Media Release
Dubai, Aug 25: The St Mary’s Mangalorean Community (SMMC), Dubai, is set to celebrate Monti Fest 2026, bringing together the Mangalorean Konkani community for a series of religious, cultural and community programs at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Oud Metha, Dubai.
Monthi Fest, commemorates the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and holds a special place in the traditions of the Mangalorean Konkani community. The celebration brings together faith, family, gratitude, cultural heritage and thanksgiving for the new harvest.
The 2026 celebrations will begin with a nine-day Novena to Infant Mary from August 26, with mass held daily at 8:00 pm. The novena will be followed by the traditional offering of flowers by children to Infant Mary, one of the most cherished customs associated with Monti Fest.
Moriyal Mothiya 2026 on August 28
As part of the celebrations, SMMC will organize “Moriyal Mothiya 2026 – A month of faith, talent & celebration!” on Friday, August 28, at St Mary’s Catholic Church.
The community competitions are designed to encourage children and adults to showcase their talents while celebrating their faith and Mangalorean heritage. The competitions include:
• Solo singing – Children
• Imitation of saints – Children
• Group singing – Adults
• Elocution competition – Children
• Competition for people of determination – Children
SMMC has invited eligible members of the Konkani community to participate and use the platform to share their creativity and talents.
Festive Konkani Mass on September 4
The religious celebrations will continue with a Festive Konkani Mass on September 4 at 8:00 pm at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Oud Metha.
The celebration will include traditional Monti Fest observances, including the offering of flowers to Mother Mary and thanksgiving for the new harvest. The feast is an important occasion for families to come together in prayer and to pass cherished traditions on to younger generations.
Monti Soban and awards on September 6
The celebrations will culminate with Monti Soban, the traditional cultural program, on September 6 evening.
The programme will feature music and cultural performances, providing an opportunity for families and community members to come together in an atmosphere of joy and fellowship. Scholastic Awards and Sports Excellence Awards will also be presented during the programme.
Through its religious observances, competitions and cultural program, SMMC aims to make Monti Fest 2026 a meaningful celebration while strengthening the connection between the younger generation and the faith and cultural traditions of the Mangalorean Konkani community.
SMMC warmly invites the Mangalorean Konkani community in Dubai to participate in the celebrations and join together in marking Monti Fest 2026 with faith, devotion, talent, tradition and community spirit.
Monti Fest 2026 – Key dates
• August 26 onwards: Nine-day Novena to Infant Mary – 8:00 pm
• August 28: Moriyal Mothiya 2026 – Community competitions
• September 4: Festive Konkani Mass – 8:00 pm
• September 6: Monti Soban – Cultural programme and awards
Venue: St Mary’s Catholic Church, Oud Metha, Dubai
Organized by: St Mary’s Mangalorean Community (SMMC), Dubai
For competition rules, registration details, individual contest timings and mass timings, community members are advised to contact the SMMC core team and refer to the official event flyers.