IN SUPPORT OF DR. SUSANA D'SOUZA.

The latest news appearing from Goa that Dr. Suzana D’Souza was removed from her post as the Director of Sports and Youth Affairs is sickening. This action of the Sports Minister of Goa BJP government headed by known communal CM Parrikar looks like anti-minority action. The present Sports Minister according to my information had some personal grudge against Dr. Suzana D’Souza who always acted upright. If this is the case then my question is this: Is it right on the part of the Sports Minister to take his personal revenge by occupying public office? Is it the job of a public servant to release his personal anger on anybody whom he dislikes in the government service? Is he elected and appointed as minister to serve public cause or to serve his personal cause of taking personal revenge? This action of vendetta against Dr. Susana by the Sports Minister is deplorable.


Dr. Susana D’Souza whom I know from school days was a well known sportsperson and a very good athlete representing her School Little Flower, Calangute, in All Goa Athletics Meets. I first met her in 1966 when we both participated in All Goa Interschool Athletics Meet which was held for 6 days at Tembi ground Anjuna, Bardez where she performed well for her school and I won the individual championship for my Arpora School. Sports are in her blood as she is the daughter of the then renowned Goan athlete and footballer Mr. Joveniano D’Souza who played for the then famed Tata soccer team in Bombay. His majestic personality on and off the field was worth admiring. Her younger sister Yolanda was the top soccer player of Goa and her elder brother Adv. Francis was also a prominent sportsman at College level in Goa.

Dr. Susana and me we both passed our SSC in the same year and joined St. Xaviers College Mapusa till we finished our graduation. Then we joined Post Graduate Center, Panjim in the same year though our subjects were different. She went on further by acquiring PhD which was the rare distinction she acquired among our colleagues.

At Xavier’s Mapusa she blossomed into a fine athlete representing Xavier’s in number of disciplines and acquiring laurels in every discipline at College level and also at All Goa level.

A much disciplined, decent and dignified girl with very good character she devoted her life for the development and promotion of Sports in Goa. As herself being a top sportsperson she knows the psychology of sportspersons which was an asset for her to deal with the sportspersons in Goa. Her rich sporting background and her Doctorate in this field was an asset for Goa which the present Sports Minister of Goa ignored. Removing her from her post is a big loss for Goan sports. .

A. Veronca Fernandes,
Kuwait.

G. O. A. ROLLING TROPHY.

Skynet Raiders SC and Navelim YC in finals


Navelim YC came good in the tie-breaker lottery edging AVC & CA after twice coming back from the jaws of defeat in a pulsating match that had ended in a 2-2 draw and Skynet Raiders SC also made it to their first ever final edging mighty Goa Maroons in similar fashion when the game was tied 1-1 in the semi finals of the 18th edition of the G.O.A Rolling Trophy organized by Goan Overseas Association (Goa Maroons) under the auspices of KIFF and sponsored by Bassem International Trading Company at the MOH ground, Shuwaikh (Kuwait).


In a scrappy encounter which saw tampers flying all around; Braulio Rodrigues gave AVC the lead in the 10th minute of the first half after combining well with the young and talented Kevin Vaz who this season has caught the eye. However, Cruzedio of Navelim continuing his good form in this tournament equalized much to the delight of the Navelim members and supporters who are this year celebrating 25 years of the club’s existence, only for Anthony Rodrigues to give AVC the lead once again after a well worked move with Malwin. The second half was sea-saw battle with the Canacona lad Savio Fernandes playing brilliantly in the AVC midfield and his precise crosses nearly took the game away from Navelim, but for poor finishing by their forwards.


Navelim on the other hand, marshaled by the elegant Bernardo Pires, soaked in the pressure and were lucky to get the equalizer in the dying minutes of the game when one of the AVC defenders handled the ball and referee Victor Andrade had no hesitation in pointing to the dreaded spot. Duarte Ferrao ensured the game went into extra time when he clinically scored from the penalty spot, to end the game 2-2. In the ensuing tie-breaker Gasper Crasto, Bernard Pires, Ryan Lewis and Alfred Pires scored for Navelim. Americo's penalty was saved by AVC goalkeeper Alvaro Dias. Navelim stand-in keeper Alfred Pires saved a penalty while AVC hit their penultimate kick on the crossbar. Only Anthony and Nicholas could find the net for AVC.


In the second semi final, injury plagued Goa Maroons without some of their star players were barraged with a series of attacks from Skynet Raiders SC right from the start, but after a barren first half, it was Maroons who opened the scoring through hard working Bonny Niasso when in a sudden counter move, he worked past three defenders to slot past a diving Francis Monteiro in the Skynet goal. With the game slipping from their hands, Skynet Raiders responded with frantic raids and were unlucky twice with the wood-work coming to Goa Maroons rescue. Dominic and Alex defended very well for Skynet Raiders and just when it was looking like Maroons would scrape through, Sathyarag Mohan scored when the ball rebounded off the crossbar to his feet from a 25 yard shot taken by substitute Tiago.


Extra time remained goalless with players from both the teams visibly tired from the extremely hot and dusty conditions and in the ensuing penalty shootout, Monteiro saved Bonny’s kick to ensure Skynet Raiders SC first ever entry in the final of the prestigious tournament.


The finals are slated for Friday, 1st June 2012 at 8:00am (sharp) and Mr. Charles D’Sa the General Manager of Bassem International Company will be the chief guest.


Julio Cardoso,
Kuwait

CASTE MADNES AMONG CHEAP GOANS.

Caste is an Indian system somewhat similar to Apartheid in the West, formed on the basis of one’s profession or trade. The highest caste is Brahmin caste while in the lowest is those doing lowest manual jobs. While I was doing my post-graduation at the Post Graduate Centre, Panjim, Goa, one day our Prof. Dr. Audi after giving a lecture on Caste system asked the students whether there is any one in the classroom who can call himself a Brahmin. Before this poser, he lectured saying Brahmins are those people who performed priestly duties and as such they are educated.



Unfortunately for me there was not a single student in the class claiming to be a Brahmin though according to my
knowledge there were at least 4 students only from Mapusa coming from “Negociante” class calling themselves as Brahmins but they were shy to declare their caste status openly in classroom when Dr. Audi requested. They were shy because they were not equipped with the real qualities required to qualify themselves to be Brahmins. In fact they were from Cloth Merchant families doing the business of Cloth Selling.


Caste system is a madness of people suffering from inferiority complex; it is a shallow pleasure of intellectually bankrupt people. Because of caste system Goan society suffered lot of divisions in itself leading to lot of destruction. Surprisingly against Christian doctrine even Christians follow and believe in caste system and acts accordingly. In the past the Goa Church was fully immersed in casteisms even some of the Church rites and formalities and duties were devided on the basis of caste system.


The door of Seminaries in Goa was closed for low castes Goans. Now in the absence of Goan boys “Ghanttis” are joining the Seminaries and they are welcomed there by the same casteist Seminaries that earlier rejecting low caste Goans. There is a saying in Konkani “Korta tea Mapan bhogta”. Christianity preaches universal brotherhood and not segregation of society based on caste system. As a human being Christ came from the lowest strata of society and also initiated picking up his apostles from the lower strata of society. Those Christians who believe in Caste system are doing disservice to Christianity and as such they are antichristian.


In Kuwait caste belief was very strong among Goan Christians; even jobs were given by analysing your caste status by the casteist Goan Managers. One Mr. X, a Brahmin Bhattkar from Saligao holding a top post in a top company used to select Goan candidates on the basis of castes, his preference going to high caste only even though you may be fit for the job educationally and professionally. Many times candidates used to tell lies to him about their caste status to get selected. When my turn came for an interview with him, he was deeply impressed of my credentials, discipline, presentation and mannerism and while putting his signature for his approval for my job, suddenly he asked me what caste I belong to. When I told him I belong to the lowest caste, he said “I cannot believe it because you show all the qualities of higher caste”.


When I insisted affirmatively again adding that castewise I am the lowest but classwise I am the highest, he asked me to give comparison. For this I replied saying “Sir, you may be highest castewise but compared to me, you are lowest classwise and precisely becuase of this you are suffering from Caste Madness which is irrelevant. Then I got up and left from there leaving the sick casteist Manager staring at me with annoyance. Incidentally, later on I came to know he was having a concubine in Kuwait working as a maid and coming from the lowest caste. For sex there is no caste barrier otherwise it is. What a shame!! What a hypocracy!!


Like our Saligao Bhattar we have plenty such casteists in our midst who think they are from British Royal family and yet shamelessly like slaves rotting in Kuwait. Those who claim to have high caste status must also show their high discipline and high character. In Kuwait most of the ill deeds are committed by the so called casteists only who blindly boast of their caste status as if they are come from outer planet. One can see them on Fridays on football ground how disgraceful they are, some clubs are boasting of having in their teams high caste players but incidentally behaving like "goondas" and rowdies.  Some of them are sacked from their cultural associations for breaching the association discipline while others are known to rob the funds of their associations. High caste people do not commit such breaches. High caste people display high moral and physical characters. The so called "chaddes" are acting worst than "Maddes".


The late Dr. Rebello from Margao Maddel told that during his College days at Xavier’s in Bombay, some Goan students suffering from intellectual bankruptcy when they fall into the wrong side of the argument in the College Campus among Goans, they will raise the issue of the castes of the other group, just like what it is happening among us in Kuwait. Then Dr. Rebello added that raising the issue of one’s caste is the pleasure of weak and cheap persons. As for me caste factor is irrelevant, it is a big thing for weak and cheap people and intellectually bankrupt Goans who form majority among us. Incidentally many of them are the sons or grandsons of butlers.


I am not shy of my humble, poor and low background but I maintain my high dignified and decent life without cheating my wife and without having the sin of keeping a concubine. I am not cheating the community and not robbing the trust of the society. I am involved in so many associations but not a single association dismissed me for committing any breach. Not a single association accused me for financial irregularities. This is my dignity which is much higher than the cheapness of caste system which is the cheap pleasure of the third class Goans.


We have seen in some villages in Goa how the local Churches and their Pe. Vigars promoted casteism in their Church premises in the presence of the Holy Tabernacle thereby insulting Jesus Christ who preached human equality and universal brotherhood. We saw how in order to maintain and promote casteism in Cuncolim even an Independent Church of Cuncollim was established under the rebellious Pe. Cur, Fr. Alvito Vaz from Carmona against official Goa Church headed by the Bishop of Goa.


I don’t understand how the educated and civilised Cuncolkars tolerated this even excavating of the graves from the casteist Cemetry of low castes dead and dumping their corpses elsewhere? Or there are no civilised Cuncolkars in Cuncolim? Some Kuwait based Cuncolkars are taking pride in such actions of course shamelessly and they call themselves proud Cuncolkars. I feel ashamed of their presence in Kuwait among us decent and civilised Goans.


I don’t know how the so called holy priests Pe. Agnelo D’souza and Pe. Jose Vaz tolerated casteism in the Church during their time. I have not read anywhere they have revolted against this unchristian system that brought disgrace on Goan Christianity. I think by keeping their silence on this disgraceful system they committed a big sin against Christianity and because of this sin I feel God is not elevating them to the Sainthood. I don’t think their chances are bright to attain sainthood if they are guilty of keeping their silence on casteism in Goan Churches.


Our elder Tiatrists innumerable times criticised from the Stage the ill effects of Casteism practiced in the Church. Aristedes Dias and M. Dod de Verna were more vociferous like Minguel Rod and Kid Boxer earlier. In one of his songs “Vegllozar Komunheanvanchea Mezar”, Aristedes Dias condemns the caste system in the Churches in Salcette were there were separate lines according to the caste for receiving Holy Communion. Also he condemned the separate benches kept in the Churches for people to occupy according to their castes. What a disgraceful the Goa Church was!! I feel ashamed to be a Goan Christian when I ponder more and more on this topic.


In his own State in the USA, according to the apartheid system, Blacks had to occupy the benches towards the left side while Whites on the right side. While delivering his homily on one Sunday, civil rightist and Pastor of the Baptist Church, Martin Luther King told the Whites this “My dear friends, if you cannot integrate with the masses (pointing out to the blacks), you will never integrate with Christ because Christ is come from the masses. Segregation in the Church on the basis of Colour of one’s skin is an act against Christianity”, concluded Martin Luther. Did our priests preach such sermons anytime in our Churches? That one particular sermon of Martin Luther King was enough for bringing about changes in American society leading to the eradication of apartheid system in USA.


Because of caste system Goan society was splitted into many divisions leading to the disorder in our society. Even today and yesterday all our political happenings leading to the destruction of Goa happened because of casteism ingrained in our blood. If you see minutely Goan politics revolved not more on communal lines but more on caste lines. Our feasts in some villages were celebrated on caste lines and even dress codes in some Churches were followed according to the caste. In Bardez, Aldona church was famous for promoting caste system in the Church rites while Salcette it was more. It is a pity that some Saxttikars in Kuwait are still boasting of their caste status, of course shamelessly. Like slaves they are living and working in Kuwait and yet they talk as if they are masters.


A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

GOA'S POLITICALLY MANIPULATED AND BULLIED BUREAUCRACY.

By Aires Rodrigues

In a democracy, the bureaucracy must be allowed to function independent of the political establishment. Only an independent bureaucracy can render the rule of law. The performance, character and role of the bureaucracy depends on the social and political scenario around it. Officers remain as honest, upright and efficient, as the society around them or as their political masters want them to be.


The rule of law requires government officials to comply with the law at all times. Every executive action must have legal authorization and no decision can contravene or violate a legal restriction. Political interference, in the day-to-day administration is not permissible neither acceptable. A perusal of the file notings of some senior officers reflects that they have just surrendered to the political establishment. Some of the officers knowing that it is an exercise in futility simply pass files up the ladder without any comments.


Officers need to be encouraged to give their free and frank opinion. They should be at liberty to work out details and implement their decisions. The political and administrative wings of the Government together should pursue the path of progress by accommodating diverse viewpoints and interests without bias.

We have witnessed many officers including Chief Secretaries and DGPs who have been sent packing overnight for not bowing down to politicians in power. One can understand the suffering and agony that such officers go through due to these abrupt transfers. The trauma these officers endure should however not be in vain. It should only strengthen and solidify the resolve of their peers and strengthen the system towards sanity.

The IAS was never meant to be ( I Agree Sir ) and the IPS ( I Please Sir ), but the reality is a sordid tale. If the pinnacle of the bureaucracy caves in, the entire force crumbles and this needs to be rectified. Let us hope every bureaucrat from the top to the bottom will vow to assert his position and always do what is right. This resolve and courage will have to emanate and flow from the top across every layer of the administration. May this be the humble plea to the conscience of every IAS and IPS officer

NEED TO CREATE PUBLIC AWARENESS ON GOA LOKAYUKTA ACT.

By Aires Rodrigues


The Goa Government should immediately commence a public awareness campaign on the recently notified Goa Lokayukta Act. The public need be made aware of their rights and responsibilities in regards to the Lokayukta Act. This awareness drive should be across every town and by possibly having a presentation on the Goa Lokayukta Act at the gram sabhas at the village level.


While the Lokayukta is in the process of being set up, the awareness campaign could begin to enlighten the people on the issues of mal administration, corruption and abuse of power that they could raise before the Lokayukta for the redressal of their grievances.


The government could seek the assistance of Law College students or some NGO’s in this awareness drive to seek the people’s role in striving to make Goa corruption free. Along with around 50 like minded advocates across Goa I am ready to volunteer my services over the week end to help in this public awareness campaign on the Goa Lokayukta Act.


The success of the Lokayukta would to a very large extent depend on the public participating fearlessly in raising documented cases of corruption and other misdeeds by public servants. The public at large have a crucial role as watch dogs in curbing the cancer of corruption that is corroding Goa.


The Lokayukta would be empowered not to merely probe complaints about corruption but any type of maladministration and abuse of power would also come under the scanner and the jurisdiction of the Lokayukta.


A transparent administration is a must for reducing corruption. The office of Lokayukta could help in achieving this with public support and participation.


Copies of the Goa Lokayukta Act in English, Konkani, Marathi and Hindi should be made available at all Mamlatdar offices as well as at the Panchayats, Municipalities, Colleges, Schools and Public Libraries for the benefit of the public.

TO HELL WITH VISITING "KETTIST" TIATRISTS.

It was somewhere in 1959 at Mapusa, my late brother Josemarie when I was small he took me for one Tiatro, if I am not mistaken it was of John Claro.  Jacinto Vaz was to do the comedy role.  Director and the audience were eagerly waiting for Jacinto Vaz to come but No,  Jacinto Vaz did not appear at all.  Fully shaken, the director then appeared on the stage and told the audience that Jacinto Vaz did the "KETT" for him by making a  "GHAT".  Then he asked the audience whether they agree for going ahead without Jacinto Vaz.  For this the audience in one voice said YES, GO AHEAD.  Then the director told the audience, if you support me we can create so many Jacinto Vaz. Then the Tiatro started well and ended also well.  The absence of Jacinto Vaz was not felt at all on that night. During those days Jacinto Vaz was not reliable and was acting many times proud and arrogant like the owner of Konkani Stage.
On 18th of this month three Tiatrists like Jacinto Vaz did "Kettam" but their kettam had no impact on the Tiatro "Ghonvdho".  If we the members of the audience agree, then the director Nazy can create in Kuwait itself so many Hazels, so many Steffis and so many Luis Bachans. 

As it is the director of the Tiatro Mr. Nazi has already created in comedian Jr. Simla not only another Luis Bachan but 100 times better than Luis Bachan.

Many in the audience during Ghondho Tiatro were aspiring to see more and more on the stage Jr. Simla.  His first and new Konkani Comedy VCD "Good Night" is already in the market in Kuwait city and since the Ghonvdho Tiatro its sale has been increased.  I watched this VCD and its comedy is worth admiring.

In future we can rightly say to "Hell with visiting Kettist Tiatrists".

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

Konkani Drama ‘Ghonvdho’ performs to great applause!

Superstar Sylvester Vaz steals limelight!
By Gasper Crasto; Photos by: Reagan D’Costa

Kuwait: Konkani drama ‘Ghonvdho’ (Mason) written and directed by Nazy Rod and staged at the Kuwait Medical Association Hall on 18th May 2012 provided top-class entertainment to the audience.

The drama presented by Kuwait’s popular singers Lopes Brothers was initially scheduled to be held on 11th May but was postponed due to non-availability of some visiting artistes from Goa.

The story of ‘Ghonvdho’ depicts life of a faithful wife (played by Irene Vaz) while her husband (Sylvester Vaz) holds an affair with his best friend’s (Braz de Parra) wife who happens to be his ex-girlfriend. Perhaps the title ‘Ghonvdho’ (mason) left everyone guessing till the end as the audience were glued to their seats till the last curtain.

The title means that everyone is accountable to be a ‘Ghonvdho’ (mason) of their own homes, a master of their own fate for the success or disaster, happiness or failure in life. The drama proved once again that some of the most talented Konkani artistes are based in Kuwait. Superstar Sylvester Vaz, with his dynamic presence, was at his super-best in the lead role. His portrayal of the husband was enacted to great perfection and commitment. The character couldn’t be played any better. His acting with his ‘own’ wife Irene brought a sense of ‘reality’ on stage; they gelled splendidly well.

Irene looked gracious in her costumes and her dialogue delivery was flawless. She showed class in style and the ‘cantos’ of an ‘actress’ which earned her fame in so many dramas of famous playwright and Goan Shakespeare Rosario Rodrigues years ago. Irene also played a double enacting the other woman which, however, left many in the audience confused, and some bewildered by her fast-changing attire!

Braz Rodrigues (Braz de Parra) portrayed the ‘friend’ with great tact, timing and a wealth of voice in his dialogues. Perfect! Cajetan de Sanvordem did his part well too, a cakewalk act for the hardened campaigner.
Special mention must go to little Joshua Gonsalves, a child artiste who did his role extremely well for his age - without a trace nervousness or hiccups. Lawry Miranda and Francis Dias made their presence felt too with cameo roles.
Comedian Jr. Simla was fabulous on stage. His comedy was simply fantastic. Although his ‘entries’ on stage were the most by any artiste, he was easily the ‘darling of the audience’ specially for his naïve ‘acting’ and ‘clean’ dialogues. The comedian was certainly one of the stars of the show.

Simla was accompanied in the comedy skits by Mangalorean star Lucy Aranha. Together, they made a great pair, and pulled off a rib-tickling, hilarious comedy. Apparently, the pair was called to perform just 3 days prior to the show as back-up for the ‘visiting’ artistes.

The comedy acts were supported by Luis D’Costa (Luis de Sanguem) in a polished role of a Hindu goldsmith, and comedian Salu Faleiro. Salu Faleiro, in the character of Timan (aunty), sent pills of laughter around for his amusing costume and the ‘village-oldy’ language that he used throughout. The guy would absolutely be a ‘hit’ should he enact the same character back in Goan dramas.

Popular visiting artistes Marcus Vaz and Francis de Tuem left a mark on the audience with their meaningful and captivating songs.

The stars were strongly applauded by the audience and encored even for ‘decent’ solos. While the two were excellent in their comedy duo, dressed as females which warranted tremendous ‘phew phews’ demanding more repeats, Francis de Tuem was called back on stage atleast 5 times for his song on ‘New generation girls and boys’.

Among the local artistes who rendered their songs to great applause were Lopes Brothers (2 duos) and their sister Agnes. The elder of the Lopes Brothers, Alex, was remarkably stylish and looked like a top-class, professional singer while Michael was marvellous with his segundo voice. Agnes sang with poise, confidence and a glow on her face which was a delight to watch.

Irene and Sylvester Vaz sang an exemplary duet while Sylvester Vaz later sang a magnificent solo. Also, there were songs by Seby Mascarenhas, Edward Estebeiro, Michael Fernandes (Micky), Manuel Goes, etc. Director Nazy Rod too took to the stage to feature in a beautiful ‘quartet’ with Agnes, Irene and Michael Lopes.
Opening Chorus of the drama, a well composed song in a unique manner, was sung by Agnes-Alex, Edward-Seby, and Irene-Sylvester; each pair singing one verse and chorus.
Musical score provided by Shahu and his troupe brought great Goan ambience and ‘feeling’ in the hall.
Stage setting and lights were super while Anand D’Souza stepped in right in time to give that crystal clear sound. At a short felicitation during the interval, Marcus Vaz and Francis de Tuem along with Joshua Gonsalves were felicitated for their outstanding performance in the drama.
Mementos were presented to these artistes as a token of appreciation. A colourful souvenir was released to mark the event.

A game of ‘Housie’ was also held during the break. Mr. Brendon won the Kuwait-Goa-Kuwait air-ticket sponsored by Jet Airways. Shaheen Training Institute and Kuwait Educational Centre sponsored an Office Automation course, which was offered as the first prize for the lucky souvenir. The prize was won by Pearl. The second prize winner for the lucky souvenir received a 3-in-1 Canon Pixma printer.
Mathew and Anson Rodrigues conducted the proceedings.

Amazed by the response from the public, director Nazy Rod has shown his intent to stage the drama in Goa and produce a video film on ‘Ghonvdho’.

Goa Maroons, Navelim YC, AVC & CA, and Skynet Raiders in Semis: G.O.A. ROLLING TROPHY

G.O.A. ROLLING TROPHY

Match day 6 – Quarter finals

Goa Maroons, Navelim YC, AVC & CA, and Skynet Raiders in Semis

 

Posted by Julio Cardoso

http://juliozinia.blogspot.com/

Action shot - Skynet Raiders verus Gulf Cable

 

Justifying their direct seeding into round two, Goa Maroons and Navelim YC took their expected places in the last four while AVC & CA and Skynet Raiders were the other two teams to qualify for the semifinals, in the 18th edition of the prestigious G.O.A Rolling Trophy organized by Goan Overseas Association (Goa Maroons) under the auspices of KIFF and sponsored by Bassem International Trading Company at the MOH ground, Shuwaikh (Kuwait).

 

In the day's first match, last year's finalist Navelim YC overcame a strangely subdued DHL FC 2-0. The ever dependable Alfred Pires put Navelim in front when he scored from close range in the first half while star forward Cruzedio Rodrigues put the game beyond DHL FC with his usual cool and clinical finish in the second half. Midfielders Terence and Roland played their hearts out for DHL but with no luck and with some erratic shooting by their forwards, could not get past Adrian deputing for Britto in the Navelim goal who did well to keep a clean sheet. Navelim YC made three substitutions in the second half, notable one being veteran Gasper Crasto who immediately made his presence felt in the Navelim half line.

Navelim Youth Centre won 2-0

 

In the second quarter final, a depleted C.R.C Chinchinim without the brilliant Gomes brothers and goalkeeper Antonio who are all on vacation, fielded only nine players against defending champions Goa Maroons and the outcome of the game was easily foreseeable when the redoubtable Zelito Cardozo scored for Goa Maroons in the very third minute of the game from an excellent cross by Bonny Niasso. Prolofic scorer Steven Rodrigues added two more and Bonny Niasso scored the fourth from a scorching 25 metres drive to make it 4-0 before the end of the first half.

Goa Maroons - winners

 

In the second half, using the shield of soccer law three, C.R.C Chinchinim players started falling like nine pins and the referee had no choice but abandon the match, as they did not have the minimum number of seven players on the field, and the match was awarded to Goa Maroons.

In the last match of the day, Gulf Cable flattered only to deceive after taking the lead through Sinu Thomas in the 15^th minute and then going on to lose 1-7 to Skynet Raiders. Gulf Cable were unfortunate to lose Abdul Kumarakkttil to a second bookable offence and Skynet Raiders taking advantage of an extra man in the extremely hot conditions scored at will in the second half through Sathyaraj Mohan (2), Doruesh Naik (2), Maleston Dias, Reazer Dias and Dominic Fernandes.

Skynet Raiders won 7-1

Schedule for semifinal matches:- Coming Friday, 25^th May 2012,

AVC & CA take on Navelim Youth Centre at 6:30 am,

followed by Goa Maroons versus Skynet Raiders at 8:00 am

 

IS PARRIKAR GOING TO KILL LOKAYUKTA?

CM SHOULD NOT KILL GOA LOKAYUKTA BY SETTING ITS AGENDA
By Aires Rodrigues

The unwarranted, reckless and deplorable recent statements made by Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on the issue concerning the setting up and working of the Goa Lokayukta are deplorable. It is dismaying that the Chief Minister has given a clear indication that he intends to guide, monitor and set the agenda for the Lokayukta. This would be in clear violation and contrary to law. The very intent of the Lokayukta legislation is to ensure its total independence in its working and functioning.


Any attempts by Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar to manipulate the Lokayukta would be strongly opposed, by moving the High Court if required.


Mr. Manohar Parrikar should realize that the Lokayukta would probe and prosecute complaints against all public servants including the Chief Minister. So Mr. Manohar Parrikar must desist and distance himself from directly or indirectly interfering in the setting and functioning of the Goa Lokayukta.


The Lokayukta would be headed by a retired High Court Judge so one wonders how the Chief Minister could be making statements dictating about how the Lokayukta should function and investigate complaints. A good and upright person may desist from accepting the position of Goa Lokayukta if there is such political interference by the Chief Minister even before it is set up.


Regarding the Chief Minister’s threat to those filing false complaints, the Chief Minister may not be aware that filing of false or vexatious complaints is already an offence under the law with courts today imposing stringent costs on such litigations if initiated with vested interest under the guise of public interest litigations.


It is also most improper for the Chief Minister to be advising the Press as to how and what they should be reporting. It may be recalled that on 1st October 2003 Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, had in a legal notice served through his advocate Narendra Sawaikar, warned all newspapers to refrain from publishing any statements issued by the Opposition. Will history repeat itself? The Chief Minister should not to stifle the voice of the opposition which is very vital to the successful working of any democracy.


Mr. Manohar Parrikar has been the Leader of the Opposition and knows for himself how vital that role is. The Goa Lokayukta should be set up without any political interference or manipulation if this government is really serious about its pledge of Zero tolerance to Corruption.

TIATRO "GHONVDHO" IN KUWAIT.

Script writer and director Nazi Rod in his maiden attempt to stage a Tiatro in Kuwait has successfully organized his Tiatro “Ghonvdho” (Mason) on 18th of this month at Kuwait Medical Association Hall starting almost at 5.30 PM and ending at 10.00 PM. This Tiatro was supposed to be held originally on 11th of this month but due to the non-availability at the eleventh hour of 3 visiting artistes from Goa, one of them was the young daughter of Milagres de Chandor Miss Hazel, Miss Steffi was the other and the third was comedian Luis Bachan, the show was postponed to 18th inst. But unfortunately and regretfully as given to understand, inspite of their assurances and promises to the director that they will surely reach in time to participate in Ghonvdho on 18th, they failed in their word. Due to their absence the director was put into total inconvenience to arrange and train the local substitutes who fortunately proved to be not only good replacement but more than the equivalent.

The story revolved around a family life where the husband works abroad and sends money to his unfaithful wife who fritter away the money recklessly with her boyfriend. The title of the play “Ghonvdho” (Mason) used in figurative sense meaning the “Ghonvdho” failed to build his house properly leading to the disaster in family life.

Comedian Junior Silma whom I first time saw doing the comedy role which was supposed to be done by Luis Bachan finally proved to be not only best but the best surpassing not only Luis Bachan and his brother Domnick but all the Goa based comedians. This boy has very bright future on Konkani stage. It was he who stole the major show in the “Ghonvdho” inspite of accepting this role at the eleventh hour. His comedy is very natural and his body is very flexible somewhat like that of Anthony Mendes. In future for any Tiatro in Kuwait I don’t think we need any visiting comedian from Goa. Thru “Ghonvddo” he is become the darling of the audience.

The last minute replacement for the visiting female artiste Steffi, Mangalorean Lucy Aranha with her natural beauty played her role with comedian Silma extremely well even though she was trained only on the eve of the Tiatro when it was confirmed that the three visitors are not coming. Hazel’s absence was not noticed only. As a whole the absence of all the three “Kettis” as remarked by many in the audience went totally unnoticed.

It is proved once again that in Kuwait we can stage our Tiatros very well even without the participation of the visiting artistes from Goa and Bombay.

However, the other reliable visiting artistes Marcus Vaz and Francis de Tuem gave their best to make the side show very successful. Their songs were fabulously applauded by the audience because they were worth applauding.

Among the local artistes who rendered their songs well were Lopes Brothers and their sister Agnes with her mellifluent voice.

The other local artistes who did their roles well were Cajetan de Sanvordem, husband and wife duet Sylvester and Irene and Salu Faleiro.

It was surprising to notice the absence of any trio song of Kuwait based trio of Mario, Cajy & Michael; with the exception of Cajy the other two were totally not seen but their absence went unnoticed though their names and photos appeared in the Souvenir. Those who do not intend to participate in the Tiatro they should not give their photos to be published in the Handbill or Souvenir lest they become “Fotting” in the eyes of the audience.

Musical score was beautifully provided by Sahu and his troupe. Stage setting and Lights were nicely provided by Thomas; so also Sound System by Anand.

Special mention must go to Baba Joshua who as a child artiste did his role extremely well with confidence with his fluency in Konkani which is normally not seen in modern children in Kuwait. His acting reminded me of the somewhat identical role played by Bab Lipo in Aristedes Dias’ Tiatro “Doea” in 1958. I congratulate his parents for inculcating Konkani in their son from very early age.

In 1975 when the late Tony Call first time brought Alfred Rose and his then charming wife Rita to Kuwait to stage their two Tiatros, there was lot of politics and confusion between local artistes and the visiting. After analyzing the whole situation, Alfred Rose advised Tony Call “not to depend on the outstation artistes, you have enough of local artistes to play any role, utilize their talents”. Because of the last minute “Kettam” by the visiting “Kettist” Tiatrists as if they are coming for “Funkott” Show, the local directors must make an attempt to rely more on the local artistes only who are rich in stage talent.

From what has happened to “Ghonvdho” Tiatro, it is dangerous to rely any more on the visiting “Kettist” tiatrists. If they had any difficulty they should advise the director in Kuwait much in advance to facilitate the director to take remedial actions in time. Otherwise the organisers and directors will have to face heavy losses as it happened to “Ghonvdho” director because of the irresponsibility of the three irresponsible artistes.

Most in the audience totally condemned this bad attitude of the three artistes for failing to honour their promised word. As a retaliation many have vowed in future to boycott any Tiatro staged in Kuwait with the participation of “Kettist” tiatrists.

It is not an easy task to organize a Tiatro in Kuwait. I don’t think there is anybody in Kuwait involved in organizing Tiatros as I am and from my experience point of view I have lost my confidence in visiting artistes as a whole though there are many exceptions among them who are really reliable, dignified and respectful.

Once a troupe of 6 visiting artistes was staying at my place. They were brought by us for Rosary Ferns’ Tiatro. Before going to the hall as it is customary we joined together in our hall to say a small prayer. Every artiste to my surprise came for prayer with his luggage of Suitcases as if they are going to the Airport without going for the Show. Then I interrupted and asked them, what is this? They said we will go to the Airport out and out from the Tiatro hall. For this I asked them if for any reason there is delay in finishing the Tiatro in time, what will you do? They had no answer but their selfishness for their own benefit made me nervous.

I became nervous because I have my dignity and name in society which I cannot afford to tarnish in case of failure in properly organizing the Tiatro. For some visiting Tiatrists anything “chalta hai”. For them anything is ok but not for me. Some of the visiting Tiatrists do not care for anything as long as they get their pound of flesh. A few of them are shameless. It is said in Konkani “Kapurleak khuim Kulei sarke and Thanaim sarkim”. This is what the attitude of some visiting Tiatrists.

We spend thousands after them to bring them to Kuwait to participate in our Shows and they take this as if they are travelling from Margao to Panjim? This is called irresponsibility on the part of Tiatrists who ironically propagate from the stage the sense of responsibility to others but not for themselves. For such people I have two proverbs in Konkani “Apunn zanvcho khuim nitt and dusreak marchem mitt”. “Padricho Sermao nhoi Uniek pun lokak”.

Once it happened like this. For one Tiatro in Kuwait one main Musician, Mistiri was brought to play for one particular Tiatro. He came in time but while going he booked his return ticket in the same night after finishing the Tiatro. For some unavoidable reason, the Tiatro was delayed. Seeing this that he is getting late to reach to the Airport, after the interval before ending the tiatro Mistiri left the hall and went straight to the Airport to catch the direct flight to Dabolim. So in such a situation what is the use of spending so much of money after such visiting artistes and musicians? In the beginning itself they should make it clear to the Kuwait organisers their haste in returning back so that proper planning is done in advance only.

Meantime, after “Ghonvdho” Tiatro, the call given to boycott the shows where “Kettist” Tiatrists are involved is gaining momentum in Kuwait. Tiatro contractors and organisers must take serious note of this call.

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

CM PARRIKAR IS CHALLENGED BY AIRES.

CHIEF MINISTER MANOHAR PARRIKAR SHOULD PROVE HIS ALLEGATION



By Aires Rodrigues
Am today publicly challenging Goa Chief Minister Mr. Manohar Parrikar to prove his allegation that I have been using the Right to Information Act to blackmail. Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar while addressing BJP workers in Panaji yesterday accused me of attempting to blackmail him.
I was not born in an indigent family. Over the years have spent my own time and money raising public issues. Let Mr. Parrikar give details of even a single paisa that I may have illegally accepted and also show where it has been deposited as claimed by him. .
Mr. Manohar Parrikar should uphold and maintain the dignity and decorum of the high constitutional post he is holding. Being the Chief Minister he should not stoop to a street fighter’s level with such cheap gimmicks.
If the swearing in ceremony was held at Raj Bhavan the cost would have been a few thousands only. I reiterate that the 11 lakhs spent on the March 9th function held at SAG grounds was a criminal waste of public funds. In public interest this issue would be raised before the Goa Lokayukta. If Mr. Parrikar was keen on holding that extravaganza, its cost should have been borne by his party and should not have burdened the tax payer.
I have always -- and selflessly -- taken every issue raised to a logical end. It is Mr. Manohar Parrikar infact who has to explain to the people of Goa about his very suspicious U-turn on Casinos, illegal mining and his hoax of zero tolerance to corruption.
I have been in public life fighting against corruption and injustice for almost four decades now, much before Mr. Manohar Parrikar had even entered politics. Have never shied away from raising issues against successive governments, without fear or favour, and the present Chief Minister too should respect this fundamental right of every citizen.

One wonders whether the Chief Minister’s ego was hurt after the fiasco of Alina Saldanha’s proposed cabinet induction. I had raised the issue solely in public interest as Mr. Manohar Parrikar was committing a political impropriety.
Way back in 2001, the then Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar had appointed me as Vice- Chairman of the NRI facilitation Centre, which position I had declined to accept as I did not want to be indebted to any politician and compromise my freedom to speak out against corruption and nepotism.

Mr. Manohar Parrikar should realize that we are in a democracy and not an autocracy. The Chief Minister’s attempt to stifle the voice of opposition and constructive criticism is deplorable.
I admit that I had been a BJP fan for the last many years, because of my friend Mr. Shripad Naik. I confess that I only realized my mistake, based on the first hand experience at the 2011 CCP elections that the party was extremely communal and that Mr. Manohar Parrikar was a person that could not be trusted.
Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar is trying to fool Goans with promises that can never be fulfilled. The people of Goa would be witness and true judges of this government’s communal and fascist hidden agenda.

TOWARDS AN EFFECTIVE LOKAYUKTA.

By Aires Rodrigues

With the Goa Lokayukta bill now a Law the decks have cleared for the setting up the long awaited Anti-Corruption Ombudsman Authority in the State that will investigate acts of corruption and mal administration by public servants. Proper rules would also have to be framed to ensure the appropriate functioning of the Goa Lokayukta.

With over two months spent on just obtaining the President of India’s assent to the bill, the Chief Minister Mr. Manohar Parrikar will not fulfill his election promise that the Lokayukta would be functional in 100 days.

Under the guise of meeting that deadline there is no point making haste in the appointment that may lead to an inappropriate person heading this crucial authority. The success of this entire anti-corruption mechanism would depend to a large extent on the personal qualities such as the image, caliber, drive, persuasive power, dynamism, and the perception of his role by the Lokayukta. In a State embroiled in rampant corruption the position of Lokayukta cannot be a mere post retirement posting. The incumbent would have to be vibrant, fully charged and geared to attack the cancer of Corruption.

It would be appropriate for the politicians in power to leave the selection of the Goa Lokayukta to the High Court and the Governor. The required consultation with the High Court by the Chief Minister on the selection cannot be a mere cosmetic exercise. It is imperative that the Goa Lokayukta should have total administrative, financial and functional independence of the Government. Otherwise there could be an impediment to the effective functioning of the Lokayukta in pursuing cases of corruption and malpractices against the Government in power. The Lokayukta should be an independent authority to curb corruption by expeditiously investigating the complaints followed by the prompt prosecution of the offenders. It cannot be a toothless watch dog.

The politicians have become so accustomed to manipulating the Police and the Vigilance departments that they may attempt to interfere with the working of the Lokayukta too. This will have to be fiercely and firmly resisted.

It is the Lokayukta that should be entrusted the screening and selection of the entire team of officers and staff that will work under his direction. This would prevent infiltration of party cadres into the Lokayukta whose entire staff must be of impeccable integrity and extra-ordinary ability.

The Old Secretariat at Panaji could be considered to house the Lokayukta. The proposal to use those premises as a Museum should be reconsidered as it would just create further congestion in an already crowded city. The former seat of power would be an appropriate venue for the setting up of the Goa Lokayukta to probe the misdeeds of the current and past rulers.

The issue whether a Goan should head the Goa Lokayukta has to be examined in a wider perspective. Being a small state there could be occasions of conflict of interest with people here closely connected. The family, friend or acquaintance relationships should not prejudice the functioning of the Lokayukta. Also the Lokayukta would have no room to recuse and say “Not before me”.

All said and done it would be better to have a Goan Lokayukta than someone from another State having a political party leaning or worse still an RSS connection or someone being rewarded for some past favours - political or otherwise.

The Chief Minister has publicly stated that he would prefer a ‘local’. Whether he is serious on the same or merely an eye-wash will be clear more particularly since it is however rumoured that Mr. Manohar Parrikar has zeroed on and is inclined towards a retired Bombay High Judge Mr. V.R. Kingaonkar hailing from Maharastra’s Jalna district to be Goa’s first Lokayukta.

The Lokayukta is the government’s conscience, an anti-graft ombudsman at the state-level born out of a need to instill a sense of public confidence in the transparency and credibility of the administrative machinery. While corruption has always been an issue, the levels of corruption have now reached such proportions that the sky seems to be the limit. It has vitiated and affected the morale of the entire administration.

The famous Sanskrit proverb says “Yatha Raja Tatha Praja” (As is the King so are the People). Corruption as it seeps from the top, has rapidly contaminated the lower layers of social and political life. We have witnessed how it has corroded and eaten into the vitals of almost every sphere of the socio-political structure. A Lokayukta of caliber, character, moral strength and conviction may go a long way to remedy the sordid state of affairs Goa finds itself enveloped in.

( the writer can be contacted on 9822684372 or airesrodrigues@yahoo.com )

IS PARRIKAR WASTING PUBLIC MONEY??

SWEARING-IN EXTRAVAGANZA OF THE CHIEF MINISTER WAS A 11 LAKH BURDEN ON THE TAX PAYER

By Aires Rodrigues

The March 9th swearing in ceremony of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar held at Sports Authority of Goa (SAG) grounds at Campal cost the State exchequer a whopping Rs 10, 91,782. This has been revealed in the information furnished under the Right to Information by the General Administration department at the Secretariat.

The file notings reveal that the Mr. Manohar Parrikar had on 7th March evening decided that his swearing in ceremony should be on 9th March at 5pm at the S.A.G grounds. The Chief Minister had stated that more than 12000 people would attend the function and had directed the Secretariat officials that each invitee be served a half litre water bottle, one pedda and also either a batata vada or patti.

Accordingly an amount of Rs 66,000 was spent on 222 kgs of peddas which were purchased at Rs 300 a kg. while Rs 93,120 was spent on the water bottles. An expenditure of Rs 48,000 was incurred on 6000 batata vadas while another Rs 48,000 was spent on the 6000 vegetable patties.

The documents obtained under the Right to Information Act further reveals that Rs 25,000 was spent on the services of 100 students of Catering College Porvorim requisitioned to serve the refreshments to the 12000 invitees. A further expenditure of Rs 12850 was incurred on the two Kadamba Transport Corporation buses hired to transport those 100 Catering college students from Porvorim to S.A.G grounds at Campal and back.

The pandal, stage, sound system and seating arrangement for the swearing in ceremony cost the tax payer a further Rs 7,98,212. which includes Rs 63,415 spent on flower decoration for the stage and Rs 72,270 on hire of 5500 chairs.

It has also been informed that no prior permission of the Sports Authority of Goa and the Corporation of City of Panaji was obtained to hold the swearing in ceremony function on SAG grounds at Campal.

While Mr. Manohar Parrikar along with five cabinet Ministers were sworn in on March 9th, another six Ministers were sworn in a month later on April 8th at a customary function at Raj Bhavan. One more cabinet Minister is expected to be inducted after the Cortalim Assembly bye election which is scheduled on 4th June.

The 11 lakhs squandered on the 9th March swearing in ceremony was a sheer waste of public funds. Mr. Manohar Parrikar while in Opposition had alleged that the State coffers were empty but himself chose to unnecessarily further burden the tax payer on his very first day in office. There is a need for accountability and transparency in every paisa spent from the State treasury. Such wasteful expenditure of public funds was inexplicable, unjustifiable and unpardonable.

HISTORY MAKER CORTALIM.

Cortalim is known to create history in Goa for the good of Goans. The people of Cortalim are known to challenge the brute and arrogant might of the brutes and arrogants. One of the persons who fiercely fought for the eradication of caste system and demolition of Bhatkarshahi in Goa was the great son of Cortalim. Though he was a humble man coming from humble family background but he fought great battles to create an egalitarian society in Goa. He was none other than the legendary Tiatrist the late Minguel Rod.

Minguel Rod was the first and the main Tiatrist who wooed all segments of Goans towards Tiatros during those days because he was considered as Goan Shakesphere. Because of the high moral disciplinary messages in his Tiatros, Mundkars as well as Bhattkars, Bamonn as well as Non-Bamons used to flock to watch his Tiatros which were full of messages and lessons for all Goans. It was he who was more responsible among all Goans to minimise the influence of Caste system in Goa mainly among the Catholics who shamelessly against the principle of Christianity performed and still performing casteism. He was very piercing in his criticism from the Stage of casteist Bhattkars who treated Mundkars and other low caste Goans as slaves.

In one of his songs he hit very hard the so called might of the Bamonn Bhattkars by himself playing the role of a Pedho – the Grave Digger - in his own Tiatro. Te song goes like this:

SILKACHIM TUJIM SUTTAM ANI BHANGARACHE TUJE BUTAUM,
KHUIM ASSAT TIM TUJIM POLKIM VHODDPONA,
HEM TUJEM SOGLEM AUM GHANVCHO PEDHO ATAM FONDDAN GHALTAM.

HEAM TUJEAM DHARUN HATANI TUM MUNDDKAREANCHER MARI CHABUNKAM,
TE TUJE DONUI HATH AUM ATAM MOJEA PAYAM PONDAK MOSTITAM.

Because of Minguel Rod’s campaign against casteism of Bamon Bhattkars the structure of Goan society changed a lot for the betterment. Talking to my father once he told “I will never give peaceful sleep to all the casteists who are spoiling the good sleep of poor Goans”. Regrettably before he could achieve his goal fully, he died an early death. But during his lifetime itself he made his voice and message audible for many Bhattkars and Bamonn to change their life style.

What individual Minguel Rod from Cortalim did for Goan society at social level, the Cortalim citizens did “en masse” at political level in Goa during the historic Opinion Poll. In one of his election speeches on the eve of Opinion Poll, the father of Opinion Poll Dr. Jack de Sequeira stated thus: “I have strong faith in Congottkar, Mapxenkar, Siolkar and other Bardezcar that they will vote for ‘Two Leaves’ and in Kuttalkars I have a strong faith in them to change the whole tide in favour of Two Leaves”. His prophetic words came to reality when vote count was taken from Cortalim that gave overwhelming support to Two Leaves. From Cortalim there was no halt in support of Two Leaves till Cortalim changed the whole scenario. Our elders then were telling “Not to play with Cuttalkars, their love for Goa and Goans is unique. They know to play their role well in support of Goa and Goan causes”.

Now it is time once again for Cuttalkars to show their wisdom and vote for the right candidate in the forthcoming by-election necessitated due to the untimely death of their representative Mathany Saldanha. His wife Alina Saldanha is contesting on behalf of BJP and as per her statement in the aftermath of the death of her husband, she will carry on with the legacy and wishes of her husband.

One main wish of the late Mathany Saldanha was to fight for the eradication of Mopa Airport because according to Mathany this Mopa Airport will not serve the cause of Goa and Goans. Alina Saldanha up to now is not committing her wish to fight against Mopa Airprot in tune with her dead husband’s wishes. Cuttalkars who committed their support to Alina must ask Alina during her election campaign in Cortalim very loudly and very openly her view on Mopa Arport and whether she will oppose it or not. Normally Cuttalkars are brave people and to protect the interest of Goa and Goans they will do anything extra ordinary as they did in the past. For so long Alina is evading the Mopa question. Cuttalkars should not allow her anymore to evade this question. This is a very crucial question for which clear answer must come from the mouth of Alina.

It is time for Cuttallkars to show their affiliation to Goa and Goan causes one of which should be the scrapping of Mopa Airport as per the wishes of Mathany Saldanha. This is the right moment to get assurance from Alina that she will carry forward the undone work of her husband. Parrikar is a cunning Fox; he will try to play Alina as a toy to fulfil his wishes. Only Cuttalkars can stop him from playing dirty games. The ball is in the court of Cortalim voters. They can save Goa from the jaws of Mopa or they can allow the Mopa Airport to swallow Goa thru blind support of Alina to Parrikar.

A. Veronica Fernandes,
Kuwait.

SPRUCING THE ELECTORAL ARENA,

SPRUCING THE ELECTORAL ARENA
By Aires Rodrigues


The State election machinery has to be autonomous and free from political clutches. Currently we have the Chief Electoral officer responsible for conducting the Parliamentary and Assembly elections while the Municipal and Panchayat polls are held by the State Election Commission.

A small state like Goa could have one election authority to conduct all elections in the State but the law would have to be amended for this change. It should have a small permanent staff independent of the government in power. It has to be in control of all election related work like delimitation, reservation of seats and electoral rolls.

Delimitation should not be undertaken at each Panchayat or a municipal election. This makes a mockery of the very purpose of seat rotation and reservation which consequently affects equitable development in the Panchayat or Municipal areas. The delimitation exercise should be carried out every 20 years, by an Act of the Legislature, just like Parliament has passed a similar legislation. This way, last minute chicanerous and dubious 'delimitations' could be avoided and prospective candidates would know their wards well in advance and could work in the right direction instead of encouraging back door entries for new incumbents or for continuation of old corrupt and worn out representatives.

Francis de Tuem to mesmerize Konkani lovers in Kuwait - May 18‏

'Konkani drama 'Ghonvdho' to be staged Friday 18th May 2012 

Kuwait: Francis de Tuem, the admired Goan singer blessed with a clear and pleasant voice, is expected to entertain Konkani lovers in Kuwait with his 'powerful' songs when he takes to the stage in Nazy Rod's 'Ghonvdho' on Friday, 18th May.

Francis de Tuem has carved a niche for himself on Konkani stage as one of the best singers in recent times. The top-most singer, best known for his political songs, is expected to sing 3 enchanting solos in Kuwait.

According to the director Nazy Rod, the drama 'Ghonvdho' is woven with a social message and has all the ingredients for a great entertaintment. The best talent in town has been selected and promises to be the most exciting plays Nazy has written till date.

Writer-Director Nazy Rod

Hailing from Rivona, Goa, Nazy has written and staged several plays namely Krim Kednanch Bogsona, Ekuch Rogot, Punn Konn Guneavkari, Voniek Lagon, Mhozo Fuddar Raklo, Xirap, Xevott, etc. Nazy has also penned folk plays (Konkani Khell) such as Xevott, Leenakshi, Hanv Guneavkari, etc, which were broadcast on All India Radio, Panjim.

'Ghonvddho' will consist a galaxy of eminent stars. Renowned artistes and celebrities of the Konkani stage will be flown in all the way from Goa to enact in the drama. The star cast includes Comedian Anita, Steffie Goes, Comedian Luis Bachchan, Marcus Vaz and Francis de Tuem.

Among the popular Kuwait based artistes that will take part in the drama, Sylvester Vaz, the 'Hitman of Konkani Stage' one of the superstars of Kuwait is set to sweep the audience off their feet. Other Kuwait based stars in the show are Irene Vaz, Agnes, Cajetan de Sanvordem, Sylvester Vaz, Micheal D'Silva, Mario de Majorda, Salu Faleiro, Edward Estibeiro, Lopes Bros, Luis de Sanguem, Micky, Braz de Parra, Francis, Seby, Manuel, Bab Joshua and Nazy Rod.

There will be powerful and melodious duos, trios and quartets especially composed for Kuwait audience while the drama itself promises a captivating story loaded with rib-tickling comedy sequences by comedians Luis Bachan, Anita and Salu Faleiro.

The music for the show will be provided by Maestro Shahu and his troupe. Stage-sets and lights will be provided by Thomas while John Furtado will be in charge of the sound system.

For more details and to reserve gate-passes please contact: Salmiya - M&M Confectionery - Tel: 25619946 – 97521134 or Mac - 66185487, Manuel - 99923176, Cliff - 99301347, Luis - 97895742, Nazy – 99663252, Agnello – 66512602 and Alex- 67645893.

Nazy Rod promises best entertainment to Kuwait Goans on May 18

'Konkani drama 'Ghonvdho' to be staged Friday 18th May 2012 

Kuwait: Unless you are just obsessive about Tiatrs, the name 'Nazy Rod' might not ring any bells. And that's totally understandable. The most widely recognized Tiatrists tend to be ones who've consistently worked in the mainstream. Ask any casual Joe or Jane, or Pedru or Ladru to name some Tiatr directors, and they'll most likely cite giants like Roseferns, Prince Jacob, Comedian Agustine, and—at least we should hope—Jose Rod and Rosary Ferns.

"Konkani tiatr" in Kuwait is popular for its high Entertainment value. It is a Konkani play that is combined with songs which usually runs to packed houses and is eagerly awaited.

The tiatr lasts for about two to three hours and usually has songs and 7 acts of roughly 15 minutes duration each and has elaborate sets and professional lighting effects. The songs sung in-between were actually meant to fill the gap between the acts however as they are supported by a Western-style band today, many people go to see the songs rather than the main play. The songs are usually independent of the main theme and are based on controversial, current and local issues.

History tells us that the tiatr form was introduced by Lucasinho Ribeiro from the Assagao Village in Bardez who went to Mumbai when he was 27 in 1890 and got a job with the Italian Opera Company. He soon left the job and by translating an Italian Opera word by word he created 'Italian Burgo' the first ever Konkani tiatr. On January 1, 1894 the first performance of the tiatr was held at his native village in Goa.

On April 17, 1892 with four of his friends as actors at Mumbai's New Alfred Theatre, Ribeiro directed the first performance, which was a big success. It spread in Goa after January 1, 1894 when he had the first performance.

After this, many drama groups were formed in Goa and Mumbai and many writers wrote plays especially for tiatr. Ribeiro the creator of Konkani tiatr mostly translated English play into Konkani but Joao Agostinho Fernandes who wrote 27 Konkani tiatrs got the title of Father of Konkani Tiatr as in the first half of the 20th century he put his drama from on a firm footing.

According to the director Nazy Rod, the drama 'Ghonvdho' is woven with a social message and has all the ingredients for a great entertaintment. The best talent in town has been selected and promises to be the most exciting plays Nazy has written till date.

Writer-Director Nazy Rod

Hailing from Rivona, Goa, Nazy has written and staged several plays namely Krim Kednanch Bogsona, Ekuch Rogot, Punn Konn Guneavkari, Voniek Lagon, Mhozo Fuddar Raklo, Xirap, Xevott, etc. Nazy has also penned folk plays (Konkani Khell) such as Xevott, Leenakshi, Hanv Guneavkari, etc, which were broadcast on All India Radio, Panjim.

'Ghonvddho' will consist a galaxy of eminent stars. Renowned artistes and celebrities of the Konkani stage will be flown in all the way from Goa to enact in the drama. The star cast includes Comedian Anita, Steffie Goes, Comedian Luis Bachchan, Marcus Vaz and Francis de Tuem.

Francis de Tuem, the admired Goan singer blessed with a clear and pleasant voice, has carved a niche for himself on Konkani stage. The top-most singer, best known for his political songs, is expected to sing 3 enchanting solos.

Among the popular Kuwait based artistes that will take part in the drama, Sylvester Vaz, the 'Hitman of Konkani Stage' one of the superstars of Kuwait is set to sweep the audience off their feet. Other Kuwait based stars in the show are Irene Vaz, Agnes, Cajetan de Sanvordem, Sylvester Vaz, Micheal D'Silva, Mario de Majorda, Salu Faleiro, Edward Estibeiro, Lopes Bros, Luis de Sanguem, Micky, Braz de Parra, Francis, Seby, Manuel, Bab Joshua and Nazy Rod.

There will be powerful and melodious duos, trios and quartets especially composed for Kuwait audience while the drama itself promises a captivating story loaded with rib-tickling comedy sequences by comedians Luis Bachan, Anita and Salu Faleiro.

The music for the show will be provided by Maestro Shahu and his troupe. Stage-sets and lights will be provided by Thomas while John Furtado will be in charge of the sound system.

For more details and to reserve gate-passes please contact: Salmiya - M&M Confectionery - Tel: 25619946 – 97521134 or Mac - 66185487, Manuel - 99923176, Cliff - 99301347, Luis - 97895742, Nazy – 99663252, Agnello – 66512602 and Alex- 67645893.

Also Read
Superstar Sylvester Vaz set to sweep audience off their feet in 'Ghonvddho'

Lopes Brothers to dazzle Konkani Audience in Kuwait

High Quality Sound System for Dramas in Kuwait

What makes the Kuwait Trio so much Wanted on Konkani Stage!

The return of Goan Singer Marcus Vaz to Kuwait

Kuwait Goan who made the cover of a magazine

Avatar of Agnes - in Nazy Rod's Tiatr 'Ghonvdho'

  click http://gaspersworld.blogspot.com/

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