Media Release

Bahrain, Sep 16: Konkani Kutam Bahrain celebrated the Feast of Nativity of Monthi Fest with fervour and joy on September 14 at the Papillon Banquet Hall with a gathering of over 180 members and guests.

The event started at 6 pm with the compere, Arun Fernandes welcoming the gathering to the celebration. A classical welcome dance was performed by Ayona Rodrigues and Echelle Sequeira, choreographed by Namitha Salian.

Arun then invited Henry D’Almeida, convenor of Konkani Kutam Bahrain to lead the procession carrying the statue of infant Mary followed by Ronald Fernandes carrying the blessed corn. He then invited the children to join the procession carrying flowers and honour the beautifully decorated statue of Mother Mary with shower of flowers, while the choir sang the hymn ‘Moriyek Hogalsiyan’.

The feast celebration was graced by Fr Darel Fernandes, Assistant parish priest and spiritual director of the Konkani Community of the Sacred Heart Church Bahrain, Fr Anil Fernandes and Fr Clement Mascarenhas visiting priest. Fr Darel led the congregation with prayers followed by distribution of ‘Roce’ to the gathering.

Ronald Fernandes committee member of Konkani Kutam Bahrain in his address mentioned about the essence of the feast of Nativity, the way it is being celebrated for ages in Mangaluru, Udupi and surrounding places in the coastal districts of Karnataka, Goa and Kerala.

Fr Clement Mascarenhas conveyed the feast message, in his message Fr Clement wished the gathering on the feast and appreciated the togetherness of the Konkani community in Bahrain. He congratulated everyone gathered for their enthusiasm and desire to come together and celebrate the feast of Nativity.

This was followed by soulful entertainment by members and children. A beautiful dance was performed by Sweeta, Delisha, Rebecca, Sherlyn, Sharon and Ruth choreographed by Preetham Acharya. Muriel, Reema, Shanthi, Sandra, Vanitha, Sydney and Richie sang the beautiful song accompanied by Orville on Keyboard and Prinson on guitar followed by a melodious medley of songs befitting the occasion by Aeron, Christopher, Preetham, Prinson, Rony, Sachitha, Shanthi and Teena. A funny short skit written by Stany D’Souza Paladka was enacted by Stany, Sujay, Jessy and Teena. Another fusion dance performance was presented by Susan, Rachelle, Michelle, Jenifer choreographed by Sonia Ajay Lobo.

The entertainment section ended with a vote of thanks by Stany D’souza, he thanked all those gathered, participants, the well-wishers and supporters who had whole heartedly supported the Nativity feast celebration with their contributions.
The grace before meal was led by Fr Anil Fernandes. A sumptuous vegetarian meal was served on banana leaves followed by ‘vorn’.