An integral part of Goan architecture, the balcão tells the story of the state’s colonial history Growing up, my time in Goa was limited to annual summer vacations. While traversing the narrow, winding streets of my village St Estevam, about 22km from Panaji, I remember being intrigued by the houses that seemed to be perfectly…
Read MoreA change of scene, amidst uncertain times
In April 2021, I left my all familiar surroundings of Goa for the large bustling city of Bangalore. As I packed my stuff, I began to think about the 3.5 years that went by for The Balcão and how it has been a springboard for success for me. But I do tend to think ‘what next?’. Having spent the last few years intensely documenting the Goan landscape, what does this move mean for my work on The Balcão, especially in this post-Covid world we now inhabit.?
Read MoreRenovated out of existence: The sorry state of architectural conservation in Goa
Goans take immense pride in their rich architectural heritage, and are generally aware of the need to protect it. However, when it comes to actually conserving heritage, they often adopt a stance that threatens its very existence…
Read MoreIlha Verde : St. Estevam revives fallow khazans with community farming
Lately there seems to be a certain buzz around Ilhe de Jua, St. Estevam. The fields that were once central to the identity of this Goan village have been taken up for farming after a gap of 2 long decades. ‘These lands were all uncultivated and lying bare for almost the past 30 years’ remarks…
Read MoreSanta Inez Church & Cemetery – An architectural analysis
Standing tall and graciously along a bustling and thriving city artery in Panjim is the Santa Inez Church. As the population of the beautiful garden city has increased manifold over the years, the Church has survived the test of time visibly almost unscathed. It is dedicated to Saint Agnes (Ines in Portuguese) who was a…
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