Rons Bantwal
Mumbai, Sep 13: The Kanara Catholic Association (KCA) Mumbai celebrates Monthi Saibinnichem Fest (Monti Fest), the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, on September 12 this year. "Monti" is the Konkani name for Mother Mary.
Monti Fest is a major Catholic harvest festival deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Mangalorean Catholics, traditionally celebrated on September 8. The name originates from the Capela de Nossa Senhora do Monte (Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount) in Old Goa. The tradition was initiated in 1763 by Fr Joachim Miranda, a Goan priest, at the Monte Mariano Church in Farangipet. Notably, this celebration was spared by Tippu Sultan due to his father's friendship with Fr Miranda. The practice later spread across coastal parishes and was revitalized around 1799.
Founded in 1901, the KCA has a rich legacy of serving the Kanarite community in Mumbai. Over the decades, its mission has expanded to serve all sections of society, particularly through the establishment of KCA Hostels and Halls.
The celebration honours the birth of Mother Mary and includes the blessing of the Novem (new crops), a ritual offering thanks for nature's bounty. Flowers and garlands are an integral part of the event, giving rise to the Konkani epithet Fulanchem Fest (feast of flowers). Freshly harvested paddy stalks are blessed during Mass and brought home as a symbol of gratitude.
Fr Henry D’Souza, parish priest of Our Lady of Victories, led the opening thanksgiving service and celebrated the Holy Eucharist. Expressing gratitude for the gifts of Mother Nature, he offered prayers, venerated Mother Mary, and blessed the new paddy sheaves, the devotees, and the traditional festive meal.
The choir, beautifully led by Raynah Braganza, Clara Menezes, Irene D’lima, Vanita D’Sa, and Sheela Vaz a moving selection of Konkani hymns that were deeply appreciated by all.
The cultural programme, meticulously organized by Clara Menezes and her team, ensured a seamless and highly enjoyable experience for everyone. A wonderful lineup of Konkani songs, a play, dance performances, and comedy was put together by the MC - Edward and Williams, along with their team. The KCA looks forward to strengthening its collaboration with them in the future.
Families gathered for the Kutmachen Fest, a traditional pure vegetarian meal prepared with fresh produce, ideally consisting of an odd number of dishes. Guests enjoyed popular items like allu dentte (colocasia and spinach leaves cooked with Mangalorean masala), karathe (bitter gourd with grated coconut), and alsande (long beans).
The highlight of the meal was vorn, a rich, comforting payasam made of moong dal, coconut milk, and jaggery. The catering was excellently managed by Lancy and overseen by Managing Council member Anil Pais.
The entire managing council team— including Sanjay (secretary), Boris (treasurer), Brian (Legal), and Neel (youth)—embraced the festive spirit by wearing traditional outfits.
Under the leadership of president Sunil Lobo and the managing council team, the KCA wishes everyone a blessed feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, praying that this season brings peace, happiness, and good health to all.