THURSDAY, MAY 09, 2024
Team Herald
MARGAO: A sea of humanity thronged the St Francis Xavier Church in Velim to attend the funeral and get the last glimpse of Goa’s most loved comedian, 48-year-old Selvy (Matheus) Correia, who was laid to rest on Wednesday evening.
Thousands of people from all walks of life paid a tearful adieu to Selvy and offered their condolences to the bereaved family at Selvy’s residence in Velim and at the Church.
The members of the tiatr fraternity were at pains whilst reminiscing about Selvy’s rich contributions to the Konkani theatre stage and even comedian Agostinho Themudo broke down in tears while speaking at the Church towards the end of the mass.
“I have never ever received so many calls as I did after Selvy’s demise and I am sure I will never receive as many calls again. Everyone was calling to ask about his passing. The feeling of sadness was overwhelming. We were a trio, Selvy, Janet and I. When Janet called me, she did not say anything at first, she just cried and cried. We can’t believe that he is gone,” said Agostinho.
While Agostinho had arrived from London to attend the funeral, he shared how the tiatrists and Selvy’s fans remembered one of Goa’s greatest stalwarts and how the void left behind by Selvy will never be filled again.
The Parish Priest of Francis Xavier Church, Fr Santo Antonio Pereira, spoke highly of Selvy, who he described to be a vital part of their parish and he further added that Selvy’s children will follow in his footsteps and that his legacy will live on forever.
The eulogy given by Selvy’s son Myron struck a chord with the audience in the Church as he struggled to hold back tears while recalling the advice his father used to give him and his family.
Myron, who goes by Junior Selvy in the Tiatr world, said his father, the man who made the whole of Goa and the Goan diaspora laugh until their hearts were content, has now returned to the lord but that his memories will always be cherished by all those who loved Selvy.
Earlier, the priest who rendered a beautiful sermon, said Selvy was God’s gift to Goa and that the comedian made sure to share his gift with one and all.
“He was a very religious and pious man and also a family man,” said the priest.
