MUMBAI: The 125-year-old Kanara Catholic Association (KCA) Mumbai celebrated Monthi Saibinnichem Fest, or Monti Fest, the feast of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, in Bandra on Sept 12. ‘Monti’ is the Konkani name for Mother Mary.KCA president Sunil Lobo said Monti Fest is a Catholic harvest festival rooted in the cultural heritage of Mangalorean Catholics. It is traditionally celebrated on Sept 8.“The name originates from the Capela de Nossa Senhora do Monte (Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount) in Old Goa. The tradition was initiated in 1763 by Fr Joachim Miranda, a Goan priest, at the Monte Mariano Church in Farangipet. The practice was revitalised around 1799,” he said.“Founded in 1901, the KCA has a rich legacy of serving the Kanarite community in Mumbai. Over the decades, its mission has expanded to serve all sections of society, particularly through the establishment of KCA hostels and halls,” Lobo said.Fr Henry D’Souza, parish priest of Our Lady of Victories (Victoria Church), Mahim, led the thanksgiving service and celebrated holy mass. Expressing gratitude for the gifts of Mother Nature, he offered prayers, venerated Mother Mary, and blessed the new paddy sheaves, devotees and the festive meal.The choir sang Konkani hymns, while the cultural programme included Konkani songs, a play, dance performances and comedy.Lobo said families gathered for the Kutmachen fest, a traditional vegetarian meal prepared with fresh produce and consisting of an odd number of dishes. Guests enjoyed popular items such as allu dentte (colocasia and spinach leaves cooked with Mangalorean masala), karathe (bitter gourd with grated coconut) and alsande (long beans).The highlight was vorn, a rich payasam made of moong dal, coconut milk and jaggery.The managing council team wore traditional outfits. Lobo credited individual members and volunteers who helped organise the event.
