Nottingham (UK), 12 September 2010: MUKA celebrated Monthi Fest (Nativity of our Blessed Virgin Mary), at St Theresa church on Saturday September 11 with holy mass at 10:30 am, by Rev Michael Gallagher. The ceremony commenced with the blessing of the new corn and honoring of the Blessed Mother was held with the children gathering around the statue of our beloved Mother Mary at the church. As the choir sang the beautiful Konkani hymn, ’Moriyek hogolshiyam’, the little angels showered beautiful flowers on our dearest ‘Mother Mary’. The readings were read by Deena Dsouza and Ricky Rasquinha. The melodies choir was led by Mr Deepak Alvares and his team which added special devotion and meaning for the celebration.
Followed by holy Mass sweets and sugarcane were distributed to children. All MUKA members gathered in Aspley hall for day long activity. The president Jeevan Menezes welcomed the gathering. MUKA members came forward with entertaining skits such a “Konkani Mantri” by John and Vincent shared jokes to keep everyone involved. The cultural program also included songs by Pius Rasquinha, Conrad Aranha and Julian Noronha, group song by MUKA team and dance by Melvia and Jessica Aranha. Milk flavored with the blessed new kernels of rice was served and later all enjoyed a traditional vegetarian food served on banana leaves.
Games were conducted for children such as lucky birthday and painting competition. Prizes and certificates were handed out to the winners. Housie-Housie was conducted by Mr Stany Sequeira and Vincy Dsouza. Mrs Joyce Aranha thanked the gathering for making the day a very special one and gratefully acknowledged the efforts of all who dedicated their precious time to prepare our traditional novem jevan. Very special thanks to young booming talent Miss Jessica Aranha for being the main anchor of the day. The day long programme concluded with laudette. MUKA thank all the members for their active participation and making a day of remembrance.