How did 'fado' make its way to Goa?

FADO ROOTS

Fado is a soulful music genre characterised by its typically melancholic tunes. It is believed to have emerged in Portugal as early as the 1820s.

CULTURAL EXCHANGE

Apart from culture, food and lifestyle, the Portuguese also influenced Goa's music. Fado is one of the music genres that Goans acquired from the Portuguese.

WESTERN INFLUENCES

During Portuguese rule, Goans were introduced to the great works of Western musicians and were taught to play different instruments in schools which shaped the music scene in Goa.

GOA'S LOVE, MUSIC

Goa, a musically rich land, has always embraced experimentation with different styles and genres. This admiration and love for music can be felt in every corner of this region.

INSTANT CONNECTION

When Goans first heard the heart-stirring melodies of fado, they quickly embraced and adapted this genre in the late 19th century.

ICONIC MOMENT

Post-liberation, in the early 1980s, the legendary fadista Amália Rodrigues from Portugal visited Goa and enchanted the ears of many Goan fado fans with her performance.

FADO IN THE CITY

In 2016, a musical initiative called 'Fado in the City' was launched, featuring a series of performances by Sonia Shirsat aimed at bringing fado to different parts of Goa.

STILL THRIVING

Today, Goa's Portuguese-speaking community continues to keep this art form alive. Fadistas like Sonia Shirsat and Nadia Rebelo continue to capture the hearts of listeners around the globe.

NEXT: Why Goa's Colva beach is still a tourist favourite?