[From L to R] Samuel Hurst, Zaneta Mascarenhas, Verma D'Mello, and Ethel Mascarenhas during their recent visit in Goa.
MELBOURNE
Having last visited Goa five years ago, Zaneta Mascarenhas (43), who got elected as the Australian MP from Swan, Western Australia last year, was more than happy to be back in December along with her family and relatives.
The purpose of her visit was to attend a family function, but Mascarenhas, who is proud of her Goan roots, also wanted her children, nieces and nephews to get the opportunity to learn more about their Goan heritage.
For Mascarenhas, it was a yet another occasion to reconnect with Goa, its history and cultural traditions.
ON GOA TRIP
Zaneta said she and her family had visited Goa to attend the wedding of her cousin.
“It is also a very special Christmas, as it has been valuable time spent with family, which is very important to me. It is important for our family to understand our roots and my children, and my nieces and nephews have embraced the opportunity to learn about their Goan heritage and had a lot of fun too,” said Zaneta.
“My cousin’s home in Benaulim is surrounded by families. Every day, my kids are out playing in the neighbourhood, jump rope, races, musical chairs, hide and seek - forming lifelong memories.”
Mascarenhas praised the culture in Goa as “rich and vibrant”, adding that the people “are very welcoming.”
“We have had so much fun enjoying the Roce ceremonies, the festive lights, and Christmas activities; and of course, indulged in many Goan feasts. The food is incredible. We have visited the Spice Farm, and I also visited the handloom plant of Goan fashion designer Verma D’Mello.”
ON GOAN HERITAGE
The Australian MP was quick to acknowledge the importance of her Goan roots.
“I think you need to know where you come from so you can understand who you are today, which can help you navigate your future,” said Mascarenhas.
“The trip has helped my sister and I understand my parents better. It’s these unique traits and values that originate in Goa make them who they are. They are the values that were instilled in us growing up in Kambalda and are what have shaped me into the person I am today.”
“My work ethic, family values, civic participation, commitment to fairness and passion for social justice stem from my roots and were fostered by the opportunity given to me by Australia.”
“I am looking forward to coming home to Australia to reflect on the experience and tell my dad all about it, as he was unable to come on this trip,” she added.
ON TOURISM AND GOA
Mascarenhas said Goa’s natural beauty, stunning beaches, and sunny weather combined with the culture, has made it an attractive destination for tourists.
“What has not changed in Goa is the way Christmas is celebrated in Goa, although the number of lights and homes and business has increased! It’s amazing to see and the kids have loved it,” said Mascarenhas.
“Since my last visit in 2018, Goa has grown. It is busy with tourists and that is to be expected at this time of the year, and there seems to be more cars and scooters on the road.”
“With such natural beauty, stunning beaches, and sunny weather combined with the culture, I can understand why Goa is an attractive destination for tourists. The experience is different for me as it’s about visiting family, but my husband and I have made sure to enjoy some local beach walks too.”
“Change is inevitable but the history and cultural traditions of my Goa are strong, and I will always be able to share that with my children.”
