Being Goan- March Issue 2026

COVER FEATUR

Saj Akhta

Award-winning DJ blending Bollywood and EDM into highenergy sets, building a global reputation through discipline

Brandan Crast

Volume 5

Issue 3

March 202

Tejas Guirish Kunkolienka

Software engineer preserving Goa’s Ghumat heritage through festivals, mentorship, and inspiring youth participation statewide

Anisha Maria Alema

Expressive Goan artist creating realist portraits inspired by culture, emotion, and everyday life through contemporary techniques Civil engineer and national rugby player nurturing youth leadership through grassroots rugby and community initiatives

Dear Readers,

As the season shifts and Goa settles into its rhythm of warm days and reflective evenings, we are reminded that the true spirit of our land lies in its people. Across music, sport, art, technology, and history, Goans and those connected to Goa continue to shape stories that reach far beyond the state. In this month’s edition, we celebrate individuals whose journeys reflect passion, resilience, and dedication.

Sajjad Akhtar, known as Saj Akhtar, represents determination and reinvention. Once a cricket hopeful, he turned his passion for rhythm into a global DJ career, blending Bollywood and EDM into energetic sets that have earned him awards and international recognition.

Sport and leadership come together in the story of Brandan Crasto, a civil engineer and national rugby player who leads the Crocs Rugby Foundation, working to develop young athletes and strengthen rugby across Goa through grassroots training and mentorship.

Software engineer Tejas Guirish Kunkolienkar champions Goa’s cultura

heritage through Ghumat Mogi, an initiative dedicated to preserving traditional Ghumat music through festivals, youth engagement, and mentorship.

Art finds a personal voice in the work of Anisha Maria Alemao, whose expressive realist portraits draw inspiration from culture and everyday life, blending classical techniques with contemporary expression.

Musician Stanley Choudhary, now part of Arambol’s creative community, has evolved from church bassist to rock performer, creating immersive live experiences through rhythm, philosophy, and improvisation.

Archaeologist Sawani Shetye explores Goa’s temple architecture and Vaishnav traditions, sharing her research through heritage walks and outreach that make history more accessible.

Completing this edition is Marcel-based art teacher Sanket Lawande, whose caricatures and storytelling, inspired by Mario Miranda and R. K. Laxman, capture everyday life with humour and warmth.

Join us in celebrating Goa’s vibrant stories, from entrepreneurs to artists, each contributing uniquely to our community. Let their journeys inspire you to follow your passions and pursue your dreams with determination.

Well, that's all I have for you from my desk this month. I hope you enjoy reading this month's issue of our e-magazine. Do share it with your friends all across the globe.

Until next month, cheers!

Jessyl Fernandez Edito

Inde

01 Saj Akhtar

02 Brandan Crasto

03 Tejas Guirish Kunkolienkar

04 Anisha Maria Alemao

05 Stanley Choudhary

06 Sawani Shetye

07 Sanket Lawand

Introductio

Goa, the tiniest state on the western coast of India, boasts golden pristine beaches, palmfringed avenues, flavourful food, delicious Portuguese-influenced sweets, and warm, hospitable people. Also known as the Ibiza of India for its partying. A tropical paradise of flora and fauna, from the very famous 'almi' (mushrooms) endemic to its forests, that grow only on the red mud anthills, to the solar prawns that are fished immediately after the monsoons, Goa is unique. Tourists are also attracted to Goa for its cultural heritage - from the famous old Portuguese churches like Se Cathedral in Old Goa, the 16th Century Safa Masjid in Ponda and Shree Mangesha Temple in Mardol, the legendary Arvalem or Pandava Caves where the Pandavas of the Mahabharat fame lived, to its two unique festivalsCarnival and Shigmo. Goa plays host to many festivals - the International Film Festival of India that promotes cinema, the Serendipity Art Festival, Sunburn Music Festival, The Grape Escapade to name a few. To showcase this varied heritage of culture, art, tradition, food, and people, in 2015 ItsGoa was born. The main aim was to make it the premier portal for all things Goa. We were able to showcase Goa like never before. Soon our blog-based website transcended the virtual space, with the ItsGoa magazine – a sought-after resource for visitors to Goa from countries like Norway, Germany, UK, USA, UAE, etc

Chief Editor

Jessyl Fernandez

Sales

Donald Fernandez

Andrea Fernandes

Content & Social Media Saviola Dias

Britney Fernandes

Graphics & Layout

Britney Fernandes

For advertising queries: +91 7887330620 / 9370502124

ItsGoa Media Group

Nordic Intent HQ - Floor 3, PDA

Colony, Porvorim, Goa 403521

Email: mail@itsgoa.com

Website: itsgoa.com

Saj Akhta

Sajjad Akhtar, known as Saj Akhtar, evolved from cricket hopeful to award-winning DJ, blending Bollywood and EDM into high-energy sets, building a global reputation through discipline, residencies, and international victories

Saj Akhta

In the vibrant world of nightlife and performance, few journeys are as layered and transformative as that of Sajjad Akhtar, known professionally as Saj Akhtar. Today, his name is closely associated with high-energy sets, seamless Bollywood-EDM blends, and a signature stage presence. Yet behind the spotlight lies a story of discipline, reinvention, and relentless dedication to craft.

Early Years Between Dubai and Goa

Raised in Dubai, Saj Akhtar began his schooling at Our Own English High School before moving to Goa, his hometown, where he briefly continued his studies at Guardian Angel High School in Sarvodem. After a year, he returned to Dubai and resumed his education at the Comprehensive Education Institution, eventually pursuing higher studies at Skyline University in Sharjah.

Growing up between Dubai and Goa exposed him to two distinct yet complementary cultural environments. Dubai’s cosmopolitan energy and Goa’s deeply rooted musical sensibility together shaped his artistic instincts. From a young age, he was drawn to both cricket and music, interests strongly influenced by his father, a former state-level football player and a devoted music enthusiast

The discipline of sport and the emotional depth of retro melodies formed the foundation of his personality.

Discovering Rhythm and Musical Identity

Music was never incidental in Saj Akhtar’s life; it was constant. Surrounded by classic Bollywood legends such as Mohammed Rafi and Manna Dey, whose songs frequently played at home, he developed an early sensitivity to rhythm and melody. During his time in Goa, he joined his cousin’s band and began experimenting with rhythm instruments including the dholak, drums, and tabla.

This hands-on involvement gave him more than technical familiarity, it refined his ear. He practiced persistently, borrowing instruments from fellow musicians and rehearsing patterns repeatedly until timing and coordination became second nature.

These formative years cultivated a deep understanding of beats, structure, and musical layering, skills that would later define his DJing style.

The Dubai Influence: From Analog to Digital

Upon returning to Dubai, Saj witnessed a pivotal shift in the music scene as technology transitioned from analog systems to digital platforms. Weekend DJ sets on local FM stations fascinated him. With the growth of internet access, his musical world expanded dramatically. He immersed himself in global DJ culture, studied international artists, and closely followed DMC champions whose technical precision, scratching techniques, and crowd control left a lasting impression.

What struck him most was how DJs communicated without words, reading the room, controlling energy, and transforming sound into dialogue. Inspired by this artistry, he began practicing intensively. Alongside like-minded friends, he invested in renting DJ consoles, rotating weekend practice sessions at each other’s homes.

At the same time, he was playing competitive cricket in Division A and Division B leagues, using his earnings to support his growing musical ambitions

Behind the decks at SinQ Nightclub, Saj Akhtar commands the night with quiet confidenc

The balance between sport and sound reflected his determination; both demanded focus, stamina, and mental sharpness.

A Turning Point: Choosing Music Over Cricket

A defining moment arrived during a B-Division cricket match when a bouncer resulted in a nasal fracture, requiring surgery and forcing a six-month hiatus. The break created space for reflection. Although he attempted a comeback and played a few seasons thereafter, the confidence that once defined his cricketing presence was no longer the same.

Accepting that reality was not easy, but it redirected his energy toward the one passion that had never left him, music. He made a conscious decision to commit fully to mastering the console, marking the beginning of a new chapter.

Goa: The Catalyst for Recognition

Relocating to Goa significantly accelerated his career. Known globally as a music destination, Goa offered exposure to diverse audiences and international tourists. Each performance extended his reach beyond the state, as listeners carried the experience back to their cities across India and abroad.

The environment pushed him to refine his sound, experiment with genres, and build a distinctive identity. What began as local gigs gradually evolved into a recognizable brand presence across the Indian DJ circuit.

Tito’s Residency: The Defining Chapter

A major milestone came with his first residency at Tito’s Club in Goa, an iconic name in Indian nightlife. The opportunity, supported by Jay Naik (DJ BrainWash) and the late DJ Pritesh, became a foundational phase in his artistic growth.

Performing regularly at such a prestigious venue deepened his understanding of the Indian market and sharpened his ability to cater to varied audiences

It was during this period that his Bollywood sets gained prominence, solidifying the artistic identity of Saj Akhtar. The support of Tito’s owner, Mr. David Dsouza, further strengthened his position, allowing him to transition from performer to brand.

Building a Brand in a Competitive Scene

Establishing himself in Goa’s competitive nightlife required more than talent; it demanded consistency. High-profile gigs and festival appearances steadily broadened his audience, while meaningful collaborations helped solidify his standing within the industry.

He remains especially grateful for the support system that guided his journey, notably the encouragement of Mr. Sahil Adwalpalkar, owner of Sinq Night Club, whose trust and belief in his abilities proved instrumental to both his personal and professional growth. Alongside him, his dear friend Mr. Aditya Ingle, Operations Manager at the club, played a significant role in shaping his path, offering steady guidance and helping carve out opportunities that strengthened his presence in the scene.

International Recognition: Nepal 2017

Winning the International Battle of DJs in Nepal in 2017 marked a surreal milestone. Competing against talented artists from Nepal, Vietnam, and India, he approached the stage with focus and composure. When the announcement came, disbelief preceded realization.

The victory represented more than a trophy, it validated years of risk, transition, and unwavering dedication. It affirmed that his decision to pursue music was not only bold but right.

Crafting High-Energy Performances

Preparation defines Saj Akhtar’s stage presence. Weekdays are dedicated to meticulous set-building, downloading music, designing transitions, editing tracks, and testing patterns until every mix feels instinctive. His selective ear ensures that each track aligns with his energy blueprint

From clubs to São João Festival, Saj Akhtar makes every beat felt, not just hear

At SinQ Nightclub, every beat turns the crowd into pure energ

Before stepping behind the decks, he observes the audience closely, gauging anticipation and mood. Once the music begins, connection becomes instantaneous. The exchange of energy between artist and crowd fuels the performance, transforming sets into immersive experiences.

Bollywood Meets EDM: A Signature Blend

At the heart of his musical identity lies Bollywood. Rooted in childhood memories and family influence, it remains central to his sound. However, he recognizes the need for dynamism on the dance floor. By fusing Bollywood melodies with EDM and commercial house, he preserves familiarity while amplifying intensity. The result is a modern interpretation of Indian music, emotionally resonant yet globally adaptable.

Accolades and Recognition

Recognition has followed years of dedication. Being honored as “Best DJ – Goa 2025” by SOS nitelife and featured in the “Resident DJ Power List” by LOOFRE reaffirmed his standing within the industry. He was also awarded “Pride of Goa 2026” for his electrifying performances. For him, these acknowledgments represent collective achievement, shared with family, friends, mentors, and fans who supported him throughout his journey.

Performing Across Borders

International performances have reinforced his belief that music transcends geography. Whether performing abroad or in India, Bollywood remains his anchor. The instant bond it creates with audiences, even thousands of miles from home, highlights music’s universal language. Regardless of location, his approach remains consistent: authenticity, energy, and emotional connection.

Memorable Moments Under the Spotlight

Among his many performances, a New Year’s Eve set at Sinq Night Club in 2018 stands out. Beginning at midnight and continuing until sunrise, he performed for nearly eight hours

The crowd’s sustained enthusiasm transformed the marathon set into a shared celebration. Watching the first light of day emerge while the dance floor remained alive became a memory etched in his career.

Looking Ahead

Saj Akhtar envisions expanding his global footprint, performing in new cities and collaborating with major music labels such as T-Series and Sony Music. His goal is to elevate Indian music on international stages while refining a sound that merges tradition with contemporary production.

Pride in the Journey

Reflecting on his path, his proudest achievement is not a single title but the transformation itself, from an aspiring enthusiast to a recognized name in a fiercely competitive industry. Awards, residencies, and international victories are milestones, yet the deeper satisfaction lies in staying true to passion and building a meaningful career through persistence.

Saj Akhtar’s story is ultimately about evolution, of sound, of identity, and of ambition. From cricket fields to club consoles, he has demonstrated that reinvention, when fueled by conviction, can lead to rhythm that resonates far beyond the dance floor

Brandan Crast

Brandan Crasto, a civil engineer and national rugby player, leads the Crocs Rugby Foundation, using grassroots rugby, mentorship, and community initiatives to develop youth leadership and grow the sport across Goa

Brandan Crasto is a civil engineer by qualification, having graduated in 2020, and a National Rugby Player whose life has been deeply shaped by sport.

Alongside managing his family business, he leads the Crocs Rugby Foundation and plays a key role in promoting rugby across Goa. Recognised as a youth leader, Brandan’s work extends beyond competition, focusing on mentorship, leadership, and community development through sport.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, rugby remains his strongest passion. Outside the field, Brandan is equally at home dissecting investment strategies, losing himself in a good book, or exploring new cultures through travel and dance, interests that speak to a restless curiosity and a life lived well beyond the touchline.

At the heart of everything he does lies a clear intent: to use rugby as a tool to empower young people, build confidence, and create positive social change within local communities.

The Crocs Rugby Foundation traces its origins to 2015, when it was established as the Crocotryles Rugby Club during a grassroots leadership initiative aimed at developing rugby in Goa.

As part of this model, Brandan was assigned the Colva and Benaulim constituency, where he began building structured rugby programs at the community level. Mentored by international Welsh coaches Bee, Dave, and Dai, and guided by Goan rugby pioneers Anish and Peter, he was introduced to the discipline, values, and global culture that define the sport.

Following the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisation was restructured with renewed clarity and purpose. The vision evolved into creating South Goa as a sustainable hub for rugby development

Warm-ups and cool-downs are essential for injury preventio

Guiding the next generation of young Goans in sport

Rugby coaches prioritise fun and enjoyment above all els

Today, the foundation focuses on nurturing young athletes into well-rounded individuals, leaders who carry the values of teamwork, accountability, and resilience both on and off the field.

Vision, Growth, and Sporting Impact

The foundation’s primary goal over the next three to five years is to revive and strengthen rugby in Goa through long-term grassroots systems. This includes producing high-performing players for Goa state teams, supporting affiliation with the Sports Authority of Goa, and building awareness of rugby as a sport that develops character, discipline, and leadership. A major milestone in this journey was hosting Goa 7s – Season 2 in November 2025, which brought together nearly 400 participants from across India and around the world.

In a short span, the impact has been tangible. Over the last two years, 25 players from the foundation have represented the Goa State team, with one athlete progressing to the Team India development camp

Beyond performance metrics, players have shown marked improvement in confidence, physical fitness, leadership skills, and social responsibility, reinforcing the foundation’s commitment to holistic development.

The Crocs Family and Community-Driven Growth

The idea of the “Crocs Family” lies at the heart of the foundation’s success. What began as Brandan’s immediate family has expanded into a collective of parents, volunteers, mentors, coaches, referees, and advisors who contribute across every function, from training and tournaments to logistics, fundraising, governance, and digital outreach. This shared ownership ensures that the foundation remains deeply rooted in community participation. And that sense of belonging doesn’t exist in isolation; it draws naturally from the place it calls home. Goan culture plays a vital role in strengthening this ecosystem. Known for its warmth, inclusivity, and strong community bonds, Goa’s cultural ethos aligns naturally with rugby’s values. The sport has evolved into a shared experience, one that fosters togetherness, celebration, and collective responsibility, making rugby more than just a game in the Goan landscape

launch of “Get Into Rugby” programmes in schools across South Go

Celebrities and local business owners showing their support for the Crocs Rugby Foundatio

Providing international exposure for goan players to world class coaches and pathway

Goa Sevens: From Tournament to Movement

The Goa Sevens tournament has become a defining expression of the foundation’s vision. Growing from 12 teams in its first season to 24 teams in Season 2, the tournament has attracted international participation from Sri Lanka, along with players from the USA, Australia, Nepal, and beyond.

Supported by the Goa Tourism Department and the Goa Arts & Culture Department, it is now recognized as India's premier rugby festival destination in India, which showcases Goa as one of the leading hubs for Sports Tourism in South Asia.

Beyond competition, the event is celebrated for its spirit. Teams bond over Goa’s food, music, beaches, wilderness, biodiversity and vibrancy, creating connections that extend well past the final whistle. Local players, academy members, parents, and volunteers actively participate in organising and hosting the event, giving it a distinctly warm and welcoming character that reflects the soul of Goa

Looking Ahead: A Locally Rooted, Globally Connected Vision

Looking to the future, Brandan envisions expanding rugby’s reach by integrating it into school sports systems, training physical education teachers, activating village- and panchayat-level tournaments, and engaging community leaders. Plans also include bringing international professional coaches to Goa, ensuring exposure to global best practices while strengthening local systems.

With partnerships spanning the UK, South Africa, France, Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, the USA, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, and the Middle East, the Crocs Rugby Foundation is building a model that is deeply rooted in Goan communities while remaining globally connected. Through rugby, Brandan Crasto, a civil engineer who chose community over convention, continues to build something far greater than a sports programme. A generation of young Goans who carry the lessons of the field into every corner of their lives

Tejas Guirish Kunkolienka

Goan software engineer Tejas Guirish Kunkolienkar champions cultural heritage as founder of Ghumat Mogi, promoting traditional Ghumat music through festivals, mentorship, and statewide youth participation

Tejas Guirish Kunkolienka

In the quiet space between tradition and modern life stands Tejas Guirish Kunkolienkar, a software engineer by profession and a cultural torchbearer by calling. A proud son of Goa, Tejas has built a life that balances code with cadence, corporate responsibilities with community leadership. While his weekdays unfold in the world of technology after completing his postgraduate degree at Goa University, his heart beats to the timeless percussion of the Ghumat.

For over a decade, he has dedicated himself to preserving and promoting Goa’s musical heritage. As the Founder and President of Ghumat Mogi, he leads a growing collective of more than fifty cultural enthusiasts united by a single purpose: to ensure that the sound of the Ghumat never fades.

What began as a personal passion has evolved into a lifelong mission, one that merges spirituality, discipline, and leadership into every performance and initiative he undertakes.

A Foundation in Faith and Folk Traditions

Tejas’s relationship with music is deeply spiritual. His grounding comes from years of devotion and performance with Shree Saibodgeshwar Ghumat Aarti Mandal, a respected cultural and devotional group in Mapusa

Here, he honed not only his technical skill across instruments such as the Ghumat, Shamel, Kasale, Dhol, and Taso, but also developed a profound understanding of rhythm as prayer.

Learning did not happen in classrooms. Instead, it came through immersion, watching seniors, rehearsing relentlessly, and performing in countless competitions and festivals. For Tejas, the ear and the heart became the true teachers.

His early leadership as a student lead singer in interclass competitions soon expanded to representing institutions like Dnyanprassarak Mandal’s College & Research Centre, where he guided teams to championship titles. Those formative years shaped both his musicianship and his confidence to lead larger movements.

The Birth of Ghumat Mogi

The idea for Ghumat Mogi emerged from a simple observation: Goa had immense talent, but no unified platform connecting artists across generations. Tejas envisioned a bridge between tradition and modern youth, a collective that would preserve heritage while presenting it in contemporary, engaging ways. Ghumat Mogi became that bridge.

More than a music group, it functions as a support system and promotional platform. The organization collaborates with local artists, backs new audiovisual projects, and helps grassroots performers reach statewide audiences. Today, what started as a social media concept has grown into a tightly knit cultural family

Performing For Shree Swar Sai Youth Club During the Onstage Event

Felicitation By Dr. Pramod Sawant for Serving as The Publicity Partner

Members remain connected not just by shared rehearsals, but by a shared sense of responsibility, to represent Goa’s identity with pride and professionalism.

Ghumat Mahasangam: A Stage for the Next Generation

Among Tejas’s most ambitious undertakings is Ghumat Mahasangam, Goa’s largest Ghumat Aarti competition. First conceived during the pandemic as an online event, it has since transformed into a grand, in-person celebration hosted at Rajiv Gandhi Kala Mandir. The event now welcomes school, higher secondary, and college teams from across the state.

For Tejas, organizing Mahasangam is both challenge and reward. Months of meticulous planning go into every detail, from staging and decor to program flow. Yet the true payoff arrives when hundreds of young performers take the stage, their energy proving that Goa’s traditions are not relics of the past but vibrant forces of the present. Watching the next generation carry forward the rhythm makes every sleepless night worthwhile.

Beyond Competition: The Cultural Vision of Elgar

While Mahasangam focuses on percussion, Tejas believes culture cannot be confined to one form. This belief led to Elgar, an all-Goa festival celebrating holistic heritage. Elgar brings together folk arts, fine arts, and even sports under one banner

The idea is simple: culture is multidimensional, and every form of expression deserves visibility.By creating an inclusive festival atmosphere, Tejas ensures that every young Goan, artist, athlete, or performer, finds a stage to shine.

Creating History Through Collective Sound

In 2023, Tejas helped execute a landmark moment during the Shiv Shourya Yatra in Mapusa, an unprecedented Maha Ghumat Aarti featuring over 100 artists performing in unison.

The spectacle was less a performance and more a declaration of unity. The thunderous synchronization demonstrated the sheer power of collective rhythm, setting a new benchmark for what cultural collaborations could achieve.

Taking Goa to the Nation

Tejas’s commitment has also carried him beyond state borders. Representing Goa at national platforms has been among the most defining experiences of his journey. Performances with his mandal at Mumbai during Waves 2025 and other national cultural initiatives introduced audiences across India to the soulful depth of Ghumat Vadan

Representing Goa’s Ghumat Vadan at WAVES 2025,

Performing at Lokotsav 2025,

For him, these stages reaffirm one truth: regional traditions possess universal appeal. The beats of Goa resonate far beyond its shores.

Teacher, Mentor, Guardian

If performing keeps the tradition alive, teaching ensures its future. Tejas invests significant time mentoring school and college teams across Goa, guiding them not just technically but emotionally.

Influenced by mentors like Shri. Tushar Guirish Kunkolienkar, Shri. Ketan Gurudas Salgaonkar, Shri. Sooraj Gurudas Pinge, Shri. Vijay Prakash Kudnekar, and Shri. Amit Naik who shaped his own path, now carries that responsibility forward, training groups, judging competitions, and nurturing young talent with patience and care.

For him, mentorship is not about trophies; it is about igniting pride in heritage

Inaugurating “Ghumat Samarpan” at Government College Sankhali

from the Ghumat Aarti Competition, Rajiv Gandhi Kala Mandi

The Road Ahead

Tejas’s vision for Ghumat Mogi is expansive. He imagines a statewide brotherhood of artists, better recognition systems, wider platforms for rural talent, and cultural events that draw audiences from across the country. He hopes to integrate the Ghumat into everyday youth life, ensuring every Goan child grows up instinctively connected to their musical roots.

His philosophy remains clear: tradition must evolve without losing its soul. By combining professional staging, thoughtful management, and youthful energy, heritage can feel contemporary without compromise.

In Tejas Guirish Kunkolienkar’s world, the Ghumat is more than an instrument. It is identity, devotion, and legacy. And as long as he leads the rhythm, Goa’s heartbeat will never fall silent

Anisha Maria Alema

Goan artist Anisha Maria Alemao creates expressive realist portraits inspired by culture, emotion, and everyday life, blending classical influences with contemporary techniques developed through formal training at Goa College of Art

Born in April 2002 in the quiet village of Chinchinim in South Goa, Anisha Maria Alemao grew up surrounded by a landscape marked by coastal beauty, heritage structures, and a deeply rooted cultural identity. This environment shaped her sensitivity to detail and atmosphere, elements that would later become defining features of her artistic expression.

From an early age, Anisha felt naturally drawn to colours, forms, and visual storytelling, often spending hours sketching and observing the world around her. What began as a childhood pastime soon transformed into a clear ambition, as she recognised that art was not simply an interest but the path she wished to follow professionally.

A Life Shaped by Simple Joys

Beyond the canvas, Anisha nurtures a lifestyle filled with small but meaningful pleasures that keep her creatively balanced. She enjoys baking, experimenting with flavours in the kitchen, and finds comfort in activities that allow her to slow down and reflect

She also spends time playing badminton and taking long walks along the beach, where the sea and sky offer quiet moments of inspiration. Her love for food and everyday experiences adds warmth to her personality, often influencing the emotional tone that subtly filters into her work.

Early Encounters with Art

During her school years, Anisha actively participated in art competitions and creative activities, consistently gravitating toward artistic pursuits over conventional academics.

She discovered early that she connected more deeply with visual expression than with textbooks, finding freedom in drawing and painting.

A significant turning point came when she was introduced to the works of the old masters, whose technical precision and lifelike portraits left a lasting impression. Their command over light, shadow, and realism inspired her to explore portraiture and pursue a more disciplined approach to her craft.

Learning the Language of Technique

Her formal training at the Goa College of Art marked an important phase in her development as an artist. The institution provided her with structured guidance, helping her refine her technique and gain confidence in handling different materials and methods.

Alongside practical training, Anisha developed a deeper understanding of art theory, history, and conceptual thinking. This combination of skill and knowledge allowed her to approach her work with both intuition and intellectual clarity, strengthening the foundation of her practice.

Realism as an Emotional Connector

For Anisha, realism is not merely an aesthetic preference but a deliberate choice to communicate clearly with her audience

She believes that recognisable forms create an immediate connection, enabling viewers to engage with the emotion of a piece without confusion or distance.

Through carefully observed details and expressive portraits, she translates complex feelings into images that feel tangible and relatable. This approach allows her work to resonate with a wide range of people, making her art both personal and universally accessible.

The Influence of Goa’s Visual Culture

The cultural richness of Goa continually informs Anisha’s visual language, offering an endless source of inspiration. From the intricate architecture of churches and temples to the colours and textures of everyday life, the region’s character often finds its way into her compositions.

These influences appear subtly rather than overtly, blending into the mood and setting of her paintings. By absorbing her surroundings so closely, Anisha ensures that her work carries an authentic sense of place that reflects her roots

Materials and Methods

Anisha primarily works with oils and acrylics on canvas, appreciating the depth, texture, and versatility these mediums provide. Each material allows her to experiment with layers and tonal variations, helping her achieve the realism she strives for.

At the same time, she enjoys exploring charcoal and other mediums to expand her creative vocabulary. This willingness to experiment keeps her process dynamic and prevents her practice from becoming confined to a single technique.

From Feeling to Form

Every artwork begins with an emotional spark, often tied to her personal experiences, moods, or fragments of dreams. These feelings are first explored through rough sketches, where ideas take shape through symbols and visual metaphors.

She then refines these concepts into multiple compositions, carefully considering balance, structure, and colour symbolism. Only after this thoughtful preparation does she move to the final canvas, ensuring that each painting is both intentional and deeply expressive

Every Painting, Equally Personal

When asked to choose a favourite piece, Anisha finds the idea nearly impossible. Each artwork holds a distinct emotional memory and represents a particular moment in her life, making them all equally meaningful.

To single one out would feel like diminishing the others, as every painting carries its own story and attachment. For her, they are not just creations but personal reflections preserved in colour and form.

An Open Dialogue with the Viewer

Anisha does not impose fixed interpretations on her work, preferring instead to leave space for individual responses. She believes that art becomes more powerful when viewers bring their own experiences and emotions into the encounter.

By allowing this freedom, her paintings transform into open conversations rather than definitive statements. Each viewer discovers something different, making the experience intimate and uniquely personal.

Inspired by Masters, Driven by Vision

Her artistic sensibility has been shaped by the timeless works of Rembrandt and Salvador Dalí. While Rembrandt’s mastery of light and portraiture continues to influence her technique, Dalí’s surrealist vision inspires her to explore surrealistic styles in her own paintings. She also draws inspiration from celebrated Goan painter Antonio Xavier Trindade, whose legacy connects her deeply to her regional heritage.

Alongside these historical figures, contemporary artists such as Liu Xiao-Dong, Thor Schimmer, and Miles Johnston inform her modern outlook. This blend of classical influence and present-day experimentation helps Anisha shape a voice that feels both rooted and current.

Looking Ahead

Deeply committed to her craft, Anisha views art not simply as a career but as a lifelong dedication. She hopes to showcase her work in more galleries and exhibitions across India and, eventually, on international platforms, steadily expanding her reach as an artist. At the same time, she advocates for greater recognition and support for young artists in Goa, believing that exposure and encouragement are essential for creative growth. Through her journey, Anisha hopes not only to evolve personally but also to contribute meaningfully to the artistic community around her

Stanley Choudhar

Chandigarh-born musician Stanley Choudhary evolved from church bassist to reflective rock performer in Arambol, blending rhythm, philosophy, and community-driven jams into immersive, thought-provoking live experiences

Raised in Chandigarh within a family where music was both inheritance and instinct, Stanley Choudhary’s journey into performance began long before he stepped onto a public stage. Surrounded by a grandfather and uncles who were musicians, sound was a shared language at home. As a teenager, he aspired to play guitar alongside his church choir, eventually finding his first footing on the bass guitar during church services. What began as accompaniment soon evolved into commitment.

Years of practice led him into the city’s jazz circuit, where he performed as a bassist with a local band. By 2009, an opportunity to perform at his former school marked a turning point. He formed his own band, stepping into leadership and discovering the larger possibilities of live performance.

Influences Beyond Music

Stanley’s creative lens extends beyond melody. A self-described thinker, he draws from philosophy, nature documentaries, and competitive sports, disciplines that sharpen observation and reflection. His interests in the outdoors and tactical sports nurture a sense of strategy and presence, qualities that subtly shape his musical approach. For him, sound is not merely entertainment but contemplation set to rhythm

Acoustic set with a musician friend at Garden of Dreams Go

A Shift Toward the Coast

After more than a decade performing across Chandigarh, Delhi, and neighbouring regions, Stanley felt the urge to break familiar patterns and seek a different audience. That search brought him to Arambol, a coastal village in Goa known for its eclectic creative community.

The move proved transformative. Arambol’s intersection of cultures, languages, and philosophies reshaped both his perception of music and his understanding of life.

The environment offered something he intuitively recognised yet had never directly experienced, a space where artistic expression and existence intertwined naturally. The exposure deepened his artistic voice, making performance less about spectacle and more about connection.

The Philosophy of Sound

Stanley describes his work succinctly: an “experience of sounds and thoughts.” His compositions aim to engage both body and mind. Rhythms draw listeners into movement, while lyrical and tonal layers invite introspection. Rock energy meets reflective storytelling, creating a balance between groove and gravity.

This duality keeps his sets fluid. Performing for diverse audiences across multiple genres means no two shows are identical.

Hosting the Arambol Open Mic and jamming with traveling musician

Each stage demands adaptation, a challenge he welcomes. The unpredictability, he says, keeps him excited, and slightly nervous, before every performance, a tension that fuels authenticity.

Inspirations and Lineage

His musical vocabulary carries echoes of progressive and experimental traditions. Influences range from the intricate textures of Tool and King Crimson, to the expansive cinematic compositions of A. R. Rahman, and the atmospheric storytelling of Steven Wilson. Yet rather than imitate, he filters these inspirations through his own sensibility, shaping a style that remains distinctly personal.

Community and Collaboration

In Arambol, music thrives less as a solitary pursuit and more as a collective ritual. The weekly open mic has become a cornerstone of this ethos, a recurring gathering that functions like a miniature festival. For Stanley, it is both inspiration and responsibility, a space that encourages emerging artists to step forward.

Jam sessions form another pillar of his practice. He views them as classrooms without walls, where seasoned players and beginners share equal footing

Over the years, these collaborative moments have sharpened his skills and allowed him to mentor younger musicians, passing on lessons he once learned through trial and error.

Evolving Identity

His career has moved through many roles: rock band performer, recording artist, mentor, and now an active member of a long-standing Goan music community. Each phase has added texture to his story.

Challenges, especially finding a unique vocal style and resisting external pressures to conform, have strengthened his resolve. Instead of formal training, he relied on conscious repetition and persistent selfexploration, shaping an organic voice that feels unmistakably his own.

The Road Ahead

For Stanley Choudhary, music is not a destination but an unfolding journey. Every performance, every jam, and every conversation becomes another memory in progress. Rooted in reflection yet driven by rhythm, his work continues to bridge sound and thought, inviting audiences not just to listen, but to feel, question, and move

Lua Nov

If holidays are inspired by nature and your thirst for rustic solitude and inner peace, Lua Nova is the hotel your heart was yearning for.

Located at Goa's celebrated holiday capital at Baga, it overlooks a beautiful Canvas of village Goa, just 5 minutes walk from the Baga Beach

www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgo

Sawani Shety

Archaeologist and researcher Sawani Shetye studies Goa’s temple architecture, Vaishnavism, and cultural heritage while making history accessible through heritage walks, public outreach, and academic research

For Sawani Shetye, history has never been confined to textbooks or timelines. It has always been alive, etched into stone temples, whispered through folk traditions, and embedded in everyday landscapes. An archaeologist by training and a researcher by instinct, she approaches the past not as something distant, but as a living continuum that shapes the present.

Currently pursuing her PhD at Goa University, Sawani’s work sits at the intersection of archaeology, history, and cultural studies. Yet, long before academia formalised her path, her childhood quietly set the foundation for the career she would eventually build.

A Childhood Rooted in Curiosity

Growing up in Goa, travel and discovery were central to her upbringing. Family trips were never merely vacations; they were immersive cultural explorations. Encouraged by her father, she learned to read maps, understand local histories, and visit museums and heritage sites wherever they went.

Books became companions, and questions became habits. Rather than memorising facts, she found herself wondering why events occurred and how people thought and lived

This early fascination with human behavior, psychology, and history would eventually evolve into a clear academic calling. By the time she completed her tenth standard, she had already decided her future lay in archaeology.

Shaping an Academic Path

Her educational journey unfolded naturally. A graduation degree in History laid the groundwork for understanding historical processes and sources, after which she pursued a Master’s in Archaeology. During this time, she specialised in Indian temple architecture, iconography, and cultural history, fields that would come to define her research voice.

Today, her doctoral work focuses on Vaishnavism in Goa, studied through archaeological evidence, inscriptions, temple traditions, and living practices. Her research seeks to understand how belief systems evolve, adapt, and endure over centuries, bridging material remains with intangible cultural memory. Rather than treating archaeology as excavation alone, she views it as a way to reconstruct entire worlds.

Reading Temples as Living Texts

Temple architecture holds a special place in Sawani’s work. To her, these structures are not merely places of worship but complex cultural documents carved in stone. Every pillar, motif, and sculptural element carries meaning, blending science, symbolism, aesthetics, and spirituality

session on Indian Crafts Tradition for IIID Go

Session on agro tourism for students at Dr Malik’s Farm

She is particularly fascinated by narrative iconography, where epics, local legends, and philosophical ideas unfold visually across walls and ceilings. These carvings, she believes, function as timeless storytellers, communicating devotion and history across generations.

Her research also extends to Kaavi art traditions across Goa, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. Through these murals, she observes a remarkable confluence of regional styles and external influences. Rather than rigid artistic forms, Kaavi paintings reveal culture as fluid, adaptive, and layered, a visual archive of social interaction.For her, Indian art has always been functional and devotional at once, inseparable from daily life.

Reframing Goa Through Heritage Walks

Sawani’s work is not confined to academic spaces. After completing her post-graduation, she began teaching and leading students to heritage sites across the state. What began as informal educational visits slowly grew into something larger when people outside her classrooms asked to join.

This organic interest led to the founding of Bhoomij Heritage Consultancy, through which she curates heritage walks and cultural experiences

Her goal is simple yet transformative: to help people see Goa beyond its postcard image of beaches and nightlife. Through temple complexes, old settlements, architectural remains, and forgotten narratives, participants encounter a deeper civilisational landscape.

By understanding iconography, climate-responsive architecture, agrarian histories, and folk practices, visitors begin to see Goa not merely as a destination, but as a layered cultural ecosystem. For Sawani, these tours are acts of reconnection, linking people to place, memory, and identity.

Making History Accessible

Public engagement remains central to her mission. Over the years, she has contributed to several documentaries on Goan history, many created in animated formats to simplify complex narratives for younger audiences. She also runs a YouTube channel where she documents historical sites and explains their significance in an approachable, conversational manner.

The response has been heartening. Families watch the videos together, and students discover that history can feel relatable rather than intimidating

For her, this democratisation of knowledge is deeply rewarding. A recent appearance on a widely followed podcast further amplified her reach.

Discussing Goa’s lesser-known historical transitions with academic clarity and balance, the episode crossed over a lakh views within a day. Listeners praised the research-driven approach, many sharing that it changed how they perceived the region.

Moments like these reaffirm her belief in public history, scholarship that steps outside classrooms and speaks directly to communities.

Heritage Beyond Monuments

Interestingly, Sawani’s connection to heritage extends beyond archives and temples. She is closely involved with Dr. Malik’s Farms, where agriculture forms part of everyday life. Working with coconuts, fruits, vegetables, and cattle, she experiences the rhythms of rural living firsthand.

For her, farming is not separate from history. It is living heritage, an unbroken continuity of food traditions, ecological knowledge, and cultural practices passed down generations. The land, she says, teaches patience and perspective in ways that academic research cannot

Balancing Many Worlds

Balancing multiple roles, researcher, educator, heritage curator, and farm facilitator, might seem demanding, but Sawani views them as interconnected rather than separate. Each dimension informs the other. Scholarship enriches her tours, outreach strengthens her research, and farming grounds her philosophy.

What keeps her motivated is a clear purpose: to document, preserve, and present Goa’s cultural and agricultural legacy responsibly.

Looking Ahead

As she continues her academic and outreach work, Sawani hopes more people recognise that heritage is not something distant or fragile, it is something lived daily. Preserving culture begins with understanding it, valuing it, and passing it on consciously.

Through research, storytelling, and grassroots engagement, she is quietly ensuring that Goa’s past is not forgotten, but continually rediscovered.

In her world, history is not behind us. It walks beside us, waiting to be noticed

Sanket Lawand

Marcel-based art teacher Sanket Lawande blends traditional media, live caricature, and storytelling, drawing everyday life with humor and empathy, inspired by Mario Miranda and R. K. Laxman

Based in Marcel, Goa, Sanket Lawande has built a creative life around observation, humor, and human connection. Known for his distinctive caricatures and illustrations, he works professionally as an art teacher, balancing the classroom with a deeply personal sketching practice that follows him everywhere.

His sketchbook functions like a visual diary, constantly filled with fleeting expressions, everyday encounters, and spontaneous doodles that document the people and moments around him. Drawing is not reserved for studio hours; it is a continuous habit that quietly shapes how he experiences the world.

From an early age, art became both instinct and escape. As a child, he spent hours sketching portraits of politicians, actors, and historical figures in pencil and pen, refining his eye for likeness while remaining largely outside formal competitions or contests. Though studious and reserved, he instinctively returned to drawing during every spare moment, covering walls and notebooks with scribbles that gradually evolved into deliberate studies

Inspirations Beyond the Studio

Much of Lawande’s imagination is fueled by cinema and music. A devoted cinephile, he often draws while films play in the background, allowing soundtracks and scenes to influence the rhythm and mood of his lines.

Music provides tempo, while storytelling techniques from movies subtly inform the way he constructs characters and visual narratives. Even his occasional reading contributes to this layered creative vocabulary, enriching the emotional depth of his illustrations.

Finding His Voice in Caricature and Illustration

His interest in illustration deepened during art college, where the works of Mario Miranda left a lasting impression. Miranda’s playful satire and ability to capture the poetry of everyday life inspired Lawande to explore caricature, particularly the art of exaggerating features to reveal personality rather than simply replicate appearances

Sanket Lawande working on Caricature painting

Childhood exposure to illustrated publications such as Amar Chitra Katha and Champak further nurtured his interest in storytelling through visuals, eventually guiding him toward children’s book illustration.

Teaching as a Creative Catalyst

Working as a high school art teacher has become an essential part of his artistic evolution. The classroom offers more than instruction; it becomes a space of exchange where ideas are tested, refreshed, and reimagined.

Interacting with young, curious minds continually pushes him to rethink his methods and approach each project with renewed enthusiasm. Teaching, for him, is both discipline and inspiration, strengthening his own understanding of creativity while motivating him to stay experimental.

Commitment to Traditional Craft

In a time dominated by digital tools, Lawande remains committed to traditional mediums. Influences from Mad Magazine and artists such as Jack Davis and Mort Drucker shaped his early fascination with pen, ink, and quill work

The narrative strength of R. K. Laxman and Miranda further reinforced his appreciation for hand-drawn storytelling.

Over time, he expanded into watercolors, photo inks, poster colors, oil pastels, and acrylics, constantly experimenting to find harmony between textures and tones. Each medium offers a different emotional quality, and combining them allows him to create layered, expressive compositions that feel alive and tactile.

The Energy of Live Caricature

Caricature remains the most exhilarating aspect of his practice. Drawing live at weddings and corporate events demands speed, instinct, and confidence, requiring him to capture a person’s essence within minutes. The fast pace, spontaneous decisions, and immediate audience reactions add a dynamic thrill that studio work rarely replicates.

Rather than focusing solely on facial details, he interprets posture, mood, and personality, distilling them into a few deliberate lines. The goal is to enhance defining traits and transform them into playful, recognizable versions that feel spirited yet authentic

Humor with Empathy

Humor and satire are central to his work, but they are guided by sensitivity. Lawande treats caricature as a shared joke rather than a critique, ensuring the subject feels included in the laughter. His exaggerations are affectionate, designed to celebrate individuality instead of highlighting flaws. This balance between wit and respect allows his drawings to remain joyful and welcoming.

Illustrations That Educate and Engage

Among his most meaningful projects is his contribution to educational materials for the State Council of Educational Research and Training, where he creates illustrations for school textbooks. Knowing that children engage with lessons through his visuals adds purpose to his craft. His drawings simplify complex ideas, making learning more accessible and enjoyable while quietly shaping young imaginations

Challenges and a Clear Vision

Despite his dedication, the journey has presented challenges. Exaggeration is sometimes misunderstood, and audiences can be sensitive about appearance or public figures.

The rise of instant digital filters and AI-generated caricatures often overshadows the time, skill, and craftsmanship involved in traditional drawing. He also believes caricature deserves greater academic recognition, hoping it will one day be formally included in art curricula.

Through it all, Lawande remains guided by a simple belief: caricature has the power to help people see themselves differently. His art encourages reflection, acceptance, and lighthearted self-awareness, transforming distortion into celebration. With every sketch, he continues to capture the humor and humanity woven into everyday life, preserving it with warmth, precision, and an unmistakable personal touch