By Ronald Fernandes, Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia: The Saudi Konkan Youngsters (SKY)- Dammam,  celebrated Monthi Fest at a Farm House in Al Khobar, recently. SKY President Ronald Fernandes, Shirthady, welcomed the gathering. The celebrations began with children coming in procession to honour Infant Mary with flowers.  Shanthi Fernandes, Joint Secretary of SKY led the prayers. The hymns ”Sokkad Sangatha Melyan” and “Moriyek Hogolsiyan” were sung by the devotees with the support from the choir led by Sharon Fernandes.

Konkani speaking people from different parts of the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia gathered as one family to celebrate the joy. Blessed New Corn (Qanshoi) was specially flown in, from Mangalore which was distributed to the gathered guests. The event of the day further continued with a series of entertaining events which included spot games, quiz, lucky draw, housie-housie, and the foot swinging baila dance.

Traditional meal with nine different types of delicious vegetables including Sanna, Rice and Vorn was served on banana leaves (Shiroti) to the attendees.  All the children were offered “Kobu” (Sugarcane).  

SKY General Secretary Roshan D’Souza delivered the vote of thanks. The prizes were distributed to the winners. Ronald Fernandes, compered the programme. 

Around 250 Konkani speaking people actively participated. The support from the guests renewed the spirit of happiness and inspired to carry on this feast in a true Mangalorean culture, customs and tradition.