Playwright, lyricist, and actor passes away at 82
MARGAO
Goa’s tiatr fraternity has lost one of its most respected and beloved artists with the passing of Sebastião S Fernandes, popularly known as “Jolly Boy,” on October 30 at the age of 82.
His funeral will take place on November 1 at 10 am in his native village, Carambolim, Tiswadi.
Expressing deep sorrow, Anthony Barbosa, President of the Tiatr Academy of Goa, said, “Sebastião Fernandes was not only a brilliant writer and lyricist but also a guiding light for generations of tiatrists. His passion for the art and his contribution to Konkani theatre will be remembered forever.”
Born on March 23, 1943 to Piedade and Merciana Fernandes, Sebastião dedicated over six decades of his life to the Konkani tiatr stage as a playwright, lyricist, director, and actor. He made his debut in 1959 with his first tiatr, Paichem Bens, at just 16 years old, staged in his home village of Carambolim. The handwritten manuscript of that tiatr is still preserved — a symbol of his deep-rooted passion for the art.
Over the years, Sebastião wrote and directed more than 36 tiatrs, many of which earned immense popularity across Goa and among Goan communities abroad. His notable works include Kazar Pai Modonichlem, Zolmachi Nixann, Milagrincho Khuris, Montri, Thank You Doctor, Guneanv Tuzo, and Mog Ani Kazar.
Known for his commitment to nurturing village talent, Sebastião frequently staged tiatrs and one-act plays during Christmas and Easter celebrations, offering a platform to budding artists. He also collaborated with several prominent tiatr personalities, including Master Vaz, Fr Freddy J Da Costa, Prem Kumar, Nelson Afonso, and Milagres de Chandor.
A talented lyricist, Sebastião composed over 1,000 songs and contributed lyrics to numerous audio and video albums, such as Bhavart, Borvanso, Mog, Kazarachi Chitt, Onath, and St Alponsa.
His contributions were widely recognised with several honours, including the Kala Academy’s “Best Lyrics” award (three times) and the prestigious “Kala Gaurav Award” from the Directorate of Art and Culture. He was also felicitated by organisations such as Kala Academy Goa, Sai Purva Arts Carambolim, Kala Ankur Panaji, Lions Club of Old Goa, and the Shigmo Committee.
In 2013, he was featured in the Tiatr Academy of Goa’s “Meet the Artiste” programme, celebrating his lifelong dedication to tiatr. Sebastião S Fernandes leaves behind a rich artistic legacy that will continue to inspire generations of Konkani theatre lovers.
