M. Boyer

Manuel Santana Aguiar (11 October 1930 – 30 May 2009), known professionally as M. Boyer, was an Indian singer, composer, playwright, and theatre director known for his work in Konkani films and tiatr (musical theatre) productions. He wrote, directed, and produced more than 35 plays, participated in over 5,000 performances, and composed and sang more than 1,000 songs. Aguiar also performed in major Indian cities, as well as in London, East Africa, and the Middle East.

Aguiar made a significant contribution to the Konkani stage, thereby enriching it and leaving his special mark on it. He has also been a source of inspiration for many other artists. As a young boy, his parents and school principal tried to discourage him from pursuing his passion but despite all their attempts, he never gave up his love for the stage.

Awards and honours Aguiar was honoured for his distinguished services at the hands of Zail Singh, then-President of India on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee Celebration of Goa's Liberation in 1986. In the year 1984–85, Aguiar was conferred with the State Cultural Award by the erstwhile Government of Goa, Daman and Diu.

Aguiar was the recipient of the 1994–95 Sangeet Natak Akademi Award at the hands of the then President of India, Shankar Dayal Sharma. He was the first Konkani stage artiste to receive this award. He was then awarded the Padma Shri, fourth-highest civilian award in 2005 at the hand of former President of India, A. P. J. Abdul Kalam.