Daman Diu Goa FINAL (2)

shanta durga temple, ponda, goa

Krishna Temple, Goa
Ancient House in Diu

Poet Bocage Daman

Oldest School, Jetty Road, Nani Daman

dish known as bebincais a favourite at Christmas. The most popular fermentation of the fruit of the cashew tree, while coconut feni is
alcoholic beverage in Goa is feni; Cashew feni is made from the made from the sap of toddy palms.

CHRISTIANITY IN GOA, DIU & DAMAN ROMAN CATHOLICISM

In 1560 the Inquisition established an office in Goa. It was finally The Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Goa and
abolished in 1812. It involved persecution of Hindus as well as Daman carries the title Patriarch of the East Indies. Old Goa was once
Christians deemed not compatible with the Latin rite of Christianity. called "Rome of the East" and was the capital of the Roman church in
The violence was commended by many Popes in Rome. Since 1851; the eastern world.The remains of the Jesuit St. Francis Xavier are kept
the Christian population of Goa has been facing a continual decline. in veneration in the Basílica de Bom Jesus.
This is caused by an emigration of Goan Catholics from Goa, to other
places in India and abroad, as well as, large waves of Hindu The Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina is one of the largest church
immigrants from the rest of India. As a result, the percentage of buildings in Asia. The Igreja de São Francisco de Assis, built in 1661,
Christian population (once a majority) has shifted in favour of the now houses an archaeological museum. Plenty of churches can be
Hindus. As per the data available, Christians constituted 64% and seen all over the state with impressive Portuguese-Baroque
Hindus 35% in 1851 census. Currently, Christians constitute 27% architecture. Goa used to once be a hotspot for priestly vocations,
and Hindus 66% of the population of Goa. though that no longer the case.

Forts of Goa the Portuguese in 1746. It was used as a base for freedom fighters
during the liberation of Goa in 1961. Within the fort there is a
FORT AGUADA: A long laterite peninsula extends in the sea west of chapel which is locked most of the time.This fort is converted into a
Reis Magos, bringing the seven kilometer long Clangute beach to an Heritage hotel.
abrupt halt. Fort Aguada crowns the rocky flattened top of the
headland and is the largest and best preserved Portuguese bastion in St. Anthony's church in the middle is set spectacularly on the hilltop.
Goa. This fort was built in 1612 to guard the northern shores of the From the battlements one can look across to Querim Beach. To cross
Mandovi estuary from attacks by the Dutch and Maratha raiders. The the Tiracol River takes twenty minutes on an ancient Goan ferry
fort has a four storey Portuguese lighthouse erected in 1864 and is operates every 30 mints.
the oldest of its kind inAsia.
CABO DE RAMA FORT: Cabo de Rama, the long boney of land that
TIRACOL FORT: This was a fort of the local raja, and taken over by juts into the sea at the south end of Colva Bay, takes its name from the
hero of the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. Cabo DA Rama, however, is
140 portuguese rule

more grandiose than most, commanding spectacular views north imposing fort, built by the Muslim Bahmani Dynasty that founded the
over the length of Colva beach and down the sand-splashed coast of city of Ela (Old Goa) The Hindu Vijayanagars took it from the Sulatan
Canacona. The easily defensible promontory was crowned by a fort of Bijapur in the fifteenth century and was ceded to the Portuguese in
centuries before the Portuguese cruised in and wrested it from the 1520 in exchange for military help against the Muslims.
local Hindu rulers in 1763. They erected their own citadel soon after,
but this now lies in ruins, lending to the laterite headland a forlorn CHAPORA FORT: Chapora 10 K.M. from Mapusa this fort is most
world's end feel. easily reached from Vagator side of the hill. The red-laterite bastion,
crowning the rock bluff, was built by the Portuguese in 1617 on the
RACHOL FORT AT RACHOL: 7 K.M. northeast of Margao, rises site of an earlier Muslim structure, hence the village's name - from
proudly from the crest of laterite hillock, surrounded by the dried-up Shahpura, " town of Shah" Intended as a border watch post, it fee to
moat of an old Muslim fort and rice fields that extend east to the various Hindu raiders during the seventeenth century, before finally
banks of the nearby Zuari River. Rachol hill was encircled by an being deserted by the Portuguese in 1892.

forts of goa 141

Beaches of Goa near the Tiracol estuary (formed by the Tiracol River meeting the
Arabian Sea). Kerim is located 58 km north of Panajim and can be
T he beauty of Goa lies in its beaches that made it a reached from theArambol Beach.
popular tourist hub in the world. Some of the famous
beaches are: ARAMBOL BEACH, NORTH GOA: A 16 km long unexplored beach
MIRAMAR BEACH: Popular and crowded beach, frequented by locals surrounded by cliffs on two sides, with a Fresh Water lake and chirpy
from Panajim and nearby towns, local street shops, local restaurants. markets nearby, Arambol is considered to be one of the best beaches
Easily reachable beach in Panajim, Goa is Miramar beach which is in Goa. This cove like beach is a traditional fisherman village with a
located 3 km south-west of Panajim. distinct bohemian feel which attracts many international tourists and
QUERIM BEACH, NORTH GOA: Also known as Keri Beach or Kerim alternative travelers. A short walk to the north takes you to several
Beach, it is the northern-most beach of Goa and located close to attractive bays, the most famous among which is the sweet water lake
Tiracol fort. It has an Old Portuguese Fort and a 17th century church at Paliem Beach (also referred to as Kalacha). This lake is fed by hot
overlooking a peaceful unexplored beach with calm shore. The fort, springs and lined with sulphurous mud which is believed to have
now converted to a hotel, can be reached by a ferry which plies every healing properties and is a favorite among the hippie crowd who take
half an hour. A picturesque scene not to be missed are the fishing mud baths here. Beyond the lake, is a spectacular Banyan Tree with a
boats which line up on the beach at 6pm everyday to go out in the sea stone sculpture at its base created by a famous artist which has
and come back the next morning at 5am. The beach has paragliding become an attraction in its own right? The beach also hosts night
and other water sports. However it is not safe for swimming especially parties, has a rich music scene and is dubbed to be the capital of
hippie culture in Goa.The 'Glastonbury Street' leading to the beach is
142 portuguese rule chock full of boutiques selling a bizarre and wonderful array of knick-
knacks. This place is also good for paragliding and Kite Surfing

making it one of the best beaches in Goa. Arambol beach is located lots of accommodation options. It is a crowded yet beautiful sea
50 km north of Panaji. beach. Calangute is famous for its nightlife and the famous pubs of
Goa including theTito's and others on theTito's lane are located close
VAGATOR BEACH, NORTH GOA: Quiet and calm beach, Vagatos is by. Calangute beach is located 16 km north of Panajim and 2 km from
one of the best beaches of Goa. It is beautifully set amidst the cliffs Baga.
with soft and white sand and is perfect for relaxing. It has vast
stretches of coconut trees and the Chapora fort as a nearby attraction. DONA PAULA BEACH, NEAR PANAJIM : One of the best spots in Goa
Vagator is located 21 km north of Panajim. which makes it slightly crowded. It has Water Sports, Harbour, Rocky
shores and much more. Dona Paula is located just 6 km south-west of
ANJUNA BEACH: One of the most popular sea beaches among Panajim.
foreigners in Goa because of its night parties, Curlies and other good
eating joints, peaceful seashore, western seafood with chilled beer COLVA BEACH: One of the best beaches in South Goa, this beautiful
and good music in nearby restaurants and flea markets. Anjuna is beach is famous for its romantic evenings, great seafood and the most
situated 21 km north of Panajim and 7 km from Bagha. happening nightlife in South Goa. Another major attraction nearby is
Our Lady of Mercy Church Colva beach is located 6 km north of
BAGA BEACH, NORTH GOA: Most popular beach of Goa for Indian Margao.
tourists, it offers something for everyone. It is a picturesque beach
with parties, music, beach shacks, karaoke, good food, water sports, AGONDA BEACH, SOUTH GOA : One of the best beaches in South
good accommodation facilities, and is easily the most happening Goa, It is a quiet beach ideal for chilling, swimming, walking, eating
place in Goa. Baga beach is located 19 km north of Panaji. and just generally doing nothing. Agonda Beach is located 37 km
from Margao.
CALANGUTE BEACH, NORTH GOA : Just adjacent to Baga beach, the
Calangute beach has Water Sports, markets, restaurants, good food,

places 143

Liberation Movement of

T he Liberation Movement : The abolition of the Portuguese. However, the Portuguese Catholic Church strongly
Portuguese monarchy in 1910 raised hopes that the supported pro-colonial polices and attempted to influence Goan
colonies would be granted self-determination; Christians to oppose the independence movement. The Portuguese
however, when Portuguese colonial policies Patriarch of the Catholic Church in Goa issued over 60 official letters
remained unchanged, an organized and dedicated anti-colonial to the priests of the archdiocese, instructing them to preach to their
movement emerged. Luís de Menezes Bragança founded O' Heraldo, congregations that salvation lay with the Portuguese and in
the first Portuguese language newspaper in Goa, which was critical of dissociating themselves from cultural-political relationship with the
Portuguese colonial rule. [citation needed] In 1917, the "Carta rest of India.
Organica" law was passed, overseeing all civil liberties in Goa.
1920-1940: In 1928, Tristão de Bragança Cunha founded the Goa
In reaction to growing dissent, the Portuguese government in Goa National Congress. At the Calcutta session of the Indian National
implemented polices which curtailed civil liberties, including Congress, the Goa Congress Committee received recognition and
censorship of the press. Strict censorship policies required any representation in the All-India Congress Committee. [Citation
material containing printed words, including invitation cards, to be needed]
submitted to a censorship committee for screening. The Portuguese
Governor of Goa was empowered to suspend publication, close down In May 1930, Portugal passed the "Acto Colonial" (Colonial Act),
printing presses and impose heavy fines on newspapers which which restricted political rallies and meetings within all Portuguese
refused to comply with these policies. Many Goans criticized the colonies.The introduction of this act politically relegated Goa to the
curtailing of press freedoms, stating that the only newspapers and status of a colony. The Portuguese also introduced a policy of
periodicals the Portuguese permitted them to publish were pro- compulsory conscription in Portuguese India, which contributed
colonialist propaganda materials. significantly to growing resentment against the colonial
government.
Menezes Bragança organised a rally in Margao denouncing the law
and, for some time, the Goans received the same rights as mainland The Portuguese government pressured the Indian National Congress
to disaffiliate the National Congress (Goa); however, in 1938, Goans
in Bombay city formed the Provisional Goa Congress.

144 portuguese rule

Goa, Diu, Daman

LOCAL RESISTANCE TO PORTUGUESE RULE spelled as Panajim) against the suspension of civil liberties organised
by Lohia, Cunha along with others like Purushottam Kakodkar and
Resistance to Portuguese rule in Goa in the 20th century was Laxmikant Bhembre in defiance of a ban on public gatherings and
pioneered by Tristão de Bragança Cunha, a French-educated Goan arrested them. There were intermittent mass demonstrations from
engineer who founded the Goa Congress Committee in Portuguese June to November.
India in 1928. Cunha released a booklet called 'Four hundred years
of Foreign Rule', and a pamphlet, 'Denationalization of Goa', DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS TO RESOLVE GOA DISPUTE
intended to sensitive Goans to the oppression of Portuguese rule.
Messages of solidarity were received by the Goa Congress On 27 February 1950, the Government of India asked the Portuguese
Committee from leading figures in the Indian independence government to open negotiations about the future of Portuguese
movement like Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhash colonies in India. Portugal asserted that its territory on the Indian
Chandra Bose, and several others. On 12 October 1938, Cunha subcontinent was not a colony but part of metropolitan Portugal and
with other members of the Goa Congress Committee met Subhash hence its transfer was non-negotiable; and that India had no rights to
Chandra Bose, the President of the Indian National Congress, and this territory because the Republic of India did not exist at the time
on his advice, opened a Branch Office of the Goa Congress when Goa came under Portuguese rule. When the Portuguese
Committee at 21, Dalal Street, Bombay.The Goa Congress was also Government refused to respond to subsequent aide-memoires in this
made affiliate to the Indian National Congress and Cunha was regard, the Indian government, on 11 June 1953, withdrew its
selected its first President. diplomatic mission from Lisbon.

In June 1946, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia, an Indian Socialist leader, By 1954, the Republic of India instituted visa restrictions on travel
entered Goa on a visit to his friend, Dr. Julião Menezes, a nationalist from Goa to India which paralyzed transport between Goa and other
leader, who had founded in Bombay the Gomantak Praja Mandal and exclaves like Daman, Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Meanwhile, the
edited the weekly newspaper, Gomantak. Cunha and other leaders Indian Union of Dockers had, in 1954, instituted a boycott on
were also with him. Ram Manohar Lohia advocated the use of non- shipping to Portuguese India. Between 22 July and 2 August 1954,
violent Gandhian techniques to oppose the government. On 18 June armed activists attacked and forced the surrender of Portuguese
1946, the Portuguese government disrupted a protest in Panaji (then forces stationed in Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

liberation 145

Liberation of First National Flag
Goa, Diu, Daman
19th December, 1961 hosting at Moti

Daman Jetty on

26th January, 1962

The Government of India under Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru adopted a
plan called operationVijay to free the Portuguese colonies in India.

Operations against Goa were directed by Major General K.P.
Candeth. The plan was to advance into Goa from the north and
east. The attack from the south was meant to divert attention. On
12th December

1961, the two main land routes connecting Goa and India were
sealed for the civilian population.This was a move to facilitate the
movement of the army. 18th December 1961 was the day
determined for the attack.

INDIAN ARMY, AIR FORCE AND NAVY

All the three sections of the Indian armed forces participated in
Operation Vijay. The Indian Air Force planes at about 6:30 A.M.
bombarded the radio station at Bambolim and the airport at
Dabolim.The attack was led byAir vice Marshall a Pinto do Rosario
of the IndianAir force in Hawker Hunter aircraft.

The Indian navy ships were positioned outside the Marmagao
port. The only Portuguese warship Afonso de Albuquerque was
beached by the Portuguese navy after attack from the Indian Navy
comprising of the frigates INS Betwa and INS Beas. Both INS Beas
and INS Betwa were part of an advance force which included the
IndianAircraft Carrier INSVikrant carrying Sea Hawk aircraft.

INDIAN ARMY ATTACKS

The IndianArmy attacked Goa from the north, the moves began on

two fronts. At 5 A.M. The Indian troops entered Goa via Matna. reached Betim the previous day arrived at Panajim at around 7:30
They moved forward to Pilligao and then to Banastarim. On A.M. Those soldiers who tried to move to the capital via
reaching Banastarim at around 6 P.M. in the evening, they Banastarim swam across the river and arrived at Panajim about
discovered that the bridge had been blown up. The troops 8:30 A.M. At 10 A.M. the Indian national flag was hoisted by
therefore halted there for the night.Another platoon entered Goa major general K.P. Candeth.
via Dodamarg around 6:30 A.M. and advanced towards Assnora,
Tivim, Mapusa and eventually Betim. The onward move of these All operations in Goa came to a halt at 6 P.M. on19th. December
soldiers was difficult as the Portuguese tried stopping them by 1961.Arrangements were made for receiving the formal surrender
blasting bridges and culverts on the way. The local population at the hands of the Portuguese governor General Salo e Silva. The
helped with information on places which were mined and unsafe. document of surrender was signed at 7:30 P.M. on a street at
The troops reached Betim which is 600 yards from Panjim, the Vasco da Gama under the headlights of the car of the Portuguese
capital of Goa around 5 P.M. On hearing the firing at Betim, the Governor General and submitted to Brig. K.S. Dhillon. Major
Portuguese flag in front of the secretariat was lowered and the General K.P. Candeth was appointed the military Governor of Goa.
white flag was hoisted to indicate surrender at 6 P.M. On 18th Thus within 40 hours of the start of the operation, the Indian army
December 1961. had successfully carried out operation Vijay and centuries of
foreign domination in Goa came to an end.
On the north eastern side a platoon which entered Goa around 4
A.M. proceeded to Sankhelim, Usgao and then Ponda. The
situation in Ponda was one of chaos and confusion. The
Portuguese had left it after setting fire to their equipment and
some buildings. Hooligans were seen looting shops and whatever
they could lay their hands on. After occupying Ponda, the force
moved towards Panaji only to be halted in their advance by the
blasted bridge of Banastarim.

On the eastern side, two platoons entered Goa via Anmod. One of
them moved to Mollem with an aim of reaching Ponda, via
Dharbandora and Khandepar.The other proceeded to Mollem and
Khandepar via Surla.

The attack from the south had the objective of drawing the
Portuguese attacks from the other fronts. The attack began at 6
A.M. The entry point into Goa was at Poinguinim. At 1 P.M. the
Indian soldiers arrived at Ardifond. A Portuguese post opened fire
on the Indian troops who had numerical superiority. The Indians
took over the post during the exchange along with the arms and
ammunition stocked there.

On the eastern front after occupying Ponda, the Indian troops
moved towards Margao via Borim. The people of Margao
thronged the streets to accord them a warm welcome. The
atmosphere around was rent with cries of joy and national
slogans. The forces then advanced towards Vasco da Gama and
the port of Marmagao via Verna and Dabolim. They captured
Marmagao at about 4:30 P.M.

POST THE PORTUGUESE SURRENDER

On 19th December, the Indian forces that had successfully

Dadra And

D adra & Nagar Haveli is a Union Territory in Sea is just to its west, and can be reached via the state of Gujarat. A
Western India. Nagar Haveli is wedged between small piece of land belonging to Gujrat state named after a village
Maharashtra and Gujarat, whereas Dadra is an Maghval is located within Nagar Haveli which is controlled by Gujrat
enclave 1 km NW, surrounded by Gujarat. The shared capital is Government, it is just in south of Silvasa in Dadra and Nagar Haveli.
Silvassa. The larger part spans a roughly c-shaped area up-river from The area of Dadra and Nagar Haveli is spread over 491 sq. kms,
the city of Daman on the coast, at the center of which, and thus landlocked between Gujarat to the north and Maharashtra to the
outside the territory, is the Madhuban reservoir. Dadra and Nagar south.
Haveli (D&NH) are in the middle of the undulating watershed of the
Daman Ganga River, which flows through Nagar Haveli and later The Union Territory comprises two separate geographical units -
forms the short southern border of Dadra. The towns of Dadra and Dadra and Nagar Haveli. It is close to on the Western coast of India
Silvasa lie on the north bank of the river. The Western Ghats range between the parallels of 20° 0' and 20° 25' of latitude north and
rises to the east, and the foothills of the range occupy the eastern between the meridian 72° 50' and 73° 15' of longitude east. It
portion of the district. While the territory is landlocked, the Arabian occupies an area of 491 square kilometers (190 sq mi),It ranks 4th
among the Union Territories .The territory is surrounded by Valsad
148 dadara & nagar haveli

Nagar Haveli

district of Gujarat on the West, North and East and by, Thane Pipri and Sakartond join Daman Ganga within the territory. About
District of Maharashtra on the South and South-East (after division 43% of the land is under forest cover. However, the reserved forest
of Thane district, it is now surrounded by newly formed Palghar cohis territory constitutes about 40% of the total geographical
District.) area. The protected forests constitute 2.45% of the total land
area. As per Forest Survey of India, DNH has two major forest
TOPOGRAPHY AND LAND PLANTATION types: tropical moist deciduous forest and tropical dry deciduous
forest. The major produce is khairwood/khair and general timber.
The stretch of the main southern area is hilly terrain especially Teak, sandra, khair, mahara and sisam are the major tree species
towards the northeast and east where it is surrounded by ranges of in the region. The rich biodiversity makes it a habitat for a variety
Sahyadri Mountains (Western Ghats). The central alluvial region of of birds and animals with numerous trips from inland safari or the
the land is almost plain and the soil is fertile and rich. The river coast by tour guides providing eco-tourism. Silvasa's hills and
Daman Ganga rises in the Ghat 64 km from the western coast and wide forested buffer land provides a main focal point for wildlife
discharges itself in the Arabian Sea at the port of Daman after enthusiasts.
crossing Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Its three tributaries viz. Varna,
histury & culture 149

150 dadara & nagar haveli

CLIMATE

The climate of Dadra and Nagar Haveli is typical of its type. Being near
the coast, all but the sparsely inhabited easternmost parts have a
typical north Indian Ocean maritime climate. The summers are hot
and become in their later part more humid with temperatures
reaching as high as 39° in the month of May. The monsoon starts in
the month of June and extends until September.The rainfall is brought
by South West monsoon winds. It is known as the Cherrapunji that
covers the bulk of western India (apart from the Thar Desert) which
produces most of the annual rainfall of 200-250 cm. Winters are
between maritime temperate and semi-tropical with temperatures
ranging from 14° to 30°, reliably, as with the monsoon, with scant
deviation from this region.

HISTORY: PRE-PORTUGUESE ERA

The profound history of Dadra and Nagar Haveli begins with the
defeat of the Kohli chieftains of the region by the invading Rajput
kings. It was the Marathas that retrieved the region from the rule of
the Rajputs in the mid 18th century. In 1779, the Maratha Peshwa
formed an alliance with the Portuguese allowing them to collect
revenue from the 79 villages of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. It has been a
saying that Marathas had gifted this territory to Portuguese to
compensate their loss which had occurred on the negligence of
Marathas due to which a Portuguese warship had sunk. Portuguese
officials had been visiting this territory just to collect revenue from
their appointed authorities or to enjoy hunting in the jungles of this
region. The rule of the Portuguese in the region continued till the
region gained independence on 2 August 1954. The region was
merged with the Union of India in the year 1961

HISTORY: PORTUGUESE ERA

The Portuguese occupied Nagar Haveli on 10 June 1783 on the basis
of FriendshipTreaty executed on 17 December 1779 as compensation
towards damage to the Portuguese frigate by Maratha Navy.Then, in
1785 the Portuguese purchased Dadra. Under the Portuguese rule,
Dadra and Nagar Haveli were part of the Distrito de Damão (Daman
district) of the Estado da Índia (Portuguese State of India). The two
territories formed a single concelho (municipality), named "Nagar
Haveli", with its head in Darará until 1885 and, after that, with its
head in the town of Silvasa. The local affairs were overseen by an
elected câmara municipal (municipal council), with the higher level
affairs administrated by the district governor of Daman, who was
represented in Nagar Haveli by an administrator. The Nagar Haveli
concelho was itself divided in the following freguesias (civil parishes):
Silvassa, Noroli, Dadra, Quelalunim, Randá, Darará, Cadoli, Canoel,
Carchonde and Sindonim. The Portuguese rule lasted until 1954,
when Dadra and Nagar Haveli were occupied by supporters of the
Indian Union.

End of Portuguese Regime: After India attained Independence in
1947, the residents of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, with the help of

histury & culture 151

Mud Festival

volunteers of organizations like the United Front of Goans (UFG), the a popular tourist hub but managed to maintain its serene beauty.
National Movement Liberation Organization (NMLO), and the Azad However with the progress of time, Dadra and Nagar Haveli has
Gomantak Dal, subtracted the territories of Dadra and Nagar Haveli witnessed a rise in population due to various reasons. It was once
from Portuguese India in 1954. inhabited by backward tribes. With the inflow and influences of
tourists, people from neighboring areas and due to the government
INTEGRATION INTO INDIA efforts, they have started coming in the mainstream of modern
society. This has also led to the startling improvement in Dadra and
Although it enjoyed de facto independence, Dadra and Nagar Haveli Nagar Haveli Education scenario. While discussing about Dadra &
were still recognized internationally (e.g. by the International Court of Nagar Haveli Education, one must mention the various academic and
Justice) as Portuguese possessions.The residents of the former colony training institutes around the region. Apart from top standard
requested the government of India for administrative help. K.G. schools, colleges and other academic institutions, there are
Badlani, an officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) was sent computer-training institutes, industrial training institutes, polytechnic
as the administrator. From 1954 to 1961, the territory was institutes and other technical training institutes. Government and
administered by a body called the Varishta Panchayat of Free Dadra private run hostels provide accommodations to local and outstation
and Nagar Haveli. In 1961 when Indian forces took over Goa, Daman, students. Some of the famous schools of the Union Territory of Dadra
and Diu, Badlani was, for one day, designated the Prime Minister of & Nagar Haveli are: Father Angelo English High School, Jawahar
Dadra and Nagar Haveli, so that, as Head of State, he could sign an Navodaya Vidyalayas, Lions English School, It is a known fact that the
agreement with the Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, and basic education starts in the schools.The school education builds the
formally merge Dadra and Nagar Haveli with the Republic of India. On moral foundation of a person. To improve the standard of an area,
31 December 1974 a treaty was signed between India and Portugal good schools are the primary requirements.The Dadra & Nagar Haveli
on recognition of India's sovereignty over Goa, Daman, Diu, Dadra Education Department is aware of the fact and they have stressed on
and Nagar Haveli. establishing more and more Schools in Dadra & Nagar Haveli. It
oversees schools in both the rural and urban areas. The Government
EDUCATION and private run Schools in Dadra & Nagar Haveli are providing
education.
The Dadra & Nagar Haveli region is blessed with heavenly natural
beauty.The UnionTerritory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli has emerged as

152 dadara & nagar haveli

mud festival 153

Apart from primary and kindergarten schools, there are high English High School is among the best of Schools in Dadra & Nagar
schools, collegiate schools and also boarding schools. Some of the Haveli. Owned by 'Our Lady of Piety' Church of Silvasa, the school
Government and private run schools of Dadra and Nagar Haveli are was founded in 1965. The Gyanmata Educational Society
Home school in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Rudiya Secondary School, supervises the overall management of school. The basic objectives
Dapada; Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Secondary School, Silli; St. with which the Father Agnelo English High School was established
Francis Xavier Secondary School, Dudhani; Father Agnelo Higher are to provide:, Moral education, Academic education, Spiritual
Secondary School, Silvasa; Government Higher Secondary School, awareness. Technical training, Physical Education Although the
Silvassa; Government Secondary School, Dokmardi; Home Father Agnelo English High School is a catholic school, it welcomes
Schooled in Dadra and Nagar Haveli; Amli Prabhat Scholars students from all other religions, classes, races and communities.
Academic Secondary School, Amli; Government Higher Secondary Children of above four years of age are eligible to enroll in the
School, Dadra; Government Higher Secondary School, Galonda; nursery classes of the school. It is one of the Higher Secondary level
Government Higher Secondary School, Khanvel; Government schools in the Dadra & Nagar Haveli area. The various colleges in
Higher Secondary School, Naroli; Government Higher Secondary Dadra and Nagar Haveli are:
School, Rakholi; Government Secondary School, Amboli;
Government Secondary School, Dudhani; Government Secondary SSR College of Education, which offers Bachelor of Education (B.ED.)
School, Kharadpada; Government Secondary School, Mandoni; degree and Diploma in Education (D.ED.).
Government Secondary School, Randha; Government Secondary
School, Surangi; Gyanmata Secondary School, Khanvel; SSR COLLEGE OF PHARMACY
Government Secondary School, Silvassa; Home School in Dadra
and Nagar Haveli; Silvasa Kendriya Vidyalaya Secondary School, SSR Colleges of Arts, Commerce and Science offer academic courses
Silvasa; Lions English Higher Secondary School, Silvasa & Vikas in arts, commerce and science. The course duration for the Bachelor
Vidyalaya Higher Secondary School, Silvasa. courses are three years. The Bachelor of Arts includes subjects like
Political Science, History, Psychology, and Economics. The Bachelor of
FATHER AGNELO ENGLISH HIGH SCHOOL: One of the flag Science includes the subjects like Electronics, Chemistry, Microbiology
bearers of the Dadra & Nagar Haveli Education, Father Agnelo and Physics.

154 dadara & nagar haveli

DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI INDUSTRIAL TRAINING INSTITUTE Computer Application. The courses of the institute are certified by
DOEACC, India. It offers O level and A level courses, depending on the
An Industrial Training Institute has been established at Silvasa that course.The duration of both the courses is one year.The O level course
started running from August 1976. The institute has four wings that is the Foundation Level and A level course advanced diploma level.
offer courses like fitter, wireman, electrician and welder. Dadra and The A level course is equivalent to Post Graduate Diploma Computer
Nagar Haveli Industrial Training Institute has earned a popular name Application or Post Polytechnic Diploma in ComputerApplications.
in the field of vocational education. The government of Dadra and
Nagar Haveli has been striving hard to raise the literacy rate of the POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTES IN DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI
territory. The literary rate of Union territory has been recorded not
much satisfactory @70 percent but it has risen @ 22% from the Polytechnic Institutes in Dadra and Nagar Haveli offer a wide variety
previous censuses 2011. The government has taken a number of of professional courses, which are technical and vocational in nature.
initiatives to educate the people of the region like providing mid day
meals to school children, free books and hostel facilities for poor Dr B. B. A Government Polytechnic (Engineering College) located at
children, scholarships to intelligent but poor students, who are Karad is the first college that was established in Dadra and Nagar
unable to continue their studies due to poverty. Haveli. Gradually things are changing in the region and the capital
city of Silvasa is emerging as a center of education in the union
COMPUTER INSTITUTES IN DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI territory. The Government of Dadra and Nagar Haveli have been
taking special initiatives to improve the education scenario in the
As computers are becoming an inseparable part of our life, it is also union territory. It has established colleges and polytechnic institutes
gaining importance in the field of education and more and more to impart good quality higher education to the students of the region.
children are aspiring for this stream of science. The Union Territory of
Dadra and Nagar Haveli is no exception to it. Computer Institutes in SOCIAL WELFARE HOSTELS IN DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI
Dadra and Nagar Haveli impart education in the field of computers
and train children in this field. One of the Computer Institutes in Social Welfare Hostels in Dadra and Nagar Haveli provide residential
Dadra and Nagar Haveli is Pramukh Swami Institute Of Information facilities to students at a very nominal rate. There are separate social
Technology in Silvasa. It offers a course in Postgraduate Diploma in welfare hostels for boys and girls in Dadra and Nagar Haveli.There are
15 social welfare hostels for the backward classes of the union
Territory. Different hostel have different number of seats.

TOURISM SECTOR has been assigned a high priority keeping in from Silvasa towards Naroli. Cottages here amidst thick foliage and
view the deep forest area and favourable climate. The prominent towers offer a serene atmosphere to the visitors. The surrounding
places of tourist interest are Tramkeshwara temple on Sakartod forests offer options for trekking and camping. Van Vihar tourist
River. Brinddaban, a beautiful gardens on the banks of river at complex, Khanvel: Khanvel is a hilly area lying 20 kms north of
Silvasa, the capital and Khanvel. A tourist complex at Khanvel Silvasa. This tourist complex at Chauda holds a deer park, cactus
named 'Van Vihar' has been set up. Van Ganga and Vandhara house, green house and native cottages. The Satmalia wild life
Garden on the Daman Ganga River and Bai Udyan are other picnic sanctuary nearby has hoards of fauna such as sambhar, black
points. There is also a Deer Park and a Tribal Museum. Water sports bucks, chitals etc. There is a watchtower near a waterhole here
facilities have been developed at Dudhni (40 kms from Silvasa) and from where one can catch a glimpse of the animals. Dudhni located
Khadia Van Resort at Luhari is in full swing. Economy class tourist 40kms North West of Silvasa and 20 kms from Khanvel, holds a
accommodation Yatri Niwas at Silvasa is operative. October to huge water reservoir of the Daman Ganga river surrounded by the
March is the best time to visit the place. The tribal museum is foothills of the western ghats. Water sports facilities such as water
located at the capital Silvasa close to the tourist information center. scooters, rowing boats, kayaks and canoes are available for rides in
The museum aims to preserve tribal culture. It showcases masks, this picturesque environs. Tents pitched right near the river bank
hunting tools, fishing gear, musical instruments, agricultural and bonfire at night provide a wonderful experience.
implements, household articles and life-size statues of local tribes.
Van Ganga Garden: This beautiful lush green garden is located BUSINESS & ECONOMY OF DADRA & NAGAR HAVELI
5kms from Silvasa. There are facilities for boat rides and thatched
huts for stay. Entry timings are from 10am- 6pm, closed on Business & Economy of Dadra & Nagar Haveli are mainly based on
Tuesdays. agriculture and the manufacturing industries. Since a large section
of the union territory is covered with forests. So forestry is also an
Hirwa Van Garden, Piparia, There is a beautiful garden on the important occupational source for the people of Dadra & Nagar
Silvasa - Dadra road with misty waterfalls. Entry Timing is from Haveli. The major occupation of most of the tribal people of this
10am- 6pm. Tuesday holiday. Tourist complex, Lohari lies 14 kms union territory is agriculture. Jowar, sisam, millets, oilseeds, paddy,
ragi, wheat, pulses, sugarcane and tuvr are among the most

156 dadara & nagar haveli

important crops that are cultivated here. Vegetables such as FORESTRY: Dadra & Nagar Haveli forestry plays a crucial role in the
cabbage, cauliflower, tomato and brinjal are also very important business and economy of Dadra and Nagar Haveli.The forests of Dadra
agricultural products here. An industry has also been set up in and Nagar Haveli cover a sprawling area of 201 square kilometers,
Dadra & Nagar Haveli by the government that is totally forestry- which constitute 42 percent of the total geographical area of the union
related. This industry of Dadra & Nagar Haveli is a major producer territory. The forestry of Dadra and Nagar Haveli are rich in economic
of Khair from Khair wood. The other important products from the resources and are furnished with a variety of rare species of trees like the
forests of Dadra and Nagar Haveli are sisam, mahara, sadra and sadra, mahara, sisam, khair and teak. The people of the union territory
teak. derive resources from the forest of the region.The forest department of
Dadra and Nagar Haveli has emphasized the need to protect the forestry
AGRICULTURE: Dadra & Nagar Haveli agriculture is one of the chief from exhausting its resources. Preservation of natural forests and
occupational sources in the union territory. Most of the tribal rehabilitation of the degraded forest regions are the primary objectives
people of the region engage in the production of food crops. Lying of the forest department.
in the agro-climatic zone of Gujarat, the agriculture of Dadra and
Nagar Haveli is dependent on the monsoon rains. 21,115 hectares FARMING: Dadra & Nagar Haveli farming dominates the business
of land in under cultivation and a huge section of the people of the and economy of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. 76.37 percent of the
union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli derive their sustenance population comprises of small and marginal farmers who derive their
from agriculture. The business and economy of Dadra and Nagar source of living from farming in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The total
Haveli is dependent on agriculture. The chief crops cultivated in the arable land in the union territory is 21,115 hectares. The chief
region are paddy, wheat, jowar, ragi, small millets, pulses, tur, udad, agricultural crops cultivated in the farms of Dadra and Nagar Haveli
niger, oilseed and sugarcane. Vegetables that are ploughed in the are Paddy, Niger, Udad, Nagli andTur.The summer crops ofWheat and
arable lands comprise of tomato, brinjal, cauliflower and cabbage. vegetables, sugarcane and mustard are grown in the irrigated
0.15 to 0.20 hectares of arable land is dedicated to the growth of farmlands of the union territory. Only a small part of the farmlands in
fruits like chikoo, guava, mango and coconut. Some of the Dadra and Nagar Haveli are irrigated. The rest of the cultivable and
vegetables that grow in the hot climatic conditions are ploughed in arable lands are dependent on the monsoon rains. The farmers of
the irrigated lands of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Dadra and Nagar.

histury & culture 157

INDUSTRIAL ESTATES production of chemicals, detergent powders, silk fabrics, electrical
fixtures, spectacle frames, watches and flooring tiles. The forest
Realizing the necessity to grow the industrial sector in the union products manufactured in Dadra and Nagar Haveli are exported to
territory, the government has established the industrial estates of foreign countries and earn foreign currency for the country.
Dadra & Nagar Haveli. Three regions of the union territory have been
marked as the industrial estates in Dadra and Nagar Haveli.Two other THE PEOPLE, CULTURE, FESTIVALS OF DADRA & NAGAR HAVELI
cooperative industrial estates in Dadra and Nagar Haveli have been
added to the already existing village industrial estates. One of the The people, culture, festivals of Dadra & Nagar Haveli together
industrial estates exists in the village of Masat. The village of Silvasa present a colorful kaleidoscope. The union territory has a population
has been divided into two phases. The first phase of the industrial of about 3,00,451 according to the census of 2001 among which 23
estate in Silvasa is referred to as the Silvasa while the second phase is % of the population are urbanites. 62 % of the people of Dadra and
located in the villages of Amil and Khadoli. Manufacturing the Nagar Haveli belong to various tribal groups.The major tribes include
business and economy of Dadra and Nagar Haveli is influenced by the Kokana, Varlies, Koli, Dhodia, Kathodi, Naika and Dublas. The tribals
emerging Dadra & Nagar Haveli manufacturing industries of the have their distinct culture and sets of rituals that vary from community
region. The union territory is primarily and agro based economy and to community. Folklores flow in he air as they strongly influence and
has only a few industries that participate in the manufacturing control the expected behavioral patterns within the society. Songs
activities. Small scale and cottage industries are prevalent in the and dance are an inevitable part of these tribal groups and practically
region. Some of these small industries use the resources from the each occasion, be it harvest, marriage or death, is accompanied by
forests that lie in abundance in the region of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. various forms of music.
The khair wood is used in the manufacture of Katha in Dadra and
Nagar Haveli.A small industry has been established to produce Katha TRIBES IN DADRA & NAGAR HAVELI
in the region. Manufacturing in Dadra and Nagar Haveli includes the
This Union Territory of the country of India was initially ruled by the
small tribal community called Kolis. Stretching over an area of 491 sq.

158 dadara & nagar haveli

kms, the land is home to a number of tribal communities.The area has Talavias socially rank the highest. The bonds and community feeling
got a tribal population of more than 62 % of the total population. runs high among the Dublas in Dadra and Nagar Haveli and they
With a majority of tribal population, this territory is regarded as one of prefer to stay in clusters near to each other.They build small thatched
the tribal areas in India. huts, made of mud.The Dublas men would traditionally dress in shirts
and dhotis and the women drape knee - length sari colored brightly.
The major tribal groups residing in this territory since time The Dublas women would cover their head with the palloo or end of
immemorial are as follows: their sari. They beautify themselves with chunky jewelry pieces
adorning various parts of the body from head to toe. Most of the
DHODIA: The Dhodia of Dadra and Nagar Haveli belongs to a tribal Dadra and Nagar Haveli Dublas tribe follow Hinduism and like a
group and have their own sets of customs, songs and dances, rituals, Hindu would follow a Bhagat who would double as a priest and
myths and folklores that are interesting in their own way. The people medicine man.
belonging to this ethnic group are related to the Bhils and speak
Dhodia, which is a Bhil language.The Dhodia consider them as being KATHODI: In Dadra and Nagar Haveli follow Hinduism, which is
of a higher class than the Bhil groups. They do not use the nearly 95% of the population. The main tribes of the region are
characteristic bows and arrows like the other Bhil groups.The Dhodia Kokna, Varlis and Dhodia. Apart from these three tribes, there are
of Dadra and Nagar Haveli restrict their association with other Bhils. other tribes namely Kathodis, Kolghas, Dublas and Nayakas. Kolghas
and Nayakas form nearly 3% of the total tribal population in Dadra
DUBLA: The Dublas of Dadra and Nagar Haveli belong to a tribal and Nagar Haveli.The principal occupation of the people living here is
community group and are originally related to the Bhils. The Dublas agriculture, but since there is a dearth of land holdings, many of them
are settled mainly in the northern part of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and are employed as farm laborers in the lands of others. They even or try
speak the language of the same name Dublas which is a Bhil to find service in other areas.
language originating from the Indo-Aryan linguistic group. The
Dublas are usually short in physical stature and dark in complexion.

histury & culture 159

Dance and music form an inseparable part of the culture of Kathodi and Nagar Haveli. Naika is one of the tribes that live in Dadra and
tribe. They are shy and peace loving tribal people living a very simple Nagar Haveli.This tribal population is less compared to other tribes in
life by following their culture and traditions. The Kathodi tribe lives in the union territory.
the forests and depends on the forests for their livelihood. Most of the
people are involved in profession of making catechew or katha. VARLI:The Varlies of Dadra and Nagar Haveli belong to the scheduled
tribes and are highly populated constituting 62.94 % of the total
The Kokna of Dadra and Nagar Haveli constitute 16.85 % of the total tribal population in the union territory. These peace loving tribal
tribal population in the union territory. Settled mainly along the groups attract people with their interesting ways of life. The Dadra
foothills of theWestern Ghats, they are mainly an agrarian community and Nagar HaveliVarlies have a non -Aryan origin and are found to be
and mostly cultivate paddy. The Kokana have their own set of rituals, settled all over the place. The Varlies are usually Hindus and follow
custom and culture that differentiate them from the other tribes in many of the Hindu rites, rituals and festivals. Like them they celebrate
Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The Dadra and Nagar Haveli Kokana mainly Diwali as Barash, Kaali puja, Bhawada and also worship Graam Devi
follow Hinduism. or the presiding deity of the village following Hindu rituals. The
traditional Varlies in Dadra and Nagar Haveli wear colorful clothes
Naika or Nayakas in Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a tribal area, where typical to the group itself. The Varli men traditionally use turbans, a
the major portion of the population comprises of tribal people. The cloth to cover the loin and a small waist coat.
major tribes of the region are Dhodia, Kokna and Varli. Some of the
other tribes living in the area are Koli, Nayakas, Kolghas, Kathod, KOLI:This UnionTerritory of the country of India was initially ruled by the
Naika and Dublas tribes can be found all over the territory of Dadra small tribal community called Kolis. Stretching over an area of

160 dadara & nagar haveli

491 sq. kms, the land is home to a number of tribal communities. The are placed amidst the tree groves. Maximum numbers of tribal
area has got a tribal population of more than 62 % of the total villages are featured with a temple housing the local deity as well as
population.With a majority of tribal population,this territory is regarded the traditional God.
as one of the tribal areas in India. The tribal community of Dubla and
Dhodia are found mainly towards the northern side of the union territory DIFFERENT FESTIVALS OF TRIBES OF D & N H:The tribes in Dadra
whereas the other tribal groups are scattered in different parts of the and Nagar Haveli have their own traditional festivals, which are
area in between theArabian Sea and theWestern Ghats' foothills. distinct from other festivals. Unique in their own way and reflecting
rich cultural heritage of the community, these festivities forms a part
LANGUAGES SPOKEN BY TRIBES OF D & N H of the social as well as cultural life of the different tribal groups of the
union territory. Some of the famous vibrant festivals of these tribes,
Different tribal groups have their distinct tribal dialect. However, the which even indicate season change, are:
most famous among them are Bhili and Bhilodi.Apart from that some
of them even speak Hindi, Marathi and Gujrati. AKHA TIJ: This is a small festival of the women community of the
Kokhna tribe. BARASH: The tribes of Kokna and Varli celebrate this
CONSTITUTES RELIGIOUS BELIEF OF TRIBES: Most members of the festival of Barash during Diwali.They celebrate this as a festival similar
varied tribal communities of this union territory of western India to DIWALI. RAKSHA BANDHAN AND DIVASO: With a belief that
being followers of Hinduism, gives much importance to the different Goddess Kali's good spirit is invoked in the villages during crop
religious rituals. They, mainly the Varlis, believe moon and sun to be harvesting, this is a popular festival of the Dhodias.
God's two eyes. Images of the deities are mostly made of stone and
mud festival 161

FOLK DANCES OF D & N H: Folkdances of Dadra & Nagar Haveli traditional customs and habitual rituals. Their festivals are very
form an integral part of the life and culture of the tribal people in the colorful and a large part of the festivities comprise of their very own
union territory of Dadra & Nagar Haveli in India. The folk dances are folk dances.. The tribal dances in the union territory of Dadra and
characteristic features of every tribal life and the tribes in the union Nagar Haveli are as follows:
territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli are not different from the rest.The
aboriginal people of Dadra & Nagar Haveli carry on with their Bhavada Dance, Tarpa Dance, Bohada Dance, Tur and Thali Dance,
Dhol Dance, Gherria Dance.
162 dadara & nagar haveli
HANDICRAFTS OF DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI: Similar to other
tribal dominated areas, Dadra and Nagar Haveli is also rich with
wonderful art and handicraft tradition. The Dadra and Nagar Haveli
Crafts are exemplary with their different types and genres. The
artisans of Dadra and Nagar Haveli are famous for their wonderful
weaving and carving works.

The most popular forms of crafts in Dadra and Nagar Haveli are :

Leather crafts, Mat weaving, Basketry

LEATHER CRAFT

One of the major crafts of the Dadra and Nagar Haveli region is the
wonderful leather craft. The artistically created slippers made of
leather are very popular with the local people as well as the visitors.
The leather slippers are not only beautiful but also strong enough to
wear it for rough uses.

MAT WEAVING: Dadra & Nagar Haveli Mat Weaving is an integral

part of the rural life in the union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli in blend their artistry and mastery into making the bamboo articles.The
India. The tribal people in the area are experts in weaving mats. It most popular and widely made handicraft in the union territory of
forms an important part of their folk culture. The villagers often earn Dadra and Nagar Haveli is the bamboo mat.
their livelihood by making mats and other items made up of bamboo
canes. The mat weaving is one of the most popular handicrafts in FAIRS & FESTIVALS OF DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI
Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The rural people give in a lot of effort and
The people of Dadra and Nagar Haveli are peace loving but at the
same time like to indulge in joyous revelry. The Dadra and Nagar
Haveli population comprises of various tribes. The tribal people
constitute the major chunk of the total population.They take pride in
their own traditional culture and colorful festivals. In fact the
picturesque natural beauty of the region and their colorful customs
are reflected in the vibrant Fairs & Festivals of Dadra and Nagar
Haveli. Folk dances and songs are integral parts of the various
festivals of the Dadra and Nagar Haveli region. Some of the mostly
practiced dance forms of the area are:

DHOL : Dhol is one of the most popular folk dances in the tribal areas
of Dadra & Nagar Haveli. It is a union territory in India and a large part
of its population consists of tribal people. Dhol is a kind of folk dance
that is performed during the harvest season. This dance form is an
inseparable part of the tribal life in the area of Dadra and Nagar
Haveli.

The tribal groups like Kokna and Varli mainly perform this folk dance
Dhol. The dance form of Dhol is performed from the month of

histury & culture 163

September to the next spring upto the occasion of Holi. The tribal GHERRIA is a kind of folk dance that the tribal people of the Dadra &
people perform the Dhol Dance in order to appease the presiding Nagar Haveli in India perform. It is an inseparable part of their culture
deities in the village. and life. This type of tribal dance form is specially a characteristic
feature of the tribesmen of the clan known as Dubla. It is a popular
TARPA:Tarpa is an authentic form of folk dance that the tribal people form of dance among the various folk dances of Dadra & Nagar
of Dadra & Nagar Haveli practice and perform in their daily lives. It is Haveli. The folk dance Gherria is a group dance and the dance is
one of the many kinds of folk dances that form an inseparable part the guided by a leader. The leader is called Kavio. The leader, Kavio, is
tribal life in the union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. It is one of dressed elaborately. He wears an ornate headdress and holds
the many folk dances of Dadra & Nagar Haveli. The tribal groups like a bunch of peacock feathers in the right hand.The norm is that Kavio,
Kokna,Varli and Kolis perform this form of dance the most.The dance the leader, leads the song and the others follow him in chorus. The
form of Tarpa is the most popular among the people of these clans. men dancers in the dance form of Gherria hold two small sticks
The Tarpa Dance is generally performed during their festival of in hands. They strike the sticks against each other to make a
harvest. It is a joyous occasion for them and they celebrate the event rhythmic beat.
by performing their favorite dance form ofTarpa.

164 dadara & nagar haveli

SWAMI NARAYAN TEMPLE IN D&N.H. tourists come from different parts in the search of peace and
spiritualism.The Bhagwan idol is gorgeously dressed like an emperor,
The above reflects the famous Swami Narayan Temple in Dadra & with a blue sherwani coat and a grand turban along with dazzling
Nagar Haveli.The worth visited place to visit in Silvassa the capital of jewellery. A very good arti is organized here with the help of various
the Dadra and Nagar Haveli is the famous temple of Swami Narayan instruments like nagara and ghantas.
temple. This is the marvelous temple in the vicinity of Dadra and
Nagar Haveli. This temple has great charm especially in the devotees Reviews: "This is a very nice temple at Silvasa. The sculptures in the
from Gujarat because this temple is the exact replica of the temple are amazing.Also there is a garden just next to the mandir."
Akshardham temple of Gandhi Nagar.This paradise is situated on the
banks of the river Daman Ganga on the Silvasa-Bhilad road. The "Very beautifully maintained, centrally located temple. It was great
temple is dedicated to Bhagvan Swaminarayan and has an intricately experience one gets peace of mind and an feeling difficult to express.
carved central Mandir built entirely from a special light pink colored Facilities developed around the main temple were enticing."
marble rock, with no structural steel or cement being used.The idol of
Bhagvan Swaninarayan is very iconic. The peaceful environment "It is one of the peaceful temples I have ever seen. Surrounded by
inside the temple premises is the major factor that's why lot of the green beauty. Calm and peaceful atmosphere around the temple.The
echoingAarti (prayer) run through the years to reach the heart."

religion 165

Vasona Lion Safari BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit the Lion Safari Wildlife Park in Silvasa is in the
Vasona Lion Safari park, a major attraction, is about 10 km from month of June, as the temperature is quite moderate and you can find
Silvasa. The 20 acre land is basically part of Dadra & Nagar Haveli the lions sitting under the shadow of the trees in the forest.
Wildlife sanctuary.The park is known as the home of Asiatic lions.You TRIVIA
can take a ride in vans fitted with net mesh screen to explore the park The Lion Safari Wildlife Park is an initiative by the Dadra & Nagar
and spot the lions in their natural habitat. Haveli Government to safeguard theAsiatic Lion.
Opening hours of Vasona Lion Safari park: Open all days except
The park was established to conserve Asiatic lioness and lion, provide Monday 09:00 am to 05:00 pm
proper medication, take care of their cubs and keep a track of its The entry fees for Vasona Lion Safari park are charged to maintain the
breeding. It covers almost 25 hectares of land and is enclosed within surrounding / fencing of the safari.
a 3 meter high wall.The park is next to the Satmaliya Deer Park which WHERE TO STAY
is also very famous for its beauty & has numerous variety of deer. The nearest hotels to Lion Safari are:
Ÿ Lotus Resort, Silvasa Distance: 0.44 km
The Lion Safari Wildlife Park is covered with a 3 km road net, allowing Ÿ Lords Resort, Silvasa Distance: 2.19 km
easy locomotion of specially caged Safari vehicles. Thus, the overall Ÿ Treat Resort, Silvasa Distance: 1.31 km
experience not only gives us the rare opportunity of witnessing the Ÿ Golden Pond Resort, Silvasa Distance: 3.34 km
magnanimous life of the 'King of the jungle', but also inculcates the Ÿ Hotel Excellency, Silvasa Distance: 7.83 km
urgent need to conserve them. Ÿ Khanvel Resort, Silvasa Distance: 1.31 km
Ÿ Hotel GreenWood, Silvasa Distance: 1.37 km
HISTORY

The Lion Safari Wildlife Park of Silvasa is an Endeavour by the Dadra &
Nagar Haveli Government to safeguard the Asiatic Lion (Panthera Leo).
The overall outline of the Dadra & Nagar Haveli Wildlife Sanctuary
happens to be 92 sq km which covers about 25 hectares for the Lion
Safari Wildlife Park.The zone is also home to the tribal, thus a barricade
of about 7 meter chain-links safeguards it from outside disturbance.

166 dadara & nagar haveli



FOLK DANCES OF DADRA & NAGAR HAVELI instruments that are created by the tribal people themselves. The
materials of which the musical instruments are made are all locally
Folk dances of Dadra & Nagar Haveli form an integral part of the life found. These are usually materials like Bamboo, Gourd, Leather, and
and culture of the tribal people in the union territory of Dadra & Nagar Wood.The dancers wear colorful dresses while performing these folk
Haveli in India. The folk dances are characteristic features of every dances. The sight of these simple tribal people dancing with their full
tribal life and the tribes in the union territory of Dadra and Nagar vigor is simply divine.A view of the tribal people performing their very
Haveli are not different from the rest. The aboriginal people of Dadra own folk dance is invigorating. It is a once in life time experience to
& Nagar Haveli carry on with their traditional customs and habitual get the opportunity to get a glimpse of the folk dances of Dadra &
rituals.Their festivals are very colorful and a large part of the festivities Nagar Haveli.
comprise of their very own folk dances. In every occasion like
Marriage, childbirth, religious festival or harvest, the rural people The people, culture, festivals of Dadra & Nagar Haveli together
perform their folk dances. present a colorful kaleidoscope. The union territory has a population
of 3, 25,000, according to the census among which 23% of the
The tribal dances in Dadra and Nagar Haveli are of many types, each population are urbanites. 62 % of the people of Dadra and Nagar
of which is unique in their styles. The tribal dances in the union Haveli belong to various tribal groups.
territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli are as follows: Bhavada Dance,
Tarpa Dance, Bohada Dance,Tur andThali Dance, Dhol Dance, Gherria The major tribes include Kokana,Varlies, Koli, Dhodia, Kathodi, Naika
Dance. The dances are accompanied by different kinds of musical and Dublas. The tribals have their distinct culture and sets of ritualst

168 dadara & nagar haveli

that vary from community to community. Folklores flow in air as they
strongly influence and control the expected behavioral patterns
within the society. Songs and dance are an inevitable part of these
tribal groups and practically each occasion, be it harvest, marriage or
death, is accompanied by various forms of music.

Apart from the tribes of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, the population
comprises of people belonging to various religious sects and they
maintain communal harmony among themselves. They have their
own sets of festival with distinct rituals. However, the majority of the
population is Hindus, which counts to be over 95 %.The tribes have
their individual languages though Bhili and Bhilodi are mostly
common. English is used for official purposes and the languages of
Hindi, Marathi and Gujarati are widely popular, especially among the
urbanites due to the proximity to the states of Maharashtra and
Gujarat. The people are hardworking and simple in their way of life
and live within closely knit bonds of family.

TRIBES OF D & N.H. AND THEIR ART & CRAFT October - November. The group leader makes rhythmic beats on the
ground with a stick called 'gol kathi' and the dancers perform holding
VARLI:TheVarlies of Dadra and Nagar Haveli belong to the scheduled each other round the waist.The mesmerizing tune of Tarpa, a musical
tribes and are highly populated constituting 62.94 % of the total instrument made from gourd and sticks of bamboo, accompanies the
tribal population in the union territory. These peace loving tribal dance. Dhol dance, a harvest dance, is also popularly practiced among
groups attract people with their interesting ways of life. The Dadra the Dadra and Nagar HaveliVarlies.
and Nagar HaveliVarlies have a non -Aryan origin and are found to be
settled all over the place. The Varlies are usually Hindus and follow DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI'S CRAFTS
many of the Hindu rites, rituals and festivals. Like them they celebrate
Diwali as Barash, Kaali puja, Bhawada and also worship Graam Devi Similar to other tribal dominated areas, Dadra and Nagar Haveli is
or the presiding deity of the village following Hindu rituals. also rich with wonderful art and handicraft tradition. The Dadra and
Nagar Haveli Crafts are exemplary with their different types and
The traditional Varlies in Dadra and Nagar Haveli wear colorful genres. The artisans of Dadra and Nagar Haveli are famous for their
clothes typical to the group itself. The Varli men traditionally use wonderful weaving and carving works.
turbans, a cloth to cover the loin and a small waist coat. The Varli
women dress beautifully in Padar and a knee length Lugden, which is The most popular forms of crafts in Dadra and Nagar Haveli are:
basically a sari almost a yard long and tied along the waist. They Leather crafts, Mat weaving, Basketry.
adorn themselves in silver jewelry and chunky white metal
ornaments. One of the major crafts of the Dadra and Nagar Haveli region is the
wonderful leather craft. The artistically created slippers made of
The tribes in Dadra & Nagar Haveli love singing and dancing and the leather are very popular with the local people as well as the visitors.
Varlies are no exception. The Varlies practice various musical forms The leather slippers are not only beautiful but also strong enough to
some of which are unique to the tribe itself. The Tarpa Dance is the wear it for rough uses.
predominant dance form of the Varlies of Dadra and Nagar Haveli.
Basically, a dance of harvest, the Varli Tarpa Dance is performed Another important handicraft type of the Union territory of Dadra and
mainly during the month of September till Diwali in the months of Nagar Haveli is mat weaving. Experts weave the magnificently
designed mats with bamboo fibers.

170 dadara & nagar haveli





KING TOFIZON OF DADRA, 1780 King Tofizon of Dadra, 1780

The profound history of Dadra and Nagar Haveli begins with the On 31 December, 1974 a treaty was signed between India and
defeat of the Koli chieftains know as king Tofizon of dadra .He was Portugal on recognition of India's sovereignty over Goa, Daman,
defeated by invading Rajput kings and captured Dadra.It was the Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli.
Marathas that retrieved the region from the rule of the Rajputs in
the mid 18th century. In 1779, the Maratha Peshwa formed an
alliance with the Portuguese allowing them to collect revenue
from the 79 villages of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The rule of the
Portuguese in the region continued till the region gained
independence on 2 August 1954.The region was merged with the
Union of India in the year 1961. The Portuguese occupied Nagar
Haveli on 10 June 1783 on the basis of Friendship Treaty executed
on 17 December 1779 as compensation towards damage to the
Portuguese frigate by Maratha Navy.Then, in 1785 the Portuguese
purchased Dadra. Under the Portuguese rule, Dadra and Nagar
Haveli were part of the Distrito de Damão of the Estado da Índia
(Portuguese State of India). The two territories formed a single
concelho (municipality), named "Nagar Haveli", with its head in
Darará until 1885 and, after that, with its head in the town of
Silvassa.The local affairs were administrated by an elected câmara
municipal (municipal council), with the higher level affairs
administrated by the district governor of Daman, who was
represented in Nagar Haveli by an administrator.

The Nagar Haveli concelho was itself divided in the following
freguesias (civil parishes): Silvassa, Noroli, Dadra, Quelalunim,
Randá, Darará, Cadoli, Canoel, Carchonde and Sindonim. The
Portuguese rule lasted until 1954, when Dadra and Nagar Haveli
were occupied by supporters of the Indian Union. After India
attained Independence in 1947, the residents of Dadra and Nagar
Haveli, with the help of volunteers of organisations like the United
Front of Goans the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, the National
Movement Liberation Organisation (NMLO), and the Azad
Gomantak Dal, subtracted the territories of Dadra and Nagar
Haveli from Portuguese India in 1954.

Although it enjoyed de facto independence, Dadra and Nagar
Haveli were still recognized internationally as Portuguese
possessions. The residents of the former colony requested the
government of India for administrative help. K.G. Badlani, an
officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) was sent as the
administrator.

From 1954 to 1961, the territory was administered by a body
called theVarishta Panchayat of Free Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

MADHUBAN DAM & KHANVEL Blessed with abundance of natural & scenic beauty, Dadra and Nagar
Haveli is a major tourist hotspot on the west coast of India. Swift
The famous Dam on Daman Ganga River is Madhuban Dam a worth flowing rivers, exotic hills and wide variety of flora and fauna
seeing project of water reservoir.This place not to be missed if you are represents the beautiful landscapes of this region. Here are the major
planning to visit Dadra and Nagar Haveli. spots at this union territory.

This small region is easily accessible as the area is close to Mumbai- VANGANGA LAKE GARDEN: Sprawling amidst the spectacle of
Delhi National Highway or one can reach theVapi Railway station and nature rests the exquisite Vanganga Lake Garden, a beautifully
take a cab. There is a choice of staying in good Resorts and cottages, maintained garden, strategically located at a mere 5 kms from
or in riverside tents depending on theTourist's preference. Silvasa. This exotic garden is a photographers' paradise. Every shot
will be worth a million with such resplendent scenery as surrounds
Dadra Nagar Haveli Tourism is famous for animals and birds, Bal this garden. Picture perfect lawns with wooden bridges. Lined by
Udyan, , fishing gadgets, galore, lake garden, Madhuban dam, Mini charming blossoms make it a perfect setting for a tranquil evening by
Zoo, musical instruments, peddle boats, Resorts, riverside tents, the lake. Add to that the old school thatched huts it is a classic
Sakartod River, Silvasa, township, Tribal cultural Museum, Vandhara recreation of a Japanese style garden with gorgeous vistas.
Udyan,Vanganga Lake.
TAPOVAN TOURIST COMPLEX: The amusement part in Tapovan
KHANVEL: It is situated in the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Tourist Complex is an ideal way to spend some time in a thrilling way.
Haveli, about 25 km away from Silvasa. Beautiful hills surround this Situated in Bindrabin in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, it is well connected
town and it provides a green landscape to the Khanvel town. The with the other important cities of India. It is surrounded by a well-
Sakartod River flows through its meadows and the region has tribes maintained garden decorated with many varieties of ornamental and
constituting 80 per cent of the total population. flowering plants. The numerous fountains in this well laid3garden
add to its beauty.
WATER SPORTS COMPLEX - 20 km from Khanvel, where the large
waterfront of river Daman Ganga provides breathtaking view of the HIRWA VAN: Cascading waterfalls around luxuriant green garden
water spread of Madhuban Dam. and breath taking landscape summarizes the epic Hirwa Van
Gardens. A treat to tourists and localities alike, it offers serene and
Beautiful Parks Endowed with nature's munificence, the Union calm away from the maddening city crowd. The swift flowing
Territory of Dadra & Nagar Haveli is wedged between the highly
industrialized cities of Mumbai, Surat andVapi.

174 dadara & nagar haveli



waterfalls and blooming fragrance of seasonal flowers add to the MINI ZOO AND BAL UDYAN:An important landmark at Silvasa and
aura of the place. a roaring hit amongst children are the Mini Zoo and Bal Udyan. It is a
fun and learning experience for kids who get to see the animals live
ISLAND GARDEN: Set against the backdrop of the pristine waters of out of their textbooks in person.With help of a picturesque backdrop
Vanganga Lake, this celestial Island Garden is a pure treat to weary children can get an environment to play in the lap of nature just like
travelers. Endowed with serenity and tranquility, the Island Garden their parents in their childhood when there were no restrictions on
draws out the poets from within its audience, mesmerized by its parks. The star attractions are pythons, monkeys and giant sized
ample natural beauty. The long winding lane along the blue waters crocodiles which never fail to amaze children.
magnifies the brilliance of this sylvan island.The beautiful place offers
a range of recreational activities along with boating in the Vanganga Other famous parks are: Vandhara Udyan, Vanvihar Tourist Complex,
Lake. Water Sports Centre, Dudhani.

176 dadara & nagar haveli

histury & culture 177

After Indian independence in 1947, pro-India activists in the declared a free territory. A panchayat led by Jayanti Bhai Desai was
Portuguese Indian provinces, as well as Indians from other places, formed for the administration of Dadra' Liberation of Naroli
proposed of removing Portuguese control of Goa, Daman, Diu, Dadra
and Nagar Haveli and integrating them with India. This was in line On 28 July some 20 to 25 RSS volunteers led byWakankar and 8 to 10
with the ideology of Mahatma Gandhi, who had, before India's AGD volunteers led by Sinari crossed the Darotha river and reached
independence, affirmed that "Goa cannot be allowed to exist as a Naroli. The Portuguese police officers in Naroli police station were
separate entity in opposition to the laws of the free State. asked to surrender. The Chief and his constable surrendered. Thus on
28 July 1954 Naroli was liberated from Portuguese rule. On 29 July
Appasaheb Karmalkar, a bank employee with the Goa government the Gram Panchayat of Free Naroli was established.
took the reins of the National Liberation Movement Organization
(NLMO) for the liberation of the Portuguese-ruled Indian territories. In LIBERATION OF SILVASA
April 1954 the NLMO,AGD and RSS agreed to form a United Front for
liberation of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. At a meeting in Elphinstone After Naroli had been captured, the Portuguese police, under the
garden, an armed assault was planned. Independently, another leadership of Nagar Haveli Administrator, Captain Virgílio Fidalgo,
organization, United Front of Goans (UFG), also pursued similar was concentrated at Silvasa. The nationalists led by volunteers of the
plans. RSS and theAGD took the opportunity and captured Piparia.

J.D. Nagarwala, DIG of the Special Reserve Police, which had been Captain Fidalgo was asked by the nationalists (led by Karmalkar) to
deployed along the territory, had been sympathetic with the surrender, but as there was no response from the Administrator the
nationalists. He had himself visited the area often and advised the nationalists decided to march towards Silvassa.Two units were led by
nationalists on the next moves. Liberation of Dadra. RSS and the third was led by AGD. All three units moved from three
different directions to Silvasa. Fidalgo with 150 Police personnel fled
The UFG, led by Francis Mascarenhas, Viman Sardesai and others, to Khanvel, hence the nationalists were offered no resistance as they
attacked the police station in Dadra on the night of 22 July 1954, entered Silvasa on 2 August and declared the territory of Dadra and
assassinating Aniceto Rosário, sub-inspector at Dadra Police Station. Nagar Haveli liberated. The RSS's Kajrekar was placed in charge of
The next morning, the Indian flag was hoisted and Dadra was the unit, while theAGD's Lavande was put in charge of treasury.

Liberation of SURRENDER OF CAPTAIN FIDALGO
Dadra &
Rumours were circulating that Portuguese reinforcements were
Nagar Haveli coming to Nagar Haveli from Goa via Daman, so Kajrekar
2nd August, 1954 immediately contacted Nagarwala and requested a wireless set to
enable the nationalists to keep in contact with the Indian SRP
Headquarters. The wireless set obtained from the Indian SRP was
installed in one of the houses by the riverside; Bandu Karkhanis, an
RSS volunteer, who knew how to operate the wireless set was put in
charge. He was under instructions that in case of emergency, he
should throw the set in the river, cross the river and take shelter in the
IndianTerritory which was just nearby and protected by Indian SRP.

Captain Fidalgo who was moving deep in Nagar Haveli with his 150
men was constantly followed by the volunteers.While the Portuguese
set up rearguard defenses on the river bank, the Indian volunteer
forces crossed the flooded river with local ferries on 10 August,
assaulting the Portuguese forces at Khandvel and forcing them to
retreat. The Portuguese unit eventually surrendered to the SRP at
Udva on 11 August 1954.At a public meeting, Karmalkar was chosen
as the first administrator of Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

"Together we achieve more than a single could ever do. It is time
to move beyond partisanship to build a stronger tomorrow...”
The President of step of foundation says.

Mr. Vishal Tandel, a man of words and a committed youth of
Daman born to serve the inhabitants of Daman & Diu, blessed
with presidentship of this non government organization, "Step
Up Foundation". This untiring man of great human values has
been serving this land since last two decades. This foundation
works for a social cause to serve the community & humanity in
many ways under the guidance and involvement of this man.

"Step Up Foundation” has introduced the service of Moksh Rath
(MortuaryVan) to provide better facility to the people of Daman.
The bus to be used to carry the body of the deceased for the
funeral.

Step Up Foundation in partnership, with M/s. Schott Kaisha
announced completion of first phase of their sanitation
initiative under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Project of Modern Toilet at Mitanwada as part of their endeavor
to support the Prime Minister's "Swachh BharatAbhiyan".

According to the President the Progress, the development and
prosperity cannot be achieved unless the youth and women are
empowered. They have program to educate rural population
through their NGO. Their NGO plays an active role where in
programs to bring about awareness on the importance of
education and its contribution which can bring about the
changes in their individual life and society as a whole. It is a
continuous effort by our NGO to organize blood donation
camps on different occasions.

Mr. Vishal Tandel along with members of " Step Up Foundation "
organised cleanliness drive under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan on the
occasion of Gandhi Jayanti in Ward No. 4 and also at various places in
Daman.

Inauguration of Modern Toilet (4"x4") at Chapli Sheri, Nani Daman
under CSR Project of M/s. Schott Kaisha Pvt. Ltd. in Partnership with
Step Up Foundation.

Upliftment of youth and women have always been first priority the
president. They encourage the students in various fields of sports and
education. Their main motive is to demolish illiteracy among the
people of Daman & Diu for the betterment of their social status in the
society.This NGO help the students in making the career.They monitor
the project cleanliness to provide healthful life to the people of the
land by involving Government.