Monday, February 16, 2009

Betrayal of Love

Betrayal of Love

-by J P PEREIRA


Prince Jacob his latest tiatr titled 'Ami Chuklim', presents a tale of misguided love, its consequences and the final retribution. There are two families. Joe, his wife, their two sons, Trevor and Reagan and a brother in law called tatrist. The other family has Captain D'Souza, his brother Remete and an only daughter, Sasha. Now Trevor and Sasha are in love but the parents do not agree. So they end up marrying Belinda and Alvito, respectively, after hatching a plan that their love would continue even after their marriage. But do they succeed?
Watch the rest on stage in this sleek production that keeps the viewer engrossed and amused throughout. The script has some beautiful lines and the sets are changed without a hitch, to depict the houses of both the families. Don�t miss the comments on the state of Goan soccer and pay attention to the message that children should be encouraged to prove their talent.
The actors give their best. Annie Quadros is Sasha. A good performance with some humour thrown in, but the red dress and black boots look atrocious. Cookie is Belinda, sings well and dresses just as the scene demands. Watch her in the final moments when she turns down her husband. Bernard is Trevor and Simon is Alvito, the army captain. The former is wonderful as the desperate lover and so is the latter as the military man, playing the tough guy in style. Joe Rose gives another fine performance as the father, Reagan as himself and Jacinto as D�Souza, act well. Jacob is perfect as tiatrist providing plenty of humour but the pick is Humbert as Remete, asking to be called Rambo. His very first entry as the statue and throughout, he had the audience rolling with laughter with his dialogue delivery and actions. Superb!
The opening song is rendered by Annie. In between the acts there are some good solos from Joe Rose S Lemos, Simon Fernandes, Reagan and a trio from Reagan-Jacob-Humbert.
An entertainer, Not to be missed!!!

Mauzo calls for preserving, sustaining Konkani






Mauzo calls for preserving, sustaining Konkani

HERALD NEWS DESK/PANJIM, MARCH 1

Stating that Konkani society and Konkani culture are the by-product of Konkani language, eminent Sahitya Academy awardee Damodar Mauzo has called for preserving and sustaining this great legacy.
He was speaking at the one-day State level seminar on Konkani Language, Society and Culture organized by the Department of Konkani of MES College in collaboration with Goa Konkani Academy at the College premises.
Dr Olivinho Gomes, ex-Vice-Chancellor of Goa University, Paresh Joshi, Vice-Chairman of Murgaon Education Society, Principal Dr R V Hajirnis, Vice-Principal Dr R B Patil, co-ordinator and Head of Department of Konkani Cosma Fernandes were also present.
Konkani has its own tradition, long history and depicts the culture of Goa. Language helps the society to prosper. By preserving the cultural heritage through language the society can develop,? Mauzo added.
In his keynote address, Dr Olivinho Gomes gave a brief review of the Konkani language and elaborated on the relation between Konkani language, culture and society. In spite of the infiltration of several cultures in Goa, Konkani has maintained its identity with the Goan society. To preserve this age-old tradition of Konkani language, one should not sell the beautiful land of Goa but should preserve it for the future development of Konkani language and culture.
Paresh Joshi while addressing the gathering said that language enriches literature. Therefore, we should be open-minded to the different dialects and scripts of the language.
Cosma Fernandes explained the theme of the seminar to the august gathering and gave a brief history of Konkani literature and narrated the interrelation of Konkani language, culture and society.
Dr R B Patil proposed the vote of thanks while Satyawan Naik compered the inaugural ceremony.
Bhaskar Nayak, Director of Higher Education was the chief guest at the valedictory function.
In his speech, he said, ?the Konkani society should continue speaking in Konkani without falling prey to the influence of other languages. They should preserve the cultural identity by preserving the rich culture and heritage of Goa.
Prof M S Kamat, Vice-President of Murgaon Education Society remarked that literature depicts the true picture of the society. The Konkani society can be depicted in Konkani literature and culture. The more effective is the life, the more effective is the literature. Literature creates awareness in the society and helps to preserve culture.
Principal Dr R V Hajirnis welcomed the gathering while Dr R B Patil introduced the guest.
Prof Satish Bhute of St Xavier's College, Mapusa and Prof Sanjay Govekar of GVM's College of Education, Ponda commented on the seminar while Prof Hanumant Chopdekar of Chowgule College presented a report of the seminar proceedings.
In the first technical session, Dr Prakash Vazrikar, a play writer and lecturer presented the paper on Depiction of society in Konkani Natak. Mr. Tomazinho Cardozo, an eminent tiatrist presented a paper on ?Depiction of society and culture in tiatr.
Dr. Francisco Colaco gave a lucid presentation on ?Depiction of culture and society in Mando.
Prof. Newman Fernandes, Principal of St Xavier?s College, Mapusa chaired the first session.
The second technical session was chaired by Dr Narayan Desai, Principal of SS Angle Higher Secondary School, Dr Kiran Budkule presented a paper on Depiction of Culture and Society in Konkani Short Stories?. The eminent Sahitya Academy awardee Mhableshwar Sail presented a paper on ?Depiction of Culture and Society in Konkani Novel.
Dr Pandurang Phaldesai, Member Secretary of Kala Academy presented a paper on Depiction of Culture & Society in folklore. Students also spoke on the occasion.
Prof Cosma Fernandes proposed the vote of thanks while Ms Prerna Halankar compered the programme.
Konkani lecturers, teachers, students and eminent writers attended.

Tiatr script writing workshop at Vaddem Kurdi, Sanguem






Tiatr script writing workshop

HERALD NEWS DESK/PANJIM, MARCH 27


-- Goa Konkani Akademi and Konkani Machi Mogi Netorlim, Sanguem will organise a tiatr script writing workshop at Vaddem Kurdi in Sanguem taluka on March 30 from 10 am to 5 pm at Vaddem Church Hall.
Fr Tadev D'Silva Parish Priest of Vaddem Jurdi church will light the traditional lamp to inaugurate the workshop in the presence of Goa Konkani Akademi Vice President, Dr Tanaji Halankar; Agnelo Fernandes, ex member of GKA; Dr Rafael Fernandes, Goa university; Avinash Chari Kala Academy and Teotonio D costa-President of Konkani Machi Mogi Board member of GKA

Tiatr in Dubai on April 10

Tiatr in Dubai on April 10

HERALD NEWS DESK/PANJIM, MARCH 27

As an Easter treat for Dubaikars, Goan Konkani tiatrist Roseferns will stage "Maim - tuzo upkari hanv", a tiatr saluting indebtedness to mothers, in Dubai at the Al Nasr Leisureland on April 10 at 8 pm.
Roseferns and his entire troupe, including traditional musicians, will travel from Goa to perform in Kuwait and Dubai, UAE.

Jose Rod and Micheal D'silva from Kuwait will add glitter to the show, a hilarious comedy by Sally, which features one of the youngest singing sensations of the Konkani stage" three-and-a-half year old Baba Maythan.
The show is dedicated to all mothers, says a press release.

Goan musician Babush Santana to release album

Goan musician to release album

HERALD NEWS DESK/PANJIM, APRIL 3

Goan musician presently settled in Delhi, Babush Santana will release his first Konkani album "Mog - The greatest gift of God" on April 5 at 5 pm, at the Art Gallery Hall of Institute Menezes Braganza, Panjim.
The album will be released at the hands of Hema Sardesai, Goa's singing sensation while Prince Jacob, popular artiste of tiatr Stage will be the guest of honour.
Tomazinho Cardozo, President of Kala Mogi, Candolim will preside over the function. The function is organized by Kala Mogi, Candolim in collaboration with Institute Menezes Braganza, Panjim.
˜Mog - the greatest gift of God", his first Konkani album includes 10 songs. Lyrics are composed by Babush, Celin and Laura Santana and the music is provided by Babush Santana. Young Chico, Bushka and Jr, Chico have presented their songs in this album, says a press release.

Dr Jack de Sequeira Jayanti

Dr Sequeira jayanti at Merces

HERALD NEWS DESK/PANJIM, APRIL 17

Dr Jack de Sequeira Jayanti, annual commemoration of the 93rd birth anniversary of father of the opinion poll, Dr Sequeira will be celebrated on April 20 by the people of Merces under the organization of Goykaranchi Konkani Bhas,Songit, Kala ani Sonskrutai kendr-Merces, a registered body of the Konkani language, with its office at 297, Bamon Bhat, Merces, llhas, says a press release.
A series of Konkani programmes have been fixed on that day, featuring competitions in Konkani in essay writing, best hand-writing, drawing and distribution of sweets to the school children.
Later in the evening a Konkani Musical show named 'Goychem Daiz' produced by Agnelo de Borim will be held on the stage of Our Lady of Merces Church at 6.30 pm. The amateurs and professional artists and tiatrists from the Konkani Stage will perform for the evening. It is the first time that the Goa Government under the Department of Art and Culture is partly supporting this event.
It may be recalled that the NGOs and people from Merces are in the forefront in demanding the installation of the statue of their ex-MLA and the first Opposition Leader in the Legislative Assembly, says a press release.

Bonaventure D’Pietro awarded the Dalgado Puroskar

D’Pietro awarded Dalgado Puroskar
HERALD NEWS DESK/PANJIM, MAY 10

– Famous Konknni novelist and accomplished saxoph-onist, Bonaventure Peter Fernandes (or Bonaventure D’Pietro, as he is popularly known) was awarded the Dalgado Puroskar, a Lifetime achievement award at a well-attended function in the Kala Academy.
Past President of the Karnataka Konknni Sahitiya Akademi, Eric Ozario was the chief guest and conferred the award named by the Dalgado Konkani Akademi in honour of Monsenhor Sebastiao Rudolfo Dalgado, whose sterling work for the understanding of Konkani remains unparalleled to this day.
Noted Konknni writer and Sahitya Akademi winner Datta Damodar Naik was the guest of honour, while Fr Conceicao de Chagas e Silva, an active promoter of Konknni usage in Goa Archdiocese and beyond was the special invitee. The award function was held in collaboration with Kala Academy at Kala Aca-demy’s Black Box.
While congratulating the Dalgado Puroskar 2008 winner D’Pietro, Eric said, “There are two groups of people who work for Konknni. One group works for Konknni out of convenience. Ozario also congratulated Dalgado Konknni Akademi for choosing the right person for its prestigious award.
Welcoming the gathering, DKA President Premanand Lotlikar praised Bonaventure D’Pietro for enriching the Konknni language through literature by sacrificing even his livelihood.
The awardee was intro-duced by Floriano Fernandes, executive member of DKA.
Fr Conceicao D’ Silva expressed his satisfaction that the Goa Government is at last waking up to the reality and acknowledging that Konknni is alive in Roman script. “1 have realised one thing,” he said, “unless one makes noise, one is not heard by the Government.”
On the occasion, noted tiatrist Prince Jacob’s drama Roddonaka was released at the hands of Fr Conceicao D’Silva.
At the end of the function DKA secretary Jose Salvador Fernandes proposed the vote of thanks, while Daniel F de Sousa compered the function.

Shenoy Goembab Seva Kendra’s Tiatrotsav 2008

Tiatrotsav from April 30

BY HERALD REPORTER/PANJIM, APRIL 28


– Shenoy Goembab Seva Kendra’s Tiatrotsav 2008 will be held from April 30 to May 4 at late Frank Fernandes Nagar Goenchemal, Sanvordem.
Goa Tourism Development Corporation chairman Shyam Satardekar, who also is the local MLA and the organizing president of the event, told a press conference that Home Minister Ravi Naik will be the chief guest for inauguration.
The five tiatrs to be presented during the festival are Gharanchem Vatem, written and directed by Mario Menezes, Ekvott - written and directed by Domnic, Tuzo Upkari Hanv – written and directed by Rose Ferns and Sun Tya Gharachi – written and directed by Junior Regan, he said.
Satardekar added that besides the tiatrs, the festival will also feature various other competitions, which include monologues, fancy dress and jokes competition.
Senior tiatrist Remy Colaco and former director of art and culture M V Naik will also be felicitated on the occasion.
Chief Minister Digambar Kamat will be the chief guest for closing ceremony while Tourism Minister Mickky Pacheco will be the guest of honour.

Tiatr Academy will give boost to tiatrist






Tiatr Academy will give boost to tiatrist: Tomazinho
HERALD NEWS DESK
PANJIM, JUNE 11

– The panelist comprising of tiatrist at a debate titled: ‘Is tiatr achieving the aspirations of Goans?’ were unanimous in their opinion that tiatr which has an impact on the Goan society needs to be encouraged by the government through subsidy, reserved plots, extra awards and setting up of a tiatr academy.
Senior Tiatrist, Tomazinho Cardozo while explaining the history of Tiatr that existed since 1892 said that ‘Tiatrist need financial support and government must hasten the setting up of a Tiatr Academy which has already been sanctioned which will further give a boost to tiatrist. Our standards are increasing but professionalism is lacking, but tiatr in Goa will never die and has a bright future, he said.
When asked why there is no censorship for ‘Tiatr’ in Goa when the same existed during the Portuguese regime and even currently exists in other states including Maharashtra, he said that in a democracy the freedom of expression must not be curtailed, besides in Goa there is no room for vulgarity or obscenity as what the Goan viewers want is clean fun and a good entertainment package.
Another senior tiatrist, Joe Rose who started acting from the age of seven said that although he has been performing in Goa, he was not considered for the state award merely because he did not have a 15 year residency certificate. I was an artist in Bombay, but I am a Goan, besides art and culture has no boundaries and why this injustice? he questioned.
Prince Jacob a tiatrist whose tiatrs are popular said that it is important to convey a good message and have a high-quality story because the show is watched by the whole family. When asked how he selects his topics, he said that it is based on everyday issues.
An upcoming female tiatrist Dolla Mascarenhas said that more women should be encouraged to take part in tiatr as they too have excellent talent. Juino De Souza moderated the debate.

Now a tiatr on Scarlet?

Now a tiatr on Scarlet?
HERALD NEWS DESK

PANJIM, JUNE 2 — Renowned Goan tiatrist Roseferns has released a tiatr – Goenkara, Tum Ragar Zainaka – in memory of 15-year-old Scarlet Keeling, whose death at Anjuna rocked the state earlier this year.
The protagonist’s role in the tiatr is played by Antonette de Maina. The play has people dancing to trance music; it explores her life before her death, drugs, sex, and the events surrounding her death, including the botched investigation. The director, known as ’King of Centuries’, has used beach shack scenes as backdrops.

Konkani writer Pundalik bags Gulab award

Konkani writer Pundalik bags Gulab award
HERALD REPORTER

MARGAO, JULY 20 – Noted Konkani writer and activist, Pundalik Naik is the recipient of the prestigious Gulab Man of the Year 2007 Award, while the Sportsperson of the Year award was bagged by Chess child prodigy Ivana Furtado.
The awards instituted by Konkani magazine Gulab were awarded to the various recipients mostly from the field of tiatr at a glittering ceremony at the Gomant Vidya Niketan on Sunday.
Commissioner NRI Affairs, Eduardo Faleiro, who was the Chief guest, called for providing all facilities and schemes to Roman script on par with Devnagiri Konkani. He, however, strongly favoured primary education in Devnagiri script.
Minister for Water Resources Filipe Neri Rodrigues, Fr Concessao D’Silva, Fr Diego Fernandes, Tony Dias, Bishuth Themudo were amongst the host of dignitaries present at the packed GVN auditorium.
The winners of Gulab awards 2007 is as follows: Man of the Year Pundalik Naik , Gulab Writer of the year Soter Barreto, sportsperson of the year Ivana Furtado, Best writer Comedian Agostinho (Sir), Best Director Roseferns (Ami Goenkar Tumi Konn), Best musician Carlito Fernandes (Amkam Xanti Di), Best Actor Fermino Goes (Ami Goenkar Tumi Konn), Best Actress Felcy Rebello (Kiteak Ho Bazar Cholta), Best Actor in comedy role Comedian Selvy (Sir), best singer (male) Francis De Tuem, best singer (female) Roshan, Outstanding performance, child artiste Baby Rioma Menezes.
The Goan Review’s Personality of the Year 2007-08 is Romaldo Rodrigues.
Winners of Fr Freddy J Da Costa Memorial Trust’s Konkani literary competition held in May 2008 is as follows : Group A – first prize Prerna S Fernandes, second prize Claudia Gomes. Group B – First prize Delivia E D’Souza, second prize Shuelle C Dias.
Group C – First prize Slyvia Pinto, second prize Melisia Estibeiro.

Konkani Tiatr Amcho Ghanv Samballat






CM supporters protest against a scene in Amcho Ghanv…
HERALD REPORTER

MARGAO, AUG 4 – Just released Konkani Tiatr Amcho Ghanv Samballat – which revolves around the burning mega housing issue – has kicked up a row of sorts with supporters of Chief Minister Digambar Kamat taking strong exception to a scene reportedly showing a singer garlanding the portrait of the Chief Minister.
Taking offence to the scene, agitated citizens led by New Market Traders Association, Vinod Shirodkar complained to Margao Police Station, saying the scene was highly objectionable as garlands are put on a portrait only when a person is dead.
Tiatr Director and the King of Double Centuries, Menino de Bandar, who was called to the police station, on Monday afternoon sounded apologetic for the scene, which he said took place without his knowledge.
The agitated citizens asked the police to take strong cognizance of the scene. Shirodkar maintained that they have no objections for critical songs or scenes, but showing a scene when the Chief Minister is alive is indeed bad. “Why only the Chief Minister, we the citizens would have objected if Churchill Alemao or any other politician or personality was shown in such a manner”, Shirodkar added.
Menino de Bandar told the police that there was no intention to offend anyone and promised to rectify the scene.
According to him, this particular scene is not connected to the tiatr and was part of a song. “I was in the dressing room when the singer sang the song. I have now told the actor not to sing the song again. I too felt bad when I was told about the scene. I don’t want my tiatr to be bogged down in any such controversy”, Menino said.
Margao police station incharge, PI Rajendra Prabhudesai told Menino de Bandar that he cannot shirk his responsibility, saying the Director is responsible for the scene.
PI Prabhudesai later told Herald that he would write to the Association of Tiatrists as well as the District Magistrate, South to work out a mechanism to avoid repetition of such incidents.
In the recent past, tiatrist William de Curtorim had to face the brunt of supporters of PWD Minister, Churchill Alemao for singing a song on the Navelim MLA.

Applications invited for tiatr contest





Applications invited for tiatr contest
HERALD NEWS DESK

PANJIM, JULY 22 — Kala Academy Goa invites entries for participation in the forthcoming 34th Tiatr Competition, which will be held from September 8 onwards at the Dinanath Mangeshkar Kala Mandir, Campal, Panjim.
The entries should reach KA latest by August 8 before 4 pm. In a press release, the Kala Academy has appealed to all the desirous institutions registered under the Societies Registration Act 1860 to submit their entries in the prescribed format which is available along with the copy of the rules and regulations of the competition at the Programme and Development Section of KA during office hours.
The rules of the competition have been revised by KA and the institutions will have to pay Rs 100 as entry fee and an amount of Rs 1,000 as Security Deposit, which will be refunded immediately after the performance.
The programme sequence will be decided by KA on August 8 at 4.45 pm by draw of lots in the presence of the representatives of the institutions and thereafter five days time will be given for withdrawal of entries. The participating institutions are also required to submit their registration/ renewal certificate along with the entry form.
All the participating institutions are required to note the revised rules and accordingly submit their entry forms.

Photojournalist Menino Afonso is no more

Photojournalist Menino Afonso is no more
HERALD REPORTER
PANJIM, OCT 10 Goa’s famed photojournalist of 1980s and 1990s Menino Afonso, died early Friday morning.
The 58-year old photojournalist, who created ripples with his photos during his hey days, was Herald’s accredited photographer for many. Once he was beaten by the police while covering an agitation.
His body was found floating in the Ourem creek, here, early today morning. Police said he may have jumped into the creek during the wee hours today. Afonso was the first photographer to start photography classes. Many of his students who have made a name for themselves have attributed their success to him.
Recently, he was felicitated by PJAG in Panjim. Afonso had also penned and directed several tiatrs and had won many Kala Academy awards in tiatr competitions.
His funeral will take place on October 11. There will be Eucharistic celebration at Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim at 4 pm followed by burial at St Inez cemetery.

‘Proposed Tiatr Academy to become reality soon’

‘Proposed Tiatr Academy to become reality soon’

HERALD REPORTER/MARGAO, OCT 13, 2008


Chief Minister, Digambar Kamat has said that the proposed Tiatr Academy will become a reality later this month.
“The government has framed the Constitution to guide the functioning of the Academy. The Tiatr Academy should fall in place by this month”, Kamat said, while addressing a function held to mark the second anniversary of Konkani monthly magazine Jivit.
The Chief Minister informed the gathering about the steps taken by his government to promote Konkani in Roman script.
Various speakers, including deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly, Mauvin Godinho, urged the government to work out an advertising policy for newspapers and magazines published in regional languages.
Tomazinho Cardozo said the government’s new advertisement will affect the small newspapers and magazines published in the regional language and called for a separate policy for the periodicals in regional languages.
Cardozo also raised the demand for according official status for Konkani in Roman script for the development of Konkani language.
Mauvin Godinho, Vincy Quadros and others echoed similar sentiments when they urged the government to protect the interest of small newspapers and periodicals published in local languages.
Noted Konkani activist, Eric Ozario also spoke.

DKA’s convention at Margao

DKA’s convention at Margao
HERALD REPORTER
MARGAO, DEC 13

The Dalgado Konkkni Akademi will hold its first ever two-day Konknni Roman script literature and culture convention on December 20-21 at Pai Tiatrist Joao Agostinho Fernandes Nagar, Ravindra bhavan, Margao.
Addressing a press conference, Working President of the Dalgado Konkkni Akademi Vincy Quadros said the convention will give an opportunity to al the writers, readers, publishers, producers, artists and lovers of Konknni literature and culture to come together and communicate with fellow men thereby enhancing the prospects of Konknni literature and culture.
The two-day convention will be formally inaugurated at the hands of Chief Minister Digambar Kamat in the presence of deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly, Mauvin Godinho.
Eminent Konknni personalities from the fields of literature and culture will be felicitated for their achievements. PWD Minister, Churchill Alemao will be the chief guest at the concluding ceremony on December 21 at 5.30 pm.
The concluding ceremony will be followed by a tiatr Tandllanchem Kestanv, which will be specially staged for the occasion. Written by Pai Tiatrist Joao Agostinho Fernandes, the drama is directed by Anil Kumar and includes a cast of top Konknni actors and singers.

Konkani Tiatr Academy to be formed in Jan: CM

Konkani Tiatr Academy to be formed in Jan: CM
HERALD REPORTER

MARGAO, DEC 20
The two-day first Konknni Romi Lipi Sahitya and Sonvskruti Sammelan got underway at the Ravindra Bhavan here on Saturday, with Chief Minister, Digambar Kamat expressing Government’s firm support and commitment to literature and writers in Konkani in Roman script and announced formation of the Konkani Tiatr Academy next month.
After inaugurating the two-day sammelan at a glittering function organized by Dalgado Konknni Akademi, the Chief Minister it is the duty of the Government to support and encourage writers, artistes pursuing literature and culture in Roman script.
“I sincerely feel that people who write in Romi script need encouragement”, he said and reminded the audience that the Government has officially cleared and completed formalities to set up a Konkani Tiatr Academy.
Reassuring that the Government would extend all support to writers and literature in Konkani in Romi script, Kamat said this is one reason behind the Government’s decision to allocate Rs 15 lakh financial grant to Dalgado Konknni Akademi so that writers get the much-needed financial assistance in the field of literature.
Admitting that there was a feeling of injustice amongst Konkani writers in Romi script, the Chief Minister said it is the duty of the Government to support and encourage writers to produce the best literary works.
“When many people including office bearers of Dalgado Konkani Akademi came to me with many demands, including the demand to name the AC auditorium hall after Pai Tiatrist Joao Agostinho Fernandes, I agreed with the demand”, he said.
In his key note address, convenor of Thomas Stephens Konknni Kendra, Fr Pratap Naik demanded rightful place for Konkani in Romi script on par with Konkani in Devnagiri script. “We do not want any favour from the Government, but our rightful place on par with Devnagiri. Our politicians should give us our rightful place or else the people will take a right decision in the next elections”, he warned.
Saying that Chief Minister, Digambar Kamat has shown his interest to encourage Konkani in Romi script, Fr Naik said a lot needs to be done by the Chief Minster and reminded Kamat of his assurance to take everyone into confidence to solve the language row.
At the outset, a Konkani entertainment program was staged by Prince Jacob, which was well received by the audience.
President of the Sammelan Vincy Quadros welcomed, while President of Dalgado Konkani Akademi Premanand Lotlikar also spoke.

Appeal to the tiatrists to remain united






Churchill demands official status for Konkani in Roman script

HERALD REPORTER/MARGAO, DEC 29, 2008

PWD Minister Churchill Alemao on Monday again made a strong demand for according official status for Konkani in Roman script on par with Konkani in Devnagiri script.
He was speaking at the 2nd award ceremony organised by Konkani Songit Somajik Kala Kendr in memory of the Father of the Opinion Poll, Late Dr Jack de Sequeira for Goan Tiatrists and other personalities at the Gomant Vidya Niketan hall.
Alemao said that Goan identity will be wiped out from Goa in the next 50 years if Konkani in Roman script is not given official status.

Referring to the recent announcement by Chief Minister, Digambar Kamat that the government would provide Rs 15 lakh financial assistance to the Dalgado Konkani Akademi, Alemao said the CM’s gesture is welcomed by the Romi script lovers, but reiterated that Konkani in Roman script should get its due officially status.
Making a fervent appeal to the tiatrists to remain united and support the cause of Romi script, the PWD Minister said the tiatrists are responsible for preserving and protecting Konkani in Romi script in the State.

Alemao also paid rich tributes to late Jack de Sequeira, for leading the movement to save Goa from the merger with Maharashtra.
Leading personalities from the Konkani tiatr and footballers were felicitated at the hands of the PWD Minister.

Tiatr festival gets underway at Neturlim

Tiatr festival gets underway at Neturlim
HERALD NEWS DESK

PANJIM, JAN 7
The second Konkani tiatr festival was inaugurated by senior actor Fransquina Fernandes from Neturlim village at Neturlim, Dongrim recently.
Fransquina appreciated GKA for organising such a festival for the people of Neturlim and recollected her days as an artist and expressed deep gratitude towards organisers for giving her an opportunity to inaugurate the 2nd Tiatr Festival of GKA.
N Shivdas, President of Goa Konkani Akademi (GKA) presided over the inaugural function. Sanguem MLA and chief guest Vasudev Gaonkar lauded the Goa Konkani Akademi for organising the five-days tiatr festival.
Earlier the president of Konkani Machi Mogi, Teotino D’Souza welcomed and appealed the locals to make the festival a success. Later a tiatr ‘Pull lam’ was staged by the Alfi Art production of Divar. Sarpanch Shashikant Gaonkar was the guest of honour on the occasion.

John, Elvis, Vishnu among Youth Achiever awardees

John, Elvis, Vishnu among Youth Achiever awardees
HERALD REPORTER
PANJIM, JAN 29

Well-known tiatrist John D’Silva, ‘Mando Prince’ Elvis Goes and Vishnu Wagh are among the awardees of the Yuva Srujan Puraskar (Youth Achiever Award) instituted by the State government.
Eight names for the award were announced following their selection by the Selection Committee headed by chairman Shreedhar Kamat Bambolkar.
Chief Minister Digambar Kamat who is also the Minister for Art & Culture announced the names of the awardees at a press conference held here Thursday.
The awardees include: Vijaykumar Naik for drama, Mrs Prachala Amonkar (music), Viraj Naik (painting/fine art), Elvis Goes (folk art), Vishnu Wagh (literature), Joao Francisco Silva alias John D’Silva (tiatr), Suhas Vaze (kirtan) and Sonu Shetgaonkar (craft).
Yuva Srujan Puraskar is one of the schemes of the Cultural Policy to honour young talents upto the age of 45 years who have excelled or given extraordinary contribution in their respective field of art and culture, Mr Kamat said.
The scheme is being implemented by the department of Art & Culture which came up with State Cultural Policy last year.
It is being implemented for the first time from this financial year. Every year, eight persons in the field of music/dance/drama/tiatr, folk-art, creative photography/painting, craft, sculpture, bhajan/kirtan, literature, film would be considered for presenting the Yuva Srujan award.
It was announced that the awardees will get a memento, certificate of appreciation and a financial purse to the extent of Rs 10,000 per artist. The award presentation function will be held shortly.
AWARDEES: Vishnu Surya Wagh is a multifaceted personality achieving great heights in the field of drama, poetry, literature and journalism. Born in Mandur-Dhongri village in Tiswadi, Vishnu has written 18 Marathi books, 8 in Konkani, 15 short plays and four publications of poems. He is also a good orator. Marathi plays written and directed by him have won prizes at national level.
Elvis Goes is a well-known folk artist hailing from Quepem. He is a singer, composer, writer, musician and dancer of repute.
John D’Silva, noted dramatist, playwright, director of Konkani stage. He has written 25 tiatrs and has performed in the Gulf and different parts of India.
Sonu Shetgaonkar from Mandrem is a master craftsman, running Coco Arts, a handicrafts emporium.
Vijaykumar Naik is playwright, director and actor from Ponda.

Mando festival enthralls audience






Mando festival enthralls audience
HERALD NEWS DESK

PANJIM, FEB 13
Mando lovers had a delightful evening at the recently held All Goa Mando Festival organized by TAME (Tourism Airline Management Education), in association with Department of Art and Culture at a nearly packed Pai Tiatrist Joao Agostinho Fernandes indoor Auditorium, Ravindra Bhavan Margao.
The festival was inaugurated by Rev Fr Bernard Cotta with the lighting of the traditional lamp and release of the Souvenir and DVD at a subsided rate.
The Festival witnessed 6 troupes in the traditional category. Mando Mogi, Margao led by Pervez Gomes won the First Prize and in the Original Category -Goenchim Noketrem, Sarzora led by Marianela Gina Dias won the First Place while Harmonizer’s Chorus Utorda led by Alvaro Pereira won the second place in both categories. Consolation prizes were presented to Vel’lencho Nad Velim led by Nifa Correia and Nuvemchim Mankam Motiam Nuvem led by Inacio Palmeira and Fatordchem Fulam, Fatorda led by Peter Azavedo.
Tomazinho Cardozo was felicitated by Water Resources Minister Filipe Neri Rodrigues with a coconut, shawl and trophy.
Filipe Neri Rodrigues praised Tomazinho Cardozo and said it was a honour to felicitate a multi-faced personality, comparing him to that what Dev Anand is to Bollywood, Tomazinho Bab is to the Konkani Stage.
The Minister highlighted that Mando was just not a song and dance but most of the lyrics in the original category were on relevant social issues like garbage, drug abuse, SEZ, regional plan which in turn awakens the government to take timely action.
Filipe Neri congratulated the management of TAME and called upon the audience to consolidate efforts to promote and cherish social cultural values.
Director of TAME informed how Water Resources Minister Filipe Neri Rodrigues was instrumental in encouraging TAME to commence the Mando Festival 5 years back.
Earlier a DVD on Mando Festival was released at a subsided rate. Dr Roopa Chari compered the function. Jury for the Mando Festival comprised of Fr Bernardo Cotta, Telma Gracias and Jose Marie Da Silva.

Mando festival enthralls audience

Mando festival enthralls audience
HERALD NEWS DESK

PANJIM, FEB 13
Mando lovers had a delightful evening at the recently held All Goa Mando Festival organized by TAME (Tourism Airline Management Education), in association with Department of Art and Culture at a nearly packed Pai Tiatrist Joao Agostinho Fernandes indoor Auditorium, Ravindra Bhavan Margao.
The festival was inaugurated by Rev Fr Bernard Cotta with the lighting of the traditional lamp and release of the Souvenir and DVD at a subsided rate.
The Festival witnessed 6 troupes in the traditional category. Mando Mogi, Margao led by Pervez Gomes won the First Prize and in the Original Category -Goenchim Noketrem, Sarzora led by Marianela Gina Dias won the First Place while Harmonizer’s Chorus Utorda led by Alvaro Pereira won the second place in both categories. Consolation prizes were presented to Vel’lencho Nad Velim led by Nifa Correia and Nuvemchim Mankam Motiam Nuvem led by Inacio Palmeira and Fatordchem Fulam, Fatorda led by Peter Azavedo.
Tomazinho Cardozo was felicitated by Water Resources Minister Filipe Neri Rodrigues with a coconut, shawl and trophy.
Filipe Neri Rodrigues praised Tomazinho Cardozo and said it was a honour to felicitate a multi-faced personality, comparing him to that what Dev Anand is to Bollywood, Tomazinho Bab is to the Konkani Stage.
The Minister highlighted that Mando was just not a song and dance but most of the lyrics in the original category were on relevant social issues like garbage, drug abuse, SEZ, regional plan which in turn awakens the government to take timely action.
Filipe Neri congratulated the management of TAME and called upon the audience to consolidate efforts to promote and cherish social cultural values.
Director of TAME informed how Water Resources Minister Filipe Neri Rodrigues was instrumental in encouraging TAME to commence the Mando Festival 5 years back.
Earlier a DVD on Mando Festival was released at a subsided rate. Dr Roopa Chari compered the function. Jury for the Mando Festival comprised of Fr Bernardo Cotta, Telma Gracias and Jose Marie Da Silva.

‘Hanv Porot Ietelim’ silver jubilee show in Panjim

‘Hanv Porot Ietelim’ silver jubilee today

HERALD NEWS DESK/PANJIM, FEB 13

The Silver Jubilee show of ’Hanv Porot Ietelim’ will be staged on February 14 at Kala Academy A/C Hall, Panjim at 7.30 pm.
This Tiatr is a story of a widowed mother’s love for her son who brings up the child in face of great difficulties. She manages to educate him as she had made a promise to her late husband. The Boy completes graduation with distinction while falling in love with a girl(Candy) at college. Candy’s father, a very rich man coaxes Remy to leave his mother and his house for Candy’s and Remy acquiesces.
This Tiatr portrays revenge and downfall of Remy. The tiatr has 13 songs comprising of solos, duos, trios with comedians adding to peels of laughter. The tiatr is written, directed and produced by Socorro de St Cruz. The cast includes S Tari, Felina, Maria, Peter de Merces, Ruzai, Ave, Cameron, Baptist, Cosma, Jose de Agassaim, Justu, Sonia, Cyril Almeida, Comedian Mathew de Merces, Comedian Rosario de Maina, Albert, Bautist and Socorro de St Cruz. The Music is provided by Romeo with Alistair, Glenn, Ashley alongwith special light effects by Baltu.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Konkani Songit Kala Kendr's award ceremony

Konkani Songit Kala Kendr's award ceremony

PANAJI- Konkani Songit Somajik Kala Kendr will be organising a musical show followed by 2nd Award Ceremony in memory of late Dr Jack de Sequeira, father of the Opinion Poll on December 29,2008 at Gomantak Vidhya Niketan Hall, Margao at 3 p.m. As a befitting tribute to Dr Jack de Sequeira, the Kendr is organising this show and Award Ceremony to make the future generation aware of the role played by Dr jack de Sequeira during the opinion poll.
Tiatrists who will receive the award include Roshan Best Acress (outstanding performance as a mother in Maria Menezes �He Mai Konachi�), Salude Loutolim (best actor for his dynamic role as a police officer in Agostin Police), Comedian Luis Bachchan (Best Commedian), Peter de Benaulim (Best Composer), Osvi Viegas (performing as a artist for 50 years on Goan stage), Cibal Cabral (Best Female Child Artist), Marcus Vaz (Best Male Singer), Norman Cardozo (Best Musician), Dir Agostian for Drama �Police� Tiatra of the year), �Dempo Sport Club (Team of the year) Livia D�Silva (Best Female Singer), Francis de Tuem (King of Goa�s Political Songs), Wilmix-Sharon (Best Duet of the 70�s still going strong), John Claro (Writer), Sandeep Calangutcar (Veteran Actor, director and winner of many awards at the Kala Acaademy Tiatra competition).
The PWD Minister, Mr Churchill Alemao will be the Chief Guest on the occasion and South Goa MP Mr Francisco Sardinha and Mr Anthony D�Souza will be the guests of honour.

(The Navhind Times)

Mathew Araujo gets Gulab Award 2003

ARCHBISHOP GETS GULAB AWARD:

The Archbishop-Patriarch, Rev Filipe Neri Ferrao, was awarded the 'Man of the Year 2003' during the 'Gulab' awards ceremony held at the Gomant Vidya Niketan, Margao. The best writer award in Roman script was claimed by the editor of monthly magazine Rotti, Fr Moreno D'Souza. In the field of tiatr, Mathew Araujo was selected as the best actor in the drama, Devak Zai Zalear, while Sabina won the best actress award for the drama, Tiatr Somple-Cholat Ghara. A cultural programme comprising of
songs dedicated to late Fr Freddy J da Costa, mandos and a skit was also
held on the occasion.

(The Navhind Times / 27-11-2004)

Rosary Ferns' Volume 8 audio cassette "Padre Pio"

Padre Pio

Rosary Ferns after the success of Volume 8, has now
released its latest cassette "Padre Pio".

Padre Pio features songs by leading tiatrist and
singers like Xavier Gomes, Prince Jacob, Menino Mario,
Liciano Dias, Young Chico, Antonette, Lucy, Rosary
Fernandes, Josephine, Jr. Rod, etc.

The songs in this cassette includes Padro Pio, Time,
Bhikik Soumta, Sirvis Kor, Guru, Put, Loz Dista,
Sacrifice, Sovoskai, Mog ani Dekh and Goa to Kuwait.

The cassette is released and marketed by V P Sinari
and Sons, Goa's only music store.
(Info source: Gomantak Times)

- Forwarded by www.goa-world as posted in the Gulf Goans e-Newsletter/23-Sept-2001
http://dir.groups.yahoo.com/group/gulf-goans/message/1209

IFFI 2004 Programme Schedule includes Konkani Play

IFFI PROGRAMME SCHEDULE: 29th November to 09th December 2004

- Cultural Parade: 2.30 pm to 4.30 pm from Ribandar Circle to Parade
Grounds.
- AR Rehman Show at the Dinanath Mangueshkar Kala Mandir hall, on
November 29 evening.
- Opening Ceremony: 29th November, 2004: Tidal Wave + Fore Front
bands, Fireworks, from 6.00 pm onwards.
- Vintage Car Rally: 05 December, 2004: 4.30 pm onwards from
Ribandar Circle to parade grounds.
- Beach Cinema: 30th Nov: Mission Impossible; 01st Dec: Dhoom (H);
02nd Dec: Hum Tum (H); 05 Dec: E.T.; 07th Dec: Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge
(H); 08th Dec: Gladiator (At Miramar Beach from 6.00 pm onwards)
- Kala Academy: 30th Nov: Konkani Play: Sangod; 01st Dec:
Bhangarallem Goem; 02nd Dec: English Play - Class of '84; 03rd Dec: Fusion
Jazz concert, Brown Indian Band. 04th Dec: Marathi play - Lekure Udentye
Zali; 05th Dec: Indian Music and Dance Recital by kala Academy; 06th Dec:
Konkani Play - Teen Paishancho Tiatr; 07th Dec: Western Music Performance by
Kala Academy; 08th Dec: Kuch Bhi Ho Sakta Hai, Hindi Movie starring Anupam
Kher. (At the Large Amphitheatre from 6.30 pm onwards).
- Shaan Concert: 04th Dec: Miramar Beach from 7.00 pm onwards.
- Amrit Lala on 06th Dec at Miramar beach from 7.00 pm onwards.
- IFFI Amusement Park at Bhagwan Mahaveer Bal Vichar: 29th Nov to
09th Dec from 4.00 pm to 7.00 pm.
- Goa Kite Carnival at Miramar Beach from 10 Dec to 12 Dec: 10th Dec
at 4.00 pm onwards; 11th Dec: 11.00 am onwards; 12th Dec from 11.00 am
onwards.
- Street Animation: Old GMC building to Kala Academy from 30th Nov
to 09th Dec.
- Installing the Beach: Exhibition of Installation Art by Subodh
Kerkar at the Miramar Beach from 29th Nov to 9th Dec.
- Other Beach Screenings (Films) from 6.00 pm onwards: Calangute
30th Nov; Colva 01st Dec; Vagator 02nd Dec; Baga 03rd Dec; Baina 04th Dec,
Anjuna 05 Dec and Palolem 06th Dec.
- Closing Ceremony: 9th deck 2004 at Sports Authority of Goa grounds
at 7.00 pm. Remo, Bondo, Hema and Vaishali.


(Goa-World.Com sources)

FALLING STANDARDS OF TIATR:

FALLING STANDARDS OF TIATR:


Tomazinho Cardozo has expressed serious concern over the deteriorating levels of tiatr over the recent years. In a letter to the Kala Academy, Tomazinho called for convening a meeting of writers, directors, artistes and other interested persons
in tiatr to discuss matters that have threatened the very existence of tiatr.
Tomazinho was one of the judges in the 38th Tiatr Festival which concluded recently.


HERALD / 19-12-2002

Tiatr script-writing workshop held at Kala Academy

Tiatr script-writing workshop held
NT News Desk

A day-long tiatr script writing workshop organised by the Kala Academy was held on July 2 at the black box, Kala Academy Complex, Panaji.
Two tiatr scripts namely ‘Pakkam’ by Alfredo Fernandes and ‘He Chukik Bogsonnem Asa’ by Mario Menezes were discussed at length in the session-wise programme.
The speakers who deliberated and critically analyzed the aspects of these scripts included Premanand Sangodkar, Teotonio D’Costa, Jose Salvador Fernandes and Alfredo Fernandes.

Mario Menezes and Alfredo Fernandes also expressed their views after the general discussion. John Claro Fernandes, Ceasar Fernandes, Irene Cardozo, Caetano Pereira, Mathias Mascarenhas and others stimulated a healthy discussion on various aspects of script-writing. The sessions were co-ordinated by Mike Mehta and Tomazinho Cardozo.

Earlier, Dr Pandurang Phaldesai, member-secretary of Kala Academy in his welcome speech highlighted the activities undertaken by the Kala Academy for the development of tiatr and stressed that the organization of script-writing workshop was one such step in the said direction.

Mr Dattaguru Amonkar, programme executive, compered the function and also proposed the vote of thanks at the concluding of the workshop.
Meanwhile, the Kala Academy held its literary programme ‘Sahitya Prakash’ at Mandrem High School, Mandrem in collaboration with Sahitya Sangam, Mandrem.
On this occasion, Dr Pandurang Phaldesai, member-secretary of the Kala Academy, Mr Atchut Naik, Prof Gajanan Mandrekar, Prof Vithoba Bagali, Dr Govind Kale, Mr Sanjeev Zarmekar, playwright, Pandurang Gawde and Mr Vijay Tulaskar were present.
Dr Kale, programme and development officer of Kala Academy appealed to the Goan institutions to avail the benefit of the activities of Kala Academy. Mr Atchut Naik, president of Sahitya Sangam also spoke on the occasion.

The programme was compered by Mr Zarmekar, programme executive of Kala Academy. The inauguration was followed by an interview of the playwright, Pandurang Gawde by Vijay Tulaskar.

Prof Gajanan Mandrekar and Prof Vithoba Bagali narrated some selected experiences of the 192 literary programme conducted by Sahitya Sangam.
Vocalists Rajesh Purkhe and Mandar Jathar recited selected poems of Goan poets. Tabla accompaniment was given by Ajit Shetgaonkar.
(The Navhind Times/July 4, 2006)

- Forwarded by www.goa-world.com

Khel Tiatr Festival at Kala Academy to be dedicated to the memory of Santiago Pereira





Khel tiatr festival from July 24 at KA
NT News Desk


Panaji: The inaugural function of Kala Academy’s 2nd Khell Tiatr festival will be held on July 24, 2007 at the Dinanath Mangeshkar Kala Mandir, Panaji. The festival is dedicated to the memory of late Shri Santiago Pereira, a renowned personality from traditional Khell Tiatr stage in Goa. The function will be followed by staging of khell tiatr ‘Uzvadd Paloilo’ by Maxcy Pereira of S S Productions, Vasco. Altogether 5 khell tiatrs will be staged in the festival.

Santigao Pereira, born on May 22, 1912 at Kottambi village of Quepem was a versatile personality in the khell tiatr field. He was a playwright, lyrics writer, director, artist and a musician of repute. After completing primary education in Portuguese, he took to learning western music in Church coir and played instruments like violin, saxophone, clarinet, trumpet and gained expertise of these instruments. Thereafter, took to their family profession as ‘Render’. He was influenced and attracted to Khell performances of renowned artist popularly known as ‘Kuddo Minguel’ and later on at the age of 17 years, presented his first Khell at the village level.

Late Santigao Pereira received rave applauses and appreciation of Khell audiences for his setting, composition of songs so much, so that he received invitations to perform at villages Kottambi, Asolda, Chandor, Curtorim, Davorrlim, Kunkolim, Koprimoddi, Macazana, Shiroda, Panchvadi and other places. He also encouraged and guided other artists to come forward on khell tiatr stage. Kala Academy has appealed the khell tiatr lovers to attend the festival and inaugural function.

Meanwhile, the Kala Academy has declared results of regional-level bhajan competitions in ladies category organized at four centres. Accordingly Shree Madanant Mahila Bhajani Mandal, Savoi-Verem, Shree Pratibha Sangeet Vidhyalay, Ponda, Shree Vanadevi Sangeet Saunstha, Kaisuv, Shree Mahapurush Mahila Bhajani Mandal, Varkhand, Shree Gajalaxmi Sangeet Vidhyalay, Ponda, Yuvati Bhajani Mandal, Adkon, Shree Dadeshwar Mahila Bhajani Mandal, Nadora, Kuldevata Mahila Bhajani Mandal, Viornora selected to perform at the state-level bhajan competition in ladies category.
The state-level competition in ladies category will be held on July 28, 2007 at Rajiv Kala Mandir, Ponda from 2.30 p.m. onwards.

(The Navhind Times/21 July 2007)

Include Tiatr, Kantaram in the IFFI cultural programme

INCLUDE TIATR, KANTARAM

The Dalgado Konkani Akademi, Orda-Candolim, has appealed to the State government to include Konkani tiatrs and Kantaram as part of the cultural programmes during the International Film Festival of India.

In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, Tomazinho
Cardozo said that after reading the advertisement appearing in a section of
the press on Sunday he was surprised to note that although dramas in
Konkani, Marathi, Hindi and English will be staged, the Konkani tiatr does
not find place in the programme.

He said that Konkani tiatr is the most popular dramatic form of Goa. No other stage in Goa has a mass base as Konkani tiatr enjoys.


(Gomantak Times/28 November 2004)

Tiatr Fest held at Santa Cruz

Tiatr fest held at Santa Cruz

PANJIM(HND): The Parish Youth of Santa Cruz organized a three day Tiatr festival recently in the Santa Cruz Higher Secondary School premises.

Tiatr ‘Hanv Porot Ietelim’ directed by Succoro De Santa Cruz was staged on the inaugural day.

The second day saw a considerably good response from the crowd providing them good entertainment from ‘Sogllim Sopnam Gupit Chintanam’ by comedian Domnic.

On the final day, the Tiatr ‘Mhaka Zobab Zai’ directed by Rose Ferns drew a huge crowd.

Parish Priest of Santa Cruz Fr Saud Pereira along with Fr Kenneth Teles, Fr Camilo Dias and Fr Noel graced the occasion.

(HERALD/12-December-2008)

Photographer gives image makeover to Konkani 'tiatr'

Photographer gives image makeover to Konkani 'tiatr'

January 04, 2008 | RSS


Panaji: It is financially lucrative and vibrantly popular, but the century-old traditional Konkani drama form of 'tiatr' is still looked down upon by those who matter. Post-colonial culture in Goa has given step-motherly treatment to art forms influenced by the West. Even the minority Catholic elite here looks down on tiatr as being too plebeian for their tastes.

Now, a portrait photographer is attempting to change that image. Literally. Alex Fernandes, a photographer of Goan origin who grew up in Mumbai and worked in the Gulf, has taken it upon himself to exhibit the portraits of some of the best tiatrists (as those acting in it are called).

Fernandes, 44, is showcasing his portraits of tiatrists at a bookshop in north Goa this week. Fernandes runs a studio in Goa that specialises in portraits and is called Portrait-Atelier.net.

"I did the tiatrist bit, because I thought that is my representation of a Goan portrait," he told IANS.

"It struck me that in Goa everybody identifies with the Konkani theatre artistes. I thought it would be a nice idea to get all these together and do a series on them."

"Significantly, the tiatr also started in Bombay (now Mumbai) as a way for the expatriate Goans to keep in touch with their homeland (then still a Portuguese colony and a sea-journey away)," he notes.

"Growing up in the Dhobitalao (locality of Mumbai) was like being right in the heart of the tiatr. In two places, Rangbhavan and Bhangwaddi, Konkani dramas were regularly held. Tiatrists could often be seen at the Sonapur Church or the C. D'Souza Bakery after the mass," he said.

Teatr has a strong Portuguese influence.

"I'm not a big tiatr fan myself," Fernandes confesses. "But I saw in my work sharp similarities with those of the characters in (cartoonist) Mario Miranda's book on Goa."

US-based scholars of Indian origin, like the Sanskrit, Marathi and Hindi scholar specialising in Indian drama, Pramod Kale, have written about the Konkani stage, explaining the relevance of the tiatr in Goa's cultural and historical evolution.

While in Goa, Fernandes created three series of portraits, dealing with musicians, artists (shot for a major local art exhibition) and tiatrists.

"The musicians were a little difficult. For some reason, some seemed reluctant to cooperate. Once they got into the studio they were okay though. On the other hand the artists - perhaps because they were artists - built a different equations. In fact, tiatrists and musicians who came to the studio were not a problem. They become the collaborator very easily."

Portrait photography is a different ball game, especially when it involves non-professional subjects coming in on a walk-in basis, rather than professional models, Fernandes explains.

"The professional model is trained for it. They know their best angles and are not camera-shy. With a walk-in, it's a different story. Specially when it comes to communication skills," he says.

His first memories of photography go back to a time when as a 10-year-old he would mess around in a darkroom at the prominent Mumbai college - St Xavier's, where his father lectured.

In 1987, Fernandes headed for Kuwait, where he learnt more of the trade with top portrait companies.

In Kuwait, he kept honing his skills for the next 13 years, taking portraits. He shifted companies, faced the Gulf War, and came back home as a refugee-through Iraq and Jordan.

Later on, Fernandes shifted to Goa.

Fernandes is pro-digital photography. "There are some people who say 'film was the thing'. I think it's only fear of technology. You can still be purist as a photographer, and still use the contemporary top-of-the-line (digital) photography," he says. (IANS)

Pride and Joy - Tiatr Competition at Kala Academy

Pride and Joy
by Marc De Souza

THE recent tiatr competition held at the Kala Academy brought back nostalgic memories of my salad-days, when village tiatrs, particularly for a chapel feast was a ‘must’, holding the whole village and even surrounding villages in suspense. The occasion was a source of pride and joy. Those were the days of His Master’s Voice gramophone reigning supreme - before tough technology came out swinging. Now you simply turn on your computer and turn on a world of possibilities!

As a boarder in St Stanislaus, big boys from the village would come to Bandra with scripts of concerts and I was usually given a female role. May holidays would start and back to the roots, nightly rehearsals were held; counting those days among the happiest in my life. Then on the big day, in conjunction with the feast, football game, boy’s cross litany, the tiatr would start at around 9 p.m.

The stage set outdoor at a convenient place, with bamboo and wooden planks, secured with ropes. Palm fonds and other greenery, crape paper used for decoration. The curtains made out of coloured bedsheets, and two petromax lamps to light the stage. Benches and chairs were from the neighbours around.You had to have a loud voice. Villagers do have a loud and clear voice. Prompting was done, at times louder than the voice of the actor. It was all fun. Everybody would participate in some way, that gave added colour and sparkle. Elders were given front seats and you could see them dozing to glory.

Usually, a beggar would sing a song, with laughter and tears and ask for alms. The people gave generously, filling his kotti and his worn-out straw hat. It would suffice to pay for the band, banjo, violin, drums. There were no other expenses involved. It was a free show. The villagers would talk and talk about it for days, abuzz with stories. It was the time when Goa was seen through its village activities, that provided the community with a focus for living.The last tiatr I acted in and when I was in my mid-teens. I did a crackling solo ‘Mogan Boulinao’. I was bit jittery, sort of having a stage fright. I started the song alright but mid-way I messed it up. To me it was a disaster, but the audience clapped and clapped, for a little boy, and the hillside echoed! Later I came for a duet, dressed as a girl, even with a ruffled petticoat.

At a romantic moment the guy came to embrace me, I was embarrassed and laughed. He laughed too and the whole village laughed. In those glorious days people knew to laugh, now one has to go to the laughter session to laugh!

(The Navhind Times/12-02-2005)

Tiatr Review: 'Xaronnaeta' - by Danny de Ribandar

Tiatr Review: 'Xaronnaeta' - by Danny de Ribandar

Courtesy: Navhind Times (J P Pereira)

'Xaronnaeta', (Submission) is the 'tiatr'- that I bagged the second prize at the
Kala Academy Tiatr Competition. 2002. An outstanding play written and directed
by Danny de Ribandar, keeps the audience fully engrossed throughout its run.

Diana, Rima and Zelia are sisters. Diana is a doctor, Rima is employed and Zelia
a student. Rima is secretly in love with Franky. The mother of the three
sisters, Sonia, is hardworking and has brought up the children single handily.

The daughter are told that their father, Donald, was an upright policeman who
died whilst performing his duty whereas in reality he had actually driven the
mother and his four daughters out of the house when he fell in love with a woman
called Bela. One of the daughter dies, as the mother has no money to treat her
sickness. The father re-turns as he has fallen into bad times but the wife does
not want to forgive or accept him back. The daughters want to know who this man
is and even accuse the mother of having an affair with him, as they see him
corning to the house often.

How the daughters discover about the father and the stunning twist in the climax
completes the story of this interesting play.

A well written script, slick direction and natural acting by most of the amateur
cast together with appropriate background music makes this play a treat to
watch. Rosalia Rodrigues (Ribandar) is outstanding as the mother Sonia. Her
portrayal of emotions, whether she is happy or sad are so good and natural. NO
DOUBT SHE WON THE BEST ACTRESS AWARD AT THE COMPETITION. Sandra acts well as
Diana but her dialogue delivery should be a bit slow in some instances: Rosy as
Rima, Aureo as Franky and Luis as Donald emote well but Dynicia as Zelia is a
bit uneasy.

The setting of the entire house by Austin is done well depicting the sitting
room, dining room kitchen and bedroom and good use is made of the different
rooms. The light effects by Sandip are well timed and the special scenes of the
hen looking after her chicks by Inacio are presented well during the opening
song. Music by Agnelo Dias is good and so are some of the songs sung by the
various cast.

A PLAY THAT IS WORTH WATCHING.

Comedian Agostinho's tiatr 'Sir'

Sacrifice for a Cause

- by J P PEREIRA


Comedian Agostinho's tiatr titled 'Sir' was a path breaker when it was released, depicting a tale with a difference. Manfa Video, Margao have released a telefilm of the same drama.

This is a tale of an upright college professor, who sacrifices his happiness and future progress to upkeep his principles, against a rowdy student who later turns into a corrupt and greedy politician. The professor suffers a lot at the hands of the politician but as is said, each one pays for his or her own misdeeds.

A good script from Augustinho and the tight screenplay from Fabian G da Costa keeps the viewer engrossed. The two principal characters are played by Mathew Araujo as the professor and Salu de Loutulim as the politician. Both give wonderful performances, especially Mathew, in the latter half. Others in the cast are Roma, Meena, Osvi Viegas, Samuel Carvalho and Joaquim Cabral, Selvy, Crizon, Benny J Rebello and Agostinho provide lots of humour to offset the seriousness of the main story.
Norman Cardoso provides the music. Yogesh Mandrekar�s photography coupled with Santosh Shetkar's editing adds to the slickness of a well told tale.

A must watch! Do buy your own copy, it is worth it.


(The Navhind Times)

Tiatrist Grey de Candolim (Fernandes) passes away

Tiatrist Greg passes away



Greg Fernandes, popularly known as Greg de Candolim, acted on the Konkani stage for well nigh 40 years. He was born on March 10,1935, in scenic Candolim. His debut on the stage was in female roles and he excelled in duets. Later on he took to comic and character roles, performing in more than 100 tiatrs. Each of these were performed several times in Goa, Bombay, Pune, Ahmedabad, New Delhi, in East Africa and the Gulf.

Greg, always full of mirth, was the founder member of the Young Stars of Goa and the Konkani Tiatristanchi Sounstha. He had penned several tiatrs including Ximiterint Ekvott. He had also acted in most of the Konkani movies and in a couple of video films.

Even a bypass surgery four years ago could prevent him from acting. Greg expired in Candolim on March 10, 1999, leaving behind his wife Sabina (also a veteran tiatrist) and two sons.

Dr. Franics M. Rebello - Former Editor of NOVEM GOEM no more

Dr F M R no more

The passing away of Dr Francis M Rebello, wellknown gynaecologist from Margao and a staunch Konkani activist on March 30, 1999, has shocked many in Goa. The Goa Union of Journalists have express their shock because Dr Rebello was the former editor of Novem Goem, a unique people's daily in Konkani.

Along with other Konkani lovers, Dr Rebello had worked hard to collect funds through the formation of the Novem Goem Prathishthan. Novem Goem suffered the pangs of survival through troubled times but DR Rebello was one of the few leaders who did not shirk his responsbility and tried his utmost to keep it alive. During his stint as the editor, he displayed a strong commitment to social causes, Konkani language and other humanitarian issues.

He loved Konkani dearly right from his college days at St Xaviers College, Bombay. He was a former president of the Konkani Bhasha Mandall in Goa and was associated with the Konkani Porjecho Avaz.

Dr Rebello leaves behind his wife Dr Sicletica, daughters Dr Gleena, Dr Gleeson and Dr Shomreena. The bereaved family includes his brothers Fr Michael, Adv J S Rebello besides his sisters.

End of a Legend: Dr Bento Egipsy

End of a Legend: Dr Bento Egipsy


Born on October 27, 1925, in a Calangute family of distinguished medical lineage, Dr Jose Bento do Rosario Souza Egipsy, was one of the seven children of late Clara and late Dr Eduardo Egipsy, the gynaecologist and anaesthesiologist. Dr Bento completed the five-year Licentiate at Escola Medica-Cirurgica de Goa in 1959, and worked as a lecturer in surgery at the GMC and as a health officer in Pernem.

On November 5, 1956, the Portuguese government selected him for overseas study scholarship at the renowned Coimbra University in Portugal. He earned the degree in Medicine and Surgery in such colours that he was selected for three scholarships in a row, which made him a superspecialist surgeon.

With training in cardiovascular surgery at the Centro de Cirurgia Cardio-Vascular da Zona Zul in Lisbon, he assisted its director Dr J Decio Ferreira in operations and experimental surgery. He was awarded the British Council scholarship for training in speciality thoracic surgery at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital at Birmingham in England. Dr Bento worked at the Thoracic Surgical Centre at Bromsgrove and was elected member of the Thoracic Surgeons of England.

On his return, he was appointed Surgeon Specialist and redesignated Superintendent of the Sanatorio St Jose at Margao, then the only centre for thoracic surgery in the entire Konkan region. With path-breaking surgeries and the first-ever Pneumomectomy for cancer of the lung and others, young Dr Egipsy shot into prominence, performing thousands of complicated surgeries at the TB Sanatorium and at his own hospital (Casa de Saude). Dr Bento even replaced a part of a patient's lung with a ping-pong ball and amputated a part of the lung to arrest the fast spreading disease. The patient lived into old age.

He leaves behind his widow Tessie. His elder son Dr Ivan is an ENT specialist at Hinduja Hospital in Mumbai and the second son Dr Yurii is postgraduating in Obstetrics and Gynaeocology.

When a patient suffering from terminal cancer asked Dr Bento how long he would live, the good doctor told him "longer than me". He was right because he succumbed to coronary blocks, discovered some four years ago by Dr Francisco C Colaco.

But Dr Bento remained ever humble unassuming which endeared him to patients far and wide. Dr Bento updated his knowledge of medicine continuously by pouring over medical journals even after a hard day's work. When Dr Bento breathed his last on February 14, 1999, many wept bitterly because he was a family surgeon to thousands. Doutor Ejipsy readily attended to anyone who knocked at his door at any time of the day and night. They hadn't seen a doctor better and more understanding than him.

Writes Max de Loyola Furtado in Mirror/Herald, "When the pall-bearers lowered the coffin into the final resting place at the Holy Spirit cemetery, on February 15, 1999, it was the internment of an era, the burial of Goa's pioneering spirit, if not the final adieu to a blithe spirit that so adeptly blended medical expertise with missionary charity."

Courtesy: Valmiki Faleiro and Max de Loyola Furtado

GOAN MUSIC (4) - by Valmiki Faleiro

GOAN MUSIC (4)

- By Valmiki Faleiro


The British occupied Goa 20-odd years. From 1799. This led to their discovery
of the virtues of Mormugao harbour. Which, in turn, led to the Luso-British project to modernize the port and link it to mainland India by the Western India Portuguese Railway, the rail girdling Goa from Mormugao to Castlerock. Locals resented the British presence.
A mando on this tails an interesting dulpod:

Kira bhaxen pinzreantu ga (Like caged parrots)
Inglez ailo Goantu (The English have arrived in Goa)
Boson ujea’ gaddiantu ga (Sitting in steam-engine trains)
Ankvar cheddvam hankeantum (Unmarried girls in their laps)

Margao’s rail station opened Jan 17, 1887. It was a mile away from the town
centre (‘Mercado de Vasco da Gama,’ now Old Market.) The administration decided to
shift it closer to the new hub. The new market, ‘Mercado Novo de Afonso de Albuquerque’ was inaugurated Dec 5, 1889. The taluka’s main offices – the ‘Camara’
(municipality) and ‘Fazenda’ (revenue office) – were also slated for relocation.

The story is told of the ceremony to lay the foundation stone of that most
grandiose municipal edifice in Goa: of Salcete (by now substantially shrunk in area and population, after Mormugao was carved out for better administration of the port.)

Officials were upbeat about the function. With reason: a grand cash prize was
announced to any woman who would carry the foundation stone to the laying spot –
without a stitch on her body.

The year: 1901. A Medeira damsel from Comba-Margao, driven by either a sense of
wild adventure or a mundane need of the prize money, stepped in to the challenge. At
the appointed morning hour, before the assembled dignitaries and a huge crowd, she
stripped, heaved the stone to the ‘chumboll’ on her head, and delivered it some
distance away at the pit. The audience, initially dumbstruck, went into appreciative
peals of applause.

The Medeira maiden earned not only the prize, but also much approbation for her
natural assets from the assemblage of ‘Pakles’ and local men. Rumour was that
she ended up working at the construction site, hand-pounding limestone for the
mortar of the building. At that desolate site, her fate and that of other female labourers will be better imagined than expressed.

To fund this edifice, Governor Eduardo Augusto Rodrigues Galhardo imposed steep
taxes. (Check coincidences: last Sunday, we saw how a Guv. called ‘Camara’
killed Goa’s Camaras, an Administrator called ‘Faro’ had 23 innocents shot dead, and
now, ‘Galhardo’ meant a spendthrift!)

Public resentment reflected in a mando composed by Arnaldo de Menezes of Raia
(1863-1917), “Kitlem odruxtt amchem vorho.” Its lyrics tell the story better
than any description (translation mine):

Great is our adversity, Goa is finished
Pakles are harassing people because they want to build a municipal house
Inventing all sorts of taxes, they extract them from impoverished people.

Municipal councillors are a gang of thieves
Brains dense as stone, they look like the baker’s pigs
Squeezing taxes, they drink at Cruz’s tavern.

Governor Galhardo skinned people
He came with a gang of white soldiers and emptied the treasury
Galhardo is a genuine buffalo, people’s curses will affect him.

Tragedy has befallen us, we are quite undone
Even Goa’s medical profession turns whites blind with envy
They banned our doctors’ ambulances!

Like the 1890 Margao elections, those of 1854 in Tiswadi had produced another
great mando, ‘Luisinha, mojea Luisinha.’ Intense rivalry between whites and natives
led to the killing of a Mestiço (mixed-blooded) Portuguese army captain, Joaquim Garcez Palha, a contestant who went to Divar to rig the polls. It describes how he was soundly spanked and his body quartered (in the compound of a local church.)

The dekni, “Custoba, miraxi Indiecho" is about legendary Kustoba Rane and the
dulpod, "Farar far" on the confrontation between the Portuguese and the feudals of
Sattari.

There are hundreds of mandos, dulpods and deknis – most are pages from Goa’s
past. Let’s end on a lighter note.

Salcete’s traditional Brahmin-Kshatriya superiority syndrome manifested itself
in strange ways. Benaulim, the only Brahmin village in a Kshatriya-dominated Salcete
coast, had a running feud with adjoining Colva over the “Benaulim Monte.” Old texts
indicated it belonged to Colva. The Banalcares were not impressed. Both sides petitioned everyone from Governor in Panjim to King in Lisbon. They finally agreed to have the matter resolved at the Salcete Court.

Despite overwhelming evidence produced by Colva, Benaulim won the case.
Banalcares produced just one piece of clinching evidence: the old dulpod, “Bannaleche monti socolorodtai kole!”

(To conclude.)


HERALD / August 31, 2008

Preserving Goan Music

Preserving Goan Music

Mr Valmiki Faleiro writes of the past in one of Goa�s leading English dailies. His writing makes knowledgeable reading for the present day generation. In the last few series he has written of Goans in the fiels of drama. We have missed seeing most of the tiatr stalwarts of the yesteryears. They have excelled with God given talent and left behind a great heritage to make Goa proud. Their contribution to Konkani is immense and unforgettable. Even today, the All India Radio gives two hours of daily coverage to local Konkani artists much to the delight of the Goans. Time ravages everything leaving behind only traces of history. Goan music is a rare heritage, which must be protected and preserved for posterity.

A SEQUEIRA, Salvador do Mundo
(The Navhind Times)

http://www.navhindtimes.com/story.php?story=2008092359

GOAN MUSIC (9) - by Valmiki Faleiro

GOAN MUSIC (9)

- By Valmiki Faleiro

Shankar Bhandari (1928-87), of the landed gentry of Cumbarjua, was a rare personage.
A creative writer with unambiguous opinions, great wit and genuine Goan values, he
crafted programmes for All India Radio. I longed to be in his presence, even if only for a few moments, when, as a casual artiste in my college days, I often went for ‘YuvaVani’ talk recordings – no, I can only croak, not sing! – at AIR’s Panjim studios.

Pearls flowed from his fertile mind! One reason, perhaps, I was more impressed was
that he hailed from the same village as that of my maternal grandfather – an exotic little “Republic” of my childhood images.

Shankar Bhandari was a man of cool courage, and conviction. And one who defied the
adage, ‘When the wine is in, the wit is out.’ True (not Dutch) courage it would take when, some years after 1961, he penned a verse on India’s ‘Ganarajya’ (Republic.) In that era, India was the only nation besides the Soviet Union to define “sedition” amongst the gravest offences under the penal law.

‘Ganarajya’ was a parody on India. Goa had been integrated into the Indian Union on
March 27, 1962. Shankar Bhandari daringly asked: “Gonachem Ailam Raj / Khuincho
Gana Konn Zanna?”

The governance of ‘Gana’ has arrived (upon Goa), but who knows this ‘Gana’ or
wherefrom (it comes)? In the name of ‘Gana,’ Andhra and Telangana fight each other.
Maharashtra and Vidarbha tussle over the (waters of) Godavari. Who knows this ‘Gana’?

If you’re still wondering which ‘Gana’ (no, not another song) he was on, think of the
national anthem … “Jana, Gana, Mana.” That was Shankar Bhandari. Like him or
lampoon him. No Goan freedom fighter dared report him “anti-national.”

He could come up with rare ones like “Goenkar: ratche torrad, sokallche honrrad!” Or his riddle, “Why does Bandodkar always face the river Mandovi?” (When CM, mineowner
Bandodkar’s chamber faced the river, after demise, his statue by the old Secretariat also faced the river.) His answer: “To count his barges carrying ore, he doesn’t trust his daughters!”

The ‘Trio Kings,’ Conception-Nelson-Anthony, were notorious for stage songs chopping
Bandodkar’s policies to pieces. They thwarted his moves to woo the Catholic vote bank.
Their songs ruffled the CM’s feathers more than Opposition MLAs ever did. When all his offers to rein in the Trio failed, Bandodkar imposed a Tiatr tax!

Tiatrists faced tough days, but none suffered as Kid Boxer did.

Sometime in 1958, Siolim-born Kid Boxer (Caetano Manuel Pereira, 1917-1991) sang an
“anti-India” song in Bombay. Goan freedom fighters there got him jailed. Kid was then
deported to Goa. The Portuguese immediately employed him at the Goa Radio. As an
artiste, he worked with the likes of Jacinto Vaz, Allen Costa and Georgina Jacques.
According to my Candolim friend in Kuwait, Anthony Veronica Fernandes, a walking
encyclopaedia on Konknni songsters, Kid was the highest paid Konknni artiste.

The songs he recorded at Goa Radio were runaway hits, like:

Divo pettounk guineanacher / Uzvadd ieunk chintnacher / Zo kon zanna konnem ghoram
bandleant tim pongeranchea zaddancher.

Suskar soddlet maeyani / Dolle bhortat dukhani / Aiz putancheo maeyom duddu na
zaun, rodtat zorinnim.

The true meaning of his riddlesome lyrics was known only to close friends. Yet, listeners lapped up his songs. The one above was scripted in the wake of a Govt. of India ban on both money transfers and travel by Bombay-Goans to Goa.

After liberation, Kid Boxer was arrested again when singing on stage at Mapusa. The
song that earned official ire went as follows:

Tum bhitor sorlai chukon, mortoloi sukon, dusreacho desh pochona;
Tum nestai fokot valo, ani khatai fokot palo, hem matui hanga sobona;
Tum panpotti khatai, ani poch'chu korun thuktai, lozui kaim dissona…

After things cooled down, Kid returned to Bombay and began stage acting again. During
a Tiatr, as he sang one of his by now famous ‘zupattis’ (tongue-lashings), freedom
fighter Evagrio George in the audience raised a ruckus over Kid’s “anti-national” song.
“Audience was with Kid but the law was not,” says Veronica. Kid was arrested yet again, incarcerated at Nasik jail for six months, where he was physically – and mercilessly – tortured. His spirit didn’t break. In jail, Kid wrote another Tiatr, "Somzonnem Zali Chuk."
He sang a hit in it, "Sov mhoine Nasik conventan kaddle, torui converter zaunk na."
(Despite six months at the Nasik “convent,” I was not converted.)

Kid Boxer was incomparable, especially when delivering melodious ‘zupattis,’ like:
“Nesson dusreachem kapodd, hath paiem kamrun bosleat makodd.” Obviously alluding
to his conviction that Goa was invaded and illegally occupied by India.

Lucky that Kid Boxer was not charged with sedition! (Concludes.)

Pics courtesy: Kid Boxer (Fausto da Costa, ‘Tiatr ani Tiatrist’, Vol-I, The Goan Review publication, 1994), TrioKings Conception-Nelson-Anthony (JoeGoaUK, www.flickr.com/photos/joegoauk12) and Shankar Bhandari (Goa Konkani Academy.)

(HERALD / October 5, 2008)