Johanna Barretto
Homemade, heartfelt bakes by Johanna Barretto, blending comfort, creativity, and purpose.
Ishra Mulla
Food and travel stories by Ishra, shared with heart, spontaneity, and authenticity.
Volume 4 Issue 7
July 2025
GOANBYBLOOD
Youth-led Goan movement empowering through music, service, and community unity.
Instant Karma
Musical duo Omi and Ostency deliver genreblending performances with strong audience connection.
Welcome to this vibrant July edition of Health & Wellness Goa, where we spotlight individuals and initiatives adding soul, strength, and creativity to Goa’s everevolving cultural and wellness landscape.
Our cover feature this month is Bakeation Goa, a passion project founded by selftaught baker Johanna Barretto. From comforting cakes to soulful treats, Johanna’s creations are a celebration of resilience, love, and purpose—proof that homemade flavours have the power to nourish not just the body, but the spirit.
We also journey through the expressive world of Ishra Mulla, who blend of food, travel, and spontaneity has turned a lockdown experiment into a thriving digital platform filled with heart and authenticity. Ishra’s content reminds us to find magic in everyday stories.
Our spotlight turns next to Goanbyblood, a youth-led movement transforming music and service into meaningful impact. Whether it's uplifting local artists or feeding the underserved, this collective proves how creativity and compassion can beautifully coexist.
In the world of music, we meet Instant Karma, the dynamic duo of Omi and Ostency, whose genre-defying performances and powerful stage presence continue to captivate audiences. Since their inception in 2022, their bond with the crowd has remained their greatest strength.
We also celebrate Khushbu Shah, a multitasker whose journey as a teacher, influencer, and makeup artist speaks volumes of resilience and ambition. Her story is a testament to balance and the courage to follow one’s many passions.
As the monsoons wash over Goa, they awaken cherished memories—muddy fields, hot bhajiyas, timeless folktales, and cozy family gatherings. This season isn’t just about rain; it’s a return to joy, playfulness, and cultural connection.
And finally, we applaud Tamil Nadu’s Health Minister, Ma Subramanian, who returns to Goa to participate in the Rotary Rain Run. Having completed 161 marathons across India and the world, his dedication to public fitness is both commendable and inspiring.
Join us in celebrating Goa’s vibrant stories, from entrepreneurs to artists, each contributing uniquely to our community. Let their journeys inspire you to follow your passions and pursue your dreams with determination.
Well, that's all I have for you from my desk this month. I hope you enjoy reading this month's issue of our e-magazine. Do share it with your friends all across the globe.
Until next month, cheers!
Jessyl Fernandez Editor
01 Johanna Barretto
02 Ishra Mulla
03 GOANBYBLOOD
04 Instant Karma
05 Khushbu Shah
06 Monsoon Memories from a Goan Childhood
07 TN Health Minister to Run Half-Marathon at Rotary Rain Run 2025
Introduction
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 festivalsCarnival and Shigmo. Goa plays host to many festivals - the International Film Festival of India that promotes cinema, the Serendipity Art Festival, Sunburn Music Festival, The Grape Escapade 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, Germany, UK, USA, UAE, etc.
Editorial Team
Chief Editor
Jessyl Fernandez
Sales
Donald Fernandez
Content & Social Media Saviola Dias Renata Fernandes
Graphics & Layout Latisha Govekar
For advertising queries: +91 7887330620 / 9370502124
ItsGoa Media Group
Nordic Intent HQ - Floor 3, PDA Colony, Porvorim, Goa 403521
Email: mail@itsgoa.com Website: itsgoa.com
Bakeation Goa, founded by self-taught baker Johanna Barretto, offers soulful, homemade treats rooted in comfort, creativity, and resilience crafted with love, evolving with purpose.
Itsgoa
Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: Johanna Barretto
For Johanna Barretto, the founder of Bakeation Goa, baking began not as a business venture, but as a quiet source of comfort. What started as a therapeutic escape soon evolved into a heartfelt pursuit that now brings sweetness to many lives. Without any formal culinary training, Johanna learned the craft entirely on her own turning her kitchen into a space of trial, error, and beautiful creations.
Armed only with a passion for baking and a YouTube feed full of tutorials, she began experimenting with simple ingredients and found peace in the process. “I never really planned to become a baker,” she shares. “But with every cake I made, every box I packed, and every smile I received in return, I realised this was something special.” And so, Bakeation was born, not just a brand, but a slice of Johanna’s soul.
Rooted in Home, Baked with Heart
Johanna describes her baking style as deeply personal, rooted in a sense of warmth and familiarity. Her desserts aren’t trend-driven; instead, they’re the kind of treats you crave after a long day or love to share with someone close.
Whether it’s her signature brownies with the perfect crinkle top or a custom cake tailored for a special moment, every bake is infused with thoughtfulness.
“I believe baking is more than just mixing ingredients —it’s about how the final product makes someone feel. From the way it’s made to the way it’s packed, I want each box to bring a little joy,” she says.
Mastering the Craft, One Batch at a Time
Johanna’s skills were honed through patience, practice, and persistence. From burnt batches to baking mishaps (and the occasional scolding from her mum), she learned through doing. Key lessons, like not over mixing batter or understanding how to balance flavour profiles, came with time. But it’s her intuition and love for the process that truly elevated her craft.
Ingredient quality, she emphasises, is never negotiable. Whether it’s premium cocoa, fresh dairy, or seasonal fruits, she believes good ingredients are what make every bite memorable. Most of her ingredients are sourced locally, adding not only freshness but a sense of community to every creation.
Johanna Barretto
Mango cheesecake
Evolving to Serve a New Generation
Bakeation’s product range has steadily grown to include fun and thoughtful offerings like hot chocolate bombs, and the team is now working toward expanding into more health-conscious alternatives. Recognising the lifestyle choices of today’s generation, Johanna is experimenting with gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and wholesome recipes that don’t compromise on taste. Custom requests are welcomed with enthusiasm. “I actually enjoy special orders more than standard ones—they make baking feel more meaningful,” she explains. Each request is handled with care, attention to detail, and an understanding of the emotional significance behind it.
Resilience Through Setbacks
Like any journey, Johanna’s hasn’t been without challenges. Teaching herself to bake came with more failures than she could count. There was even a year-long pause, a period where she considered letting go of it all. “But I felt like something was missing,” she admits. Returning to baking in 2024, she found her rhythm again, and with it, a deeper sense of purpose. Every failure, she says, became a stepping stone to better her skills and strengthen her resolve.
Inspired by the Everyday
Johanna finds daily inspiration in the world around her. From Instagram reels and Pinterest boards to casual cravings and flavour trends, she stays in tune with what people want—while ensuring her offerings never lose that homemade, soulful essence. “It’s all about evolving while still holding on to what feels like home,” she reflects.
Looking Ahead: A Café Dream
In the next five years, Johanna envisions transforming Bakeation into a full-fledged café—an inviting space filled with the aroma of fresh bakes, artisanal sandwiches, creamy matcha, and good coffee. “A place where people can slow down, feel at home, and enjoy food made with heart,” she says. Her dream café will showcase her specials and carry forward the Bakeation spirit of comfort, creativity, and connection.
Final Crumbs
Bakeation Goa is more than just a home-baking venture—it’s a story of resilience, comfort, and quiet strength. Through every warm brownie and lovingly packed box, Johanna Barretto continues to remind us that food, especially when baked with love, has the power to heal, connect, and inspire.
To taste a piece of her journey, follow @bakeation.goa and watch her dream rise—one bake at a time.
The recent best seller mango sticky rice
Customized cake
Lotus biscoff & white chocolate cake
Johanna Barretto
food and travel
Ishra Mulla
Ishra Mulla, aka @thetravellingfoodieishra, blends food and travel storytelling with spontaneity, heart, and authenticity turning her lockdown hobby into a thriving digital journey that inspires and connects.
www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgoa
Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: Ishra Mulla
In a world where short videos can transport us to faraway lands or introduce us to mouthwatering dishes, creators like Ishra Mulla, popularly known as @thetravellingfoodieishra, stand out for blending both. Based on a deep love for travel and food, Ishra’s journey into content creation began during an unusual time the lockdown. What started as a fun sibling project on YouTube called Mysterious Siblings featuring her and her sister documenting their travel experiences evolved into a full-fledged digital identity that now inspires thousands on Instagram.
“I was just bored at home,” Ishra recalls. “We started making videos as a way to pass time, but it slowly became a passion. Now, whether I’m on the road or enjoying a good meal, I find joy in sharing those moments.” For Ishra, content creation is just parttime — she’s a school teacher otherwise.
Capturing Memories Through Views and Bites
Ask Ishra about her niche, and she’ll describe it in two words: views and food. Her content is an extension of her personality—vibrant, spontaneous, and rooted in the present. For her, it’s not just about curating perfect visuals but preserving memories. “Moments may pass, but memories captured
Her feed reflects a mix of scenic landscapes, cozy cafes, and mouthwatering dishes, all wrapped in her warm, relatable personality. Whether it's a hidden food gem in a city corner or a stunning travel snapshot, she shares her experiences not just as a creator but as a storyteller.
Influence and Intuition Over Strategy
Unlike many creators who rely heavily on social media calendars and planning boards, Ishra’s approach is instinctive. “Ideas strike randomly—and when they do, I don’t let them go,” she explains. Once she has a concept in mind, she quickly maps out where, how, and with whom she’ll shoot. The execution may sound simple, but she’s quick to admit it’s filled with unpredictability and effort. She also believes that content strategy doesn’t always apply equally across platforms. “What works on YouTube might not work on Instagram. Sometimes being silly and real is all it takes to connect on Instagram,” she laughs. As for tools, she keeps things flexible—using whatever suits her current need, be it a new editing app or a favourite phone camera.
Her biggest influence? Indian travel vlogger Tanya Khanijow, whose storytelling and journey inspired Ishra to keep exploring and sharing.
Ishra Mulla
Poi Re Bites with Ishra
Kofuku, North Goa
Building Real Connections, One Plate at a Time
One of the most fulfilling aspects of Ishra’s journey is her connection with her audience. Through her posts and stories, she often shares food recommendations, hoping her followers get to enjoy the same delicious discoveries she does. “I just want people to eat well and live well,” she says.
Among her most memorable fan encounters was meeting a young follower who not only watched all her videos but also imitated her signature style— eating enthusiastically on camera. “It was adorable and totally unexpected. Moments like that remind me why I do this,” she smiles.
Breaking Barriers and Growing Bold
For Ishra, the transformation from introvert to oncamera personality was one of her biggest personal breakthroughs. “I used to be behind the camera, shy and reserved,” she shares. “Now, I can speak in front of a crowd of 10,000 people. I’ve grown more confident, and it shows in my content.” When the pressure of content creation feels overwhelming, she turns to a simple solution: pause. “Taking a break is necessary. It helps reset your mind and come back stronger.”
Learning Through Collaboration and Community
Collaborations and brand partnerships have played a crucial role in Ishra’s growth. Not only do they motivate her, but they also expose her to fresh perspectives and experiences. “Meeting new people, listening to their stories, and creating together— that’s where growth happens,” she says. She encourages aspiring creators to embrace the journey with patience. “Don’t give up. It may take time to grow, but every step counts. Even when you reach a milestone, the next goal will be bigger. And that’s what makes this field so exciting—it keeps evolving.”
More Than Just a Content Creator
Ishra Mulla is more than a foodie or a traveler—she’s a storyteller who documents life through tastes, textures, and terrains. Her journey from bored lockdown afternoons to becoming a relatable digital creator is a testament to how passion, spontaneity, and heart can build a meaningful online presence.
Whether she’s discovering a new café or gazing at a scenic sunset, Ishra brings her community along for the ride—one bite and one view at a time.
Goa Govt Recognised Social Media Influencer
Ishra Explores Ladakh Wonders
Goanbyblood is a youth-led Goan movement blending music, service, and community empowering artists, feeding the underserved, and uniting people through creativity, compassion, and a shared love for Goa.
www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgoa
Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: GOANBYBLOOD
Empowering Goa’s Next Generation Through Music, Service & Community
In a world where youth often seek a platform for expression, solidarity, and positive change, Goanbyblood rises as a grassroots movement that gives them just that. Born out of a powerful lyric, “Goanbyblood,” mentioned by rapper Basic in one of his tracks, this name quickly evolved from a musical phrase to a social identity.
Officially established in 2022, Goanbyblood began as a hip-hop group featuring founders Bongisio, Basic, Shantshakti, and Style E. Over time, it transformed into a community-driven initiative led by Bongisio, focused on uplifting the youth and musicians of Goa.
Rooted in Unity and Purpose
At its core, Goanbyblood is not just an organisation— it's a collective where everyone is seen as a stakeholder. The team believes in shifting the focus from I to We, encouraging every participant to take ownership. The primary mission? To inspire and empower young minds while providing a platform for independent artists to shine.
With roots in social work, Bongisio envisioned this community as a space where service meets selfexpression, driven by a purpose greater than personal gain.
The first four artists of Goanbyblood: Style E on the left, followed by Shantshakti and Bongisio, with Bassic on the right
Empowering Through Action
The scope of Goanbyblood extends beyond music. It embraces a broad spectrum of activities aimed at youth engagement and community development. From organising youth-centric events to hosting food drives for underprivileged workers, the initiative thrives on active ground-level work.
One of their most impactful undertakings has been the Food Drive initiative. Targeting daily wage workers—especially migrants who are often overlooked—the team has successfully distributed over 1,000 food parcels through seven food drives. This act of service stands as a testament to their inclusive vision: helping those who help build Goa, regardless of their origin.
Another significant project is the All Goa Freshers and Reunion, a college festival that brings students from across the state under one roof. With music, performances, and a strong sense of camaraderie, this event reflects the community’s belief in connection and celebration.
goanbyblood family
sao Joao Event
Goanbyblood hosted natal fiesta mapusa
A Goanbyblood family with children living in a scrapyard area
Open Arms, Open Hearts
What makes Goanbyblood unique is its open-door policy. There is no formal application process to join. Anyone with a generous spirit and a love for Goa— whether by blood or by heart—is welcome. From volunteers handling public relations to those organising events, roles are organically assigned based on interest and ability. The internal structure is collaborative, with manager Scott distributing responsibilities and final approvals made by Bongisio, who serves as the driving force behind strategic decisions.
Collaborations and Growth
Understanding that true community flourishes through partnerships, Goanbyblood regularly collaborates with other artists, groups, and event organisers. Support from local event companies such as Latitude Events, Assis Sound and Lights, and St. Ann’s has helped them scale their events, even though financial sponsorship has yet to become a steady stream.
Currently self-funded, the community channels earnings from shows and activities back into their projects. Their vision remains non-commercial, focusing instead on sustainability and social impact.
Making Digital Waves
With a growing presence on social media platforms like Instagram (@_goanbyblood) and YouTube, the group uses digital tools for outreach, event promotion, and community updates. These channels not only help them connect with a broader audience but also showcase the real impact of their initiatives —particularly the emotional resonance of their food drives and youth events.
Overcoming Challenges, Embracing Change
While their journey hasn’t been without hurdles— such as questions around supporting non-Goans despite the community's name—the team remains firm in its inclusive values.
For them, being “Goan by blood” means having a heart full of compassion and a spirit of generosity. Their commitment to this principle continues to win hearts and inspire others to see Goa as a place of unity, not division.
The Road Ahead
Looking forward, Goanbyblood aims to organise more events, with plans underway for a Gospel Concert and San Joao festivities. Long-term, they dream of establishing a Goanbyblood School—a haven for music, art, and co-curricular growth.
The goal is to provide young people with the tools and environment they need to flourish, creatively and socially.
Join the Movement
For those inspired by their mission, support can come in many forms—volunteering during food drives, spreading awareness, helping raise funds, or simply showing up at their events. As Bongisio says, “Don’t think—just start. It’s a self-satisfying journey that no amount of money can replicate.” At its heart, Goanbyblood is more than a name. It’s a movement rooted in service, united by music, and driven by a shared love for Goa and its people. Whether you’re Goan by birth or by soul, this is a community waiting to welcome you.
Goanbyblood team with Goa RTO officials for the fooddrive 2.0
Instant Karma
Instant Karma, a versatile musical duo formed by Omi and Ostency in 2022, excels in various genres, performing at diverse events while maintaining a strong connection with their audience.
Article by: Team ItsGoa Images by: Instant Karma
Musical duo
Instant Karma, an electrifying duo ensemble, consists of the versatile Omi and the multi-talented Ostency. Formed in 2022, this dynamic pair combines their diverse backgrounds and experiences to create a musical experience that's both unique and engaging.
Meet the Members
Omi, a qualified Mechanical Engineer, now dedicates himself full-time to music. His journey into the world of music wasn't a sudden decision but rather the culmination of years of experience in various bands and setups. Omi’s transition from engineering to music showcases his deep passion and commitment to his craft.
Ostency, on the other hand, balances her musical career with teaching young children at a school. Her ability to juggle these two roles reflects her dedication and versatility. Both members bring a wealth of experience to Instant Karma, enhancing
their performances and broadening their musical range.
The Genesis of the Band
The inception of Instant Karma was driven by a shared desire for a more intimate and personalised musical setup. Having both been involved in multiple musical projects, Omi and Ostency sought to create something truly their own. In 2022, they united their talents to form Instant Karma, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their musical journey.
Musical Style and Genre
Instant Karma’s music is a testament to their adaptability and range. While their experience allows them to perform across various genres, they particularly excel in Western, Bollywood, and Goan music. This versatility enables them to cater to diverse audiences, making each performance a unique experience tailored to the crowd's preferences.
Omi & Ostency Performing at a Wedding at Fortune Resort, Benaulim
What Sets Instant Karma Apart
One of the key aspects that differentiate Instant Karma from other acts is their versatility. Whether it’s a lively pub gig, a traditional Goan wedding, or an Indian destination wedding, the duo seamlessly adapts to the occasion. Their ability to shift genres and create an engaging atmosphere sets them apart in the competitive music industry.
Memorable Performances
Instant Karma’s performance history includes over 500 gigs, each contributing to their growing reputation. A particularly memorable moment was their first private gig, which occurred shortly after they formed the band. Despite having been together for less than a week, the opportunity to perform at this intimate gathering was both gratifying and significant in establishing their partnership. Additionally, they have performed at corporate events for companies like PayTM, Audi, Sony, Boston Consulting Group, and Adani, among others. These corporate gigs require them to make an immediate impact in a short performance time, a challenge they enjoy taking on.
Preparing for Live Performances
Preparation is crucial for Instant Karma, whether for a regular gig or a private event. For familiar venues, they follow a set routine. However, for new or private events, they arrive at least two hours early to assess the venue's acoustics, positioning, and overall setup. This thorough preparation ensures that they deliver the best possible performance. Although they used to do vocal exercises before performances, they now focus on other aspects of preparation.
Challenges of Live Performing
One of the primary challenges of live performances is gauging and understanding the crowd's mood. Instant Karma excels in adapting their playlist to fit the crowd, which can be particularly challenging when faced with a diverse audience. Despite the difficulties, they relish this aspect of performing as it keeps them engaged and responsive.
Omi playing at St.Regis
Ostency performing at a wedding at Goa Velha
Omi and Ostency Live at a Party in Chandor
Instant Karma enjoys performing at venues that are vibrant and full of life. Regular gigs at places like Martin's Corner, Mike's Place, and Mickey's are always a hit. Additionally, they have cherished private gigs at venues such as Beleza, Casa Colvale, St. Regis, and Park Hyatt Hyderabad, where they even rang in the New Year.
Role of Improvisation
Improvisation plays a significant role in Instant Karma's performances. They often extend medleys on the fly to maintain the flow of music and keep the crowd dancing. This flexibility allows them to adapt to the crowd's reactions and ensure that the energy remains high throughout their set.
Omi And Ostency Celebrating the 76th Independence Day
Handling Audience Requests
Instant Karma’s name reflects their approach to handling audience requests. They make an effort to accommodate song requests, even if they’re not familiar with them. This responsiveness not only pleases the audience but also adds an element of spontaneity to their performances.
Lessons Learned from Performing
The biggest lesson Instant Karma has learned is the importance of satisfying the audience, especially for bands not yet known for original hits. Balancing personal preferences with audience expectations is crucial. Additionally, they’ve learned that not every show will be perfect, and it’s essential to stay relaxed and focus on delivering a great performance the next time.
Staying Connected with Fans
To maintain a connection with their followers, Instant Karma regularly posts updates about their shows on Instagram and Facebook. This engagement helps them stay in touch with their fans and keep them informed about upcoming performances.
Future Goals and Aspirations
Instant Karma has both short-term and long-term goals. Their immediate aim is to add new songs to their repertoire and finish editing their performance videos. Looking ahead, they aspire to release original music and secure their first overseas gig, hoping to expand their reach and impact in the music world.
Conclusion
Instant Karma is a duo that embodies versatility, passion, and a deep connection with their audience. Their ability to adapt to various musical genres and environments, combined with their dedication to engaging performances, makes them a standout act. As they continue to evolve and achieve their goals, Instant Karma remains a band to watch, with exciting prospects on the horizon.
Omi & Ostency performed Live music for christening ceremony
Live at the Wedding celebration of Braz & Neshvillie
lifestyle influencer
Khushbu Shah
Khushbu Shah balances her roles as a teacher, influencer, and makeup artist, demonstrating resilience and dedication while pursuing her passions and inspiring others with her journey.
Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: Khushbu Shah
Balancing Dreams and Passions
Khushbu Shah, born on September 6, 1995, in Ponda, Goa, is a shining example of someone who balances education and passion beautifully. She is a teacher, an influencer, and a makeup artist. Her story is inspiring and full of determination to succeed in many areas.
Dreaming Big: The Path to Becoming a Teacher
From a young age, Khushbu Shah wanted to be a teacher. She believed that teaching was a special job because it helps create other jobs. Her dream came true when she became a teacher at Sunshine Worldwide School, one of the best schools in Goa. She is very proud to be part of a school that values education and supports its teachers.
Khushbu completed her Masters and B.Ed., and she teaches Mass Media studies to class 11th and 12th students. She loves sharing her knowledge with her students and is very passionate about teaching.
Embracing Passion: The Influencer Journey
While teaching was her dream, being an influencer was her passion. Khushbu Shah loves trying new things, exploring places, and discovering new restaurants. She started creating content seven years ago, not knowing it would bring her success. Her journey as an influencer has been full of creativity and a strong desire to share her experiences with a larger audience.
Khushbu's content shows her lively personality and love for exploring. She believes that being an influencer requires dedication, time, and energy, especially when balancing it with a full-time job. Despite the challenges, she continues to create engaging content for her followers.
A Makeup Artist at Heart
Besides being a teacher and influencer, Khushbu Shah is also a skilled makeup artist. She completed her makeup course in Delhi and often works on shoots and events during weekends. This role allows her to express her creativity and meet new people. She enjoys the dynamic nature of this work and the opportunities it provides.
Khushbu Promoting Fashionable Outfits by different Goan fashion designers
Khushbu Shah
Khushbu at Fenicia Riverside Resort Goa for Promotion
Balancing Work and Passion
Khushbu's life is a testament to her ability to balance multiple roles. She works as a teacher until 4 pm and then takes tuitions for students up to the 10th grade. Despite her busy schedule, she finds time for her influencer activities and makeup artistry. Her determination to stay active and productive is admirable. She believes in the importance of staying engaged both professionally and personally.
Support System: Family and Mentors Khushbu's journey has been supported by her family and mentors. Her mother and sister are her pillars of strength. Her father, who passed away seven years ago, remains her inspiration. He taught her to follow her heart, value time, and never give up. Her mother instilled in her the values of independence and
resilience, while her sister encourages her to try new things and supports her endeavours. At Sunshine Worldwide School, Khushbu is blessed to work with supportive heads and colleagues. The school's director, Mr. Deepak Khaitan, motivates her to keep pursuing her dreams and achieving her goals. The encouragement from her professional and personal circles has been crucial in her journey.
Overcoming Challenges
Khushbu Shah's path has not been without challenges. Some of her friends were not supportive during her journey, and she faced judgments and demotivation. However, she learned that people will judge no matter what, and not everyone will be happy with her success. This realisation strengthened her resolve to keep going and focus on her dreams.
with her Primary class students at Sunshine Worldwide School
Khushbu
Khushbu with her Mother
Inspirations and Role Models
Khushbu draws inspiration from several sources. Her late father is her role model, and she strives to make him proud with her achievements. She also looks up to bloggers like Shivani Divkar, Namrata Sarda Rathi, and Ishita Mishra. These influencers inspire her to build a larger community and achieve greater success in her field.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Khushbu Shah has clear aspirations. She wants to explore new places, try out various restaurants, and share her experiences with her Instagram family. She aims to inspire today's
generation to believe in their dreams and persist despite challenges. She believes that hard work and dedication will eventually pay off, and one day, everyone will be glad they didn't quit.
Conclusion
Khushbu Shah's journey is a testament to her resilience, passion, and dedication. From being a dedicated teacher at Sunshine Worldwide School to an enthusiastic influencer and a creative makeup artist, she has managed to excel in multiple roles. Her story is an inspiration to many, showing that with determination and support, one can achieve their dreams and make a significant impact.
Khushbu as the Host for the Business Event
Khushbu during a Bridal Makeup booked by a client for hair and makeup to manage guest makeup
authored article
Monsoon Memories from a Goan Childhood
Goa’s monsoons evoke joyful childhood memories muddy play, hot snacks, folklore, and family warmth turning every rainy day into a celebration of freedom, tradition, and togetherness.
Article by: Renata Fernandes
Images by: Freepik
Every time the skies darken and the first drops fall, Goans feel something stir deep within—a sense of joy, nostalgia, and childhood freedom. In Goa, the monsoon is not just a season; it’s an emotion soaked in laughter, tradition, and unforgettable memories.
As soon as the first heavy rains arrived, children across Goan villages would abandon everything— books, chores, even shoes. They ran outside to get drenched, splash in puddles, and race paper boats down roadside streams. No one scolded them. In fact, parents often joined in, smiling at the pure happiness monsoon brought to their little ones.
The Joy of Getting Dirty
Getting wet wasn’t enough. We stomped through mud fields, slipped on mossy stones, and played football on waterlogged grounds. If it was Chikhal Khel, we rolled in the mud with pride. Every bruise or scratch told a story. Clothes and slippers were optional freedom and play ruled the season.
Warm Kitchens and Rainy-Day Treats
While we played outside, grandmothers and mothers stirred magic in the kitchen. The smell of patal bhaji, alsande tonak, or hot mirchi bhajis filled the home. A cup of piping-hot black tea or tambde uddam awaited every child returning with soaked clothes and muddy feet.
The best treats came when rain refused to stop— holle (rice pancakes), mangane (chana dal dessert), and steaming bowls of kismur with rice. Every bite tasted better when eaten while drying off under a towel, hair still dripping.
School Days and Slushy Walks
Monsoons meant wet uniforms, squishy shoes, and shared umbrellas that never really helped. We folded our pants up and trudged through fields and shortcut paths to reach school. Sometimes, school declares a rain holiday, and we’d rejoice louder than thunder.
Frogs, Fireflies, and Folklore
Monsoons in Goa brought out nature in full glory. We watched frogs leap across courtyards and listened to their croaks become the soundtrack of the season.
Fireflies lit up rainy evenings, and our elders told stories about rain spirits, ghostly forests, and San Joao’s festive leaps into wells. The monsoon brought families closer.
Power cuts turned into candle-lit dinners and board game nights. The sound of the rain became a lullaby, as cousins snuggled on mattresses, giggling and whispering stories until sleep took over. We never felt alone when the rain knocked at our doors.
Conclusion: Rain as a Reminder
Years may pass, but every Goan remembers those monsoon days. The smell of wet earth, the joy of shared umbrellas, and the warmth of a family kitchen these are not just memories; they are stories etched into our soul.
The monsoon doesn’t just arrive in Goa it returns like a dear old friend, bringing back the childhood we never want to forget.
Lua Nova
If holidays are inspired by nature and your thirst for rustic solitude and inner peace, Lua Nova is the hotel your heart was yearning for.
Located at Goa's celebrated holiday capital at Baga, it overlooks a beautiful Canvas of village Goa, just 5 minutes walk from the Baga Beach.
Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanian returns to Goa’s Rotary Rain Run, combining his passion for fitness with public service, having completed 161 marathons across India and abroad.
Article & Images by: Team ItsGoa
Itsgoa
The marathon-loving minister from India’s southern state returns to Goa’s monsoon run for the second year in a row.
~ Having completed a career run of 161 marathons so far, Subramanian hopes to complete this marathon in two and a half hours.
Every morning at 4 am, Tamil Nadu’s Health Minister Ma Subramanian laces up his shoes and heads out for a run, often clocking ten kilometres before the day’s official duties begin.
Later this month, Subramanian will take his demanding and yet satisfying routine a step further in Goa, where he is scheduled to participate in the Rotary Rain Run, a 21-kilometre monsoon halfmarathon organised by the Rotary Club of Porvorim, with the collective support of the Rotary Club Parivar. For the 66-year-old minister, running is not a campaign or a performance, but a personal habit built over years.
A self-proclaimed fitness enthusiast, Ma Subramanian, has run 161 marathons so far. Formerly a mayor of Chennai, he has participated in marathon events in 12 countries, including the United Kingdom and Norway and in 21 Indian states. Subramanian says regular exercise has helped him keep his diabetes under control since 2014. Despite a packed schedule, he prioritises cardiovascular health and makes time for daily physical activity.
“Being a health minister, my schedule is packed with public duties and responsibilities. My day typically begins at 4 am and often extends until 11 pm. Despite this, I make it a priority not to skip my morning gym routine.
Every day, I ensure to run a minimum of 10 kilometres, in addition to the regular walking and movement that naturally comes with my public engagements,” says Subramanian. Staying consistent with this routine helps him maintain the stamina and focus required both for his role and for participation in marathons and long-distance runs.
Running has become a way of life for this minister, who believes it is not just about physical fitness, but also about mental clarity, discipline and the sense of achievement after every finish line. “I also make sure to share my runs regularly on social media to promote fitness awareness among the public. It has been very encouraging to see many people take up running after seeing my posts. This gives me immense happiness and motivation to continue,” he says.
For Subramanian, the Rotary Rain Run is a special event because it takes place during the monsoon season in Goa. Running in the rain adds a refreshing challenge, setting it apart from other marathons. What further enhances the experience is the spirit of fellowship among the runners in Goa. “The beautiful Goan backdrop and the camaraderie among participants make the experience truly memorable,” he says.
Like every seasoned runner, Subramanian sets a personal goal for every run. This time, he hopes to complete the upcoming 21 km marathon within two and a half hours. As a public official, he believes in leading by example and being responsible for inspiring healthy lifestyles. “When we prioritise fitness and well-being, it sends a strong message to the community about the importance of maintaining good health,” he says.
This will be his second consecutive year running the Rotary Rain Run. Running through the rain-soaked streets of Goa alongside enthusiastic fellow participants in a past edition of the Run was an unforgettable experience for Subramanian.
One standout moment from the previous run was encountering members of the Indian armed forces stationed along the route, handing out essentials and cheering on the runners. Their encouraging presence, he recalls, added great energy and pride to the event, making it truly inspiring to witness their support during the run. “I’m looking forward to the energy of the crowd, the scenic route and of course, running in the rain! It's one of those rare marathons where the weather adds to the fun instead of being an obstacle,” he says.
Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Ma Subramanian, mid-run during a past marathon
