Media Release

Bengaluru, Sep 19: The Federation of Konkani Catholic Associations (FKCA) celebrated the Nativity of Mother Mary, or Monthi Fest, with heartfelt devotion and joy at the Konkan Samudai Bhavan, Chellikere. The occasion, which also doubled as family day, brought together a large gathering of families from FKCA’s affiliate associations to honor Mother Mary and celebrate community togetherness.

The event began with a prayer service led by Fr Richard Pais, who blessed the freshly harvested paddy, a symbol of gratitude and abundance. Attendees participated in the traditional flower offering to Mother Mary, followed by a solemn festive mass, accompanied by the beautiful voices of the Catholic Konkani Association, Dasarahalli choir.

In his homily, Fr Richard traced the origins of Monthi Fest from Goa to the Dakshina Kannada and Udupi regions. He reflected on how these cherished traditions have been passed down over generations and continue to be celebrated within families, preserving faith and values.

The cultural programme was expertly conducted by MC Pavan Pinto, who set the stage for a series of engaging performances. Chairman Robert Cutinha welcomed the audience, and cultural secretary Sharon Rego led the gathering in prayer with the hymn Baal Moriye Namo.

A major highlight of the day was the unveiling of FKCA’s newly designed logo, a significant step forward for the federation. Sharon Rego introduced the task force behind the logo design—Antony D’Souza, Vinod Monteiro, Nigel Fernandes, Peter Anil Rego, Noel Sequeira, Robert Cutinha, Sharon Rego, Smruthi D’Souza, Nishal Preetham D’Souza, and Joel Galbao—who were called to the stage to unveil the new emblem alongside former chairpersons and office bearers.

The transition from the old logo to the new one was captured in a video compiled by Smruthi D’Souza, an active member of FKCA’s media team and part of MKCK, Mudla. As the logo was revealed, the audience also saw the unveiling of the standee banner. Sharon Rego explained the significance of each element within the logo, highlighting how it represents FKCA’s mission, values, and cultural identity.

Adding to the celebration, FKCA’s newly redesigned website was launched with another transition video created by Smruthi D’Souza. The revamped website reflects FKCA’s updated vision while maintaining its strong connection to the community. Sharon Rego expressed gratitude to all who contributed to this transformation, particularly Fr Faustine Lobo, whose efforts were instrumental in shaping the new direction.

The event also recognized the winner of the tagline contest, with Clayton Peter Menezes announced as the winner. President Vinod Monteiro of Konkani Samudai, Jayanagar accepted the award on his behalf, further adding to the celebrations.

The cultural programme was filled with delightful performances. Aaron Fernandes from MKCK delivered a stirring rendition of Mujhya Mai Gava Mujya Shehra by Wilfy Rebimbus, while Eva D’Cunha, Emily D’Cunha, Avalynn Fernandes, and Shanel Fernandes captivated the audience with their trio dance performance. Stephan Machado from KCWA RT Nagar had everyone laughing with his engaging stand-up comedy routine.

In a special moment of recognition on the occasion of family day, FKCA honoured Aida D’Cunha, former FKCA chairperson and president of BKCS Koramangala, along with her husband Francis D’Cunha. Aida’s service and contributions to the community and society were highlighted and she expressed her heartfelt thanks for the support she received throughout her journey. Nigel Fernandes - vice chairman of FKCA gave a brief about Aida D'Cunha.

The cultural showcase also included a beautiful performance by Jeneena Monteiro from Konkani Samudai, who sang Ghulobhachya Fantyak.

The celebrations concluded with a lively American Housie, by Arun Fernandes, Former FKCA chairperson which kept participants entertained, adding a fun element to the event. Diana Saldanha and Shalet Dias emerged the first and second prize winners respectively, general secretary Vincent D’Souza gave a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the day. Benedicta D'Souza conducted the prayer before meals.

The event wrapped up with a shared meal, reinforcing the sense of togetherness and reflecting the spirit of community that was present throughout the celebration.