Want to delve into Goa’s historical depths a little deeper? Well, according to actor Raj Zutshi, Goa Chitra Museum in Benaulim is your doorway to garnering knowledge about Goa’s heritage. Dressed in a simple T-shirt and trousers, the actor was in Goa on vacation and, during his free time, he decided to visit Goa Chitra for a history lesson.
An exceptional actor, Raj Zutshi is known for his roles in Qayamat se Qayamat tak, Lagaan, Chachi 420, Slumdog Millionaire, Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal and his recent film Article 370, released in 2024. The thespian was amazed by the artefacts and history preserved in the museum.
“I feel so bad that I didn’t know of this place and I hadn't visited it before. This place has taught me a lot about Goa’s history through the artefacts preserved,” said Raj, expressing his deep regret for not discovering Goa Chitra earlier.
He said, “I personally love to learn about history, culture, ethnography; how people eat and live. This is a treasure house which I never visited, and I feel elated that I came here. I wish I had come here before.”
Raj was particularly impressed by the intelligence and craftsmanship of Goa’s ancestors, marvelling at how they designed tools that were both functional and compassionate. For instance, the yoke of the bull was ergonomically shaped to minimise discomfort while assisting with daily tasks — a perfect blend of ingenuity and empathy.
Sometimes looking back at history, one gets a sense of where you come from, and according to Raj, a museum is the best place to look for answers.
We feel that we are very developed, but sometimes you need to peek into history. There is so much to learn and experience, not just for young people – foreigners also need to know about Goa’s past. We need to look back in time and see what we have lost.
Raj Zutshi, actor
He said, “We feel that we are very developed, but sometimes you need to peek into history. There is so much to learn and experience, not just for young people – foreigners also need to know about Goa’s past. We need to look back in time and see what we have lost.”
Victor Hugo Gomes, the museum’s curator, was impressed when Raj walked in.
He said “I don’t like movies, so I don’t know many actors. It was refreshing that he actually wanted to know the real Goa. There are very few people who want to see what Goa truly is and that is very nice.”
Raj Zutshi is an example to all those who wish to know the real Goa, appreciating that the state is more than just beaches and beer. The culture and history of Goa are just waiting to be explored through its iconic museums.