Media Release

Mysuru, Sep 9: The Konkani Christian Association, celebrated the Feast of the Nativity of Mother Mary—popularly known as Monthi Fest—with great devotion and enthusiasm on Sunday, September 7 in its very own Konkan Bhavan, Vijayanagar 2nd Stage, Mysuru.

The celebration began with the blessing of the new corn by Fr Santa Lopez and Fr Prashanth Noronha, symbolising gratitude for God’s blessings and abundance.

Then it preceded by a solemn novena in honour of Mother Mary, marked by the traditional offering of flowers by children and devotees—a cherished Konkani tradition.

This was followed by the mass introduction by Fr Mervin Noronha. A Konkani Mass was offered by Fr Richard Menezes, during which Fr Ajith Rodrigues delivered the homily, reflecting on the values of faith, family, and unity that Month Fest represents.

The mass was concluded with inspiring words of thanksgiving and blessings from Fr Oswald Crasta, Fr Lancy Lewis, and Fr Ivan Sequeira accompanied the other priests, who urged the faithful to carry forward the spirit of devotion, unity, and charity in their daily lives.

Following the Mass was the stage programme, with a welcome by Joyce Sequeira, Secretary. What set this celebration apart was not just the vibrant coming together of the Konkani community from across Mysore diocese, but the Association’s commitment to extending its reach to the less fortunate.

In a remarkable act of charity, Pramila Monis, joint secretary announced the names of the beneficiaries and the association disbursed financial support worth Rs 2,50,000 towards the education and medical needs of underprivileged children. This gesture reflected the true spirit of the festival—sharing blessings with “the lost, the least, and the last” in society.

The celebrations were graced by nearly 750 lay faithful, around 8 priests, religious brothers and sisters, well-wishers, and beneficiaries of the Association’s outreach.

A highlight of the event was the felicitation of nearly 35 meritorious students of the community, ranging from PhD holders, doctors, and chartered accountants to graduates, postgraduates, PUC, and 10th-grade achievers. Each was honoured with a shawl, a certificate of appreciation, and a gift, acknowledging their dedication and hard work.

Presidential address was made by the president John William D’Souza and vote of thanks was rendered by Anil Saldanha, treasurer.

Following the stage programme, a sumptuous traditional lunch was served which was blessed by Fr Lancy Lewis. The traditional lunch together signifies unity among the community.

The Monthi Fest celebration at KCA Mysuru was more than a community gathering—it was a powerful reminder that faith and festivity are most meaningful when coupled with compassion and service. As Scripture reminds us, “Every good deed done out of love will be rewarded manifold by God.”

The event was a harmonious blend of faith, culture, and community, making Monthi Fest at KCA Mysuru a memorable and spiritually enriching occasion.