Media Release
Kuwait, Sep 18: Abbasiya Konkani Families Kuwait (AKFK) organized a grand Monthi Fest celebration, beginning with a feast Mass on September 7 at St Daniel Comboni Church, and culminating in an extended cultural programme on September 13 at the Aspire International Indian School (AIIS) auditorium.
The event commenced with a soulful Konkani choir, as parishioners, led by spiritual director Fr Avil Rozario and visiting priest Fr Anil D’Costa, participated in a procession with the blessing of the new grain. Small children and parishioners joined the procession, creating a spiritually uplifting moment.
The cultural programme began with renowned Konkani emcees Deepak Andrade and Ancia Castelino steering the evening’s festivities. Abbasiya children set the tone with a graceful prayer dance choreographed by Precilla, which captivated the audience.
A grand welcome was extended to Fr Avil Rozario, who recently took charge from Fr Noel D’Almeida. AKFK president, Norbert D’Souza, welcomed dignitaries, including Fr Avil Rozario, visiting priest Fr Anil D’Costa, Fr Sojan (parish priest SDC), Fr Ravi, Fr Anthony Lopez, and the Carmel nuns. A heartfelt video message from Fr Noel D’Almeida was displayed on the LED screen. Lavina Furtado formally welcomed the guests on behalf of AKFK.
The cultural performances that followed were a mix of devotion and entertainment. Niyola and Neal Concesso delivered a beautiful duet hymn in honor of Mother Mary, supported by a musical presentation featuring various forms of Mary, arranged by Anil and Savita Tauro. Energetic singer Lavina Prafulla then captivated the audience with her rendition of "Uzo Uzo," while small children performed under the choreography of Ancia and Sharmila.
Adults took the stage with a meaningful dance performance choreographed by Jyothi and Lavina. Singers Santhosh and Arwin electrified the audience with the song "Lilly," supported by Royston, while the youth group, choreographed by Vanita Suvaris, impressed with their energetic dance.
A special tribute to mothers was performed with the song "Mujha Kudithlya Shirani," sung by Morvine, a well-known Abbasiya singer, moving the audience with its emotional depth. This was followed by a dynamic dance performance choreographed by Leora Pais and Jyothi Colaco. The comedy trio of Lionel Ajekar, Lucy Aranha, and Rajesh, supported by Purandara Manchi, had the crowd in stitches with their skit.
As the programme progressed, a traditional meal, "Noven Jevan," was served by the AKFK food committee, led by Santhosh, Ivan, Lancy, and Ozzy Furtado.
The cultural festivities continued with a mother-daughter conversation song by Gloria Tauro and Raina D’Mello, followed by a lively dance from the Khaitan Group choreographed by Rachel D’Sa. Rachel and Rebecca Lobo entertained the audience with a Konkani version of "Despacito," while Royce Paul wowed the crowd with a solo dance performance. Kecya and Sancia performed "Jeevan Hein Amche" by Wilfy Rebimbus, and Vanita Suvaris and her team delivered a powerful mime show.
The vibrant Goan team, led by Shawn and Simon, presented a musical skit, followed by an energetic dance performance by dance dreamers, choreographed by Shwetha. Abbasiya Konkani choir performed the song "Mog Kora Sezara," followed by a skit from Precilla and her team. The EPIC youth group concluded the cultural section with a high-energy dance.
Live music by Jaison Misquith, Anil Pais, Shawn Rodrigus, and Rojin Abraham added a special touch, making the evening memorable.
Cultural secretary Precilla Lobo delivered the vote of thanks, and the event concluded on a high note with a vibrant baila session led by Morvine, Lavina Prafulla, and the musicians. DJ Weldon kept the crowd dancing late into the night, ensuring the AKFK Monthi fest celebration was a resounding success.
Videography for the event was managed by AKFK supporter Alban D'Souza, with assistance from Joyston D'Souza. Photography was provided by Allen Cardoza, with social media coverage by James Paul. The LED screen was handled by Nilton D'Souza.