Margao, May 22: Artist and former Member of the Goa State Cultural Development Committee, Vishal Pai Cacode, has reiterated the need for competent and sensitive leadership in cultural institutions. “We don’t need cheerleaders of the government, we need administrators who understand culture and stand by the artistic community. Ravindra Bhavan must be run in a transparent and inclusive manner that reflects the spirit of Goa’s diverse cultural legacy,” Vishal Pai Cacode stated.
Pai Cacode strongly condemned the sudden closure of the Pai Tiatrist Auditorium at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao, calling it a reflection of poor administration and misplaced priorities. He criticized Chairman Rajendra Talak for displaying insensitivity towards the needs of the artist community.
Reacting to the abrupt announcement that the auditorium would remain closed until May 25 for roof repairs, Pai Cacode questioned the timing and intent behind the decision. “Artists are facing inconvenience and losses because of the Chairman’s failure to plan or communicate in time. Such behavior undermines the spirit and function of a cultural institution,” he said.
He further revealed that documents obtained from government sources show nearly ₹2 crores have already been spent on roof repairs at Ravindra Bhavan over the past two years. “If crores have already been spent on repairing the roof, what justifies more repairs now?” asked Pai Cacode, suggesting that the repeated works raise serious concerns about financial irregularities.
In addition to roof repairs, Pai Cacode pointed out that nearly ₹1 crore was spent on repairs to the air conditioning system and another ₹50 lakhs on lighting and illumination. “There appears to be a pattern of spending large amounts on recurring repairs. This kind of administration smacks of a commission-driven approach, not one rooted in public interest,” he alleged.
He also questioned the timing of the repairs, asking why the Chairman waited until the last week of May—when several performances were scheduled—to start the work. “It shows either gross negligence or a deliberate attempt to derail cultural activities for ulterior motives,” he added.
