REGIDOR, MR ALBERTO COTTA A loving tribute A personality steeped in humility and adorned with the garb of nobility, manifested in simplicity During Portuguese regime the REGIDOR, present equivalent of Executive Magistrate held an important position for certifying, issuing common documents for many services, besides serving as the arbitrator in disputes ,as was envisaged by the Govt. It was both an honourable and honorary post bestowed on him with much thought, faith in his abilities that he continued it in the village of Chinchinim with distinction for many years till liberation of Goa in 1961. The villagers sought his good offices with faith with their personal and legal problems , as he had a gift of listening and suggesting his opinions in few words. A small fee of Rs 0.25 was official for the services rendered and he functioned religiously, scrupulously within this limit. He served as the vital link with the Govt at the village level. Mr Cota was very considerate, unassuming, polite, humble , non controversial or arrogant but humane in his approach that sometimes he even waived it in the deserving cases. He adhered to his position with humility, in a low profile thus maintaining at all times cordial and friendly relations. It was for this reason and his good nature of easy accessibility that he won everlasting friends and admirers with his contacts. The common village folks in large numbers attending his funeral services was a testimony to his popularity in the village and a parting tribute of gratitude He was the official censor for country plays during Carnaval, which meant that all the country plays( KHELL) with the content had to be compulsorily staged for his perusal and certification that no derogatory criticism against the regime in power and only then they were permitted for staging them in the village . He trusted them so that they did not have to stage all 3 plays in their entirety involving valuable time. It was thus a venue for the villagers for a free entertainment . It was a very special characteristic of his simple personality that he would attend funeral services of all villagers, personally known or even unknown and irrespective of caste, creed, or status in the society and which gesture adhered him lovingly and with respect. It was another peculiar aspect of his personality that he paid many condolence visits on foot and at quite a distances..He would very politely and often offer his seat to others during religious services, much as needed it considering his advanced age. The compassion and concern towards others was evident I remember lovingly how he was lavish and sincere with his appreciation and recognition of others that raised his stature in my mind, as truly, a simple and noble soul, worthy of public admiration , recognition and appreciation Prof. Mrs Alba Barros Dias Cotta his loving wife was a Prof. of Govt Primary Schools and served at Deussua, Sirlim, Palmar Grande Navelim Velim …for 35 years…… She was a disciplined, dedicated educator respected, loved and admired by students and parents . They are survived by sons Mr. Savio/ Laurita and Mr Oswald Mrs Nora and grandchildren, who continue their traditions and legacies Nelson Lopes, Chinchinim
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