The air is thick with anticipation as Old Goa is gearing up for the grand celebration of the decennial exposition of the relics of St Francis Xavier from November 21, 2024 to January 5, 2025. Both locals and pilgrims are preparing to honour Goa's patron saint who has shaped the history and culture of this State.
And the upcoming exposition comes as a crucial reminder of the pressing needs of this UNESCO heritage site, threatened by illegal constructions that jeopardise its integrity in the face of the wilful lack of enforcement of the law to check the same.
The Save Old Goa Action Committee argues that the government is turning a blind eye to the illegalities, thus moving away from its commitment to saving Goa's architectural and cultural heritage. It contends that the government's continued neglect will gradually erode Old Goa's importance as a global landmark.
The committee has been demanding a master plan for Old Goa before the exposition takes place. But the way things stand as of today, it doesn't look like there is any political will within the government to work on this plan. It has been gathering dust for a decade now while the heritage in the area is facing an uncertain future.
But the way things stand as of today, it doesn't look like there is any political will within the government to work on this plan.
The upcoming decennial exposition in Old Goa is expected to attract lakhs of visitors, making the need for a comprehensive master plan more critical than ever. The master plan would have ensured the earmarking of buffer zones, parking facilities, accessible footpaths and a drainage system before the big event.
But more than anything, the master plan would address concerns about illegal constructions and unplanned development in the heritage precincts. Unfortunately, the formulation of this master plan has remained a pipe dream, frustrating heritage lovers and those fighting to safeguard the monuments in Old Goa.
The government's indifference to formulating the master plan doesn't bode well for Goa's heritage and is a matter of grave concern and sadness. One needs to understand that irrespective of the faith the heritage belongs to, it's about identity and history.
Also, heritage is not about buildings, it is about our past—whether good or bad—and it defines who we are and where we came from. When we neglect heritage, our actions betray those who were there before us, their struggles, their triumphs and their legacy. In this betrayal, we become complicit in erasing this legacy.
Also, heritage is not about buildings, it is about our past—whether good or bad—and it defines who we are and where we came from.
Not only Old Goa, the government has to act as the custodian of all heritage sites in Goa without resorting to petty politics. The politicising of heritage is akin to defiling its sanctity and tainting its legacy with the poison of division.
Many feel a strong emotional connection to their heritage, and the government is duty bound to listen to their voices. Ignoring people's voices means this government is not working in tandem with the mandate it received.
The government must humbly acknowledge that it has failed to heed the calls of its citizens for a master plan. Such an act will showcase the government's commitment to heritage and will pave the way for redemption and a chance for renewal.
The decennial exposition offers an opportunity for this government to show its unwavering commitment to Goa's heritage sites. If not a master plan this year, let the government make a solemn vow to work tirelessly towards its realisation, involving the concerned citizens at every step.
The decennial exposition offers an opportunity for this government to show its unwavering commitment to Goa's heritage sites.
Actions will speak louder than promises. If it really cares for its heritage, the government will have to prove its sincerity by demolishing the Old Goa bungalow and declare its true intent.
Let us hope that this decennial exposition the government will spring hope for its citizens who have been knocking on its doors to save Old Goa's timeless heritage.