Dr. Mahesh Keluskar proposes Marathi Bhavan to preserve linguistic diversity at NMMC event | File Photo
Navi Mumbai: Noted literary figure Dr. Mahesh Keluskar has emphasized the need for a Marathi Bhavan in Maharashtra to preserve the linguistic diversity of the Marathi language and instill a sense of pride among the younger generation.
He made this suggestion while delivering a lecture on “Mayboli Abhijat Marathi” (Mother Tongue – Classical Marathi) at a program organized by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC). The event was part of the ongoing Marathi Language Conservation Fortnight, going on from January 14 to 28.
The need for having a Bhavan dedicated to the language was stated help study and preserve the linguistic diversity that enriches Marathi. “Marathi has a rich history spanning over 2,000 years, and its recognition as a classical language by the central government is a matter of pride for Marathi speakers. However, this recognition must be honored by consciously using Marathi in daily life. Marathi has 68 dialects, which serve as its lifeblood. Marathi Bhavan in Maharashtra is needed wherein a dedicated authority for these dialects could be established,” said the writer.
Another crucial suggestion made by the writer was having a centralised system that will ensure all government offices working on Marathi language-related projects should operate under one roof to enhance coordination and accelerate its development.
Likewise Marathi artists and famous personalities were asked to converse in Marathi so that younger generations take a liking to learn the language. “ Younger generation emulates fashion and mannerism of famous celebrities, Marathi artists can play a pivotal role in promoting the language by conversing in Marathi in public,” he said.
Dispelling concerns about the decline of Marathi, he cited data showing that Marathi is spoken in 72 countries, taught at 15 universities, and used by over 120 million people worldwide. Comparing Marathi to a mother’s milk essential for a newborn’s healthy growth, he affirmed that fears about its extinction are baseless.
The writer paid his tribute to four Jnanpith award-winning Marathi literary figures—V. S. Khandekar, Kusumagraj, Vinda Karandikar, and Dr. Bhalchandra Nemade. He also recited Kusumagraj’s poem “Chandra” and Vinda Karandikar’s “Dhondya Nhavi” before concluding the session with his own famous poem, “Jhinjhinat”.
As part of the ongoing celebrations, on January 22, NMMC will host a Marathi Biography and Autobiography Reading Competition for its officers and employees at 11:00 AM.
