5 BOOKS ABOUT GOA TO PREPARE YOU FOR THE SUSEGAD LIFE

Goa, with its lush paddy fields, swaying palms, and sun-kissed beaches, is a haven for relaxation and unwinding. Tourists flock here from all over the world, drawn to its laid-back charm. If you are someone planning a move to Goa for the first time, you need to know that beneath the surface of this tropical paradise lies a rich culture shaped by the “susegad” way of life – a slower, more contented pace that can be a delightful surprise for those used to the hustle and bustle of big cities.

If you’re planning a move to Goa, it’s worth trying to understand how things are done here and embracing the susegad philosophy. Here are five books that offer a glimpse into life in your new house in Goa:

1. The Greatest Goan Stories Ever Told, edited by Manohar Shetty

This anthology showcases the best short fiction from Goan writers, both in India and abroad, spanning the last century. With stories originally written in English, Portuguese, Konkani, and Marathi (and expertly translated), it paints a vivid picture of Goa’s diverse communities and complex history. This book reminds us that Goa is so much more than just beaches and parties; it’s a place with a rich tapestry of human experiences waiting to be discovered.

2. Susegad: The Goan Art of Contentment by Clyde D’ Souza

“Susegad” is a word you’ll hear often in Goa, and it perfectly encapsulates the local approach to life. D’Souza’s book about Goa delves into this concept, exploring the cultural and historical factors that have shaped it. It’s a blend of philosophy and ethnography that offers practical ways to incorporate susegad attitude into your own life, finding contentment amidst the everyday.

3. Becoming Goan: A Contemporary Coming-Home Story by Michelle Mendonça Bambawale

For a personal and relatable perspective, Bambawale’s memoir chronicles her return to Goa during the COVID-19 lockdown. With wit and warmth, she shares her experiences navigating Goan culture, community, history, and the environment, offering a charming and insightful look at what it means to “become Goan.” This is another great book about Goa to consider.

4. The Sting of Peppercorns by Antonio Gomes

Set in the turbulent 1960s, Gomes’s novel tells the story of a Catholic Brahmin family’s decline in Loutolim, Goa. It captures the dramatic changes that swept through the region during the pre- and post-Liberation era. The book about Goa offers a fascinating glimpse into Goan society at a pivotal moment in its history, exploring themes of identity, tradition, and change.

5. Mario’s Goa by Mario Miranda

If you prefer a visual journey, Mario Miranda’s iconic cartoons and illustrations capture the essence of Goan life with humor and keen observation. His work has become synonymous with Goan identity, and this collection offers a delightful and insightful look at the quirks and charm of its people. If you’re looking for a book about Goa that is more visual, this one is perfect.

These five books about Goa offer a diverse range of perspectives, inviting you to delve deeper into its culture, history,and way of life. Whether you’re seeking a literary escape, a philosophical exploration, or a visual feast, they’ll enrich your understanding of your new home and help you embrace the susegad spirit. As you prepare for your move to Goa, let these books be your guides, opening doors to a world of contentment and connection in beautiful Goa.

Explore the possibility of a susegad haven in your house in Goa with Satt Adhar!