-News : Michelle Andrade, Pics : Robinson Martis
Barkurian Community in UAE Celebrates Monthi Festh 2026 with Faith, Festivity, and Fellowship
The Barkurian Community residing in the UAE came together in a spirit of joy and togetherness to celebrate Monthi Festh 2026, the traditional harvest festival, at the gracious residence of Thelma and Walter D'Almeida in Mamsha, Saadiyat Island. The gathering brought members of the community closer, blending devotion, entertainment, and camaraderie into a memorable celebration.
Allen Crasta anchored the proceedings as the programme host, guiding the event smoothly from its devotional opening to its festive conclusion.
The celebrations began on a spiritual note with a prayer service led by Terence Lewis. Sharmila Lewis proclaimed the Word of God, while Michelle Andrade, Savitha, and Annie Martis led the Prayers of the Faithful, invoking blessings for the community. In keeping with the traditional customs of Monthi Festh, flowers were offered to Mother Mary in gratitude for the harvest and blessings of the year.
Thelma D'Almeida, the gracious host of the evening, extended a heartfelt welcome to all gathered, expressing joy at having the community come together under one roof to mark the occasion.
The entertainment segment brought energy and cheer to the celebration. Patson Almeida and Aiden Almeida delighted the audience with a musical performance, while a humorous and well-received skit was staged by Sunny Lewis, Anish Dias, Ajay Dias, Akshay Dias, Annie Martis, and Peter Menezes. To keep the festive mood alive, interactive games for both children and adults were organised by Michelle Andrade, Akshay Dias, and Allen Crasta, ensuring laughter and participation across generations.
Following the entertainment, members enjoyed a hearty communal lunch, further strengthening the bonds of fellowship that define the Barkurian community abroad.
New Committee Elected for the Term Ahead
An important part of the day's proceedings was the election of a new Executive Body to steer the community's activities in the UAE. The following members were elected to their respective positions:
- President: Anish Dias
- Vice President: Robinson Martis
- Secretary: Michelle Andrade
- Cultural Coordinator: Sunny Lewis
- Treasurer: Allen Crasta
The community also acknowledged the guidance and continued support of its well-wishers and advisors — Walter Almeida and family, Terence Lewis and family, Kishore Gonsalves, Vera Crow, and Peter Menezes — whose contributions have been instrumental to the community's growth and unity.
The celebration concluded with a Thanksgiving address by Peter Menezes, who expressed gratitude on behalf of the community to the hosts, organisers, and all who made the event a success.
Adding to the anticipation for future gatherings, the community also announced plans for an upcoming picnic, promising more moments of joy and togetherness in the days ahead.
