PADSAD | EP 9 | Goa 2025: The Year That Was

The year 2025 was a year of contrasts and change for Goa — a blend of tradition and transformation set against its timeless coastline. From vibrant festivals and cultural milestones to evolving tourism trends and environmental conversations, the year reflected Goa’s ongoing journey of balancing heritage with modern growth.

Local communities, artists, entrepreneurs, and visitors all played a role in shaping a year marked by resilience, creativity and renewed focus on sustainability. As the sun set on 2025, Goa stood not just as a destination, but as a living story of change, celebration and continuity.

Padsad is a thought-provoking series that captures the voices and views of people on pressing social and contemporary issues.

In each episode, News Director of The Voice, Anwesha Singbal, engages in candid conversations with individuals from diverse walks of life, reflecting the pulse, concerns and aspirations of our society.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE

In this episode of Padsad, Anwesha Singbal speaks with architect and activist Tallulah D’Silva, heritage promoter Sanjeev Sardessai, and youth activist Shohail Furtado as they reflect on the past year and assess the current state of affairs in Goa.

Among other things, Tallulah D’Silva discusses the rapid pace of change in the state — sometimes unfolding overnight — the disappearance of avenue trees in Panjim, and the work she has undertaken over the past year.

Sanjeev Sardessai reflects on how Goa, in his view, has not changed as much as it has aged, likening it to a “senior citizen.” He speaks about Goenkars being Goans in name alone, and traces the state’s journey from dynastic rule to liberation and beyond.

Shohail Furtado believes that many Goans, including the literate, carry the attitude of “Maka kiteak pollam?” (Why should I bother?). He feels that Goans lack unity when it comes to safeguarding Goa and stresses the need for collective action.

Together, they discuss changing Goan values, family structures, the architectural profession, freedom of speech, joint families, Goa’s natural beauty, public issues and protests, students losing direction, capitation fees, politics, student power, and much more in this compelling episode of Padsad – a candid conversation on what Goa has become — and where it may be headed.