Padmashree Remo Fernandes

Panaji
Total 25 short message services (sms) and 30 missed calls on his cell phone were awaiting Remo Fernandes to wake up when he got the pleasant surprise of being selected for coveted Padmashree award.
"I was emotional and tongue tight when I read that I have got the highest honour. I am not a typical Padmashree awardee type. I am n ot one of those serious intellectual guys," Remo said reacting to his selection for coveted award.
Talking to this reporter over phone from Ahmedabad, where he was scheduled to perform in a concert, when the announcement came in, Remo said,``the honour was unexpected one as he has been adopting critical approach towards those in power.
"I am a rebel kind. Criticising governments when they do wrong and always against corrupt ministers," internationally acclaimed pop singer, who, in the past, objected to holding international film festival of India (IFFI) in Goa at the cost of state exchequer, stated.The selection speaks of open minded and broad approach of the selection committee for Padmashree awards, he commented.
Remo, who is yet to get any state level award constituted by Goa government, said that couple of weeks back intelligence bureau (IB) had inquired about his background."There was also a request to send bio-data for the award.
After sending the bio, I Forgot about it as it has happened for times that someone suggests the name, biodata is sought but nothing comes," said Remo, India’s contribution to international music. Remo is midst hectic schedule with various concerts lined up for him.
Replying to a question, Remo said that he has always been not selected for Goa level awards as he has been thrashing the state government over various anti-people issues."There are certain petty thieves who can’t face me," the singer said.