Being Goan - JULY ISSUE 2023

COVER FEATURE

Erica De Sequeira

A Rising Star on the Global Martial Arts Stage

Velisha colaco lifestyle and food influencer

Cover Image: Erica De Sequeira

Volume 2 Issue 7

July 2023

DJ Ketan entertaining audiences for the past 18 years

akash kambli engineer turned Content Creator

bhukkadholic One of Goa’s most loved food influencers

Editorial

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the July issue of our Being Goan e-magazine.

On the cover of this month’s issue, we shine the spotlight on Erica Sequeira, a remarkable 13year-old prodigy who has brought immense pride to Goa and India through her achievements in the field of a unique form of martial arts known as Tong-Ill-Moo-Do. Join us as we delve into Erica's journey, learning about the challenges she faced during her journey and the triumphs she achieved along the way. Her dedication and perseverance serve as an inspiration to all young aspiring individuals, reminding us that age is never a barrier to greatness.

The inside pages of this month’s issue feature the stories of two influential Goans - Velisha Colaco and Akash Kambli. Velisha, with her impressive Instagram following of over 33K, has captured the hearts of many with her engaging content. Meanwhile, Akash's humorous creations have entertained audiences and brought smiles to faces across the digital realm. Both these individuals showcase the power of creativity and the ability to connect with others through the ever-evolving world of social media.

This month’s issue also features the stories of 3 well known Goan food bloggers - Pranali Kande (foodgallary_foodieme), Gajanan Kamble (_bhukkad_holic), and Rakshanda Sawant (rakshandarecipes). Their passion for showcasing their culinary adventures has resulted in them

earning a huge fan following on their respective Instagram pages. Check out the features inside to know more about their incredible journeys in the world of food blogging.

Lastly, we delve into the pulsating beats of Goa's music scene by featuring DJ Ketan, a seasoned Disc Jockey who has been enthralling audiences for over 18 years. From local venues to stages across India, DJ Ketan's infectious energy and captivating mixes have made him a household name in the Goan entertainment industry. Prepare to be transported to the dance floors of Goa as we explore his journey and the impact he has made on the music landscape.

As the college academic year commences in Goa, the state's college campuses come brimming with eager students ready to pursue knowledge and chart their future. The invigorating atmosphere is often accompanied by the arrival of the monsoon rains, which bring a sense of rejuvenation and relief from the scorching summer heat. The lush green surroundings, coupled with the rhythmic sound of raindrops, create an ambiance that inspires growth, learning, and new beginnings.

However, the heavy rains that inundate Goa in July present their own set of challenges. While the downpour rejuvenates the flora and fauna, it tests the infrastructure and resilience of the state. Flooded streets, disrupted transportation, and power outages become the norm, requiring the collective strength and adaptability of the Goan community. Despite these obstacles, the people of Goa face the monsoon season with resilience, always finding ways to navigate through the turbulent waters.

Well, that's all I have for you from my desk this month.

I hope you enjoy reading this month’s issue of our magazine. Do share it with your friends all across the globe.

Until next month, cheers!

Jessyl Fernandez Editor 3

Index

01 Erica De Sequeira

02 Akash Kambli

03 Velisha Colaco

04 Gajanan Kamble

05 Rakshanda Sawant

06 DJ Ketan

07 Pranali Kande

Introduction

Editorial Team

Chief Editor

Jessyl Fernandez

Content Manager

Steve Antao

Sales & Marketing

Donald Fernandez

Graphics & Layout

Shashank Parab

Social Media Manager

Saviola Dias

Goa, the tiniest state on the western coast of India, boasts golden pristine beaches, palmfringed avenues, flavourful food, delicious Portuguese-influenced sweets, and warm, hospitable people. Also known as the Ibiza of India for its partying. A tropical paradise of flora and fauna, from the very famous 'almi' (mushrooms) endemic to its forests, that grow only on the red mud anthills, to the solar prawns that are fished immediately after the monsoons, Goa is unique. Tourists are also attracted to Goa for its cultural heritage - from the famous old Portuguese churches like Se Cathedral in Old Goa, the 16th Century Safa Masjid in Ponda and Shree Mangesha Temple in Mardol, the legendary Arvalem or Pandava Caves where the Pandavas of the Mahabharat fame lived, to its two unique festivals - Carnival and Shigmo. Goa plays host to many festivals - the International Film Festival of India that promotes cinema, the Serendipity Art Festival, Sunburn Music Festival, to name a few. To showcase this varied heritage of culture, art, tradition, food, and people, in 2015 ItsGoa was born. The main aim was to make it the premier portal for all things Goa. We were able to showcase Goa like never before. Soon our blog-based website transcended the virtual space, with the ItsGoa magazine – a sought-after resource for visitors to Goa from countries like Norway, UK, USA, etc. www.itsgoa.com

For advertising queries: 9370502124 / 9209005127

Article by: Steve Antao Images by: Erica De Sequeira

Meet Erica De Sequeira, a talented and determined young girl from the picturesque state of Goa, India. Born in January 2010, Erica has embraced her Indian culture and heritage with immense pride. At just 13 years old and currently in the 8th grade, she has already achieved remarkable success as a martial artist and Bharatnatyam dancer. Erica’s dedication, passion, and unwavering support from her family have propelled her onto the international stage, where she continues to shine as she represents her country with great enthusiasm and skill.

Master Singh’s knowledge, teaching style, and ability to describe the intricate workings of the human body and the fascinating stories of ancient warriors inspired Erica to pursue martial arts wholeheartedly.

A Path Paved with Achievements

Erica’s journey in martial arts began in 2017 when her mother enrolled her in a summer camp at Don Bosco Panjim, driven by her concern for Erica’s safety. Little did they know that this decision would mark the start of an incredible martial arts career. Under the guidance of her exceptional coach, Master Raunak Singh, Erica found herself drawn to martial arts and captivated by its rich history.

Since her training commenced in 2017, Erica has achieved remarkable success in national and international competitions. Despite initially being the only girl in her age category, her coach’s words, “there are no genders in martial arts; we are all equal,” motivated her to embrace martial arts as a unifying art form. Erica’s first taste of national competition came in the 6th National Tong-il Moo-Do Championship in 2019, where she earned a well-deserved bronze medal in the women’s 33 kg category.

Overcoming Challenges Amidst the Pandemic

Like many athletes around the world, Erica’s plans for international competitions were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, she adapted and

A Journey Shaped by Martial Arts and Inspiring Mentors

Erica De Sequeira

participated in virtual championships, showcasing her skills and dedication. In the 2020–21 World Tong-il Moo-Do 2nd Online Bon Championship, she secured a silver medal in the individual bon Novice B-Women’s category. Erica’s relentless spirit led her to win a bronze medal in the advanced U-17 Girls category at the World Tong-il Moo-Do 3rd Online Bon competition in 2021.

Proudly Representing India on the Global Stage

Erica made history in 2021 as the first woman from India to compete in the World Martial Arts Master-ship Committee (WMC) competition in South Korea, where she won a bronze medal in the team bon (demonstration) category. In 2022, she continued to make her mark, earning the runner-up position in the special weapon mixed gender team and individual bon categories at the WMC in South Korea. Erica’s achievements also extend beyond Tong-il Moo-Do, as she clinched a silver medal in the girls’ 40 kg weight category at the ADCC South Asian Championship in 2022.

She also won gold medals in Sparring (women’s category: 40 - 45kgs) and in Black Belts Advanced Special Techniques/Demonstration and bronze medals in Team Bon (Form and Black Belts Advanced Category) and Individual Bon (Female) Black Belts Advanced Category at the 10th edition of Open Tong-il Moo-do International Martial Arts Championship 2022 in Mombasa, Kenya.

Challenges Faced

Despite her exceptional talent and proven track record, Erica faced financial challenges when it came to representing her country in international competitions. Despite seeking sponsorship and a suitable practice space, she encountered difficulties. However, she expresses her gratitude to Don Bosco Panjim for providing her with the practice space she needed. Erica’s unwavering determination and the support of her family continue to propel her forward. www.itsgoa.com

Erica with the gold medal she won in Sparring (women’s category: 40-45kgs) at the 10th Mombasa Open Tong-il Moo-Do International Martial Championships in 2022

Preparing for Future Triumphs

Undeterred by obstacles, Erica is currently preparing for upcoming competitions. She has set her sights on the Mombasa Open in Kenya and the World Martial Arts Championship Committee in South Korea due to be held later this year. With rigorous training sessions of 7 to 8 hours a day, Erica’s commitment and dedication to her craft shine through.

An Inspiration to All

Erica’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and showcases the power of passion, perseverance, and family support. She embodies the true spirit of a martial artist, dedicating herself to constant learning and self-improvement. With her passion, dedication, and unwavering support from her family, she continues to make India proud on the international stage. Erica’s story serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us of the power of determination, cultural pride, and the pursuit of excellence. As she prepares for future competitions, let us unite in supporting Erica and celebrating her remarkable journey as she continues to make waves in the world of martial arts.

Erica with the gold medal she won in the Black Belt Advanced

10th Mombasa Open Tong-Il Moo-Do International Martial Arts Championships 2022 in Kenya

Erica with the silver medal that she won in the 40-45 kg women's category competition at the ADCC South Asian Championship 2022 held in Goa

An engineer whose knack for making people laugh led him to become one of Goa’s most popular content creators.

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: Akash Kambli

In today's digital age, social media platforms have opened up new avenues for individuals to showcase their talents and entertain people worldwide. One such inspiring story is that of Akash Kambli, a popular Goan content creator hailing from Sanquelim in North Goa. From a young age, Akash's dream was to become an engineer. However, as he grew older, his interests shifted towards entertaining people. His talent for acting, dancing, and singing became evident during his school days, where he actively participated in various competitions, earning recognition and prizes. Akash's ability to captivate audiences and bring joy to others ignited a spark within him, hinting at the direction his life would eventually take.

Professional Ventures and Realisation of True Passion

Following his diploma in fabrication technology and erection engineering from Government Polytechnic Panaji, Akash worked for several reputable companies. These experiences provided him with a solid foundation in the professional world. However, it was during his time at Guala Closures India Private Limited that he realised his true calling. While working as a production officer, Akash's yearning to entertain resurfaced. He decided to explore content creation seriously and embarked on a path that would eventually lead him to become a renowned social media personality.

BTS - Urrak video which went viral in Goa

The Transition: From Singer to Content Creator

Before gaining recognition as a content creator, Akash initially pursued a career as a singer. He uploaded singing videos on YouTube and even created his own music video, "Tu Mevle," which garnered positive feedback. However, Akash soon realised that to stand out in a saturated music industry, he needed to differentiate himself. Given his natural inclination towards humour, he decided to shift his focus towards making people laugh and embarked on his journey as a content creator.

The Birth of Akash Kambli, the Content Creator

In 2016, Akash created his Instagram account and began uploading singing videos. However, he soon mustered the courage to embrace comedy and relatable content as his mainstay. Encouraged by the success of his first viral video featuring his son, which amassed over 2 million views, Akash's confidence soared. His followers grew exponentially, and he found his niche in entertaining people through laughter.

Self-Made Success

Despite lacking a professional team, Akash's determination and the unwavering support of his father, wife, and friends fuelled his success. Shooting videos with their help, Akash's content resonated with viewers, resulting in millions of views and a rapidly growing follower base. His talent and reputability caught the attention of brands and fellow content creators, leading to exciting collaborations and opportunities.

His Role Models

Akash attributes his success and humility to his father, Mr. Vidyadhar Kambli, who instilled in him the values of kindness and maintaining good relationships with others. He also recognises the unwavering support of his wife, Mrs. Pradnya Kambli, who has been his pillar of strength throughout his journey. Gratitude is a core value for Akash, as he encourages youngsters to appreciate what they have and live life happily, understanding that many others dream of the opportunities they possess.

BTS - Acting as Papa scolding his son on phone for taking his bike without his permission

T-shirt brand promotion (images by Goatshirts)

Future Aspirations

Akash's ultimate ambition is to become a popular content creator in India. With his infectious humour and relentless work ethic, there is no doubt that he will continue to make people laugh and inspire others through his content. He aspires to meet his favourite actor Hrithik Roshan someday, and hopes to collaborate with renowned content creators in the future.

Akash Vidyadhar Kambli's transformation from an engineer to a successful content creator exemplifies the power of passion, determination, and adaptability. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring creators, reminding them to follow their true calling and embrace their talents. Through his relatable and humorous content, Akash has brought joy to millions and continues to pave his way towards becoming a prominent figure in the world of entertainment.

BTS - Video shoot At RadhaKrishna Temple, Sanquelim

T-shirt brand promotion (images by Goatshirts)

food & lifestyle blogger

Velisha Colaco

With more than 33K followers on Instagram, Velisha Colaco is undoubtedly one of Goa’s most popular food and lifestyle influencers.

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: Velisha Colaco

www.itsgoa.com

The Inspiring Journey of Velisha Colaco

In a world where self-expression and creativity have become increasingly valued, individuals like Velisha Colaco have emerged as true inspirations. Hailing from the picturesque town of Porvorim in North Goa, Velisha embarked on a remarkable journey of self-discovery, transitioning from a shy individual to a confident lifestyle influencer. With a passion for fashion, travel, food, and lifestyle, she has embraced her unique style and captured the hearts of many. This article delves into Velisha's personal growth, professional achievements, and her message of empowerment to young Goans.

Childhood Ambition and Educational Background

From a young age, Velisha harboured the ambition of becoming a doctor. However, as life unfolded, her interests took her on a different path. She pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Biotechnology, delving into the world of scientific exploration. Alongside her academic pursuits, she began freelancing as a social media executive and also worked for a reputable UK firm, gaining invaluable experience in the digital sphere.

Doing a Collaboration with Crocs for Sunburn

Photoshoot for Aarush kitchens

Discovering a Passion for Content Creation

Throughout her life, Velisha had an innate love for creating content and fashion. However, it wasn't until the lock-down period that she mustered the courage to showcase her talents. Initially hesitant, she began uploading pictures of her outfits privately. As time went on, her confidence grew, and she decided to make her profile public. This marked the turning point in her journey as a content creator.

The Journey Unfolds

In November 2021, Velisha's dedication and talent caught the attention of Nanbai, leading to her first collaboration opportunity. This partnership opened doors to new possibilities and transformed her life in unforeseen ways. From barter collaborations to paid opportunities, she steadily built her brand and reputation as a food and lifestyle influencer.

A Multifaceted Creator

As a lifestyle influencer, Velisha creates captivating content encompassing fashion, travel, food, and various aspects of everyday life. Her videos and reels capture the essence of her unique style and offer glimpses into her adventures. With her vibrant personality and eye for aesthetics, she has carved out a niche for herself in the digital realm.

Challenges Faced

Velisha attributes her success to the unwavering support of her parents and a few close friends. Their encouragement and belief in her abilities provided the foundation for her to pursue her dreams. However, she acknowledges that growing an audience can be a challenging task. Despite the hurdles, Velisha remains resilient and stays true to herself, constantly evolving and refining her craft.

Doing a food shoot at Hyatt centric, Candolim

restaurant collaboration in Assolna

Future Aspirations

Velisha's journey as a creator has shaped her perspective on self-empowerment. She looks up to no one but herself, considering herself her own favourite and role model. Her determination and self-belief have been instrumental in her progress. While she has already achieved remarkable milestones, Velisha has ambitious plans for the future, aiming to expand her reach, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and further establish herself as a prominent lifestyle influencer.

Message to Young Goans

In conclusion, Velisha Colaco's story is an embodiment

of the adage, "Just Start." She encourages young Goans and aspiring creators to embrace their passions fearlessly and begin their journeys, irrespective of doubts or shyness. Her message is a reminder that personal growth and fulfilment often lie beyond the confines of comfort zones. Velisha's inspiring transformation serves as a testament to the incredible potential within each individual waiting to be unleashed.

So, to all the young Goans out there, take Velisha's words to heart and embark on your own journey of self-discovery. Who knows? Your unique talents and passions may just lead you to a world of endless possibilities and fulfilment.

at cremeux, Miramar, Panjim

food blogger

Gajanan Kamble

Goa’s very own ‘bhukkad_holic’

Article by: Team ItsGoa

Images by: Gajanan Kamble

In today's digital era, social media platforms have become a powerful tool for self-expression and creativity. Among the myriad of content creators, Gajanan Kamble, a 21-year-old Maharashtrian boy born and raised in Goa, stands out as a passionate food blogger. While pursuing his masters in inorganic chemistry at the Government College of Arts, Science, and Commerce in KhandolaMarcela, Gajanan embarked on a remarkable journey that led him to explore his love for food and create a popular Instagram account, @_bhukkad_holic.

The Beginning of His Journey

At the tender age of 19, during the lock-down, Gajanan discovered his passion for cooking and decided to document his culinary experiments on Instagram. Little did he know that this simple endeavour would evolve into a full-fledged food blogging adventure. Initially created for fun, Gajanan's page gradually gained momentum as he delved into the world of Goan restaurants and

diverse cuisines, capturing his experiences through captivating visuals and engaging descriptions.

Gajanan doing a collaboration with Gianis Ice-Cream at Anjuna

Doing a collaboration at Babaji Bakers and Confectioners, Porvorim

Challenges Faced

While Gajanan's parents and friends initially had limited knowledge about food blogging, they stood by his side and provided unwavering support. Gajanan encountered several challenges along the way. The misconception that blogging is merely about clicking pictures and posting them online posed a significant hurdle. He emphasises the immense effort invested in shooting, editing videos, and perfecting each click. Another challenge he faced was the unpredictable nature of Instagram's reach, where even excellent content did not always meet the expected view count. Balancing his academic commitments as a science student while consistently creating engaging content on Instagram proved to be another demanding task.

Inspiration and Future Aspirations

Gajanan draws inspiration from his parents, who instill in him the drive and determination to work towards his goals. Additionally, as a die-hard fan,

he dreams of meeting BTS and Taylor Swift someday. While blogging is currently a passion project for him, Gajanan intends to remain active and creative, nurturing his interest in food and maintaining his presence in the z.

His Message To Upcoming Content Creators

As a young blogger, Gajanan acknowledges the influx of new bloggers on platforms like Instagram. He advises the youth of today to focus on originality, creativity, and content quality rather than pursuing fame or accumulating thousands of followers. Emphasising the significance of consistency, Gajanan encourages aspiring bloggers to remain dedicated to their craft, knowing that success will follow with time and perseverance.

Follow Gajanan on his food adventures on:

Instagram: @_bhukkad_holic

Facebook: @bhukkad_holic

Doing a collaboration at Miri X FWB, Panjim

For reservations: 0832-2456231 +91 7447499070 | +91 7447499069 Odxel Beach, Dona Paula, Goa- 403004

food blogger

An Anaesthesia technologist who doubles up during her free time as a food blogger.

Article by: Team ItsGoa Images by: Rakshanda Sawant

Rakshanda Sawant

Meet Rakshanda Sawant, an ambitious and passionate individual hailing from the picturesque village of Mandrem in North Goa. While Rakshanda’s professional life revolves around the medical field as an Anesthesia Technologist at Goa Medical College, Rakshanda has also carved out a unique space for herself as a food blogger. Her journey into content creation began during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic when she found solace in her love for cooking. With the encouragement of a close friend and YouTuber, she started her YouTube channel and Instagram page called Rakshanda’s Recipes. Today, Rakshanda's culinary creations, particularly her authentic Goan recipes, have garnered a loyal following and continue to inspire others.

A Passion for Goan Cuisine

Rakshanda's passion for food is evident in the content she creates. Her recipe videos offer a delightful glimpse into the vibrant world of Goan cuisine. She brings forth the essence of the local food scene by featuring renowned restaurants, charming kiosks, festival delicacies, street food delights, and cherished cultural heritage. Her dedication to preserving the raw and real essence of Goan flavours resonates with her audience, who eagerly await her new culinary adventures.

Challenges Faced

Rakshanda's demanding responsibilities in the medical field, including long shifts and night duties, leave her with limited time for content creation. Juggling her commitments can be demanding since she works in the operation theater. Due to this, she hardly gets any time to spend on her phone and create content. Nonetheless, Rakshanda's passion for content creation remains unwavering. She utilises every spare moment to shoot recipe videos, either at home or by visiting various locations, and diligently edits and posts them. Her consistent efforts have paid off, as evidenced by her impressive following of nearly 25,000 devoted followers.

Rakshanda doing a collaboration at Novotel Resort and Spa, Candolim

Her Support System

Rakshanda's journey as a content creator would not have been possible without the unwavering support of her parents, family, and friends. They have been her pillars of strength, consistently encouraging her to explore her creativity and push boundaries.

Rakshanda's community of followers plays a pivotal role in her growth, motivating her to produce innovative videos that capture the essence of Goan culinary traditions.

A Flavourful Future

Rakshanda's future plans are rooted in her unwavering dedication to content creation. Her food blog serves as a therapeutic escape from the demands of her medical profession, infusing her life with comfort and joy. Cooking holds a special place in her heart, and she aims to continue sharing her culinary adventures with her growing audience.

Rakshanda's aspirations revolve around maintaining a steady flow of engaging content while nurturing the growth of her food account.

A Message to Goan Youth

Rakshanda's message for young and aspiring content creators in Goa is that it is never too late to embark on a creative journey. By staying consistent and committed, success is sure to follow. Her words of encouragement serve as a reminder that hard work and perseverance can lead to the fulfillment of one's dreams.

Doing

collaboration at Miri X FWB, Miramar

ENTERTAINMENT

DJ Ketan

Having entertained audiences for the past 18 years, DJ Ketan is undoubtedly one of Goa's most loved DJs.

Article by: Steve Antao Images by: DJ Ketan

Ketan Lolayekar, popularly known as DJ Ketan, has spent the past 18 years immersing himself in the world of DJing. Despite his childhood ambition of becoming a musician, academic pursuits led him in a different direction. However, DJ Ketan's deep-rooted love for music found its expression through DJing, which has since become both a serious hobby and a thriving career, complementing his responsibilities in managing his family's business.

Early Beginnings

DJ Ketan's journey as a DJ commenced when a family friend, recognising his exceptional taste in music, encouraged him to explore the realm of events. Under the guidance of his mentor, DJ Claudio, DJ Ketan delved into the intricacies of DJing, embarking on a path that would forever change his life.

Career Highlights and Memorable Performances

DJ Ketan's career flourished with his residency at Fiplees in Benaulim, an opportunity he cherishes, thanks to the club's owner, the late Mr. Salazar. A significant milestone in his journey came when he had the privilege of performing at the illustrious Club Tito's. Over time, DJ Ketan has captivated audiences at various renowned venues across Goa, sharing his passion for music with enthusiastic crowds.

Current Residencies

Presently, DJ Ketan commands weekly residencies at several prestigious locations in Goa. On Wednesdays, he mesmerises audiences at The Den in South Goa. Fridays see him taking the stage at both Miguels and Soho Bollywood Box Office in Panaji. Additionally, he graces Back2Basics Soho on Saturdays. Acknowledging his unwavering dedication and exceptional talent, DJ Ketan was honoured with the INCA award for DJ of the Year (Goa) in 2019-2020, a coveted accolade presented by the India Nightlife & Conventions Awards.

DJ Ketan Performing At SOHO

DJ Ketan with the INCA award for DJ of the Year (Goa) 2019

DJ Ketan performing at the Edge Bar at Alila Diwa Goa

Favourite DJs

DJ Ketan draws inspiration from several influential DJs who have left an indelible mark on his musical journey. Noteworthy among them are DJ Ivan Nilkon, DJ Ajit, and DJ Gavin from India, whose artistry and dedication continue to propel him towards excellence.

Beyond DJing

While DJing remains DJ Ketan's primary focus, he nurtures aspirations beyond the turntables. In the near future, he envisions venturing into the hospitality industry, with plans to open a dive bar or a cloud kitchen. Such endeavours would allow him to amalgamate his passion for music with the joy of creating unique experiences for patrons.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, DJ Ketan envisions expanding his horizons by accepting gigs throughout India. Although his current residencies limit his mobility, he is determined to share his music with diverse audiences across the country. Additionally, he aims to establish a establish a DJ academy to mentor aspiring talents and contribute to the flourishing DJing community.

Words of Advice

DJ Ketan emphasises the significance of education for those aspiring to enter the nightlife industry. He encourages individuals to pursue at least a graduatelevel education, which acts as a safety net should circumstances change.

Furthermore, DJing, despite its glamorous appeal, often demands sacrifices in terms of health and personal life. DJ Ketan advises aspiring DJs to pursue their passions while remaining cognisant of the challenges and making informed decisions along the way.

DJ Ketan's journey exemplifies a deep-seated passion for music that has propelled him to great heights in the DJing world. From his humble beginnings in Goa to captivating audiences at renowned venues, DJ Ketan has left an indelible mark on the nightlife scene. With future aspirations in both the hospitality industry and mentorship, DJ Ketan's dedication and talent are set to continue shaping the musical landscape while inspiring budding DJs to follow their dreams.

Follow DJ Ketan on Instagram at: www.instagram.com/thesoulshifter www.itsgoa.com

DJ Ketan performing at The Den

pRanali kandE

A blogger whose engaging recipe videos has earned her a huge fan-following on Instagram.

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: Pranali Kande

www.itsgoa.com

Pranali Kande is a 25-year-old Goan food blogger

Who has been captivating the hearts and taste buds of thousands through her food blog ‘foodgallary__foodieme’. With an unwavering passion for food and a desire to make her mark, Pranali's journey from a corporate job to a food influencer is an inspiring tale of dedication, creativity, and resilience.

From The Corporate World To The Culinary World

After completing her higher studies in Commerce and pursuing a computer course, Pranali embarked on her professional journey with a job at a private company in Verna. However, her true calling lay in the culinary world. with a penchant for trying and exploring various cuisines, Pranali's love for food led her to create an Instagram account dedicated to showcasing her food adventures.

The Beginning of Her Journey

On 25th July 2021, Pranali launched her food blog, posting her first picture of a delectable pizza from Pizza Hut. With a determination to share her gastronomic experiences, she continued to post pictures and reels of mouth-watering dishes, gaining a modest but dedicated following. As she ventured into posting recipe videos with English voice-overs, her content gained traction, but it was a suggestion from a friend that would change the course of her success.

Embracing Konkani Voice-overs

Encouraged by a friend, Pranali started creating recipe videos with Konkani voice-overs, adding a personal touch to her content. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and one of her recipes, "Goan Style Bharillo Bangdo," went viral, propelling her to new heights of popularity. Today, Pranali boasts a strong and loyal Instagram family of over 30K followers who appreciate her authentic recipes and engaging content. Pranali acknowledges the unwavering support of her family and friends throughout her journey. Her father, in particular, has been her pillar of strength and motivation, constantly encouraging her pursuit of a successful food blogging career.

Aiming Higher

With her Instagram success firmly established, Pranali has recently ventured into YouTube, showcasing detailed and authentic recipes. She hopes to replicate the same level of engagement and connection on the YouTube platform, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to collaborate with renowned food content creator and YouTuber, Kabita Singh.

Role Models and Aspirations

Pranali finds inspiration in fellow food content creator Shivani Tyagi (@littleglove), admiring her creativity and unique content. If given the chance, she dreams of meeting her favourite actress, Shraddha Kapoor, and actor Siddharth Malhotra.

Her Message

Pranali's journey has not been without its challenges, balancing a corporate job and her passion for food blogging. However, her determination and commitment to her dreams have paid off. Her message to young individuals is simple but powerful: life is short, so pursue your dreams and put in the effort required to make them a reality.

With her captivating content, authentic recipes, and loyal Instagram family, Pranali continues to leave a lasting impression in the world of food blogging. As she aspires to become a full-time influencer and explore new opportunities, her journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work in making dreams come true.

Doing a collaboration at Silver Spoon, Sanquelim