The Kiwi-Marathi community turned up in full attendance to celebrate Maharashtra Day in Auckland. The event on April 30, 2023, was organised a day ahead of the state’s foundation day that is celebrated on May 1 every year to commemorate the creation of the predominantly Marathi-speaking state in 1960.
The event was organised by the Auckland Marathi Association (AMAI) that has been catering to the city's Marathi-speaking diaspora since 1995.
More than 400 people braved heavy rain and wind to attend the event at 595 Te Te Atatu Peninsula Community Centre, which had on offer authentic Maharashtrian food and the Marathi culture.
According to AMAI President Neha Nalawade, the idea behind organising the event was to celebrate Maharashtrian roots through its cuisine and culture.
She told The Indian Weekender, “Maharashtra has various region-specific specialities, and we wanted to bring them to all. We had about 23 food stalls selling food from different regions: Mumbai Street food, Pune, Malvani, etc. Every item sold was unique and made by AMAI members. Moreover, we also had an amazing cultural display through our clothing and jewellery stalls.”
Attendees also enjoyed a visual presentation by AMAI members, including Vaibhav Bhor, Rushikesh Ahinave, Tanay Chalke, and Vaibhav Naik, which educated people about how Maharashtra was formed, the geographical aspects of the region and how Shivaji Maharaj established the Marathi empire. There were also other projects by children showing famous personalities from Maharashtra, different arts and folk dances, etc.
Among the dignitaries who attended the event were community leaders Prakash Biradar, Kalyan Rao Kasuganti and Ajay Ravi. One of the guests, Sai Bedekar, said, "I enjoyed the vibrant and colourful experience. It was all about good vibes and great food. Well done Neha Nalawade and AMAI team."
Another attendee, Amol Walimbe, said, "Awesome job AMAI team. Great job in organising and getting it done safely and successfully. You all did a great job. Brand India, Maharashtra is progressing well."
Seemingly excited with the response, Nalawade said, “We had an overwhelming response, as many non-Maharashtrian people attended the event to try our cuisine despite bad weather. Thanks to all who had worked hard to put the event together. The younger generation needs to know our roots and the importance of our culture and tradition. Events like these bring our people together and teach new generations and youth what was done in the past to achieve this. Events like these inspire them to preserve our culture for many more years ahead.”
Nalawade also extended her wishes for Maharashtra Day on behalf of Auckland Marathi Association. She said, "We wish all our fellow Maharashtrians a Happy Maharashtra Day, Jai Maharashtra!”