Marathi Bhasha Din: Celebrating the Rich Heritage of the Marathi Language

Marathi Bhasha Din, also known as Marathi Language Day, is celebrated annually on February 27th. This day commemorates the birth anniversary of the renowned Marathi poet Vishnu Vaman Shirwadkar, also known as Kusumagraj. The day is dedicated to celebrating and promoting the Marathi language, literature, and culture.

Celebrations and Events

Various events and activities are organized across Maharashtra and by Marathi-speaking communities worldwide to mark Marathi Bhasha Din. These celebrations often include:

• Literary events such as poetry recitations, book readings, and discussions on Marathi literature.
• Cultural programs showcasing Marathi music, dance, and theatre.
• Exhibitions displaying Marathi books, manuscripts, and artifacts.
• Competitions and contests promoting Marathi language skills among students.

Kamat Hotels India Ltd. (KHIL) celebrated Marathi Bhasha Diwas across their hotels in Maharashtra with week-long festivities from February 21 to February 28. The celebrations featured Maharashtrian décor, staff in traditional attire, and a curated Maharashtrian menu with dishes like Puran Poli, Misal Pav, and Solkadhi. Guests were welcomed with traditional greetings and drinks, and Til Gud Ladoo were offered. Soft Marathi music and Lezim dance performances enhanced the ambiance. The Orchid Hotel in Mumbai featured live flute performances and folk-inspired décor, offering a special Maharashtrian menu. Ira by Orchid in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Spice Oasis in Mumbai had Konkani and Maharashtrian-themed entrances and folk performances. Fort JadhavGadh featured narrations of its history, ceremonial door openings, and Ganpati Mandir Aarti, with activities like pottery and bullock cart rides. Lotus Eco Beach Resort Murud-Dapoli offered Konkani dishes like Ukadiche Modak and Zunka Bhakari, with Konkani-themed décor.

MNS Book Exhibition

On the occasion of Marathi Bhasha Gaurav Din, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) organized a book exhibition at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Ground in Mumbai. This four-day exhibition, which continues until March 2, 2025, features publishers from across Maharashtra, showcasing Marathi literary works.

Raj Thackeray, the chief of MNS, extended greetings to all Marathi-speaking citizens and highlighted the importance of reading for linguistic and intellectual growth. Distinguished personalities recited their favorite Marathi poems at the inauguration, which was broadcast live on social media platforms and news channels. Raj Thackeray urged Marathi-speaking citizens to visit the exhibition, emphasizing the importance of reading in nurturing linguistic and intellectual growth, reinforcing the adage: “If you read, you will thrive.”

Significance

Marathi Bhasha Din serves as an important occasion to promote the use of the Marathi language in various domains, including education, administration, and media. It also encourages the younger generation to connect with their cultural roots and appreciate the richness of Marathi literature and traditions.

Vishal Kamat, Executive Director of KHIL, emphasized that Marathi is the heartbeat of Maharashtra’s culture and identity. He stated that celebrating Marathi Bhasha Diwas is a tribute to the language and a way to showcase the traditions, flavors, and heritage of Maharashtra, aiming to provide guests with an authentic experience of Marathi culture.