Daman Diu Goa FINAL (2)

Beach, Jampore Beach are some of the amusement places at Daman Situated about 7 kilometers from the Taxi Stand in Nani Daman,
that attract many tourists from across the world. Kadaiya Lake Garden of Daman provides a panoramic view of the
adjoining areas. Kadaiya Lake Garden in Daman possesses a lake that
Kadaiya Lake Garden is one of the most tourist spots in Daman and surrounds the two islands. The two islands across the lake are
Diu. One can come across a lake at the garden, which is connected by connected by a bridge. Besides the lake and the islands, Kadaiya Lake
a bridge. The garden, containing a number of features including Garden is also famous for fountains and beautiful boats. In fact, the
computer games and toy train, is one of the most popular tourist fountains add to the beauty of the garden. Kadaiya Lake Garden is a
spots in Daman. Kadaiya Lake Garden is a man-made wonder in worth visiting place and great attraction specially for children who
Daman and Diu. The restaurant, one of the most popular sites at enjoy toy train, computer game and boating. The garden is also
Daman and Diu, is known to provide a large variety of cuisine.

famous for the shooting of films. Park. It is situated about 7 kilometers from the taxi stand at Nani
Daman. Mirasol Water Park is one of the most popular amusement
Nani Daman jetty garden is a famous place to meet and enjoy. The parks in Daman and Diu.
beauty of Daman Ganga River merging Arabian Sea is matchless and
main attraction for all ages of people. Here you can relish famous jetty Devka Beach & Garden: Daman can easily compete with the other
rolls, milk shakes, and Chinese food . Government has constructed a spectacular beaches that India boasts of. Daman boasts of some
food market for tourists and localities . It is situated at a distance of amazing beaches that have the potential of seducing even the most
700 meters from Nani Daman taxi stand. it is an old place for meeting discerning of beach lovers. Daman, the capital of the Union territory
people , some of local people are visiting this garden daily since last of Daman and Diu, is itself a charming holiday destination.Add to it's
the enchantment of the mesmerizing beaches and there is no way
50 years. They sit near by the jetty garden and enjoy the beauty of one can dismiss the call of this idyllic place. Those who have even a
nature every evening .No of food stalls with different eatable remote interest in sea, sand and surf can check out the Devka Beach
attractions make the visitors mouth watering and they are unable to in Daman. The long shoreline of Daman's Devka Beach has
move without enjoying the taste .The other attractions nearer to jetty captivated the fancy of many a tourists traveling to Daman.
garden is St. Jerome fort and Samundara Narayan temple.
youth 37
Jetty garden of Moti Daman is also a great place of attraction for its
being situated along the river Daman Ganga. Famous for its green
beauty and rides for children. Recently tourism department has
engaged a grand ship anchoring in Daman Ganga River to be used as
a lavish restaurant for tourists. Its floating bridge from Moti Daman
jetty to Ship is a main attraction. Now the Government is making new
bridge over Daman Ganga River for pediatricians to reach Moti
Daman Jetty from Nani Daman Jetty very easily.

Mirasol Water Park is situated in Kadaiya Lake Garden. Tourists can
enjoy jumper boat, thrilling rides and striking car at Mirasol Water

JETTY OF NANI DAMAN like the franky that we get in Mumbai but the taste is heaven.The fruit
salad is had as a sweet dish after the jetty rolls and costs only Rs30. If
NANI DAMAN JETTY is one of famous tourist attractions in Daman. you visit this place, grab your share of the rolls and milkshake, and
Jetty roll is a very famous food available there. You can enjoy the walk upto the jetty. Sit and hog facing the sea to experience a
beauty of Daman Ganga River merging Arabian Sea. The land of sun, pleasant evening. Chicken bullet is a unique and popular dish of
sand and sea, Daman Jetty is known for its unrivaled beauty, eatables, Daman. Papri, boiled sweet and salty peas is one of the favourite
and halt of boats overall a cheering destination .Throughout the year evening snack of the people of Daman. Crabs and lobsters form the
it is visited by people from nook and corners of the country.Apart from major delicacies during the month of October. Fish Koliwada, a spicy
its scenic splendour, Daman jetty is also known for its delectable fried prawns dish, is said to have its origin in Daman and tingles the
delicacies and mouth-watering sea food, with a touch of both Indian taste buds with its mild and subtle flavour. Nani Daman Jetty garden
as well as the Portuguese influence. A number of street side food was developed by Portuguese centuries before. Jetty road had been a
stalls as well as availability of liquor in abundance are noteworthy main and famous road since it leads to the bridge over Daman Ganga
features of the Daman Jetty. River connecting Moti Daman and Nani Daman. Daman Jetty was the
place for loading and unloading boats. We have seen fishermen
Let's start off the stay at this beautiful eatery place which faces the equipping boats with, ice, salt, wood, diesel, net and other things
sea. It's called Nani Daman Jetty and is famous for their mouth- required for their fishing. The fishing is kept closed from mid of June
watering jetty rolls and fruit salad milkshake. The jetty rolls is an item

38 daman (damão)

A civil disaster occurred in Daman on 28th August, 2003 when a bridge
over Daman Ganga River collapsed. This heart-throbbing tragedy took
30 lives of school children and a teacher.

till 15th August, sea being rough during rainy season and restarts located at a distance of about 2 km from the taxi stand in Nani
after the festival of Nariyal Purnima which falls on or before 15th Daman. Taxis and auto rickshaws are available from this place to
August. The weather during June to August remains very rough and travel to Moti Daman Boat Jetty.This Jetty Garden is a small park cum
fishermen are not permitted to go into sea.All the boats are taken out garden which is well decorated, clean, properly maintained and has
of water and stationed at jetty and surrounding area, Boaters make a few fun rides for children. Ferry services are also available from here
necessary repairs and polish the boats, prepare and repair fishing to the Nani Daman Jetty. Here also food huts and a restaurant
nets. After necessary repairs, the boats are wisely covered with available. One can enjoy lot of variety in Chinese and other eatables.
polythene or tarpaulin to protect them from heavy rains at least for On being under the possession of Portuguese, the traditional
one month. On the day their festival of Nariyal Purnima the boats are Portuguese food is also quite popular here. There are a number of
boarded again at Jetty waters. Boaters make their prayers and restart restaurants serving delicious sea food as well as authentic Parsi food,
their catch business.They again go far off inArabian Sea. another favourite of the locals of Daman. The traditional food of
Daman is predominantly vegetarian since they consider fish in
JETTY OF MOTI DAMAN vegetarian food. The people have a light breakfast with Rotli (flat
breads) and tea, while rotla (peasant's bread) and saag are taken for
Jetty Garden is located in Moti Daman, along the banks of Daman lunch. Chokha, with Saag and Curry is taken for dinner. Puri, Lapsee,
Ganga River.This tourist spot is famous for its attractive fountains, fun dudh-plag etc are prepared during festivities.Aleti Paleti with chicken
rides, lawns, river facing seats and large picnic space. The garden is liver and gizzard, bheja na cutlets, Parsi keema, boi, batter-fried
Bombay ducks, akuri are popular Parsi breakfast dishes. On meeting a
Christian family at Moti Daman jetty, we were told that 'Cozido', a
dish made of meat and vegetables during Christmas and Val nascido
made on the feast of St John de Baptis are quite popular among the
Catholic community in Daman. Christmas is a time for joy and
celebration with plenty of cakes. Gujarati sweets like Laddu, Basundi,
Jalebi, Barfi, Lapsee are also quite popular here.All kinds of alcohol is
available in abundance in Daman.

daman ganga river 39

FESTIVALS OF DAMAN Shreedhar (Bombay Vikings), Ehsaan Qureshi, Raja Sagoo, Sanober
Kabir, the MJ5 Group, and a Bollywood Dance Troupe, all with their
T he Tarpa Festival, a traditional festival of the people own bands and groups.
of the Dadra & Nagar Haveli region,(tribal Dance)
was being arranged at Silvasa but this time it was Some of the most important festivals and events in Daman are the
performed in the Daman Beach Festival, along the Lighthouse Beach ones that the local communities celebrate with great fanfare and
of Moti Daman, in the last days of year 2015 . Festivals had to be gusto including the religious festivals of Nariyal Poornima, Dussehra,
diametrically different in terms of concept, look and feel. The Tarpa and Christmas.All festivities are marked by vigorous displays of music
festival being a traditional 'Tribal' one and the Daman's being a and dance and are always accompanied by feasting and
'Carnival' based Festival for Daman, It was a tough job for merrymaking.
government to arrange looking into its uniqueness, design 'n décor,
execution detailing, artist management, logistical handling, crowd Nariyal Poornima is celebrated to mark the beginning of the fishing
control, and the likes. The Daman Beach Festival was all about Fun, season. The fishing communities flock to the sea-shore to offer
Celebrations, Colours and an overarching Carnival Atmosphere. For 6 coconut to the gods of wind and water in an effort to win their favour
days running, various entertainment quotients were successfully and ensure the safe return of the fishing fleet as well as a rich catch.
delivered, spanning from the likes of folk dances, group Nariyal Poornima is a day of joy, feasting, and revelry that attracts
performances, tribal dances & songs, and traditional presentations, to hordes of tourists.
plays, standup humour, celebrity performances, stage shows, concerts
and Bollywood dance troupes. The celebrity artists who entertained One of the major Daman festivals is Christmas. Christmas finds
and engaged the way-more-than-anticipated audiences with their Daman literally exploding with gaiety accompanied by music and
energetic performances, included Baadshah, KK, Raja Hassan, Neeraj dance. The administration of Daman promotes the Christmas season
as a major tourist attraction and Indian and foreign travellers come to
participate in a Christmas that combines Indian and Portuguese
flavours. Ganpati Festival, Garba & Dandia Festival, Eid, and Dahi
Handi are also celebrated in Daman with great enthusiasm.



Sea Coast of Daman in the southern part of Gujarat. The total area of the district is
72sq.km. The Daman Ganga River divides Daman into two parts.
T he district of Daman is situated on the west coast of Three rivers pass through the land. They are the Bhagwan River, the
India between the parallels 20 degree 27`58" and Kalem River and the Daman Ganga River lying in between.The district
20 degree 22`00" of latitude north and between the is bounded on the North by Bhagwan River, east by Valsad district of
meridians 72 degree 49`42" and 72 degree 54`43" of longitude east Gujarat state, south by Kalem River and on the west by the Arabian
of Greenwich.The entire area of Daman union territory called Daman Sea. Its altitude is 12 meter above sea level.
district is located on the seashore. It has borderlines with the state of
Gujarat.The district of Daman is situated close to the place calledVapi The geographical area of Daman is surrounded by Arabian Sea from
three sides and is gifted with a pleasant climate all throughout the
year. In summer Daman has a cool breeze coming from The Arabian
Sea. The maximum temperature is 39 degree centigrade and the

42 daman (damão)

minimum temperature is 11 degree centigrade. The average rainfall in January 1987 followed by its first full-fledgedAir Station in October
here is 1687 mm. Daman and Diu is the second smallest union 1987 The station has two squadrons under its administrative and
territory of India. During the early period, Daman and Diu were part of operational control. 750 SQN (ICG) - operating Dornier 228, Aircraft
Goa. 841, SQN (ICG) operating Chetak Helicopters.The station also caters
for maritime reconnaissance and SAR coverage along the North West
Daman airport was built in the 1950s by the Government of coast. Dornier and Chetak aircraft are detached from Daman for
Portuguese India. The TAIP (Portuguese India Airlines) commenced various operational commitments along the North West Coast.
operations to Daman on 29 August 1955. TAIP linked with Goa, Diu Conduct of adventurous activities is a regular feature, for that the
and Karachi until December 1961, when Daman was invaded by the station is equipped with one Micro light aircraft and one power glider.
IndianArmed Forces, withTAIP ceasing operations. The training for Sea Cadet Corps are also undertaken at the air
station.
The Indian Coast Guard deployed its first Dornier Squadron at Daman
Structure of Airport : Daman Airport has two intersecting asphalt
runways. Main runway 03/21 is 5910 ft (1801 m) long and 45 m wide
while secondary Runway 10/28 is 3284 ft (1001 m) long and 25 m
wide. The Airport is equipped with state of art Airport Surveillance
Radar (ASR), Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI), Doppler Very
High Frequency Omni directional Radio Range (DVOR) - Distance
Measuring Equipment (DME) & Non-Directional Beacon(NDB), as
Navigational Aids. A regular Ariel survey is performed by the coast
guard Daman to vigil the coast from enemies and also to protect the
fisherman in sea.

coast guard 43

44 daman (damão)

WHY DO WE HAVE UNION TERRITORIES? of organizations, subtracted the territories of Dadra and Nagar Haveli
from Portuguese India in 1954. Although it enjoyed de facto
What purpose do Union territories serve? Why are these union independence, Dadra and Nagar Haveli were still recognized
territories not states or regions in a state? internationally (e.g., by the International Court of Justice) as
Portuguese possessions. The residents of the former colony
In India there are seven union territories being governed by requested the government of India for administrative help. K.G.
Government of India (1) Delhi (2) Andaman and Nicobar Islands (3) Badlani, an officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) was sent
Lakshadeep (4) Daman and Diu (5) Dadra & Nagar Haveli (6) as the administrator. From 1954 to 1961, the territory was
Pondicherry (7) Chandigarh Union Territories in India are those administered by a body called the Varishta Panchayat of free Dadra
regions that are too small to be a state.And too unique to be merged and Nagar Haveli.
as a part of another state.
Special status: Chandigarh is a major city that was claimed by both
too far: Andaman & Nicobar Islands And Lakshadweep islands are Punjab and Haryana when these states were divided in 1966. Since,
too distant from any Indian state and it is not feasible to be managed neither state wanted to give up, the central government made it an
by an another state. However, it is not big enough to be a state of its UT with a neutral ownership. Delhi, it is a capital region and thus has
own. Thus, the central government manages that territory by a special status likeWashington DC & many such capitals.
providing a local representative who will represent the region's
interests. Have a different colonial heritage: Pondicherry was a French Union Territories to States: Many of the present states were Union
colony, & Daman & Diu, Dadra & Nagar Haveli were all Portuguese Territories once. Eventually, the local politicians convinced the Central
colonies. For centuries, these were managed with a different government to upgrade their UT to a state with limited powers.
language, different culture and different system. They didn't want to Himachal Pradesh got the upgrade in 1971, Manipur, Meghalaya &
join the nearby states that were British colonies and with very Tripura in 1972, Goa, and Mizoram &Arunachal in 1987.
different systems.
Union territories of India have special rights and status due to their
Dadra and Nagar Haveli: After India attained Independence in 1947, constitutional formation and development.
the residents of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, with the help of volunteers

How Fishermen are helped ? 5. Issue of Fishing nets and Fishing vessels plying License.
6. Issue of N.O.C.s for Custom clearances.
The fishery department of Daman & Diu benefits the fisherman with so 7. Issue of Identity cards for active Fishermen / Fisherwomen and
many schemes, subsidies and finance services. The brief description
about the functionality of Fisheries Department as under:- to cover accidental insurance.
1. To provide financial assistance under different Plans & 8. Collection of Fish landing data & other statistics of Fisheries.
9. Development of Shore based infrastructure facilities like jetties,
Schemes for upliftment of fishermen.
2. Implementation of the various Centrally Sponsored Schemes. wharf, platform, auction hall, workshop etc.
3. Issue of Diesel Cards/permits, and providing rebate on H.S.D. Other Works:
1. Preparation /Scrutiny of Loan Cases.
Oil consumed by the fishermen. 2. Around the year Loan Recovery Campaign.
4. Registration of New fishing vessels.

46 daman (damão)

3. computerise the Fisheries Statistics, Records, issuing of Diesel
Permits/N.O.C./ Passes, Registration & Renewal of Net
3. Inspection of Fishing Boats/Nets. Etc. Licences/Boat Registration, Loan Recovery records, records of
4. Periodic meeting with the fishermen/Society Members. Procurements and Consumption of Diesel for Subsidy purpose,
5. Guidance to the fishermen. issuing of Smart Cards/I.D. Cards to the Fishermen. Surveys
6. Organizing trainings for fishermen/fisherwomen. and Investigations pertaining to the Fisheries.
7. To create awareness amongst fishermen for use of modern
Implantation of other schemes and facilitating the fishermen:
fishing technology & equipment. To provide the facilities for fish landing berthing and other
8. List and Description of the Services / Schemes to the Public. essential activities on dock is being provided under this
DEPARTMENTAL SCHEMES scheme: Development and Management of Fisheries
1. Strengthening and Computerization of Fisheries Resources: Main aim of this scheme is sustainable
2. Landing & Berthing and other works department: To development, management & maintenance of marine
fisheries' resources, with following objectives: Development
of Artificial reef, Sea/Aqua ranching,Assistant to the fishermen
for conservation of marine resources. Management of fish
quality & value added products, To maintain productivity for
longer period.There are also other plans at district and UT level
under which they are benefitted with so many schemes,
subsidies and finances time to time to provide them better
status of life.

fishing 47

Red Passport or Blue Passport ?? live in Sweden. At least 20,000 people have reached UK after
obtaining Portuguese passport from Consulate General of Portugal in
P eople of Daman, Diu and Goa born before 19th. India which give them full rights to live and work in UK .Their numbers
August 1961 are entitled to get Portuguese have surged in recent years and they are just part of a far larger group
Passport since they are considered to be the citizen of hundreds of thousands who have arrived in Britain from outside
of the land. The process of being legal citizen of Portugal make them the EU,The Indians have taken advantage of Portuguese law allowing
entitled to shift their spouse too under immigration policy of Portugal. anyone born before 1961 in the Indian west coast state of Goa and
the coastal towns further north of Daman and Diu to give up their
@ The fifteen thousands of Indians have legally become citizens of Indian passport and become EU citizens simply because these places
Portugal which has then enabled them to reach UK @ Portuguese law were once colonies of Portugal till 19th. December 1961.Potentially,
lets anyone born before 1961 in areas that were once Portuguese over a million Indians from Goa, Daman and Diu could come to
colonies to become EU residents@ More than half the Goans with Britain, since around half of the territories' two million population
Portuguese passports - which includes children and grandchildren - can claim Portuguese ancestry. Entire villages near the Goan capital

48 daman (damão)

Panaji have emptied as its inhabitants migrated to Britain in recent EU - such as thousands from the former Soviet state of Moldova, who
years. have entered Britain on Romanian passports.

To cope with demand, entire industries of law firms have set up in Romania is now a member of the EU and allows Moldovans to
Goa and the Portuguese capital Lisbon to help Indians to prove their acquire Romanian citizenship if they can prove that one of their
parents or grandparents were born in the former colonies before grandparents or parents was born in Romania.
1961. There are also dozens of Blogs and Facebook pages that give
applicants free advice on how to apply for a Portuguese passport in
Goa.At the Portuguese consulate in Panaji, queues of locals applying
for passports snake out of the building.

Many of these are people who have previously lived in other EU
countries before coming to Britain. But as well as the so-called Goan
loophole, that represents nearly one in ten of the total, there are
'back door' entries into the UK for other immigrants born outside the

Old And New .Indian coast Guard in Daman keeps a watch on coastal areas of Daman
with ultramodern defense boats,aeroplanes and helicopters.
T he photographic Collage tells about the changes
occurred time to time. Among the oldest, one is The fishermen are provided diesel, electricity, fishing net on
Dominican monastery in Moti Daman, There after subsidized rates, Number of new Jetties have been made to facilitate
come the monuments you have seen in the book which were made the boaters .But the heritage of Daman declining at a rapid speed.
from 15th to 18th century. Shown here are Markets of Moti Daman and Now Multi storey Buildings have started spreading in entire Daman.
Nani Daman which were also made during Portuguese Regime. After Tourism has flourished like anything, it may be due to liquor which is
liberation you will see the changes in culture and design of buildings cheaper in Daman as compared to other states. Other major reason
for big rise in tourism is that the neighboring state of Gujrat is dry
state and the inhabitants from different parts of this state visit every
week-end to enjoy and relish the Indian and foreign made liquor.

50 daman (damão)

Dawoodi Bohara & Khoja Islami

Dawoodi Bohras are a sect within the Ismaili branch of Shia Islam. Bohras mainly reside in
the western cities of India and also in Pakistan, Yemen and East Africa. The word Bohra
relates to trader or business .They are known business people. Alike Khojas they came to
the port of Daman during Portuguese Regime in search of business and settled in Daman.
They were also not treated to be citizen of Daman like other Muslims who came from
outside.

Khoja Islami came to the port of Daman in search of business and livelihood in the second
half of the 18th century.They settled in Daman after 200-250 years of the establishment of
the Portuguese reign. They were a minor group. In those times no specific category was
mentioned and all Shia and Suni were considered in one category of "Musalmanos"The

46th Imam, Mawlana HasanAli Shah (Aga Khan I, d. 1881) visited Daman in January 1846,
on his way from Karachi to Bombay. It is believed that he was a guest of the Portuguese
government, and was given a special stay at the Primary School building in Nani Daman
that stand adamant till today. It was a dual school, the Gujrati students used to attend
classes on first floor and Portugese occupied ground floor. This school building stands
adamant till today and is situated diagonally opposite of public library at jetty road in Nani
Daman.

Just opposite the famous church 'Bom Jesus' in Moti Daman, a high 'Daman Municipal Council' is amongst the oldest municipalities in
and rectangle shape building having a set of staircase outside, is Asia established in the 16th century during Portuguese rule and
Municipal Council of Daman. It is an oldest and First Municipal enjoyed privilege similarly to those enjoyed by the Municipality Evora
council in Asia. The Daman Municipal Council, The Institute of Local of Portugal in terms of "Senado Publico Nobre E Leal Provisao De
Self Government known as 'Camara De Damao' subsequently 1581". The entire area of Daman District was under the control,
changed as 'Camara Municipal De Damao' & presently known as direction and supervision of Municipal Council which was ruled by the

MR. LOURENCO M.D. FERNANDES MR. NARSIN BHAI L TANDEL
09-11-1970 to 11-01-1972 12-01--1972 to 11-10-1979

MR. GOPAL BHAI K. TANDEL MR. HARIBHAI M. TANDEL
12-11-1986 to 10-11-1987 11-01-1988 to 29-05-1989

MARIO F. LOPES MR. GANESH BHAI V BAKHIYA
27-12-1996 to 09-07-1998 29-01-1996 to 21-12-1996
26-06-1990 to 29-01-1996
MR. MANOJ KUMAR ISHWARLAL NAIK
MR. VISHAL C. TANDEL 11-05-2010 to 29-01-2011
29-01-2001 to 03-09-2003 17-02-2012 to 27-07-2012
23-01-2004 to 24-01-2006
24-01-2006 to 19-04-2010 MR. SHOUKAT ANWAR MITHANI
05-06-2013 to 12-07-2013
MR. MUKESH KANTI PATEL
01-08-2012 to 28-05-2013
19-12-2014 to 01-02-2016

52 daman (damão)

councilors selected by the Government amongst prominent citizens 15 wards out of which 5 are reserved for female candidates. DMC
of Daman District.After liberation on 19th December 1961. Daman still operating in same building which is a great example of fine
architecture and long living wood used to make it. List below are the
Panchayati Raj came into existence.In 1962 the Panchayat were elected presidents of Daman Municipal council who monitored the council
and formed by the people of the land .The local municipal counselors along with elected counselors in different period of times/ tenures and
were elected in November 1970 who formed local municipal counsel,as served the town & surrounding areas of Daman.
per bye laws 13 wards were formed which has now been increased to

MR. GABRIEL GUEDES MR. PMREMBHAI D TANDEL
12-10-1979 to 06-02-1982 15-06-1985 to 04-11-1986

MR. GOPAL BHAI D. TANDEL MR. MUSTAFA I. CHIKALIYA
30-03-1988 to 29-05-1989 14-06-1989 to 14-06-1990

MR. NARENDERA G BHATELA MR. HIRA LALA TANDEL
17-07-1998 to 27-06-1999 15-06-1999 to 06-02-2000
24-09-2003 to 17-12-2009
05-01-2004 to 24-01-2006 MR. ANIL KUMAR DEVJIBHAI TANDEL
30-12-2011 to 04-02-2012
MR. JIGNESH JOGUI 16-02-2016 at present
03-02-2011 to 19-12-2011
HAJI. MULLAH MOHAMDIRIS
MS. SIMPAL CHANDERKANT TANDEL GULAMRASSUL
27-07-2013 to 06-11-2013 2-11-2016 to 29-01-2014

coast guard 53

It is said that history speaks itself when we try to go through its
literature. Centuries have passed but nothing has been heard or seen
about communal disturbance in Daman. It has been an example of
communal harmony. All religions are respected by inhabitants of
Daman. No doubt, it is a small town but people here are having big
hearts.They are open minded and respect all religions and traditions.
They join each other's festivals. We are in Daman since last 20 years
and have never come across a single incident of religious disturbance
or misunderstanding between people of Daman. Ganpati festival,
Holi, Diwali, Garba, Christmas, Pateti, Eid, Muharram, Nariyal
Purnima, Dahi Handi, and many other religious and cultural festivals
are celebrated in Daman. There are Suni, Shia, Khoja, and Bohra
Muslims.Among Hindus you will find, Gujrati, Punjabi, Jain, Buddhist,
two communities of Christians and one of Parsi in Daman.

References : Page 55 ,A Dawoodi Bohra Mosque at sea
face road nani daman, Khoja Jamat Khana at jetty road,
nani daman Page 54, A mosque at Zapabar, main
bazzar, Samudra Narayana Temple at jetty all in Nani
Daman, A ParsiAgyari (Holy Fire) at Udwada, Gujrat 10
KMS. Page 55 A Mosque name Jumma Masjid at
Kharivad, Jain temple, at Jain street Nani Daman. A
Gurudwara at Chanod, Vapi Gujrat 13 Kms. The other
famous temples in Daman are, Jalaram temple, Radha
Swami Dera, Shirdi Saibaba temple, Vishavkarma
Temple, A mosque in Dholar Moti Daman & Nirankari
Baba Dera atVarkund .

56 daman (damão)

Two photographic collages in black and white tell us the stories of 3. Daman Municipal Council, 4. A Policeman at Moti Daman Fort
Daman people, its monuments, and other buildings during (Main Road), 5.Women and Girls meet in Moti Daman area, 6.An old
Portuguese times. Most amazing picture is of "Daman Road".It is said OakTree in Moti Daman since Portuguese, 7. Nani Daman Fort, 8. Jetty
that Vapi railway station had been "Daman Road Station" in earlier Garden, Nani Daman, 9.ATonga at Moti Daman fort 10. Daman Road
times. One picture is of a famous Parsi Poet Ardeshar Faramji Railway Station now it is Vapi Railway Station, 11. Parsi Kavi (poet)
Khabardar born on 6th. November 1881 in Daman, Portuguese India, Ardeshar Faramji Khabardar. Pictures Collage at Page 57, references:
was a Gujarati language poet. He wrote under the pen name Adal. 1. A policeman quenching thirst at a hut, 2. View of Rana Street in
Living in Bombay and Madras, he wrote in different styles of poetry Nani Daman, 3. Very first bridge over Daman Ganga river
and published around forty books. He wrote sonnets about connecting Moti Daman and Nani Daman, 4. Rear gate of Moti
Zoroastrianism also. He died in Madras, India on 30th July 1953 at the Daman Fort, 5. Entrance Gate of Moti Daman Fort, 6.Fishermen
age of 71. His house still stands in good condition at Jetty Road Nani drying fishing net, 7. Regal Bar, established 1940 in Nani Daman
Daman. Government has named this jetty road after his name "Kavi Market, 8. Brig. Bhonsle with freedom fighter of Daman after its
Khabardar Marg", Nani Daman. We feel proud to write that author's Liberation, 9. Late Bhikhubhai Pandya, President of Daman Freedom
sister Mrs Kanta Grover has resided in this house for 25 years. Still is in Fighters Association. We had to make lot of efforts to find these
good condition and is situated opposite Khoja jamat Khana at Jetty pictures which are very rare and replica of our heritage, monuments
road, Nani Daman. Pictures in Collage at page 56. References: 1. Nani and other buildings. We have tried our best to describe the details of
Daman Police Station, 2. Entrance Gate to Daman U.T. at Dhabel, collage pictures.





Diu, A Lonely Planet…

HISTORY OF DIU

T he history of Diu Island is rich and varied. It has
witnessed the rule of many dynasties. The islands
were previously under the rule of Indian monarchies

like the Mauryas, the Guptas, Maitrakas, Chalukyas, Chavadas, and

the Kshatrapas. They were followed by the invasions of Mahmud

Ghazni and Alauddin Khilji. Next in line were the Portuguese who

succeeded in consolidating their rule over the islands for more than

400 years. They were finally uprooted by the Indian military in 1961.

According to historical documents, Diu Island was ruled by the

Mauryans during 322 to 320 B.C. The Mauryas were followed by the

Kshatrapas, who ruled from the 1st century A.D. till the second

decade of the 5th century. The Guptas, the Maitrakas, the Chavdas

and the Chalukyas had also established their stronghold over these

islands.

Mahmud Ghazni established his rule over Diu Island in 1020 A.D.
After the departure of Mahmud from the isles, the Chavadas once
more established their sway over these islands. The Chalukyas came

back to power in 1064 A.D.After that, Diu was successively under the
rule of the Chavda and the Vaghela Rajputs. Alauddin Khilji of Delhi
put an end to the rule of the Rajputs in 1297 A.D. In 1535, the ruler of
Gujarat, Bahadur Shah, entered into a treaty with the Portuguese
fearing an invasion from Humayun, the Mughal Emperor. According
to the terms of the treaty, the Portuguese were permitted to build a
fort and station military troops on the island. The attempts of the
Sultan of Delhi to occupy Diu Islands were thwarted by the combined
forces of the Portuguese and Bahadur Shah.The fort was finally seized
by Joao de Castro in 1545.The Portuguese went on to rule the Diu
Islands for more than 400 years.

Following local discontent towards the foreign rulers, the Portuguese
were finally ousted from the island, by the Indian military troops on
19th December 1961. Diu Island finally became a Union territory, on
30th May 1987 when Goa was made a separate state.

Diu Island was an important commercial hub during the 14th and
16th centuries. It also constituted an important trading port for the
foreign traders who came to India. Currently, it is one of the most
favorite holiday places among tourists the world over.

Diu is a town in Diu district in the union territory of Daman and Diu,
India. Diu District is the tenth least populated district of India.

The town of Diu lies at the eastern end of Diu Island, and is known for its fortress
and Old Portuguese Cathedral. It is also a fishing town.

Diu has been selected as one of the hundred Indian cities to be developed as a
smart city under PM Narendra Modi's flagship Smart Cities Mission.

The town and district were historically part of the Saurashtra region of Gujarat and
an important port on trade routes ofArabian Sea of Indian Ocean.

Due to its strategic importance, there was a Battle of Diu in 1509 between Portugal
and a combined force of Turkey, Egypt,Venice, the Republic of Ragusa (now known
as Dubrovnik) and the Sultan of Gujarat, Mahmud Begada. In 1513, the Portuguese
tried to establish an outpost there, but negotiations were unsuccessful.There were
failed attempts by Diogo Lopes de Sequeira in 1521, Nuno da Cunha in 1523. In
1531 the conquest attempted by D. Nuno da Cunha was also not successful.

In 1535 Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat, concluded a defensive alliance with
the Portuguese against the Mughal emperor Humayun, and allowed the
Portuguese to construct the Diu Fort and maintain a garrison on the island.

The alliance quickly unraveled, and attempts by the Sultans to oust the Portuguese
from Diu between 1537 and 1546 failed. Having repented of his generosity,
Bahadur Shah sought to recover Diu, but was defeated and killed by the
Portuguese, followed by a period of war between them and the people of Gujarat. In
1538, Coja Sofar, lord of Cambay, together with the Turkish Suleiman Pasha of
Ottoman Empire, came to lay siege to Diu, and were defeated by Portuguese
resistance led by Anthony Silveira. A second siege was imposed by the same Coja
Sofar, in 1546, and repelled by the Portuguese conquerors, led on land by D. John
Mascarenhas, and at sea, by D. João de Castro. Coja Sofar and D. Fernando de
Castro, son of the Portuguese viceroy, perished in the struggle. The fortress,
completed by Dom João de Castro after the siege of 1545, still stands.

After this second siege, Diu was so fortified that it could withstand later attacks of
the Arabs of Muscat and the Dutch in the late 17th century. From the 18th century,
Diu declined in strategic importance, due to development of Bombay and came to
be reduced to a museum or historical landmark as commercial and strategic
bulwark in the struggle between the forces of the Islamic East and ChristianWest.

Diu remained in the possession of the Portuguese from 1535 until 1961, when it fell in
the possession of the troops of the Indian Union, which invaded all of former
Portuguese India under OperationVijay.The island was occupied by the Indian military
on 19 December 1961. The Battle of Diu involved overwhelming land, sea and air
strikes on the enclave for 48 hours until the Portuguese garrison there surrendered. It
was declared union territory of India, Goa, Daman, and Diu. Goa separated as a state
in 1987,thus the remainder became union territory of Daman and Diu.

GEOGRAPHY

Diu is located at 20.71°N 70.98°E. The island is at sea level and covers an area of
38.8 km².The climate is extremely warm and humid, with an average annual rainfall
of 1500 mm.

With no tall buildings except the fort, Diu has a characteristically low skyline.

Old Diu is known for its Portuguese architecture.

62 daman (damão)



IMPORTANT PLACES / MONUMENTS The nearby Nagoa beach and offshore lighthouse are popular tourist
destinations, and the coast is a popular recreational area for
Diu Fort was built in 1535 and maintained an active garrison until parasailing, boating, and jet skiing.
1960.The Diu fort is the most visited landmarks in the district.The Diu
fort and the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa were chosen as the two Local transport is available from Una (Gujarat).Air India Regional and
wonders from India, among the seven from across the world, out of a Jet Airways service the island from the mainland, landing at Diu
list of 27 monuments built in 16 countries during the Portuguese rule. Airport.
Fort is built on a hillock next to the sea. There are only remains of the
fort now but the fort in itself must have been a very romantic place There are several hotels and resorts and there is a growing hotel and
once upon a time. leisure industry.

There are three Portuguese Baroque churches, with ''St. Pauls Unlike in Gujarat State, alcohol is legal in Diu.
Church, completed in 1610, being the only one still in use for its
original purpose. The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, the first church Trivia: Many people confuse Diu with Daman. Although people refer
built in Diu, in 1593, is now used as a hospital. St. Thomas Church is to them together, they are different places (approximately 700 km
currently used as a museum. from each other).

An ancient Lord Shiva's Temple is located on the Gangeshwar coast. Diu is also famous for Hoka Tree which is only found in Daman & Diu
Naida Caves are located near Jalandhar Beach. and it has been in plantation since Portuguese time. The Hoka tree
(Hyphoena indica) is also known as 'doum palm' or the 'gingerbread
One of the most scenic places in Diu is the INS Khukri or Khukeri tree', and is a native of the Nile valley in Egypt and Sudan and the
memorial which is located near the Jalandhar Beach. The place is riverine areas of northwestern Kenya. The tree was sacred to the
known for its open air theatre and breathes taking sunset shots. Ancient Egyptians, evident from the discovery of Hoka seeds in
several pharaoh's tombs.The fruit are traditionally offered at funerals.

64 diu

THE HOKA TREES FULL OF RIPE HOKA SEEDS range of delicacies like Taaler Peetha and Taler Gur. But we were not
sure whether the Hoka seeds can be used for these purposes as well.
Hoka tree and seeds are used for a variety of purposes. Egyptians use
the thin dried brown rind for making molasses, cakes, and Interestingly, in Diu, there is an interesting belief around Hoka. People
sweetmeats. Shoots of the germinated seeds are also eaten as a believe that Hoka seeds that are planted in one's own home
vegetable. In Egypt, the fruit is sold by street vendors, and is popular germinate as males and do not bear fruit.These trees become female
among children, gnawing its sweet yet sour hard fibrous flesh only when the seeds are planted by people in their friends home. The
beneath the shiny hard crust. A herb tea of doum dates is made in shopkeeper in Nagoa beach who described this vouched that it was a
Egypt and believed good for controlling hypertension. It is also fact and can be tested by anyone.
believed to be good for the heart.
We also learnt that the locals prepare excellent alcoholic drinks from
THE HOKA PALM SEED Hoka. Known as 'Tadi' they are consumed by the locals. We were
however warned by some localities that the Tadi cannot be
Hoka palm trees are only found in Diu and some believe that the guaranteed for purity and it could also contain methyl alcohol, which
Portuguese brought them here. Some others believe that the western is fatal for humans.This spurious preparation has been more alarming
part of Gujarat (the Saurashtra region) broke away from the African in recent years when some commercial sellers, in order to meet the
mainland in theTriassic age. surging demand, cut down on the tedious process of natural
fermentation, often trying to speed up the process, for quick returns.
In Diu, Hoka seeds are used for preparing country liquor. The outer
skin of the seed is also pealed off and the softer flesh eaten raw.When We tried to break a few Hoka seeds but failed to do so.The seed is very
we were roaming around with Hoka seeds and trying to guess how hard and difficult to break, perhaps on the reasons that compelled us
they are consumed, a shopkeeper came to our rescue. He brought a to pick up a few Hoka seeds for our journey back to Daman, in the
sharp knife and sliced a Hoka seed into thin layers and gave them to hope of trying to break them during the weekends.
us to eat. We tasted the slices and smiled. The smell and flavour was
almost the same as the 'Tal' that Bengalis use for preparing a whole This monument is highest point of the famous Diu Fort which was

made by the Portuguese and one of the grand works done by them.
The construction of the fort was started in October 1535 and
completed in March 1536 , with the Portuguese forced labour putting
their full might. It was time and again strengthened and was
completed in 1546.

The fort is a large and impressive structure on the coast of the Diu Island.
It commands a magnificent view of the sea. It skirts the sea on three
sides.The outer wall of the fort was built along the coast line.The inner
wall had bastions on which guns were mounted.A double moat (outer
one is a tidal moat) between the outer and inner walls provided security
to the fort.The moat that separates the fortifications from the castle has
been cut through sandstone rocks. A jetty built then on the

northwestern side is still in use. The fort was provided with three entry A large light house is also located at one end of the fort. Even now the
gates. A bastion built earlier by the Sultan in the deep water channel, ruins of the walls, gateways, arches, ramps, bastions of the fort
next to the fort walls,was further strengthened by the Portuguese. provide an impressive view of the extent of military defenses that the
fort provided in the past. Within the fort, well laid out gardens have
In the main entry gate, there are five large windows with stone paths bordered by old cannons.
galleries on the main front wall. From the fort, a glittering view of the
Panikotha fort located in the sea, off the coast opposite to Diu Fort, This fort cum castle also known in Portuguese as 'Praça de Diu' is set
could be seen in the evenings. There are several cannons (some of within the Diu island, on the southern tip of the coast of Gujarat at the
them made of bronze appear well preserved) still seen at the top of mouth of the Gulf of Cambay (also known as Gulf of Khambat). The
the Diu fort.Also seen are collection of iron shells scattered around in fort and the town are delimited on the east by the state of Gujarat, on
the fort area. The fort is approached from a permanent bridge. The the west by the Arabian Sea, on the north by the Kolak River and on
entrance gateway to the fort has an inscription in Portuguese. The the south by Kalai river. It borders the district of Daman, the town of
bastion at the gate is named St. George. Valsad and Junagarh district of Gujarat.

places 67

T he St. Paul's Church, named after St. Paul, the India. The altar, which has the image of St. Mary, is carved out of a
Apostle of Jesus also known as the Apostle to the single piece of Burmese teak and is lined and lit up with 101 candles.
Gentiles, is most renowned, surviving and Above the altar, there is a "blue-and-white barrel - vaulted nave
adorned with priceless old paintings and statues.
functioning church, among the three churches built by the
The Church is stated to be an innovative design of Jesuit architecture,
Portuguese in Diu. It is considered one of the best examples of typical to India. The unique aspect is the facade, which has intricate
decoration vis-a-vis its plain walls.Though the frontal elevation of the
baroque architecture (artistic style) in India. It is located in Diu on the church is a replica of the Bom Jesus Basilica, but it dispenses with an
additional third storey and also the compartments created by the
west coast of India, at the mouth of the Gulf of Cambay. Its buttresses, as seen in the Bon Jesus.

construction is dated to 1601 AD. Built in the style of a similar basilica The church has extravagant carved decorations in white stucco,
mainly attributed to the craftsmanship of the Indian artisans, which is
church namely, the Bom Jesus Basilica at Goa, its construction was typical of most churches in Goa. It is inferred that the Indian silver
smiths known for their exquisite workmanship have influenced the
completed in 1610 AD and dedicated to Our Lady of Immaculate decor in the facade. This has been attributed to a fact that the Jesuits
in India could not find native artists who could recreate the original
Conception. Jesuit architectural designs. Hence, the religious images made in ivory
and the objects made in silver have strong local flavour.
The church, built in the Baroque architectural style, exhibits strong
similarity but with better workmanship and design than the Bom It is the largest and the only functioning church in Diu catering to the
Jesus Basilica at Goa built in 1605 AD, which was also built by the small Christian community of about 450 Christians who remain after
Portuguese during their colonial rule of the territory.The interior of the the Diu territory merged with the Indian Union when it was freed from
church is decorated with intricately carved wood work that is Portuguese colonial rule on December 19, 1961.
considered one of the most elaborate in any Portuguese church in
India. The altar has the statue of St. Mary. Its interior has elaborate
and impressive design with delicate volutes (spiral scroll-like
ornament) and shell. The front elevation or facade of the church is
also said to be the most detailed of all Portuguese churches built in

68 diu

The church is easily accessible from the main land from the
Portuguese village of Ghoghla in the east or from Veraval or
Somnath in the west. It is well connected by roads with rest of
the country.There are no railway lines within Diu but the nearest
railway station is on the metre gauge line at Delvada 8
kilometres from the fort. An airport at Diu provides regular air
link to Mumbai. Diu is approachable from Una, which is 10
kilometres from the Gujarat border. The road distances to other
places in Gujarat are: 150 kilometres to Sasangir and 220
kilometres to Bhavnagar.

It is said that music began to be used in churches in India even
though it was not an accepted practice among the Jesuits who
came to India. In Goan churches, which included churches in
Diu, "lavish singing with many voices and sung masses were
part of the elaborate ceremonies and processions that the
Jesuits staged there". The two ceremonies that are held at the
Diu church are the Feast of the Eleven Thousand Virgins to mark
the commencement of the school year and the other is on 25
January to mark the conversion of St. Paul, which were largely
attended when Portuguese ruled the area and also now.

Diu is also famous for its beautiful beaches which are about ten
at different locations. The eye catching beaches of Diu attract
tourists from all over the world.

T he Diu Fort is located on the west coast of India in highlighted by an opinion poll conducted (through the Internet and
Diu, a Union Territory, administered by the telephone when 239,418 people participated in Portugal) by the
Government of India. The fort was built by the Portuguese (Portuguese government's initiative) to list out the New
Seven Wonders of Portugal built during their colonial rule.The Diu fort
Portuguese during their colonial rule of the Diu Island.The Diu town is and the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa were chosen as the two
wonders from India, among the seven from across the world, out of a
located to the west of the fort. The fort was built in 1535 subsequent list of 27 monuments built in 16 countries during the Portuguese rule.
This list of new monuments was declared on June 10, 2009 on the
to a defense alliance forged by Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat occasion of the Portuguese National Day held in Portugal.The district
administrator of Diu encouraged by this announcement said:
and the Portuguese when Humayun, the Mughal Emperor waged war
"A major tourism attraction in India, the listing has put Diu and the
to annex this territory. The fort was strengthened over the years, till fort on the world tourist map.This will certainly give a big boost to the
local tourism industry."
1546. Portuguese ruled over this territory from 1537 (from the year
The fort cum castle, known in Portuguese as 'Praça de Diu', is set within
they took control of the fort and also the Diu town fully) till 1961 (for the Diu island,on the southern tip of the coast of Gujarat at the mouth of
the Gulf of Cambay (also known as Gulf of Khambat). The fort and the
424 years, the longest period by any colonial rule in the world) they town are delimited on the east by the state of Gujarat, on the west by

were forced to quit only in December 1961 (even though India

became an independent country in 1947) during a military action

called the "Operation Vijay" launched by the Government of India,

where after Diu was merged with India and became a centrally

administered Union Territory (UT).The importance of the Diu Fort was

70 diu

the Arabian Sea, on the north by the Kolak River and on the south by to build a fort at Diu to strengthen its flourishing spice trade. He
Kalai river. Two bridges provide the connecting links to the town and launched a strong military attack to annex Diu from the Sultan, with
fort. The secured fort provided sea access for trade and traffic with 100 vessels and 8000 men, including 3000 Portuguese. But this
Cambay,Broach (now known as Bharuch) and Surat in Gujarat. campaign could only achieve bombing of Diu without getting any
foothold on the island. Portuguese forces could at best torment the
Sultan Shah Bahadur of Gujarat had occupied the Diu island in 1330 nearby coast. They attacked again in 1532 and 1533 but without
AD. Some defense fortifications were built during his rule and of success. But an opportunity finally knocked on their door in 1535,
earlier Muslims rulers but the same were demolished (some remnants when the Sultan sought their help to defend against Humayun's
still exist at the eastern end of the island) by the Portuguese when forces. Taking full advantage of this situation, the Portuguese
they built the new fort. But the Sultan had to seek help of the diplomatically signed a defense treaty (Treaty of Bassein (1534) with
Portuguese when Mughal Emperor Humayun was getting ready to the Sultan in 1535 under which they got permission to build a fort
attack Gujarat and annex Sultan's territory. The Portuguese thus got and also to position a garrison in the fort. in addition it formalized full
the right opportunity, which they were seeking for long, to get a control of the Bassein island (the island which they had already
foothold on the Diu island to build a fort for protection of their trade. bought from the Sultan during an earlier skirmish in 1533 and built a
In the past, in 1501, 1521 and 1531 they had, made attempts to seize fort there). The Portuguese not only built a large fort at Diu by
the island by force but had failed. In 1531, Nuno da Cunha (1487 - demolishing old fortifications that were existing on the island but
March 5, 1539) who was the governor of Portuguese possessions in continued to make it a formidable fortress by constantly
India from 1528 to 1538, was under orders from the King of Portugal strengthening it during the period from 1535 till 1546.

fort 71

T he exquisite beaches of Diu are crafted by God in a
magical way, the clear beaches with golden sands
and palm groves are exotic in every sense. Diu is a
town in the district of Diu of Daman and Diu territory. The beaches of
Diu make for the perfect retreat for tourists as every year, both
domestic as well as foreign tourists visit and admire the beauty of Diu.
The best part of these beaches is that they are pure and untouched by
consumerism and you can thoroughly enjoy what nature has to offer.
The blue beaches with infinite visibility or till you can see, make you
fully relaxed. Not only nature lovers but also people who adore
history and things related to archeology can come and explore the

past of this marvel of a place called Diu. Talking about the beaches, enjoy the beauty. There are temples and forts that you can visit. You
let's start with Chakratirth beach which must be visited during low can also try the Mediterranean delicacies as well as the regional ones.
tides. This beach is centrally located in Diu and known to be quite
scenic. The landscape around this beach is breathtaking in every The best time to visit this beautiful place is between the months of
sense. Gomtimala beach is situated near a village called Vanakbara. October and May as the weather is quite pleasant and you can
This beach has white sand and foreign tourists love to hang out in this thoroughly enjoy the magnificent beaches.You can spend your winter
beach. Simbor beach is known for the Portuguese fort called Fortim break in Diu and enjoy.
do Simbor. This beach is known for clear water and is absolutely safe
for swimming. The beach-line is filled with Hoka tress and they are A picturesque colony, Diu is a clean, green and stunning island with
gently swayed by the sea breeze. its medieval magic permeating the town. However, more fascinating
are the palm fringed beaches at Diu, which transports you to take
The Diu beaches are loaded with attractions for you to explore. You fairytale land of sheer beauty and exotic ambience. There are many
can do water sports like water skiing or ride a horse on the beach. If beaches around Diu Island, with Nagoa and Jallandhar being quite
you like walking, well, the endless beach line is all yours to walk and famous for its serene beauty. Both these beaches are on the south-
east of Diu Island.

beaches 73

HOKKA TREES curving claws. The leaves are fan shaped and measure about 120 by
180 cm (47 by 71 in). Male and female flowers are produced on
Hokka Tree (Hyphaene thebaica), with common names doum palm separate trees. The inflorescences are similar in general appearance,
and gingerbread tree also doom palm, is a type of palm tree with up to about 1.2 m (3 ft 11 in) long, branching irregularly and with two
edible oval fruit. It is a native to the Arabian Peninsula and also to the or three spikes arising from each branch let. Female trees produce
northern half of Africa where it is widely distributed and tends to large woody fruits, each containing a single seed that remain on the
grow in places where groundwater is present. It has been shown that tree for a long period.
doum palm extract has hypotensive and hypolipidemic effects. The
doum palm is a dioecious palm and grows up to 17 m (56 ft) high.The The doum palm is native to the northern half ofAfrica. It is widespread
trunk, which can have a girth of up to 90 cm (35 in), branches in the Sahel and grows from Mauritania and Senegal in the west,
dichotomously and has tufts of large leaves at the ends of the through Central Africa, and east to Egypt, Kenya and Tanzania. It
branches. The bark is fairly smooth, dark grey and bears the scars of tends to grow in areas where groundwater is present and is found
fallen leaves. The petioles (leaf stalks) are about a meter long, along the Nile River in Egypt and Sudan, in riverine areas of
sheathing the branch at the base and armed with stout upward- northwestern Kenya, and along the Niger River in West Africa. It is
also native to the Levant and the Arabian Peninsula (Israel, Sinai,
74 diu

Yemen and Saudi Arabia. and is reportedly naturalized in the FOOD
Netherlands in the Caribbean. It grows in wadis and at oases, but
sometimes occurs away from water and on rocky hillsides. It dislikes The doum palm fruit-dates are also known in Eritrea as Akat, or Akaat
waterlogged soils and is very resistant to destruction by bush fire. in the Tigre language. The thin dried brown rind is made into
molasses, cakes, and sweetmeats. The unripe kernels are edible. The
The doum palm flourishes in hot dry regions where little else grows shoots of the germinated seeds are also eaten as a vegetable. In
and the tree is appreciated for the shade it provides. All parts of the Egypt, the fruit is sold in herbalist shops, and is popular among
tree are useful, but probably the most important product is the leaves. children, gnawing its sweet yet sour hard fibrous flesh beneath the
The fibre and leaflets are used by people along the Niger and Nile shiny hard crust. In Diu, Una and Saurashtra region of Gujarat, India
Rivers to weave baskets, the timber is used for posts and poles, the tree is known as Hoka Tree and the red ripe edible fruit is known
furniture manufacture and beehives, and the tree provides wood for as Hoka. In northern part of Nigeria, among the Hausa people, it's
fuel. The leaf stalks are used for fencing and the fiber is used for known as "Goruba". Apart from the use of the fruit as food, juice is
textiles. Other products include fishing rafts, brooms, hammocks, extracted from the young fruit and palm wine is prepared from the
carpets, buttons and beads. sap.

fort 75

Panikotha of Diu Island start a journey which would definitely be the impressive forts and
monuments.There are end number of forts and monuments in Diu.All
(Fortim-do-Mar Diu) enjoy a distinct position and has something truly unique to soothe
your eyes. One of such fort and monument is Fortim-do-Mar in Diu.
V isiting the beautiful lonely planet-Diu is a great
experience in one's life. There are diverse types of PANIKOTHA (Diu Fortim-do-Mar)
tourist attractions in Diu.You can take a pick at any
of the highly venerated holy places or well laid out gardens or rich One must visit Diu Fortim-do-Mar or Panikotha once. It is a
museums or imposing forts and monuments in Diu. The best way to magnificent site to take in. Its ship like shape creates an indelible
impression on the minds of the travelers. Located exactly at the
opening of the creek, this opulent stone structure houses a light

house and small chapel devoted to Our Lady of the Sea. It is almost a
nautical mile away from the Diu Jetty and ensures exciting moments
to bask in during vacations in Diu.

A legend holds that Panikotha or Fortim-do-Mar in Diu was once
linked with land by an under sea tunnel.

Diu Fortim-do-Mar is one of the very magnificent and unique sites.
The fortress of Panikotha or Fortim-do-Mar in Diu looks absolutely
stunning whether captured from the village of Ghoghla, from the
jetty, from the Fort, or from Diu. Sitting in the heart of the sea, this
monument is a remarkable sight to savor. In fact its beauty has
impressed many people world over and its due popularity has
attracted even the Bollywood makers to capture its picture in their
camera. The clear view of this fantastic monument is available in
many bollywood movies.

Diu holiday is fascinating experience with soft sands, wondrous
waters, swaying coconut canopies, captivating churches and fantastic
forts. The island of Diu is renowned for its beaches, monuments and
exotic liquors. It is the fusion of the nature and history that comes
across at Diu. Beaches in Diu promise you a heavenly getaway and
serious relaxation away from the humdrum of the daily grind.

Famous beaches in Diu, Nagoa beach draws a special mention.
Nagoa beach in the shape of a horse shoe is admired for swimming
and other exciting water sports. Vanakbhara beach which is about 5
kms from Nagoa beach is another beach perhaps the quietest with
the tenors of civilization yet to knock on its doors. Other nearby
beaches is Chakratirtha beach to the southwest commanding a
breathtaking view of the sunset and Bucharwada, to the north.
Gomatimala is a secluded white-sand beach to the west and the
Simmer beach, 27 kms from Diu town.The Ghogla beach offers good
swimming and has impressive views of fishing villages, and fort and
churches on Diu Island.

When I am happy
with what I have,
why to cry
for that I don't have,
When I am happy
with memories of my past,
Why to fear of
unseen future,
When I am happy
with my potentials,
Why to be afraid of
others' capability,
When I am happy
with my loving ones,
Why to be jealous of
others' crowd,
When I am happy
with my mind and soul,
why to bother about
people's preaching,
When I am happy
with my life,
why to be attracted
towards others' showoff

K.C. Sethi
Daman, India
©2016



DIU - INDIA stone have a mystic aura around them in the cave temple of
Gangeshwar where the Lord makes his presence felt.
Diu a beautiful island situated off the southern tip of the Saurashtra
(Kathiawad). A beautiful blend of sea, sand and sun, Diu is a God's INS KHUKHRI MEMORIAL: Indian Naval ship Khukri was a frigate of
gift to those in quest of a blessed land where the weary weight of this the Indian Navy. During the India Pakistan War in 1971 she fell prey to
unintelligible world can, for a while, be lightened and the waking soul three torpedoes ?red at her by a Pakistani Submarine She sank 40
can hear the music of the nature.This tiny island of breeze, beauty and nautical miles off the coast of Diu taking down with her a crew of 18
serenity situated off Saurashtra peninsula of Gujarat, lapped by the
Arabian Sea, is a picture of calmness with superb beaches and a Officers and 176 sailors. Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla Mahavir
fascinating history. It is blessed with various beautiful sources of Chakra (Posthumous) of the Indian Navy, the then Commanding
entertainment. Officer of the ship, chose to go down with the warship.The heroic act
of Captain Mulla and his valiant crew is a shining example of
WATER RECREATION IN DIU unyielding spirit and indomitable courage glorifying the heist
traditions of the Indian Navy.There is an air theatre just adjoining the
WATER SPORTS: The water sports facilities are available at Nagoa memorial.
and Ghoghla Beach. There are various sorts of water sports facilities
available such as Parasailing, Water Scooter Riding, Boat Sailing etc. SEA SHELL MUSEUM: First museum in Asia which has maximum sea
In addition to this there is availability of Evening Boat Cruise at Diu shells. First museum in World where sea shells are displayed in
Bunder. This facility is managed by Diu administration. The Evening magnifying glass of various sizes. The collection of about 2500 to
Cruise ride starts from 7:30 P.M to 8:30 P.M with Music, Masti and 3000 sea shells in museum. Mrs. Sethi with family friends Dr. Fand
light refreshments. Mrs Fand, clicked by Mr. Sethi in Feb. 2014.

HOKA TREES AT NAGOA

Diu has plenty Branching Palm tree called "Hokka" (Hyphaene Indica)
which are found nowhere else in the country. Only one Indian species
of African genus, brought by Portuguese. Diu, the only place in India
to have luxuriant growth of these trees. Fruit is cute & edible, believed
to have medicinal properties.

GANGESHWAR TEMPLE

This is situated 3 Km away from Diu in Fudam village. Five shivlings,
are located in the midst of the rocks on the seashore, washed by the
tidal waves of the sea. It is believed that the 5 Pandavas during their
exile worshiped Lord Shiva in this temple.

The gentle sea waves offering their obeisance to the "Shiva Lingas" in

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RELIGIONS IN DIU

Hinduism is the major religion in Diu followed by majority of the
population. Islam and Christianity are also practised by the people
here. The Hindus comprise of the Kharwa, Koli Patel, Koli, Salat,
Bhraman, Vanja, Bania, Sanghadia, Baria, Sager, Kamli, Mitna,
Mangela, Bhandari, Macchi, Kumbhar and Mahyavanshi, while
Dhobia, Dubla and Siddi are tribal population. Momin and Khoja
belong to the Muslim community. Due to its proximity to Gujarat,
majority of the customs and practices of the Hindus in Diu are similar
to those of the Gujratis.

FESTIVALS IN DIU

The people of Diu celebrate various festivals with great pomp and
gaiety. During the Navratri Festival, dedicated to Goddess Amba,
people of all ages come together to perform the Garba Dance, to the
tunes of devotional songs sung in praise of the Goddess.This festival,
celebrated for nine days, attracts people of all communities, and the
whole atmosphere is joyous and divine.

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The Diu Festival, organised by the Tourism Department, every year COSTUMES IN DIU
during December attracts hordes of visitors. It is one of the most
important celebrations in Diu, depicting the lifestyle of the people in Diu The costumes of the people in Diu are influenced by those worn by the
and keeping alive the past traditions. Christmas, New Year eve, Easter Gujratis. The ladies wear salwar kameez, sarees, ghaghras and other
are celebrated here in a grand manner with great fanfare. Diwali, Holi, traditional dresses, on festive occasions. Due to the influence of
Eid,Janmashtami,Rakshabandhan are other festivals celebrated in Diu. Western culture, kurta, jeans, skirts are becoming popular, especially
among the younger generations. Men prefer wearing shirts, trousers,
FOLK SONGS AND DANCE FORMS IN DIU jeans, shorts, pyjama, dhoti kurta etc. European costumes are worn by
the Christians in Diu.
The fun-loving people of Diu consider songs and dances to be an
integral aspect of every celebration. Garba is an important traditional HANDICRAFTS IN DIU
folk dance performed by men and women, fully decked in colourful
costumes and jewellery. Koli Dance is performed by the fishermen Various attractive handicrafts from Diu are in great demand,
community in Diu.The Folk Dance Festival is an important celebration, especially among the foreign tourists visiting Diu. Mat weaving is
where traditional Portuguese folk dances like Mando Dance, Vira popular among the artisans here. Mats with beautiful traditional
Dance, and the Verdigao are performed in slow motion by the elderly patterns are quite popular among the visitors. Ivory carving is another
population in Diu.The younger generation also join them, keeping up popular art form, practiced by the artisans in Diu. Sea shell and oyster
with the traditions of the past.These dances depict the lifestyle of the shell items are also in great demand. Tortoise shell craft, where a
people in Diu. The songs and dances are performed, adhering to the number of decorative items are made from the shell of the tortoise is a
motto, 'Drink, Eat, Sing and be Merry'. special craft, practiced by the craftsmen in Diu.

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CULTURE OF DIU LANGUAGES IN DIU

Diu is thus a rightly considered to be the perfect fusion of Indian, Gujarati, Hindi, English, Portuguese are the major languages spoken
Portugal and tribal cultures. The multi-faceted and rich cultural in Diu. English is the official language for communication purposes.
heritage of Diu is evident from the festivals, dance forms, customs and Though Diu has greater Portuguese influence as compared to Daman,
beliefs of the people here that are mainly Indian with traces of it is no longer taught in the schools and the number of people
Portugal influence, here and there. speaking Portuguese is fast declining. The creole of Diu, Lingua dos
Velhos is rapidly becoming extinct.

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