Serenity: Top 5 spots in Diwar

I’d never ever forgive myself if I hadn’t written about the most beautiful island of the state and a place I’m honoured to call home. Diwar island is easily the most serene, therapeutic, green, vivid island one would come across in Goa. What makes it even more special is that there is absolutely no road inlet or outlet, only way across is the ferry. The ferry connects the island at three distinct ferry points. Namely, Narva, Old Goa and Ribandar.

I would like to invite each one of you to visit this heavenly spot. Earlier as a kid, when my dad would brag to his friends about how beautiful the place was, I thought he was insane. Only after moving out of the place I realise how much sense his statement made donkey years back.

Here’s a list of my favourite 5 spots in the village:

#5. Malara Football Ground

Was a ground which was recognised by the Sports Authority of Goa in December 2009, but as a child way back in 2000 we would as kids play day in and out on this turf. I partly blame this very ground for giving me the slightly burnt complexion that I possess. At the same time I’m very thankful to it as the decent enough football I play I give credit to this place.

#4. Diwar Church

Built in the 16^th century, this Portuguese masterpiece is still standing tall and divine. A place of worship for most of the locals, along with the divine intervention, one begins to question itself as to where they really are. The moment you exit the church, you see a temple right next to it. Full marks to this place for secularism. The view so splendid overlooking the Mandovi River, one can get a few glimpses of Panaji from here. Right next to the Church is the cemetery and a park for children to engage in outdoor activities.

#3. The bridge

I like to call this place the mini Howrah Bridge. Got a similar structure, but way smaller in size. The best place ever to witness a sunrise. The rays just illuminate and sparkle your day like no other. It is part of the Konkan Railways, so there is no shortage of passing by trains which has all the ingredients for a perfect Bollywood background.

#2. Ferries

They are available in numbers here, since there are three routes to enter and exit the island/village, you tend to fall in love with them slowly but surely if not at first sight. A meeting point for most locals where most gossip is discussed at pace. There are ferries every fifteen minutes in Old Goa and Ribandar. The Narva one though is every half an hour. Unless you are Aquaman or some super hero, this is your only way in and out of this beautiful island. Most of the local populace are against the idea of building a bridge as they consider it would disturb the tranquillity and safety of the island.

#1. The Tree

Hit to stardom for most of the people when the then “Hutch” advertisement was shot at this spot with the cute little pug. It only emulated with being featured in movies like Dil Chahta Hai and the so called sex scene in Finding Fanny which starred Arjun Kapoor and Deepika Padukone. For the locals it was no stranger, it stands aloof on the road which leads to the Ribandar Ferry. Sunsets over here can make you question what good did you deserve to witness a sight like this. We Diwadkars are fortunate enough to gaze at it on the regular.

Just typing this post has got me reminiscing how lucky I am to be a Goenkar. 

Viva Carnival! : Top 5 music festivals in Goa

If you do not fancy happy faces, vivid colours and blasting music, you probably are above 60 years of age or desperately need therapy. I like to believe I live for this, or rather better putting it; this is what keeps me going. Being a “Goenkar” only makes it justifiable to be a fan of these events. With no shortage of alcohol in the state, one can only imagine how high the pedestal is set at literally.

Without wasting much of your time, I’ve shortlisted my favourite 5 music festivals within the state.

#5. Panaji Carnival

Takes place 3-4 days before Lenten period, and hence there is no fixed date as such. King Momo is the one who officially calls the carnival open. King Momo is no king in actuality but just a fictional character who is got the belly like that of a pregnant woman. There are numerous floats which take place here from all parts of Goa. The Carnival location is from the Panaji Bridge to Panaji Market. It is absolute mayhem out here. It is compared very much to the Rio Carnival as well.

#4. Malar Bonderam

Takes place in my very own island and hence the prejudice towards it. The location is the St. Mathias Sports Club Road.Takes place usually during the third Saturday of August every year. This is considered as the smaller bonderam in comparison to the Diwar bonderam. The real reason for celebrating bonderam is the harvest in the village. However today it has gotten a bit commercial and not most are complaining. Wards from all over the Malar section of the village put up floats and dances. There are other events like fancy dress competitions as well for all age groups. Bonderam comes to a halt at sharp 10p.m where in a “Beat show” is performed. From round about 7p.m. to 10p.m. bands and Dj’s cater music to the ever ready to dance crowd.

#3. SuperSonic Festival

Only in its nascent stage, this festival sure knows how to attract crowds from all over the world. Takes place on the 27^th-30^th of December every year on the sands of the Candolim beach. Different stages cater to different preferences in genres of EDM. Tickets are roughly about 6k per individual for all four days. International and local talent showcase their talent out here. Stages, vibe and music make it absolutely worthwhile.

#2. Diwar Bonderam

If you want to know what pandemonium is, come visit Diwar Island somewhere around the fourth Saturday of August. Such a contrast to how peaceful it generally is. People flock in from all corners of the state for this one. No short of press coverage, floats are ecstatic. The “Beat show” attracts crowds and chaos is not the word. Cheap booze and snack stalls make it only more scintillating an experience. Timings are pretty much the same as the Malar Bonderam.

#1. Sunburn Festival

My favourite four days of the year are because of this stunning festival. Been visiting it since the inception 9 years back. Currently  hosted at the Vagator grounds, and clashes with the same dates as that of Supersonic. Becomes a bit of a hassle to visit both the festivals, but the priority is more towards this one. Asia’s best music festival and rightly so. Has practically everything one needs to have a good time plus recently the option of  camping is provided as well within those four days. Class acts in the EDM industry portray why they are  so highly looked upon out here.

Just typing this post has got me reminiscing how lucky I am to be a Goenkar. 

Old is Gold: Top 5 places to visit in Old Goa

Every tourist and person in Goa has lied to you if they’ve told you they have been to Goa and not visited this place. Possibly the first place you want to visit when you are in Goa. It’s a bit of the remains to Portugal and a place reputed because of its religious remains in the state. Of course there are residential areas and lots of decent food places to go along with it.

Here’s a list however of my top 5 places you want to visit in Old Goa.

#5. Old Goa Jetty

On the brinks of the Mandovi River , the Old Goa jetty presents itself in a very calm and composed manner. The best place to contemplate and just chill. More than a jetty, today it is the best fishing spot in the vicinity. People from different parts of the state gather here to get a good catch.

#4. Bom Jesus Basilica

This Church gets the most publicity within the state. St. Francis Xavier the patron saint of Goa has his body placed in this church. For nearly 400 years his body has been intact and is quite the miracle. With an auspicious rustic finish to the entire church, I see no reason as to why one would not want to go visit. It’s also got a museum and an altar with huge amount of gold plating. The feast is the grandest one in the entire state and is celebrated by all the locals of the state. This place is a World Heritage site and is taken care by the ASI as well.

#3. Se Cathedral

Exactly opposite to the Bom Jesus Basilica, divided only by a road and coconut trees you will get to lay your eyes upon this majestic structure. Kept simple and off cream in colour, one can easily believe they are in Scotland momentarily. The pine trees and fog make you actually believe it’s not part of tropical climate. Another Church which was built in the 16^th Century by the Portuguese themselves.  Church has masses in different languages like English, Konkani, Hindi , Portuguese.

#2. St Augustine Tower

In absolute ruckus and ruins today, the tower still stands tall and mighty. Such an outstanding experience once you do enter the place. Masses would be conducted earlier here, but for some reason the structure fell apart. So rustic and a perfect spot for good photo shoots. Bit of a maze like feeling. However, it can be accessed only during the day. In the night it’s a bit of a haunted kind of feel.

#1. Church of Our Lady of the Monte

Such a picturesque beauty this one is. The picture itself I’m sure would make one want to probably settle down here. Located on a hill, you get to foresee most of the surrounding areas very distinctly. This church is not regularly functioning, but on requests they do have the Chapel feast, Wedding masses and the famous Monte Music Festival happening here.

I think these places are reason enough to visit and stay blessed. 

Delectable Delicacies: Top 5 local food dishes

Not to brag, but we Goans take our eating very seriously. Meals for the entire day have to be decided at the start of the day itself. For me, eating is priority. It would be a shame if I did not eat and was able to maintain my fat body. Since Goa is situated in the tropical climate, spices and flavours are abundant. The sea makes it favourable for sea food. The blend of Hindu origins, and four hundred years of Portuguese Colonisation is a result of tasty Goan cuisine today.

Here’s a list of my top 5 authentic Goan dishes:

#5. Chicken Cafreal

Masala marinated in the chicken which is made of vinegar, coriander leaves, green chillies as its main ingredients. Hits the tongue the moment it’s placed in your mouth. Preferred when the masala is well marinated. Can be served dry or in the form of gravy as well. Trust me this is absolute glory. Another mention to be made to Chicken Xacuti, definitely worth a try.

#4. Crab Xec-Xec/ Fish Thali

Fish thali consists of fried fish, sol kadi, gravy, a boiled vegetable, dried prawns and of course rice. Crab xec-xec is best accompanied by this thali or can be eaten solely as well, depending on personal prejudice. I prefer it with the thali however. Xec- xec is very similar in taste to xacuti masala. The key to a satisfactory meal especially with the fish thali and crab xec-xec is copious patience.

#3. Pork Vindaloo

Pungent, tangy and vinegar, how can one resist. Red in colour with everything one dreams of. The bacon for us Goans. The Goan Catholics like me fancy a lot of pork in our cuisine. The name is derived from the Portuguese term vinho e alho which means garlic and wine marinade. Another pork dish exclusive to Goa is Goan sausages which is dried with masala for days and placed in the form of sausages made of the intestines as the skin and the fat and meat placed inside it.

#2. Ross Omelette

Like the name suggests, an omelette is drowned in spicy chicken gravy, garnished with coriander, diced onions and chillies and served with pao (bread). Very commonly found at gaddos (stalls) all over the state. Reasonable and extremely scrumptious. Within Rupees 50 a plate, I for one am more than happy to gobble this as a snack as well as dinner on certain occasions.

#1. Cutlet Pao

Consists of beef or chicken steak deep fried in rava crumbs, placed in bread with minimal gravy and salads. The more succulent, the more appetizing the dish is. This could be made at home, but it tastes more heavenly at D’silva Restaurant in Miramar, which as per me sells the best Cutlet Pao in the world. Priced at fewer than 75 rupees, this tastes best with a bottle of Coca-Cola.

I hate writing posts like these, simply makes me want to eat all these delicacies in one go!

Image Courtesy: Google Images

Capital City safe and sound! : Top 5 spots in Panaji City

The capital of the possibly India’s best state goes by the name Panaji. I, for one don’t like the new name as much in comparison to Panjim as it was earlier known by. A city which has practically everything you need to settle down and retrospect as well. It has a story behind almost every building, road or tree. However, in this post I’m focusing on the unique, the peculiar which would stand out in comparison to rest of the cities.

Here’s a list of 5 unique spots the city has to offer.

#5. Dona Paula Jetty

Right at the end of the city is located the Dona Paul jetty. Known as one of the most visited tourist destinations of the state, this is the place where you can still avail of the “I Love Goa”merchandise. And what’s worse half the people will be wearing the merchandise; question arises as to where and how they change their attire so quick. Nonetheless a very scenic beauty overlooking the Arabian Sea, blue in colour. A favourite spot for “romancing” and fishing as well. Always believed it appeared a tad more visually appealing in the nights though.

#4. Panaji Market

Fragrance of poultry, meat, fish, vegetables and spices? What’s not to love (evil smirk). One can avail of practically anything under the sun in this market. Be it an eye liner or a fake Adidas t-shirt, you are guaranteed to own it by the end of your shopping encounter. The thing I personally love the most about the entire market are the Mario Miranda artwork done on two sides of the wall. One coloured, and the other in classic black and white. Besides, the mobile repair shops are top notch out here.

#3. Miramar Beach

As per my personal survey the third most crowded beach in the state. And no I won’t tell you the first two. Coconut trees, a bit of grass, good amount of sand and the Arabian Sea are the perfect ingredients to attract any tourist. The locals however have ulterior motives. The food vendors out here will give yo mommas a run for their money big time. Chaat, Gola, Pav bhaji enough said! Oh and the latest craze is some decent Shawarma (nothing to brag about honestly). Many youngsters tend to play a lot of football here in addition to the eye candy of women in yoga pants deciding to take a jog is justifiable to visit.

#2. Panaji Church

What a sight it is at night, shining bright whether day or night. So well architectured, the staircases just add to the oomph factor. There is absolutely no way you can ignore having a glance of it. Standing tall in blue and white for as long as I can remember, this will always be used as one of the most influential landmarks within the city.

#1. Fontainhas

Known as the Latin Corner of the state, words fall short as to how well planned this side of the city is. Mini Portugal is what I term it as. So intricate in its architecture and boy oh boy the colour combinations of all the buildings and houses are on point. No exaggeration, I a procrastinator wants to actually walk through this section of the city and just explore how beautiful it really is. Lots of Portuguese is spoken here, and you certainly do feel like you’re in Portugal itself.

Honestly Panaji has a lot more to offer, my spots are a bit biased. One should visit the place to get the real feel of what I’m trying to get across.

Churches: top 5 most visited and talked of Churches in Goa

Christianity came to Goa with the Portuguese trades in 1510. It is now the second largest religious community in Goa. (Hinduism 66% and Christianity 25%). Most of this community is in the old conquest talukas of Goa. The Portuguese not only left Christianity here but also incredible architectural beauties. These churches have remained remarkable throughout Asia for their unique, sophisticated and lasting architecture.

#5. Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, Panaji.

This church is often on postcards and tourists from all over the world visiting Goa try to make it to visit this Church at least once. The colonial Portuguese church was first built in 1541 as a chapel by the Portuguese, was replaced by a larger church in the 1600s. the feast of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is held every year on 8^th December, a fair is part of this feast, and in the evening Fireworks are displayed.

#4. Se Cathedral, Old Goa

The Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina, known as Se Cathedral in Old Goa, is part of the North Goa sight seeing packages. The Se Cathedral was built to commemorate the victory of Portugese, leading to the capture of the city of Goa in 1510. Since the day of the victory happened to be on the feast of Saint Catherine, the cathedral was dedicated to her. The Se Cathedral's tower houses a large bell known as the "Golden Bell" on account of its rich tone. It is said to be the largest in Goa, and one of the best in the world.

# 3.The Three Kings Church, Cansaulim

The 3 kings church is situated at Cuelim hill.The church is famous for the feast of 3 kings celebrated every year on 6th janaury. A special ceremony is held for the feast, young boys dressed as kings enter the church. The view from this church is breathtaking.

#2. Mae de Deus Church, Saligao 

This church is one of the prettiest in Goa, well lit at night, it looks like a Beautiful cake. Its unique architecture is the reason it has made it on many postcards. Originally in Old Goa in the 16th century, of which today only the tallest cross on a pedestal is seen amongst shrubs and coconut groves. The church dedicated to the Mother of God or Our Lady came to be built at Bardez in the 19th century. The Saligao Church was inaugurated on November 26, 1873.

#1. The Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa

This was constructed in late 1500’s, and consecrated in May 1605. This church has been marked as world heritage. It holds the remains of St Francis Xavier. The bodily remains are kept in a silver casket and is taken done for exposition once every decade and kept in the Se Cathedral. This is one of the oldest churches. People of of all religions visit it, and pray for miracles. The feast is held on 3^rd December every year.

There's certainly some sort of Divine intervention when one visits the churches in Goa.

Image courtesy for Cansaulim Church: Google Images

Nature’s medicinal cabinet: Top 5 Natural Remedies used in Goa.

We may have technology and efficient medical drugs for almost all our aliments. But they contain harmful chemicals that eventually cause side effects. Goan even in ancient times, lived organic healthy lives because they had these little wonders growing in their backyards. They dint need medical school to tell them, these secrets and remedies. They were orally passed down to younger generations.

Here are some of these helpful and effective remedies that I love.

#5. Basil (tulsi)

It’s a Popular herb in most households all over India. Its one of the healthiest herbs and is used in various recipes for flavoring. It has a pungent, tangy taste. It is also brewed along with tea. It has healing properties and is antiseptic. It is powerful antioxidant properties. It is used to treat digestive problems, skin allergies and rashes and it also aids in weight loss.

#4. Neem

Rich in antibacterial properties, it helps in purifying the blood, detoxifying the body, it is antiviral and also helps improve the immune system. It has also been used as an insect repellent. A few leaves of it in food grains keep insects at bay.  Ground leaves are used to heal wounds, clear pimples and acne. It also helps in reducing dandruff. Redness and tiredness of the eyes can be reduced by boiling some neem leaves in water, letting it cool and using it to wash the eyes.

#3. Turmeric (haldi)

Turmeric powder is extracted from the root. it is used in food as flavoring and coloring. its used in curries and has that special orange color. it has antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It prevents cancer and cures ulcers, skin diseases. Even its leaves  are medicinal and in Goa Patoleos ( goan sweet) are made using these leaves. It leaves a strong flavor on the sweet and is also keeps it healthy.

#2. Kokum

It’s also known as “cool king” and is a tropical summer berry. Its super sour and tasty is one of my favorite fruits. Its fruit peels are dried and used as a spice. It is a cooling fruit and sweet refreshing syrups are made. This fruit helps in digestive process, and so ‘solle kadi” is made out of it and is taken like a shot after lunch. Kokum is effective In treating allergies and is also used in cases of tumours. It also aids in weight loss.

#1. Coconut

Goa is know for its swaying coconuts trees and these trees aren’t just ornamental. Every part of the coconut tree is used in Goa. Tender coconut water, has natural glucose and is recommended for any illness. Coconut oil is healthy to be included in food, and also used on hair and skin. It fixes chapped lips, frizzy hair and restores moisture and adds shine. Coconut milk is very tasty and used in many Goan sweets, like the famous Bebinca. Coconut milk is used as face mask and it is even a tradition to use at the time of pre marriage  celebrations on the couple and its entourage.

 This is healthy living, something I probably will never be implementing. Hypocritical much? Aren't we all at some level?

Images courtesy: Google Images