Media Release
Texas, Sep 7: On September 6, the Konkani community of Austin came together for a truly historic and heartwarming moment — the first-ever celebration of Monthi Fest at Brushy Creek Community Center, Cedar Park.
For many, this was not just a festival but a milestone. Some families are new to Austin, and for them, it was the first time meeting fellow Konkani Catholics in the area. The spirit of tradition and togetherness was felt in every part of the celebration.
The evening began with children - Elsa, Claire, Eva, Ira, Eva, Grace - dancing to Naman Naman Amche Maiye, filling the hall with joy and innocence.
The young teens and tweens - Anna, Jiana and Laina - captivated everyone with their melodious rendition of “Shivthin Aboliem’ to our Saibin.
As tradition goes, voices rose in unison as the community sang Marian Konkani hymns and showered flowers at the Bambino of the Blessed Infant Mary — a moment that beautifully tied us back to our roots in Mangaluru.
No Konkani festival is complete without food, and this one was extraordinary - Novem Jehvonn - prepared by generous hands. Eighteen community members prepared 13 traditional vegetarian dishes, a true labour of love that echoed the values of sharing and gratitude that Monthi Fest stands for.
The Novem and the meal were blessed by Fr Lijo and Fr Roopesh, making the occasion even more meaningful.
As dinner was served, Edle Prabhu sang a melodious song “Amche ghar sakkal ek Chedu ravtha. Mithila Saldanha along with team - Ophilia, Vijay, Aldon, enacted a hilarious skit ‘Rosary Masala “, a typical home scene.
The celebrations continued with lively Bombay Masala Medley performances by Mascarenhas” family (3 generations - Noel-Jennifer/Juanita-Nashley/Reuven-Jiana) that had everyone dancing and clapping to the melodious beats. The evening did not stop but wrapped up in the best way possible — with some more classic Baila music and dancing, where young and old alike joined in. The event was compered by Jennifer Mascarenhas.
This first Monthi Fest in Austin wasn’t just a gathering; it was the planting of seeds for a tradition that will surely grow stronger each year. It was a proud, unifying moment for the community — a reminder that no matter how far we are from home, our faith, culture, and joy in celebrating together can thrive wherever we are.