Candolim, Goa: The Aguad Port & Jail Complex, once a historical jail, has undergone a remarkable transformation into a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates Goa’s rich heritage and artistic spirit. Located along a picturesque shoreline, the complex has become a must-visit destination, particularly during the monsoon season, offering visitors an immersive experience that blends history, art, and modern culture.
The newly transformed site offers a diverse array of art and cultural exhibits, some of which are displayed in the former jail cells. These exhibits shine a spotlight on Goa’s unique history and cultural richness. The Aguad Interactive Museum (AIM), a state-of-the-art digital museum, forms the centerpiece of this cultural transformation. AIM uses interactive technology and multimedia storytelling to bring Goa’s past to life, celebrating the land, its people, and its traditions in an innovative and engaging manner.
Additionally, three major exhibitions currently hosted at the complex capture different aspects of Indian culture. The exhibition titled Indian Fashion, Timeless Elegance showcases the intricate craftsmanship of traditional Indian textiles, celebrating the enduring beauty of Indian fashion. Sahita Chitravali merges literature and visual art, creating a unique dialogue between text and image. The third exhibit, Kamal, focuses on the lotus, India’s national flower, exploring its versatility and significance across art, culture, and spirituality.
Mr. Naveen Chopra, CEO of Waterfront Experiences Pvt. Ltd., elaborated on the vision behind the transformation. “The shift from a historical jail to a cultural center was inspired by the opportunity to repurpose a heritage site in a meaningful way. Our goal, in partnership with the government of Goa, is to preserve the historical essence of the Aguad Jail while creating a dynamic space for the arts. The unique architecture of the complex has been preserved to honor its past, while also serving as a platform for exhibitions, performances, and community events for people of all ages.”
Chopra also highlighted the technological advancements introduced in the museum. “The Aguad Interactive Museum (AIM) was designed to bridge the rich history of Goa with modern technology. Through interactive displays and digital storytelling, we engage visitors with cultural and historical narratives, highlighting key events, figures, and traditions. We aim to captivate audiences and offer them a hands-on connection to Goa’s vibrant past.”
Curating the range of art and cultural exhibits at Aguad has been a meticulous process. “We have blended local and global elements to curate exhibitions that resonate with a wide audience. Collaborating with artists and cultural experts, we ensure that every exhibit enhances visitors’ understanding and appreciation of art, history, and culture while maintaining respect for the historical context of the venue,” Chopra said.
Preserving the historical integrity of the Aguad Jail posed some challenges. Chopra explained, “Our aim was to maintain the authenticity of the jail while introducing modern amenities. For instance, we retained the original bars of the jail cells to preserve the atmosphere, while adding necessary features like air conditioning and interactive exhibits. Balancing the heritage conservation guidelines with the demands of a modern cultural space was a delicate task, but we were committed to maintaining the site’s historical significance.”
More Read
The complex also houses the innovative Aguad Cinema, which screens films centered on Goa’s forts and its freedom struggle. “Aguad Cinema offers an engaging way to explore Goa’s history through film. By presenting significant historical events and cultural milestones in a cinematic format, we deepen visitors’ understanding and connection with Goa’s past,” Chopra remarked. The cinema hosts a nightly screening of a documentary on Goa’s forts and its role in the fight for freedom.
In addition to exhibitions and cinema, the Aguad Port & Jail Complex offers a range of activities for both tourists and locals. These include heritage walks, workshops, and cultural festivals. “We partner with organizations to create unique and immersive experiences. Whether it’s heritage festivals that celebrate Goan culture or interactive workshops, we strive to provide something for everyone while ensuring historical authenticity,” Chopra added.
As the Aguad Port & Jail Complex continues to grow, plans are underway to introduce even more cultural programming. “We’re looking forward to expanding our offerings with new interactive exhibits and are planning to reintroduce the Aguad fêtes and musical nights, ‘Tunes on the Tides,’ in October. Our goal is to continuously evolve while showcasing Goa’s rich heritage in innovative ways,” Chopra concluded.
Visitors can stay informed about upcoming events and activities by visiting the complex’s official website. With its seamless blend of historical preservation and contemporary culture, Aguad is set to remain a key cultural landmark in Goa for years to come.
