Is Goa Liberation Day Only Becoming a Social Media Show-off Now?

What was once a celebration focused on patriotic songs, speeches, and remembering freedom fighters has now become more about showmanship, according to Mapusa resident Nishita Rivankar. As the driving force behind a popular Instagram page showcasing Goa's culture, the 30-year-old observes that media presence has overshadowed the real essence of the day, with celebrations seeming more like a "show for the camera" rather than a genuine expression of patriotism. She believes that patriotism is fading with time.

It was on December 19, 1961, that India launched 'Operation Vijay' to reclaim Goa, along with Daman and Diu, from Portuguese control. It marked Portugal's surrender of its hold on these territories after the 36-hour-long operation. However, Goa is still dotted with the significant influence of Portuguese culture, and many Portuguese descendants continue to live here. Be it Portuguese families or people from other communities, the day is marked as a day of celebration – which has, however, started changing its form.

Rivankar, while talking to Local Samosa, mentions that she now only takes part in the flag-hoisting events. She continues, "Over the past few years, things have been curated to make them look appealing on the outside. I even see a lot of reels on the celebration, but there is hardly any emphasis on how we got our freedom, the struggle, and the people involved. There is hardly anyone who talks about it nowadays."

Kevin Baretto, a native of Canacona in South Goa, might not have had the chance to celebrate Goa Liberation Day but has heard stories from his granny. For him, he says, “Celebrations have been more about sharing stories with friends and family in Goa.” Baretto recalls seeing vintage car parades on the day while relishing dishes like Xacuti and the sweet dish Bebinca. He also shares that his cousin participated in drawing competitions as a way of celebration. On the other hand, the 26-year-old opines that it is now “celebrated more over social media.” “There are a set of people who still celebrate Liberation Day, but most of them are in their 70s and beyond,” he says.

While Goa Liberation Day has always been a low-key affair compared to Independence Day, it mainly comprised various activities hosted in schools and colleges, including speech competitions, drawing, poster making, and more, as part of the celebrations — which might also be in decline. Jade, a food enthusiast who aims to highlight Goa’s culinary culture, says, “Liberation Day was a very low-key event growing up, and it still is. There is not much that has changed except the fact that it has become even quieter now. There are fewer Goans and more settlers who don’t even know when Liberation Day comes and goes.”

A positive lens

Vicky Bachani, a hotelier by profession, paints a different picture regarding the tremendous inclusion of visitors in Goa. In his experience, Goa Liberation Day has shifted from being primarily a local observance to something visitors resonate with. He says, “Travellers are curious about the stories behind Goa’s freedom struggle and its cultural revival since then.” The owner of a hospitality brand, Jugnu, Bachani, mentions that his team often shares insights with guests about how Goa’s spirit of liberation is reflected in its vibrant traditions and way of life today. “This day, in many ways, is a reminder of how Goa continues to unite people—locals and visitors alike—through its history, hospitality, and timeless appeal,” he says. However, Bachani also clarifies that his brand does not host specific events for the day.

Believing that the celebrations have evolved over the years, Ponda resident Akshit Kanolkar, unlike others, counts social media as a contributor to raising awareness and connecting more people to the significance of Goa Liberation Day. Recounting the old days, he says, “We would start the day with a March parade, which students enthusiastically participated in, followed by a fancy dress competition portraying Goan freedom fighters.” The 31-year-old recalls his favourite memory being a school trip to Reis Magos Fort. “We explored the museum and learned about Goa’s liberation struggle. Later, we visited Panjim to witness the grand parade, which made the day even more special,” he adds.

Contrary to these celebrations, as per Kanolkar, the focus, which used to be on school activities like parades, competitions, and educational trips, has changed. But only for the better, he says. “Now, the scale has grown with public events like parades, cultural programmes, and exhibitions organised by the government and communities,” Kanolkar explains his observations.

Be that as it may, the celebrations find it difficult to gain national importance, even when the entire nation wishes to see the land of Goa for its culture. And, even today – on Liberation Day – the celebrations are restricted to either institutions in Goa or leaders posting wishes on Twitter.