Media Release
Saudi Arabia, Sep 23: The Saudi Konkan Youngsters (SKY) Dammam, Saudi Arabia celebrated the Monthi Fest on Friday, September 12, 2014 at Farm House, Al Khobar.
The traditional celebrations commenced with singing the hymn ‘Sokkad Sangatha Melyan’. The blessed ‘Novem’, specially flown in, from Mangalore for the occasion was brought in procession. Prayer was led by uncle Martin followed by offering flowers by little children while singing the hymn ‘Moriyek Hogolsiyan’. Melodious Konkani choir was led by JCCF Group Dammam, which was supported by wonderful playing of the keyboard by Sharon & Shalom Fernandes.
Blessed Novem mixed in milk was served to all. A cake cutting ceremony was held for all the members who were celebrating their birthday in the month of September and cake was served to all.
A warm welcome was addressed to the gathering by the President Mr. Ronald Fernandes, Shirthady who was also the Master of ceremony.
Bible Quiz was efficiently conducted for kids by Leslie Ferrao. This was followed by a series of entertaining events which includes spot games, Gold Coin, Lucky Draw etc. The Table topics competition for children & Adults in Konkani was conducted by Mr. Steevan Rodrigues. Prizes were distributed to the winners.
A sumptuous traditional meal with eleven different types of delicious vegetables including Sanna, Rice and Vorn was served on banana leaves. At the end of lunch session the traditional song, “Lau-da-te” was sung.
Vote of thanks was delivered by Cultural Secretary Mr. Alwyn Fernandes. He expressed his gratitude and thanked all the sponsors and everyone who directly or indirectly supported to make this event a grand success. More than 300 Konkani speaking people from different parts of Eastern Region gathered as one family to celebrate the Monthi Fest.
The program concluded at 5:00pm and the support from the gathered people renewed the spirit of happiness and inspired to carry on this feast in a true Mangalorean culture, customs and tradition. The audience enjoyed it to the full and expressed their satisfaction and gave positive reviews.