Goa 1961: The Complete Story of Nationalism By Valmiki Faleiro

Utkarsh Classes Last Updated 11-01-2024

Goa 1961: The Complete Story of Nationalism By Valmiki Faleiro

Books and Authors 3 min read

Valmiki Faleiro's book titled "Goa 1961: The Complete Story of Nationalism and Integration of Goa" has been published by Viking India in July 2023.

The book delves into the historical events that led to Goa becoming a part of India.

According to Faleiro's account, Goa was liberated from Portuguese rule on December 19, 1961, following 36 hours of military intervention. The book not only covers the events of 1961 but also delves into the pre-1961 era, presenting diverse narratives, emotional anecdotes, and significant incidents.
The book sheds light on various intriguing aspects, such as the Nizam of Hyderabad's interest in purchasing Goa from the Portuguese to build a port and unite with Pakistan as a part of that country. It also mentions the establishment of Transportes Aéroes da India Portuguesa (TAIP), a Goa-based civilian airline, in 1955, which notably had air hostesses wearing saris as their uniform - a first in India.
Historically, in the early 1750s, an armed rebellion against the Portuguese was planned by the native Bishop Mateus Castro Mahale.
During 1961, Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru assured Western nations that force would not be used on Goa. Nonetheless, on December 19, 1961, India declared Goa 'liberated' from Portugal, and the last Portuguese governor, Manuel Antonio Vasallo e Silva, surrendered to Brigadier Dhillon of the Indian Army, leading to his confinement in Indian jails for about five months.
In a significant legal development, on August 9, 1965, the Supreme Court of India ruled that Goa had been 'acquired by conquest,' validating India's claim over the region.
With meticulous research and certified facts from official sources, this 408-page book serves as an in-depth academic study on the subject.
Apart from "Goa 1961," Valmiki Faleiro has authored two other books - "Patriotism in Action: Goans in India's Defense Services" and "Soaring Spirit: 450 Years of Madgaon's Espirito Santo Church 1565-2015."