Although we regard Goa as the party capital of the country, the state is enveloped in rich cultural history which stems from events beyond the usual shacks and beach parties. 19th of December is marked as Goa Liberation Day and it represents the occasion when the valiant armed forces of India freed Goa in 1961 following 450 years of Portuguese rule. It is also said that this entire military expedition took approximately three days to be wrapped up and the sequel of it, now has Goans living and breathing on free soil.
The sequel of ‘Operation Vijay’
After the British departed from India, Goa was the only part of India which continued to remain under foreign rule. The Portuguese were taken down by the armed personnel, under the umbrella of ‘Operation Vijay’. The movement to push out the Portuguese was started with low-level revolts. Going further, this battle claimed the lives of 22 Indian and 30 Portuguese soldiers, reportedly.
On 19th of December, 1961, the Indian military forces reclaimed this coastal region. Kunhiraman Palat Candeth, a senior army officer was named Lieutenant Governor after Goa was regained from its colonizers. Although Goa officially became a member of the Indian territory then, it was still not granted the standard statehood status, up until the 30th of May, 1987.
Governor & CM extend greetings to the martyred breavehearts
Goans celebrate Goa Liberation Day with high levels of enthusiasm and annually, the Governor and the Chief Minister extend their greetings to the bravehearts who fought till their last breath. Torchlights rallies take to the roads at 3 seperate vicinities and several events are held in remembrance of the day. The day this year is particularly significant as it is also being viewed as a day to recognize the recent milestones achieved by Goa, in different operational sectors.
