Konkani Lenten Operetta Draws Thousands to Pilar Hillock, Goa

Pilar, Goa – 5 April 2025: The Society of Pilar recently staged Jivitachem Jivit, Uzvaddacho Uzvadd, a visually and spiritually captivating Lenten operetta in Konkani, on the iconic Pilar hillock. Over two thousand people from across Goa gathered to witness the grand musical production that powerfully portrayed the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ through evocative song and drama.

The concept for the operetta—whose title translates to The Life of Life, the Light of Light, referring to Jesus—was initiated by Fr. Peter Fernandes, Manager of Pilar Media, and brought to life with the support of his fellow confreres and superiors.

Scripted by renowned theatre personality Fr. Dominic Alvares and biblical scholar Fr. Diogo D’Souza, the operetta was directed by Fr. Ze Baptista, with Fr. Agnelo Gomes and Fr. Diogo D’Souza serving as creative directors. Inspired by the Jubilee Year theme, Pilgrims of Hope, announced by Pope Francis, the production echoed a message of unwavering hope.

Thirteen dramatic scenes unfolded through the efforts of over 50 performers. One particularly moving moment—depicting Jesus meeting His mother on the way to Calvary—evoked deep emotion and left the audience in reverent silence. Frazer Fernandes of Morjim played the role of Jesus, while Felicia Hyacinth Coutinho from Verna portrayed Mary, His mother.

Other notable performances included Alexinho de Morjim as Judas, Fr. Pio Furtado as Peter, Fr. Milton Rodrigues as the High Priest, and Fr. Derrick Rodrigues as Pilate.

The musical component featured thirteen original compositions by Goa’s acclaimed music maestro Fr. Peter Cardozo, in collaboration with Fr. Dominic Alvares and Avers Pereira. Over 20 professional musicians and singers delivered a stirring live performance, with the orchestra conducted by Fr. Cardozo and assisted by Fr. Elvis Fernandes.

The operetta also stirred memories of a similar event held in 1985, where the audience moved through scenes set in different locations. In contrast, this year’s rendition was staged on an expansive, nearly 100-metre-wide platform, enhanced by impressive lighting and sound design from Shelton and Chris Audio.

Fr. Lawrence Fernandes, producer of the play, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the donors and benefactors who made the production possible, while Fr. Nazareth Fernandes, Superior General of the Society of Pilar, honoured several distinguished guests during the event.

Creative set and costume design was led by Fr. Adrian Furtado and team, with technical direction overseen by Fr. Joseph Fernandes, Fr. Lionel Fernandes, and Fr. Andrew Joseph. Publicity for the event was managed by Fr. Rex Fernandes.

The operetta not only showcased artistic brilliance but also offered a moment of deep reflection for the faithful during the Lenten season.

By Fr. Elvis Fernandes