Media Release
Dubai, Sep 7: The Jebel Ali Konkani Community (JAKC) came together in faith, tradition and fellowship to celebrate Monthi Fest 2026 – the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary – at St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Jebel Ali, Dubai.
The celebrations commenced with the traditional nine-day novena on August 26 and continued until September 3, spiritually preparing the community for the celebration of the feast on September 4.
At the heart of the Jebel Ali Konkani Community are its children, youth, young families and bachelors, who together bring vibrancy and a strong sense of belonging to the community. Children and youth were an integral part of the nine-day novena, actively participating in the celebrations and contributing to the spirit of faith and community.
The nine-day novena was presided over by Fr Lancy Rebello, OFM Cap, from the Karnataka Province, who accompanied the community throughout its spiritual preparation for the feast.
On September 4, the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary was celebrated with great devotion and festive fervour. The celebrations began with the traditional showering of flowers in the portico of the church, followed by the solemn Festive High Mass.
Fr Derek D'Souza, OFM Cap, was the main celebrant for the Festive High Mass, while Fr Lancy Rebello, OFM Cap, delivered a beautiful and inspiring homily. They were joined by Fr Antony Puthanpurackal, parish priest of St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Jebel Ali; Fr Sebastian from the Malayalam community; Fr Gunasekaran Gabriel from the Sri Lankan community; and other clergy.
Adith Lobo, president of the Jebel Ali Konkani Community (JAKC), delivered the vote of thanks, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the clergy, volunteers, children, families and everyone who contributed their time, dedication and efforts towards the nine-day novena and the grand celebration of Monthi Fest.
Following the Holy Mass, the community gathered in the church portico for the traditional festive community meal, ‘Novem Jevan’. Families, children, youth and community members joined together in fellowship, continuing a cherished tradition that remains an integral part of Monthi Fest. The traditional meal was prepared by Caesars Restaurant, Dubai, with facilities management support provided by Delmon Group.
The 2026 celebrations witnessed the participation of a large number of Konkani Catholics, reflecting the strength, unity and vibrancy of the Konkani Catholic community in Jebel Ali.
For Konkani Catholics living away from their homeland, Monthi Fest continues to hold a special place in their hearts. Beyond the festivities, it serves as a meaningful connection between generations – nurturing faith among children, preserving the Konkani language and traditions, and bringing families and the wider community together.
Monthi Fest 2026 once again reflected the enduring spirit of faith, family, tradition and togetherness that lies at the heart of the Jebel Ali Konkani Community.