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India before colonization

Before the colonization of the Indian subcontinent by the British, India was divided into sovereign and independent states. The Indian confederation as we know it today did not exist.

Portuguese in India

Thus, long before the arrival of Great Britain in the mid-18th century, the Portuguese settled as a colonial power in the territory of Goa at the beginning of the 16th century. The Portuguese chose Goa because the port was already very famous at the time. Goa was then an Arab possession on the Indian peninsula.

Goa remained "overseas territory of the Portuguese Empire" for over 450 years.

Annexation by India

Goa was annexed by India in 1961 as a result of armed action by the Indian army and became a confederate state in 1987 following a referendum. The choice offered to voters was either to form an independent state or to be attached to Maharashtra.

Architecture

This long period of belonging to Portugal explains the architecture of Goa. Catholic churches are numerous and built in the same style as those found in Portugal. Likewise the houses are also very similar to those found in Portugal. Just like in Portugal, there are a lot of painted ceramics on the walls of Goa.

Goa

Contrary to popular belief, Goa is not the name of a city. It is that of the smallest state of the Indian confederation. The state is divided into two provinces, North Goa and South Goa. The capital of Goa is called Panaji and the largest is Vasco da Gama.

Old Goa: Once known as the "Rome of the East", Old Goa is famed for its majestic churches and convents dating back to the Portuguese colonial era. Sites like the Basilica of Bom Jesus, housing the remains of Saint Francis Xavier, reflect its rich religious and architectural heritage.

 

Panaji: Goa's capital, Panaji, is marked by its cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and Portuguese ambiance. The waterfront, ancient churches, and bustling neighborhoods make Panaji a charming and vibrant city, blending Indian and Portuguese influences.

 

Chandor: Chandor is a picturesque village known for its traditional Portuguese mansions and deep history dating back to the Kadamba empire. It offers a unique glimpse into the life and architecture of bygone days, with the famous Braganza House being one of its key attractions.

 

Candolim: Located along Goa's north coast, Candolim is famous for its serene beach and sophisticated entertainment options. This beach destination appeals to those looking to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand away from the crowds of busier beaches.

 

Vasco da Gama: Named after the Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama is a bustling port city, serving as Goa's maritime gateway. It plays a key role in the state's economy through its active harbor and is known for its cultural heritage blending Indian and Portuguese influences.

 

about the place, Goa:

Goa is the smallest of the states of India. Goa was a Portuguese possession and the Lisutan heritage is visible everywhere in the predominantly Catholic city. Many churches in the purest Portuguese style adorn this Indian city.

 

Spoken comments in the film: 

Goa is a state in India, strongly marked by the Portuguese colonizer. It is a small piece of Portugal in India with its typical houses and churches. Goa is the smallest of the states in India. Goa was a Portuguese possession and the Lisbon heritage is visible throughout the predominantly Catholic city. Many churches in the purest Portuguese style adorn this Indian city.

 

The Bragança family house was built over 350 years ago. 

It is currently shared by two branches of the family. The east wing is occupied by the Pereira-Braganza while the west wing houses the Menezes-Bragança. 

 

The following images were taken in the western part, and the guide is a descendant of Luis de Menezes-Bragança, a great journalist who played a very active role in the process of Goa's independence.