Mangaluru: St Sebastian Church, Bendur transformed the rainy season into a vibrant celebration as hundreds of parishioners came together for Pavsa Gammat 2026, a festival that blended mouth-watering traditional food, lively entertainment and the warmth of community fellowship.

Held at the church’s Platinum Jubilee Hall, the annual monsoon festival brought together people of all ages to celebrate Mangalorean traditions through food, music, dance and fun-filled activities.

St Sebastian Church celebrates monsoon with tradition

The celebrations began with a colourful procession led by the St Sebastian Church Children’s Brass Band, accompanied by parish organisations, farmers, Gurkars and clergy. A graceful prayer dance and prayers seeking abundant rain and a prosperous harvest added a meaningful touch to the festivities.

In a symbolic gesture reflecting the agricultural theme of the event, Parish Priest Rev. Fr Walter D’Souza inaugurated Pavsa Gammat by cutting a bunch of bananas instead of the traditional ribbon. He encouraged families to preserve Mangalorean culinary traditions and pass them on to future generations.

A food festival that delighted every visitor

The aroma of authentic Mangalorean monsoon delicacies filled the venue as visitors queued up to savour favourites including Pathrode, Patholi, Kube Mutli, Pork Indad, Mutton Boti, Chicken Kebab, Moog Ani Kirl and Payasa.

A lively auction featuring fresh farm produce, homemade wine, bananas and jackfruit added excitement, with enthusiastic bidding keeping the festive mood alive.

Music, dance and plenty of laughter

The evening came alive with energetic performances by the Catholic Action League (CAL), Young Christian Students (YCS) and senior parishioners. Traditional attire competitions, baila songs, dance contests and cultural programmes kept the audience entertained throughout the celebration.

One of the most touching moments was the observance of Grandparents’ and Elders’ Day, where senior members of the parish were honoured with roses and invited to cut a celebratory cake, highlighting the church’s emphasis on family values and togetherness.

With delicious food, colourful performances and cheerful smiles all around, St Sebastian Church, Bendur’s Pavsa Gammat 2026 once again proved that the best way to enjoy the monsoon is with good food, great company and cherished traditions.