LETTER TO THE EDITOR FOR ISSUE DATED MAY 23, 2026

No Comments

LETTER TO THE EDITOR FOR ISSUE DATED MAY 23, 2026

Letters To The Editor, May 23- May 29, 2026 May 22, 2026 , by Goan Observer Team

PHENOMENAL VAIBHAV SURYAVANSHI…
Pride star of Indian cricket
VAIBHAV Suryavanshi is a teenage batting prodigy from Bihar who has taken the cricketing world by storm. Already recognized as a generational and phenomenal talent, he became the youngest player to earn an IPL contract at age 13 and the youngest-ever centurion in men’s T20 history and should be ready for 1-Day International Cricket to break the record. His debut in ODI is become curious and exciting for the Indians.
Record-Breaking IPL Century is predicting his future. Playing for the Rajasthan Royals, he scored a phenomenal 101 runs off just 38 balls, achieving the second-fastest century in IPL history (off 35 deliveries).
Under 19 Dominance, in international youth ODI cricket, he smashed a remarkable 175 runs off just 80 balls and scored a record-breaking 52-ball youth century. Known for his aggressive, free-flowing batting style, he made headlines by hitting his first-ever IPL delivery for a six and has even successfully taken on world-class bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah.
So Indian Cricket Board must lift up such natural talented young cricketer in cricket world to upgrade Indian cricket.
— Rajesh Banaulikar, Arpora, Goa

ANTONETTA FERNANDES BIDS ADEUS TO GOA THE passing of Antonetta Fernandes on May 6, 2026 marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in Goan cultural history. A proud daughter of St Mathias, Antonetta Fernandes lived a remarkable life spanning Goa, Kenya and the United Kingdom, carrying with her the spirit, language, music and identity of Goa wherever she went. Born in St Mathias, Divar Island, and brought up in Salvador do Mundo, Antonetta studied in Belgaum during the Portuguese era at a time when opportunities for Goan women were limited by segregation and censorship. Even as a young girl she displayed courage and determination. In Salvador do Mundo she famously acted in six scenes of the iconic “Prodigal Son” production, disguising herself as a male performer because women were not permitted on stage during Portuguese rule. Her social conscience emerged early in life. As president of the Catholic Action Union, Antonetta dedicated herself to helping the poor, elderly and marginalised communities. Deeply rooted in faith, she always remained proud that her marriage to the late Bernard Fernandes took place at the historic Basilica of Bom Jesus in 1958. After marriage, she moved to Laare, Kenya, where alongside her husband she helped run the family business while also contributing to the building of a local church and spreading Christian values within the community. During difficult years in East Africa, she survived terror attacks carried out by the dreaded “Shiftas,” displaying the resilience and strength that would define her life. In 1967, long before cultural identity became a public conversation, Antonetta made the visionary decision to bring her children back to Goa so they could learn Konkani and remain connected to their Goan roots. Later, in 1976, she joined her husband in Leicester, United Kingdom, where she worked at the renowned Corah company while also helping run a café. In the UK she became a pillar of the Goan diaspora community. She taught young Goans Konkani, acted in tiatr productions and played a major role in bringing the legendary Alfred Rose troupe to Europe in 1986, helping preserve Goan culture abroad. She also helped form the Save Goa Campaign in London and was actively involved with the Sacred Heart Church choir, Scouts and Guides movements. One of Antonetta’s greatest joys in later life was witnessing the younger generation carry forward the Konkani cultural tradition she loved so deeply. It gave her immense pride and happiness to see her grandchildren, Ashley Fernandes and Gemma Fernandes, receive recognition and awards in Konkani tiatr, continuing the family’s contribution to Goan arts and culture. In 1999, Antonetta returned permanently to her beloved St Mathias, where she became the greatest inspiration behind the work of her eldest son, Marius Fernandes, popularly known as festacar. Through countless conversations on their traditional balcao, Antonetta shared stories of Goa from the 1940s onwards — its food, music, traditions, struggles and forgotten heritage. These conversations became the foundation for Marius Fernandes’ 107 original people’s festivals across Goa. Her immense knowledge shaped many of the themes and ideas celebrated through these inclusive cultural festivals. Paying tribute to his mother, Marius Fernandes said: “Without my mum there would not be a single fest. She was my museum, my internet and my library. We would sit for hours on our balcao in St Mathias speaking about old Goa, tiatr, music, food and history. I only had to show my mobile phone to her and she was ready — Lights, Camera, Action — and the rest is history.” Antonetta Fernandes also became a beloved figure on social media, attracting followers from across the globe who admired her warmth, humour, storytelling and deep pride in Goa and Konkani culture. Her passing is not only a loss to her family, but to Goa’s cultural memory itself. Antonetta Fernandes represented a bridge between generations, continents and communities — carrying Goa in her heart whether in Africa, Europe or India. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, resilience, culture, community service and storytelling that will continue to inspire generations of Goans around the world. Adeus, Antonetta Fernandes. Goa will remember you.

AIRES AT 66
With the continued prayers and good wishes of my friends and well-wishers, as I gear up to turn 66 on May 24, it is worth reminiscing about the past, living in the present and hoping for a great future for our beautiful Goa. My life has been memorable and the last few years have been very eventful with my dearest wife Liz Gracias and with the Almighty’s blessings.
As we travelled across various countries, we have made many more friends because of Liz’s loving, caring and very considerate nature towards all and her passion and concern for Goa.
Friends, your prayers and guidance has always given me that impetus and encouragement, to enjoy the years and now to look forward to the next milestone, my 75th birthday, followed by that dream century which will even be with a greater resolve. Looking forward to your continued love, affection, friendship and guidance in the years to come as we continue this life’s journey together.
Having studied political science, I am still very passionate about the subject, and now I have the privilege to be able to closely watch and observe the political turf in various countries. I had always dreamt of being a global Goan, and my once far dream is now close to reality.
It has been my firm belief that our multitude of friends and unflinching well-wishers over the years across the world is always our most invaluable asset. With this very clear idea and vision, my plan ahead is to serve my fellow Goans around the world, as they are my guiding inertia. Let me assure you all that I will relentlessly strive towards the best interests of Goa and particularly of my birthplace Ribandar, which has, is and will always be ever so dear and close to my heart.
As your humble soldier, wherever I may be, the task of serving humanity is a commitment, which I will carry on until my very last breath. As I tread that path, with God’s protection, renewed hope and even greater resolve, may the Almighty guide and inspire me at all times.
The “Enough is Enough” crusade inspired by our dear retired Allahabad High Court Chief Justice Ferdino Rebello may be the very last hope to
salvage what remains of our Goa. For me this movement is the biggest birthday gift. There cannot be a more coincidental story where we
share our fellowship in a society that upholds great values of brotherhood surpassing all boundaries of caste, creed and religion while maintaining the essence of Goa as a land of great unity,
heritage and cultural beauty.
— Aires Rodrigues, London