Media Release

Mangaluru, Nov 5: “Great writers like late Edwin J F D’Souza will live for ever in the hearts of Konkani people through his popular novels and short stories” said Fr Rupesh Madtha, Editor of ‘Raknno’ Mangaluru diocesan weekly at the condolence meeting organized by Karnataka Konkani Writers’ Association, Mangaluru mourning the demise of Edwin J F D’Souza, known by pen name as ‘Vasu, Valencia’ (Valencia Su-puthr) at Don Bosco Hall, Mangaluru on Sunday, November 5.

Edwin J F D’Souza expired on October 26 at Mangaluru after a brief illness.

Late Edwin has written 33 novels, more than hundred short stories and number of columns in different Konkani periodicals. His writings were unique in characterization and picturizing the reality. As per the ‘Death of Author’ theory of French literary theorist and philosopher, Roland Gerard Barthes, Edwin is found in almost all of his novels. His writings mesmerize the readers because of the style of presentation. Instead of writing in Konkani, if he had chosen some other popular language, he would have become world famous. But Edwin believed that the ‘language was only a medium and creating the literature was important’ said Dr Edward Nazareth recalling the literary works of Edwin J F D’Souza in Konkani. “Edwin should have received Central Sahitya Academy awards multiple times for his wonderful novels.” said Dr Edward Nazareth. Edwin had received central sahitya academy award for one of his novels after it was transliterated into Nagari script. Edwin had written using Kannada script.

Richard Moras, chief convenor of Konkani Writers’ Association gave brief introduction about Edwin J F D’Souza’s contribution to Konkani literature. He gave a glimpse of his literature that was translated to English and other languages.

Marcel D’Souza recalled Edwin’s role in various activities related to promoting Konkani language. Dolphy Lobo who had published many of Edwin’s novels and short stories remembered his association with Edwin J F D’Souza.

Jane D’Souza, wife of late Edwin, Ruth, daughter of Edwin and many of his family members were present.
Many Konkani activists and writers participated in the condolence meeting and offered floral tributes along with the family members and friends of late Edwin J F D’Souza.

The meeting was compered by Henry Mascarenhas.