Freedom fighter Shaba Raghoba Desai, whose legacy is showcased at the Sinquerim-based Aguad Interactive Museum: Goa “ The Land, The Struggle, The People, was born on October 20, 1933, in Fatorpa, Quepem.
With a primary-level education in Marathi, Desai grew into a committed member of the Azad Gomantak Dal (AGD) and worked under Vishwanath N. Lawande. Deeply devoted to the cause of Goa’s liberation, he took part in the historic Satyagraha movement at Madgaon. On August 15, 1955, in an act of bold defiance against Portuguese rule, he hoisted the tricolour, leading to his arrest. He was severely beaten and imprisoned for approximately nine months.
Desai, who was a farmer, showed unwavering courage and sacrifice that continues to be honoured as part of Goa’s enduring legacy of resistance and resilience.
