The culture of Goa is genuinely fascinating. It is the sheer richness of its multiethnic culture- borne of 450 many years of Portuguese rule and steeped in Indian roots. Nowhere is uniqueness more apparent than within the culture of their people. Not only because of it's pristine beaches but also as a result of it's folks, modern Goa is a tourist's paradise.

The liberation of the state within the year1961 marked the finish of the era! However, even 40 years after its independence, the effects of Portuguese rule are clear in the culture of Goa. It's arguably 1 of probably the most westernized of states in the Indian union. Yet, its people are fiercely protective about the Konkani language and culture.

Modern Goa's Economy

The Goan economy inside the post liberation era has been predominantly determined by tourism. Though Goa is also a leading exporter of manganese and iron ores, its economy till date depends a whole lot on tourism. It also has a large fishing industry. Goa produces a sizeable amount of paddy, but is dependent on its neighbor Maharashtra for quite a few other agricultural generate.

The Folks in Modern Goa

Nowhere will be the Portuguese effect a lot more dominant than in the culture of its individuals. The uniform civil code practiced in Goa can be a Portuguese legacy. You are going to find proof of this legacy when you meet the Roman Catholic who is additionally a self proclaimed Saraswat Brahmin! That is the way modern day Goa has assimilated its Portuguese legacy into its Indian core! It's people are a fascinating mixture of flamboyance and conservatism and Goa has one of the highest literacy rates within the country. Although Konkani is the official language in modern day Goa, you can still come across a sizeable population that speaks in Portuguese!

Food is an intrinsic portion of the culture of Goa! It provides an eclectic mixture of Konkan, Portuguese and nawabi cuisine. Including the spicy Vindaloo and the sizzling fish dishes, most Goan dishes are popular throughout the world!

Goans (and not Goanese, if you please!) in general are religious people- whether they are Christians, Hindus or Muslims. The vast number of churches in modern day Goa bears testimony to the centuries of Portuguese rule within the state. One of the hallmarks of the society is the people are tolerant towards other religions! Religious fundamentalism is alien to Goan culture.

Politics in Contemporary Goa

The seat of politics is centered in Panaji, their state capital, although the judiciary is situated in Mumbai. Goan politics saw a comparatively stable period up to 1990. However, Goa soon entered an arena of political instability. It saw 14 governments appear and disappear inside a length of 15 years till 2005. Though the Congress and the BJP are the most noticeable parties today, the United Goans Democratic Party and the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak party (the oldest in the state) are also popular.

Goan society and it is economy have seen widespread development within the years following its liberation. This small state is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country and it has a lot to do with the fun loving and hospitable nature of its people!