Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Sep 17: Konkani Taram Jerimer, Konkani Association of St Jude’s Parish, Jerimeri, Mumbai, recently celebrated Monti Fest at St Jude Parish, here.
Konkani Taram Jerimer, Konkani Association of St Jude’s Parish, Jerimeri, Mumbai, is well known for Konkani cultural, liturgical and social activities in Mumbai for past 22 years. The birth of this association took place during the Monti Fest and hence they celebrate Monti Fest every year along with the anniversary of their association.
The fest began with a procession of ‘Maria Bambina’ (Ballok Mari) statue from the school ground to Church Hall. The corns (Novem) were blessed by Fr Cyril D’Souza, priest of St Joseph the Workers Parish, Bandra and director of community centre and celebrated the High Mass along with Fr Nelson Saldanha, parish priest of St Jude’s Church, Jerimeri.
More than 200 Parish children carried flowers for Mother Mary and offered the same according to Mangalorean tradition with the traditional hymns like Sokkad Sangata Melyam and Moriek Hogollsiam.
Fr Cyril D’Souza gave a heart touching sermon on strengthening family bonds and respecting parents. Melodius singing was presented by the Konkani choir group under the leadership of John Mascarenhas.
The readings, prayers and all liturgical parts were arranged by Mumbai educated teenage girls Joylene, Joslene, Lavina, Remita, Ancy Sweety, Glensitha in fluent Konkani as this day is also celebrated as a ‘Girl Child’ day. Fr Cyril congratulated the children who participated and urged each one to respect mother tongue and keep the spirit of Konkani ‘alive’.
During felicitation programme, SSC toppers Nikita, Christon, Liza, Valencia, Aloysius, Lavina, Stanislaus, Marshal, Anish, Denis, Franklin, Rosy and Klennet were honoured with gift vouchers (sponsored by George Furtado) and a certificate of appreciation from Konkani Taram.
Konkan Taram president John Veigas , secretary Flora D’Souza Kalmady and advisor Walter D’Souza honoured guest priest Fr Cyril, parish priest Fr Nelson, Sr Madhuri. KT members John, Joseph, Leo, Monica and Juliana were honoured by the association for their selfless service and efforts in different fields. Sugar cane, snacks, sweets were distributed to all parishioners and note books to children.
John Mascarenhas compered the programme and proposed vote of thanks. Traditional ‘Novem Jevonn’ was held in the evening. Small children Alisha, Anaia, Magnus, Magnum, Alister, Rositta, Velinta, Joyvin, Michell along with beautiful ladies Mercin, Gracy and Flora entertained the crowd with songs, dance, and poems.
President John Veigas thanked all 43 members working for the wellness of this organization and also all the priests, sisters and parishers for their whole hearted support and co-operation. He also honoured Flora D’souza for her contribution by raising highest amount of funds and John Mascarenhas for conducting melodious choir from the day one of this organization.
This grand celebration ended with Laudate. Cultural programme was compered by Flora D’Souza.