People from Goa are known as 'Goans'. This identity is enough to tell
the difference especially in their lifestyle. The 450 years' rule of the
Portuguese has added a new dimension by introducing their religion, belief,
customs, attire, festivals, education, literature, modes of entertainment,
and behaviour. A lot was absorbed and moulded into tradition and incorporated
into lifestyle. Thus Goans became unique in India. Goan lifestyle reflects
a unique blend of East and West.
Goans live life in style. That is in short Goan life style. Rich or not
so rich, they do not equate life with money. Goans work and earn and spend
in dress, food, entertainment and festivals. Goans love rest. Their life
is peaceful, not driven by modern day sentiments, anxieties, tensions
and other ills of a fast life.
They are deeply religious. They follow family tradition and celebrate
festivals with much religious fervour. Yet they are secular-minded. Goans
share their joys and sorrows with others, cutting across religious barriers.
In villages, during festivals, the whole village takes part irrespective
of caste or religion and becomes a big family.
Food is their love. Pao, the bread, is ubiquitous throughout Goa. A gift
of the Portuguese, Pao has become an essential part of food habit. Fish
is another favourite and a must in a Goan's plate. Sea-food is a speciality.
Another Portuguese connection is that there is no prohibition in Goa.
Goa's famous contribution is fenny, the drink prepared from the cashew
apple. Fenny preparation is in fact a cottage industry in Goa. In villages,
fenny is prepared in many a house. Drink is also cheaper than in other
parts of India. Yet Goans drink within control.
Dance and Music is in their blood and tradition. Goans dance to the maddening
lilting tune of Latino music and sing together. At the same time Indian
classical music is so dear to the Goans that theirs is the land that produced
some of the most revered names of Indian classical music.
Goans are hard working too. Their ancestors tilled this salty, barren
land and made it fertile. Goans are everywhere in the world. For livelihood,
Goans have migrated in large numbers, but they always retain the connection
with their motherland. At least once in a year they surely come back to
their motherland.
Goans love cleanliness, spaciousness and nature. Their houses reflect
their nature the best way. Come and stay in Goa as a dear guest. You will
never know when you have become a member of a family.
Goans trust in the eternal Indian tradition of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam
- the whole world is a family. |
