Report & Photography: Meena Serrao Barboza
Mangaluru, Jul 5: The Ladies' Association, in collaboration with the Women Commission of the Bondel Unit, organised Monsoon Milan 2026 on July 4 at the St Lawrence Church Hall, bringing together parishioners for an evening of fellowship, cultural programme, and traditional monsoon delicacies.
The celebrations commenced with tea and a variety of monsoon snacks, followed by fun-filled games conducted by Melinda D’Souza, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere.
The stage programme commenced with a prayer song, followed by a warm welcome address by Victoria D’Cunha. The dignitaries were warmly welcomed by the office bearers of the Ladies' Association, who presented each of them with a rose as a gesture of respect and appreciation.
One of the highlights of the evening was the unique inauguration of Monsoon Milan 2026, where the dignitaries ceremonially opened a beautifully decorated umbrella adorned with flowers, adding a colourful and symbolic touch to the celebration.
The dignitaries on the dais included Fr Basil Vas, parish priest; Fr Lawrence Cutinha, assistant parish priest; Fr Peter Gonsalves, spiritual director of the Ladies' Association and principal of St Lawrence English Medium School; John D'Silva, vice president of the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC); Alwyn Saldanha, secretary of the PPC; Avitha Mascarenhas president, Veena secretary of Ladies Association
In his presidential address, Fr Basil Vas highlighted the importance of preserving traditional food, culture, and customs. Recalling his childhood days, he fondly reminisced about the authentic monsoon delicacies he enjoyed and remarked that the taste and value of those traditional foods cannot be replaced by modern cuisine.
He appreciated that Monsoon Milan 2026 provided the younger generation with an opportunity to experience these treasured culinary traditions. Commending the efforts of the Ladies' Association, he congratulated the members for organising a meaningful and well-coordinated Monsoon Milan programme that celebrated the parish's rich cultural heritage.
The cultural programme featured melodious songs, a lively qawwali, an entertaining skit, and vibrant dance performances presented by the members of the Ladies' Association, along with enthusiastic performance by the Wenora Pinto. The winners of the games conducted before the stage programme were presented with prizes by Fr Basil Vas in recognition of their enthusiastic participation and outstanding performances.
Before dinner, Fr Peter Gonsalves led the grace before meals. The programme was efficiently compered by Saritha D’Souza and Matilda D’Souza, who kept the audience engaged throughout the evening.
The vote of thanks was proposed by Divya D’Souza, who expressed her heartfelt gratitude to everyone for their generous support, wholehearted cooperation, and valuable contributions in making Monsoon Milan 2026 a grand success.
The beautifully designed stage backdrop, creatively prepared by Sunitha Lewis, added colour and charm to the celebration and received much appreciation.
The highlight of the evening was the grand spread of 32 varieties of homemade traditional monsoon delicacies, lovingly prepared by the members of the Ladies' Association. The menu included a wide range of savouries, sweets, and seasonal specialties that evoked nostalgic memories of the rainy season and showcased the rich culinary heritage of the region. The delicious flavours and warm hospitality made the event truly memorable.
The evening concluded on a joyful and festive note, with parishioners appreciating the dedicated efforts of the Ladies' Association in organising a vibrant celebration that strengthened community bonds while preserving the traditions, flavours, and spirit of the monsoon season. Everyone relished the delicious homemade monsoon delicacies with great delight, making the celebration a memorable experience for all.
The festivities culminated with a lively Baila dance, as parishioners enthusiastically took to the dance floor, filling the hall with music, laughter, and celebration.