The managing council team wore traditional outfits. Lobo credited individual members and volunteers who helped organise the event.
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. It is traditionally celebrated on Sept 8. 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.
KCA president Sunil Lobo said Monti Fest is a Catholic harvest festival rooted in the cultural heritage of Mangalorean Catholics. Over the decades, its mission has expanded to serve all sections of society, particularly through the establishment of KCA hostels and halls,” Lobo said. Lobo said families gathered for the Kutmachen fest, a traditional vegetarian meal prepared with fresh produce and consisting of an odd number of dishes.
‘Monti’ is the Konkani name for Mother Mary. “The name originates from the Capela de Nossa Senhora do Monte (Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount) in Old Goa. 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).