Media Release
Texas, Sep 20: The HKCA Monthi Fest 2026 was an evening filled with faith, tradition, music, and the warmth of the community coming together.
The evening began with the Holy Mass, giving the attendees an opportunity to pray and come together in faith. The Mass, honouring Mother Mary’s birth, was celebrated by Fr Joy. He blessed the ‘Novem’ and explained the significance of Monthi Fest to the congregation. The first reading was done by Ruby Saldanha, and the responsorial psalm was performed by Diane Pereira. The second reading was by Chris Pinto. The offertory was made by Chris Pinto, Karen Miranda, and their children. Annie Menezes and Sarah Valdar served as altar servers.
After mass, Aphra Quadras, carrying the Bambina, led the community in a joyous procession to the parish hall. With flowers, prayers, and Konkani hymns, the celebration connected the attendees to their heritage and traditions.
Emcee Mathew D’Souza kept the evening flowing with warmth and humour, ensuring the celebration was lively and engaging.
Allen and Ancy D’Souza led the community in prayer, after which members partook in the blessed 'Novem'. A performance of 'Ave Maria' by Roma Quadros, Meryl Pinto, and Nicole Pinto followed. Snacks including chutney sandwiches, samosas, and pakoras, along with tea, were served.
HKCA vice president Karen Miranda and finance director Ivan D’Souza welcomed and thanked the gathering for joining the 10-year celebrations. HKCA was deeply appreciative of the Miranda family for their generous contribution to Holy Family Catholic Church on behalf of HKCA, made in loving memory of Lancy Henry Miranda.
The evening continued with a Bollywood dance performance by Nikita and Karina D’Souza, followed by a highlight event, ‘Dance Down Memory Lane’. Choreographed by Jennifer D’Souza, the performance celebrated a decade of HKCA memories and brought together core committee members who have served the organisation over the years as a tribute to HKCA’s 10-year journey.
An anniversary video presentation by Kiara Vaz took members on a nostalgic journey through 10 years of HKCA, revisiting various events and celebrations. Photographer Roshan D’Souza captured the event with group photographs, while DJs Chris Pinto and Reanne D’Souza managed the music, allowing members to dance and enjoy the gathering.
Founding members Vivian Madtha and Prescilla Madtha shared a nostalgic glimpse into the inception of HKCA. Members Chris Pinto and Karen Miranda also spoke on the occasion, inspiring everyone to participate in HKCA’s future activities.
A traditional dinner prepared by HKCA members was served. A dedicated team of volunteers worked behind the scenes to ensure the smooth running of the event. Jacqueline Fernandes later performed Lorna’s popular Konkani song ‘Tuzo Mog’.
A game of Housie Housie was conducted, and the celebration concluded with the singing of the 'Laudate'.
The Monthi Fest served as a reminder of the community's efforts to keep their faith, traditions, and Konkani heritage alive for the next generation, creating a sense of home away from the Konkan coast. Maxim Pereira continued the traditional distribution of sugarcane, and Diane Pereira created the festive backdrops.
The organisers expressed their gratitude to all the volunteers, performers, committee members, participants, and platinum sponsors Shekar and Stella Naik for their support in making the event a success.