Media Release

Dubai, Sep 25: Emirates Putturians (EP) celebrated ‘Monthi Fest’ or the Nativity of Our Lady on Sunday, September 20, at the Jordanian Social Club, Oud Metha, Dubai. Parishioners from the undivided Puttur Parish, 2026 comprising Puttur, Bannur, and Maril Parishes, gathered for this memorable celebration, held after a long gap of 19 years.

The event was graced by Fr Victor Fernandes, assistant parish priest of St Mary’s Church Dubai and spiritual director of St Mary’s Mangalurean Community (SMMC), Fr Lawrence D’Souza from the diocese of Shivamogga, Joseph Mathias (Merritt Freight), Victor Fernandes (Ideal Loss Adjusters) and Uttam Menezes, renowned emcee.

Monti Fest, the Nativity of Our Lady, holds deep significance for the Konkani Catholic community. Rooted in tradition, it is a celebration of faith, gratitude for the harvest, and the unity of family and community, while honouring the birthday of Mother Mary.

The programme commenced with melodious hymns rendered by the musical duo Joyson and Nisha D’Souza, followed by a blessing from Fr Victor Fernandes. The traditional procession then began, with children carrying flowers in honour of Mother Mary. Prayers were led by Elvira, Chrystle and Harriet, after which Fr Victor delivered a brief homily reflecting on the role of Mother Mary in our lives. Children offered flowers to the statue of Mother Mary, accompanied by the beloved Konkani hymns “Sakkad Sangatha Melya” and “Moriyek Hogolsiyam.”

Fr Lawrence blessed the specially prepared Novem Jevan, and the blessed Novem mixed with milk was served to all attendees, in keeping with tradition.

Lolita Juliana Pais, secretary of Emirates Putturians, compered the programme with grace and enthusiasm. Jeevan Vas, president of the newly formed EP Working Committee, addressed the gathering, extended a warm welcome to families and guests, and introduced the office bearers.

Emirates Putturians also felicitated their benefactors for their continued and unconditional support: Michael D’Souza (Ivory Grand Real Estate) and Lancy Madtha (Integrated Feight & Logistics), both proud Putturians (in absentia), Joseph Mathias, James Mendonca (Reliable Fabricators, in absentia), Victor Fernandes, Puttur’s own Meera D’Souza Pais, Lancy D’Souza (Layton Shipping, in absentia); and Uttam Menezes.

The spirit of community shone throughout the day as children, youth, and adults presented a variety of cultural performances and enthusiastically participated in engaging games conducted by emcee Lolita. The venue and the altar were beautifully decorated by EP Committee Member Chrystle Fernandes.

To mark the birthday of EP sports and cultural secretary Joyson D’Souza on September 20, a small celebration was organised, during which Joyson cut the cake together with all the guests celebrating their birthdays in September.

A traditional Novem Jevan served on banana leaves was arranged for all attendees. After lunch, an exciting round of Housie-Housie brought joy to participants of all ages.

Adding to the festive atmosphere was the vibrant music by Joyson, Nisha, and Hilton, which kept the crowd energized throughout the celebration. The lively Baila segment brought everyone, young and old to the dance floor, creating a joyful and unforgettable finale to the event.

The following is the Emirates Putturian Working Committee.

• Jeevan Vas - President
• Glen Lobo – Vice-president
• Lolita Juliana Pais – Secretary
• Pramod Rebello – Joint secretary
• Joyson D’Souza – Sports & cultural secretary
• Vinod Pais – Treasurer

Committee members:

• Jason Gonsalves
• Walter D’Souza
• Pritesh Pais
• Oswald Madtha
• Nirmala Mascarenhas
• Christle Fernandes