Media Release

Kuwait, Sep 23: Mangalore Cultural Association - Kuwait celebrated 'Monti Fest (Nativity of Blessed Mother Mary)' on September 20 at Kala Kuwait Auditorium Hall, Abbasiya in the age old tradition of family spirit.

Master of ceremony Herald Fernandes inaugurated the event along with the president Naveen Cedric D'sa who welcomed the guest with a warm note.

The committee members along with children marched in a procession carrying the statue of Infant Mary to the stage. While hymns were sung by Anil and Laveena Pais and music led by Jason Misquith, the children showered flowers and committee members offered vegetables and paddy grain 'Novem' as part of our ancestral tradition. Priscilla Rodrigues and Ida Lobo led everyone into prayer and the hymns sung by the choir added melody to the devotion. The guests too joined their voices for a meaningful participation.

John Francis Lobo explained the origin of this tradition of 'novem' that began in Mangaluru and how it got associated with Monti Fest. He also gave us a beautiful message to live like mamma Mary - A life in obedience to God.

Our cultural team Prescilla Rodrigues and Ida Lobo along with our enthusiastic and talented children entertained the audience with devotional dances, tableau of Mary and folk dances. The blessed novem mixed with coconut milk was served to everyone to mark the family spirit of love.

Carel D'souza explained the mission and vision of MCA, its activities in the past one year since its existence.

The celebration ended with vote of thanks by Arwin D'souza followed by traditional dinner.

MCA committee members left no stone unturned in bringing the culture from homeland to touch the hearts of its members in Kuwait and assured to continue in the future. MCA expressed gratitude to its members who helped in the success of this event.