The Mangalore Cultural Association (MCA) in Qatar celebrated Monti Fest with great splendor on September 8 at the Ashoka Hall, ICC Doha. Marking a significant occasion, this year’s celebration was particularly special as it coincided with the feast day, making it the first time in MCA Qatar’s history that Monti Fest was celebrated on the same day as the feast.

The evening commenced with the MCA anthem, followed by a warm introduction and welcome from emcee Nelvita Noronha. The program’s opening was beautifully marked by a Konkani hymn in honor of Mother Mary, performed by a talented group of MCA members, including Rachel Helma Fernandes, Reuben Harsh Fernandes, Sanuel Jayden Dsouza, Raynel Aaron D’Souza, Ciara Meghan Fernandes, Jeston Sandeep Noronha, Aldon Cutinha, Sweedal, Seon, Raizel Lasrado, Keith Fernandes, and Karen Fernandes.

Fr. Michael Menezes, the visiting priest to the Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, served as the chief guest for the evening. He blessed the Novem, which was then distributed to the attendees. President Gladson Almeida, along with Vice President Jovita Pereira D’Souza, escorted Fr. Menezes and other dignitaries, including MCA advisory members Felix Lobo, Wilfred Fernandes, Jerry Pinto, and past president Aloysius D’Souza, to the stage for a brief program.

In his welcome address, President Gladson Almeida highlighted the significance of Monti Fest and its cultural roots. The association took the opportunity to honor academic achievers of the year 2023-24, presenting them with plaques and certificates as a token of encouragement and appreciation.

Mr.Felix Lobo addressed the gathering, offering his heartfelt wishes to the MCA members, while Fr. Michael Menezes commended the association for its remarkable efforts in orchestrating such a lively celebration far from home.

After the formalities, President Gladson Almeida announced the much-anticipated MCA managing committee for the term 2024-2026 in his unique style. The newly elected executive committee members include:

• President: Gladson Almeida
• Vice President: Jovita Pereira D'Souza
• General Secretary: Carol D'Souza
• Joint General Secretary: Melita Lobo
• Treasurer: Shalini Mendonca
• Cultural Secretary: Wilson Mendonca
• Joint Cultural Secretary: Agnel Ullas D'Souza
• Public Relations Officer: Sandeep Noronha
• Deputy Public Relations Officer: Anna Pais
• Sports Secretary: Dorothy Quadros
• Membership Coordinators: Hema Fernandes and Merlyn D'Souza
• Facilities and Volunteers Coordinator: George Menezes
• CSR/ASR Coordinator: Della Rego
• Committee Members: Veronica Baretto, Nelvita Noronha, Derrick Crasta, Freeda Lobo, and Anil Fernandes.
  
  

Carol D’Souza, the general secretary, proposed a heartfelt vote of thanks. Following the formal announcements, a lively cultural program entertained the audience, featuring a Konkani medley by children, Rachel Helma Fernandes, Reuben Harsh Fernandes, Sanuel Jayden D’Souza, Raynel Aaron D’Souza, Ciara Meghan Fernandes, Jeston Sandeep Noronha, Aldon Cutinha and Raizel Lasrado a duet dance by Chloe D’Souza and Vania Vas, a Konkani duet by Santhosh D’Cunha and Wilson Mendonca, and a humorous skit performed by Amit Mathais and Anil Fernandes.

The evening also included some fun spot games for the audience, with winners receiving prizes. Nelvita Noronha expertly compered the entire program, captivating the attendees with her charm.

The celebration culminated with the traditional delicious “Novem Jevann,” bringing together nearly 250 MCA family members to strengthen their bonds of unity and celebrate the spirit of community. The event not only highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the Mangalorean community but also reinforced the connections among its members, leaving everyone with cherished memories of togetherness and joy.