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Sports

Mandar Rao Dessai Calls on AIFF to Act: “India Needs Its Football Back”

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk

Former India international and current Chennaiyin FC player Mandar Rao Dessai has urged football authorities to take immediate action to end the growing uncertainty surrounding the Indian Super League (ISL). In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram, the Goan footballer described the situation as an “existential crisis” for Indian football and appealed to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to act swiftly and bring clarity to the future of the league.

Mandar, who has represented India and played for clubs including FC Goa and Chennaiyin FC, voiced his frustration over the ongoing delay in the start of the ISL season. His message resonated with players and fans alike, as he called for transparency and urgency from those responsible for managing the sport.

In his post, Mandar wrote that professional footballers across the ISL are united in their plea to resume competitive football in the country. “We want to play, and now,” he said, expressing the collective desperation of players who have been waiting for months to return to the field. He added that the lack of communication and direction from the authorities had left players, clubs, and supporters in the dark.

Mandar’s statement followed a turbulent period for Indian football, with the AIFF’s tender process for broadcast, sponsorship, and digital rights ending without success. The failed process, which was meant to ensure the league’s long-term stability, has instead intensified uncertainty and speculation about the ISL’s immediate future.

With no official start date or clarity from the federation, frustration continues to mount among players, clubs, and fans. Many believe that the ISL, once heralded as a new era for Indian football, now faces its toughest test yet.

Mandar’s words reflect a deep sense of passion and urgency, calling for the authorities to act in good faith and restore confidence in Indian football. As he put it, “We’ve been in a dark tunnel for too long — we could do with a little light.”

The call for action from senior players like Mandar Rao Dessai highlights a growing movement within the Indian football community — one that demands accountability, clarity, and the revival of the sport that millions across the country love.

Events in Goa

The Legends of Khasak: A Spellbinding Journey into Magical Realism at Serendipity Arts Festival 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

This December, Goa’s riverfront city of Panjim will come alive as the Serendipity Arts Festival celebrates its tenth milestone edition from December 12 to 21, 2025. Among the highlights of this year’s festival is The Legends of Khasak, an immersive Malayalam-language theatrical production that promises to transport audiences into a world of magical realism.

Curated by renowned theatre scholar Anuradha Kapur and directed by celebrated Kerala-based theatre director Deepan Sivaraman, the play is an adaptation of O.V. Vijayan’s groundbreaking novel Khasakkinte Itihasam (The Legends of Khasak). It will debut in Goa for the first time with performances scheduled from December 17 to 20 at 6:30 PM at the Sports Authority of Goa ground.

Set against the backdrop of a riverside playground, The Legends of Khasak is designed as a sensorial and philosophical experience rather than a conventional stage play. The production blends fire, water, soil, scent, fog, and the vast open sky into its narrative, creating a powerful, immersive environment. Drawing from Kerala’s traditional art forms such as Theyyam, puppetry, and mask performance, the play unfolds the story of a young man who arrives in a remote Kerala village to teach, only to be drawn into its mythical, dreamlike landscape where reality and imagination intertwine.

According to Festival Director Smriti Rajgarhia, the open-air performance “unfolds like a dream, supported by a rich sensory experience.” It uses the natural elements of the environment as part of the storytelling, challenging the boundaries between theatre, ritual, and the viewer’s imagination.

The production features a stellar ensemble, including P.C. Gopala Krishnan, K.V. Krishnan Mash, P. Baskaran Master, Kumar Pariyacheri, and C.K. Sudheer, with music by Chandran Veyyattummal. Together, they create an atmosphere where folklore, philosophy, and emotion merge to form an unforgettable artistic journey.

Now in its tenth year, the Serendipity Arts Festival stands as one of South Asia’s largest multidisciplinary cultural events. The 2025 edition marks a decade of creativity, cultural exchange, and community engagement through visual arts, music, theatre, dance, design, photography, and culinary arts. Over 300,000 square feet of heritage venues across Panjim—from the Old GMC Complex to Kala Academy—will transform into spaces of imagination and collaboration.

Registrations for the festival are now open, inviting audiences from across the world to join this ten-day celebration of art, culture, and creative exploration.

International

Capt. Venzy Viegas Inspires Goans Abroad at World Goa Day 2025 in Kuwait

Tanisha Cardozo

The vibrant Goan community in Kuwait came together in a spirit of unity and pride to celebrate World Goa Day 2025, hosted by the Goan Cultural Centre–Kuwait. The event showcased Goa’s timeless traditions, music, and cultural diversity, while bringing together Goans from across the region under one banner of shared identity.

Among the special guests was AAP MLA Capt. Venzy Viegas, whose presence added significance to the occasion. During his visit, Capt. Viegas, along with Mr. Carmo Santos, President of the Goan Cultural Centre–Kuwait, paid a courtesy visit to Mr. Sanjay Muluka, Charge d’ Affairs and Officiating Ambassador at the Embassy of India in Kuwait. The discussion highlighted the invaluable role of the Goan diaspora in preserving Goa’s heritage, promoting its culture, and contributing to the state’s development from abroad.

Addressing a large gathering of Goans, Capt. Venzy Viegas expressed heartfelt admiration for their unwavering connection to their homeland. He said, “It was an absolute pleasure to meet Goans abroad. I request all Goans in Kuwait and across the world — let’s together preserve Goa’s Asmutai and build a Goa of our dreams for our Fudle Pilge Khatir (future generations).”

He lauded the Goan Cultural Centre–Kuwait for its efforts in keeping the spirit of Goa alive among the diaspora and for uniting Goans on one platform. The event reflected the powerful sense of belonging and pride that binds Goans across borders — a testament to their enduring love for Goa and its cultural essence.

Capt. Viegas also thanked the Goan community in Kuwait for their warmth, hospitality, and dedication to nurturing Goan culture, despite being miles away from their homeland. His message of “One Goa, One People” resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the collective spirit that defines Goans worldwide.

World Goa Day 2025 in Kuwait not only celebrated the state’s rich cultural heritage but also strengthened the bonds of community and identity that make Goa truly special — wherever Goans may be.

Music

Jackson Wang Set to Return to India for 2026 World Tour After Memorable Mumbai Visit

Tanisha Cardozo

Jackson Wang fans, get ready — the global pop icon is returning to India. The multi-talented performer has officially confirmed that India will be one of the stops on his 2026 World Tour, marking his much-anticipated comeback after a memorable visit to Mumbai earlier this year.

Wang’s previous trip left a lasting impression on both him and his Indian fans. Known for his dynamic stage presence and cultural curiosity, Jackson made the most of his time in Mumbai. He sampled local street food, played cricket with neighborhood kids, and partied with Bollywood celebrities.

One of the standout moments of his visit was an exclusive soirée in Worli, co-hosted by Ankita Anthony and Vinay MR Mishra, with a guest list that included Hanumankind, Aastha Gill, Natasa Stankovic, Ash King, and other artists. The evening, held at the luxury bar Milagro, carried an electric, Gatsby-inspired vibe with music, cocktails, and lively conversations that perfectly matched Jackson’s charisma.

“I had an amazing time in India — it was incredible meeting so many talented people and soaking in the country’s energy,” Jackson shared. “Mumbai surprised me with how vibrant and fun it was. I did it all, from trying street food to playing cricket with kids and, of course, partying!”

He went on to describe Milagro as one of the best venues he’s visited: “I didn’t expect Mumbai to have a bar of such international standards. The vibe was stunning, and my hosts Vinay and Ankita made sure it was a night I’ll never forget.”

Jackson’s Mumbai trip also included a star-studded evening with Hrithik Roshan and his family, Tiger Shroff, Karan Johar, Sonu Nigam, Adnan Sami, Pritam, and Salim Merchant, further cementing his connection with India’s entertainment fraternity.

As he confirmed his return, Wang extended warm wishes to his Indian fans: “The warmth I received was overwhelming. India truly feels like home. I can’t wait to be back in 2026 for my World Tour. Happy Diwali to everyone!”

The announcement has sent excitement surging through the Indian K-pop community, with fans eagerly anticipating venue details and ticket information.

Jackson Wang’s upcoming visit is more than a concert — it’s the continuation of a love story between one of Asia’s biggest global stars and one of the world’s most passionate fan bases. As he prepares to bring his 2026 World Tour to India, one thing is certain: when Jackson returns, the energy will be electric, the music unforgettable, and Mumbai ready to welcome him home once again.

Fit & Fabulous

Vogue World: Hollywood — When Silver Screen Icons Met High-Fashion Drama

Tanisha Cardozo

The event witnessed when silver screen icons met high-fashion drama — Vogue World: Hollywood turned the Paramount Pictures Studios Lot in Los Angeles into a runway of cinematic dreams. Celebrating the intertwined legacy of film and fashion, the show brought together Hollywood’s brightest stars, style powerhouses, and designers who continue to shape global fashion narratives. The charity-driven night not only celebrated creativity but also raised millions for important causes.

Dakota Johnson captivated the audience in a Valentino gown designed by Alessandro Michele. Adorned with crystal floral appliqués and a delicate tulle neckline, her look was a picture of timeless elegance. With open straight hair, wispy bangs, dewy makeup, and a sleek black clutch, Dakota effortlessly combined sophistication with understated charm.

Kim Taehyung, globally known as BTS’ V, made a stunning appearance in a hanbok-inspired grey trench coat. The ensemble was completed with a red norigae-style belt and hat — a poetic nod to Korean heritage with a contemporary twist. His warm smile and effortless poise added an extra dose of charm to the red carpet.

Miley Cyrus brought modern power dressing to life in an all-Saint Laurent outfit. Dressed in an oversized trench coat layered over a crisp white shirt, sheer tights, and pointed slingbacks, she radiated bold, unapologetic confidence. A leather biker cap sealed her edgy yet refined aesthetic.

Maitreyi Ramakrishnan represented global elegance in a gold Manish Malhotra creation that balanced heritage and haute couture. The ensemble, crafted from archival brocade with metallic floral motifs, paired beautifully with a tea-length skirt and monochrome makeup. Her sleek bun and subtle grace made the look stand out.

Madison Beer’s vintage Valentino mini dress brought back the playful glamour of the ’90s. The black-and-white striped piece, paired with strappy sandals and minimal accessories, highlighted her effortless cool-girl charm.

Kendall Jenner channeled cinematic nostalgia by wearing an original Moulin Rouge costume once donned by Nicole Kidman as Satine. The crystal-covered black-and-silver bodysuit, designed by Catherine Martin and Angus Strathie, shimmered under the lights, complemented by fishnet stockings, high heels, and a dramatic black hat.

Hailey Bieber embodied futuristic sensuality in a custom Mugler leather dress from the Spring/Summer 2026 collection. The off-shoulder silhouette, dramatic cutouts, and sculpted rosette accentuated her refined yet daring aesthetic. Her slicked-back bun, diamond studs, and glossy lips completed a look that was effortlessly magnetic.

The night of Vogue World: Hollywood will be remembered as a celebration of timeless artistry — where legends of the silver screen and icons of modern fashion came together to remind the world that style, much like cinema, is an eternal story of reinvention.