The Maharashtra State Punjabi Sahitya Academy, under the Ministry of Minority Development, Government of Maharashtra, along with the 11-member Sikh Coordination Committee, is organising a three-day Punjabi Sabhyachar Mela to showcase and promote Punjabi culture.
The grand festival will be held on Sunday, March 30, from 6:00 PM onwards at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai.
This event coincides with Gudi Padwa, the Marathi New Year, symbolising the cultural ties between Punjab and Maharashtra. The festival aims to foster unity, inclusivity, and cultural exchange by bringing together Punjabi and Maharashtrian traditions on one platform. The festival will feature a live performance by folk singer Ranjit Bawa, folk dances from the two states, like bhangra, giddha, and lavani. The festival will herald celebrations for Baisakhi, the Punjabi New Year, on April 13.
Bal Malkit Singh, Executive Chairman, Maharashtra State Punjabi Sahitya Academy, stated, “For the first time in history, the Maharashtra Government is taking a significant step to celebrate and promote Punjabi culture on such a grand scale. This initiative reflects our commitment to cultural diversity, harmony, and the spirit of togetherness between Punjab and Maharashtra.”
The Punjabi Sabhyachar Mela is expected to attract thousands of attendees, including dignitaries, community leaders, cultural enthusiasts, and the general public. This event is a testament to Maharashtra’s inclusive ethos, embracing the diverse cultural fabric that contributes to the state’s rich heritage. The festival will not only highlight the artistic excellence of Punjabi traditions but also celebrate Maharashtra’s folk culture, reinforcing the bond between both communities, added Singh.