As the freedom movement gained
momentum, and after years of protests and negotiations, Goa was finally
liberated from Portuguese rule on December 19, 1961. It became a Union
Territory of India. Its proximity to Maharashtra led to considerable
discussions regarding a potential merger between the two regions. To ascertain
the wishes of the Goan people, a pivotal referendum took place in 1967,
resulting in their choice to remain a Union Territory. Eventually, on May 30,
1987, Goa attained Statehood, marking a significant milestone as the 25th State
to join the
Indian Republic.
Goa’s history is a fusion of
traditions, colonial legacies, and modern influences. It continues to preserve
its heritage while embracing the changes of the contemporary world, making it a
fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and travellers alike.
Marushka Jasmine Pereira
Curtorim
It’s great that Goa was
established as a State, because Goa possesses a unique culture. I feel that if
it merged with a larger state like Maharashtra, Goa, being small, would be
overlooked. This has contributed to the preservation of our identity, culture,
and traditions. I am grateful for Goa’s Statehood because of the diverse
culture we possess and its recent development and progress. With a remarkable
name throughout the country, we have established a thriving tourism industry
and a distinct identity. This achievement instills a sense of empowerment and
pride among Goans, ensuring the preservation of our identity, fostering
development, and providing us with a voice in representation. It is a testament
to the progress and achievements of Goa and its people.
Gauravi Uday Kerkar
Mapusa
As a young Goan, I understand the
importance of Statehood Day and feel privileged that Goa has its unique
identity, ensuring the recognition of our mother tongue Konkani, which we
comfortably use. Had Goa merged with Maharashtra, we would have become a small,
insignificant district of Maharashtra, losing our identity. Goa is a separate
state, due to the historic decision Goans made during the Opinion Poll. We
should be grateful to late Dr Jack Sequeira. If he hadn’t considered our
future, we wouldn’t have the privilege of being a separate State, our identity
unrecognised. I believe that today is not just a day, it’s an emotion. We can
say, “I am proud to belong to the State of Goa.”
Elitra Annika Silveira
Calangute
I’m proud to be Goan on this momentous
day as we celebrate the 36th Statehood Day of Goa. I extend my gratitude to all
those who have contributed to the development, progress, and prosperity of Goa,
and hope they will continue their great work. Goa attracts thousands of
sun-seeking tourists every year and is one of India’s wealthiest states,
largely thanks to its thriving tourism industry. This beautiful state is also
the best place in terms of infrastructure and living standards. People often
associate Goa with sandy beaches, but much of the State remains unexplored,
with hidden gems like waterfalls, forests and its tropical paradises.
Leona Lobo
Porvorim
Goa celebrates a significant
milestone every year on May 30th – Goa Statehood Day. This day prompts people
to reflect upon the historical journey of Goa, from being colonized by the
Portuguese to gaining independence and to finally becoming a State within
India. It serves as a reminder of the struggles, sacrifices, and resilience
displayed by Goans during their quest for self-governance. It can truly be said
that Goa, a tiny state with a mighty soul, stands as a shining example of how
unity and cultural pride can foster progress and create a harmonious tapestry
of diverse traditions.
Nikhil Satardekar
Loutolim
Being a Goan, I feel very proud
that once upon a time our ancestors fought for Goa to be a State. Most
importantly, Goa being a state, gained its own individuality. Goa has
heritages, traditions and cultures which are not found anywhere in the world,
it is so unique. If Goa had been merged with Maharashtra or any other state,
Goans would have lost Konkani language and would have been speaking another
language. People would have lost the originality of being a true Goan. Goa
stands out from all the states, and it gives me great pleasure to celebrate Goa
Statehood Day every year. The people of Goa should inculcate the need to
preserve the cultures and traditions of Goa in the next generation and it
should be passed down to the future generation. I am just grateful to live the
essence of the originality of Goa.
Pallavi Dilip Mandrekar
Siolim
Goa is my motherland and I am
grateful that Goa is a State, and it’s a proud moment for every Goan. If Goa
had not gotten its statehood we would have lost everything we have today as
Goans, we would have even lost our identity. I am proud to be a citizen of such
a state that is rich in every aspect.
Chandrika Bogati, Santa Cruz
I feel Goa as a State is very
diverse compared to others because here we have people from different states of
India as well as people from different countries. I am happy that the merger
did not take place and that Goa was not merged with Maharashtra. The language
Konkani is preserved and also the heritage, whether it is the Portuguese or the
traditional Goan architecture, it is still intact and people can still see it
and know Goa through its rich heritage. I am also grateful for the people who
still fight for the issues in Goa.
Ansley Lobo
Mapusa
The 36th Goa Statehood day is a
monumentous occasion for us all as it marks the day when Goa was recognised as
a separate State with its own identity and culture. This decision has
undoubtedly allowed Goa to flourish and grow. A special remembrance of all the
past leaders of the State and the people that have fought to uphold Goa’s
identity through the ages. Here’s to an even brighter future of Goa!
Jayden Fernandes
Porvorim
On May 30, 1987, Goa achieved the
momentous milestone of Statehood. With this significant development, Goa
transitioned from being a Union Territory to being recognised as a full-fledged
State: a change that has brought numerous benefits and opportunities to our
land. The recognition of Goa as a state has played a vital role in giving our
beautiful language-Konkani the acclaim and honour that it deserves and in
promoting and preserving our unique heritage. Let us take a moment to reflect
on our history, honour the revolutionary heroes and past leaders, and cherish
the legacy they have left behind. As we celebrate our statehood, let us unite
as proud Goans and continue to nurture and preserve the treasures of ‘Amche
Goem’.
