A single Instagram post has set off a storm of reactions online — not about politics, not about celebrities, but about Goa. For many, the coastal state represents a dream: slow living, palm trees, sea breeze, and a break from the chaos of big cities. But for entrepreneur Kirti Poonia, that dream eventually hit reality — and now, her honest reflection is prompting thousands to rethink what “paradise living” really means.
In this article, let us delve into the viral post that shook social media, the emotional reasons behind the founder’s move, the contrasting reactions it triggered, and what this debate reveals about changing lifestyles and expectations in Goa and Mumbai.
Credits: Hindustan Times
“I Loved Goa, But It Was Not All Good”
In her now widely-discussed post, Poonia wrote, “It has taken me 7 months to draft this post because I love Goa, it is a true paradise.”
She explained that while she experienced the idyllic village life many urban dwellers fantasize about, the everyday challenges eventually became too hard to ignore.
Her post included slides listing her reasons for relocation — a transparent breakdown that resonated with many but struck a nerve with others.
The Challenges Behind the Move
Poonia highlighted several pain points that shaped her decision:
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Poor Air Quality
Contrary to popular belief, not all of Goa offers pristine air anymore. Seasonal construction, burning waste, and infrastructure work have impacted air quality in several pockets. -
Garbage and Waste Management Issues
She pointed out that improper garbage disposal — especially in rapidly developing areas — has become a growing concern. -
Limited Emergency Medical Access
For many settlers and families, the lack of quick, reliable emergency care can be a dealbreaker. -
Unpredictable Public Transportation
Without a private vehicle, moving around can be tedious and time-consuming.
The tone of her message wasn’t bitter, but introspective — a celebration of what Goa gave her paired with an honest acknowledgment of what it couldn’t.
The Internet Responds: Support, Frustration, and Nostalgia
The comments reflected a spectrum of emotions — validation, pushback, and even grief over what Goa is becoming.
One user wrote:
“Excellent points and relatable… let’s not forget the miserable state of the roads. Eternally dug up and full of pitfalls.”
Another expressed concern over cultural and environmental shifts:
“I truly wish Goa doesn’t lose its soul to capitalism… the changes in the last decade are impossible to ignore.”
Some disagreed with generalization:
“Your experience is justified, but Goa is big and diverse. It takes time to find the Goa that fits you.”
And then there were voices from long-term residents — expressing disappointment about migration and rapid development:
“We lived peacefully until people started relocating here during COVID. We lost the Goa we knew.”
Paradise or Pressure Cooker? Depends Who You Ask
Poonia’s post has opened a larger discussion:
Is Goa still a serene escape or has it become the next overcrowded urban escape trend?
While for many, slow-paced life, community culture, and scenic beauty outweigh the drawbacks, others — especially entrepreneurs, families, and professionals — are discovering that day-to-day systems still fall short of expectations.
Credits: Curly Tales
Final Thoughts: A Personal Choice in a Changing Landscape
Kirti Poonia’s story isn’t just about moving cities — it’s about the evolving identity of Goa itself. As more people arrive seeking a quieter life, the very essence they seek risks being reshaped.
Her post reminds us that no place is perfect — not even paradise — and sometimes what looks dreamy from afar comes with trade-offs invisible until lived.
Whether her decision inspires or divides, one thing is undeniable: the conversation she sparked has made people rethink not just where they want to live, but why.
