Renowned Konkani poet Marian Paul Rodrigues, widely known as M P Rodrigues, passed away on January 6 in the United States.
Rodrigues was born on July 6, 1946, in Kaudur village near Gurpur, into an agricultural family. His deep connection to nature was reflected in his poetry. Influenced by Louis Mascarenhas, Rodrigues often combined traditional forms with modern poetry. Unlike many of his peers, his works focused more on social life than personal experiences.
He held a degree in economics and worked in Dubai for over 30 years. Rodrigues received the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy Award for his poetry collection Rumddi Fulam, published by Kavita Publications. In 2015, he was honored with the Kavita Trust’s Mathias Family Poetry Award.
In addition to his poetry, Rodrigues wrote short stories and articles. He also published Rasthya Degechim Fulam, another collection of poems. A skilled singer, he performed songs and participated in radio programs. He credited his artistic development to mentors Sirivanth, Fr Sila Minez, and Fr J S T Rodrigues.
Family sources confirmed that his funeral will take place in Mangaluru, with further details to be announced.
