Staff Reporter
Margao
The tiatr stage on Monday lost writer, director, and producer Eupsiquio Eusebio Antonio Ligorio Fernandes, fondly known as Ligorio Fernandes, a legendary figure in Konkani theatre whose contribution to the tiatr stage spanned decades.
Over a prolific career, Fernandes wrote and directed more than 30 tiatrs and khell-tiatrs, each marked by strong storytelling and moral conviction. His writings were celebrated for their powerful religious and socially-themed productions that left a lasting impression on tiatr lovers.
It was his dedication to quality and depth that led Ligorio Fernandes to be regarded as one of the stalwarts of the Konkani tiatr world.
Born in 1939 in Benaulim, Fernandes nurtured a love for the Konkani language and the art of tiatr from an early age. After completing his SSC, he began working to support himself but never wavered in his devotion to theatre.
Among his most acclaimed productions were Krimidor, Fottkiri Axea, Ekach Karonnak Lagon, Hanv Nhoim Tem, Noxibantlem, Judas, Papi, and Julius Caesar. His khell-tiatrs such as Jivea Devacho Put, Jezu Sorvonnddar, Jezu-Vatt, Sot ani Jivit, and Jezuchea Pavlamni Cholum-ia were also lauded for their spiritual and ethical themes.
In addition to his stage work, Fernandes contributed to Konkani audio culture, producing several cassettes and CDs, including the popular Mhojea Patkak Sojea. His efforts were widely recognised, earning him multiple awards for his tireless promotion of Konkani theatre.
Anthony Barbosa, president of the Tiatr Academy of Goa, expressed deep grief over Fernandes’ passing. “The tiatr fraternity has lost one of its legendary artists. Ligorio’s contributions to the Konkani stage were truly remarkable. He was an inspiration to many budding writers and directors. He was a true gentleman who always supported tiatr artists,” Barbosa said.
Ligorio Fernandes leaves behind a rich legacy that will continue to inspire generations of tiatrists and lovers of Konkani culture.
