Goa's history dates back to the 3rd century, when it
belonged to the Mauryas, followed by the rule of the Satvahanas,
Chalukyas and then the Shilharas and the Kadambas.
In 1312, Goa fell into the hands of the Muslims, whose rule lasted
almost 200 years until the Portuguese drove them away. The Portuguese
arrived in Goa in 1510 having been unable to secure a base on the
Malabar Coast further south due to opposition from the Zamorin of
Calicut and the Turks, who controlled trade routes across the Indian
Ocean.
Blessed with natural harbours and wide rivers, Goa provided an ideal
base for the Portuguese, bent on their quest for control of the spice
route from the east and the spread of Christianity. The Portuguese rule
was largely uninterrupted up until their final departure in 1961, apart
from a brief occupation by the British during the European Napoleonic
Wars.
Standing testament to the 451 years the state spent under Portuguese
rule, Goa of today is quite distinct from the rest of India, and has a
unique cultural heritage that is an exotic blend of East and West.
The state is particularly attractive for MICE groups, small enough to
be explored within the space of a short visit, while offering a wealth
of treasures just waiting to be discovered. An excellent network of
roads exists, inter-linking the state’s villages. The prevalence of
Roman Catholicism for so many years under the Portuguese has incubated a
form of social and political progressiveness that Westerners think they
can relate to.
Although Hindus now comprise the large majority of the population, Goan
citizens are more liberal-minded in a way that is unmatched elsewhere in
the country.
Goa's separate identity is visible in many ways including its
fascinating Latinate architecture, preference for fish and meat rich
cuisine (fusing Indian and Portuguese delicacies), and the ready
availability of alcohol at low prices. More than 6,000 bars around the
state are licensed to serve beer. This is often sold alongside the more
traditional beverages of feni (the local hooch) and toddy, a derivative
of palm sap.
The cultural diversity and harmonious way of life in Goa is fascinating,
especially during important religious events such as Christmas and
Carnival, which are celebrated by the 30 percent minority of Christians,
and Diwali and Durga puja, rejoiced with equal fervour by the Hindus.
