Dubai: The St. Mary’s Mangalorean Community (SMMC-Dubai), a prominent Mangalorean Konkani organization under St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubai, celebrated Monthi Fest with remarkable grandeur from August 28 to September 6. This traditional celebration, marking the Nativity of Mother Mary, is deeply cherished by the Mangalorean Catholic community. The event saw active participation from hundreds of devotees, making it one of the most significant religious events for Mangaloreans in the UAE.
The 9-day Novena, which led up to the main celebration, was filled with devotion and reverence. Each day of the Novena featured a Konkani Mass, drawing large numbers of families and children. The children were especially enthusiastic, bringing flowers to offer to Infant Mary, a key aspect of the Monthi Festh tradition. The sight of young children showering flowers in reverence was particularly moving, reminding many of similar scenes back in their homeland. The Novena services fostered a spirit of community and reflection, drawing people together in faith.
The culmination of the festivities on Friday, September 6, was a grand and solemn affair. The Eucharistic celebration began with a vibrant procession led by the Konkan Taram Brass Band, which played the beloved Konkani hymn “Sakkad Sangatha Mellyam.” Children carrying flowers, Eucharistic ministers, SMMC Dubai chief coordinator Joseph Mathias, core team members, and altar servers participated in the procession, with the beautifully decorated Palki carrying the Statue of Infant Mary as the centerpiece.
A key highlight of the celebration was the traditional blessing of the new corn (Novem), which had been specially flown in from Mangalore. This symbolic ritual of blessing the harvest is a significant part of the Monthi Festh, representing gratitude for God’s blessings and the bountiful harvest. Little children, accompanied by the choir’s rendition of “Moriek Hogolsiyam,” offered floral tributes to Mother Mary with deep reverence.
The Solemn Eucharistic Mass was presided over by the main celebrant, Fr. Derick Dsouza, and was concelebrated by other priests, including Fr. Victor Fernandes, Fr. Andrew, Fr. Denis, Fr. Michael, and Fr. Joywin. The Mass was accompanied by melodious hymns sung by the JMJ Choir Group, adding to the solemnity and spiritual ambiance of the occasion.
During his homily, Fr. Joywin spoke about the central role of the family in Christian life. He emphasized the importance of prayer within the family, particularly the recitation of the Rosary, and how invoking Mother Mary’s intercession can lead to peace, harmony, and blessings in family life. His message resonated with many attendees, who reflected on the significance of fostering prayerful and close-knit families in today’s fast-paced world.
Following the religious services, the celebration continued with a traditional Mangalorean community feast, known as Novem Jevann. Devotees gathered together to enjoy a sumptuous meal, featuring traditional Mangalorean vegetarian dishes prepared with the newly blessed harvest. The communal dining experience brought families and friends together, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere. It was a time for the community to bond, share stories, and celebrate their cultural and spiritual heritage.