Remo D'Souza is one of the most renowned choreographers in India and has also made a successful transition into filmmaking. Over the years, he has often spoken about the strong support he received from his wife, Lizelle D'Souza, in both his personal and professional life. However, in a recent interview, Remo shared a surprising detail about his past, revealing that he converted to Christianity at the young age of 15.
From Ramesh Gopi Nair to Remo D’Souza
Long before he became a household name through shows like Dance India Dance, Remo was known as Ramesh Gopi Nair. His journey from a small-town boy to one of India’s most recognised choreographers is widely admired. But what caught many by surprise was his revelation about changing his faith during his teenage years.
For years, many believed that Remo’s decision to convert to Christianity was linked to his relationship with Lizelle D’Souza. Addressing this assumption, the choreographer made it clear in his interview with Curly Tales that his faith change had nothing to do with his wife. He explained that people often connect the two, but that is not the case. Lizelle also echoed this, clarifying that she was not the reason behind his decision.
What led to the decision at 15
Remo shared that he made this life-changing choice while living in Jamnagar, Gujarat, before moving to Mumbai to pursue his dreams.
Recalling the moment, he said, "Before coming to Mumbai, I was in Jamnagar, Gujarat, and I got converted there. Because I used to do a lot of work for the church. I used to do shows for them, collect clothes, and used to give them a lot of charity. One day Father Davis came and said, 'Tum itna kuch karte ho church ke liye, tum convert kyun nahin ho jaate? (You do so much for the church, why don't you convert?"
This conversation stayed with Remo and eventually influenced his decision.
Family support played a key role
Despite the significance of the choice, Remo did not take it without speaking to his family. He recalled asking his father for permission before converting. His father responded in a supportive yet thoughtful manner, telling him he was free to follow his own path but should not give up his identity entirely.
Honouring his father’s wish, Remo chose to retain his father’s name as part of his identity. Today, he uses the name Remo Gopi D’Souza, keeping that personal connection intact even after changing his faith.
Life after the change
Years later, Remo built a successful career in the entertainment industry, becoming a popular face on television and in films. His appearance as a judge on Dance India Dance brought him national recognition and made him a familiar name in households across the country.
On the personal front, Remo married Lizelle in 1999, and the couple has been together for over two decades. They are parents to two sons, Adonis and Gabriel, and often share glimpses of their family life with fans.
From Ramesh Gopi Nair to Remo D’Souza
Long before he became a household name through shows like Dance India Dance, Remo was known as Ramesh Gopi Nair. His journey from a small-town boy to one of India’s most recognised choreographers is widely admired. But what caught many by surprise was his revelation about changing his faith during his teenage years.For years, many believed that Remo’s decision to convert to Christianity was linked to his relationship with Lizelle D’Souza. Addressing this assumption, the choreographer made it clear in his interview with Curly Tales that his faith change had nothing to do with his wife. He explained that people often connect the two, but that is not the case. Lizelle also echoed this, clarifying that she was not the reason behind his decision.
What led to the decision at 15
Remo shared that he made this life-changing choice while living in Jamnagar, Gujarat, before moving to Mumbai to pursue his dreams.
Recalling the moment, he said, "Before coming to Mumbai, I was in Jamnagar, Gujarat, and I got converted there. Because I used to do a lot of work for the church. I used to do shows for them, collect clothes, and used to give them a lot of charity. One day Father Davis came and said, 'Tum itna kuch karte ho church ke liye, tum convert kyun nahin ho jaate? (You do so much for the church, why don't you convert?"
This conversation stayed with Remo and eventually influenced his decision.
Family support played a key role
Despite the significance of the choice, Remo did not take it without speaking to his family. He recalled asking his father for permission before converting. His father responded in a supportive yet thoughtful manner, telling him he was free to follow his own path but should not give up his identity entirely.Honouring his father’s wish, Remo chose to retain his father’s name as part of his identity. Today, he uses the name Remo Gopi D’Souza, keeping that personal connection intact even after changing his faith.
Life after the change
Years later, Remo built a successful career in the entertainment industry, becoming a popular face on television and in films. His appearance as a judge on Dance India Dance brought him national recognition and made him a familiar name in households across the country.On the personal front, Remo married Lizelle in 1999, and the couple has been together for over two decades. They are parents to two sons, Adonis and Gabriel, and often share glimpses of their family life with fans.