Goa is a feeling and its laidback lifestyle is a big draw for many who just can’t resist its allure. It’s understandable why so many people fell in love with the sunny State and made it their home. The beauty, the relaxed atmosphere, and the welcoming nature of Goans all combine to make it extremely attractive.
However, at this juncture, it is also very important to acknowledge that the State is gradually getting overcrowded, which in turn is putting a strain on its natural resources to accommodate a growing population. So, the question today is: in next 10 years from now, will Goa be the Goa we now know and love?
This question is quite complex and requires a well-balanced scientific assessment from social scientists. But are there any social scientists in Goa who would be able to answer this? No, we don't have any, but we surely have overnight entrepreneurs who are working on big deals to see that Goa doesn't remain Goa and becomes the next Singapore or Las Vegas.
There is a growing awareness among Goans and, at the same time, there is a sense of anxiety, and also helplessness, as to what lies ahead in the future for them. Will their Goa be Goa or become the next Mumbai or like any other city with monstrosities around?
There is a growing awareness among Goans and, at the same time, there is a sense of anxiety, and also helplessness, as to what lies ahead in the future for them.
Today, concerns are being raised about the influx of outside cultures that are diluting local values. In the long run, the local flavour and unique character of Goa, shaped by its history and local communities, might be overshadowed by a more homogenised culture.
At this juncture, it becomes paramount that local communities, organisations and the government need to step forward and invest in preserving historical sites, promoting Goan art and music, and encouraging the use of Konkani at all levels.
It is also time Goans promote the usage of Konkani in their homes – at least the spoken language, if nothing else. Our government too needs to understand that mandating fish curry and rice on shack menus isn't a complete solution for promoting Goan cuisine and culture.
There may not be specific data to aver, but dismal usage of Konkani among the younger generations in urbanised areas of Goa is a growing concern. Cultures evolve over time. Goa's identity might be threatened due to external influences, but it's not necessarily disappearing entirely, but at the same time it is stagnating.
There may not be specific data to aver, but dismal usage of Konkani among the younger generations in urbanised areas of Goa is a growing concern.
Our language is the basis of our identity as it influences how we're perceived by others. Also, the government's initiatives for promoting Konkani usage in daily life and official work seem to be lacking or in some cases not enough is being done.
Twenty years down the line we may see very little of this culture and language unless we empower our younger generation to be the torchbearers. In the face of change and outside influences, it is time to empower the younger generation to appreciate their culture, heritage and history.
It is also important for the youth to stay connected to their culture and heritage as that is their true identity and these two provide a sense of belonging.
The present changes that we see in Goa are also because of mass tourism that has seen the commercialisation of local traditions. Mass tourism has also been responsible for the overwhelming of local communities.
It is also important for the youth to stay connected to their culture and heritage as that is their true identity and these two provide a sense of belonging.
The government needs to bring in policies to ensure that there is a shift from mass tourism to the promotion of heritage experiences that allow tourists to experience the real Goa and at the same time save its natural beauty and cultural integrity.
Ultimately, it is the government policies, combined with public opinion, that will define how Goa's uniqueness will be shaped in the coming years. Also, in the end, our sincere love for Goa will shape its identity and future. Viva Goa!