The Editor The Konkani teatr (play) entitled “PUBLIC” directed by Comedian Augustine, giving a strong social message, evoked a good response not only from Mandrem residents but also from Anjuncars which was shown on 24 April in their respective villages. PUBLIC portrayed both the lackadaisical attitude of administration, politicians and the lethargy shown by the aam admi when it comes to confront the government machinery even to obtain a simple resident certificate from the Panchayat, which ofcourse is everybody’s right. Without greasing palms (packet/envelope), no work is done. However, Augustine has conveyed a strong social message in his vociferous and vehement avatar that if the aam admi has his/her way, many things can be achieved without greasing palms too. Initially, he indicated how Goans are endeavouring to migrate using Portuguese passport route rather than tackle our own domestic problems. This migration vacuum encourages ‘migration’ from neighbouring states and then we blame them for all the woes and sorrows that accompany them. Apparently, he has drawn inspiration from Swami Vivekanand and Anna Hazare to showcase this aggressive social activism and to encourage the public at large “to get involved” before it is too late. I guess one can draw its own conclusion after watching this play. Moreover, Anna Hazare who was a driver in the army has become a driving force and a beacon of light to all of us to imitate him and achieve what he started, thus benefitting the Society at large. Swami Ramdev’s initiative, Bharat Swabhiman has also started a similar initiative by mobilising aam admi all over India, including Goa to contain corruption, bring back the black money stored in Swiss and other parking havens, etc etc Finally, Augustine took a commitment from all Mandrem viewers to get involved in social activism in an endeavour to help our own neighbours in the hour of need and simultaneously to stem the rot in the Panchayat, police and the politicians. Are there any takers amongst the readers? Chris FernandesH. No. 123, Modlo MazMandrem 403527, Pernem DistrNorth Goa(Cell: 9923897270)
