[Goanet] Goanet Reader: Then, and then... transitioning from Portuguese education in the 'sixties (Aureo De Souza)
THEN, AND THEN: TRANSITIONING FROM PORTUGUESE EDUCATION IN THE 'SIXTIES Aureo De Souza [EMAIL PROTECTED] My days during first year at Britto's were boring. I had to reallocate from Portuguese studies in the Escola Tecnica (technical school) at Mapuca. At Escola Tecnica, all the teachers were well dressed. Some used to come even in suits, pronunciation was good and the teaching method was different. Here at Britto's, English was totally new for me. To add to my misery, I had to learnt Hindi, at which I felt totally lost. But our Hindi teacher was very kind, and we used to call him Guruji. He would come clad in plain chappals and a dhoti. If I today know to read and write a little of Hindi, it is because of him. He used to make it easy by comparing Konkani; that's how we could understand some part of Grammar. Fr Lino, who was the principal then, recommended that I get admitted one class lower. So, I started at Britto's in Std VII. Though feeling all but lost in the seventh, I later began liking the school. Though I had the opportunity to study for only a few years at the Escola Primaria, it was a good experience. For, in my memory, this period is associated with a time of peace, and a period where all seemed well with the world. The teachers were good; but later most of them left for Portugal and the students witnessed confusion and uncertainty. When I took admission at St. Britto's in 1962 at Std VII, it was like walking into a new world where English was a big barrier for me. Portuguese had been replaced by English and, to add to all this, we had Hindi too, as mentioned. Both these languages were unheard of by me, as I had a background of only Portuguese. The sudden transition in the medium of instruction from Portuguese to English was no mean feat for me. Gradually, I picked up... and I thanked my stars for getting the best education from the Jesuit Fathers at Britto's. There were soon good friends to be made: the late August Braganca (also my next door neighbour), Abi (Albert Rebeiro), Joe (Africander), among others. Most of the students then were boarders from Africa. My English improved in the later part of my education. We had a very good teacher, Noemi Noronha, and also the Menezes sisters from Bastora. I remember Fr. Saldanha, our French teacher. For Std X and XI, we had Fr Meyrelles as our principal. It was then an annual feature to go for a retreat to Old Goa to the Jesuit-run Bom Jesus Basilica, during our final year. Portuguese education, to me, was more practical; Its syllabus was not like the present one. For instance, in college, we studied in detail about inorganic, organic and physical chemistry. But, to speak the truth, I hardly remember much about the subject, after studying so much. During the Portuguese times, even at Escola Primaria, they would have a public exam with orals for the final fourth year. This encouraged the students, and we gained confidence in facing and talking to others. This Escola Primaria was then situated where presently the Education Department and government primary school is, opposite the Parco Infantile now called the Chacha Nehru Garden besides the post office. For the orals, we were asked questions by a panel of teachers, even for the primary classes. Also, in the Escola Tecnica, we had workshop-training in fields like carpentry. This later proved beneficial to the students who branched out for engineering. We were taught, among other things, discipline and values of life... which today we do not see in our schools. On the whole, though the atmosphere at Escola Primaria was strict, the teachers were very dedicated. Incidentally, the transition from Portuguese to English was a disaster for many who could not cope with the English language. Luckily, I was young, and hence could manage the pressure. But my elder brothers initially found it very difficult for such a switch-over. As we spoke Portuguese at home, it became more difficult for us to comprehend English while at school. Due to this transition from Portuguese to English, many of my parent's friends left for Portugal and settled there. No doubt we achieved independence and now Goa is well developed, with its infrastructure improving. But the only sad part of it is that we Goans, the moment we complete our studies or even just plan to study further, turn our heads towards Gulf or to some other countries. Ultimately, we loose our properties and even identity. Regrets? Yes and no! Yes... because I missed the teachers who were well dressed and their mannerism and the way they respected us. No, because I realized that as days passed that I was comfortable with the new teachers at Britto's as they were quite proficient at their teaching. Fr. Meyrelles was very good as a Principal. * * * * * I passed out from Britto's in the year 1966, carrying
Re: [Goanet] RKN bashing
If you're talking of church bells, you could give Kevin hives all over again. What it struck me to mean is that his definition of holy and trinity and ugly might be different from most on this list. Well, I have my views too, but I keep them to myself (mostly). But then, Kevin is a new convert :-) so please be patient. FN On 04/11/06, joseph fernandes [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Reena and Eddie Does the following statement of Kevin, ring a bell?: (Kevin on 01 Nov) Another one of the HOLY TRINITY rears his ugly head. (Caps mine) Any comments? Regards Joseph Fernandes Mumbai -- -- FN [https://southasiaict4d.wordpress.com/] 9822122436 +91-832-240-9490 Free the airwaves... for India's sake (see the article at the URL below) [http://www.tehelka.com/story_main22.asp?filename=op06Free_the.asp] ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Initiating, Participating and Soapboxing
Selma wrote: Well Cecil, if you think these points are worthy of discussion why don't you start the discussion? It's funny how you never tire telling some of us that we shouldn't be preaching from pulpits in the US, yet feel these points forwarded to you by someone of Indian origin in the US are worthy of discussion. Eloquence should never be mistaken for substance. While the points are eloquently stated, they are fear-mongering half truths. Dear Selma, I do initiate and carry forward discussions where I am on solid ground and know what am talking about. Unfortunately the politics of religion,and associated demographics,are not fields I know much about and I was hoping that more knowledgeable people in these areas would throw some light on the points that have been raised. Forwarding these points does not mean I agree with them. In fact I most certainly do not, but would like inputs from people in the know about these matters, like you for example. I still maintain that many overseas Goans here in cyberspace don't know jacksquat about ground realities in Goa and just make bombastic generic statements with no facts to back them up. Two days back you, Selma, made this dramatic observation on GoaNet. The divorce rate in Goa is spiraling. Extra-marital and pre-marital sex is as frequent and prevalent as anywhere in the West. Could you please educate us all about the basis for these statements? Some comparative statistics would help. Did you conduct some survey? Are you quoting from some proper survey? Is this your gut feeling? Is this what your cousin-in-law told you? If a genuinely informed overseas Goan gives us Goans in Goa advice on matters I have no problem with taking such advice. But when advice comes from a vacuum of ignorance then it is, but naturally, difficult to digest. Cheers! Cecil == -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.409 / Virus Database: 268.13.27/517 - Release Date: 11/3/2006 ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Goanet's Three Generations/response to Roland
Dear Roland, Even if you insist that the Frederick generation doesn't know what they are talking about (haha got you there), it is very pessimistic to hope that the fires that burn within the Sunnith and Aristos of Goa should extinguish themselves. This is very typical of your generation Roland to assume that Daddy has bought and paid for every succeeding generation. Do you think this generation has been twiddling their thumbs while they wait for a quirk of fate to bestow greatness on them? Let me tell you how difficult their life is. They have to study from sun-up to sunset if they hope to secure a seat in a half-decent college. Many have been known to endure anxiety, depression, nervous break-downs and even suicide brought on by the stress of exams. Once they get out of those colleges they have to compete with brilliant minds all over India to secure a half-decent job in a half-decent multinational or risk being left on the shelf to be employed by some third rate Indian manufacturing plant. Entry level jobs still pay a pittance, barely able to cover their bar tab, rent and transport. They have to live in pigeon-holes in Indian metropolises, travel to obscure parts of India usually by that contraption called Indian Rail, put up in roach motels and eat food guaranteed to give Montezuma a run for his money. Please don't think anyone is handing out anything to the Indians of today. They earn every bit of it. Selma - --- Roland Francis [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: We are too young to wax nostalgic about 'Portuguese days', mature enough to have understood and looked up to the achievements of Frank Moraes and Julio Ribeiro, old enough to know that the Selma generation don't know what they are talking about and experienced enough to know that the bright fires of the Sunith and Aristo generation will flicker and die out in self-consumption because someone else lit them. __ Check out the New Yahoo! Mail - Fire up a more powerful email and get things done faster. (http://advision.webevents.yahoo.com/mailbeta) ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] OK! FEPPI BODDEI TO ME!
On 04/11/06, Silviano Barbosa [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I don't rely on anyone! So I will do it to me, just like at Xmas I send a Xmas card to me (from u know who) and I email to myself (I don't even get junk mail on my B-day) and I make a phone call to myself (from cell to land line, and I tell my family, see someone wished me!), as no one will do it for me. So no shinn on anyone: Even though I remind people, how not to forget my boddei, they still do mud-dom, boddveam: November 1- All Saints Day (as if I was a devil) November 2 - All Souls Day (Almas do outro Mudo) November 3 - All Silviano-s Day. Now will you remember next year? Or do I have to advertise it on Herald? like a Montri? I would feel so good if I receive just one email form a femail. Ektti asli ti mhoji avoi legun meli. Ti bori FEPPI BODDEI PUTA mhunntali phona-cher. Atam kitem kortoli, Devakodde email na khoim voir. Fottmail only available in-fern. Cheers! Kuttu! ah, ha, ha, boro ishtrong mure ho? Khoincho re, Kannkonncho? Silviano RESPONSE: Here's wishing you a belated 'Happy B'day' and many more to come! DEV BOREM KORUM. Gabe Menezes. London, England ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Quick reply from Goa NRI Commissioner's office. That's efficiency!
To be honest, I don't think the NRIs Office in Goa has been prompt in all case. High time that expat Goans exercise more of their critical faculties, put important issues on the agenda, and have a long list of various issues waiting to be taken up -- before the annual mela called the NRI Convention comes and whizzes past us all, in the midst of the year-end festivities and trips home. In my opinion, a number of states which have less of an experience with out-migration have done a great deal more for their expats. Goa has a lot of catching up to do. --FN PS: I think it's more than a bit odd that anyone accessing the NRI site should have to fill up so much information before being able to access most of the information. At least, this was the situation some days back... when I visited, and quickly gave up! On 04/11/06, Silviano Barbosa [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I am attaching my letter to Goa NRI Commissioner's and a quick reply/action from his office with his kind permission! Please write to him for any of your concerns! Many thanks to Shri Tushar Halarnkar, OSD to NRI Commissioner, for a quick action/response -- FN [https://southasiaict4d.wordpress.com/] 9822122436 +91-832-240-9490 [http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bytesforall_readers] [http://fn.goa-india.org] Technology, freedom, people: You can contribute to make this mix work! ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] The Indian that /response to Vivian
Dear Vivian, Thank you for sharing your experiences in the US. Things have not changed so much since then. People by and large are still ignorant of India but the US is very insular and unaware of any country or culture beyond their own shores. They have however grudgingly come to respect Indians and think of them as more than emaciated images staring at them from their television sets. Take care, selma --- Vivian D'Souza [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Great post Selma ! Nice to hear that your husband is fully grounded in who and what he is and does not need to make excuses about his ethnicity, being proud to be an Indian. Cheap Talk? Check out Yahoo! Messenger's low PC-to-Phone call rates (http://voice.yahoo.com) ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] INformation on Transfer of Shipping of Personal Items from UK to Goa
Few years back, I remember a gulfy whose cargo came few days after he arrive in Goa. He cleared collected it from MPT port. Don't know how he did it. Last year, we enquired at LGW airport counter, and they say they can send it to Goa via Bombay. Don't know if they can send by direct chartered flights. If you are returning for good, following items you can bring (one item each per family) as customs free allowance (no duty). But there is a procedure for this. You may take expert help on this. You can build a complete package as Returning NRI. There are other benefits too. VCR/ VCD player Washing machine Cooking range Desktop computer Laptop computer Refrigerator of capacity upto 300 litres Try reading here http://www.kdpaccountants.com/returningnri.htm#7 [EMAIL PROTECTED] for Goa NRI related info... http://in.groups.yahoo.com/group/GOAN-NRI/ Konkani Songs, Goan Photos, Tiatr/Film VCDs, Bank interest rates etc etc (for updates etc click below) http://in.groups.yahoo.com/group/GOAN-NRI/files/ Send instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger.yahoo.com ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Mauxi's Kani - now from China
On 04/11/06, Gilbert Lawrence [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Since ancient times, xamais and xapais from China, Japan, Korea and Taiwan have been strong proponents of Green Tea. The Green Tea (a.k.a Oolong tea) is not popular in India, where traditionally Black Tea is consumed. Black Tea is stronger in flavor, has more caffeine and preserves better than Green Tea. Hence Black Tea is the usual commercially traded / exported brand of tea - till now! Green Tea has been reported by mauxis to help in cancer management and is today described as one 'Complementary Therapy' in cancer treatment. Scientists testing the effects of Green Tea on human breast cancer cells report, decreased cell growth and increased cell death. They claim anti-cancer effects of Green Tea may be due at least in part to 'Transcription Repression'. There are several mechanisms, by which Green Tea contributes to decreased levels of 'DNA repair protein'. This study on breast cancer cells is now in the laboratory. Its application to patients in a clinical trial will likely be only a few years away. Regards, GL RESPONSE: Thanks for that Gilbert! I have read somewhere, sometime, that beer is good for averting a heart attack; something to do with folic acid ? The best beer by far, for this is Stella Artois. The Best beer in the World apparently, is another Belgium beer made by Monks in a Monastery http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/food/2005-10-03-beer-usat_x.htm I have served in the RAF in Germany and drunk the likes of Becks and other German Beers. The best German beers come from Bavaria - Munich to be precise, the home of the Oktober Fest! Lowenbrau, SpatenBrau and Thomas Paulaner are Munich beers, to put hairs on your chest! But it's Stella for the fellas at 5.5 percent and a fine body! Contrast that to 4 percent Becks on tap here in London. Since the opening of the flood gates, we have had many Poles emigrating to London and consequently many Polish beers are now on sale here. Very fine Czech beers are also plentiful in London, like Pilzen Urquell, ostensibly the original Pilsner beer. Then there is Cobra beer which is now available in Goa; this is brewed by a Parsi, Billimoria who has made a tidy sum out of this ! check out the URL below, maybe some budding Goan will emerge ? http://www.startups.co.uk/YTzl1HtoyivadQ.html Lastly, for all you St. Pauli Girl fans of yesteryear Goa, the beer is still available... http://www.stpauligirl.com/beer.php -- DEV BOREM KORUM. Gabe Menezes. London, England ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] The Indian that is my husband
--- Vivian D'Souza [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Not long after I arrived in the USA, I was having a coffee in a drug store. All drug stores had restaurants within the store in those days. The waitress, not sure what to make of me, asked me if I was Indian Indian. I was taken aback, and then realized the import of the question. I responded yes I am. That immediately differentiated me from the Native American, still known as Indians then. In retrospect, I laugh at the episode. Mario adds: Vivian, Excellent observations on migrating to the US and assimilating therein, which I can fully identify with. Unlike when I first came here, when I would get questions about my Christianity, my English and elephants and tigers, today, when I meet a Caucasian American for the first time, within minutes he tries to impress me with the other Indians he knows, and they are invariably either his or his family's physician, professor, accountant, architect, tax advisor, home builder or child's classmate who is head of the class, or the IT guys that underwrite America's computer industry and numerous businessmen who own and operate hotels, motels and other small businesses across America. In this most competitive of industrialized countries Indians as a community have been the highest ranking ethnic group when ranked by family income since 1980, followed by Filipinos. So much for the perception of being discriminated against by the allegedly mainstream Caucasians. Not that some don't try, but, in this country, they can slow someone down, but certainly cannot stop them. When my eldest daughter, who was born in the US, was a small child she was initially confused between her Indian parents and the Indians she saw in the movies and on television. When she was four she sorted it all out by using two names in conjunction: She called us Indian Indians, herself and her brother were Indian Americans and the guys with the tomahawks, bows and arrows and warpaint were American Indians. The first time I visited an Indian reservation I went up to the chief who was in full costume with the long feathered head-dress and said, Chief, I'd like you to meet a REAL Indian. He was momentarily taken aback because HE was the REAL indian to all the tourists, then saw the incongruity of my comment and burst out laughing. He said, So, you were who that Columbus guy was looking for. Everyone calls him a great navigator, but when he set out he didn't know where he was going, when he got here he didn't know where he was, and when he returned home he had no idea where he had been! Vivian writes: Fast forward, several decades later, there are over a million Indians in the USA. Mario observes: Vivian, it's more like 2.3 million now, not counting some illegals, I'm sure:-)) We have even had our own category in the US census since 1980, Asian Indian. The attached article was published just last week: www.iht.com/articles/2006/10/29/news/indians.php ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Travelling Film South Asia 2006
The International Centre, Goa Moving Images Film Club in collaboration with Himal Association, Nepal will organise Travelling Film South Asia 2006 from November 3rd to 5th 2006 at The International Centre Goa. TFSA is a collection of 14 outstanding films from the subcontinent. Registration for TFSA is open for all from 27th to 31st October from 3 pm to 5 pm. For registration contact Ms. Freda Coutinho at 2452805-10 or [EMAIL PROTECTED] For more information pls log on to International Centre: http://www.internationalcentregoa.com/ Moving Images: http://www.moviesgoa.org/ Goanet AE http://www.goanet.org/modules.php?op=modloadname=Newsfile=articlesid=216 ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] A woman without a culture of her own
Oscar, I am so thankful to you that I am allowed on Goanet inspite of being a phoney Goan. I am also grateful that you allow me to breathe Goan air when the fancy strikes me to go on holiday there, despite the fact that I was not born in Goa. Now tell me if I should also be appreciative to you that I was allowed to have a long and happy innings in the Midlle East. Lucky to touch the ground you trod on, yours truly, Roland. On 11/4/06, Oscar Lobo [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: A woman without a culture of her own (Oscar Lobo) I have seen your response to my posting on the above. My first impression was: a) You appear to be phoney and an imposter Keralile in the name of 'Roland Fernandes'. b) If you have been in the Middle East, you may have been on Cloud 9 and this is reflected in your response. If you are a person born in Goa and raised in Goa (which I doubt) you would have thought twice and not responded with a knee jerk reaction (may be you have little bit of a Goan through mixed marriage). There are a lot of people from Kerala that have bought shares in the ancestral houses of some Goans (because the family could not agree on selling their ancestral house) and they have been playing hell with the other inheritors in Goa. There are lots of instances, I suggest you go to Goa and stay there for 6 months. Let me know when you decide to go and I will give you names and contact numbers. c) Your statement is naive. I know of so many people from Kerala that have destroyed people's chances in Middle East. They are 'clever' as I indicated in my first post. That does not mean they are industrious etc. etc. I know of one, when a vancay was advertised for a 'Typist', he came for an interview with a Typewriter so that the Arab employer need not buy a 'Typwriter'. I am sorry that you could not learn anything from the exchange of posts on the subject. It would be interesting to know which country you live in rather than covering your name through gmail! ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Arambol Civic and Consumer Forum meeting on Sunday
-- Arambol Civic and Consumer Forum meeting on Sunday --- The Arambol Civic and Consumer Forum (ACCF) will have its monthly general meeting of consumers on Sunday 5th November at 10.30m at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel High School, Arambol. Among the issues to be discussed are Tourism Beach management, preventive measures to tackle the spread of dengue and chikungunya, use of Right To Information Act, procedure for filing complaints to Consumer Conciliation Committee, service related problems of PWD water supply, Electricity, Bus Transport, Post Office, Cable TV, Kerosene supply, Home delivery of LPG cylinders, BSNL telephones and preparation of Identity cards for Senior Citizens. Consumers of Arambol are invited to attend the meeting and participate in the deliberations. --- --- GOA CIVIC AND CONSUMER ACTION NETWORK --- promoting civic and consumer rights in Goa -- GOACAN Post Box 187 Margao, Goa 403 601 GOACAN Post Box 78 Mapusa, Goa 403 507 mailto: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED][EMAIL PROTECTED] -- -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://lists.goanet.org/pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/attachments/20061105/adf8c63d/attachment.html ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] The famous Margao Dindi
THE FAMOUS MARGAO DINDI By Valmiki Faleiro Dindi is Margao’s biggest religious festival. It draws more people than any other event – cultural, religious or political. Few would know, or imagine, that Dindi is not a homegrown fest. The almost century-old event, whose edition this year concluded yesterday, was started by immigrants settled in the town. Margao’s biggest festival is not Margao’s own. Margao’s biggest original fest is the ‘Gulal.’ But Gulal cannot be called Margao’s – it is celebrated in Zambaulim, in Quepem taluka, where Margao’s presiding deity, Lord Damodar, was hurriedly shifted to, after the arrival of the Jesuit juggernaut, 1563-65. That is how Mathagramasths (Margaoites) celebrate the town’s biggest festival at Zambaulim while what started as a Kannadiga event 96 years ago, came to be Margao’s biggest fest. Delightfully intriguing. Yes, there were Kannadigas settled in Margao a century ago. The rail link in the fading years of the 19th Century made locomotion easy from Karnataka to Goa via Castle Rock. Kannadigas were here in sufficient numbers to start their own temple. They possibly felt ‘left out’ by their local Hindu brethren. That’s how Hari Mandir came to be born, in a room of a chawl at Martires Dias Road, Mestabhat-Malbhat. Odd how great things start in the humbleness of chawls, mangers and deserts. One couldn’t fault the non-Goans having their own place of worship. After Lord Damodar settled in Zambaulim, major Hindu events occurred there. For the weekly Monday obeisance, Gaud Saraswat Brahmins had the Damodar Sal, attached to the family house of the Naiks, originally from Sancoale, at Abade Faria Road and the Linga shrine at Fatorda – site of the original Lord Damodar temple, that had come into the possession of a Silva family of Margao, who offered it to the Mathagramasth Hindu Sabha for a princely Rs.6,000 but eventually ended in the hands of Goa’s arguably best known Kannadigas, the Chowgules. (The tolloi of the original temple is still extant, by the compound of the Maruti workshop of the Chowgules.) The Daivadnya Brahmins (goldsmiths) had their own Ram mandir, also at Abade Faria road. The Vaishyas (Vanis, the trader community) had their Vithal Mandir at Comba. The Bahujan Samaj revered the peepal tree at Pimpla Pedd at Francisco Luis Gomes road. The immigrants had nothing. Their temple is dedicated to Lord Vithal and Goddess Rakhumai, whose original seat is in Pandharpur and who, incidentally, are also celebrated by the Sanquelim Ranes. Circa 1909, Margao was devoid of a Hindu religious festival. Nagesh Sadekar (aka Ghantkar … he hailed from across the Ghats) a prosperous Margao Kannadiga, is credited with the Dindi idea. A prominent votary was Golba, a wanted man in Karnataka who had fled to Goa. The Dindi idea was cold-shouldered by Margao’s Saraswats. Disappointed but not daunted, the Kannadigas approached the Vanis, most of whom were migrants anyway, albeit largely from southern Maharashtra. A pact was sealed. Gholba and his merry Kannadiga men would bring their twin deities Vithal-Rakhumai in a palanquin procession from Malbhat while the Vanis would bring their Lord Vithal (Krishna) from Comba. Both the processions would meet at the Sal of Lord Damodar, the presiding deity, well past the midnight hour. Together they would then proceed to Vithal Mandir at Comba, whence Gholba’s party would return, to reach their own temple by the following midday. Thus began the famous Dindi. Destined to become the town’s biggest festivity. To this day, however, only descendants of the non-Goan founders perform the core functions. The deities and paraphernalia, for instance, are taken out by them and handed over to the multiplicity of enthusiasts – Goan or non-Goan – at the road outside the temple, as is done when the Dindi returns the following day. The Dindi attracts tens of thousands of devotees from all over, the only day in 365 when Margao has 24-hour public transport. Added attraction is the performance by top classical vocalists and musicians at various points on the route of the procession. There is no big name in India’s world of devotional music that has not performed at the Dindi. Over time, corporate houses moved in to sponsor various events at the halts of the Dindi, including impressive fireworks shows. For the devout, the event is an opportunity to seek darshan, pay obeisance with fruits and other offerings and invoke blessings of the deities. For the young at heart, the nightlong event offers the cover of darkness to heave and jostle, pet, pinch and grope in the milling crowds: not without reason did the Margao Dindi earn the sobriquet of *chimtean fest,* bottom-pinching festival. (ENDS) The Valmiki Faleiro weekly column at: http://www.goanet.org/index.php?name=Newsfile=articlesid=330 === The above article appeared in the November 5, 2006 edition of the HERALD, Goa
[Goanet] SOIRIKEN KAZAR (Arranged marriage) ? Part 4
SOIRIKEN KAZAR (Arranged marriage) Part 4 FLOWERS AND FRAGRANCE ON WOMENS HEADS AT WEDDINGS Today, women as well as men use several brands of expensive perfumes to attract each other. Some use so much of it that it looks as though he/she has had a perfume-bath! During the Portuguese rule in Goa, the most famous perfume brand available was Patra but not everyone could afford it. But it didnt actually matter because we had something natural which was much better than scent - the flowers - zuvieo ani mogre (jasmine and mogra) which every woman wore on her head when she attended a wedding and filled the entire mattov with its fragrance. In fact, in those days, the ezman (hostess), stood at the entrance of the mattov, welcomed the guests and placed a small pantem (arrangement of flowers mainly zuvieo or mogre sewn in a line) on a womans head which was tucked to her hair or on a xenddo with a bobby pin. These days, people spray air fresheners in halls in order to create a pleasant atmosphere. Well, nothing of this sort was available in days gone by and the magic of fragrance was created by the flowers worn on womens heads. Besides zuvieo ani mogre, women also wore abolim, xinvtim, dalia, gulab, rozam ato, etc. on their heads. Oh, those girls/women looked so glamorous with flowers on their heads! Usually, girls tucked single, large flowers like rose, dalia, marigold, sunflower, etc., on one side of their head. A flower on the head combined with an elegant bow, hair arranged with bobby pins all around, with a stylish hair puff in front (even boys followed hair puff style then), a midi-length flower design dress with pastel background and can-can underneath, made those damsels look like angels from heaven. Girls from poor families who didnt have any flowers at home, picked a flower or two from a chanfeachem zadd (a wild tree found everywhere in villages, especially by a mathiecho goddgo [mud compound wall] which bears sweet-smelling flowers a cobra snake always frequents such trees) or a doshninchem ful (hibiscus) and wore them on their heads when they attended weddings. Do you remember the following lines of Deknni? Ful mavlam tavier, cheddva tuka apoita mavier Ful mavlam tavier, cheddva tuka apoita mavier Ful gho chanfeachem, cheddva tuka mavtam funkeachem Ful gho chanfeachem, cheddva tuka mavtam funkeachem * Xinvtim-binvtim-abolim, matheak mavtolim Mojea poti sorxem voitelim Xinvtim-binvtim-abolim, matheak mavtolim Mojea poti sorxem voitelim * Maner kensu, kensar fulam, mogalla utram Maner kensu, kensar fulam, mogalla utram Bakra baban utor dilam, kazar zanvchem mhullam Bakra baban utor dilam, kazar zanvchem mhullam Actually, wearing flowers on the head was a way to attract men. If a boy liked a girl and wanted to express his feelings for her, he would smell the flower on her head while dancing, take a deep breath of its fragrance and tell her how sweet it smelt. If the girl smiled or said: Dev borem korum (thank you), it meant that she agreed with his sentiments and from then on things would be different; sometimes they ended up dancing with nobody else but each other which was an indication that they had fallen in love. Thus, in the past, many men fell for the girls because of flower-wear in their heads. It has become a fashion in Goa these days to send flower bouquets as wedding gifts, which is fine, but it is a pity neither girls nor women wear flowers on their heads at weddings in Goa though this is very much in fashion in other parts of the Konkan region. They carried the fashion from Goa, which originated from Hindus and still follow it, whereas we have forgotten it. The Hindu women in Goa still wear flowers on their heads at weddings. WEDDING RECEPTION They say, music runs in Goans veins, and it surely does! Since we have good ear for music, we begin to tap our feet at its slightest sound. Music is universal. It has no language barriers. It does not differentiate between the rich and the poor, the literate and the illiterate, a dancer and a non-dancer; it treats and considers everyone equal. However, dancing is an art which few possess. While some may be fantastic dancers, others simply take pleasure in dancing to the beats of the music. On the whole, Goans are good dancers. A Goan wedding reception is not complete without a dance. In the olden days, most weddings began at around 9:00 p.m. and wound up early in the morning at around 7:00 a.m. Life then was easy, as one didnt have to worry about reporting to work. Once a wedding got over, one just went home and slept and woke up for lunch in the afternoon. Practically, every male present at a wedding reception picks up his dancing partner and gets on the floor to dance. Childrens first dancing lessons began at weddings.
[Goanet] Panjim or Panaji
Nearly all Catholic Goans, whom I have encountered in different parts of the worlsd still refer to Goa's capital as Panjim. Likewise, only officialdom calls Margao, Madgaon and Bombay,Mumbai. Michael Karachi, Pakistan Send instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger.yahoo.com ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Choirs and singing (Goa)
Anybody out there in Goa who sing for choirs or would be interested in singing at (konkani or english) masses? If so, please get in touch. Thanking you in anticipation Regards Velma Fernandes - Read all Goanet messages @ http://lists.goanet.org/pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/ ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] INformation on Transfer of Shipping of Personal Items from UK to Goa
And here was I thinking that India with all the gobalization brouhaha would have allowed returning Indians to bring whatever personal items they wished to. Like Canada allowing you to bring unrestricted personal items (in non-commercial quantities of course) without any duty, when you first immigrate. Roland. Joegoauk wrote: If you are returning for good, following items you can bring (one item each per family) as customs free allowance (no duty). But there is a procedure for this. You may take expert help on this. You can build a complete package as Returning NRI. There are other benefits too. VCR/ VCD player Washing machine Cooking range Desktop computer Laptop computer Refrigerator of capacity upto 300 litres ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Anglo-Indians (Michael Ferreia)
To correct myself, Michael Ferreira won the world billiards (not snooker) four times. Here's what I picked from the net (partly). Born Bombay (Now Mumbai), 1 October 1938 Nicknamed Bombay Tiger, Michael Ferreira, four times world Billiards champion, was a rebel with a cause during his playing days. In 1981, after winning the world title for a second time, he was offered the Padma Shri while Sunil Gavaskar was conferred with the more prestigious Padma Bhushan. His reply to the Government of India letter was, My achievements in Billiards are in no way inferior to that of Sunil Gavaskars in Cricket. If he deserves a Padma Bhushan, I do too. The Government should treat all games equally. He refused to accept the award. Eugene Correia Access over 1 million songs - Yahoo! Music Unlimited (http://music.yahoo.com/unlimited) ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Konkani Birthday song
Mogall Silviano Bab, Belated Feppi Boddei wishes to you. In my collections of over 200 mp3 konkani songs, I tried to find the traditional konkani Birthday song 'Dis tujea Zolmancho' but I could not find one...I have another Birthday song for you in Konkani which is sung by Sharon. Lyrics of the song are given below and the mp3 will be sent to your email. So listen to this song, even though its late and hope you will hear it on your next birthday and also play on the Birthdays of your family members. Dis tujea Zolmancho...by Sharon Aiz dis tujea zolmancho, aiz dis vhodd khuxealkaiecho, Devak aiz argam ami ditaum, ho dis mhunnon tujea zolmancho, Mog moipas tujer xivraitaum, gorcheamcho ixtt-ixttinicho, Devan tuje osleak rochun, ho vhodd upkar amcher Devacho. Ch: Sodanch tum amche modem assum, Xembor ani ek vorsam passum, Chintnam tujim soglim xarti pavom, Anstem mukhamoll sodanch tujem assom.. Repeat Ch and verse La la la la la la la Goanetters and Konkani lovers, konkani song in mp3 (3.4 MB) can be emailed to you on request...pls write on [EMAIL PROTECTED] You too can play and sing this along for Birthdays of your loved ones in Konkani Cheers! Edward Verdes Chinchinim/Mumbai/Jeddah Now will you remember next year? Or do I have to advertise it on Herald? like a Montri? I would feel so good if I receive just one email form a femail. Ektti asli ti mhoji avoi legun meli. Ti bori FEPPI BODDEI PUTA mhunntali phona-cher. Atam kitem kortoli, Devakodde email na khoim voir. Fottmail only available in-fern. Cheers! Kuttu! ah, ha, ha, boro ishtrong mure ho? Khoincho re, Kannkonncho? Silviano ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Mervyn's Konji - now from Canada
Gilbert Lawrence [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Green Tea has been reported by mauxis to help in cancer management and is today described as one 'Complementary Therapy' in cancer treatment. Folks, When I first joined Goanet, there was a Goan medical doctor (I forget his name) who claimed to have a cure for AIDS! He also reported to us that he was nominated, for the fourth time, for the Nobel Prize for medicine. Just when he was starting to get real interesting (we did not have a Cecil then) he was advised to stop posting on Goanet. Oh! his cure for AIDS? Music therapy. Scientists testing the effects of Green Tea on human breast cancer cells report, decreased cell growth and increased cell death. They claim anti-cancer effects of Green Tea may be due at least in part to 'Transcription Repression'. There are several mechanisms, by which Green Tea contributes to decreased levels of 'DNA repair protein'. This study on breast cancer cells is now in the laboratory. Its application to patients in a clinical trial will likely be only a few years away. H, interesting!!! Un-named scientists, doing research in an un-named place and with un-published papers. Hopefully, this is a plot from last weeks Halloween movies. But Gilbert's full circle got me thinking. Before anyone else does, I am going to claim that Goan rice-water is the real, non-toxic cure for cancer. This information is for the benefit of those who have appreciated my prior report, correlating some traditional / ancient cultural practices with modern science. Using non-toxic therapies to compliment the standard scientifically established therapies can help patients today, while science works on resolving all the other details of therapy. Again to keep the zappers / demagogues off my back, let me state the obvious, Green Tea should not be used as a substitute to proper cancer treatment. But as a 'complimentary treatment'. If anyone wants the to try out my complementary treatment, send me a note. I will allow you be part of my research in you include me in your last will. Lastly, let me state the obvious. I am not a medical doctor, I only try to act like one on the Internet. Mervyn3.0 PS. watch out for the first poem from my forthcoming book. It's called, Quack: quack, quack. Its dedicated to, naw, never mind.. __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Aitaracheo Kaskutleo: Atam Sorgarui Politik?
Atam Sorgarui Politik? Kuddchodde, Cacora vattarantlo Carlos Paxeiro kallzacho attak zaun somplo. Aiz atthvo dis tannem sorginchea voikunttan (paradise) mukhi darvonttantlean entry marlear. Voikuttant lhan-vhodd ozaram odik anikui darvontte asle. Prottek darvonttear dor des-antle ani Raj bhaxenlean mahiti tokte (sign board) humkailole distale. Atam sorgar vhetelea monxank thoinsorlea lagu zatolea odhikarean novo hukum ghatlolo. Zonn eklean ap-apnnale maim bhaxechea darvontteaxim nimnne zhoddtek, ollik ubem ravchem aslem. Carlos-ak, Romi lipi-n vachunk ietalem. Khoim tori KONKANI darvonto distolo, ho bhorvonxo dovorun tannem purai voikunttak bhonvanddo ghatlo, punn khoim taka Konknni ulovpeancho darvontto dislo na. Laginch aslelea SPANISH darvontteaxim gelo ani eklea thaim, Konknni uloitoleancho darvontto khoim tori pollela kai mhunn vicharlem ani tannem zap dili. ¿Qué usted está hablando? No entiendo. FRANCE darvontteaxim ek tornni ostori mevli. Tika vicharlem. Tinnem mhonnlem. Que parlez-vous ? Je ne comprends pas. PORTUGUESE darvontteaxim gelo. Somzun, 1961 vorsant Goem soddun gelle Purtugezantlo konn tori eklo Konknni somzotolo astolo, ani thoimsorui taka zap mevlli. Que você está falando? Eu não compreendo. Tegui zannachi eksarkelich Carlosak zap oxi asli what are you talking? I do not understand Bhouch niraxi zaun thoinch lagsorlea bankar boslo. Chukon tori ek Goenkar mellcho oxem taka dislem. Suknnim ani pisollim tachea khanddar bhosun khelltanam, Sanvorddem kazar kellem xezarchea Bostu-chem cheddum Dollorosa tachea dixen ietelem dislem. Taka pollevn khos zalolo khoro punn babdem sonvsarik kazari jivitachem sovuch mhoinnem sarun tem hanga pavlem mhunn, taka zobor dukhlem. Bai Dolloros, tum okosmat hangasor? Tannem vicharlem Carlos tiva, tum azun hanga kitem kortai? Tachea prosnank zap dinastana tinnem, taka vicharlem. Mhoji khobor sodd bai-e. Tuka itlea vegim hangasorli visa konnem dili? Hanv, mhoji Activa ghevn Kuddchoddem, Maruti Gadd-ar pavlelim. Scooter bazuk ubi kortana fattlean minachea ttrokan tovkor divn scooter-i soit kitlech metr xevttun poddlim khorim, punn itlea pois pavtelim mhunn hanvem chintunk na. Minachea ttrokannim Kuddchodde-Sanvorddechea borelea monxancho jiv he toren aksiddentan nattak kortat astana, Goenche cheallis choranche azun dolle kiteak ugtte zainant kai? Noxib amchem Carlos tiva. Ek sang. Tujea fattlean ailele Goenkar bhav-bhonnim hangasor disonant, punn tum ekloch . Kitem sangum bai? Carlosa-n modench zap gali. Ozar torecheo bhaxo sonvsarant asat toxem sorgar asat. Hanvem purai hea voikunttak bhonvadde ghatle punn mhaka khoisoruch KONKANI darvontto dislo na. Tin dis zale hanvuim-i tujech bhoxen bhonvadde ghaltam. Mhakai-i khoinsoruch dislo na. Carlos tiva.!!! (Uloitam-uloitam tinnem Carlosa-chea bhuzar hat marun mhonnlem) Ho to monis ievtileant ieta to amcho xezari Gurudas mu? Oi mu go!! To anik avchit? (Taka ulo korun) Arre Gurudas. Gurudas-an tankam poisuch thavn vollkilim ani aple challik anikui nett dilo ani tanchea sorxim vochun vicharlem Calos bab, Dolla bai tumi hangasor konnachi vatt polletat? Tujem kitem? Mhonnchem, koso pavlo? Tachea vicharak zap dinastana Carlosan prosn kelo. Sokallim, amchea vaddeantlea Rohidasak sagillem, bazarantlean ietna Rogulea dukhonar vochun magelem ghoddiell sarkem kellem asa tem matxe haddpak. Rostearuch saikoll thamboun tannem mhaka ulo marlo. Dogui ami uloitona, khoinchanuch minacho ttrok rostin ienv amcher aptolo. Mhonntoch tukai-i Dollorosa porim mina ttrokan lift dili. Oxe toren minam ttrokannim Kuddchodde-Sanvorddem lokachea jiva kodden khelllear thoddea kalla modem thoimchea rostear monis nhoi fokot ttrokuch distele. Carlosa-n husko dakoun mhonnlem. Ek sangat. Tumi dogaim hangsor ubim kiteak? Bhitor kiteak vochonant? Gurudas-an vicharlem. Vhetelim koxim? Kedov meren dadleam modim cholltelem bhaxon monneaponnan aikotelem Dollorosa-n zap ghatli. Amkam Konkani nanvanchi gate mellona. Kitem? Gate mellona? Ago tumi Konknni gate-xim ubim asat. Hem poi vach Devnogrint boroilam KONKNNI Gurudas bab, mhoje familik ghevn hanvem, Jerusalem Povitr Nogrant (Holy Land) bhett dileli. Jezu Krist-an xikoilelem magnnem Amchea Bapa thoinsorlea eka mondirant Romi lipien boroilelem vachunk mellta. Ani hanga sorgar..? Carlos bab, Goenchi Konknni Raj bhas Devonagrin lipi-n. Zalear hangasorle mahiti tokte Romi-n koxe astele? Tem asum. Darvonttear tori marun pollum-iea mu? Tegaim KONKNNI darvontteaxim ubim. Tokh-tokh korun darvontto dodhailo. Cinemachea poddear dakhoitat te bhoxen slow motion-an ievkarachea fullancho pavs zhoddunk laglo. Soukas darvontto ugtto zalo ani Goenchea Mhojea Goenkamrano git vazlem. Kupantlean konn tori bosun ietale. Ek brown katicho zalear dusro ghoro punn khadd piklolo. Ghoro katicho mukhar ievn koddelir
Re: [Goanet] Mauxi's Kani - now from China
Does anyone familiar with the importation pattern in Goa during Portuguese rule, please explain to me why St. Pauli Girl seemed to be almost the only beer available or consumed in Goa, or am I mistaken? Was it because Goan importers managed to make the most margin on that brand? Did the St Pauli brewers have some hold with the Portuguese govt in Goa? It surely wasn't anywhere near the best beer brands in the world then! Other standard consumables and staples were Kraft processed cheese in tins, Edam (ball) cheese, Cruz Azul condensed milk, Bensdorp Dutch chocolates and Soir de Paris perfumes. To Goans in import starved Bombay of the time, these were great desirables, but I found out the truth when I went to the Arabian Gulf and discovered that these were really low-ball, third-rate items (except for the Edam). With regard to Portuguese Moscatel, Grandjo and Tinto they being not available in the Gulf liquor stores, it wasn't until I came to Canada that I saw they are really of no consequence in taste, bouquet or by most other wine standards. The Ports and Sherrys from Portugal and Spain are world class though I suspect the brands of these two fortified spirits available in Goa were far inferior to the norm. The Portuguese probably thought they were good enough for the natives and the Goans of that time perhaps did not know any better, or were grateful for what they could get. Roland. Discussing beer brands, Gabe Menezes wrote: Lastly, for all you St. Pauli Girl fans of yesteryear Goa, the beer is still available... ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] XCHR: History Hour: Language and Beyond by Shri Eduardo Faleiro
HISTORY HOUR XAVIER CENTRE OF HISTORICAL RESEARCH Cordially invites you to a talk/discussion on LANGUAGE and BEYOND by Shri Eduardo Faleiro at Xavier Centre of Historical Research Alto Porvorim Thursday, 16th November 2006, 5. 30 pm Tel: 2417772 ; 2414971 Shri Eduardo Faleiro has been a very active political and social worker since his university days while studying for L.L.B. and L.L.M. degrees. He was a member of the Legislative Assembly of Goa, Daman and Diu from 1971-76 and Deputy Leader of the Congress Legislature Party (1974-76). He was a member of the Lok Sabha (1977-1996); member of the Executive Committee of the Congress Parliamentary Party (1977-79); President of Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (1990-91); the Convenor of Congress (I) Affairs Department, AICC (I) (1984-86); and also a member of the Upper House of Parliament (1999-2005). He represented India at a number of international conferences. He was the leader of the Indian Delegation to the United Nations in 1992. Shri Faleiro was appointed Minister of State for External Affairs in 1986 and later he was made the Minister of State for Finance in the Ministry of Finance. When the Congress (I) government resumed power at the Centre in June 1991, he was once again made the Minister of State for External Affairs, post he held until January 17, 1993. He was also allocated Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers and given the Additional Charge of the Department of Electronics, Ocean Development and Parliamentary Affairs on December 2, 1993. Shri Faleiro is presently a member of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) and Co-Chairman, Foreign Affairs Department, AICC; and Commissioner for NRI Affairs with Cabinet Minister Rank in the Government of Goa. ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Mauxi's Kani - now from China
From: Gabe Menezes [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org Subject: Re: [Goanet] Mauxi's Kani - now from China Date: Sat, 4 Nov 2006 13:04:41 + Since the opening of the flood gates, we have had many Poles emigrating to London and consequently many Polish beers are now on sale here. Very fine Czech beers are also plentiful in London, like Pilzen Urquell, ostensibly the original Pilsner beer. Pilsne is the name of the village where this beer hails from: Hence, the Pissner category. Also known as the queen of beers. The incomparable par exelance Czech hops ensure the super quality of their brews. Alfred _ FREE pop-up blocking with the new MSN Toolbar - get it now! http://toolbar.msn.click-url.com/go/onm00200415ave/direct/01/ ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
