Melody King Takes a Bow - By Alister Miranda
He has endeared himself to the Goan multitude and Konkani lovers worldwide through his songs for more than half a century. His passionate lyrics, his sleek musical arrangements and his inimitable singing style has made him a living legend. On the firmament of Konkani music and cantaram, he undoubtedly towers like a colossus. His name literally brings music to one’s ears – ALFRED ROSE.
He has endeared himself to the Goan multitude and Konkani lovers worldwide through his songs for more than half a century. His passionate lyrics, his sleek musical arrangements and his inimitable singing style has made him a living legend. On the firmament of Konkani music and cantaram, he undoubtedly towers like a colossus. His name literally brings music to one’s ears – ALFRED ROSE.
Well, this affable Aldonkar was in Goa last month, accompanied by his singer-actress wife Rita and daughter Alria, to receive a felicitation in Mapusa. No, not from the Goa government, but from the Mapusa-based Konkani Seva Kendra, for his contribution to Konkani language. A legion of his ardent fans were there to applaud this great singer. In the presence of renowned Konkani scholar Dr Tanaji Halarnkar, Tourism Minister Victoria Fernandes did the honours of felicitating the ageing singer, amidst a thunderous applause. She also promised to take cognizance of the memorandum handed over to her by the Konkani Seva Kendra, and said she would work towards getting Kala Academy’s open air auditorium named after Alfred Rose. In his short but inspiring speech, Alfred Rose emotionally exhorted Goans not to look down upon Konkani, but to wholeheartedly embrace it and speak it in the homes. The high point of the programme, that was interspersed with Konkani songs, was when the entire audience, Alfred Rose included, spontaneously sang along with Young Chico as he belted out Mandovi, Rose’s classic foot-tapping composition. Then, smilingly giving in to the request of his fans, the Melody King provided the perfect finale for the function with a superb rendition of his hit song Chouvis Horam (24 hours). Receiving hugs, kisses; posing for pictures and signing autographs then followed.
Konkani Seva Kendr honours Alfred Rose
Popular stage artist and melody king of Goa, Alfred Rose, was felicitated by the literary association, Konkani Seva Kendr - Mapusa on July 16, 2000 in Mapusa. The association also felicitated students of Bardez who topped in Konkani in SSC, HSSC and college level.
The association launched its first souvenir on the occasion. Minister For Tourism, Ms Victoria Fernandes was the chief guest while Dr Tanaji Halarnkar, Editor of Konkani Encyclopaedia, Goa University, was the guest of honour. The programme was held at 4.00 pm at Mapusa Municipal Hall with Goa Doordarshan covering the felicitation
The association launched its first souvenir on the occasion. Minister For Tourism, Ms Victoria Fernandes was the chief guest while Dr Tanaji Halarnkar, Editor of Konkani Encyclopaedia, Goa University, was the guest of honour. The programme was held at 4.00 pm at Mapusa Municipal Hall with Goa Doordarshan covering the felicitation
programme.
A high profile personality in the field of music, Alfred Rose comes from the little village of Aldona, in Bardez. Alfred Rose with his golden voice and lilting music has captivated the hearts of every red-blooded Goan. In late ’70s and in ‘8Os, Alfred Rose created waves with his music which achieved him the sobriquet of being the `Melody King of Goa’ and numerous fan following as well.
A high profile personality in the field of music, Alfred Rose comes from the little village of Aldona, in Bardez. Alfred Rose with his golden voice and lilting music has captivated the hearts of every red-blooded Goan. In late ’70s and in ‘8Os, Alfred Rose created waves with his music which achieved him the sobriquet of being the `Melody King of Goa’ and numerous fan following as well.
With his powerful lyrics and his vast contribution on the stage, Alfred Rose has contributed in a big way for the cause of Konkani.
Alfred Rose, who resides in Bombay, has brought out various cassettes in Konkani and has given performances at various places in the Gulf and London. A large number of devout followers, wellwishers and friends of Alfred Rose were present for the felicitation programme.
