News & Pics: Ancy Paladka
Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai (SB)

Mumbai, Sep 15: Assumption Konkani Sangh celebrated Monti Fest at Assumption Church, Kandivli (West) here on Saturday September 12.

Celebration started with the Novena, blessing of paddy corn near the grotto of St Joseph’s High School. Children honoured Infant Mary by showering of flower petals. Crowd moved to the church with a procession and a mass was held with Fr Cyril Alphonse being the main celebrant. Fr Donald D'Souza gave a touching sermon.

Cultural programme was held at the church hall. Fr Cyril Alphonse presided over the function. Mishitha, Shalvina Rechele, Hazel Murel and Michile performed the welcome dance. Konkani singer Henry D'Souza of ‘Sangeet Samrat’ fame was the chief guest. D'Souza was felicitated for his service to the Konkani music on the occasion.

Ancy Paladka, a Konkani poet and honorary editor of Kutam Weekly was the guest of honour. President A J Pereira was also present. Budding writer Karen Vaz was selected as an active Konkani youth of the year and was honoured by D’Souza.

Mishitha and Shalvina danced to "Bhattkarachem Xet - Suggekall". Other Konkani dances presented were "Kokoreko by Rachel D'Souza and Indianth Naval Ghoddlam and Hanv Cheddum by Riana. Comedy skits and melodious songs too were presented as part of the cultural programme.