Dubai: Monti Fest, the much loved traditional feast of Mangaloreans, which represents the birthday of our Blessed Mother Mary and coincides with the festival of new harvest, is being celebrated all over the world every year with much fervor and enthusiasm.
Belle Parishioners celebrated the feast of Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary and “Novem Jevonn” at Eat & Drink Restaurant, Garhoud, Dubai on September 18, 2015.
The celebration commenced with an invocation to God through a beautiful welcome prayer dance by Rewan and Reia Menezes. The prayer session was conducted by Preema D’Souza and continued with hymns, prayer and gospel reading. The corn was blessed and while all sang the traditional Konkani hymns “Sakkad Sangata Melyam” and “Moriyyek Hogolsiyan”, the children gathered around Infant Mary and joyfully showered flowers in honour of our Blessed Mother Mary. Thereafter, the “Novem” was distributed to all those who were present.
Godwin D’Souza welcomed the gathering and Fr Robert, the parish priest of St Mary’s Church Dubai, emphasized on the significance of Monti Feast in his speech. He spoke of the traditional way in which Mangaloreans celebrated the birth of Blessed Mother Mary as a family feast where all members join in as one family in sharing the joy and happiness.
Thereafter, a delicious lunch was served with several varieties of vegetables and payasam. Immediately after the lunch, a cultural program began with the song “Mogache Amche Ghar” by young and talented anchors, Lavina Fernandes, Veera Machado, Jason Miranda and Cyprian Castelino. The drums were played by master Henil, Lead Guitar by his elder brother Ruel and the melodious songs were sung by their sister Nicole. Their excellent performance was highly appreciated by the entire crowd.
The party hall was fully packed with a gathering of over 250 people. They were entertained with solo and group dances by kids and adults. Konkani, Kannada and Hindi songs were sung by young and talented singers of Moodubelle including small kids. Roars of laughter were heard in crowd when humorous skits were being enacted.
The entire program was compered by young and energetic MCs – Lavina Fernandes, Veera Machado, Jason Miranda and Cyprian Castelino – who kept the gathering lively with their witty and timely quotes along with the Sound System which was provided by Alwyn Castelino.
Ivan Menezes thanked the gathering for making the day a very special and memorable one. With a grateful heart, he acknowledged the earnest efforts of all those who dedicated their precious time and energy in preparing the traditional “Novem Jevan”.
The entire day’s program was organized in a vibrant manner. Old and new memories were displayed on the projector screen for all to view. Several spot games were also conducted during the day and evening tea was served at around 4 pm.