Report: Feena Castelino

Pics: Mario Fernandes

Bahrain, Sep 17: Bellevision Bahrain, under the leadership of president Ivan Sequeira and his dedicated committee members, celebrated the Nativity Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary, popularly known as Monti Fest, with great devotion and joy at Naatipuram restaurant on September 10th.

The programme commenced with a warm welcome and an introduction to the significance of Monti Fest by the master of ceremony, Ashish Menezes. As Monti Fest is traditionally known as the Feast of the Family, the evening began with a prayer led by Judith Mendonca, highlighting the importance of prayer, faith, and togetherness in keeping families united.

The celebration was honored by the presence of Fr Roshan Pereira, OFM CAP, the guest priest in Bahrain, along with Fr Vincent Serrao, assistant parish priest of Sacred Heart Church, Bahrain. Their presence added spiritual significance and warmth to the occasion.

The statue of Infant Mother Mary was carried in a solemn procession by president Ivan Sequeira and placed at the beautifully decorated altar. The blessed grain from the first harvest was then offered as a symbol of gratitude for God’s blessings and abundance. Children, and members joined the celebration by showering fresh flowers on Mother Mary, creating a colorful and joyful expression of devotion.

Traditional hymns Sakkad Sangatha Melyan and Moriyek Hogolsiyan added a beautiful devotional touch to the celebration with soulful renditions.

In his presidential address, Ivan Sequeira wished everyone a happy and blessed feast and extended warm festive greetings to all Bellevision members, their families, well-wishers and families back home.

Fr Roshan Pereira, OFM CAP, shared his thoughts on the importance of family and the values that strengthen family bonds. His words beautifully complemented the spirit of Monti Fest, reminding everyone of the importance of love, unity, respect and togetherness within the family.
Following the religious observance, the traditional Novem prepared by Veera and Vijay was served followed by juice and delicious homemade cake baked by Naveen Mendonca.

The evening continued with a vibrant cultural programme that added joy and energy to the celebration. Eliana beautifully presented a dance performance, while Rony and Riva entertained the audience with a melodious duet. Another delightful duet was performed by Riva and Nikitha.

The entertainment continued with exciting games for the children, including a fun “Bring Something of a Particular Colour” game and a challenging tongue-twister game, adding to the excitement and laughter among the participants, both conducted by Ashish. Prizes were distributed to the winners.

A special moment of celebration was also shared during the evening as Bellevision couple Rony and Nirmala Fernandes marked their 23rd wedding anniversary on the same day. The couple cut a celebratory cake. Members warmly congratulated Rony and Nirmala and wished them many more years of love, happiness and togetherness.

The registration desk was managed by Nirmala, DJ Valentino kept the atmosphere lively with an enjoyable selection of music, while the event was beautifully captured through the lenses of Mario and Rony Fernandes.

Towards the conclusion of the programme, Rony Pinto proposed the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to the priests, committee members, performers, volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who contributed their time and effort towards making the celebration a memorable success.

Guests were then treated to a sumptuous traditional vegetarian meal served on banana leaves, featuring delicious traditional delicacies including Vorn and Holige. The children were especially delighted to receive fresh sugarcane, generously sponsored by Kishore and Sylvia D’Souza, along with Switz Family Cake, sponsored by Xavier Mathias.

The celebration was a beautiful reflection of faith, family, culture, and fellowship, bringing the Bellevision Bahrain community together while keeping alive the rich Konkani traditions and cherished customs associated with Monti Fest.