[Goanet] Copper Enamel Jewellery workshop at Goa Chitra- 16th Feb. 2019
Dear Members and Friends of Goa Chitra, Greetings from Goa Chitra, Goa Chitra Ethnographic Museum is conducting a Copper Enamel Jewellery Making workshop on February 16, 2019. The workshop will be conducted by French Artist Delphine Geoffray who is renowned for her intricate and contemporary take on the jewellery process. Participants will learn how to work with beaten copper, colourful enamel, a customized kiln for baking of the jewellery and will have the pleasure of taking their personal piece of art back home! From earrings to necklaces, to pendants to bangles, we are eager to invite individuals who are keen to explore the intricate and exquisite world of copper and enamel jewellery! *Workshop Details:* *DATE: *Saturday, Feb 16, 2019* | VENUE: *Goa Chitra Ethnographic Museum, Benaulim * There will be two batches of three hours each and the course fee will be inclusive of materials Batch 1 - *9:00 AM to 12:00 PM* | Batch 2 – *3:00 PM to 6:00 PM *For further details and registration please call 08322772910/11 or call/Whatsapp: +91 9535710558 | +91 9850466165 Interested in more events at Goa Chitra? Join us on Facebook and Instagram!* Thank you! *Victor Hugo Gomes,* Founder and Curator, Goa Chitra Ethnographic Museum. >
[Goanet] STARRY, STARRY NIGHT- a Live tribute to the Acoustic Guitar Kings, at Goa Chitra on 23rd March 2013.
Dear Members and friends of Goa Chitra, Greetings from Goa Chitra. We would like to thank you once again for your continuous support to Goa Chitra and for being there to help us follow this dream of preserving the past for posterity. We look forward to seeing you for the upcoming event “Starry, Starry Night” featuring ACOUSTRIX – In a Live Tribute To The Acoustic Guitar at Goa Chitra – 23rd March, 2013 featuring legendary musicians, Barry on Lead Guitar and Vocals, Desmond Taylor on Rhythm Guitar and Vocals, Berty on bass Guitar and vocals and Benny Soans on drums. (Check details below) The concert will be held at Goa Chitra, Benaulim on 23rd of March, 2013 from 8:00 pm – 10pm followed by dinner. To avail of a 60% discount and other benefits and privileges at Goa Chitra, those Members who have not renewed their membership are kindly requested to do so at the earliest. Special discounts on group bookings of upto 40%. There would be no reservation of tables over the phone. The seating would be six guests per table on first come first serve basis. For new membership and other details kindly call 08322772910, 08326570877 between 9am and 6pm. Thank you for all the support to Goa Chitra. Warm regards, Victor Hugo Gomes (Curator, Goa Chitra) STARRY, STARRY NIGHT Featuring the legendary retro band, “ACOUSTRIX” In a Live tribute to the Acoustic Guitar, at Goa Chitra on 23rd March 2013. Goa Chitra continues ‘The Great Music Revival Concert’ series 2012-2013 this season with an exciting evening, “Starry Starry Night”, a truly authentic and awe inspiring journey back to the mid/late 1960’s featuring the legendary retro band, “ACOUSTRIX” on the 23rd of March, 2013, 8 pm onwards Paying a tribute to the acoustic guitar, ACOUSTRIX - a Mumbai based group of four dedicated and experienced musicians will take you on a trip back in time and make you experience firsthand the nostalgic kaleidoscope of ambiance, guitars and songs by legendary acoustic guitar kings like: The Everly Brothers, Neil Diamond, Eric Clapton, The Eagles, Creedence Clearwater Revival, James Taylor, John Denver, Cliff Richard and The Shadows, Crosby Stills and Nash, Simon Garfunkel, The Beatles, Don Mclean, amongst a host of others. The acoustic guitar which used to be at one time, at the back of the orchestra; not only was it not heard against all the horns, strings and other instruments; it was not even seen at times. Today, after the onset of guitar amplifiers and guitar pick-ups, it is at the forefront of all genres of music and we get to see and hear great artistes like Chet Atkins, Les Paul right down to Jose Feliciano, The Beatles, Crosby Stills and Nash, classical, country, folk singers and players. It is for the love of such an instrument and the musicians it created that Barry, Desmond, Benny and Berty will pay tribute to the vitality and the beauty of the acoustic guitar. A genius of a musician, Barry on Lead Guitar and Vocals has wide repertoire and a unique sound which draws from the seventies flower power era of experimental rock and funk, Ardent Beatles, The Shadows, Folk/rock Fan Desmond Taylor on Rhythm Guitar and Vocals is an amazing guitarist with an equally amazing voice with diversified vocal abilities. He has led many a band for performances to an international audience. He favours Elvis, Cliff Richard The Shadows, The Beatles and Country music Drummer Benny Soans, an ace class drummer who has drummed his way into the hearts of his fans in Mumbai and across India and has plenty of experience and excels in jazz, retro, etc ,and plays drums with artistes like Shubha Mudgal, Ash Chandler. Berty D’Silva an all-round bassist and vocalist, excels in showing off the acoustic of a guitar and this passion of his, has had him perform with top musicians/bands with the likes of Louis Banks, Merlin, Shabaka, etc The event shall commence from 8.00 p.m. sharp to 10.00 p.m.; followed by dinner. There would be limited entry, please confirm booking by 21st of March 2013. For details contact on 08326570877 / 08322772910/09850446065. The Great Music Revival Concert series is a creative initiative to promote the Goa Chitra's membership drive and raise funds for the museum. Those who wish to be a privileged member of Goa Chitra may call on the above numbers or email to goachi...@gmail.com for details. Members please collect entry pass from Goa Chitra reception. END
[Goanet] International Women’s Day celebrations at Goa Chitra on Friday 8th of March 2013
Dear members and friends of Goa Chitra, Greetings from Goa Chitra You are invited to celebrate its annual International Women’s Day at Goa Chitra on Friday 8th of March 2013 from 4.30 pm onwards. The event is open to all on prior confirmation. For further details contact 08322772910/08326570877/ 9850466165 or email goachi...@gmail.com Please find details about the event attached below. Looking forward to your participation, Warm Regards, Victor Hugo Gomes About the event: GOA CHITRA TO CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY ON 8TH OF MARCH 2013, 4.30 PM onwards at Goa Chitra Museum, Benaulim. Since 1911, the 8th of March is celebrated as international women’s day. Women across the globe across all ethnicity, religion and socioeconomic strata, organizations and companies join in with events to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women and reflect on the continuing challenges women still face. To honour this occasion, Goa Chitra, an ethnographical museum situated at Benaulim is organizing an assemble on the 8th of March 2013 from 4:30 pm onwards. Working around the theme “A PROMISE IS A PROMISE: LET’S JOIN HANDS TO STOP THE VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN”, people from every walk of life are invited to join in the discussion and share their story and message. The event shall commence at 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm with making of “The Godri of Promises” (The quilt of promises) which signifies the coming together of women with a single message “STOP THE VIOLENCE”. All those interested in joining “The Godri of Promises” workshop are requested to bring along their piece of cloth with their own story and message. Poonam Pandit, textile designer from NIFT Delhi, who has designed with textile craftsmen using traditional methods and has also complied a documentary of Goan Godri and Manna while facilitating workshops on patchwork for GHRISSIDC, shall coordinate ‘“The Godri of Promises” which will than go on display in many centres across Goa and India and before it is finally displayed at the Goa Chitra museum. The Godri workshop will be followed with presentations and discussion of relevant topic of concern in today’s India from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm · Albertina Almeida, advocate, women activist and president of Agaand Saad will discuss on “The Challenges Faced By Women In Dealing With Violence In India” · Dr. Ira Almeida, senior paediatrician at the Hospicio hospital Margao shall discuss on ‘Abuse And The Aftermath Of It Amongst Young Children’ especially the girl child · Roxana Singh associate professor of English literature and Dr. Belinda Viegas Muller leading psychiatrist and writer shall read monologues from the narrative of different women Let’s join hands together and celebrate womanhood that is pushing to live on equal-space. The event is open to all on prior confirmation. For further details contact 08322772910/08326570877/ 9850466165 or email goachi...@gmail.com
[Goanet] Invite- Book Launch on 26th Feb at Goa Chitra- My Godri Anthology | Patch you in?
Dear Members and friends of Goa Chitra, Greetings from Goa Chitra. Goa Chitra invites you for the release of My Godri Anthology by Merle Almeida (A Bookworm production). MGA is a little picture book about a quilt and the tales it tells. Designer and film-maker Nina Sabnani has used needle craft and other wondrous storytelling tools to bring these tales to life. Merle has drawn upon her grandmother's life in Assolna in the 20thC to string the tales together, but it is also the wider story of a time and a community in this part of Goa. It is appropriate that it is being launched with an exchange of community memory: Dr. Pandurang Phaldesai, folklorist and cultural anthropologist, will talk about folklore narratives and Eleanor Viegas, textile artist, will share her experiences of working with women who find their voice in needle craft. Savia Viegas, writer and art historian, will talk to Merle, Nina and publisher Sujata Noronha about their new book - why and how it came to be. RSVP 08326570877 / 08322772910/09850466165. Looking forward to seeing you, Warm regards, Victor Hugo Gomes09850466165www.goachitra.com Sneak peek: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obuKBcjTRU4 More on: http://bookwormgoa.in/bookworm-publishing/my-godri-anthology/ Buy at: http://goo.gl/Chw7l Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MyGodriAnthology Facebook event - North Goa: https://www.facebook.com/events/341155095991032/ Facebook event - South Goa: https://www.facebook.com/events/547492051950397/
[Goanet] Acclaimed Musicians to Pay Live Tribute to The Ladies Of Jazz, At Goa Chitra ON 23rd Feb 2013.
Dear Members and friends of Goa Chitra, Greetings from Goa Chitra. We would like to thank you once again for your continuous support to Goa Chitra and for being there to help us follow this dream of preserving the past for posterity. We look forward to seeing you for the upcoming event featuring ‘Tribute to the Ladies of Jazz’ – featuring some of the renowned musicians in the world of jazz and blues nationally and internationally. The line up includes Yvonne Gonsalves (Vocals), Sharon Rodriguez (Vocals), Darryl Rodrigues (key`s vocals), Anthony Fernandes (Bass), Bosco Dsouza (Drums), Bob Tinker from France (Trumpet) and Colin Laguna from Netherlands (Saxophone). Check details below. The concert will be held at Goa Chitra, Benaulim on 23rd of February, 2013 from 8:00 pm – 10pm followed by dinner. To avail of a 60% discount and other benefits and privileges at Goa Chitra, those Members who have not renewed their membership are kindly requested to do so at the earliest. For group bookings of 6 and above members there would be a flat 40% discount. There would be no reservation of tables. The seating would be six guests per table on first come first serve basis. Gates will be opened at 7.30pm sharp. For new membership kindly call 08322772910, 08326570877 for details. Thank you for all the support to Goa Chitra. Warm regards, Victor Hugo Gomes (Curator, Goa Chitra) Acclaimed Musicians to Pay Tribute to The Ladies Of Jazz, Live At Goa Chitra After five houseful concerts of the Great Music Revival series, Goa Chitra presents its sixth concert of the season with Internationally acclaimed musicians who come together to pay tribute to ‘The Ladies Of Jazz’ on the 23rd of February, 8 pm onward at the intimate Goa Chitra amphi-theatre. One of its kind, this concert promises to enthral the audience once again with some hot smoking tunes right through the evening. Every track they cover shall bare a distinct stamp of each musician’s forte and maturity, capturing the music’s emotion. The first half is promised to be filled with noteworthy pieces. The ensemble shall warm up the audience with a “Tribute to the ladies of Jazz”- Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Anita O'Day belting songs like ‘How High the Moon’; ‘Mack The Knife’; ‘Misty’; ‘Lullaby of Birdland’; ‘Green Dolphin Street’; ‘Body Soul’; ‘Taking a chance on Love’; ‘The nearness of you; and ‘The man I love’ to name a few of what shall be an captivating evening. The band is made up of renowned musicians in the world of jazz and blues nationally and internationally. The line up includes Yvonne Gonsalves (Vocals), Sharon Rodriguez (Vocals), Darryl Rodrigues (key`s vocals), Anthony Fernandes (Bass), Bosco Dsouza (Drums), Bob Tinker from France (Trumpet) and Colin Laguna from Netherlands (Saxophone). Yvonne Gonsalves, the daughter of “Chic Chocolate”, the legendary trumpeter and band leader and wife of the famous Saxophonist, Braz Gonsalves began singing professionally in 1967, gaining a name for herself as a powerful vocalist. She has sung with some of the finest jazz musicians from across the globe. Sharon Rodriguez’s versatility as a singer is reflected in her repertoire which consists of the jazz standards, retro, ballads, techno, latino and disco. A member of the famous ‘AQUA FLOW’ Mumbai, Sharon has enthralled audiences world over with tours in Canada, the middle east and Europe. She has worked for music directors such as A.R Rahman, Anu Malik, Daboo Malik, Sandesh Shandiliya, Ismail Darbar, Rajesh Roshan, Himesh Reshammiya, Jatin Lalit, Nadeem Shravan She has also provided back up vocals on Indi Pop albums for artistes such as Akbar Sami, Adnan Sami, Sukhwindara Singh, Daler Mehndi, Vikas Bhalla, Tanya Singh, Suchitra Krishnamoorty, Shaan etc. to name just a few. Bob Tinker (Trumpet- Flugelhorn) from UK, living in France - has been playing at Le Reveillon Jazz Cafe, Paris, on weekends - also, is part of the Glen Miller Memorial International Band, touring all over Europe. Bob is a session musician who has travelled and performed in Hong Kong, Japan and other Asian countries including India. Colin Laguna (Jazz-saxophone), part of the Royal conservatory from the Netherlands, is a frequent visitor to India- He writes his own songs: chords, melody lyrics. He has played world over in jazz-duo's, -trio's and jazz-quartets, a Big Band and two soul/funk formations Darryl Rodrigues (key`s vocals): of the aqua flow fame from Mumbai .has performed with the legends of music including ,the late Chris Perry, Asha Bhonsle, Sharon Prabhakar, Suneeta Rao, Colonial Cousins, Ash-Chandler and Mansi Scott to name a few. Anthony Fernandes (Bass). is very passionate about jazz music ever since he has started playing the bass. Has played with Helen Louise Jones from England and more.. Bosco Dsouza (Drums), has travelled to Europe gulf and toured widely across India as a drummer
[Goanet] The ‘Flypsyde’- a tribute to ABBA, Live at Goa Chitra on Sat. 9th feb 2013
Dear Members and friends of Goa Chitra, Greetings from Goa Chitra. We would like to thank you once again for your continuous support to Goa Chitra and for being there to help us follow this dream of preserving the past for posterity. We look forward to seeing you for the upcoming event featuring ‘Flypsyde’ – tribute band from Mumbai for the first time in Goa in a live tribute to ABBA on the eve of carnival, 9th of February, 2013 from 8:00 pm – 10pm followed by dinner. The popular pop band ABBA of the seventies shall receive homage at Goa Chitra, an ethnographic museum situated in Benaulim. For the first time ever an Indian band shall pay tribute to a once most popular and most loved band that has the honor to have its name included into the rock and roll hall of fame. (Check details below). To avail of a 60% discount and other benefits and privileges at Goa Chitra, those Members who have not renewed their membership are kindly requested to do so at the earliest. For group bookings of 6 and above members there would be a flat 40% discount and a reserved table. The seating for individuals and groups below 6 would be on first come first serve basis. For new membership kindly call 08322772910, 08326570877 for details. Thank you for all the support to Goa Chitra. Warm regards, Victor Hugo Gomes (Curator, Goa Chitra) The ‘Flypsyde’- a tribute to ABBA, Live at Goa Chitra The last overwhelming concert at Goa Chitra,“The Awesome 4some” won the hearts of all the Beatles fans at the Great Music Revival Concert series 2012-2013 held on the 25th of January with the audience shouting encore, not letting the band to stop, having a sliver of the Beatles experience and making the popular adage “ Beatles never die “ come true. With such an electrifying performance, Goa Chitra presents yet another exclusive event; The ‘Flypsyde’ – in a live tribute to ABBA on the eve of carnival, on Saturday, 9th of February, 2013 from 8:00 pm onwards. The popular pop band ABBA of the seventies shall receive homage at Goa Chitra, an ethnographical museum situated in Benaulim. For the first time ever an Indian band shall pay tribute to a once most popular and most loved band that has the honor to have its name included into the rock and roll hall of fame. The ‘Flypsyde’ is a band excelling in music of the famous Swedish group ‘ABBA’. Besides regularly performing in some of the most-sort after places in Mumbai like the Blue Frog, Not Just Jazz by the Bay, the Flypsyde has also performed nationally and internationally. Leader and founder member of the band, Schubert Vaz who has been well respected in the music industry across India as a veteran pianist, keyboardist (Jazz and Pop/Retro) and backing vocalist has been playing professionally for almost 4 decades and firmly believes ABBA’s music is favored across generations . The members of the band also include Antonella D’Souza Lead lady Vocalist who has a natural flair for lead as well as harmony. Brynelle D’Silva vocal range allows her to silk out an ABBA ‘Waterloo’. Desmond Taylor one of the best Bass Guitarist and lead Male Vocalist in Mumbai complete the pairs that make up an ABBA tribute. Also joining them on sets is Savio Braganza Lead Guitarist and Ivan Cardozo, one of India's drum legends, who has been at it for close to 3 decades and played with many national and international artists in Mumbai The ‘Flypsyde’ doing the chord progression and the intense vocal harmony makes Abba music not only danceable, but very soothing for listening pleasure. Each of ABBA’s song is different and enjoyable and promises to leave an everlasting moment for the audience. Be there to listen to ‘Waterloo, I have a dream, Honey, Money, and the one time favorite, Dancing Queen’ have or you are sure to have missed a memorable evening. The concert shall begin and end with other popular music of that era. The event will start at 8.00 p.m. sharp on the 9th of February 2013 and is inclusive of dinner. There would be limited entry; members and guests are requested to confirm their booking by 7th of February 2013 to avoid disappointment. For details contact on 08326570877/ 08322772910/09850446065 or email goachi...@gmail.com. END
[Goanet] Membership Renewal The Big Bang Blues Live In Concert at Goa Chitra on The 14th December 2012
Dear Members and Friends of Goa Chitra, Greetings from Goa Chitra. To match its successful fund raising venture of promoting the membership drive as a means to preserve the past for posterity, Goa Chitra opens the Great Music Revival Concert series 2012-2013 and presents for the first time in Goa- The Big Bang Blues (BBB) on the 14th of December 2012 from 8pm to 10pm followed by dinner. The Great Music Revival Concert series is a creative initiative to raise funds and bridge the gap between the past and the present with the musical ingenuity of Goa’s own testimony to its rich unforgettable musical past. Those who wish to be a privileged member of Goa Chitra may call on the above numbers or email to goachi...@gmail.com for details. Members please collect entry pass from Goa Chitra reception. Please note: GOA CHITRA MEMBERSHIPa) To avail of a 60% discount and other benefits and privileges at Goa Chitra, those Members who have not renewed their membership are kindly requested to do so by 12th Dec. 2012. Membership Form and details attached.b) Those who are interested in becoming new members of Goa Chitra are requested to check the attached membership details for benefits and privileges. Thank you for all the support to Goa Chitra. Warm regards, Victor Hugo Gomes Big Bang Blues Live In Concert at Goa Chitra on The 14th December 2012 To match its successful fund raising venture of promoting the membership drive as a means to preserve the past for posterity, Goa Chitra opens the Great Music Revival Concert series 2012-2013 and presents for the first time in Goa- The Big Bang Blues (BBB) on the 14th of December 2012. The Big Bang Blues (BBB) is not an everyday performance but one that has recently taken India by storm. This six-piece band creates its sound from the diverse influences brought in together by the members who trace their roots to completely different backgrounds. Although mostly referred to as a Blues band, the members of BBB contend that it is an incomplete interpretation of their music. Influenced by genres of Blues, RnB, Jazz, Funk and Rock, BBB brings a wide repertoire of music to the stage. From influences ranging from the Mississippi Delta Blues, to 60’s influenced Blues-Rock to Indian Fusion to Metal the members have done it all in their previous musical careers. BBB brings to the Indian music scene a variety of sounds with a fresh breath of energy. Their debut album titled, “Bigger than Blues” includes all original music written and composed by members of BBB. Each of the songs has grown out of struggles and experiences in the lives of individual members. The album comprises of five tracks composed over the past three years of the band’s existence. The songs reflect various emotions that the members have gone through at some point of time in their life. The songs and the album have been well received by the listeners and reviewed by both Rock Street Journal and What The Scene India Is. What defines the Big Bang Blues sound is the fact that they play what they ‘feel’. Their music is emotional, soul driven and heartfelt. A blues inspired sound, keeps them rooted to the traditions, while they love experimenting with rhythms, beats and melodies. Be there and be part of an evening that promises to be filled with magical musical moments. The event shall commence from 8.00 p.m. sharp to 10.00 p.m.; followed by dinner. There would be limited entry, please confirm booking by 12th December 2012. For details contact on 08326570877 / 08322772910/09850446065.
[Goanet] PRESS NOTE: For favour of publication- Verodiano Prize for Literature
Hi, Greetings from Goa Chitra. Kindly publish the below attached press note on the annual Verodiano award for Literature that was announced at Goa Chitra on 5th Nov. 2012. Thank you for all the support to Goa Chitra. Warm regards, Victor Hugo Gomes PRESS NOTE: For favour of publication VERODIANO AWARD FOR LITERATURE ANNOUNCED - BENAULIM, Nov 8: Noted expat Goan surrealist artist, poet and philanthropist Dom Martin has announced an annual Verodiano Prize for Literature, which will be awarded annually. This announcement came at recently held function at Goa Chitra- ‘the Vincent Xavier Verodiano 2012 Award ceremony’ which was conferred on alternative publishers Goa, 1556; inclusive of a cash prize of Rs 50,000. The Verodiano Prize for Literature, is initiated to commemorate Dom martin’s father’s birth centennial celebration At the function which witnessed a packed audience, Frederick Noronha founder of Goa 1556 spoke on publishing in India Across India, unlike in the West, book publishing is booming today. There are 90,000 books published each year, and about 19,000 publishers. India has the sixth-largest publishing industry in the world. Noronha argued while this was true of metropolitan India and the big cities, those areas which were on the 'periphery' -- either in a geographical sense, or because their culture, history and issues are not adequately understood by the so-called 'mainstream' -- there is a famine for regional and relevant books being produced. In a critical presentation, chief guest and sociology professor Alito Siqueira argued that publishing can deprive people of a voice too. Knowledge artefacts allow us to imagine our past through it, and want the world to see it as such too. Siqueira was critical of local intellectual institutions for not reflecting the wider diversity of Goa, excluding many, and not even accepting plurality of language. He called for reflection of the voices of the other Goa and said there is ferment going on out there. We are drawing our stories from a very small group of like-minded and like-nurtured stories. Therefore the stories are painfully similar too. The artifacts we produce talk to ourselves about ourselves, he said, calling all to take things forward. Engaging with other communities is always thereupatic, he says. If you give the chance to those deprived, new ideas would come from their mind, he argued. Siqueira offered a number of examples of his students, who might not have the best of language skills but had their own amazing stories to tell. We need walking, talking stories of our villages and towns, as if it is alive today, said Siqueira. The guest of honour, author-psychiatrist Dr Belinda Viegas shared her own experiences with Goa 1556 and thanked Pamela and Frederick Noronha for giving novice authors like her a chance to be read. Aldina Gomes, director of Goa Chitra compered the function. ENDS
[Goanet] Invitation- 2012 VINCENT XAVIER VERODIANO AWARD to ‘Goa 1556’
Dear friends, Greetings from Goa Chitra On behalf of The President The Executive Council of the VINCENT XAVIER VERODIANO FOUNDATION are pleased to invite you for the function of conferment of the 2012 VINCENT XAVIER VERODIANO AWARD on ‘Goa 1556’ founded by journalist Frederick Noronha on Monday. 5th November 2012 at 5.30 p.m. at The Goa Chitra Museum, Benaulim. Mr. Alito Siqueira, associate professor, Dept. of Sociology, Goa University has kindly consented to grace the occasion as the Chief Guest in the presence of the Guest of Honour, leading psychiatrist and English Novelist, Dr. Belinda Viegas. The function shall commence at 5.30 p.m on the 5th of November 2012, at Goa Chitra Museum. The event is open to all on prior confirmation. For further details and confirmation contact 08322772910, 08326570877 or email goachi...@gmail.com. Sincerely, Victor Hugo Gomes (Curator, Goa Chitra) 2012 VINCENT XAVIER VERODIANO AWARD The Vincent Xavier Verodiano Award is awarded by the Vincent Xavier Verodiano Foundation. The objective of the award is to promote the wellbeing of mankind through individual advancement in the field of art, music, literature, science, medicine or humanities. The award was founded by Dom Martin in 1989, in memory of his late father, Vincent Xavier Verodiano. The winner is announced on the 20th day of September, and the award is conferred on the 5th day of November. This year the prestigious Vincent Xavier Verodiano Award has been conferred on Goa 1556 in recognition of its pioneering commitment to record Goa’s variegated past, project its kaleidoscopic present, and accentuate its pendulous future. Goa 1556 is an alternative publishing venture, founded by veteran journalist Frederick Noronha. The company name was inspired by the arrival of the Gutenberg Printing press to Goa in the year 1556 – the first of its kind in all of Asia. As Mr. Noronha succinctly put it, the primary goal of his publishing company is to “democratise the production of knowledge”. The editorial modulation of Goa 1556 is non-fiction writing related to Goa, with emphasis on books which “shed interesting new light on various aspects that help better understand the complex region called Goa.” As of August 2012, Goa 1556 has amassed an assortment of 45 titles to its credentials. Mr. Alito Siqueira, Associate Professor, Dept. of Sociology, Goa University has kindly consented to grace the occasion as the Chief Guest in the presence of the Guest of Honour, leading psychiatrist and English Novelist, Dr. Belinda Viegas. The function shall commence on the 5th of November 2012, 5.30 p.m. at Goa Chitra Museum. The event is open to all on prior confirmation. For further details and confirmation contact 08322772910, 08326570877 or email goachi...@gmail.com Invitation attached
[Goanet] Press Release for kind publication- HARVEST CELEBRATIONS at GOA CHITRA On World Food Day
Hi, Greetings from Goa Chitra. Kindly publish the attached press note in your esteemed News paper with regard to the “Annual harvest celebration” at Goa Chitra held to commemorate World Food Day. Thank you for your continuous support. With best regards, Victor Hugo Gomes www.goachitra.com Press Note HARVEST CELEBRATIONS at GOA CHITRA On World Food Day World Food Day celebrated globally on 16th of Oct brings to fore issues related to our own xetcamoti and the state of agriculture in Goa today. The Food Agriculture Organization [FAO of UN] theme for World Food Day 2012 is “Agricultural cooperatives – key to feeding the world” . It has been chosen to highlight the role of cooperatives in improving food security and contributing to the eradication of hunger. Interest in cooperatives and rural organizations is also reflected in the decision of the UN General Assembly to designate 2012 “International Year of Cooperatives.” With a dual purpose of reviving traditions and educating while having fun; Goa Chitra celebrated World Food Day with their harvest. Harvest is a time of celebration, for mother earth is fertile with bounty, for humans remember that it is the red soil that gives them food and we need to give thanks. Thus as an annual feature; this day marks the hard work of the farmers who toils our land to produce the grains on our table. Members and friends of Goa Chitra, of all ages and from all walks of life were invited to work side by side with the xetcamoti. The idea prompted by the curator of the museum Mr. Victor Hugo Gomes is to create an appreciation of traditions in a set up that is holistic. “We never realize how much efforts go before the rice grain reaches the shelves of supermarkets and finally on our dining table” explains Mr. Victor Hugo Gomes with a sickle in hand while beating the harsh sun rays. It is difficult work but very satisfying he continues, “Threshing alongside the xetcamoti helps not only our children but also their parents to value farming and somewhere it also gives an opportunity to our young children to appreciate their agrarian roots”. The day began early as enthusiastic parents and their children alongside the xetcamoti bent over with their sickles to cut the ripe stalk of grain for harvest and mark the significance of solidarity of struggle against hunger. Mothers were seen helping their children while Jude’s five piece brass band churned tunes of encouragement to motivate the enthusiastic young and novice farmers to dare the hot sun. For academician Mrs. Theresa Almeida spending time in such an environment is rewarding. “Such an enriching experience this is for the kids” she opined with Dr. Belinda Veigas Muller nodding in agreement. With traditional snacks and traditional juices being served, the harvesting continued with a short break for traditional pez (kanji) served in a podggo with crunchy pickled mangoes and dry fish (karem). The freshly harvested rice corn was brought to the threshing yard where it was threshed using a manual threshing machine and by the traditional threshing method. Activist Jayesh Raut could not help himself, and took the modkul (threshing stick) from the farmers to thresh and commented “I kept myself free this afternoon so I could be part of this experience”. Architect Parvesh Sardesai and Dr Neha A. Khadpe were seen guiding their children thresh the paddy on a manual threshing machine. For Parvesh such an experience brought back memories of the past, which she considers it of great importance to pass it on to her children. She adds “In a time when the world is combating the conflicts of contemporary living, such an experience is morally educative and enriching.” For Dr Neha A. Khadpe “this efforts to keep alive traditions is commendable” Following the process of threshing was winnowing, and then followed by traditional parboiling of previously harvested paddy. The afternoon kept getting interesting for the guests, who was were made to gather around a huge Tawa for the traditional smoking of mackerels on harvested hay, with binda solam and green chilies. Mr. Sanjit Rodriques could not help relive his childhood memories as he was seen explaining to his daughter the delights of such cuisine. The hard day labour was well rewarded with the guest being served authentic goan culinary treats. A community effort orchestrated by Aldina Gomes, Director of Goa Chitra, the buffet consisted of ukde tandol( boiled rice), samarachi kodi with dry prawns , chicken xacuti, shark amotik, roasted meats, pumkin baji and attol. For all the guests, the efforts of toiling and threshing were worth the food! The celebration ended with guests singing folk songs with Robert Vaz and architect Carlos Gracias on Guitars. END
[Goanet] Goa Chitra Celebrates World Tourism Day with Education Tourism
Dear Members and friends of Goa Chitra, Greetings from Goa Chitra. In an initiative to celebrate the World Tourism Day (September 27) with a difference and to redefine the tourism in Goa beyond the notion of sun, surf and frolic, Goa Chitra last weekend organised a 2-day course for a group of 21 visiting students from various American universities. Please check details below. Thank you for all the support to Goa Chitra. Warm regards, Victor Hugo Gomes Goa Chitra Celebrates World Tourism Day with Education Tourism In an initiative to celebrate the World Tourism Day (September 27) with a difference and to redefine the tourism in Goa beyond the notion of sun, surf and frolic, Goa Chitra last weekend organised a 2-day course for a group of 21 visiting students from various American universities. “I wanted them to connect with the indigenous people of Goa, understand the complexities of our culture and heritage and maybe learn a few lessons on sensitivity from the wisdom of our ancestors,” says Curator Victor Hugo Gomes. Conducted by an international organization, the students were part of study abroad programme tailor-made for the US students that seek to deliver high-quality education while simultaneously promoting the development of intercultural competence. “This education trail has been incorporated within their semester as a field trip so as to maintain authenticity of the experience,” explains Gomes. The curator further comments “The tourism in Goa has to look at new approaches and challenges that face Goa’s identity. These education trails are initiated so tourists may also be encouraged to become students and understand Goa within the larger context of India and the world. On day one, the students were taken on a visit to an 18th century Goan Indo-Portuguese house, followed by a tour of different prominent, heritage churches and an ancient temple. This followed the traditional Catholic Goan lunch at Goa Chitra and a guided tour of the organic farm and the ethnographic museum, with curator Gomes explaining the genesis of Goa Chitra, and various artifacts and their significance in the lives of Goans. The day ended with a visit to The Pilar museum. On day two, the group of US students in their early twenties, drove through the beautiful villages of Maina, Curtorim and Chandor. After a visit to a private 350-years old mansion, the group was shown select historical spots in Rivona, before proceeding to spend time with the Dhangar community in Netravali. Here, the students participated one-on-one with the indigenous people, watching in awe the intricate traditional broom-making and rope-weaving techniques using kombyo tree fibre. “In earlier days, these ropes were used to tie the animals as they were softer on the skin”, explained Gomes, while highlighting the self-sufficient lifestyle, the knowledgebase and the use of local material in construction by the Dhangar community. The group later visited a traditional areca nut-cum-coconut plantation where the owner explained the different uses of both the trees besides disseminating information on several others crops including vanilla, pineapple, coffee, cinnamon, cashew nuts, honey and others. Thereafter, the students were allowed to swim in an ancient lake and were offered traditional Goan lunch. The workshop ended with a visit to a traditional Goan 225-years old Hindu mud house. While for the course coordinators and students, this study expedition has been more than experiential, the students were genuinely surprised at the experiences. “The mix of Indian traditions with a hint of western flavour gives the Goan Indian a distinctive characteristic even when considered globally,” said a joyous participant. Goa Chitra regularly conducts these educational trails and workshops in association with various international, national and local universities and colleges. These are aimed at educating the participants on the rich and varied facets of Goan culture and heritage, and seek to create an alternative form of tourism, the Education Tourism. Those interested, please call us on 9850466165, 08322772910, 08326570877 or e-mail us at goachi...@gmail.com. END
[Goanet] Press Release-Goa Chitra Celebrates World Elders Day With Senior Citizens of the State.
Hi, Greetings from Goa Chitra. Kindly publish the below attached press note on the World Elders day celebrated with Senior Citizens at Goa Chitra. To celebrate the World Elders Day, Goa Chitra threw open its doors to senior citizens on October 1, 2012. Visitors from different homes for the aged and senior citizens across Goa were invited for a free and special tour of the museum, conducted personally by the curator and collector Victor Hugo Gomes. Thank you for all the support to Goa Chitra. Warm regards, Victor Hugo Gomes Press Release Goa Chitra Celebrates World Elders Day With Senior Citizens of the State. To celebrate the World Elders Day, Goa Chitra threw open its doors to senior citizens on October 1, 2012. Visitors from different homes for the aged and senior citizens across Goa were invited for a free and special tour of the museum, conducted personally by the curator and collector Victor Hugo Gomes. The transport was sponsored by Quadros Suzuki, Margao. World Elders Day is celebrated globally on 1st Oct to consider the old people in the society and create awareness among the public about the care of the senior citizens. The event at Goa Chitra received an overwhelming response as senior citizens, in their wheel chairs and with walking sticks, roamed the corridors of Goa Chitra, echoing Konkani lexicon along with the curator and adding their own Portuguese translation. “For me this was an emotional experience since it was not long ago that I had heard similar stories from my grandmother,” said Gomes. Gomes spoke about his journey of building the museum, and his collection of various items from different corners of the state for their preservation. He explained every object displayed in the museum, including the 17 operations involved in farming to storage, and the clay vessels used for cooking. For 88-year-old, Berthalina Fernandes, the oldest visitor to Goa Chitra, the day was an extremely moving experience. With tears in her eyes, she confessed that “Goa Chitra tour took me back to my childhood days. It is sad to see that farming implements which were used earlier are on display today.'' To her it was going down the memory lane when life was simple and everything had meaning and purpose. For another senior citizen, Candida Fernandes, it was an instant connection not only to the implements on display but to the entire concept of preserving it for the future generations.. “I am happy to be at Goa Chitra. This place has preserved the ‘Real Goa’. How else would tomorrow’s youth know about their ancestry?” she remarked. The 83-years old Bonita D'Souza was all nostalgic as she revealed that she was from Bardez and had spent most of her years in Africa. “Coming to Goa Chitra was like visiting the 'Real Goa'. The museum has got very beautiful and inestimable collection. I believe that every Goan must visit this place to get in touch with the beautiful Goa which is no longer a reality.'' For Josephine Mendonca, her smile was enough to express her awe at the display. “In the past these were things that we would use every day, and now we see them on display makes me happy. Thank you for taking on this endeavour. It is not only us the aged but also the younger generation who shall be forever grateful. God bless and thanks to the founder for all his efforts.” In their own wisdom, they knew that all they saw is now history and was grateful to this experience. One could feel the hesitance as they had to leave, because for many they had come home to their youth. 78 yrs old Jacinta Gomes while blessing Victor said '' Goa Chitra is a beautiful place. I cannot offer anything to this place besides prayers and good wishes. God bless you all and keep up the good work.'' The visitors sang some old Konkani songs recollecting their childhood. The tour ended with an interaction over snacks and tea, and presenting mementos to the senior guests. Mr. Victor Gomes concluded the session stating that Goa Chitra is a tribute to the ancestors and their way of life and that it is his gift for the future generations. Goa Chitra, Goa’s first and only ethnographical museum, situated in Benaulim is open to public on all days between 9.00 am to 6.00 pm. For details call 08326579877, 08322772910, 09850466165 or email goachi...@gmail.com.
[Goanet] Press release- Goa Chitra Celebrates World Tourism Day with Education Tourism
Hi, Greetings from Goa Chitra. Kindly publish the below attached press note on the World Tourism day celebrated by Goa Chitra last weekend. In an initiative to celebrate the World Tourism Day (September 27) with a difference and to redefine the tourism in Goa beyond the notion of sun, surf and frolic, Goa Chitra last weekend organised a 2-day course for a group of 21 visiting students from various American universities. Thank you for all the support to Goa Chitra. Warm regards, Victor Hugo Gomes Press release for kind publication Goa Chitra Celebrates World Tourism Day with Education Tourism In an initiative to celebrate the World Tourism Day (September 27) with a difference and to redefine the tourism in Goa beyond the notion of sun, surf and frolic, Goa Chitra last weekend organised a 2-day course for a group of 21 visiting students from various American universities. “I wanted them to connect with the indigenous people of Goa, understand the complexities of our culture and heritage and maybe learn a few lessons on sensitivity from the wisdom of our ancestors,” says Curator Victor Hugo Gomes. Conducted by an international organization, the students were part of study abroad programme tailor-made for the US students that seek to deliver high-quality education while simultaneously promoting the development of intercultural competence. “This education trail has been incorporated within their semester as a field trip so as to maintain authenticity of the experience,” explains Gomes. The curator further comments “The tourism in Goa has to look at new approaches and challenges that face Goa’s identity. These education trails are initiated so tourists may also be encouraged to become students and understand Goa within the larger context of India and the world. On day one, the students were taken on a visit to an 18th century Goan Indo-Portuguese house, followed by a tour of different prominent, heritage churches and an ancient temple. This followed the traditional Catholic Goan lunch at Goa Chitra and a guided tour of the organic farm and the ethnographic museum, with curator Gomes explaining the genesis of Goa Chitra, and various artifacts and their significance in the lives of Goans. The day ended with a visit to The Pilar museum. On day two, the group of US students in their early twenties, drove through the beautiful villages of Maina, Curtorim and Chandor. After a visit to a private 350-years old mansion, the group was shown select historical spots in Rivona, before proceeding to spend time with the Dhangar community in Netravali. Here, the students participated one-on-one with the indigenous people, watching in awe the intricate traditional broom-making and rope-weaving techniques using kombyo tree fibre. “In earlier days, these ropes were used to tie the animals as they were softer on the skin”, explained Gomes, while highlighting the self-sufficient lifestyle, the knowledgebase and the use of local material in construction by the Dhangar community. The group later visited a traditional areca nut-cum-coconut plantation where the owner explained the different uses of both the trees besides disseminating information on several others crops including vanilla, pineapple, coffee, cinnamon, cashew nuts, honey and others. Thereafter, the students were allowed to swim in an ancient lake and were offered traditional Goan lunch. The workshop ended with a visit to a traditional Goan 225-years old Hindu mud house. While for the course coordinators and students, this study expedition has been more than experiential, the students were genuinely surprised at the experiences. “The mix of Indian traditions with a hint of western flavour gives the Goan Indian a distinctive characteristic even when considered globally,” said a joyous participant. Goa Chitra regularly conducts these educational trails and workshops in association with various international, national and local universities and colleges. These are aimed at educating the participants on the rich and varied facets of Goan culture and heritage, and seek to create an alternative form of tourism, the Education Tourism. Those interested, please call us on 9850466165, 08322772910, 08326570877 or e-mail us at goachi...@gmail.com. END
[Goanet] Book Club Meet on 12th of September 2012, Wednesday at 6.30 p.m. at Goa Chitra.
Dear friends and members of Goa Chitra, As decided at the last book club, the book for this month’s book club meet is Cyrus Mistry's “Chronicle of a Corpse Bearer”. We meet on 12th of September 2012, Wednesday at 6.30 p.m. at Goa Chitra. The book is easily available at the local book stores or flipkart.com is a good bet. It’s an easy read. I hope you enjoy the book. See you on the 12th. Below is a review that appeared on Hindustani Awaaz -12th August 2012 Kindly call on 08322772910, 08326570877 or RSVP on 09850466165 or 9970446065 to confirm participation. Regards Aldina Gomes Cyrus Mistry's Chronicle of a Corpse Bearer . By (Rakhshanda Jalil blogs at www.hindustaniawaaz-rakhshanda.blogspot.com) Echoes of a Living Past Legend has it that sometime in the 10th century, shiploads of Zoroastrians, fleeing persecution in their native Iran, landed on the coast of Saurashtra in Western India. They met the local king and sought asylum. The king, Jadi Rana, pointed to a tumbler full of milk, indicating thereby that his empire was full to the brim and he had no place for more people. The leader of the strange new people took a pinch of sugar and mixed it with the milk, telling the king that his people would add sweetness to the milk but never let it overflow. And so they stayed, putting down roots, in Sanjan, Variav, Thane, Broach and cities as further afield as Bombay and Karachi. Their women wore saris and spoke Gujarati, the men excelled in trade and commerce with many occupying high posts in government – from Mughal times to colonial to present day. Called Parsi (having come from Persia), they are India’s smallest minority constituting less than 0.02 % of the population. However, being a distinctive community due to their dress, speech, culture, food as well as their visible presence in fields as diverse as law and medicine, politics and industry, arts and cinema, they have a hold on the Indian imagination disproportionate to their actual numbers. Possibly this is to do with the largely stock characters that the Indian film industry has propagated of the Parsi bawa. Cinematic representations continue to be unfair in some ways, showing the Parsis as colourful and privileged but also dysfunctional, antsy, idiosyncratic, miserly and querulous; Being Cyrus, Pestonjee and Earth, being recent examples of this brand of cinema verite. On the other hand, a slew of books has provided a corrective and portrayed members of this community in a more realistic manner. Rohinton Mistry, Thrity Umrigar, Sooni Taraporewla, Farrukh Dhondy, Firdaus Kanga and Cyrus Mistry have, in different ways, explored the Parsi psyche but also located them firmly within the mainstream of Indian life. Cyrus Mistry’s latest offering, Chronicle of a Corpse Bearer, shows how the story of a small, marginalised community of untouchables – the khandhias who bathe and carry corpses to the Towers of Silence – can rise above its time and circumstance and speak of larger, universal concerns. In speaking of the Khandhias and the terrible humiliation, isolation and segregation they suffer, Mistry not only throws light on this almost invisible sub-group but also weaves a compelling story of love and loss. Phiroze Alchidana, son of a revered priest, falls in love with Sepideh, the daughter of a corpse bearer who lives in the Doongarwaadi atop Malabar Hill. To have Sepideh, he must leave his father’s home, become a khandhia and live the life of a pariah for such is the fear of contamination from the dead and those who handle dead bodies. Sepideh, a fey child-woman who has lived her entire life in the deeply-forested Doongerwaadi, dies a few years after their marriage leaving Alchi to weather the rigidly-enforced isolation as well as take on the might of the powerful Parsi Punchayet. Running through the warp of Alchi’s benighted love story is the woof of India’s struggle for Independence. Gandhi’s call for Satyagraha finds an echo deep in the khandhias’ disaffected, disgruntled hearts, inspiring them to launch their own peaceful non-cooperation movement, to go on hartal to down tools or, to be precise, not lift corpses, till their demands for more humane working conditions are met. When Gandhi urges the nation in a radio address – ‘The chains of a slave are broken the moment he considers himself a free man’ – his words become a catalyst for change. Part-fiction, part-truth, Chronicle of a Corpse Bearer is a story of courage and hope, a bildungsroman, a coming-of-age story of one man and a nation on the high road of history.
[Goanet] Press Note: MOIA, New Delhi selects Goa Chitra for showcasing culture
Hi there, Greetings from all of us at Goa Chitra. Goa Chitra will be hosting a panel discussion “EMERGING TRENDS”-A forum on the emerging trends of contemporary India, for the 20th edition of Know India Program (KIP), organized by the Government of India, (MOIA), on May 9th, 2012 at 3.30 to 5.30 p.m. Kindly Publish the below attached press note in your esteemed publication/news letter. Thank you for all the support to Goa Chitra. Warm Regards, Victor Hugo Gomes www.goachitra.com 09850466165 Press Note MOIA, New Delhi selects Goa Chitra for showcasing culture The Government of India, Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA), is organizing their 20th edition of Know India Program (KIP) from April 25 to May 15, 2012, in which a group of 40 Indian Diaspora Youth aged 18-26 years would be participating and travelling across the country. These youngsters -- from countries as diverse as Australia, South Africa, Israel, Canada and Zimbabwe, among others -- have distinguished themselves in different fields, and have been selected by the Indian Missions in respective countries. This initiative allows these Diaspora youth to be exposed to the transformations that are taking place in India and be briefed about the country’s progress as an emerging powerhouse in the global economic system. As part of the program these youth will also be exposed to the grassroots’ governance and cultural heritage which is a significant part of their ancestry. The Government of India, (MOIA), has thus selected Goa Chitra, the ethnographic Museum situated in Benaulim as the ideal place for the Diaspora youth to know the rich Goan indigenous culture and heritage. The youth shall be taken on a personal tour of the Goa Chitra Museum by the curator of the museum Mr. Victor Hugo Gomes. At the end of this tour the youth shall interact with some of Goa’s top notch intellects who shall share their insights on the emerging trends in the current fields of arts, culture and heritage with a panel discussion titled EMERGING TRENDS: A forum on the emerging trends of contemporary India. The program will be held on the 9th May 2012 between 3.30 to 5.30 pm at Goa Chitra Amphi-theater. The speakers at the function shall include famous journalist and writer Aniruddha Sen Gupta who will speak on 'The Written Word: Booked Solid', essentially looking at how writing and publishing has begun to flourish in India, IITian and entrepreneur, Desmond Nazareth will speak on 'From High Tech to High Spirits, following the High Road', a short talk about his journey as a small Indian challenger taking on a global industry and director of Green Essentials an Organic Store, Karan Manral will speak on Organic Farming”, a talk on the future of Agriculture in India. Mr. Avertano Furtado, Hon. Minister for Fisheries and Labour, Mr. Nilesh Cabral, Chairman GTDC and Mr. Benjamin Silva, Chairman KVIB have kindly consented to grace the occasion'. This is the first time that MOIA is organizing a visit of Indian Diaspora Youth to Goa under KIP. In the past, Goa Chitra has been host to visiting younger Goans from various countries under ‘Know Goa Program’. END
[Goanet] Invite: “EMERGING TRENDS”-A forum on the emerging trends of contemporary India
Dear Members and Friends of Goa Chitra, Greetings from all of us at Goa Chitra. It is our pleasure to invite you to Goa Chitra, the ethnographic Museum of the People of Goa situated in Benaulim. Goa Chitra will be hosting a panel discussion “EMERGING TRENDS”-A forum on the emerging trends of contemporary India, for the 20th edition of Know India Program (KIP), organized by the Government of India, (MOIA), on May 9th, 2012 at 3.30 to 5.30 p.m. Thank you for all the support to Goa Chitra. Warm Regards, Victor Hugo Gomes www.goachitra.com 09850466165 MOIA, New Delhi selects Goa Chitra for showcasing culture The Government of India, Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA), is organizing their 20th edition of Know India Program (KIP) from April 25 to May 15, 2012, in which a group of 40 Indian Diaspora Youth aged 18-26 years would be participating and travelling across the country. These youngsters -- from countries as diverse as Australia, South Africa, Israel, Canada and Zimbabwe, among others -- have distinguished themselves in different fields, and have been selected by the Indian Missions in respective countries. This initiative allows these Diaspora youth to be exposed to the transformations that are taking place in India and be briefed about the country’s progress as an emerging powerhouse in the global economic system. As part of the program these youth will also be exposed to the grassroots’ governance and cultural heritage which is a significant part of their ancestry. The Government of India, (MOIA), has thus selected Goa Chitra, the ethnographic Museum situated in Benaulim as the ideal place for the Diaspora youth to know the rich Goan indigenous culture and heritage. The youth shall be taken on a personal tour of the Goa Chitra Museum by the curator of the museum Mr. Victor Hugo Gomes. At the end of this tour the youth shall interact with some of Goa’s top notch intellects who shall share their insights on the emerging trends in the current fields of arts, culture and heritage with a panel discussion titled EMERGING TRENDS: A forum on the emerging trends of contemporary India. The program will be held on the 9th May 2012 between 3.30 to 5.30 pm at Goa Chitra Amphi-theater. The speakers at the function shall include famous journalist and writer Aniruddha Sen Gupta who will speak on 'The Written Word: Booked Solid', essentially looking at how writing and publishing has begun to flourish in India, IITian and entrepreneur, Desmond Nazareth will speak on 'From High Tech to High Spirits, following the High Road', a short talk about his journey as a small Indian challenger taking on a global industry and director of Green Essentials an Organic Store, Karan Manral will speak on Organic Farming”, a talk on the future of Agriculture in India. Mr. Avertano Furtado, Hon. Minister for Fisheries and Labour, Mr. Nilesh Cabral, Chairman GTDC and Mr. Benjamin Silva, Chairman KVIB have kindly consented to grace the occasion'. This is the first time that MOIA is organizing a visit of Indian Diaspora Youth to Goa under KIP. In the past, Goa Chitra has been host to visiting younger Goans from various countries under ‘Know Goa Program’. The Panel: Desmond Nazareth has multiple interests and a variety of formal training, with degrees in pure sciences engineering (IIT Madras, India); multimedia computer sciences (USA). He has lived and worked in India (37+ years) and the USA (18 years). he has traveled to many parts of the world on work and pleasure. He maintains a global outlook that is “inclusive”, taking into account the underprivileged and the environment. Aniruddha Aniruddha Sen Gupta: After 20 years of working in the fields of journalism, communications and graphic design, Aniruddha Sen Gupta has returned to his first love -- writing -- since he moved to Goa in 2006. So far, he has authored a couple of books in a children's adventure series, a graphic guidebook on environmental matters, and a sprinkling of short stories in various anthologies. He is currently working on a chronicle of his travels by road around India with his wife Anjali and their dogs -- six of them as of now. Interspersed with all this, he enjoys setting, conducting and participating in quizzes and is a founder-member of Goa's Sunday Evening Quiz Club. Karan Manral: Is the director of Green essentials and activly involved in promoting organic farming in Goa.
[Goanet] In Public Interest- Part II- Is the Christian Art Museum an abandoned child?
Dear Sir/Madam, The ‘unsigned’ press note by the Committee of the Museum of Christian Art, Santa Monica Convent, Old Goa evoked response of disbelief by fellow Goans across the state and overseas, as my dear friend Dom Martin wrote back saying “Works of religious art and artifacts are manifestations of divine intervention. The theft or plunder of such works is an act of abominable sacrilege, and, violates the fundamental ethics to which we are universally bound and codified as conscionable human beings. To the damning detriment of religious heritage, such perpetrators and their co-conspirators callously characterize the progressive calibration of diabolic greed and gain.” - Dom Martin This press note is a belated and weak ‘explanation’ on the course of unfortunate events that took place at the Christian Art Museum. It is in fact a brilliant exercise in hogwash meant to deceive the people of Goa about the real reason why on the night of 25th January, 2012, their heritage was stolen. From the points put forth and earlier press comments by committee members it seems that there is every possibility that the Committee would not have come forward with any explanation/statement had it not been for the media reports and heritage lovers strongly condemning the heist. For instance, couple of days after the heist, chairman of the committee Fr. Avinash Rebello told Herald that “There is very little that I know. I haven’t been keeping track of what has happened” whereas Curator, Ms Natasha Fernandes told the journalist: “Whatever information you want, you can get from the police!” and further more talking about the inventory Committee member Jose Lourenco went on record saying, “We are in the process of putting things in place in terms of inventory”. So what does the press statement ‘The Committee went through it's detailed Inventory (which includes photographs of all objects)’ mean? Which is this inventory? So why this sudden change of heart on the part of the so-called esteemed committee? Does the Committee expect Goans to laud them for having “rushed to the site and stayed till the early hours with the Police”? All that can be said is nice job of shutting the stable after the horses have bolted. What the public should know is that one or two members visiting does not mean the whole committee spent the night at the site. And the condolences to the family of the Mr. Luis Bogato? A fine display of crocodile tears after having put the poor man in harm’s way. Apt words from Milton come to mind –“Hypocrisy, the only evil that walks invisible, except to God alone”! It is clearly becoming impossible for the members to hide their faces as the newspapers and the concerned heritage lovers doggedly continued to ask uncomfortable questions in their quest to seek out the truth and justice. What is sad however is that the committee continues to hide its face? The unsigned press note does not tell the people at large who are these committee members? What are their credentials for being on the committee of such an important institution? Do they actively participate in the management of the museum or are they merely ornamental figures ‘adoring the committee’? It is clear case of assuming responsibility for personal aggrandisement without an iota of accountability. Goans however will not be fooled by the meaningless verbiage of this press note and the insincere ‘compassion’ and ‘sympathy’ towards life lost and the priceless property stolen on that day. We all know that the real reason for our immeasurable loss can be encapsulated in just a few words: Negligence, Apathy and Inefficiency of the Committee. Furthermore it is obvious that the statement that is released have a lot of contradictory facts of the fateful day which need to be seriously addressed. 1. If the committee members were present soon after the incident at 6 pm, then why didn’t the press know till beyond midnight? Why and what were they trying to hide from the public? 2. By when or what time the site was sealed by the police? And if the museum premises were sealed then how come there was a picture of the dead security guard (inside the museum compound) published in one of the news papers? 3. If the premises were sealed how come strangers and museum delegates/ funders from abroad were allowed on 27th January inside the museum without checking? 4. Going by the list of exhibits given by the committee that went missing, Gold filigree rosary, Gold rosary, Gold waistband, Gold bracelet, Gold Cross with chain, They make it sound as if they are some simple pieces of handicrafts made of Gold and not priceless museum exhibits. Were they just ornaments made of Gold or were they studded with precious stones? What was the size and weight of the exhibits? Were they at least valued by a goldsmith before they went on display? Don’t you think that the pictures and technical details are
[Goanet] In public interest- Is the Christian Art Museum an abandoned child?
Dear Sir/Madam, The news about the heist at The Christian Art Museum, Goa is utterly shocking and scandalous, to say the least. It is an assault on an institution which also happens to be the House of God. More than 72 hours after this unpardonable act, there is as yet no information about the nature and extent of exact loss of artefacts. Neither is there any statement and explanation from any committee members on this outrageous and deplorable incident. The state administration and most of the media, by and large, too are puzzlingly silent on this day-light pilferage which needs to be thoroughly investigated and the culprits brought to books. Meanwhile, the inexplicable silence on the part of authorities, especially the esteemed members of the committee, raises too many misgivings. Was it an incidence of robbery by some outsiders or a planned heist in connivance with someone/s in the know of things? Some Questions that need to be raised are: 1. Is the Christian Art Museum being treated as an abandoned child? Why has the museum management or the committee not given any statement? Why are they not taking any responsibility? 2. Who are the committee members and what are their credentials to run or look after a museum of international repute? 3. Where is the museum inventory and layout? What were the exhibits that went missing or robbed or damaged? Why is the list of heritage artefacts stolen not declared, disclosed or published by the committee to the public? 4. Are the museum exhibits valued? If yes, by who? Are they insured? If yes by which agency? 5. Were the stolen heritage pieces belong to the museum or were loaned or donated and by whom? Where is the contract copy and what did it say? 6. Who was responsible for the museum keys? Who locked and secured the keys of the museum and the display cabinets? 7. If it is the security agency then why were the keys of this institution given to the security guard? Is our priceless heritage at the mercy of migrant guards? 8. What is the name of the security agency used for the museum? Did the management check their credentials? 9. Have we forgotten that it was Mr. Parikar, member of the BJP and the then Chief Minister of Goa who gave an annual Grant of Rs. 3,00,000/- to the Christian Art Museum towards security? 10. Why was there only one guard (aged 55 years) on duty when the Goa Government has given a grant of rupees three lakhs (Rs 3,00,000/-) a year for security ? 11. Why was the same guard retained for 7 long years and allowed him to get familiar with the museum running and functioning? 12. Does the museum have security sensors or CCTV systems? If yes, where is the footage? 13. Why were strangers allowed to take photographs of the museum exhibits and for what reason? Why was photography of the exhibits permitted for personal gains of committee members ? As stated by a committee member that the photos were taken for the museum brochure, then why was it required when the second edition of the brochure, was recently printed, sponsored and released by Calouste Gulbenkien? 14. Since when were private functions allowed in the hallowed precincts of sacred museums? Please note that even the inaugural function of the Christian Art museum in 1994 was done in a pandal about 300 meters away from the museum premises because of security reasons. 15. What is the Governments stand on this crime? Why is it that, there is no round the clock security at these declared heritage sites? Is our Government responsible towards taking care of our heritage? 16. Is the security of our elected representatives more important than that of our priceless heritage? 17. Isn’t this incident utterly shameful? Specially when this Congress Government accuses BJP of scrapping Good Friday leave but allows this huge robbery in the house of God in the heart of Old Goa which is a UNESCO world heritage site? 18. Taking this irresponsible attitude of the govt, is the silver casket of St Francis Xavier and other priceless heritage artefacts in Goa also at stake? Is it not shocking and utterly irresponsible that the state government has allowed only one police inspector to struggle alone to solve Goa’s biggest heritage robbery ever. We demand therefore that this crime be brought to book within the next 24 hours. At a very personal level, I feel extremely anguished about this hideous crime since I was the founding curator, administer and fund raiser of The Christian Art Museum way back in 1992. We, a dedicated team then, worked tireless to build this invaluable collection and most of which I have personally identified, negotiated. Restored and collected for the museum. I am also a heritage activist and founder of two internationally-famed museums, Goa Chitra and Goa Chakra. Hence, I feel that the authorities should take every effort to ensure the security of museums and the artefacts therein. In desperate
[Goanet] Press statement in response to irresponsible remark by Tarun Tegpal.
Hi, We will be grateful if you could kindly publish the following statement in your publication. Thanking you STATEMENT We the undersigned are pained, anguished and outraged to read a loose-mouthed and despicable statement by Tarun Tejpal in The Herald dated November 5, 2011. Tejpal is purported to be an intellectual and organizer of the Think Festival which seeks to project the militant and alternative voices, be it environmental warriors, the tribals protecting their homelands or artists, writers and film-makers aspiring to create a better global future through their work. We are shocked as to how an organizer with such a tall and lofty mandate could stoop so low to desecrate and malign the very character of the state which has offered him and his initiative warm welcome and hospitality. Much as the Think Festival resists the attempts to vandalize the heritage and environment, one cannot violate and defile the identity of a people. Tejpal can sleep with his mother if he chooses to, but please spare us. (Dear editor, please do not delete this remark as comments made by Tejpal are ruder and aimed at the entire people of Goa). The faulty perception of Goa as a land of wine, women and song persists in stag memories. But to have a blighting like this endorsed in the keynote address is a mockery of the very ideals that the Think Festival is suppose to espouse. Anoop Babani, Victor Hugo Gomes, Dr. Bala Iyer and many other concerned Goans. Victor Hugo Gomes House No. 498 Pulwaddo, Benaulim Salcete, Goa - 403716 mobile:09850466165 landline:0832-6570877 --- Protect Goa's natural beauty Support Goa's first Tiger Reserve Sign the petition at: http://www.goanet.org/petition/petition.php ---
[Goanet] Visit of His Excellency Dr. S.S. Sidhu, the Governor of Goa to Goa Chitra Museum and the launch of the Goa Chitra membership on the 1st of March 2010 at 12 noon
--- *** Follow Goanet on Twitter *** http://twitter.com/goanet --- Sub: Visit of His Excellency Dr. S.S. Sidhu, the Governor of Goa to Goa Chitra Museum and the launch of the Goa Chitra membership on the 1st of March 2010 at 12 noon Goa Chitra Brochure: http://bit.ly/buryKT Dear friends of Goa Chitra, I am writing to you in my capacity as the curator and proprietor of the Goa Chitra museum. His Excellency Dr. S.S. Sidhu, the Governor of Goa will be coming on a special visit to Goa Chitra Museum on 1st March 2010 at 12.00 noon. It is our pleasure to invite you to be our guest for the launch of Goa Chitra Membership at the hands of His Excellency Dr. S.S. Sidhu, the Governor of Goa on the 1st of March 2010 at 12 noon sharp. This is an ethnographic Museum, which seeks not only to restore and preserve the traditional agrarian lifestyle of our ancestors but also to promote awareness and appreciation of the eco-friendly techniques practiced by our forefathers through a deep sensitivity and concern for the environment. The genesis of this museum began many years ago when I started collecting old, discarded implements and tools from attics and storerooms simply because I felt they were reminders of a way of life that I was sad to see go. But as the collection grew, it opened my eyes to the richness of the culture and heritage that these objects represented, and to the depth of the knowledge and skills that produced them. Since the last eight years, while restoring old houses, I embarked on a personal quest to collect, restore and preserve traditional agrarian practices, their tools, seeds and knowledge involved that were fast being lost to contemporary lifestyle. My collection has led me to travel the length and breadth of our state, making my way to the remotest of villages, speaking to the village elders, documenting the ethnicity and rituals associated with every item. In these travels I recognized that a lot has already been lost, and is fast disappearing. I realized that we were losing much more than historical artifacts we are losing evidence of the wisdom that informed the lifestyles of our forefathers. I made a choice at that time to commit myself to a dream I envisioned. My dream is that “Goa Chitra Museum” will serve as a place to collect, preserve and pay tribute to Goa's unique heritage for generation to come. This is an ongoing process and requires a collective effort. Innovative attempts to raise funds are the sole purpose of launching the membership. Being a member allows very individual to become part of a greater purpose, while enjoying a rich schedule of exhibitions and events and exploring the Goan culture. The membership contribution will become part of the corpus fund and support many worthwhile projects, including Museum internship and research programs, exhibits, taking Goa's indigenous expertise to the world, public programs, and lectures. It is to welcome participation in what promises to be a unique and memorable Museum experience. The Goa Chitra Membership will be launched at the hands of His Excellency Dr. S.S. Sidhu, the Governor of Goa on the 1st of March 2010 at 12 noon sharp. We look forward to your presence for the launch. Yours Sincerely, Victor Hugo Gomes For membership details please contact Victor Hugo Gomes mobile:09850466165 Website: www.goachitra.com
[Goanet] Christmas Traditions revival at Goa
Christmas Traditions revival at Goa Chitra This Christmas, traditions come alive as different families come together at Goa Chitra on the 19th of December to revive traditional sweets making with implements and recipes of yesteryears. A reminiscence of the past in an authentic Goan setup, you can witness for the first time on wood fire cooking, authentic time-honored recipes of bebinca, pinnac, dodol, ghons, doce, nevreos, and khol khol etc. To rekindle the old flavour that was once Christmas in Goa, the management of Goa Chitra organizes this event in the hope of reviving traditions. Victor Hugo Gomes proprietor and curator of the museum opines that implements on display at the museum should come alive so that the youth may connect and its only when we educate than there is hope for change. Bringing together like minded people who are presently working silently to create alternative system in Goa the daylong event is planned to learn while having fun; where young and old shall participate in the joy of togetherness that once was Goa. Yvette Barros, who specializes in traditional recipes, shall demonstrate sharing her little family secrets which never get published in cookery books or writings. Shambavi kandeparker shall use her basket weaving talents to train young children star making while Dr. Deepa shall help them decorate their art work, hopeful to compete with the stars and lanterns that flood our Indian markets. Comd Narayan and family will demonstrate and teach skills in origami and pop-up cards that could be incorporated by families while decorating during festive celebrations. Michico and Cheryl on the other hand shall teach young children to make traditional lanterns that they could carry while going carol singing. To add to the mood for the day Ashwin Alvares and Robert Vaz shall strum their guitars and ghumot with carols for all to join in and with drinks, snacks and food it looks to become a memorable event. The event shall commence at 10:a.m and end by 4:00 p.m. For inquires please call 08326570877, 08322772910. Goa - Chitra St. John the Baptist church road, Mondo-Waddo, Benaulim, Salcete Goa - 403716 India.
[Goanet] PREVIEW: The Goa Museum (Name not decided), Benaulim
Dear friends, Writing this letter I wish to make this invitation as personal as the realization of my dream. Those of us who have lived in Goa in the past few decades have witnessed a period of great change, from living in contented self sufficiency to an over-dependence on modern amenities and technology. Many years ago I began collecting old, discarded implements and tools from attics and storerooms simply because I felt they were reminders of a way of life that I was sad to see go. But as the collection grew, it opened my eyes to the richness of the culture and heritage that these objects represented, and to the depth of knowledge and skills that produced them. Since the last eight years, while restoring old houses, I embarked on a personal quest to collect, restore and preserve traditional agrarian practices, their tools, seeds and knowledge involved that were fast being lost to contemporary lifestyle. My collection has led me to travel the length and breath of our state, making my way to the remotest of villages, speaking to the village elders, capturing and documenting the ethnicity and rituals associated with every item. In these travels I recognized that a lot has already been lost, and is fast disappearing. I realized that we were losing much more than historical artifacts - we are losing evidence of the wisdom that informed the lifestyles of our forefathers. This anthology tells a story, a story that I wish to share with you in hopes of awakening a sense of pride, an awareness and appreciation of our rich culture and heritage. I was faced with an important question, How will the children of Goa ever know what their ancestors lived like? What kind of security are we living behind for them if they are unable to know their roots? My efforts are for this future generation. This was the genesis of the The Goa Museum (Name not decided)- an ethnographical museum, a walk down a way of life that is rapidly receding into history. The museum is set against the backdrop of an organic farm. My dream is that Goa Museum will serve as a place to collect, preserve and pay tribute to Goa's unique heritage. Most of the exhibits you will see are rare and were difficult to find and many needed extensive restoration. My expertise as a conserver has permitted me to craft most of the pieces to their original glory. The collection is large and varied, but I cannot say it is complete. In the first phase, it will feature religious objects, agricultural implements, weights and measures, kitchen and household implements, modes of transport, craftsmen's tools, besides a few selected pieces of furniture, jewellery, costumes, musical instruments etc. Almost every discovery in my search, every conversation with a village elder, has pointed me in the direction of new facts that need to be recorded, more artefacts that need to be found and preserved. This has been a one-man effort so far, but the immenseness of this project humbles me to ask for help. I need us to communally look at this collection and decide the journey it should take. I look forward to showing you around the museum personally on any day convenient to you between December 7th and December 15th, preferably between 4pm and 6pm, and also between 10 am to 12 noon on Sundays, in the hope that you will be as inspired by what you see as I have been in working to bring this collection together. Please call me on the following number to confirm your visit: 9850466165 / 08326570877 / 9970446065. Directions to the museum are as follows: ·From the Margao Old market round about take the road leading to Colva. ·Past the overhead train bridge, and Hotel Colva plaza.(1 .5 km from Margao) · About 50 metres Take first left turn to St. John the Baptist church. · Follow the road, cross the Church, ·Move till you cross two stretches of fields, keep left. ·About 500 metres after the field to the left is a bar called Sun and Rock. · Across it, look for signage that leads to the museum. Sincerely yours Victor Hugo Gomes (Conservationist and Restorer, Founding Curator of the Museum Of Christian Art) Victor Hugo Gomes House No. 498 Pulwaddo, Benaulim Salcete, Goa - 403716 mobile:09850466165 landline:0832-6570877
