Goa College of Architecture, Panaji, recently won the first place in ‘Battle of Bands’, a national-level music competition
RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT
A group of students from Goa College of Architecture, Altinho, Panaji, has brought honour to their institution and the state by clinching first place at a music competition called ‘Battle of Bands’, organised by the National Association of Students of Architecture (NASA India) in Bengaluru.
The team of budding architects in the making comprised Vera de Noronha, Mariah Gonsalves, Ansh Volvoikar (vocals), Tenecia Afonso (keyboard), Erwin de Souza (bass), Joshua Mascarenhas (drums), and Shawn D’Sousa (electric guitar). All the students are from different years.
“Tenecia, Mariah, and I, being the seniors, called those who were interested in participating and held auditions to select the best among them,” says D’Sousa.
The competition, he says, tested their creativity and ability to merge songs into an enjoyable storyline. And their chosen songs, which included a mix of Bollywood, Konkani, and English tracks such as ‘Mitawa’, ‘Tere Naina’, ‘Stand by Me’, ‘Take on Me’, ‘Dildara’, ‘Alice’, ‘Konkani Mashup’, ‘I Will Survive’, ‘Begging’, ‘We Will Rock You’, and ‘Bul Bulaya’, revolved around the theme of unrequited love. “It started with innocent longing and youthful optimism and ended with a mature understanding of life’s complexities,” says D’ Sousa.
Connecting the theme to architecture, D’Sousa explains that it is common for architects to invest their passion and creativity into a design, only to face rejection or a lack of appreciation from clients or the public. “Similar to enduring historical buildings, unreciprocated love can persist and hold significance in a person’s life, even when it remains unreturned. The final track was the chorus of ‘We Will Rock You,’ which served as a powerful reminder that even when the world seems against you and your self-esteem is hurt, you possess a unique and incomparable essence,” he says. “This compilation was dedicated to those who struggle for acceptance in social circles that fail to recognise their true worth.”
Winning first place at the contest, he says, felt “absolutely amazing” for the team! “It was the result of hard work, dedication, and passion we put into our music. We were overwhelmed with excitement and a sense of achievement, and it is a moment that we will cherish and remember for a long time,” says D’Sousa.
However, the team faced many challenges along the way. They had limited time to prepare and had to come up with a set quickly. “We practiced during breaks and after college, managing our already busy schedules. But our biggest test came when one of our teammates was rushed to the hospital a day before the performance. We all prayed for his health, and through the grace of God, he recovered quickly. It was a reminder that when we gather together in faith, miracles can happen,” says D’ Sousa, adding that the biggest lesson they learned from this experience was the importance of working together as a team. “Everyone gave their 100% and brought their skills to the table, for which I am extremely grateful,” he says.
Featured Events
The Goa Hiking Association is organising a State-Level Trekking and Adventure Camp from December 26 to 30 at Tamdi Surla, Dharbandora. Activities will include trekking in the Western Ghats, rock climbing, river crossing, and more. Details: 8600572050 / 9822984848 / Pramodkamat107@gmail.com. Registration deadline: December 15. (Image used for representational purposes only)
Featured Blog
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An eco-farm with thrills and adventure for the first time in Goa
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Traditional sweets of Goa
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A sneak-peek into life in Goa decades ago
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When a fashion designer is in lockdown…
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‘Rediscover Goa’ with Airbnb and experience the true beauty of the sunshine state
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Backpacking Guide: Old Goa
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Tour Goa in a helicopter!
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Goa in 48 hours – For the Adventurous
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Delightful Summer Fruits of Goa
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An unforgettable culinary journey
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The marigold man of Goa
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Goa-based musician ‘Discokid’ to perform at Serendipity Arts Festival 2023
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Glow of Epiphyllum – Brahma Kamal flowers of Goa
Recently, I came across a news story about a record-breaking bloom of 28 Brahma Kamal flowers in Goa. The spectacular sight of its prolific blossoms in the video took me on a trip down memory lane. We, too, had this beautiful plant in our garden, lovingly tended by my grandmother. Commonly referred to as ‘Bramhakamal’ in Goa and likely across the country, this plant is scientifically known as Epiphyllum Oxypetalum. Belonging to the Cactaceae family, it is an exotic plant native to the rainforests of Central and South America. Interestingly, it has no botanical connection to the true Bramhakamal species, scientifically named Saussurea obvallata, which is found and revered in Uttarakhand and the Himalayan regions. The slight resemblance between Epiphyllum Oxypetalum and the original Bramhakamal may explain the confusion between the two. Also known as the Dutchman’s Pipe Cactus or Queen of the Night, this flower truly lives up to its regal title. In our garden, this plant held a special place in my heart. Its slightly puffed, elongated leaves distinguished it from the other greenery. The celestial blooms appeared rarely, usually between July and September. One of the most unique aspects of this flower is how it unfurls its […]
Festa do Povo: Festival to Showcase Goan Heritage, Food, & Culture
The well-known community festival, Festa do Povo, returns to Panaji again, to promote Goan culture and heritage. The festival is coordinated through community involvement, with assistance from the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) and Imagine Panaji, along the pedestrian walkway lined with mangroves at Patto Plaza near the Spaces building. Residents from various wards in the city, who reside in heritage homes and blocks, participate in the festival’s planning. What food can you expect here? It ranges from Goan-Portuguese to Hindu Saraswat to Muslim dishes, cooked by local home chefs, Panaji restaurants, and even international chefs. The food section of the festival showcases Goa’s rich culinary diversity across various religious communities. Additionally, a special Feni bar and beverage station featuring local drinks will enhance the festive atmosphere. Day one (December 14) will feature traditional Shigmo dances and children’s craft activities curated by Bookworm, a -book store for children. Participants can enjoy a variety of performances, including the Kaustubha Ballet, the beloved Stuti Choir, the traditional dekhni dance, and enchanting melodies by the Sound of Music. On the second day, December 15, there will be brass band performances, percussion displays, and carol singing by students from Nirmala School. This […]
