Maritime Heritage of Goa and Uttar Kannada

First published in 2012, Maritime Heritage of Goa and Uttar Kannada explores a segment of India’s West Coast, stretching from Terekhol to Bhatkal. The maritime traditions of this region—including its distinctive boat designs, navigation techniques, deities, and beliefs—represent a unique blend of Malabar and South Konkan influences. Despite the region’s short and swift tidal rivers, maritime activity has historically penetrated inland, fostering a vibrant seafaring culture in these coastal areas, which are otherwise less agriculturally productive.

The book explores how the physical geography of the region shaped its maritime heritage, highlighting ancient ports such as Honnavar, referenced in the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea as Naoura, the first port of Damurike in Tamil country. Over time, ports like Bhatkal under the Bahamanis, Panjim under Portuguese rule, and Marmagao post-independence emerged as significant hubs. Today, modernization proposals for ports such as Karwar, Belikeri, and Honnavar aim to revitalize the region’s maritime infrastructure.

While maritime traditions across the region share similarities, Goa’s heritage bears distinct marks of Portuguese influence, particularly in its older settlements. The area is renowned for its outrigger long row boats, known as rampan, which are celebrated for their speed and agility. Adding to the cultural richness are the Konkani boatmen’s ballads, whose melodious tunes captivate music enthusiasts and preserve the spirit of the region’s maritime legacy. This book will be a valuable read for maritime historians, cultural scholars, and anyone interested in exploring the rich heritage of India’s coastal traditions.