Mangaluru: Edwin Joseph Francis D’Souza, a celebrated Konkani writer and recipient of the Kendra Sahitya Academy Award, affectionately known as “Edwin J F D’Souza,” breathed his last at the age of 75 on Thursday, October 26, 2023. He is survived by his beloved wife, Marcelline Jane D’Souza, daughter Ruth Esther D’Souza, son-in-law Sudhakar Prabhu, and grandchild Anoushka Prabhu. Edwin had recently suffered a fall at his residence in Falnir, Mangaluru, and was admitted to a private hospital in the city, where his condition deteriorated, ultimately leading to his passing.
A Scholar and Writer
Born on June 14, 1948, in Valencia, Mangaluru, Edwin Joseph Francis D’Souza was an alumnus of St Aloysius (Autonomous) College, Mangaluru. He held a degree in commerce and a postgraduate diploma in Konkani, in addition to five online diplomas in Christian Theology from a Bible School in the United States. Edwin also served as the Executive Director of the Institute of Konkani at St Aloysius College.
In 1964, he published his first Konkani short story, marking the beginning of a prolific writing career. Over the years, he penned 33 novels, more than one hundred short stories, columns, satires, and more. Many of his short stories found translation into various languages, including English, Kannada, Hindi, Kashmiri, Malayalam, and Tamil. Notably, his heartwarming short story, “Chocolates,” was featured in the anthology “Our Favorite Indian Short Stories,” published by Jaico Books and curated by the late Khushwant Singh. Another of his stories, “Chocolates,” appeared twice in the Reader’s Digest Guide to Food, Special Collector’s Edition.
Awards and Accolades
Edwin received thirteen awards for his literary contributions, spanning state, inter-state, and international recognitions. One of his awards came from Dubai, underlining the reach and appeal of his writings. His notable translations included his own Konkani short stories, totaling thirteen, translated into English and compiled in the anthology “Chocolates,” published by English Titles Publications, Chennai. He also adeptly adapted and translated works by authors like A. J. Cronin and Robert Greenshaw.
A Significant Contribution to Konkani Literature
In the field of translations, Edwin was particularly recognized for his work translating between English and Konkani (in Nagari/Kannada script). He translated select short stories by renowned authors such as Guy De Maupassant, James Joyce, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Agatha Christie, and Chekhov, which regularly featured in Konkani periodicals. The Sahitya Akademi in Chennai accredited him as a translator and assigned him the task of translating the Konkani biography of the renowned poet and dramatist, the late C F D’Costa.
Edwin D’Souza also authored the biography in English of the late V J P Saldanha. His remarkable trilogy, a single-volume work spanning 1008 pages, was published by the Karnataka Sahitya Akademi in 2015. This monumental effort is considered a significant achievement in Konkani literature. In 2014, he published his first anthology of 22 Konkani short stories (Devanagari script) titled “Poinn” (The Journey), jointly published by Bimb Publications and the Goa Konkani Akademi. The book was launched at the 29th All India Konkani Parishad in Belgaum on February 28, 2014.
Involvement in Other Creative Pursuits
Edwin contributed dialogues for the Konkani movie “Boxsane” in 1995. In March 2012, he received The Book Sellers’ & Publishers’ Award (BAPASI) from Chennai in recognition of his lifetime dedication to a minority language. The Goa Konkani Akademi published his 450-page novel, “Kallem Bhangaar,” in the Nagari script. This novel earned him the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Akademi Best Book of the Year 2013 award and the Best Book of the Year 2013 award from the Vimala V Pai Vishwa Konkani Award.
Recognitions and Responsibilities
Throughout his distinguished career, Edwin D’Souza received numerous honors and recognitions. He was feted by the Federation of Konkani Catholic Associations and received accolades from prominent figures like Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the former Bishop of Mangaluru, Dr. Bernard Moras, among others. In 2015, “Konkani Kutam, Bahrain” presented him with the Konkani Literature Lifetime Award. Edwin served as a member of the general council of the Sahitya Akademi (2008-2012), New Delhi, and was a member of the expert committee for the Ministry of Culture, New Delhi, involved in deciding the Fellowship Awards for Research.
Notably, he presided over the 11th All India Konkani Sahitya Sammelan, which was held in February 1992 in Karwar. Edwin D’Souza also served on the Board of Studies for Konkani at Goa University, contributing to the development and promotion of Konkani language and literature.
A Lasting Legacy
The passing of Edwin J F D’Souza marks the end of a chapter in Konkani literature. His prolific contributions, accolades, and unwavering dedication to the language and its literary heritage have left an indelible mark. His works will continue to inspire and enrich Konkani literature for generations to come.
Funeral and Memorial Services
Edwin JF D’Souza (75), son of the late Martin D’Souza and the late Stella Pais, husband of Jane D’Souza, father of Ruth Esther D’Souza/ Sudhakar Prabhu, and grandfather of Anouskha Prabhu. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Rony / Cynthia, Goldina / Clifford, Hermy / Louie, Yvonne / Merwin, Alwyn / Sylvin, Rohan / Rovina, Colin / Carol, Sharon / Alwyn.
The mortal remains of Edwin JF D’Souza will be brought to Our Lady of Miracles, Milagres, Mangalore at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 28 for public viewing, followed by a Mass at 11:00 a.m.
For further information and assistance, please contact: +91 9972092987.
This gathering will provide an opportunity for family, friends, and admirers to pay their respects and bid a final farewell to the eminent writer and beloved family member, Edwin JF D’Souza.
Edwin J F D’Souza’s passing leaves a void in the world of Konkani literature, but his words and stories will live on, reminding us of his enduring legacy. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
