Remmie Colaço

Remédios Januário "Remmie" Colaço (19 September 1925 – 22 March 2012) was an Indian singer, composer, actor, playwright, and theatre director known for his work in Konkani films and tiatr productions.

Early life Remédios Januário Colaço was born on 19 September 1925, in Curchorem, Goa, which was then part of Portuguese India under the Portuguese Empire. His parents, João Sebastião Colaço and Carmelina Pinto, raised him in Curchorem, where he received primary education in Konkani and English at a local school in Khamamol, Curchorem. Colaço's affinity for music blossomed during his time in Sanvordem, Goa, where he later resided with his wife and children. Under the tutelage of Diogo Mestri at the parochial school in Sanvordem, he honed his musical skills, acquiring proficiency in reading and writing music as well as playing the violin. With the consent of Colaço's father, he was entrusted with the responsibility of portraying the heroine in the tiatr. His acting prowess resulted in acclaim, as evidenced by an article in the weekly publication Goa Times that praised Colaço's performance. Continuing their artistic endeavors, the Jolly Boys of Sewree organized another tiatr production called Sotachem Zoit (Truth Prevails), which was showcased at the St. Xavier's School Hall in Dhobitalao. This particular tiatr enlisted the participation of professional tiatrists such as Souza Ferrão, Dioginho D'Mello, Anthony Vaz, Kid Boxer, and Edward Almeida. Recognizing Colaço's talent, the group requested him to render two songs during the performance: a duet and a trio. The manner in which Colaço delivered these songs garnered admiration from the seasoned tiatrists in attendance, who extended their congratulations for his musical contributions.

Upon completing his studies in Sewri, Colaço relocated to Dhobitalao, where he formed a close friendship with Edward Almeida, an established professional tiatrist at the time. Almeida extended an opportunity to Colaço to take on a minor role in his own professional tiatr production titled Maim (Mother). Colaço was assigned a female character in this tiatr as well. Despite the role's limited significance, Colaço's portrayal captivated the audience. Additionally, he showcased his vocal prowess by delivering two duets, one alongside A. M. B. Rose and another with Edward Almeida himself. Both songs achieved popularity and acclaim. This marked a pivotal moment in Colaço's career, as it solidified his reputation as an actor adept at portraying female roles. Subsequently, he became a regular collaborator with C. Alvares, lending his voice to perform duets and continuing to portray female characters in C. Alvares' tiatrs. Colaço's talents also earned him roles in productions by other popular directors within the tiatr industry. The nuptials took place at the Sanvordem Church. The union resulted in the birth of three daughters: Maria (b. 1961),

Death On 22 March 2012, Colaço died at the Royal Hospital in Aquem, Margao, due to complications related to Alzheimer's disease. He had been admitted to the hospital two days prior for treatment. His funeral was held on 26 March, where he was mourned by a diverse assembly of people paying their final respects. The funeral mass was led by Fr. James Silva, the parish priest of Curchorem, with Fr. Trinco Menezes, the assistant parish priest, delivering the homily. Figures such as Tomazinho Cardozo, the then-president of the Tiatr Academy of Goa, tiatrist and advocate Mike Mehta, and former Curchorem MLA Domnick Fernandes were in attendance and offered their thoughts on the occasion. During the ceremony, a significant moment was the playing of Colaço's popular Konkani song, "Ankvar Moriechem Dukh."

Reactions Colaço was remembered as a warm and genial individual, described by his close friend Pachao Pereira as a true gentleman. He was highly regarded by prominent figures in the world of tiatr and often called upon to mediate disputes among well-known tiatrists.