Spotlight

The Lens of Life: Harsh Kamat’s Journey as a Photographer


In the world of photography, it’s not just about capturing moments, but also about telling stories that evoke emotions, spark connections, and leave a lasting impact. For Harsh Kamat, a talented photographer from Goa, his lens has been a window to the world, allowing him to document life’s beauty, complexity, and simplicity.

From his early days of experimenting with camera phones to his current projects and collaborations, Harsh’s photography journey has been a testament to his passion, creativity, and dedication. In this exclusive interview, we delve into Harsh’s world, exploring his inspirations, experiences, and perspectives on photography and life.

For Harsh, the spark that ignited his passion for photography was his father’s camera phone. “Those were the days when camera phones had just arrived in the Indian market, and my father had one,” he recalls. “I’d be super excited every time I would take it in my hand and take some pictures on the same.” This early fascination with photography laid the foundation for Harsh’s future endeavors.

As Harsh grew older, his interest in photography only deepened. He pursued his passion by taking courses and practicing regularly. “It’s the process of practicing regularly and experimenting that develops your skill,” he emphasizes. This dedication to his craft has enabled Harsh to develop a unique style that blends technical expertise with creative vision.

For Harsh, photography is not just about capturing moments; it’s about telling stories that resonate with others. “I love to tell stories, and I love to shoot almost every day,” he says. This passion for storytelling has led Harsh to work on various projects, from documenting real-life stories to capturing the beauty of everyday moments.

Throughout his journey, Harsh has had the opportunity to work with several notable photographers and artists. One of his most significant collaborations has been with Common Thread Media, a media firm that works in the social development sector. “Working with Common Thread Media has been a highlight of my career,” Harsh says. “It’s allowed me to work on projects that promote social development and tell real-life stories.”

So, what inspires Harsh’s creativity? “I find inspiration in everyday moments,” he says. “Observing the world around me keeps my creative vision fresh.” This ability to find inspiration in the mundane has enabled Harsh to develop a unique perspective that sets his photography apart.

For those aspiring to follow in Harsh’s footsteps, his advice is simple yet profound: “Just go out there and click.” He believes that the key to success lies in perseverance, dedication, and a willingness to learn. “To be able to take up your passion as a profession, to be able to tell stories through your pictures, is an ultimate joy and privilege,” Harsh says.

As Harsh looks to the future, he is excited to explore new opportunities and challenges. “I want to let it flow like a river, not plan it,” he says. With his passion, creativity, and dedication, Harsh Kamat is sure to continue making a name for himself in the photography world.

Harsh Kamat’s journey as a photographer is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and dedication. Through his lens, he has captured the beauty, complexity, and simplicity of life, telling stories that evoke emotions, spark connections, and leave a lasting impact. As we gaze through Harsh’s lens, we are reminded of the importance of living in the moment, observing the world around us, and telling stories that matter.

Spotlight

Meet Rohit Chari, the Mastermind Behind Red Canvas Studio


Rohit Chari, the founder of Red Canvas Studio, has been making waves in the art world with his vibrant caricatures, quirky illustrations, and stunning murals. From his early days as a mischievous schoolboy doodling in his notebooks to becoming a renowned artist, Rohit’s journey is a testament to his passion and dedication to his craft.


Rohit’s artistic journey began in childhood, long before formal training shaped his skills. His school notebooks were never just for classwork; they were filled with doodles, often landing him in trouble with teachers. These early signs of an innate passion for art led him to enroll at the Goa College of Art, where he gradually honed his craft.


After working under various companies and firms, Rohit realized that his true calling โ€“ sketching and illustrations โ€“ was being restricted. Despite having a secure job at a reputed company, he felt his creative potential was not being fully utilized. The desire to explore unique artistic styles and break free from limitations kept growing. Amidst much contemplation, Rohit made a bold decision โ€“ to step away from conventional employment and carve his own path in the art industry. This leap of faith led to the birth of Red Canvas Studio, an independent venture dedicated to vibrant caricatures, quirky illustrations, and creative merchandise.


Rohit’s art is deeply rooted in Goa’s culture and heritage. He has worked on numerous projects that highlight Goan folk dances, traditional houses, cultural festivals, local transport, food, beaches, and iconic places. His murals have become a staple in many Goan restaurants and establishments, showcasing the state’s unique susegad lifestyle.


Rohit believes that humor plays a crucial role in his art form. “The more lively and humorous the artwork, the more appealing and engaging it becomes,” he says. His caricatures are a testament to this philosophy, often exaggerating the subject’s features to create a humorous and relatable piece.


Rohit has collaborated with numerous brands and establishments, including Coca-Cola, Namaste Chai, and Marriott. He’s always open to new collaborations and is currently working on creating merchandise and exploring different selling platforms to reach a wider audience.


Rohit’s story is a reminder that success is not solely dependent on formal training or conventional employment. With passion, dedication, and a willingness to take risks, anyone can turn their dreams into reality. As Rohit continues to push the boundaries of his art, we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this talented artist.

Goaโ€™s finest jewels ๐Ÿ’Ž

Katya Coelho: The Windsurfing Trailblazer Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Generations


Katya Coelho, India’s first woman windfoiler and 19-time national gold medalist, has shattered barriers and inspired a generation of young athletes. Her remarkable journey, marked by perseverance, dedication, and passion, serves as a testament to the power of chasing one’s dreams.

Growing up near the ocean, Katya was introduced to windsurfing by her father, Donald Coelho. She recalls the thrill of her first windsurfing experience, feeling an incredible sense of freedom and excitement. This moment sparked a passion that would drive her to become one of India’s most accomplished windsurfers.

Katya’s turning point came when she qualified for the 2014 Youth Olympic Games, making history as the first Indian athlete to achieve this feat in windsurfing. This milestone fueled her determination to compete at the highest level, and she has since gone on to win numerous national and international titles.

Throughout her journey, Katya has faced challenges and overcome obstacles, including biases and limited opportunities as a woman in a male-dominated sport. However, she has consistently let her performance speak for itself, staying focused, training hard, and breaking barriers.

As a role model and inspiration to young athletes, Katya emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself, staying committed, and pursuing one’s passions with dedication and perseverance. Her message to young girls and women interested in windsurfing or sports is clear: “Don’t let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do. Sports can be challenging, but with passion, hard work, and determination, you can achieve anything.”

Katya’s goals extend beyond her own athletic achievements. She aims to contribute to the growth of sailing in India, mentor young athletes, and inspire more Indians to take up windsurfing. Her legacy will undoubtedly be one of trailblazing achievement, paving the way for future generations of windsurfers and empowering women to pursue their dreams in sports.

As Katya continues to chase her dreams and push the boundaries of what is possible, her story serves as a powerful reminder that with hard work, determination, and passion, anything can be achieved.

Key Highlights:

  • Katya Coelho is India’s first woman windfoiler and 19-time national gold medalist.
  • She has competed in the Youth Olympics and Asian Games, winning numerous international titles.
  • Katya aims to inspire young athletes, especially girls, to take up windsurfing and pursue their dreams.
  • She hopes to leave behind a thriving sailing community in India and pave the way for future generations of windsurfers.

Quote: “Believe in yourself and don’t let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do. Sports can be challenging, but with passion, hard work, and determination, you can achieve anything.” – Katya Coelho

#AllycaralFeature ๐Ÿ‘’, Spotlight

Meet Shreya Sirsat, Founder of Chocolat Story


Shreya Sirsat is a talented cake artist and founder of Chocolat Story, a renowned bakery in Goa. With a passion for creating exquisite cakes that bring joy to people’s lives, Shreya has built a reputation for her attention to detail, creativity, and commitment to quality.


Shreya’s fascination with cake artistry began during her teenage years, watching cake decorating shows on TLC. She was captivated by the beauty and creativity of cake design and knew she wanted to pursue a career in this field. After completing her degree in Business Management, Shreya pursued formal education in cake artistry and began her journey as a cake artist.

Chocolat Story: A Dream Realized
In 2015, Shreya founded Chocolat Story, initially focusing on corporate gifting and homemade chocolates. However, her true passion lay in cake designing, and she soon transitioned to creating custom cakes that celebrate life’s special moments. With over nine years of experience in cake designing, Shreya has developed a distinctive style that blends creativity, attention to detail, and a passion for making every cake a masterpiece.


Shreya’s inspiration comes from various sources, including nature, art, and other food. She believes in staying true to her own style while keeping an eye on global trends. Her favorite part about being a cake artist is creating something special for people and seeing the joy it brings to their celebrations.


As a entrepreneur, Shreya has learned to balance the creative and business aspects of running Chocolat Story. She prioritizes organization, time management, and delegation to ensure that both sides of the business run smoothly.


Shreya’s future plans for Chocolat Story include sharing her knowledge with aspiring cake artists through courses and personal consultations. She also aims to improve the business’s online presence and continue innovating in the field of cake artistry. With exciting projects lined up, including introducing a new concept in wedding cakes, Shreya is committed to taking Chocolat Story to new heights.


Shreya plans to continue sharing her passion for cake artistry with the community in Goa through hands-on courses and personal consultations. She believes in helping others grow in the field and breaking the misconception that cake artistry is an easy job.

Shreya Sirsat’s journey as a cake artist and entrepreneur is a testament to her passion, creativity, and dedication. With Chocolat Story, she has created a brand that is synonymous with quality, creativity, and excellence. As she continues to innovate and inspire others, Shreya’s story is a reminder that with hard work and determination, dreams can become a reality.

#AllycaralFeature ๐Ÿ‘’, Goaโ€™s finest jewels ๐Ÿ’Ž

RJ Uday: The Voice that Touches Hearts


In a career spanning over two and a half decades, RJ Uday has become a household name in Goa, entertaining and inspiring listeners with his unique voice and style. With a career milestone of 25 years on air, Uday has established himself as one of the most beloved and respected radio jockeys in the industry.


Uday’s love for storytelling began at a young age. Growing up, he would gather children from his village and narrate stories to them. This passion for storytelling eventually led him to pursue a career in radio. “My mother used to call me ‘Badbado Kaasav’ (a talkative tortoise from a moral story) because I would talk a lot,” he reminisces.


One of the most touching moments in Uday’s career was when he met a visually impaired listener who had been eager to meet him. “He held my hand and said, ‘Today, I touched my favorite voice,'” Uday recalls. “That moment truly moved me. It made me wonderโ€”how many lives have I unknowingly touched through my voice?”


When asked about balancing his personal and professional life, Uday says, “When you truly love something from the heart, you just find ways to do it.” He believes that his passion for radio helps him navigate the demands of a live radio show. “Even after 25 years on air, I still feel those tremors before opening the mic,” he admits. “And I believe that’s a good thingโ€”because if I ever stop feeling nervous, it would mean I have nothing left to achieve, making going on air meaningless.”


Uday’s approach to radio is centered around his listeners. “My golden rule is simpleโ€”if I were the listener, would I enjoy this?” he says. “That’s my filter. If something doesn’t appeal to me as a listener, I drop it. If I love it, I repeat it.” Uday believes that stepping into his listeners’ shoes helps him understand what works and what doesn’t.


Uday acknowledges the challenges posed by the digital age but believes that radio’s unique strengthsโ€”immediacy, intimacy, and personal connectionโ€”set it apart. “Radio has played a crucial role throughout human history,” he says. “It remains one of the most accessible forms of media, and its soul is human touch.” Uday notes that radio has adapted to the digital age by embracing hybrid approaches, such as social media integration.


Uday’s advice to aspiring radio jockeys is simple: “Be true to yourself.” He believes that authenticity and uniqueness are key to success in the radio industry. “Don’t try to emulate someone else’s style,” he advises. “Find your own voice and be confident in your abilities.”

As RJ Uday celebrates 25 years on air, his passion for radio and his commitment to his listeners remain unwavering. His story is a testament to the power of radio to touch hearts and inspire lives. With his unique voice, engaging style, and dedication to his craft, Uday continues to be a beloved figure in the radio industry.