Kurla: An old church in Kurla celebrated its parish feast Sunday with pomp and tradition. Holy Cross Church hosted a parade and float, and several competitions which several people joined with enthusiasm.
Since two years, the local community has revived its culture at the annual feast that takes place May 1. Preparation for cooking in the church compound starts three days in advance. Women bring their own cutting boards and knives for the task. Two days before, people start the preparation of the fabled wedding pickle and chopping ginger and garlic for classic dishes like vindaloo and sorpotel. Around 125 to 150 women from the parish arrive to help from 8.30am to 7.30pm.
The third annual festival holy mass was celebrated by Bishop Felix Machado Sunday morning.
At 5.15pm, a colourful parade with floats prepared by various wards was led around the area. Young newly married couples as well as older ones who are celebrating their silver or golden jubilee joined the procession. Some were attired in fancy dress. An East Indian band played live music. Priests were brought on horsecarts through Kurla Village till they reached the church compound The Times of India reported.
East Indian villages like Gorai, Manori, Kanjur, Malad, Sion, Kalina, Vakola, Vile Parle, Sahar and Marol were invited to the ‘lugra’ (the traditional East Indian sari) competition for women. A Gumat competition saw two players and four singers of both genders participate in each team, and there was a keenly fought horsecart competition too.
Prizes were given to three best floats as well as three best decorated horsecarts. A cultural programme of traditional dances was choreographed by professionals.