Fatima Apolonia Claudina D'Souza (born 15 November 1954) is an Indian actress and singer known for her work in Konkani films and tiatr productions.
Growing up, D'Souza had the privilege of witnessing tiatr rehearsals taking place in her own home, surrounded by the art form that would later shape her career.
D'Souza's introduction to acting came at a tender age of 6 or 7 when she took on the role of the child Jesus in J. P. Souzalin's tiatr production, with Shalini Mardolkar portraying the character of Mother Mary.
[3] A milestone in D'Souza's early career was her involvement in J. P. Souzalin's popular tiatr production titled Sat Dukhi, which graced the stage of the Princess Theatre in Bhangwadi, Bombay.
Although the young actors portraying the dwarfs made errors, their efforts were well received by the audience, primarily consisting of patrons of the liquor vendors within the building.
This opportunity led to her receiving her first official role from the Mendes brothers in their tiatr production titled Irmanvancho Cheddo Mhozo Put.
Some of the productions she acted in were Mog Kazar Divorce (Love, Marriage, Divorce), Bhurgim ani Bhangar (Children and Gold), Ordhi Bakhri (Half Bakri), Vauraddi (The Labourer), Atancho teomp, Don Kallzam (Two Hearts), Kunead ani Mana, Nitidar, Dev Bap (God the Father), Fatima Saibinnn (Our Lady of Fatima), Ekuch Rosto (The Only Way), Inglez Madam (English Madam), and Mhozo Khuris (My Cross).
Initially hesitant due to concerns about the perceived status of the role, she eventually reconsidered, recognizing the opportunity to test her abilities and gain valuable experience.
[5] Konkani historian and singer Wilson Mazarello writes, D'Souza is known for her versatility as an actress, delivering performances across a wide range of roles.
Audiences have consistently praised her acting abilities, and she is highly sought after by Konkani directors like M. Boyer, Prem Kumar, and Robin Vaz.
In addition to her acting prowess, D'Souza is also a singer, often collaborating with artists such as Robin Vaz and Joe Rose to create duets and trios.
D'Souza's talent has also been showcased on television, All India Radio (AIR), and in Konkani VCDs, including works such as Don Utram (Two Words), Friends, and the award-winning Ordem Chaddor (The Half Bedsheet), among others.
Interestingly, it was during the rehearsals of Prem's production Ordhi Bhakri that D'Souza crossed paths with her future husband, Anil Kumar, and their romance blossomed.
She went on to act in several of Anil's productions, including the pioneering horror tiatr Bhirantt (The Fear), as well as Saulli and Dubav Ek Uzo (Doubt is a Fire).
Throughout her career, D'Souza has amassed a number of performances in various locations, including Goa, Mumbai, other parts of India, the UK, and the Gulf countries.
She appreciates their dedication to honing their skills through workshops and emphasizes the importance of authentic costuming, citing the influence of figures such as Prem Kumar and M.