“Nabotacho Mollo”: A Biblical Musical Drama Highlighting Environmental and Social Justice in Goa

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Fr. Agnel Minor Seminary, Pilar, recently presented a deeply moving Biblical musical drama, “Nabotacho Mollo” (Naboth’s Vineyard), during its annual day celebrations, captivating the audience with its poignant message of environmental and social justice. Conceptualized and scripted by Rev. Fr. Diogo Roger D’Souza SFX, the play transported the timeless story of Naboth into the heart of a Goan village, portraying the intense struggle of a humble farmer defending his ancestral land against greed and corruption. The production was skillfully directed by Mr. Agnel De Borim, while the dances were choreographed by Mr. Joe Dias.

The drama featured an array of original songs composed by Fr. Diogo D’Souza SFX, including “Utsovachem Voros,” “Nabotachem Eksurponn,” “Tanchem Kotta!,” “Nixed! Amchem Vingleponn,” “Sandlo!,” and “Bhorvonso Fottoina,” with music arrangement by Fr. Venito Colaco SFX. Collaborative compositions were contributed by Fr. Savio D’Souza SFX, Fr. Nelson Pereira SFX, Miss Reza Fernandes, and Bro. Vexter Colaco, enriching the production’s musical depth. A talented ensemble of musicians, featuring Pratamesh Chari on drums, Fevan Cruz on bass, Jeolinton Costa on keys, Manuel Caiado on saxophone, and a vibrant string and trumpet section, complemented the compelling vocal performances by Russel D’Souza and seminarians Ashwin Vaz, Emmanuel Fernandes, Rosario Mascarenhas, Fabian Colaco, Orban Fernandes, Francio Fernandes, and Fegan Fernandes. Lights and sound were expertly managed by Mr. Vernon Furtado of Studio 56 and Mr. Jules D’Silva.

The drama’s central theme—that land embodies memory, identity, and life—struck a resonant chord with the audience. It highlighted silence as a form of betrayal and courage as a prophetic act, reminding viewers that protecting the land safeguards the very soul of Goa. The production was honored by Rt. Rev. Simiao Purificacao Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, as Chief Guest, and Mr. Rajendra Kerkar, renowned environmentalist and author, as Guest of Honour, both of whom lauded the seminary for its innovative blending of spiritual formation with socio-environmental consciousness.

“Nabotacho Mollo” will be staged during the Christmas Octave at multiple Goan churches: Our Lady of Miracles Church, Sanguem on 27th December 2025 at 7:00 pm; St. Andrew’s Church, Goa Velha on 28th December 2025 at 7:00 pm; St. Anne’s Church, Agonda, Canacona on 29th December 2025 at 8:00 pm; and St. Michael’s Church, Anjuna on 4th January 2026 at 7:00 pm. The producers hope these performances will provide wider audiences the opportunity to experience the drama’s profound message and witness the exceptional artistic talents of the seminarians.