Report: Steven D'Souza
Pics: Ruben D'Souza
Bahrain, Sep 20: Konkani Kutam Bahrain celebrated Monthi Fest on September 18 at the Papillon Banquet Hall with a gathering of over 200 members and guests. The event started at 6 pm with the choir singing hymns while children gathered in procession near the beautifully decorated statue of Infant Mary.
The chief guest of the evening was Fr Philip Franklin D’Souza, well known among Catholics across Karnataka and the rest of India for his religious preaching and retreats who was on a personal visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain. Fr Franklin led the prayer service followed by the choir and congregation singing ‘Saakad Sangatha Melya’ while children showered flowers on the statue of Infant Mary.
Fr Franklin in his feast message stressed the importance of togetherness of mind and hearts, he praised Konkani Kutam Bahrain for their efforts of bringing the Konkani speaking community together as a family.
Fr Freddy D’Souza, Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Bahrain and the spiritual guide of Konkani Kutam Bahrain joined the gathering bit later despite his other commitments, his message echoed that of Fr Franklin and appreciated the people gathered for their enthusiasm and desire to come together and celebrate this feast.
Konkani Kutam Convener Henry D’ Almeida in his address stated the meaning and importance of celebrating monthi feast as a feast of family and thanked Fr Freddy Dsouza and Fr Franklin D’Souza, Konkani Kutam’s supporters and all the members for their continued support to Konkani Kutam Bahrain year after year for the past 16 years.
The cultural programme commenced with a dance on Konkani Hymn performed by Evita, Ashel and Clarina. Soon after the welcome dance, Walter Dantis announced the Bahrain Release of Ajith Peter D’Souza’s 4th Konkani Music Album “Tem Yeunchea Vella”. The album was released by Fr Freddy D’Souza in the presence of Fr Franklin D'Souza, Henry D’Almeida, Simon Machado, Edward Noronha and Nelson Alva. Eunice D’Souza performed a dance from the Album song. The cultural programme continued with dance performances by the Sweeta, Aiyona, Halura, Shania, Suzan, Steve, Darren, Rolwyn, Reevan, Ansel, Michelle, Stephanie Fernandes and Ashlyn. Ajay Lobo, Sonia, Sunil and Stephanie Alva. Sujay, Roshan, Noel, Avinash, Maxim and Alwyn. Songs sung by Shryal Vaz, Adeline Alva, Wilson D’Souza, a group song by Sydney, Christopher, Ronald, Reema, Vanitha, Muriel, Melba, Shanthi and Sandra. Skits by Stany, Sujay, Alwyn, Maxim and Avinash.
Grace before meals was said by Fr Franklin. Sumptuous Vegetarian Dinner was served on banana leaves followed by Mangalore’s favorite desert vorn.
The entire programme was conducted impressively by Walter Dantis and vote of thanks was proposed by Ronald Fernandes.
Wonderful Music was played through out by DJ Francy’s with foot tapping masala songs at the end.