This year’s Gudi Padwa, marking the Maharashtrian New Year, will see celebratory processions across the city. While Girgaon and Thane traditionally host vibrant rallies, a citizen group will organise a separate yatra in Dadar to highlight issues affecting the Marathi community, including the condition of Marathi-medium schools.
Led by Dr Deepak Pawar, the Marathi Abhyas Kendra will conduct a procession from Sanyukta Maharashtra Smruti Dalan, Shivaji Park in Dadar, to Kamgar Maidan in Parel on March 19, 8 am, to welcome the New Year. Organisers said the event aims to raise concerns related to Marathi schools, employment opportunities and housing for Marathi people in Mumbai.
Open call
The group said the celebration is not restricted to any religion and invites people from different communities to participate. Artistes will present visual performances during the yatra, and several Marathi schools and students have been invited to join.
“As a part of the procession, we are also undertaking several resolutions. They are small steps, such as purchasing Marathi literature, engaging with local theatre, and watching at least one Marathi film in the cinemas. This way we can ensure that we remain connected to our language all through the year, and not just for a day,” said Anand Bhandare, an activist from the Marathi Abhyas Kendra.
Key issues
>> Future of Marathi-medium schools
>> Employment opportunities for Marathi people
>> Housing for Marathi people in Mumbai
Resolutions
>> Give priority to Marathi businesses
>> Subscribe to Marathi newspapers
>> Visit heritage forts in Maharashtra
>> Promote Marathi food culture
>> Sign and greet in Marathi
