Anthony Mendes

Anthony Mendes (born Antonio Mendes; 28 December 1920 – 21 March 1964) was an Indian actor, comedian, singer, composer, lyricist, and playwright known for his work in Konkani films and tiatr productions.

Early life Anthony Mendes, was born as Antonio Mendes, on 28 December 1920, in Borda, Goa, which was part of Portuguese India during the Portuguese Empire. Born into a Goan Catholic family to parents Felicio Santana Mendes and Filomena Mendes, Mendes grew up in the parish of Verna, Goa. From an early age, Mendes exhibited talent in the fields of singing and acting. Writer and historian Wilson Mazarello attests to Mendes' innate abilities in these artistic pursuits. Mendes' passion for singing and acting was evident as he organized concerts, gathering young boys from his village to participate in these performances. Mendes received his education at St. Theresa's High School in Girgaum, Bombay. It was during his time at this institution that his talent truly flourished. Mendes actively participated in numerous concerts, impressing his teachers and peers with his skills. Beyond his school years, Mendes continued to make contributions to the Goan music scene. During school holidays, he actively participated in Goan concerts. His participation in hundreds of tiatrs ensued thereafter. Mendes made his inaugural trip from Margão to Bombay using a horse-drawn carriage. Upon arriving at the Carwar border, he was discovered and subsequently transported to Bombay without any recourse or alternative available.

Mendes quickly became a popular choice among those who enjoyed attending tiatr performances, owing to his voice, melodious singing, and impeccable characterizations, writes Konkani historian and writer Wilson Mazarello. Among his works were Pandu Barber, Artimez, Goenkar (Goan), Boborji vo Kuzner, Pensaum vo Tensaum, Kunnbi Irmāu (Kunbi Brother), Dusreponni Cazar (Second Marriage), Ticli Sun, Voniecho Jurament, Editorachem Noxib (Editor's Luck), Guirannacho Put, Bekar Zanvoim (Unemployed Son-in-law), and the popular Road to Mapusa. In the year 1940, he authored, directed, and presented the play Pandu Barber, debuting in Goa and subsequently in Bombay at the Princess Theatre Bhangwadi. Mendes entered into matrimony with Clementina Mendes (née Alvares), a homemaker originating from Raia, Goa. His demise prompted the tiatr fraternity in Bombay to unite in remembrance of his contributions. As a tribute, they organized a series of performances of Mendes' popular drama, Guirannach Put, under the direction of C. Alvares. These heartfelt renditions took place at venues such as Princess Theatre Bhangwadi, Bombay, St. Mary's Hall in Mazagaon, Damodar Hall in Parel, St. Michael's in Mahim, and St. Peter's Hall in Bandra. One highlight of these presentations was Alfred Rose's emotionally charged rendition of the song "Konkani Palk Golloita Dukam," dedicated to Mendes, which moved audiences to tears. Mendes' artistic legacy lives on through his sons, Felix-Xavier-Derrick, known collectively as the Mendes Brothers, who continue to uphold their father's artistic heritage.