Mangaluru: Holy Cross Church, Cordel, came alive with the colours, flavours and traditions of the monsoon as the Stree Sanghatan Cordel Unit, in association with six other commissions of the parish, organised ‘Pavsa Gammath’ at Cordel Hall on August 9.
The celebration brought together children, youth, adults and senior citizens, creating a lively platform to experience the traditional food, customs and community spirit associated with the monsoon season.
For Holy Cross Church, Cordel, the programme was more than a festive gathering. It became an occasion to preserve the cultural memories of earlier generations and introduce younger parishioners to traditions that have shaped the community.
Cordel parish brings generations together
The programme began with an invocation by members of the Stree Sanghatan Cordel Unit.
A special traditional inauguration added meaning to the celebration. An elderly couple accompanied by their grandchild opened the lid of an idli steamer and distributed turmeric leaf rice with coconut dumplings, known as Haldi kolyanchi Patholi, to the dignitaries and guests.
The gesture symbolised the passing of culinary traditions from one generation to another.
Addressing the gathering, Parish Priest Fr Clifford Fernandes appreciated the initiative and urged parishioners to remain connected to their roots.
He said traditional household articles, food practices and customs reflected the heritage and identity of families and communities, and encouraged parishioners to preserve and share them with younger generations.
Traditional flavours fill Cordel Hall
One of the highlights of Pavsa Gammath was the traditional monsoon feast, featuring more than 15 varieties of seasonal and traditional delicacies prepared by members of the Stree Sanghatan and parishioners.
The feast offered a glimpse into the region’s rich culinary heritage and recalled the simple food habits followed by earlier generations, particularly during the monsoon.
The celebration also featured cultural performances by children, youth and elders. Music, lively performances, spot competitions, games and Housie added to the festive atmosphere.
Celebrating faith, heritage and fellowship
Fr Clifford encouraged the parish community to continue organising occasions that bring people together and strengthen their bonds.
The celebration also gave senior parishioners an opportunity to share memories and experiences, while younger members experienced traditional food and customs in a joyful community setting.
Stree Sanghatan Cordel Unit president Shobha D’Souza delivered the vote of thanks.
Resident Priest Fr Denzil, Assistant Parish Priest Fr Loyd Rohan D’Souza, Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council Ruth Castelino, Secretary Anil D’Sa and presidents of the six commissions were among those present.
Pavsa Gammath concluded on a joyful note, leaving the parish community with cherished memories of traditional flavours, cultural performances, laughter and fellowship.