FC Goa beat Chennaiyin FC; top ISL table

EFT Report, Chennai: Leo Moura and Jonatan Lucca fired home from the penalty spot as FC Goa notched up a 2-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC in an Indian Super League (ISL) encounter here on Thursday to jump to the top spot of the points table.

Moura converted a penalty in the 64th minute and Lucca scored in the 74th as Goa took their tally to 14 points from eight matches, one point ahead of second-placed FC Pune City. Chennaiyin on the other hand, suffered the fourth loss of their campaign and are placed fifth with 10 points from eight matches.

To make matters worse for Chennaiyin, their midfielder Harmanjyot Singh Khabra was sent off in the 89th minute, the second time he has been shown the red card in this edition of the ISL.

Chennai had defeated Goa 4-0 in their first leg clash in Panaji and it was not surprising to see the visitors opt for an extra man in defence. The five-man defence made it difficult for Chennaiyin to break them down, although Stiven Mendoza had several chances to open their account.

The best chance for Chennai fell at the feet of Mendoza in the 35th minute. Elano Blumer’s free kick missed all the Goa defenders and fell nicely for Mendoza, but the Colombian striker's right-footed attempt from close range sailed wide of the target.

Goa did not have too many clear chances at the rival goal but Brazilian striker Rafael Coelho, playing for the first time, showed promise. He twice managed to speed his way down the left flank, but did not cross well enough and Thongkhosiem Haokip came close in the 45th minute, but Mehrajuddin Wadoo somehow managed to push the ball out for an abortive corner.

Goa turned things around in the second session with two spot kicks, both of which were converted with ease.

The first was in the 64th minute when a long, hasty clearance by Goa defender Luciano saw Rafael race into the Chennaiyin penalty area only for Mendy to bring the Brazilian striker down. The referee awarded a penalty which Moura converted by sending Karanjit the wrong way.

Goa won the second penalty when Moura pulled a ball back from inside a crowded goalmouth for Rafael whose shot was headed towards goal. But Wadoo blocked it with his knee only for the rebound to strike his own hand. Another penalty and this time and Lucca stepped up to double the visitors' advantage.

Chennaiyin finished the match with 10 men after Khabra, who was playing his first match after serving suspension for a previous red card, was sent off for a tackle on Moura.

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Michael Learns' multi-city India tour from Dec. 11

EFT Report, Gurgaon: Danish band Michael Learns to Rock, popular for churning out pop and soft rock numbers, is set for a multi-city tour of India starting here December 11.

Formed in 1988, the band consists of singer-keyboard player Jascha Richter, drummer Kare Wanscher, guitarist Mikkel Lentz and bassist Soren Madsen.

The group, which has delivered hits like "Paint my love", "You took my heart away", "Sleeping child" and "Someday", will visit cities like Guwahati and Kolkata.

"In December we will be touring the wonderful country of India again as a part of our 25 Live Anniversary Celebration Tour! This will be the most extensive tour we have ever done in India and we hope to see all our beautiful Indian fans there," read the official site of the band, who have performed in Shillong and Mumbai in the past.

The Indian tour is an initiative by event management company called 7 sisters entertainment.

"This time they will first perform at the Kingdom of Dreams in Gurgaon on December 11. Then they will head to Guwahati (December 13), followed by Dimapur (December 15), then Kolkata (December 17), and then finally to Goa (December 19)," Ramngachan Kazingmei Shimrei, co-owner of 7 sisters entertainment said.

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Sabu Cyril to design sets for IFFI 2015

EFT Report, Panaji: Sabu Cyril, production designer of S.S Rajamouli's magnum opus "Baahubali", will be designing all the sets for the forthcoming 46th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), the festival's organisers said on Wednesday.

"He is a perfect combination of great credentials and imaginative skills and has been a part of some of the best and globally renowned Indian films," said C. Senthil Rajan, head of the central government's Directorate of Film Festivals (DFF).

The DFF, which functions under the aegis of the Union ministry of information and broadcasting, is the lead organizer of the festival, which starts in Goa on November 20.

Sabu Cyril has been associated with some of the landmark films in Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada and Tamil cinema. He has won the National Film Award for Best Art Direction four times and Filmfare Award for Best Art Direction (including south) on five occasions.

He received rave reviews for his work on "Bahubali", which boasts of lavish set designs and high production values. 

"In a commercially competitive world of film-making, the International Film Festival of India is doing a great job of promoting aesthetically rich Indian films, which are no less than a masterpiece in the context of cinematography and art direction. It feels good to handle the creative responsibilities of one of the prestigious film festivals in the world," Cyril was quoted as saying in the statement issued by the DFF.

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TAKE on Writing-Critic-Community: Contemporary Art Writing in India

Report by Santanu Ganguly: As part of TAKE on art magazine's outreach initiatives, this four-day program is geared at writers from around India as an opportunity to workshop a new or recent piece of writing (hitherto unpublished) based on peer-to-peer critique and feedback in a closed-door environment. Time will be allocated for revisions and some access to online resources will be provided on-site.

The workshop will culminate in a public presentation of each written work, with further comments, suggestions and questions from attendees and invited respondents. After the end of the workshop, participants will have a month to further edit their writing before submitting final manuscripts for publication in a special issue.

In addition to this process, the program will also include time for discussion prompted by pre-assigned readings around the history of art criticism and the role of the critic (in India and internationally). Ample opportunities will be provided for informal conversation and, exchange within the group and with the local art community.

Please note that this program requires complete commitment for the duration of the workshop as well as a substantial investment of time in the peer-editing process before and after. The success of the workshop process is based on strict adherence to specified deadlines and the level of commitment, mutual respect, trust, generosity and effort each participant brings to the table.
Application requirements:

Applications will only be accepted electronically at takeonartmag@gmail.com. Please send all documents requested below as attachments to a single email with ‘Writing Workshop Application – YOUR LAST NAME’ in the subject line.

• Brief cover letter (max. 500 words) explaining your interest in the program
• A 150-200 word bio.
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two writing samples of varying lengths (minimum 500 words, maximum 2000) - published or unpublished (published preferred)
• A 500 word abstract of the writing piece you propose to workshop during the program. If a draft of the proposed piece is available, that will be accepted (and indeed encouraged). Texts should be ca. 2000 words and should broadly adhere to one of the following categories:

a) Extended exhibition reviews
b) Features/critical writing on a single artist or artwork
c) Art historically informed/art historical writing on an exhibition/group of works/artists
d) Extended reflections on art writing, art criticism and art history in India/South Asia

APPLICATION DEADLINE – May 15, 2014.

All selected applicants will be notified by May 22, 2014. A full draft of the text to be workshopped will need to be available by June 6, 2014.
Please note that there are no fees for participation. Accommodation in Goa and 2 meals per day will be covered for the duration of the workshop. Participants will be responsible for their travel to and from Goa, airport transfers and any local transportation for personal purposes.

Venue: Sunaparanta Goa Centre for the Arts,
63/C-8, Near Lar de Estudantes
Altinho, Panaji – 403 001.

Duration: June 13 - 16, 2014

Workshop Conveners: Bhavna Kakar & Rattanamol Singh Johal
For enquiries, please write to
takeonartmag@gmail.com

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Balcao: An Exhibition on Goan History in Delhi Till April 15

Report by Santanu Ganguly: A cozy leisure space called the ‘balcão,’ which literally means a balcony is a uniquely Goan. The Balcao residue an age gone by when there was special bond between neighbors and social relations were based on love, warmth and lots of affection. Balcao - the exhibition represents Portuguese influence on Goan culture. Dhoomimal Gallery gives Delhietes a window to feel Goan culture through the works by Goan artistes and selective works by F.N. Souza curated by Subodh Kerkar. The Balcao, being an essential feature of Goan Homes, the artistes have put in all their creativity to make Goan History alive in Delhi through their paintings & sculptures.

 

Visually attractive and aesthetically engaging, Subodh's own works surprise, enlighten, and educate about the Goan religion, politics, attires and much more.

Portuguese Ambassador H. E. Mr. Jorz Roza de Oliveira, show curator Subodh Kerkar, H.E.Mr.Joao Gomes Cravinho and Ms.Jessica Hallett, Nand Katyal, Shakti Sinha, Shobha Broota, Philip, PadmaShree Biman Bihari Das, Ram Sutar, Kerkar Gallery owner Uday Jain with his wife Sunaina Jain & Mrs. Uma Jain were present there.

 

Exhibition Date: 3rd April - 15^th April 2014

Timing: 11 am to 7 pm (Monday-Saturday)

Venue:  Dhoomimal Gallery, G42, Connaught Circus, New Delhi: 110001

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Airtel Rising Stars 2014 Final Trials in Goa From Feb. 20

(L-R) Raju Kr., Nachiketa, Karan, Md. Aqib, Sachin Negi

Report by Santanu Ganguly, New Delhi: Airtel Rising Stars 2013-14, India’s largest under-16 soccer talent hunt today announced the names of 23 children who will participate in the final trials at a two-day camp in Goa. The final trials will kick start from February 20, 2014.

The 23 players selected for the camp are Arka Dey, Rajib Roy and Akash Dalui from Kolkata, Md. Aqib, Sachin Negi, Karan Khurana and Nachiketa Datt from Delhi, Premchand Singh, Niraj Singh, Kamshon, Azad from Bangalore, Sanath Valldares, Marc D'Souza, Akram Khan from Mumbai, Suraj Basumatary from Guwahati, K. Nagaraj, Rakesh, A. Rahul, Rehan from Hyderabad, and Clerence Furtado, Liston Colaco, Suraj Shirodkar and Jolitan Dias from Goa.

The upcoming camp, overseen by Manchester United coaches, will help choose 11 young footballers who will train at a weeklong camp at the Manchester United Soccer School in the United Kingdom. The camp will mark the culmination of an intensive six-month talent hunt conducted in seven cities with the support of state and district football associations.

The experienced and watchful eyes of the coaches will judge players on their performance, taking into consideration their physical and mental strengths, expertise in position, and technical acumen. Based on their expertise and skills test, players will be selected based on criterion mentioned in the Manchester United Scouting Guidelines.

The names of 11 selected players, including one goalkeeper, will be announced on February 21, 2014.

Started by Bharti Airtel in association with Manchester United, one of the best soccer clubs in the world, ‘Airtel Rising Stars’ screens young footballers across India for sporting capabilities and skillsets based on their performance in tests, real time match simulations etc. The on-ground execution of ‘Airtel Rising Stars’ has been entrusted to Procam International - India’s largest Sports marketing and Leisure Management company.

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‘The Great Live Music Festival Goa 2014’ From Jan 31-Feb 1

EFT Bureau: Come one come all..the ‘Party City of India’ is back with the extravaganza ‘The Great Live Music Festival Goa 2014’ to set the hearts of all party lovers buzzing once again…....Goa will be hosting several leading jazz and rock bands from across India and Russia at the tourist village of Baga come January 31, 2014. The festival, a confluence of Indian and Russian cultures, will be held from January 31 and February 1.

This year’s line-up includes Brainstorm (Latvia-Russia), the Matrixx (Russia), fusion rock genre band Indian Ocean (India), Parikrama (India), Junkyard Groove (India), Dolphin (Russia), Shiva (Russia), Heretic (India).

The festival is supported by the Embassy of Russia in India and the Government of the State of Goa. ‘The Great Live Music Festival Goa 2014’ is an international event and aims at the cultural exchange between countries.

For more info goto: http://glmfest.com/en

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Oktoberfest Goa 2013 From Oct. 25-27

EFT Report, Goa: Three days of Beer, Love and Music on the sunny beaches of Goa. This musical extravaganza personifies the Goan spirit of 'Letting Go' with a stellar national and international line-up of artistes, beer and gourmet wonders. Be a part of the third edition of The Oktober Fest Goa... Sun, Surf and more!

Oktoberfest Goa 2013 

Highlights:

Date: October 25-27, 2013

Venue: Nazri Resort Ground, Calangute-Baga Road, Baga, Goa

3 days, 24 National and International artistes

Indian artists announced so far:

Ivan, Ash Roy, Ma Faiza, Clement, Sanjay Dutta, Ankytrixx, Ajit Pai, Priyanjana.

F & B:

Over 15 varieties of beers & gourmet experience from 7 different countries, flea markets with a twist, beer brunches.

Bullseye Entertainment & Brandwidth Events announce the 3rd edition of Oktoberfest Goa which will be held at Baga Grounds, Goa on October 25th, 26th and 27th, 2013.

Since its inception in 2011, Oktoberfest Goa has witnessed 2 years of adrenaline pumping Electronic Dance Music with patrons attending the festival from across the globe in huge numbers. This year they up the ante with bigger parties throughout the country and an even bigger festival that culminates in the party capital of the country - Goa.

Oktoberfest will play host to over 30 national and international Electronic Music acts over 3 days, followed up by after parties at some of the hot spots, each day of the festival.

Technically, the first festival to kick off the Goa season, Oktoberfest Goa 2013 will feature several popular favorites from the Indian Electronica scene; namely DJ Ivan, Ash Roy, Ma Faiza, Clement, Sanjay Dutta, Ankytrixx, Ajit Pai and Priyanjana; more artistes as well as the International headliners will be announced shortly.

Along with a 3 day festival, 8 pre-parties and a host of post-parties will take place in Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Goa.

The Experience:

While 'all things Goa' remains to be the salient feature of the festival, the organizers have taken care to ensure that the original spirit of October fest - as the Germans know it- is present in its full glory.

Along with the music, a wide variety of experiences have been planned for the festival goers at the Oktoberfest Goa 2013. No Oktoberfest is complete without the free flow of authentic German beers and German cuisine. Celebrating this much loved International celebration of the good life, will be a gourmet experience unlike any other. The festival boasts of an International gourmet cuisine from 7 different countries and over 15 varieties of domestic and International beer. The aim is to chill out, indulge and groove to the beats.

Tickets: Rs 1250–6250

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‘Airtel Rising Stars 2013' Soccer Talent Hunt Begins

Report by Santanu Ganguly, New Delhi: ‘Airtel Rising Stars’ is India’s largest under-16 soccer talent hunt, which will give 11 promising youngsters the chance-of-a-lifetime to train with Manchester United Soccer School and possibly kick-off a career in professional football. Following a successful inaugural year, the second edition of ‘Airtel Rising Stars’ now scouts for the next batch of India’s most talented under-16 soccer players. Starting August 2013, this 3-month long Inter-Schools Tournament-cum-talent hunt will involve participation from soccer players representing over 450 schools in seven cities, as well as individual players, before finally hand-picking the best performers who will get the chance of a lifetime to attend week-long coaching clinic with Manchester United Soccer School coaches.

‘Airtel Rising Stars 2013' Soccer Talent Hunt 

Bharti Airtel, a leading global telecommunications company with operations in 20 countries across Asia and Africa, today announced the kick-off of the second edition of ‘Airtel Rising Stars’ (ARS) – India’s largest under-16 soccer talent hunt. Started in association with Manchester United (one of the best soccer clubs in the world) last year, ‘Airtel Rising Stars’ is a rigorous scouting program that will screen young footballers across India for capabilities and skillsets basis their performance in tests, real time match simulations etc. The ARS program is open to individual entries and evaluate students from over 450 schools spread across 7 cities in India, and will finally handpick the country’s top 11 under-16 footballers who will get the chance-of-a-lifetime to attend a week-long training camp with Manchester United Soccer Schools and possibly kick-off a career in professional football.

ARS 2013 was flagged off earlier today at a press conference held in the presence of Manchester United football legend Gary Pallister and Mohit Beotra (Chief Brand Officer – Bharti Airtel, India). The 3-months’ long Inter-Schools Tournament-cum-talent hunt will be conducted in seven cities (Mumbai, Delhi, Goa, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Guwahati) with the support of the respective State and District Football Associations.

“During its first year of inception in 2012, the sheer scale of participation achieved by the ‘Airtel Rising Stars’ program across India showed us a new side of the enthusiasm our country possesses for soccer as a sport. Last year, we saw ARS bring alive the soccer dreams of 12 very talented footballers – who went through our comprehensive selection process and finally got to experience what millions of soccer players across aspire for – i.e. a soccer training camp with professional coaches from the Manchester United Soccer School. In 2013, brand Airtel is excited to further augment the ARS experience for talented footballers in India and take this soccer hunt to a level that is bigger and better”, said Mohit Beotra of Airtel.

Delighted to announce the commencement of ARS 2013, Gary Pallister of Manchester United added, “With a base of 35 million Manchester United followers in India, we started working with Airtel on the ARS program last year and were more than pleasantly surprised with the kind of potential that footballers here possess. We are excited to raise the bar higher this year and take ‘Airtel Rising Stars’ into its second year of serious soccer talent scouting across all parts of India. ARS is one of the largest of its kind in India and gives us a great opportunity to coach these young, dynamic and talented players on how to play the Manchester United way”.

The Airtel Rising Stars 2012 experience - DID YOU KNOW?

Picking the Best: The first edition of Airtel Rising Stars sent 12 of the country’s best soccer players to train at the Manchester United Soccer School in Manchester and they came back with unforgettable experiences and memories. From the 12, three players were selected as being exceptionally talented, namely Kartikeya Anurag Swarup from Delhi, Porus Firdaus Shroff from Mumbai and Teja Pavan Kumar from Hyderabad.

A Magical Experience: In their week-long stint in Manchester, the players got an opportunity to train at Manchester United’s historic ‘Cliff’ training ground. They played a match against the Winslow Albion U-16 team, which the Airtel Rising Stars deservedly won 3-1. They had a tour of the magnificent Old Trafford Stadium, which included a visit to the dressing rooms, before capping off the memorable week by catching live action of the match between Manchester United and Reading.

The revised format of the ‘Airtel Rising Stars’ program will ensure that every player gets an equal opportunity to showcase his skills and playing acumen through a series of selection criteria, overseen by renowned and officially certified coaches in each centre.

The 64 top soccer playing schools will play amongst themselves, with the winning school in each city presented with the Airtel Cup. The best three players from each city will be picked for the final selection trials. The best goalkeeper from each city will also be picked and put through their paces, following which two will be shortlisted for the final selection trials, which will be held in Goa.

Besides players from the top soccer playing schools, individual players also stand a chance of being picked for the final selection trials. Those aspiring of the opportunity can upload videos of their soccer playing skills and the top 50 videos from each city will be shortlisted for a live audition. From these, the most talented player will get an opportunity to be a part of the final selection trials.

The 30 players in the final selection trials will train for five days under coaches of the Manchester United Soccer Schools (MUSS) in Goa and will be tested on all parameters (including physical attributes, individual skills, match situations and their performances in actual matches) before 11 of the best players are chosen to travel to Manchester for a week and train alongside the Manchester United - Under 21 team. .

For participation in ARS and more information, visit www.airtel.in/ars.

In 2009, Bharti Airtel had announced its tie-up with Manchester United to bring a variety of benefits for Airtel’s football loving customers in India. As part of this association, Airtel customers across India have been enjoying exclusive access to Manchester United football content as well as money-can’t-buy match experiences. The ARS programme is an extension of this long term association between brand Airtel and Manchester United.

The on-ground execution of ‘Airtel Rising Stars’ has been entrusted to Procam International - India’s largest Sports marketing and Leisure Management company.

Bharti Airtel Limited is a leading global telecommunications company with operations in 20 countries across Asia and Africa. Headquartered in New Delhi, India, the company ranks amongst the top 4 mobile service providers globally in terms of subscribers. In India, the company's product offerings include 2G, 3G and 4G wireless services, mobile commerce, fixed line services, high speed DSL broadband, IPTV, DTH, enterprise services including national & international long distance services to carriers. In the rest of the geographies, it offers 2G, 3G wireless services and mobile commerce. Bharti Airtel had over 275 million customers across its operations at the end of May 2013.

Manchester United is one of the most popular and successful sports teams in the world, playing one of the most popular spectator sports on Earth.

Through our 135-year heritage we have won 61 trophies, enabling us to develop the world’s leading sports brand and a global community of 659 million followers. Our large, passionate community provides Manchester United with a worldwide platform to generate significant revenue from multiple sources, including sponsorship, merchandising, product licensing, new media & mobile, broadcasting and match day.

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Shilpi Sharma to be Showstopper for Designer Randell Gomes

Report by Santanu Ganguly: Indian model and actress Shilpi Sharma will be the show stopper for designer Randell Gomes at a glittering event to be held in Goa. Fashion designer Randell Gomes is happy to have Shilpi Sharma—who is very often mistaken for the actress-turned DJ who shares the same name and also bears an uncanny similarity in appearance. The event is organized by the Forum for Promoting Employment and Entrepreneurship in Goa (FPEEG) and will be held at Panjim.

Shilpi Sharma who has been modelling for the last 3–4 years, both as a ramp and fashion model, recently returned to Mumbai after shooting for a Tamil film. She is supposedly signed on for a film opposite Tamil star Venkatesh, but refused to speak about it. "I am talking to the producer as of now. Nothing is finalized,“ is all Shilpi Sharma had to say.

Model Shilpi Sharma 

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Asia’s Largest Cruise Ship to Reach Goa, Kochi in May

Report by Santanu Ganguly, New Delhi: TIRUN Travel Marketing, India Representative of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. today confirmed that plans were underway to welcome Mariner of the Seas, the largest and most innovative cruise ship to be based in Asia. At 138,000 gross registered tons (GRT) and stretching more than a thousand feet in length, Mariner of the Seas can carry 3114 guests on double occupancy and will become the biggest Royal Caribbean International cruise ship to call on Goa and Kochi on May 24 and May 26, 2013 respectively.

Construction of new cruise terminals has paved way for bigger and more innovative ships to homeport in Asia thereby fuelling consumer demand for cruises in the region. Speaking about the Asian cruise market, Ratna Chadha, Chief Executive, TIRUN Travel Marketing, India’s Representative of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., said “In the past one year, Royal Caribbean International’s guest capacity in Asia has witnessed a threefold increase and our regional cruise offering has been augmented with two Voyager Class ships. We are pleased to bring more opportunities for WOW!, closer to home for Indian travelers”.

Mariner of the Seas

Mariner of the Seas brings 15 decks of activities, first-at-sea innovations, luxurious staterooms, entertainment and dining options. Initially the ship will offer three to five-Night cruises from Singapore to Penang, Langkawi and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, and Phuket in Thailand in June. Subsequently, it will move to China and offer a choice of 4/5/7 Night and longer North Asian sailings from Baoshan (Shanghai). Later in the year, Mariner of the Seas will return to Singapore and offer a variety of exotic sailings till March next year.

Mariner of the Seas is bringing many unique experiences and innovations including:

• Ice Skating Rink – An ice skating rink for guests that doubles as a sensational 900-seat venue for ice show productions with world-class figure skaters.
• Eight Dining Venues including Main Dining Room with complimentary, multi-course dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner. More complimentary options including Windjammer Café, Jade Sushi’s Asian-fusion cuisine, Café Promenade for coffee and pastries/snacks, and 24-hour room service. Chops Grille Steakhouse and Giovanni's Table, where for one cover charge you can choose any items off the menu from appetizers to desserts
• Unparalleled sports facilities including a jogging and inline skating track, Royal Caribbean International’s signature rock-climbing wall, a mini golf course, a full-sized sports court with basketball court, three swimming pools and six whirlpools.
• Adventure Ocean Youth Program - offers complimentary supervised activities for children of all ages including play areas, a diner, disco and video arcade just for kids.
• Entertainment and Shopping - Broadway style entertainment in the main theater which seats 1,362 guests, Complimentary ice-skating shows in Studio B. Vegas-style Casino Royale, 15 bars, clubs and lounges, and more. Shopping Spree - Variety of name-brand, duty-free shopping on the Royal Promenade including jewelry, perfumes, apparel and shopping for teens and kids.
• Range of Staterooms: from the Royal Suite to balcony staterooms, ocean view and the unique Promenade staterooms at price points to meet all budgets.
• DreamWorks Experience: Featuring spectacular shows, 3D screenings, parades, meet and greets and character dining opportunities, this entertainment extravaganza is all about holidaying with characters from Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda and more.

With 21 innovative ships including the world's largest calling on more than 270 destinations in 77 countries across six continents, Royal Caribbean International brings the WOW this year. This conveys the feeling that guests experience either when one of their crew has done something to “Deliver the WOW” or the natural expression of guests when they walk into the Royal Promenade on Oasis or see an ice show or Zip Line or see their first Broadway show or experience the FlowRider, or interact with one of the Dreamworks® characters.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE/OSX: RCL) is a global cruise vacation company that owns Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, Azamara Club Cruises and CDF Croisières de France, as well as TUI Cruises through a 50 percent joint venture. Together, these six brands operate a combined total of 41 ships with three under construction.

Mariner of the Seas

TIRUN Travel Marketing is the exclusive India Representative for Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. with a portfolio of 3 of its cruise brands including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. A leading travel marketing representation company, TIRUN Travel Marketing has been representing Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. in the country since 1993 and continues to successfully undertake exclusive marketing and sales for the various brands while also providing operational support pan-India. Headquartered in New Delhi, the company has proprietary offices in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bangalore and Chennai as well as representative presence in Hyderabad and Kolkata.

Recognized as India's premier cruise counselors, in 2013 TIRUN Travel Marketing celebrates 20 years of its partnership with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. in India.

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Goa Heritage Festival 2013 From April 18

EFT Report, Panaji: With the facade of a century-old church looming in the background, Goa will celebrate a four-day heritage festival from April 18, 2013 with trademark beef, pork, fish-based cuisine, handicrafts and cultural performances showcasing the state's culture and traditions.

Speaking to reporters, Tourism Minister Dilip Parulekar said the Goa heritage festival was Goa's first step in the journey to create a heritage tourism niche in the state, otherwise known for beach tourism.

"All aspects of Goan culture, including cuisine like sorpotel (spicy pork stew) and choris pao (sausage bread), will be showcased at the festival. We are hoping to attract over 50,000 tourists and visitors for the event over four days," he said.

Goa Heritage Festival 2013

"There will also be stalls exhibiting and promoting unique Goan crafts like pottery, woodcraft, crochet, handicrafts, coconut craft, and the like," Parulekar said.

The festival is due to begin on April 18 on the occasion of World Heritage day.

The majestic Mae de Deus church, in the shade of which the festival will take place, is a 125-year-old heritage structure, with a design unique and apart from the rest of the Catholic religious structures built by the Portuguese.

The festival will also have a lecture series on Goa's heritage, a fashion show and theatre performances.

"This is the first time we are promoting our heritage from a tourism perspective. The aim is to create such events every year and show case our rich cultures, instead of focusing on contemporary cultures alone," Parulekar said.

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‘Topless’ Female DJ Niki Belucci to Perform at Goa Glitz

‘Topless’ Female DJ Niki Belucci

Report by Santanu Ganguly, Gao: According to unconfirmed media reports a mega event—a la Sunburn tentatively called Goa Glitz is slated to be held in end-April or mid-May 2013 in South Goa. We wonder if a "topless" DJ is good or bad news for the cash-strapped State of Goa ruled by a BJP-led government. However insiders and sources say that the mega event could feature some of the top female DJs in the world including—hold your breath—topless female DJ Niki Belucci. While more information is still awaited as the event is still hush-hush, we were wondering if the conservative Goa CM Manohar Parrikar will even permit such an event to happen on the beaches of Goa—yes of course a source tells us Niki Belucci will keep her top on or maybe at least sport a bikini top in Goa.

According to Wikipedia, Niki Belucci, (real name: Hungarian: Pósán Nikolett) was born March 10, 1983 is a Hungarian erotic House music DJ, often seen hosting events nearly topless. She is also known for her childhood gymnastics achievements and her six month spent as a pornographic actress when she appeared in 29 hardcore films. She has also graced the covers of various adult magazines and is a bit hit in Europe and the US.

The 2-day event featuring about 20 foreign DJs is expected to draw a crowd of not less than 3 lakh music lovers from all over India and the rest of the world. This could be really good news for the shacks, restaurants and shops not to forget the tourist taxi operators who could make a small fortune during the normally slack period of April and May. With all mining activity shut down, the main source of revenue for the State of Goa and for lakhs of poor workers, thanks to the intervention of the Supreme Court, this event could make the monsoon season more cheery for thousands of taxi and auto rickshaw operators in Goa, not to forget the beach shack owners who have been complaining of dwindling numbers of foreign tourists coupled with increasing cost of raw materials, petrol and diesel.

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Timex Launches First Store in Goa

Report by Santanu Ganguly, Panaji: Global watch major Timex Group India Limited, as a part of its expansion spree entered Goa by launching its first store in the scenic city of Goa. Located at the shopper’s paradise, MG Road Panaji, the store is spread in a sprawling area of 425 Sq ft. The store houses signature collection of Brand Timex keeping in mind the Goan spirit of simplicity and "joie de vivre.”

Timex Store in Panaji

Located at the up market MG Road by the waterfront, the store houses brands such as Timex, Helix, Marc Ecko, and Fossil. The Time Factory concept is Timex’s way of offering watches from classy mid-priced brands to lustrous International premium brands all under one roof. Apart from the array of brands and collections, the design and feel of the store truly stands out. With the unique signature signage of the Timex Flagship and stylish interiors, the store is warm, engaging and oozes style.

This is the 35th TTF in south India and with this, the total TTF count across the country stands at 115. In keeping with the company’s blueprint for growth and increased market share, Timex is exploring new avenues and opportunities. Apart from strengthening its retail network, Timex has also successfully reached out to newer consumer segments through a slew of new product & brands.

Ms. Angelique O’ Brien, Head, Retail & Fashion Brands, Timex Group India Limited said-, “I am glad to announce the launch of the first store in Goa. Our goal of conquering the time-keeping market comes to realization with these launches which also give us the opportunity of banking on some of the best mid-priced brand watches as well. We hope our assortments will mesmerize the watch connoisseurs of Goa and give them a delightful shopping experience.”

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Indiyaah Pets Carnival Goa: Free Medical Camp for Pets

By Santanu Ganguly, Goa: A free medical checkup camp by experienced vets, animal doctors and specialists will be held as part of the Indiyaah Pets Carnival 2013 to be held at Goa from March 8–10, 2013.

A specialized Pet Clinic and an Animal Hospital will be set up at the Indiyaah Pets Carnival 2013 with a state-of-the art operation theatre for minor surgeries, digital X-ray, Ultra sonography, computerized eye and dental checkups, vaccinations, 2D eco cardiography and skin care. Vet Dermatologists, Pet Cardiac specialists and other highly experienced medical experts from various parts of India and abroad will operate the hospital and clinic. While the medical checkup is completely FREE, other medical services will be charged at very nominal and reasonable rates.

A seminar on Emergency First Aid for Pets by Dr. Achina Joglekar of Pet Land Veterinary Clinic, Miramar will be held on the second day of the Indiyaah Pets Carnival.

Pet owners and animal lovers who would like to get their pets medically checked or screened (comprehensive checkup) are requested to obtain an email token for appointment by registering their pet for the medical camp. Only one pet per token is permitted. The FREE medical camp is by appointment only and walk-in pets will not be allowed to ensure that the vets and specialists are not hassled and can provide quality service to our four-legged friends.

Please send an email with your complete contact details including address, email id and phone number and complete details of your pet including age, breed, food/diet provided etc to indiyaah.pets.carnival@gmail.com to obtain an appointment for your pet.

The Indiyaah Pets Carnival 2013 will include a fashion show on two days on different pet-related themes and various contests will be held. A food court and a Jam Session with an after-party for pet lovers will also be one of the attractions at the event. Other seminars and demonstrations on Pet Grooming, Pet Dental Care, Pet Hygiene, Pet Nutrition, Pet Body Toning and Shaping as well as products like a pet saunas, pet spa treatments, pet games, will be on display. About 60,000 visitors are expected to attend the 3-day event.

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4th NCAOR Science Meet in Goa From Feb. 13–16

EFT Report, Panaji: The Fourth edition of Open Science Meeting of the International Past Global Changes community organised by National Centre for Antarctic and Ocean research (NCAOR), began at Dona Paula near Panaji in Goa on Feb. 13, 2013.

4th NCAOR Science Meet 2013 in Goa 

Dr. Shailesh Nayak, Secretary, Union Ministry of Earth Sciences inaugurated the four-day Conference. Speaking at the inaugural function, Dr. Nayak called upon the young international scientists to devise ways and means to arrest universal phenomenon of climate change due to global warming for the protection of natural resources such as air, water and others. Dr, Nayak expressed confidence that the four-day conference will go a long way to enhance our knowledge on global warming and how it is going to affect human lives.

Over 4000 delegates from 44 countries are attending the Conference that will discuss and deliberate on climate changes of the past. The Theme of the conference is "The Past: A compass for the future Earth."

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Goa to Host ‘Indiyaah Pets Carnival 2013’

By Santanu Ganguly, Panjim: The Indiyaah Pets Carnival 2013—a national exhibition and pets show will be held from March 9–10 on the outskirts of Panjim (Panaji) in Goa. About 2000 pets including about 100-odd very rare breeds and 50,000 pet lovers from all over India are expected to participate and attend the 2-day Indiyaah Pets Carnival 2013.

The event is slated to be a big tourist attraction and crowd puller for the picturesque State of Goa as thousands of animal lovers are expected to give their pets a special time-out experience. This is the first largest pet carnival in Goa and one of the very few such events in India.

‘Indiyaah Pets Carnival 2013’ in Goa

The Indiyaah Pets Carnival will include a fashion show on both days on different pet-related themes and various contests will be held during the two days. About 20 pet products and pet food brands have confirmed their participation in the exhibition, which is part of the event. A food court and a Jam Session for pet lovers will also be one of the attractions at the event.

Seminars and demonstrations on Pet Grooming, Pet Dental Care, Pet Hygine, Pet Nutrition, Pet Body Toning and Shaping as well as products like a pet saunas, pet spa treatments, pet games, will be on display. Brands, products and individuals wishing to participate or who would like to sign up their pets for the Indiyaah.

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Goa to Host Barefoot Festival 2013 From Feb. 8–9

Report by Afzal Ali, Goa: Barefoot festival, the first-of-its kind, is all set to hit the Goan shores this February. A perfect blend of top flight beach soccer and non-stop entertainment, the mega carnival is geared up to give you an exhilarating high and take you on a musical journey of a lifetime. India's top music artists together with some of the top DJs from across the globe will converge at The Barefoot Fest 2013 and enthrall the crowds with their electrifying music. The festival will kick-off on the buzzing and clean beaches of Calangute, welcoming music lovers and sports enthusiasts to join the extravaganza on February 8 and 9, 2013.

From techy moods to edgey riffs, spinning melodies to driving basslines the festival will give music fans an opportunity to groove to energetic beats brought by a collaboration of popular homegrown and international artists.

Barefoot Festival 2013 in Goa

Spinning at the console with their latest hits, DJ Ankytrixx, DJ Tuhin Mehta, DJ Marlo and DJ Simon Patterson will bring down the house with some heart-throbbing numbers on the February 8 while DJ Mon [E], DJ Arjun Vagale, DJ First State, and DJ Sasha will mesmerize the audience with their thrilling compositions on the February 9.

Promoted by TransStadia leading sports and sports development company, Barefoot will bring together an assorted mix of music events and the best DJs, mesmerizing audiences with its zesty atmosphere, bouncy cheerleaders and rhythmic music, all under one exciting roof.

Thrilled about his trip to India, International DJ Sasha said, “I have heard great things about the warm people, beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife of Goa and can’t wait to get there for Barefoot! The world’s finest artists love going to India because audiences adore the music. I am sure that the festival will prove to be a huge draw for music lovers across the country.”

Speaking about performing at Barefoot, British trance DJ and producer from London, DJ Simon Patterson said: “I have heard a lot about India and its warm generosity. But what I am looking forward to is being in Goa, which is one of the most popular tourist hubs of India and known for its stimulating and thrilling culture. Beach soccer topped with enchanting music on the ideal destination like Goa is a big fat treat in itself. I am looking forward to making many good memories and learning a lot from the folks in Goa.”

India’s No.1 Indian Electronica DJ and producer – DJ Ankytrixx added: “Having performed around the world, I must say, the experience of playing in India remains unmatched! I am very excited about performing at the Barefoot fest, and we all know Goa loves its music as much as it loves its sport!”

Commenting on the Barefoot Festival, India’s popular music artist DJ Marlo said, “I’m delighted to be a part of this new musical journey in India and would like to thank the organizers for giving me an opportunity to play at such a unique festival. If music and soccer are coming together, there is no better place than Goa to bring out the wonderful spirit of the people. I am looking forward to pulling in the crowds at the festival and making the best of my trip to the party paradise.”

Well-established in the trance music genre worldwide, DJ First State commented, “Beaches, soccer, music and the ethereal beauty of India – the combination of the four is in itself an enthralling idea; and I’m excited to be a part of this tournament! I have heard a lot about the hospitality of the Indians and am completely looking forward to the experience.”

“Barefoot promises to herald the beginning of a wonderful new music movement in India and I am thrilled to be a part of its very first edition. There are very few places that can match the energy and charm of Goa and with a great lineup of artists I’ll be sharing the stage with, music fans will get a great opportunity to have a fantastic time at the festival”, said India’s very own Tuhin Mehta.

DJ Arjun Vagale, who is among the country’s biggest electronic music artists said, “I am looking forward to heading to Goa to perform at Barefoot, currently the only one of its kind. The festival presents a great opportunity to showcase new sounds and grooves and build new communities. It will be a landmark event in this year where some of the most enthusiastic and energetic forms of human recreation will come together and create an enthralling journey.”

Barefoot performances will begin at 5 pm on both days.

Tickets are available on www.bookmyshow.com. To know more, visit www.thebarefootfest.com.

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Five-Day Goa Carnival 2013 From Feb. 8–12

EFT Bureau, Mumbai: Goa carnival, a much awaited event that draws tourists from all over India and abroad, will kick start on February 8, and conclude on February 12, 2013.

Speaking at an informal meeting in Mumbai, Goa’s Tourism Minister, Mr. Dilip Parulekar said, “The Goa Carnival is one of the biggest event of the year, I hope that, this event becomes the second most popular event of the world after the Brazilian Carnival. We have added more attractions including the food festival where we have involved 15 other states as well. He urged everyone to join and make the event success.

He added that the other highlights of the event will include a vintage car rally, serenade parade, Harley Davidson Bike rally and King Momo’s lead float.

Goa Carnival 2013 

Mr. Nikhi Desai, MD of GTDC and Director of Tourism Government of Goa said that, the tourism board is keen on promoting Goa not only as an important cultural destination but also for its festivals, heritage and adventure. The opening ceremony will kick off at D.B. Marg, Panji on the February 9, 2013.

About Goa Carnival 2013:


The festival, as usual, will feature float parades in four cities i.e. Panaji, Madgaon, Vasco-da-gama and Mapusa. Apart from the float parade, this year’s event will also include a Food & Cultural Festival for the first time where visitors will not only get to taste local Goan Cuisine but also cuisine of 15 other states of India.

Visitors can also expect live music from performers like Anushka Manchanda, Parikrama, Remo and Indian Ocean spread across five days. A fashion show by ace designer Wendell Roadricks is touted to be one of the main highlights.

This public event recognizes Goa’s diverse population including its vast tourist populace and promotes a message of tolerance, friendship and inclusiveness.

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Watch Live 'Sunburn Goa 2012' Music Festival, Day 3

Watch the live streaming of third and last day of "Sunburn Goa 2012" Music Festival on Dec. 29, 2012.

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