Tribute – JP Pereira
On April 11, 2023, the Konkani stage lost another actor. Joaquim Joao Fernandes, popular as Jaju or lovingly called Dada, by most of his co-stars, suffered a major heart attack and passed away. He was an actor who would perform any roles. Many times, negative, at times positive especially those of a loving and caring father and sometimes, quite humorous. He had a style of his own!
Hailing from Benaulim, he started his career in his brother Roseferns nonstop show ‘Thapott’. This show ran for more than a century of performances. Fortunately, he also performed in the same director’s 100th production ‘Amche Modem Jiyeta’. Prince Jacob who also started his career in ‘Thapott’ had this to say, “Jaju and I sang the opening song of ‘Thapott’. I formed my own group later but was lucky enough to act with Jaju in ‘Amche Modem Jiyeta’. We gelled so well and this reminded us of those younger days when we acted together, with the same co-ordination and support to one another”.
A dynamic actor, he was so full of life and encouraged everyone. He always had good suggestions to hi co-stars and a big smile to welcome all. Jaju acted in many dramas, helmed by various directors and performed in the Gulf, London, Mumbai, Pune and of course our Goa. He was also a singer who many times proclaimed the word of God.
Stancio Fernandes the dynamic young video producer of MOG Productions, recorded his message of love and greetings to his son, Beckham, on his 21st birthday. He was supposed to act in a new video film by this young director. “It will not happen now. Jaju uncle has passed away”, says Stancio, tearfully. The final show that this wonderful actor performed was the second staging of Roseferns new tiatr ‘Hem OxenchCholtelem?’ at Arambol. He passed away the next day.
His other love was soccer. He was an executive member of the Goa Football Association and his son Brandon is a star player of Goan football. We will remember you Jaju, remember the various roles you performed, your songs, your kindness and your faith in God. Our condolences to his wife Antonette, the children Anisia, Sydney, Brandon, their spouses, Beckham and the entire family. We thank you God, for bringing Jaju in our lives.
Rest now with the Lord, Jaju!