Karaval Konkans Australia Inc. hosted its second annual Kutmachen Fest – Monthi Fest on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at St Louis de Montfort’s School Hall in Aspendale, Victoria, with Commissioner Sylvia Coombe of the Victorian Multicultural Commission serving as chief guest.
Before the main celebration, a nine‑day Novena honouring Infant Mary – Balok Mori brought together families from Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne, Newcastle, Adelaide, Launceston, Hobart, Sydney and Canberra. Participants gathered both in person and online, creating a shared spiritual journey that spanned the continent. Children played a special role, presenting flowers to Balok Mori, a tradition that symbolises the transmission of faith and Konkani customs across generations.
The organizers expressed gratitude to host families, prayer leaders, singers, musicians, volunteers and the livestream crew whose efforts enabled remote families to join the devotion. Prayers during the Novena sought peace, health, happiness and abundant grace through the intercession of Balok Mori, preparing hearts for the Nativity celebration of the Blessed Mother.
On the day of the fest, the event opened outdoors under bright sunshine with the traditional veneration of Balok Mori and the blessing of the Novem, a new harvest. Lester Goveas and his family from Perth were thanked for providing the first harvest of the new grain, which later was mixed into the Vorn (payasam) and shared with all attendees.
A brass band led a procession inside, carrying the beautifully adorned statue of Balok Mori beneath the damaskachi sathri, a ceremonial umbrella. The spiritual centrepiece was the Holy Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr Jacob Alvares, Spiritual Director of Karaval Konkans Australia Inc. His homily highlighted the origins of the fest and the pivotal role of mothers.
The choir, directed by Sandria Rodrigues and comprising more than thirty vocalists, enriched the liturgy, while the brass band provided music during the post‑Mass interlude. Attendees enjoyed snacks and exchanged memories, linking older generations with the youth and reinforcing the community’s cultural pride.
Image: mangalorean.com
📰 Source: Mangalorean Gulf