Latest news with #Portuguese-style
Business Journals
11-07-2025
- Business
- Business Journals
The new face of Nando's
The South Africa-born chain known for Portuguese-style grilled chicken wants to become a national brand.
Indian Express
21-06-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Ahmedabad plane crash: When an island loses its people
A fleck of land in the Gulf of Khambhat off Gujarat's coast, Diu stretches about 4.6 km from north to south. That is only slightly longer than the runway at the Sardar Vallabhbhai International Airport in Ahmedabad, from where the ill-fated Boeing 787 took off and crashed under a minute on June 12. The two factoids are meshed in the miraculous story of Vishwas Kumar, the only survivor of India's worst air disaster in three decades, out of the 242 on board. Vishwas, 32, is a British citizen but spends almost as much time in the Union Territory of Diu, running a fishing business here – like many others who live such dual, intertwined lives in this former Portuguese colony. Among those who died in the Ahmedabad-Gatwick flight crash were 14 with roots in Diu – four of them British (including Vishwas's brother Ajay, 30) and seven Portuguese. On this tiny island of about 51,000 people, that means many have lost someone they knew – the white caps and dark saris, a mark of mourning, now dot Diu. Having lost one son and seen another survive, Ramesh Kumar Bhalaiya, 52, is swinging between grief and relief. 'My sons were the four parts of my body,' he tells a visitor at their spacious, two-storey home in Patelwadi village. Bhalaiya flew down from Leicester, with wife Jayaben and their sons Nayan, 26, and Sunny, 29, after the crash – stopping first at Ahmedabad to identify and collect Ajay's body. Bhalaiya talks about his shock when Vishwas called to tell them of the crash. It was seconds after he informed them that they were taking off. 'Vishwas was breathing heavily and told me that Ajay was nowhere to be seen, that there was smoke everywhere. The phone then got disconnected,' Bhalaiya told The Indian Express earlier. Ajay's wife collapsed on hearing the news and had to be hospitalised; the couple lost two young daughters to an illness earlier. On Wednesday the family performed Ajay's last rites. Vishwas is too 'shaken' to talk to anybody, says a relative. The canopy in the house's courtyard where the mourners collected has not been taken down yet. The plastic chairs underneath are vacant, while the sheet spread on the ground for the mourners was blown away by the strong winds that swept Diu Thursday. On a tree, hangs a fishing net. It was the fishing season that had brought Vishwas and Ajay to Diu. The family flew down in September last year at the start of the season, and when the rest left in January, the brothers stayed back. It was an annual trip, with the Leicester-based family's primary source of income still the fish brought in by the boats it owns and operates here. Back in Leicester, the Bhalaiya sons work at a garment store. The story is the same across homes in Diu, where fishing remains the few viable sources of income besides the liquor business. The liquor draws tourists from dry Gujarat, leading to the mushrooming of bars and resorts, with fewer numbers coming for Diu's beaches, a fort, its Portuguese-style buildings, and a 17th-century church. Chhaganbhai Bhikhubhai Bhalaiya (65), of Bucharwada village close to Patelwadi, holds a Portuguese passport but lives mostly in Diu with wife Ratnaben. His sons Mahesh, 42, and Rohit, 40, are British citizens, who work at a garment factory in London. Chhaganbhai used to be in fishing too, before he got a job as a contractual driver with the Forest Department. He is now retired. Just back from attending the funeral of a relative who died in the Ahmedabad crash, Chhaganbhai says he borrowed money to send his sons, who had studied only till Class 10, in Gujarati medium, to England 15 years ago. They held Portuguese passports, allowing them to stay and work in the UK at the time, as it was part of the European Union then. Over time, they acquired British citizenship. 'First, they faced problems conversing in English, but they managed and are now proficient. They got married here, to locals, and their wives later joined them. They are happy there, and I am happy here. The two of them send 100 pounds (about Rs 11,700) each every month, and it is sufficient for my wife and me.' He has no regrets, Chhaganbhai says. 'We lived in a mud house earlier, but now have a concrete home, with all the facilities… If my sons had stayed here, we would be leading the same life… they would be fishing, putting their lives at risk, or doing some labour work.' The sons and their families visit every December, during the winter vacations, while Chhaganbhai and his wife have been to London at least 10 times in the last five years. 'My sons urge us to stay there,' he says, 'but the weather does not suit us.' The risks involved in fishing, both due to the fickle weather as well as the chances of ending up in Pakistani waters, are another reason families here don't want their children getting into it. An official of the Diu UT administration says that migration has been on the rise, particularly from fishermen communities such as the Kolis and Kharwas, with London the preferred destination. While the main reason is money, the official puts his finger on another factor. 'These communities are used to taking risks, adapting to circumstances and surviving.' The Portuguese link helps. 'After Daman, Diu and Goa were liberated in 1961 from its rule, the Portuguese government offered residents of its former colonies citizenship, if they could prove they lived there at the time. Even successors could get citizenship if they could prove ties to forefathers listed in the Portuguese civil registry. Now, they submit applications to a mamlatdar, and these are forwarded for verification to Portuguese Embassy officials, who visit Diu once every three months.' The official estimates that over 30,000 people from Diu are staying in London currently, many of them with British citizenship. 'While youths settle there, older people come back,' the official says, adding that similar migration patterns can be seen in Daman. In 2020, Diu was merged with the Union Territory of Daman, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and it is now one consolidated UT. Amarjit Singh, a retired IAS officer, talks about the other routes for migration from Gujarat, with the first of them headed for Africa, particularly Mozambique. 'After Mozambique's independence in 1975, the Vanzas and Darjis and the other Gujarati communities, including from Diu, started to migrate again, this time towards Portugal… The Quinta da Holandesa and Quinta da Vitoria neighbourhoods in the heart of Lisbon came to hold big Gujarati settlements.' Later, Singh says, especially due to the failure of a resettlement process, many chose to migrate to Britain. K C Sethi, the author of the coffee table book Daman, Diu, Goa, Dadra, Nagar-Haveli & Portuguese Regime (1510-1961), says many homes in Diu carry hints of the old world in their 'stained glass windows, sacred relics, and black-and-white photographs of weddings with mandolin players'. Patelwadi village sarpanch Deepak Devji says that in their village of about 4,000, at least 40 families have members settled in London. There is not much by way of prospects here, says Devji. In Patelwadi, most students go to private schools or the sole Gujarati-medium government school for primary classes, before moving to the village's Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya that has English-medium instruction for Classes 6 to 12. A government college, offering Arts and Commerce streams, came up in 2013 in Diu. Besides, there is a government polytechnic and an Industrial Training Institute. Says Devji: 'Starting from an early age, children are urged by their parents to learn English so that they can settle in London. Earlier, those who went got jobs at construction sites, factories, shops… But the younger generation is more educated.' Haji Abdul Karim Bidiwala was 14 when Diu was liberated from Portugal. He recalls that till Class 3, he studied in the Portuguese medium. He remembers other things: 'Guzra hua zamana yaad bahut aata hai (We fondly remember the days gone by). The life of the people of Diu was very good… A governor looked after the administration, law and order. We got free medicines, milk, rations, some of it brought by air from Portugal.' The grandson of one of the Portuguese Governors of Diu, Joao Folque, has been visiting Diu every year since 2012, and spends at least three months here. Settled in Lisbon, the 64-year-old says over the phone: 'Diu is our first home, our ancestors' roots are entrenched here. My grandfather died in 1951 in Goa. My father was born in Silvassa in Dadra and Nagar Haveli.' Umesh Patel is the MP of the UT of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. The first Independent to win the Daman and Diu Lok Sabha seat in nearly 40 years, Patel credits his victory to the 'neglect' of the constituency by the BJP and the 'indifference' of the Congress. 'People were fed up with the working style of the Administrator, who had carried out mass demolitions, laid off government servants like teachers and nurses, and privatised power. Businesses suffered due to his farmaan (orders).' On the rising number of young people leaving Daman and Diu, Patel says he is not surprised. 'Jobs are scarce here, people have to endure hardships… So they avail Portuguese citizenship, start earning good money and see a rise in their living standards,' he says. When that money is sent home, he adds, that affluence draws in others.
Hans India
18-06-2025
- Hans India
10 Offbeat Gems in Goa for Explorers and Escape Seekers in 2025
Discover 10 offbeat places in Goa that go beyond beaches and parties. From hidden islands to historic forts and charming villages, explore the side of Goa tourism that offers soulful experiences and romantic getaways. The Hidden Side of Goa Tourism Goa is known for its lively beaches and vibrant nightlife but that's only one side of the story. Beyond the well-trodden coastline lies a quieter, more soulful version of Goa. Think lush backwaters, sleepy villages, forest trails, and untouched heritage zones that transport you to a different era. These offbeat places in Goa offer a perfect mix of romance, culture, and adventure, ideal for anyone seeking experiences beyond the usual. 1. Divar Island Divar Island is one of the most peaceful offbeat places in Goa, accessible by a short ferry ride from Old Goa. With its Portuguese-style homes, lush paddy fields, and quiet chapels, this island offers a nostalgic escape from commercial hotspots. Ideal for romantic walks and nature lovers, Divar Island showcases a slower, more soulful side of Goa tourism that's worth exploring. 2. Chorão Island Chorão Island, nestled near the Mandovi River, is a true gem among Goa offbeat places. Famous for the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, it also offers canoe rides through mangroves and glimpses of traditional Goan village life. Couples will love the serene paths and warm hospitality. This spot reflects the charm of offbeat Goa tourism, away from the rush of the mainland. 3. Saligao Village Saligao is a hidden treasure near Calangute and a favourite among offbeat places in Goa. This heritage-rich village is ideal for slow exploration and known for its winding lanes, colonial homes, and the iconic Mae de Deus Church. A walk through Saligao offers a unique slice of Goa tourism filled with greenery, calm surroundings, and local character, making it perfect for cultural enthusiasts and couples alike. 4. Fontainhas Fontainhas in Panaji offers a colourful, colonial experience that stands out among Goa offbeat places. This UNESCO-listed Latin Quarter features narrow lanes, art cafés, and Portuguese-era architecture. It's a must-visit for those interested in culture, photography, and soulful ambience. Fontainhas gives you a break from the beaches and immerses you in the heritage side of Goa tourism, perfect for travellers seeking quiet exploration. 5. South Goa Hinterland Trail The South Goa Hinterland Trail is one of the most enriching offbeat places in Goa, taking you through spice farms, sacred groves, ancient temples, and tribal hamlets., This trail showcases a lesser-seen part of Goa tourism and ideal for couples and culture lovers. With guided tours and immersive experiences, it's a chance to connect with the state's rural roots and natural wonders. 6. Cabo de Rama Fort Cabo de Rama Fort is among the most scenic and historical off beat places in Goa. The fort offers breathtaking panoramic views of the mighty Arabian Sea, quiet ruins, and plenty of space for romantic picnics. This spot combines heritage and solitude, making it a unique part of Goa tourism for history buffs and couples looking for quiet corners with a story to tell. 7. Galgibaga Beach Galgibaga Beach is a pristine coastal stretch in South Goa and one of the cleanest offbeat places in Goa. This beach offers peace, natural beauty, and breathtaking sunsets. It is also known for Olive Ridley turtle nesting. With no shacks or crowds, it's ideal for quiet walks, reflection, and undisturbed romance. Galgibaga is a perfect beach escape for a peaceful Goa tourism experience. 8. Butterfly Beach Butterfly Beach is one of the most romantic and secluded Goa offbeat places, accessible only by boat from Palolem or Agonda. This beach, shaped like a crescent and surrounded by dense greenery, is a haven for couples. You might even catch a glimpse of playful dolphins during the boat ride to this secluded beach. With no commercial buildup, it's a perfect example of untouched Goa tourism, ideal for privacy and scenic beauty. 9. Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary is among the top off beat places in Goa for adventure and nature enthusiasts. Rich in biodiversity, this sanctuary offers trekking trails, waterfalls, bubbling lakes, and birdwatching opportunities. It's perfect for those looking to explore Goa tourism beyond the beaches. Whether you're hiking or enjoying forest sounds, Netravali provides a refreshing, raw, and immersive travel experience. 10. Chorla Ghats Chorla Ghats, located in the eastern highlands, are one of the greenest and most refreshing offbeat places in Goa. With misty views, waterfalls, and thick forests, it's a dream spot for eco-tourists and romantic travellers. The cooler climate and rich biodiversity offer a welcome escape from the coast, adding a highland flavour to the diverse charm of Goa tourism. Where to Stay: Discover Goa with Club Mahindra Resorts After a day of exploring these hidden gems, retreat to comfort and charm at one of the finest resorts in Goa. Choose from Club Mahindra Acacia Palms or Club Mahindra Emerald Palms for a relaxed coastal vibe, or experience the charm of resorts in Varca with Club Mahindra Varca. Prefer North Goa? Club Mahindra Assonora offers lush green escapes. These beach view resorts in Goa blend comfort with the spirit of exploration. Find the Goa Few Talk About Step beyond the usual with these ten offbeat places in Goa that offer hidden beauty and soulful charm. Whether wandering through forests or exploring heritage trails, Goa's quiet corners await. With Club Mahindra resorts in Goa, every journey becomes more personal, meaningful, and comfortably adventurous.
Time of India
16-06-2025
- Time of India
Why the off-season in Goa or Kerala can be your best vacation yet
Close your eyes and imagine this scene, 'swinging palm trees, the soothing sound of the sea, and your toes dipped in sand.' sounds peaceful, right? Well, travel is among the most rewarding experiences of life which takes you through strange places, which often result in beautiful memories and stories that last a lifetime. Now, picture yourself experiencing all of this without the touristy crowd, no sound of the vehicles, quiet beaches, and monsoon rains. This is what the off-season in Goa and Kerala looks like. The months between June to September transform Goa and Kerala into serene sanctuaries. Their gifted, lush green landscapes become a sight for sore eyes; the glistening rainfall and the backwaters flow with a sense of calm rarely found during the peak months. It is perfect for those seeking authenticity over itinerary checklists. A look: Monsoon magic Monsoon in coastal India is not a travel deterrent; instead, it is a revelation. The rain doesn't just fall; it uplifts the mood instantly. Especially in Goa, the red cliffs turn richer, the lush green valleys turn brighter than usual, and famous waterfalls such as the Dudhsagar come alive in all their glory. Meanwhile, in Kerala, the backwaters swell gracefully, the hills of Munnar become misty wonders, and the scent of wet Earth mingles with the musty spices in the air. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 임플란트 29만원 이벤트 임플란트 더 알아보기 Undo Why should you consider an off-season escapade? Fewer Tourists, deeper experiences Explore without rushing. Stroll down Fontainhas in Goa or cruise through Alleppey's backwaters without hustling for space. Locals are friendlier, prices are lower, and you'll have the time and space to absorb the surroundings. Budget-friendly and luxury stays With hotels offering discounts of up to 40–60%, this is your chance to stay in pool villas, boutique homestays, or eco-luxury resorts at a fraction of their high-season cost. Solo monsoon adventures From monsoon hikes to coffee plantation strolls, the rains provide new avenues for exploring nature. Weather notwithstanding, the adventure is very much alive. Ayurveda & Wellness In Kerala, monsoon is the classical season for Ayurvedic Panchakarma treatments with perfect humidity to reap maximum benefit. Pair this with yoga amidst rain-soaked hills or backwaters, and your body will be grateful. Off-season highlights: Where to go Dudhsagar waterfalls (South Goa) – At their peak during monsoon, these grand falls are a must-visit. Chorla Ghats— Perfect for nature walks, bird spotting, and misty landscapes in the Western Ghats. Fontainhas, Panaji— Goa's Latin Quarter, is peaceful and vibrant during rains; a walkabout. Contains colorful Portuguese-style houses that are perfect for strolling. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary— A peaceful mangrove retreat, perfect during early monsoon. Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple— A 12th-century temple amid dense forest and waterfalls. Ashwem & Morjim Beaches— Less crowded, ideal for long, tranquil strolls. Must watch the sunset if you are visiting either of the beaches. Kerala Alleppey Backwaters —Experience houseboat accommodations or canoeing amidst green paddy fields and coconut groves. Munnar – Foggy tea plantations, spice gardens, and dramatic monsoon scenery. Athirapally Waterfalls— Dubbed as "India's Niagara," the most beautiful during the rains. Wayanad— Hike to Edakkal Caves, tour Pookode Lake, and walk through monsoon-filled coffee plantations. Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary)— Bamboo rafting, nature walks, and elephant sightings in the lush forest. Varkala Cliff— Less touristy than Kovalam, with cliff-top views and peaceful cafes. Kumarakom— A peaceful backwater village close to Vembanad Lake with high-end resorts and bird watching. Monsoon backpacking tips Pack the basics: Waterproof wind jacket, an umbrella, quick-drying clothing, and insect repellent. Make smart accommodation choices : Look for hotels with indoor activities—spas, libraries, or workshops. Verify access : Certain treks or waterfalls can close during heavy rains. Before planning, make sure that you verify the timings with the travel organizers or managers of the particular place. During the off-season, Goa and Kerala don't wind down; they unfold. From rain-soaked hills and beachside rainstorms to rich cultural encounters and indulgent quiet, these destinations have so much more than a box-ticker holiday to offer. So the next time you plan Goa or Kerala, think beyond sunny postcards. Green, peaceful, spiritual, and slightly damp because sometimes the best of a place is the unexplored one. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Indian Express
21-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Akshay Kumar sells an office space for Rs 8 crore five years after buying it for Rs 4.85 crore, making a profit of 65%
Akshay Kumar recently sold off his office space in Lower Parel for a whopping Rs 8 crore. According to property registration documents shared by Square Yards, the transaction reportedly took place in April this year. The Kesari star's office space is located in One Place Lodha. According to IGR property registration documents reviewed by Square Yards, the office space features a carpet area of 1,146.88 sq ft and includes two car parking spaces. The transaction incurred a stamp duty payment of Rs 48 lakh and registration charges of Rs 30,000. Akshay had bought the space for Rs 4.85 crore in December 2020. Now, the property is sold for 8 crores, reflecting a 65% appreciation in value. As per RERA, One Palace Lodha, a commercial project by Macrotech Developers Limited, spans 1.08 acres and offers office spaces ranging from 179 to 27,392 sq ft. According to Square Yards Data Intelligence, a total of 8 transactions, amounting to a gross transaction value of Rs. 618 crore, were registered with IGR in One Lodha Place between May 2024 and April 2025. The average property price for the project stands at Rs. 48,000 per sq. ft. Lower Parel is among the prime residential and commercial hubs in Mumbai. Several celebrities including Abhishek Bachchan, Shahid Kapoor, Amish Tripathi, and Manoj Bajpayee own properties in this location. Akshay Kumar 's net worth is reportedly estimated to be around Rs 2,500 crore. The actor owns a sea-facing bungalow valued to Rs 80 crore. It features a home theatre, walk-in closet, and extensive garden. He also owns an apartment spanning 1,878 square feet, valued at Rs 7.8 crore. Akshay also owns Portuguese-style villa worth Rs 5 crore, among others. Akshay Kumar featured in two films this year, Sky Force and Kesari 2. Comparatively, both the films have fared well at the box office compared to his previous releases such as Khel Khel Mein, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, and Sarfira among others. Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold story of Jallianwala Bagh, opened at Rs 7.75 crore and showed substantial growth on day 2 and day 3 by earning Rs 9.75 crore and 12 crore, respectively at the domestic box office.
