Tag: Poetry

Travel

Goa and Norway Strengthen Ties to Collaborate on Technology, Tourism and Creative Industries

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Goa deepened its global engagement as a high-level delegation from Norway visited the State for a roundtable hosted by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C), in collaboration with the Department of Tourism. The interaction focused on exploring partnerships in technology, tourism, creative industries, skilling, cybersecurity and sustainability. The discussions were held in the presence of Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics and Communications and Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, alongside senior officials including Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director of DITE&C; Dr. Milind Sakhardande, Joint Director, DITE&C; Dr. Gavin Dias, General Manager (Marketing) of GTDC; Shri D. S. Prashant, CEO of Startup and IT Promotion Cell; and representatives from Kilowott. The Norwegian delegation featured key leaders such as Trond Skundberg, General Manager of NICCI; Christian H. Engh, CEO of the Norwegian Cybersecurity Cluster; Monica Skjellen-Larsen, Advisor at Gjøvikregionen Utvikling; Bjørn Aspøy, CEO of Smart Farm AS; Sheraline Rocha, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Nordic Intent; Aditya Prabhugaonkar of Kilowott; Yeshtesh Shirodkar of Consstruct; and Prabha, Director at NICCI.

Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasized that Goa is increasingly shaping a development model that brings together technology, creativity and sustainable tourism. He highlighted ongoing initiatives ranging from electronic manufacturing and AI skilling to a robust startup policy that positions Goa as an attractive destination for global collaboration. He further noted that the State’s tourism strategy is increasingly focused on technology-enabled experiences, immersive storytelling and climate-conscious practices. He reiterated that Goans must remain central beneficiaries of any international partnership, with opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship and skill development.

Christian H. Engh, CEO of the Norwegian Cybersecurity Cluster, explained why Norway considers Goa a strategic partner. He underscored that Norway, one of the world’s most digitised nations with strengths in renewable energy, electric mobility and advanced technology, is now looking toward India to address talent needs and co-develop scalable innovations. Engh stressed that Goa’s commitment to sustainability, clean mobility and future-ready tourism strongly aligns with Norway’s priorities. He further noted that aquaculture technology—an established strength of Norway—offers promising potential for joint initiatives with Goa.

The roundtable also included a presentation by Shri D. S. Prashant, CEO of the Startup & IT Promotion Cell, who discussed Goa’s evolving startup ecosystem, strong policy environment and emergence of a creative-tech landscape that combines design, technology and innovation. This was followed by a detailed briefing by Dr. Gavin Dias from GTDC, showcasing Goa’s tourism strategy and its increasing emphasis on sustainability, wellness, Ayurveda, medical tourism, heritage conservation and biodiversity-driven travel. Investment opportunities in hospitality, experiential tourism, charter operations and research-based collaborations were also highlighted.

During the interaction, the Norwegian delegation outlined several actionable areas for future collaboration. These included university partnerships, academic and incubator exchanges, talent mobility programmes between Goa and Norway, research-led collaborations and the introduction of international diver certification programmes. The delegation also discussed strengthening the NICCI network in India and leveraging Norway’s global expertise in aquaculture, marine technology and clean energy to align with Goa’s emerging opportunities in these sectors.

As Goa accelerates its work in technology, creative industries, skilling and sustainable tourism, the engagement with the Norwegian delegation underscores the State’s readiness for global partnerships. The discussions highlighted the mutual interest of both regions in shaping future-oriented initiatives anchored in innovation, sustainability and shared growth.

Fit & Fabulous

Sonam Kapoor Stuns in Vintage Princess Diana–Inspired Pink Suit for Chic Pregnancy Reveal

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Bollywood actress and style icon Sonam Kapoor recently made a show-stopping pregnancy announcement, and true to her fashion-forward persona, she did it in a way that had the fashion world talking. The actor, currently in the UAE for work, revealed her second pregnancy at an event hosted by luxury watch brand Audemars Piguet, dressed in a Barbie-pink vintage suit that could easily be mistaken for a modern masterpiece. Styled by her sister and stylist Rhea Kapoor, Sonam’s ensemble paid homage to none other than the late Princess Diana, who herself was celebrated for her impeccable sense of style and iconic power dressing.

The suit, designed by Margaretha Ley in 1988 for the German fashion house Escada, is a tailored skirt suit in pure wool, featuring oversized padded shoulders, large black buttons, and a black pocket square. Its silhouette and detailing mirror the elegance and authority that Princess Diana carried in public appearances between 1988 and 1990. Sonam completed the look with sheer black stockings and YSL black pointed-toe kitten heels, while accessorizing with a black Escada clutch with gold hardware and minimal gold jewelry, including thick hooped earrings and gold rings on both hands. Oversized black sunglasses added a modern edge, proving that vintage fashion can feel contemporary and bold when styled thoughtfully.

The actor’s Instagram post announcing her pregnancy was met with adoration from fans and celebrities alike. Her husband, Anand Ahuja, affectionately commented “double trouble” and “Baby ma.. also chicccccc mama!” while her mother, Sunita Kapoor, and friends from the industry showered love in the comments. This chic and deliberate fashion choice underscores Sonam’s position as a trendsetter, blending timeless fashion with personal milestones.

Sonam Kapoor, who previously welcomed son Vayu in 2022, continues to inspire with her sartorial choices, demonstrating that pregnancy style can be both glamorous and empowered. With this Princess Diana–inspired announcement, Sonam has reinforced her reputation as one of Bollywood’s most fearless and influential fashion icons.

Entertainment

Bigg Boss 19: Pranit More Asked to Leave the Show Due to Medical Reasons, Salman Khan Confirms

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Entertainment Desk

Reality show Bigg Boss 19 continues to dominate headlines with its twists and emotional turns. The latest episode left fans stunned after host Salman Khan announced that contestant Pranit More was asked to leave the show owing to medical concerns.

The announcement came during Weekend Ka Vaar, where Salman revealed that Pranit’s medical condition required attention outside the Bigg Boss house. “I’ve received Pranit’s medical reports, and the medical attention he needs can’t be done inside the house. Therefore, he has been asked to leave the show,” Salman said. He also clarified that Pranit’s departure was not due to lack of votes, but purely for health reasons.

The statement took housemates by surprise. Contestants Abhishek Bajaj and Ashnoor Kaur immediately asked if Pranit would be able to return once he recovered, but Salman did not confirm, saying it depended on his medical progress.

The host further revealed that, since Pranit was leaving for medical reasons, no eliminations would take place that week. “Because of Abhishek, Ashnoor, and Mridul, nine people got evicted, but since Pranit is leaving, no one will get evicted today,” he announced.

Reactions poured in across social media, with several television celebrities, including Malti Chahar and Gaurav Khanna, expressing shock and concern. Fans flooded Twitter and Instagram with messages under hashtags #GetWellSoonPranit and #ComeBackStrongerPranit, praising him for his sincerity, humor, and positivity inside the house.

Many called Pranit one of the most genuine and entertaining contestants of Bigg Boss 19, saying the show would feel incomplete without his energy. Several fans also expressed hope that he might be allowed to return once fully recovered.

As the season continues, Bigg Boss 19 remains one of television’s most discussed reality shows, known for its unpredictable twists and emotional depth. The show airs on JioCinema at 9:30 PM and on Colors TV at 10:30 PM.

Human Interest

GCCI Highlights Urgent Infrastructure and Safety Concerns to South Goa Collector

Tanisha Cardozo

The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has taken a proactive step toward addressing pressing civic and infrastructure concerns in South Goa by submitting a detailed representation to Ms. Egna Cleetus, IAS, Collector and District Magistrate of South Goa. The initiative reflects GCCI’s growing involvement in ensuring smoother trade logistics, safer roads, and improved living and working conditions for the people of the region.

Led by Shri Chandrakant Gawas, Chairman of the GCCI Logistics Committee, the delegation met with the Collector and outlined a series of critical issues impacting the region’s development. The meeting underscored GCCI’s commitment to public welfare, responsible business, and collaborative governance, with an emphasis on urgent interventions and sustainable solutions.

The representation began by acknowledging the reopening of the Goa–Belgaum Road via Anmod, which had previously caused significant delays and disruptions for trade and commuters. While the reopening was welcomed, GCCI pressed for the completion of the remaining three-kilometre stretch at Ramnagar, highlighting that this small section continues to hinder seamless connectivity.

Concerns around road safety were also strongly raised, particularly the increasing number of accidents at Verna Junction. GCCI requested the deployment of permanent traffic police personnel at the junction to ensure disciplined vehicle movement and prevent future mishaps. In line with improving traffic management, the representation called for better monitoring of heavy vehicles through speed checks, upgraded road signage, dedicated lanes for goods transport, and road safety awareness campaigns.

Infrastructure issues were not limited to roads. GCCI voiced its concern about the deteriorating state of the Old Borim Bridge and requested a status update on the construction of the new bridge. The Chamber also made a strong case for the urgent establishment of dedicated truck terminuses in both North and South Goa to eliminate the chaos of haphazard parking and reduce congestion on key transport routes.

Civic issues such as indiscriminate garbage dumping along Airport Road, Railway Station Road, and national highways were flagged as health and environmental hazards. GCCI stressed the need for regular garbage collection, better waste management protocols, and stricter enforcement against violators.

A special focus was placed on the fishing community’s safety, especially in the wake of a recent boat accident where a fisherman saved 27 lives. GCCI recommended mandatory safety checks for fishing vessels after the monsoon, timely dissemination of weather alerts, the provision of life-saving gear, and periodic mock drills involving all relevant agencies. They also requested that the brave fisherman who undertook the rescue operation be formally recognised and felicitated for his heroic efforts.

The South Goa Collector assured GCCI that these matters would be looked into with urgency and would be brought to the attention of the respective departments for action. She also expressed her appreciation for GCCI’s initiative in taking up civic concerns on behalf of the business community and the public.

GCCI reiterated its readiness to support and collaborate with the district administration and other stakeholders in finding feasible, time-bound solutions to the raised issues. The Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to work towards inclusive development, where industry growth is matched with improved infrastructure and public well-being.

Books & Literature

Madhav Borkar to Preside Over 26th All India Konkani Literature Conference in Kerala

Tanisha Cardozo

Senior Konkani poet Madhav Borkar, also known as Veni Madhav Sridhar Sinai Borkar, has been named President of the 26th All India Literature Conference (Akhil Bharatiya Sahitya Sammelan), organized by the All India Konkani Parishad. This prestigious literary gathering will be held on November 22 and 23 at the AJ Hall in Ernakulam, Kerala. The decision to appoint Borkar was taken at the recent general meeting of the Parishad.

Madhav Borkar is widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in contemporary Konkani literature. A poet of great depth and lyrical grace, his body of work includes acclaimed collections such as Chanwar, Vatache Savllyo, Ujvadacho Rukh, Parjalache Dar, Yaman, Avyaktachi Gaanni, Symphony, Mallbaache Janel, and Sukrut Fulam. His poetry is celebrated for its emotional intensity, philosophical insight, and connection to Konkani cultural roots.

Beyond his own writing, Borkar has contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of Konkani literature. He has authored biographical works on renowned Konkani writers Pandurang Bhangui and Manohar Rai Sardesai, and translated Rabindranath Tagore’s poetry into Konkani, enriching the language’s literary heritage. His work Yaman earned him the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award, and he has also received the Sahitya Akademi Translation Award. Other accolades include the Konkani Bhasha Mandal award, T. M. A. Pai award, Vimla Pai Award of the World Konkani Centre, the Goa State Cultural Award, and recognition from the Goa Konkani Akademi.

Borkar’s role as a mentor to young poets and writers has been a defining aspect of his career. His dedication to nurturing talent and expanding the reach of Konkani literature continues to inspire a new generation of literary voices. He has also held the post of station director at All India Radio and previously served as president of the Goa Konkani Akademi.

The upcoming literary conference in Ernakulam is being organized with the joint efforts of Konkani organizations in Kerala. Delegates from across the country are expected to participate, and registrations have already begun. While accommodation and meals will be provided for two nights, travel expenses will need to be covered by the attendees.

The selection of Madhav Borkar as the president of the 26th Sahitya Sammelan is a recognition of his enduring contributions to the literary world and a celebration of Konkani language and culture on a national platform.