The Mount Mary Feast is held annually in honour of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a significant event for the Christian community, particularly in Mumbai. The Mount Mary Church Feast has a long history and holds cultural importance beyond its religious significance.
The Mount Mary Feast is deeply rooted in the vibrant Christian traditions. For residents of Mumbai, especially Bandra, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount proudly represents faith.
The celebration honours the birth of the Virgin Mary, and is regarded as a sacred occasion in Christianity.
Catholics hold that Mary was selected by God to be Jesus Christ's mother, establishing her as a pivotal figure in Christianity. The feast day commemorates her significance in history, and during the observance, Catholics request her intercession, grace, and protection.
Novena rituals
The fair will begin from September 5 and will end on September 13.
It brings together thousands of devotees from across Mumbai and parts of India.
This annual celebration is a powerful manifestation of faith, tradition, and devotion to Our Lady of Mount Mary, who is revered as a protector and intercessor for the faithful.
The Novena is held in preparation for the feast and serves as a time for spiritual renewal, penance, and reflection.
Devotees gather in large numbers to attend the daily novenas and participate in the Eucharistic celebrations. They engage in acts of devotion such as lighting candles and offering flowers to Our Lady of Mount Mary.
Special Masses and processions
During the feast day, the Basilica hosts masses in various languages to cater to the diverse congregation of devotees.
The highlight of the celebration features a magnificent procession, during which a statue of Our Lady of Mount Mary is paraded through Bandra’s streets, accompanied by hymns, prayers, and signs of devotion.
The parade is a lively expression of devotion and includes individuals presenting flowers, candles, and prayers to Mother Mary to show their respect.
