by Harold Lobo

Pune, Sep 14: The Mangalorean Catholic Community of Pune, under the aegis of The Mangalorean Catholic Association, Pune, celebrated their annual feature and heritage festival “Monthichem Fest” with traditional joy and gaiety on Sunday, 09TH September, 2012,  at “CHRIST THE KING CHURCH”, Sainikwadi, Pune.

The program commenced with the showering of flowers at Mother Mary’s Grotto, singing of traditional hymns and procession to the church followed by celebration of “Eucharistic Service’  Rev. Fr. Joe Mathias SJ, Director NVSC and Spiritual Director of MCA was the main celebrant. He was accompanied by Rev. Fr.  Lancy D’ Silva (the parish Priest), Rev. Father Ivan D’Souza (Mangalore diocese) and Rev. Fr. Anandvaran (Varanasi diocese).   Rev. Fr. Ivan D’Souza in his stirring homily, stressed the uniqueness of Blessed Virgin Mary’s birthday in God’s salvation plan for mankind.  He also dwelt upon the importance of community unity, citing the example of fruits which thrive in closely knit bunches.   The packed church reverberated to the hymns and praises of the congregation, and to the lilting choir and music led by  MCA members, SVD & DNC brothers. Ms. Edna Rodricks thanked the congregation for their devout participation in the Eucharistic celebration.

Mr. Lawrence Coelho (Editor Divo and Secular Citizen Weeklies, Mumbai) and his spouse Mrs. Suzanna Coelho, were the Chief Guests at the cultural programme that followed.  Pune Konkani Kristha Sabha President Mr. Peter D’Souza and Mr. Gregory Sequeira (Giru, Niddodi) were the guests of honour. Our President Mr. Ronald Menezes welcomed the gathering. Mrs. Jacinta and Mr. John Carvalho in a traditional attire offered “Panpod ani Udak”  to the guests.  92 years old Lillian Concessao, the oldest person at the event, cut a cake to commemorate Mama Mary's Birthday. Miss Senorita Rodricks mesmerized the audience with her scintillating “Prayer Dance” performance.  The “Kinkule” Dance performed by our members’ kids was enchanting.  So were the performances by our young kids “Nach re baba Nach”, folk dances by our talented and dynamic ladies  and the band of SVD Brothers.   The highlight of the day was the masterly presentation of the skit ‘KUTMACHO TERS’ written by CGS Tacode and  performed by our own artists.  The Chief Guest spoke on the need to consolidate our unity and preserve our language and culture.

Suzanna Coelho gave away prizes to the meritorious students of the community and also to the artistes of the play and performers.

After a vote of thanks by Mr. John Carvalho, the 300+ assembled guests were served a delicious fellowship meal (Novem Jevann).  Mr. Stephen Lobo compeered the entire program.