Dr Paul G Aquinas
Mangaluru, Jan 2: Wilfy Rebimbus—a name that resonates with every Konkani music lover. A gentle virtuoso whose love for the language transformed it into an instrument of peace and humanity, creating rhythms that gladden hearts and rejuvenate souls.
The event began with the resonating notes of the prayer song Namo Namo, filling the hall with a sense of reverence. Fr Denis D'sa opened the program with a short prayer and offered blessings for the release of Wilfy’s Legacy Collection and the Mini Wilfy Nite. Dr Praveen Martis, vice chancellor of St Aloysius deemed-to-be university, graced the occasion as the chief guest, while Sr Lourdes, principal of St Theresa School, served as the guest of honour. Other dignitaries present on the dais included Walter Nandalike, founder of Daijiworld, Fr Denis D’sa, and Fr Maxim D’Souza. Eddie Sequeira conducted the formal proceedings and introduced the guests on behalf of the Rebimbus family—Meena, Veena, Arthur, Vishwas, Charleen, Arvin, Anna, and Roger.
Sequeira also acknowledged the deep bond shared by Felix and Stephany Lobo, Simon and Pressy Machado, and Michael, Flavy, and Manu D’Souza with the Rebimbus family. He expressed regret over their absence due to prior commitments.
The highlight of the event was the official release of Wilfy’s Legacy Collection, carried out by Freeda, Ethan, and Faith on behalf of Felix and Stephany Lobo. This special moment symbolized the unbroken bond across generations, as the second and third generations came together to launch this remarkable masterpiece. It was a fitting representation of the theme, "Legacy continues from generation to generation."
Walter Nandalike, a close associate of the Rebimbus family, spoke about Wilfy’s immense contribution to Konkani music. He urged attendees to respect copyright laws by purchasing original music, emphasizing the importance of preserving Wilfy's legacy.
For the first time, Wilfy Rebimbus Music presented three prestigious music awards to recognize emerging talent. Nelvita Noronha introduced the three rising stars:
- Sean Gonsalves, son of Kishore Gonsalves, was honored for restoring Volumes 1 and 4 of Wilfy’s Legacy, preserving the original voices from the 1970s.
- Joswin D’Cunha, son of Allwyn D’Cunha, received recognition for his exceptional work on remastering all 56 volumes of Wilfy’s Legacy.
- Shalon Pinto, daughter of Joswin Pinto, was celebrated for her significant contributions as a sound engineer to the project.
The awards were presented by Dr Praveen Martis, recognizing the dedication and skill of the next generation in continuing Wilfy Rebimbus' musical legacy.
Meena Rebimbus honored Eddie Sequeira for his unwavering love and support for the family, expressing gratitude for his significant role in their journey since Wilfy’s demise.
Sr Lourdes extended her best wishes to the students performing at the Mini Wilfy Nite, expressing pride in their efforts.
Dr Praveen Martis reflected on the profound societal impact of Wilfy’s music, sharing his personal connection with Wilfy’s songs from his childhood. He praised the Rebimbus family for preserving and continuing this invaluable legacy and highlighted its importance in maintaining cultural traditions.
Vishwas Rebimbus expressed gratitude to God and to Wilfy’s fans for their enduring support. He fondly recalled how his parents had given him and his sister the same platform in 1986, and witnessing the next generation carry forward this legacy was a heartwarming moment.
The Mini Wilfy Nite showcased the exceptional talent of young performers, who captivated the audience with their dedication and artistry. The entire event was compered by Nerissa Noronha, who kept the audience engaged with her sense of humor and lively commentary.
The young stars who brought Wilfy’s legacy to life included singers Gaurav Carvalho, Alani Leora D’Souza, Nathan Preeth Figueira, Tina Caris Veigas, Aldreena Diya Rodrigues, Vineeth Martin Gonsalves, Aldrin Lionel Pinto, Thea Joanne Lobo, Evana Marian D’Souza, and Arvin Chris D’Cunha.
Musicians included Kenneth D’Souza (drummer), Dishan Pinto and Reon Martis (pianists), Roger Gerald Rebimbus (bass), Sherwin Pinto (lead), and Rishon Walder (rhythm). Jaydon Ezekiel Baptist impressed with his saxophone performance.
The dancers from Urban Groove included Sonal D’Souza, Anusha Pinto, Rincia D’Cunha, Verina D’Souza, Keon Saldanha, Sion Monis, Loyd Lobo, Keerthan Devadiga, Shyna D’Souza, Nicole D’Souza, Ashneel D’Souza, and Rian Crasta.
The evening’s music and performances showcased how deeply Wilfy’s legacy resonates with younger generations, inspiring them to embrace and perpetuate Konkani music. This event reinforced the Rebimbus family’s commitment to fostering talent and preserving Konkani’s rich heritage for future generations.