The
rich cultural heritage of Goa is a stark contrast to the rest of India.
This is one quality that makes the culture of Goa truly unique. Goa is a
place where you find people accepting the presence of all major
religions without any ego or hesitation. This is the place where people
follow tradition as well as remain ahead with time and trends. The Goan
culture is very easy going and relaxed. You won't find people fighting
or arguing over religious issues or dress codes. Everyone is free follow
the kind of lifestyle they want to, unlike the rest of India where
tradition and conservatism is an inseparable part of one's life.
The people of Goa have the essence of music in their culture. In fact
music is quite dominant among people living there. Not just Indian, they
take pleasure in Western music and listen to the likes of trance,
western classic music, techno, jazz, blues, etc. They have a varied
taste and choice when it comes to western music. Most Goans have music
in their veins and know how to play a couple of instruments. You can
find many Goans breaking into a peppy song on a hot afternoon without
any particular reason. Most of the music that they sing has the typical
Portugal tune and style. Due to the Portuguese rule in this place, the
culture has invariably picked up on the Portugal cultural heritage.
Due to the Portugal rule, many people converted to Christianity at that
time. Yet, they did not forget their Indian roots and Goa is one place
where you will find people celebrating Diwali and Easter with equal zest
and passion. Known as the Golden Goa to the Portuguese, this lovely
state is the perfect example of the east meeting the west. Along with
Portuguese churches, you find ancient Hindu temples where people of
different religions come to pray. At the same time, you will find people
enjoying themselves in playful abandon on the gorgeous beaches of Goa.
The co existence of different religious, traditional and cultural
sentiments is what makes Goa a heady place to visit.
The place has so much to offer apart from its rich cultural heritage.
Large five star hotels co-exist harmoniously with roadside shacks. Both
have their own charm and importance and form a part of the Goan culture.
The Portugal elements have very beautifully blended with Indian elements
thus giving us a unique kaleidoscope of its amazing culture. You find
people wearing western clothes as well as performing Indian rituals and
worshipping in the traditional way. There are fewer constraints on women
and they can be seen as confident individuals who live life their way.
This harmonious blend of Portuguese and Indian cultural elements has
made Goa unique in its own way. Visit this lovely place to experience
this feeling on your own.
