Misconception about Goans

I have lived in Goa for more than 20 years but never really knew what people from other parts of the world thought about us until one fine day I landed up in Bangalore. Here is one of the many conversations I have had with people and they the start and end pretty much the same way.

Someone: Hi, where are you from?

Me: Hi, Goa.

Someone: Wow!!! That's a great place to be born in. You are a very lucky man.

Me: Yup thats there, though I never really thought about it that way. Just realised it now.

Someone: Are you from proper Goa?

Me: What do mean by proper Goa? Is there improper Goa? Do you live improper place?

Someone: So tell me do people start drinking from the morning it self?

Me: That's true. There are so many people from all over who come to visit. We need to provide them with alcohol when they want right. After all they come for the cheap booze and the other cheap pleasures.

Someone: No I mean the Goans do they drink from morning.

Me: Well you know what, that is one of the biggest misconception people have about Goa. People from Goa are very good social drinkers and are very responsible ones. The stupid bollywood movies have really given Goa and Goans a very bad name. All people can think of Goa is beaches and drunkards.There is also a huge population that does not drink at all. Tea-totlers. You might wonder how is this possible. But thats the way it is. We however do encourage people to come and drink. That's one of the main sources of income for many. Apart from tourism, ofcourse.

Someone: Oh! Ok. So can you play the guitar?

Me: Another misconception. Not everyone from Goa can play the guitar and dance beautifully. There are many talentless people like me.

Someone: Ha Ha Ha...