Musical Tribute Honors Claud D’Souza with ‘Hazar Salam Tuka’ Concert

Mangaluru: The Karavali Konkans Bendur and Mangaluru’s music community gathered to honor the iconic singer, songwriter, composer, and dramatist Claud D’Souza with a special concert titled ‘Hazar Salam Tuka Claud D’Souza’ on Thursday, August 15, at the St Agnes Centenary Auditorium.

The event commenced with a floral tribute to Claud D’Souza’s portrait by his family members, Karavali Konkans, and the concert’s artists. The gathering was attended by distinguished guests, including Errol Samuel, an NRI entrepreneur; Konkan Maina Meena Rebimbus; Walter Nandalike, founder of Daijiworld; Joel Pereira, a renowned music and film director; Sr Venessa, principal of St Agnes College; Marie, Claud’s wife; and his daughters Maushmi and Melissa.

During the event, Christopher Mascarenhas, Joswin Pinto, and Leslie Rego, close associates of Claud D’Souza, were honored by the D’Souza family. Fr Joseph Martis, parish priest of Derebail Church, along with Fr Walter D’Souza and Fr. Reginald Pinto, presented shawls and mementos to the trio on behalf of the family.

Fr. Joseph Martis addressed the audience, praising Claud’s nearly five-decade-long dedication to promoting Konkani music and culture. He highlighted Claud’s remarkable ability to captivate audiences with his singing and his presence as a comedian, emphasizing that Claud’s heartfelt and meaningful songs have left an indelible mark on the hearts of music lovers. Fr. Martis also commended the Karavali Konkans for organizing such a meaningful tribute.

Senior artist Dolfy Saldanha hosted the formal stage program, while Ransom Saldanha of Karavali Konkans delivered the vote of thanks.

The musical segment was compered by Leslie Rego of Bendur. Dolla, another close associate of Claud, joined Leslie on stage with his unique conversational style.

The concert’s music was arranged by legendary music directors Pappan and Joswin. Vocalists Rony D’Cunha, Ivan Sequeira, Galdin D’Souza, Babita Pinto, Munita Veigas, Alwyn Noronha Bajpe, Joel D’Souza, Shalon Pinto, Dr. Musthafa, Kiran Menezes, Asha Menezes, Sharyl Tauro, Blossom Rego, Ransom Saldanha, Bindu Cutinha, and Shanthi Pinto performed some of Claud D’Souza’s classic hits. The dance troupe Show Snatchers captivated the audience with their innovative choreography.