News and Pics: Ancy S D'Souza, Paladka
Daijiworld Media Network
Mumbai, Sep 12: Vasai Konkani Welfare Association celebrated Monthi Fest in a solemn manner here on September 11. The programme began with a procession from the historic Manickpur Cross at 9.30 am, through the streets of state highways in Vasai with banner, band, alter boys, flower children and people carrying vegetable, sugarcane etc.
A decorated "Maria Bombina" statue was the special attraction in the procession. The Choir lead Konkani Hymns in honour of Infant Mary and chanted praises in Konkani.
People gathered at the grotto of Mother Mary at St Gonsalo Garcia Church at 10.30 pm. Fr John lead the Konkani Novena and blessed the new paddy corn. The children showered flower petals on the Maria Bombina statue.
A Konkani Mass was celebrated at the church. Fr Prashant Saldanha was the main celebrant. Fr John and Deacon Assisi assisted them. There was a melodious choir for the mass under the leadership of Blanch Alvares.
All the people were served Sanna Roce after the mass. Novem immersed in a pure milk was distributed to all. A Konkani cultural programme was arranged at the church hall.
A well know orator Fr Richard Lasrado, Mangalore was the chief guest of the programme. Fr Richard spoke on the giving importance to our mother and mother Mary in our life. Vicar General Fr Nazareth Gabrup, Asst. Parish Priest Fr Fernandes Louis, Fr Francis Dabre, Fr John, Fr Prashant Saldanha and Deacon Assisi were also present at the occasion.
The cultural programme started with the welcome group song lead by the choir members. Nancy, Della, Benny, Reshma, Rita, Theresa, Clara, Jessy, Pressy, Wilson and Praveen took part in the welcome song. Kharvi Dance, Ho Mando Goencho Mando was presented by Lolita D'Souza, Clemencia, Sharon, Dierda, Steffi and Verginia. Kenny Zuzarte presented songs "Bombil Mary" and "Gori Gori Sundori". Alwyn Sequeira Naigaon presented melodious Konkani songs. Felix Malvani and his team members Gregory Veigas, John D'Souza, Glen Veigas, Floyd D'Souza and Gregory Monis presented hilarious skits. A skit explaining the theme of the day "Hatachim Panch Botta" written and directed by Hilda DSouza was staged by Zeena, D'Souza, Leona Lobo, Jyoti Abreo, Rosy Fernandes, Flora Mascarenhas, Hilda D'Souza and Seema. Another hilarious theme skit written and directed by Agnes Menezes was staged by Matilda Andrade, Irene Castelino, Hilda D'Souza and Hema Menezes.
A group song highlighting the importance of Mother Mary was presented by Clara Pinto, Pressy Pinto, Jossy D'Souza and Arnold Pinto. Gregory Monis, Rocky Mendonca and Dr Vincent DMello presented Konkani songs
President Stephen Fernandes welcomed the guests. Secretary Ancy S DSouza compered the programme and gave vote of thanks.