Hyderabad, Sep 21: The Kanara Catholic Welfare Association (KCWA) in Hyderabad recently came together at St Mary’s Chapel in Secunderabad for a joyous celebration of Monthi Fest. The event, which drew a crowd of around 130 people, was a beautiful testament to the community’s shared faith and cultural heritage.
The festivities commenced outdoors with the blessing of the Maria Bambina statue, the new rice harvest, and the assembled community by Fr Alwin Mascarenhas. The air filled with the sound of Konkani hymns as the gathering, led by children, showered the statue with flowers. A procession then carried the statue into the chapel, where Fr Alwin conducted a Konkani Mass, accompanied by the choir’s melodious singing and the children’s musical talents. After the Mass, the traditional ‘roce’ made from blessed grains was shared among the attendees.
Following a refreshment break, the association members and their spouses convened for the Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) in the hall. Meanwhile, Melita and Renita Abraham kept the children entertained with engaging games and competitions outside.
The AGM, presided over by President Alwyn Menezes, included the President’s opening address, the annual report presented by General Secretary Lavina D’Souza, and the treasurer’s report delivered by Ronald D’Silva. The meeting concluded with biennial elections overseen by electoral officer Sarita Mendanha, resulting in the following new leadership team:
Executive Committee:
- President: Alwyn Menezes
- Vice President: Stanley Abraham
- General Secretary: Stany Mendonca
- Joint Secretary: Michael Abraham
- Treasurer: Ronald D`Silva
Members:
- Freni Saldanha
- Reena Monis
- Lawrence Monteiro
- Malwan D’Cunha
- James Sylvester
- Edward Pereira
In recognition of academic excellence, the association, represented by past President Benjamin Monteiro, awarded medals and certificates to students who achieved 70% or higher in their exams.
The celebration culminated in a traditional vegetarian lunch, complete with sugarcane pieces for everyone to take home. The afternoon concluded with spontaneous singing and dancing, allowing everyone to revel in the joyous spirit of Monthi Fest.