PTI, PANJIM: Goa is witnessing the music of protests in its major cities every Sunday as a group of like-minded musicians have taken up the objection to the proposed golf course to the streets.
Several musicians have began singing the songs of revolution and protests in state’s cities like Mapusa, Margao and Panjim urging people to join the protest against Golf Course project proposed at Tiracol village in north Goa.
The locals have begun opposing the project which is conceived by M/s Leading Hotels Private limited.
“The first protest happened three weeks back on Sunday infront of historic Mary Immaculate Conception Church in Panjim. The aim was to create awareness against the project,” said Sudeep Dalvi, a singer, who has joined chorus with others like Siddhanath Buyao (singer), Carlos Gonsalves (drummer), Vico Rodrigues (guitar), Eliath Fernandes (violine).
The group is called ‘Save Tiracol, Save Goa’ which also has Catholic priest-turned-activist Fr Bismark Dias joining them.
“The idea of protest came up during discussion with my friend Benjamin Pinto (band Euphoria). We suggested to have a concert to create awareness. The concert was planned without any stage, mike or sound system,” said Dalvi.
After the discussion, the first protest happened in Panjim on the stairs of the church. Thereafter the group protested in Mapusa and Margao markets. “Next Sunday we are going to Tiracol to protest,” said Dalvi, who clarifies that it is a non-political outfit.
“I had read lot about the golf course project and when idea came up of the protest I immediately picked it up,” said Siddhanath Buyao, whose father late Ulhas Buyao was known for such musical protests during the historic Opinion Poll held in Goa in the year 1967.
The Opinion Poll was held to decide whether Goa should remain as independent union territory or merge with Maharashtra. Senior Buyao was bestowed title of “Goen Shahir” by the people for his contribution during the Opinion Poll.
Buyao says music has a strength to convince people. “Music can move people and we are using the medium. It is the most non-violent medium,” he said.
The locals are opposing the Tiracol golf course project claiming that it will have immense environmental impact on the surrounding areas. The sporadic violent protests are witnessed during recent past in the village.
The state government has been backing the golf course, while the hotel company which is setting up the project has said it will be the most environment-friendly project.
