People of Goa have an identity that is pretty much different from the rest of India. This can be the result of the fact that Goa was under the Portuguese occupation for more than four and a half century. The people were influenced by the Portuguese culture and this uniqueness has remained even to this day. During the early stages of Portuguese conquest of Goa, the zeal of the Portuguese military and religious zealots took a toll on the demography of the place. Religious persecution and forced conversion affected the age old Goan lifestyle. Today the influence of Portuguese culture still lingers.
Fiercely protective of their unique identity, the people of Goa aggressively defend their culture. The population comprise of around 65% Hindus, 30% Christians while other religions make up for rest of the population. The churches of Goa have attained heritage status and people from all over the world gather there to see the medieval architecture at its best. The place also has wonderful Hindu temples. The animosity between religions bread during the time of Portuguese conquest centuries ago is buried for good and people now life in complete harmony.
An important occupation for the people of Goa is fishing. There are a number of fishing villages that border the coastal regions of Goa. The fishing community is quite a large one and as you tour the coastal region of the state you will definitely see boats and fishing nets lined up along the shore. The place is also very fertile and agrarian lifestyle is also very common. The green nature is simply spectacular.
Goa is just the right place where you will find a perfect mix of agrarian and cosmopolitan culture. This otherwise traditional people can be absolutely wild as well. this is evident in the cities where tourists get wholesome entertainment. There are discos, pubs and nightclubs and if you want to freak out for the night, there is no dearth of amenities. Goa is also famous for beach parties. During Christmas and New Year, the people of Goa join the tourists to celebrate the festivals with gusto.
If there is ever a place of earth where you can idle away your time in style, it is Goa.
