and in particular a small state like Goa – where of the 40 MLAs, 12 will be women – ready for it? I support the Women’s Reservation Bill. If we can still justify reservations based on caste, we certainly need reservation for women who are still oppressed and suffer from gender discrimination in our society, particularly in some states. And yes, women are ready. Don’t underestimate their capabilities.
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HI-TECH Continuing our column on the latest trends in technology
SMART GRIDS CLOUD SERVICES
Keeping in touch with innovations and advancements in the world of technology
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Raj Sinai Dempo was with Lucent Technologies Inc and is a networking professional from San Jose, California. He is currently Director of R&D at Santech Global (APAC region)
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FEATURE
‘Theobroma Cacao’ may sound like a tongue-twister. All the same, they make some mouth watering stuff…
Chocolate Dreams By EMYLOU D’SOUZA
Sticky fingers: The chocolate fountain
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Creativity at its best: Chocolate sculptures of a tree left, and the earth with its orbits
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heobroma Cacao, a quintessential chocolate and pastry shop in Panaji, is one of the best places to satisfy your chocolate craving or indulge in healthier options. With a branch in Mapusa and a chocolate cafe ‘Guanaja’ in Candolim, executive chef and chocolatier Savio Monteiro, the brains behind the company aptly called ‘The Chocolate Man’s Production’, is swamped with work, and wouldn’t have it any other way. Monteiro, 31, is quite the globetrotter. His 12-year stint as a pastry chef saw him work with major brands like the Marriott and Oberoi in India, and then set sail on Carnival Cruise lines - one of the biggest in the worldto Australia, followed by Slovenia, Spain and finally, the Channel Islands in England, when he felt he had reached the end of his tether as far as his job was concerned. A homecoming was on the cards, along with the thought of setting up his own business in Goa. Surprisingly, he can’t pinpoint what it was about chocolate that caught his fancy. Unafraid to think outside the box, he has mastered the art of not only handcrafted chocolate, but is an authority on cake and pastry artistry. Creativity is the name of the game and is visible right from his inspiring chocolate sculptures – a crucifix, a tree and even the earth with its orbits to the chocolate-brown theme of the shops. ‘The Chocolate Man’s Production’ caters to every taste. While chocolate is the major focus of the business, they also have a selection of cakes, pastries, savouries, breads and cookies, all with vegetarian-friendly alternatives. “I can’t slow down,” says Savio as he takes down yet another order over the phone. “People think about chocolate as a sugar pill – the awareness just isn’t there. Last year I started the Mapusa shop with the intention of educating my customers on what chocolate is all about. In fact, even Theobroma Cacao is the botanical name of the cocoa plant from which chocolate is made. That’s why I have put up informative posters about chocolate.” Savio and his crew hold fun, educational demonstrations in schools and colleges. “We walk in with the chocolate fountain, giving students a taste of the swirling chocolate. Then once we’ve hooked their attention, I briefly explain about the fascinating world of chocolate.” With a strong commitment to using Indian-grown ingredients, Savio aims to maximise the taste of his products and avoids preservatives. “However, with my chocolate brands, ‘Smile’ and ‘Bonbons’ in the market, I try to preserve them as much as I can,” he reveals. As important as texture and flavour, are the beautifully sculptured cakes and pastries also emphasise Savio’s keen eye for presentation. “I have always focused on presentation throughout my career. Even when I went camping with friends, it didn’t matter that we were eating food out of a tin – how it was presented mattered to me more,” he says. Experimentation is rife in the pastry kitchen in Parra, a village in Bardez where he grew up.
The Chocolate Man: Savio Monteiro with his creations
“Innovation is a fascinating world,” he says as he whips up a concoction of sour kokum chocolate. “For instance, I have divided my vanilla and cinnamon chocolate into two, which is a little bit of a trick. The individual flavours combine to mix in your mouth, this in turn heightens its effect on your taste buds.” The All India Hospitality Exhibition held in Mumbai recently presented ‘The Chocolate Man’s Production’ with a well-deserved break to showcase their various products at a national level. “The response was great,” says Savio. “I don’t think any Goa-based company that isn’t run by a multi-national would have been able to venture into Mumbai alongside the best of the best. There were people from different parts of India who asked us to expand our chocolate business to New Delhi and Chennai. However, Mumbai is the first step. “If we tap that market, then we can sustain ourselves and move on to other parts. I aim to reach out
from Goa to every part of the world. The online shopping option on our website will increase demand and reach out to more people in more areas.” Savio believes that India is one of the best places to introduce products that are new to the market. Chocolate, anywhere in the world, is an entrenched product, but it is “one of the most booming industries in India”. “Personally, I never dreamt about business or being a businessman. It’s been a fast learning process. Whether it’s staff or procuring the ingredients, every step is a challenge. Every time I finish something, I always want to move on to something else,” he says. A feast for the senses, no chocolate is left languishing at the bottom of the box. So drop by at Theobroma Cacao to indulge in a most chocolatey affair. The ‘Lemon Grass and Coconut’ ganache chocolate is particularly mouth-watering, while the ‘Crunchy Chocolate Crackles’ and ‘Bailey’s’ are to die for.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE
Water Woes – Staying Safe During The Monsoon
All’s Well When Monsoon Dwells
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he monsoon in Goa dresses the state in lush greenery and the countryside looks resplendent in its vibrant foliage. But the driving rain also brings with it muddy pools and stagnant water which harbour diseases like malaria, typhoid and cholera. In this Special Advertising Feature, VIVA GOA looks at using water purifiers as a means to avoid getting infected and also checks out the choice of the best units available in the market. Right from the time we wake up in the morning and brush our teeth to the time we wash up before getting into bed, we take safe and clean water for granted. The charity Drinking Water For India estimates that more than 200 million people in the country do not have access to clean water and a large percentage of those in remote villages must trudge miles to fulfill daily human needs. With fast-growing urban areas, the requirement for water is increasing rapidly. The World Health Organisation suggests that with 85 per cent of the country’s rural population solely dependant on fast-depleting groundwater and 60 per cent of the urban population using surface water sources, India is set to be ‘water stressed’ by 2017. Not only this, more than a hundred thousand people die in India every year from water-borne diseases, with no distinction made in villages, towns and cities. Many groundwater sources are unfit for drinking, with a reported third in the country’s 600 districts having concentrations of fluoride, iron, salinity and arsenic too high for safe consumption. Reports suggest around 65 million people suffer from the crippling disease called fluorosis, while five million are living with arsenicosis. Health experts suggest that the best and easiest way to avoid contracting such diseases is to use a good water purifier. Precautions that should be taken during the monsoon include keeping food, vegetables and fruits covered to protect them from flies, avoiding food from roadside stalls, closing water and mud pools on the road to stop breeding of mosquitoes, protecting oneself from the rain to avoid colds, cough and fever, vaccinating children for cholera, typhoid and jaundice and most importantly drinking only boiled water or using a water purifier. Water purifiers in India target three main kinds of impurities – suspended particles, microbiological impurities, including bacteria, viruses, pyrogens, etc, and chemical impurities, including arsenic, pesticides and fluoride. Along with these, they also aim to take out excess dissolved salts. An ideal water purifier should work even without electricity or running water as these are problems still faced in homes across the country on a regular basis. It should also be effective under varying water conditions, contaminations and temperatures, in tune with the diverse Indian scenario.
All’s Well When Monsoon Dwells ater purifiers available in the market today have ease of installation and customisability. They are available in a large range of sizes and colours and include features such as display panels, rechargeable batteries, higher flow rate and non-electric online units. VIVA GOA highlights some of the best available brands in the Goan market
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AQUAGUARD One of the world’s largest selling water purifiers, Aquaguard, too has taken upon itself the job of providing people with safe water to protect families from waterborne diseases. Its range of products and services have gained it acclaim across the globe and also UNESCO’s Water Digest Award for the Best Complete Water Solution Provider. The company has demonstrated that boiling water is inadequate and that a water purifier is necessary to remove all contaminants. It offers a combination of seven different technologies working in tandem to suit needs across 17 different conditions. Its latest offering is the Aquaguard Total Sensa works with any type of input water, from borewell to municipal water, tankers to a mixed variety. It senses the water quality and accordingly selects the purification system. This product won the company a citation for the Golden Peacock Innovative Product/Service for 2008. Aquaguard’s Total Infiniti is powered by advanced e-boiling+ technology, an innovative duo-boiling system which purifies the water twice, making it lead and pesticide safe and ensuring that it is doubly safe for families to drink. Aquaguard Total also has new-age technology, specifically designed and engineered to effectively eliminate contaminants, irrespective of the source and quality of water as well as the availability of electricity. The firm has 1,075 service centres in India and around 105 water testing laboratories in the world. It is backed by a 6,000member strong sales force with 5,800 service technicians to help protect millions of people in the country from waterborne diseases.
ZERO B ZERO B is manufactured by Ion Exchange (India) Ltd. The pioneer
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company in water treatment solutions has designed their ZERO B Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water Purifier range with Heptapure Technology to meet international USEPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency) drinking water standards and (IS) 10500. Perfectly suitable for the Indian market, the range includes Zero B Sapphire and Zero B Pristine, which have seven-stage RO processes with wall-mount applications. Others include: Zero B Intello Water Purifier with Interactive Backlit Display Panel and seven-stage RO water purification with Heptature Technology, along with an in-built electronic system sanitizer which protects the tank from slime and bacteria Zero B Kitchen Mate, including a six-stage RO process with a counter placement application Zero B Solar, a non-electric water purifier with a storage-cum-online option to allow for attachment to refrigerators, coffee machines, etc Zero B Suraksha, a storage-type filter for middle-class families, with a tap attachment giving up to 7,500 litres of purified water at a nominal price.
COUTURE
COLOUR
On what’s haute in the world of fashion in Goa
Michelle Banarse is a designer and stylist who has worked extensively in the film and music industry. Apart from working with other designers in India, she also has her own ready to wear range
From Liberty, Panaji
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With the rains o n and off, it’s tim e to invent and reinvent
ne of the key words this season is eco-friendly and a good number of designers have a dedicated line using organic textiles. As the heavens rain down on us and the weather gets more unpredictable, it can be difficult to decide what to wear. But with a little planning and a lot of spirit, jumping puddles can be fun and looking good should not be compromised. So get your jellies or your wellies on! Liberty Shoes in Panaji have a range of colourful flatties and flip-flops, perfect to add a dash of colour to a sober outfit. With sportswear being a key word this season, doing a round at the gym or (weather permitting) a round of golf, sports wear can be taken easily from the track to the street. And the good news is it doesn’t have to cost the earth.
From Liberty, Panaji
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Special Khadi sale at Fab India, Campal
Bangles, earrings and bags from Fab India, Campal
All the major outlets are offering sales of up to 50 per cent, with stockings, hoodies, shorts, bras and funky bags in bright neon colours as well as the usual classics. For a very up-to-the-minute look, team them with a pair of men’s pinstripe shorts and hoody, great with chunky jewellery and wedges or bright neon flatties. A twist on what could be a very conservative look otherwise. In addition to its 50 per cent sale, Sanskriti, the Indo-Western clothes store along the Miramar Dona Paula highway, is offering all VIVA GOA readers and subscribers an additional gift worth ten to15 per cent of the total value of the initial purchase. From kurtis and capris to skirts trousers, and ready-made salwar sets of vegetable-dyed block prints, take your pick of the items on display. Another place to check out is Fab India in Campal with its variety of organic bags and pouches in vivid blues, greens and pinks. They also have on display an assortment of funky beads and wooden jewellery in colours that will make you smile. This is the time of year where power cuts and (ironically) water shortages become the norm, a perfect time to reflect on how we can do our bit to saving our world. A time to rejuvenate and invigorate! One of the key words this season is eco-friendly and a good number of designers have a dedicated line using just organic textiles. But don’t despair! Eco doesn’t mean ugly, heavy, sack-like garments. On the contrary, check out Fab India’s special items for men this month – an affordable selection of simple classic kurtas and khadi wear. Two Indian designers who have created eco lines worth looking out for are Anita Dongre and Lecoanet Hemant. You can find eco products in
everything from jewellery to separates and accessories. For an edgy tailored look, why not throw the boyfriend’s jacket over something soft and floral? Pretty shapes in beautiful prints can be found at Diesel and Sisley and when teamed with a pair of statement heels and bold jewellery, this look is taken up a notch. If you want something a little more casual, put on a pair of pumps and wear a big tote over your shoulder, or at night a sparkly little clutch. Levi's in Panaji is having a sale of up to 50 per cent and has a great selection of bags and clutches. It also has a variety of tees and, of course, jeans for all shapes and sizes. And utilitarian is back – think combats, pea coats, parkas in khaki, mid-dark grey. To soften the look, team with pretty shirts and bright prints. For the fellas, a good
t-shirt always works and Nirvana in Panaji has a good selection. The trick is to mix something new and work it in to your existing wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to experiment – remember it’s the attitude that makes the clothes. Skin should be kept as clean as possible, what with high temperatures and humidity. Try and use a gentle toner, alcohol-free if you have dry skin, at least twice a day and remember to always drink a lot of water, as even dry skin can get dehydrated. So this month, enjoy the benefits of looking good and feeling good-looking while enjoying a bargain or two in the many sales on offer. Maybe the sun isn’t shining as much as we would like it to, but with a little work you will be shining from the inside out!
Check out what Michelle has to offer on www.michellebanarse.com
Vegetable-dyed salwar from Sanskriti, Dona Paula
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From Liberty, Panaji
HOSPITALITY A column which reviews the best hotels in Goa
HUES OF BLUE & GREEN InterContinental The Lalit Goa Resort
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
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Discover the InterContinental The Lalit Goa Resort, spread over 85 acres with an 880-metre exclusive beachfront at Rajbaga, Canacona, one of Goa’s most exquisite and secluded beaches
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Its X Factor: Goa Greens – its golf course Still to come: Water Sports
yotsna Suri took on the mantle of Chairperson and Managing Director of Bharat Hotels Ltd in 2006 and in 2008 she charted a pathbreaking and highly successful brand change for the company. Today, under The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, all its luxury hotels are operated under ‘The Lalit’ banner – as a tribute to the company’s Founder Chairman the Late Lalit Suri. Entering through this gargantuan gated property, you really start to feel the vastness of this property with its driveway dividing the surrounding golf course. The open planned, high ceiling lobby with rustic-looking chandeliers and long handled old fashioned ceiling fans and the grand staircase overlooks a large painting of hand-made tiles of the ‘Sao Rafael’, the first Portuguese ship to land in Goa captained by Vasco da Gama. We were welcomed by a group of young enthusiastic staff. While being offered a cold white flannel and refreshing local drink, check-in was a swift procedure and before you know it, key in hand, we were led to our resting nest for the next couple of days. Comprising 255 rooms, 238 King and Twin Sea View and Garden View Suites, 14 Luxury Suites and three Presidential Suites and with the monsoon in all its glory, we opted for the Sea View which offered us a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea.
The suite is replete with all modern-day conveniences – walk-in closet, bath with separate shower cubicle, and latest communication facilities including data ports with high-speed modem lines. But what gives the room a fresh feel was the table full of fresh flowers, fruit basket, a selection of dry fruits and a display tray of home-made chocolates and biscuits for that self-indulgent moment. With the resort offering a wide array of innovative dining experiences at its six outlets
Managing Director Jyotsna Suri
with live open kitchens, we were spoilt for choice. Executive Sous Chef, Daneiel S Kumar endorses Sirocco – the Specialty Restaurant. He says, “It’s a celebration of food, wine, art and life. All the dishes at Sirocco are hand-crafted, using the finest ingredients from sustainable and freedom food’s free range of natural and wild produce.” We took his word for it and so it became Destination Dinner. With the sun shining the following day, we decided that we would take advantage of Goa’s only nine-hole golf course. Professional golfer Simon Dennis readily took us on a round. Known as ‘The Goa Greens’, it lives up to its name with the ocean view a sheer bonus. We completed the course just a few over par! Feeling exercised, we ended our day with a visit to ‘Rejuve’, a state-of-the-art spa offering
a variety of treatments like Ayurveda, Thai, Balinese and Javanese, and equipped with gymnasium, steam room, sauna, jacuzzi and chill pond. With enough time to spare, we indulged in its signature treatments – aromatherapy massage and facial. With so much on offer, from its top notch restaurants to its luxury yacht and helipad, located in the Deep South, this resort is definitely worth the trip.
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MONSOON TOURISM
‘Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head’ Inviting: The fields take on a lush green hue during the monsoons
Attraction: The Dudhsagar Falls swell to a thunderous roar, calling out to tourists during the wet season
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By DIELLE D’SOUZA
The popular song may well be the joyous refrain adopted by the hotel and tourism industry as they try and a5ract more tourists during this wet season
un, sand and sea – the selling points of Goa’s tourism industry have taken a vacation and will return only in October to draw tourists back to the beaches, flea markets and clubs. People prefer to stay at home on holidays and weekends, cuddling up under the blankets as it pours outside, while visitors no longer find wet feet and an umbrella on the beach desirable. As a tourism-driven economy, incomes fall during what is commonly known as the “off season” between June and September. Hoping to change fortunes, the industry is looking at new ways to make the moolah rain down during the wet season. Hotels and travel agents are putting a greater emphasis on indoor service than on attractions that have sold Goa to tourists over the decades. Special packages treating visitors to massages in spas, indoor activities, culinary delights and complimentary services are on offer. Overlooking paddy fields that caress the eyes with its gentle green hues, the Alila Diwa Goa targets tourists with its infinity pool “with a view of the fields that no other hotel has on offer” and its Kids Club catering to “toddlers and teenagers”. It has on offer special deals including Goan Escape and the Full Escapade. “Goan Escape is our bed and breakfast package, but we also have Full Escapade, which includes all meals and a credit of Rs 2,000 per stay,” says Saji
Boa festa: Revellers during the Sao Joao festival Joseph, General Manager of the resort. “So a typical monsoon home away from home is what we bring to our guests,” he adds. Tucked away along the coast at Majorda beach in South Goa, it offers rooms with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea with its architectural style depicting a fusion of contemporary Goan with heritage richness. Guests at Vivanta by Taj at Panaji, on the other hand, do not have to look far for entertainment as the hotel pampers its guests with a variety of indoor services, including Xbox, PlayStation Portable and iPods.
Vishal Singh, its General Manager, says, “We have added another feature in the room – the multi-media panel linked to a Sony DVD and TV with an attached mood-of-the-hour surround sound, which is a one-stop station catering to today’s tourists. “They want to listen to their iPods, plug in their laptops and use them in the comfort of their beds or just plug in their handycams and view their captured moments of the day.” Being a 24/7 hotel means Vivanta’s guests can enjoy nibbles any time they want and gorge on delicious meals prepared in a “live theatre kitchen”. Relaxing in the vast swimming pool on the roof top offers a panoramic view of Panaji and a nine-seater Jacuzzi sends the stress rippling away. It even has a massage chair built into its special fleet of limousines to get guests relaxed and ready for a night on the town during a sudden dry spell. With more holidaymakers coming to Goa from different parts of the country during this season than from overseas, hoteliers are trying to cash in on their visits by marketing what their cities mostly lack – greenery. Most domestic tourists are residents of New Delhi, Mumbai, Pune and Gujarat and come to Goa looking for some respite from the heat and the frenetic pace of life in the cities. Riviera de Goa at Arpora is hoping their guests massage the stress away by offering a substantial
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discount on all therapies at the Royal Thai Spa. Chairman Agnelo Braganca adds, “Goa has much to offer during the monsoon by way of a relaxing vacation for families and honeymooners alike. “Its vibrant beauty and greenery in the hinterland is enhanced with the rains and the various festivals including Sao Joao, Ganesh Chaturti, Bonderam and others awaken a local flavour quite different from what is seen during the other months. “The hotel industry also offers many subsidised packages during this season – all the more reason for tourists to visit.” The Crown Goa in Panaji is throwing in a third night free stay if its guests choose a superior room. With their sneak peek spa preview package, the hotel hopes more guests will avail of their luxurious treatments. The hotel’s consultant Deepak Srivastava says, “We offer the Monsoon Package and Pamper Yourself package where guests can take a sample ten-minute massage as part of their holiday package. We are also offering discounts at the Spa.” Meanwhile, locals too have not been left out of the hoteliers’ minds. Adds Srivastava, “There’s also Panjimites Day which offers services at the pool, gym, spa and restaurant at attractive prices.” The Alila Diwa Goa too has put up a special weekend package which allows Goans one night of relaxed luxury, ending with a spread at Sunday brunch. The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), however, does not want to limit its options by catering to a niche clientele, but hopes to expand from its targets and aim at other potential groups. Chairman Shyam Satardekar said, “We could look at targeting both Indian and overseas tourists to Goa during the monsoons. The very lucrative Arab market also holds tremendous potential which needs to be explored. “The idea is to create interesting activities in the state based on the monsoon platform and to market it effectively in order to get potential tourists interested. “ Eco-tourism too may soon play a part in attracting guests to this tiny getaway state. Environmentally conscious tourists could give in to the lure of wide open spaces, bird sanctuaries, the famous Dudhsagar waterfall and rainforest cabins through aggressive promotion of this kind of tourism. In Satardekar’s opinion, Goa during the rains creates a delightful and romantic setting which the state only has to project to the world. “The monsoon season opens up several new vistas such as nature trails, fishing, trekking, which we have to leverage to create viable business opportunities for prospective investors,” he says. “We could also position it as the best time to unwind and relax into the cosy comforts of the room and just watch the beautiful saga of the monsoon unfold before one’s eyes.” The GTDC is looking at identifying key events in the state that occur during the
Still Playing in the Rain ...
Riviera de Goa Arpora General Manager: Saji Joseph Packages: Goan Escape (Bed and Breakfast) and Full Escapade (Full Board Plan) Features: India’s largest Infinity Pool, culinary classes, Kids Club, Teen Zone, Village Cycle Tour Discounts: 50 per cent at Edge Bar during happy hour, 15 per cent at Spa Alila Target: Domestic tourists and locals Indian guests: Mostly from Gujarat, Mumbai, North India and Bangalore
Vivanta by Taj Panaji Consultant: Deepak Srivastava Packages: The Monsoon Package and Pamper Yourself Features: Third night complimentary stay, sightseeing, breathtaking view, boat cruises Discounts: Ten minute sample massage, discounts at Spa, use of facilities on Panjimites Day Target: Domestic clientele Indian guests: Mostly from New Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Karnataka monsoon and turn it into a tourist attraction. A scaled-up version of the Sao Joao feast or a monsoon festival in “a prominent heritage quarter of Panaji” are being scrutinised along with the possibility of attracting organisers of conferences and exhibitions to Goa. Says Satardekar, “We could also look at new areas in adventure tourism like
Chairman: Agnelo Braganca Packages: American Plan All Inclusive and Modified American Plan All Inclusive Features: Free casino entry, sightseeing, boat cruise, 4th night complimentary stay Discounts: 10 per cent on all therapies at the Royal Thai Spa, packages at 15-20 per cent discount, rack rate at 40 per cent discount, Rs1000 worth one-time gaming chips Target: Domestic Indian guests: Mostly from Maharashtra, Gujarat, New Delhi and Punjab
Alila Diwa Goa Majorda General Manager: Vishal Singh Packages: Monsoon All Meals Offer Features: Two nights on All Meals Offer and third night room only complimentary, use of swimming pool, steam, sauna and Jacuzzi, in-room entertainment including X-box, PSP, multi-media panel Discounts: 20 per cent on food and soft beverages Target: Domestic and foreign Indian guests: Mostly from Mumbai, New Delhi and Pune
The Crown Goa Panaji white- water rafting, kayaking, fishing, nature trails and bird watching. “It’s all about creating business opportunities where none exist and with the right kind of marketing efforts, it is certainly possible to keep the cash registers ringing for the entire travel and tourism fraternity based in Goa.”
HEALTH A regular column on healthy living
A Winning
The author is an alumnus of Goa Dental College and served in the Indian Army's prestigious Dental Corps for five years. He currently runs a private dental practice, specialising in root canal treatment and braces in Panaji
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ist only t n e d a d e the era of e visit s l i p y o a e d p o n T e . ’ y h he days w d by a painful cavit ith improving ones t e r a e n o G re plague istry which deals w e w y e h t n whe t dent n a l p m i d n the teeth a f c o i t s e n o m i s t c o c as the fun l l e w s a s look
our smile is the most important component of your demeanour and that’s what we dentists are interested in preserving. Even research on dental materials today is directed towards tooth coloured materials so that we can restore your teeth without making it too prominent or conspicuous. The various procedures that we undertake to enhance your smile and the general function of your teeth are bleaching (tooth whitening), laminates and veneers, orthodontic treatment (braces), gum recontouring, and implant dentistry. The duration for each modality may differ but it takes anything from one sitting to 15 days. For braces and implants it’s between three months to two years, depending on each case. Somehow dentists and pain are synonymous, but with the advent of new equipment and materials, both pain and apprehension can be kept to a minimum. Specialists with a minimum of ten years of experience render this special care in each discipline of dentistry. Let me introduce to you the science of bleaching as the first dental feature in this column. Bleaching, in other words, means whitening of the teeth. Today every individual working or non-working is conscious about his/her looks. Having pearl white teeth is a health obsession.
With so many multi-nationals researching and producing a variety of bleaching agents in the form of gels and paints, there are a number of quality bleaching agents in the market that are used for home and clinic bleaching. Bleaching is a procedure that lightens the colour of your teeth from yellow to a whiter shade. This colour change is internal (from within the tooth) and is hence long lasting. The procedure involves 30 to 45 minutes of placing the gel over the teeth surfaces after isolating them from the soft tissues of the mouth. The gel helps remove the internal stains of the teeth by a process of dehydration of the tooth but mind you, this dehydration is only transitional. The body rehydrates it again soon after. Apprehensions about bleaching: Will the enamel become weak? Is bleaching a permanent whitening of teeth? Is there any pain during or after the procedure? How often can you do bleaching? The enamel doesn’t get weaker at all. It only gets altered for a short period of two weeks and then reverts to normal. Bleaching is not permanent because we eat so much coloured food like turmeric, masalas of various types, use of oils in food, coffee, tea and cola. Besides, there are all those ugly stains caused by smoking and paan and paan masalas. If one can minimise these items to a certain
By Dr AJAY KARANDE
extent, then the effect of bleaching can remain for at least two years. After two years, one or two touch-ups with bleaching gel can lighten up the colour to a great extent and one can enjoy pearl-white teeth for life.
Precautions
Undertake the procedure with an experienced professional only. Make sure time tested and recognised brands are used. Never compromise on quality of material used. Be careful about spurious materials that are advertised. Do not fall prey to cheaper products. Remember, it’s your mouth!! Follow the instructions strictly and you’ll suffer minimum sensitivity and discomfort. “Sensitivity” is part and parcel of the bleaching procedure and it is not a side effect. Remember, this sensitivity is only transitional and will subside once the bleaching procedure is over. Bleaching results are best achieved in three or four sittings for high concentration gels, followed by an equal number of maintenance sittings with a low concentration gel. So a total of a one-week protocol, if followed, can achieve the desired goal of pearl-white teeth. This effect can last for a minimum of two years, provided all the precautions prescribed by your dentist are followed. The writer can be emailed atdrkajay2002@yahoo.co.in
WELLNESS A regular column featuring the great spas of Goa
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
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The Exemplary and the Exotic JIVA SPA, TAJ EXOTICA
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osily ensconced on the southwest coast of Goa, Jiva Spa at Taj Exotica takes you to the highs of luxury and relaxation with its comforting treatments and breathtaking views of tropical gardens and crystal blue water Relaxation is a luxury these days. Calls, twitter, chats and deadlines, time simply flies away. So, when one gets those few stolen moments of peace, one often dreams about distant places and unseen things for complete rejuvenation of body and mind. A stay at Jiva Spa at Taj Exotica, Goa, will be all this and much more. This beautiful property lies on a vast expanse of an unspoilt beach in South Goa. A plunge into the sea followed by a refreshing rubdown by a picturesque beach, life can’t get better than this. A breathtakingly beautiful resort nestled amidst 56 acres of lush gardens overlooking the Arabian Sea, it is a haven of peace and tranquility offering absolute relaxation. As you embark on your wellness journey, the natural serenity of the spa embraces you. The architectural design of the spa is reminiscent of a traditional Kerala temple. Jiva embraces a deep understanding of mind, body and spirit, their individual needs and their interdependences. Awakening you from within, the age-old Indian healing, wellness and beauty secrets used at the spa help you to reignite your life force. The days at Jiva are filled with soothing sounds of the sea, lazy hours by the pool side and a range of decadent treatments. The Spa menu offers an exclusive, discrete Ayurveda Sanctuary located in the midst of widespread, evergreen gardens. Enjoy your treatments at private beachside spa pavilions which will transpose you and lift you up away. Don’t miss out on the benefit of a lazy walk back to the main hotel building to experience the spa beauty and fitness menus. Jiva Ayurveda offers authentic in-depth programmes, drawn from the original principles of Indian wellness therapies, under the guidance of trained Ayurveda doctors for maintaining good health. Ayurvedic treatments are offered with natural medicines and oils to achieve the desired effect. The Jiva signature facials include Jamarosa Root, a deep cleansing facial; Tulsi, the nourishing facial and Champak, a soothing facial. Besides these, Jiva also offers a choice of yoga classes ranging from elementary techniques and relaxing practices to more advanced asanas, breathing and meditation techniques.
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HOMING IN A regular column by foreigners who have made Goa their home
GOA
Dr Katharina Poggendorf-Kakar, a German living in Benaulim with her husband, the eminent psychoanalyst and writer Dr Sudhir Kakar. She studied at the Freie Universität (Free University) in Berlin where she took her doctorate in Comparative Religion. Dr Poggendorf-Kakar elaborates on why she has made Goa as her own
Land of My Love W
By DR KATHARINA POGGENDORF-KAKAR
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hen we moved to Goa, it was an experiment. We did not know what to expect and we did not know a soul. We renovated an old farmhouse in Benaulim and found ourselves in the middle of swaying palm trees, friendly neighbours and a totally different environment and climate. The suddenness of our decision not only to give up Delhi but also Berlin took my friends by surprise. Their responses ranged from enthusiasm and excitement to doubts about my sanity. This was seven years ago and neither my husband nor I have ever regretted exchanging a vivid but hectic city life with the rhythm of our sleepy village. Life in Goa indeed has a different rhythm to it then anywhere else that I have lived. If my neighbour finds it more attractive to go fishing on a sunny morning, why would he keep his promise to repair my boiler — whatever the fee? This, of course, can drive one nuts once in a while, since efficiency and reliability are a vocabulary unknown to some village folk. But I am partial to the idea that life to some people is still not dictated by money alone – that they do as they please. I am, however, saddened by the ugly, anarchic constructions that disfigure the landscape and, with it Goa’s charm. Illegal and legal constructions have been coming up since we moved here, and it just does not seem to end. As Mahatma Gandhi said, there is enough for everyone’s need, but not enough for one man’s greed. The shameless corruption and exploitation of power make you wonder why the movement of concerned citizens is not growing faster and why Goans vote repeatedly for politicians who actively help to destroy the beauty of this land for their own benefit. Why is there so little protest when people fill their pockets with money that belongs
Learning through painting: A Tara Trust workshop in progress
We are in the process of creating a mobile children’s library called ‘BeBook’. A reading frog is our mascot, since ‘BeBook’ is named after the Konkani word bebok
to the community? May it be land sale scams, mining or garbage – all these issues will affect the well-being of the generations to come in a profound way. Every single person is responsible for this state of affairs, because everyone has a choice to protest, a choice to act and a choice on whom to vote for. Since I am a guest in this land of my love, I thought of how best I could get involved in improving things. Thus, two-and-a-half years ago, I founded, together with friends, the charity ‘Tara Trust’ to support deprived children and women in India. We actively support two outstanding projects in New Delhi and in the Himalayas that give young girls and the most deprived children in Ladakh
a chance to be educated. In Goa we recently started our own small project, based solely on the engagement of volunteers. We are in the process of creating a mobile children’s library called ‘BeBook’. A reading frog is our mascot, since ‘BeBook’ is named after the Konkani word bebok. We bring books and arts events to children who otherwise would not have such exposure. We cooperate with socially engaged organisations and partners such as Don Bosco or orphanages like Care and Compassion and Hamara School. Our funding for the workshops comes from friends and well-wishers. Our activities depend on the time and opportunities at the disposal of our volunteers. We have done readings and arts workshops on different occasions and the children have loved it. We hope to be soon in a position to include Goan artists to perform for and work with different children of deprived backgrounds. My vision is that volunteers from different walks of life in Goa read stories to children, make music with them, do workshops to keep Goa’s traditions alive and involve them in the experience that learning is fun. Having shifted the focus of our lives to Goa has done me and my husband a lot of good. We enjoy the peace of mind that allows us to write and concentrate on what we feel is most essential to our lives. The company of our cats and dogs, the walks on the beach, and the friendships we have found among Goans and non-Goans who made this beautiful, relaxed state their home, add to our happiness. It all started as an experiment. When we came seven years ago, we felt we could always leave if we did not feel at home over time. But Goa and its charming people embraced us. It has now become the fabric of our lives. If you want to get in touch, please send a mail to kpkakar@gmail.com
In 2007, Dr Katharina Poggendorf-Kakar e bl founded the charita to t us NGO Tara Tr ion promote the educat n re ild ch d ive of depr in India
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Feasting Fasting
GOAN CUISINE A monthly column offering the best of Goan food and drink
Sabudana Khichdi
Sago Pulao
Ingredients
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
Sago (sabudana) Green chillies Curry leaves Cumin seeds Peanut powder Crushed peanuts Freshly grated coconut Sugar Coriander leaves, chopped Lemon juice Pure ghee (solid) Salt to taste
Serves 2
2 cups (400 grams) 4 8 to 10 2 teaspoons 2 tablespoons 4 tablespoons 4 tablespoons 2 teaspoons 2 tablespoons 1 tablespoon 3 tablespoons
Method
1 2
Soak the sago in four cups of water for six hours, then drain and set aside.
Heat the ghee in a pan. Add the cumin seeds, chopped green chillies and curry leaves. When the seeds begin to splutter, mix in the sago, peanut powder and crushed peanut. Stir well over a medium flame for approximately five minutes.
3 4
Add salt, sugar, grated coconut and lime juice and mix well.
Garnish the khichdi with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with curd chutney.
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Shravan, one of the most auspicious periods in the Hindu calendar, begins on August 10. It is only a myth that all Goans eat meat. Many Hindus fast, cooking dishes made without onion, garlic, wheat or rice. While some are not very strict about the ingredients used, others eat only dishes according to abstinence rules, using ingredients like sago, chestnut, rajgira and samo combined with milk and fruits. So let’s celebrate Shravan with some fasting delicacies
Mixed Vegetable Cashew Roll Makes 10
Ingredients
Boiled cauliflower, chopped Boiled carrot, chopped Boiled beans, chopped Grated paneer Boiled and grated potato Cashewnuts, chopped Chilli powder Chaat masala Coriander leaves, chopped Corn flour Dry coconut powder Salt to taste Oil for deep-frying
1 cup (60 grams) ½ ½ cup (90 grams) ½ cup (70 grams) ¼ cup (40 grams) ¼ cup (30 grams) ½ cup (80 grams) ¼ teaspoon ¼ teaspoon 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon /3 cup (30 grams)
Method
1
In a bowl, mix the boiled vegetables, grated paneer, chilli powder, chaat masala, coriander leaves, corn flour and salt.
2
Make eight round balls of the mixture and mould them into thick pipes or croquets. Roll each croquet over the chopped cashew nuts and press slightly to allow the nuts to stick to them. Deep fry until golden brown.
Note a Curd chutney is d an mixture of curd th green wi sugar, temperedseeds and chillies, cumin re ghee. pu curry leaves in go in a sa e th Soak gives it container which to om ro gh enou puff up.
Sabudana Vada
Sago cutlet
Ingredients
Sago (sabudana) Boiled potatoes Green chillies, finely chopped Cumin seeds Peanut powder Crushed peanuts Corn flour Sugar Coriander leaves, chopped Lemon juice Oil to fry Salt to taste
Makes 1 4 to
16
1 cup (200 grams) 1 medium (70 grams) 2 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon 1 teaspoon 2 tablespoons 1 tablespoon
Method
1
Soak the sago in two cups of water for six hours. Drain and set aside. Mash the boiled potatoes.
2
Mix the sago, mashed potatoes, cumin seeds, green chillies, peanut powder, crushed peanuts, corn flour, sugar, salt and coriander leaves.
3
Form small balls (six to eight), and flatten them slightly on your palm to create round patties. Deep fry until golden brown.
4
Serve hot with curd chutney or tomato ketchup.
3
Roll each croquet on dry coconut powder and Note Dry coconut serve hot with green powder is chutney or tomato available in any ketchup. supermarket
Dates, Sweet Potato and Coconut Halwa Ingredients
Ma soupkbeos 2 wls
Dates 10 (100 grams) Boiled sweet potato 2 medium (150 grams) Grated coconut 1 cup (120 grams) Cashew nuts 15 Sugar ½ cup (120 grams) Ghee (solid) 4 tablespoons
Method
1 2
Grate the sweet potatoes and chop the dates into small pieces.
In a pan, heat the ghee, add the grated coconut and sugar and cook until the sugar melts.
3
Add the grated sweet potatoes and cook on a low flame until it changes colour.
4 5
Throw in the dates and cashew nuts and mix well. Serve hot.
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DIASPORA GOA
Home Away From Home Keeping their roots alive: Ameeka Borkar, Priti Vemulapalli, Vaishali Sawant, Roma Kamatmhamai, Rhea Hodarkar, Ashvini Sawant
The 10th Goan Convention held in New Jersey, USA was a memorable affair, bringing together Goans from all over America and the UK. A VIVA GOA report
L
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ike bees to a hive, they arrived in droves, drawn by a bond that keeps them together wherever they may go – their Goan blood. Hundreds attended the 10th Biennial Goan Convention in New Jersey in the US, celebrating their roots as the country of their residence rejoiced in the commemoration of its independence on July 4. The Crowne Plaza Hotel in Secaucus, New Jersey, barely three miles from New York City, was buzzing with Goenkars of all ages. They were all there to enjoy a fun-filled weekend, through a social platform which united Goans from all over North America, England and our own tiny state in India. Vaishali Sawant, President of the Convention Committee, remarked happily, “There were over 300 people in attendance, including adults, youth and children. This Convention had the highest turnout overall and the most number of young people than in any previous convention.” It wasn’t the urge to set records that made Goans come calling, but more so the Convention’s motto: ‘Destination Goa: Fish, Fun and Friends’. And all three were served up in true Goan style, with a warm heart and in large quantities. Hoping to encourage young Goans living abroad to hold on to their traditions and culture, the Convention urged youngsters to spearhead a committee to bring in new ideas and keep the organisation fresh. Six young women, led by Vaishali, organised this year’s Convention, combining a melange of activities to suit every age. Between July 3 and July 5, the participants were treated to a youth programme, Konkani classes, dance sessions and even a picnic. Dr Anthony Gomes and Christopher Nunes from the ‘Goa-America Heart Foundation’,
In tune: A youth dance class in progress
and George Pinto, whose charity ‘Goa Sudharop’ is dedicated to the development of the state, kept their audiences in rapt attention with their lectures. Youngsters learned how to speak basic Konkani and also received tips on how to drape a sari and knot a tie. But the crowd pleaser was the dance class, with every Goan responding to their natural instinct. Vaishali, whose parents are from Khorjuem, said, “The biggest hit was the Bollywood dance class, where adults and youth were taught basic dance moves from Hindi movies. Everyone became a Bollywood star that day!” Dressed in Convention T-shirts that picked them out as proud Goans, the participants enjoyed their picnic in the bright summer sun, played football, badminton, group games and, of course, anthakshari, their appetites whetted by delicious Goan dishes. To top off the evening, a speech from
Goa’s chief minister Digambar Kamat was read out, thanking the Committee for organizing the Convention. Youngsters aged over 21 went on a road trip to New York City, where they hobnobbed with other people of similar ages and made connections that will hopefully last a lifetime. On July 5, as they bid everyone adieu, the participants left with wonderful memories of the Convention. Vassant Kamatmhamai from Brooklyn, Connecticut, said, “This convention was a truly memorable one. The coordination of every event was so timely and entertaining. Every one just did a wonderful job.” Chicago resident Asha Karmali echoed his thoughts, “Congratulations to the Goan committee. You gave us an excellent convention. Despite the economic hardships of the past two years, you managed the event very well.” The committee handed over the reins of the Goan Convention to Mahendra and Shama Kenkre, who will organize the next event in Detroit, Michigan in 2012. The Convention remained true to its purpose of giving us a way to channel and foster our Goan pride so our heritage can still flourish even a world away. As Vaishali said, “It is of utmost importance to preserve the things that make us who we are. Without doing that, we lose our identity and our individuality, especially in a melting pot like America.” She added, “The Convention served as a fantastic medium through which our uniqueness was brought to light. For some, it brought back fond childhood memories of growing up in Goa. For others, it was a glimpse into a place where they have never been, but could still call ‘home’.”
HAPPENINGS
Flip-flop fashion ell-known fashion choreographer Prasad Bidapa recently presented Arugam Bay – his fantastic range of bright flip-flops at Cape Town Café in Baga. VIVA GOA caught up with Bangalore’s style guru who opined that Goa is the perfect place to display his monsoon collection. “One can’t afford to be sloppy in Goa – it is a very chic place,” he said. “Plus, as it is like a second home to me, it was only natural to have it here.” Among those spotted at the fashion show party were Editor of Goa Times Shruti Pandit, designer Monty Sally, along with model Dawn Mortimer and ‘Mr & Miss Youth Eye Goa 2010’ winner, Rupesh Naik. The event was co-sponsored by Signature, Four Seasons and Kingfisher Blue.
W Models wearing Prasad Bidapa’s new range of bright slippers
Fashion choreographer Prasad Bidapa
Windsurfer Derek Menezes and Sanjeev Trivedi
55 Fashion designer Monty Sally Flip-flop fun on the ramp Advertising professional Preeti Vyas Gianetti
BIZ NEWS
users o tr lk a w in a R s e c u Oxemberg introd ecially ovation, a trouser sp Oxemberg's latest inn ns, has hit the rai the of ht the onslaug designed to brave monsoon. apparel market this es, but with a same as normal on k The trousers loo the rics developed by ey use superior fab novel difference. Th s of its parent, advantage in textile using the technical textile mill. os integrated comp ite Siyaram, a vertically ecially sp are ers us Rainwalk tro The fabrics used in users dry. Another ndrops and keep tro treated to repel rai protects ric in the interlining specially coated fab from water. ts lle wa mobiles and valuables, including trousers is a inner seams of the Also concealed in the ce should the them rolled-up in pla contraption to keep . need to do so arise aram, Gaurav GOA, President of Siy VA VI to Speaking es are packed se innovative featur Poddar said, “All the al trousers, rm -fo formal and semi of ir pa a o int y atl ne
Gaurav P oddar
the basic need of a while maintaining and comfortable pair of good-looking gh research trousers. After thorou target conducted among the sign Studio De audience, Trendmill challenge the up k at Oxemberg too trousers to and developed the faced by address the problem monsoons. the g consumers durin eatly this product will gr We are certain that periences the ex s part of the country benefit Goans, as thi rains.” maximum fury of the k from the are a welcome brea ns oo ns mo While the co dis mfort for heat, it also means scorching summer day. Rainwalk ery travel to work ev those who need to available at are ers us tro edy. The provides a timely rem stores in Goa. all leading clothes
alk trousers Oxemberg’s Rainw A timely remedy:
TBZ & Sons to organise jewellery expo in Goa
Pratap Zaveri
Tribhovandas Bhimji Zaveri & Sons (TBZ & Sons) will hold an exhibition-cum-sale at Hotel Nanutel, Margao on August 28-29, and in Hotel Fidalgo, Panaji from August 31 to September 2. The exhibition-cum-sale will display a wide selection of exquisite gold and diamond jewellery. TBZ & Sons, Opera House, Mumbai is a globally reputed jewellery house and has been a pioneer in the jewellery industry for over four generations. Known for its finely crafted jewellery and its prime asset 'Trust & Tradition', to many patrons it is considered as a family jeweller because of its
personalised assistance and assurance. Speaking to VIVA GOA, industry veteran and scion of the illustrious Tribhovandas Bhimji Zaveri family, Pratap Zaveri said, “The exhibition at Panaji and Margao is primarily organised to cater to the forthcoming Ganesh Chaturthi festival. Keeping this in mind, we will showcase specially crafted, hand-made traditional jewellery. As we received a tremendous response from our earlier shows in Goa, this year we have decided to hold the exhibition in Panaji as well as in Margao, to serve the South Goa market.” So, satiate your desire for necklaces, rings and bangles in solid gold or studded with diamonds, and continue to trust the TBZ & Sons brand.
Famous motivation al business speaker set for Goa worksho ps
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SIGMA Plus, a traini ng organisation ba sed in Goa, in association with the Rotary Clu b of Bicholim is organisi ng an ‘Unleash Yo ur DNA’ workshop on Septe mber 4 at the NIO Auditorium, Dona Pa ula, from 9.30 am to 5.3 0 pm. Another workshop, Reg Athwal ‘Unleash Your Lead ership DNA’ will be held on September 2. This exclusive three-hour session is open to a hundred CEOs in Goa, Pune,
Mumbai and surroun ding areas. The res ource person for both wo technique in which rkshops is Reg Athw outstanding leaders al, a world-renowned mo think, what they do that ma tivational business kes them different sp eaker stand out. and and advisor to Fortu ne 100 companies. ‘Unleash Your Lead Athwal has worked ership DNA’ would with over 30,000 CE Os, 250,000 managers be highly beneficial in 40 countries, besid to heads and senio r numerous multies officers of governme million dollar depa nt departments and rtments and executive teams corporations; senio r officers of banks with the ‘Global 10 0’ list of companies throu and financial institu gh his signature tions; programme ‘Unleas entrepreneurs; educ h Your DNA’. ationists, academicians and the general public. For queries, contact The workshop will Manoj Patil of SIGMA highlight the Plus at manojpatil@ sigmaplustraining.co m
VIVA GOA DIARY
Justice Rebello takes over as new CJ of Allahabad High Court
Justice Ferdino Inacio Rebello of the Bombay High Court has been appointed the Chief Justice of the High Court of Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh. The Justice, a Cuncolim native, began practicing law in 1973 and was appointed as a Permanent Judge of the Bombay High Court in 1998. He served as President of the Goa High Court Bar Association from 1994 to 1996 and was designated as Senior Advocate in December 1995. The Goa Legislative Assembly in its Monsoon Session passed a congratulatory motion in honour of the son of the soil. Incidentally, Justice Rebello was elected to the State Legislative Assembly in 1977 from the Cuncolim constituency.
Justice Ferdino I Rebello
P K Mukherjee honoured with Sera Bengali award
It was another feather in the cap for P K Mukherjee, as the Managing Director of Sesa Goa Ltd was honoured with the ‘Sera Bengali’ award in the business category for the year 2010. The award, which recognises members of the Bengali community who have achieved excellence in their respective fields, was conferred on Mukherjee at an event in Kolkata in July organised by STAR Ananda, the STAR group’s regional Bengali channel. He has been the managing director of Sesa Goa Ltd, the flagship company of India’s largest iron ore exporter Sesa Group, since April 2006.
State Bank of India inaugurates ‘Heritage Gallery’ at Panaji branch
P K Mukherjee (centre)
The State Bank of India has inaugurated a ‘Heritage Gallery’ located at the Panaji Main Branch building near Hotel Mandovi. The Panaji main branch premises of State Bank of India gets the heritage tag due to its connection with the Banco Nacional Ultramarino (BNU), as this building was earlier the erstwhile premise of BNU, which State Bank of India took over in 1962 after Goa’s Liberation. This unique concept of the heritage gallery is an innovation from India’s biggest bank, the State Bank of India. The Panaji branch is one of the 18 selected to house the ‘Heritage Gallery’ among the 13,000 SBI branches across the
country. At the ‘Heritage Gallery’, one can view coins and notes issued by the BNU during the Portuguese era, including escudos, centavos, tangas and rupias of different denominations with varying vintage. The gallery also has old documents and artifacts from the BNU era. In 1962, when the SBI set up office in the BNU building, the bank also took over the BNU heritage villa at Altinho. There were crockery sets with BNU emblems at the villa which are also on display. The SBI ‘Heritage Gallery’ was recently inaugurated by the Chief General Manager, SBI (Mumbai Circle) Shyamal Archarya.
Chief General Manager of SBI Shyamal Archarya with the emblem of the erstwhile Portuguese bank Banco Nacional Ultramarino. Others from left are All India Staff Federation Secretary Prakash Gangal; General Secretary Officers’ Association Keshao Thacker; Chief Manager, Panaji branch Prasad Kamat; Asst General Manager Madhav Desai; Asst General Manager Shubhabrata and Asst General Manager Ghanashyam Swar
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Thakur appointed Jt Secretary of Badminton Association of India Former state player and honourary secretary of the Goa Badminton Association, Narahar Thakur has been appointed as the new Joint Secretary of Badminton Association of India for a four-year term. In his capacity as the organising secretary, Thakur has successfully managed national level events in Goa, including the National Championship and the West Zone Junior Nationals. VIVA GOA hopes that with Thakur’s elevation at the national level, Goa badminton will reach greater heights.
N Thakur with World No 1 badminton player Lin Dan
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VIVA GOA SPOTLIGHT Focusing on Goan Achievers
T
alasha Satish Prabhu began swimming at the tender age of nine. Since then, she has made waves in the world of competitive swimming and has bagged an amazing tally of medals. But among her most prized possessions are her two Golds in the South Asia Federation Games in Islamabad in 2007 and in Bangladesh this year. At the all-India level, she has won 18 Golds, 10 Silvers, 15 Bronze medals and 18 individual championships. Last year was a spectacular one for Talasha as she became the only Indian to have represented the country at six international championships selected by the Swimming Federation of India. She has participated in the Asian Youth Games in Singapore, the FINA World Championship in Rome, the World School Games in Doha, besides the Asian Age Group Championship in Tokyo. The 17-year-old is the Goodwill Brand Ambassador for the Dempo Group and is currently part of the Elite Swimmers Group undergoing advanced training for this year’s Commonwealth Games in New Delhi. Talasha recently took the plunge with VIVA GOA… Your favourite swimming stroke… The Freestyle.
The swimming outfits you prefer… I wear branded swimwear like Speedo.
Your favourite swim location in Goa, India and abroad… In Goa, my favourite spot is Siridao Beach. I love going there. In India, it is the Balewadi Swimming Complex in Pune. Abroad, it is the FINA World Championship Pool in Rome.
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Talasha Satish Prabhu
You prepare for a major event… With my regular warm-up drills on land and in the pool, but with seriousness of purpose! Your frame of mind while swimming… I am tense, but I try to remain focused.
Your favourite male and female swimmers… My favourite Indian swimmers are Richa Mishra and Rehan Poncha. I also admire Italian swimmer Federica Pellegrini. An unknown fact about you… I am an emotional and very sensitive girl. Your secret indulgence… I love eating chocolates.
Other sports you participate in or enjoy… I play football and water polo. One thing you have sacrificed the most to pursue swimming as a career… Goa – my home and my people. One thing you miss the most about Goa when you are away… My kitten Chester.