Media Release
Manchester, Sep 18: The Konkani Community Association UK (KCA UK) celebrated its 22nd Monthi Fest at The Wythenshawe Forum in Manchester, bringing together more than 600 members of the Konkani community from across the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.
The celebration was marked by faith, tradition, fellowship and a strong sense of community. Members travelled from Manchester, Warrington, Liverpool, Nottingham, Sunderland and other parts of the UK and Ireland to take part in the annual celebration of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the blessing of the new harvest, known as Novem.
This year’s celebration was organised and delivered collectively by the core members of KCA UK under the theme “Stewards of Planet Earth.” The theme was reflected throughout the day, particularly through the decorations, cultural performances, food arrangements and effective waste-management initiatives.
The day began with the veneration of the Infant Mary and the blessing of the new harvest. Children carrying flowers joined the faithful in offering floral tributes during the traditional Konkani hymn 'Moriyek Hogolsiyan'.
The main celebrant was Fr Jason Pias, a Capuchin priest from St Anthony’s Church, Bannur, Pttur, who is currently pursuing doctoral studies in Germany. Reflections were delivered by Gina Menezes, followed by the reading by Shalma Fernandes.
The solemn Holy Mass commenced following the procession of the faithful into the hall. The Gospel was proclaimed by Fr Jason Pias, while the readings were delivered by Asha Sequeira and Anitha Sequeira. The prayers of the faithful were led by children from KCA UK.
In his homily, Fr Pias reflected on the role of Mother Mary as a daughter within the family and highlighted the importance of recognising God’s blessings and bringing beauty and goodness into family and community life. His message was summed up in the words: 'God blesses us; Mother Mary beautifies us'.
The offertory procession featured fruits, vegetables, bread and wine, symbolising the abundance of the harvest and expressing gratitude for God’s blessings.
Throughout the Mass, the KCA UK choir led the congregation in traditional Konkani hymns. Choir Master Stan Mendonca was supported by Ajith Peter D’Souza and Mukesh Kannan. The liturgy was coordinated by the KCA UK liturgy committee.
At the conclusion of the Mass, James Ravi Pinto delivered the vote of thanks.
KCA UK extend sincere thanks to bishop Mark Davis - Diocese of Shrewsbury, for the kind permission to celebrate the holy mass at the venue.
Following the service, attendees were served Novem Jevon, consisting of blessed milk, accompanied by homemade cake prepared by Jyothi Mendonca, in the meantime the soft drinks and water was arranged by Marina Monis and well supported by Simpson D’Souza.
The hall decorations were designed around the environmental theme, designed and completed by Stephi Martis, while Ronald Lobo beautifully arranged the altar.
The cultural programme was hosted by masters of ceremonies Praveen Mendonca and Mackly Figreda, who kept the audience engaged throughout the day.
The programme opened with a semi-classical welcome dance performed by KCA UK girls, choreographed by Sonal Mendonca.
KCA UK president Sujith Rodrigues formally welcomed the gathering and called for greater unity and cooperation in the days ahead for the continued success of the community.
The welcome was held in the presence of KCA UK committee members namely Joseph Santhosh Sequeira -vice president. Ronald Lobo – treasurer, Lawrence Vinod Barboza – general secretary, Sonal Mendonca – cultural secretary and Vinjoy Rego – communication coordinator. Fr Jason Pias, Deepak Alvares, president of the Nottingham-based Mangalorean United Konkani Associa3on (MUKA), and Hazel Rodrigues, president of the Sunderland-based North East Konkani Association (NEKA). Their presence reflected the spirit of friendship, collaboration and unity among Konkani associations across the UK.
The junior children presented a dance choreographed by Sinol Mendonca. Sonal Mendonca and Neil Lasrado led an energetic performance by the senior KCA UK children, which also featured children travelling from Dublin.
A traditional vegetarian Mangalorean lunch was served to all attendees. Catering arrangements were overseen by the hospitality team led by Martin Saldanha, Jyothi Mendonca and Ronald Lobo.
The environmental theme was evident not only in the decorations but also in the practical organisation of the event.
Waste management was coordinated by Milton D’Souza and Vincent Dias, with measures put in place to minimise food waste and maintain cleanliness throughout the day. The initiative demonstrated how community celebrations can uphold cherished traditions while also encouraging responsible stewardship of the environment.
Adult members presented a lively dance choreographed by Stephi Martis and Preeval Saldanha. Guest performances by MUKA and NEKA further highlighted the strong bonds and cooperation between the various Konkani associations.
One of the highlights of the cultural programme was the theatrical production “Guardians of God’s Creation,” presented by KCA UK members in keeping with the theme of the celebration. The production was written and directed by Priya D’Souza and Gina Menezes, delivering a strong message about humanity’s responsibility to care for God’s creation.
The day’s entertainment and activities were supported by a dedicated team of volunteers.
The raffle draw was managed by Nishan Mendonca and Mackly Figreda, with support from Anthony Mary Rodrigues. Auctions were conducted by Ravi Pinto, supported by Mackly Figreda.
Tea and coffee service was coordinated by Jyothi Mendonca and her team. Photography and videography were handled by the KCA UK media team comprising Wilson Coelho, Shaun D’Souza and Vinjoy Rego, while Ajith Rego added to the atmosphere as DJ.
The event was also made possible through the generous support of donors from KCA UK families, special thanks to all the families who financially supported KCA UK through their donations towards this feast expenses.
In his vote of thanks, Vinjoy Rego acknowledged the dedication and commitment of the volunteers and families who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the celebration a success.
The 22nd KCA UK Monthi Fest once again demonstrated the strength of the Konkani community in the UK. From the solemn celebration of Holy Mass and the blessing of the new harvest to the vibrant cultural programme, traditional food and environmental initiatives, the event brought together faith, family, culture and fellowship.
The successful celebration was a testament to the professionalism, teamwork and commitment of the KCA UK committee, volunteers and participating families.
The event concluded as another successful milestone for KCA UK — a celebration that not only preserved Konkani traditions and Catholic faith but also strengthened family values and community unity.