A Journey Blessed by Music

 A Journey Blessed by Music

John Aguiar

Every journey has a beginning. Mine began not in a recording studio, but at All India Radio, where a distinguished broadcaster, Shri Yojraj Borkar, recognized a spark in my writing. He gave me my first opportunity to write songs, opening a door that would shape my life in ways I had never imagined.

That single break became the foundation of a long and fulfilling journey as a lyricist. Soon, I had the privilege of working with renowned Goan musician Shri Sidhnath Buyao. I wrote songs for his albums, including Buyao Rocks, and later contributed a major portion of the lyrics for the Christian devotional album Grateful to Jesus. It was a unique experience to express faith through music and witness listeners connect deeply with the words.

A memorable turning point came when Shri Buyao was producing a Konkani devotional album dedicated to Lord Damodar titled Hey Damodara.

He requested me to write a song. At that moment, I did not have a fresh composition ready. However, I had previously written a song in praise of Lord Mangesh beginning with the words "Mangyesha Tu Pave Re." With faith and inspiration, the lyrics were adapted to suit Lord Damodar, changing the refrain to "Damodara Tu Pav Re."

The song was beautifully composed by Shri Sidhnath Buyao and soulfully rendered by singer Gautami Hede. Later, it was filmed as a music video. None of us imagined the impact it would create. The song touched the hearts of devotees not only in Goa but across India and among Goan communities overseas, receiving immense appreciation and countless views.

That success inspired many more devotional compositions. One after another came songs such as Shantadurge Aye Mhaje, Tuch Shanti Doot, Ami Tujeo Dhuvo ani Put, Mangyesha Deva Mhajya, Shantaye, Damodara, Jai Jai Mahalaxmi Mare, Kamaxi Mate Tuzo Jai jaikar, Devi Navdurga, Vithala, Mhalshe Aye, Sateri, Deva Gomanteshwara, Saibaba, Neel Kanta Shankara, Kapileshwara, Padar Pasrun Bhettek Yetam Manguesha Deva Mhaje, Mahalaxmi Ambabai, Saunsar Tujea Hatant Ge  and many others.

Each song was more than just lyrics. It was an offering of devotion, an expression of Goa's rich spiritual heritage, and an attempt to bring people closer to God through the beauty of Konkani music. Every composition carried a prayer, every melody carried hope, and every recording became a bridge between faith and culture.

Looking back, I remain grateful to Shri Yojraj Borkar for recognizing my talent and giving me my first opportunity, and to Shri Sidhnath Buyao for placing his trust in my words. Their encouragement transformed a young writer into a lyricist whose songs continue to resonate with devotees.

Music has given me recognition, but more importantly, it has given me the privilege of serving society through devotion. If even one song has brought peace, faith, or inspiration to a listener, I consider my journey truly blessed.