Kevin Rebello
On the evening of Saturday, October 11, 2025, Clube Harmonia de Margao came alive with grace and grandeur as guests gathered for the much-awaited book release of “PORTUGUESE COLONIALISM, FOOD, AND SOCIETY IN GOA 1900 – 1961.” The ambiance was warm and inviting, echoing the spirit of Goa’s rich cultural heritage. From the gentle welcome extended to guests from 5:45 pm to the closing note of gratitude, every element reflected impeccable organization and heartfelt sincerity.
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Mc Cedric da Costa proved to be an exceptional host—eloquent, poised, and effortlessly engaging. The evening’s highlight was the deeply insightful conversation between the author, Maria de Lourdes Bravo da Costa, and Alexandre Moniz Barbosa, which shed light on Goa’s colonial past, its evolving society, and the intricate relationship between food and identity. Their exchange was both scholarly and soulful, offering listeners a window into a bygone era that continues to shape the present.
The event attained a particularly touching moment when Mr. Rafael Viegas, the distinguished chief guest who officially released the book, shared a personal reflection that moved every heart in the room. He fondly recalled how his father’s monthly salary was just fifty rupees—yet life then was beautiful, simple, and full of contentment. “Things were beautiful then,” he said with quiet nostalgia, “and now everything is different.” His words lingered in the air, reminding all present of the timeless values of gratitude, simplicity, and togetherness that once defined Goan life.
It was a mesmerizing evening—one that blended knowledge with emotion, history with memory, and intellect with heart. Guests left not merely enlightened but profoundly touched, carrying with them a renewed appreciation for Goa’s enduring spirit. The book release was more than an academic milestone; it was a graceful tribute to the past and a heartfelt reminder of the beauty found in remembering where we come from.
