SAPP Konkan Talk Series Day Two

SAPP Konkan Talk Series Day TWO focuses on Poets, Cuisine and Rock Art from Konkan.

SAPP Konkan Talk Series is a confabulation of two-day lectures and discussions.

On Sun 7th of July, the program is as follows:

5 PM TO 6 PM

POETIC PETRICHOR FROM THE APARAANT

a talk by Shailesh Mulay

About the Talk: This presentation aims to explore and relish the beauty of the poems composed by some of the poets of the Konkan region of Maharashtra. The modern poem is often a thoughtfully worded response of a poet`s personal experiences, emotions, and thoughts. Since each poet has a unique way of expression, the presentation will also try to explore a little bit about the poets themselves. From a large list of Konkan Poets, we present to you a few selected poems of Keshavasuta, N. V. Tilak, Vinda Karandikar, Mangesh Padgaonkar, and Mahesh Keluskar.

About the Speaker: A man with a wide range of hobbies, Shailesh started his career in the marketing field, but soon after he obtained a degree in French language and chose to work as a translator and a freelance tourism professional. Indian history and cultural heritage, Indology, Numismatics, Travel and Food are his main interests. Recently, he completed a Masters in Indology. He is also a visiting faculty at the Garware Institute of the Mumbai University, Kalina.

6 PM TO 7 PM

FLAVOURS OF KONKANI CUISINE: A CULINARY JOURNEY

a talk by Nasrin Modak Siddiqi

About the Talk: The talk provides a comprehensive understanding of Konkani food, its history, and cultural significance. We explore the use of indigenous ingredients like rice, fish, kokum, etc., and the blend of spices that give it its unique taste. Traditional cooking techniques not only preserve the flavours but also offer numerous health benefits. We will also discuss regional and seasonal variations, with a special mention of festivals and special occasions that celebrate this cuisine. The talk will offer a comprehensive overview of Konkani cuisine and its rich culinary heritage..

About the Speaker: Nasrin Modak Siddiqi is a renowned food journalist known for her insightful exploration of diverse culinary traditions. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she delves into various cuisines` cultural and historical contexts, bringing their unique flavours and narratives to life. Her work highlights recipes, cooking techniques, and the stories behind the food, making her a respected voice in the world of culinary journalism.

7:30 PM TO 8:30 PM

KONKAN PETROGLYPHS: PHILOSOPHY AND POETRY

by Dr. Omkar Bhatkar

About the Talk: In the last decade, Ratnagiri and Rajapur have been a bed of excavating stories unheard of as many sites of petroglyphs have come to light. The working theory around these geoglyphs is that they date back to about 10,000 BCE, placing them in the Mesolithic Period. The variety of the rock carvings is stunning as animals, birds, human figures, and geometrical designs are depicted. This talk looks at the geoglyphs via the lenses of aesthetics to cultivate a sense of seeing rock art not as an object of inquiry but `seeing as an aesthetic experience`. The talk shall conclude with poetic interpretations by Dr Omkar Bhatkar and illustrations by Dr Janardhan Havanje. The second half of the session shall be spent in reciting

an eclectic mix of poems written inspired by these petroglyphs.

About the Speaker: Dr. Omkar Bhatkar is a Sociologist, Playwright, Independent Filmmaker and Stage Critic. He has been teaching Culture Studies, Film and Aesthetics and involved in theatre-making, poetry, and cinema for a decade now. He is the artistic director of Metamorphosis Theatre and Films and the co-founder and Head of St. Andrew’s Centre for Philosophy and Performing Arts. His plays are published in English, French, Hindustani and Portuguese.

Please note the Program Format as follows:

5 PM TO 6 PM - Poetic Petrichor from the Aparaant

6 PM TO 7 PM - Flavours of Konkani Cuisine: A Culinary Journey

BREAK

7:30 PM TO 8:30 PM - Konkan Petroglyphs: Philosophy and Poetry

Participants are free to attend any one/two or all three lectures

The Speaker shall present their topic for 40 mins followed by a discussion with the participants.