New Delhi [India]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi. This prestigious Marathi literary conference, being held in the national capital after 71 years, will run from February 21 to 23.
Prominent Dignitaries in Attendance
PM Modi was felicitated in the presence of:
✔ Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
✔ Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar
✔ Renowned Marathi writer Tara Bhawalkar
✔ Sammelan President Usha Tambe
The Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan was first held in Pune in May 1878, initiated by Justice Mahadev Govind Ranade. The last time this literary conference was held in Delhi was in 1954, inaugurated by then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
“Marathi literary gathering, being held in the national capital after 71 years, will celebrate Marathi literature’s timeless relevance and explore its role in contemporary discourse,” a release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) stated.
Government Recognizes Marathi as a Classical Language
This Sammelan comes after the Indian government granted classical language status to Marathi, reinforcing its cultural and historical significance.
Key Highlights of the Sammelan (February 21-23)
📚 Literary & Cultural Events
- Diverse panel discussions on language preservation, translation, and digitalisation.
- Interactive sessions with eminent literary figures.
- Cultural performances showcasing Marathi heritage.
🚂 Symbolic Literary Train Journey
- A special train from Pune to Delhi carrying 1,200 participants to symbolize literature’s unifying spirit.
📖 Marathi Literary Contributions
- Over 2,600 poetry submissions.
- 50 book launches.
- 100 bookstalls featuring Marathi literary works.
The Sammelan will bring together distinguished scholars, authors, poets, and literature enthusiasts from across India, reaffirming Marathi literature’s timeless impact and evolving role in the modern era.