MARGAO: A pall of gloom descended upon Margao after news broke out about the death of renowned writer, journalist, researcher and former town mayor, Valmiki Faleiro. He was 67 and is survived by his wife.
While there was beeline to his mansion behind Holy Spirit Church, Margao, with friends, family and political leaders sending their condolences to Faleiro’s bereaved family, all were shocked that the person they cared and admired so much, had moved on after suffering a heart attack.
Many of them recalled meeting Faleiro at his home recently as they wanted a copy of his latest book and how Faleiro had shared with them his insights about various developments. One thing was common; all of them were in awe of the wisdom and knowledge that Faleiro had to share, not just now, but way back during his college days. “The sudden death of Valmiki Faleiro has shocked all of us. He was a journalist, writer and he did a lot of research on the history of Goa and its annexation. His articles in the newspapers were very interesting and full of historical trivia. His death is a big loss to Goa and to journalism. He was also the President of Margao Municipality where he had done very well for the town,” said columnist Jose Maria Miranda, who was amongst those who had visited Faleiro’s residence on Thursday evening.
“Goa lost a Great Intelligent Son. He was mightiest with his pen. Best writer and the best President of Margao Municipal Council. I knew him well since I was involved in social work in 1985-86, during his tenure. I have good memories of him. He left us early, but left his footprints too. May God grant his soul eternal peace. Deepest condolences to his wife Daisy, and all the sorrowful members of his family. Adeus forever, Amigo!” said Filipe Dias from Margao. “Socrates Valmiki Faleiro, a friend of long standing and an outstanding researcher and writer, died after what I understand was a massive heart attack. A huge and irreplaceable loss to Goa. Unbelievable. We spent so much time together growing up. The unexpected message of his death was numbing. His commitment to journalism was total and his research, faultless. His books are a great source of information on Goa and Goans. My condolences to Daisy and family. Rest in Peace my friend,” said Advocate Radharao Gracias.
“His writings will remain popular for generations to cherish and enjoy. The unique way in which he scripted what he had to convey using plain and pleasant vocabulary was outstanding as it could be understood by the common man. Dear Valmiki, bidding you a farewell until we meet in that better world you have departed to. You will continue to inspire and motivate young Goans, especially those who opt to write using pen and crafting their words artistically just like you always did, truthfully and dutifully,” said Adv Aires Rodrigues.
“It was indeed a severe shock to be informed about the sudden demise of my good friend, icon, advisor and an amazing Man of the Pen. Recently, he sent me an autographed copy of his latest book ‘Goa 1961’! It is a super literary contribution, an epic compilation of facts about the run-up to Goa’s liberation movement, earlier unknown, or dispersed piece-meal in other documentations. I salute his love for Goa and Goans, as reflected in his earlier publication ‘Patriotism in Action - Goans in Indian Defence Services’. He took pride in everything Goan! A true Goenkar, indeed!” said Sanjeev Sardesai, historian.
Goa Union of Journalists (GUJ) also offered a tribute to the late journalist. Faleiro was the chief reporter with the ‘West Coast Times’ and also worked for national publications like ‘Current Weekly’, ‘Free Press Journal’ group of publications and ‘Indian Express’. His Sunday column ‘All ‘n’ Sundry’ was very popular. He has also written chapters for ‘In Black and White: Insiders’ Stories about the Press in Goa’. He inspired many youngsters to take up journalism as a career, while nurturing their writing skills.