from Lenny Barretto
for Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji (GA)

Panaji, Feb 6: Carnival season is on in the state. This traditional festivity, which is borrowed or inherited from Portuguese, has ensconced in the life and fabric of Goa. The float parades and mythological character of King Momo has made this festival famous across the world.

So it is time to celebrate in this state of sand, surf and sea. This is the time when everyone keeps worrying on back of their mind and tries to have fun and frolic as part of their life at least for three days. 

Since the time immemorial, fun and broad-minded behaviour is synonymous with the life of Goans. This state has always welcomed guests with warm heart. Everyone who sets foot on Goan soil is accepted with a broad smile.

Communal harmony runs in the blood of every Goan. Everyone practices their own religion but does not disrespect others. 

But in the recent times, there has been a gradual hatred growing in this state. Sanvordem Curchorem communal violence or some sporadic instances reported, show that communal hatred is spreading its evil wings in the state.

Largely, we can attribute this to the huge influx of migration here. Unofficial figures quote that of the 14 lac population, four lac have migrated here in the recent years. A true Goan is getting diluted himself in this vast ocean of migrants.

Thankfully, special economic zones (SEZs) have become a non-reality, at least as of now. If these SEZs had materialized, then we would have got washed out from the state. Nine lac more non-Goans would have had joined our mainstream.

Goa is a land of carnival where hatred stands no chance. This is a land of people who love each other. During the carnival season, the Goans remember how they have lost themselves and their identity.