By Mr. Mario Borges

On the 20th of September 2026, the Konkani community gathered in large numbers at the Resurrection Church, Virar East, to celebrate the

much-awaited Monti Fest. Organized by the Konkani Welfare Association (VKW) under the leadership of Head Dian Dsouza and their active team, the day was a true reflection of devotion, culture, and unit. Monti Fest celebration (the traditional Mangalorean Catholic harvest festival).

 The Holy Mass

 The celebrations began at 10:30 am with a solemn Konkani Mass inside the church. The main celebrant, Rev. Fr. Roshan Monteiro OCD, was joined by co-celebrants Rev. Fr. Gregory D'Almeida and Rev. Fr. Joe Soares. The melodious hymns and heartfelt prayers set a deeply spiritual tone for the feast of the Nativity of Mother Mary.

 Cultural Joy in the Church Hall

 Following the mass, everyone moved to the church hall, where the cultural and social program unfolded seamlessly.

 The morning kicked off with a traditional prayer at the nativity led by Felcy Dsouza. The community paused together to offer special prayers for Anthony Gomes, singer Henry Dsouza, and a heartfelt prayer request for Rohan's good health.

 Joy and rhythm filled the air as Laura, Licia, and Merryl presented a graceful welcome dance. After a warm welcome speech, Elias treated the audience to a soothing Konkani song, followed by lively spot prize games managed by the team. The energy soared higher with an entertaining "East" style dance choreographed by Irene and a wonderful duet song by Laura and Licia.

 Honoring Our Guests and Pillars

 A special highlight of the gathering was the felicitation of esteemed guests, spiritual leaders, and benefactors by the committee members: Virar Konkani Welfare Association

Victor Pias the Compère for the Montifest a cultural Celebration kept the event vibrant by keeping the energy high, engaging the audience, and seamlessly transitioning between the solemn blessings, the cultural dances, and the traditional harvest feast, and made the entire community feel connected.

David Castelino The Secretary of Virar Konkani Welfare Association Welcomed Rev. Fr. Roshan Monteiro OCD who celebrated the mass in Konkani at Resurrection Church Virar East.

David Castelino and Dian D' souza welcomed Rev. Fr. Gregory D'Almeida.

Rohan Crasto welcomed Rev. Fr. Joe Soares, and Lynnette Santhumayer welcomed Sr. Monica.

Dian D'souza the President of the Virar Konkani Welfare Association honored Mr. Francis Cascia to celebrate his milestone of 100 dramas, followed by an inspiring speech from Mr. Cascia. Mhataro Chorbela (often searched as Mathoro Charbels) is a highly popular, super-hit Konkani comedy drama written by the renowned playwright and actor Francis Fernandes Cascia.

Wilfred Lobo felicitated journalist and social worker Rons Bantwal.

Anthony D'souza honored VKW (Vasai Konkani Welfare Association) Ex-President Reginald Santhumayer, and Jessie D'cunha welcomed Maharashtra Konkani Association President Leo Fernandes (Jeri Meri).

Generous benefactors Anil Mascarenhas, Anita Mascarenhas and Valerian Fernandes were also gratefully recognized.

 Conclusion and Fellowship

 The excitement continued with thrilling lucky dip and lucky coupon draws managed by Brian and Lynnette, more spot prizes, and a vibrant ladies' dance led by Lynnette. Rev. Fr. Gregory and Sr. Monica both spoke few words on Welcoming The Guests and Parishioners to Montifest in Konkani. Rev. Fr. Roshan delivered an inspiring address, sharing words of encouragement and blessings.

 As the morning drew to a close, David Castelino delivered a sincere vote of thanks, appreciating everyone's hard work and participation. The unforgettable day concluded with a traditional, delicious community lunch that brought everyone together as one happy family.