Panaji, : In a significant move to preserve Goan literary heritage, New Age Printers, the printing press of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, released a new edition of the late Reginald Fernandes’ beloved novel, “Foler Rakhnno,”.
The book, whose title translates to The Guardian of the Lighthouse, is a romantic tale first published in 1970. Set around the Sinquerim lighthouse, the story involves a hidden stash of jewellery and was a landmark work by Fernandes, who is fondly remembered by his readership as the “Romanxincho Patxai” (Emperor of Romance).
The launch ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Tomazinho Cardozo, an eminent writer and former Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly. Guest of Honor, Rev. Dr. Fr. Socorro Mendes, Parish Priest of St. Anthony Church, Siolim, was also on the dais, along with Fr. Myron Jeson Barreto, Manager of New Age Printers and President of the Dalgado Konknni Akademi; Fausto V. Da Costa, Editor of Gulab magazine; and the author’s son, Salvador (Sally) Fernandes.
In his address, Tomazinho Cardozo praised Fernandes’ prolific work and stressed the urgent need to republish his writings, suggesting that while the unique style be preserved, necessary grammatical updates could be considered. Fr. Socorro Mendes fondly recalled the author’s captivating prose, stating that a reader who starts a Fernandes novel is compelled to finish it in one sitting. He also reminisced about community gatherings on verandas where these stories were read aloud.
Fausto V. D’Costa highlighted the novel’s distinctive, easy-to-understand language and its vivid imagery, which captures the essence of spoken Konkani. Fr. Myron Jeson Barreto welcomed the gathering, and Dr. Glenis Mendonca proposed the vote of thanks. The event drew a large crowd of Konkani literature enthusiasts and parishioners, celebrating the enduring legacy of Reginald Fernandes.
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