Understanding Goa's Relationship with Portugal: A Reflection

I’ve been living in India, specifically Goa, for the past three months, and today, I experienced something truly special at the Serendipity Arts Festival—a couple of stunning music events showcasing Portuguese music. The talent was extraordinary, and the music evoked such deep emotions that it brought tears to many in the audience. What struck me most was the romanticism of Portugal and Lisbon in the songs. The audience, predominantly older Goans, seemed to resonate deeply with the music. Many of them appeared fluent in Portuguese and intimately familiar with the songs. This made me reflect: Why isn’t there a similar romanticization of Britain among Indians? Of course, the answer seems obvious—India’s colonial experience under British rule was marked by exploitation, suffering, and atrocities. Yet, I wonder: does the sentiment towards Portuguese rule differ, particularly in Goa? Growing up in the UK, I wasn’t fully aware of the atrocities committed during the British Raj until university, where studying humanities exposed me to this dark chapter. Before that, British colonization was barely a footnote in school curricula. We learned more about the Victorian era, the Industrial Revolution, and the two World Wars. My exposure to topics like the Raj came later through popular Indian films like Lagaan and The Legend of Bhagat Singh. This brings me to Goa. What is taught in Goan schools about Portuguese rule? Do Goans see it as a negative chapter in their history, or is there a more nuanced perspective? I recall visiting Brazil, where museums proudly celebrate independence from Portugal, depicting the struggles and atrocities of colonization. In contrast, I sense that Portuguese rule is somewhat revered in Goa—or at least, remembered with more nostalgia. I’ve seen Reddit threads where people shared photos from the Portuguese era, with many comments suggesting life was "better" under Portuguese rule. Of course, I understand that certain groups may have benefitted, just as some did during the British Raj. But overall, colonization is typically remembered for its harm. So why is there this apparent fondness for the Portuguese era in Goa? Is it tied to the cultural and linguistic legacy they left behind? Or does it reflect something deeper about how history is perceived here? At today’s concert, these thoughts stayed with me. I’m genuinely curious to learn more about Goa’s relationship with Portugal and how it compares to India’s relationship with Britain. I’d love to hear insights from those familiar with Goan history and culture.