Media Release

Kuwait, Sep 22: The Kuwait Pangla Association (KPA) joyfully celebrated Monti Fest in honour of Mother Mary’s birthday on September 19 at Badur Hall, Salmiya, preserving the rich traditions and cultural heritage of Mangaluru. Alongside the celebrations, the association held its Annual General Meeting (AGM), during which a new management committee was democratically elected for the 2025–2027 term.

The event commenced with an opening address by the outgoing president, Roshan Martis, who welcomed members and introduced the guest of honour, distinguished singer Anil D’Sa, recipient of the prestigious title Karavali Kogul.

A prayerful atmosphere was established by a children’s dance performance. Following this, the traditional offering of the new crop (Konshi) was presented by the newlywed couple, Joel Mendonca and Laveena Mascarenhas, and formally received by Teresa Mendonsa. Reflections and prayers were led by Pramila Monis and her team; children then offered flowers before the statue of Mother Mary. In keeping with custom, the new crop (Novem) was blended with milk and shared among those present.

Felicitation ceremony

The occasion also included a felicitation ceremony honouring Anil D’Sa for his outstanding achievements in music. The segment was presided over by Priya Cardoza. Tokens of appreciation were presented as follows:

• A shawl by Vivian Rodrigues

• A bouquet by Naveen Monis

• A token of appreciation by Glanet Castelino

• A memento by Roshan Martis

Anil D’Sa mesmerized the audience with his beautiful singing, leaving a lasting impression.

Annual General Meeting (AGM)

Reports for the years 2023–2025, including the summary of KPA activities and financial statements, were delivered by Glanet Castelino (general secretary) and Santhosh Rodrigues (treasurer). After this, the election of the new committee was carried out which was conducted by Jerald Quadras; all positions were filled unanimously, demonstrating strong unity within the Association.

Core Committee 2025–2027

• President – Nelson Monis

• Vice president – Priya Cardoza

• Secretary – Joslin D’Souza

• Treasurer – Roshan Martis

• Joint secretary – Manoj Cardoza

• Cultural secretary – Glanet Castelino

• Public relations officer – Steeve Castelino

• Auditor – Santhosh Rodrigues

Advisory committee

• Naveen Monis

• Vivian Rodrigues

• Jerald Quadras

Committee members

• Roshan Quadras

• Pramila Monis

• Blen D’Souza

• Plamitha D’Souza

• Olivia Nazareth

• Vincent Nazareth

• Leena Fernandes

• Sujay Mathias

• Kishore D’Mello

Social Initiatives

Building on last year’s successful blood donation camp, KPA announced another blood donation drive scheduled for October 31 at Jabriya Central Bank. Members and well-wishers were invited to participate in this noble cause.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Laveena Castelino, followed by grace before the meal led by Pramila Monis. Noteworthy contributions included sound and music by Vinay Martis; photography by Blen D’Souza and Joy Pereira; and catering by China Metro, Farwaniya. The event was hosted by Joslin D’Souza. Entertainment for all ages included a cock draw and housie–housie conducted by Naveen Monis.

The Monti Fest & AGM 2025 celebrations closed on a joyful and memorable note, reinforcing community bonds and leaving cherished memories among attendees.