Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Sep 10: Maharashtra Konkan Association celebrated the feast of Nativity of Mary (Monti Fest) with religious fervor and in Mangalore traditional style at Divine Child School, Amboli, Andheri (West) here on Sunday September 8 evening.

Fr Hubert Goveas, parish priest of St Blaze parish, Amboli, Andheri (West) blessed the new paddy-sheaves at the premises of Sneha Sadan, here and venerated Infant Mary on the occasion.The little children honored Infant Mary by showering the choicest of flowers in Her honor.

Fr Nelson Saldanha, parish priest of St Jude’s parish, Jerimeri, Andheri (East) celebrated the festal Eucharistic Mass and delivered the homily.

Fr Nelson in his homily said that Monti Fest is the occasion to thank the Almighty for the abundance of graces throughout the year.  Mangalorean Konkans celebrate this feast to express gratitude to Mother Nature that sustains daily living, in a way its also honoring the nation on the occasion, said Fr Nelson.

Model Bank director Vincent Mathias, entrepreneurs Prameela Mathias and Harry Castelino were the guests of honor, laid emphasis on the traditional celebration of feast by the Mangalorean ancestors.

Benedicta Rebello offered motion for serving the traditional Mangalorean food on the occasion.  John B Mendonca and Helen Gudinho rendered the prayers.  The traditional food was served to all on the occasion.

Rocky D’Cunha was appointed as designed head of Amboli region of Maharashtra Konkan Association. The association director Benedicta B.Rebello welcomed the gathering. 

The president Walter D’Souza Kalmady (Jerimeri) honored the guests with flower bouquets.  The convener Leo Fernandes Jerimeri explained the activities of Association and explained the significance of Monti Fest. The Association vice president Cyril Castelino introduced the guests and compered the programme.  The honorary secretary Vincent Castelino proposed vote of thanks.