Media Release

Goa, Mar 28: Bishop Simião Fernandes, auxiliary bishop of Goa and Daman, inaugurated the International Seminar on Tiatr, most popular theatre art in Goa at St Xavier’s College, Mapusa. The event, jointly organized by St Xavier’s College and the Tiatr Academy of Goa, was themed ‘Echoes from the past, voices of today.’

In his inaugural address, bishop Simião underscored the importance of preserving Tiatr as a cultural and artistic legacy. "Tiatr allows us to think critically and engage with diverse issues. It inspires artistic expression, serves as a treasury of values, and plays a crucial role in reviving our cultural heritage," he remarked.

Bishop Simião also fondly recalled the influence of his former teacher, Fr Freddy J Da Costa, in nurturing his appreciation for Tiatr during his seminary days. He credited Fr Da Costa’s guidance as a source of inspiration in recognizing the significance of this Goan art form.

Seminar was inaugurated in a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony by bishop Simião Fernandes, alongside distinguished guests, marking a significant moment in the celebration and academic study of Tiatr.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Prof Kyoko Matsukawa, a Tiatr researcher from Japan and the event’s chief guest, who shared her experience of learning Konkani and her deep connection with TIATR. Also present were Fr Tony Salema, Anthony Barbosa (president, Tiatr Academy of Goa), Marcos Gonsalves (vice president, TAG), Fr Luis Gomes (convenor of the seminar), Prof Filipe Rodrigues e Melo (acting principal, St Xavier’s College), and Prof Sandra Fernandes (vice principal, St Xavier’s College).

During the ceremony, Prof Filipe Rodrigues e Melo proposed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between St Xavier’s College and the Tiatr Academy of Goa to facilitate joint initiatives in Tiatr research and promotion. Marcos Gonsalves, in his vote of thanks, responded positively to the proposal and also announced the to be launched of a Research Journal on Tiatr by TAG.

Expressing gratitude for the presence of bishop Simião Fernandes, Anthony Barbosa emphasized the need to actively promote and preserve Tiatr. Fr Tony Salema highlighted the vital role of Tiatr in preserving Goan language and culture, urging the community to remain rooted in its artistic and linguistic heritage.

Keynote speaker calls for the documentation of Tiatr

Delivering a keynote address, Fausto D’Costa, editor of GULAB and a noted Tiatr researcher, emphasized the urgent need for systematic documentation of Tiatr to ensure its authenticity and preservation for future generations.

D’Costa also stressed the importance of constructive criticism in the evolution of Tiatr, "For Tiatr to grow, it is essential to embrace critique with openness," he stated. He further cautioned against the complete commercialization of Tiatr, advocating for a balanced approach that retains its artistic and cultural essence.

Expressing optimism about the future of Tiatr, D’Costa acknowledged the encouraging participation of children, youth, parents, and teachers in Tiatr competitions, seeing it as a positive sign for the sustainability and growth of this Goan theatrical tradition.

Academic sessions on Tiatr

The seminar featured two academic sessions. The first session, chaired by veteran Tiatrist Tomazinho Cardozo, featured thought-provoking paper presentations. Prof Cosma Fernandes (MES College, Vasco) explored ‘The movement of Goan identity through Tiatr and Kantaram,’ while Dr Fr Luis Gomes (St Xavier’s College, Mapusa) examined ‘Societal Reflections in the Tiatr works of Tomazinho Cardozo.’ Prof Anija Shirodkar (Government College, Pernem) presented on ‘Bridging continents: The influence of European drama on Goan Tiatr,’ and Prof Remy Dias (Government College, Quepem) conducted ‘A comparative analysis of João Agostinho Fernandes’ 'Tandllanchem Kestanv' and T B Cunha’s 'Rice problem in Goa'.’ The session was anchored by assistant prof Anita Zambaulikar.

The second session, chaired by well-known Tiatrist Wilson Mazarelo, delved into evolving trends in Tiatr. Dharma Chodankar, associate professor at St Xavier’s College, analysed ‘Evolving trends in Tiatr: A study of Prince Jacob's contribution.’ Silvester Vaz, assistant professor at St Xavier’s College, examined ‘Exploring folk values through the Tiatr 'Kunnbi Jaki'.’ Fr Roman Rodrigues, assistant professor at Rosary College, presented a critical comparison on ‘Competition Tiatr vs commercial Tiatr,’ while Chiara Valosha Miranda, a student of Goa University, explored "The role of music in political dissent: A study of Konkani Kantaram." The session was anchored by Devita Kule.

Prince Jacob encourages youth to embrace Tiatr industry

The valedictory function of the International Seminar on Tiatr at St Xavier’s College, Mapusa, featured eminent Tiatrist Prince Jacob as the chief guest. In his address, he emphasized the need to continue competition Tiatr in a professional manner to uphold its artistic and cultural integrity.

Drawing from his personal journey, Prince Jacob highlighted the potential for a sustainable career in Tiatr, affirming that ‘We can earn through Tiatr.’ He encouraged young talents to embrace the Tiatr industry, urging them to contribute to its growth and evolution.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof Dharma Chodankar, HOD, Konkani Department while Seminarian Nigel Pereira efficiently anchored the proceedings.