By Sitaram Mewati
The premises of Maharashtra’s Lok Bhavan resonated with devotional chants of ‘Dnyaneshwar–Tukaram’ as young Warkaris led a vibrant dindi procession to mark Maharashtra State Foundation Day. The celebrations were held in the presence of Governor Jishnu Dev Varma and his wife Sudha Dev Varma.
The event was organised as part of the Centre’s Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative, highlighting the spirit of unity through cultural diversity. A series of cultural programmes showcased Maharashtra’s rich traditions and ethos.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that a nation is not merely defined by geographical boundaries but is a confluence of diverse cultures. “To understand a state, one must understand its culture,” he said, adding that while each state has its own identity, they are all bound by a common thread of unity.
Padma awardees from the state were felicitated on the occasion. Among those honoured were Uday Kotak, Ashok Khade, Bhiklya Dhinda, Jujhar Vasi, R Madhavan, Satish Shah (posthumously), and Satyanarayan Nuwal, among others.
A cultural programme organised with the support of Amarvani Foundation featured performances by singers Shantanu Herlekar and Upagna Pandya, along with artist Abhimanyu Herlekar. They presented a blend of Marathi and Gujarati folk and devotional songs, drawing appreciation from the audience.
The performances included popular renditions such as ‘Sur Niragas Ho’, ‘Vaishnav Jan To’, Gujarati folk songs, and the abhang ‘Teerth Vitthal, Kshetra Vitthal’. Traditional dance performances by young Warkaris added colour to the celebrations and captivated attendees.
The Governor described Maharashtra as the land of saints, noting that their teachings promote social equality and harmony.
On the occasion, a ‘TB-Free India’ campaign was also launched at the Governor’s initiative. Secretary to the Governor, Prashant Narnavare, said the campaign aims to reach slum populations in both urban and rural areas.
Dr Narnavare delivered the welcome address, while Protocol Officer Archana Gaikwad conducted the proceedings and proposed the vote of thanks.
Among those present were Dr Madan Maharaj Gosavi, entrepreneur Nikhil Merchant, Fisheries Commissioner Prerna Deshbratar, Joint Secretary S Ramamoorthy, and Comptroller of the Governor’s Households Dr Nishikant Deshpande, along with other dignitaries.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
