History of Goa
Goa is one of those states of India to have a fascinating history. In fact, of all other things the rich history of Goa has made this smallest state of India famous and has interested historians through years. The history of Goa, which is popularly known as the beach capital of India, dates back to 3rd century BC. It was during this time Goa became a part of Mauryan Empire. Colonial rule, glorious culture, oppressive rulers make the rich history of Goa.
History of Goa – Legends Speak
According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Parashurama, a reincarnation of Lord Vishnu, after shooting an arrow into sea in order to retreat water formed Konkan, the southern part of which was known as Govarashtra, present day Goa.
History of Goa – Rules of the Kings
Goa has an endless list of rulers which have ruled this state through many years. Starting from 4th century, Goa has been under the rule of various rulers. The feudal lords of Mauryan Empire, of the 4th-5th centuries, Bhojas, were the first to rule Goa. Some other kingdoms to have ruled Goa include Kadamba Dynasty, Silahara Dynasty and the Hoysalas from 11th century to 14th century.
The 14th century saw Goa gradually becoming a trading centre, during that time mostly horses were traded from Middle East. It was this time when eminent empires, namely, Vijaynagar Empire took Goa under its rule. However, they were soon defeated by the Bahmani Sultans and took the controls in their hand, but things started to change in 1510 A.D when Portuguese arrived in Goa. Goa was also ruled by Yousuf Adil Shah of Bijapur.
History of Goa – Portuguese Rule
Owing to its natural harbors coupled with wide rivers, Goa served as a perfect base for the Portuguese to take control of spice trade from Middle East. The Portuguese is said to have come to Goa in the year 1510 and their stay lasted for over 450 years. During the Portuguese rule, Christianity conversions started and with the start of the inquisition, anything other than Catholicism was censored in Goa. Numerous temples belonging to Hindus were destroyed mass conversion to Christianity took place.
During the time of the spice trade, Goa reached its Golden Age and it was this time, Old Goa became the biggest city in East that had over 300 churches and a population of 40,000 people.
During the late 18th century, the Marathas had nearly defeated the Portuguese, which met strong competition not only from the British but also from the Dutch and French.
Portuguese in Goa is however responsible only not for destruction and conversion; they have also helped the state in their architecture, cuisine and lifestyle. A number of beautiful churches, like St. Cajetan church and Bom Jesus basilica have been built during the rule of Portuguese.
History of Goa – Overthrow of the Portuguese
Though India earned her independence from the British rule in the year 1947, Goa had remained a Portuguese colony. In the year 1961, erstwhile Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, sent armed forces and under name of ‘Operation Vijay’, the Indian army took over Goa in just two days. Since then Goa became one of the Union Territories of India.
History of Goa – Legends Speak
According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Parashurama, a reincarnation of Lord Vishnu, after shooting an arrow into sea in order to retreat water formed Konkan, the southern part of which was known as Govarashtra, present day Goa.
History of Goa – Rules of the Kings
Goa has an endless list of rulers which have ruled this state through many years. Starting from 4th century, Goa has been under the rule of various rulers. The feudal lords of Mauryan Empire, of the 4th-5th centuries, Bhojas, were the first to rule Goa. Some other kingdoms to have ruled Goa include Kadamba Dynasty, Silahara Dynasty and the Hoysalas from 11th century to 14th century.
The 14th century saw Goa gradually becoming a trading centre, during that time mostly horses were traded from Middle East. It was this time when eminent empires, namely, Vijaynagar Empire took Goa under its rule. However, they were soon defeated by the Bahmani Sultans and took the controls in their hand, but things started to change in 1510 A.D when Portuguese arrived in Goa. Goa was also ruled by Yousuf Adil Shah of Bijapur.
History of Goa – Portuguese Rule
Owing to its natural harbors coupled with wide rivers, Goa served as a perfect base for the Portuguese to take control of spice trade from Middle East. The Portuguese is said to have come to Goa in the year 1510 and their stay lasted for over 450 years. During the Portuguese rule, Christianity conversions started and with the start of the inquisition, anything other than Catholicism was censored in Goa. Numerous temples belonging to Hindus were destroyed mass conversion to Christianity took place.
During the time of the spice trade, Goa reached its Golden Age and it was this time, Old Goa became the biggest city in East that had over 300 churches and a population of 40,000 people.
During the late 18th century, the Marathas had nearly defeated the Portuguese, which met strong competition not only from the British but also from the Dutch and French.
Portuguese in Goa is however responsible only not for destruction and conversion; they have also helped the state in their architecture, cuisine and lifestyle. A number of beautiful churches, like St. Cajetan church and Bom Jesus basilica have been built during the rule of Portuguese.
History of Goa – Overthrow of the Portuguese
Though India earned her independence from the British rule in the year 1947, Goa had remained a Portuguese colony. In the year 1961, erstwhile Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, sent armed forces and under name of ‘Operation Vijay’, the Indian army took over Goa in just two days. Since then Goa became one of the Union Territories of India.