Frazer Andrade
frazerandrade@herald-goa.com
OLD GOA: Not many would know that November 25 marks the 514th anniversary of a significant historical event – the liberation of Goa from the Muslim Empire of Yusuf Adil Shah, the founder of the Adil Shahi dynasty, which ruled the Sultanate of Bijapur from 1489–1686.
The rescue of the Hindus in Goa during the 16th century is not merely a legend; it is a thoroughly documented historical event, with records that have been meticulously preserved in the archives of Portugal for centuries.
The most significant 20th Century opposition to Portuguese rule in Goa was led by Dr Tristão de Bragança Cunha, culminating in the liberation of Goa on December 19, 1961. But much before this liberation, Mhalu Pai Vernekar and Thimayya (Timoja) exhibited a similar resolve in the 16th Century as the 20th Century freedom fighters opposing Portuguese dominance.
These two figures were instrumental in initiating resistance against the Adil Shahi Empire, as many Hindus faced severe hardships under that Muslim regime. Given the inability of local Goan leaders to address the dire circumstances, Pai Vernekar and Timoja sought the assistance of Portuguese explorers, inviting them to conquer Goa. Consequently, Goa was first liberated from Muslim rule on November 25, 1510, under the command of the formidable Portuguese military leader Afonso de Albuquerque.
It can be argued that the Portuguese Military Commander Afonso de Albuquerque played a significant role in preserving the interests of Hindus and their commercial endeavours. Notably, Albuquerque facilitated the re-establishment of Hindu interests during his tenure.
Nevertheless, subsequent events have often been unfavourable to Hindus and, in numerous cases, detrimental to their well-being.
It is essential, however, that these historical occurrences are not utilised to foster social divisions in the 21st Century. Had it not been for the invasion of Goa by Commander Afonso de Albuquerque, the Hindu community and their businesses might have faced severe decline, extending as far as Kanyakumari.
Since 1510, the Portuguese dominance in Goa ensured stability and security in the area, effectively shielding it from military invasions and conflicts until the Indian government assumed control in 1961. The only significant challenge to the colonial governance in Goa came from the Maratha Empire, despite Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj having established a treaty with the Portuguese in 1667. Meanwhile, various regions outside Goa experienced conflicts.
The Portuguese played a significant role in the development of Goa, affectionately referring to it as ‘Goa Dourada’ and earning it the title of the ‘Pearl of the Orient’ on the global stage. They transformed Goa into the ‘Rome of the East,’ despite the fact that Christianity originated in India concurrently with its emergence in Europe. The day of their arrival, November 25, 1510, was commemorated as ‘Dia de entrada vitoriosa’ in the city of Goa, a celebration initiated by Afonso de Albuquerque in honor of St Catherine of Alexandria.
This historic event was the only major government celebration for many years, attracting affluent and influential Hindus who gathered at the Sé Cathedral to celebrate their liberation. This tradition continues in a more modest form as the feast of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, presided over by the Archbishop of Goa and Daman.
In Old Goa, a steep and narrow road lies before the Church of Assisi, leading to the Chapel of St Catherine. This very road was the site of a fierce battle between the Portuguese forces and the Muslims, culminating in the capture of the city by Albuquerque.
This modest chapel was the first religious structure erected in Goa, underscoring its historical importance. It was built shortly after the Portuguese conquest of Goa in 1510, in honor of St Catherine. Previously, a gate existed at this location, through which the Portuguese army entered to seize control of the city.