Monthi Fest celebrations in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah

By Valerian Fernandes and Godwin DSouza
Bellevision Media Network

 

Abu Dhabi, 10 September 2009: Abu Dhabi’s huge Konkan Community ardently gathered on the evening of Thursday, 9th September 2010 at 7.45 pm in St Joseph’s Cathedral premises to celebrate Monthi Fest, a feast of nativity of Virgin Mary, a unique Mangalorean traditional feast.  Konkani cultural Organization [KCO] organized the grand celebration where an enormous crowd of over 1,500 people  gathered facing the beautiful altar set in front of church to venerate Mother Mary on this blessed day.

The ceremony commenced with little children and teenagers showering colourful flowers to  show their love and affection towards infant Mary.  The dazzling scene was eye catching with little kids thronging around the graceful statue of Infant Mother Mary, near the church grotto, enthusiastically participating in the beautiful ceremony singing the traditional “Sakkad Sangatha Melyam” and “Mariyek Hogolsiam”, which echoed the church premises, the rhythm filling the air creating a holy ambience.

Even though it was one of the peak humid evening of the summer season, the huge congregation of St Joseph’s Cathedral braved the heat and assembled in great number to illustrate their devotion to Mother Mary.

The new corn (Novem), was blessed which was especially flown all the way from Mangalore for the occasion, signifying the new harvest.

Later a short procession was taken around the church compound, carrying the statue of Infant Mary bedecked with flowers,

The Mass was offered in Konkani by Fr. Anthony Lopez of the the Bishops House inside the Cathedral to a full capacity crowd. In his Homily Fr. Lopez stressed the meaning of the nativity and the importance of Mother Mary in our lives and of this great festival, especially close to the hearts of the Konkani community of Mangalore, Goa and the inhabitants of Konkan belt.  Due to the massive crowd, wide screens were installed in strategic places in the church hall so that all the devotees could witness and participate in the ceremony.

As the symbol of new harvest, fresh fruits and vegetables were offered during the Mass by young children.

The Konkani Choir, with soothing hymns specially arranged and conducted for the occasion under the leadership of Leena Fernandes, was praiseworthy and elevated the spirit of the occasion.

Earlier Rev. Fr. Savari Muthu – the Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Church applauded and thanked  the Konkani Community for their enthusiasm and outstanding service towards the parish and appreciated the devotion of the community towards Mother Mary..

Gerry D’Mello – KCO’s current president thanked those contributed towards the day’s function and appreciated the help of all those volunteered towards the ceremony, specially members of KCO and other Konkani groups as well as the ushers.

The new crop (Novem) was distributed to all devotees after the Mass.

As per KCO’s tradition, light refreshment was served to all those who were present on this occasion, symbolizing the spirit of sharing among families on this special occasion

It can be recalled that the nativity feast in Konkani was initiated by KCO (Konkani Cultural Organization) almost 16 years ago and has become a permanent fixture every year and is appreciated by all.

Pictures of Monthi Fest Celebration in Sharjah by Valerian Alva: