Karnataka Social Club-Bahrain Celebrates Monti Fest with Fervour and Tradition
Manama, Bahrain: The Karnataka Social Club-Bahrain celebrated the traditional Monti Fest with grand religious observance, devotion and vibrant cultural festivities on Thursday, September 10, at its premises in Manama.
The celebrations commenced with the Master of Ceremonies, Mrs Sharmila Sequeira, ushering in the dignitaries in her signature eloquent style in Konkani. President Mr Cletus Rodrigues and his wife, Mrs Anita Rodrigues, entered the hall carrying the statue of Infant Mother Mary, followed by children bearing flowers and members carrying traditional offerings of vegetables.
A Konkani choir, accompanied by the talented young organist Master Sherwin Fernandes, set a reverent atmosphere with a soul-stirring devotional hymn.
The spiritual segment continued with a prayer dance dedicated to Mother Mary, choreographed by popular choreographer Eunice D’Souza.
President Mr Cletus Rodrigues then formally welcomed the gathering and expressed his gratitude to the attendees for their unwavering support.
The stage was subsequently set for a lively cultural showcase featuring three high-energy Konkani dance performances presented by the men, women and children of the club. The adult performances were choreographed by the popular duo Ajay Lobo and his wife, Sonia Lobo, while the children’s dance was directed by renowned Bahrain-based choreographer Mr Preetam Acharya.
The spiritual blessings were led by Rev. Fr Vincent Serra, who welcomed the members and blessed the candles, which were subsequently distributed to the Murdhoms and Pirgents.
Thought-provoking and inspiring addresses were delivered by Rev. Fr Vincent Serra and Rev. Fr Roshan Pereira.
The vote of thanks was proposed by the club’s Assistant Entertainment Secretary, Mr Jeevan D’Mello, who thanked everyone who contributed to the success of the event.
Guests were treated to a traditional Monti Fest vegetarian meal, Noveim Juwaan, served on banana leaves. During the meal, popular vocalists among the club’s members, Thomas Fernandes and Sonia Lobo, took the audience down memory lane with classic Konkani and Tulu songs.
The memorable evening drew to a close with attendees sharing fond memories and expressing their gratitude for a wonderful celebration that beautifully upheld the traditions and spirit of Monti Fest.