PANJIM: Goa’s mesmerising Nightingale, Lorna Cordeiro, turned 80 on Friday. One of the most iconic and endearing legends and ambassadors of Goan music has had a lasting impact on generations of singers, musicians and Konkani lovers the world over.
Her unforgettable songs, credited to the legendary Chris Perry, showcase the passion, the energy and rich repertoire and culture of Goan music. The haunting question which hangs over Goa is –has the State given her the honour and recognition she deserves?
During live-in programme “Hello Goenkar” on November 3, last year, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had stated that his government will recommend Goa’s nightingale Lorna Cordeiro for the prestigious Padma Shri.
Regrettably, she has not been awarded the Goa State Award too, reportedly due to the domicile criteria of the award. Certainly, the rules can be amended to celebrate a true Goan legend.
Playwright and Director Cezar D’Mello was exuberant at the thought of the legendary Lorna Cordeiro turning 80.
“It’s incredible to think that she has turned 80 and still has such a profound impact on the music world. Her songs are indeed unforgettable, and the credit goes to another legend, Chris Perry’s music and composition. It’s no surprise that her music is a staple at parties, as her music has become an integral part of the Konkani culture and identity,” D’Mello said.
Tiatr writer and director, Menino de Bandar said “She is a world renowned singer and mother Goa reverberates with her name. Our government should see that since she is such a celebrated singer, she deserves the Padma Shri award,” Bandar said.
Pascoal de Chicalim, Tiatrist with brimming emotion underscored that Lorna’s songs are truly eternal. “It is wondrous and happy occasion to celebrate her 80th Birthday and see that she is still going strong. She is a living legend. I feel sad and heartbroken that the Goa government has not honoured her and not given her any award”
Tiatr lover Jose Maria Miranda said “This Nightingale of Goa should have been recognised by the State government. Now at least on her 80th birthday, let the government recognise this legend. ” Miranda said.
Young Actor Kevin D’Mello, embodying the fascination which the younger generation has for Lorna, her sonorous voice and her stage presence said, “Lorna’s shows are always houseful. Her stage presence generates such an atmosphere that youth are entranced. Her songs are sung by the younger generation in schools, colleges.”
The State govt had recommended Lorna’s name three times for Padma Shri
Vithaldas Hegdevhegde3@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: India’s fourth-highest civilian award Padma Shri has eluded ‘Nightingale of Goa’ Lorna Cordeiro, despite her name being recommended three times by the State government.
Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude said, “We had recommended Lorna’s name earlier as well, but finally it is decided at the national level. Still, we will recommend her name and will see how it goes this time. Let us wish her all the best.”
Former Union Minister Ramakant Khalap said, “I remember recommending Lorna’s name for the civilian award. Directorate of Art and Culture has to shortlist the names and send them. She should be given. Her contribution is a lot. It would be better if she is given.”
Tomazinho Cardozo said, “During Digambar Kamat’s tenure her name was recommended for three consecutive years. It would be better if Lorna’s name is recommended for the award again.”
Both, Khalap and Tomazinho were the former members of the State Recommendation Committee for Civilian Awards.
Director of Art and Culture Sagun Velip said, “When we recommend names then it has to be from Goa. Lorna has worked a lot for the State and contributed to Konkani. We have criteria that one has to be from Goa. Government can recommend her name. Her name was among five shortlisted names.”
Padma Shri senior advocate Norma Alvares said, “One has to write to the Home Secretary giving details of outstanding achievements of the person whose name is being recommended for the award and why that person should get the award. One need not necessarily be born in Goa. Lorna Cordeiro is very much Goan and would be recognised as a Goan.”
