Goa, a former Portuguese territory, for more than 450 years is often described as 'The Rome of the East'. It has over the past decades, become the dream holiday destination, for many a foreign tourist. More than 40 years after the departure of the Portuguese, Goa is perhaps the most westernized of all the states in Modern India. One of the things that make Goa unique, are the laws, a legacy that the Portuguese have left behind. The common civil code, confers equal status to all religions, it favours no particular religion. The law also accords equal legal status to both sexes, in all matters. Goa's rich cultural heritage comprises of dances, folk songs, visual arts, music and folk tales rich in content and variety. Goan are born music lovers, most Goans can pluck at a guitar or pick out a tune on the piano. Goans are very proud of their state, and are well prepared to fight for its protection. Environmental issues feature prominently, but often lack firmness in dealing with issues related to government utilities, administrative corruption and horrendous government services. Goa has a colourful culture, which evolved from its history of Hindu, Muslim and Portuguese rulers. Thus leaving behind distinctive marks on the land and the lives of the people. Though, Goa is a multi-ethnic state, Goans are very tolerant towards each other's faiths. The majority Hindu community and the sizeable Catholic minority have lived in peace and harmony for decades and centuries. They participate in each other's many feasts. Many Hindus attend the novenas during the feast of St. Francis Xavier (the patron saint of Goa), as the Catholics take part in the zagors and zatras. It is not rare to see young Catholics at local Hindu temples during the feast of Dusshera. They consider it auspicious to have their vehicles blessed by the temple priest on that day.
Goan Music Goans love music that spans from Portuguese music to Techno, Rave and the land's very own Goa Trance.