BandraBuzz creating community connect
December 2013 | Vol. IV Issue 12 (ii) | To Advertise: 9820783686 , 9920299787, 9820783616
E-paper: www.issuu.com/bandrabuzz | 16 pages | Price: ` 2
NCP & Bhamla Foundation wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year ABOUT BHAMLA FOUNDATION Founded in the year 1989, ‘We Love India’ (A Bhamla Foundation Initiative) is almost entirely a volunteer-driven organization; comprising of more than 1,800 patrons, spread across several cities in India - working for cerebral palsy, autistic & spastic children. A major part of these initiatives are from Bandra. Bhamla Foundation empowers children to improve their lives, their immediate communities and their world - forever. Mr. Asif Bhamla is the force behind this wonderfurl work. Asif Bhamla, who founded ‘We Love India’, was an ordinary person driven by an extraordinary dream. Like all of us, he looked for a way to reduce the disparities that exist between privileged and underprivileged children. His qualities of resourcefulness & determination were to come in handy, when he and few of his associates started this organization WE LOVE INDIA. Something needed to be done to improve the situation of underprivileged children. e foundation also took part in the awareness of issues, like global warming and saving the environment. e foundation works very closely with the ministry of environment and organized many such awareness programmes (the latest was a ‘health awareness drive’ - an initiative for a dengue-diabetes free Bandra - one of the largest medical camps held in the suburbs) which were very effective and has brought some change in society. Appreciating & encouraging people from all walks of life - right from films, sports & social activists. is is an integral part of the foundation. Just last year - for their good work in the field of environment, the foundation felicitated Shyama Kulkarni & Darryl D’Monte. All through the early, difficult years, it was Mr. Bhamla’s passion and conviction that drove this foundation. All he asks of people is that they help the foundation, by doing what they were good at. As he put it, "What I can do, I must do.” GETTING THAT ‘JINGLE’ BACK INTO THE LIVES OF SPECIAL CHILDREN More info at: www.bhamlafoundation.com & www.asihamla.com More pictures on Page 2 >>
Social Activities of Bhamla Foundation more info & pics on www.bhamlafoundation.com | www.asifbhamla.com
Glimpses of the last year - supporting our ‘Special Children’
BandraBuzz creating community connect
December 2013 | Vol. IV Issue 12 (ii) | To Advertise: 9820783686 | 9920299787
E-paper: www.issuu.com/bandrabuzz | 16 pages | Price: ` 2
Mark Dharmai Bags Bronze at Para-Badminton World Championships in Germany Chimbai’s little dynamite, Mark Dharmai has yet again made Bandra and India Proud as he recently represented India in the Para-badminton World Championship which was held in Germany from the 5th - 10th November 2013. Mark shared his experience with us and said there are many people to thank for his recent success and it would not be possible without them. A few months back he was not even sure of making it to Germany because there was no financial support provided by the government and so it was St. Andrew’s Church and Fr. Michael and his team together with a few others who helped him with all the financial support needed. He participated in the Singles and Doubles event, where he reached the quarter finals in the Singles tournament beating some of the top World players and stood third in the Men’s Doubles Event winning bronze. Mark partnered with Alexandr Mekhdiev from Russia because his partner
from India could not make it due to financial problems. As this was Mark’s First International Tournament, he got an opportunity to interact with many other foreign players and bring back some interesting tips about his game. He also got to learn from the players he interacted with from other countries get tremendous support from their governments, both financially and in terms of infrastructure, but here in India he says it’s completely different and a real struggle. Mark hopes and prays that the government does something for other sports in the country besides cricket as he would like sponsors to come forward so that he and people like him can represent the country in more tournaments to come. He is currently gearing up for state levels next month which will take place in Nagpur and has already a huge agenda in the front of him in terms of getting himself a coach and a few sponsors to help him financially. Dujon Fernandes
04 December 2013
NEWS
BandraBuzz.com
D'Monte Street Residents get an Xmas gift from Baba Siddique In previous editions of Bandra Buzz, we had highlighted how this cross was in a very bad shape. Recently locals Rudolf Pereira and Joseph Pereira (social worker) approached the Bandra Taluka Congress Office regarding their cross problem. î ˘ey met with Congress workers who guided them how to get the job done. In a short span of 2 days, the D'Monte Cross was beautified, fitted with tiles chosen by residents and the water pipe nearby was removed, as demanded by the locals. Speaking on the occassion, MLA Baba Siddique requested the residents present to readily come forward with their problems and greviences, so that he could help resolve them. He further stated, that the Congress believed in building a strong nation - India, irrespective of caste or creed. î ˘eir genuine concern was the welfare of the common man. î ˘en Tanveer Patel broke the news that redevelopment of surrounding roads like D'Monte Street, Boran Road, Chinchpokli lane, etc. would be done at regular intervals. î ˘is would benefit senior citizens and children. î ˘is road work would start in early 2014. People thanked Mr. Rudy Pereira, Mr. Joseph Pereira and Prakash D'souza, who worked tireless to supervise and guide the repair work, to get it done before Christmas. Finally Baba Siddique and his team wished all those who were present a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.
(L to R) Sajid Bhai, Haji Mohd., Baba Siddique, MLA and MC Tanveer Patel felicitated by residents of D'Monte Street î ˘e residents of D'Monte street gathered in large numbers to thank and felicitate their Congress MLA Shree Baba Sid-
dique and his team (see pic); who helped renovate and develop the D'Monte Cross which is over 100 years old.
Residents of D'Monte Street
‘Natal’ - An E.I. Christmas Carol CD By Crompton Texeira
Before you cringe at the thought of high-pitch voices singing the holiday classics, just take a moment to think
about how you feel when you hear Crompton Texeira’s composition “Baum Fest Sagle Gaaza Natal." Your inner
child can't help but smile and remember the holidays when you were young and life was easier. At 16 tracks, this may feel like a bit much for one sitting, so it's best to mix it up with other Christmas albums. Last year the Mobaikar East Indians felicitated him in Dubai at their ‘Agaracha San’ for preserving the East Indian culture through song and dance. Crompton, better known for his compering of the BEIA annual festivals at the Bandra Gymkhana - with his E I Marathi versions, has released some great East Indian recordings. î ˘is one ranks high in our opinion, because of standout original tracks that fit well with favorite holiday melodies such as "San Aila Natal", "KaramZalamche" and "SajwaKholi." He gives each song emotional weight, without overwhelming what made the songs great in the first place. Crompton has the singing ability of the classic crooners - and the special skill of keeping his listeners from dozing o. î ˘ere is little new material here in terms of the song choices, but he manages to put his romantic spin on each.î ˘ere are few better E.I. albums to play, while you sit comfortably in front of the fireplace. If you don't have a fireplace, then you'll have to make do with a furnace and blow the ‘fukne’, while your hand breads are getting ready - and Crompton and his Vocals croon to the blazing firewood! î ˘is CD is available at the BEIA Desk at the Bandra Gymkhana or directly from Crompton on # 9969560404. Happy listening. Jude H. Gomes
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NOSTALGIA
BandraBuzz.com
December 2013
05
Celebrating Bandra through Music Over a period of time, places get associated with aspects of life – something especially true with music. There’s New Orleans, unanimously voted as the ‘Cradle of Jazz’. Closer home, various cities and towns have spawned their own Gharanas. On an infinitesimally smaller scale, as a lifelong Bandra resident, I’d like to believe that the Queen of the Suburbs has been Mumbai’s cradle of music. Real estate dynamics and mega demographic shifts may have irreversibly altered the townscape, but nostalgia always takes me back to the days when Bandra was almost entirely an idyllic milieu of tranquil, leafy bylanes and quaint bungalows – which, if you sauntered across on a lazy Saturday or Sunday morning, you’d invariably encounter the wafting plink-plonk of a piano, the plucking of a guitar or music from a gramophone record. Ah, nostalgia! Queen of the suburbs... queen of music too, if I dare say. This is where then Bombay’s renowned big bands originated and band leaders resided. Did they – hey, could they – get any bigger than Maurice Concessio and Johnny Baptist? In the Bandra of yore, Maurice was always very pleasantly in-yourface. You’d encounter his Swing Sensations at weddings and dances – and in those days, these were the highpoints you lived for. You’d encounter Maurice even when he wasn’t making music. Who can forget the almost ubiquitous van that trundled around Bandra with its unforgettable catchphrase: ‘Music grows where Maurice goes’. It would be fair to say that Maurice Concessio and Johnny Baptist defined the contours that would shape Bandra’s musical legacy. The talent clearly abounded especially amongst the Catholic community – every household would have a piano, a guitar or a wind instrument – often, all three... and more. And of course the old radio! One that the entire family would crowd around every Saturday night – lapping up All India Radio’s very popular Saturday Date – and every morning taking in Radio Ceylon in between chores and getting ready for school or work. Little influences like these, plus stints with church choirs and an inherent love for music, shaped a community where music was an integral part of life. A wedding was unthinkable without first booking a band; every house-party simply had to have an extended sing-song session with someone tunefully flogging the piano or battering an old guitar – throw in some nifty vocal harmonies and falsettos, and you had everything that ranged from cacophony to some seriously refined impromptu music. For a few decades, the wedding band business thrived. No recorded music back in those days. If you dared go against the grain and not have a live band in session at your wedding, better not get married at all! Unthinkable really! And so, the likes of Country Funk, The Combustibles, 7th Galaxy, Nightbirds, Fame, Crimson Rage, Friendship Clan and Infra Red enjoyed a dream run – almost iconic in fact. A trend clearly started by the big bands of Maurice Concessio and Johnny Baptist.
The big bands comprised some outstanding individual talent too. Braz Gonsalves on sax and pianist Johnny Fernandes were legendary figures on the scene. Music ran in the family too. Yvonne (Braz’ wife), Ursula (Johnny’s wife) and Kittu Sequeira (Drummer Steve’s wife) were accomplished singers in their own right. Dual family connections – the three of them were sisters! Family connections transcended the generations too. From the Mascarenhas family to the Cardoz family – of whom Dionne and Kim attained widespread, well, fame – music in Bandra was often a family affair. Maybe not a template, but often... father would be a band leader or a wind specialist; mother played a nifty piano and sported mellifluous vocals; the children invariably took after their parents – expanding the canvas to guitar, drums and everything in between. The generational continuum is very pronounced in the case of the Pereiras – Renee Pereira is held in great renown as a legend amongst Bandra’s music teachers. Her daughter Jennifer (Donald, after marriage) has carried on the legacy. Third generation to the fore – Jennifer’s daughter Shannon is already leaving a mark on the local music scene. The same can be said of Ivy Fernandes – another of Bandra’s iconic music teachers. Her daughter Celeste is the respected name today – not just as a music teacher but even in putting together musical productions with her husband Joe Cordo. Talk about Renee Pereira and Ivy Fernandes, and you have to mention Blanche Veigas in the same breath. Between the three of them, they’ve schooled an entire generation, and more, of accomplished musicians. Teachers of the very highest pedigree – I’d go as far as calling them institutions of music. Of similar scale, pianist and teacher Xavier Fernandes – perhaps the men’s answer to the awesome ladies. In Blanche’s case too, it’s about a passing down of genes – daughter Blossom has more than excelled. And talking about great music teachers – can one forget Heather D’Souza! Again, Heather’s daughter Candy has created a few ripples too – for a bit even in the secular commercial space with a band called Caliche. One of Candy’s then bandmates is Annette Pinto’s daughter. Can a piece on the music legacy of Bandra not mention Annette! A singer who has left her mark on a national stage as well – through so many jingles. Oh well. Attempted to put together a piece on Bandra’s music legacy down the years, and I haven’t even mentioned icons like Louis Banks, Shaan and Roy Venkatraman. Louis Banks!! Often called the ‘Godfather of Indian Jazz’ – so huge, he’s even earned a Grammy nomination. Bandra is very proud to count amongst its residents, this institution of music whose amazing versatility ranges from purist Jazz to Indipop and Fusion – not to mention jingles and mu-
sicals. And there’s Shaan – whose versatility as a singer transcends Bollywood, pop, rock and hip hop – across languages too. Guitarist Roy Venkataraman, of course, went on to find fame with Bob Marley’s Wailers... no less! Like Roy, drummer Adrian is another of Bandra’s many music exports – plying his trade on the European circuit. Nice to see the next generation coming good too; like Louis Banks’ son, Gino. And Merlin D’souza’s son Rhys Sebastian, who plays some outstanding sax. Which means I must first mention Merlin herself – highly rated pianist and composer that she is. Samantha Edwards too, who, after earning a name as a vocalist, is now teaching music and to some pretty big names in Bollywood. One could go on and on about Bandra’s music personalities down the years – so many honourable mentions, a piece of this size couldn’t possibly do justice to all those talents. So let me instead move on to the musicals. Those were pretty big too in the day. And very dear to my own heart, having been in several of them. Carl Mendis’ take on Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is still fondly remembered decades later. Joe and Celeste’s remakes of Annie and the several Witness editions provided memorable milestones too. Peter the Rock is another. And can I ever forget Oh Artaban! written by then local boy Francis Nigli, with music from Merlin, and including none other than Salman Khan in its cast. I had the privilege of playing the protagonist role in that one. Other events have also played a role in shaping Bandra’s musical destiny. The various parish Zonals, for sure. I can relate deeply with the St. Andrew’s Zonals, which goes back some six decades (my association not in years of course); and now coalesced into the All-Bandra Zonals. Another tradition that bears mention is carol singing. In Christmases past, these were ubiquitous and a custom everybody looked forward to. On the other side of the spectrum, Bandra’s association with high-profile events like the Mahindra Blues Festival, which now hap-
pens every year at the Mehboob Studios and features world-renowned blues artistes, takes the local music scene to a different level. To an extent, Jago Mumbai – the community radio station I was closely associated with – was the closest one could get to being Bandra’s own radio frequency, even if it did cater to a wider radius. Which reminds me of a few other Bandraites who have also plied their trade as RJs. Music in Bandra is a theme I cherish deeply. In a sense it’s a tapestry of my own life. I get nostalgic about the roles I’ve played in the various musicals, the acoustic band Voices I once fronted, the St. Andrew’s Zonals... or even the impromptu street jams on the old Bandstand walls and culverts. That last bit, a slice of life out of almost every Bandra boy’s growing years. Amongst the haunts that attracted jams, there was the Irani restaurant opposite what is now Globus – where the singalongs continued behind closed shutters long into the wee hours of the morning. Much has changed around the Bandra of today. But every time I hear a terrace party come alive in the dead of night with a trademark singsong, I get transported back to a time when these weren’t the exception that they are now, but the happy rule. Little trinkets around the jewels that comprise Bandra’s musical legacy. Thank God for memories. Brian Tellis
06
December 2013
BandraBuzz.com
NEWS
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LET’S TALK CRICKET IN FOCUS
Jemimah Rodrigues has ‘re-defined’ cricket to everyone. Barely thirteen years old, she stands out uniquely as a talented cricketer & has already made it to Women’s U-19 team. She not only represents her school, St. Joseph’s Convent, but also Mumbai & Maharashtra at large. Her ambition is to represent India & perhaps become a professional cricketer. Indeed, one can be young & still achieve greatness! How did you develop an interest in cricket? My passion to play cricket started off at a very early age. My
BandraBuzz.com
December 2013
07
brothers & I used to hone our cricket skills by constantly practicing the sport whenever time permitted. My dad being an exceptional cricketer, very patiently & professionally coaches me till date to ensure that I excel. My parents & siblings have always motivated me towards achieving my goals. Describe a day in your life. I am an early bird. I wake up at 06:30am & attend the cricket practice at my school. In the aernoon, I quickly freshen up & head out to practice with my U-19 team mates either at Kandivali or BKC. Sometimes practice matches are held at the Middle Income Group (MIG) Club too. Apart from playing cricket, I also play hockey – U-16 for Mumbai & U17 for Maharashtra. On returning home I relax or spend some leisure time dancing, drawing, doing things I enjoy. en I catch up with my studies. Is there any memorable tournament that you recall? My most memorable cricket match was against the U-19 Saurashtra team. Opening the innings against Saurashtra, I scored 80 runs (not out). It was a true depiction of teamspirit. at tournament was simply phenomenal! Of course there are many more tournaments in cricket that I fondly cherish. How do you carefully strike a balance between academics & sports? I always ensure that my footing is strong in both studies & sports. My academics are top-notch. is is reflected in me an above 80% student. I am truly thankful to my Principal, Sr. Blanche Rodrigues for encouraging me in both academics & extracurricular activities. My parents too are always there to lovingly back me up whenever needed. Who has been the driving force behind your success? All my achievements in my life would not have been possible without prayers & trust in God. I will always glorify God
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in all that I do. Furthermore, I am highly indebted to my U19 cricket coach, Sir Sanjay for his unwavering belief in me & having faith in my talents. I attribute my success to my family, superiors & many more people. Is there anything special you would like to share? My motto in life is ‘Practice makes a man perfect’. Aaron Pereira & Joshua Norris Pic Courtesty: Nelvin John
08 December 2013
BandraB
CREATING CHRISTMA
THAT CHRISTMAS FEELING IN BANDRA is awesome Christmas display is all done for people – something that we decide to give back once a year. We have kept it pure not commercialized it; keeping with the Christmas Spirit. People's appreciation letters through the years have always inspired & motivated us – and they all expect it, every year. It enlightens them during the Christmas Season – something that we have started about 38 years back, with very humble beginnings. Initially, we would take a mango tree branch from a neighbourhood tree, a fevicol drum, rocks from Bandstand, cotton from the local general store, simple decorations available on Hill Road – and put them onto a tree in the centre, with 'Merry Christmas', on the glass. As the years passed, we evolved, and started decorating the other windows as well, improving our designs with stockings, hollies, wreaths, buntings, etc. As the years went by, our passion and inspiration grew tremendously and we took the designs and decorations to the next level of excellence. Since the last 15-20 years, we started elaborate displays with theme concepts. It is important to note that each year our themes are originally designed. e format we use is the Nativity (Crib) on one side, the Christmas Tree on the other side – and the theme in the centre is for the children. is year we have fairy tales & nursery rhymes – 'e Old Lady Shoe', 'Peter Peter Pumpkin Eater' & 'e Boy Who Cried Wolf '. Although our Crib has similar characters of Jesus, Mary, Joseph, the shepherd boy, the stable, etc.; our design is 100% different every year.
I, Frederick Pereira - Partner of Damian; who is a professional designer, design these Christmas displays from scratch. Right from the design concept, the layout plan, story, theme selection and character references. Aer the blue-print is completed, we get the whole team of art and cra work to come together and execute the project. Initially, prototype samples and mock ups are made for approval. Backstage, this production needs about 60-90 days to be completed. Another astonishing fact is that we put this display up in one single night. e night before, passers by see our normal furniture display, with ‘business-asusual’. e very next day, when they come back from work; the entire Christmas Display is up. Since everything is pre-manufactured by us, the entire display erection work gets started aer business hours at 8pm. We work through the night and set it up by the next day. So, people do not see the process of build-up. One night it is our furniture display – and the next night, it is Damian's Christmas Windows unveiled. is is normally done by November-end and kept right through Christmas Season till Jan 6th – which is the feast of the three kings. People come to see this from far & wide – across the country. In fact today, this has gone onto a global platform, with people internationally being aware of this. ose visiting Mumbai, from the Middle East, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the US, UK, etc. are advised to see the Damian Christmas Display, as a 'must-see' itinerary. Frederick Pereira (Damian)
uzz.com
December 2013
09
AS CHEER IN BANDRA
Xmas - The Bandra Way Christmas certainly must be Bandra's favourite time of year! Windows are beautifully draped with colorful strings of lights & big bright shiny stars making it a pleasure to drive through the streets at night & maybe catch a glimpse of some twinkling christmas trees sitting pretty in houses all around. For me Christmas seems to be the most unifying of all festivals as everyone seems to embrace it in some way or the other. Its just lovely to see how families come together to celebrate with each individual making their own contribution to the celebration. For example in a typical catholic household, the grandmother of the house might be very immersed in making marzipan & milk cream, while the mother is busy buying new curtains & choosing new upholstery for her sofas, the young adults are busy picking out their outfits for the festivities & deciding on where to go for the Christmas dance or with who (wink) & of course the little ones are busy writing & re-writing their letters to Santa. Lets not forget the men for they have equally important roles too! e grandfathers have dug out all their christmas carols sung by Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Elvis Presley, Jim Reeves etc. while the dads have to lug out the decorations & check to see if the lights for the christmas tree still work. While the teenaged boys are busy grooming themselves for midnight mass & the festivities that follow, excited as this is probably the only time of the year that they'll get to slow dance with that girl they've been crushing on! 'Coz sadly they just don't have socials all year round like they used to. Its a beautiful time of the year as it gives families an excuse to do things around the house together, plan out the festive menu, hang up the mistletoe & holly wreaths, sing along with the christmas carols enjoying each other's company while cooking & cleaning:)
Christmas isn't just one day of the year but in fact lasts more than a fortnight. e Christmas cheer sets in as soon as the little crib statues find their place on the path outside St. Peter's Church & the extra stalls squeeze into every nook & corner of hill road displaying stars in every color, holly wreaths & tinsel strings. You don't need to go all the way to Crawford Market anymore because Bandra has it all. Have you ordered your home made sweets yet? What about the stuffed chicken will you be making it yourself this year or ordering it from Candies again? Hope you'll be joining in on the fun festive activities that the people & communities in Bandra will be having. Like the Christmas show on St. Anthony's road, at St. Andrews Church & St. Peter's too. e Bandra Gym Christmas Bazar kept our spirits high as they combined shopping with caroling. With winter finally setting in we can be sure to enjoy December & all the drama it promises, the shopping for gis, the moulding of the marzipan & the rolling of the kulkuls, the writing of the christmas cards for those of us who are still old school, or the designing of the family photo emailers that get cc'ed to your entire address book & the trials with the tailors to get that dress fitting just right. You have to admit It's the busiest & best time of the year. A little seasonal advice from me to you which goes like this: You better work out You better drink less You better cut those carbs Or you won't fit in your dress! 'Coz Christmas time is here... again! Season's greetings everyone & remember JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THIS SEASON! Feliz Navidad! Francesca Mascarenhas
10 December 2013
BandraBuzz.com
NEWS
Does St. Martins Road need to be widened? Road Widening of St. Martin Road will damage Heritage property and Art Deco buildings. Is there a vicious nexus between local politicians, builders & the BMC – to line their pockets? As a resident of St. Martin's Road, I want to bring to your attention the uncalled widening of our road. e road is already 35 feet wide and accommodates parking of cars on either side. Despite this, there is free flow of traffic from Hill Road to Waterfield Road. e road is being widened for reasons best known to the BMC and traffic department. Our road is home to quaint bungalows, a heritage cottage and art deco buildings too. e residents of the road have met with several local corporators and undertaken signature campaigns as well - but to no avail. Cars from Metro Palace (Hotel), Royal China (Restaurant) and Globus (eatre) find parking space on our road. Globus never had parking space - and yet was given a licence to operate a theatre? is is very unfair to the local residents. We have now been informed that they will be breaking the compound walls tomorrow at 10:30am and hence seeking your support. It would be great if this situation can be covered by your esteemed paper and the residents (owners of plots for over 100 years) voices be heard. Despite suggestions of a one way road, parking on odd and even days or parking only on one side of the road were shared, but all has fallen on deaf years. As the BMC office and the Police Station are also housed on our road, the widened road will further provide additional parking space to their vehicles. We would also to call out the proposed action of road widening of St. Martin Road is totally unnecessary, illegal and inequitable, being without any merits or without any concrete data supporting the said action. LOCALS SPEAK Ajit Fereira: We are totally against the road widening, as the BMC are doing it in a very unjust manner. St. Martin's road is a small peaceful bye-lane, actually needs to be widened for free-flowing traffic, which the BMC claims they are doing. But, if you see the ground reality; they have taken land from owners & societies. is is now being used by hawkers & parking of vehicles from the surrounding hotels,
NELVIN JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY 9867842017
nelvin9@gmail.com www.nelvinjohnphotography.in
In our correspondences to the BMC earlier, we highlighted the following points: 1. In our compounds there are a number of valuable fruit and flower bearing trees, planted on the periphery of the compound wall and which fall within the area outlined by you for the purpose of widening the road. e trees in include Coconut, Love Apple, Jackfruit, Custard Apples, Mango, Jambool, Buttercup, Gooseberry (Awlas) and other full grown trees.
malls & outsiders – not the local residents. So, we are opposing this for the last six months. However, the BMC is turning a deaf year to the plight of the residents – and going ahead as per their own plan, which is not being shared with the locals, before being signed and approved by the authorities. We have observed that they are taking land from one side of the road only. So, some people are being favoured, whilst others are being penalised. Part of my plot (17A) is being taken, while bang opposite, the plot is intact, since has some religious activity. Why this favouring? In some cases, set back has been taken twice. Our famous actress Mala Sinha has given land on Turner Road & St. Martin's Road, without any TDR Certificates given as documentation. Why? Now, the BMC is coming for the third time – to take away more land. As of now, the BMC has told us verbally that we will get TDR Certificates, aer the widening is completed – ie. accquiring our lands & built the drainage system. en, we will have to chase them to get our TDR Certificates. Remember, Mala Sinha's Bungalow – in spite of giving setback land twice, has till date not got a TDR Certificate. So, how do you expect us to get it, aer all these past BMC records. e H-Ward officials just put their hands up, saying we have got orders from above, so they have to go ahead with road plan approved in 1981. Who has signed this – nobody knows! Have they come to reality, to see that peoples balconies are being cut – NO !. People who have drawn these plans are sitting in some office. ose staying
here are facing the real problem. Faust Gonsalves: e road widening was badly needed all these months & years, since the traffic is very heavy. is road was a one-way earlier, now it is both ways. Traffic sign boards should be installed immediately, aer the road is done. Allwyn Almeida: How can you widen a road – and yet maintain the trees? is will soon be a zig-zag road. Why has the BMC has not replied our protest letters? is widening will result in beggars & hawkers here – just like the foot path hawkers in front of St. Joseph Convent, Hill Road. Why is there no road widening in front of the BMC office? Our security will be compromised. We strongly dispute this widening. I will give an undertaking, written with my own blood; that this move is totally wrong – and very soon hawkers & beggars will take over St. Martin's Road. Aer numerous requests, we got a copy of the widening plan. ey say it is a straight line, but if you see it, you can see how crooked & unjust this road widening plan is. is plan is being done to favour a few people. Basically, this is a nexus between the politicians & builders, who are pushing for redevelopment in this area – and earn huge profits.
2. Please note that these trees have been in existence for over twenty years and as owners and residents of St. Martin Road, we are totally opposed to the clearing of these trees and or the impact that will be caused to them. As full grown trees, they will have to remain even aer the road is widened. You will appreciate that this defeats the very purpose of the proposed road widening. 3. More so, the notice failed to mention the reason why the BMC wishes to take possession of our land and motives for the same. As residents of St. Martin Road, we do not see a need for the proposed widening of an already existing wide road which has more than enough space for parking of vehicles on either side and for traffic to move smoothly to and fro. In line with the same, we wish to also inform the BMC about the parking of huge trucks belonging to the Corporation. If parking of these trucks and other vehicles is prohibited, much of the apprehended problem of traffic congestion will be resolved immediately. 4. As a result of the proposed road widening, the area in front of our plot along St. Martin road will be reduced to less that the area prescribed under the Development Control rules as compulsory open spaces. 5. e proposed widening will adversely affect the privacy and security of our homes, thereby resulting in the loss of privacy and threatened security of our ground floor flats. e proposed set back will result in many of our balconies to be virtually on the road itself. 6. Past experience has shown that road widening has resulted in infusion of hawkers, beggars & other unsocial elements, about which the BMC has not been able to take effective action to discourage or eliminate, & will this continue to be the fate of St. Martin Road? We look forward to your support. Floyd Almeida - 98924 76208
EDITORIAL
BandraBuzz.com
Dear Reader, Mid December in Bandra has us all filled with 'mixed feelings'. While we look forward to the festive season ahead, we reminisce about the year gone by… with vivid memories of milestones, events, relationships, experiences, achievements, failures, etc. – that have impacted and changed the direction our life. Seize the moment - this is the ideal time to take stock of our life. Get Motivated…Goal Setting..... Plan-Prepare-Act – it's the 'NOW', that makes thing happen. Surely, your plans for Christmas & New Year have taken shape. is is bonding time for family & friends at community clubs, coffee shops – and home parties. Food & beverages flow freely at these rendezvous. You've worked hard throughout the year – and earned your right to unwind and enjoy yourself. Celebrations are fine - but, do we have a thought about our under privileged neighbours? e house-bound, poor children, lonely elderly and those who have been deprived for being at the wrong place at the wrong time, due to no fault of theirs – need a helping hand. And… what better time of the year, to offer them some
Christmas Cheer. Civic scenes are 'Work-In-Progress' – across roads in Bandra. With elections just around the corner, our local politicians are on ‘overdrive’ – pushing public utilities & services at an all-time high. In reports, their faces feature prominently for credit & visibility. is is the best time to get any issues resolved by your 'friendly politician', as it is a 'win-win' situation – for now. Your favourite local newspaper is evolving to cater to your needs, so do use us to highlight your local issues, news and help make a positive change to your neighbourhood. Remember, think global, but start by acting in a local level. On behalf of the entire team at BandraBuzz, I take this opportunity to wish you a 'Merry Christmas' & Prosperous New Year 2014. So, till next time next year, take care. Warm Regards, Merck D'Silva 9820783616 editor@ bandrabuzz.com
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December 2013
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR WALKING WOES Pavements are turning into dog latrines in Bandra. e dog-owners have achieved one thing - hats off to them, they have driven the old and the kids to the road, to lose a limb or to die! 15th Road is the worst.....does anyone care? Vera Alvares SINNERS YES, BUT NOT CORRUPT It was a heartening to read in your paper the article written by Dereyk Talker. But, I would go a step further to what the Pope's quote really means. Corruption is the root of all evil. We all accept that we have sinned, but it is difficult to admit we are corrupt. Corruption in our daily chores is very much exposed - in different forms. So let us pray... Desmond Pereira Corruption is an exclusively endowed and finely tuned art of the 'chosen few' sinners. Javed Hassan BANDRABUZZ – WEEKLY? Hey, your BandraBuzz reporting team is awesome. People get incredible insights about their immediate neighbourhood – like no other newspaper. Our local activists are ever ready to dare and bare the devilish plans of evil politicians, bribing builders & our 'great' BMC. Bandra Buzz should be published:: Weekly – ASAP. Priya Grover
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DHARAVI IN BANDRA anks for publishing my article 'Dharavi In Bandra' on the illegal shops on water drains at Kadeshwari, Bandra West. I have received a letter dated 17th December 2013 from the BMC in reply to my letter dated 23rd October 2013. It states that they have served the illegal shop owners a notice under section 314 of BMC Act for removing their shops. Glad that you media coverage has highlighted this issue – with immediate reaction Adv. Shane Cardoz BEWARE OF DEBENHAMS I write this to make your readers aware about the dangers that lurk at many of our malls. Around two weeks back, while shopping at Debenhams, I slipped and fell as connecting cable was just lying around, without being stapled. As a result, I injured my foot and my ear. Luckily, my eyes were safe. And imagine - there was NO FIRSTAID available. CL Roy
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APPRECIATION I was going through your BandraBuzz December 2013 edition - and was very impressed by the way this paper has evolved in such a short time. Also, glad to see so many advertisements. Jose Mathews
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12 December 2013
NEWS
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WHERE THERE IS A WILL, THERE IS A WAY Is there a well established culture of making wills in India? It is unfortunately not well established. Very few people want to bring up the topic of making a will . Unlike in the West, where there is proper succession planning and family businesses have been handed down systematically to the next generation for hundreds of years.
Mr. Shankar Pai is a passionate and voluble man, out to make a positive difference in the lives of the not-so-fortunate. He is closely associated with the Make-A-Will Foundation where he is the President. Cyrus M Gonda met him to find out more about the intricacies of making a will in India & also what drives this lawyer turned social activist. Mr. Pai is a 4 times delegate to ISB Hyderabad 's Family Business Programme (omas Schmidheiny Chair of Family Business and Wealth Management is celebrated as Philanthropy Day by MakeA-Will Foundation on 28 December)
What do you feel are the reasons for this in India? Well, it’s mostly that people feel an air of finality once they have made their will. ey feel there is nothing le to live for. I know of many cases where children and parents would both like the parents to make a will, but no one raises the issue like Bhimsen Joshi, Rajesh Khanna, Kala Nirnaya people, Dhirubhai Ambani, Mr. Rana Kapoor who did not do succession planning. It’s almost as if it is an embarrassing topic. At what stage and age of life should one ideally make a will? Now people are starting to earn more much earlier in their lives. For example, an engineer and MBA, who is now working in the IT sector, by the age of 30 may have his own house, a car, a strong bank balance and a good salary coming in regularly. Such a person should even make a will at the age
of 30, as he has properties in his possession to leave behind.
Is it necessary that a will be registered? If so which is the authority which deals with this? It is the Registrar of Sub-Assurances at the Stamp Duty Office who does this work. Initially even elderly people had to stand in line at the office to get their will registered, but now there is a provision that for a nominal fee, a person from the office is sent over to the residence to do the job. What are the advantages of registering a will? Let me give you an example. A gentleman who was not married made a will leaving behind his property to a trust. Aer he passed away his brother visited the flat to clean up, and found the will and destroyed it, thus the brother got all the property which had actually been le to the trust. If the will had been registered, a copy would have been with the Registrar, and this would not have occurred. Apart from that, when a will is registered, it is not possible to tamper with it. What language can the will be made in? Even the simplest language possible is fine. No legal language is required. e only
“Very few people want to bring up the topic of making a will. Unlike in the West, where there is proper succession planning and family businesses have been handed down systematically to the next generation for hundreds of years.” thing is that the intention and the language of the will should be clear, and not vague. Any advice regarding wills for the general public? Yes, philanthropy is important. Please leave your property to your children, but also spare some thought for the unfortunate. Alfred Nobel created the Nobel Prize from his will. Even today, there is nothing to equal it in scale or magnitude. If one person can do so much, surely we can each do a little. ank you so much Sir. Could we share your contact details with our readers in case they would like to call you for expert advice regarding this issue? Definitely. ey are most welcome to contact me on 9819215578. Cyrus M Gonda
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LOCAL TUTIONS English Tutions in Bandra. Conversational English for Housewives. For students of Class 7 and above. Call: 98209 47130 or 99202 19038 A home tuition initiative 3yr and 2yr integrated course at home. Class X, XI, XII JEE (Main and advanced), ISEET, Complete comprehensive coaching at home. Call 93221 59108 Private/Group/Home Tutions for all subjects upto std X. SSC, CBSE, ICSE by highly qualified and experienced TEACHERS in Bandra, Khar, Santacruz. Also Chemistry for XI and XII NEET and JEE. Contact 98193 69222 / 98209 59886
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USED CARS Best price for used cars spot finalization, any make/model/registration/condition. Zuber - 98200 30777.
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14 December 2013
CELEBRITY
BandraBuzz.com
‘Bandra Boy’ Ayub Khan reaches for the stars! Meet Ayub Khan, professional Bollywood Actor since 1992 - and a very enthusiastic individual who loves going that ‘extra mile’. Becoming a Bollywood star isn’t any ordinary feat, yet this ‘Bandra Boy’ achieved something that many can merely dream of. Let’s learn from his experience, what it takes to shine. e sky is not the limit! Tell us something about your childhood? I lived a large part of my life in Bandra. I started off at Avabai Petit High School, which admitted boys too at that time - & from there I shied to Jamnabai Narsee School, St. Aloysius & others. At that time, childhood & teenage years were spent in a much different manner, unlike today. I especially remember that I along with my friends used to frequently cycle through the by-lanes of Hill Road, Pali Hill & Carter Road, making the most of our youth. e greatest part about life then, was that we actually knew who our neighbours were, at the tip of our fingers - & could literally pinpoint the locality they lived in. Is there any unique incident that always strikes a note in your mind? Well, we were very mischievous kids. Every Christmas, my school organized a fair. A few of my friends got together to celebrate Christmas. Sadly, we could only afford to buy an Christmas Tree. So, to add some Christmas Cheer’ to our bare tree, we decided to go to the fair. Naughty as we were (laughing), we stole a couple of Christmas decorations to glorify the Holiday Season. I recall that we were reprimanded by our Principal - & that was pretty embarrassing. It was one, humourous incident in my childhood. Nevertheless, we never strayed away from the bounds of childhood innocence. Who has always been a true role model in your life? My mother has always been a vibrant source of inspiration & courage. Having lost my father at an early age - & being boys, we were quite a handful. Whenever I erred, my mother never brazenly reprimanded me, but she stayed on course; never masking the loving side of her, in spite of her discipline & firmness. She always let me grow. To sum up, I had a closely
knit bond with her. Who was the underlying inspiration in motivating you towards becoming a Bollywood Star? Prior to joining the industry, I had an ardent desire to pursue a career in the IAF. Being the youngest in my family & strong vibes of the industry coming from my parents, I ventured into Bollywood. Initially to sharpen my cinematic skills, I was rigorously trained by Daisy Irani & Sarojji, who boosted my self-esteem in unimaginable ways. Right now, with about 24 years of experience backing me, I wouldn’t consider leaving the industry, even if given another choice. Frankly, Bollywood defines me!
moreover a character that I want to portray so that it becomes synonymous with the ambience set-around. People looking up to a character should have an adrenaline rush that leaves them awestruck, exclaiming a mighty ‘Wow’! On a scale of 1 – 10, how would you rate the Bollywood industry today? Well, we have many fantastic performers who elevate the name of the industry - & their talent can be admired in every aspect. So I would dole out a 10 /10 to them all & to some exceptional actors I would go even further & award a 20/10 rating (Smiling). You have spent the majority of your life in Bandra. What is it about Bandra that you love the most ? Practically everything stands out! I shied from Bandra to Versova in 1990 & since then Bandra has dramatically changed. Some traditional aspects have vanished. I nostalgically reminiscence the days when we kids used to boundlessly fly kites, make exquisite boats, go fishing at the very coveted Carter Beach. We found time to bask in natural beauty, calmness, serenity which truly is what Bandra is known for. No pubs, only a few bhel-puri vendors were what defined a leisurely outing. Ah! I remember those good old days!
ere may have been obstacles that you may have encountered in your career progression. Tell us how you tactfully conquered them - & moved up the ladder? My biggest obstacle was coming to terms with my own inhibition. On joining the industry, my mind-set was completely different. How they perceived stories & connected with the audience was alien to me. Yet, I had a chance to liaise with some of the best personalities of the industry, who recurrently motivated me towards perfection. I enjoyed working with producers like Shri Prakash Jha, who gave me a totally different perspective towards life. Films like ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ are breath-taking. e oneness observed in the Bollywood industry is fabulous. Going back to my first audition, I felt that I was not cut out for it. e thought that many other actors were far superior constantly shadowed my mind. It was the reputed ‘Mirza Brothers’ who helped me overcome all my fears, while filming for ‘Mashooq’. ey told me to give my 100% - & that they would support me with the rest. Our second venture together ‘Salaami’ was a marvelous success. ere was no looking back from then on.
If, given the chance to change anything about Bandra; what would it be & why? (inking…) I would like to trade the present year with the year 1985. It may seem stupid to some, but I recount memories of hearing the rustling of the trees & enjoying the ‘sounds of silence’. ings change, as life oen does. Although Bandra still remains the celebrated ‘Queen of the Suburbs’, it has become a mini-metropolitan hub, where life is on an ever-ready rampant race, which may benefit the citizens who live in Bandra. Yet, come what may I will happily cherish Bandra till the end.
How many films have you been a part of? Of them, which was your favourite script & character? I have been a part of 35 to 40 films & I’d rather not treasure any film in particular because each film is very unique in its own way. It is not just an on-screen character,
How do you see yourself in the future, in connection with the present? Perseverance, patience & calmness are my three strong qualities. As of now, I constantly juggle family, personal, social & work commitments. In my leisure time, I acquire knowledge, try out new interests,
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“I would like to trade the present year with the year 1985. It may seem stupid to some, but I recount memories of hearing the rustling of the trees & enjoying the ‘sounds of silence’. Things change, as life often does. Although Bandra still remains the celebrated ‘Queen of the Suburbs’, it has become a mini-metropolitan hub, where life is on an ever-ready rampant race, which may benefit the citizens who live in Bandra. Yet, come what may I will happily cherish Bandra till the end.” Ayub Khan do mechanical stuff, carpentry… - right up to tinkering around with my house, cars & anything that captures my attention. I wish to retire to a beautiful, serene place where life is not led by mere demand but where people value the time spent with each other. I hope to own a fishing boat & I spend more quality time with my family. Any advice to young individuals, wishing to take up to acting as a profession? To flourish in the acting industry an individual should first free his or her mind, break the boundaries of conventional innovation - & dare to dream. Even then, don’t rush! Acting isn’t an overnight endeavour. One needs to have the grit & determination to reach for stars. Joshua Jonathan Norris
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NEWS
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December 2013
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So you think Bandra’s cool? You may actually be right! Have you walked into a restaurant or a theatre and felt like you should have brought a shawl or a jacket? Well, you’re not the only one. Vivek Gilani tells me that’s what got him started on the timely ‘upby2’ campaign. Walking up to the building housing his home office, I decided to take the stairs feeling much like the man I was going to meet, a bit concerned about my health and a bit more about the environment. I was pleasantly surprised to find child- like paintings accompanying me all along the passage way. Great idea to camouflage disgustingpaan stains, I thought. But that wasn’t the reason they were there. Vivek has been trying over the years to convince his neighbours to go ‘green’. One of the choices was to get people to take the stairs and one shot in the dark was to make the stairs a pleasanter experience. I instantly took to the idea. However it was a huge challenge and just one of many, as I was about to find out. “My place is the one that has the cycle outside” said Gilani. Reaching the second floor I found two. One was a child’s cycle and the other a swankier, more grown up version. No prizes for guessing which doorbell I rang. Vivek Gilani, an environmental engineer and a BEE (Bureau of Energy Efficiency) certified auditor started the ‘upby2’ campaign to spread the message of equitable use of energy in a bid to manage the looming issue of climate change. Caused by an excessive amount of green house gases expelled into the atmosphere, climate change is causing havoc the world over and is poised to become one of the biggest challenges to reckon with in the near future. Climate Change is the name for the world wide phenomenon of erratic weather caused by global warming which means the temperature of the Earth is rising. Our atmosphere ensures that temperature conditions are habitable for life through the presence of gases called ‘Green House Gases’. ese maintain an optimum temperature for all ecosystems to survive. However due to man’s increased activities that include using up natural resources and expelling pollution the balance is disturbed. ere is an increase in emissions that is believed to be the cause of global
Vivek Galani, Co-Founder at ‘The no2co2 Environmental Project’ warming. According to Vivek, in 2010 India had 4.8 million ACs in operation and by 2030 the number is set to go upto 48 million. e obvious worry here is of the implications of such a huge leap in the demand and use of non-renewable energy. “We need to look at how India can be cooled better and fair”. “Greed” says Gilani,“is the biggest problem”. Urban environments like the city of Mumbai and especially the suburb of Bandra are using up resources far in excess of their share thereby depriving other sections of society
of their equal right. In Bandra itself, every new building with its matchbox sized flats has the unmistakable slot for a window AC. No one seems to question the reason for an AC; everyone is hell-bent on following the herd, snowballing the problem beyond repair. In the course of our interview, we’ve walked down to the neighbourhood cafe and of course the first thing Vivek does is mark the position and temperature settings of the ACs. A quick assessment and he is able to tell me where the problem lies and
Climate Change is the name for the world wide phenomenon of erratic weather caused by global warming which means the temperature of the Earth is rising. Our atmosphere ensures that temperature conditions are habitable for life through the presence of gases called ‘Green House Gases’. These maintain an optimum temperature for all ecosystems to survive. However due to man’s increased activities that include using up natural resources and expelling pollution the balance is disturbed. There is an increase in emissions that is believed to be the cause of global warming.
how quickly the owners can fix it. I ask him more about it. Vivek tells me about ‘Fair Conditioning’, an initiative by a set of different groups whose aim is to ensure equitable use of energy. A compelling environmentalist at heart, Vivek confesses his hatred for cars. I nod in understanding and for the sake of argument; throw at him the aspirations of the common person to improve his or her life. He comes straight back with a reasonable argument for incentives. “Make it inconvenient to drive a car” he says, “while providing adequate incentive to persuade people to make the better choice”. Explaining the ‘upby2’ campaign, Vivek says the idea was to get people to request a change in temperature while making use of an immensely popular social network to further the cause. “We need to get used to a 24 degree to 25 degree temperature as things are only going to get warmer”, he cautions with a smile. So if you wish to make a difference and there’s good enough reason to do so, the next time you walk into a place where the AC is set to an unnaturally chilly temperature make sure to ask the manager/owner to ‘up the temp by 2’. As part of the campaign, post your good deed on the Facebook page of the campaign and wait for that pat on your back by the team at ‘upby2’. Become part of the solution because if not you’re not, then you’re part of the problem.
Vivek is looking for interested and willing hands to help him in his projects to save our environment, one degree at a time. If you’re passionate and willing to put your money where your mouth is, write in to Vivek Gilani at vivek@no2co2.in. Join the upby2 campaign at www.no2co2.in And, let’s make Bandra a little less cool than it needs to be! Sonal Alvares
16 December 2013
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3
rd
Anniversary