Ahmedabad: The Maharashtra Samaj, Ahmedabad (MSA), is gearing up for its centenary celebration scheduled to commence on December 15. The event agenda encompasses a diverse array of activities, including a food festival, a matrimonial fair, cultural presentations, and a business conclave.

Founded a century ago, MSA functions as an umbrella organization for 69 community groups, representing the varied Maharashtrian communities settled in Gujarat. Over 5 lakh Maharashtrians residing in Ahmedabad, particularly in areas like Vasant Chowk and Dakshini Society, are set to partake in the celebration of their heritage as MSA reaches its centenary milestone in August 2024.

The festivities are set to kick off this weekend at Tagore Hall, situated along the Sabarmati River. Trustees Narayan Bhoite, Atul Joshi, and Dr. Dhavan Vartak are overseeing the event, with the opening ceremony featuring Harsh Sanghavi and Sonalben Amit Shah as the guests of honor. Anticipated attendees include Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Over the course of the three-day celebration, Marathi culture will take center stage through various events. The food festival and cultural programs aim to be vibrant representations of Marathi traditions, drawing wide participation from the community.

The formation of MSA in 1924 stemmed from Maharashtrian officials’ desire for a platform for social, political, and religious discourse. Commencing on August 1, coinciding with the remembrance of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, this initiative, originating in a school in Ahmedabad, aimed to provide education in the Marathi medium to cater to the influx of Marathi speakers.”