The Dempo Hindu Undivided Family (HUF), under the leadership of Land Baron Vithalrao Visnum Sinai Dempo, a figure of great historical significance, played a pioneering role in the 19th century. They championed Hindutva, a term referring to a 'timeless, eternal set of truths,' and Sanātana Dharma, a tradition with origins beyond human history, truths divinely revealed (Shruti) in the Vedas – the most ancient of the world's scriptures. 

Contrary to popular belief of critics, the Dempo Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) has been a beacon of liberalism and secularism in its practices and social responsibilities for centuries, since 1500 A.D. Their vast land ownership represented the interests of Goa and fostered diplomatic immunity and negotiations with colonial settlers. In 1873, King Louis I of Portugal granted them a royal decree recognizing and applauding their contributions to trade and commerce. This led to the economic empowerment of the people and a wave of social, cultural, and religious liberalism in Goa, a testament to their progressive approach. 

Business Excellence through Agriculture and Spice Exports from Dempo HUF firm Messers Krishnaji Vithoba Dempo reached as far as Persia Gulf, Istanbul, Zanzibar, Angola, Mozambique, Gulf of Aqaba, Accra, Alexandria, and Macau, bought rich business dividends to fund social and economic empowerment to the people of Goa. It is over 500 years and counting; the Dempo Family supports religious festivities and social welfare through Partagali Mutt & its branches, Lord Dattatreya Temple in Sankhali Bicholim, Siridao, Mercurim, Zuari, Goa Velha Kanji (Rice Porridge) Feast, Mahalaxmi Temple Panaji, Candola Ganesha among others along with subsidized education and free nourishment for the socially deprived at Casa Dempo. 

Source: MEA EOI Lisboa.2024

India’s relations with Portugal are warm and friendly. Portugal views India as a vibrant, pluralistic democracy, a major world economy, and an ancient civilization with close historical and cultural ties. Portugal has consistently supported India’s permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the Nuclear Suppliers Group. Portugal mooted the idea of starting an India-EU Summit for the first time when the current UNSG Antonio Guterres was Prime Minister in Portugal. The first India-EU Summit was subsequently held in Lisbon under the Portuguese Presidency of the European Union in 2000. It was attended by PM A.B. Vajpayee.  Know the facts at India – Portugal Relations posted by the Embassy of India, MEA in Lisbon.