While India gained independence on August 15, 1947, Goa was still moldering under 450 years of the Portuguese rule. They were among the first ones to colonise parts of India and refused to give up their hold over Goa. Regarded as one of the most significant days in the history of Goa, also considered as the forgotten war for freedom, December 19 commemorates the freeing of Goa from Portuguese rule by the Indian Armed Forces and the complete independence of India. Indian troops reclaimed the Goan territory with little to no resistance and forced General Manuel Antonio Vassalo de Silva to sign the Certificate of Surrender, thus ending 451 years of the exploitative rule of the Portuguese over the territory. As the country's smallest state enters its 60th year of liberation, it remains a blend of cultures. The walk covers the landmarks namely Tobacco Square, 26th January Road, Mahalaxmi Library, St Sabestian Chapel, High Court of Bombay at Goa and historic Panaji Church.
A walk through the lanes of Panaji would take us back in time and give us a glimpse of the old times.
This guided tour is free and is a physical walk.
