Goa no longer a 'bhog bhumi', tourists now coming here for yoga and temples: CM Pramod Sawant

Goa CM Pramod Sawant

Goa is the land of yoga and temples, not a 'bhog bhoomi' only for beaches and fun: CM Pramod Sawant

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said on Saturday that the coastal state, which draws tourists from all across the world for its casinos, coasts and party culture, isn't the land of pleasure but the land of yoga, devotion and cows.

At a recent cultural event in Goa, the CM shared his views on how the perception of Goa is changing. He said that Goa should no longer be seen only as a place for fun, beaches, and parties, what many used to call a ‘bhog bhoomi’ or land of pleasure. Instead, he believes Goa is better described as a ‘yog bhoomi’ (land of yoga and devotion) and ‘go-mata bhoomi’ (land of the sacred cow), highlighting its deep spiritual and cultural roots.

Speaking at the 'Sanatan Rashtra Shankhnad Mahotsav' in Ramnathi, North Goa, an event marking the 83rd birth anniversary of Sanatan Sanstha’s founder, Jayant Athavale, Sawant pointed out that more people are now visiting Goa to explore its spiritual side. "Tourists used to come here mainly for the sun, sand, and sea. But things are different now. People are coming to see Goa's beautiful temples and experience its rich traditions, he said, as reported by news agency PTI.

Sawant further said that the temples in Goa are not under government control and instead are managed by the local communities that have maintained age-old traditions.

He also referred to the legend of Lord Parashuram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who is believed to have created Goa by shooting an arrow into the Arabian Sea and reclaiming the land. “This is Lord Parashuram’s land,” Sawant said.

The Chief Minister further praised the role of local communities in preserving Goa's temple culture. He explained that unlike many other states, temples in Goa are not run by the government but by locals who have maintained age-old customs and rituals over the centuries.

Sawant also praised the Sanatan Sanstha for promoting Sanatan Dharma and helping people connect with their spiritual roots.