HISTORY OF TIATRO IN KUWAIT.

The above is the Handbill of the first Tiatro in Kuwait on 14th Aug., 1958, staged at Ahmadi. Seen on top at left, is Edmundo Fernandes.

Candolim, Bardez is a very popular village in Goa. It is a birth place of world renowned Hypnotist Abade Faria (Abe Faria) whose house where he was born is still there and it is under the possession of Goa Government. The Portuguese School where I did my primary education in Portuguese was named after this great Goan genius as “ESCOLA PRIMARIA DE ABADE FARIA’. Abade Faria made Candolim internationally known while Candolim is made popular in Goan and Konkani world by renowned Konkani Tiatrists, namely Alexinho de Candolim whose songs and Tiatros dazzled the Konkani world and Young Menezes another singer of highest reputation known to compose and sing songs full of proverbs with perfect rymings. Young Menezes was the real Jet Speed singer of whose type still there is no one on Konkani Stage. The Vaddo where Abe Faria was born is known as Pintos Vaddo where another smart Goan was also born, named Antonio Maria Fernandes. During the British rule in India, Antonio Maria Fernandes worked for British Army as a Librarian where he had total access to all the books from where he acquired top knowledge in many subjects. He was highly literate man and highly knowledgeable person of whose type during those days there was none in our village. When I was young, I was his favourite young boy and used to sit with him listening to his flow of knowledge on any subject. From his mouth I acquired lot of knowledge. It was said, he knew everything except one that is when he would die. He was the father of once renowned footballer of Goa, Panvel and Dempo, the late Titus who played along with me in Goa. Because he knew everything except one, Antonio was nicknamed as Ninety Nine after his coming to Kuwait soon after the independence of India.

Antonio Maria Fernandes was directly recruited by Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) as an Auto Electrician in which trade he was also good. He had 2 more brothers; one was the late Paciencio Fernades who after getting a job in Dubai in mid sixties took innumerable villagers to Dubai. The other brother was Edmundo Fernandes who till some years back was employed in Kuwait. Edmund was a good Tiatrist and when Alfred Rose & Rita came to Kuwait in 1975 thru Tony Cal, Edmund acted in both the Tiatros of Alfred Rose, namely “Bhangaracho Voti” and “Angounnechi Vokol”. During my last visit to Goa, I had an opportunity to talk to Edmund since he and I are from the same village and Vaddo too. I asked him about the origin of Tiatro in Kuwait and this is what he told me:

“My brother Antonio came to Kuwait in 1950 and immediately he brought me to Kuwait and got me employed at Bechtel Co., Ahmadi Oil sector, as an AC Technician. I came to Kuwait via Ship S.S. Dumra from Goa to Karachi and then to Kuwait covering this distance in 10 days, ticket fare costing Indian Rupees 200/- was sent to me by my brother only. During those days in Kuwait the currency was Indian Rupees. My brother Antonio was regularly coming to meet me from Ahmadi where he was staying in KOC Quarters, at Fahaheel where I was staying with the then prominent Goan Felix Monteiro from Bastora. Mr. Monteiro was a very good singer and composer and had great liking for Tiatro. Then my brother while conversing with Felix asked him whether he is interested in staging a Tiatro at Ahmadi and if yes, he agreed to do everything for staging this Tiatro. When Felix said yes, my brother Antonio went to KOC Labour Office, spoke to the top British Boss, submitted the application, got it approved and thus the first Tiatro in Kuwait was staged on 14th August 1958 at 9.00 pm, in the Open Air next to the then South Wheel Hospital. The name of this Tiatro was “BODMAS OKOL” written and directed by Felix Monteiro. In this Tiatro I rendered a solo “Veronica Ostori” which was very much applauded by the audience. Being the first Tiatro in Kuwait, the audience was packed to capacity and some of them had to just stand having no seat. The ticket fares were Rs. 5/- first class and Rs. 3/- second class. Then other Tiatrists followed also thru the assistance of my brother. Felix Monteiro later on staged his second Tiatro “NOXIBACHEM NOKETR” again with the assistance of my brother and he then followed by another 2 more Tiatros. Then my “ghaum – bhau” from Candolim Orda, John Dias staged his Tiatro “UNTYCHO MOG” in Salmiya in 1963.
Later on Tony Cal came into the picture in full scale as director and started staging his Tiatros and encouraged others also and promoted new comers. According to me, said Edmund, Tony Cal has played a pivotal role in the promotion of Tiatro in Kuwait. But the major credit for the origin of Tiatro in Kuwait should go to my brother Antonio Maria Fernandes and then to Felix Monteiro”.

In this way, I asked Edmund “can we call your brother Antonio Maria Fernandes as PAI KUWAIT TIATRIST? Good suggestion, answered Edmundo.

Unfortunately, Antonio Maria Fernandes died in Dubai about 30 years back while Felix Monteiro died in Canada recently.

In 1978 approximately, Felix Monteiro helped Dost Kumar another well known Goan Tiatrist to stage his Tiatro in the Church Hall, Kuwait City.

To add something more on Antonio Maria Fernandes, he was such an intellectually dynamic man that somewhere in 1958 at KOC Center where he was working, in honour of Portuguese Government of Goa he collected all the likeminded Goans in the morning at 9.00 on the National Day of Portugal and hoisted the Portuguese Flag and rendered the Portuguese National Anthem “Heroes do Mar”. When this news went to British Embassy looking after the interest of Portugal in Kuwait, it immediately sent a message to Portugal in Lisbon and Salazar personally applauded Antonio Maria Fernandes. When he went to Goa for good before the forced entry of Bharat into Goa, Salazar thru his last Governador of Goa, Vassalo e Silva, asked Antonio what he wants…… Then the history which I have recorded in my forthcoming book.

Antonio Maria Fernandes was a terrific daring man. 4 Days after the annexure of Goa by Bharat, some rascal Bharati military soldiers stationed at Aguada started acting like Dadas of Goa at our Tinto. They were hungry for foreign liquour, not only foreign liquour but anything foreign bullshit. They were the hungry, thirsty and cheap Bharatis from the streets in the land called Bharat descended on Goa with the excuse of liberating Goa. But in reality they did just the opposite. After consuming “Bann bhor Soro” at Casa Manica Bar, they refused to pay and on top of it started acting abusive with the owner of Casa Manica who 4 days earlier shouting at the top of his voice saying “Jai Hind. Nehru Zindabad – Salazar Murdabad. Jai Swaraj – Jai Hindu Raj. Antonio Maria Fernandes was nearby and when he saw the owner of Casa Manica was trembling with fear of the invaders, ran to the rescue of Goykar owner of Casa Manica, caught hold of one Sardarji militaryman by his hand, argued with him forcefully in pure Hindi and made the millitarymen to surrender, effect payment and disappear from the scene . That was his guts.

A. Veronica Fernandes,

Kuwait.

BABRI MASJID DEMOLITION CULPRITS.

Seen in the picture from left: Vajpayee - Advani - Joshi. This was the trio of ANTI-INDIAN traitors responsible for the demolition of Babri Masjid in India on 6th December 1992. They are ANTI - MUSLIMS.

Finally it was officially declared thru enquiry commission that BJP was the main power behind the demolition of Babri Masjid on 6th December 1992. It took 17 long years to come out with the truth thru the enquiry commission set up under Justice Liberhan who indicted clearly and loudly former Premier of India Atal Bihari Vajpayee along with the current Opposition leader L.K. Advani and former BJP President Murli Manohar Joshi as the main culprits. It also states that Advani was watching the demolition from 200 metres away from the Babri Masjid.

When Babri Masjid was demolished the entire Muslim world cried with hurt feelings and in Kuwait I too along with my Muslim brothers showed my hurt feelings and disappointment openly over this demolition while co-religionists of this TRAITOR trio showed total silence in Kuwait. Was there no suitable brain in Kuwait amongst them to voice their condemnation when it was deserving? Where were all the clever brains gone to voice their opinions? Where were all the top category personnel earning four figure and fat salaries? Sleeping under the petticoats of their wives? Religious sentiments are deep rooted in human beings and once they are hurt then it becomes very difficult to repair the damage. I am not a Muslim, I am a Christian and Catholic for that matter but as a Christian I showed my total disgust over the demolition of Babri Masjid thru my three articles published in the local daily Kuwait Times within a week of the demolition. Then I was called at Indian Embassy to attend the meeting under the chairmanship of acting Ambassador Sapra where we discussed the ill effects of this demolition and how it is hurting. Flaying tempers of some were controlled. All the Muslims in Kuwait were hurt as elsewhere.

By the demolition of Babri Masjid our political leaders in India from BJP rank and their allies comprising Hindu fundamentalists showed that how parochial they are. They are not meant to rule secular India and in such case they are anti Indian. To give my allegiance to such anti-India leaders is against my principle. Secularism is one of the main pillars of Indian constitution and those who refuse to acknowledge this pillar should be considered as anti-Indian and secessionist. All these anti-Indians should be punished with severe punishment and sent to Tihar Jail.

When this enquiry report message was brought to his notice, Vajpayee refused to accept it. Vajpayee is the biggest liar, you cannot believe him. During the rule of Janata Party Government at the Centre in India, he was the Foreign Minister of India. During this period, one of the top Israeli diplomats clandestinely visited India and had meetings with Morarjee Desai the then Premier of India and also with Vajpayee. Later on this news leaked out and when it was leaked out openly thru the mouth of Indira Gandhi, Vajpayee immediately denounced it and denied it. But Morarjee Desai the symbol of straightforwardness and truth, openly acknowledged the truth putting Vajpayee into shame. Hence, I say Vajpayee is the liar. He lied to the nation saying he was against the demolition of Babri Masjid but inquiry commission under justice Liberhan held Vajpayee also guilty of complicity in this episode.

Why BJP and Hindu fundamentalists only. Even the ruling Congress Party Government at the centre under Premier Narshinma Rao should be held responsible. Being the Prime Minister of the country Rao had access to all the intelligence to detect anything from anywhere. Why his intelligence failed and who was responsible for this failure? Kar Sevaks that is the butchers of the Babri Masjid with their deadly demolition instruments in their hands such as Crow Bars and Pickaxes even came from Goa travelling in the Railways for 3 days from Goa to Ayodya. Nobody noticed their movement? Was Narshima Rao as premier of India and his Congress Party Government sleeping? Congress Party and its Government should also be held responsible and accountable.

And by the way, why it took 17 long years to open this enquiry report by the Government? Is there any hidden agenda of ruling Congress Party Government behind this timing? I have my doubts because Congress Party men are equally crooks. This was the same party that let lose terror on poor and innocent Sardarjis in India in the aftermath of the assassination of the disgraceful premier of India the late Indira Gandhi whose greatest and most disgraceful sin was the introduction of Emergency in India where all the civil liberties were killed and Hitlerism ruled India under her control. And we adore her as icon of Nehru family. My foot!! She was the traitor and killer of democracy and butcher of innocent Indians during the 19 months of Emergency rule in India. This period was the darkest period not only in the history of independent India but also in the history of India as a whole.

As a citizen of India I feel ashamed to be an Indian because of my crook leaders from all parties. They are a disgrace on India. Their behavior is a black mark on my Indian citizenship which is not by choice but by force in 1961 December 19th when my Goa was forcibly annexed by Nehru’s Congress Government without consulting us. Because of its forcible annexation, Goa lost all its pristine genuine attributes due to the influx of all rubbish non-Goans in Goa from North – South – East – West, educated and illiterate, all falling in one category of “Rubbish Indians”. It is very difficult for us to get a sincere, dedicated and patriotic leader in India. Most of them if not all, are traitors and anti Indian.

Once again, while concluding I say as I said in Kuwait Times 17 years back that “As an Indian, I put down my head in shame and condemn the demolition of Babri Masjid at Ayodya, in India by the Indian Hindu fanatics”.

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

CONTROVERSIAL HAND BALL IN SOCCER.

Seen above is the skipper of France,Thierry Henry reacting to the shouts of the opponenets for handling the ball after France scored that controversial goal.

On last Wednesday soccer match between Ireland and France created a sensation on and off the field when France skipper Thierry Henry handled the ball in the goal area facilitating his colleague William Gallas to score an equalizer and thus pave the way for France to qualify for the next year’s World Cup tourney in South Africa. France was lucky to get this equalizer in the dying minutes. Watching from the TV and agreeing with the confession of Henry, it was a clear handball; Henry has clearly stopped the ball with his left hand though it may not be an intentional handling. Such incidents thru instinct do happen while you are deeply engrossed in the game. It happened to me once in 1971 at Campal ground in Panaji during the inter collegiate final between Dempe College and Xaviers.


I was playing for Xaviers as a deep defender and only 3 minutes were remaining for the final blow by the umpire who was showing lot of bias against Xaviers. It looked the final was going into extra time. While I was guarding our citadel, near the penalty area, suddenly the ball came in front of me. Since, I was unable to head it, instinctively my hand went out for it and there the referee blew his whistle and from the resultant penalty kick, Machado of Dempe College scored the all important winning goal. Next day everywhere especially in our College my name was tarnished saying Veronica did the penalty purposely to favour Dempe. But it was not correct. However, the damage to my credibility was already done and it was seen more from the anger of Xavierite girls who earlier were treating me like a hero but because of this unintentional penalty they started treating me like a zero. Moreover, one of my girlfriends who promised me to accompany for the movie the next day at Alankar, Mapusa, by bunking morning lectures, was so angry at me that finally she dropped the idea of joining me at Alankar creating strong disappointment in me.

During those days, a soccer match between Dempe College and St. Xaviers College means like a war between India and Pakistan. The student spectators from both the Colleges would shout and encourage their respective players vociferously. Defeat means a big setback and in this final supporters of Xaviers were deeply hurt and for their hurt feelings they made me responsible even though because of my great game on that day Dempe missed at least 3 goals

Maradona in 1986 World Cup also committed such a foul when he handled the ball and scored the first goal of Argentina against England. Though it was a clear handball for Maradona yet he never admitted that he handled the ball, he pretended as if he carried the ball thru his head. It was very difficult for the referee to judge that was a handball but Maradona philosophically said after the match that “it was the hand of God and head of Maradona” that created the whole magic. Maradona knew what the truth was but he never openly and publicly confessed it while Thierry Henry immediately after the match against Ireland clearly and openly admitted that he handled the ball but he said he was not the referee to point out the infringement.

By all means every team and every player wants to win the match and if the referee has given this victory to France on silver platter, then why Thierry Henry and France refuse this victory which is so essential for them? After all, soccer World Cup is the most prestigious sport in the world and every footballing nation loves to play in the World Cup, including France a gigantic footballing nation in the world.

After the match people called Thierry Henry a Thief but was he a real thief? I don’t think so. Handball is part of the game and Henry’s handball was not something unusual. On the contrary he should be applauded for admitting his mistake frankly but corrective method was not in his hand. If law permitted replay, it would have been fine for Ireland and for Henry as well but France refused to accept this proposal. The best course for Ireland would have been to claim handball very forcefully before restarting of the match after scoring the equalizer. Ireland players should have strongly insisted with the referee and Linesman too to reverse the goal.
In 1982 World Cup in Spain when Kuwait noticed that the goal scored against them was wrong, the Kuwaiti players insisted with the Russian referee to reverse his decision and they succeeded in their claim.

Meantime, the President of France Sarkozy in his message to the Premier of Ireland, Brian Cowen offered his apology for the controversial goal that sent France to South Africa next year but disagreed for the replay and went further telling the Prime Minister “don’t ask me to substitute for the referee or the French football authorities or the European football authorities, leave me right where I am”.

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

ON "DEATHS ON GOA DAY"

From: Neil Marcos (enigma_742@yahoo.co.uk)
To: averonicaf806@hotmail.com

Dear Veronica,
Nice article and no, there wont be any more deaths or to put it in the right grammatical context, were there any deaths for this year's Goa Day. The reason for this is that people who are holding on to the "purse strings" are already dead - Dead to shame, dead to scandal and dead to morality.

Its a sorry state of affairs prevailing amongst most goans in Kuwait who presumably "hold" high posts. How they hold their heads high inspite of this is something which really surprises me. What is the need of the hour is to have a relentless campaign against all these ills and it is here that people like you come in. So keep up the good work and very soon you will see a deluge of support. Yes, we need change.

Regards,
Neil---

GOA DAY '09 - A GRAND SUCCESS.

From:CAJETAN DE <cajdesan@yahoo.com>
TO: Goa Kranti <goa.kranti@gmail.com>
Date: Tue, Nov 24, 2009 at 3:58 PM.

Subject: GOA DAY ’09 – A grand success.

The Goa Day ’09, organized by the Goan Welfare Society – Kuwait, in association with other Goan Clubs/Organisations, was celebrated in a grand style at the Carmel School, Kheitan, Kuwait, on 20th November, 2009.

The gala gathering regaled to a variety entertainment programme which was so lively and entertaining. The vibrant music from the bands ‘Desert Strings’ the ‘Hidden Talents’ and AGGY D, set the moods for the thrilling moments to follow on stage, in the later part of the day. Julio Cardozo, coordinated the event, in his own inimitable style. With the colourful Food stalls in the background, Goans were seen relishing the authentic delicacies, and enjoying what they are missing while away from home. The Game stalls depict the festive fun fare during village feast celebrations back home.

‘Kepenchim Kirnnam’ – the Internationally renowned Folklore Troupe from Goa, enthralled the capacity audience, with memorable performances, that will be long remembered by the Goans and special invitees who were captivated, by their graceful dances and lilting music, which flowed naturally, bringing alive the rich cultural traditions of Goa. Cajetan de Sanvordem and Janet Fernandes, compered the entire cultural programme with grace. Elvis Goes - ‘The Prince of Mando’, who is the leader of ‘Kepenchim Kirnnam’ thrilled the audience with a rendition of his very own compositions, proving yet again, here, that he truly deserves the title conferred on him by the State of Goa.

The Chief guest, H.E. the Ambassador of India, Shri Ajai Malhotra, in his address lauded the contributions of the Goan community in Kuwait towards the socio-Economic progress and development of India and appreciated picturesque land of Goa. He recalled his experiences during his recent visit to Goa on a holiday with his family, and complimented the very hospitable Goan people and praised the sandy beaches, lush green fields and lifestyle of Goa. The Prizes and Certificates for the Drawing & Collage Competitions, distributed to the winners at the hands of H.E. the Ambassador of India, Shri Ajai Malhotra.

The winners of the different competitions held as a part of Goa Day celebration were as follows –Drawing competition were Esha Banerjee, Jaison Miranda (age group 4-6 ) Samruddhi Shrivastava, Vignesh Sivakumar(Age Group: 7-9), Collage competition winners were Immanuel Adriana Rakshana, Juliana Jinson (age 10-13 years) Vishala Darshani, Mohd. Saif Shaikh (age group 14-17), Konkani Singing Competition winners were Adela Moraies , Jasson nMirada (Age group 5-8years) & Alrich Miranda, Caris D'Costa (age group 9-12 years)

Goan Welfare society honoured “Elivs Goes” leader of the Cultural Troupe “KEPEMCHIM KIRNNAM” in appreciation of his talents in promoting the rich Goan cultural heritage and keeping alive the traditional folklore of Goa. Elivs Goes is also Recipient of the first ever ‘Youth Achievers Award’ called ‘The Yuva Srujan Puraskar 2008 for folk song’ instituted by the Directorate of Art & Culture Govt. of Goa. Elvis Goes has taken Kepemchem Kirnnan into the Guinness book of World records which was created by Mr. Eric Ozario’s MANDD SOBHANN.

Another senior citizen Mr. Assumption D’Sa was honored in recognition of his yeomen services to the Goan community during his long span of 52 years in Kuwait.

Clubs / organizations that joined hands with Goan Welfare Society were Curtorcares United, CRC Chinchinim, Goan Overseas Association, Kala Mogui Kuwait, Kuwait Goan Association, Kuwait-Goa Tiatristanchi Sonstha, Navelim Youth Centre, Santos Football Club, United Friends Club and United Goans Centre. The winner of the best food stall was Kuwait Goan Association. The President of the Goan Welfare Society, Mr. Alex Wilson Coelho, thanked all the heads of the participating Clubs/Organisations, members of GWS, volunteers and all those who helped in the organization of this mega event. He deeply appreciated the cooperation and support of H.E. the Ambassador of India, the Managers of Air India, Jet Airways, Combined Group Co., Arab Center for commerce & Real Estate, National Aviation Company of India Limited (Indian Airlines & Air India), Shuwaikh Electricals, Mr Cosme Coelho & Laurie Pinto, Management of Carmel School, all the dignitaries and guests, participants in the cultural programmes, etc. Mr. Coelho, showered huge praises on the Internationally renowned Troupe from Goa ‘Kepenchim Kirnnam’ and said he was at a loss to find appropriate words to sing praises to them for the excellent performances. He wished them all the very best in all their endeavour and urged them to keep the rich traditions and culture of Goa alive through their talented efforts. The excellent reception and personal attention, accorded to the Troupe on arrival at Kuwait airport, by Jet Airways Airport Manager, Mr. Robert Joseph, is something to be sincerely appreciated, Mr. Coelho stated.

The efforts of the organizers, put together to showcase Goa in its true ethnic values, was lauded by the huge cheerful gathering. The Goan Welfare Scholarship Awards 2009, sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Sam Alphonso, to top ranking Goan students were distributed during the Goa Day ’09, at the hands of our Patron Members, Mr. & Mrs. Sam Alphonso. The awardees for Std X were Candice Karen Miranda, Rachel Joan Dias, and Std XII were Ashwell Savio Correia, Keisha Preciosa Pereira The General Secretary of the GWS, Ms. Sharon de Sousa, in her vote of thanks, expressed profound thanks to each and everyone who helped in making Goa Day ’09, a memorable event.

The Goan Welfare Society – Kuwait, has done it again! Looks like it has become a habit with the organizers to dish out the best and keep the flag of Goa fluttering high, even though away from home. The beautiful Goan authentic traditional costumes, dance performances, songs, plays, were indeed a treat to watch. Full marks to Goa Day ’09, a complete entertainer!

CONGRATULATIONS "KEPENCHIM KIRNA".

FROM: blandino viegas
Mon, Nov 23, 2009 at 9:34 AM
To: GOA.KRANTI


CONGRATULATIONS !

TO

KEPEMCHIM KIRNNAM.


B.M. VIEGAS
KUWAIT


--- On Mon, 11/23/09, JoeGoaUk <http://mail.google.com/mail/h/ejkz49i9l03l/?v=b&cs=wh&to=joegoauk@yahoo.co.uk> wrote:
From: JoeGoaUk <http://mail.google.com/mail/h/ejkz49i9l03l/?v=b&cs=wh&to=joegoauk@yahoo.co.uk>
Subject: Re: [GOAN-NRI] Viva Kepemchim Kirnnam!

ON "SOCCER MADE THEM FAMOUS"

Dear Anthony Veronica,

It's really true, at that time i was very small boy and today i recollect this Bengalo’s funeral, many may have even forgotten about it.

Well it was really nice to bring back these memories once again .

Thanks a lot for your efforts, but today tournaments are organised in such a manner that every second football match you witness fights and enmity instead of getting together.

Once again a millions thanks to you.

Thanks & Regards


S Rodrigues
Candolim, Goa.

From: A. Veronica Fernandes [mailto:averonicaf806@hotmail.com] Sent: 22 November 2009 20:38To: averonicaf806@hotmail.comSubject: Soccer made them famous.


G O A
--No plans in this revolution are written for retreat--
November 22, 2009
SOCCER MADE THEM FAMOUS.

SOCCER MADE THEM FAMOUS.

Seen in the picture above is the sea of humanity attending the funeral ceremony in the stadium at Hannover in Germany. Also seen on top is the picture of the player holding his child.

The recent incident of a renowned soccer player from Germany who committed suicide by throwing himself in front of the running train shocked the world. His name was Robert Enke and he was the first choice of German national team playing as a goalkeeper. He was at the time of his death 32 years old. He leaves behind his grieving wife who is deeply shocked by his sudden death in these horrible circumstances. He was an outstanding keeper on the field guarding his goal posts. The whole German soccer loving society cried when he died, so also innumerable soccer lovers all around the globe. As a mark of respect, in Germany regular games were also kept in suspension while elsewhere in the world one minute silence was observed before the start of the matches.

As a highest mark of respect and to pay highest tribute to his outstanding contribution to the German soccer, Enke’s coffin was brought to Hannover stadium in Germany before the burial in the presence of thousands of his fans. 45 thousand fans attended this ceremony along with his colleagues in German national team, so also coaches dressed in black. The president of Hannover in his brief address during this ceremony said “you were the number one in the real sense of the word. This is why our hearts are so heavy”.

Bringing one’s coffin to the stadium in such a manner is a rare honour one can pay to the departed soul and this type of honour was rightly accorded to the late German national soccer goalkeeper Robert Enke. In this way we show our love, affection and gratitude to the dead who during his lifetime created wonders for the country and soccer world.

This was not the first time such an honour was accorded to a footballer on his death. About quarter of a century back, when the great Brazilian footballer Garrincha died, his coffin drapped with Brazilian soccer Flag was also brought to the mighty stadium Maracana where a sea of humanity paid its last respect for their once hero; Hero of 1958, 1962 and 1966 World Cups who in all the three World Cup appearances dazzled the world with his sheer genius. With his bendy legs, he could easily score goals directly from the corner kicks. Experts in soccer said that he was as good as Pele but still he remained far behind Pele because Pele’s genius was unmatchable and Pele’s discipline on and off the field was something to be admired. What Pele could do for the ball with his right foot no other footballer could do. Pele could make the ball to do anything except talk.

Garricha played best of his soccer along with Pele for many years and this duo created wonders on the field. Many of his goals came from the feedings Garrincha received from Pele and vice versa. He would still survive on peak of his form like Pele to play for Brazil in Mexico as well in 1970 World Cup but he failed because he was addicted to liquour, night club life and sex. Thru these vices he lost his greatness and died a miserable death as a pauper having number of children. Garrincha coming from poor family background rose to the level of a king because of soccer but died as a beggar. However, soccer fraternity in Brazil and his fans never forgot to respect him in his death.

In my village Candolim, there was one village Church “Pedo” (Grave digger), his name was Bengalo. He was till his death in 1977 a football crazy. He was not a football player himself but was very good football tournament organizer and a referee at local level. During night time he was a number one “Bebdo” but during the soccer match perfectly o.k. He was very rich in love for soccer but very poor in money. Hence, he was robbing money from the village Church Pe. Vigar and purchasing beautiful Trophies and Medals to organize Inter Ward Soccer Tournaments in Candolim. By doing this he was not only showing his love for soccer but also uniting people thru the medium of soccer. During those days in my village, Bengalo’s tournament means something big and locals used to flock the ground to watch and cheer their favourites.

Once during Portuguese time at Nerul football ground, after finishing the match, Bengalo ran to the ground and presented a beautiful Medal to one Portugues Paklo, right outer playing for St. Inez, this Paklo was playing beautifully. When this Paklo saw a strange person running to him in torn banyan and torn short, he became alert but Bengalo went straight to him, hugged the Paklo and said to Paklo in Portuguese “Bom – Bom” (this was the only word illiterate Bengalo knew in Portuguese). Paklo laughed and laughed, so too the spectators. Next day while checking his money, Pe. Vigar noticed 100 Escudos missing from his bag. These Escudos – Portuguese currency in Goa – were robbed by Bengalo from Pe. Vigar to purchase a beautiful Medal to present it to that Paklo player of St. Inez.

When Bengalo died in 1977, I was in Goa on vacation. Thru my initiative and thru the support and co-operation of the locals, Club, Church and Panchayat, we made Bengalo’s funeral very grand with Bras Band in attendance and brought his coffin to the football ground to pay a fitting tribute to his love for soccer. In a small ceremony on football ground attended by number of people participating in the funeral procession, the Club president and Sarpanch lauded the efforts of Bengalo to promote soccer in our village. And after the funeral in the Cemetry, Pe. Chico Monteiro, the renowned Goan priest from Candolim who attended the funeral, in his brief speech praised Bengalo for uniting the locals and bringing them together thru the medium of soccer. Pe. Chico Monteiro concluded his funeral oratory with a statement saying “a peace maker has died in Bengalo”.

An ordinary man with ordinary background received extraordinary honour in his death, such an honour nobody received in Candolim till today. It all happened because of soccer.

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

Village feast of Divar celebrated in Kuwait.

 

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GOAN LADY "MARIA REGINA FERNANDES" FIRST WOMAN TO ACT ON STAGE.

When the countrys first woman President, Pratiba Devsingh Patil arrives on her first official four day visit to Goa from 21st November, 2009 to 24th November 2009 it would perhaps interest her to know that like her historic accomplishment as a woman --- the first woman to act on stage on 22.11.1904, at a time when such public performances by a woman attracted social stigma and obvious ostracisation from society, was indeed a 23 year lady Goan Maria Regina Fernandes ( born on 16.11.1880 died on 20.12.1908 ).

Hailing from village Raia in Salcete, she was married to Joao Agostinho Fernandes a tiatrist hailing from Modsai Margao Salcete . Joao Agostinho ( born on 14.12.1871 died on 29.08.1947 ) a Konkani playwright (tiatrist) and dramatist who earned the sobriquet “Pai Tiatrist” i.e Father of “tiatr “ wrote nearly 30 original plays unlike others who merely resorted to adaption of plays written in other languages. The seven act play accompanied by 18 side-shows was his format now adapted for staging tiatros by tiatrist (Konkani playwrights ) . He endeavoured to undo the gender inequality and vowed to reverse the role of males who would otherwise perform the role of women in “tiatrs”. Thus he is credited for creating history by introducing his wife Maria Regina to act on stage in his tiatr “Bhattkara de Panzare-I ( Landlord of Panzare – I) written and directed by him.

The show was staged in Gaiety Theatre (now Capitol Cinema, Mumbai ). Her sterling performance on stage raised eyebrows because no female had until then ever ventured to perform on stage. Even on the Marathi stage no such instance of a woman acting on stage was heard of until several years later. Her performance on stage and the role in the “tiatr” itself won rave reviews and sent shock waves wherever it was staged in places as far as Bhusawal, Igatpuri, Pune and Jhansi . It is a sad commentary that 104 years later on this red letter day (22.11.1904) in the annals of “tiatr” history neither the State Government nor the newly constituted Tiatr Academy of Goa (on 16th February, 2008) have thought it fit to either a) award her posthumously or b) display a portrait of hers in the Tiatr Academy of Goa office for her pioneering role or c) institute an award in her name to encourage women to take up “tiatr” as a profession.

“Tiatr” is a form of performing art in Konkani language which is mainly prevalent in the Catholic dominated talukas of Goa and is staged world wide where the Goan community have ventured. Even in the today’s westernized society that has influenced Goan society tiatrs attract huge audiences even though it has not been granted the status of industry. For the records it may be noted that it was only in 1913 that the first woman Bhasmasur Mohini ventured to act in films . Much later in 1932 i.e 28 years later after Maria Regina maiden entry on stage that another Goan Kamalabai Rambhau Gokhale (marital surname ) and daughter of sitar musician Durgabai Kamat from Assonora Bardez Goa ventured to act on Marathi stage.

It is hoped that the President of India recommends to the Govt of Goa to do justice to the immortal memory of Ms Maria Regina Fernandes.

GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES,
BORDA, MARGAO,
403 602, GOA. (INDIA)+91 98221 58584 (24 HRS).
gonsalvesgodfreyji@yahoo.co.in

GOA DAY KUWAIT - PRAYER REQUEST.

It is said, history repeats itself and the same thing has happened two years back when a well known Goan, Sanny de Quepem after performing his solo singing item during Goa Day function died. Earlier, history was made when another Goan, John Fernandes died in a similar manner immediately after attending the Goa Day function. Thru the death on Goa Day of John Fernandes history was made and thru the death of Sanny de Quepem histoy was repeated. Will history repeat itself again tomorrow? God alone knows but when cheating, immorality, vulgarity, drunkadrness and fights take place then God anger come into fore for which we must be afraid.

In order to avoid and prevent further deaths on Goa Day, I request Goans worldwide to offer prayer to stop death on anyone joining tomorrow for Goa Day. We dont want any of our community members face the death like John Fernandes and Sanny de Quepem. It looks they were the victims of the sins of the organisers doing things against the law of nature and commandments of God.

God, please forgive them because they know not what they are doing. God please stop sending any more death tomorrow on anyone attending Goa Day, either on small or big, VIP or non-VIP.

I fervently request our Kuwait Church priests and others to offer special prayers in this special intention tomorrow Friday weekly Masses.

God save us from all disasters.

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

STILL MORE ON DEATHS ON GOA DAY.

Goa Day - Beware of the Death.‏
From: Santos Carmo (carmosan50@hotmail.com)
Sent: Thursday, November 19, 2009 4:34:35 AM

Mabrook, Mr. Veronica.
There is 100% truth in this message loud and cristal clear.
Likewise CRC's one of the show's another goan died and I alone took him to Amiri Hospital. I can't understand why CRC is supporting this event. Is Bosco listening or sleeping??? I heard CRC have sold his stall in the name of CRC to another goan.

---------- Forwarded message ----------From: A. Veronica Fernandes <averonicaf806@hotmail.com>Date: 2009/11/18Subject: Goa Day - Beware of the Death.To: averonicaf806@hotmail.com
G O A
--No plans in this revolution are written for retreat--
November 18, 2009

GOA DAY

MORE ON DEATHS ON GOA DAY.

From: Santos Carmo (carmosan50@hotmail.com)
Sent:Thursday, November 19, 2009 4:36:07 AM
To: Cynthia Fernandes (cynthia.fernandes@gmail.com)
Cc: averonicaf806@hotmail.com

Cynthia,
It is 100% true in his message.
Kind regards.
Carmosan.

Date: Wed, 18 Nov 2009 23:06:04 +0400.
Subject: Fwd: Goa Day - Beware of the Death.
From: cynthia.fernandes3@gmail.com
To: oscarlobo1@optusnet.com.au; carmosan50@hotmail.com; benedictlobo@gmail.com

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! scary did you all read the last para about those two deaths..............

what is happening there something fishy

cyn
---------- Forwarded message ----------From: A. Veronica Fernandes <averonicaf806@hotmail.com>Date: 2009/11/18Subject: Goa Day - Beware of the Death.To: averonicaf806@hotmail.com
G O A
--No plans in this revolution are written for retreat--
November 18, 2009

GOA DAY

ON GOA DAY - FUNDS AND DEATHS.

fromJack Gomes <jackmar@live.com>
mailto:togoa.kranti@gmail.com
date, Wed, Nov 18, 2009 at 9:50 PM

Dear Veronica,

Please publish this letter in you esteemed portal. I take this opportunity to congratulate you for the excellent work you have been doing for our community. Long Live Kranti.
Regards Jack.

I would just like to add something to your blog about GWS event. You have rightly raised an important issues regarding the embezzlement of funds by a womaniser who has bought out some members of the GWS. Otherwise how can one explainhis election to the post of the president everytime despite his tainted image? What guarantee is there that he would not repeat his actions? There is no transparency in running of the GWS. As you have rightly pointed out that the event has turned out to be killer in the last couple of years with two deaths reported during the show. It is surprising that none of GWS members has revolted against their womanizer president who despite his ripe age is continuing to don the mantle despite the fact that there are many capable young people in the organisation.

I request the Indian embassy to intervene as far as funds are concerned and demand transparency. I think all the Goan organisations in Kuwait should forge alliance and approach the embassy on this issue. I firmly believe that it is not too late to take up the issue. The embassy can certainly be a huge support system in recovering the stashed funds.

I request all our goan brothers to boycott the show as a mark of protest for we need transparency as far as the GWS funds are concerned. The funds are apparently stashed into the personal accounts in a Goan bank. It is high timewe take this issue serioulsly. I once again salute your audacity, Veronica, for taking up a bold issue.

As I have said umpteen times and I am reiteraring that you are true blue journalist who calls a spade a spade. You have never done pay check journalism as is is the case with some journalists in Kuwait. You know whom I am referring to. God bless and continue to take up good causes for the betterment of the community. Regards.
jack Gomes.

GOA DAY - BEWARE OF THE DEATH.

Kuwait Goans among all the expatriates are known to create something to be remembered in the history of Goans. Goa Day is one such first Kuwait Goans have created. It was done thru Goan Welfare Society which was the brainchild of Vincente D’Souza formerly a dynamic Goan in Kuwait. He is living a retired life in Goa now. His efforts and initiative in the formation of GWS should be lauded.

Goa Day is a good concept but unfortunately under the present management it failed to create a good image of Goans in Kuwait. A few years back at Funaitees Indian Arts Circle Hall lot of nonsense was created, non Goan rowdies were allowed entry, molesting of our females occurred, drunkardness was rampant and physical fights were seen taking place in such a way that anyone assaulted anybody. Because of money the organizers allowed entry to any one who created disorder in the hall thereby putting the name of Goans into shame.

The organizers under the present leadership does not care for respect for the community and the original principles of GWS. The heavy fund of over 30 thousand Kuwaiti Dinars as per my information and as openly announced by the members of GWS is kept into the custody of three GWS members instead of in the account of GWS. This is not proper. It is the money of Society and Society belongs to the community members whether they are active members or not, whether they are current or former members. Nobody got right to take away the money of the Society and especially who are involved in fund scandal elsewhere and Sex scandal.

All those who are participating in this year’s Goa Day event must question the right of those GWS stalwarts of withholding funds from GWS. By blindly associating and supporting GWS in its Goa Day will encourage GWS to play more dirty as far as the funds are concerned. The entire fund of GWS is to be spent for the cause of community in Kuwait. All the clubs and associations participating in this year’s Goa Day and also individuals have got responsibility to investigate this huge fund scandal before participating. Community and posterity will question everybody’s participation in Goa Day if they don’t take up this issue seriously. This fund witholding should be the concern of everyone especially of those who are helping promoting this event. It is the duty of everyone taking part in this event to raise this issue.

We Goykars are known to fight for justice but only in Kuwait Goans seem to be silent allowing nonsense to take place and thereby create confusion, rogues and rascals in the community. And on top of it we call ourselves smart and advanced. Smart and advanced in what? Closing our eyes to the cheating? Allowing rogues to rob the community fund? Allowing the rascals to defame and disgrace the image of our community and of females by involving in fund and sex scandals?

Goa Day organized by GWS is become like a curse. Under the same management, earlier after attending Goa Day functions, two deaths have occurred. One was my colleague John Fernandes about 5 years back. He was attending Goa Day function along with his wife and daughter. Suddenly he got heart attack and was rushed to the Hospital where he died within a few hours.

Again two years back after attending Goa Day function where he rendered a solo, Tiatrist Sanny de Quepem also died within a few hours after Goa Day function.

Lot of stories is circulated in the mystery of these deaths. But there is a saying in Konkani “EKA PATKEAK LAGON DEVAN KHUIM TARUM BUDDOILEM”. Let us pray no more death occurs this time otherwise if God’s punishment is still in store for the sins of the organizers, innocent people will suffer the death in which case, “will it be for you? For him? For her? And for them? God alone knows this answer. Let us be safer by following the right path. Otherwise it could be like another saying "ADAUM KORTA KHUIM PAP ANI SONSOT DITA ZAP".

A.Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

Prince Jacob wakes up Goans in Kuwait: A Review

by gasper crasto, Kuwait
:::Photographs: Rivon Gomes - Professional Photographer:::

Kuwait Nov 17, 2009: Prince Jacob’s drama ‘Zaiat Zage’ was more than what one could expect from a seasoned, professional showman of the Konkani stage.

The drama has more in it than just entertainment. The message is a hard-hitting clarion call to all Goans to wake up and unite, or perish. The tale enacted with plenty of humor is presented in fluent style and is a real treat for the audience. This tongue-in-cheek drama looks at how people from other states flock down to the beautiful state of Goa and set up their businesses there and how Goans grow to become dependent on them.

The well attended show staged on 13th November 2009 at the Daiya Fencing Club Hall, Kuwait, was organized by Kala Mogui Kuwait to celebrate the 7th anniversary of its existence in Kuwait. Dominic Araujo and Felix Fernandes were the main coordinators of the event.

H.E. Shri Ajai Malhotra, Ambassador of India was the chief guest on the occasion, the first Goan event that His Excellency has attended in Kuwait and surprisingly his first ever Konkani drama which he took pleasure in watching for over 2 hours till the half time.

Alban Pinto was the guest of honor. Other special invitees included Muriel Alphonso, President - IWA, Fr. Teo Fernandes, Fr. Frank, Fr. Lionel Braganza, Fr. Melwyn D’cunha and Joseph & Elvira D’Souza.

The evening began with the lighting of the traditional lamp at the hands of the ambassador and other dignitaries present. Anjali Amonkar of Kala Mogui Kuwait compered the function.

:::Konkani book of short stories released:::
Earlier, at a privately held get-together of Konkani writers and Konkani literature lovers, Pio Esteves’ Konkani book of short stories titled ‘Kaddyo Boddyo’ was released at the hands of Gaspar Almeida as part of the anniversary celebrations of Kala Mogui Kuwait. The ceremony was held at the premises of Kuwait Continental Hotel, the main sponsor of the drama. Others who co-sponsored the show were Gulfmart, Winners Restaurant, Exotica Beauty & Spa, Expression & Weddingsetc.com, etc. Qatar Airways, world’s 5-star airlines sponsored a return Kuwait-Goa-Kuwait air-ticket (won by Xavier Dias) for a housie game. A power-point presentation highlighted the sponsors of the event throughout the evening.

Prince Jacob & his troupe with the Indian Ambassador Shri Ajai Malhotra and Kala Mogui Kuwait Chief Coordinators Felix Fernandes and Domnic Araujo

Felicitation of the Prince
During the interval, a memento was presented to Prince Jacob at the hands of Albano Pinto. A memento was also announced for Kamal El-Din Hussein of Kuwait Continental Hotel.

Prince Jacob is known for directing Konkani tiatrs beginning with the alphabet ‘P’ doing dramas from ‘Pinzrem’ to ‘Padri’. After exhausting with ‘P’ he went on to ‘R’ starting with Rodonaka. Today he commands a dedicated fan following not just in Goa but across India, Gulf, UK, etc. To tiatr loving Goans spread over the world, Prince Jacob represents a vibrant brand ambassador of contemporary dramas. He has dared to bring bold innovations to Konkani stage and tiatrs – from making a doberman act in ‘Pavnnek’ to doing magic in ‘Raza Raani’ and four roles in ‘Rupnem’. Jacob's works include 16 centuries (100 shows) in tiatrs which have been appreciated by his countless fans who have helped him bag recognition in the form of prestigious Goa Post Award, Gulab Award and Kala Academy Awards.

Surprisingly, it is after a gap of 12 long years that Prince Jacob has performed in Kuwait with his full production troupe. It is to be highlighted that it was again Kala Mogui Kuwait who had screened Prince Jacob’s much acclaimed Konkani film ‘Padri’ in Kuwait. One of the major activities of Kala Mogui Kuwait in previous years have been the Konkani monthly magazine Gulab’s 25th anniversary celebrations which took place in a series of events – a Konkani drama presentation by Mario Menezes, a Konkani Variety Show and the 1st Konkani Carols Singing Competition. Shri Fausto V. Da Costa, GULAB’s editor was the special invitee on one of the ocassions.

:::Star cast, script and stage setting:::
The drama ‘Zaiat Zage’ (Wake up) is a complete entertainment with excellent performances from Jacob, Humbert, Annie, Alice, Rafael, Eknath, Joe Rose, etc. It was indeed a delight to watch this ‘established’ show with good direction, fine script and songs on various themes and subjects relating to Goa and Goan lifestyle. The drama has attractive settings and a huge star cast.

:::"It is certainly one of the best Konkani dramas that I have seen -- vividly diverse from the regular lineage of emblematic Goan scripts" -Gasper Crasto http://gaspersworld.blogspot.com/ :::

Annie Quadros heads the cast as the panch of the village with her strong acting and charming dressing. The only thing that demeans her role on stage is perhaps her diction of the ‘Saxttikar bhas’; a ‘Bardez’ accent would have brought much more richness and beauty to her acting. Diana’s acting as Saku is super while Alice with her Bihari and alien Konkani was perfect as the migrant Rabadi. Humbert is seriously super as the ‘Susegad Goenkar’ while Jacob is ideal in his act as the migrant Bihari. Both the comedians have kept the chunk of the dialogues for themselves and provide plenty of laughter with fine timing in the humorous sequences.

The entire drama runs on the sets of a village ward where two brothers played by Mario and Jacinto are seen arguing with each other over their share in the ancestral property. Padri fame Newton plays the role of Mario’s son who in love with Joe’s (Joe Rose) daughter Sonia played by Filina. Their neighbors include Rafael in the character of Subramaniam, a Keralite settled in Goa, and a Hindu couple - Jairam and Saku. Their son Anil, an electrical engineer does not want to work in Goa but dreams only of working on a cruise liner.

Maria, played by Annie Quadros, as the panch, rules over the villagers and her husband Salu (Humbert) with an iron hand. Into this neighborhood enters Jai Prakash Yadav, a migrant from Bihar who starts a small store in the area by bribing the panch. Soon he is joined by his wife Rabadi and their trade flourishes. The play continues to end with forewarnings of unthought-of predictions on the fate of Goa and Goans in years to come.

The opening song, fantastically choreographed will bring about memories of Golden Goa to any Goan living abroad with the traditional ‘gummot’ drum rhythm. In between the acts there are songs by Joe Rose, Rafael, Sanyo, Annie, Alice, Filina, Jr Reagan, Jacob, Humbert, etc. Joe Rose’s song on the tunes of M.Boyer’s ‘Bhurgim vo Baulim’ was the pick of the songs with some philosophical lines. Musicians Dominic de Arambol and his troupe were loud and clear. Full marks for Anand D’Souza for his excellent sound system.

The unique stage set presented for the drama needs a special mention too. People who worked behind the scenes to make this possible for a one off show in Kuwait included Felix de Merces, Benny Rebello, Lorry Fernandes, Joaquim Rodrigues, Sushil Amonkar and Dominic Araujo. It took hours of ground work, carpentry, decor and painting and a full day’s erection labor and a touch-up till the dawn. Agnelo Rebello, Benny Vaz and Nicholas Rodrigues were some of the other field supporters who worked for the success of “Zaiat Zage”, together with the goa-world.com team responsible for press and publicity.

:::Acknowledgements:::
The organizers Kala Mogui Kuwait gratefully acknowledged the generous support and cooperation of Kuwait Continental Hotel, Air Arabia, Daiya Fencing Club management, Gulf Mart, Winners Restaurant, Qatar Airways, Reaven D’Souza, www.indiansinkuwait.com , www.kuwaitsamachar.com, http://mangalorean.com, www.daijiworld.com , Arab Times, Kuwait Times, The Times, Q8india.com, Al Watan, B.M. Viegas, Lino B. Dourado, Goan associations, and all Konkani lovers in Kuwait.

:::The above news review is published in Kuwait's Arab Times dated 18 November 2009:::

Other Reviews:

Goans in Kuwait 'electrified' by Police: An F.I.R

'Kahin Na Kahin Milenge' premiered in Kuwait

GOA DAY '09 - A MEGA EVENT.

From: CAJETAN DE
Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 11:28 AM
To: Goa Kranti
GOA DAY '09 - A MEGA EVENT

The Goan Welfare Society – Kuwait, in association with 10 other Goan Clubs/Organizations, is all set to present the mega event of the year – Goa Day ‘09, at the Carmel School Auditorium, Abraq Kheitan, Kuwait, on 20th November, 2009 from 11.30 a.m. onwards. To enthrall you with a rendition of nostalgic Goan Music and Folk Dance performances, we have for you, the Internationally reputed Goan Dance & Music Troupe, ‘KEPEMCHIM KIRNNAM’, who will not just entertain but will take you back in time, to the land of your dreams – GOA .

Those of you who love the Goan ‘Dekhni Nach’, ‘Goemcho Mando’, ‘Marcha de Fontainhas’, ‘Kunnbi Fugddi Nach’, ‘Portuguese Corridinho’, ‘Kharvi Nach’ ‘Konkani Songs’, will cherish the authentic attire and the scintillating performances of the world renowned Troupe, coming all the way from Goa, just for you.

Not to be undone by the Goan Troupe, we also have our very own talented Music Makers, ‘DESERT STRINGS’ and ‘HIDDEN TALENTS’, who will provide foot tapping music.

Yet another sensation is ‘AGGY-D’ (Goan Festive Nostalgia) fame, a solo performer, who will thrill you with his diverse nostalgic Goan instrumental music, oozing out of his flute, clarinet, guitar and key boards.


To top it all, we have host of very famous professional Artists from Kuwait, who will perform at the Cultural show, namely: Cajetan de Sanvordem, Michael D’Silva, Mario de Majorda, Querobina Carvalho, Sylvester Vaz, Irene Vaz, Laurent Pereira, Jeromiah Vaz, Aldrich Miranda, Tony de Pomburpa, Mickey Fernandes, Anthony Carr, Joseph Rodrigues, Jose Anthony, Braz de Parra, Lopes Bros, and others. The very popular SOCORO & JOLLY BOYS, will provide the musical tones.

Joining hands with the Goan Welfare Society are: Curtorcares United, CRC Chinchinnim, Goan Overseas Association, Kala Mogui-Kuwait, Kuwait-Goa Tiatristanchi Sonstha, Kuwait Goan Association, Navelim Youth Centre, Santos Sports Club, United Friends Club and United Goans Centre.

And above all, the Ambassador of India to Kuwait, H.E. Shri Ajai Malhotra, will grace the occasion by his distinguished presence and present the various Awards and prizes.

Do make it a point to be there on Friday, 20th November, 2009, and make ‘GOA DAY’ your day!

To secure your entry passes and avoid last moment disappointments, please contact the organizers personally or call Tel Nos: Wilson Coelho: 22429435 / 67065878, Sydney Furtado: 9500625 Rabindra Pimenta: 4317423, Sharon De Sousa: 25624160 / 66662734, Joe FX D’Souza 22413348 / 66933250 Cajetan Pereira 97165438, Dominic Araujo: 99391452 from 5.00 – 9.00 pm only.

MARGAO'S "SUFFOCATED" ROADS - 2. By Valmiki Faleiro.

Margao’s “suffocated” roads - 2
By Valmiki Faleiro

Intra-state private passenger buses are the other 50% cause of traffic congestion on
Margao’s thoroughfares. Don’t take my word on this. The next time buses go on
strike, see how traffic glides, ever so smoothly!

Out of the KTC terminus, buses crawl along arterial but two-laned roads into town.
They hamper traffic flow, if not holding it up altogether with sudden stops, often in the
middle of the road, to take in passengers. One can’t argue with bus drivers. They are
privileged citizens. They routinely pay the police and RTO. You and I don’t.

Private bus crews are a law unto themselves. Not long ago a bus driver, questioned
by the Salcete Deputy Collector outside the district collectorate, physically abused
the latter. Old discipline is dead, together with the likes of Dy. Director of Transport,
Venkatesh Kamat and Traffic Police ASI, Mario Valaradares. Both didn’t hesitate to
pull out an uncouth driver and give him a little physical treatment in full public view.

Crawling into the heart of town, buses can halt for a minute to pick/disembark
passengers by the Salcete Comunidades building (and near the two Jain temples at
Pajifond for Quepem-bound buses.) But they linger at will. Out of town, they turn into
speeding monsters, racing with competition, often killing or maiming people.

Traffic policemen are invariably present at both points, but they are not there to
regulate buses. They are there to collect a “hafta” from every bus exiting Margao.
How can one expect the poor constable to shoo away the hand that feeds him?

One solution to this menace is to preclude private buses from entering town. All
south and southeast-bound buses can be diverted via a road, long proposed in the
Margao ODP, linking the Ravindra Bhavan junction to the Eastern Bypass, by the
southern banks of the two Borda lakes. Instead of constructing this vital link on
priority basis, people’s heritage walls and houses are currently being destroyed to
widen the existing (and parallel) St. Joaquim road!

This diversion would entail an alternate arrangement for passengers from the KTC
bus terminal to all halts previously covered by private intra-state buses in the town.
This can be done with a round-robin KTC minibus shuttle service. The State must
provide this service either free or at a heavily subsidized rate. Commuters must not
be made to pay for the sins of private bus operators and law enforcement agencies.

No thought has been spared, in our brand of democracy where numbers count, to the
largest segment of road users: pedestrians. Crossing a busy street has now become
a daytime nightmare to able-bodied pedestrians, forget the unaided aged and infirm.
This even at notified pedestrian crossings, where zebra lines are clearly visible to
oncoming motorists.

Motorists, before being issued a driving licence, are supposed to learn that
pedestrians at a zebra crossing have a first right of road use. The opposite prevails in
Goa!

Pedestrians are not privileged to instruction on prudent road usage practices nor
need a “walking licence” to use a road. Most roads are also bereft of pavements.
People are forced to walk along treacherous roads and unfortunate ones who do that
with their backs to oncoming traffic often get mowed down.

Re-paint existing zebra crossings and provide more in Margao’s central commercial
area. Most of all, stiffly penalize motorists to create awareness about a pedestrian’s
right at a zebra crossing.

In Margao’s central area, the roads around New Market have also long cried to be a
pedestrian-only zone during daytime.

As a well-meaning friend (and one-time municipal colleague), I would urge Goa’s
current “Aam Aadmi” Chief Minister to remember the wise words of Goa’s second
Lieutenant Governor, M R Sachdev. In his first address to Goa’s first Legislative
Assembly, at its very first sitting, he had said, “No amount of development is worth
anything unless the man in the street feels that the administration is being run in the
interest and for the benefit of the people at large."

P.S.: With this, dear reader, *All-‘n’-Sundry* takes your leave. This is the last piece
for now. Thank you for reading and, as the French say, ‘Au revoir.’ Inshallah! (ENDS).

The above article appeared in the Herald, Goa, edition of November 15, 2009
*Comments welcome at valmikif@gmail.com

NEED FOR FINANCIAL HELP.

from tskk, goa‏

From:pratap naik (pnaiksj@gmail.com)
Sent:Tuesday, November 10, 2009 8:37:28 AM
To: veronica fenandes (averonicaf806@hotmail.com)
THOMAS STEPHENS KONKNNI KENDR
B. B. Borkar Road, Alto Porvorim
Goa – 403 521, INDIA.
( (0832) 2415857, 2415864
Estd. 29-03-1982. Reg. No. 23/Goa/82
e-mail:pnaiksj@gmail.com

10 November 2009.

Mogall Veronica bab,

Greetings from Thomas Stpehens Konknni Kendr (TSKK).

Recent torrential rain and flood situation created havoc in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Orissa and Maharashtra. Canacona taluka too was hit by rain and flood. Two of Thomas Stephens Konknni Kendr (TSKK) staff members Ms Basavva Chalawadi and Mr. Ningappa Chalawadi from Bagalkote district of Karnataka lost their two mud houses with all their belongings and farm products and standing crop was totally destroyed. Their handicapped brother was living in one of these mud houses. Basavva and Ningappa are really poor and they lost their parents when they were young. They earn their livelihood by working in TSKK. Both of them faithfully and with love and dedication served Fr. Matthew Almeida my colleague at TSKK for 23 years during his sickness. Since they have lost everything in their native place it is my sacred duty to help them to rebuild their houses.

Basavva and Ningappa are not in a position to contribute financially to rebuild their houses. However they will do the manual work while rebuilding the houses. Since their village has a lot of monkeys, tile houses are not advisable. Hence I intend to rebuild their houses (two rooms each) with stones and concrete roof. I intend to start the work after Christmas. The rough estimate to build these houses will be Rs 2.25 lakhs. With the corrupt government system in Karnataka, one cannot expect anything for the poor and needy from the government sources. I rely on God and the people of good will.

As a close friend of TSKK, I request you to help me as best as you can. No amount is too small for me. You can contribute either in cash or cheque written in my name or in the name of Thomas Stephens Konknni Kendr. In case you need any further information kindly do not hesitate to contact me.


Thanking you in anticipation,

Yours truly,



Fr. Pratap Naik, S.J.
Director

ON "MEMORIES OF 12TH NOVEMBER 1990.

From:Joao Fernandes (joaofdes@aol.com)
Sent: Sunday, November 15, 2009 6:20:24 AM
To: averonicaf806@hotmail.com

Hello Veronica,

A good article.

As a matter of interest, do you have a reliable source to tell and inform me how many Goans are here in Kuwait?

Would appreciate your help,

Best Regards,

Johnny Fernandes

ON KIFF SUSPENSION & REBELLION.

To: averonica.
Subject: KIFF matters.
From: robin.fernandes@jotundxb.ae
Date: Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:46:16 +0300.

Dear Mr. Veronica,
A very good day for you, I am a very good fan of critics and I strongly believe criticism leads changes in ones behavior, whether it relates to political affairs or social affairs. In this case it is very much a sports matter. However I have not addressed this mail to the rest of the federation members but i would like to ask you as the President of the affiliate member of Indian football Federation, Kuwait. if you have any clue of the facts that, why these 7 members has ended up forming a New football federation.

Just to update on myself, I have been an active member of KIFF for the past several years ( In house as well as the committee) who have been also playing Football simultaneously for the past 26 years and personally contributed thousands of KD to the federation either in terms of sponsorship or direct assistance to the required situation. Do you think I would interest such matters if we intend to separate from KIFF?

Now I have a few specific Questions for you, which are related to your write up - please answer them with logic. Do you have a clear knowledge on KIFF constitution? Yes or No. If yes then how KIFF can suspend these affiliates? while they were insisting to adhere the constitution of the federation? when they pleaded the managing committee to stick to the rules of the federation. Did we have a choice, when we were out of all football activities for the complete season? Would it be fair to fight like the animals in the house which is usually the case? Don't you think that we are implying the modest democratic ideology? And if No what would you do at the situation like this? I would personally invite you to have an open discussion or forum on the matter as IFF members are bold and wise to face all challenges based on facts which are unknown to most community in Kuwait who overlooked smart gentlemen as cowards. You stop yourself there for a moment and try to weigh the people you know within the organization and you will definitely find your answer. Mr. Xavier has sent you a detail mail, go thru these facts of testimony which may not necessarily change your mind but know the fact.

Oh by the way you r wonderfully gifted with the art of writing yet you need to be careful on your language, Just read it twice before you click for delivery it will help you to anticipate how people perceive you and your beautiful talent. Thank you.

Best Regards.
Robin Fernandes.
Senior Sales Executive,
Towell Int'l Group Jotun Paints Division.
Kuwait.
Mob. 00965-9704157Office Tel. 009654743014/009654769347
Email ID - robin.fernandes@jotundxb.aehttp://www.jotun.com/me

HAPPY FEAST - GUARDIAN ANGEL.

Wishing all the Sanvordem-kars and Curchorem-kars
a very happy feast of our patron
"GUARDIAN ANGEL"
which is celebrating today
15th November 2009

Cajetan de Sanvordem
President
Guardian Angel Club
Kuwait

REJECTING TIATROS BY THE AUDIENCE.

REJECTING TIATROS BY THE AUDIENCE.

In my long years in Kuwait and involving in local Tiatros either as an organizer or as an audience, I saw many incidents where audience got fed up of the Show and in disgust left the hall being unable to accept the nonsense dished out from the stage by the nonsensical artistes. Audience buy the tickets and expect good performance from the stage and peaceful atmosphere in the hall. Because of rowdies among the audience people many times left the hall in the middle of the show. This happened in 1975 August, in the big hall of Kuwait City Church. The Tiatro was of Benny de Aldona who then was a crowd puller and also a good singer. Suddenly in the beginning itself due to faulty arrangement of the chairs, there was an argument between two groups of the audience. Suddenly, to my surprise, one person hit the other leading the blood to flow all around. There was chaos in the hall. People felt afraid and in fear of more fights many people inspite of purchasing tickets @ KD 1/- left the hall in disgust. This was like a protest against poor hall management.

Somewhere in 1979 to raise funds for the establishment of NOVEM GOEM Daily in Goa, under Novem Goem Pratishthan Kuwait Somiti, we were organising in the same hall our first Tiatro written and directed by Alexinho de Maxem who was very prominent director of that time in Kuwait. The hall was packed and expectation of the audience was very high, Mendes Bros. and F.X. Pereira were much sought after artistes who were acting in this Tiatro free of charge like all other artistes for the cause of Konkani. Ultimately this Tiatro failed to rise up to the expectations of the audience and to make the matters worse the speeches during the interval bored the audience, especially that of Estanislaus Alemao the then Principal of New Indian School, Jabriya and also a member of NGPKS. Having no option, many persons in the hall booed at him and left the hall before the end of the Tiatro thereby giving a very sad image of this Show and also of the organizers.

Next day people started talking ill of this Show, of organizers and of me in particular, me more for being on forefront to organize this Show. I had no choice but to accept the criticism sportingly and I did it because after all truth is truth and people got all the rights to speak the truth however much it is hurting and biting. As a man of public life I am exposed to public criticism and debate, if not, I have no right to involve in public life. Even as a writer I must accept public criticism, otherwise I should stop involving in public life and stay at home with my wife or with a concubine, if I have one, beyond the gaze of my wife, as many so called prominents are doing by deceiving their wives, making their desperate and sincere wives to hunt here and there to track down the concubines of their husbands. ONE SUCH DESPERATE WIFE SOMETIME BACK EVEN APPROACHED ME FOR HELP TO TRACK DOWN HER HUSBAND’S CONCUBINE, but this is a separate topic to dwell separately in this forum later on but very interesting.

A few years back, about 6 years, at Hawally A/C Hall, Rafael de Majorda was staging his Tiatro with visiting and local artistes. Because of heavy publicity people came in big number but finally it turned out to be a big flop. Many Persons in anger and in disgust left the hall, some of them cursing Rafael de Majorda. It was very disgusting scene to see people leaving the Tiatro like this. Later on Rafael de Majorda on internet made a public apology for dishing out a very poor show and making many in the audience to leave the hall. Thru this apology he at least accepted his fault instead of justifying his mistake by citing nonsensical instances with lies, and Dr. Goebellian lies. Though he came to me pleading not to write badly of his show in my review yet I wrote what was truth even though it was not palatable for him and his group. By hiding facts and writing good of bad show is the job of tin pot writers, rogue writers, I am not such a one. I write facts and truth and because of this, liars and traitors accuse me for disclosing the truth and yet these liars and traitors pretend to be saints by performing their religious rites in the Church. These are the Judases who degrade our religion and spoil the sanctity of our Church when they associate in Church activities. Church activities are meant for decent and good people and not for the promoters of lies and betrayals. Applying fake ‘Mosko” by writing good of bad events thereby cheating the readers is like prostituting one’s pen. Such prostitute writers are plenty amongst us.

The recent KGTS organized Show was one of the worst I have ever seen in Kuwait. Lot of people who witnessed this Show debated on this and expressed their opinion. That many in the audience out of sheer disgust left the hall while the Show was still going on itself is a solid proof of the poor performance from the Stage. It was very pitiable to see people leaving the hall. This type of scenes affects badly the credibility of Tiatro in particular and of Konkani in general. Those who genuinely are on forefront to promote Konkani in Kuwait will surely feel sad. Performing badly on the Stage can be accepted but defending bad performance and justifying it on top of it is a worst crime. Those who did this crime are the real liars. It is these liars who disapprove of my attitude of exposing lies. Those who suppressed the true depiction of this Show have suppressed the truth and suppressing the truth and expressing of lies is against Christian doctrine. And yet these people claim to be Chrsitians and that too Catholics. They are a shame on Christinity and on Catholism. I don’t know why they are shy of accepting the truth. It is a pity that some of the prominent and decent people are also supporting the lies and liars.

This is the barometer of the community to judge the quality of our friends, enemies and the so called prominent figures. Good that they are in Kuwait otherwise in Goa what would be their fate? Would they survive in their current positions in Goa as they are surviving in Kuwait? One eyed persons are great among the blinds. Ultimately a blind will never be able to lead another blind, both will fall. In order to avoid a fall, we need sincere people among us who will depict the truth and not lies. And above all we need sincere and truth writer journalists to depict the genuine picture of the events and not fake journalists who fool the readers.

The quality of journalism depends upon the quality of the writings. By correctly assessing the situation and correctly writing the facts great writers brought bloodless revolutions in the world. By showing their genuine and true journalism, great journalists all around the globe awakened the conscience of the people and in the bargain educated the readers. A true journalist will always expose the truth. But how many among us have such journalists? It is for the readers to judge and express their opinions.

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

MEMORIES OF 12TH NOVEMBER 1990.

To magnify, click on the photos.

Today 12th November 1990, Goans evacuated from Iraq invaded Kuwait, gathered in the capital city of Goa,Panaji, in India, and organised a rally on the streets of Panaji, held open demonstration in support of Kuwait and also held a public meeting at Azad Maidan, Panaji. Some Kuwaitis have also attended the day long protest including a ranking officer from the Ministry of Interior - Kuwait, Col. Juma Al Kholifi. Col. Kholifi also addressed the public meeting along with other speakers.

Seen in the first picture, top, Goans preparing to start the public rally while in the second picture are seen Goans proceeding with the big public rally and the third picture shows the public meeting in progress.

Thru this pblic rally and public meeting, Goans are showing their strong support and gratitude to Kuwait.

By organising pulic rallies and public meetings and open demonstrations in Goa, we the Kuwait Goans showed our love and solidarity to Kuwait and its citizens during their hour of sufferings. I as a convenor and initiator of this movement went ahead in the formation of this movement in Goa under Goa-Kuwait Solidarity Center with the consent of the people whom I invited with public announcement thru newspaper, at TB Cunha Hall, Panaji, for this purpose. This movement was not of mine alone, it was of all Kuwait Goan evacuees who associated with us in G-KSC and who loved Kuwait. By organising this movement nothing bad came to anyone, on the contrary everything good happened thru the enermous goodwill gained from Kuwaitis for Goa and Goans.

To organise this rally, close associates of G-KSC worked very hard by bringing people in especial buses from Verna, Navelim, Agacaim, Sanguem and other places in Goa. It was a sea of Kuwait evacuee Goans at Azad Maidan at the time of starting of this rally at 3.00 p.m., it looked we were all in Kuwait only, people were carrying the banners of Kuwait and posters and photograhps of Amir and Crown Prince of Kuwait. Never in the history of Goa such a massive rally was organised in Goa for the cause of a foreign country. My close colleagues in this movement namely Caetano Joao and Manuel Fernandes from M/s Boodai, Elvino Rodrigues from Alghanim, Evaristo Fernades from National Bank, the late Jack Santano Fernandes from Commercial Bank, Sheikh Agnelo and Mario Rebello and many others worked very hard to help organise this rally very successfully. The contribution and participation of every participant was worth admiring. It was they all who deserve the highest compliments. It was an unified effort of all, even financial contribution for the necessary expenses shared by all.

Though we were expecting more crowd than what attended yet none openly opposed this movement except one wretched, uncultured, uncivilised and ungrateful Kuwait Goan who is currently working in Kuwait as before the invasion of Kuwait. After meeting me in Kuwait following the liberation of Kuwait he threathened me with dire consequences for initiating this movement in Goa in support of Kuwait. Because he is a Goan I refrained from initiating legal action against him. He never associated with us in any of our activities in support of Kuwait. He wants Kuwait only to make money and not for anything. Such traitors do not deserve place for employment in Kuwait. Even the Kuwaitis working with him should be careful and Kuwaiti companies should not employ such traitors and anti-Kuwait people. He is the shame on Kuwait Goans.

Before the invasion of Kuwait many of our Kuwait Goans helped many of the Goan causes in Goa by donating lakhs of rupees but to our regret none of the recipients of our donations joined us, none of them supported us in our movement organised in support of Kuwait's liberation. The PDF Government of Dr. Proto Barbosa ruling at that time in Goa was totally away from us, not a single member of this Government joined us and never supported us openly, on the contrary some Ministers were accusing and threathening me for initiating this movement.

The current NRI Commissioner was in a Congress mode having pro-Iraq leaning. Goa based Tiatrists who are regularly coming to Kuwait and making lot of money never supported our movement, on the contrary some of them criticised us and Kuwait as well while all other Tiatrists watched silently their colleagues giving us "Zupattis"; the padris and madris who received our donations in lakhs of rupees totally forgot our movement; the recipients of our funds in lakhs of rupees for Goa Cancer Hospital and Konkani movement mainly "Novem Goem" did'nt even bother to openly show their solidarity with us. Why they only, even some families of Kuwait evacuees deserted their own people. Brother deserted brother, mother deserted father, sons and daughters deserted their parents and guardians. Through this missery we realised who was mine and who was not mine. It was a very good experience of life. When one person went with folded hands to his brother asking him to take care of me, he said "Am I My Brother's Keeper?" It was nothing but missery for many of us because we were evacuated from Kuwait empty handed. God alone helped us and the same God brought many of us back to Kuwait though all wanted to return but their wishes remained unfulfilled due to many factors.

Because of Kuwait many of us gained a lot though we are working very hard in Kuwait with lot of hardships and humiliations. Yet we love Kuwait and grateful to Kuwait and will always remain grateful to Kuwait for all the benefits we acquired from Kuwait though we may have difference of opinions in many respects.

May God protect Kuwait from where we earn our sustenance and thru this we maintin our people back at home.

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.