Goa paid tribute to one of its most illustrious sons, Dr. Francisco Luis Gomes, on his birth anniversary, with Social Welfare Minister Subhash Phal Dessai leading the commemorations at the Dr. F.L. Gomes Memorial Trust in Navelim.
Born on May 31, 1829, in Navelim, Dr. Gomes was a brilliant polymath—physician, economist, historian, novelist, and parliamentarian. He represented Goa in the Portuguese Cortes Gerais from 1861 to 1869. A gifted scholar, he completed his medical degree by the age of 21 and went on to serve as a professor and chief surgeon at the Escola Médico-Cirúrgica de Goa. Fluent in multiple European and Indian languages, he quickly rose to prominence in intellectual circles.
Dr. Gomes was a fierce advocate of liberty, justice, and equality. He opposed slavery, championed the rights of Goans and other colonized communities, and was among the first voices to call for Indian independence in the Portuguese parliament—long before the freedom movement gathered pace. Known for his sharp intellect and stirring oratory, he was dubbed the “Prince of Intellectuals” in Europe. Despite being offered a ministerial post three times, he chose to remain independent and true to his principles.
The event, attended by dignitaries including former Chief Minister Luizinho Faleiro and South Goa Collector Egna Cleetus, celebrated Dr. Gomes’ enduring legacy. His contributions to Goa’s social, educational, and cultural landscape during colonial times continue to resonate today, inspiring future generations to carry forward the ideals of freedom and justice.