By Rashmi S D'Mello
Kuwait, Sep 21: Kuwait Pangla Association (KPA) celebrated the Nativity of our Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as Monthi Fest in Konkani on September 11 at Avanti Palace Restaurant in Hawally Kuwait. Monthi Fest is festival for all Mangalorean catholic on September 8.
The origin of Monthi Fest was started by Monte Mariano Church at Farangipet in South Canara, and was initiated by Joachim Miranda, a Goan Catholic priest at Farangipet in 1763.
Roshan Martis, Albert Quadras who were the anchors for this programme started the programme flow with the general welcome to all the Pangla Members, followed with opening prayer by George Dsouza started and Gospel reading by Joslin Dsouza and Pramila Monis. Kuwait Pangla President Rashmi Dmello welcomed the gathering and official started the celebration.
Mother Mary statue was decorated with beautiful flowers. Master Adiel Monis delivered a message for the monthi fest. All the children were given a plate of flowers to offer to our beloved heavenly mother while rest of the people sang hymns of mother Mary. It was definitely the best moment of the programme. Children’s were given a piece of Sugar cane and Sweets as a symbol of Monthi Fest celebration in Mangalore.
The newly wedding couple Avinash and Seema Mathiasbrought the blessed new crop (rice grains), as a tradition this was received by the head of the family by a visiting Pangla parishioner Eliza Rodrigues and offered it to mother Mary. As a tradition the new crop (rice grains) were added to milk and was served to everyone.
Henry Martis, a senior member delivered the festive message. He emphasized the life of mother Mary and her importance in our lives.
The programme started with two dances performed by Viola Martis and Alvisha Noronha on Bollywood numbers. There were loads of games conducted for children and adults by Blen Dsouza and Mario Wilson with the help of Kishore Dmello for the music.
A mouthwatering traditional vegetarian food along with Payasam (Vorn) was served on banana leafs. It was a great fun filled day to all members and families who attended this celebration.
Housie housie game was conducted for all the members. The prizes were distributed by Vivian Rodrigues. Roshan Quadras thanked all who helped to make this programme successful.