The media has been covering the hosting of Sunburn in the south with great interest. This is a subject that seems to affect Goans in a very strong manner. Hordes of domestic and international party goers descending into Goa and taking over the place is something that is not very popular with Goans. Many claim that Goa is no longer theirs. The outsider seems to be running the shots with the Goans just onlookers. Now if the State government decided to organise a three day music festival featuring Goan music from Goa artists, how would it fare? Would it generate interest among the musicians and the locals in the State? The response was interesting.
Saby De Divar who is known for his Konkani political songs says such a suggestion was interesting but nothing would come out of it. He says, “They said something like this in the past but when the time comes nothing happens. They will promote nothing. If they do something like this, it will be a very good idea. It will be great for Goan musicians. But as far as my experience goes, nothing will happen and Goan musicians will not benefit. Everything is for tourism and the Goan is not part of that equation.”
Strong words are always straight as an arrow. The reactions from others however, were more accepting.
Nitin Mardolkar, a Indian classical musician says it is a lovely idea and it will mean that several talented musicians would get exposure. Goa music, he says, is our heritage. It should be shown to tourists. Sunburn he says is western and not part of the State’s culture. He says, “This is not to say that there is nothing being done to promote Goa’s rich musical tradition. Lokutsav is an excellent platform for our traditions. However, if the government promotes our musical traditions in this three day show, it will be a great show for everyone.”
Noted Jazz singer Joanne da Cunha has a more nuanced response to the idea. She says, “Sunburn has been quite a hit with people over the years, with crowds flocking over to Goa in the recent past to celebrate this music festival. It seems to do wonders for Goa’s tourism as well. I see no harm in the Government continuing to hold this festival here in Goa, provided there are relevant and proper safety and security measures in place so that all festival attendees are safe and satisfied. In addition to this, I think it would be great if the Government promoted local Goan talent by conducting a separate music festival or events for Goan musicians to shine, since we have so much potential talent in Goa itself which deserves to be recognised on a bigger scale. But it’s very difficult for a local festival to compete with Sunburn, so I would suggest that a sufficient gap be kept and that this local festival be held sometime before Sunburn.”
Edmund Gomes of the band Black and White is all for it. He says, “A three-day music festival featuring Goan musicians could be an incredible initiative to promote local culture and talent. An event like this would celebrate Goan music and render a platform for local artists to showcase their artistry, fostering pride and unity within our petit yet rich community. This could elevate tourism and the local economy by captivating visitors interested in experiencing authentic Goan culture.”
He further adds, “However, it’s crucial to address potential concerns regarding safety and the prevention of issues such as drug use. By implementing stringent security measures and collaborating with law enforcement, the festival can ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all attendees. Additionally, involving local communities in the planning and execution of the event can help mitigate any disruptions and ensure that the festival positively impacts the region.”
Jurgen Pacheco, the front man and founder of the band Double R says he would look forward to such a show. His opinion is that it is a good idea and it will encourage musicians. He however feels that like the casino ships on the river, Sunburn would never leave Goa. Sunburn he says was great for DJs and this three day festival will be great for local musicians.
Kalpesh Naik, an engineer by profession and a participant in Ghumat aarti group, Gopal Krishna Aarti Mandal from Marcel says it is a great idea. He says the group usually participates in local shows and were now in training for the coming season. He feels such a show would give them exposure in the rest of the state. The group he says usually does 10 shows in a year.
Mando singer, Kenneth Lobo from Vasco feels it is a good idea. He says, “Instead of DJ music, people can hear live music from people singing in front of them. There is so much talent in Goa. I strongly feel there are many Goans who would be interested in watching Goan talent. Sunburn is there and there are crowds for it but it is not Goan. Let Goans enjoy Goan music. I believe something like this was proposed sometime back but the money minded people came in and nothing came out of it. Something like this, there will be more Goans than tourists attending the festival. Sunburn is not our culture. I am from Vasco but I performed with Ami Curtorkars from Curtorim. If this kind of event does materialise, it will be a hit here and everywhere else.”
Noted bassist and veteran musician, Colin D’Cruz says, “It’s high time the government recognised music as an industry, that’s an intrinsic part of tourism. They should be doing all they can to promote music rather than curtail it with ridiculous 10 pm deadlines. If they want tourism to thrive, they can’t stop tourists from partying after 10 pm. A three-day music festival is a good idea. A three-day music festival every month is a better idea. A 365 day music festival is the best idea!”
It is without a doubt a capital idea which should be considered by the government but will it? That depends on how you look at it.
