Goan

Goan's have a rich cultural heritage, that makes it a unique state in India. The Goan culture is very easy going and relaxed. You won't find people fighting or arguing over religious issues or dress codes.

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 have a taste in their music choice.

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.

Some of the churches are placed in spectacular, and very difficult locations. Though, Goa is a multi-ethnic state, Goans are very tolerant towards each other's faiths; while unfortunately this is not true of the rest of this country.

The majority Hindu community and the sizable Catholic minority have lived in peace and harmony for decades and centuries. They participate in each other's many feasts.

Many Hindus attend the novenas during the feast of St. Francis Xavier (the patron saint of Goa), as the Catholics take part in the zagors and zatras. It is not rare to see young Catholics at local Hindu temples during the feast of Dusshera. They consider it auspicious to have their vehicles blessed by the temple priest on that day.

A few days before lent, many colorful carnivals are held, in all the major towns in Goa. Then, a few days later comes the Shigmo (Hindu festival of spring) distinctive parades go along the very same streets, with many kaleidoscopic floats and frenzied dancers. On these occasions both communities participate.

Goa India | Goa Beach Resort | Calangute Beach | Candolim Beach | Baga Beach | Goan