In earlier
times, the Carnival was ushered in to the beats of the ghumot and drums and the hosting of
traditional folk plays or ‘maand’ in the villages. The aroma of pork vindaloo
and sannas would waft from the kitchens as the youngsters donned masks (rupnea
mono) and took a trip around the village. Boys would hide with buckets of water
behind the trees or bushes and splash water on unsuspecting girls.
But things now have
changed. Jhonny Gomes, a yesteryears actor from Utorda, feels that nowadays everything
is commercialised. He used to direct khell tiatrs, more for fun rather than for
money. The khell tiatrs were witnessed by thousands, unlike today.
Hazel Colaco, a
student of Information Technology, is of the opinion that while we should
preserve the older traditions but is against the pranks of throwing water,
powder-bombs etc as they can be a menace. She also feels that khell tiatr
writers should take utmost care in their portrayal of women. She enjoys modern
floats where theme is easily understandable and aesthetic.
Asher
Michael Lopes from Chinchinim, a student of catering management, says that he
likes the traditional carnival plays and traditional village based carnival. He
feels that modern floats result in degradation of our beautiful culture and
traditions. It further erodes the moral fabric, ethos of the youth and the
modern carnival suits and serves the interest of corporate houses. The only
thing he likes the floats based on traditional occupations and environment.
