Jaju Fernandes

Joaquim João "Jaju" Fernandes (29 September 1960 – 11 April 2023), also mononymously known as Jaju or Dada , was an Indian actor and singer known for his work in Konkani films and tiatr (theatre) productions. He made his professional debut in the 1980 tiatr Thapott (Slap) by his elder brother, Roseferns. Following this, he became known for playing both serious and comedic main characters, traditionally those of a father, antagonist, or police officer. In his later years, he took on the role of a football agent during his son Brandon Fernandes's early football career.

Early life Joaquim João Fernandes was born on 29 September 1960 in the village of Benaulim, Goa, which was part of Portuguese India during the Portuguese Empire, to carpenter Joaquim Mariano Fernandes and homemaker Maria Remediana Edoenca Fernandes, who hailed from Colva, into a Goan Catholic family. Fernandes originated from a village known for its tradition of tiatrists. Throughout his career, Fernandes left a mark with his memorable portrayals, garnering acclaim not only for his villainous roles but also for his adeptness in comedic characters. He donned multiple hats, embodying diverse roles, be it that of a father figure, antagonist, or law enforcement officer. In 2010, Fernandes joined forces with fellow tiatrist Comedian Agostinho's troupe for the theatrical production of Advogad (Advocate), which led to a series of popular tiatrs including Interview, Police, Public, and Fight for Right. Fernandes subsequently rejoined his brother Roseferns' troupe, lending his talent to their 98th production, Atam Yeyat (Now Come), followed by the 99th production, Jevnnant Fator (Stone in food), the 100th production, Amche Modem Jiyeta (Dwelling within us), and finally, the 101st production, Ek Nam Ek Dis (One day or the other). Consequently, Fernandes made a firm commitment to further assist his brother in their future projects in the tiatr production industry.

Fernandes was a multifaceted artist known for his contributions as both an actor and a singer. He showcased his vocal prowess in several audio albums produced by Konkani artists such as Roseferns, Pascoal, Saby de Divar, and others. Within the realm of acting, Fernandes made an impact by starring in a variety of Konkani films, including works like Ek Vat Mennachi, Vankddo Tinkddo Mog, Old Age Home, and Public, among others. Furthermore, Fernandes ventured into the realm of production, releasing the Konkani CD Xim, where he demonstrated his skills in different venues in India, including Goa, Mumbai, and Pune, as well as internationally in Kuwait, Bahrain, Muscat, Qatar, Dubai, and the United Kingdom. He was regarded for his constructive suggestions to fellow actors and his warm, inviting demeanor. Fernandes's artistic journey encompassed a body of work, including more than 125 tiatrs/khell-tiatrs. He collaborated with Konkani directors such as Roseferns, Comedian Agostinho, and Tony Dias.

Personal life Fernandes's elder brother, Roseferns, is also active on the Konkani stage as a theatre director and actor. On 15 September 1982, Fernandes had a civil marriage registration with homemaker Antoneta Goes (later Antonieta Goes) in Margao. They have four children: three boys – Brandon, an association football player who plays for Mumbai City FC; Beckham (born 2002); and Sydney (born 1984), who is based in the UK His funeral took place two days later, on 13 April, at the Holy Trinity Church in Benaulim. The ceremony was attended by a number of individuals, including members of the Konkani tiatr community, politicians, sports personalities, friends, and well-wishers.