Kuwait: Konkani Community Celebrates Monti Fest
Kuwait: The Konkani Community of St Therese of Child Jesus Parish, Salmiya, Kuwait, celebrated the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, popularly known as Monti Fest, with great devotion and enthusiasm on September 4.
Rev. Fr. Manoj Victor D’Souza, Rev. Fr. Darel Fernandes, Rev. Fr. Avil Rosario, Rev. Fr. Joe Fernandes, and Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Savio D’Souza blessed the Novem (new corn) and dates at 3.45 p.m. in the parish courtyard in the presence of more than a thousand faithful.
Children and elders participated in the traditional offering of flowers to Mamma Mary, following which a solemn procession proceeded to the church for the festive Eucharistic celebration.
In his festive homily, visiting priest Rev. Fr. Manoj D’Souza highlighted the virtues of Mother Mary and emphasised her important role in family life. The Konkani Choir, led by Kiran Gonsalves, enriched the celebration with melodious hymns in honour of Mother Mary.
Following the Holy Mass, new corn (Kanshi) brought from Mangalore, along with dates and Vorn, was distributed among the faithful, preserving the cherished Konkani tradition associated with Monti Fest.
As part of the spiritual preparation for the feast, the Monti Fest Triduum was held on August 14, 21, and 28. Rev. Fr. Darel Fernandes and Rev. Fr. Avil Rosario led the Triduum services.
Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Savio D’Souza and Community Representative Rajesh Aranha expressed their gratitude to all who contributed their time, effort, and support toward making the celebration a spiritually enriching and memorable occasion.
The celebration brought together the Konkani faithful in a spirit of faith, family, tradition, and devotion to Mother Mary, making Monti Fest a truly joyful and meaningful occasion for the community in Salmiya.