- As you are aware, a concerted effort is underway in some of the states to rewrite the history books by attempting to change certain happenings, good or bad, that occurred centuries ago. The very logic behind such moves defeats the purpose of propriety and questions the rationale of ill-advised indulgences that might not be appropriate or appreciated by the discerning lot. The Indian subcontinent has undergone unmitigated subjugation at the hands of marauding conquerors over the millennium. Undoubtedly, the supremely rich and fabulously endowed region witnessed the looting of monumental proportions by successive invaders. We know how a vibrant and affluent Indian society was reduced to smithereens courtesy of foreign conquistadors.
PC: TOI
- The question here is whether historical events can be camouflaged or completely rewritten for modern-day evolution by some organizations that believe they can simply erase what happened centuries ago. Simply put, it is neither possible nor advisable. Politicians are primarily motivated by enticing parochial concerns to consolidate vote banks. However, history cannot be repainted with such a narrow perspective based on the whims and fancies of a few extreme elements. Across the country, we have seen numerous incidents of this nature, which only serve to disrupt the peaceful coexistence of citizens from various communities. Let’s look at the most recent incident from Goa.
- Recently, Goa The CM attempted to open up a new political front by declaring that it was time to eradicate all traces of Portuguese culture from the state. The CM cited accounts of temples and other sites of local culture being destroyed during Goa’s 400-year Portuguese colonial rule. He made a point of restoring these historical sites last year, allocating Rs 20 crore to the effort. The restoration is satisfactory. However, if CM’s goal is to eradicate the syncretic culture that makes Goa such a wonderful part of the Indian tapestry, he will cause significant harm to Goan society. Politicians frequently mix up historical events and cultural evolution. While the two can be related, they are distinct processes. Nobody can predict how culture will evolve.
PC: Sargun Preet Kaur
- While the injustices perpetrated by Portuguese colonial rules are undeniable, the fusion of Portuguese and local Goan cultures remains a wonderful lived reality. This fusion can be seen in everything from Goan cuisine to festivals and architecture. Goa’s churches and convents are even UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This is what distinguishes Goa and draws hordes of international tourists to this vibrant state. And, with tourism accounting for roughly 18% of Goa’s net state domestic product, is the CM willing to forego this source of revenue for the people of his state? No. Attempting to change Goa’s identity is not only uncalled for but also self-restricting. The concept should be abandoned.
