Before I came to Malta, my husband-to-be told me how wonderful this country is, especially the town named Mosta, which he had adopted as his hometown. I am truly glad that he made the perfect choice because the harmonious lifestyle of the Mostin, which I too am experiencing, is a great blessing.

Recently, a patriotic song called Ghanja Lill-Mosta was specially composed to honour the Santa Marija Band Club on the occasion of their first centenary. If you listen to it, you too will be touched by the lyrics and the melody, which were uniquely expressed by the composer in praising Mosta and the Mostin.

Like many others, I love the rich cultural feasts on these islands. The one I have just attended was my first Santa Marija feast in my hometown. Heartfelt thanks to the Mostin and those involved who contributed in any way to make this feast an outstanding success and memorable.

During the feast, the main atmosphere was one of peace, love, joy and harmony, which the Mostin shared not only among themselves but also with local visitors and foreign tourists. The pride of the Mostin gloriously shone brighter than the stars, throughout the feast.

Great applause and cheers of love and respect rocked the town when the statue of Mother Mary made her first appearance outside the Rotunda. Very touching indeed, when the strength of love and respect were felt at this special moment while the ringing of the church bells joined the roaring crowds. Showers of colourful confetti further lifted the already cheerful atmosphere.

Apart from the renowned beauty of the majestic rotunda, the town was further enhanced with arrays of elaborate street decorations and colourful lights, which clearly revealed the input of the heart and soul of the creators and workers that had made them come alive.

Multiple coloured fireworks beautified the sky, while the innovative ground fireworks lit up the smiles on our face. Behind all these, both fireworks’ teams certainly deserve great applause for their hard work, and every drop of their sweat to make these fireworks possible will forever be appreciated.

I must not forget to mention that the Oratorio which was held in the rotunda earned the standing ovation they received. Each tune and tone that hit my ears melted down into my heart. I cannot find the exact words to express how beautifully it was performed.

Just before the feast, my husband and I visited the concerts organised by the two Mosta band clubs. Their outstanding performances not only attracted foreign visitors to stay, they indeed earned great rounds of applause from the audience. We salute you, Santa Marija and Nicoló Isouard Band Clubs!

I must not forget to say how well the mobile food and beverage stalls were located around the Rotunda, bringing convenience to many, apart from the restaurants. If you were not fussy, you could even find a place to rest your feet together with the visitors on the side streets or in the open space garden behind the rotunda.

If you have not visited our feast, we encourage you to give yourself the opportunity to indulge in the many fond memories that Mosta offers. See you next year.

Choy Hong

(Jasmine) Grech

Malaysian/Maltese

in Mosta