During the gathering, Rama Naik Genasinakumeru, a retired military personnel and the current secretary of the Kombettu Marati Samaja Seva Sangha, addressed the attendees with a call to action. He emphasized the importance of preserving Marathi culture by providing children with a solid foundation of traditional education and moral values. "To sustain our cultural heritage, it is imperative that we instill these core values in the younger generation," he stated.
The event was a testament to the vibrancy and resilience of the Marathi culture, with participants and community members coming together to celebrate and reinforce their rich traditions. The inclusion of the Aati Aisiri and Vanamahotsava celebrations added a touch of authenticity, enhancing the overall experience and significance of the gathering. The day was marked by a strong sense of unity and shared purpose, as the Padumale unit worked towards fostering a deeper connection with their cultural roots.
A Celebration of Tradition and Talent
The event commenced with the esteemed presence of Karunakara Naik Aletti Pangalayi, President of Kombettu Marati Samaja Seva Sangha, who performed the opening ceremony. A significant part of the function was the Vanamahotsava initiative, which aimed to instill environmental awareness. This was initiated by Krishna Naik Mudpinadka, a distinguished retiree from the railway service.
The occasion was marked by a series of activities such as the distribution of books among children to encourage literacy and the honoring of senior citizens. Academic excellence was also celebrated with the conferment of Pratibha Puraskara awards to students who secured over 85% in SSLC and PU examinations.
Prominent speakers at the gathering were Meenakshi Manjunath, President of the women’s wing, and Vasantha Naik Aryapu, President of the youth wing. Both leaders highlighted the crucial role of collective community efforts in safeguarding cultural heritage. They underscored the importance of unity in fostering a society that values tradition and knowledge.
The event was meticulously chaired by Appayya Naik Talenji, President of Padumale Marati Samaja Seva Sangha. Several noteworthy members of the community also graced the occasion with their participation, including Mahalinga Naik Narimogaru, Poovappa Naik, Balakrishna Naik, Subraya Naik, and Yamuna Y.K. Naik Patte.