MARGAO: Khell tiatrists and Konkani folk play artists express discontent over the substantial fees demanded by the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) for utilising sound during the three-day Carnival celebrations. Seeking relief, they approached Environment Minister Alexio Sequeira, urging an exemption or a nominal fee, given the cultural significance of khell tiatr in Goa.
The delegation, led by tiatrist Arnaldo Costa, emphasised the financial strain, explaining that hefty GSPCB fees could result in losses for both artists and musicians involved in the Carnival khell shows.
Following a discussion, Minister Sequeira contacted GSPCB Member Secretary Dr Shamila Monteiro to explore potential solutions.
While speaking on behalf of the tiatrists, Costa highlighted their concern about facing a substantial fee of Rs 45,000 for staging shows during the Carnival festivities. He emphasised that if such fees persist, directors may be forced to cease staging shows, jeopardising the rich tradition upheld during the Carnival by the khell tiatrists. Costa explained that directors already bear significant costs, including Rs 50,000 for musicians over the three days, expenses for artists, and transportation. He expressed willingness to pay a token fee of Rs 3,000 to GSPCB, hoping for a favourable response to sustain the cultural tradition.
Minister Sequeira later told reporters, “Tiatrists pointed out that the amount they must pay as a fee for getting the sound permit is on a higher side. I assured them that I will try to resolve the issue.” Last year, a group of Khell directors had complained about the prevailing 10 pm noise ban, which affected their shows. They have sent a memorandum to various authorities, seeking relief.
