News and pics: Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai (SP)

Mumbai, Sep 10: The annual celebration of the birth anniversary of Virgin Mary (Monti Fest) being organized in the metro by Maharashtra Konkan Association, was held for the first time ever, at Amboli here on the night of Tuesday September 8. The venue of the celebration was the auditorium of the Divine Kidders Garden located on Caesars Road Amboli.

The Nativity Feast of Mother Mary was celebrated this time too, as per the traditions followed by the Christians settled in coastal Karnataka. As the children showered flowers on the statue of Mother Mary, the devotees paid obeisance to the Mother. Later, Fr Hubert Goveas, priest of St Pius Church, Mulund (West) here, rendered prayers and blessed the new corn. He also performed the thanks-giving prayers and paid tributes to Mother Nature. He then celebrated mass, followed with homily. The priest then handed over the sanctified candles to the donors as a mark of honour.

The ears of paddy brought from Dakshina Kannada district, cereals, vegetables etc., were blessed. Association's senior dignitary Benedicta Rebello offered traditional prayers and initiated the programme of 'Novem Jevon'. As per the practice, the Association then distributed the annual awards to talented students.

John D'Silva, president of Fudar Foundation, Stella Mancharil, director of Elert India Institute, Vincent Mathias, working president of the Christian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Lawrence D'Souza Kamani, honorary secretary of Konkani Bhasha Mandal Maharashtra, John B Rebello, managing director of Aircare Company, entrepreneur Herald Castelino and 'Divo' editor Lawrence Coelho were present at the dais.

Konkani Bhasha Mandal Maharashtra president P N Shanbhag, entrepreneur Michael Monteiro, Suzan L Coelho, 'Amigo' director Pramila V Mathias, musician Victor Concesso and Tara R Bantwal participated as special invitees.

After the religious ceremony, traditional vegetarian lunch including those made from the fresh rice, was served. Association president Walter D'Souza Jerimeri welcomed. Association convener Leo Fernandes presented the programme. Immediate-past president Benedicta B Rebello introduced the guests. Honorary secretary Vincent Castelino, members Philip D’Souza, Stany D’Souza etc., were present. Vice-president John G Mendonca proposed vote of thanks.