TIATRIST WILLIAM DE CURTORIM ATTACKED.

TIATRIST WILLIAM DE CURTORIM ATTACKED.

According to the news item appeared in Herald dated 28th November 2007, about 10 – 12 miscreants attending the Tiatro “Avoin Kelem Pap, Putan Dili Zap” of William de Curtorim, staged at Gomant Vidya Niketan, Margao, on 27th Nov. 07, flung eggs on the stage when William de Curtorim sang the song, a “Zupatti” to Churchill Alemao for his sin of changing political parties. The title of this Zupatti solo is “SAVE GOA SODDUN CONGRESSANT GHELO”. It is a direct slap on the face of Churchill Alemao for his bad political habit of changing political parties. According to the same news item, the miscreants who flung eggs on the stage were the supporters of PWD Minister Churchill Alemao though Alemao denied any acquiescence in this mischief.

History said that Tiatrists in Goa were the targets of their ideological foes who tried to suppress the voice of Tiatrists from the stage. During the Portuguese rule in Goa, Tiatrists’ songs and plays were censored by the Village “Regidore” on behalf of the Goa Government much before their Shows. Anything against the Portuguese Government and its functioning was censored. During those days Tiatrists were allowed to express from the Stage anything against anyone except Government. For this reason the great Tiatrist Alexinho de Candolim to express his feelings freely against Goa Government, fled from Goa and surfaced in Bombay where at Bhangwaddy Stage he rendered his most courageous solo against the functioning of Portuguese Government of Goa. This was his ire against the Portuguese Negro soldiers from Aguada who killed his colleague and son of his Village Mestiri of Candolim Parchial School. When Portuguese Government of Goa came to know of this then Alexinho de Candolim’s return to Goa was put under surveillance because of which he had to stay in Bombay leaving his entire family in Goa.

Tiatrists from Goa had to make lot of sacrifices to keep the Konkani Stage strong. Tiatrists were the mouth piece of Goan voice and especially the voice of suffering and persecuted Goans. Their voice had great effect. What Judiciary, Police and Government machinery could not do, our Tiatrists could do by making use of the Stage. The voice of Tiatrists always proved to be loudest and powerful. For this reason Kid Boxer somewhere in 1959 was deported to Goa from Bombay by the Government of Bharat for singing a song against the wrong doings of Bharati Government regarding his beloved Portuguese Goa. Because of this deportation Kid Boxer’s lost his lucrative job at Central Railway – Parel, Bombay and because of this loss he and his family had to suffer a lot. Again in Goa soon after the entry of Bharati rule in December 1961 in early 1962, at Mapusa, Kid Boxer was arrested for singing a piercing “Zupatti” against the dirty rule of Bharat in Goa. On the same day and in the same Tiatro, Conception-Nelson-Anthony were also reprimanded by the Bharati authorities came to witness that Tiatro. They were not Administrators of Mapusa but they were the Chamchas of Bharati corrupt politicians, they pretended to be the patriots of Bharat in Goa.

Kid Boxer in his solo sang thus:
“Tum bhitor sorlai chukon, mortoloi sukon, dusreacho desh pochona (Referring to forcibly annexing Goa by the Bharati Government).
Tum Panpotti khatai ani poch’chu korun thuktai, lozui kaim disona (Referring to all the Ghantti Mamas coming to Goa from all over Bharat and shamelessly spitting Pan on the roads and floors without any human decency which was very high in Goa during Portuguese rule).
Tum nestai forkot Valo ani khatai fokot Palo (Referring to all the Bharati people who descended on Goa following the forcible annexure of Goa by Bharat wearing nothing but a white piece of cloth covering the lower part of their bodies and drinking nothing but tea).

Conception-Nelson-Anthony in their maiden trio formed first time said in their song that Nationalist or Freedom Fighters were responsible for the mess that Goa became after the Bharati rule in Goa. They even suggested that Goans should migrate to Brasil because Goa is no more a good haven for real Goans. These were the most powerful songs that shattered the might of Bharat Serkar in Bombay and in Goa. Later on during the rule of Dayananda Bandodkar under Maharastrawadi Gomantak Party, the Goa Government introduced Portuguese Government initiated Censorship against Tiatros and their songs in late Sixties only to punish Tiatrists like Conception-Nelson-Anthony because they were the worst critics of MGP rule in Goa. Because they were fighting for justice for Goa, Bandodkar treated them as Jews in Naziland. But they never cared, so too Kid Boxer and they went on singing Zupatti songs. It was they who were responsible for shaking MGP Goa Government. Tiatrists deserved highest compliments for fighting for the cause of Goa, justice and common men from the Stage. They served Goa better than politicians. To serve Goa and Goans they never asked bribes as the current Ministers and politicians are demanding from the people, of course shamelessly

Why Stage artistes only? Even those artistes acting in “Zagor” and “Sangodd” also played their roles in exposing the ill deeds of the Government. People from Agacaim are known to possess militant skill to fight against injustice. During Konkani Language agitation they were always on the forefront to participate in Rallies and Meetings held in Panjim. In this movement I associated and integrated with them in Panjim and enjoyed their love and affection. Defiance to the brute rule of Goa Government was their forte. When we organized our Rallies and Meetings at Panjim in solidarity with Kuwait during the invasion of Kuwait, Kuwait evacuees from Agacaim were in big number attended our rallies and meetings. Again, almost a century back this incident happened in Agacaim, Ilhas Goa. The Toddy Tappers had to pay certain amount of Tax for their business of extracting Toddy from the Coconuts. When Government increased this Tax, “Renders” from Agacaim opposed it and as a sign of their protest they refused to carry on with this business. One of the “Renders” from Agacaim was forcibly defying his colleagues by resuming his work of extracting Toddy. When he refused to toe the line of his colleagues, one of the Toddy Tappers used a gun and shot him dead while climbing on to the Coconut. Next day all the Renders from Agacaim were arrested and taken to Panjim Police Station for questioning. Goa Government tried to suppress this news but in vain. Immediately in Candolim there was a Zagor where one of the singers sang a beautiful song on this episode and immediately he was reprimanded by the Village Regidor for awakening the masses on happenings in Agacaim. Two verses of this song go thus:

“Janerachea Pirmerak dhorun velet Rendrank,
Ani Ponje voron Pirez kelet khuim team Agxikarank,
He baxen vinchar kelo tanche kodden serkaran,
Ki hi budh konne dilea ti sangat mhonnon juramentan.

Ch.
Agxekarani sanglem ami hazir mhonn mornank,
Punni zamnno kedinch ghalchenant maddank,
Agxe eklean Madd dovorlole taka jitoch marlo faran,
Tacho deman cholta atam Ponje Serkaran.

William de Curtorim is creating lot of ripples on Goan Stage. Earlier too 5 years back at Mapusa he was harassed by the Goa Government machinery for singing a song against Rane and even he was taken to Police Station for questioning. Now at Margao according to press reports, thru Remote Control Churchill Alemao harassed William de Curtorim by silencing his mouth from expressing his voice freely. By doing this William gained more support, more publicity and more sympathy and his opponents lost much of their credibility. He became now a greater hero. His marketing value is enhanced now much more than what it was earlier. Those who are trying to suppress one’s sane voice are criminals. In democratic system everyone must express his feelings rightly and justly. Goa is disgraced by our Ministers and Government officials. They should be reprimanded first. However, while expressing themselves from the Stage the singers should not show their lust for money. Some of the singers in Goa blackmail some of the politicians by demanding thousands from them otherwise they threatened them to expose their misdeed from the Stage. Ealier powerful Tiatrists like Kid Boxer, Conception-Nelson-Anthony never did such dirty tricks, neither Rom-Rem-Rod. They used Stage to clean the rot and not to make money thru illegal manner by using the terminology of threats like “Tum makam 20 hozar dinai zalear aum tuji zupatti mhonttolom ani tukam expose kortolom”. “Tum makam 50 hozar ditai zalear aum tujevoir ek sobit kantar mhonttolom ani tukam sobemazar hero kortolom”. Such Tiatrists and singers do not deserve symphaty.

I condemn vehemently the unwarranted attack on Tiatrist William de Curtorim. Nobody got right to stop in this manner any Tiatrist from singing his song. In case there is anything wrong in the song then the singer could be tried in the court of law and not by flinging eggs in a very nasty manner. Only nasty people with the support of nasty political leaders can do such nasty acts. William de Curtorim must not cow down by such threats. If necessary, he must simultaneously go for recording such songs in his Albums and thus spread his message of justice. Irani spiritual leader Ayatolla Khomeini created his revolution by spreading his revolutionary sermons thru Audio Cassette. Thru this method he shook the powerful Palavi Empire headed by Shah of Iran. In his maiden Audio Cassette, William de Curtorim heavily praised the Churchill Bros. for their valiant fight for the cause of Konkani. In his next Audio Cassette William de Curtorim must expose all the politicians who are disgracing Goa and Goans the way he eulogized Churchill Bros. in his maiden Cassette.

While concluding, let me quote French writer Voltaire who said on freedom of expression: “I fully disagree with what you say but to allow you to say what you want to say, I will do everything within me, even to the extent of facing death to allow you to say what you want to say though I fully disagree with what you say.” If Churchill Alemao thru remote control is really involved in pushing his supporters against William de Curtorim then he must ponder over what Voltaire has said centuries back. It is not enough to ask democratic rights from others but one must know to give democratic rights to others.

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

Tiatro "MAIM TUJO UPKARI AUM".

MAIM - TUZO UPKARI HANV. A Tribute To All Mothers.

By: Daniel F. de Souza.

A middle aged widow fighting a long drawn court case to prove that her honest ex-serviceman husband who died fighting the 1971 India-Pakistan war was a patriot and not a traitor, her only son a US returned NRI who has such high regards and love for his mother for all the sacrifices she has done for him that on his return in recognition he authors a book as a tribute to her and names it ‘Maim – Tuzo Upkari Hanv’.

But, with passage of time and change of status this same young man does a volte face and belittles his mother publicly by calling her his servant and to add insult to injury later has the gall to scream ‘I hate you’ with rage and anger in the company of his devilish wife, as the mother’s lifeless dead body lies in the coffin. However, belatedly the reality hits straight and hard and he is made to repent profusely, this in a nutshell sums up the core theme of Rose Ferns new tiatr ‘Maim – Tuzo Upkari Hanv’.

A packed audience at the Gomant Vidya Niketan Margao on Diwali afternoon were glued to their seats for 3 hours watching in anticipation as the story of ‘Maim –Tuzo Upkari Hanv’ unfolded on stage sequence by sequence till it reaches its climax in the very last scene that was the befitting finale for the play.

The plot appears to be quite simple, the usual mother-in-law-daughter-in-law spat and tussle, with the son being the centre of the conflict torn between two women. But, the only difference here is that the mother-in-law is a very loving and submissive woman who has sacrificed everything to give her only son a respectable position in society but at the end of it all she is at the receiving end with her son being a mere spectator and turncoat. The plot too moves at a medium pace till the first half and picks up steam as it progresses into the second installment.

In the beginning it seems to be like any other normal plot that usually highlights such family upheavals between the hi-fi daughter-in-law and the traditional mother-in-law. The difference is in the twist the playwright has given to the plot in the ending with a dash of suspense so as to give it a polished finish to the satisfaction of all. The playwright and director Rose Ferns himself has a brief appearance in the first session of the play but comes out forcefully in the second half which eventually takes the story to a great ending with a befitting message. I do not wish to disclose the story line of ‘Maim Tuzo Upkari Hanv’ in any manner apart from what I have stated in the opening lines. But can safely say the plot has sufficient ingredients to tickle your funny bone as well as activate your tear ducts.

A couple of scenes where the mother is put into embarrassing situations by her only son gives ample reasons to touch your sensibilities, talented Roshan who is called upon to do the widow’s role does full justice to the script. Besides the last climax scene two more scenes that actually melt your heart are the one when Julius (Ulhas Tari) recovers from the serious head injury in the hospital and the reply he gives to the doctor when the latter questions him about the identity of the elderly woman who was constantly praying by his bedside. The other touching scene is the one when (Roshan) comes out with the brief case and coat and hands it over to the advocate (Victor) who is on his way to the court for the hearing of the case which is coming up for final judgment.

The comedy by comedians Seby- Sally-Tony de Ribandar who are blind, deaf and dumb respectively evokes good laughter with Sally being the pick of the lot, his individual skill at comedy stands out among the other two. Though at times it appears that this deaf guy suffers from ‘selective’ hearing for at one time he has to be told a thing three times, but sometimes he can hear clearly at the first instance. Tony de Ribandar too stretches every muscle in the body to bring out the dumb character effectively, a little more combination among all three characters can take this comedy to great heights. Among the many comedy sequences one that brings exceptionally good laughter is the steel ladle quiz episode.

The play has a good number of solos, duets, three trios and one quartet. Among the solos Francis de Tuem takes the cake for his decent solo, Lawrie too impresses with his solo, while Tari wins the hearts of the audience with his well composed decent solo and later being part of the trio. Incidentally Tari has now with passage of time matured well as a more confident solo singer. The quartet with Sally, Roshan, Seby and Peter de Benaulim set to a lively folk tune gave a good fillip to the entertainment turned out to be a hit. So also the comedy trio by Tony-Antonette and comedian Seby was well received. The political Trio by Tony-Lawrie-Tuem has a good punch exposing a certain politician however ending lines of the last chorus rendered by Tuem are certainly debatable. The playwright has well exploited Roshan’s singing talents in the Kantos, but one such kanto sung on the Abba’s English tune Fernando could have been provided better music backup even though otherwise overall the music is fairly good.

‘Maim tuzo Upkari hanv’ will certainly have its own share of audiences and appreciation, yet one may at the end get the feeling that there is something amiss from the usual Rose Ferns production. While three of Rose Ferns’ preceding shows have been super-duper hits, this show still falls short of coming anywhere close to his earlier hit ‘Maim- Tuzo Put Hanv’ which had the added advantage of the revolving stage. But if you truly love your mother and value her for what she is and what she has done…then this show is for you! Please do not miss it. Go ahead book your seat in advance and don’t encourage black marketeering to raise its ugly head, especially so in Margao.

The main ensemble of BLACK

By Gasper Crasto Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, fashion is on the street. Fashion is to do with ideas, the way we think. It is a day in the cinema world, to see a fashion of a different kind. To see what is BLACK Nhesop Atanchem Fashion (Wearing BLACK is a Fashion).

Sure, it is going to be a delight for any nationality to come and watch as ‘BLACK’ will be now screened with English subtitles.

‘BLACK Nhesop Atanchem Fashion’, the Konkani language movie by International Award Winning director T-Bush will be screened on Friday, November 30, 2007 at Hawally Auditorium at 3.00 pm sharp.

The film premiered earlier on August 10, 2007 at Al Masrah, Hawally Auditorium is the first Indian film to be made in Kuwait produced mainly for the Konkani masses.

A music maestro and his five pupils form the heart of this feature film. The five musicians who form the ‘BLACK’ ensemble portray what is wrong, what has changed, and what is inevitable in today’s genre of music and musicians in a sweet, just, humane and interesting melodrama of wit and emotions filmed with a Goan backdrop of traditions and culture.

Kala `academy Award winner for best actor Cajetan Pereira Ipopularly known as Cajetan de Sanvordem) has played the role of maestro with unmatched superiority while Salu Faleiro, Comedian Philip, Braz de Parra, Abby and Babbit Dourado are the select artistes of the ensemble in amazing roles.

The theatre comedian, Salu Faleiro who began his career with one-scene glimpses in stage shows has played a cameo role in BLACK. Salu’s ability to make someone laugh genuinely is absolutely great. His body language and dialogue delivery has the core strength of the indigenous. Infact there is something that is peculiar about the roles of Babbit Dourado, Braz, Philip and Salu Faleiro. They represent in their body and speech, the native idiom. While the other stars dressed their part, these actors have delved into the home milieu and come up with performances that carry the essence of originality. They have graduated with ease retaining their links to the native roots intact.

Philip, a young veteran of more than 3 decades on stage, has mastered the art of comedy over the years. His charm and impeccable 'screen presence' captivates the audience in BLACK. "I feel proud to say I’ve never got a bad reception for my roles,” says Philip on his successful performance. He further adds, “I would like to categorize the film as a spectacle of hilarious comedy, wit and emotion weaved together in a simplistic morality. The movie keeps your curiosity alive...”
Babbit Dourado has traversed much distance before he faced the movie camera. “I have fulfilled my dream to play the youth of this generation on screen,” stated Babbit about his role.

Braz de Parra’s role and existence in the movie is simply unforgettable. Winner of Best Singer Kala Academy Award in 1989, Braz also holds credits for the lyrics of ‘BLACK’.

Director of award winning short film in English, 'The Letter' that won the Best Film award at the 2005 London Film Festival, T-Bush has included a crew of Goan and Mangalore-ian artistes for the making of BLACK. The state-of-the-art director has made use of the latest E-Cinema technology for the making of the film.

The movie revolves around a musician who is involved in trivial assignments of traditional music. Culture and music means everything to the self-born maestro who just cannot give up on his passion for music. His effort to persuade the young genre to keep the art living in the face of fading tradition runs to an emotional zenith as the movie unfolds.

SANNY DE QUEPEM CONDOLED IN KUWAIT.

On last Saturday 17th of this month, a condolence meeting was called by the colleagues of Sanny de Quepem which was held at Village Inn, in Kuwait city. Mario Rebello, Fidelis Fernandes, Rosary Ferns, Luis Cardoso and A.Veronica Fernandes took the lead in organizing this meet which was attended by the colleagues and friends of Sanny de Quepem. The meet started at 8.00 p.m. and lasted about two hours. At an outset, a minute silence was observed for the soul of renowned Tiatrist Sanny de Quepem. Special prayer was conducted by Fatima Fernandes for the repose of the departed soul. All the speakers one after the other showered abundant praises on late Sanny de Quepem for his enormous contribution in the promotion of Tiatros in Kuwait.

section of the crowd

In his speech, first Fidelis Fernandes the president of Konkani Heritage Kuwait gave full account of Sanny’s genius in singing and composing beautiful and educative songs. He also described in full the close rapport Sanny had with him. Fidelis concluded his speech by appreciating Sanny’s contribution for the Konkani Musical Shows organized by KHK.

Mario Rebello the Gen. Secretary of Kuwait Konknni Kendr in his speech lauded the good work Sanny de Quepem put in to raise the level of our Tiatro and songs in Kuwait. Mario Rebello in a special way mentioned how Sanny de Quepem worked so hard for the success of last “Songit Sanz” organized by Kuwait Konknni Kendr and on behalf of KKK, MARIO REBELLO ACKNOWLED SANNY’S CONTRIBUTION FOR THE CAUSE OF KKK.

Miss Diana, a young Malyali girl who was a good friend of Sanny, in her speech almost in tears described Sanny’s friendship with her and how Sanny treated her like her own father. She surprised everyone by saying that she always made a point to attend any Konkani show in which Sanny participated because she liked his sweet voice very much. Diana though a Malyali for which she said she was proud but she also stressed in the same manner that she was equally proud to associate with Goans especially the stage artistes. Diana understands Konkani very well and speaks also. She was brought up amongst Goans in Kuwait since her birth.

Rosary Ferns the author of first Konkani CD, first expatriate Goan to release a Konkani Album besides staging about 20 Tiatros, almost equal number of Konkani Albums and innumerable songs, throughout his speech tears in his eyes and with uncontrollable emotions described his closeness with Sanny and how Sanny was helpful for him in organizing his Tiatros and Musical Shows. Sanny was one Tiatrist in Kuwait who stood by Rosary very firmly when Tiatristanchi Sonvstha tried to isolate Rosary on the initiative of one stupid Tiatrist who is an author of disunity amongst Goans in Kuwait. Regretfully, all Tiatrists who blindly supported the stupid Tiatrist in his system of “To Aslear Aum Nachona” also proved to be equally stupid, if not more stupid. Where is justice gone? Only Sanny de Quepem had to fight openly for justice? It is disgusting to listen to the songs of some Tiatrists in Kuwait singing in support of justice but in reality in their real life under the shadow of “Sonvstha” they are guilty of practicing and promoting injustice. Tomorrow some of them will return to Goa for good. Will they say that they fought for justice in Kuwait? Some of them will take active part in public life and elections in their localities by raising the banner of justice. Will not they prove to be liars? Will I not expose them as liars and traitors? Sanny de Quepem was brought into more limelight in Kuwait by Rosary Ferns by giving him fitting roles in his shows and also inducting Sanny in his well sought after Trios, all composed by Rosary only. It was Rosary Ferns who made Sanny a gigantic artiste even helping him to release his first Audio Cassette. Rosary Ferns concluded his speech by singing a golden song of Sanny de Quepem – “Mog ani Kazar”.

In his brief speech Mr. Viegas the president of Kuwait Indian Foot-ball Federation showed his total happiness over this meeting organised by Sanny de Quepem's close associates. He said Sanny deserved this meeting and for such a man who has done so much for the cause of Tiatro we just cannot ignore. Furthermore Viegas said while organising such meetings for celebreties like the late Sanny de Quepem, we must not neglect non-celebreties. We must also think of them as well.

Salvador Dias the president of Kuwait Goan Association tears in his eyes described the greatness of Sanny de Quepem’s songs from the stage. Salvador also described in superlative terms how Sanny de Quepem helped him in organizing Rosary’s Show in aid of his organization, Kuwait Goan Association.

Luis Cardoso the Treasurer of Kuwait Konknni Kendr, in his speech praised Sanny for his soft attitude towards all. Luis said in Sanny’s songs one could get lot of knowledge and information and easily equated Sanny with some of the yesteryear Tiatrists who have contributed enormously for the development of this beautiful art. Sanny de Quepem also helped tremendously in the promotion of Tiatro, said Luis Cardoso and asked Heavenly Father to give eternal peace for the soul of Sanny.

Carmo Santo ex President of Goan Welfare Society while admiring Sanny de Quepem for his good work from the Stage showed the latest Konkani CD “NRI” that Sanny presented to him. While speaking, Carmo Santos said how Sanny one fine evening called him over phone and showed his appreciation for canceling Carmo organized Show on the same date as by Goan Welfare Society, on 9th of this month. Much before GWS could even think of organising Goa Day function this year, Carmo under the banner of Goan Cultural Centre already in advance booked this date and even announced it in the media. But suddenly from nowhere, GWS came in between and purposedly scheduled their Goa Day on 9th of this month only to create a clash and promote disunity amongst Goans. Because of this there was lot of confusion in the community. Many in the community said GWS was wrong in clashing their date with GCC and it was a sign of disunity which should be avoided. In order to avoid unwanted clash and bowing down to unity factor in the community, Carmo Santos and his team postponed their function. This was what Sanny de Quepem admired the most in Carmo Santos. Why Sanny only, others too.

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

Goans Honor NRI Affairs Delegation

Kuwait Goans urged to direct grievances to NRI Affairs
- By Sanny Nazareth

Kuwait Nov 22: When it comes to hosting receptions, banquets or occasional celebrations, Goans do it with passion. This was conspicuously discernible on Friday, November 9, 2007, when a segment of the Goan community in Kuwait threw in a lavish reception in honour of the visiting delegation from the Indian State of Goa.

The delegation comprised of Eduardo Faleiro, Honorable Commissioner for NRI Affairs-Government of Goa, Vice-Admiral (Rtd.) John Colin De Silva, Chairman, Overseas Employment Agency of Goa, Ulhas D. Kamat, Director of NRI Affairs, Government of Goa and Ms. Sabina Martins, social activist and President of "Bailancho Saad", a powerful regional organization that spearheads the movement for the emancipation of women. His Excellency M. Ganapathi, the Ambassador of India, V.K. Mahajan, First Secretary, Education & Information and other Indian Embassy officials also graced the occasion that was set in a luxurious Mughal ambiance at the Mughal Mahal hospitality chattels in Hawally.

Carmo Santos, founder and chief patron of Goan Cultural Centre in his welcome address highlighted the steadfast endeavours of the NRI Affairs Goan in the interest and for the benefit of the NRI Goans. Santos was particularly ecstatic at the visit of the delegation and expressed confidence that with Faleiro at the helm of NRI Affairs, a new leaf would be turned to redress issues that obsess the NRI Goans. Santos also gratefully appreciated the kind guesture of His Excellency, M. Ganapathi for gracing the occasion despite the fact that it was the day of Deepavali, the great Indian Festival of Lights.

Eduardo Faleiro speaking in Konkani pledged full support, cooperation and assistance and advised Kuwati Goans to direct genuine grievances to the NRI Affairs, Goa. Faleiro apparently elated at the overwhelming reception then presented a beautiful memento to Carmo Santos and hailed him as, "an excellent leader of the Goan community in Kuwait".

His Excellency, M. Ganapathi then tossed in a big surprise by saying a few admirable words with a touch of Konkani to the cheerful applause of the guests who thronged the venue. A surprise guest speaker was Ashok Karla, one of the managing partners of the prestigious Mughal Mahal chain of restaurants who extolled the Goan community for their "organizational dexterity" and added, that every Goan function was a mini Goa reflecting "Goans inherent desire for joie de vivre".

Suresh Naik, President of Goan Cultural Centre proposed a vote of thanks. Earlier, the delegation was profusely welcome with flowers bouquets and later, presented with gifts at the hands of the leaders of several Goan social, cultural and sports organizations active in Kuwait. Several prominent Goan personalities along with their families and guests who warmly interacted with the members of the delegation included Engineer Suresh Naik, President of Goan Cultural Centre, Dr. Jagganath Chodankar, President of Club 9, Alexander Fernadnes, President of Colva United Centre, Bosco Leitao, President of CRC Chinchinim, B.M. Viegas, President of United Goans Centre, Derrick Gomindes, Sports Secretary (Hon) Kuwait India Football Federation (KIFF), and, S.J. Nazareth, President of Kuwait Goa Foundation, among others.

This Article is featured in Mangalorean.com
www.Mangalorean.com

Forward by Carmo Santos carmosan50@hotmail.com

Alisha to team up with 2-Sharp at Navelim Feast Celebrations

-by gasper crasto www.goa-world.com

Kuwait: Alisha Esparanca Fernandes, a seventh standard Carmel School prodigy will team up with 2-S#arp musicians at the feast celebrations of Our Lady of Rosary, Thursday 22nd November 2007 at Hotel Village Inn, Kuwait City.

Our Lady of Rosary Church, Navelim -- one of the oldest churches of Goa - built by the Portuguese

Every year, Our Lady of Rosary feast, patroness of Navelim Church is celebrated in Goa on the 3rd Wednesday of November. Navelim Youth Centre (NYC) celebrate the feast in Kuwait on a Thursday with a Thanksgiving mass at the Holy Family Cathedral 6.30pm followed by a get-together of club members and families later in the evening. The function will include young Navelim sons Lentini and Platini Louis performing on keyboards.

Daughter of Neeta Fernandes and NYC Advisor and longstanding President Agnello A.S. Fernandes, Alisha will play on the violin accompanied by the musicians. Alisha is trained by Salvador, a well known Goan musician living in Kuwait.

“I have performed at many functions but playing in front of my beloved villagers and family...i think that's cool,” remarked an excited Alisha adding, "I thank dad for encouraging me to learn music and the violin. I intend to master the art of music and perhaps one fine day get to play in a mega assemblage like Yanni.."

Alisha is also a fluent Bharat Natyam dancer and has won many prizes for her performances at inter-school competitions.

Profile: Alisha Fernandes
Date of Birth: 10th December
Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
Place of Birth: Dar Al Shifa Hospital – Kuwait
School: Carmel School
Future Plans: Medicine
Favorite color: Blue
Favorite Food: Authentic Goan dishes
Favorite Song:Jab se tere Naina – “Saawariya”
Favorite Indian actor: John Abraham
Favorite Indian Actress: Angelina Jolie
Hobbies: Likes to hear music, playing Badminton, etc.

--Greetings on the occasion of feast--
to all devotees of Our Lady of Rosary
May our Lady bless us all!

Other Links:
Shahu forms 2-S#arp - a 2 men band

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/gulf-goans/message/14559

BLACK to be screened on 30 Nov 2007 with English Subtitles

Links on BLACK
Making of 'Black' - II
Making of 'Black' - I
'Black Nhesop Atachem Fashion' Released
Joseph Rodrigues - a new star on the Horizon
Riana Azavedo to leave an impact with 'Black'
A Tete-a-Tete with superstar Sylvester Vaz
Stage great Mario de Majorda in a new avatar
Black star Comedian Philip spills the beans
Black: Helen Pinto in a friendly appearance
A Tete-a-Tete with Cajetan Pereira
What makes 'Black' an E-Cinema?
Rowla Lewis: Amazing 'discovery' of BLACK
Crowning of 'Comedy Queen Querobina'
Black: Braz de Parra composes songs with danceable beat riffs
Lead actress of Black - Gracy Morais Speaks 'Black' film shot in Kuwait set for release

SANNY MELO VO TAKA MARLO?

Sanny singing in Rosary's musical show

Sanny de Quepem’s body was taken to Goa and he was buried in his home village Cemetery on the 15th of this month.

That death can come to anyone at anytime is a sure fact but still we have some reasons for our deaths. What was the cause of Sanny’s death? According to hospital report “his heart was depressed”. Did this happen because he was deeply depressed during the Goa Day function?

According to information available, Sanny was asked by the Goa Day organizers, Goan Welfare Society – to sing a song on Goa Day on 9th of this month. He prepared a nice song for the function and it was his wish to render it during the presence of visiting NRI Commissioner from Goa Eduardo Faleiro when attendance was at its peak. Sanny’s wish was to convey his message to larger audience including Faleiro. But to his shock, he was not allowed to sing his song when he wanted to sing it. He tried his best to plead his case with the organizers but all in vain. This was probably the shock that made him extremely depressed. To his chagrin he was made to sing at the last stage of the function when the attendance was thinned and Faleiro had already left the hall.

Sanny Vaz singing a manddo as a lead singer with Querobina, Rosary and Sandra in a group

With a depressed mood he went home and sat on his bed with a stressed mood feeling uneasiness all over his body. He then called his brother and asked him to give him a glass of soda. By the time his brother went to bring soda, Sanny collapsed on the bed. Immediately he was rushed to the nearest Hospital but at the entrance he was declared DEAD.

By nature he was not aggressive and not very stiff to accept humiliations and negatives. Any downbeat answer he would take very seriously and to his heart. He was very sentimental and a emotional man. I am sure the negative answer to his request by Goa Day organizers must have made him depressed which in fact he should not have taken so seriously. But Sanny’s nature is such.

I don’t know why Sanny gave so much of importance to Eduardo Faleiro’s presence in the hall. Who is Eduardo Faleiro and what he can do? He is only an NRI Commissioner having Cabinet Rank from the Goa Government. This post was given to Eduardo Faleiro earlier by Rane as a “bokxis” to keep him occupied. Even if hundred NRI Commissioners appointed nothing much good will happen to us in Kuwait or anywhere in the Goan world abroad. By doling this post to Eduardo Faleiro, Rane and Goa Government have kept Faleiro occupied in something at the cost of tax payers otherwise as a politician, Faleiro would create some mischief which may disrupt the Goa Government. When dealing with the Government of Kuwait, representatives of Indian States have very little say or nothing at all.

According to further information, the organizers of Goa Day and the persons dealing in Sanny’s song were very adamant. By acceding to the request of Sanny heaven would not fall but why this request was denied is beyond my imagination. This was a small request but made “MOTTO” (FAT) unnecessarily. Was it to satisfy the anger of Sanny’s adversaries in Tiatro fraternity? Sanny had his adversaries in Tiatro fraternity since he sang that piercing song against “To Aslear Aum Nachona”.

Those who are involved in denying Sanny the privilege of his simple request should be exposed and if it was done with malice then they should be held responsible for his death. There should be debate on Sanny’s death not only in Kuwait amongst the followers and supporters of Sanny but also in the entire tiatro fraternity spread all around the Konkani musical world. The death of Sanny is a big blow for the development of Tiatro as a whole. He deserved highest respect and highest consideration for his request. Sanny’s death should be the talk of our conversation anywhere amongst us. This is not a simple issue. Thru this issue a “MOTTO” crisis was created because of which not ‘MOTTO’ but “Bharik” Sanny had to sacrifice his life.

Sanny’s wife Meera once thru telephonic conversation requested me to tell her husband to give up Tiatro activities because she felt this activity would lead him into problems. She did not like some of the people around him in this activitity. Maybe she felt one day these people will destroy her husband?

Sanny with Rosary Ferns & Querobina in a trio

Worst of activities amongst Goans are happening during the Goa Day functions. Past experience tells us that Goa Day is a very sinful day. It is a day where you notice “goondagiri”, “Soro” and “Pozoddponn”. Goa Day proved to be synonym with Sex – liquour and fights. It is like a curse and because of this curse I think God sent his punishment in the form of deaths. Earlier my colleague John Fernandes after attending Goa Day at Funaitees died of heart attack. This time after attending Goa Day function another Goan and popular figure Tiatrist Sanny de Quepem died. Whose turn will be the next in the coming year?

When John died GWS was headed by one of the three persons involved in illegally holding the 30,000 plus Kuwaiti Dinars of GWS fund, when Sanny died GWS is headed by second person involved in this fund scandal. For two fund scandalous persons two deaths have occurred. For the third scandalous person will there be another death of third innocent person like John and Sanny?

With these tragedies in mind, I think we should be very cautious in attending Goa Day. Our elders and even Church leaders should take note of the all the nonsense going on during Goa Day and advise the faithfuls accordingly. It is the duty of the Church leaders and especially priests who are conversant with us to advise people to take a correct path. Goa Day is become the day of sin and the day of death. Why? Because of the punishment of God for the sinful acts committed during Goa Day functions and because of the misappropriation of the huge funds by the three persons?

Goa Day is organized under the leadership of persons with dubious character, one of them was also involved in demanding sex from young girl for the favour of job. Such Narvenkar-ism should be punished by the people of good character by not attending Goa Day functions. As it is many of the decent Goans have stopped attending Goa Day functions especially the decent families who loathe indecent behaviour.

Some mystery is surrounded in the two deaths following Goa Day. There is a saying in Konkani, “Adaum korta pap ani sonsot dita zap”, “Chor kortat bamtteponnam ani innocent Goykar bhogtat mornam”. God alone knows what is lying next in Goa Days in the years to come!

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

Mathew Araujo - passionate and dedicated about acting

-Daniel F. de Souza, Goa

Mathew Araujo is the man who refused a tempting offer from a mighty playwright like the late Rosario Rodrigues in the year 1991 not because he did not want to act in his troupe but more because he wanted to honour his word given earlier to another playwright. Incidentally, Mathew had committed himself to playwright Jack Ferry in his show ‘Devak Sangat’ and hence did not want to ditch him for another much lucrative offer. And yet today he ranks among the top leading and much sought after male actors of the Konkani stage. Stylish and with a slim and trim athlete body frame, this wheat complexioned leading actor can enact any dashing roles with equal ease and panache, though he is well suited for a villain, or an Police Officer.

He is one of the few actors who has received the prestigious Gulab award consecutively for two years for his best acting ( For ‘Bovall’ in 2002 and for ‘Devak Zai Zalear’ in 2003). But he has neither pride nor any kind of ego and is a down to earth simple man with humility being his second nature. Soft spoken and a man of few words Mathew Araujo endears to just about anybody who comes in close contact with him, and that’s because he always maintains a low profile on and off the stage. A successful businessman by profession who runs a fleet of tourist cabs, he took to acting just like the way fish takes to water and today is a most recognized face in town.

Mathew Araujo hails from the village of Cabesa, Santa Cruz in the North and had his schooling in St. Cruz High School where he completed his studies till S.S.C. As a matter of fact there is no one in the family who had any professional engagement with the Konkani stage and yet Mathew somehow had the urge to prove himself on the Konkani stage. He was offered a small role by fellow villager Candido Araujo in 1982 in one of his tiatr staged on the feast day. The same trend continued in 1983 and 1984 too. But, in the year 1985 Candido Araujo having convinced of Mathew’s acting talents, offered him a much bigger role in his tiatr “ Mhoje Dolle Tuzo Uzvadd”. That was perhaps the beginning of much bigger things to come, and from then on there was no looking back for this enthusiastic young man who has till date bagged only the leading roles in most of the dramas he has acted.

Mathew has also had a short stint with the All Goa One Act plays which gave him a wider and much bigger exposure across Goa, but his real break in a professional troupe came in Pascoal Rodrigues’ tiatr ‘Mog asum di’ followed by another professional playwright Jack Ferry. So far there is not a single playwright director of the Konkani stage who has not requisitioned the acting services of Mathew Araujo. From John D’Silva, Rose Ferns, Prince Jacob, Pascoal Rodrigues, Menino de Bandar, Ben Evangelistgo, Peter D’Costa, Anthony San, Jose Rod, Samuel Carvalho, to Agostinho Temudo have all had Mathew on their shopping list. He is a complete actor and gets fully involved in the role that he is called upon to enact. He admits that he still follows the age old practice of rehearsing his lines first before the mirror at home to fine tune his acting. On several occasions he has stepped into the shoes of other actors in emergencies and done justice to the role at very short notice.

Though a self taught actor, Mathew acknowledges the guidance he has received on acting and dialogue delivery and modulation from other seniors. He is all praise for playwright John D’Silva, who he says has polished his skill during his stint in John D’Silva’s dramatic troupe for nearly 4 years. When asked who is his favourite Konkani stage artiste Mathew replied after a little thought “ The late Seby Coutinho is my favourite, though I got to see him act only on few occasions.”

In recent times Mathew is seen acting in many of the short video films that are produced in Goa. One VCD film that instantly comes to mind is Samuel Carvalho’s ‘Ghat Apleak Sontos Peleak’ where he acts as the romantic Police Officer. He has even acted in the role of Jesus in one of a religious taitr presented by the St. Cruz parish. To a pointed question whether he is selective or choosy about the roles offered to him he answered without any hesitation “I make no demands for any particular role, being an actor I am open to any role offered by the playwright. Similarly, I have no reservations whatsoever, whether the role is big or small. I give my 100% in any role that is offered to me. For e.g., I was offered a major role in the tiatr ‘Daddy’ by Samuel Carvalho, in his latest tiatr ‘Mhaka Sangat’ the same playwright offered me a comparatively smaller role of an Police Officer, this did not deter me in giving my best to the role and get appreciation from the audience.”

A widely traveled actor overseas in the Gulf with several playwrights, he is shortly scheduled to make a long overseas tour of the Gulf States of Dubai, Bahrain, Kuwait, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, and Muscat with Agostinho Temudo in January next year. In 2007 when he visited Kuwait he was felicitated by the organisers for his excellent acting skills. When asked to name his favourite Director/playwright among the present ones, he instantly mentioned the name of Rose Ferns, whom he said he holds in high esteem for his professionalism.

Father of two school going children Mathew Araujo is a family man when not busy with his shows and likes to spend quality time with them at home. 'They are my first critics at home with respect to my acting and dress code and are a great encouragement and support everything thatI do' Mathew told GO during the conversation. In all simplicity he admitted " I love good food, Chicken is my favourite, and when I have spare time at my disposal, I do chip in to help my wife in the kitchen" . Besides tiatr, he also has a great love for football and was a footballer with the famed ST. Cruz football club in his younger days.

Sounding a caution to the youngsters and newcomers to the stage he has this advice " Respect the senior artistes, be humble in whatever you do and achieve greatness through your dedicated work. Never try to show off with just a few performances. Simplicity and humility wins admiration and gets success".

THE LATE TIATRIST SANNY DE QUEPEM.

Cruz Sanny Vaz de Quepem

To quote Rabindranath Tagore in Konkani:

"Deva mornam zaun asat tujim rochnam.
Jedna tim zaun asat tujim rochnam,
Tednam tim koxinch amkam chukonam
Punn zaite pavtt Deva tim sonspak mat amkam thakoth assona."

Hea vellar Deva nam amkam thakoth sonspak moronn hea amchea bhavachem.
Deva dhi amkam thakot sonspak moron hea bhavachem.

Amkam ani tache familik thakoth and tachea othmeank sorginchem raj, oxem zaum.

The death of Sanny de Quepem was not at all expected at this time. 9th of November 2007 will go down in the history of Kuwait Goan Tiatrists as the blackest day. In the history of Kuwait Goan Tiatrists we do not have similar cases happening earlier and besides there was no greater tiatrist as Sanny de Quepem who breathed his last in Kuwait. Sanny de Quepem was a very good singer with melodious voice which was a gift for him from God. Besides a very good singer he was also a very good composer.

My close association with him started a year after his coming to Kuwait from Saudi Arabia. According to Sanny de Quepem, he was recruited to Saudi Arabia by my late brother Jose Maria. My brother was recruiting personnel from Goa to EDOK company in Saudi Arabia. When Sanny came to Kuwait I met him as Veronica but when he came to know that I am the brother of Jose Maria, he became very close to me. I liked him because of his beautiful singing. He was a staunch reader of my articles without missing a single, not only in Kuwait but also when he was in Goa and Saudi Arabia. He made especial file of all the cuttings of my articles and based on these he composed some of his beautiful, historical and wisdomatic songs. He loved to talk to me and listen to my talk too. He was a very good listener. A very learned man in many subjects. He had very good knowledge of Goan history, cultural and traditional aspects of Goa.

His songs had deep philosophical meanings and carried information that made the audience glued to his words. Many times he used to request me for good stories to compose intelligent songs. For this purpose he used to come to my place and on his small pocket tape recorder used to record what I spoke and then go home and compose his songs. Some of the great songs which he composed in such a manner are “Ayah” recorded in Rosary Ferns Album “Mog – Visvas – Sosnnikai”; “Tiatro ani Tiatrists”; “Kiddo” and some others. Kiddo song is based on greatness of a worm as depicted by Shakespeare in his masterpiece drama Hamlet. This song is very beautiful and after composing it he showed it to me but unfortunately he did not render it anywhere nor recorded. I don’t know where it is now. This is the most precious and philosophical of all his songs. I only hope at least his brother will know where it is kept.

Sunny in a trio with Rosary and Querobin Carvalho

He had great love for Tiatro and to sing on the stage. Wherever I was involved with Tiatro and Musical Shows with Rosary Ferns and Fidelis Fernandes, he used to be a part of our troupe. Not only to act but also to fully support and cooperate. Fidelis Fernandes and his brother Rosary Ferns spotted Sanny while singing in one show and immediately inducted him in our group. When Kuwait Konknni Kendr 4 years back organized its unique type of Konkani Show – “Songit Sanz” – Sanny was like a hero where he rendered his sweet and charming voice, a beautiful Mando with Querobina Carvalho. It was composed by Rosary Ferns. Such a beautifully rendered Mando I never heard before with a nice dress code of Tailcoat and Chimneypot Hat by him. As a singer he was very daring on the stage. When Kuwait Tiatristanchi Sonvstha introduced a clause in its system to keep some Tiatrists out of its fold out of envy, Sanny strongly opposed the Kuwait Tiatristanchi Sonvstha and refused to associate with it in any manner. He told me what Sonvstha was doing is not correct and I must oppose it no matter they keep me in their fold or throw me out. He did not like splits amongst tiatrists. He said it was time for him to fight the dadagiri of Jose Rod against innocent Rosary Ferns whom Jose Rod wants to keep out of stage as if the stage is his father’s property. While fighting this battle, Sanny was scornfully looking at the other members of Sonvstha for blindly supporting Jose Rod and his chamchas for following the code of Jose Rod meaning “Rosary Aslear Jose Rod Na”.

One day Marcus Vaz came to my house and almost tears in his eyes told me that “Motto”, Jose Rod and others strongly warned him not to associate with me in any of the tiatros organized by me. When I told this to Sanny, he got wild and said we must oppose these rascals who are trying to monopolize not only Tiatro in Kuwait but also Tiatrists. Sanny in fact did not like Sonvstha and its divisive members. Sonvstha also kept him at a distance because of his closeness with Rosary Ferns. The chord between them was cut and neither cared for each other.

Sanny was a very challenging singer and to prove this he composed a very daring song and rendered it beautifully dubbing the author of the discriminatory code known as “To Aslear Aum Nachona”, as coward, discriminator, traitor and ended it with a statement “Ignorant tum Xinkop xinklolo rostad". Sanny rendered this song in Simon’s Tiatro where the entire hall packed audience applauded him fabulously and he was also called back to sing it again. There was no stoppage for Sanny. During one of our conversation on the stupidity of Kuwait Tiatristanchi Sonvstha, Sanny told me that because of his close association with Rosary Ferns, sonvstha is against me especially its mentor and initiator Jose Rod who used to tell that “Sanny azunui ‘T’ zaunk na”. T refers to Tiatrist as if Jose Rod is a matured tiatrist like J.P. Souzalin. Further Sanny said some of the tiatrists from Sonvstha, to show their total allegiance to Jose Rod and other destructive elements never even talked to him adding that Sonvstha kept a distance between him and itself.

Sanny participating in a Manddo with Querobin Carvalho

Best of Sanny’s performances were with Rosary Ferns in Rosary’s trios either with Sylvester Vaz or Querobina Carvalho. Their trios were the most sought after by the audience. The most memorable trio of theirs was “Bapuji Gandhi” where Sanny dressed like a Gandhi and looked also like a real Gandhi. The other best trio that he sang with Rosary and Sylvester was “Matarponn” and yet another beautiful and interesting trio he sang with Rosary and Querobina was “Portuguez Tempacho”. These are just few examples where I can cite his greatness. His solos were also equally good and interesting. He also composed and rendered duets either with local or visiting females artistes. Tunes of many of his songs were very beautiful based on old English songs. He loved many of the English oldies and knew them by heart.

He was not only a good singer but he could play any given role to the satisfaction of the director. For example in Rosary Ferns Tiatro “Bhurgim Maim Paichem Sukh”, he did a wonderful role of a mentally retarded boy.

Sanny with Comdian Humbert and Prince Jacob

He acted in Tiatros not for the love of money but for the love of Tiatro. I don’t think he accepted money from any of the directors but on the contrary he used to shell out money from his own pocket for helping financially, some of the directors in providing Air Tickets and also the payments to the visiting artistes. Many times he used to purchase ticket books from the directors and give the tickets free to many of his friends who could not afford to buy the same. Best of his performances were done in the Shows organized by Konkani Heritage Kuwait and Kuwait Konknni Kendr.

He was first time introduced to Konkani Album by Rosary Ferns in his Album “Raag” where he rendered a beautiful song “Kazar” and later on Sanny de Quepem himself produced his two Albums, the last being NRI. Sanny also played a small role in T-Bush E-Cinema ‘BLACK Nesop Atanchem Fashion’ that was released in Kuwait recently.

He loves social work and to do this he used to spend money from his own pocket. Sometimes he financed the Air Tickets of some of the destitute Goan maids from Kuwait to Goa but never made a show out of it. Silently doing philanthropic activities was his forte.

As a man he was good at heart but if time comes he could be very defying and challenging. Though physically he had a thin frame but intellectually he had lot of strength. Besides being a Tiatrist, he was also a good writer. Recently he was very regular in goanet and gulf-goans doing lot of write-ups either as “cut and paste” or his own originals. He had good command of English as well as Konkani too in which he wrote many of his articles.

As a lover of Konkani we will miss his presence in Kuwait and his assistance for Konkani causes. He loved Konkani, he loved Goa and he loved Goan causes. In his death we lost a great supporter of our causes. When the news of his death was known everyone started talking of Sanny only. This shows his popularity in Kuwait amongst Goans. He was not a managing director of any company nor an owner, he was not a president of any Goan association nor a leader yet he was very popular by just being a Tiatrist. This shows the strength of great tiatrists. May his soul rest in peace and may God give strength to his wife and children to bear this colossal loss.

On Monday at Kuwait City Cathedral memorial a Mass was offered by Kuwait Goa Tiatristanchi Sonvstha. Sanny was not a member of KGTS. By organizing this memorial service in English the organizers have insulted Sanny because Sanny would not accept anything in English as a lover of Konkani. If any of the songs of Sanny were rendered after the Mass then it would be a befitting tribute to Sanny’s tiatristpon. Somebody who is very close and who knows Sanny well should have rendered the speech instead of by Araujo. The majority of the people who attended the service came there only because they loved Sanny and not because of KGTS. Sanny’s death was used by KGTS for its own promotion.

Sannychea mornan nhoich ek khoddegant tiatrist somplo punn ek nizacho Goykar melo.

Sanny melo vo Sanny-k marlo? Sanny Goa Day hea dissa somplo ou Sanny “Goa Death Day” hea dissa melo?

Hea fattlean vachat.

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

JOHN D'SILVA'S TIATRO "VODDEM"

John D’Silva’s ‘Voddem’ has a smooth sailing

By: Daniel F. de Souza.

After the run away success of ‘Xiddkavni’ last season, playwright John D’Silva is strongly in the news once again with his latest release ‘Voddem’ which is doing fairly good this season. John’s prowess at story telling once again comes to the fore with this touching story which is surely going to touch your sensitivity and open your eyes wide to reality and myth. The story progresses smoothly and keeps you anticipating at the end of every scene, till the very last scene.

The story: In ‘Voddem’ John D’Silva has woven a tale that has an equal dose of romance, emotions, betrayal, and comedy. It all begins with a simple love affair between Sheldon (Joe) and Shaina (Aplon). Shaina is the only daughter of Judy (Carmen), who are seemingly rich and wealthy as compared to Sheldon who hails from a comparatively lesser background. But, when Shaina discloses her desire to her mother that she intends to tie the marital knot with Sheldon, her mother rebukes her for her wrong choice and puts a spanner into their love story. Things begin to sour from this point onwards and the plot thickens further to its climax. Shaina’s mother is not at all happy with the alliance, and that’s just because she suspects Sheldon of being mentally ill and has seen him frequenting the mental hospital quite very often. It takes Sheldon a great deal of effort to convince Shaina’s mother and Shaina too that he is not afflicted with any mental illness, and his actual reason for visiting the mental hospital is something else altogether.

But, Shaina’s mother an iron lady that she is refuses to accept any explanation and wants an end to this alliance. She convinces her daughter against the marriage and blackmails her on her wedding day that if she ever marries him she would consume poison and put an end to her life. Shaina is left with no choice although she is torn between two loves, her lover Sheldon on one side and her mother on the other. At the eleventh hour, Shaina listens to her mother though. Sheldon returns home disappointed and totally shattered and dejected from the church on the wedding day. He takes to drinks and ruins his life because Shaina has refused to marry him and ditched him on the wedding day. Shaina on the other hand is married to a rich young man Freddy (Peter de Pedda) whose father is an Engineer by profession. The match is arranged by Shaina’s mother herself and she is too proud about the same. But things don’t turn out as expected and Freddy turns to be a cheat, a gambler and wastes his life and wealth after gambling. He has neither love for his wife nor respect for his hi-fi mother-in-law. He takes possession of Shaina’s house and bosses over them both. What happens thereafter is best seen live on stage.

However, a few things that keeps the story moving interestingly are ; Why was Sheldon visiting the mental hospital regularly? Was he really mentally sick? if not, why did Shaina’s mother prevail upon her daughter not to marry Sheldon? What was she afraid of? What did Shaina’s mother gain finally in marrying her daughter off to a rich Engineers’ son? Was it just name and fame? Or was it her false belief in some myth that children of well to do professionals turn out to be good in society and those of lesser individuals do not make a name for themselves? Is her thinking right or is she blinded by her wealthy status living in a make believe world ? Watch ‘Voddem’ to learn all this and more about the irrational perceptions that our society today is plagued with.

John has written a contemporary tale with good insight into people’s physique. The script is good with several rich and savoury dialogues which is the hallmark of most of his plays. The playwright has taken a practical view of the practice prevailing in our society and the perception people have about certain things. Performance: Aplon shines in the role of the young lover and looks sweet sixteen and carries herself well with a good dress sense. Later as the tormented wife also, she gives a good performance. Carmen as the mother has a sober role in ‘Voddem’ and has given a good account of her self. She specially looks gorgeous with that flashy change of different sarees in every scene worn with the traditional Gujrati style. Joe is good and emotes well in tragic circumstances. So is Peter de Pedda in a dashing role of Freddy. It is Elvis though as Milton who steals the show in his brief role of a mentally sick patient. He is very natural and realistic.

John D’Silva as Adv. Romuldo ably supported by Comedian Michael, Dudush dot com, and Remedios keep the audience in a hilarious mood right through the play. But the major chunk of the comedy is shouldered by John D’Silva himself and is confined to mere conversation without much rhetoric’s and there’s no screaming and shouting, and yet it evokes healthy laughter. The comedy is decent and there are no obscene or vulgar remarks. Don’t miss the two comedy sequences, one of the conversation on the mobile phone by John and the other about the magic hat. Both these acts are executed with a natural flair for comedy.

There are limited number of songs comprising of solos, and one trio. With the presence of Aplon who is a talented singer, one duet could have easily been accommodated in the play which the playwright has sadly overlooked. The two solos by Xavier Gomes are good, so also one each by Elvis, Peter de Pedda and Joe. One comedy solo by comedian Michael was well received by the audience and encored. The trio by Elvis- Xavier Gomes-Michael also received a good response.

The musical score originally written by Maestro Manuel Noronha is played by Anthony de Velim, Philip de Sanvordem, John Sequeira, and Aniceto is soothing, though keyboard player Jose Carvalho_needs special mention who has provided some appropriate background music to enhance the overall beauty of the play. Agnel Braganza has designed the stage props and cut outs and the light effects to give the desired impact for the various scenes are handled smartly by A.P. Rojals with timely co-coordinaion. However, if the prop showing the Panjim church was a little bigger in size, the impact would have surely been mind blowing. Nevertheless it is very impressive, and proper light effects could go a long way in getting the desired visual effect.

T-Bush International Films mourn the sad demise of Sanny Vaz

On behalf of the artistes and crew-members of 'BLACK',
T-Bush International Films deeply regret the passing away
of Cruz Sanny Vaz.

Sanny's image will remain in our minds for a long time.

We express our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

T-BUSH
T-Bush International Films

Condolences by Navelim Youth Centre, Kuwait

Executive Committee and members of Navelim Youth Centre (NYC), Kuwait deeply regret the passing away of Cruz Sanny Vaz (Sanny De Quepem).

May the Lord grant his soul eternal rest and courage to his family at this time of grief.
Allan Savio Fernandes,
Gen. Secretary
NAVELIM YOUTH CENTRE

Condolence from GWS on Sanny's death.

Goan Welfare Society mourns the death of Sanny.

Condolences from Goan Welfare Society.

The Managing Committee and members of Goan Welfare Society- Kuwait deeply regrets the passing away of well known Konkani stage artiste Mr. Sanny de Quepem in Kuwait on 9th November 2007. Your contribution towards Goa Day will always be remembered. May the Lord give courage and comfort to the bereaved family at this time of tragic moment and may his soul rest in peace in comfort with the Lord.

Goan Welfare Society,
Kuwait.

Mario Rebello & fly mourn Sanny's death.

Mario Rebello & family mourn Sanny's death.

We are deeply shocked and saddened on the sudden and sad demise of our dear friend Sanny de Quepem and express our deepest heartfelt condolences to his family.

We pray that God gives fortitude to Sanny’s family to bear this irreparable loss and to grant eternal rest to the departed soul of Sunny into the Kingdom of Heaven.

Mario Rebello and Family,
Kuwait.

T-Bush Int'l. Films Mourn Sanny's death

T-Bush International Films Mourn Sanny's death.

On behalf of the artistes and crew-members of 'BLACK', T-Bush International Films, deeply regret the passing away of Cruz Sanny Vaz. Sanny's image will remain in our minds for a long time. We express our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

T-BUSH T-Bush International Films

ROSARY FERNS DEEPLY MOURNS THE DEATH OF SANNY.DE QUEPEM.

ROSARY FERNS DEEPLY MOURNS THE DEATH OF SANNY DE QUEPEM.

I have no words to express my sorrow over the sudden and untimely death of my friend and trio colleague Sanny de Quepem. I could not believe at first when I got this sad news yesterday.

Together we sang number of trios and entertained the Tiatro audience very much. In him I had a very good trio singer. He could sing with me the way I directed him. His beautiful voice created extra effect on our trios. For my Tiatros he always stood by me, giving full cooperation and support. In his death I lost a sincere, dedicated and faithful colleague. I dont think his void can be filled by anyone. His death is not only a loss for me but also for the Tiatro as a whole. I will never forget his role in my trio imitating Mahatma Gandhi. This trio in Kuwait became an instant hit because of his depiction as Mahatma Gandhi.

May his soul rest in peace. I also pray to God to give his entire family courage to accept this colossal loss.

ROSARY FERNS,
Kuiwat.

CONDOLENCE FROM SANTANA AFONSO.

Condolence from Santana Afonso.

Condolences to our dear one Cruz Sanny Vaz It was a great shock to myself and my family while hearing the sad news of Cruz Sanny Vaz, who died of tragic Cardiac arrest on 10th November 2007, was not believed at that moment. We express our heartfelt condolences to your beloved mother Mrs. Lourencina Pacheco Vaz, wife Meera, son Mivron, daughter Streisand, and the bereaved family in Goa.

May his soul rest in peace.

Santana Piedade Afonso & Family Kuwait / Cuncolim Salcete - Goa.

CONDOLENCE FROM GCC-KUWAIT.

CONDOLENCE FROM GOAN CULTURAL CENTRE, KUWAIT.

The Chairman, President and the Managing Committiee of Goan Cultural Centre-Kuwait deeply mourn the sad desmise of our beloved Friend, Konkani Artiste and one of the Goa-world moderator Mr.Sunny de Quepem on 9th November, 2007 in Kuwait. May The Almighty God give courage and comfort to the breaved family. May His Soul Rest In Peace. All the Kuwait Goans will miss you forever.

With Deep Sympathy Carmo Santos, Suresh Naik & all members of GCC-KUWAITKuwait: 10th November, 2007.

GOAN CULTURAL CENTRE - KUWAIT.

KHK MOURN SANNY'S DEATH.

KHK MOURN THE DEATH OF SANNY DE QUEPEM.

KONKANI HERITAGE KUWAIT received with shock the sad news of sudden death of Sanny de Quepem on Friday 9th of this month.

We deeply mourn this untimely death of Sanny de Quepem and convey our heartfelt symphaties to his mother, wife, children, brothers and sisters.

May his soul rest in peace.

KONKANI HERITAGE KUWAIT,
Kuwait.

DEATH OF SANNY DE QUEPEM.

DEATH OF SANNY DE QUEPEM.

KUWAIT KONKNNI KENDR deeply mourn the sudden and untimely death of Sanny de Quepem yesterday 9th November 2007.

May Sanny's soul rest in peace and may the heavenly father give all his family members courage to bear this loss.

KUWAIT KONKNNI KENDR,
Kuwait.

TIATRO REVIEW - "Amkam Xanti Di"

TIATRO REVIEW - Amkam Xanti Di.

By Daniel D'Souza.

‘Amkam Xanti Di’ A story with a good morale. Playwright Mariano Fernandes who has produced several good hits in the past has come forth with something different this time in ‘Amkam Xanti di’. It is family drama, with a different ending and a good morale. ‘Amkam Xanti Di” is a tale of an average middle class family which is depicted in a very natural and down to earth manner. The story flows very smoothly with a lucid script and is a treat to watch as each and every scene unfolds highlighting the day to day problems in the family. The play goes on to portray how a close knit family which was so united and in love crumbles down due to a simple mis-calculations and negligence. The arguments and quarrels between the two sisters (Olga and Luiza) and their spouse (Anil-Mariano) are natural and a treat to watch.

‘Amkam Xanti di’ is a story of two married sisters, living with their parents along with their husbands. It all begins when one of the sons-in-law who is unemployed and orphaned, but very ambitious convinces his father-in-law that he wants to go into travel business and take a huge bank loan to buy a Volvo bus. For this he asks his father-in-law to stand surety in the Bank, and mortgage his house and property. The father-in-law being a kind and understanding man, obliges hoping his daughter and son-in-law will be happy and succeed in their business. But, what happens next is to be seen. For it is here that the plot thickens further and takes a different turn. Several events that take place thereafter shape the story to such an extent that one is left with anticipation to know the next. The son-in-law turns out to be irresponsible, negligent and untrustworthy. ‘Amkam xanti di’ is a play that shows you convincingly how a person’s greed can never be satisfied and how negligence, and pride can contribute to your downfall. It is a story that gives you a lesson in determination and self respect. It also emphasizes on the belief in oneself and one’s own capacity. Amkm Xanti Di is a plot that reminds the elders that irrespective of how well you treat your children and how much you may give them, they still have their eyes and attention on their parents property. Sometimes, even to the extent of depriving them of a well deserving peace in their old age.

The comedy in the drama is something to look forward too. It is entirely a separate story that runs parallel to the main plot and is amusing and cheerful to watch. The plot for the comedy is set on the backdrop of a tussle between the trawler owners and the traditional fisherman using the canoes and nets. The playwright has perhaps picked up real to life episodes from the life of the fishing community and made it a plank to base his entire comedy. Comedians Domnic, Luis Bachchan, Joana and Succorina are jelling very well and some real to life facts are brought out alive on stage in a humorous manner evoking instant good laughter, with their natural comedy. Luis Bachchan with his pranks steals the show.

The opening solo in this tiatr was really superb, very creative and exceptionally good. So also the songs in the tiatr are appealing. The political trio by Franics Tuem-Domnic-Bab Andrew as also the other comedy trio by Marcus-Francis Tuem-Xavier Gomes had the audience asking for more. So was it with the comedy quartet. One solo by Olga, two by Lemos, one comedy solo by Joana, Marcus, Bab Andrew, Albert, Bushca, and duet by Luiza-William were all very appreciative. The respective roles played by the cast were something to watch. They were so very natural, and the story unfolded as though actually taking place in any middleclass household. Pradip Naik, Dolla, Luiza, and Anil Pednekar, take the cake for their natural acting. The show is recommended specially for the parents with married daughters. Make sure you book your tickets in advance.

AWARDS FOR NRI GOANS

AWARDS FOR NRI GOANS.

Amongst the expatriate Goans, Kuwait Goans contribution for the cause of Goa is really great. The early Goans who landed in Kuwait soon after the Second World War were very conscious of their homeland, their homes and their home language that is Konkani. The first Goan association that was formed in Kuwait was known as Goan Association Ahmadi – Kuwait, it was formed at Ahmadi Oil Center where most of the early Goans concentrated because of their jobs in KOC and other Oil companies, namely Amin Oil, Jetty Oil etc. Though these Ahmadi resident Goans working at Oil Centres came under the banner of Goan Association Ahmadi -Kuwait yet this association failed to unite all Goans together because discrimination on the basis of nature of one's job was a hindrance. Entry into this Association especially at certain locations and for certain Goan functions for manual workers, for domestic workers and for other artisans was prohibited. This novel idea was decided by certain “ded Xanne Bamonn Goykar” one of them from Raia – Goa, on the pattern of British policy of devide and rule. It was said in Kuwait during those days that "Raiche Bamon" were racists number one but pretend to be nice to everyone.

During those days KOC was the monopoly of British and to maintain their supremacy they did not allow non British, non Westerners, non white collar job holders to mingle with them. Hence, our “ded-Xanne Goykar” also imitated their masters and introduced Goan type of apartheid in Goan Association Ahmadi – Kuwait. Many of the Goans residing in Kuwait City and surrounding areas had no role in GAA-K and because of this they felt something had to be done. Hence under the co-leadership of with one Mr. Armando Carvalho, Mr. Vincente D’Souza from Camurlim formed another Goan Association in Kuwait city known as Kuwait Goan Association somewhere in mid sixties, in the initial stages it was called just “Kuwait Goans” but later on it was called Kuwait Goan Association. Till 32 years back this was the only Goan Association in Kuwait existing while Goan Association Ahmadi – Kuwait automatically came to an end without anybody’s notice after the formation of KGA and with it the false Bamon pride of Kuwait Bamonn Goykar especially of Raikar also vanished.

Mr. Vincente D’Souza was a very dynamic man working for Kuwait Customs for a long time. He was also a free lance journalist in Kuwait and the only accredited one amongst the Goans in Kuwait. Besides writing for the local media he was also the Kuwait correspondent of “Goa Today” a monthly from Panjim for a long time till I took over. He had great love for Goa and Goan causes. Many times he proved to be a revolutionary and visionary too. He enjoyed high respect in Goan and Indian communities. He could easily interact with Indian diplomats with ease. He was very much responsible for making Goan community known to other communities and nationalities. He highlighted many of the Goan issues to Goa and Indian Governments and made the voice of Goans very audible in Kuwait. At certain point he was so powerful that if he said Yes, it should have been yes for all including to those who later on turned against him especially the one "chor" and rapist from Welfare Society.. During his stay here in Kuwait till the invasion of Kuwait he played a wonderful role in the enhancement of community affairs.

Some of the initiatives of Vincente D'Souza were really wonderful and worth mentioning here. Raising funds for Goa Cancer Hospital at Dona Paula was his inititiative, giving access to Dr. Vaidya in Kuwait for this cause was his responsibility. Forming of another Goan Association “Goan Arts Circle” was also his initiative. Direct Flight from Kuwait to Goa was his initiative and he worked hard for its implementation, besides him others also worked, I too have played a major role in this drive but initiative was of Vincente D’Souza. Today we are having facilities of direct flight much because of his initiative. Then came his another powerful initiative of starting a new English School in Kuwait known as “New Indian School at Jabriya – Kuwait” where thru his pushing a Goan principal Stanislaus Alemao was recruited as Head of this School. Because of starting of this school lot of our boys and girls got opportunities to study in Kuwait otherwise due to shortage of schools in Kuwait parents had to send their children out of Kuwait which means painful separation of children from their loving and caring parents. Yet another powerful initiative of this man was the establishment of “Gulf Goans Hotels Company” in Goa where this company has already built a big hotel “Goan Heritage” at Calangute Ghauravaddo and where many of our Goans are earning their livelihood. One more initiative of this dynamic expatriate Goan from Kuwait was the formation of “Goan Welfare Society” which is still existing in Kuwait. But unfortunately its fund is in the hands of two Curtorcares who inspite of court case filed by one of the members still refusing to hand over the fund back to parent body.

Under the skippership of NRI Commissioner Eduardo Faleiro some expatriate Goans were presented with special awards during the last global Goan function in Goa. The contribution of these Goans towards the cause of Goa was known better only to Eduardo Faleiro. None amongst them come closer to Vincente D’Souza’s contribution to the cause of Goa. Even when we financed the stay of Eduardo Faleiro in Kuwait in late seventies it was Vincente D’Souza who initiated this and as such Faleiro knows the dynamism and contribution of Vincente D’Souza to the cause of Goa, Goans and himself as well. Instead of doling out awards to those Goans whose contributions to the cause of Goa is nothing compared to what Vincente D’Souza did, would it not have been right to honour Vincente D’Souza appropriately even though he is no more an NRI now? Were all those honoured in Goa during the last Global Goan function, NRI – Indians or they were holders of the citizenship of the countries of their domicile? Is it right to honour Goans holding non-Indian passports? Those who are wasting tax payer’s money on those who pay no taxes should be brought to their senses. Can’t anybody inform Congress High Command of the waste of lakhs by Faleiro on those who are least bothered on Goa? I think somebody must come forward to put a brake on “dadagiri” of those who are doling NRI awards to useless Goans and demand explanation on the waste of public money by NRI Commissioner on those Goans whose nationalities are not Indian and whose contribution in the causes of Goa and Goans is nothing. We like honouring Goans who love Goa, its culture, tradition and language and whose work for Goan causes and not to those who don’t do anything for the cause of Goa and Goans.

And those who think Commissioner can do something good for our cause then they are sadly mistaken. Nobody is interested in us from Goa. All are interested in their issues only and they come to Gulf only for their own promotion.

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

EMERGENCY IN PAKISTAN.

EMERGENCY IN PAKISTAN.

Was US not consulted by Gen. Pervez Musharraf before introducing emergency rule in Pakistan on Saturday last? I doubt. There is nothing in this world especially in the third world and in Europe happening without the green signal from the White House. In 1990, 2nd August, according to information available, US had full prior knowledge that Iraq is marching towards Kuwait and even US gave silent nod for Saddam to move in his troops towards Kuwait. “Never an appeasement to the dictator because a dictator is a dictator” said Margaret Thatcher. However good the rule of Musharraf may be in Pakistan but he trampled under his feet all the democratic rules and usurped power with brute force. As a lover of democracy I condemn Gen. Musharraf for introducing emergency rule in Pakistan. Why Musharraf only? For that matter I condemn every ruler who usurps power thru bullet and not thru ballot. And introducing of martial law is the worst thing one can do. I pledge my total solidarity with all the Pakistanis who are opposing emergency rule in Pakistan. It is disgusting to see Musharraf's police treating so badly the agitating lawyers against the emergency rule. If civilised, decent and educated people do not oppose the barbarity of Gen. Musharraf then who will do this?

In the past, in June 1995 I know how India with its strong democratic base suffered a severe blow to its progress because Indira Gandhi the then Premier of India introduced emergency rule and shut all the doors of democratic process. Press was choked and media was harassed, intelligencia was suppressed leading to the arrest of top democratic minded leaders including the colleague of her father Jeyprakash Narayan – a Ghandian himself. History repeats itself and it is repeated in Pakistan, a neighbouring country to India. During those days of 19 months of emergency rule in India a full blooded bustling Indian was converted into a pale docile person, his movement was sniffed by sniffing dogs and even his thoughts were arrested to think freely. His human attributes were extracted from his body and mind. He was made to believe that he was a sub human being. This is the result of emergency rule and martial law.

Gen. Musharraf is also on way to imitate Congressperson Indira Gandhi. Humna Rights activists from all around the globe will have to play a major role now to stop Musharraf from terrorising humanbeings in Pakistan. Indian lovers of democratic rule will have to play a major role from India to silence Musharraf as the then Pakistani leader Zulfikar Ali Bhutto did from Pakistan during the emergency rule in India. During those days Mr. Bhutto as a premier of Pakistan in his speeches and press conferences used to highlight the plight of the sufferrings of Indian from Indira's terror. He used to awaken the world conscience from Pakistan against Indira's emergency in India. He used to criticise Indira Ghandi and her Congress Party very severely.

By introducing emergency rule in Pakistan Gen. Musharraf proved how coward he is. He should have waited for the final verdict of Supreme Court on his election result. Instead he unceremoniously and unconstitutionally dismissed Chief Justice Chaudury trampling under his military boots constitutional delicacies. By this action he showed that he introduced emergency in Pakistan not to save the country but only to save his skin from the likely Supreme Court verdict against his continuation as President in uniform.

When I read his autobiography “In The Line Of Fire” especially chapter 18 where he humiliates Benazir Bhutto for running away from Pakistan after robbing the country of its huge resources I had very good opinion of General Musharraf as a man of upright principle. But when he allowed Benazir back home by giving her amnesty for her misdeeds I realized that this man, General Musharraf is not to be trusted. I am convinced that he is power hungry and to retain it he will do anything even by committing suicidal acts as the introduction of emergency. This is not an end. He will go on increasing and multiplying his acts of arrogance and high handedness exactly as Indira Gandhi did in 1975 in India during her emergency rule. With the support of emergency rule laws innocent persons in Pakistan will have to suffer. Decent Pakistanis opposing emergency will face the brutalities of Musharraf’s police. Intellectual class of Pakistanis will have to undergo traumatic time physically and intellectually because this class of Pakistanis will never accept “dadagiri” of one man Gen. Musharraf who thinks he is omnipotent.

I have a strong feeling that Musharraf will fail in his endeavours in attaining success in his emergency rule in Pakistan. Present day Pakistan is not what it was earlier during the regimes of Ayub, Yayah and Zia. Fire brand Imran Khan has already fired a salvo and Benazir Bhutto has already shown her disapproval to emergency and asked her party followers to oppose emergency. So also many top Pakistani leaders. Pakistan will ultimately be saved only thru civilized rule by the civilized ruler and not thru the power of bullet by the martial law. Power of bullet has failed in Pakistan because bullet begets bullet and because of this in some remote corners of Pakistan parallel governments with the power of bullet are functioning inspite of General Musharraf having full control of Pakistan. With the advent of Musharraf’s illegal rule extremism and terrorism has increased in Pakistan. May be Musharraf himself is responsible for this by clandestinely pushing the extremists and terrorists into action. An architecht of Kargil war will do nothing but only create more and more Kargils in his own land against his own people. It is useless blaming India for the ills of Pakistan. Pakistani ills are the creations of Pakistanis themselves. If India remained united today since independence it is only because of the word democracy however defective it may be but democracy alone kept the Indians united. If Pakistan was splitted yesterday it was only because of the absence of democracy in Pakistan. The millitary rule, emergency rule and martial law alone will be responsible for the further splits of Pakistan. Millitary rulers alone are responsible for all the ills in Pakistan.

I admire all the civilized countries that condemned the emergency rule in Pakistan but abjure India’s stand of not condemning emergency rule boldly in Pakistan. Will India condemn in strongest terms the introduction of martial law in Pakistan with emergency rule? I don’t think so because as long as Sonia Gandhi the Italian daughter-in-law of the late Indira Ghandi wields influence and power over the current Indian government at the centre there will not be condemnation of emergency rule in Pakistan. Sonia Gandhi was a part and parcel of Indira Ghandi’s household when her nasty mother-in-law in connivance with her late Pilot husband Rajiv Ghandi introduced and hailed emergency in India. Sonia Gandhi was a silent admirer of emergency rule in India and being so how she will accept condemnation of emergency rule in Pakistan?

Pakistan may be the country of Pakistanis spread all over the world and as such they may have more responsibility to decide their fate. Also, they may be knowing better what is good and what is bad for their country. But the lovers of democracy spread all around the globe irrespective of their nationality have got duty to support democracy and oppose emergency not only in Pakistan but anywhere in the world. Let me be a part of that segment of democracy lover in condemning emergency rule in Pakistan and opposing martial law. Pakistan may be of Pakistanis but democracy is of all including of me. For this reason I support democracy and condemn emergency.

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.