The Mangalorean Catholic community of East Bengaluru came together on a vibrant Saturday evening, 6th September 2025, to celebrate Monthi Festh, the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Organized by the Mudla Konkani Canara Kutam (MKCK), this year’s celebration witnessed a vibrant and enthusiastic gathering of community members, reflecting a heartfelt display of faith, unity, and cherished tradition.

The event began with a flower offering by children, who lovingly showered petals on the statue of Infant Mary. This beautiful tradition, symbolizing purity and devotion, set the tone for an evening filled with gratitude and joy. As the community joined together in hymns and prayer, the spiritual essence of the feast was deeply felt by all present.

The Holy Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Francis Assisi Almeida, Fr. Richard Pias, Fr. Ivan Rodrigues, and Fr. Maxim Dias, who also delivered a heartfelt homily. His message about Mother Mary’s unconditional love and the sacred role of mothers in nurturing families was well received by the congregation. Adding to the solemnity of the Mass, our Mudla children read the Prayer of the Faithful with grace and reverence, reflecting their deep involvement in the celebration.

Following the Mass, Mr. Sanj Lobo, Master of Ceremonies, took over to lead the evening’s formal proceedings. Mr. Richard Sequeira, President of MKCK, welcomed the gathering and introduced the esteemed guests:
● Mr. Anthony Gonsalves – Chairman, FKCA
● Mr. Nishal Preetham Dsouza – Cultural Secretary, FKC
● Mrs. Sharmila Dsouza – Secretary, KCWA RT Nagar
● Members of the Mudla family

Guests were warmly felicitated with bouquets by President Mr. Richard Sequeira and Secretary Ms. Ayeshia Fernandes, in a gesture of appreciation and respect.

A highlight of the evening was the traditional blessing of the new harvest, “Noven”, symbolizing thanksgiving for a bountiful year. The blessed paddy was shared with all attendees, reinforcing the values of gratitude, community, and shared blessings.

The celebration continued with an impressive lineup of cultural performances coordinated by Cultural & Sports Secretary Ms. Smruthi Mirium Dsouza. The Mudla Rockstars lit up the stage with an energetic group dance, followed by a moving Konkani hymn “Jai Maye Jai”, taught and led by Mrs. Ephrona Dias and Mr. Godwin Martis. A standout performance came from young stars Eva D’Cunha and Emily D’Cunha, who delivered a dazzling duo dance to the hit song “Dhol Bhaje”.

As part of the event, a Flower Basket Competition was held for children, providing a platform to showcase their creativity and enthusiasm. The entries were evaluated by a panel of judges comprising Sr. Sumishal Monteiro, Mr. Vinay Fernandes, Mr. Vincent Dsouza, and Mrs. Linet Sequeira, with valuable support from our Joint Secretary, Mrs. Carol Dias, and Ms. Mellisa D’Costa. The winners were felicitated by Mr. Anthony Gonsalves in recognition of their artistry and effort.

A lively session of Housie-Housie, hosted by Mr. Sanj Lobo and Mr. Rohan D’Cunha, added excitement and laughter to the evening. The prizes were presented by Mr. Nishal Preetham Dsouza, marking a delightful conclusion to the game.

Before the evening meal, a prayer of thanksgiving was offered by Rev. Fr. Francis Assisi Almeida. The formal proceedings concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Media Manager Mr. Arwin Fernandes, who expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Mudla family members, the choir for their melodious singing conducted by Mr. Godwin Martis, the children for their enthusiastic participation, and all committee members for their dedication and seamless execution of the event.

The celebration culminated in a traditional sumptuous dinner, representing the rich culinary heritage of Mangalorean cuisine. The meal concluded with the distribution of sugarcane, evoking nostalgic memories and ending the evening on a sweet, joyful note.

The 2025 Monthi Festh celebration was a beautiful testament to faith, family, and cultural pride—an evening marked by reverence, joy, and a shared sense of belonging within the Mudla Konkani Canara Kutam community.