Remembering Patrao: Ravi Naik was “Nischayacha Mahameru”

Margao: A memorial meet titled “Remembering Patrao” was held in Margao on Saturday, 1st November 2025, to pay rich tributes to former Chief Minister of Goa, late Ravi Sitaram Naik. The gathering fondly remembered him as “Nischayacha Mahameru”, a man of conviction, courage, and compassion who stood tall for the people of Goa through every phase of his political and personal life.

Speaking at the memorial, Madganvcho Awaaz & Youth Leader Prabhav Naik recalled how Ravi Naik’s leadership always carried a personal touch. “He believed in action, not slogans. His word was his bond, and his promise his mission,” Prabhav Naik said, describing him as a true Champion of the Common Man.

Sanjeev Naik, Leader of the Bhandari Samaj, shared emotional memories of Ravi Naik’s guidance and simplicity. “To me, he was not just ‘Patrao’, but a friend and teacher. He taught us that strength means standing by what’s right, even when you stand alone,” Sanjeev Naik said.

Prof. Ramrao Wagh spoke about Ravi Naik’s enduring vision for Goa’s youth and progress. “My brother, late Vishnu Wagh, had a love-and-hate type relationship with him, but they both respected each other. Ravi Naik believed that Goa’s strength lay in education and self-reliance. His political career may have ended, but his ideals continue to guide us,” Wagh said.

Others who spoke at the memorial included Vinod Shirodkar, Pradip Naik, Rohidas Naik, Gurudas Kamat, Mhalu Naik, Yogesh Nagvenkar, and Dattaraj Pai Fondekar. They remembered Ravi Naik as a fearless administrator, a leader of the masses, and a true son of the soil who bridged communities with his inclusive spirit.

Veteran journalist Anil Pai emphasised the need to document his remarkable journey. “A book on the life of Ravi Naik will serve as a guide for the next generations,” he said.

The event concluded with a collective pledge to carry forward Ravi Naik’s legacy of nischay (determination) and seva (service) for Goa. As one speaker summed it up — “Patrao may have departed, but his path of courage, simplicity, and conviction will continue to illuminate Goa’s journey ahead.”

Among those present were former Chairperson of Margao Savio Coutinho and Arthur D’Silva, Councillor Jaffer Mohammed, M. K. Shaikh, Dr. Rajendra Sanvordekar, Bhai Naik, and several other prominent citizens.