All roads lead to Bandra as devotees throng to celebrate the annual Feast of Our Lady of the Mount today. And among them is actor-producer Dino Morea, who admits that he shares a special bond not only with the church, but also with the Mount Mary fair (as it is commonly known) that is to kickstart from tomorrow. “When I had moved to Bandra from Bangalore years ago, it was around the time of the fair and I was simply awestruck by the way the entire place was charged up. I just fell in love with Bandra, it’s vibe and the festivity around the time,” recalls Dino.
A hard-core Bandra boy at heart now, Dino says that the entire place has a street carnival kind of a feel. “There’s so much positivity around and cheerful faces. One can’t help but join in the revelry and come away smiling,” says the actor. "Apart from a religious experience, the fair is also a joyous time for all to celebrate and a great melting pot for people from across all walks of life. Sure it's become commercial over the years, but the excitement has not dimmed one bit. And I'm sure like me, thousands look forward to it each year," adds Dino.
Quite a regular at the fest himself, Dino reveals that he makes sure to visit the church around the time of the fest at least once. The actor, however, insists that it’s not just during the fest that he visits the church. “I often visit it late at around one or two in the night at least once every month and sit on the steps, light candles... I’ve had really long conversations with God here and never come away without answers. There’s a certain peace that overcomes you completely,” smiles Dino.
And what’s he praying for today? “Well, lots of happiness for me and everyone around and of course, success (laughs). God’s seen me tide through a lot over the years, held my hand in highs and lows. So there’s lot to be thankful for,” adds Dino.
