-News n Pics: Allen Crasta
Abu Dhabi, UAE - September 8, 2024 : In a vibrant display of cultural preservation and community spirit, Canara Catholic Christians from Barkur, now residing in the United Arab Emirates, came together to celebrate Monthi Festh on September 8, 2024. This annual celebration, marking the nativity of Holy Mother Mary, transformed a corner of the cosmopolitan UAE into a slice of coastal Karnataka for one memorable day.
The celebration, hosted at the residence of Sharmila and Terence Lewis in Abu Dhabi, showcased how immigrant communities can maintain their cultural identities while embracing their new home. Peter Menezes, Leader of the EB family, noted, "Our gathering here, thousands of miles from Barkur, demonstrates the strength of our community bonds and the adaptability of our traditions."
This year's Monthi Festh took on special significance as it blended age-old customs with modern sensibilities. The traditional offering of flowers to Mother Mary was complemented by a digital presentation on the history and importance of the festival, engaging younger members of the community who have grown up in the UAE.
Sharmila Lewis, serving as the event's compere, introduced innovative elements to the celebration. The musical performances by Michelle D'Almeida and Patson D'Almeida featured a fusion of traditional Konkani hymns and contemporary arrangements, symbolizing the community's journey from Barkur to the UAE. This musical bridge between past and present was a highlight of the evening, drawing enthusiastic participation from attendees of all ages.
Terence Lewis, one of the hosts, remarked on the evolving nature of the celebration. "While we hold our traditions dear, we're also creating new ones here in the UAE. Our Monthi Festh now includes elements that reflect our life in this diverse country."
The success of the event was attributed to the collective effort of the community, with support from various families and individuals. This collaborative spirit, reminiscent of community gatherings back in Barkur, has found new expression in the multicultural setting of the UAE.
The event followed a structured program that reflected both traditional elements and modern adaptations. It began with a warm welcome by Thelma D'Almeida and prayer lead by Terence Lewis, followed by the offering of flowers to Mother Mary. The traditional serving of milk with 'Novem' was a key part of the celebration. Entertainment segments, feedback sessions, and a vote of thanks were interspersed throughout the event. The gathering concluded with blessings of the food and a communal lunch (Nove Jevan), and social activities including Housie Housie and Baila before the farewell. Bertie Fernandes generously sponsored the prizes for winners of Housie Housie game.
Key roles in the event were performed by community members, with Sharmila Andrade as compere, Terence Lewis leading the prayer, Thelma D'Almeida giving the welcome address, Allen Crasta offering the vote of thanks, Jennifer Dias conducting Bible readings, and Michelle Andrade leading the prayers of the faithful.
As the evening concluded, it was clear that the Barkurian community in the UAE had not just celebrated a festival; they had reaffirmed their cultural identity while embracing their role as global citizens. The Monthi Festh celebration stood as a testament to the community's ability to honor their roots while flourishing in new soil, embodying the spirit of adaptation and preservation that characterizes many immigrant communities in the UAE.
This annual gathering serves not only as a religious observance but also as a crucial link to the community's heritage, ensuring that the traditions of Barkur continue to thrive among new generations growing up far from their ancestral home. As the UAE continues to be a melting pot of cultures, celebrations like the Monthi Festh highlight the rich tapestry of traditions that contribute to the country's diverse social landscape.
