John Aguiar-- Journalist par excellence

John Aguiar is a journalist/media official by profession but he's a well known Konkani (Goan) writer and a poet. He is a multifaceted individual with a great personality. He is a remarkable, hard-working, reliable, enthusiastic and highly devoted officer. He has written ballads that have been publicized over a network in Goa on CDs.

Here's a tête-à-tête with John Aguiar

1. Tell me something about yourself?

I am a person with strong interpersonal abilities and have the ability to get along well with people.

2. How were you when were a kid?

I am the only child in the family. Pampered by parents and neighbours. The whole neighbourhood knew me as "Baba" rather than my name. My parents dressed me both as a girl and a boy. A time table was set for me for studying, playing being out. A system of discipline was there.

3. What motivates you in life?

Success is what motivates me to do a good job. Knowing the fact that my hard work and perseverance will help me achieve greater professional success is what keeps me going. There were instances of failure and stagnation but it did not demotivate me anyhow. On the other hand, I felt re-invigorated to perform even more. The taste of success after a failure is what keeps the fire going within me no matter what the circumstance.

Helping others and empowering people is what motivates me the most. It doesn’t matter whether it is a colleague, friend or relative. There are times when the people around your need that extra drive to get going. I relish the opportunity to reach out to such people. It gives me a sense of confidence and belief that I can be of some help.

4. Who has been your inspiration?

Both my parents are my inspiration and especially my mother.

5. When did you 1st  realize you wanted to be a writer?

When in VIth std, I unknowingly wrote a Hindi poem and the Hindi teacher was so happy that she put the poem on the notice board.

6. If you weren’t a  writer than what would you be? Why?

I would be in the Army because I loved the army life in uniform. NCC motivated me a lot. Therefore appeared for three+two SSB interviews.

7. What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

I am a bathroom singer. I like to sing old songs. Short films are my other area of interest.

8. How many books have you written? Which is your favourite book?

Have written seven books. Favourite book? it is like asking a father which is his favourite child.

9. What advice would you give for the youth of today?

Respect your parents, elders, superiors, Be positive. Be punctual. Early to bed and early to rise. Don't tell lies. Read good books.

10. What are your plans for after retirement?

Nothing so far. Working on my next book on the collection of one-act plays. I have been also asked to write two songs for the upcoming Konkani film. I have also planned to spend my time fishing.