Monthi Fest 2025 – A Celebration of Faith, Culture, and Community

The Nativity of Mother Mary, fondly known as Monthi Fest, was celebrated with deep devotion and cultural richness by our parish community this year. On 8th September 2025, we marked the birth of Mamma Mary with the traditional blessing of the new paddy sheaves (Novem), singing of Marian hymns, and the symbolic showering of flowers by the children—creating a beautiful, spiritual atmosphere, followed by the Holy Eucharist.

As is customary, the Konkani Team of our parish organized a grand cultural celebration on 14th September 2025. The day began with a solemn Konkani Mass at 9:30 AM, celebrated by Fr. Maxim D'Silva. After the Mass, the faithful proceeded in procession to the St. Joseph Church Hall, joyfully carrying the statue of Baby Mary while singing traditional Marian hymns. At the Grotto of St. Joseph Church, a floral tribute (’Fula Udovnche’) was offered to Mamma Mary, echoing our deep love and reverence for her.

The cultural programme commenced with a traditional ritual where the Little Sisters of Jesus and the Missionaries of Charity Sisters ground the newly harvested rice, mixed it with milk, and distributed it to the faithful – symbolizing unity, sharing, and the blessings of the harvest season.

This was followed by a series of vibrant cultural performances:

- A prayer dance by young children opened the event with grace and innocence.

- Energetic dances by the youth and women of the parish showcased the rich traditions of our Konkani heritage.

- Several games and fun activities engaged both the young and old, filling the hall with laughter and joy.

A highlight of the programme was the hilarious and heartwarming Konkani skit titled "Kutmache Fest" presented by the Konkani team. The skit humorously depicted everyday family issues and beautifully conveyed how, often, it’s the wisdom and guidance of religious leaders—priests or nuns—that help bring harmony and resolution within families.

To conclude the celebrations, a sumptuous Mangalorean-style lunch was served on banana leaves, featuring seven varieties of vegetables, traditional boiled rice, and the delicious ‘kheer’, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

All of this was relished by the community with great joy. After the meal, the congregation joined in singing "Laudate Dominum omnes gentes", a Latin hymn meaning “O praise the Lord, all ye nations”—a fitting end to a day of unity and gratitude.

The celebrations concluded on a sweet and festive note with the distribution of sugarcane, symbolizing joy, abundance, and the sweetness of shared community life.

It was truly a day of faith, fellowship, and festivity—a perfect blend of religious devotion and cultural expression. The Monthi Fest 2025 celebrations left everyone with smiling faces and grateful hearts, as we continue to uphold the rich traditions passed down through generations. -Mr. Edwin Gras STCJ Airoli Konkani Team