Mumbai: Vasai Diocese is known for its churches. Atleast ten parishes in the diocese have majority of Konkani Speaking people. The speciality of this year is that Monti Fest was celebrated in many of the churches over here unlike one festival in the whole diocese as in previous years.
Vasai Konkani Welfare Association (VKWA) led the celebration this year as it celebrated it on September 8 afternoon.
In fact the tradition of celebrating Monti Fest in the whole of Vasai Taluka was initiated by VKWA since 2009. The premier Konkani association that has predominantly Mangaloreans as its members has more than a thousand members.
The programme started with a procession carrying Maria Bombina statue from the association office. Fr Nazareth Sequeira was the special guest of the association who expressed the unity of Konkani people through such celebrations. The guest of honour Jossy Menezes said that such festivals need to be always celebrated with much zest and zeal. President Ancy D’Souza Paladka gave a History of the tradition of the Monti Fest celebration. And explained on how it gave boost after introduction of Maria Bombina statue. Tippu’s Captivity gave a twist to celebrate as a festival to strengthen family bonds and to remember our members who are away from us and gone to heavenly abode.
The cultural programme started with the welcome song of VKWA members. Hilda D’Souza, Henry Menezes, Lawrence Mendonca, Albert D’Costa, Nancy Quadras and the group presented a hilarious skit. Solo Dance was presented by Andrea D’Souza. Duet Dance was presented by Opel D’Sa and Sheryl Fernandes. Baila Dance and Group Dance was presented by VKWA members. Thanks giving song was presented by Blanch Alvares. Fr Nazareth Sequeira said the grace over the meals.
A delicious Novem Jevonn was served in a very traditional manner on a banana leaves.
The secretary Reginald Santhumayar led the prize distribution programme and thanked the crowd. In the beginning John D’Souza gave an welcome address. Stephen Fernandes led the prayer service.
Henry Sequeira Mira Road beautifully anchored the programme and conducted spot games.
