National Holidays

Considered one of the most important days in Goa's memory, also known as the forgotten war for freedom, December 19 commemorates the Indian Armed Forces ' liberation of Goa from Portuguese rule and the Indian subcontinent's complete independence. It is called the' Day of Independence for Goa.'

Although Indians celebrated their win, international communities gave a mixed response to the move. Although many praised the move and stood by India, many others like Portugal condemned the Indian troops ' ' invasion ' of Goa.

When is Boxing Day?
The public holiday is observed as part of the Christmas holidays in several countries on 26 December. Usually if December 26th is a Saturday or Sunday, it will be shifted and celebrated the next working day.

Boxing Day
It has been said that the Boxing Day name comes after Christmas day from people getting rid of empty boxes from gifts. The custom, while a beguiling idea, dates back to England in the Middle Ages, although the exact origin is debatable.

U Kiang Nangbah was a Meghalayan freedom fighter who led a rebellion against the British. He was publicly hanged by the British on 30 December 1862 at Iawmusiang in Jowai city, West Jaintia Hills district. Government of India issued a postage stamp commemorating him in 2001. In his memory a government college was also opened in 1967 at Jowai.

Nangbah was elected leader of the resistance in Jaintia and led the British attacks. The attacks spread across the hills of Jaintia and the British were forced to call in reinforcements to try to subdue the uprising.