‘Gulab’ has announced the recipients of the prestigious Fr. Freddy J. Da Costa Memorial Awards 2025, recognising individuals who have made exceptional contributions to literature, tiatr, public service, agriculture and journalism.
In a press note, ‘Gulab’ stated that
the Fr. Freddy J. Da Costa Memorial ‘GULAB Personality of the Year 2025’ award has been conferred on to Adv. Carlos Alvares Ferreira, senior advocate and MLA, for his service in the fields of law, governance and public life, and for his commitment to the welfare
of Goa.
The Fr. Freddy J. Da Costa Memorial GULAB “Romi Konkani Writer 2025” Award has been conferred on Alvaro Gomes, a distinguished Romi Konkani writer, in recognition of his lifelong contribution to Konkani literature and his dedicated service to the Konkani language through his writings, which have inspired readers for decades.
The Fr. Freddy J. Da Costa Memorial ‘GULAB Gõykaranchem Daiz 2025’ award has been presented to Fr. George Quadros, SDB, popularly known as the “Paddy Man of Goa,” for his pioneering efforts in reviving paddy cultivation through mechanised farming and modern
agricultural practices that have transformed the lives of farming communities.
Veteran tiatr actress Fatima D’Souza has been selected for the Fr. Freddy J. Da Costa Memorial ‘GULAB Tiatrist 2025’ Award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the Konkani tiatr stage spanning over five decades. Fondly known as “English Madam,” she was one of the most sought-after artistes in the history of tiatr.
The ‘Felicio Cardoso Memorial Journalism Award 2025’ has been conferred on Paul Fernandes, Goa’s renowned “Green Journalist,” in recognition of his decades-long
contribution to environmental journalism and public awareness through his work in leading regional and national publications.
The awards commemorate the legacy of the late Fr. Freddy J. Da Costa and Felicio Cardoso by recognising individuals whose lifelong dedication and outstanding achievements have made a lasting impact on Goan society, the Konkani language, culture, agriculture, and
public life.
The awards will be presented at a special function on July 20, 2026, at 3.30 p.m. at the Black Box, Ravindra Bhavan, Margao, to commemorate the 73rd birth anniversary of the late Fr. Freddy J. Da Costa, founder of GULAB.
Calangute MLA and Chairman of GSIDC Ltd., Michael Lobo, will be the Chief Guest, while former Director of Agriculture and noted Konkani litterateur Nevil Alphonso will be the Guest of Honour. The keynote address will be delivered by Prof. (Dr.) Remy Dias, noted researcher and Professor of History at the Government College, Quepem.
The awards presentation ceremony will be interspersed with a cultural programme featuring songs and Mando performances by noted musician Luis Coutinho and his troupe. Members of the public have been invited for the function.
