Media Release
Dubai, Sep 15: United Loretto Friends (ULF) celebrated its Annual Day along with the traditional Monthi Fest on 13 September 2026 at the Grand Excelsior Hotel Hall, Bur Dubai. The program commenced sharply at 11:30 a.m., bringing together ULF members, families, guests, donors, sponsors, volunteers and well-wishers for a day of faith, fellowship, culture and service.
The event was compered by Floyd Moras, who welcomed the gathering and set the tone for the celebrations.
Monthi Fest Celebration
The celebrations began on a devotional note with the ‘Marian Choir’ presenting beautiful Marian hymns. Uttam Menezes led the singing, accompanied by Archilles Fernandes on keyboard. Their melodious hymns and Konkani songs continued throughout the program, adding a deeply spiritual and cultural essence to the occasion.
The Monthi Fest celebration continued with a beautiful floral procession led by the little angels, followed by the gathering. One by one, children and members came forward to offer flowers to Mother Mary and gathered around the stage.
A prayer ceremony was conducted under the leadership of joint secretary Gleveena Aranha, after which everyone participated in the traditional offering of flowers to Mother Mary. The devotional celebration concluded with everyone sharing 'Novem' with milk, symbolising the traditional spirit of Monthi Fest.
Annual Day Stage Program
The formal stage program commenced with the presence of the distinguished guests:
Fr Lancy Noel Rebello - guest priest of St Francis of Assisi Church, Jebel Ali (natively from Omzoor)-chief guest, Anil Pinto-St. Michael Mangalorean Konkani Community Sharjah - chief coordinator, Adith Lobo-chief coordinator of Jebeli Ali Konkani Community, Donald Noronha-president, Jevita Rodrigues-secretary, Rupesh Pinto-ex-president, ULF.
President Donald Noronha delivered the welcome address, followed by the felicitation of the guests with flower bouquets. Secretary Jevita Rodrigues presented the ULF Annual Report for 2025–26, highlighting the organisation's activities, initiatives and contributions during the year.
The chief guest, Fr Lancy Noel Rebello, subsequently addressed the gathering, sharing his experiences, wisdom and insights. His encouraging words reinforced the importance of unity, service and togetherness within the community.
Honouring Service and Commitment
As part of its commitment to recognising individuals who embody ULF's motto of "Unity and Service," ULF honoured Mr. Ignatius Denis Dantis for his selfless service to the community and the Church.
Ignatius Dantis has dedicated his life to serving the Church and is known for his kindness, humility and willingness to serve whenever needed. His commitment to helping others without expectation reflects the very values that ULF strives to uphold.
He was honoured in the presence of his family with a Maanpatr, shawl, peta, flowers and a fruit basket. The honour was presented by the distinguished guests and the President. Ignatius then shared a few words with the gathering, expressing his gratitude and sharing his life's experience. Roy D’Souza, Treasurer of ULF, read the ‘Maanpatr’ (written tribute) honouring Ignatius Denis Dantis.
Cultural Program
The Annual Day also marked the induction of a new member into the ULF team. Mr. Deril Avinash D’Souza-Hospet was warmly welcomed into the ULF family. His induction further strengthens the team and adds to ULF’s growing commitment towards its vision of Unity and Service. The celebrations then moved into a lively cultural segment, with ULF members and their families coming together to prepare a variety of performances.
The children of ULF members - Zidane, Katherine, Reesha, Prinston, Abney, Vianna, Zorion and Sanica presented a beautiful and entertaining performance that was warmly appreciated by the audience.
This was followed by a captivating Karnatic fusion dance performance by Ms. Shanon Vas. She is truly a multi-talented star of the Konkani community.
The cultural segment concluded on a high note with an energetic performance by ULF members, featuring popular Konkani songs and bringing the entire gathering together in celebration of their culture.
Preethi Seema D'Souza delivered the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to making the celebration a memorable one.
Feast and Fellowship
The formal program concluded with a final prayer and blessings over lunch by Rev. Fr. Lancy Noel Rebello. Mr. Donald Noronha invited everyone to enjoy the feast meal traditionally by offering water to the main guest, after which the traditional Monthi Fest feast meal was served to everyone.
The celebrations continued with a lively Baila dance, with members and guests coming together to enjoy the music and celebrate the bonds of friendship and community. DJ Wilson, whose energetic DJ performance added to the festive atmosphere and pulled the crowd to dance their heart out. Lovelyn D'Mello ensured excellent sound throughout the event.
A celebration of unity and service
The Annual Day and Monthi Fest celebration was more than just an annual gathering. It was a celebration of the values that define ULF: faith, culture, unity, service and community spirit.
The presence and continued support of ULF's donors, volunteers, members, families and well-wishers have been instrumental in its journey. Their participation and encouragement continue to strengthen ULF's efforts towards serving the community and preserving Konkani culture and traditions.
Founded in November 2019 in the UAE, United Loretto Friends (ULF) was established by like-minded youth from the Mangaluru and Udupi Dioceses, united by the core motto of "Unity and Service."
Today, ULF has a dedicated 25-member committee committed to community, culture and compassion. Through its CSR initiatives, ULF supports deserving individuals through educational assistance for the underprivileged, medical and housing support back home, and employment and visa assistance in the UAE. The organisation also actively promotes and preserves Konkani traditions through cultural and fundraising initiatives, including its premier signature event, Konkan Udkana.
The 2026 Annual Day and Monthi Fest celebration concluded on a joyful note, leaving everyone with cherished memories and a renewed spirit of unity and service.