Panaji: Goa Governor P. S. Sreedharan Pillai on Monday visited 100-year-old freedom fighter Libia Lobo Sardesai in Panaji, applauding her dedication to the nation and calling the Padma Shri award bestowed upon her a fitting tribute to her selfless service.
Sardesai, who co-founded the underground radio station Voz da Liberdade (Voice of Freedom) in 1955, played a significant role in rallying Goans against Portuguese rule. The station broadcast nationalist news and updates, countering Portuguese propaganda and supporting the liberation movement.
During his half-hour visit, Governor Pillai commended her efforts during the struggle for Goa’s freedom, stating, “The Padma Shri award is a recognition of your immense dedication to the nation.” Sardesai humbly responded, “I don’t think I did anything extraordinary; I simply did what came my way.”
She also reflected on her journey, saying, “I thank God for this good fortune in my lifetime. Without God’s grace, none of this would have been possible.”
On the occasion of Goa’s liberation in 1961, Sardesai and her late husband, Vaman Sardesai, made aerial announcements in Portuguese and Konkani, informing people about the Portuguese surrender and the region’s freedom after 451 years of colonial rule.
The couple’s underground radio stations, Goenche Sodvonecho Awaz (Voice of Freedom of Goa) and Voz da Liberdade, were pivotal in supporting the nationalist movement and aiding the Indian Army’s communication efforts during the liberation.
Governor Pillai congratulated Sardesai on behalf of the Goa government and the Centre, expressing pride in her recognition and wishing her continued health and strength. Sardesai’s husband, late Vaman Sardesai, was also a Padma Shri recipient in 1992 for his contributions to the freedom movement and diplomacy.
