PAGE 15 PRAISING LORD DADESHWAR THE MUSICAL WAY

Vijay Nagar, Near SBI Bank, Alto Torda, Alto Porvorim, Goa 9923692422 / 9673683022 FORTNIGHTLY Friday, August 11, 2017 | Vol. No. 1 | Issue 14 | Price Rs. 10 | Page 1 | RNI: GOAENG00427 PAGE 6 PAGE 9

MANOHAR PARRIKAR IS A MAFIA OF SETTINGS: Coming of Age: SUBHASH Contemporary VELINGKAR Art in Goa Abki bar kya hoga yaar 2

Friday, August 11, 2017 trending

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Friday, August 11, 2017 food WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE RAJASTHANI FOOD FESTIVAL UNDERWAY AT GRAND HYATT RAHUL KAMAT

rom Rajasthani classics like pithod ka tikka and maans ka soweta to Rajasthani inspired cocktails, Fthe Rajasthani Food Festival at Chulha in Grand Hyatt Goa is every bit of regal. The exquisite décor, delightful Rajasthani cuisine and Hyatt hospitality makes for a perfect Rajasthani dining experience. The interiors are ethnic, and features puppets dressed in Rajasthani attire in several places while the entrance resembles a pathway to a majestic Rajasthani haveli. like the lassi, chaas and milkshakes in The menu features aromatic several variants like kesar, rose and Rajasthani delicacies and cocktails masala. from the kitchens of royals and Because majority of Rajashtanis warriors. The specially crafted cocktails are vegetarians, the menu features a by expert mixologists at Grand Hyatt variety of vegetarian food. However, include Lake Pichola, Royal Mewar, the Rajputs loved their meat and there Khamba Gani and Mathania. The are traces of chicken and lamb on the focus here is infusing exotic drinks menu too. with Rajasthani flavours to create an The ‘Pathod ka tikka’ was the most ethnic experience for the diner. Most delicious chickpea flour cube, stuffed of them include locally available spices with spiced minced vegetables that and condiments. For example, the were incredibly flavourful and done Lake Pichola is a spiced rum and triple well. The ‘Hing aur mirch paneer sec concoction with ginger, orange zest and lime juice, which balances the flavours and leaves no trace of the presence of egg white. The Royal Mewar is a whiskey cocktail, containing cardamom which adds a distinct flavour to it. The Khamba Gani is tikka’ was cooked aloo mangodi’ – a dry lentil dumpling a tequila based concoction that to perfection and Dal bati churma. However, The comprises of ginger, lime juice, with the fluffy Rajasthani thali was a riot of flavours sugar syrup, grenadine and cottage cheese and colours. orange zest. They also have cubes stuffed Coming to desserts, they featured other Rajasthani favourites with green chilli two popular Rajasthani mithais – the paste and a ‘Khaas malpua’, served with rabdi distinct flavour of and ‘badaam ka sheera’. Malpua, the asafoetida. Some of sweetened flour pancake went really the other favourites well with creamy rabdi served fresh. would be the ‘Banjara The badaam ka sheera, in which the murgh tikka’ – chicken samolin and almonds were cooked cooked in cashew paste, spices really well in desi ghee and made extra and bell pepper and ‘Achari gosht sweet, was as delicious as it can get. tikka’ – spicy lamb cutlets that were Verdict: The menu is large enough oozing of flavours till the last bite. for you to experience a bunch of For the main course we tried a Rajasthani flavours and taste the bunch of Rajasthani classics which authentic food of Rajasthan. However, included both, veg and non-veg items. how much ever one tries, you cannot The menu is a la carte, however, we get a real Rajasthani flavour dining at chose to try a bit of everything on a five star restaurant, though the folks offer, thus letting the chef serve us at Grand Hyatt have really worked hard a platter comprising of Rajasthani on preserving the authenticity. But, it’s gravies along with assorted Rajasthani a great place to satisfy your Rajasthani breads like ‘Laal mirch ka parantha’ food cravings. If you prefer non- and ‘methi missi roti’. vegetarian food over vegetarian, you On the vegetarian front, there is the will have limited options. The service is ‘Ker Sangria’, which is unlike any other excellent and the ambiance is perfect sangria we have had, ‘Papad methi for a fulfilling dining experience. 4

Friday, August 11, 2017 edit WILL GOA BY-ELECTIONS MIRROR 2017 ASSEMBLY POLL RESULTS?

he analysis of by-election in Panaji From 21, the party came down to 13 with writing this edit a fortnight before the polls, and Valpoi constituency is going to be heavyweights like Laxmikant Parsekar, whatever we might say could be a premature straight and simple. That is what at Dayanand Mandrekar, Dilip Parulekar, comment. Tleast I thought before actually sitting down Mahadev Naik and others shown the door by Babush always played a crucial role in to write about it. It is a fight between well- voters. Panaji by-election, but this time he has been established, heavyweight politicians ruling Parrikar was sent back and suddenly silent. Where will his supporters go? Will the state versus Congress’ nondescript the parties like Goa Forward, MGP and they vote for Parrikar whom they always candidates. Independents found him to be the best Chief saw as their political rival or will they go with But, as we started talking to people over Ministerial material. Rest is past. But not that Shirodkar or with Chodankar? The results will the crucial by-election issue, the picture was old past that we have forgotten. BJP too has reveal the answers. But certainly, the entire little different. The fight may look smooth not forgotten the humiliations that it had to strength of Babush will not be behind Parrikar but it is not as smooth as we predicted it to face in 2017 Assembly polls. for local political reasons. be. It will be smooth in a way that Manohar So, when we speak of Panaji and Valpoi by- Leaders like Surendra Furtado and Yatin Parrikar and Vishwajit Rane will get elected, polls, we cannot push under the carpet the Parekh are not active in the constituency. but it will not be a cakewalk for them. history of BJP’s failure to win over the state. What does this mean for Parrikar? The results Initially when state was getting readied The party also cannot forget that the voters will tell. for by-election, the focus was on Panaji rejected few of their popular faces. In Valpoi constituency, Vishwajit is looking constituency. It is but natural that the When we look at the current Valpoi and at a comfortable victory. Then again, here he attention will be on this constituency because Panaji by-election at the backdrop of 2017 cannot be dormant. One issue that he is likely it would decide whether Parrikar will continue Assembly polls, we can certainly not take to face is about the election symbol. All these as Chief Minister or not. The constituency has things for granted. I feel Parrikar or Vishwajit years and till recently, he had stood in Valpoi always stood by Parrikar for last 25 years. His Rane too should not take it for granted. on Congress’ Hand symbol which had become popularity has always increased. In fact, the During last few months, Congress has been synonym with ‘baba’. election of 2012 saw it skyrocketing further, exposed as a major divided house which could The less exposed electorate of this not just in Panaji constituency but also across not form the government despite inching constituency will take time to adjust tothe the state. closer to the majority figure. The incidents fact that baba this time is on Lotus and not on Since the year 2012, many things changed that happened in recent past also reflect the Hand. Vishwajit has to undo the things which in the state. Parrikar became Union Defence current phase of India’s oldest political party. he did during the last election. People close Minister. He was cynosure for all eyes when Babush Monserratte suddenly deserting the to him claim that the process of replacing he was shown on television striking deals talks to join hands with Goa Forward Party Hand with Lotus symbol in the minds of the with foreign defence ministers or seen on the and their candidates like Adv Surendra Desai people has already started. news from Delhi. The ‘bhai’ next door had and Ashok Naik refusing to accept the ticket, Congress candidate Roy Naik who was in suddenly become a pride for the state. While forced them to go for a lesser expected option the news in the past for all the bad reasons leaving he had said ‘nation first.’ of fielding Girish Chodankar. is entirely banking on the political acumen of Then came 2017 elections, and BJP’s Chodankar’s loyalty to Congress cannot his father Ravi Naik. The Congress leader is popularity plummeted to the lowest ebb. be challenged. For the first couple of days, it currently camping in Valpoi for his son, and looked like Congress was just trying to stop has been up to the political tricks like visiting Parrikar from getting elected unopposed by Valpoi’s primary health centre or visiting door fielding Chodankar. to door. But things are changing slightly. Chodankar The fight in Valpoi which looked completely has been getting good response during his one sided till few days ago have suddenly campaign. Also, Goa Suraksha Manch is taken a different turn. However, this turn will another factor that has emerged in a big not be politically fatal for Vishwajit, but the way. Subhash Velingkar has focused his uncrowned king of Valpoi cannot take things entire strength in Panaji by fielding his close for granted here. aide and party president Anand Shirodkar Since we are coming up with this issue a as its candidate. The party now claims that fortnight before the elections, some of our they have received support from Shiv Sena, predictions might not be correct as we all RSS and also from BJP cadres. If that is true know that politics is not static, but we have then Parrikar needs to be worried. But on tried to be as accurate as possible. The Neutral the ground, it does not seem that BJP is on a View magazine, as our name suggests, has sticky wicket. remained politically neutral and true to the One cannot judge the undercurrents sentiments of the people. We can only say of elections till the last date. Since we are that, may the best candidate win.

Printed and Published by Neutral View Pvt. Ltd. Printed at Elegant Offset Printers Pvt. Ltd., D2-31, Tivim Industrial Estate, Karaswada, Mapusa-Goa 403526 Editor: Paresh Naik (Responsible under PRB Act) Regd Office:Off No. Of/8, 1st Floor, Sapna Garden Co-operative Society, Chogm Road, Porvorim, Alto-Porvorim, Bardez 403521.Ph: 0832-2416502 Email: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] For Advertisements Contact:9822111709. Email: [email protected] Disclaimer: Except for the editorial above, articles and other text in The Neutral View represent the views of the concerned authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the The Neutral View Editor, publisher, and/or owners. The advertisements published in The Neutral View are based on information furnished by the advertiser. The Neutral View does not authenticate the printed information in the advertisement. The advertiser will bear all the consequences of issues arising out of the advertisements if any and not The Neutral View 5

Friday, August 11, 2017 interview MANOHAR PARRIKAR’S CHARISMA AND MY POPULARITY WILL RIDE BJP TO WIN IN VALPOI CONSTITUENCY: VISHWAJIT RANE Vishwajit Rane faced last election on a Congress ticket where he polled maximum votes. Now, junior Rane is facing election again, but this time on a BJP ticket. Will Valpoi constituency accept Rane again? We spoke to him at length during his campaign in Valpoi constituency.

IS IT A DIFFICULT ELECTION FOR YOU BECAUSE YOU ARE FIGHTING ON A BJP TICKET? A. Not at all. In fact you all have seen how BJP has been sweeping the constituency since the time I have joined the party. We are working under able leadership of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar who has been known as a person who knows to perform. His charisma is adding to my existing popularity in the constituency. The results were seen during Panchayat election. BJP is for the development of the constituency and its people.

DOES BJP HAS ACCEPTABILITY IN THE CONSTITUENCY? A. You must have seen how people are now getting attracted towards BJP. Valpoi municipal council created history in Goa when it elected first Muslim woman as its chairperson. She is affiliated to BJP. We have Muslim vice chairperson too. If you go to see, working for the welfare of the people. response at the small meetings that I progressively thinking about Goa. people from all religions, caste and Various infrastructure projects are address. People have decided to elect Congress party is busy fighting amongst creed are getting attracted towards BJP, being completed and new initiatives are me. This time my margin will increase themselves. They are dreaming of and Valpoi is not an exception to it. taken. than last time. I have worked with the forming the government. Let them keep people to solve their problems. This dreaming. We are here to take Goa HAVE YOU BEEN ABLE TO ADJUST WILL YOU ASK YOUR FATHER TO constituency is like a home for me. ahead. YOURSELF IN THE PARTY? CAMPAIGN FOR YOU IN VALPOI BY- A. My performance speaks. Under the ELECTION? YOU HAVE BEEN ACCUSED OF WHAT IS YOUR COMMENT ON YOUR leadership of Manohar Parrikar we have A. He is a Congressman and has been FORCING BY-ELECTION IN VALPOI RIVAL CANDIDATE? been working on improving healthcare loyal to his party. I have not requested CONSTITUENCY. YOUR REACTION. A. I don’t want to comment anything on sector in the state. You have been a him to campaign for me. He himself A. I have reacted to this time and him. I am fully confident that I will win witness to a number of changes that has made it clear that he would not be again. I have made it clear; under comfortably with a thumping majority. we have made. We have introduced campaigning for Congress candidate what circumstances I had to leave People of Valpoi know what is good new ambulances, and hospitals are against me. Finally, it is a matter of the Congress party. The leadership in for them, and they have always stood being managed in a better way. The family. Congress party was not willing to form with me. This time also, if you see the new concepts are being introduced. the government. I could not force my response of the people you will know We are also going to have Regional WHAT KIND OF RESPONSE ARE YOU constituency into opposition again. It that they are with me and the BJP. Cancer Centre in Goa. Healthcare is RECEIVING FOR YOUR CAMPAIGN? was my conscious decision to join BJP Valpoi constituency will witness more always the most important sector, and A. People of Valpoi know me very well. and you can see the results now. We development in future. We have a clear the Chief Minister has given me free I have a personal connect with every are fortunate to have a Chief Minister focus and a clear agenda. We will follow hand to improve it. This government is voter. You should see the tremendous like Manohar Parrikar who has been that agenda. 6

Friday, August 11, 2017 interview MANOHAR PARRIKAR IS A MAFIA OF SETTINGS: SUBHASH VELINGKAR The fight put up by RSS leader Subhash Velingkar against Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar was historic. As Goa Suraksha Manch is back in the fray against Parrikar, the fight continues. The Neutral View talks to Velingkar on the upcoming Panaji by-poll.

HOW IS THE RESPONSE TO GSM IN THE UPCOMING PANAJI BY- ELECTION? We have fair chances in Panaji by- election. Initially we could not sense the support that we had, but as we started meeting people, we realised that we are getting encouraging response from different quarters. Manohar Parrikar has been unleashing terror amongst the people through his workers. He had also threatened Ashok Naik. He corners people and warns them. That has not gone well IS GSM GETTING SUPPORT OF on the medium of instruction issue. am one amongst them. But that does with the BJP workers. BJP cadres are THOSE WHO ARE IDEOLOGICALLY During that time we realised that BJP not mean we have ignored the political not being taken into confidence. In DISCONNECTED WITH BJP? as of today should be replaced. The happening. We will not allow the bad 2017 elections, BJP was reduced to 13 They are not coming out openly. There cadres from RSS which had moved governance to flourish in the state. We from 21. If you see, there is nothing are several reasons why such people out and went back are still supporting will break it down. Last elections GSM called Bharatiya Janata Party, now it is don’t open up in public; one reason BBSM and GSM. 95 percent of the faired very poor in Panaji, we faced Bharatiya Janata Parrikar Party. is that they are afraid. The fear is RSS cadre in Goa is against BJP. GSM awkward situation when Rajubhai unwarranted. BJP does not give them is our political ammunition to fight Sukerkar withdrew his candidature WILL THIS HAVE A NEGATIVE their bread and butter. The true BJP for medium of instruction in mother during the last assembly election. We IMPACT ON BJP? cadres have reduced. Those who are tongue. had to settle down with Ketan Bhatikar. Certainly, it will have a negative impact. in the party are hired ones. They work Everyone knew antecedents of Ketan If you see, of the 13 candidates who for money. The workers from Congress WHAT OTHER ISSUES WILL BE Bhatikar and that he was a supporter have been elected, 7 are Catholics. culture are in BJP because of the ADDRESSED BY GSM? of Vijai Sardesai. Our cadre does not Except Francis D’Souza, rest of them power. They won’t help to win election. GSM will take up all the issues of Panaji follow anything blindly. They are does not have any link with the cadres. during this election. Language is one of always concerned about integrity of They have their own cadres. Wherever DO YOU THINK THAT BJP IS THE the issues but there are several other the person. Babush was another factor. they have got elected, there they have BRAIN BEHIND BABUSH’S ENTRY IN issues which have been affecting the The voters did not want to vote for eliminated the party. Also, they have GOA FORWARD PARTY? society. Parrikar was the MLA for 21 Babush, so in the absence of a proper taken four former Congress leaders. Absolutely. Manohar Parrikar is a mafia years and he was the Chief Minister option they had to vote for Siddharth There is no cadre in the BJP. Parrikar of setting. He does not do setting for for seven and half years, and now he is Kuncolienkar. does not have the habit of having the party but for himself. This is a talking about appointing IAS officers to consultation. When he was with us, unique example. He has not done the solve the issues of the constituency. He IS THIS A PRESTIGIOUS ELECTION we used to adjust. But since the year setting for the party. Parrikar has forced realises this after 21 years. Parrikar has FOR GSM? 2012, when he started fooling the the BJP leaders to keep mum. They are assured to solve all the issues of Panaji Yes, this is a prestigious election for us, society and tried to finish our culture, told that if they speak out, they will in 365 days. That is a big lie. Parrikar because of which we are channelising from that time onwards, we started have to sit in the opposition. All the has been frequently lying. His theory all our power. We are not arrogant. realising. The ideological group which scams would be out. We have come to is to give assurance and not to abide We are not saying that we are BJP belongs to believes in collective know this through top quarters that them. overconfident. The way BJP worked leadership. Whenever any person people in BJP are with us. from grass root level, we are also tried to eliminate collective leadership WHY ARE YOU NOT CONTESTING THE working the same way. GSM was not and tried to project himself, he has DO YOU THINK THAT MEDIUM OF ELECTION? rejected by people. Voters rejected BJP been removed from there. In Goa, INSTRUCTION CAN BE AN ISSUE FOR There are several people in the country by reducing them from 21 to 13. The Parrikar has tried to have his individual THE UPCOMING BY-ELECTION? who feel that they should play a role party in power was rejected. leadership. BBSM has been constantly working socially by not entering into politics. I 7

Friday, August 11, 2017 interview

Not ‘Sushegad’ THEREGoenkar! IS AN UNDECLARED WAR AGAINST PARRIKAR BY THE PEOPLE OF PANAJI: GIRISH CHODANKAR

While Congress party faced I think Vijai Sardesai’s chapter is unprecedented sequence closed as far as Congress is concerned. of events in the run-up for When our leaders were talking to him, that time he might have promised Panaji by-poll, they delivered something to them… but I think that a shocker by fielding Girish chapter is closed now. Chodankar against Manohar Parrikar. Will Chodankar be a WITHOUT HIS HELP WILL YOU BE ABLE TO FORM THE GOVERNMENT? giant killer or will he struggle When we say that we are forming the to save his deposit? government, and we are also saying The Neutral View in that Vijai’s chapter is closed, it is natural conversation with Girish that we have many more options. Chodankar. DO YOU THINK CASINO ISSUE WILL CLICK AMONGST PEOPLE? EVEN THOUGH YOU ARE NOT FROM Parrikar has been the chief patron of HERE, WHY DID YOU THINK OF casinos. He has done a big U turn, and CONTESTING FROM PANAJI? the people of Panaji have witnessed it way things were unfolded after and are waiting to respond to it. The Babush’s issue, thereafter advocate worst thing a politician can do is to tell Surendra Desai and then Ashok Naik, lies. People won’t mind even if there is it was looking like BJP did not want no development, but I don’t think that anyone to contest. They were using they will like somebody lying to them. their might and money power to bulldoze everyone who wanted to FOR LAST 25 YEARS, PANAJI HAS contest. So, in a healthy democracy, ELECTED BJP. HOW CAN YOU EXPECT people are masters and you should THAT THINGS WILL CHANGE NOW? give option to the people and they You will come to know only on counting should decide. Therefore, I wanted to date. I don’t have a machine like Mr give an option to the people of Panaji. Parrikar is having, where he can predict Right now, Panaji is under the fear of exactly how many votes he will get. Manohar Parrikar. No one wants to talk I cannot take people for granted. It about it but there is a tremendous fear is people’s choice and people will amongst them. decide whom to vote. People’s anger is Parrikar was afraid of Babush. If Babush have anger for the way he ran to Delhi tremendous. I can feel that people have DO YOU THINK THAT CONGRESS HAD had to contest, Parrikar would have from Goa after promising `parivartan’, decided to defeat Parrikar. NO CANDIDATE FROM PANAJI THAT lost, so he used his powers to see that and giving tall promises. The way he YOU HAD TO COME ALL THE WAY Babush is not in the fray. This is not a became Chief Miniter also shows that WHY WAS NO CONSENSUS FROM SOUTH AND CONTEST IN THIS healthy democracy. he does not respect democracy. All CANDIDATE FIELDED AGAINST CONSTITUENCY? these issues are there. I think on top of PARRIKAR? WHY THERE WERE It is not a question of candidate. It is WHAT WAS YOUR REACTION WHEN it, the way candidates were crashed has NO TALKS WITH AAP OR OTHER a question of who will withhold the YOU HEARD BABUSH IS JOINING angered people. I think people of Panaji PARTIES? pressure. We had many candidates GFP? are going through an undeclared war Through your medium I want to thank but after three of our candidates were It sent shock to everyone, but more against Parrikar. AAP leaders because they have proved hijacked by BJP, it looked like Parrikar than Congress, people of Panaji who that they want to defeat Parrikar was aware of ground reality that the were depending on Babush to defeat WHAT RESULTS ARE YOU EXPECTING in Panaji. If they had to put up a people are against him because he Parrikar were more shocked. It was FROM THE UPCOMING BY- candidate, it would have been very served last 23 years as a MLA without much shocking to them than us. ELECTIONS? difficult for us. But now, since AAP has performance. There has been no We are going to win both the by- not put up a candidate, it is good for development here. The fact that IN CASE YOU MANAGE TO DEFEAT elections. In both these constituencies, us. We had appealed to AAP along Parrikar has now declared that he PARRIKAR, DOES IT MEAN people have decided to send these with several parties not to field their will be appointing IAS officers to find THERE WILL BE A CHANGE IN people (BJP) home. They have forced a candidates and support us. This is a and solve the issues of Panaji, shows GOVERNMENT? by-election on them. We will come to good opportunity to defeat Parrikar. that even after 23 years Parrikar has It is not the question of me defeating 18 and we are confident that a stable AAP has listened to the people of not understood Panaji. This is very Parrikar. I have said it time and again government will be in place. Panaji and not fielded a candidate. unfortunate. that people of Panaji have decided to I am thankful to AAP and especially defeat Parrikar for several reasons. WILL YOU BE TAKING HELP OF VIJAI Valmiki Naik as he had lot of pressures DO YOU THINK BABUSH’S POACHING Especially after what happened post- SARDESAI IF YOU NEED TO FORM to contest by-election but he decided BY GOA FORWARD IS BJP’S MOVE? assembly election (in 2012), they also THE GOVERNMENT? not to. 8

Friday, August 11, 2017 feature

organises cultural events and festivals, concerts and exhibitions by Indian and Portuguese artists and also carries out exchange programmes for the artists of the two countries. The building has an art gallery where the works of Goan painter Antonio Xavier Trindade are permanently displayed. Contemporary Art In Goa ‘Sadhana Dell Arte’ is an initiative of the Old Goa Music Society and has set-up the Centre for Research and SANGITA SHARMA Goa, today, is an art and cultural Coexistence of Arts, Music & Cultures, cauldron, providing a space where at Casa Joao Francisco at Bhuttem rt has been an integral intellectual and inter-religious artistic Bhat Merces Road. The focus is on part of human life from dialogues are setting standards for awareness of arts and reconstructing times immemorial. It is an others to follow. In the words of new ideas from ancient Indian and Aextraordinary medium which elevates Bakibab Borkar, the iconic poet – “Goa Western art traditions. one from a mundane existence, to has a supernatural quality of refining Art experiences in Goa can lead a life a little less ordinary than the human mind” which gives Goans be singularly unique. the rest. The world of art is one of “depths of creativity and spirituality.” - ‘Serendipity Art Festival’ contemplation, exploring new horizons The Goan ethos of embracing diversity held in Panaji in December and continuously searching for that with tolerance and comprehension 2016, featured various forms which is greatest within. are attracting artists not only from of contemporary art ranging Art stems from the inborn talent different parts of India but also from from craft, music, theatre, of an individual. Each one of us has other countries. Goa itself has some dance, culinary arts, visual been bestowed by a unique talent that fine artists, creating exceptional works arts and photography and was needs to be identified, explored and of art and paving way for others. spread over multiple venues. worked upon. When that happens, it It was a visual and an emotional becomes the fountainhead treat for the common public. The and expression of the response for the festival was amazing individual’s identity. It as people from all walks of life and fosters rich experience and age groups attended the festival. The generates new thoughts works displayed by ‘DAG Modern’ and ideas. showcased paintings of eminent artists Art is constantly like MF Hussain, FN Souza, SH Raza, evolving. Conducive Ganesh Pyne and even rare paintings environment helps art of Rabindranath Tagore. flourish and free thinking - ‘Notes from the Zeitgeist’ - An gives expression to art exhibition by Pravin Naik held at masterpieces. The mystic ‘Geetanjali Art Gallery’ was a unique spirit of the artist seeks experience for the audience as his peace and harmony works are visually and contextually though it has the tenacity potent. It was a discourse of sorts as to survive strife and ballet dancers gave a performance fanaticism. on gender inequality whilst the artist “Art is a solitary completed a truly enigmatic work on pedestrian who walks amongst the canvas. multitude, continually assimilating The late Mario Miranda stands tall gallery exhibits paintings, installations - ‘Morphology of Archives’ - A various experiences unclassifiable amongst the contemporary artists and sculptures by Subodh Kerkar and painting exhibition held at MOG and uncatalogued”………Rabindranath of Goa, giving an interesting and selected works of contemporary artists showcased the works of 32 artists from Tagore. often a humorous expression to the from all over India. It is an inclusive India and abroad. It was based on the Contemporary art in India has its life and culture of Goa by creating space for artists, curators, students, metamorphosis of Goa over centuries roots in the Modern Indian Art which spectacular cartoons, sketches and educators and art enthusiasts. and major influences that have shaped was the culmination of the freedom illustrations. The ‘Mario’ galleries have Lesser known and amateur artists the present fabric of Goan life. struggle against colonialism. The an interesting array of souvenirs in too flock to Goa. At a recently held Art has become an intrinsic movement spearheaded in Calcutta, different mediums and are a major exhibition of contemporary paintings part of Goa today. Art cafes have and artists moved away from European attraction for the common tourist. at Carpe Diem Art Gallery at Majorda, mushroomed in different parts of Goa styles and themes to reclaim the Lakshman Pai, born in Margao, Suhasini Kirloskar from Pune says that creating a space to savour art in more Indian heritage. The progressive artist studied at the JJ School of Arts, it is the Goan aesthetics which attracts informal surroundings. It’s not only the group in Bombay, however, had a Mumbai, and later went to Paris. His her to exhibit her paintings in Goa. people but also the state government western approach and broke away works are influenced by Goan themes, The ‘Harshada Art Gallery’ at Panaji which has been encouraging the artists from ideologies and existing art styles travels and music. A Padma Shri is also constantly promoting new over the years. The ‘Kala Academy’ in India. Amongst the eminent artists awardee, his works adorn major art artists. The corporates too have taken at Panaji is vibrant and dynamic as were FN Souza, SH Raza, MF Hussain, galleries of the world. a plunge in the contemporary art it gives the space and platform to VS Gaitonde, Ganesh Pyne and others. Subodh Kerkar is an extraordinary circle of Goa with the Salgaocar’s Art innumerable art shows and other Today, the works of FN Souza, whose versatile artist and is the founder of Gallery ‘Sunaparanta’ playing host and cultural activities. Though a lot has to roots are in Saligao, Goa, are highly the ‘Museum of Goa (MOG)’, at Pilerne promoting many art exhibitions. be done and the process of evolving acclaimed and sought after in the which has come to truly represent The Fundacao Oriente at Panaji has to continue, it would be right to international art circuit and are some the contemporary art in Goa and is was established in 1995 for historical say that Contemporary Art in Goa has of the most expensive in the world. also acclaimed internationally. The and cultural reasons. It supports and certainly come of age. 9

Friday, August 11, 2017 feature THE AKSHAYA PATRA FOUNDATION

PRITESH NAIK

n mythology, Akshaya Patra refers to the magical vessel with unending supply of food … an inexhaustible Ivessel to be precise. The Akshaya Patra Foundation seeks to script a similar narrative by providing nutritious meals to children every school day in a bid to fight classroom hunger. On its part, it has been successful in reaching out to over 1.6 million children across 30 locations in the country, right from Jaipur in North to Mysore in South and Ahmedabad in West to Guwahati in East. The mission is to reach out to 5 million children every school day by 2020. The Foundation started its school lunch initiative 17 years ago, with the feeding of 1,500 children of five schools in Bangalore. The intent (Regulations) Act and Quality Mark Award 2015, which was to provide nutritious (FCRA). highlight the importance given to food meals to children so The availability safety and operational excellence. that they don’t have of funds collected In 2016, the Government of India to choose between from individuals and conferred the prestigious Padma Shri education and food. corporate donors in upon Madhu Pandit Dasa, chairman of The aim was to serve the form of donations the Akshaya Patra Foundation. He was meal as an incentive helps Akshaya Patra honoured with the award in recognition for children to come to provide multi-item of the distinguished service rendered school and at the same menu. The menu is by Akshaya Patra for the children of time, ensure that hunger tailored to suit the India. doesn’t hinder learning. local palate, as such in The Foundation served its More importantly, the North Indian kitchens, cumulative 500 millionth meal in 2009 guarantee of a meal was to prompt government served as a template for it is wheat-based, and in South Indian and went on to serve the next 500 parents to send their children to school future partnerships, and over the course kitchens, it is rice-based. Also, these million meals over the course of next instead of sending them to work for of time, the organisation partnered meals are cooked in state of the art three years, reaching the billionth meal supporting the family. with several other state governments. centralised kitchens where proper milestone in 2012. Furthermore, it took On 28th November, 2001, the The initiative served as a platform hygiene is given due importance. the organisation mere four years to Supreme Court of India directed where a non-profit organisation As an organisation that solicits serve the next billion meals, reaching all states and union territories to collaborated with the central and state and uses public funds, Akshaya Patra cumulative 2 billionth meal in 2016—a provide cooked mid-day meal to governments, and brought on board understands the importance of milestone which was commemorated children studying in government and individual and corporate donors—with financial transparency and operational by the then President of India, Pranab government-aided primary schools. By a strong belief in the concept of ‘giving excellence. All the information Mukherjee in Bengaluru. then, Akshaya Patra was already serving back to the society’—for a common pertaining to finance is made available Akshaya Patra’s mission to reach 5 23,000 children. The Supreme Court cause. in the annual report and on its official million children every day by 2020 may directive presented an opportunity As for the cost breakup, each meal website. In 2008, it became the first have seemed like a daunting task when for the Foundation to partner with costs Akshaya Patra Rs.10.19, of which non-profit organisation to comply with the journey began. However, the rate states, thus providing an impetus for Rs. 6.10 is provided by the government the International Financials Reporting at which the Foundation is growing, the further growth of the programme. in the form of subsidies. The Foundation Standards (IFRS). The Foundation has the goal seems well within the reach In 2003, Akshaya Patra signed a MoU raises the deficit amount through also been inducted into the Institute now. With the Foundation already in with the Government of Karnataka for fundraising from within India and of Chartered Accountants of India’s talks with several state governments, the latter’s Mid-Day Meal Programme, abroad. The permission to raise funds (ICAI) Hall of Fame, after having won it is clear that there is a sustainable Akshara Dasoha. It thus became the from within the country is granted the Institute’s Gold Shield Award for expansion strategy on the cards. It first organisation to forge a public- by the Ministry of Finance, while the Excellence in Financial Reporting for is a matter of time before Akshaya private partnership in the mid-day meal Ministry of Home Affairs has granted five years in a row. In addition, the Patra reaches new milestones, with space. the permission to raise funds from Foundation has also won awards such each milestone taking it closer to its The partnership with Karnataka abroad under the Foreign Contributions as the CII Award for Food Safety 2016 mission. 10

Friday, August 11, 2017 feature

fail to show the same open-mindedness part of the body ruled by the sign the to astrology as they would to medicine. Moon is transiting”. For the uninitiated What is not known to many is reader, as per Indian astrology, each INDIAN that spherical astronomy and basic of the twelve signs of the zodiac is mathematics are the foundation sequentially assigned the rulership of of Indian astrology. Precision in specific parts and organs of the human calculation and a sound knowledge of body, right from the head to the feet. ASTROLOGY the movement of the planets and the The medical fraternity and votaries of Nodes (Rahu and Ketu) as well as the modern systems of healing, only of late, luminaries (the Sun and the Moon) is are waking up to the efficacy and worth thus the hallmark of astrology and is of astrology. A branch of astrology V/S MEDICAL called Medical Astrology is being essential for accurate predictions. Such mastery and insight is seen embodied employed, only recently, in at least in the classic Brihat Parasara Hora the initial detection and proneness SCIENCE Sastra by Sage Parasara, who is widely of the human body towards certain considered as the father of Indian ailments. It is heartening to know that PRITHVIRAJ THALI The twenty-first century charlatans Astrology. what has been discarded as baseless consider it fashionable to reject My first visit to an astrologer long by native Indians, has been received “He who practices medicine without astrology, tagging it as unscientific and ago was marked by general distrust with reverential inquisitiveness and the benefit of the movement of the baseless. It is basic human nature to and doubt. Here was this person who open-mindedness by the western stars and planets is a fool” discard as untrue that which cannot be claimed to know what was in store community of doctors, physicians, -- Hippocrates. categorised and catalogued by the mind for me based merely on the planetary healers and physio-therapists. They on pre-formed mental library shelves. placement in the heavens at the time have begun to acknowledge, and even s within, so without!!! Our Consequently, astrology and other of my birth. What intrigued me even successfully combine, the vital role of forebears realised this truth long divining arts are taboo and merely further was that he claimed he could medical astrology in more effective before civilisations in other parts ways of making money for astrologers even time the good and the bad times diagnosis, prognosis and eventual cure Aof the world were still living through by instilling fear in their clients. for the remainder of my life fairly of diseases. These same physicians their infancy. Rightly then, what they Medical science has come of age, accurately. I was shaken out of my are taking up a serious study of this saw around was a mere reflection of in that there are hardly any ailments disbelief and cynicism only after his hoary science handed down by Sage the essence within. which have not been examined and predictions came true. Moreover, the Parasara and others, and are coming up The ancient seers of India realised their causes and preventive measures timing was unbelievably exact, allowing with some startling, and yet accurate that the human body, confined within not yet discovered. And yet, diagnosis for an understandable margin of just predictions suited to the dynamics of the framework of time and space, and prognosis of diseases, and their one day on certain counts. The agony the modern world. was subject to external influences of prevention or cure, at times, fail and shame of lacking in knowledge Fortunately for us today, there heavenly bodies in our solar system. But owing to the lack of competence or about astrology, was what piqued my are very insightful books on Indian contrary to what some practitioners of requisite skill on the part of the doctor curiosity and I resolved to study and Astrology written by our Indian and astrology would have us believe, these or physician. Those same people, who acquire, at least, a working knowledge Western astrologers in a language we ancient ones knew one fundamental discard the entire science of astrology of something that was truly ‘Indian’. can relate to, without the need for dire truth about the dispositions of the as unscientific, citing examples of Though the predictive skills still elude generalisations that were unnecessarily stars: The heavenly bodies indicate; flawed predictions by its practitioners, me till today, I nevertheless have a fair couched in confusing mumbo-jumbo they do not dictate your karma, or the do not discard the very science of grasp of this art. by conventional Indian astrologers. fruition of it. medicine as unscientific just because It might come as a shocking Instead of a combative stance, Vedic astrology, or more truly, the of the failures of some physicians in revelation to the practitioners of a happy marriage between Indian ancient Indian astrology, is a divining cure of certain ailments. Clearly then, modern systems of medicine that astrology and modern systems of art sieved by colossal minds of yore the infallible principles of both these Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine could just be the key to a through layers of logic, discriminatory sciences – Medicine and Astrology medicine, espoused the use of basic better understanding of the human wisdom and unerring discernment. -- are distinct and have no bearing principles of astrology to aid the body and its more holistic treatment. What has been filtered today to us is on the inadequacies and the lack of effectiveness of medical procedures. May this ancient wisdom find us that same infallible science in its most competence of their practitioners. The This is amply evident through his sage worthy receptacles and may the stars refined form. self-styled rational geniuses of today counsel: “Touch not with iron that dispose well for all of us. 11

Friday, August 11, 2017 legal

ince we have reached to the maximum number of people through our widespread news and feature coverage, we are taking yet another step. SThe introduction of ‘Legal Corner’ is an initiative to advice people about matters related to judiciary. There are times when people are caught up in a mess and they want to have basic knowledge about their legal rights or the way to deal with the troubles. So here we are. Our legal expert Atreyee Kukalekar is a practicing lawyer with the detailed knowledge of law books. She will give you practical solutions for your problems. What you have to do is just send us your queries on email address: features@ theneutralview.com or contact us at 9834407404 We will also feature the answers on our website on regular basis. Also, if you intend to get your name published we will do it, or if you don’t want, we will maintain confidentiality.

My divorce case is going on and I am staying at my parents which she is entitled. place now, but all my belongings, including my jewellery, Going by the above position, you can always legally make a claim of 1 are still with my in-laws. Just wanted to know whether your ornaments as they constitute your movable property. ‘Streedhan’ include jewellery and other gifts given by in- laws? Or does it mean, only the gifts given by my parents? I had rented a flat in Panaji, and at the time of making an Can I claim them at the time of my divorce? agreement, I had paid the owner three months of advance rent Streedhan is the property that a woman obtains at the 2 as security deposit. I stayed in the flat for eleven months and paid time of her marriage, it differs from dowry in the way that the rent regularly, but now, after I vacated the flat, the owner is not it is a voluntary gift given to a woman before or after her returning the security deposit. What should I do to claim the money marriage and has no element of coercion. The Courts back? have also made this distinction clear. Women have an When there is a written agreement executed between the parties, both absolute right over their Streedhan. A woman’s right to the parties are bound by the terms and provisions of the agreement, her Streedhan is protected under law. S. 14 of the Hindu and when there is a default on the part of any party, you can sue for Succession Act, 1956 Read/with S. 27 of the Hindu getting the specific performance of the agreement. You can follow the Marriage Act, 1955 make a female Hindu an absolute legal process for claiming your money and also file complaint with the owner of such property. In the case of Pratibha Rani vs. Police against said person for causing criminal breach of trust. Suraj Kumar[10], the Supreme Court of India explained the concept of ‘Streedhan’ and its legal position under the I am continuously getting Indian Laws. The Supreme Court of India held that: calls from a private bank “A Hindu married woman is the absolute owner of her Streedhan 3 asking for credit card property, and can deal with it in any manner she likes and. If it is payments which I supposedly have placed in the custody of her husband or her in-laws, they would be defaulted nine years back. I don’t deemed to be trustees and bound to return the same if and when remember any outstandings. Can demanded by her”. a bank ask for outstanding after It is, therefore, obvious that the position of Streedhan of a Hindu nine years, is there any limitation married woman’s property during covertures is absolutely clear period for the same? and unambiguous; she is the absolute owner of such property and Legally, Law of Limitation is not in favour of the bank because bank can deal with it in any manner she likes. She may spend the whole cannot exert right to recover dues from you after lapse of 3 years, unless of it or give it away at her own pleasure by gift or will without any that time is enlarged by the Court under section 5 of limitation act. reference to her husband The limitation period is 3 years starting from the last due date or last Under the Act, there is no distinction between the gifts received payment of default or the completion of loan period. In the present case, by her from relatives or strangers and at any stage of her life, and there is negligible chance of the bank taking up any legal proceedings for all gifts that she receives will be her absolute property. Ornaments recovery of the any defaulted amount. received by her at the time of her marriage are ordinarily her Streedhan property. A full bench in Vinod Kumar Sethi vs.State of I want to sell my car which is in the name of my demised father. Punjab held that dowry and traditional presents made to a wife at What is the procedure? Can you please help? the time of the marriage constitute her Streedhan. 4 In case of demise of the owner/your father, the car should be Domestic Violence Act, 2005, provides for women’s right to first transferred in your name, as a legal heir (with the consent of other her Streedhan in cases where she is a victim of domestic violence. legal heirs; in absence of a ‘will’ to transfer the car in your name) or in The provisions of this law can be easily invoked for recovery of name of any other legal heir. The office of RTO has specific forms which Streedhan. Under the residence orders: Prov. (8) the magistrate may are required to be filled along with consent of other heirs, and other direct the respondent to return to the possession of the aggrieved requirements should be complied including giving of indemnity bond. person her Streedhan or any other property or valuable security to Once it’s transferred in your name, you can sell it off to any third person. 12

Friday, August 11, 2017 cover story BJP MAY HAVE SMOOTH SAILING THIS BY-ELECTION, BUT PARRIKAR HAS HUGE PENDING CHALLENGES AHEAD

With a sizeable number of votes from the margin of not less than 8000 votes. from the Goud Saraswat Brahmin (GSB) Political pundits believe that he community, Parrikar managed to retain Goud Saraswat Brahmin (GSB) community, managed to keep the opposition his dominance over the constituency Parrikar managed to retain his dominance at bay either by striking deals or for the last 22 years. Parrikar has hanging the sword of legal action banked on his voters by providing them over the constituency for the last 22 years. against them. And it was evident government jobs, developmental works Parrikar has banked on his voters by providing even during this election. Atanasio and better governance as compared ‘Babush’ Monserrate, who is known to the previous MLAs. However, with them government jobs, developmental works to be Parrikar’s secrete well-wisher, the issues like- offshore casinos in and better governance as compared to the was the initial contender of Congress river Mandovi, poor road conditions, party against the BJP’s heavyweight. no permanent site for garbage previous MLAs. However, in an unexpected sudden dumping and treatment, haphazard/ development- something that Congress mismanaged parking, stinking St Inez TEAM TNV margins. But this time, it seems to be never imagined even in its dream- creek, etc. are left as they were, ten a cakewalk for the Chief Minister, and Monserrate joined the Goa Forward to 15 years back. People today believe he stage is set for the August 23 all thanks to Congress- which is turning Party (GFP), the coalition partners in that “Panaji has turned out to be worst by-elections which are to be held out to be weaker opposition. the BJP-led government. from bad”. in the constituencies of Panaji Congress, which failed to establish Sources say that the deal was that Though Parrikar, officially represents Tand Valpoi. While Valpoi by-poll is not its base in the constituency since 1994, government will close down the cases Lucknow at this stage, his heart and the talk of the town, all eyes are set has fielded a non Panjimite, a lesser pending against Monserrate including political career are rooted in the GSB on Panaji constituency, where former known face for the Panaji voters- an alleged rape case involving a minor. -dominated constituency. The GSB- Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar is Girish Chodankar- a member of core If this was not enough, Parrikar, may be RSS cadre combination and Parrikar’s contesting to get elected as local MLA. team headed by party vice president through a deal, managed to settle his strong Catholic supporters in Panaji This is the fourth general election in last Rahul Gandhi. “I am going to win the former colleague and city Mayor Ashok have always given the BJP an advantage five years that the Panaji Assembly seat election...no doubt...but I am worried Naik, who was seen as consensus over the Panaji seat for seven will witness. For February 2017 election, that their candidate (Congress) may Congress candidate backed by other consecutive terms, including the last BJP, which ruled the constituency for even lose the deposit,” Parrikar had said political outfits. “Parrikar is known as by-election in February 2015 and the over two decades under Parrikar, had while launching his election campaign the master of political deals, and these recent Assembly election. But this time, tough time with its then candidate in presence of over hundreds of party two are its latest examples. Parrikar the political observers say that there is Siddharat Kuncolienkar winning by just workers. Since 1994, when Parrikar won knows very well how to change the resentment within the GSB community. a mere margin of 1000 votes. It was not the assembly seat for the first time, his situation in his favour,” social activist The minorities too are exploring an expected result for the saffron party winning margin has always seen a rise. Adv. Aires Rodrigues said. options. While Parrikar is banking on who is used to win elections with hefty And this time he is expecting a winning With a sizeable number of votes GSB population, Congress has laid focus on the Bhandari samaj and the Catholic votes, who together comprise of around 13,000-14,000 voters. “We know that GSB will never vote for Congress. We are not focusing on that community at all. Our complete focus is on the Bhandari population and Catholic voters,” a senior Congress leader said. The constituency consist of 22,203 voters which include 11,555 female voters and 10,648 male voters. “The cadres from RSS which had moved out and went back are still supporting BBSM and GSM. 95 percent of the RSS cadre in Goa is against BJP. The situation is similar in Panaji,” GSM founder Subhash Velingkar said. However, a split in opposition votes among the Congress, gives an upper hand to BJP to win the seat. While Parrikar, who still holds the key in Panaji, had to work little overtime to 13

Friday, August 11, 2017 cover story retain his prestigious seat, which may there is any treatment facility available. not turn out to be a big deal for him, ST INEZ CREEK: The historical St Inez the opposition Congress is completely creek, running right from Caranzalem banking on people centric issues that to behind Old GMC complex, is been BJP MLAs failed to resolve in last 22 Panaji Valpoi crying for attention for decades. While years. “Parrikar failed to resolve the on one side the government talks about crucial issues like garbage, St Inez creek, Panaji to be developed as smart city, parking, offshore casinos, etc. during his the irony is that the creek remains to be entire political career as MLA and Chief highly contaminated, having no oxygen, Minister. We will expose this before the no aquatic life and stinks leading to Panaji voters. Parrikar’s admission of severe environmental pollution in the the failure is clear from the fact that he vicinity. Political pressures have forced has now asked for additional 365 days local authorities not to act upon the to sort out these issues,” Chodankar huts and shanties located along the said. And Yes! It is a fact. Parrikar will MANOHAR PARRIKAR (BJP) VISHWAJIT RANE (BJP) bank of the water body, that releases have to deal with the same old issues He is the 10th Chief Minister of Incumbent Health Minister of the state, sewerage into the creek. It is a known that have been haunting the capital city Goa. Previously he was CM from he first got elected as independent MLA fact that occupants of these huts are for the past many years. Not just him, 2000 to 2005 and from 2012 to from Valpoi in 2007 and later joined vote bank of politicians. but whoever gets elected as the new 2014. He has been Panaji MLA Congress on whose party ticket he OFFSHORE CASINOS: Shifting of MLA will have his hands full with what since 1994. From November contested 2012 and 2017 elections. He offshore casino vessels out of River may appear to be minor issues, but 2014 to March 13, 2017 he was resigned as MLA and Congress member Mandovi was one of the major dealing with them would improve the the Defence Minister of India. on March 16, 2017. He was a Health poll promises of BJP in 2012. But, quotidian life of the resident of Panaji Minister and Agriculture Minister in interestingly, BJP did not make any and the voter. Congress-led government in 2007. mention of it in the 2017 election. “There is no point in going for smart The city has around five operational city if we cannot resolve people centric offshore casinos. The Panjimites are issues first. Definitely we need smart strongly opposing the casino culture facilities, but before that we need in their city, irrespective of the fact to resolve our basic issues. Parking, that their own MLA is a part and garbage, roads are issues affecting parcel of the government that granted common man. The local MLA has GIRISH CHODANKAR extensions after extensions to these ignored all this. BJP ruled Panaji for (CONGRESS) casino vessels to operate. more than two decades now, but the Currently the secretary of All ROY NAIK (CONGRESS) TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT/PARKING: problems continue to grow having no India Congress Committee Was active in local politics from Ponda Finding an empty parking slot in Panaji solutions,” former Mayor Ashok Naik (AICC) and member of core constituency, from where he hails. He on a weekday is a major exercise, and said. team of Rahul Gandhi. He was a was declined ticket by Congress in 2012 at peak hours it is near impossible. One On the other hand, Valpoi, the former president of Goa Youth election. He was embroiled in major would expect it to be easier at night and Assembly seat ruled by Congress Congress. Contesting Assembly controversy surrounding narcotic trade. on Sundays but that too is changing. during last three tenures, for the first election for the first time. The pay parking concept introduced time may witness saffron colour, as on few roads turned out to be a major the then Congress MLA Vishwajit Rane scam- involving a BJP leader from will be contesting on BJP ticket. It has this long pending issue- even as BJP capital city unsightly to its residents and Margao- it did not help in any manner always been a smooth sailing for Rane government plans to take Panaji its visitors. The decade long Bainguinim to handle the haphazard parking woes. in Valpoi, whose dominance is quite forward through smart developments. waste treatment plant project is Moreover, a proper traffic management evident. Having 28,800 voters, junior Though the municipal corporation heading nowhere. What is interesting plan for the city is also yet to be worked Rane won the last Assembly election collects garbage from doorsteps daily, to note is the city, which generates out, even as over 90,000 vehicles enter on Congress ticket by over a margin there are still mounds of it visible at almost 30-40 tons of waste daily, has the city on daily basis. of 8000 votes where he had defeated random street corners, making the no garbage dumping site of its own nor BJP candidate. Whichever party he may represent, the name Rane is enough to attract the voters. “People in Valpoi vote for Vishwajit Rane irrespective of which party he represents. His vote share is of his individual and not of any party,” a senior Congressman said. Vishwajit would be battling against Congress’ Roy Naik, son of sitting MLA and former Home Minister Ravi Naik. Roy, linked with narcotic trade, has very little to prove in Valpoi. The votes that he may manage to get will be only because of the party symbol; individually he has no recognition there.

TNV LOOKS AT PANAJI’S PERENNIAL PROBLEMS GARBAGE: There seems to be no solution for this issue. Or you can say, no efforts are being made to resolve 14

Friday, August 11, 2017 feature WHEN LUXURY BECOMES NECESSITY AMEY JOSHI

an we survive a day without our cell phone? well, we do feel being shipwrecked on an isolated island Cwithout it. The technology has advanced so fast and rapidly that our mobile phone which was launched just to receive calls on the move, now has features which makes it as good as a computer. With the evolution of internet and different social networking apps such as WhatsApp, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, people don’t just communicate but also stay connected regardless of the distance. We are leaving in an era where the internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity. We have many telecom companies coming up with free Internet schemes. Well, not just free internet, some telecom companies have even announced unlimited calling also. The evolution of technology as well the upgradation of technology which innovates the existing technology have picked up speed in the last two decades. hidden in a room. The need to be safe and This ever evolving and unstoppable the urge to be powerful are the two factors process can be related to the ideas which that determine the innovation of military one gets through imagination. Leonardo technology. However, one cannot deny that da Vinci sketched a design of the first ever it is the entire humanity which pays the working model of a helicopter in the 15th price whenever such technology has fallen century, something really unimaginable in the hands of wrong people. at the time, but today, when we see an There are many arguments whether airplane or a helicopter flying, we don’t this ever evolving innovation of machines really get fascinated. Hundreds of years ago and gadgets is making us very dependable something that was just a mere imagination on them, to an extent that we cannot or an idea, is a reality today. survive a day without them. Well, we do Can you imagine talking face to face with feel paralysed when our cell phone gets a person on the other side of the globe, damaged or lost. Parents complaining just using your cell phone?, it would have about their child spending hours on TV, sounded like a gadget from the James Bond cell phone or internet is a common scene. movies, if I had to say this in the 1980s. Many of us may even not remember the Even science fiction films have played a phone numbers due to quick dial facility on unique role in the process of technological the phone. But, some may even argue that, evolution. Well let’s hope that genetic why do things in a hard way when you have engineering to create dinosaurs as shown a smarter option. It is also true that because in Jurassic Park is not turned into reality. of technology there is also a fear of growing Science fiction films have even taught us unemployment, as works which used to that, if used for wrong purposes, science be done manually are now being done by can be an unforgiving destructive force. robots. When it comes to the innovation of However, this debate will be never military technology, we often have mixed ending due to unlimited pros and cons of thoughts. When we talk about military the technological evolution and it pace. technology the first thought that comes But, it is us who have to realise how to use to our minds is laser-guided missiles, it wisely. When a person uses a lift, just to drones, high-tech sniper guns etc. but reach first or second floor of a building, it military technologies to prevent any danger means either one is totally dependent on and to avoid loss of lives have also been machines or has no faith in his body. developed. Gadgets such as x-ray vision So, the best way to conclude will be to cameras help our soldiers to detect hidden say that, technology is a gift “HANDLE WITH weapons and also movements of terrorists CAUTION”. 15

Friday, August 11, 2017 feature PRAISING LORD DADESHWAR THE MUSICAL WAY PRAVIN AJGAONKAR

The young boys of Dhadeshwar Aarti Mandal from Bhandarvada in Brittona have recently launched their album ‘Aarti Dhadeshwara’. The master of the group Durgakumar Navti talks to team TNV about their journey.

HOW DID YOUR JOURNEY BEGIN? The batch of students who I used to train earlier, participated in Ghumat aarti competitions throughout the state and had made their mark by winning most of the competitions. But after that, there was a huge gap and our students were drawn away from Ghumat aarti. During this time, one of our friends and well-wisher Krishna Naik alias Dai took the initiative and started gathering boys from our village belonging to the age group of 15 to 20 TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR review about it. People who have years to start a new group. RECENTLY LAUNCHED ALBUM already listened to this album have ‘AARTI DHADESHWARA’ complimented us for being creative HOW DID THE GROUP GET ITS There are eight aartis in this album, as all the songs are new and originally NAME? ALBUM AARTI DHADESHWAR which I have written and composed as written and composed by us. The The group is named Dhadeshwar PRODUCTION TEAM: well. Our group has worked hard for quality of sound in the CD is also very Aarti Mandal, and Dhadeshwar is also Durgakumar Navti (Lyricist, 3 to 4 months to launch this album. good, for which I have to give credit the name of the deity of our village Music Composer), Krishna Naik There were various hardships and to the efforts of Daulat Palyekar and temple. We believe that the blessings (Production Manager), Gajendra difficulties which came in our way Bhavesh Fulari who have helped us of lord Dhadeshwar will always be with Rataboli (Concept Assistance), when we planned to launch the album. with technical aspects. us and will enable us to continue to Samesh Pednekar (Management The financial problem was a major serve him through our aartis. Assistant), Raghuveer Parsekar hurdle that stood in the way. If one IS THERE ANY PERSON YOU WOULD (Prime Vocal), Krishnanath Chari wants to launch a CD then it costs a LIKE TO THANK OR APPRECIATE? HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE (Accordian Player), Virendra Tari minimum amount of Rs 2 lakh. During There are many people who have CURRENT SCENARIO OF GHUMAT (Prime Orchestra). these difficult times, our friend Krishna helped us in our endeavours. First of AARTIS IN GOA? LEAD SINGERS: Sainath Naik, Naik and Gajendra Rataboli who is a all I would like to thank Krishna Naik Presently the scenario is very Omkar Shirodkar, Venkatesh Polle. parent of one of our students, came alias Dai, who has been tremendously favourable in Goa. There are around CHORUS: Aditya Rataboli, Rohit forward and helped us with getting helping our group to participate in 100 Ghumat aarti competitions being Halarnkar, Pankaj Pednekar, sponsorships and also advised us to various aarti competitions throughout organised by various associations in Manjunath Kavlekar, Adarsh Polle, make contributions as well. Goa, and he has also taken initiatives a year, due to which many Ghumat Akshay Salgaonkar. to organise various cultural events aarti groups have been formed, who GHUMAT: Kuldeepak Naik, WHAT KIND OF RESPONSE ARE YOU in our locality as well. Secondly, I participate in these competitions. Sunny Phayde, Harsh Rataboli, EXPECTING FOR YOUR ALBUM? would like to thank the president of However, there are various forms Kunal Chodankar, Gauresh Naik, The album and the quality of the Dhadweshwar Devasthan, Pandurang or ways of singing aartis or playing Shubham Tamoskar. content inside it is of very good Pednekar who allowed us to use the Ghumat like Chandraval, Bhag etc. KASALE: Utkarsh Naik, Aditya standard. Many senior artists and temple premises for practices. And which have been lost as the time went Achrekar. SAMEL: Sitam Phadte experts in this field whom we lastly, I would like to thank all my boys by, due to lack of interest. had approached have given good who have been working hard. 16

Friday, August 11, 2017 feature MODERN AGRICULTURE AND THE CHEMICALS WE EAT SUUHAS TENDDULKAR further increased the reach, potency synthetic chemicals. One result of role to play at a much larger interlinked and efficacy of this research and the the new awareness was that many level and the overall system was he adoption of agriculture chemical dish emerging from this was chemicals were put on the banned extremely efficient at an ecological by early humans is seen as hailed as a vindication of the scientific list over time. However, the industry scale that was unfathomable to the a major turning point in the method and of the chemicals and was always swift on its feet and well- scientific understanding or human Testablishment of civil society. For the fertilizers industries. connected to introduce replacements comprehension. hunter gatherers of the early days, All was well. The new methods before phase out of the ‘phased-out’. A similar view was echoed by farming was an easier way to produce brought in record productivity. Unfortunately, even today, there is Masanobu Fukuoka in the seminal and store food over longer times. However, there was also a grave hardly any change; we are still fighting book, ‘The one straw revolution’. After the advent of the industrial danger resulting from this victory. As the chemical overkill. The book engendered a revolution age, modern agricultural science felt early as mid 40s, concerns were raised Federal approvals for use of new in agriculture and the ‘do nothing that nature was quite unorganized about the use of synthetic pesticides. chemistries are scientifically vetted farming’ endorsed by Fukuoka in his and wasteful and agriculture needed In a path breaking book ‘Silent by representatives of industries that farm not only questioned the use of human intervention to evolve into a Spring’, published in 1963, Racheal produce these chemistries. Even chemicals for agriculture but went high efficiency system in line with the Carson suggested that the effects of at the ground level, farmers are on to question the millennial old efficiency focus of the industrial age. the insecticides/pesticides (mainly encouraged to use more than the agricultural practice of tilling the soil. So with a single focus on productivity, DDT) went beyond just killing insects permissible doses for years on end. On his farm in the Ehime prefecture the scientists went about perfecting and that the chemicals could travel up The effects are clearly visible in the in Japan, Fukuoka did the impossible the system. Early research focused the food chain and eventually affect horrific stories we hear about the by matching the yield from best on plant nutrition, soil chemistry humans. This was the first book to toxicity of the food we eat. Credible managed conventional farms without and crop damage. Fertilizers question the claims of the modern studies found that the level of using synthetic chemical and without replaced traditional mixed cropping agrochemical industry and it helped pesticides/harmful chemicals in most tilling the land. The simple method methods that fixed nutrients in the in spawning a revolution by making of the common vegetables and fruits adopted by him on his farm involves soil naturally. Insects, pests had no the regulators and general public in the country is more than 50-100 spreading winter crop seeds on the place in the new lean-mean scientific take note of the harmful effects of times the permissible limit. Chemical ground, while the rice is standing. A ethic. Abandoning traditional insect control of agriculture is resulting in few weeks later rice is harvested and and pest management strategies, unmitigated and unregulated use of the rice straw is spread over the fields. scientists went about concocting poison in our diet. And our children’s The same exercise is repeated for the more potent formulations that diet!! rice crop. There are other techniques, were found to be extremely Not that there is no answer to the unique to his farming, including the effective simply because problems we are facing. There is a broadcast of clover seeds and the they were toxic and were natural way of farming available to passive weed management through meant to kill. Petroleum those who want to seek alternatives. crop rotation. The book which based chemical industry A postmodern critique of modern documents his views and philosophy agricultural science is pointing out in addition to his experience with that nature already had effective farming is considered the foundation solutions to many of the problems of the natural farming movement. that we solved through scientific Today, in nearly every country, an rigour and chemical experimentation. alternative natural farming movement While science was micromanaging is underway. In India, states like chemistries and physics, nature Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, was super-managing ecology and Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, biological life. All the problems that we Gujarat and Sikkim already have magnified and tried to control had a formulated organic farming policy. In mid-January this year, Sikkim became the first organic state in India. For Goa, natural farming offers a huge opportunity with the potential to create base level employment and parallel tourist culture and also supporting the government’s health objectives. It is only a matter of bridging the intention gap at the policy and individual level. This is what I will plan to do next week. The second part of this article will closely look at what the state can do to support Natural Farming through policy, regulatory changes and individual engagement. 17

Friday, August 11, 2017 feature A Rainy Day In Ujjain VINAYA WALAWALKAR MANTRI now three hours that the train down from the stationed had literally grounded at this train, waiting for them. hile gazing at the rain, I feel small station. And what happened after like sharing a memorable The irritation was palpable that replicated a perfect film experience of my life. Two in the air. The passengers scene. As we got down from Wyears back, on July 19, we had a show were hungry and exhausted. the train, the bogies moved. of our drama ‘Pai Paishachi Gosht’ at To multiply our worries, In no time, i received a call Ujjain. After arranging all the things, someone told us that the train that my team could not our team was ready to leave for Ujjain. I will not go to Ujjain but instead reach to the station because decided to travel with Ila Tayi (Ila Bhate) will go in reverse direction the villagers had dug up the in Avantika Express train while the rest to Ratlam and Indore. Those road to flush out the water. of the team travelled to Ujjain by road who were destined to Ujjain With this we had lost our as they wanted to enjoy the rains. will have to get down here. The news into a protest, the sighting of train at patience. The two of us were left on Everything was happening as per the was unpleasant. The passengers approaching station pacified everyone. that station along with another family. schedule. surrendered to the situation and those When the train arrived everyone tried Rest all the passengers had travelled to Our train was supposed to reach who wanted to go to Ujjain started to squeeze themselves in it adjusting their destination. Ujjain the next day at 7 am. We had alighting at the station. What made at all the possible vacant spaces. Some It was 3.45 in the evening.. We had our dinner and went to sleep. When things worst was that the station who were less lucky had to stand. I was no idea what to do. Then again, i got a we got up at 6 am in the morning and was without a roof. There was little prompt enough to inform my team call that my team had managed to find were ready to alight, It was still raining shelter over head around the office of about the latest development which another way to the station and they outside. We could see vast green fields the station master and people started gave them some relief. But things were were accompanied by another vehicle and villages tucked in them. We were gathering themselves below it to save yet to get into happy ending mode. The which was coming to pick up the family expecting to reach Ujjain in 15 minutes. themselves from getting drenched. Few new train was also grounded at the which was stranded along with us at Our team had already arrived in Ujjain could accommodate and the rest were station with no sign of it moving. the station. and was constantly in touch with us as in the rain. We two were amongst those It was afternoon and we began Me and Ila tayi who were supposed they were supposed to arrive at the who were not lucky enough to steal a hearing more news about this new to meet our team at Ujjain station at 7 station to receive us. place below the station master’s roof. train which was supposed to be our in the morning finally could see them at Approximately around 13 kilometers Avantika Express left the station in savior. Some said the engine of this 5.15 in the evening after going through ahead of Ujjain, there is a small village reverse direction. Then came a news train has been sent ahead. Some said a hell lot of torture and irritation. called Naikhede. We noticed that that railway will provide special bus for another train is stuck ahead. We kept The organisers who were with our there was no proper platform at the the passengers to reach Ujjain. Before on munching on newer information till team told Ila Tayi that there is flood at Naikhede railway station when our we could even rejoice over that piece we realised that this train will not move Ujjain and since she must tired with the train halted there. For first few minutes of information, there came another an inch. I decided to update my team unexpected events, they are ready to things looked normal, but as the time news that we would be accommodated about this latest turn of events but cancel the show. But Ila tayi was prompt passed we realised that the train was in the train which is arriving from Pune. by that time they had started coming enough to respond “I have taken such still not moving and the passengers The time flew by, but neither the bus towards us by road. We were about trouble to reach here. Me and my team started becoming restless. It was more nor train arrived. We were once again to feel happy of being getting rescued is all set to perform tonight. But you all than 30 minutes and we could see no fed with the information that the by our vehicle but someone suddenly take the call if you want to cancel the sign of train moving ahead from there. miscommunication between station punctured our happiness with the show because of the floods.” We soon got news that the train will master and railway police resulted information that roads are also blocked. The organisers were stunned and not move ahead as the heavy rainfall in bus being cancelled because train The bridge that linked the station to speechless with the professional had flooded the Ujjain railway station. would be arriving. Ujjain is also flooded. Oh Gosh! Means attitude of Ila Tayi. We reached our This brought in a volley of questions. The uneasiness could be sensed in the another spell of torture. But even hotel at 6 in the evening. After a quick How do we go to Ujjain now? What atmosphere as passengers were hungry before we could feel the sadness, my tea break, we reached Kalidas Kala should passengers do now? How long and irritated with this unexpected turn phone rang. My team informed me that Mandir. Our team was ready and all can we remain stranded here? It was of events. Before the anger could turn they are just around the station. We got set. The show was delayed by half an hour. The organisers apologised to the audience by informing them about the situation that resulted in the delay... and the show begun. The show was successful. There was no lack of enthusiasm due to the exhausting travel schedule. The organisers later held interactive programme with the audience. During the chat with audience, the team got a pat on their back for meeting their commitment for hosting the show despite city floods. But the real appreciation goes to the audience albeit the fact that their houses were flooded they kept a date with the show. Something that was incredible that gave a sense of fulfillment for our team as performers. 18

Friday, August 11, 2017 feature

When people sit, and discuss others, whose lives have nothing to do with them, all they are doing is igniting a negativity that need not be there. This ignition leads the fire to spread, sometimes so rapidly and recklessly, that before you know it, an entire new story is formed.

There was a time when sayings like ‘do not throw stones if you live in a glass house’ etc. made sense to us. We often made it a point to live by the advice passed down through generations. Today, to get ahead, we tend to RUMOUR rely on nasty trickery and unnecessary gossip to make ourselves seem superior. This habit which we find in ourselves is one of the main reasons why we have failed to move forward faster as a country. Even our political debates HAS IT... are riddled with passing the buck and playing CHARLENE FARRELL This is not something new in any way. This the blame game. It is sad that we have been is a scene we all come across too often. Be it unable after all these years to live and let live. ife takes its turns and we move forward at a social gathering, a family function, at work Another aspect to this very same problem to various new beginnings. As we move, or even sometimes when we are just lounging The is the fake attitude with which we face the we leave behind those parts of us that about the house speaking to our family people whom we try to bring down from their Lare no longer productive. We walk towards members. The mentality of speaking about mentality backs. change and yes, change is the only constant. others seems to be so strongly engrained in of When people sit, and discuss others, whose There is not a being on the face of this planet our DNA that breaking away seems like an speaking lives have nothing to do with them, all they that remains stagnant. In this process of impossible task. More accurately, denying about are doing is igniting a negativity that need evolution, there is much to be thankful for. that we are indulging in this behaviour at not be there. This ignition leads the fire to There is, however, this little part of us that all is second nature. There are plenty of others spread, sometimes so rapidly and recklessly, looks outside on a constant basis to find flaws stereotypes that have made us define this seems that before you know it, an entire new story and faults so that the environment within is behaviour. For some reason, as a society, we to be so is formed. Pulling people down for a reason held in high esteem. There are some people have convinced ourselves that this behaviour strongly is bad enough, but doing it for no apparent who are constantly seeking gratification in is purely feminine in its execution. This notion engrained reason is worse. Just because we are blessed the blemishes of others, irrespective of how is a fallacy. In fact, it is this very stereotype with the gifts of language and speech, does not successful they themselves are. that propagates this behaviour on two levels. in our give us the right to be so careless, insensitive This piece is something that occurred to Firstly, women continue to do so because DNA that and vile. As adults, we need to understand me off the bat at a recent get-together. At said society expects this behaviour from them, and breaking what and where our responsibilities and function, there were individuals of different as we all know, the more you say something, away loyalties lie. Pointing our fingers at others and backgrounds. Most of their success stories the more it happens. Secondly, men are magnifying their pitfalls, eventually does come were things out of which movies are made oblivious to the fact that they are indulging in seems back. Karma is that thing which always tends of. Still, a lot of their chatter revolved around this behaviour simply because they think they like an to boomerang back at some point or the other. other persons. Even if the other person’s life don’t. The fact is, man, woman and in some impossible We need to start being a bit stingier with our had absolutely no bearing on them, tongues instances even children, are happily indulging task. words. It is high time we learn that, a moment still continued to wag. in a vortex of indulgence. on our lips will lead only to personal slips. 19

Friday, August 11, 2017 business SOUTH AFRICAN TOURISM TRAINS TRAVEL AGENTS TO TAILOR PACKAGES FOR LOCAL GOANS he South African Tourism see and do in South Africa and basics like retirees according to the 2017 New concluded the 7th edition of visa and logistical know-how to ensure World Wealth Report. South Africa is its annual travel trade training that travellers are catered to efficiently,” keen to keep attracting Goa’s travel Tsessions in Goa recently. Aimed at said Hanneli Slabber, Country Manager enthusiasts and potential is brimming. equipping travel agents with the best India, South African Tourism. One of Learn SA 2017’s focus areas tips to sell the destination, ‘Learn South Goa has been identified as one of was to train travel agents about new Africa’ (Learn SA) is a 17-city training the emerging source markets driving destinations such Oudtshoorn, Knysna, programme which covered urban tourist traffic to South Africa. It has Plettenberg Bay, Port Elizabeth and metros and tier II & III markets. how to choose the best quality hotels been listed as one of the 10 next high the Drakensberg region. These are The sessions were structured to for their customer’s budget and needs. potential cities outside the traditional picturesque areas where travellers ensure that travellers enjoy many new, It also teaches them how to choose the Indian metros. Goa also features among can pack in a lot of action into shorter exciting, tailor-made itinerary options best in-destination partners to escort those Indian cities which witnessed the time spans. Goans being beachside as a direct result. “Learn SA helps the travellers while on holiday. It also highest GDP growth since 2015 and is residents, possibly look for travel ensure that Indian travel agents know gives them updates about new things to also home to a large number of wealthy experiences beyond beaches. LE MÉRIDIEN UNVEILS ITS LATEST HOTEL IN GOA The opening of le méridien goa, promises authentic experiences and discovery ELITE MODEL LOOK Mrs Natalie Vaz - Co-Owner Models Leisure Ventures, Mr Peter upon every Vaz - Chairman, Models Group of Companies, Mr Norton Pereira visit INDIA 2017 ANNOUNCES - General Manager, Le Meridien Goa, Calangute, Mr Neeraj Govil - Area Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International GOA REGIONAL CASTING e Méridien Hotels & Resorts, a offering, we are pleased to unveil Le ax, the country’s largest potential to correspond to current part of Marriott International Méridien Goa to drive an unparalleled fashion forward brand fashion trends. At the end of the Inc, announced the opening of Le experience for every guest,” said Neeraj and Elite, global talent National Casting, the Elite Model LMéridien in Goa at Calangute, further Govil, Area Vice President – Mmanagement company, are back with Look jury will choose contestants strengthening the Paris-born brand’s Le Méridien Goa, promises an ‘Max presents Elite Model Look India to participate in the India Final. The presence in India with its 10th property. inspiring line-up of culinary offerings. 2017’. ultimate goal is to win a place in the Situated on the bustling Calangute- Distinct flavours and carefully crafted The India Elite Model Look team prestigious Elite Model Look World and Candolim road, Le Méridien Goa is menus at their five eclectic restaurants along with esteemed panel of jury to secure a 2-year contract with the set to expose the curious and creative and bars are certain to take you on a including supermodel and fashion Elite agency. minded traveller to the best-kept culinary sojourn. Latest Recipe, the director Marc Robinson will be present To take part applicants must be: secrets of North Goa. With experiences signature all day dining restaurant, at Mall De Goa on Saturday, 19th  Female between the ages of 16 and and programmes centered on the offers an indoor as well as al fresco August, to discover these future top 22 - At least 5’7in or 172cm tall brand’s filters of discovery – culture, seating overlooking the pool. Indulge models. Registration time for Audition  Male between the ages of 16 and 22 coordinates and cuisine, the hotel in international flavors, hearty salads, is 11am to 2pm. – At least 6’ or 183cm tall promises accessible and stimulating gourmet burgers and the famed The Elite Model Look team is touring If the candidates are under eighteen, experiences in the form of Illy Coffee & Goan curries by the talented chefs. India (Hyderabad, Bangalore, Delhi, they must bring a parental authorisation Eclairs & Unlock Art partnerships. Le Méridien Goa, offers interactive Kolkata, Pune, Mumbai and Goa) for 7 letter with them to the casting. The “Le Méridien Goa is our 10th Le multi-compatible meeting spaces castings. girls should have as little make-up as Méridien property in India. We are spread over 10,000 sq. ft featuring At the end of this India tour, selected possible and wear something close extremely elated to invite and host a premium outdoor terrace venue, contestants will participate in the fitting such as skinny jeans or leggings curious travellers to unlock India’s ballroom and a 16-seater boardroom. It National Casting which is to be held on and a t-shirt. Male applicants should favourite beach destination with our promises a perfect venue for meetings, 30th August in Mumbai. The winners wear something close fitting such as carefully curated local experiences conferences and weddings. are selected based on their photogenic skinny jeans, a t-shirt and no cap or hat. and engaging brand programmes. Goa For more information or to book, qualities, their personalities and their For more details visit – www. being an ideal expansion to our brand please visit Le Meridien Goa Calangute. natural beauty, but also for their elitemodellook.in 20

Friday, August 11, 2017 feature

The temple which is now in the heart of the city was originally situated on the outskirts of the town. With the increasing urbanisation, the frontiers of the city expanded and thus today we have the Pataleshwar temple right in the centre of the city. It is hard to believe that a place like this is located on the Jangali Maharaj Road (JM Road) in Pune. Tourists and pilgrims visit this GUNWANTI PARASTE religious and historic site throughout the year to witness its beautiful sculptures f you are an art and history lover, carved out of rock. Pataleshwar temple then Pataleshwar Cave temple of can easily be reached as it is located in Pune is an ideal place for you to the heart of the city. Iindulge yourself in observing ancient It is said that, the black basalt architecture. The ancient temple is rock was specially brought for the situated in the centre of the city on construction of this temple. The huge Jangali Maharaj Road in Pune. basalt rock was carved into enormous Jangali Maharaj Road is very famous pillars, a giant circular stone, a statue of and crowded place in Pune. This Nandi Bull and a Shivling. historic place has become a major Once you enter the temple premises, attraction for the people who visit the first thing you will notice isa Pune. The Pataleshwar Cave temple is spectacular rotunda roof with massive very calm and ancient place where you pillars supporting it. Step beneath this can spend peaceful time and observe structure and you will be inside the the beautiful ancient architecture. Nandi Mandapa looking at the famous The temple architecture, structure Nandi Bull, the mythological bull and design attracts people to spend believed to be the mount for Lord Shiva. a quality time here. This temple is The visitors can see a huge statue of famous for its 8th century structure Nandi at the entrance of the temple. built during the Rashtrakuta period. The massive square pillars of the Nandi The temple is carved out beautifully Mandapa serves as a treat for ancient using a single rock. The entire structure art lovers. This Mandapa is one of the is carved out of black rock or basalt. peculiar structures of Pataleshwar The massive pillars inside add to the temple. grandeur of the temple. This temple is The temple is also known as dedicated to Lord Shiva and Nandi. The Panchaleshwara or Bamburde Temple. name Pataleshwar is one of the names Interestingly, the cave temple bears of Lord Shiva, and means God of the striking resemblance to the massive underworld. rock-cut temples of Ellora near Aurangabad. Entirely carved out of the hard rock, Pataleshwar really looks like a different world altogether. The temple was left incomplete, possibly because of a fault line found at the back of the sanctum sanctorum, which made the further sculpting unsafe or politically upheaval, resulting in the loss of patronage. In front of this dome is the small cave where the Shivling is situated. Accompanying it are statues of Hindu deities including Lord Ram, Lakshman and Sita in two smaller cells on each side. Still in use, the Shivling is anointed with ghee and yogurt every day. A brass temple bell hangs outside the basalt entryway. The temple is crowded during the celebration of Mahashivratri. People also visit the temple during the Hindu calendar months of Shravan and Chaitra. Besides the cave and the Nandi Mandapa, there is a lot of open space where tourists can sit, roam around, click pictures or simply relax beneath one of the old trees. 21

Friday, August 11, 2017 feature RTO ENFORCEMENT OFFICE IN NEED OF URGENT ENFORCEMENT & MONITORING TEAM TNV Every sub-office of Road here is so much fear among Transport Department all people visiting these offices that over Goa has appointed/ no one wishes to speak against Tthe way they function. These are the engaged/kept some illegal Road Transport Offices of Margao staff to provide services division. without permission of the The offices of RTO Margao have government. Such people thousands of people visiting every day. The Enforcement Office though act as if they are the staff has a comparatively less number of the department and of people coming, but is the most collect all money obtained important as well as the one plagued though corrupt practices with maximum issues. Situated behind on behalf of the officers. the Bagaytdar Bazaar in Arlem Fatorda this office is not less than a graveyard. They even handle all the Rusting grills, never repaired fans, official work, files, books lights and other fixtures and an equally and other works. unwelcoming service welcomes you at the office. The cash T. Nayak has written to the Chief counters at the condition of the Minister, Transport Minister, Chief RTO Office near RTO here,” said Jack Secretary, Transport Secretary, and the Arlem are the Fernandes. Director of Transport Government of most important Among all the Goa, highlighting these issues. parts of the works, renewal of Every sub-office of Road Transport office. There is Fitness Certificates is Department all over Goa has a specific time the most important appointed/engaged/kept some illegal for cash counters and constant duty, staff to provide services without to accept cash the RTO Enforcement permission of the government. Such in the form of section does. There people act as if they are the staff of fees from the are sprawling lines the department and collect all money public for various of vehicles on the obtained though corrupt practices works, paying fine shoulders of eastern on behalf of the officers. They even challans issued by bypass which is one of handle all the official work, files, books RTO and others. It the busiest roads in and other works. The only difference has been alleged Margao and Fatorda is that they are not paid by the that, after closure area, practically leaving only one lane government nor they have the right to of cash counter double the rate for the forms. The for the traffic. Here, the transport sign the muster roll. timing, the cashier accepts the cash office, as known to all, is under attack vehicles are required to renew the The situation is such that, the illegally by charging extra 10 to 20 by the agents. The condition is so bad Fitness Certificates every year. people now rely on agents more than rupees per cash slip. that the people now are not interested “The officers of various sub- the staff at the office, as the chances There are counters for sale of in going at the office personally and divisions of the Road Transport do of work getting done personally are prescribed government RTO forms for doing their work but they rely on the not check the transport vehicles minuscule compared to the pressure different types of work. These counters agents as the work happens much at the time of renewal of Fitness of the agents. Jai Damodar Association have timings to sell the forms, but faster than the personal effort. Certificates as per the inspection has demanded that the movable outside the RTO Office, these forms We travelled all over Goa in all report. The fitness certificates are and immovable assets of the staff of are easily available and they charge the sub-divisions of the Transport renewed without checking important entire Directorate of Transport has Department and contacted some items such as hand brake or ball to be checked on priority basis and if citizens regarding their experience horn. Such incautious renewal of it is more than the known source of The situation is such in the office. Antonio D’costa said, fitness certificates are the main cause income, such staff should be booked that, the people now rely “there are problems of electricity and of accidents,” alleged Jai Damodar under Corruption Act. on agents more than the consequential delayed work is a Association. “If the brakes fail then When contacted the Private common scene here at the RTO. We there is no hand brake to control the Bus Owners association president the staff at the office, only pay taxes but we don’t get any vehicle and thus accident takes place Shailendra Dessai, he said, “the staff as the chances of work service.” due to the negligence of the RTO at the RTO at enforcement act as if getting done personally There are no fans, lights or sitting Officers,” Mahesh Nayak alleged. “All they are doing a favour on us. There is are minuscule compared arrangements for the people coming the Fitness Certificates which are to inadequate information given by the to the pressure of the here. “There is a huge palatial be renewed should be renewed by staff on official formalities. It is high Matanhy Saldanha Complex but still following strict inspection report,” time that the government takes this agents. they are in these rental premises. added Mahesh Nayak. matter seriously and solves the issues Shifting would have changed the Tired of these practices, Mahesh related to the RTO,” said Shailendra. 22

Friday, August 11, 2017

ANNA D SOUZA XI Humanities, Sunshine Worldwide School, Bainguinim

ANGELIQUE PINTO ASHWINI RATHOD XI Humanities, Sunshine Worldwide School, Bainguinim XI Humanities, Sunshine Worldwide School, Bainguinim

ANJALI PANDEY VIKRAM KASHVI VERMA Sunshine Worldwide School, Bainguinim VI, Sunshine Worldwide School, Bainguinim XI Humanities, Sunshine Worldwide School, Bainguinim

SAMUDRA TAMBE X, Sunshine Worldwide School, Bainguinim ABHISHEK X, Sunshine Worldwide School, Bainguinim

SILVIO SAMUDRA TAMBE VI, Sunshine Worldwide School, X, Sunshine Worldwide School, Bainguinim Bainguinim 23

Friday, August 11, 2017 interview

VINAYA WALAVALKAR MANTRI

I was attracted towards a stall at an exhibition at Mall de Goa, and had the opportunity to talk to the owner of the stall. The owner of the stall ‘Feelings’ Mrs. Alpana Kale spoke about her journey from Nashik to Mumbai and then to Goa. She came to Goa with a dream, and now her dreams are slowly turning into reality. There is a saying, behind every successful man there is a woman, but in the case of Alpana it is the opposite, behind her success is her husband Pradeep Kale.

SINCE WHEN ARE YOU STAYING IN and placed their orders and showered GOA AND WHAT MADE YOU SHIFT me their trust and love. The initial FROM MUMBAI? hiccups are gone and now and the I landed in Goa last year in April from journey is relatively smooth. HOW ARE YOUR DREAMS up my studio in Goa where I can Mumbai. As Goa is a land of art and UNFURLING? experiment with new things. I also have culture and also people here appreciate HOW WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH It is difficult to judge myself as to a dream to train people who actually art, so I thought I should shift here. Goa GOANS? how far I have come. It is a learning want to learn different forms of art and has a peaceful atmosphere and I can Goa welcomed me with open arms and process which never ends. When I make craft. chase my dreams as well as promote gave me the platform to showcase my something, I thrive to make it better my art. art in exhibitions. After coming here I and much better. It’s a long journey of WHAT MAKES ALPANA KALE got featured as a Crafter of the week on new dreams, but so far it’s been very SPECIAL? WERE THERE ANY PROBLEMS YOU ‘Itsy Bitsy’ blog and got the opportunity satisfying. I am a normal person, there is nothing FACED INITIALLY AFTER SHIFTING TO to be the member of design team for special in me but I have a specialty to GOA? international craft blogs. TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR do normal things in a special way. I am Initially there was an acceptance JOURNEY. a happy go lucky person with full of problem as I am a non-Goenkar, but In a span of one year I did seven positivity. people here are very warm hearted. exhibitions. They appreciated my art at exhibitions I am very HOW WAS YOUR INTERACTION thankful to WITH THE LOCALS, HOW DID YOU all the people FIND THEIR NATURE? who have I got so many crafty friends in Goa. given me an Unlike other cities, people here are opportunity very helpful and they are always ready and entrusted to help. Initially I was unaware of craft me for their material shops from where I can buy special occasion raw material but they helped me in gifts, and I every possible manner to find out local have tried and shops. given my best to deliver. YOU MENTIONED ABOUT RAW MATERIAL, IS IT AVAILABLE EASILY? WHAT ARE There are some shops in Goa which YOUR FUTURE sell craft material, but sometimes for a PLANS? crafter like me it is very difficult to find I want to set raw materials. 24

Friday, August 11, 2017 fashion Fashion Tips to Look Slimmer SZWENSKA CHRISS

on’t have time to run through a 4-week diet to cut off some carbs? Looking slim can be easily achieved with fashion. The Dconstant lament of the vast majority of women is: “If I could only lose a few more kgs!” It doesn’t have to be logical or something anyone else sees, but we all seem to feel a more ideal version of ourselves would be a few kgs less. Since there’s no diet that makes us thinner by the time we wake up tomorrow, luckily, we can fake it. The great thing about fashion is that it can do wonders for your body shape – may it be with a certain cut or pattern – a piece of garment can truly change the way you look. Having a slim physique has always been considered an asset. In this article, we are going to help you out with your next wardrobe shopping choices to make you look slimmer. There are tried and true rules for dressing in a way that makes you look slimmer. You may be sabotaging your shape-up efforts by wearing clothes that visually add weight to your frame. Here is a lesson on how to use colour, proportion, and a few styling tricks to look thinner. They’re not complicated and they are helpful.

 Vertical lines, floral prints, abstract and In addition, choosing pointed shoe designs geometric prints are some of the best prints balances out the height you are sporting, to go for if you want to dress your way to without being out of style. a slimmer body. These patterns create an  Wearing the same colour, head to toe, optical illusion that shaves off some of your creates a longer vertical line that can be weight. Although patterns can be your very slimming. Contrast draws your eye. friend, try not to pick up patterns that are With one colour, there is no contrast, so too big. Smaller, detailed patterns reduce your eye keeps moving and settles on the 3D effect of shadows, resulting toa your face, not the other things you’re self- much slimmer body. conscious about.  Belts are used to give your waist a better  Whenever you emphasise your shoulders, definition. If you have a bigger body, huge you automatically make your waist look and bulky belts will only make you look slimmer. (It’s all about these optical bigger. This is why skinny belts are much illusions!) Broader shoulders make the better because they are more flattering for contrast between the shoulders and the your waist – making it look slimmer. You waist more noticeable, so the waist seems can wear a skinny belt in any color of your smaller. choice as long as it perfectly complements  Anything light, bright, or shiny makes the colour of your outfit. things look bigger. Anything dark or matte  High-waist or high-rise bottoms effectively can make things look smaller. Therefore, elongate your body by giving the illusion of wearing light, shiny, or bright on top, draws having extended leg length. A pair of high- attention up to your face. Wearing dark and waist trousers is a very flattering fashion matte on the bottom minimizes that area piece which complements many kinds of and keeps your eye from resting there. tops – cropped tops, knits, T-shirts and It’s amazing what a difference we can tailored blouses. make in our appearance with our clothes.  High heels have never failed us when it We know this instinctively, which is one of comes to tricking everybody with a taller the reasons we love clothes so much. But figure. Shoes with skinny heels give the focusing and harnessing this can give us the illusion of having longer legs; making the ability to “cheat” on days we feel like we body’s silhouette slimmer and a lot vertical. need a little help.