On the occasion of Mother Mary’s Birthday Kuwait Pangla Association (KPA) celebrated the feast which is known as Monti Fest on September 13th 2018 at Harmony Hall, Salmiya as per the Mangalorean traditions & culture.
The celebration started with Priya Cardoza welcoming the guest of honor Rev. Fr. Blany Pinto (Parish Priest, Salmiya, Kuwait), Presidents and representatives of various Mangalorean associations in Kuwait, guests and KPA families. This followed with a welcome dance by Marsha Cardoza.
An age old tradition and culture of bringing the new crop (konshi) by the newlywed couple was performed by Stephen and Lavina Castelino which was received by Fredrick and Benedicta Quadras.
Manoj Rego & Pramila Monis conducted the prayer; thereafter all the children with flowers gathered around Mother Mary’s statue to offer her flowers in devotion and this was a sight to behold. The enthusiasm of the congregation especially children knew no bounds as they sang the hymns ‘Sakkad Sangatha Melyan’ followed by ‘Moryeik Hogalsiya’ while the children venerated Infant Mary’s statue with flowers.
As per tradition the new crop (Novem) was added to milk and distributed to all. The guest of honor Rev. Fr. Blany Pinto gave a festive message and wished everyone a happy feast of the Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mother Mary.
KPA took the opportunity to felicitate one of its senior member Henry Castelino who will be leaving Kuwait with a memento and also welcomed all new members with roses.
Naveen Monis, President of KPA welcomed and thanked everyone for joining in the celebration and spoke about KPA’s silver jubilee program ‘Rupyothsav’ which will be celebrated on 23 November 2018 with a mega musical event titled ‘Musical Fiesta’, a Musical Symphony by O..La..Re…from Mangalore at Sabha Al Salem Theater, Kuwait University, Khaldiya at 4 pm onwards. He urged everyone to come and support the show and to spread the word around.
Jaison Lasrado, a great supporter of KPA and part of upcoming Rupyothsav celebration enlightened everyone about Rupyothsav celebration and introduced all artists performing at the Musical Fiesta.
Wilson Cornelio, Cultural Secretary of KPA briefed about the sponsorship, souvenir magazine and event passes.
The celebration had loads of entertainment with breathtaking performances by Pangla family members which included solo singing by Krisha D'mello and Walter Fernandes and dance performances by Viola Martis, Sonal & group.
Roshan Quadras proposed vote of thanks. In a very special way he thanked Richard Mendoca and family for sponsoring the food and venue for the event.
George Dsouza conducted grace before meal.
Sherin & Anil Alva provided the sound and music, Blen Dsouza did the photography and the delicious meal was served by Ambrose catering Farwaniya.
The emcees for programs were Josline Dsouza, Roshan Martis and Wilson Cornelio who truly kept the audience entertained with several games for children and adults.