Media Release
Bengaluru, Sep 8: St Peter's Konkani Kutam celebrated Monthi Fest with a well-attended Konkani Holy Mass on Tuesday, September 8th, at St Peter's Church, Rustam Bagh, Bangalore.
Fr Victor Lobo, vice chancellor, St Joseph University, Bangalore was the main celebrant for the Monthi Fest Mass, joined by Fr Adrian Mascarenhas, Fr Jayaraj (parish priest), Fr Dayalan (assistant parish priest) and Fr Deril Fernandes as concelebrants. The celebration began with the blessing of Novem (new paddy) near Oxford House, followed by a vibrant procession featuring the statue of infant Mary, children carrying plates of colorful flowers, vegetables and fruits and the choir singing the beloved Konkani hymn ‘Sakkad Sangatha Melyan’.
Fr Victor Lobo commenced the solemn service, followed by a brief welcome from Melwyn D’Souza, president of SPKK. The melodious Konkani choir, led by Joe Mascarenhas, elevated the spiritual atmosphere throughout the Mass.
Before the service concluded, Janet Rego, secretary of SPKK, expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed their time and effort to the church decorations and event preparations. Fr Jayaraj, parish priest, commended SPKK for organizing such a grand Monthi Fest celebration. The Mass ended with the distribution of Novem to all attendees.
At the Grotto, following a brief prayer, the choir’s rendition of the beloved Konkani hymn ‘Moriyek Hogolshiyam’ set a reverent tone as children and adults gathered around the statue of Infant Mary. In a touching tribute, they showered vibrant flowers in honor of our beloved Mother.
Following the Mass, Novem mixed with roce was served in true Mangalorean tradition, setting the tone for joyful fellowship. Smiles lit up the gathering as children buzzed with excitement and a spirit of celebration filled the air. A sumptuous Mangalorean meal was enjoyed by all, with sugarcane handed out at the end—delighting both young and old. As always, the ladies, radiant in elegant sarees and dresses, proudly posed for group photos in classic SPKK style.
Over 140 members and guests came together to celebrate, cherishing every moment as the event evoked fond memories of their Mangalorean roots.
Earlier, during the regular Sunday Mass, SPKK hosted a joyful ‘flower shower’ at the Grotto for the wider parish community. The vibrant gathering added to the festive spirit, with children delighting in chocolates and shared smiles all around.