On January 16th, a remarkable cultural evening was organized by Kevin Rebello and family at their 200-year-old residence, Vivenda de Rebellos in Cuncolim, to commemorate Goa's Opinion Poll Day, a momentous event in the state's history. The evening, marked by a blend of music, dance, and insightful discussions, aimed to honor the legacy of the 1967 Opinion Poll, a defining moment when Goans voted to remain a part of India, rejecting the idea of merging with neighboring Maharashtra.
The Opinion Poll of 1967 was a key turning point in Goa's political and cultural history. When the government of Maharashtra proposed to merge Goa with its state, it sparked widespread debate and uncertainty.
On the evening of January 16, the event commenced with a dignified prayer and a succinct address by the chief organizer, who elaborated on the significance of the Opinion Poll and its enduring influence on the political and cultural fabric of Goa.
Adv Carlos Alvares Ferreira, graced the occasion as the special guest and received a potted plant from Jonah Rebello, a fifth-generation descendant of the recently restored 200-year-old Rebello heritage home. Cynthia Rebello extended a warm welcome to the attendees and introduced the honorees to the audience. In his welcoming remarks, host Kevin Rebello expressed gratitude to all the dignitaries for their attendance and their various efforts in safeguarding a Goa that was largely preserved from the merger due to the Opinion Poll.
The event proceeded with the recognition of three distinguished individuals. Dr. Justice Ferdino I. Rebello, the former Chief Justice of Allahabad and a close relative of the Rebello family, was honored by Adv. Ferreira, who presented him with a piece of artwork as a gesture of appreciation from the Rebello family.
Environmental advocate Rajendra Kerkar received recognition from Ibonio D'Souza, an author, writer, and Executive Director of Goa Sudharop (NGO). Prof. Sendra Pereira, an educator at Dhempe College in Miramar and a prominent figure in the Uzwaad Group, was honored by Mario Morais, the Headmaster of St Xavier's High School in Velim, for her significant contributions to the Goan community. Following the awards ceremony, both individuals addressed pressing issues facing Goa. Adv. Ferreira highlighted the importance of safeguarding Goa's land, rivers, and cultural identity to ensure that future generations of Goans can cherish their homeland. Dr. Rebello raised concerns regarding the emigration of many Goans, noting that this trend is being countered by an influx of outsiders, which threatens the region's identity, culture, and heritage.
The evening brought together a diverse blend of personalities from Goa’s art, heritage, music, academia, and legal luminaries, among others, all of whom have earned recognition and fame for their contributions to Goa. Later in the evening, performances by Team Uzwaad, P&P Academy, Pritesh Jagdish and team, Adv. Shannon Sequeira, Frazer Andrade, Mohan Charu Bharadwaj (Bollywood fame), Selwyn Menezes, trumpeteers Aaron & Claren, and Britto, a one-man band, entertained the guests.
Fr Joe Rodrigues, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Grace Church, Margão, led the grace before meals, and Jonah Rebello delivered the vote of thanks to the guests on behalf of Vivenda de Rebellos. One of the highlights of the evening was a classical music recital that blended both Konkani and Portuguese influences, reflecting Goa's unique historical blend of cultures. The music, paired with the graceful movements of traditional dancers, created an atmosphere of nostalgia and reverence for the past.
No Goan cultural evening would be complete without a celebration of the region’s delectable cuisine. Guests were treated by Achi sanjay Fernandes from Cuncolim, to an array of traditional Goan dishes, showcasing the rich flavors that reflect Goa’s blend of indigenous and colonial influences. The food served at Vivenda de Rebellos was not only a feast for the palate but also a celebration of the state’s agricultural and culinary diversity.
The cultural evening at Vivenda de Rebellos, Cuncolim, was a resounding success in commemorating Goa’s Opinion Poll Day. It was a beautiful reflection of the region's heritage, the resilience of its people, and their unwavering commitment to preserving their cultural identity. The event allowed people from all walks of life to come together, celebrate their shared history, and pay tribute to the values of unity and self-determination that continue to define Goa today.
This memorable evening curated by Kevin will be remembered as a fitting tribute to a day that played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of the beautiful state of Goa.