PANAJI: The 1st Liberty and Light festival of Goa (LLFG) a unique, first of its kind community-curated, “people’s festival of ideas”, was held over three days from May 28-30 at Maquinez Palace and the Old GMC building, Entertainment Society of Goa, here in the capital city.
The first day’s morning walk inside the Panaji market conducted by Goa-based chef Avinash Martins and Mumbai-based chef Thomas Zacharias; and attended by 75 people set the tone for the festival.
The key panel discussions included – Rahool Pai Panandikar, managing director, Boston Consulting Group (India)’s thoughts on climate change and the solutions available; Jnanpeeth award winner – Damodar Mauzo’s release of his latest book of short stories, ‘The Wait and Other Stories’; New York-based author Sujatha Gidla speaking about her book, ‘Ants Among Elephants’ which put the spotlight on the trials and tribulations of a Dalit family in modern India; young chef Thomas Zacharias’ ‘Locavore’ story where he stressed the need for modern-day Indian chefs to connect more with local farmers and local produce, among many other interesting discussions.
The three days of evening entertainment saw Sonia Sirsat, noted Fado and Mando singer, actually coach the audience and make them sing the popular Goan mando, ‘Adeus Korcho Vello Paulo’ on the centuries old, staircase of the old GMC building.
There were soul-stirring musical performances by – Imphal-based Manipuri activist singer, Akhu and Shillong-based pop-rocker, Lou Majaw which was interspersed with the laugh-out-loud, stand-up comedy of Daniel Fernandes and Omkar Rege; not to forget the hard-hitting rap music of Dalit singer, Dule Rocker from Odisha.
The grand finale on the last evening saw some sublime, jazz music from saxophonist, Braz Gonsalvez (88) and his quintet. It was a treat to watch Braz, his wife Yvonne (75) and their grandson, Jarryd perform together on stage, states a press release.
