The 100th death anniversary, of Regina Fernandes (native of Raia )wife of "Pai
Tiatrist" Joao Agostinho Fernandes, Modsai, Behind Holy Spirit Church, Margao
Goa is on 30th December, 2008 according to family members, who informed this
writer.
The family will offer a Mass in her memory at the Holy Spirit Church at 0800
hrs on 30/12/2008.
It may be recalled that late Regina was the first woman to act on stage, on
22/11/1904 at a time when no lady would dare venture on stage due to social
ostracisation. Incidentally even the Marathi stage did not have a woman on
stage at that time. Her husband who created many firsts in the Konknni
tiatros, desired to break the traditional shackles of society and therefore he
cajoled and convinced Ms Regina to dare all and she did. This was indeed a
proud moment for every Goan in Mumbai.
Later her sister too followed suit. Otherwise it was the trend to have men
dorn the role of women.
It is unfortunate that till this date niether the tiatr fraternity nor the
State Government of Goa has recognised this unique achievement of this women
who died at a very young age.
Incidentally the family of " Pai tiatrist" had instituted a prize money of
Rs.1000/- and a momento which was indeed awarded to the upcoming female actor
from Merces during the X tiatr competition held by Vandana Productions Borim Goa
It is therefore not late for the women of Goa to do their bit at the centenary
celebration,
When this issue was brought to the notice of prominent Konknni playwright Mr
Wilson Mazarelo he was surprised of the facts and agreed that something ought
to be done but felt that the Dalgado Konknni Akademi who are now organising the
first literary and cultural convention at the Pai Tiatrist Joao Agostinho
Fernandes nagar, near Ravindra Bhavan on 20th and 21st December, 2008 could
consider a suitable function on 30/12/2008.
GODFREY J. I. GONSALVES,
BORDA, MARGAO, 403 602, GOA. (INDIA)
+91 98221 58584 (24 HRS)
gonsalvesgodfre...@yahoo.co.in
Get rid of Add-Ons in your email ID get yourn...@ymail.com. Sign up now!
http://in.promos.yahoo.com/address
