Ramnath Mauzo

Ramanath Narayan "Ramnath" Mauzo (born Ramanath Narain Sinai Mauzo; – 15 April 1990), also known as R N Mauzo, was an Indian photo artist, photographer, and actor best known for founding the photography studio Mauzo Fotografo in 1936. He further gained recognition for his award-winning portrait Luz E Sombra. His notable students include artist Laxman Pai, and Bollywood cinematographer K Vaikunth.

Early life Mauzo, born in in Goa, India (then under Portuguese rule), was initially known as Ramanath Narain Sinai Mauzo, later changing his name to Ramanath Narayan Mauzo. He hailed from a family involved in the tobacco trade, with his father, Narain Sinai Mauzo (later Narayan Mauzo), also known as Nani. Mauzo had a sister named Radhabai. Mauzo's son, Narayan, shared the same name as his grandfather. The former was as a Konkani activist and businessman. Mauzo possessed a deep love for music and excelled in playing various musical instruments. Additionally, he showcased his versatility by singing classical music and engaging in theatrical performances, often assuming female roles on stage.

Career Mauzo inaugurated his inaugural studio in Margão on 25 November 1936, subsequent to completing his training. The studio underwent relocation in 1945, finding its current abode. Initially, Mauzo engaged in the importation of photographic merchandise from brands such as Mimosa, Kodak, Ilford, among others. In due course, Mauzo Fotografo (later renamed Mauzo Studio) emerged in Vasco and Pangim in 1956 and 1958, respectively.

Throughout his formative years, Mauzo harbored a desire to venture beyond the confines of Goa and explore the world through the lens of his camera. Accompanied by his close associates Dinanath Dalal and Raghuvir Mulgaokar, Mauzo aspired to try their fortunes in the artistic realm by venturing to Bombay (present-day Mumbai). While Dalal and Mulgaokar ascended to the ranks of stardom and acclaim, Mauzo chose to remain rooted in Goa until his demise. Pawaskar of O Heraldo writes, Mauzo etched an indelible chapter in the annals of the photography world, as his protégés dispersed across the globe, bringing him immense pride and acclaim.

Photography style Pawaskar of O Heraldo writes, Mauzo was acclaimed for his meticulous attention to detail as a photographer. His devotion to his craft was evident to such an extent that he would occasionally mistakenly dip his paintbrush into his tea. As a young boy, Narayan was tasked with the responsibility of serving Mauzo tea during the afternoon sessions, ensuring that such inadvertent blunders were avoided. Mauzo's commitment to perfection manifested in the success of his photography, particularly in his skillful portrayal of soon-to-be-married young women, which garnered considerable acclaim.

Awards In 1932, Mauzo was bestowed with a prestigious gold medal by Waman Gopal Joshi in recognition of his exceptional photographic portrayal of Narayan Shenvi Kirtani. Subsequently, in 1940, the British Government organized the Premiadona Exposisao de Arte em, a renowned art competition held in British India that attracted participation from artists representing 25 countries worldwide. Mauzo decided to submit his artwork titled Luz E Sombra from Goa, which was executed using crayon and coal. Notably, Mauzo emerged as the winner in the esteemed light and shadow category, securing the coveted first prize. In 1986, Mauzo's outstanding contributions to the realm of art were duly acknowledged when he received the esteemed State Cultural Award from the Government of Goa.

Legacy Mauzo's artistic prowess is evident through the prominent display of his portraits at various distinguished locations. These include the old Secretariat in Panjim, as well as the municipalities in Vasco da Gama and Margao, all situated in the picturesque region of Goa. Moreover, Mauzo's commitment to art's transformative power is exemplified by his generous donation of 60 paintings to Maria da Fonte, a prominent Portuguese freedom fighter. These artworks were intended to enhance the visual environment of Portuguese government schools. The artistic legacy of Mauzo extends further with the inclusion of his portrait of Laibhaskar Khapruji Parvatkar adorning the walls of the esteemed Swarmanch Institute located in Comba.