An array of cultural shows on anvil during IFFI days in Goa

Panaji, Nov 15 (UNI) A rainbow of concerts reflecting the rich regional cultures of Konkani and Marathi is poised to strike Goa on the sidelines of the prestigious International Film Festival of India (IFFI) beginning here on November 23.

''Unlike the past, it will be less of Bollywood confining to 35 per cent and more of Konkani and Marathi events projecting the regional cultures this year,'' Chairman of the Programme Committee, Entertainment Society of Goa Vishnu Wagh said here yesterday.

These programmes were scheduled to be organised at five different places in Goa - to benefit all Goans. It would cost at least Rs 1.5 crores to the exchequer, he told media persons.

A special exhibition of photographs of Goan artistes and cinematographers was an added attraction in the capital during the festival days, Mr Wagh said.

The authorities had also planned to organise contests related to films such as lyric writing, story writing, music composing, locations for photography, and rangoli to encourage talent.

Sand sculpture by noted Guinness Book of World Record holder Sudarshan Patnaik of Orissa at Baina Beach near Vasco city in South Goa was another attraction this year, he said.

These cultural events apart, the authorities had planned to screen feature and animation films even as popular bands and pop singers would entertain the general public outside the capital.

A musical ballet ''Shrushti'' on environment by Creations Entertainment from Pune, Marathi Tere aniTaraka with star value by Mahesh Tilekar, Pune, Shaan and his troupe, Kunaal Ganjawala and troupe and Indian Ocean Band and Hema Sardesai and her troupe are set to enthrall the public.

UNI