Monthi Fest Celebrations by Melbourne Konkan Community

By Sunil DSouza
Bellevision Media Network

Melbourne, 15 Sep 2013: Monthi fest was celebrated with great pomp and grandeur in Melbourne, Australia on Saturday, the 7th of September 2013 at St. James Church, Hoppers Crossing under the banner of MKC (Melbourne Konkan Community). People gathered in hundreds, renewed the spirit of happiness and nostalgic memories of Mangalorean culture, custom and tradition.

 

The celebration commenced with the blessing of the new corn and showering of flowers to infant Mary followed by Holy Mass in Konkani, presided over by Fr. Prakash Cutinha, PP of St. Joseph’s Church Northcote. In the wonderful homily, he stressed on the importance of family life and sharing. The best ever Konkani choir in Melbourne headed by Br. Prakash Menezes&Valerian Menezes uplifted the spirit of the feast.

 

 

After the Mass, everyone gathered at Mossfiel Hall, Hoppers Crossing for the Cultural Program organized by MKC. The program was hosted by the ever green MCs of Melbourne,Mr. Stephen D’Souza and Mrs. Asha D’Souza.

 

The cultural program had the best numbers of Konkani, English and Hindi songs.A thrilling replica of most of the Indian dances was witnessed on the day. Bollywood, Tap, Mangalorean, Goan and Punjabi dances enthralled the audience. The jokes enacted by Arun Vas and group were additional feathers for the wonderful performance of the day.  There was also an entertaining display of talent from our young members of the community which was very inspiring.

 

In the presidential address,Mr JawaharSequeira (Joe), president of MKC presented the work done by the association in the last year andalso announced future events for the benefit of the audience.

 

MS. Dolly Cutinho, secretary of MKC thanked the people gathered for their participation, the sponsors for supporting the event and the volunteers and MKC committee members for their hard work in organizing this successful event.

 

Grace before meal was offered by Sr.Eleanor Keannely, after which delicious traditional vegetarian meal including vorn was served. Dinner was followed by a game of housie conducted by Manoj, Cultural secretary where many people won good prizes. Throughout the evening, the host Mr Stephen D’Souza kept the gathering entertained by conducting spot prizes.

 

The fantastic evening finally came to a close with the baila dance.

 

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