Tag: Indian History

Events in Goa

Manu S. Pillai and Seema Mustafa to Discuss Colonialism, Religion, and Identity at Museum of Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

 Panaji, August 2025 — In an age marked by polarised narratives and cultural conflict, the Museum of Goa (MOG) is hosting an unmissable event that promises both historical depth and contemporary relevance.

Titled “Faith Lines: Syncretism, Conflict and the Stories We Tell”, the session features a dynamic conversation between acclaimed historian Manu S. Pillai and senior journalist Seema Mustafa, exploring the role religion has played in shaping — and often shaking — the South Asian subcontinent.

🕊️ While religion has been a unifier across centuries, it has also sparked deep divisions. This talk dives into how colonialism redefined religious identities, how syncretic traditions have survived amidst conflict, and how our historical narratives continue to impact civil society today.

Manu S. Pillai is known for his accessible yet academically rich storytelling. With bestsellers like The Ivory Throne and False Allies, he has reshaped how young Indians engage with history.
Seema Mustafa, former President of the Editors Guild of India, brings with her decades of fearless journalism, known for centering secularism, civil liberties, and journalistic integrity.

Together, they will ask:

  • How do we remember and retell the past?
  • Can historical narratives help us build bridges in divided times?
  • What is the role of storytelling in healing or fueling identity politics?

📚 Books by both authors will be available for purchase, thanks to Literati Bookstore.

🎟️ Entry is free, but with limited seating, attendees are encouraged to arrive early.

Event Details:
 📅 Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025
🕡 Time: 6:30 PM onwards
📍 Venue: Museum of Goa, Pilerne Industrial Estate, Bardez
🎟️ Entry: Free (Limited seating)

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Maratha Military Forts Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site: India’s 44th Inscription

allycaralgoa

July 2025: In a moment of pride for India’s cultural and architectural legacy, the Maratha Military Landscapes have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, becoming India’s 44th World Heritage Site.

Spanning across 12 military forts in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, these historic structures were built between the 17th and 19th centuries under the formidable Maratha Empire. The inscription recognizes their exceptional value as representations of military strategy, topography-based planning, water management, and architectural innovation.

🌍 Why It Matters:

The Maratha forts — including famed structures like Raigad, Shivneri, and Gingee Fort — demonstrate how geography and fortification blended seamlessly in the Maratha military doctrine. These forts weren’t merely strongholds; they were deeply intertwined with the Maratha spirit of resilience, self-governance, and guerrilla warfare.

🛡️ A Legacy Etched in Stone

Each fort is a living narrative of India’s resistance, engineering, and regional influence. Built with locally sourced materials and adapted to varied terrains (from Sahyadri hills to coastal cliffs), they exhibit the adaptability and sustainability inherent in Maratha architecture.

📍 List of Forts Inscribed:

(Include a few names for representation. A full list can follow.)

  • Raigad Fort
  • Shivneri Fort
  • Pratapgad Fort
  • Lohagad Fort
  • Sindhudurg Fort
  • Gingee Fort (Tamil Nadu)
    …and more

🔍 UNESCO’s Recognition:

The committee praised the site for its Outstanding Universal Value, particularly for illustrating an “innovative approach to fortification and military architecture unique to the Maratha Empire.”

🇮🇳 A Boost to Tourism & Conservation

This global recognition is expected to boost heritage tourism, encourage community-led conservation, and place Indian military architecture on the global map of historical excellence.

As India continues to celebrate and preserve its vast cultural and historical wealth, the Maratha Military Landscapes now stand tall not just in stone — but in global memory.

Social

Tribute to a Legendary Leader: Governor Arlekar and MLA Salkar Pay Respects to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj

allycaralgoa

In a poignant ceremony, Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar and Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar recently offered Aadaranjali at the statue of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, paying tribute to the legendary leader’s enduring legacy and values.

A Life of Courage and Perseverance
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire, was a symbol of courage, perseverance, and commitment to justice. His life serves as a powerful inspiration to the younger generation, urging them to emulate his admirable traits.

Governor Arlekar’s Vision for a Brighter Future
Governor Arlekar’s remarks during the ceremony underscored his commitment to promoting values-based leadership and inspiring the youth to become active participants in nation-building. His vision aligns with the ideals of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, who was known for his bravery, wisdom, and compassion.

The Lasting Impact of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s Legacy
As we reflect on Maharaj’s remarkable journey, we are inspired to emulate his values and strive for a brighter future. The Aadaranjali ceremony served as a fitting tribute to his memory, reminding us of the enduring impact of his life and legacy.

Events in Goa

Shiv Jayanti 2025: Celebrating the Enduring Legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

allycaralgoa

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti, popularly known as Shiv Jayanti, is a significant celebration in India, particularly in Maharashtra and parts of Goa. Observed on February 19 every year, this festival commemorates the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, one of India’s most revered and revolutionary rulers.

Born within the fortress of Shivneri, Shivaji Maharaj exhibited exceptional leadership qualities and courage from a young age. His mother, Jijabai, played a significant role in shaping his vision and values. Shivaji Maharaj’s liberal ideas, principles of justice, courage, good governance, and religious tolerance set him apart as a visionary ruler.

Shivaji Maharaj’s valour and liberal thinking enabled him to strategically seize forts, employ astute war tactics, build a powerful army, and lay the foundations for the Maratha Empire. He fought against oppressive rulers, including the Mughals and Adil Shahi, to protect his people and promote regional languages like Marathi and Sanskrit.

Shiv Jayanti honours Shivaji Maharaj’s enduring legacy and celebrates his contributions to Indian history. The festival is a testament to the importance of courage, leadership, and determination.

Shiv Jayanti is a vibrant celebration that comes alive with grand processions and parades winding through the streets. The parades feature performances of war scenes, dances, and victory songs, while statues of Shivaji Maharaj are adorned with flowers. Hosted in various parts of the state with pomp and revelry, Shiv Jayanti is an opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra and Goa.

#AllycaralFeature 👒

The Historic Opinion Poll Goa: A Defining Moment in the State’s History

allycaralgoa

January 16, 1967, marked a pivotal day in Goa’s history, as the state held a historic referendum, popularly known as the Opinion Poll Goa. The poll was a culmination of a long-standing debate between two main parties: the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), which favored merger with Maharashtra, and the United Goans Party (UGP), which advocated for maintaining Goa’s separate identity.

Background and Context

After India gained independence in 1947, Goa remained a Portuguese colony until December 19, 1961, when it was liberated by the Indian Army. Following liberation, Goa, along with Daman and Diu, was administered as a Union Territory of India. However, the question of Goa’s future status remained a topic of debate.

The Referendum

The Opinion Poll Goa was held to determine whether Goa should merge with Maharashtra or remain a separate entity. The referendum offered two options:

  1. Merger with Maharashtra
  2. Remain a Union Territory of India

The poll was conducted under the supervision of the Election Commission of India, with 81.77% of eligible voters casting their ballots.

Arguments For and Against Merger

Those in favor of merger argued that Goa was too small to administer itself and that merging with Maharashtra would bring economic benefits and cultural ties. They believed that Goa’s economy would flourish with access to Maharashtra’s larger market and resources.

On the other hand, opponents of merger believed that Goa’s unique cultural identity would be lost, and that the state would become a “backwater district of Maharashtra”. They argued that Goa’s distinct history, language, and customs would be compromised if it were to merge with Maharashtra.

The Results

The referendum results were announced on January 16, 1967. A total of 54.20% of voters opted against merger, while 43.50% voted in favor. The anti-mergerists won by a margin of 34,021 votes.

Aftermath and Impact

The Opinion Poll Goa was a significant event in the state’s history, shaping its future and identity. The results demonstrated the strong desire among Goans to maintain their separate identity and cultural heritage.

In the aftermath of the poll, Goa continued to be administered as a Union Territory of India. On May 30, 1987, Goa was granted statehood, becoming the 25th state of India.

Legacy of the Opinion Poll Goa

The Opinion Poll Goa was a defining moment in Goa’s history, showcasing the power of democratic participation and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The poll’s outcome has had a lasting impact on Goa’s identity and development, shaping the state’s future as a distinct and vibrant entity within the Indian Union.