125-Year-Old Kanara Catholic Association Celebrates Monti Fest in Mumbai

The 125-year-old Kanara Catholic Association (KCA) in Mumbai celebrated Monthi Saibinnichem Fest, or Monti Fest, in Bandra on September 12. The feast celebrates the Nativity of the Virgin Mary and is an important religious and cultural tradition among Mangalorean Catholics. According to KCA president Sunil Lobo, Monti Fest is a Catholic harvest festival rooted in the cultural heritage of the Mangalorean Catholic community. It is traditionally celebrated on September 8. The name “Monti” is the Konkani term for Mother Mary. Lobo explained that the tradition is associated with the Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount in Old Goa. He said the celebration was initiated in 1763 by Fr Joachim Miranda, a Goan priest, at Monte Mariano Church in Farangipet, and was later revitalised around 1799. The Kanara Catholic Association, founded in 1901, has a long history of serving the Kanarite community in Mumbai. Over the years, its activities have expanded to serve wider sections of society, including through the establishment of hostels and halls. The thanksgiving service and Holy Mass were led by Fr Henry D’Souza, parish priest of Our Lady of Victories (Victoria Church), Mahim. During the celebration, prayers were offered in thanksgiving for the gifts of nature. Mother Mary was venerated, while new paddy sheaves, devotees and the festive meal were blessed. The religious celebration was accompanied by cultural activities. The choir performed Konkani hymns, while the cultural programme featured Konkani songs, a play, dance performances and comedy. Families also participated in the traditional Kutmachen fest, a vegetarian meal prepared using fresh seasonal produce. The meal included an odd number of dishes and featured traditional Mangalorean preparations such as allu dentte, karathe and alsande. A major highlight of the feast was vorn, a traditional payasam prepared with moong dal, coconut milk and jaggery. Members of the KCA managing council attended the event in traditional attire. Lobo also acknowledged the contribution of association members and volunteers who helped organise the celebration. The event brought together faith, food and Konkani cultural traditions, highlighting the continuing heritage of the Mangalorean Catholic community in Mumbai.