Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral
An atmosphere of remembrance, music and heartfelt tributes filled the St Inez Church Hall in Panjim as friends, admirers and family gathered on December 15 to honour the life and legacy of late Senhor Zito de Ornelas Rodrigues Gomes, a pioneering figure in Goan music and a respected public servant. Deeply rooted in Loutolim and a long-time resident of Panjim, Senhor Zito was remembered as a true son of Goa whose life seamlessly blended artistry, service and community spirit.
The month’s Mass was presided over by Fr Derrick Xavier Fernandes, Parish Priest of St John the Baptist Church, Pilerne, followed by the blessing of the grave. The condolence gathering was hosted by Clube Marius Festacar and brought together eminent speakers, artists and well-wishers for an evening of reflection and gratitude.
Senior journalist Prakash Kamat coordinated the programme, warmly welcoming those present and setting the tone for the evening. In a deeply personal conversation, he engaged with Festakar Marius Fernandes, a close friend and long-time cultural collaborator of Senhor Zito, who spoke movingly about his early passion for music and his role as a trailblazer in post-colonial Goa.
Marius recalled how Senhor Zito founded Goa’s first band after the Portuguese era, the four-member ensemble Tuna Los Coimbranos, which performed in elite clubs across Goa. Named after the University of Coimbra in Lisbon, the band blended Goan, Portuguese and South American influences, leaving a lasting imprint on the region’s musical landscape. His visits to Mormugao Harbour to listen to musicians from visiting cruise liners and his lifelong admiration for legendary Portuguese fado singer Amália Rodrigues deeply shaped his musical sensibilities.
Beyond music, Senhor Zito served with quiet dedication in the Goa Government Secretariat, contributing to the formulation of the Tenants and Mundkar Acts — landmark legislations that continue to shape Goan society. Former colleague Olinda Fernandes spoke of his sincerity, discipline and unwavering commitment to public service.
In the 1970s, Senhor Zito worked with the Public Works Department in Qatar before returning to Goa with his wife, Professor Fatima Lucia, where both remained deeply involved in community and cultural life. Former Director of Information Gurunath Pai reflected on their long friendship, remembering Zito as a man of grace and humility whose presence united people through kindness, music and laughter.
His legacy continues through his daughter, Dr Gwendolyn de Ornelas, a respected publisher and curator who carries forward his creative spirit and commitment to cultural preservation.
The evening concluded with a vote of thanks by Dominic D’Souza, President of Clube Marius Festacar, followed by a moment of silence and a gentle musical interlude — a fitting tribute to a life lived as a symphony of service, artistry and love for Goa.
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