from Lenny Barretto
for Daijiworld Media Network - Goa (MB)
Panaji, May 4: Goa just hosted the international short film, documentary and animation festival, which is good news.
Every year when International film festival of India (IFFI) approaches, we keep reading a lot about Goa not having the film culture and Goans knowing nothing about the films. No one should dare challenge Goa's knowledge about films. If they do so, it is their innocence.
Kala Academy hosting the international film, documentary and animation festival is a welcome step. Goa always loved films. Many films produced in India are shot in Goa. The other day a sign reading "Panaji police station" was found ont he Entertainment Society of Goa's premises. Although it surprised many, it could be guessed that it might have been done to shoot some film.
Maybe Marathi, Hindi, other Tollywood or even Hollywood films, Goa figures on the list for many. Goa is such a beautiful place that every place is a worth shooting destination. There is no need to look out for places. Our rich architecture and hospitality adds to it.
So when film festivals are being held in Goa there is no need for anyone to question Goa's credibility. Goans may not be experts in films but that does not mean that they don't have film culture. They do have film culture. Konkani films date back to the liberation era. And Goans have produced best gems, which are right now making news in bOllywood.
Talk about Hema Sardesai, Remo Fernandes and many more including legends like Anthony Gonsalves, the late K Vaikunth, Dattaram Wadkar - they all are Goans. Besides the a large number of musicians who have given music to Bollywood films, there are several who have contributed to Marathi films too.
The generation X too are making their effforts to get in films. Renowned producer like Rajendra Talak has given many, a platform to get on screen.
The Goans should ignore all the critics and learn more about the films. The criticism, which is usually 'sour grapes' effect, will continue.
From the recent International Short Films Festival 2007
Daijiworld exclusive on Goan talents:
Tribute to the memory of Maestros: