125th Anniversary of Goan Tiatr
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | April 17, 2018 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 30 |
| Quantity | 110,000 |
| Perforation | 13¾ x 13¾ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Ms. Gulistaan Smt. Alka Sharma |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN BL190 Yvert et Tellier IN BF177 Stanley Gibbons IN MS3494 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Musical Instruments | Theatre |
Tiatr – The Heartbeat of Goan Theatre
Tiatr is a distinctive form of dramatic art that has captured the hearts of audiences in Goa, across India, and around the world wherever Goans have settled. This vibrant theatre form is not only entertainment but also a reflection of Goan culture, social commentary, and musical storytelling.
The Birth of Tiatr
The roots of Tiatr can be traced back almost 125 years to 1892, in neighboring Bombay (now Mumbai). It was pioneered by Lucazinho Ribeiro, a young man from Sokolwaddo, Assagao in Bardez Taluka, along with Joao Agostinho Fernandes and a small group of enthusiasts.
Their first performance, staged on Easter, 17th April 1892, was titled “Italian Bhurgo” and was inspired by an English opera. This marked the birth of a unique Goan dramatic tradition that seamlessly blended storytelling, music, and stagecraft.
The term “Tiatr” comes from the Portuguese word “TEATRO”, meaning theatre, highlighting Goa’s rich colonial and cultural heritage.
Structure and Musicality
Tiatr is not a musical in the traditional sense, yet it is deeply musical in nature. Each play is typically divided into 6 or 7 acts, known as “Pordho”, with songs called “Kantaram” interspersed between them.
A standard Tiatr includes 2 or 3 Kantaram between two Pordhes, resulting in 12 to 14 songs in a single performance. What makes Tiatr truly unique is its dual storytelling: the main plot revolves around a single theme, while each Kantaram explores a different subject, offering social messages, satire, or commentary on contemporary issues.
The Legends of Tiatr Writing
The mid-20th century witnessed the rise of some of Tiatr’s most talented scriptwriters, whose works shaped the art form. Alexinho de Candolim, Minguel Rod, C. Alvares, M. Boyer, Prem Kumar, J.P. Souzalin, Nelson Afonso, Aristedes Dias, Remy Colaso, and John Claro are among the pioneers who enriched Tiatr with scripts that balanced humor, emotion, and social reflection.
Enduring Popularity
From its inception in 1892 to 2017, Tiatr has continued to thrive, enchanting generations of audiences. Today, it stands as Goa’s most popular dramatic form, celebrated not only for its artistry but also for its ability to connect communities, preserve culture, and inspire social awareness.
The story of Tiatr, like the notes of its music, resonates beyond Goa, making it a cherished gem of India’s cultural heritage — a perfect subject for commemorative recognition, such as stamps celebrating Goan art and theatre.
First Day Cover
