Goa Liberation Day is celebrated on December 19th every year to commemorate the day when India got Goa back from Portuguese rule. This event is also called as “D-Day” in Goa. This day has a special place in the hearts of all Goans as it is a symbol of freedom and unity. It is a day to remember and cherish the sacrifices made by our forefathers to get us this far. So let us take a moment to understand what exactly happened on this historic day and how it has shaped Goa into the state that it is today.
What is Goa Liberation Day?
Goa Liberation Day is a public holiday in the Indian state of Goa, commemorating the day that India gained control of the territory from Portugal. It is celebrated on December 19th each year.
The history of Goa goes back to the time when it was a part of the Mauryan Empire. The Chalukyas invaded Goa in the third century BC, and they ruled there until the 13th century AD. Thereafter, it came under the rule of several Hindu dynasties including the Kadambas, Silharas and finally the Vijayanagar Empire. The Portuguese first arrived in Goa in 1498 but it was only after defeating the ruler of Goa, Ismail Adil Shah, in 1510 that they were able to establish their control over the territory.
For centuries, Goans lived under Portuguese rule and this resulted in a rich culture which is a unique blend of East and West. However, by 1961, there was a strong movement for independence and on December 19th 1961, India finally regained control over Goa after a military operation known as Operation Vijay.
Today, Goa Liberation Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the state. Flags are hoisted, parades are taken out and cultural programs are organized to mark this important day in India’s history.
Happy Goa Liberation Day Messages, Wishes, Quotes and Greetings 2023
The History of Goa Liberation Day
The Goa Liberation Day is celebrated on December 19th every year. It marks the occasion when the Indian Army freed Goa from the Portuguese rule. The day is also known as ‘Din Bhandar’ in Konkani and ‘Akshaya Tritiya’ in Sanskrit.
The Portuguese first arrived in Goa in 1510, and they ruled over the region for more than four centuries. During this time, they constructed several forts and churches, which are now popular tourist attractions. On December 19th, 1961, the Indian Army drove out the Portuguese. This day is celebrated as the Goa Liberation Day.
Since it is a public holiday in Goa, all government offices and schools remain closed on this day. Several processions and events are held to mark the occasion. The main event is held at the Azad Maidan in Panaji, where the Prime Minister of India delivers a speech to remember those who sacrificed their lives for India’s freedom.
Conclusion
The Goa Liberation Day is celebrated every year on December 19 to mark the withdrawal of Portuguese colonial rule in 1961. This day is also a public holiday in the state of Goa. The Goa government and numerous other organizations across the state host a variety of cultural and social events on this day to honor this significant occasion in India’s history.
