Antonette Mendes Konkani Artist | Top Goan Actor and Singer
Antonette Mendes Konkani Artist, Antonette Mendes was born on May 10, 1944, on Chira Bazar Street in Mumbai. She was a beloved actress and singer, admired by many. Sadly, she passed away in Mumbai at the age of 80 on April 7, 2024.
Antonette Mendes Konkani Artist – Career
Antonette developed a passion for singing and participated in co-curricular activities in school. She began her acting and singing career in tiatr’s (a form of Goan musical theatre) since the age of 15 years. She first performed in her father’s tiatr called “Aum To Tarvotti” at the Princess Street Theatre in Mumbai.
Thereafter, Antonette’s breakthrough came when she acted in the tiatr “Fuddar” directed by Kid Boxer, which was staged in Mumbai and Goa. This opportunity led her to perform in East Africa in three tiatrs, including “Bancruttam Bancrutt” by Kid Boxer and “Dotor Advogad” by Alfred Rose.
She eventually became a director herself, starting with her father’s tiatr called “Dilolo Jurament,” and went on to write and direct her own tiatrs such as “Obgath,” “Tum Saiba Konn,” and “Don Ghoram.” She acted in numerous tiatrs directed by Goan renowned directors, earning recognition and praise.
Antonette Mendes’ Global Musical Voyage
Antonette also had the chance to perform in various musical shows and tiatrs in countries like Bahrain, Kuwait, Canada, Germany, London, Dubai, Muscat, and Doha. She had a long-standing collaboration with M Boyer, who was a strict but fair director, and she worked with him in the tiatr “Besanv.”
Antonette got married and has three daughters, and she considers her role in the non-stop tiatr “Mauli,” written and directed by her son-in-law, as her most memorable performance.
Some of her notable tiatrs from the past include “Sounsar Sudhorlo,” “Adim Tem, Atam Hem,” “Mog Kazar Divorce,” “Angvonn,” “Darunn Voddil,” and “Gharachem Sukh.”
Antonette’s professionalism on stage led her to act in three highly regarded Konkani films, including “Amchem Noxib” directed by A Salam, where her role opposite the late comedian Antony Mendes is still remembered.
Her melodious rendition of the song “Claudia” in the film “Nirmonn” became a timeless hit. She also appeared in the film “Sukhachem Sopon” by Al Jerry Braganza, Bonifacio’s film “Zababdari,” and played a comedy role in Jagdish Narulia’s Hindi film “Mohabbat Zindagi Hai.” She even had a significant role in Cyrus Mistry’s English play “The Legacy of Rage.”
Before marrying Romeo in 1966, Antonette acted in one of his tiatrs in Mumbai. She made a mark in the Konkani music world and was considered the “queen” of the Konkani stage before Lorna.
She collaborated with Alfred Rose on LPs for HMV, performing solos like “Nursichem Fugasaum” and “Cheddum Xetcamteachem.” Her duets with Alfred Rose, including “Kazari Bhoinnik Lagon,” “Fottoilem Deva,” and “Ago Mojea Sundorea,” became memorable songs.
Best of Melody Queen Antonette Mendes | A Masterpiece Song “Piti Piti Mog”
One of her notable masterpieces was the song “Piti Piti Mog,” created with legendary musician Chris Perry. Antonette has sung over 5,000 songs in more than 500 audio cassettes.
A Legendary Encounter: Antonette and Rome Mendes with Amitabh Bachchan
Antonette and Romed Mendes, the dynamic duo of the Konkani entertainment industry, had a remarkable and memorable encounter with the legendary Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan.
Their meeting with Bachchan became a cherished moment in their lives, leaving an indelible mark on their career.
It was during the launch of their hit audio cassette “Jivit Ek Sopon” in the 1980s that Amitabh Bachchan graced the event as a special guest. This was a significant honor for Antonette and Romed, as Bachchan’s presence added immense prestige to their musical endeavor.
During the event, Amitabh Bachchan not only attended as a guest but also delivered an introductory speech in Konkani, displaying his respect and support for the Konkani entertainment industry.
His presence and words of encouragement further solidified Antonette and Romeo’s stature and brought widespread attention to their work.
A Timeless Memory | Antonette and Romed Mendes – Unforgettable Meeting with Amitabh Bachchan
The encounter with Amitabh Bachchan became a cherished memory for Antonette and Romeo Mendes. It served as a testament to their talent, dedication, and the impact they had made on the Konkani music scene.
This special moment with the legendary Bollywood actor added a new level of recognition and appreciation for their musical contributions.
Antonette and Romeo Mendes’ encounter with Amitabh Bachchan stands as a testament to their exceptional artistry and the wide-reaching influence of Konkani music.
It serves as a reminder of the significant role they played in promoting and preserving Konkani culture through their music and performances.
In Conclusion
Antonette Mendes, the living legend of Konkani theatre and music, has left an indelible mark on the industry. Her remarkable journey, spanning decades, showcases her immense talent, dedication, and contribution to preserving Konkani culture.
From her breakthroughs in tiatr to her global musical voyage and unforgettable encounter with Amitabh Bachchan, Antonette’s legacy as the “queen” of the Konkani stage is one of inspiration and admiration.
Her timeless songs and unforgettable performances continue to captivate audiences, making her a true legend of Konkani theatre and music.
FAQs about Antonette Mendes: Antonette Mendes Konkani Artist
Q: Who is Antonette Mendes?
A: Antonette Mendes, also known as Maria Antonia D’Souza, is a renowned figure in Konkani theatre and music. She is considered a living legend for her contributions to the industry.
Q: When did Antonette Mendes begin her career in tiatr?
A: Antonette started her career in tiatr at the age of 15, performing in her father’s tiatr called “Aum To Tarvotti” at the Princess Street Theatre in Mumbai.
Q: What are some notable tiatrs and films Antonette Mendes has been a part of?
A: Antonette has acted in tiatrs such as “Fuddar,” “Sounsar Sudhorlo,” and “Mog Kazar Divorce.” She has also appeared in Konkani films like “Amchem Noxib” and “Nirmonn.”
Q: Has Antonette Mendes performed internationally?
A: Yes, Antonette has had the opportunity to perform in countries like Bahrain, Kuwait, Canada, Germany, London, Dubai, Muscat, and Doha.
Q: Did Antonette Mendes collaborate with other renowned artists?
A: Yes, Antonette collaborated with Alfred Rose on LPs for HMV and has sung duets with him. She has also worked with directors like Kid Boxer and musicians like Chris Perry.
Q: What is one of Antonette Mendes’ notable songs?
A: One of her notable songs is “Piti Piti Mog,” which she created with legendary musician Chris Perry.
Q: Did Antonette Mendes have a memorable encounter with Amitabh Bachchan?
A: Yes, Antonette and her husband, Romed Mendes, had a remarkable encounter with Amitabh Bachchan during the launch of their audio cassette “Jivit Ek Sopon” in the 1980s.
Q: How many songs has Antonette Mendes sung?
A: Antonette has sung over 5,000 songs in more than 500 audio cassettes throughout her career.
Q: Is Antonette Mendes involved in directing tiatrs?
A: Yes, Antonette has directed tiatrs, including her father’s tiatr called “Dilolo Jurament” and her own productions like “Obgath” and “Tum Saiba Konn.”
Q: What is Antonette Mendes’ legacy in Konkani theatre and music?
A: Antonette Mendes is considered a living legend and the “queen” of the Konkani stage. Her talent, dedication, and contributions have made a lasting impact on Konkani theatre and music, inspiring generations of artists.
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