Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral
Margao; January 2026: Madganvcho Awaaz has launched ‘Asmitai Vars’, a year-long series of activities to commemorate 60 years of the historic Opinion Poll of 1967, a defining moment that shaped Goa’s political, cultural and linguistic identity.
Senior advocate, former Margao MLA and Opinion Poll movement stalwart Adv. Uday Bhembre unveiled the initiative and described it as timely and meaningful, noting that while large sums are often spent on short-lived events, initiatives such as Asmitai Vars create lasting milestones for future generations. Youth leader Prabhav Naik and social worker Dattaraj Pai Fondekar were present on the occasion.
Expressing pride in continuing the legacy of the Opinion Poll movement, Prabhav Naik said he was honoured to carry forward the contributions of his great-grandfather Narcinva Naik and grandfather Anant alias Babu Naik, both of whom played key roles in the historic movement. He added that Madganvcho Awaaz remains committed to honouring eminent Goans who have worked to safeguard Goa’s identity, language and culture.
As part of the launch, Madganvcho Awaaz honoured living stalwarts of the Opinion Poll movement by visiting their residences and presenting them with mementoes, shawls and bouquets as a mark of respect and gratitude. Those honoured included Adv. Uday Bhembre, Prof. Shyam Verencar, Smriti Audi, Aruna Telang, N. Shivdas, Sadanand Kanekar and Tomazinho Cardozo, who played significant roles in the movement that determined Goa’s future.
The honoured stalwarts appreciated the efforts of Madganvcho Awaaz in remembering the architects of the Opinion Poll and expressed confidence that Asmitai Vars would inspire the younger generation to understand, value and protect Goa’s unique identity and heritage.
