News by Laveena Monteiro
Pics: Jovin Dsouza - Pangla
Daijiworld Media Network—Dubai (CN)
Dubai, Sep 17: For the first time, ‘Vamanjoorians UAE’ celebrated ‘Monti Fest', a family festival of love, peace, and togetherness. The celebration was held at Zomorrodah Complex Hall, Karama, Dubai, on Thursday September 15 from 8.00 pm on the theme ‘Kutma Spiritan Sangatha Yevyam, Navem Jevyam Monthi Fest Samramya’.
About 200 enthusiastic parishioners gathered to celebrate the festival. Roshan D’Silva, well-known compere, was the master of ceremony. The traditional celebration commenced with a procession led by native parishioners. John D’Souza carried the statue of infant Mary along with ‘blessed Novae’ by Jacintha Mendonca and children with flowers.
Prayer to worship Mother Mary was led by Belthangady parish priest Fr James D’Souza followed with offering of flowers by children, youngsters, and elders while singing hymn. Fr. D’Souza blessed the milk mixed with ‘Novem’ and was served first to the elderly couple residing in UAE Lawrence Mendonca and wife, and then served to all parishioners.
President Jerald Lobo welcomed the gathering followed by lighting of the candle by the core committee members signifying the pure and simple love and devotion of Mother Mary. Roshan D’silva welcomed the clergy on to the stage where they were felicitated with floral bouquets. Patrons and benefactors were also recognized and thanked for their continued support to the parish.
In his short address, Melwin D’Cunha laid emphasis on living a family life and further stressed the need to nurture Konkani in order to enhance family life. Entertainment followed thereafter and the highlight of the celebrations was the enactment of skits, jokes, and dance by children and adults.
The cultural programme commenced with dance by ‘Feat Beat Group’, and then well-known singer Goan Queen Maria entertained the crowd. Prashanth Pinto, Cressilda Rodrigues, Preema Lasrado, Shanthi, and Roshan D’Silva entertained the crowd with Konkani numbers while Rosal and Suraj supported with their superb music. Comedy skits were by talented Vamanjoor artistes who had the audience in splits and children displayed their talent in dance and singing.
Joel D’Souza was honored on behalf of Vamanjoorians for his bravery. Joseph Pinto, who took the initiative to form the Vamanjoorian’s association was also honored.
Various spot games were efficiently conducted for kids and adults by well-known actor Alwin Pinto. A traditional vegetarian meal and ‘vorn’ was served to all. The programme concluded with a rocking ‘Baila’ on the dance floor by DJ Anil Cardoza.