Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has emphasized a shift in the perception of Goa, calling it more of a "yog bhoomi" (land of devotion and yoga) and "go-mata bhoomi" (land of cows) rather than the commonly held image of a "bhog bhoomi" (land of pleasure). Speaking at the Sanatan Rashtra Shankhnad Mahotsav on the occasion of Sanatan Sanstha founder Jayant Athavale’s 83rd birth anniversary, Sawant framed the coastal state as a hub of spiritual and cultural richness rather than just a tourist destination known for beaches and nightlife.
He stated,
"Earlier, whenever people came to Goa, they thought this is bhog bhoomi. But it is not—it is yog bhoomi. It is go-mata bhoomi."
Referring to the mythological account of Lord Parashuram creating Goa by causing the sea to recede with an arrow, Sawant called it "Lord Parashuram's land," further invoking Goa’s spiritual heritage.
Sawant argued that today’s tourists are increasingly being drawn to Goa’s temples and cultural traditions, rather than just its “sun, sand, and sea.” He highlighted that these temples remain outside state control and are managed by local communities, preserving centuries-old rituals and customs.
He also praised the Sanatan Sanstha, headquartered in Ramnathi village (North Goa), for its role in promoting spiritual awareness and the principles of Sanatan Dharma.
The remarks have sparked fresh discussions on how Goa balances its spiritual heritage with its global reputation as a party and beach destination. Sawant's statement appears to align with broader efforts to rebrand Goa's tourism appeal by highlighting its religious and cultural significance.
