On Friday, September 13, 2024, the Kuwait Canara Welfare Association (KCWA) came together to celebrate the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, commonly known as Monthi Fest, at the Indian Community School in Salmiya. This cherished celebration, which holds both religious and cultural significance for the Mangalorean Catholic community, was marked by devotion, family unity, and a deep sense of gratitude for blessings received. The event was attended by KCWA members and their families, making it a truly memorable occasion.

The festivities commenced with a solemn thanksgiving Mass offered in all four parishes across Kuwait. At the Indian Community School, the event opened with a touching prayer dance performed by a talented group of children: Anaira Dsouza, Lauren Dsouza, Lauren Mascarenhas, Melissa Ariel Pinto, Nicole Trisha Tauro, Patricia Lilly Pinto, Rachel Mascarenhas, Relony Anne Cardoza, Sienna Lysha Castelino, Siona Kiara Pinto, Viana Carina Dsouza, and Welona Swizel Albuquerque. The dance, choreographed by Rita Pinto, set a reverent tone for the event, drawing the attendees into the spirit of the celebration.

KCWA President Naveen Mascarenhas then welcomed the congregation, expressing his gratitude for the strong turnout and the unity displayed by the Mangalorean Catholic community in Kuwait. A traditional procession followed, with managing committee members and children carrying the statue of Mother Mary, along with new crops, dates, vegetables, sugar cane, and flowers. As the crowd sang the beloved hymn "Sakkad Sangatha Melyam" in unison, the spiritual atmosphere deepened, creating a shared sense of reverence for the Blessed Mother.

Deepak Andrade led the Novena prayers, while the children joyfully showered flowers on the statue of Mother Mary. KCWA Spiritual Director, Fr. Avil Rosario, then delivered an inspiring message, reflecting on the significance of the Nativity Feast and the virtues of Mother Mary. He blessed the food, marking a key spiritual moment in the celebration. The blessed "Novem," symbolizing the harvest and thanksgiving for God's blessings, was distributed among the gathered faithful.

A key feature of the day’s program was the Marian Quiz conducted by Fr Avil Rosario, KCWA President Naveen Mascarenhas, Past President Hilary Stevan Rego and Abbasiya Konkani Families President Norbert Dsouza, which drew 171 entries from Mangalorean Catholics across Kuwait. Out of these, only nine participants answered all questions correctly, leading to a draw for the top three winners. The winners—Alan Dmello, Sushma Jenifer Dsouza, and Renuka Cutinha—were announced. The quiz was expertly coordinated by Sylvia D’Costa and Jinella Rodrigues, who were commended for their efforts.

The event also featured a special presentation titled “Mother Mary’s Reflection Towards Jesus,” which left a profound impact on the attendees. This segment highlighted the close relationship between Mary and her Son, Jesus, fostering a deeper spiritual connection among the audience.

KCWA took the opportunity to honor Vijay Dsouza, a long-serving former managing committee member, who was preparing to leave Kuwait. Vijay had served the association in various capacities, including as the Education Fund Coordinator and Membership Coordinator. In his heartfelt farewell speech, Vijay expressed his deep gratitude for the chance to serve the KCWA community and encouraged others to become Life Members, supporting the association's noble mission.

The Monti Fest celebration was graced by the presence of several past presidents of KCWA and representatives from the Konkani Association in Kuwait. Special guests from Carmel School, including Sr. Sarita, Sr. Vineetha, and Sr. Betzy, were also in attendance, further elevating the significance of the event. Cultural Secretary Prashanth Ferrao announced an exciting upcoming drama, “SBG Travel Route #2,” which will be performed at KCWA’s mega event on January 31, 2025. Fr. Avil Rosario blessed the script and ceremonially handed it over to the cast and director, officially beginning preparations for the performance.

Monthi Fest Coordinator Manoj Rego delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging the tireless efforts of everyone who contributed to the success of the event. Special thanks were given to the management of the Indian Community School, Senior Branch, Block-10 Salmiya, for providing the venue, and to the volunteers and sponsors who made the celebration possible.

The event concluded with a prayer of grace led by guest priest Fr. Anil D’Costa, who blessed the traditional "Novem Jevan." Reyan Lobo skillfully compered the event, which concluded with the serving of a delicious traditional meal on banana leaves. About 700 members and their families enjoyed the feast, which further reinforced the communal spirit of the gathering. Prepared by China Metro Restaurant from Farwaniya, it featured a variety of Mangalorean vegetarian delicacies.

In keeping with the spirit of Monthi Fest, KCWA extended their generosity beyond Kuwait. Through the support of donors, the association provided traditional Novem Jevan meals to over 2,800 individuals in 13 shelter homes in Mangalore and 8 shelter homes in Udupi. This act of charity, aligned with the corporal work of mercy “feeding the hungry,” was a testament to KCWA’s enduring commitment to service. The association offered heartfelt gratitude to the donors, praying that Mama Mary’s blessings may be upon them and their families.

Below is the list of shelter homes where festive meals were served:

The media coverage for the event was expertly managed by Allan D’Souza, while the sound system was handled by Roshan Rodrigues. Photographers Alban D’Souza and Prashanth Ferrao captured the day’s events, ensuring that the memories would be preserved for years to come.

The KCWA Managing Committee extended sincere gratitude to the dedicated volunteers whose hard work ensured the event’s success. The entire celebration was successfully coordinated by Manoj Rego, Deepak Andrade, Praveen Fernandes, Veena Serrao, Reyan Lobo and Roshan Rodrigues with the dedicated support of the KCWA Managing Committee members, making this event a memorable and spiritually uplifting experience for all involved.