Lesser-Known Facts about Goa

You probably weren't aware of many fascinating facts about the city known for its beaches and nightlife. With trance parties, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of other activities, Goa is one of India's liveliest locations. The location has a rich history and numerous fascinating facts that will astound you.

Ø History of Goa

The earliest recorded history of Goa dates to the third century B.C. when it was a part of the Mauryan Empire under the control of the Buddhist emperor Ashoka of Magadha. Buddhism in Goa was founded by Buddhist monks. The Western Kshatrapas (around 150 CE), the Abhiras of Western Maharashtra, the Bhojas of the Yadava clans of Gujarat, the Chutus of Karwar as rulers of the Satavahanas of Kolhapur, and the Konkan Mauryas as rulers of the Kalachuris ruled Goa between the second and sixth centuries CE. The Rashtrakutas of Malkhed later took over the rule from 753 to 963, following the Chalukyas of Badami, who ruled from 578 to 753. However, the Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas' conquerors, the Southern Silharas of Konkan, ruled Goa from 765 to 1015. The Kadambas, who were the rulers of the Chalukyas of Kalyani, successively ruled Goa over the course of the following several centuries. In Goa, they were patrons of Jainism.

The Delhi Sultanate assumed control of Goa in 1312. The region was under the kingdom's control, but by 1370 they were compelled to give it up to Harihara I of the Vijayanagara empire due to a deteriorating situation. Up until the Bahmani sultans of Gulbarga took control of the region in 1469, the Vijayanagara kings retained control of it. After that dynasty was overthrown, the region was taken over by the Adil Shahis of Bijapur, who made the city known to the Portuguese as Velha Goa, their secondary capital.

With the aid of a local ally named Timayya, the Portuguese overcame the ruling Bijapur kings in 1510, paving the way for the establishment of a permanent settlement in Velha Goa (or Old Goa). Many of the Portuguese subjects in Goa were converted to Christianity. Large numbers of Goans migrated to nearby areas as a result of the Portuguese's ongoing conflicts with the Marathas and the Deccan Sultanate as well as their oppressive religious laws. During the Napoleonic Wars, the British held Goa between 1812 and 1815.

From Velha Goa, the capital was relocated to Panjim in 1843. The majority of the present-day state borders of Goa were included in the area that was occupied by the middle of the 18th century. Until their borders stabilized and formed the Estado da India Portuguesa, of which Goa was the largest territory, the Portuguese simultaneously lost other possessions in India.

Portugal refused to engage in talks with India about handing over control of their Indian enclaves after India won its independence from the British in 1947. Goa, Daman, and Diu were annexed into the Indian Union on December 19, 1961, as a result of Operation Vijay, which was carried out by the Indian army. Goa, along with Daman and Diu, became an Indian Union Territory under centralized administration. On May 30, 1987, the Union Territory was divided, with Daman and Diu remaining Union Territories and Goa becoming India's twenty-fifth state.

Ø Goa celebrates two independence days

As you are all aware, Goa remained under Portuguese control even after India gained independence from the British on August 15, 1947. Both inside and outside of Goa, people fought for the independence of that state. On December 17, 1961, the Indian Army, Air Force, and Naval forces invaded Goa and routed the unprepared Portuguese army. The Portuguese governor gave up control of Goa on December 18th, and India took control of the territory the following day! Every year on December 19, Goa commemorates its independence.

Ø First Printing Press in India

The state of Goa was also the first location where Portuguese missionaries brought down and set up printing presses. This was in the middle of the sixteenth century, after which the printing press was used to publish a number of older books and manuscripts. It was set up on April 30th, 1556. So, now you know, that the printing press was first used in India in the Goa region.

Ø Richest Indian State for per capita

Goa is one of the wealthiest states in India, largely because of its thriving tourism sector. The geographical area is smaller than the majority of large Indian states. One of the richest states in the nation continues to be the destination for tourists and visitors from all over the world. In addition, it is one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in India, and the tourism sector contributes significantly to the state's overall revenue.

Ø Only State having the Uniform Civil Code

As of now, Goa is the only state in India where marriage, divorce, succession, and other legal issues are governed by the same laws for all religions and sects, including Hindus, Muslims, and Christians.

Ø The smallest state in India

Goa is the smallest state in India, covering a total area of 3,702 km2. However, it has a 99-mile-long coastline.

Ø Largest Floating Casino in Asia

Asia's largest floating casino is the Deltin Royale Casino Cruise. It is also regarded as India's top casino. Deltin Royale, the biggest gaming and entertainment complex in Asia, is a must-see whenever you're in Goa. Over 50,000 square feet in size, Deltin Royale offers close to 1,000 gaming positions as well as exquisite spaces for an elegant party or celebration. Most gaming tables and five levels/floors are found at the Deltin Royale Casino. You can try your luck at games like teen patti, baccarat, and American roulette. They have excellent live entertainment, including Bollywood and international acts.

The cruise is anchored at one location in the River Mandovi. The main entrance to the cruise is at Panjim Jetty, and the other one is at RMJ Reis Magos Jetty, which is close to Candolim. Both public and private transportation are readily available to get to both locations. You are transported to the cruise by feeder boat from the jetty or these check-in locations. Although Deltin Royale Casino is open 24 hours a day, the best time to go is in the evening because live entertainment and the VIP lounge (named Whiskey) begin after 7 p.m. and go until 1 a.m.

Ø Asia’s only Naval Aviation Museum

Only one Naval Aviation Museum exists in Asia, and it is located in Goa. Thirteen decommissioned aircraft are housed in the military museum in Bogmalo. It was started back on October 12th, 1998, and it shows how the Naval Air Arm has evolved over the years. There were only six aircraft when the museum first opened, but there are now thirteen. A double-storied indoor gallery and an outdoor exhibit make up its two components. It is six kilometers away from Dabolim Airport, Vasco.

Ø UNESCO World Heritage Site – Basilica of Bom Jesus Church

A basilica is a church or cathedral built like a Roman basilica. It houses important religious relics, including the 400 years old mortal remains of St Francis Xavier, a Spanish Jesuit and the patron saint of Roman Catholic missions. It is one of the oldest churches in India, and the finest example of baroque and Portuguese architecture in India. It was completed in 1605. The mortal remains are displayed for public viewing once every ten years, and visitors travel from all over the world to see them. Due to its ornamental architectural style, precious stones inside, and marble flooring, it is a beautiful sight.

Ø Famous Flea Markets

The small state of Goa is well-known for its flea markets on the beaches in addition to all the aforementioned factors and its beaches. You can still look at the items for sale here even if you don't plan on doing a lot of shopping. You experience a sensory overload here because of the spicy aromas, the intriguing looks, and the peculiar sounds. While some markets run all year long, others only do so during a peak period, such as from November to March. Without stopping by one of these intriguing locations, your trip to Goa will be incomplete. These flea markets are held on different Goa beaches almost every other day or on the weekends. There are many, but the Anjuna Flea Market at Anjuna Beach, the Saturday Night Market at Arpora, Mackies Night Bazaar at River Baga, the Arambol Street Market at Arambol Beach, the Sunset Beach Market/Arambol Drum Circle, the Chapora Fish Market at River Chapora, the Mapusa Friday Market, and the Flea Market are the most well-known flea markets in Goa.