Persons in News

Libia Lobo Sardesai: Voice of Goa’s Liberation Honoured with Padma Shri

Libia Lobo Sardesai, a pioneering freedom fighter and fearless broadcaster, has been awarded the Padma Shri in 2024 for her contributions to the Goan liberation movement. Her role in launching an underground radio station against Portuguese colonial rule has cemented her place in India’s freedom narrative.

🌺 Early Life & Political Awakening

• Born in Portuguese-ruled Goa in 1924, Libia moved to Bombay (Mumbai) during her youth.
• She became involved in student movements during college, deeply influenced by Portugal’s suppression of peaceful protestors in 1954.
• These early experiences solidified her commitment to Goa’s freedom.

📻 The Underground Voice of Freedom

• In defiance of Portuguese censorship, Libia and her husband Vaman Sardesai established an underground radio station.
• Initially known as ‘Q’, it evolved into ‘Goenche Sodvonecho Awaz’ and ‘Voz de Liberdade’ (Voice of Freedom).
• Operating from forests in Maharashtra and Karnataka, the broadcasts provided accurate updates on the liberation struggle, countering colonial propaganda.

🛡️ Life in the Shadows

• Libia and her team faced constant danger, working up to 18 hours daily in isolated jungle camps.
• News was painstakingly gathered, edited, and aired with minimal equipment and maximum courage.
• Their broadcasts became beacons of hope for Goans under colonial rule.

🕊️ The Final Act: Announcing Goa’s Freedom

• Just before Operation Vijay (India’s military action to liberate Goa), Libia and Vaman were relocated to Belgaum.
• On December 17, 1961, they transmitted a crucial message from India’s Defence Minister to the Portuguese administration.
• On December 19, 1961, Libia broadcasted from an Indian Air Force plane: “Today, after 451 years of alien rule, Goa is free.”
• Her voice echoed across a newly liberated Goa, marking a historic moment in India’s post-colonial journey.

🗺️ Timeline: Goa’s Journey to Freedom

• 1949: Diplomatic relations between India and Portugal established.
• 1951: Portugal reclassified Goa as an “overseas province”.
• 1955: Relations severed after Portugal refused to cede territory.
• 1961: Operation Vijay successfully liberates Goa, Daman, and Diu.

🧭 Goa’s Freedom Movement: A Snapshot

🏅 Legacy and Recognition

Libia’s fearless defiance and eloquence in amplifying the voice of a suppressed people is now etched in history with the Padma Shri honour. She symbolizes the spirit of resistance and the power of words in shaping a free India.