History of Goa with special reference to its feudal features

Abstract

This article deals with some aspects of the history of Goa from the fifth century AD to the early eleventh century in a larger historical perspective. It is a novel attempt to examine the issue of feudalism in Goa. During this period Goa was part of one or the other larger kingdoms of the Deccan and it existed as a feudatory political entity. It was a region that was much sought after due to its geopolitical and commercial importance. The various inscriptions issued by the Bhojas, Konkan Mauryas, Badami Chalukyas and Shilaharas are analysed here with a view to identify and delineate the feudal features that were present in early medieval Goa. They included decentralisation of political authority, system of land grants, sub-infeudation of land grants, absence of large-scale exchange of goods and dominant role of the Brahmanas in the management of land and administration. Such characteristics are noticed in Goa from the beginning of the fifth century AD to the end of the tenth century AD. Subsequently Goa witnessed the decline of feudalism, and increase in trade coupled with urbanisation. There was emergence of substantial trade and urbanisation in the region by the beginning of the eleventh century AD.