ALANDI, Correspondent
"The long-standing tradition of literary conferences is the pride and richness of the Marathi language. Literary meets should not remain mere formal gatherings; rather, they must evolve into a continuous cultural movement. The 'Literary Nandiyali' series organised on the occasion of the 100th All India Marathi Sahitya Sammelan will create a vibrant literary environment across Maharashtra," stated Dr. Sadanand More, President of the Maharashtra State Board for Literature and Culture and veteran author.
He was speaking as the chief guest at the valedictory function of the 17th Nandi Sahitya Sammelan, jointly organised by World Peace Centre Alandi, MAEER's MIT Pune, Maharashtra Sahitya Parishad (MASAP), and the Department of Marathi Language, Government of Maharashtra.
Dr. Ulhasdada Pawar presided over the conference. Distinguished guests present at the event included Vishwadharmi Prof. Dr. Vishwanath Karad (Founder President, MAEER's MIT World Peace University), Babaji Kale (MLA, Khed), and Rajesh Pandey (Director, National Book Trust). Key dignitaries including Sunil Mahajan (Secretary, MASAP), Rajan Lakhe, Prabhakar Owhal, Bapusaheb More, Ushatai Vishwanath Karad, and Prof. Swati Karad-Chate (Trustee & Secretory General, MAEER's MIT) were also in attendance.
Highlighting the rich lineage of the Marathi language, Dr. Sadanand More remarked, "Marathi is the only language in the world whose pioneering author (Sant Dnyaneshwar) confidently claimed to surpass even nectar (Amrit). We are the heirs to a rich linguistic legacy that outshines nectar, and it is our solemn responsibility to preserve this glory."
In his presidential address, Dr. Ulhas Pawar emphasized, "Today, the path shown by saintly thoughts is what can save the world. Sant Dnyaneshwar's Pasaydan has reached the United Nations office and effectively become a 'Global Prayer.' This reflects the global stature of our saint tradition and Marathi culture."
Outlining the vision behind the initiative, Rajesh Pandey noted, "The Nandi conferences are not meant merely for review. They aim to lay a strong foundation for how the Marathi language will sustain, thrive, and remain relevant in the digital age over the next century."
Khed MLA Babaji Kale stated, "We must take immense pride in the Marathi language. It is our collective responsibility to disseminate the humanistic ideals of saint literature to the masses."
Addressing the role of education, Prof. Swati Karad-Chate said, "Guided by saint literature, we need to transition 'from holy pilgrimage sites to centers of knowledge.' To foster a passion for literature among students, saint literature must be actively integrated into school and higher education curricula."
The day's events began with a Granth Dindi (book procession) originating from the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Temple to the Fruitwale Dharmashala in Alandi, where the conference took place. The afternoon featured a Chakri Bhajan by Gurubaba Maharaj Ausekar, followed by a panel discussion on 'Transforming Holy Pilgrimage Sites into Knowledge Hubs.' Chaired by Dr. Sanjay Upadhye, the discussion featured insightful contributions from Yashodhan Maharaj Sakhare, Bapusaheb More, and Sachin Parab.
The event concluded with a cultural program titled 'Dnyandeve Rachila Paya' performed by Dr. Sameera Gujar and Dr. Madhura Welankar. The program was anchored by Dr. Atul Kulkarni, and Dr. Mahesh Thorve delivered the vote of thanks.
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