Goa
is famous for its religious harmony and one can see a harmonious blend
of all major religions of India in Goa. Religion in Goa is not a big
issue since people live with each other peacefully and are much tolerant
of each other's religions. Goan religious practices are followed by
almost everyone who is settled over there. Most people tend to have a
thinking that Goa is predominantly a Christian state but the major
religion of Goa is Hinduism. Given below is a break up of the %age of
major religions of Goa.
Hinduism - 65%
Christianity - 30%
Muslims - 3%
Sikhs and other religions - 2%
The Portugal rule left a typical Christian nature to this state and
even today you will find many houses being built in the typical style of
the Portuguese. There is a beautiful blending of different religions in
Goa. One finds ancient churches standing along with Hindu temples in the
same area. People irrespective of their religions; celebrate every
festival with devotion and joy. People of different faiths and beliefs
come together whenever some auspicious moment is to be celebrated.
Goa is a place where you can find a Hindu in a church, a Muslim
celebrating a Hindu festival, a Christian in a Hindu celebration and so
on. People have developed religious tolerance and respect for other
faiths. Whether a person is a Hindu, Muslim or a Christian, they have
faith in other religions too and it is very common to see them worship
Gods of other religions as well. There is a unique blend of all
religious faiths in Goa which is what lends a very mystical air to this
wonderful state.
