During the ongoing “Supari Aandolan” protest at Ravindra Bhavan in Margao, Chairman Rajendra Talak declined a symbolic supari (betel nut) offered by cultural group Kala Rakhan Maand, who were urging action to safeguard and promote Goa’s artistic and cultural heritage.
The activists said the supari represented a call to protect Goan art, which they claim has been sidelined due to delays in reopening Ravindra Bhavan following renovations. Talak responded by stating that as a fellow artist, he does not need symbolic gestures to fulfill his responsibilities. Tensions briefly flared when activist Vishal Kakode questioned transparency and accessibility at the venue, but Talak dismissed the remarks as politically motivated. The group has also appealed to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who oversees the PWD, to provide a clear timeline for completion of the facility’s renovation.
