| abstract | On the west coast of the Indian peninsula, along the Arabian Sea, is India’s smallest state - Goa. Goa’s traditional architecture is mainly built with mud and/or laterite-stone. Like the rest of India and other parts of the world, many social, cultural, and religious beliefs and traditions are entwined in everyday Goan life - including its architecture. There are building materials that are considered sacred, ancient religious texts that refer to architecture, religious symbols built in and around houses, rituals and
festivals performed at different stages of constructing a house. Of course, over time, some traditions and customs have evolved or even been lost.
As Goa was ruled by the Portuguese for 451 years i.e. 1510 - 1961, the Goan culture blends that of India and Europe, especially Portugal and its colonies. This is evident in its architecture, art, cuisine, music, religion, education, politics, etc. Interestingly, the religious conversions that took place during the Portuguese reign, mainly from tribal and Hindu to Catholic, saw various adaptations to cultural traditions - including those related to construction practices. Goan Catholics, while retaining certain aspects of their Hindu customs, adapted to suit their new ones. This research paper touches upon various architectural practices followed by Goan tribals, Hindus, and Christians, from ancient to current times. |