Ancy DSouza Paladka
Pics: Austin Fernandes Vasai

Mumbai, Sep 20: Vasai Konkani welfare association organized the Monti Fest celebrations recently.

The programme began with a procession from Manickpur Parvati Cross in the morning. The Maria Bombina statue taken on a horse cart was the special attraction.

The traditional band playing Konkani Marian hymns was leading the procession. The procession moved on the crowded state highways of Vasai to Gonsalo Garcia Church near Bishops house.

The people gathered for a Novena around the grotto. The children sang hymns and showered flowers at the Maria Bombina statue. Fr Joe OCD was the main celebrant of the Konkani mass. Fr Prashant Saldanha con-celebrated the mass.  ‘Sanna Roce’ and ‘Novem’ in pure glass of chilled milk were served to all the people.

Konkani entertainment programmes were held in the church hall. Kenny's songs and dance was the main attraction. Konkani skits Pokri Gibba written and directed by Agnes Menezes and Hema Menezes, Vyapari Skit by Pressy Pinto and Rosy D'Souza were the other main attractions.

Roylie and group presented the Konkani Dance Nach Monga Nach, Gonsalo Garcia Sodality Group presented the dance for the song "Undir Mama".

Reshma Menezes enthralled the audience with her melodious voice. Konkani group song was presented by Clara Pinto and group with music accompaniment by Della Antonious.

The programme started with the welcome song by Blanch Alvares and choir members. President Stephen Fernandes welcomed the gathering. Secretary Ancy DSouza Paladka compered the programme.