Ancy D'Souza Paladka
Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Sep 12: The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, commonly known as the Monti Feast in Mangalore was celebrated by the Konkani Catholic Welfare Association (KCWA), Bhayandar (W)  on Sunday, September 8 at Our Lady of Nazareth Church Hall, Bhayandar West, at 8:30 a.m.

The celebration started with offering of flowers and singing of hymn to our Blessed Mother Mary followed by Konkani mass.  The main celebrant was Fr Anthony Banz, assistant priest of Our Lady of Nazareth Church.

After the mass, the typical Mangalorean breakfast "Sajjige Bajil" (consisting of pova, upma) and tea was served.  The choir sang the happy birthday song to Mother Mary and Fr Anselm Gonslaves Parish Priest, Fr Anthony Banz,  Bro Robinson, Sr Leena of Holy Cross Convent and George Sequeira, president of KCWA cut the birthday cake.

Fr Anselm wished the people a very happy feast and congratulated the people for keeping the tradition of Noven Javon alive in Bhayandar.

A variety of Konkani entertainment programs were put forth by children, youths and elders.  Konkani songs were sung by Ivan Serqueira, Arthur and Gracy Vegus, Alban Pereira, Sarita and Samanta and John Crasta. A comedy Konkani skit was presented by the two little brothers Aldrine and Aldrich Periera which was very much appreciated by the ordinance.

“UKTE KAR TUJE DOLE” a social, religious skit written by Joseph D’Souza, Borivali was put forth by the association members.   The actors were George Sequeira, Ronald D’Costa, Cloty Sequeira, Gino D’Souza and Cleon Sequeira. 

The programme was admired by all. The traditional Novem Jevoan was served and the people relished it with joy.   The taste, the aroma and the sharing of the novem jevoan brought an inner joy in each one of them present. It brought the sweet memories of their childhood and their native place Mangalore. George Sequeira, president of KCWA compered program.