Wed Oct 02 15:26:02 UTC 2024: ## Pune Navratri Mahotsav: A 10-Day Extravaganza Kicks Off with Grand Inauguration

**Pune, October 2, 2023:** The city of Pune is gearing up for its 30th annual Navratri Mahotsav, a 10-day cultural extravaganza filled with music, dance, and spiritual devotion. The festival will commence on October 3rd with a grand inauguration ceremony graced by prominent figures from the political and cultural spheres.

**Inauguration Ceremony:** The official inauguration will be held at the Shri Ganesh Kala Krida Rangamanch, Swargate, at 4:30 PM on October 3rd. All India Congress Committee General Secretary Ramesh Chennithala and Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee President Nana Patole will preside over the ceremony.

**Star-Studded Event:** The inauguration will be a dazzling spectacle featuring performances by renowned film stars Rupali Bhosale, Bhargavi Chirmule, Madhura Kulkarni, Alaapini Nisal, Amruta Dhongde, Meera Joshi, Vaishnavi Patil, Poonam Ghadge, Aditi Dravid, and dance director Nikita Moghe. The event will also witness the presence of actress Prajakta Mali, known for her role in the film “Fulvanti.”

**‘Shree Lakshmi Mata Jeevan Gaurav Puraskar’:** The festival will also be marked by the presentation of the prestigious ‘Shree Lakshmi Mata Jeevan Gaurav Puraskar’ to prominent individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. This year, the award will be conferred upon Rajiv Khandekar (Senior Editor), Adv. Vandana Chavan (Former MP, Environmentalist), Nitin Bangude-Patil (Renowned Speaker), Dr. Sanjiv Chaudhary (Senior Social Worker and Orthopedic Surgeon), Aanandhi Vikas (Senior Musician and Singer), and Hindavi Patil (Lavani Folk Artist).

**Cultural Performances:** The festival promises a captivating lineup of cultural events, including the “Parampara” program showcasing the musical journey of Bharat Ratna Swarbhaskar Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, Srinivas Joshi, and Viraj Joshi; “Melody Bits” featuring a Hindi-Marathi musical evening; “Maharashtracha Lokmela” presenting traditional folk performances; a 12-hour Lavani Mahotsav; “All-Time Hits” featuring iconic Hindi songs; popular music by A.R. Rahman, R.D. Burman, and Ajay-Atul; a vibrant orchestra; “Junoon” featuring filmy qawwali and Sufi music; and a Bollywood musical extravaganza.

**Free Entry for All:** The festival, which has become a beloved tradition in Pune, is open to all, with free entry to all events. The organizers have also announced the continuation of the Pune Navratri Mahila Mahotsav, a women-centric celebration running for 25 years.

**Social Initiatives:** The festival will also witness several social initiatives aimed at community engagement and welfare. The organizers urge Pune residents to visit the Sri Lakshmi Mata temple during the festivities and take advantage of the special Maha Prasad.

The Pune Navratri Mahotsav promises to be an enriching and unforgettable experience for all, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra and fostering a sense of community.

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