The South Kanara Association (SKA) London recently celebrated its traditional Monthi Fest at Alperton Community School, Stanley Avenue, London. The event united families and community members, reaffirming Mangalorean heritage through faith and culture.
The day began with a family photo session at the main entrance, participants dressed in traditional attire. This set the tone for the celebrations. The cherished Fula Ushayche (flower offering) followed, with children joyfully presenting fresh flowers to Mother Mary in a colourful procession, a practice vital for younger generations.
A solemn Konkani Mass, led by Fr. Jason Pais, marked the morning's spiritual core. The blessed Novem (new corn) was distributed to the congregation. Fr. Valerian Castelino, though absent for Mass, joined for afternoon events.
Post-Mass, a traditional Mangalorean Noven Jewan (harvest meal) brought attendees together. Dedicated cooking and kitchen volunteers prepared and served the delicious lunch. Raffle tickets were also sold, enhancing the festive mood.
The afternoon cultural programme showcased children's and adults' talents from various SKA London wards, featuring diverse dance performances. Fr. Jason Pais and Fr. Valerian Castelino were honoured for their spiritual leadership. The festivities concluded with a lively traditional Baila dance, engaging all ages.
SKA London expressed gratitude to contributors. Priests: Fr. Jason Pais; Fr. Valerian Castelino. Altar Service: Stacy D'Sa, Liana D'Sa, Freya Dias, Scarlett Vaz, Viaan Tauro, Jewel D'Souza. Choir: SKA Choir. Sound: Carlos Fernandes. Photography: Ying. Main Sponsors: Mr. and Mrs. Lobo; Shaun D'Souza; Eugene Dais; Brian Mathias; anonymous sponsor for vegetables. Platinum Sponsors: Dr. Ben and Therese D'Souza; Peter D'Sa; Alice and Mathias Rodrigues; Mouris and Mabel D'Souza; Natalia Fernandes; Emmy Castelino; Sunil Lobo; Juvana Fernandes; Americo Manito; Matilda D'C Costa; Prakash and Precilla D'Souza; Julie Fernandes; Ryan D'Costa; M. Quadros; Meena Sequeira; I. F. D'Souza and Melvin; Deepak D'Souza; Avril D'Silva; Brian Menezes. Other Sponsors: Idli: Alwyn and Sheela Saldanha. Vorn: Marita Crasta and family; Reena and Jackson D'Souza and family; Joyce D'Souza and Jessie D'Souza family; Rocky D'Silva and family. Altar flowers: Olivia Saldanha and family. Water and milk: Gracy Menezes and family. Children's gift sweets: Elma and Alson Rodrigues.
Image: mangalorean.com
đź“° Source: Mangalorean Gulf