Monthi Fest celebrations by Vasai Konkani Welfare Association

By Ancy DSouza, Paladka
Bellevision Media Network

Mumbai, 14 September 2010: Vasai Konkani Welfare Association celebrated Monthi Fest on Sunday September 12 in a very solemn manner.

 

The fest began with a procession of decorated ‘Maria Bambina’ (Ballok Mari) statue from Manikpur cricket ground to Gonsalo Garcia Church. The procession had a brass band playing Konkani hymns, altar boys, children carrying flowers, a ‘Maria Bambina’ statue on a decorated open jeep, parishioners carrying new paddy sheaves, and offerings in the form of fruits and vegetables.  The procession passed through state highways in Vasai and reached the grotto of the church.

 

Fr Richard Lasrado, parish priest of Thokur Parish, Mangalore, was the main celebrant of the Konkani Mass. Fr Lasrado also gave a heart touching sermon on strengthening family bonds and respecting parents.

 

Memorable Konkani cultural programmes were presented by nine different groups of Vasai. Hilarious skits from Felix D’Souza Malvani were the added attraction. Three cash prizes were awarded to the lucky lunch coupon holders.

 

Fr Nazareth Gabru, parish priest of Gonsalo Garcia, Fr Ozy Gonsalves, parish priest of St Ignatius Loyola church, Fr Fernandes Louis, Fr Francis Dabre, andindustrialist Robert Menezes were also present.

 

 

The stage programme started with a prayer song by Arnold Pinto, Clara, Vincent, Wilson, Dorothy, Jessie, Priscilla and Mabel, ‘Kuru Kuru Kana’ by Jyotsna, Jaison, Flavita, Rebecca, Rachel and Jessita, Angel and Mariol under the direction of Jyothi Abreo.

 

This was followed by ‘Kharvi’ (fishermen) dance by Roylee, Anita, Jason, Robin and Royce, and a skit ‘Koro Sontos’ written and directed by Agnes Menezes under the leadership of Hilda D’Souza, president, Marian Sodality.

 

‘Goyncho Manddo’ of Shetkar, Kunnbi, Render, Kharvi, was presented by Celesti, Joel, Eldon, Caren, Sharel, Mellissa, Queenie, Carel and Roshal, ‘Goa Amchem Shantikayechem’ dance presented by Jyotsna, Anita, Crystal, Andrea, Lolita, Clavencia, Sonia and Alisha, while ‘Monthi Maie’ tableau was by Sania, Plessitta, Amanda, Vanessa, Sheetal, under the direction of Blanche Alvares.

 

President Stephen Fernandes welcomed the guests while secretary Ancy D’Souza Paladka compered the programme and proposed vote of thanks.

 

Traditional ‘Novem Jevonn’ was served to all the people and the ‘Kobu’ (sugarcane) was also distributed.