Remembering Wilfy Rebimbus: The Iconic Voice of Konkani Music
Wilfred Gerald Rebimbus, known as Wilfy Rebimbus, was a famous singer and songwriter from Mangalore. He was well-known for his compositions in the Konkani and Tulu languages and was affectionately called the “Konkan Kogul,” meaning the cuckoo (songbird) of the Konkan region.
Career:
Wilfy was born on April 2, 1942, in Mangalore, into a Mangalorean Catholic family. His father was from Kanhangad in Kerala, and his mother was from Goa.
He attended Milagres High School in Mangalore for his primary and high school education. Even as a student, Wilfy displayed his talent as a singer and won numerous prizes in various singing competitions.
He started composing Konkani songs at the age of 14 and wrote his first play, “Poixeancho Sonvsar” (World of Money), when he was just 15.
He staged the play through the St. Joseph’s Natak Sangh. At the age of 17, Wilfy formed a musical group called the United Youngsters Music Party, which is now known as the United Youngsters Cultural Association.
Besides his musical pursuits, Wilfy was also an accomplished athlete and played Kabaddi during his school days.
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Early Life:
Wilfy Rebimbus took Konkani music to new heights with his unique compositions and singing style. He wrote songs for various occasions and situations.
Throughout his four-decade-long career, Wilfy penned thousands of songs and organized 248 Wilfy Nites, which were highly popular musical shows.
He released around forty albums, including six devotional albums and at least one instrumental album.
His outstanding contributions to Konkani music earned him the title “Konkan Kogul” from the Bishop of Mangalore, the late Basil D’Souza, on September 26, 1971.
On January 25, 1970, Wilfy Rebimbus married Meena Gracia Rebimbus, who is also a renowned singer. She was bestowed with the title “Konkan Myna” by Benar Productions on August 12, 1984, for her melodious voice.
Meena has also composed a few songs in Wilfy’s albums, such as “Nach To Ka Yetha,” “Asha,” and “Kuhu Kuhu,” which was a tribute to Wilfy after his passing.
Together, Wilfy and Meena have two children, Veena Rebimbus Pais and Vishwas Rebimbus, who have carried on their father’s legacy by releasing an album titled “Tum Maka Hav Tuka” in 2011.
Pro Ecclesia Et Pontifice: Honoring Wilfy Rebimbus’s Immortal Musical Contribution:
On June 13, 2010, Bishop Dr. Aloysius Paul D’Souza posthumously conferred the title “Pro Ecclesia Et Pontifice” awarded by Pope Benedict XVI on Konkan Kogul Wilfy Rebimbus during a holy mass held at Milagres Church.
This special honor was in recognition of Wilfy’s love for the Holy Church and his exceptional musical contributions to the Konkani community worldwide.
The title was presented to Meena Rebimbus. Wilfy had been diagnosed with lung cancer and underwent surgery in September 2009. Unfortunately, he passed away on March 9, 2010, due to complications from the disease.
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Recognition and Accolades:
In 2009, Mandd Sobhann, a cultural organization in Mangalore, announced that they would honor Rebimbus with a lifetime achievement award for his exceptional contribution to Konkani music.
Veerappa Moily, a former chief minister of Karnataka and ex-union minister, described Rebimbus as a truly incomparable talent and his legacy as unmatched. Rebimbus is undoubtedly a trailblazer.
There has been a singing contest held in his honor, including in the year 2013.
Family Life:
Wilfy and Meena have two children, Veena Rebimbus Pais being the elder and Vishwas Rebimbus the younger. Both children carry on their father’s musical legacy and have released an album titled “Tum Maka Hav Tuka” in 2011.
On June 13, 2010, Bishop Dr. Aloysius Paul D’Souza presented the prestigious title “Pro Ecclesia Et Pontifice,” awarded by Pope Benedict XVI, to the late Konkan Kogul Wilfy Rebimbus during a Mass held at the renowned Milagres Church in Mangalore.
This special honor was bestowed upon Wilfy for his deep devotion to the Church and his exceptional musical contributions to the Konkani community worldwide. The bishop handed the title to Meena Rebimbus.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Who was Wilfy Rebimbus?
Wilfy Rebimbus, whose full name was Wilfred Gerald Rebimbus, was a renowned singer, songwriter, lyricist, and playwright from Mangalore. He was famous for his compositions in the Konkani and Tulu languages and was affectionately known as the “Konkan Kogul” or the songbird of the Konkan.
What were Wilfy Rebimbus’ notable contributions?
Wilfy Rebimbus made significant contributions to the world of music through his unique compositions and singing style. He wrote thousands of songs and staged numerous performances, including 248 Wilfy Nites. He released around forty albums and was credited with taking modern Konkani music to new heights.
What awards and honors did Wilfy Rebimbus receive?
Wilfy Rebimbus received several accolades during his career. He was bestowed with the title “Konkan Kogul” by the Bishop of Mangalore, Late Basil D’Souza, in 1971. In 2009, he was honored with the Konkani music lifetime achievement award by Mandd Sobhann, a Konkani cultural organization. Additionally, he was posthumously awarded the title “Pro Ecclesia Et Pontifice” by Pope Benedict XVI, which was presented by Bishop Dr. Aloysius Paul D’Souza.
Who is Meena Gracia Rebimbus?
Meena Gracia Rebimbus is the wife of Wilfy Rebimbus and is also a renowned singer. She has contributed to Wilfy’s albums by composing songs such as “Nach to ka Vetha,” “Asha,” and “Kuhu Kuhu.” Meena was honored with the title “Konkan Myna” by Benar Productions for her melodious voice.
Did Wilfy and Meena have children?
Yes, Wilfy and Meena have two children. Their elder child is Veena Rebimbus Pais, and their younger child is Vishwas Rebimbus. Both children have followed in their father’s footsteps and are involved in singing and composing music. They released an album called “Tum Maka Hav Tuka” in 2011.
What is the significance of the title “Pro Ecclesia Et Pontifice”?
The title “Pro Ecclesia Et Pontifice” is an honor awarded by the Pope to individuals who have shown exceptional dedication and service to the Church. Wilfy Rebimbus was posthumously honored with this title in recognition of his love for the Church and his outstanding musical contributions to the Konkani community worldwide.
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