The Sex Ratio in the
State is 961 (as compared to 933 for the country).
Goa’s colonial
past has lent it a unique and distinct flavor that sets it apart from the
other holiday destinations. Portugese have left an indelible mark on the
architecture, culture and language of the place. Be it the Churches, Old
Palatial Houses and Colonial landmarks, Goa’s Anglo Indian identity
is reflected through the heterogeneous Diaspora which thrives, as if this
was a different mystic land flourishing all by itself.
But as you delve deep,
Goa is much more. Close encounter with the nature and beauty, enchanting
Colonial masterpieces as you snuggle through the Interiors of this state,
a Unique Konkan dialect, people in High Spirits, happening Beach Shacks,
Temples, Ancient forts and meandering roads.
The Legend has it that
Lord Parshuram (Lord Vishnu Incarnate) created Goa. As a great Hindu stronghold
it was a part of the great Mauryan Empire around 300 B.C. And ever since
various dynasties have left their mark. From Satvahanas of Kolhapur, Chalukyas
of Badami, Short-lived Muslim Invasions, Sultans of Gulbarga, Rashtrakutas,
Kadambas, Silaharas and to Portugese who ruled for Four centuries before
it was liberated by the Indian Army in 1961. Initially a Union territory
Goa was conferred the statehood as the 25th State of Indian Republic in
1987.
Hindu and Catholic communities
constitute the major chunk of the population here while Muslim and other
minorities also have adequate representation in the socio-economic fabric
of this place. The entire spectrum of varying Cultures, Religions and Beliefs
gel together to form a unique sub culture strikingly distinct and full
of life. All religions and belief systems foster in a perfect secular harmony.
If there is one theme which binds them all it’s The Zest for
Life which is so typical of every Goan. Festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi,
Diwali, Christmas, Easter and Id are celebrated with equal fanfare, excitement
and fervor.
Goa shares it’s
borders with the state of Maharashtra on the north and the state of Karnataka
on the south and east and the Arabian sea coastline on the west. |