Dammam, Sep 13: The Saudi Konkan Youngsters (SKY) Dammam, Saudi Arabia celebrated Monthi Fest on Friday, September 7, 2012 at Farm House, Al Khobar. A warm welcome was addressed to the gathering by the SKY President Mr. Ronald Fernandes, Shirthady.

The celebrations started off with children coming in procession to honor Infant Mary with flowers. Mrs. Shanthi Fernandes, Joint Secretary of SKY led the prayers. The hymns ”Sokkad Sangatha Melyan” and “Moriyek Hogolsiyan” sung by the guests. Their rhythm was further uplifted by the melodious choir led Sharon Fernandes.

Konkani speaking people from different parts of Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia gathered as one family to celebrate this joy. Blessed New Corn (Qanshoi) was specially flown in, from Mangalore which was distributed to the gathered guests. The event of the day further continued with series of entertaining events which includes spot games, quiz, lucky draw, housie-housie and the floor breaking baila dance etc.
Traditional meal with nine different types of delicious vegetables including Sanna, Rice and Vorn was served on banana leaves (Shiroti) to the guests. At the end of lunch session, “Lau-da-te” was sung. All the children were offered with “Kobu” (Sugarcane).    

SKY Dammam extend its special thanks to the sponsors for their generous financial help. The vote of thanks was given by General Secretary Mr. Roshan D’souza. He expressed his gratitude and thanked everyone who directly or indirectly supported to make the event a grand success.

The prizes were handed over to the winners. Master of ceremony Mr. Ronald Fernandes, Shirthady kept the crowd continued entertaining and engaging the crowd throughout the day. 

Around 250 Konkani speaking people were actively participated. The support from the guests renewed the spirit of happiness and inspired to carry on this feast in a true Mangalorean culture, customs and tradition.