Jacinto Vaz

Jacinto Castor Vaz (; né Vas; 27 April 1918 – 30 April 1993) was an Indian comedian, actor, singer, composer, and playwright known for his work in Konkani films and tiatr productions. Referred to as the "Charlie Chaplin of the Konkani stage," he was a leading comedian during the golden phase of tiatr, and has acted in over 4000 tiatrs.

Early life

Jacinto Castor Vaz, originally known as Jacinto Castor Vas, was born on 27 April 1918, in Mandur, Ilhas de Goa, which was a part of Portuguese India during the Portuguese Empire and is presently located in India. His parents were Castor Joaquin Vaz (né Vas) and Margarida Cardoso. Vaz received his elementary education at a local village school.

Career Vaz's introduction to the professional stage occurred in Ernest Rebello's tiatr production titled Hanv Patki (I Confess). Recognizing Vaz's talent, Dioguinho D'Mello invited him to join the National Artistes Unity in Bombay, an association that included figures such as Anthony Vaz, Souza Ferrão, Kid Boxer, and Miss Julie, all prominent tiatrists. Through this association, Vaz had the opportunity to tour Goa. Initially, Vaz focused on serious roles, predominantly singing melancholic songs. However, it was the playwright and director Alexinho de Candolim who identified Vaz's hidden comedic talent. Alexinho offered Vaz the lead role of a comical bridegroom in his tiatr production Bhasailolo Nouro (Destined Boyfriend). Vaz's performance surpassed expectations, establishing him as a comedian on the tiatr stage. Writer Irene Cardozo commended Vaz for his natural comedic ability, effortlessly blending with his role and captivating audiences with his spontaneous and effortless humor. Vaz's mere presence on stage evoked laughter, highlighting his innate comedic aptitude, writes Cardozo. Consequently, Vaz became synonymous with comedy, and subsequent offers predominantly comprised comedic roles.

During this period, Anthony Mendes held the position of the leading comedy figure in Konkani stage productions. However, Vaz's ascent was facilitated by an unfortunate event-the untimely death of Mendes in 1964 at the age of 43. Cardozo writes, this created a void that only a comedian of Vaz's caliber could fill.

The significance of Vaz's contributions to tiatr was further acknowledged with the erection of a statue in his birthplace of Mandur during the same year. The literary works of Vaz and Konkani writer Reginald Fernandes are considered to hold significant cultural and historical importance. Despite this, these writers remain relatively obscure to younger generations. Historically, there has been a lack of recognition for their contributions, resulting in their literature being largely undiscovered. According to library curator Carlos Fernandes, the existing body of their work represents a valuable and unique treasure trove, offering potential for enriching research endeavors for those interested in studying their writings.

Selected stage works YearTitleRoleNotesRefHanv PatkiSinger/actor Professional debut Bhasailolo NouroBridegroom BodmasWriter GorvaliWriterBandwalaWriter 1955Main ani SunWriter