Baga for life

Baga-de-Gaba

Starring
Sexy Sagar
Kool KT
Dashing Dhawal
Amazing Amol
And
The King Kunal

Recently India has gained from overseas hospitality businesses. Mainly because
of places such as Kashmir, Himachal, Uttranchal, Darjiling, Goa, Rajashthan,
Kerla etc. Previously I have been to Himachal and Rajasthan. In December 2006 it
was time to visit Goa for the first time ever. It was for sure that I would have
great time in great company of KT, Sagar, Amol and Dhawal. It really turned out
to be the same. Missed Manish’s presence throughout.

Phase I – Initial Dilemma

The trip started with a casual call of Dhawal in October saying “December mein
kahi jate hai”. I instantly replied “Goa”. Manish and Sagar approved
immediately. Christmas period was tentatively fixed. Dhawal who works for
Mahindra and Mahindra had company quarters in Goa. He inquired about the
availability. Couldn’t get the booking for Christmas. December 2 to 6 were only
available days and only 6 people permitted. So with myself, Manish, Sagar and
Dhawal fixed, we started to look for other 2. Asked Rohit about the same. He
replied positively. But later backed off as his leave was not sanctioned. With
Rohit out, Amol came in. Kailash gave green signal immediately. So all six of us
were ready to rock in Goa. The MASK was ready to conquer Goa. Railway tickets
were booked.

Than came the difficulties. My boss Peter from Canada was to visit office on the
same days. So I was doubtful. Kailash was a doubtful starter as well. Sagar can
give ‘Kalti’ anytime. Dhawal’s mood was shattering. Manish was still going
strong for Goa as he had previously experienced what Goa stands for. Later
everyone except Manish figured out the difficulties. He missed the Goan train
due to some family reasons. Only 5 of us made it.

Goa history
Goa was ruled by the Portuguese. It was included into India only in the year of
1961 as a free state. The state is famous for its exotic beaches and the Manganese
and Iron ore extracts. Local language here is Konkani. This is amongst the very
few states of India where football is played by many. Goa also is famous for the
plantations of Cashews.

Phase I – Grand Start

Preparations for this, to be memorable trip started a week ahead. All necessary
items were listed. Dhawal purchased a new Olympus Digital camera to treasure
the moments. The tour day came. Friday 1st December 2006. Everyone meet at
7:30 pm on MASK ground. Took off to Vasai to catch Nagarcoil express. Amol
started his bumbling jokes since then. The laughter was back on MASK. ‘Aaaa
aaa aa aa aa aa’. The express was given a name as well. ‘Fizz’. We Purchased
some snacks for night. Later Manish came to meet us. He gave us a long list of
liquor bottles that he required from Goa. Dhawal took some snaps with him.

The train was late by around 35 minutes. We started from Vasai at about 9:10 pm.
Within 10 minutes we started to do what we are famous for. Eating, rather filling
the stomachs. All the idli’s and tepla’s and biscuits and kela wafers and wadi’s
were finished. Still we ordered for a biryani and happily consumed it. No wonder
we all are famous for eating 18/20 chapatis at one go. After our tummies were
full we cracked some jokes and read out the Audacious dialogues from MASK
forum in Orkut. Soon we felt sleepy and pulled our nighties. Next thing I know is
that I slept near Bhiwandi and got up at Kudal that to for uncontrollable nature
call due to cold. Soon others waked up. Again the pantry person was called and
ordered for Dosa, Wada and Tea, coffee. We alighted the Nagarcoil express at
Sawantwadi as it didn’t halt at Pernem (Pedne), our destination and first railway
station of Goa. From Sawantwadi we took Kokan Kanya express which arrived
about 45 minutes later. Till then we enjoyed tennis on Sawantwadi railway
station. Reaching Pernem we meet our tour companion Anand who performed
his duty very well and showed us every possible corner of Goa in his Tata Sumo
Victa. From here the Goa journey begins. Previously I had heard many things
about Goa. About beaches, temples, churches, sanctuaries etc. and hence was
very anxious to visit them. Hearing and reading about a place is totally different
than experiencing it.

Phase II – Conquering Goa

Day 1 in Goa – 2 December 2006
From Pernem we left to the most beautiful place in Goa. The place is famous for
its exotic beach and wonderful shacks. Also has a mountain on one side which
adds to its scenic beauty. The place is non other than Baga. It comes in north Goa.
Baga is around 2 kms from Calangute. Calangute and Baga are favourite places of
foreign tourists. Foreigners, mostly from Western countries and Europe, out
numbered the local tourists by large. For a moment we felt as visiting a foreign
country.

In about 30 minutes we reached the Mahindra and Mahindra guest house. We

were greeted by middle aged person Philip Fernandes accompanied with a
teenage boy, Lahu. The guest house was a two storey building with living and
dining rooms at the ground floor and three well furnished air conditioned rooms
on the top. We quickly settled in and started to plan our tour with help of Anand.
Meanwhile Philip Fernandes prepared a light breakfast for all of us consisting of
bread, butter, jam, sauce and tea. Hereto we gulped it soon and set out to
embrace Goa.

The first journey was to the near-south parts of Baga. We first visited the famous
jail of Aguada which is located on a side of hill facing the Arabian ocean. The jail
is said to have underground bunkers and has been home for some of the most
dangerous criminals of our country. One can view the jail from outside only.

A kilometer towards top of jail is the famous fort Aguada. This fort has gained
importance in recent times since some part of the super-hit movie, Dil Chahata
hai was shoot here. The scenic beauty of Goan beaches and mountains could be
witnessed from various points of fort Aguada. On the eastern side of it is a
beautiful Coco beach. Vasco, Panjim falls to the south and beautiful Arabian Sea
to its eastern side. The fort doesn’t have a massive structure as was used by the
Portuguese to keep watch on the nearby areas of Goa. There is a huge light house
built atop the fort.

Coming down from fort Aguada we saw the most beautiful bungalow on the
way. The same bungalow was used for shooting film Haseena Maan Jayegi. This
bungalow which looks alike a palace is owned by a Mumbai based businessman.
Later we halted at Aguada bay. The bay is visited by number of tourist as one can
see Dolphins in it. We hired a ferry for same and immediately within 10 minutes
saw the first live Dolphin. Next minute we saw another and the number kept on
increasing every passing minute. There were at least 10 Dolphins surrounding
our ship. They were fishing for food. Also we were blessed to see a Dolphin pair.
Some of the more agile Dolphins were jumping out from water as to salute us.
This certainly was a memorable event in everyone’s lives. Further the ferry took
us on ride ahead where we saw that beautiful bungalow from the sea side. It
looked more gorgeous. Also we saw a prisoner waving hand towards the tourists
from the Jail. Felt sorry for that pity person. He stays in such a beautiful location
and yet cannot enjoy it.

By the fall of evening we visited the Sinquerium beach. The place is known for
the variety of water sports. Motor boats, Water scooters, parasailing, para-riding
etc. can be best enjoyed here. The most exciting amongst all is the banana ride.
Banana is a 10 feet long tube wherein 5 people can sit on top. It is then tide to the
motor boat. The motor boat carries the banana into deep sea and instantly
without notice the banana is turned over throwing the riders into ocean. Hearing
this from the banana ride owner scared me and Dhawal. We decided to board the
motor boat while KT, Sagar and Amol took the banana ride. When the banana
took off for the first time, every one of ours faces turned tense. Suddenly the
banana flipped and our three brave hearts were thrown into deep Ocean. They
caught the banana rope tightly and they began to sink. Immediately the
instructor shouted to leave the banana and the three floated on water with the
help of the life jackets. All had at least a litre of water filled inside. Dhawal and I
were happy to be in the motor boat. I took snaps of the ride. Sagar wished to take
on parasailing as well. But by then the night had taken control and all sports
were halted. We returned to Baga guest house with a fun filled first day.

Then came the time to dine. We selected a shack on Baga beach with a candle
light. My boss had told me to taste the King fish, King prawns, Tiger prawns,
Lobster, Tuna fish and Squid while in Goa. On the first dinner we ordered for
King Fish which is called ‘Surmai’ in Mumbai. Kailash being vegetarian ordered
certain veg dishes. Over a glass of wine we started enjoying the delicious Goan
preparation of King fish. Then I thanked myself to have switched back to non-
vegetarian food after a gap of 5 long years of veggie recipes. King fish curry and
rice just tasted amazing. Later we took a walk to Calangute beach where we
tasted cakes for desert. I had told you previously about our eating capacity. Tons
and tons get in.

The eventful first day ended with memory of Dolphin and taste of King Fish.

Day 2 in Goa – 3 December 2006

With the sweet memories of the previous day we all got up early at around 6:30
am. Another fascinating day was awaited ahead. Philip Fernandes prepared a
heavy breakfast consisting of double-omlet, bread, butter, jam, sauce and tea.
Within no time the delicious snacks were finished. Immediately we were off to
capture picturesque Goa. Today to the south. Madgaon. On the way lies the port
city of Goa, Vasco-d-Gama. The gulf like geographical location suits the ship
building industry. Gadgil, Dempo, Chaoghule and Salgaonkar are some of the
big industries. Also Iron ore and Manganese are exported from here. Vasco city
has been spread atop hill. Hence most of the industries are visible which sit
across the sea bank. One has to admire the mechanism used by such industries.
Heavy machinery, transport, material management looks to be very efficiently
used. To the extreme eastern point of Vasco lie the Customs office and the Vasco
Port Trust. There are certain picturesque points on the way. The ship industry in
Vasco provides the livelihood to the localities.

From Vasco we set to go to Madgaon. The highway is beautiful with divider

having plantations. We also took a ride into Airport. The Airport road crossing
has the only signal lights in Goa. Reaching Madgaon in more 20 minutes time I
meet my school friend Hemali Gawde near Holy Spirit church. She joined our
company to Colva beach. Over a lunch and ice cream, we headed towards the
beach. Colva beach is one of the biggest tourists’ destinations of South Goa. Here
too foreign tourists are seen aplenty. Although the beach doesn’t have a scenic
beauty, but has a clean coastline with sand as soft as talcum powder. Walking
over it is an experience in itself. Also certain water sports are available here. We
spent about an hour on the beach.

From Colva we went to a Navy museum which is near Airport. On our way to
museum we experienced a ‘Rang de Basanti’ when a Jet Airways flight landed
from some meters over our heads. That was a thrilling experience. On reaching
museum and on first sight the museum looks like a small structure. Entry ticket is
just mere 15 Rupees per person and also camera is allowed inside. The museum
was started in 1997 and has been developed gradually since then. In its little
space around it has about 10 fighter planes displayed with details about its
engine mechanism. Specimen of war ships, Virat and Vikrant, are displayed
inside. Also various arms, ammunitions, uniforms, medals are displayed. A room
is dedicated to the Navy martyrs of the country. This museum is a must visit for
all the Navy admirers of our country.

After experiencing and feeling a bit proud about our countries Naval force, we
set to visit a spring nearby. The spring is named as Kesarwal spring. There was
not much of water in it and also the fountain was just sprinkling. The locals said
that this spring looks beautiful in the monsoons. Hence in about 5 minutes we set
off from Kesarwal spring. On the way at Panjim we left company of Hemali.
From here we headed straight to the most admired film festival of country, IFFI
film festival. The festival location started as soon as we crossed a bridge of
Panjim. Road lightings, food stalls, stage shows with hundreds of people around.
The atmosphere here was really bumbling. We decided to just pass it along. In
about 15 more minutes we reached Dona Paula, one of the biggest attractions of
Goa. The place is also famous for Kamal Hasan’s movie where he commits
suicide along with his partner from Dona Paula stone. When we reached here the
sun had already set and the night was fallen. Hence we couldn’t enjoy the beauty
of the spot. After taking snaps on the Dona Paula stone we headed back to
favourite Baga. We still were unable to know the identities of Dona Paula. Who
were they? Why has there statue been placed there? All of us had different
hearings on it.

Until now we were a bit tired after a long day. But in back of our minds we were
happy to come back to Baga on the last day experience. Baga was slowly settling
into our hearts. After reaching guest house we soon refreshed ourselves, had a
tea and stepped towards Baga beach. We took a long walk towards Calangute
beach. In about 15 minutes we came back to our favourite shack of Baga beach.
Dinner for the day was treated by Sagar. Again over a wine and beer we enjoyed
sea food. We ordered for King prawns with full Tuna fish and King fish curry
with rice. Kailash alike last day ordered for veg meal. As we were enjoying the
food the sea water slowly rouse and started flowing underneath our seats. That
also was a glorious moment, having dinner with water flowing from down. A
foreigner lady from Wales joined us. Amol suddenly started to move away. She
instantly saw Amol moving and asked about him. Sagar told her that Amol is our
leader. She instantly followed Amol to shack hands. This frightened Amol more
and he started to run away from her. She duly ran after him. Another moment
was treasured. Later greeting Merry Christmas to her and hers family we again
set to Calangute cake shop. Having a pastry on Calangute beach was becoming
more of a necessity and habit. Nearby lays the disco Tito’s. Many foreigners have
a ball in this famous disco. From the Calangute market we came back to guest
house at around 12:30 in the night. Soon we fall asleep with the sweet memories
of the day and more to be exciting 3 days ahead.

Day 3 in Goa – 4 December 2006

With fresh dreams of the last day we got up a bit late on Monday. We had made
plan to just visit old Goa for the day so we could be back by afternoon and have
much more time to spare on Calangute-Baga beach. For the breakfast we had
requested Philip Fernandes to prepare Aloo Parathas. The parathas was to take
more time for preparation. Hence till then we ordered our regular double-omlet,
bread, butter, jam, sauce and tea. Within no time everything was finished.
Parathas were to be served for lunch which we had planned to taste from hands
of Philip Fernandes.

About 9:30 am we left for old Goa. On the way lies the beautiful church of
Saligaon. We captured the beautiful structure of this church into the cameras and
set ahead to St. Francis church in old Goa. We passed through the road on which
film Dhoom was shoot showing Abhishek Bacchan flying across in a motor boat.
Mostly the road passed beside the river showing huge barges carrying Iron ore
and Manganese. There was a fiesta in the old town. Thousands of people were
gathered together for the morning prayers. We first went to visit the museum.
Here the Portuguese culture was evident as most of the Portuguese Generals and
Scholars oil-paintings were displayed. Some ancient scriptures and art found
while digging were displayed as well. After capturing certain frames outside the
church we passed through fair. A statue of Gandhiji is erected at one end of the
church.

Further we headed towards the Savoi plantation which is located towards eastern
Goa. On the way we halted to visit Devki-Krishna temple. The road towards
plantation is very narrow and passes through green belt. This gives an experience
of passing through a jungle. In about 30 minutes we reached the Savoi Plantation
owned by Shetye family. We were warmly greeted by a lady. On welcoming us
inside she told us about the place. It is proposed on 100 acres of land out of which
5 acres have been cultivated so far. In there lies various birds, an artificial river,
wide range of fruit and vegetable plantation etc. The food provided here is from
the same plantation and is fresh. We were given a welcome drink of Kokam
which tasted superb. This area is a must visit for all the keen nature lovers. We
were very disappointed to know that the entry is strictly given only through
advance booking. Hence we had to return back with just the glimpse of it. The
road back to Baga was long and few of us felt asleep. Near Baga we halted to take
snaps of St. Alex church. In about 100 minutes we reached Baga where another
delicious food was awaiting us. This was prepared by Philip Fernandes and
Lahu. So we were really anxious to eat the home made food. And to much of our
excitement the food was too tasty. The fried King fish and Prawns curry tasted
awesome. Aloo Parathas and curd tasted good as well. We eat till our tummies
were fully filled and conscious satisfied. Thanking Philip Fernandes we went to
the rooms and rested for a while.

Around 4:00 pm we started towards Baga beach. At that moment everyone was
excited to visit Baga beach in sun light. Then comes the words of Amol ‘Baga-de-
gaba’ which later become the theme words of our tour. Baga beach in the evening
looked even prettier. The coastline and the mountain provided the perfect
shooting location. The shacks across the coast with people sunbathing gave a
perfect portrait view. This scene was more to experience personally than to put in
words. We walked to Calangute beach. All the others till than had jumped into
water. They were enjoying the huge waves. Water sports were on a high at
Calangute. Later we snapped some foreigners. The most beautiful sunset pictures
were taken on the same evening. The sun setting into Arabian Sea was another
wonderful moment to witness. Probably the best sunset scene I have ever
witnessed in my life. With night taking its effect, we set back to Baga. On the way
Moon was rising towards the east. That being the full-moon day the moon was
sprinkling enough light to provide another picturesque occasion. I pulled the
camera and took the best photograph ever. The moon shining over a beach shack
behind trees became the portrait image. Slowly and steadily Baga-Calangute was
making deep inroads into each one of ours heart. Later we rushed to guest house
and over a quick shower again came back for dinner at Baga beach shack. Today
was the day to taste Squids. We ordered for Squid along with Prawns, King fish
curry and rice. Veg dish was ordered as usual. Again with wine and beer we
consumed the heart satisfying tasty food. Dinning at the beach shack with sea
water flowing beneath and fire crackers blowing on the beautiful enlightened
beach is an experience in itself. As a habit we all took a walk to Calangute and
had cake. Around 12:00 we came back to guest house and soon went into dreams
of the day.

Day 4 in Goa – 5 December 2006

In came Tueday. The second last day of our, until now memorable tour. By now
we were feeling that 5 days are very short to enjoy Goa. Hence we figured out to
make immense of Tuesday. We got up a bit late around 8:00 in the morning.
Philip Fernandes was ready with the breakfast consisting of double-omlet, bread,
butter, jam, sauce and tea. Again the delicious food was consumed in no time.

Around 10:00 we set out to visit extreme north Goa. Dhawal had heard about the
beautiful and quite beaches around north Goa. He was very excited to visit them.
Some of us had little interest to travel long distance to enjoy beaches. I was in
favour of staying at Baga only. Sagar was sounding the same. But for group cause
we somehow accompanied. And I tell you we had a wonderful time. North Goa
beaches really are the most attractive and beautiful. First we went near to
Maharashtra border to visit Fort Tirakhol. We passed through some of the remote
places of Goa. On our way also laid a prawn’s factory. To reach the fort we had to
cross river Kerim which flows off the beautiful Kerim beach coast. We were
transferred by a ferry. Vehicles are passed through the ship. Fort lies on a
mountain. Reaching fort Tirakhol we were a bit disappointed to see a Hotel being
operational in fort campus. The old structure of fort doesn’t exist. More so it gives
feeling of being in a five star hotel. We spent a very few minutes inside. We took
some snaps from the top. Kerim beach looked gorgeous from here. Immediately
we took the return ferry to Kerim.

From Kerim we planned to visit another dream destination Arambol. On our way
we passed through various other beautiful beaches. The specialty of all these
beaches is that they are very quite, beautiful and has sparse crowd mainly
foreigners. One can really enjoy the loneliness here. On reaching Arambol we
saw one of the most fascinating scenes. The water itself has a greenish look. On
the northern side lies a range of mountain. Certain rocks extend inside the ocean.
This was a picture perfect location. Immediately we captured it into frame. The
shacks across the beach also looked descent. Another noticeable thing was that
the beach had only foreign tourist except us. Sagar, Amol, Kailash and Dhawal
immediately undressed and jumped into ocean. They were having a good time.
The surfing board which was hired made all of them happier. Dhawal was
literally cuddling the board. I made myself busy in photography. In one of the
shack I found guitar. I immediately posed with it. Also I captured the image of
foreigner who was walking on his hands with head down and legs skywards. He
was an ISKON member.

After about an hour all came out of water. We took a light breakfast and left
Arambol beach. From here our destiny was fort Chapora. On our way we halted
for lunch. Here to we ordered very heavy dishes and happily consumed them.
Fort Chapora was also filmed in Dil Chahata hai. It sits at hill top. Vehicles can’t
climb the steep hill. So we had to walk our way inside the fort. One can
immediately notice that the fort is in ruins. Most of the border walls broken,
weeds grown every where and no tourists to visit other than five of us. But fort
has a wonderful site seeing around. Towards eastern side is a bird sanctuary
wherein we were fortunate to see thousands of birds. Towards south lies the
green belt with coconut tree plantation. Western side has the beautiful beaches of
Anjuna and Vagator on coast of the beautiful Arabian Sea. On north lie few more
beautiful beaches. One can view large parts of northern Goa from the fort.
Capturing all the beauties from top we set downhill. On our way we meet a
young Sardar couple who had dreams of conquering fort Chapora on Enticer
bike. Probably they were getting ready for filming Dhoom III. The male was
riding the steep hill of about 80 Degree. He had a miserable fall in the middle.
Kailash helped him go down again. Amol exchanged words with him. The Sardar
was cool as a cucumber as if it was his every day’s job. Then I wondered why so
many jokes are made on Sardarjis’.
Later we went on searching for water sports as Sagar was keen for para-sailing.
Firstly we halted on Anjuna beach to see no water sports around. The beach is a
bit rocky and not suitable for water sports. Here we decided to visit Sinquerium
beach again where the banana ride was enjoyed on the very first day. In about 40
minutes we reached the beach. Wasting no time all the other four got ready for
banana ride again. Dhawal gained strength these three days. He too went for a
banana ride. I again took the cameraman’s spot and filmed the entire ride. The
ride was more enjoyable than the last one. They were dipped thrice during the
ride. Once Sagar himself tilted the banana to send the professional person flying
into the ocean. Soon after the banana ride, Sagar and Dhawal went for a para-
sailing. This ride consists of a parachute tied to the motorboat and the rider is
gradually pushed skywards. It was already dark by then. Both of them enjoyed
the beautiful view of lights of the Sinquerium beach and the nearby area.

With full hearts we returned to Baga. On our way myself, Sagar and Amol
tattooed our left shoulders. Over a quick shower and tea we moved to Baga
beach again. Regular fish dinner was ordered with wine and Amol ordering for
Vodka. Kailash usually was ordering veg dish but was confused. He asked the
attendant about any particular veg dish. The attendant immediately replied “Sab
to kha chuke ho veg mein. Abb kya bacha hai”. We had a laugh on the occasion.
All the dishes were finished in no time. Another dinner was treasured. Amol
with 2 pegs of Vodka was feeling drunk. He was making more noise. Another
attendant came near to ask about Amol’s condition. Amol instantly replied “Tu
dar mat. Hum bill bhar denge”. Again we had a laugh. This time more loudly
than Navjot Singh Sidhu’s laughter on the Laughter challenge. We were
treasuring moments after moments. I finished the food early and went at a side
into a lonely area. After about 15 minutes rest followed. Amol was totally drunk.
Now the Vodka was speaking from his mouth. He was continually behind me to
take him to Tito’s disco where he wanted to have a ball. I was ignoring him. We
walked to Calangute for cakes. I thought Amol will forget Tito’s after eating cake.
I was wrong. He kept pleading me, rather harassing, to take him to Tito’s. I asked
Sagar whether Amol is acting like drunk or whether really the liquor had taken
control of him. Sagar replied that the cigarette which he smoked after drinks had
caused him to loose control of himself. Somehow Sagar and I convinced Amol to
get to guest house first and come back to Tito’s later. All the way back he kept
harassing me with his remarks. Kailash was loosing his temper over seeing
Amol’s condition. He really was boiling on Amol.

On reaching Guest house Amol continued to speak out drunken. He was talking
loudly. I made him lie down and put sheets over him. Also I smashed his head
with pillow. Yet again he spoke out loud. I changed the name of Philip Fernandes
to Francis as he could yell to him by his name. I even told Amol that Francis’s
sister is in house and she will feel bad about you. No way was Amol in listening
mood. I left Amol in this condition and returned to my room where Kailash,
Dhawal and Sagar were lying. After about 5 minutes Amol entered our room and
started to harass us again to take him to Tito’s. I made up my mind to call Amol’s
home and talk to his mother about the situation being out of control. Amol walks
up to me. Comes closer to my ears and says “Kunal tera bangwa ho gaya re”.
Man, I was speechless. Sagar and Dhawal were laughing like crazy. They were
involved in the plan as well. Amol was absolutely fine. They tricked me and
made me scapegoat. Bakra. We had a great time that night. All of us including
Kailash were astonished to see Amol acting absolutely perfect drunk.

Later we engaged ourselves into thinking about the activities of the day. Slowly
and steadily we all fell asleep talking about Arambol beach, Chapora fort,
Sinquerium water sports and The Great Amol’s acting proficiency.

Day 5 in Goa – 6 December 2006

Wednesday morning we were feeling used to the daily routine. Took a breakfast
consisting of Upma specially prepared by Philip Fernandes. Also double omlet,
bread, butter, sauce and Jam was consumed with tea for the final time. We all
packed our luggage and went to visit Baga beach for the last time. As usual the
beach was welcoming us with its beautiful atmosphere and was urging us to
return back. With heavy hearts we snapped Baga beach again. The ocean water,
that mountain, those shacks were seen for the last time of our trip. That really
was an emotional moment. In about 30 minutes we came back to guest house. We
thanked Philip Fernandes for being such a kind hearted person. Also thanked
Lahu for helping us throughout. Picking up our luggage we set towards Mapusa
for shopping.

Mapusa market is famous for the Goan special items. From clothes to Cashews to
wine, all can be purchased here. Immediately we turned towards a liquor shop.
Each one except Kailash purchased wine. Suddenly my cell rang. It was Manish’s
call. What a time he called. He immediately ordered Amol to buy some bottles for
him as well. Amol, the follower of Manish did oblige him. Later we purchased
cashews. There doesn’t seem to be much difference in the rates of cashews in
Mumbai and Goa. With all the shopping done we set to visit the temples of Goa.
Today was the reserved day to beg for blessings from the almighty and to thank
him for all the pleasures we had. On our way I received a call from Asmita. I
briefly shared the enjoyment we had here. She was sad to miss it all.

First we visited a Tirupati Balaji temple. The temple is located in a lonely place.
The atmosphere around the temple is very quite. Also the garden is kept clean
and tidy. Next to it is the Ganesh Mandir. A tomb stands in front of this beautiful
temple. We captured the images and later set ourselves to Mangueshi temple.
The famous singer Lata Mangeshkar comes from the same village. Again this
temple has a huge structure. A big tomb at the entrance adds to the beauty. Later
we moved to Mahalsa temple. The temple has a look of ancient times. The
interiors have been designed skillfully. There exists a hall bordering the temple
on one side. And on the other side it has living rooms for the devotees. Our next
stop was to impart blessings of Maharudra Ganesh. This temple has a clean
garden surrounding it. From here we visited the temple of Nageshi. The structure
of the temple is huge. Also a pond is made in the campus. After taking blessings
Dhawal snapped the temple from various angles. Next we moved to Ramnath
temple. This temple has the biggest structure amongst all. Alike Mahalsa temple
here exists a hall and living rooms for the devotees. After taking blessing we
moved to Mahalaxmi temple. This temple also has a huge structure with a
beautiful surrounding garden. Dhawal again snapped the temple and garden
from various angles. From Mahalaxmi temple we went to Shanta Durga temple.
This temple is one of the most famous temples in Goa. The structure is beautifully
designed. Capturing the images we moved forward. Over a quick lunch we
visited Sai Baba temple. From here we set to our last destination of Goa,
Madgaon railway station.

On our way to the station we witnessed the Sky bus project undertaken by the
Goan Government. Currently the project is stopped. Only the huge pillars are
standing. On reaching the station we were surprised to see the huge structure
and the cleanliness of the railway station. Every thing including the parking lot
was perfectly planned. No surprise that the station has received ISO 9000
certification. For a moment I thought of visiting a foreign railway station or like
visiting an Airport. The trains schedule was displayed at a prompt place. The
inquiry counter also can be found easily. Toilets here can be used only on paying.

Here we left our companion Anand. We were thankful to him for showing us
every part of Goa. It was a great time in his company. Further on inquiry at the
counter we came to know that our train, Matsyagandha express will arrive at 9:00
pm. We had nearly about 5 hours in our hand. Waiting on the platform was not a
good idea. Amol came up with an idea of visiting the nearby Colva beach.
Instantly everyone saw an opportunity of visiting the beach for the last time. We
kept our entire luggage in the railway cloak room and set outside to reach Colva
beach. Outside the railway station we caught a local bus for Madgaon. From here
we hired a taxi to Colva. In about 20 minutes we reached Colva beach. Although
on Monday we had visited Colva once. But that was during afternoon. On
Wednesday it was evening. The sun was just about to set when we reached.
Dhawal immediately pulled out his camera and took some memorable photos.
We made ourselves relaxed on the talcum powder like soft sand. Later in one of
the shack all enjoyed a glass of wine for the last time. We were having a great
time at the end of our tour. Unexpected Colva beach trip was a blessing in
disguise for all.

At about 7:30 we left Colva beach to reach Madgaon Railway station. Reaching
here we took some snaps and had a breakfast. Also we took some biscuits for the
night journey. Sharp at night the Matsyagandha express arrived. We settled in
quickly and ordered for dinner to pantry. Everyone happily consumed the food.
Later we discussed about the sweet memories of the tour. All felt like the tour
will never finish. But we had to face the reality. Soon all fall asleep into the
shivering cold of kokan. Everyone got up next day near Panvel at about 4:30 am.
We were destined for Thane. On reaching Thane Kailash took the next local train
to Mulund. Sagar took an auto to Vikroli and me, Amol and Dhawal took an auto
directly to our home.

Last six days went in no time. We wished we could have stayed longer for a
couple of days more. Later in the evening I, Dhawal and Amol meet on our
ground. We shared our memories with rest of our friends. Sagar and Dhawal
prepared certain lines on our tour. Those were sms’ed to all. We all five of us
talked to each other. That evening we really were missing Baga. That small Goan
town was calling us big time. It is always better to come back with sweet
memories. We had treasured a lifetime in Baga. The beautiful coast, the adjacent
small hill, the shacks, the lighting, the cakes, the wines and the delicious sea food
was badly missed on the Thursday evening.
Baga ka beach, Shikeri ka banana,
Yaroon ki mehfil ko wine ka bahana,
Chamakta sitara, leherata kinara,
Memorable rahega Goa trip hamara.
- Sagar

Francis ka butter ho, Baga pe dinner ho,

Kunal ki aavad ho, Ya phir banana ride ho,
Tito’s ki gunj ho, Wine ki dhund ho,
Kash ye Goa tour bar bar ho.
- Dhawal

To dear Manish
Tuze miss kiya:
Banana ke ride mein aur para-saling ke glide mein
King fish ke curry mein aur Dolphin ke ferry mein
Wine ke sip mein aur samandar ke dip mein
Dil Chahata hai ke keley pe aur haseena maan jayegi ke teley pe
Nagarcoil mail mein aur Aguada jail mein
Driver ke joke mein aur Calangute ke cake mein
Sitaron se bhare aasman mein aur phoolon se bhare baagan mein
Amol ke dance mein aur KT ke stance mein
Goa ke galiyon mein aur dil ke geharaiyo mein
- Kunal