Monthi Fest Celebration at Brigade Ward Back

Monthi Fest Celebration at Brigade Ward

Brigade Ward joyfully celebrated Monthi Fest on Saturday, 13th September at 6:30 p.m. at the Brigade Pinnacle Club House. The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 70 adults and 15 children, marking a blessed and memorable evening of devotion, fellowship, and tradition. The Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis and Assistant Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Steevan Nelson Peris graced the occasion with their presence. The programme was ably emceed by Mrs. Renita Lobo.

The celebration began with a solemn procession, where children and adults lovingly offered flowers to Mama Mary while singing the hymn “Sakkad Sagantha Melya”. The Ward Gurkar Mr. Rudolph Menezes, then warmly welcomed the gathering. 
The prayer service, coordinated by Mrs. Carmelita D’Souza together with other ward members, uplifted the spiritual atmosphere and set the tone for the evening.

Fr. Joseph Martis addressed the gathering with an inspiring and meaningful message on devotion to Mother Mary, encouraging families to live in faith and unity. He also highlighted the historical significance of Maria Bambina. Following this, Fr. Steevan Nelson Peris added the new harvest-novem to the vorn, symbolizing gratitude and togetherness.

A special felicitation ceremony to honour the former Gurkar, Mr. Eugene Rodrigues was coordinated by Mrs. Silviya Concesso. In addition, recognition prizes were awarded to the Ward's talented children — Mr. Dawson Saldanha, Mr. Leon Aranha, and Mr. Kenny Correa — for their outstanding achievements in academics and extracurricular activities. 

The celebration then moved into a time of joy and fellowship. Fun games, conducted by Mr. Brian D’Antonius and Mrs. Sophia Saldanha, brought smiles and laughter to all.
The cultural highlight of the evening was the traditional Mando, exquisitely presented by Mrs. Carmelita D’Souza, Mr. Arthur D’Souza, and other senior ward members. Accompanied by the melodious music of Mr. Patrick Pereira, the performance — enriched with graceful movements and expressive enactment — beautifully embodied the charm of our Mangalorean heritage and was received with great admiration by all present.

The vote of thanks was proposed by the ward representative Mrs. Sophia Saldanha.
The programme concluded with a sumptuous dinner, lovingly prepared by the ward members, followed by the vibrant Baila dance, where everyone joined in the spirit of joy and celebration.
The Monthi Fest celebration was truly a blend of faith, culture, and fellowship, strengthening the bond as one family under the loving protection of Mother Mary.

Report By – Dr. Lovely George
Pictures – Kevin D’ Lima