A bowl of soup, a few questions and an open conversation. This is how Goa University’s monthly outreach brings philosophy to the public
RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT KURIOCITY
Is there a fine line between a witty joke and a biting remark? This Saturday, April 11, the School of Sanskrit, Philosophy & Indic Studies at Goa University in association with Philosophical Association of Goa, invites the public to explore ‘Humour & Sarcasm’ at the Bambolim Beach Resort. The session is the fourth in the ‘Soul & Soup Saturdays’ series, which pairs philosophical reflection with a warm bowl of soup.
The initiative, which launched on January 10, is held every second Saturday of the month from 4.30 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. It is free and open to anyone above 18, with the venue changing each month to remain accessible.
Faculty member at the School of Sanskrit, Philosophy & Indic Studies, Goa University, and founding member of the Philosophical Association of Goa, Walter Menezes, says the sessions aim to give participants confidence to discuss social issues, personal reflections and everyday experiences while connecting them to philosophical ideas. Soup, served as what Menezes calls a “leisure drink,” creates a relaxed, informal atmosphere that encourages open conversation and reflection.
The initiative also emphasises equity, inclusion, and sustainability, serving soup in reusable, specially curated mugs that participants can purchase and reuse at future meetings.
Unlike traditional academic seminars, there are no guest speakers. The one-hour sessions are moderated by Menezes and fellow faculty member Jonathan Sequeira, guiding participants through a structured but informal process. Each session begins with an opening reflection on a passage, question or quote, followed by 15 minutes of small-group discussion (usually in groups of three) and five minutes of personal reflection. It concludes with participants sharing their takeaways.
The upcoming session will explore the practical benefits of humour in the workplace, the appropriate context for sarcasm, and the role of wit in human connection.
Previous sessions have tackled topics like the psychological distinction between controllable and uncontrollable life factors and the complexities of human relationships.
Attendance is limited to 25 to ensure everyone can participate rather than just listen. So far, the initiative has drawn a mix of university researchers, local residents and even interested participants from Mumbai.
“We discuss topics that relate to everyday life. Reading and talking about these issues helps participants understand their problems and handle similar situations better.” ~ Walter Menezes
