Belgão: Another Chapter in the Goan Migration Story
Xavier Centre of Historical Research
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Belgão
Another Chapter in the Goan Migration Story
Belgão — as the Goans who settled in Belgaum (now Belagavi) knew it — has a unique and compelling story. A recent book, Belgão: Goan Memories from the ‘Centre of the Universe’, attempts to narrate that story, and this discussion will bring together key voices behind it: editor Clifford W DeSilva, contributor, writer-editor Derek Almeida, and publisher-journalist Frederick Noronha.
The conversation will explore questions such as: Why did Goans settle in Belgão and the nearby towns of Hubballi and Dharwad in the first place? How did they adapt to their new surroundings, mingle with others, and yet retain their distinct identity? It will also examine how the migration to Belgaum fits into the broader narrative of Goan migration across India and the world.
The Goans of Belgão managed to hold on to their Goan identity without becoming insular. Many went on to distinguish themselves in fields such as the Armed Forces, religious life, Olympic hockey, business, and more — all while upholding the values, simplicity, and sense of community they drew from their upbringing.
As early as the twentieth century — or even before — Belgão became a beacon of opportunity for Goans. It was a place where they could live, grow, and most importantly, access education that opened doors far beyond. At a time when Portuguese-ruled Goa offered limited alignment with the English-speaking world, Belgaum provided a crucial bridge to wider horizons.
In Belgão, Goans built networks, shaped futures, and left a legacy. These are the stories of beloved teachers, cherished school memories, and the life lessons that left a lasting impact. Recollections of life in Belgaum paint a vivid portrait of a once-quiet town in today’s Karnataka (earlier part of Mysore and then Bombay State), full of warmth, opportunity, and promise.
Clifford W DeSilva
Clifford W DeSilva was born and raised in Belgão and passed out of St Paul’s High School, Belgaum. Now based in Navelim, he practises as a psychotherapist and corporate facilitator. He also offers practical courses in Counselling to graduates fresh out of college.
Derek Almeida
Derek Almeida, journalist and editor, worked at the senior level at almost all the English-language dailies of Goa. He also undertook a lot of writing assignments and crafted a weekly humour column, for over 20 years. Currently he’s working on his first graphic novel. He believes Belgaum shaped him into the person he became. Derek lives with his family in Porvorim but always dreams of going back to Belgaum.
Frederick Noronha
Frederick Noronha is a columnist and alternative book publisher. Goa,1556, the small network he set up, has published 170+ titles on Goa so far, since 2007.
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