On Jul 22, 2013, at 10:45 AM, "Patrice Riemens" <patr...@xs4all.nl> wrote:
"My own perception, as first time visitor to Goa in 1974 (13 years after [...] - fill in yr favourite description of events), was that India had been up to then remarkably respectful of the 'Portuguese' culture in Goa, howver superficial that was. For instance, I remember all notices in Panjim GPO being in three languages (not any more). Cheers for now, and for me: case closed." Dear Patrice, I applaud you for 'closing the case' as far as you are concerned. I appreciate your love for Goa and your zeal for Open Software. You come across as a good man and I truly admire you for that. The topic I have brought up, however does not relate to any of the above. It relates to Goa and the feelings of individual Goans like me. Personally, I prefer to be asked before anyone else decides for me. I also disapprove when my consent is unreasonable implied. I consider that Railroading. Back to the Candeth declaration, I will preface my comment with the following: In both my fields of endeavour, I am cautioned to review "ALL the facts of the case" before I make an assessment or a diagnosis. If I did otherwise, I would display my ignorance. So much for this......esp as the Case is closed from your perspective, not from Goans who reportedly HID their daughters because the 'White Portuguese' excuse would be used to do what Guerreros are known to do best with meninas. Please advise me when you wish to head out to Panjim or Margao next. I might be able to arrange a meeting or two for you. The folks in question are now in their 70s .... but they are still quite eloquent. jc NOT an Anglo Indian by ANY stretch of imagination but a proud descendant from the Communidade of Carambolim/Old Goa and from a family (originally most likely Buddhist) which converted to Catholicism ....and has not turned back ever since. Just that you should know and probably wish to research: the Muslims hammered the Hindus in Old Goa and vice versa. In the lull times, they both hammered the Budfhists. Ask yourself : If the Emperor Ashoka controlled 60% (circa) of India incl Goa, Where are the stupas and temples? And you know ... They built a lot of temples. Ask yourself too: how come Buddhism, which was once dominant, nearly disappeared after the Moghals arrived .....and the Brahmins prospered & Hindus survived?! jc
