Union Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh will inaugurate the Hutatma Smruti Smarak at Patradevi on August 26, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. The memorial has been established by the Government of Goa as a lasting tribute to the martyrs of the Goa Liberation Movement and their sacrifice for the nation.
Patradevi occupies a special place in the history of Goa’s liberation. It was here that one of the defining chapters of the freedom struggle unfolded, making the site a powerful symbol of courage, sacrifice and the collective resolve to free Goa from Portuguese rule.
On August 15, 1955, thousands of volunteers from across India participated in a peaceful satyagraha against Portuguese rule in Goa. Carrying Indian flags, the first group of satyagrahis entered Goa through Patradevi, where they were met with Portuguese machine-gun fire. Several satyagrahis lost their lives at Patradevi, while others were martyred at different locations during the movement. People from different parts of the country came together for Goa’s freedom, standing united in the face of Portuguese repression. Around 74 satyagrahis lost their lives in the struggle, leaving behind a legacy of courage and sacrifice that continues to be remembered in Goa.
Their contribution remains an important part of Goa’s liberation history and India’s larger story of the struggle for freedom. The State Martyrs Memorial at Patradevi commemorates their sacrifice and will provide a dedicated place for future generations to remember their courage and understand the sacrifices behind Goa’s liberation.
For citizens, the inauguration will be an opportunity to come together and pay homage to the martyrs. The Government of Goa has invited the public to attend the ceremony and join in remembering the heroes whose sacrifice remains an enduring part of Goa’s history.
Joining Shri Rajnath Singh, Union Defence Minister, at the inauguration will be Dr. Pramod P. Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa, along with Shri Shripad Y. Naik, Union Minister of State for Power; Shri Sadanand Shet Tanavade, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha); Shri Pravin Arlekar, MLA, Pernem; Shri Jit Arolkar, MLA, Mandrem; and Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Goa.
