Panaji: The Tiatr Academy of Goa (TAG) has announced the recipients of its Non-Commercial Awards 2025, selecting three distinguished cultural contributors —Neves Aristides Oliveira, Antonio Xavier Correia and Alfredo Fernandes (Alfi DeDivar) — for their exceptional service to the tiatr stage and their enduring dedication to Goan performing arts.
These awards, among the most respected honours in Goan theatre, celebrate individuals whose lifelong commitment has helped sustain, elevate and preserve the rich legacy of tiatr.

Neves Aristides Oliveira: A Tireless Voice for Konkani Music 
From Raia, Neves Aristides Oliveira is a well-known Konkani composer and singer whose artistic journey began in 1974 with his debut song Marekar Accident, inspired by Alfred Rose. Over the decades, he has composed more than 500 songs, each reflecting his deep love for the Konkani language and its musical tradition.
His acclaimed album Medal Melagroza strengthened his reputation, while his musical performances in Goa, Mumbai, London, Scotland and beyond have showcased Goan culture on international platforms. Neves remains a respected figure in Konkani theatre and music.

Antonio Xavier Correia: A Respected Force in Amateur Tiatr
Antonio Xavier Correia first appeared on stage in the 1985 tiatr Patkacho Khuris and has since become a prominent name in the amateur tiatr circle. His cultural contribution has earned him the Kala Gaurav Puraskar.
Correia has won several awards in TAG’s Kantarachem Daiz and Kala Academy’s Kantaranchi Sanz, performing in solo, duo and trio categories. With years of involvement in village tiatrs and passion plays, he is recognised for his consistency, versatility and devotion to the art form.

Alfi De Divar: A Multifaceted Theatre Artisan
Divar-born Alfredo Fernandes, popularly known as Alfi De Divar, is celebrated for his extensive work as a playwright, director, actor and lyricist. A banker by profession, he has pursued his passion for tiatr since 1981.
He has penned and staged 14 one-act plays—from Imtteacho Xevott to Sirvidor—and has written and presented 23 tiatrs for Kala Academy’s annual
competitions. His work, rich in Goan cultural ethos, has earned him multiple honours in scriptwriting, direction, acting and lyric composition.

TAG President Anthony Barbosa and the members of the General Council have extended warm congratulations to all three awardees, acknowledging their invaluable contributions and celebrating their commitment to preserving and  promoting the Konkani stage.