Mumbai (Gurudutta Wakdekar):
(Multiculturalism) The seventh edition of the Marathi – Malayali Ethnic Fest concluded on a vibrant note at the Nehru Science Centre in Worli, reaffirming Mumbai’s enduring spirit of unity in diversity. Celebrating the rich cultural traditions of Kerala and Maharashtra, the festival – held annually since 2017 – once again stood out for its scale, discipline, and enthusiastic participation.
(Multiculturalism) The event was jointly organised by the Nehru Science Centre under the Union Ministry of Culture and the All Mumbai Malayali Association (AMMA), one of the city’s prominent cultural organisations. The festival served as a dynamic platform for cultural dialogue and national integration.
Prof. Dr. Ravindra Kulkarni, Vice Chancellor of the University of Mumbai, inaugurated the festival. He remarked that the convergence of languages and cultures opens new avenues for creativity, contributing to urban development and strengthening national cohesion. Cultural exchange, he noted, is essential for building a resilient and progressive society.
During the valedictory session, Umesh Kumar Rastogi, Director of the Nehru Science Centre, highlighted the enduring relationship between science and art. “Science seeks truth, while art expresses beauty,” he said, emphasising that the convergence of the two is vital for human progress. Integrating scientific temper with cultural expression, he added, is crucial for holistic societal growth.
Fest Director and AMMA President Jojo Thomas described the event as a strong cultural bridge fostering national integration. More than a thousand students from numerous schools participated in competitions, while evening programmes featured performances by hundreds of artists. Participation was limited to schools selected in accordance with the Nehru Science Centre’s circular, ensuring structured execution and quality standards. Meticulous planning and an overwhelming public response further enhanced the festival’s stature.
Over three days, audiences witnessed a diverse range of performances, including Mohiniattam, Bharatanatyam, Thiruvathirkali and Oppana from Kerala, alongside Lavani, Koli Nritya, Mangalagaur and Gondal from Maharashtra – reflecting a vibrant artistic exchange between the two states. School-level competitions were conducted across nine categories.
On February 21, a Poets’ Conference coordinated by Prof. Dr. Kavumbayi Janardhanan added literary depth to the celebrations. The session was presided over by Dr. Alka Naik and anchored by Sulabha Chavan.
The concluding ceremony featured addresses by M. G. Arun, Managing Editor of India Today, Dr. Dinesh Kamble, Former Registrar of the University of Mumbai, and Joseph Sebastian, President of Holy Angel English Medium School. Winners were presented with trophies and certificates, while the painting, rangoli and pookalam competitions were coordinated by James Manlodi.
More than a cultural showcase, the Marathi – Malayali Ethnic Fest emerged as a meaningful forum for dialogue, coexistence and artistic collaboration. While this year’s edition has concluded, the spirit of integration it fostered is set to endure within Mumbai’s multicultural landscape.
The Marathi – Malayali Ethnic Fest at Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai celebrated Kerala and Maharashtra’s cultural heritage, promoting unity, artistic collaboration, and national integration through performances and competitions.