PONDA: Formerly known as Antruz Mahal, Ponda has long been hailed as the cultural capital of the state—a treasure trove that has unearthed some of the most remarkable artists in its storied history. This taluka proudly carries the rich heritage of age-old folk art forms, including Shigmo, Ghumat-Aarti, and local theatre, to name just a few. Amidst the glitz and glamour often lavished on cinema stars, it is the local artisans and their dedication to indigenous art forms that truly define and fortify this region's identity.
Among these stage luminaries is Mahadev, better known as Aapa Khanolkar, a distinguished representative of this artistic enclave, who, even at the age of 77, continues to contribute to the world of drama.
Based in his hometown of Durgabhat, Khanolkar’s journey in theatre commenced during his school days at Popular High School, Margao. Starting with humble monologues during annual celebrations, he tenaciously expanded his repertoire, evolving into a gifted stage artist in adulthood. His debut in the play ‘Katha Kunachi Vyatha Kuna’ marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that saw him feature in local renditions of classics like ‘Duritanche Timir Jao’, ‘Sangeet Matsyagandha’, ‘Vaahto Hi Durvanchi Jodi, ‘Ashrunchi Jhaali Fule’, ‘Fulala Sugandha Maaticha’, and more—over 250 stage plays to be precise, each gracing the stage more than once. Khanolkar remains a stalwart in the plays performed during various festivals at the Vithoba temple in Ponda.
Beyond his prolific career in theater, Khanolkar has also left his mark on Konkani cinema with appearances in films like ‘Gharkann Cycle Shikta’, ‘Tuch Mhaji Lakshmi’, ‘Ganpati Bappa Morya’, and ‘Mhaji Gharkann’. His remarkable acting in the telefilm "Haas Mare Haas," penned by Milind Mhadgut, earned him well-deserved accolades. Notably, he has been honoured by cine stars Anupam Kher and Jackie Shroff for his outstanding contributions to the arts.
In the realm of the arts, they say that art is inherently political, and a serious artist’s socio-political awareness plays a pivotal role in their
development. Khanolkar’s commitment to social work dates back to his college days, a passion that eventually propelled him into public service. He has been elected to the Ponda Municipal Council three times and has also served as the former deputy chairperson—an embodiment of the idea that art and civic responsibility are intertwined.