Dr Shashi Tharoor presented a painting by Dr Subodh Kerkar to Datta Damodar Naik at a celebratory event held at Gomant Vidya Niketan, Margao.
PANAJI
Industrialist, writer, social activist, and philanthropist Datta Damodar Naik was felicitated on his 70th birthday by Congress MP Dr Shashi Tharoor at a celebratory event held at Gomant Vidya Niketan, Margao. The event was organised by Civil Society, Goa and Dakshinayan Abhiyan (Goa Unit).
The occasion saw the presence of notable figures including linguist and Dakshinayan Abhiyan founder Dr Ganesh Devy, Fomento Group Chairman Auduth Timblo, Sadhana Weekly editor Vinod Shirsath, Dr Francisco Colaco, Adv Cleofato Almeida Coutinho, and other distinguished dignitaries.
In his heartfelt speech, Datta Naik expressed gratitude to everyone present, reflecting on his 70-year journey filled with challenges and achievements. He spoke about his writing, the movements he actively supported, and the campaigns he initiated. Overcome with emotion, he remembered loved ones who were not there to witness the occasion and thanked everyone who had come to celebrate with him. Referring to himself as both a “child of the Goan Renaissance” and a “child of modern times,” Datta Naik described himself as a person of conviction who stayed true to his beliefs and philosophy throughout his life.
He pledged to continue his social and professional commitments for the next decade, focusing on expanding his business, contributing more to literature, and engaging in socio-political activism.
Naik emphasised his desire to remain a voice for the people. Naik also extended apologies to anyone he might have hurt and noted that he had forgiven those who hurt him. “I ask for forgiveness for any harm I may have caused and have also forgiven those who hurt me,” he said.
Reflecting on his life, Datta Naik said, “I have always played on the front foot and maintained high moral standards. While I take pride in my intellectual confidence, I also embrace humility. I am an eternal rational optimist and will continue to protect the vibrant cultural diversity we cherish.”
He concluded his speech with a poetic flourish, reciting verses by Milan Kundera, Albert Camus, and Robert Frost.
Eminent industrialist and Fomento Group Chairman Auduth Timblo wanted to know why and how Datta Naik took to writing. Stating that 70 years is just the beginning, Timblo suggested that after writing in English, Konkani and Marathi, Datta should consider writing in Portuguese.
“Why have you not considered entering electoral politics, given the successful social campaigns you launched, shouldered and carried forward?” asked Timblo, adding, “It’s time Goans step forward to save Goa and take the state forward in all spheres.”
Adv Cleofato Almeida Coutinho, president of Dakshinayan (Goa Unit), praised Datta Naik’s lifelong contributions to social movements in Goa. He described Naik as a “conscience keeper” and a person who often swam against the tide, championing causes against communalism and societal hatred. He also highlighted Naik’s significant influence on Goa’s social, political, and cultural landscape since his student years.
Dr Shashi Tharoor presented Datta Naik with a painting by Dr Subodh Kerkar and a citation, which was read aloud by Dr Babita Angle.
The event was hosted by Dilip Prabhudesai, and Adv Cleofato Almeida Coutinho delivered the vote of thanks.
