TUESDAY, MAY 21, 2024
Ajit John
The people of sleepy Canacona woke up to viral video clips of a small time actress, in a video described as ‘pornographic’Known for her sexually explicit displays across platform videos, which fans have described as “carefree and sensuous’, the actress invoked the ire of opposition political parties as the controversy snowballed.Soon after, the ambassador of fitness, the suave Milind Soman, model and actor, made heads turn with a picture of him in the streaking across a Gan beach to commemorate in 55th birthday. In another time and age without the internet and social media, this would have been fine. But Soman decided to actually upload that video on his Instagram account.The reactions from the average Goan was mixed. Some were amused with some of the antics but preferred to keep a straight face while others felt anger. Kabir Pinto Makhija felt people could not think they could get away doing any nonsense in Goa and it was important that they followed the laws of the land. He said “The government has to clamp down on all this, show it means business and action has to be taken, FIR’s filed etc. All are welcome but no disrespect should be shown to our beautiful state.”, Lawrie Colaco a senior consultant in the corporate world said “I think the authorities are least bothered of what is happening and how the state is being projected. The government does not know how to promote, whether to market its beauty and serenity. At least we should avoid negative publicity of the state, its culture and its people”.A young businessman in Taleigao, Shane da costa said the laws should be the same for ordinary folk and celebrities. He said “When the garbage was dumped, action should have been initiated. The celebs should have ensured this did not happen. They love to take care of their image and like to put their best foot forward. Life in reality and on the screen is very different. With regards to Milind Soman, I have observed on shows like Kapil Sharma, the impression is created that you can roam naked, do drugs and drink alcohol. This is unfortunate. We are famous for our beaches, lakes waterfalls, football and yes our drinking to”. He is a man who has travelled around the world and has seen it all. Savio Messias said people indulge in this kind of behavior and it was not possible to blame the government. He said “Guys and girls have streaked across the football fields, can the authorities be blamed. You cannot have police men all over the place. There are people who will go to any lengths to get publicity. You have to accept that. I remember in my youth Protima Bedi streaked on the beach in Mumbai, there was so excitement and it died now. Now with social media it gets a life all its own. Perhaps they could have exercised better sense.”Schubert Mendes an investment consultant felt that as a Goan, everyone should be welcomed but it was important they respect the local culture. It was important they remember how they would want to be remembered when they had left. He said “It should not reach a situation where you are not welcome in the state. Do what you want in the privacy of your home but not in public.” Mangirish Salelkar a well travelled senior executive in IT industry perhaps summed it up best when he said “Every Indian, who has accepted Goa as their second home, should show a little respect to the land. Just because Goans have a casual attitude and are always welcoming, doesn't mean you take things for granted. I think, we cannot expect much from people who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. But at least will expect the Authorities to intervene in this matter. Enough is enough”Perhaps a little more respect and introspection before indulging in questionable behavior would help everyone coming to Goa.
