Mario Miranda’s art transcends generations
Recently Goa came alive in celebrating the life of a towering cultural figure, Mario Miranda, as the state marked his 100th birth anniversary with warmth, pride, and deep admiration. Exhibitions, discussions, and cultural events paid tribute to the man whose pen brought Goan life to the global stage with wit, color, and unmistakable charm. His work resonated far beyond India, earning him exhibitions in more than 20 countries and collaborations with internationally renowned cartoonists. Miranda’s genius lay in his ability to tell stories without barriers. Through expressive characters and intricate detailing, he bridged cultures and invited the world to experience Goa’s soul. His illustrations were not merely humorous but were deeply observant, often reflecting social realities. In recognition of his immense contribution to art and culture, he was honored with some of India’s highest civilian awards, including the Padma Bhushan and the Padma Vibhushan (posthumously). It would be a befitting tribute to the great artist to have his bust installed in every Ravindra Bhavan across the state. For generations to come, these busts could inspire young artists to observe, interpret, and celebrate Mario’s work. It would serve to keep alive the spirit of a man who saw beauty in the ordinary and turned it into something extraordinary. In doing so, Goa would not just remember Mario Miranda, it would continue to live through his art. Legends like Mario Miranda do not fade with time. They grow richer, more relevant and more inspiring with each passing year, etched not just in history, but in the hearts of those who continue to see the world through his eyes.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Sugar metabolism
The question of sugar metabolism—particularly of sucrose, rather than fructose—raises important concerns. Sucrose is a more complex form of sugar, while fructose is simpler and occurs mainly in fruits. This becomes especially relevant today, when diabetes is increasingly common even among the young. It is observed that many individuals in their sixties consume nearly 750 ml of sugary soft drinks daily, which contain sucrose, yet do not develop diabetes. Ordinarily, one would expect the pancreas to struggle with insulin regulation in older age, but this apparent contradiction remains noteworthy. Sucrose is a high-calorie source and, when properly utilised, may help maintain bodily energy and balance. A postgraduate in biochemistry in the United Kingdom, who also runs a pathology laboratory, has suggested that blood sugar levels are depleted around 4 a.m. and therefore need replenishment. He further believes that consuming sucrose early in the morning may support brain function. It would be valuable to seek informed medical opinion on whether sugar, beyond its commonly recognised risks, may also have beneficial roles that are not widely acknowledged.
Elvidio Miranda, Panaji
Cuncolim toxic waste
Since May 2 the toxic waste of 50,000 MT lying for years at the Cuncolim industrial estate are being cleared. Keeping his assurance made last month, the Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has sanctioned Rs 13 crore to remove the waste in two phases – before and after monsoon. Goa Waste Management Corporation would shift the hazardous waste for treatment, storage and disposal at its Pissurlem facility (NT May 3). Finally, good riddance to bad rubbish! The people of Cuncolim and in the surrounding areas can now breathe easy. Though the Sunrise Zinc Ltd was closed in 2007 it left behind an obnoxious legacy. It is surprising that it took 19 years to get rid-off tonnes of toxic dump which was polluting the air, soil and water. Now the govt could explore the possibility to recover its Rs 13 crore and a compensatory amount from the company (which still exists as a legal entity) that could be used for welfare of the people of Cuncolim, who have suffered silently all these years.
Sridhar D Iyer, Caranzalem
India-Japan alliance
India and Japan share a cordial relationship, strengthened by a series of bilateral visits by the Prime Ministers of both countries, which have helped smooth over occasional differences. Healthcare has also become an important focus of this partnership. A recent Joint Committee Meeting (JCM) on healthcare held in New Delhi emphasised enhanced bilateral cooperation in the health sector. Digital health and medical innovation emerged as key areas of mutual interest for the health ministers of both nations. India’s strong pharmaceutical manufacturing base and medical device production capabilities are well recognised, and Japan has shown considerable interest in these sectors. At the same time, India’s vast human resource potential has not gone unnoticed by Japan. The “Memorandum of Cooperation in Healthcare and Wellness” serves as a cornerstone for collaboration, particularly in addressing non-communicable diseases. Given the rising burden of illnesses such as cancer, the JCM represents a positive step forward for the healthcare systems of both countries.
Ganapathi Bhat, Akola
