Since 1983, when Goa hosted the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), the state has welcomed several prominent personalities from across the world.
Several prime ministers and heads of state converged in Goa for the successful conclave and left with fond memories of what was then known as the ‘Rome of the East’.
In 1994, the Femina Miss India Universe and Miss World India pageants were held in Panaji, Goa. Both the winner and runner-up, Sushmita Sen and Aishwarya Rai, went on to win the Miss Universe and Miss World crowns respectively. Once again, Goa appeared to be a lucky place for their success, bringing great honour to the country.
Goa is also the ancestral home of Leander Paes, the only Indian tennis player to win an Olympic medal. He has won several Grand Slam titles in doubles and mixed doubles and continued competing at Grand Slam level until the age of 46.
Pope John Paul II blessed Goa with his visit and was later canonised as a saint by Pope Francis in 2014. Mother Teresa of Kolkata also graced the state and was later canonised in 2016. For many Goans, these visits and the achievements that followed have added to the belief that Goa has been a lucky charm for several celebrated personalities. The prayers of the Goan faithful, they would say, were heard.
Stephen Dias, Dona Paula
