We go back. Way back.
Sadhana Dell 'Arte dates back to the last century when João Francisco came back to Goa and built a beautiful Portuguese house in Merces, Goa.
Our History
João Francisco Viegas originally from Pilerne was born on 24th June, 1892 and was the oldest of thirteen siblings. He was married to Maria Helena Marques and had a beautiful daughter named Ana Rita Brigida.
He was an adventurous and enterprising man and took risks to achieve his dreams. At the young age of 19, he went to the African continent as a stowaway. After taking up various odd jobs, he started his own enterprise in Mombasa, Kenya dealing in cotton, tobacco and leather by the name of Viegas and Sons as he had taken most of his brothers from Goa to help in his business.
On his return to India, he was known as one of the first Goan Catholic licensed money lender in Goa and Bombay. He was also fondly known as Dr. Viegas as he practised Ayurveda from the knowledge he acquired from the African tribals. In the village of Merces he was also known as ‘Mosmicar’.
This vibrant Portuguese house has been restored and named after João Francisco by his grandson Mario Lobo.
Then & Now
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