By Ancy D'Souza Paladka
Mumbai, Sep 29: The Assumption Konkani Sangh celebrated Monthi Fest for the 12th Year in succession on September 12 at Our Lady of Assumption Church, Kandivali (West), Mumbai.
The celebration began with the blessing of Balok Mori statue and the rice grains (nove), which was followed with singing of traditional hymns and showering of flowers. The procession then moved into the church for Mass at 5:30 pm. Fr Byron Mendonca celebrated the mass in Konkani, the sermon was preached by Br Sebastian Mascarhenas, who is to be ordained next year. Br Sebastain beautifully essayed the role of Mother Mary in the growing years of Jesus and how she continues to guide us and the Church today.
After mass, it was time for the cultural evening which was organised by the Assumption Konkani Sangh. As usual we had over 300 patrons present for the function. Hilda Pereira, President of the Assumption welcomed the guests and gave the inaugural address.
The Chief guest was Vincent Mathias, Chairman and MD of Velvin group of Companies. Vincent is the founder of Christian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and is a Director in Model Co-operative Bank. The other guests of Honour included the Sangeet Samrats of Konkani music, composer and singers, Henry D'souza and Lawerence Saldhana. In his address he mentioned that he is pleased to see that despite being in Mumbai the community still continues to follow the traditions which are slowly being forgotten in Mangaluru.
Fr Dominic Alves, Parish Priest mentioned that he was thrilled to see this section of his parishioners being all united and participating in large noes. Fr Byron Mendonca commented that he was indeed thrilled to see active participation in the cultural program from small children, youth, adults and senior citizens.
Cultural programmes included song and dances by the children and youth, Traditional Ghumta culture song, funny plays and a play with a message for parents and youth. The team had the crowd laughing away. Severine Pinto, Vice President of AKS, did the vote of thanks and Bro Sebastian said the grace and added that in in 3 years in Mumbai, this was the first time he attended such a grand and traditional function. The was followed by the traditional vegetarian lunch and piping hot vorn.