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The Pin Code Connection: A Tale of Two Unlikely Places
As I stepped out into the warm evening air, I felt a cozy sense of recognition. I was back in the picturesque Latin Quarter of Panjim, for a walk around the Fontainhas.
This time, I was sharing the experience with my sister, Geetha, and our delightful storyteller, Hinaz, from Make It Happen.
Our small group gathered at the historic Panjim Post Head Office, and Hinaz began to share the significance of our starting point in her inimitable style and voice, revealing a fascinating story.
It’s a tale of ingenuity and problem-solving, and the power of creative thinking.
It’s also a story about connection, about two places that may seem worlds apart, yet share a common thread.
Panjim, the capital of Goa, and Maitri Station, a research outpost in Antarctica, share the same postal pin code – 403001. Yes, you read that right!
Two places, one in the tropics and the other in the frozen wilderness, are connected by a simple six-digit code.
So, why do these two disparate locations share the same postal pin code?
When the Indian Antarctic Programme set up the Maitri research station, they faced a unique challenge: establishing a reliable postal system in one of the most remote regions on Earth.
To simplify mail sorting and delivery, the Indian Postal Department assigned Maitri Station the same pin code as Panjim.
This decision enabled mail and packages to be easily routed through Panjim, which serves as a nodal point for forwarding mail to the Antarctic research station.
Even in our increasingly interconnected world, there are still surprises to be discovered, still threads that connect us in unexpected ways…
Hinaz’s face lit up as she shared a surprising story. A scientist from Maitri Station had once joined her tour, and he brought her a special gift – a keepsake she still treasures today.
In that moment, the story of the shared postal pin code had come full circle. And Hinaz, with her infectious enthusiasm and love for storytelling, had brought it all to life.
I looked around at our small group, and realised that we were all connected by more than just our shared interest in the Fontainhas walk. We were connected by the threads of curiosity, wonder, and a sense of adventure. And Hinaz’s story had reminded us that even in the most unexpected ways, we can find common ground and forge meaningful connections.
As we wandered through the narrow streets and picturesque alleys, we discovered quaint shops, cafes and historic landmarks. With each step, the Latin quarter revealed its stories.
As the evening drew to a close, Geetha turned toward me and smiled, we had shared a special experience.
About
Fontainhas is the Latin Quarter of Panjim, the capital city of Goa. This charming neighborhood is nestled on a hillside, overlooking the Ourem Creek.
It is a historic neighborhood that dates back to the 18th century. The area is characterized by colorful Portuguese-style buildings, narrow winding streets, and picturesque alleys. The architecture is a unique blend of Portuguese and Goan influences.
What can you do here?
- Stroll through the narrow streets: Get lost in the charming alleys and discover hidden gems, from quaint shops to historic landmarks.
- Visit the 31st January Road: This iconic street is lined with beautiful Portuguese-style buildings, cafes, and shops.
- Explore the Chapel of St. Sebastian: This historic chapel dates back to the 19th century and features stunning stained-glass windows.
- Enjoy the local cuisine: Savour traditional Goan dishes, from seafood to local desserts, at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the area.
Being mindful
Fontainhas is a charming residential area, and while photography is a big part of its appeal, please be mindful of the locals’ privacy. Some lanes are designated as photograph-free zones, so do ask permission before snapping away.
The streets can be steep and uneven, so wear comfortable shoes.
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Location
India Post Panjim Head Office
