International opera singer and composer Senhor Zito de Ornelas Rodrigues Gomes was remembered at a tribute programme held at the St Inez Church hall, Panaji.
PANAJI
International opera singer and composer Senhor Zito de Ornelas Rodrigues Gomes was remembered at a tribute programme held at the St Inez Church hall, Panaji, attended by friends, family and admirers.
A native of Loutolim and long-time Panaji resident, Senhor Zito was honoured for his lasting contribution to music, culture and public life. The monthly mass was presided over by Fr Derrick Xavier Fernandes, Parish Priest of St John the Baptist Church, Pilerne. The evening was hosted by Clube Marius Festacar and coordinated by senior journalist Prakash Kamat, who spoke with Festacar Marius Fernandes on Senhor Zito’s life and legacy.
Recalling his early years, Marius described Senhor Zito as a trailblazer who captured the spirit of post-colonial Goa through music. He was the founder of Goa’s first band after the Portuguese era, the four-member ensemble Tuna Los Coimbranos, named after the University of Coimbra in Lisbon, renowned for its artistic traditions. The band performed at elite clubs across Goa, earning acclaim for its fusion of Goan, Portuguese and South American music.
Marius also spoke of Senhor Zito’s frequent visits to the Mormugao Harbour, where performances by musicians from visiting cruise liners exposed him to Bolivian and South American influences that shaped his musical style. His deep admiration for legendary Portuguese fado singer Amália Rodrigues remained a defining influence throughout his life.
Beyond music, Senhor Zito served in the Goa Government Secretariat, where he played a role in drafting the Tenants and Mundkar Acts—landmark legislations that continue to impact Goan society. Former colleague Olinda Fernandes recalled his dedication and integrity as a public servant.
In the 1970s, Senhor Zito worked with the Public Works Department in Qatar before returning to Goa with his wife, Prof Fatima Lucia. Their shared commitment to education, community service and culture left a lasting impression.
Former Director of Information Gurunath Pai paid tribute to Senhor Zito’s grace, humility and ability to bring people together. His legacy lives on through his daughter, Dr Gwendolyn de Ornelas, a publisher and curator committed to cultural preservation.
