Ajith Peter D'Souza

From the editor's desk :-

Dear Music lovers,

The life span between childhood and adulthood is full of fun and frolic. That is why this age in one's life can be called as the 'Golden Age', an age often equated to merry making, a tension-free life and hence popularly termed as 'Bindaas life'. None of us will ever forget those nostalgic days of our youth. But alas, if we have failed to make good use of those lovely days, mind you… they are never going to return.

After a short break I am back here again with a twinkling & budding star in Konkani who is talented, energetic, innovative and passionate! Within a short span he has four melodious music albums to his credit. This young and talented musician I'm going to present to you today is none other than Ajith Peter D'Souza.

I trust like other episodes of mine, you will enjoy listening to this special 'young' chord too. It is my wish, that many of our youngsters may take example of 'Ajith Peter' and by making good use of their talents, shine in this world and make great use of their youthful days.

My special thanks to my buddy Florine Roche for making the episode possible!

I shall see you shortly with yet another sweet chord of music on this exclusive music column. Until then, bye.

Gerry D'Mello, Bendur

 

Ajith Peter D'Souza - A perfectionist who brings a whip of fresh air to Konkani music

Young, talented, energetic, and innovative and perfectionist - are some of the adjectives that can be attributed to Konkani composer/songwriter/singer Ajith Peter D'Souza. His music known for its juvenescent vigour has found acceptance among Konkani music lovers irrespective of age. A passionate composer that he is his music reflects a rare blend of mellifluous melodies and magical rhythm. Adds to that rare talent is his penchant for perfection, one rarely sees in Konkani music in this part of the coastal region. With such perfection that too at a young age of 35 coupled with oodles of talent Ajith has succeeded in creating an imprint in Konkani music field and that too in a short span of time.

Born in Pethri in Udupi Ajith is the only son among the five children born to Justhine and Robert D'Souza. He had his early education in his native place in a typical rural setting. The bucolic surroundings of his native place with greenery all around and a river running just behind the house proved to be the right backdrop acting as the trigger in unleashing the poetic imagination of this young musician. Ajith's father who was working in the gulf kindled his interest in music initially as he used to bring audio cassettes of Konkani, Hindi and English songs when he came down for vacation. In the process of listening to these tunes Ajith also started to hum some tunes. Listening to songs on radio and television further enhanced his interest resulting in the creation of his own tunes. Ajith went on to do his MA in English and MBA in human Resource Development and then went to the gulf for employment.


School Teacher – the first 'guru'

Ajith says that it was primary school teacher Geetha who in a way can be considered his guru because the initial push she gave proved to be a major stepping stone for his achievements in the music field. Geetha teacher often used to cajole him singing songs during free time in school. Since Ajith liked singing he used to happily oblige his teachers and the first song he rendered was Vande Mataram. That was just the beginning. The composer/poet in Ajith got another trigger when he listened to a Nadeem-Shravan song from the hit movie "Ashiqui” rendered by a singer at a wedding reception he attended. It was then and there he decided that he would compose songs in future.

After his high school he took training in music from Capuchin priests who were instrumental in harmonizing his music talent. He learnt western music from Fr Ben Britto and is still in touch with him. He is also grateful to Fr Paul Melvyn D'Souza, Fr Salvodore Fernandes and Fr Jeevan Demello for their support in their own way. Ajith also learnt basics of music from various institutions in Bengaluru.


Innovative streak

With music only as his passion Ajith has composed over 50 songs in Konkani and other languages and has released four music albums – the first three albums were released in three successive years. That all his albums have been well received clearly exhibit his potential as a composer with an innovative streak. The first album tittle "Tuzo Sangath.".. feeling personified was released in 2010 followed by his second album within a year "Ye Lagin... in my arms in 2011. His third album "Tuje Vengenth."... feel the sensation - was released in 2012 and in 2015 he released "nthe yevncha vella.".. into my hearts.

That Ajith had arrived on Konkani music scene was evident from the fact that his second album succeeded in getting nominated for 4th Konkani Global music award. He went a step ahead with his third album "Tuje Venganth” getting nominated in all the six categories for the Global Music Awards. The album won awards in four categories – best female singer for Anita D'Souza, best lyricist for Wilson Kateel, best music arranger for Roshan D'Souza and the fourth award for best music album to Ajith. The positive response his albums elicited has enthused Ajith a great deal. He says the feedback from the public received through mails and messages has helped him to know his pitfalls and take corrective measures.

That Ajith is multi-talented is evident from the fact that apart from his work in the music field he has tried his luck in theatre and television. He acted in a tele-serial "Mahayana” for Kasturi channel in a small role in 2009. He says positive support from his family especially his wife Linet has been very crucial in whatever he has been able to achieve so far.

With his music knowledge as a composer and lyricist Ajith gets invited to judge music competitions in Mangaluru and abroad. He was one of the judges at the GVOM semi-finals in 2014, which was held in Bahrain and Muscat.


Interview

In an email interview Ajith who is in Dubai with wife Linet and 11 month old Geet Clare D'Souza says that whatever he has achieved so far is little and he has miles and miles to go. Of course, considering his young age we can expect some rare gems to come out of this talented young man's closet in the days to come.

He does not boast of a musical lineage but is a self-made musician whose musical virtuosity has won him lot of accolades and admiration from Konkani singers and aficionados. He says training in music is necessary in the present day scenario to strengthen the foundation on which a musician can explore, experiment and prosper. He further adds: "Today we have extremely talented children and youngsters and there is stiff competition in the music field. Due to limited resources many Konkani singers don't get an opportunity to get trained in music. I would say basic training would enrich the capabilities of the singers and constant practice would pave the way for improvement. If a musician has an ear for music then that in itself serve as a strong edifice on which the musician can go on perfecting his talent."

Though he does not have a favourite composter/trainer in Konkani music he opines that some of the best known musicians s in Konkani music field both present and past, have influenced and inspired him a great deal. "All those who have worked to keep Konkani music alive and vibrant have motivated me in their own way”, he states as a matter of fact. Ajith who is more of a composer than a song writer or singer wants to innovate and experiment by composing music of different genres. He says he feels humble when he gets feedback from people who listen to his y music and appreciate his work.

Ajith firmly believes that Konkani music will thrive given the chance that singers/composers try to experiment and innovate and keep abreast of the latest technology in music. He adds: "Today we see there is abundant talent around us and there is no monopoly or dominance by a few people. It is big ocean out there where in people can try newer ways to entice music lovers. Of course the survival and longevity in the field will solely depend on the quality of the music." He is of the opinion that the challenge for Konkani musicians and singers in today's world is to opt for other modes of presentation as the use of CD's is on the downslide. Doing some meaningful contributions to Konkani music is part of the grand future plans of Ajith.

Poet Wilson Kateel says, "One notable quality of Ajith is his fondness for perfection which is not normally seen among musicians these days. That zeal for perfection has adequately reflected in all his albums. His music arranger Roshan D'Souza would certainly vouch for this."


Conclusion

With so much talent and energy where can we see Ajith Peter D'Souza in Konkani music ten years from now? Ajith replies with this oft repeated para from Robert Frost's poem which sums up what he has to say.

"The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep."

 

 


Comment on this article

  • Ivan C Monteiro, Urwa Mangalore

    Thu, Jul 14 2016

    Congrats Gerry for giving us the info on Ajith. God bless you abundantly for the wonderful work you do. Wishing Ajith all success in the future.

    Agree [143]

  • Vincent Rodrigues., Frazer Town,Bangalore

    Mon, Jul 11 2016

    Congratulations and wish you all the success in your future plans and endeavors.All the best.

    Agree [54]

  • Ajith Peter Dsouza, Udupi/Dubai

    Sat, Jul 09 2016

    Thanks Gerry D' Mello and Florine Roche for the article. Thanks to all my friends for your support and love. I thank everyone who supported me, the sponsors and well wishers and Konkani music listeners whose support has made me what I am today. Thanks to all the musicians and lyricists, singers I worked with all of you have been part of my memorable journey. Thanks again for everyone who took time to write encouraging words here, I am indebted to your support and love.

    Agree [32]

  • James V. Lobo, Siddakatte/Dubai

    Sat, Jul 09 2016


    Congratulations Ajith on your achievement in Konkani music.

    Wish you all the success in your future endeavors.

    Agree [29]

  • Joy Cutinha , Kuppepadvu /Doha Qatar

    Thu, Jul 07 2016

    Hi Mr Ajith Peter D,souza Congrats all albums are greats I really like it you are great person wish all the best and good luck

    Agree [28]

  • Henry D'Almeida, Shirva/ Bahrain

    Wed, Jul 06 2016

    Congratulations Ajith. May your talent reaches new heights year after year.God bless you.

    Agree [30]

  • Joseph Alban D Silva, Trasi-Dubai

    Wed, Jul 06 2016

    Congratulations Ajith, wishing you all the best in your future endeavors.

    Agree [29]

  • Alphonse P.D., Shirva/Mumbai

    Wed, Jul 06 2016

    Hi Hai Wilfred P.. Such actions and reactions are order of the day. One has to put up with that just with thanks.

    Agree [25]

  • CGS, Mangllur

    Wed, Jul 06 2016

    Ajith Peter's music is something different and something special!Congrats AP! Keep it up. Thanks to Gerry D'Mello for introducing Ajith Peter to Konkani Music lovers.

    Agree [29]

  • fr Praksh Menezes, Siddakatte/Ashoknagar

    Tue, Jul 05 2016

    Congratulations Ajith on your achievement in the field of Konkani music.Wishing all the very best in your future endeavors.

    Agree [33]

  • Lancy Noronha, Bellore

    Tue, Jul 05 2016

    Well noted Mr. Wilfred R. Pangla. Understood that you too one of the parts of APD albums.
    Congratulations. Good lyrics...Keep up the good work.

    Agree [34]

  • ozy crasta & fly, DUBAI, SANTEKATTE, KANNADA KUDRU

    Tue, Jul 05 2016

    Ajith, all your albums are good and really you have brought some laurels to our MAI BHAAS, even in GULF countries youngsters are very fond your music. GOD bless you and make u a great KONKANI DEVOTEE.
    we wish you all the best.

    Agree [31]

  • Wilfred R Pangla, Shankerpura

    Tue, Jul 05 2016

    Today I proudly says that, in my literature carrier,in albums,my first song been published in Ajiths ` Ye Laggim'cd. it was ` Fanthyafarachi Svapna' song.Also I am very happy to say that,there is one more lyrics of mine( Kalij Mojem) in his award winning album-`Tuje Vengenth'.I will be always grateful to you dear APD.

    Agree [29]

  • Glany Fernandes, Mangalore/Dubai

    Tue, Jul 05 2016

    Congratulations to Konkani music worlds upcoming star and very talented music composer APD. Whatever music albums he brought out, all are excellent and he has the ability to give best to the masses. All the Best.

    Agree [31]

  • Norbert Pereira, Mangalore, Doha-Qatar

    Mon, Jul 04 2016

    Congratulations Ajit on your achievement in the field of Konkani music.

    Wish you all the success in your future endeavors.

    Agree [33]

  • Oswald Dsouza, Valencia

    Mon, Jul 04 2016

    Congratulations Ajith. Wishing all the very best in your future endeavors.

    Agree [31]

  • Reshma Lobo, Mangalore/Kuwait

    Mon, Jul 04 2016

    Congratulations Ajit..Your songs are truly amazing from the 2 albums "Tem Yevnchea Vella" and "Tujye Vengenth".Wishing you all the best for your future endeavours.

    Agree [34]

  • Glen, Tallur

    Mon, Jul 04 2016

    Congratulations Ajith, keep up the good work, wishing you all the best in your future endeavours...

    Agree [32]

  • Melwin, Kolalgiri

    Mon, Jul 04 2016

    Not only as a Konkani Music talent but as a Person too i like APD very well.
    Wishing every success in your future Life and musical Journey APD.

    Agree [31]

  • Jossy Dcunha, Madanthyar / Dubai

    Mon, Jul 04 2016

    Congratulations Ajith. Keep going

    Wish you all the best in your future endeavors. God bless you

    Agree [32]

  • Joseph F. Gonsalves, Bannur, Puttur / Mangalore

    Sun, Jul 03 2016

    Ek Geeth.
    Bori Mo'th.
    Thum Godith.
    Maanadik Ajith.
    Thujem Sangeeth.
    Eikdham Rangeeth.
    Gov ani Baail Fakath.
    Thumi dhogaim Sobith
    Sangeeth ghodn Boraith.
    Podham ghodchi eik Sakth.
    Konknechem thuka Thalenth.
    Kurpa dhitholo Devacho Pooth.
    Aaslyar Deiva Baapacher Bhokth.
    Thoch aamkam Dakther ani Vokath.
    Soglem pot bhor masle, kodi ani Sith.
    Povithr Athmyachya bolan kost Mukth.
    Borem magtham thumkam jivitanth Zaith.

    Agree [40]

  • Jossie Mendonca, Kirem / Dubai

    Sun, Jul 03 2016

    Popularity of Konkani music was waning mainly because of the lack of novelty. Ajith is among those modern composer/producers who breathed new life into Konkani music.
    Wish you all the best Ajith for many more years of memorable compositions and lots of success.

    Agree [32]

  • Rakesh Dsouza, Mangalore, DUbai

    Sun, Jul 03 2016

    Congratulations Ajith. Keep going my friend.

    Wish you all the success in your future endeavors. God bless you

    Agree [33]

  • Lancy Noronha, Bellore

    Sun, Jul 03 2016

    Congratulations dear Mr.Ajith and many more to come!!
    Your hard, sincere efforts to our "Konkani Mai" is a big credit and asset. Appreciate it.
    Wish you all the best. Pls go ahead dear.
    Best Wishes from:
    Lancy, Shyna, Lanita & Sonu
    MOGA-SAGOR - Konkan Taram Group
    Bellore-Bendur-Dubai

    Agree [38]

  • Apolinaris D'Souza, Valencia/Muscat

    Sun, Jul 03 2016

    Congratulations Ajit on your musical achievement in a short span. All the very best in your future endeavors.
    Thanks Gerry & Florine Roche for this new musical chord.

    Agree [35]

  • Anton Cony D Souza, Karkala / Qatar

    Sun, Jul 03 2016

    Ajith Peter D'Souza (APD) Pethri, my friend a talented young singer, sensational composer is synonymous with peppy and heart touching/pounding Konkani Songs. Beyond compromising, Ajith has set a new standard of creativity, warmth and quality of Konkani Music. Name Ajith does harmoniously strikes a code with music.

    APD has not only made a name in the field of literature, poetry but also in music too is a young passionate composer has set new milestone in the Konkani music arena achieving many laurels and Konkani global awards.

    Music of Ajith produces pleasant and friendly vibes while they ring to me as ringtone regularly. Wishing every success in your future endeavors Ajith.

    Agree [41]

  • STEPHAN DSILVA, MULKI/DUBAI

    Sun, Jul 03 2016

    ಹಾತಾ೦ತ್ ಘೆವುನ್ ಮೊಗಾ ಹಾತ್.....
    ಮೊಜ್ಯೆ ಫೆವರಿಟ್
    ಸರ್ವ್ ಬರೆ೦ ಮಾಗ್ತಾ ತುಕಾ ಅಜಿತ್
    ತುವೆ೦ ಮಾಕಾ ರೊಸ್ ಪುಸುಲ್ಲೊ ಉಡಾಸ್ ಆಸಾ..

    Agree [35]

  • Clarence Pinto, RUWI

    Sun, Jul 03 2016

    I really love the songs of Ajith Peter, though I am not a music lover. Each one of them has a unique style and filled with scintillating music. I had the privilege to meet this wonderful personality in Oman a couple of years ago. Ajith is a down to earth human being with a dazzling smile.

    Salute to Gerry D Mello for this wonderful episode.

    Agree [35]


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