SYNCRETIC ART AND RECREATIONAL FERVOUR – The Legacy continues from generation to generation
Wilfy the name says it all. A genteel virtuoso whose love for Konkani turned this language into an instrument for peace and humanity, the rhythm that gladdens the heart and rejuvenates the soul.
The curtain was lifted and Wilfy’s voice filled the entire hall, resonating with the prayer song Namo Namo. Rev. Fr Denis Dsa opened the program with a short prayer, offering a blessing over Wilfy’s Legacy Collection & Mini Wilfy Nite. Rev. Dr Praveen Martis, Vice Chancellor of Saint Aloysius Deemed to be University graced the event as the chief guest, while Sr Lourdes, Principal of Saint Theresa School was the Guest of Honour. Other distinguished guests on the dais included Walter Nandalike, Founder of Daijiworld, Rev. Fr Denis Dsa and Rev. Fr Maxim Dsouza. Eddie Sequeira took over the official proceedings and introduced the guests on behalf of the Rebimbus family—Meena, Veena, Arthur, Vishwas, Charleen, Arvin, Anna and Roger.
Sequeira also acknowledged the deep bond and affection between Felix & Stephany Lobo, Simon & Pressy Machado and Michael, Flavy & Manu Dsouza with the Rebimbus family. He expressed regret over their absence from the event due to prior commitments.
The highlight of the event was the official release of Wilfy’s Legacy Collection, carried out by Freeda, Ethan, and Faith on behalf of Felix & Stephany Lobo. This moment showcased a beautiful bond across generations, with the 2nd and 3rd generations coming together to release this remarkable masterpiece. It was a true reflection of the theme, “Legacy continues from generation to generation.”
Walter Nandalike, a close associate of the family, emphasized Wilfyab’s immense contribution and dedication to Konkani music in his address. He strongly urged the audience not to copy these songs or violate copyright laws, emphasizing the importance of respecting and purchasing original music.
For the first time, Wilfy Rebimbus Music awarded three prestigious Music Awards to recognize emerging talent. Nelvita Noronha introduced the 3 Rising Stars to the audience
- Sean Gonsalves, son of Kishore Gonsalves (Kishoo Barkur), was honored for his outstanding restoration of Volume 1 and Volume 4 of Wilfy’s Legacy, preserving the original voices from the 1970s while enriching the music.
- Joswin Dcunha, son of Allwyn Dcunha (Valla Dereebail), received an award for his exceptional work on the entire Wilfy’s Legacy project, overseeing the remastering and mixing of all 56 volumes, ensuring a perfect balance in the sound.
- Shalon Pinto, daughter of Joswin Pinto (Jovi), was recognized for her significant contribution as a Sound Engineer to the project.
Rev. Fr Praveen Martis presented the awards to the recipients. This award serves as a celebration of the dedication and skill of the next generation, carrying forward Wilfy Rebimbus’ musical legacy. Eddie Sequeira was honored by Meena Rebimbus for his endless love, support and encouragement to the Rebimbus family. His dedication and unwavering assistance over the years was deeply appreciated. This recognition celebrated his significant role in supporting the family’s journey after Wilfys demise. Sr Lourdes extended her best wishes to her students and all the children performing at the Mini Wilfy Nite. She expressed her pride and encouragement for their participation in the event.
Rev. Fr Praveen Martis spoke about the significant contribution Wilfy’s music made to society. He shared that as a child he personally enjoyed listening to Wilfy’s songs and grew up singing them. He expressed how Wilfy’s music had a lasting impact, touching hearts across generations. Rev. Fr Martis praised the Rebimbus family for their dedication in preserving and continuing Wilfy’s legacy. He congratulated them for ensuring that Wilfy’s musical heritage is passed on to the next generation. He also highlighted the importance of such efforts in keeping cultural traditions alive. His words underscored the timeless value of Wilfy’s work and its continued influence.
Vishwas Rebimbus on behalf of the family, expressed gratitude to God for this special day in their lives—a dream come true with the release of Wilfy’s Legacy Collection. He thanked all of Wilfy’s fans and supporters who had stood by his father throughout his journey and continue to support them today. Vishwas fondly recollected how, in 1986, his parents had given his sister and him the same platform, and now seeing the next generation take forward this legacy was a beautiful moment in his life. While not naming individuals, he acknowledged the countless people who had helped, supported and believed in them to make this dream a reality. He concluded by thanking each and every one of them from the bottom of his heart for their unwavering love and support.
The Mini Wilfy Nite began with the entry music, transitioning from the Pappan-Joswin duo to the next generation. The children played a replica of the iconic music, sparking excitement and anticipation among the audience. Aas I witnessed the children performing Wilfy Nite on Sunday morning in Don Bosco Auditorium, I couldn’t help but think that the children were the stars. Their performances captivated me and they brought Wilfy to life in their own unique way. The matriarch Meena Bai is teaching the kids a valuable lesson in life by doing what she does best—encouraging them to perform. Roger Rebimbus, along with a group of Saint Theresa School students and a few others, took up the baton for the music at this Mini Wilfy Nite. The older artists merely took a back seat as the children planned, carried out and implemented the entire show. They had total control, broke all records and brought Wilfy’s legacy to life with their ability, dedication and innocence. The entire Mini Nite was compered by Nerissa Noronha, who showcased her excellent sense of humor and kept the audience engaged, ensuring their attention remained on the stage throughout the event.
The stars of the evening who captivated the audience and brought Wilfy to life on stage were as follows:
Singer – Gaurav Carvalho, Alani Leora Dsouza, Nathan Preeth Figuera, Tina Caris Veigas, Aldreena Diya Rodrigues,Vineeth Martin Gonsalves, Aldrin Lionel Pinto, Thea Joanne Lobo, Evana Marian Dsouza and Arvin Chris Dcunha
Musicians – Kenneth Dsouza- Drummer, Dishan Pinto & Reon Paul Martis- Pianist, Roger Gerald Rebimbus – Bass, Sherwin Pinto – Lead, Rishon Walder- Rhythm and Jaydon Ezekiel Baptist – Saxaphoned’D
Dancers – Urban Groove – Sonal Dsouza, Anusha Pinto, Rincia Dcunha, Verina Dsouza, Keon Saldanha, Sion Monis, Loyd Lobo, Keerthan Devadiga, Shyna Dsouza, Nicole Dsouza, Ashneel Dsouza and Rian Crasta
The music and songs are still resounding in my ears. In a way it led me into the green room of life – the children preparing, performing and complementing each other’s work. Many of the children may not have seen Wilfy but they have learned from his legacy to carry on. For many, this might be their first concert but it was very clear, the baton is efficiently carried on to the next generation. In my heart of hearts, I could not but feel thankful to the Rebimbus family for their invaluable world they have opened to these children. It shows their commitment to the Konkani language to give the taste and create other artist who have the unending love for music and the Konkani language.
We have to collectively ale to manifest the miracle for the survival of the Konkani Language. But then the legacy of Wilfy is a miracle and a miracle never dies but continues to the future generations. A Legacy never dies, it just moves over the next generation. Let the pen drive be that catalyst for continuity.
✍🏻 Dr Paul G Aquinas
