Goa Chitra, Goa’s first Ethnographic museum at Benaulim, Goa was graced by the Governor of Goa, His Excellency Dr. S.S. Sidhu on 1st March 2010. The distinguished Governor, listened carefully while Victor Hugo Gomes, the curator of the museum, along with his wife Aldina, explained the artifacts at Goa Chitra that showcase Goa’s rich cultural past and the toil and creativity of the people of the state. His Excellency was very impressed with the sustainable organic farm and how it is tied to the museum’s objectives, to collect, preserve and pay tribute to Goa's unique heritage for future generations. The Governor was intrigued by the commonalities between the sustainable agricultural practices and implements of the people of Goa with those of his home state, Punjab, the great food bowl of India. He was fascinated by Victor’s dedication and effort to singlehandedly collect, preserve, document and display the collection through self funding, and the generosity of the people of Goa. In his message the Governor noted, “A great museum, so rich and exquisite, more importantly documented as well. A unique attempt at preserving the past, to enrich the future. I admire the effort and labour that has gone into this venture”.

Victor explained that the genesis of the museum began many years ago when he started collecting old, discarded implements and tools from attics and storerooms because he was saddened to see reminders of a way of life disappear. But as the collection grew, he was awed by the richness of the culture and heritage that these objects represented, and the knowledge and skills of our forefathers. His quest to collect objects and artifacts led him to travel the length and breadth of Goa, to the remotest of villages, speaking to the village elders, documenting the ethnicity and rituals associated with every item.During his visit, the Governor launched The Goa Chitra Membership Drive and became its priveledged member. Membership to Goa Chitra is open to all and will allow individuals and institutions to become part of a greater purpose, while enjoying a rich schedule of exhibitions and events that explore Goan culture. The membership contribution will become part of an endowment that will be utilized to support many worthwhile projects, including Museum internships and research programs for Goan, Indian and overseas students and faculty, and exhibits, public programs, and lectures that take Goa's indigenous expertise to the world.