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{{Short description|Indian playwright and singer (1932–2002)}}
{{Infobox person
| name = Robin Vaz
| image = Robin Vaz at an event (cropped).jpg
| caption = Vaz during his youth
| birth_place = [[Cuncolim]], [[Goa]], [[Portuguese India]], [[Portuguese Empire]]
| birth_date = {{birth date|1932|10|20|df=y}}
| death_place = [[Margao, Goa]], India
| death_date = {{death date and age|2002|11|16|1932|10|20|df=y}}
| occupation = {{hlist|Playwright|actor|singer|dancer}}
| organisation = [[Azad Gomantak Dal]]
| notable_works = {{ubl|
* ''[[Nirmon]]''
* ''[[Bhuierantlo Munis]]''}}
| movement = [[Goa liberation movement|Goa liberation]]
| years_active = 1941–1990s
}}

'''Robin Vaz''' (20 October 1932 – 16 November 2002) was an Indian playwright, actor, singer, and dancer known for his work in [[Konkani cinema|Konkani films]], ''[[tiatr]]'' productions, and [[Goan music|Goan folk music]].

==Career==
Vaz made his debut on stage in [[Pai Tiatrist|João Agostinho Fernandes]]'s ''[[tiatr]]'' (a form of theater in [[Goa]]) titled ''Kunbi Jakki''. At the age of 11, Vaz seized an opportunity to act in a ''tiatr'' organized by his village peers, which showcased his early talent as a [[child artist]]. His performance left an impression on the audience, prompting many to recognize his potential as a ''[[tiatrist]]''. Vaz's burgeoning reputation earned him invitations to act in ''tiatrs'' produced by established ''tiatrists'' such as Jephsis Hitler, Kamat de Assolna, and Saluzinho D'Costa. His involvement with these accomplished [[theatre practitioner]]s further honed his skills and expanded his exposure within the [[Konkani language|Konkani]] theater community. At the age of 15, Vaz took the bold step of writing his own ''tiatr'', titled ''Put Konnancho?'', which he staged in [[Cuncolim]]. This production featured a mix of professional ''tiatrists'' and [[Amateur theatre|amateur actors]] and received a favorable response from audiences. Unfortunately, Vaz's aspirations were temporarily interrupted when he had to leave for [[Bombay]] (now Mumbai) in search of employment opportunities. During his time in Bombay, Vaz pursued avenues to establish himself professionally on the [[Tiatr|Konkani stage]]. He began showcasing his musical talents by singing songs on [[All India Radio]], where his performances were regularly broadcast by [[List of radio stations in Mumbai|All India Radio, Bombay]]. Meanwhile, Vaz actively participated in the movement for [[Liberation of Goa|Goa's Liberation]], collaborating with [[freedom fighter]]s in their [[Goa liberation movement|efforts to free Goa]] from [[Portuguese India|Portuguese rule]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Times |first=Navhind |date=2011-10-24 |title=Robin Vaz A Towering Tiatr Personality – The Navhind Times |url=https://www.navhindtimes.in/2011/10/24/magazines/buzz/iwatch-robin-vaz-towering-tiatr-personality/ |access-date=2024-03-02 |language=en-US}}</ref> Vaz's pro-[[nationalist]] stance led him to join the [[Azad Gomantak Dal]] (AGD), a [[political organization]], where he worked closely with Mussolini Menezes, the secretary of AGD.<ref name=":1">{{Cite book |last=Mazarello |first=Wilson |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=K-1PAQAAIAAJ |title=100 Years of Konkani Tiatro |date=2000 |publisher=Government of Goa, Directorate of Art & Culture |pages=153–156 |language=en |access-date=2024-03-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107200151/https://books.google.com/books?id=K-1PAQAAIAAJ |archive-date=2024-01-07 |url-status=live}}</ref>

Menezes, who also wrote and staged ''tiatrs'', played a significant role in Vaz's theatrical journey. Vaz had the opportunity to act and sing in several of Menezes's plays, including productions like ''Ravji Ranno'', ''Padrichem Bondd'', and ''Martyrs of Cuncolim''. Through these collaborations, Vaz's talent and versatility were recognized by other directors in the Konkani theater scene, leading to a surge in offers for roles in ''tiatrs'' by popular directors such as [[J. P. Souzalin]], [[Kid Boxer]], [[Anthony De Sa (actor)|Anthony D'Sa]], [[Saib Rocha]], [[A. R. Souza Ferrão]], [[Alfred Rose (singer)|Alfred Rose]], [[C. Alvares]], and [[Jacinto Vaz]], J. P. Souzalin, in particular, entrusted Vaz with significant roles in his [[Liturgical drama|religious plays]], where Vaz demonstrated his ability to convincingly portray various [[Roman people|Roman characters]]. This resulted in acclaim from audiences. As Vaz solidified his position on the stage, he began exploring his creative potential as a writer.<ref name=":1" /> He authored a total of 27 ''tiatrs'' throughout his career, with works including ''Ajente Monteiro'', ''Shantichem Login'' (Peaceful Marriage), ''Opinion Poll'', ''Dada'', ''Barabas'', ''Ghatki Salome'', ''Biatin'', ''Sam Juanv Batist'', ''Saddam Hussain'', and ''Put Konnancho''. Among Vaz's repertoire, religious plays such as ''Adanv Ani Eva'', ''Barabas'', ''Dominic Savio'', ''Don Bosco'', ''Fatima Saibinn'', ''Sam Juanv Baptist'', and ''Ghatki Salomen'' stood out. These plays showcased Vaz's ability to engage and connect with audiences through thought-provoking [[narrative]]s. His final ''tiatr'' was ''Miss Isabel''.<ref name=":2">{{Cite book |last=Fernandes |first=Raphael |title=TIATR 125th Anniversary Commemorative Volume |publisher=[[Tiatr Academy of Goa]] |year=2019 |location=[[Panaji, Goa]] |pages=53–54}}</ref>

One of Vaz's significant accomplishments was his self-penned ''[[tiatr]]'' titled ''Ajente Monteiro'', which he wrote, directed, and staged shortly after [[Liberation of Goa|Goa's liberation]]. In this production, Vaz portrayed the character of [[Casimiro Monteiro|Agente Monteiro]], a Portuguese officer known for his [[oppressive]] tactics, particularly against [[freedom fighter]]s. Vaz's portrayal of this role was acclaimed for its skill and authenticity. Vaz also showcased his talent in a selection of [[Konkani cinema|Konkani films]]. His contributions include acting in Konkani movies such as ''[[Nirmon]]'', ''Sukhachem Sopon'', ''Kortubancho Sounsar'', ''Mhoji Ghorkarn'', and ''[[Bhuierantlo Munis]]''.<ref name=":1" /> Vaz's versatility as an actor extended beyond regional cinema, as he had also made appearances in [[Hindi cinema|Hindi films]], including ''Aap ki Izzat Aap Bachao'' and ''Asit Sinha'', earning recognition for his performances on the [[silver screen]]. In addition to his achievements in film, Vaz made significant contributions to the traditional [[Goan]] [[musical theater]] form known as ''tiatr''. He had an extensive [[repertoire]] of over 1000 performances, both in his own productions and collaborations with other ''tiatr'' artists. Vaz's musical talents are evident in his compositions and his performances as a singer. Among his most beloved songs are "Sitaram Gaddiwala," "Kunbi Vauraddi," "Backbay-chem Varem," "Pipirmitt," "Va-Re-Va," and "Darling Lucy." Vaz's influence extended to the realm of [[folk song]]s and [[folk dance|dances]], where he had made contributions. With his [[folklore]] troupe, Vaz has traveled extensively, introducing [[Culture of Goa|Goan folk songs]] to the ''tiatr'' stage.<ref name=":2" /> This endeavor not only expanded the repertoire of [[Konkani language|Konkani]] folk music but also garnered popularity among the local [[Goan]] population. Even today, Vaz's folk songs, including "Vavra Voitai," "Zatrek Vetam," and "Madly of Folk Songs," continue to resonate with audiences.<ref name=":0" />

Furthermore, Vaz demonstrated a skill in creating [[Goan music|Konkani songs]] specifically intended for stage performances. His compositions, including "Pipirmitt" and "Konkani Bhas", remain appreciated and are available through [[Gramophone Company India]].<ref name=":0" /> His passion for folklore led him to host popular programs on folk songs at [[All India Radio]] in [[Bombay]]. To this day, his folk songs remain popular on All India Radio, reaching audiences in [[Goa]] and Mumbai. Vaz's talent as a [[folk singer]] and dancer became known, as he composed songs inspired by various Goan traditions, such as [[Gauda and Kunbi|Kunbi]], [[Kharvi]], [[Farmer|Xetkamti]], [[Deknni]], and [[Fugdi]]. Vaz's contributions to the arts have been recognized with many awards, spanning his ''tiatrs'', songs, and [[folk dance]]s. He had also released several [[audio cassette]]s, including ''Goa with Love'' and ''Unforgettable Hits''.<ref name=":2" /> Throughout his career, Vaz had the opportunity to perform at prestigious events and functions across India. Despite dedicating over four decades to the Konkani stage, Vaz managed a successful career in a firm in Bombay. In the 1990s, he retired from his job to focus on completing unfinished projects. Alongside his professional endeavors, Vaz produced three of his own audio cassettes and featured in ten others. He has toured various cities, including Bombay, Goa, and [[Poona]].<ref name=":1" />

==Personal life==
Robin Vaz was born on 20 October 1932, in [[Cuncolim]], [[Goa]], which was a part of [[Portuguese India]] during the time of the [[Portuguese Empire]]. His parents were Pedro Vaz and Valentina. Growing up in Cuncolim, Vaz was exposed to the vibrant songs and festivities of the [[Kunbi]] laborers who lived near his home. It was his mother, Valentina, who nurtured his passion for ''[[tiatr]]'' by taking him to local performances, including one by [[Pai Tiatrist|João Agostinho Fernandes]], featuring [[A. R. Souza Ferrão]], which left a lasting impression on young Vaz.<ref name=":2" /> Inspired by what he witnessed, Vaz began organizing his own mini concerts and children's ''tiatrs'' at home, using makeshift curtains made from bedsheets. His friends from the village joined him, assuming the roles of popular ''[[tiatrist]]s'' of the time, such as [[J. P. Souzalin]], A. R. Souza Ferrão, [[Anthony De Sa (actor)|Anthony D'Sa]], and Miss Julie. This early involvement in ''tiatr'' fueled Vaz's love for the art form, which continued to grow as he matured. Vaz went on to establish himself as a known figure in the world of Konkani ''tiatr'', making contributions to its development. By 1995, he had settled with his family in Kalina, [[Santacruz, Mumbai|Santacruz]], [[Bombay]].<ref name=":1" /> On 16 November 2002, Vaz died in [[Margao]], at the age of 70.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 November 2002 |title=Directorate of planning, statistics and evaluation and office of the chief registrar of births and deaths |url=https://rbd.goa.gov.in/Certificate/DeathCertificate.aspx#aSearch |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240123154022/https://rbd.goa.gov.in/ErrorPage/500.htm?aspxerrorpath=/Certificate/DeathCertificate.aspx#aSearch |archive-date=23 January 2024 |access-date=29 December 2023 |website=Goa Online}}</ref>

==Character assessment==
[[Wilson Mazarello]], a historian and singer specializing in [[Konkani language|Konkani]] culture, describes Vaz as an individual deeply connected to the world of music. Mazarello highlights how even the faintest sound of music would set Vaz's substantial frame in motion, as if his being resonated with the rhythms. This affinity with music was a defining characteristic of Vaz throughout his life, from his early years to his later stages. While the precise measurement of his height remains unknown, Vaz is widely acknowledged as the tallest and most imposing figure in the history of ''[[tiatr]]'', a form of [[Goan]] [[musical theater]]. Moreover, Vaz possessed a unique charisma that captivated audiences, and his presence on stage, combined with his rhythmic dancing, infused the atmosphere with vibrant energy. Due to his physical stature, Vaz acquired the moniker "giant of the Konkani stage." Additionally, his comedic talents and humorous songs led some to compare him to the iconic [[comedy duo]], "[[Laurel and Hardy]]." Wilson Mazarello characterizes Vaz as a highly amiable individual, a figure who left a lasting impression on those who knew him.<ref name=":1" />

==Selected stage works==
{| class="wikitable sortable"
!Year
!Title
!Role
!Notes
!Ref
|-
|1941
|''Kunbi Jakki''
|Unnamed role
|
|<ref>{{Cite book |last=Fernandes |first=André Rafael |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vKAbygAACAAJ |title=When the Curtains Rise--: Understanding Goa's Vibrant Konkani Theatre |date=2010 |publisher=Tiatr Academy of Goa |isbn=978-93-80739-01-4 |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":1" />
|-
|{{circa|1943}}
|Untitled ''tiatr''
|Child artist
|
|rowspan="5"|<ref name=":1" />
|-
|{{circa|1947}}
|''Put Konnancho?''
|Writer
|
|-
|
|''Ravji Ranno''
|Actor/singer
|
|-
|
|''Padrichem Bondd''
|Actor/singer
|
|-
|
|''Martyrs of Cuncolim''
|Actor/singer
|
|-
|1960s
|''Ajente Monteiro''
|Writer
|
|rowspan="3"|<ref name=":2" />
|-
|
|''Shantichem Login''
|Writer
|
|-
|1960s
|''Opinion Poll''
|Writer
|
|}

==Select discography==
===Singles===
* ''Kunbi Vauraddi'' (1965)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Frank Fernand – Nirmon |url=https://www.discogs.com/release/11770843-Frank-Fernand-Nirmon |access-date=2 July 2024 |website=[[Discogs]] |date=1965 }}</ref>
* ''Sitaram Gaddiwalla'' (1966)
* ''Darling Lucy'' (1977)<ref>{{Cite web |title=M. Alphonso – Teach Me Konkani |url=https://www.discogs.com/release/3672098-M-Alphonso-Teach-Me-Konkani |access-date=2 July 2024 |website=[[Discogs]] |date=1977 }}</ref>
* ''Pipirmitt'' (1981)
* ''Vare-Va'' (1981)
* ''Backbaychem Varem'' (1981)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Robin Vaz – Konkani Unforgettable Hits |url=https://www.discogs.com/release/14099483-Robin-Vaz-Konkani-Unforgettable-Hits- |access-date=2 July 2024 |website=[[Discogs]] |date=1981 }}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
*{{IMDb name|id=4479806}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Vaz, Robin}}
[[Category:1932 births]]
[[Category:2002 deaths]]
[[Category:Tiatrists]]
[[Category:Musicians from South Goa district]]
[[Category:Writers from South Goa district]]
[[Category:Konkani-language singers]]

Robin Vaz - Revision history

Kanchin789: starting initial details needs work.