Graf, the cultural body of the Goan Review, which participates in programmes for the promotion of Konkani literature, art and culture, is having a Mando festival. The festival, to be held on April ll, will include top Goan and Mangalorean singers -- Joe Rose, Antonette, Kenny and Charles D Cunha. There will also be group performances by the following groups: Juhu Tarachim Mannkam, Cavel Folklore, Dabul Choral, Pitolleo, Konkani Kala Zomo, Charles D Cunha and Party and Daybreakers. Mando, which means a slow, Goan love song, has a festival named after it because of it's popularity throughout the coast. The festival will have songs, skits, folk dances and operettas. On April 17, Manakkam Motiam, a Konkani variety entertainment programme of songs, skits, folk dances and mandos will also be held. So, if you missed out on going to Goa, this is your last chance to get a taste of paradise.

For details on both events, call GRAF: 265 4974 / 263 0139.

Boat beat

If you don'tmind digging deep into your pockets then the Silver Cloud may be just thing for you. Look at its qualifications: It was voted the No 1 travel destination last year by the Conde Nast reader's choice awards. But what do you expect from a liner that has suites as big as 1,300 sqft -- bigger than most Mumbai flats! And it only gets better. A passenger crew ratio of 3:2, a Bulgari boutique (to replenish the complimentary Bulgari amenities in your bathroom), complimentary Moet et Chandon and restaurants that serve dinner cooked to your tastes. So obviously, this six-star luxury comes at a price. The cruse liner left Mumbai on Wednesday for Athens. Those who made the boat had to shell out $ 8,400 for 14 days. Hey! Rs 4 lakh is not that bad once the ship sets sail you do not have to pay for a thing. Not for dinner, drinks or even the waiters.

But if that still sounds steep, there are shorter cruises available. You can go from Venice to Athens on the Silver Cloud in seven days for $ 4,925 (approximately Rs 2.5lakh). Salivating already? Well, you'll now have to wait till November 7 when Silver Cloud's sister ship, Silver Wind docks in the city. Hey! Look at the bright side. It gives you time to plan in advance.For details call Cox & Kings: 207 3065.

Cup of cheer

With the unveiling of the Good Luck India Book, courtesy the Taj Group and Emirates Airlines, people now have a chance to pen down exactly what they wish to convey to the Indian cricket team. The book will traverse the length and breadth of the country, gathering views. And finally it will be handed over to the Indian cricket team. More power to them! The book will be available for penning down your thoughts at the following dates and times in Mumbai: