PANAJI
A solemn litany was held on Monday evening to remember the 81 people who died in the Mandovi River launch tragedy of 1901. Residents, students and historians gathered near the Betim and Panaji ferry jetties for the annual commemoration of the capsizing of the motorised launch ‘Goa’.
The event, organised by Festakar Marius Fernandes and Clube Festakar, began at 6 p.m. with prayers at Betim. Participants later crossed the ferry to Panaji, where the litany continued at the Memorial Cross. Candles were lit and floral tributes placed as hymns drifted over the river.
The tragedy occurred on December 3, 1901, when the overcrowded launch, carrying more than 160 passengers travelling to the Feast of St Francis Xavier, overturned mid-crossing between Verem and Panaji. Eighty-one people, including men, women and children, died.
Two memorial crosses, built in 1904 by the Goan community in Aden, stand at Betim and Panaji to honour the victims. Historian Prajal Shakardande said remembering the tragedy helps reinforce safety and community responsibility. Organiser Marius Fernandes said the story should be part of school lessons to ensure younger generations understand its significance.
