The type of tourism being promoted in Goa does not prioritise sustainability and community involvement to avoid negative impacts
Preserving a region’s culture and traditions for posterity is never an easy task, more so when a generation steeped in the cultural mores of the Western world is evidently oblivious to the rich legacy that the native land is blessed with and takes pride in.
At a time when aping Western culture is the in-thing with the younger generation, concerns about losing touch with the unique cultural heritage and traditions which could eventually lead to a decline in local identity and values are growing by the day. The distinct characteristics and attributes that once made the coastal state stand out as an epitome of cultural richness is seemingly threatened by a loss of singularity and the one-of-a-kind identification.
The gradual weakening of the region’s cultural identity, practices, and values due to various influences gains all the more attention considering the state’s continued prominence as the most favoured global destination.
The steady assimilation of local cultures into more dominant ones mainly due to the tourism culture that has consumed the state in the recent decades has resulted in the loss of unique cultural traditions so exclusive to the region.
Visitors to the land of sun and sand need to be pardoned for harbouring the misconception that the coastal paradise is a ‘Western’ country. Goa’s distinct history and culture, shaped by centuries of Portuguese rule is undoubtedly responsible for this belief.
Yet, a trait that is distinctive in all respects affording Goa the unique distinction of qualifying as a region which largely embraces and adopts cultural norms, values, and behaviours commonly associated with Western societies despite maintaining its Indian essence, has however been exploited more extensively for its tourism attributes rather than as a quality that needs to be preserved for future generations.
Cultural preservation has unfortunately not been the strongest forte of a state that has endorsed tourism as its chief economic lifeline. In fact everything that is being attempted is with an eye on strengthening the coastal region’s marketing viability in the tourism sector.
Hence, the state’s tourism initiatives have been driven more by a strong desire to showcase its rich traditional cultural features. Let us however remember that while tourism can offer economic benefits, prioritizing preservation ensures the long-term vitality of a culture, rather than its short-term ‘commodification’.
Without a doubt, Goa’s cultural and traditional elements offer a rich tapestry for tourism encompassing its history, cuisine, art, festivals, and lifestyle. However, should these exercises merely remain restricted to carrying over such tourism endeavours into new realms!
Safeguarding unique practices, knowledge, and values passed down through generations ensuring that they remain relevant and accessible for future generations has always remained at the crux of preservation essays.
Goa stands accused of ‘over-tourism’ which in turn has caused commercialization, potentially diluting cultural authenticity. The cultural homogenization brought about by rampant tourism has led to a piquant situation where local traditions are being adapted to cater to tourist expectations.
It is indeed ironic that while visitors to the state seem to be learning more about the region’s ‘glorious past’ through tourism promos and campaigns, the present generation of Goans haven’t shown the verve to understand the beauty of their native land in its true essence.
Just as for those throngs swarming the state on frolicking sprees over the years from different corners of the world, the stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife has come to mean all that is to be known about Goa for the locals as well. It is claimed that Goans are known for their ability to blend different influences and cultures while preserving their own distinctiveness.
While not refuting the fact that tourism can incentivize the preservation of cultural heritage, including historic sites, crafts, and customs, the type of tourism being promoted in Goa does not evidently prioritize sustainability and community involvement to avoid negative impacts.
A few individuals have no doubt hit the headlines for their unstinted efforts at awakening the dormant pride in the cultural and ethnic identity of the people of Goa,
As a man who has made it his life’s mission to inculcate a sense of pride and belonging in every Goan, Maendra Alvares has been promoting Goan identity, heritage, and pride through initiatives like educational programmes and art exhibitions, besides a host of other activities which makes ‘Big Foot’ the hub of Goa’s cultural ‘renaissance’.
The other day ‘Ugddasachi Sanz 2.0’, a cultural event was organized by the Velim Constituency Sports, Cultural and Eco club in association with the Art & Culture department of Goa, and held at Padribhat, Sao Jose De Areal.
With a maximum number of students from various schools in Velim Constituency attending the event over the three days it was spread across, the initiative by the Velim MLA to ‘catch them young’ ensured that the youngsters learnt much about the state’s cultural traditions.
Stalls put up by various government departments exhibited products at the venue showcasing the artistic work by local artisans. A festival of one-act plays, singing and musical shows by renowned Goan performers was the icing on the cake.
The Velim legislator informed that this was his humble attempt at infusing a sense of awareness about Goa’s rich cultural heritage in the young minds. According to him, the presence and encouragement of the people who attended and participated in the memorable and meaningful event reflects the strength of Goan culture and the unity of the Goan community.
In fact, an entire generation is in need of a ‘bolstering’ effect to be set in motion by individuals and organizations to revive and restore Goa to its old pristine glory.
The region’s historical past and rich cultural heritage should be propelling it to be a more dynamic and prosperous future where the wisdom and foresight of its predecessors in preserving Goa in its true colours will be truly appreciated by the future generations.
