Archive · 24 Jul 2026
102-Year-Old Lawyer Libia Lobo Sardesai's Secret Jungle Radio in Goa's Freedom Struggle
Libia Lobo Sardesai is a 102-year-old lawyer who played a crucial role in Goa's liberation from Portuguese rule.
She and her husband, Vaman Sardesai, ran a secret radio station called 'Voice of Freedom' from the jungles near the Maharashtra and Karnataka borders.
They broadcast news and messages to support the liberation movement.
Despite facing many challenges, including dangerous conditions and the risk of being shot down, they continued their work.
Their efforts were recognized with the Padma Shri award.
Libia and Vaman also had successful careers in public service and cultural heritage after Goa's liberation.
Libia Lobo Sardesai and Vaman Sardesai ran a secret jungle radio station called 'Voice of Freedom' to support Goa's liberation movement.
They broadcast news and messages from the jungles near the Maharashtra and Karnataka borders, close to Goa.
The radio station was set up in 1955 and continued until Goa's liberation on 19 December 1961.
Libia and Vaman faced many challenges, including dangerous conditions and the risk of being shot down.
Their efforts were recognized with the Padma Shri award, and they had successful careers in public service and cultural heritage after Goa's liberation.
- Who
- Libia Lobo Sardesai and Vaman Sardesai
- What
- Ran a secret jungle radio station to support Goa's liberation movement
- When
- From 1955 to 1961, with the final broadcast on 19 December 1961
- Where
- In the jungles near the Maharashtra and Karnataka borders, close to Goa
- Why
- To spread uncensored news and support the fight for Goa's liberation from Portuguese rule
Portuguese Rule
Goa's Liberation Movement
Control and Censorship
Portuguese Rule
The Portuguese imposed strict control and censorship, arresting anyone who opposed their rule.
Goa's Liberation Movement
The liberation movement sought to spread uncensored news and information to fuel the fight for freedom.
Use of Radio
Portuguese Rule
The Portuguese used radio as a tool to control information and maintain their grip on Goa.
Goa's Liberation Movement
The liberation movement used the 'Voice of Freedom' radio station to spread news and reconnect Goa with India.
- Age
- 102 years
- Role
- Lawyer and freedom fighter
- Radio Station
- Voice of Freedom
- Padma Shri Award
- 2025
- Liberation Day
- 19 December 1961
- Marriage
- 1964
- Portuguese Conquest of Goa
- 25 November 1510
- Operation Vijay
- 19 December 1961