Media Release

Canberra, Sep 11: The Konkan community in Canberra came together to celebrate the Monthi Fest with fervour, blending tradition, culture, and a touch of charity. This annual celebration marked a special occasion this year, as it was the first time we had guests from Melbourne, Darwin, Bengaluru, and Mumbai in the Australian capital. The event brought joy and togetherness as young Canberra Konkan Club (CKC) kids, CKC members, visiting grandparents started with Konkani prayers and later enjoyed a delicious feast served on banana leaves, cultural performances, and a charitable raffle that raised a substantial $735.

The CKC Monthi Fest, also known as the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is a significant event for the Konkani-speaking community worldwide. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm, symbolizing the beginning of the harvest season in the coastal region of India. This year like every year the Canberra Konkan community came together to honour their cultural heritage.

The festivities began with a heartfelt prayer service conducted entirely in Konkani. This was a momentous occasion as it was the first time that the kids in the community took lead along with CKC women in singing Konkani hymns and organising such a service in their native language in Canberra. Devotees offered prayers, thanked the Virgin Mary, and sought her blessings for bountiful blessings to all CKC members, sponsors and all of Canberra.

One of the unique aspects of the Monthi Fest celebration was the inclusion of a traditional sweet, bhoondi ladoo, as a starter before the sumptuous meal. This delectable treat added an extra layer of authenticity to the event and delighted the taste buds of all attendees.

Following the traditional meal served on banana leaves, the cultural segment of the event began. Members of the Canberra Konkan Club (CKC) showcased their talents with song and dance performances that left the audience enthralled. A comedy act provided moments of laughter and camaraderie, further enhancing the festive atmosphere.

The crowning moment of the evening was the charitable raffle organized by the CKC. Attendees eagerly purchased tickets for a chance to win exciting prizes, with all proceeds going towards a charitable cause. The generosity of the community shone brightly as a total of $735 was raised to support a noble initiative.

Speaking about the event, guests who witnessed the event said, "The Konkani Monthi Fest is not just a celebration of our cultural heritage, it is a time for us to come together, have fun, and give back to the community. We are thrilled with the turnout and the success of our charitable efforts."

The CKC Monthi Fest celebration in Canberra was a heart-warming blend of tradition, culture, and altruism. It demonstrated the vibrant spirit of the Konkani community in Australia's capital and their commitment to preserving their cultural roots while making a positive impact on society.