Akshaya Tritiya: Not Just Glitter

Akshaya Tritiya:  Not Just Glitter
It's Akshaya Tritiya today, one among the three auspicious Muhurtas, an important day to start something new. Of course, missing it would be impossible because of the  bombardment of various ads about buying gold, silver, cars, homes etc in all  newspapers, television and on social media. And frankly aren't we all made to think  that's what it's all about? 
Well, Akshay Tritiya marks the benevolence of Krishna Bhagawan on Draupadi and the Pandavas when they were in a tight corner with the tall order of feeding many sages along with Sage Durvasa after evening when their kitchen was closed. Three grains stuck to the Akshay Patra of Draupadi saved them even as Krishna Bhagawan savoured those three grains leading to the satiety of the sages and their subsequent departure saving the Pandavas of their wrath. 
So in reality there's a whole lot more to this day than just splurging on shiny stuff.
Akshaya Tritiya must be a day to appreciate and celebrate satisfaction in all its forms. 

No doubts, it is one of those very auspicious times of the year, but  it's not just about money or gold. It's about richness in our whole life.
What could that mean? Well, to begin with, it could be about your health which is your real wealth. Are you taking care of yourself? Eating right, getting enough sleep, moving your body?
And it must also be about your habits. Are you cultivating good ones that make you feel good, or are you stuck in a rut of stuff that drags you down? Akshaya Tritiya is a great time to ditch the bad habits and embrace the good.
It's also about how you are living  your life. Are you enjoying it? Are you taking the time to appreciate the little things, like a beautiful sunset or a good cup of coffee? Are you surrounded by people you love and who love you back?
And finally, it's about accepting life for what it is. Not everything is going to be perfect and we must learn to accept imperfections. We must learn to roll with the punches, find the good in every situation, and be grateful for what we have. It can also be about sharing and caring.
Despite all this,  I know on this Akshaya Tritiya too, many may not skip the gold rush. Even if you do that, don't forget to take a look around and appreciate all the abundance that is already there in your life. Be more compassionate and focus on your health, your habits, your relationships, and your connection to nature. That's where the real treasure lies, isn't it?

Shubh Akshay Tritiya...

R. Vimala, IAS,
Compassionate Civil Servant &
PhD Scholar at IIT Bombay

A Journey of Grit, Grace, and Service – Reflections on Civil Services Day

A Journey of Grit, Grace, and Service – Reflections on Civil Services Day

Each year, on Civil Services Day, I find myself pausing to reflect on my fulfilling journey as a civil servant that began with a spark lit in a little girl's heart. I vividly remember, I was in the fifth standard when a senior, freshly selected into the Indian Administrative Service, visited our school to share his experience. His words reflecting the aura of service, the pride of purpose and the opportunity for making a difference in society ignited my imagination. The seed for my desire to become a civil servant were sown there.

The encouragement from my father and the subtle nudges of providence carried me through years of relentless preparation. I faced failures with two unsuccessful attempts at the UPSC which ended with interviews, and another shadowed by an accident just a day before the Main examination. I still remember the hospital ceiling, my  pain and frustration of watching my final chance at the UPSC slip away. But in the quiet moments that followed, I also discovered resilience. Providence, in its mysterious ways, led me to the State Civil Services and it was there that my real journey as a civil servant began.
At that time I was unfamiliar with Marathi as a language which was counted for final ranking in MPSC and that posed the biggest challenge. Adversity is often know as the best teacher but  with teachers and friends willing to support me  overcoming the language barrier also became possible and I found my path through the State Civil Services.

The early years as a Deputy Collector were my real classrooms. After a grueling training of two years my career as a civil servant began as a Tahsildar before I went on to become a Sub-Divisional Officer.  There were very few women in the state services during that time and I was therefore looked at with awe.
I learnt the ropes of revenue administration in the Tahsil which included an array of responsibilities. Subsequently I worked for land acquisition of several important projects including CIDCO or the  Mumbai-Pune Express Highway. Our duties are always interspersed with other responsibilities like election, managing natural calamities etc and these gave me great perspectives. I also got the opportunity to work for several social welfare schemes, administer Film City and also undertake the complex yet fulfilling task of rehabilitating project-affected persons. Each responsibility was a step forward, grounding me deeply in the ethos of public service.
Years passed, and responsibilities grew. I served in diverse departments, eventually becoming the Collector of Nagpur, and today, I stand as the Resident Commissioner in Delhi, also serving as Secretary, Government of Maharashtra with the huge responsibility of representing our state in our Country's Capital. But titles have never mattered to me as much as the impact since I could be a part of policies and programs that touched lives across the spectrum.

Social welfare has been a constant in my career  whether through schemes like  MGNREGA, NRLM,  DDUGKY, Jal Jeevan Mission, PMEGP, CMEGP or Bee--keeping.  

However it was during my tenure as Chief Executive Officer of the Maharashtra State Rural Livelihoods Mission that my passion for women's empowerment found full expression. We created nearly five lakh self-help groups and community organizations, connecting over 50 lakh families. These collectives enabled sustainable livelihoods for over 18 lakh households  including 14 lakh women farmers practicing climate-resilient agriculture with a turnover that then exceeded Rs.1100 crore.

I also had the distinct honour of organising a Mahila Melawa that brought together an inspiring gathering of one lakh women in the presence of the Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Held at Chatrapati Sambhaji Nagar under the dynamic leadership of the then Rural Development Minister, Smt. Pankaja Munde, this event stood out as a landmark moment. Among the many firsts, it was one of the earliest and most ambitious congregations of its kind, conceptualised, planned, and executed within just one week. The energy, unity, and collective spirit of the women present made it a truly unforgettable experience and a great learning. 

Representing India internationally  in the United States of America, Japan, Germany, Mauritius, and South Korea has been an enriching extension of this journey. Leading delegations of empowered rural women reminded me how local change can create a global impact.
Yet, no matter where I go, my heart remains in the villages, amidst the fields, the smiles, and the silent revolutions.

It was during this phase that I met many deserted women, married women abandoned by their spouses, often left invisible to society. Their pain haunted me. Their resilience astonished me. I realized they deserved more than sympathy, they deserved dignity, opportunities, and economic independence. That’s what led me to IIT Bombay, where I am now pursuing a PhD on the socio-economic transformation of deserted women, exploring how social entrepreneurship can be their bridge to a new life.
Civil services, for me, has never been about power or prestige but about people. Whether promoting pure, chemical-free honey and village-made products as Chief Executive Officer of the Maharashtra Khadi and Village Industries Board, or working for the universalisation of quality education as the State Project Director under Samagra Shiksha , each role has been an opportunity to serve and to innovate.

Poetry, blogging, and public speaking  including my TEDx talks have allowed me to share these stories of change beyond the files and reports. Receiving the Arun Bongirwar Public Service Excellence Award was a moment of validation not just for me, but for every woman, every child, every marginalised individual whose story has intersected with mine.
Civil services gave me more than a career, it gave me a life of meaning. It gave me an opportunity of walking with the downtrodden, listening to voices often unheard, and helping light a path where there was once darkness. Doing so, not only shaped me as a public servant, but as a better human being.
On this Civil Services Day, I bow to the spirit of service : a spirit that lit a flame in a schoolgirl’s heart and continues to guide her across borders, maybe through ups and downs and challenges, but nevertheless towards endless hope...

"शीलम् परम भूषणम्"...

Jai Hind...

R. Vimala, IAS  
Compassionate Civil Servant & PhD Scholar at IIT Bombay 

A Light in the Darkness: Remembering Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, the Father of Female Education in India

A Light in the Darkness: Remembering Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, the Father of Female Education in India

Yesterday did not begin with the usual rhythm of routine. It began with a moment of deep reverence and reflection. It was the birth anniversary of Krantijyoti Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, a visionary whose courage and conviction laid the foundation for female education in India. My team and I gathered to honour his memory. I garlanded his photograph with quiet hands and a heart filled with gratitude. Later, under the gentle morning sun at the New Maharashtra Sadan, we offered floral tributes at his statue, a symbolic gesture to his wonderful glory.
As our Manager read aloud a brief account of his life, I was reminded once again of the sheer magnitude of his contributions. If not for his extraordinary foresight, Maharashtra’s journey toward gender equality and inclusive education would have never have taken off.
Born in 1827, at a time when society was deeply shackled by caste and gender-based oppression,Mahatma  Jyotirao Phule envisioned an India where education was not a privilege reserved for a few, but a fundamental right for all. He did not wait for approval or recognition. He began at home, by educating his wife, Savitribai Phule. With his support, she went on to become India’s first female teacher, a milestone that redefined the possibilities for women in our country.
In 1848, they opened the first school for girls in Pune. It was a quiet revolution. Their courage was met with fierce resistance, social boycott, verbal abuse, even stones hurled as they walked to school yet, they carried on in their mission with unwavering faith.
In an era engulfed in orthodoxy, superstition, and injustice, Mahatma Phule lit the flame of reform. He believed that knowledge is the ultimate form of liberation, and that without the education of women, society could never claim to be free.
He expanded his efforts beyond gender and opened schools for Dalits and widows. In 1873, founded the Satyashodhak Samaj,  a Society of Truth Seekers to challenge caste hierarchies, fight social evils, and promote equality. His vision was not merely about resisting oppression; it was about building a just and inclusive India.
Today, when young girls access digital classrooms, when women confidently walk into universities and boardrooms, they are treading the path he carved. Every girl who learns to read, every woman who finds her voice, every daughter who dares to dream is part of the story Mahatma Phule began.
Maharashtra now stands tall as a leader in literacy and gender equality. The female literacy rate of 75%  here surpasses the national average of about 70 %.
Digital education under Samagra Shiksha are reaching even the most remote villages. These achievements are the fruits of the seeds Mahatma Phule planted nearly two centuries ago.
Government initiatives, awareness campaigns, and innovative public-private partnerships in education continue to echo his ideals. The state’s progressive approach to inclusive schooling reflects the enduring power of his philosophy.
As we mark his birth anniversary, let it not be a mere ritual. Let it be a moment of renewal. Let us honour his memory not just with flowers, but with action by educating the next generation, by empowering women in our homes and communities, and by remembering that one courageous soul truly can awaken a nation.
At a time when history silenced women, Phule not only dared to educate his wife but inspired her to teach others. Today, the most meaningful tribute we can offer him is to emulate that spirit by ensuring that no child, especially no girl, is denied education, and by actively supporting the careers and aspirations of women in our families.

R. Vimala, IAS
Compassionate Bureaucrat & PhD Scholar, IIT Bombay

Manoj Kumar: The Man Who Made Bharat His Hero & Viksit Bharat

Manoj Kumar: The Man Who Made Bharat His Hero & Viksit Bharat 

Every Independence Day or Republic Day, our mornings begin the same way whether in schools or offices, on television, across gatherings with playing of the iconic song "Mere Desh Ki Dharti". Our hearts stir with pride as we listen to its timeless lyrics. Yet, not many from today’s generation may know the man behind that immortal tune.
That man was Manoj Kumar, an actor, director whose name became synonymous with patriotism in Indian cinema. While he did act in several romantic and commercial hits, it was his deep love for the nation that brought him true glory and an unshakeable place in the hearts of Indians.
In the aftermath of the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, our then honourable Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri gave India an inspiring slogan "Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan". Moved by its spirit, Shastriji personally requested Manoj Kumar to bring this vision to the silver screen.
The result was Upkar, a film that wasn’t just a story, but a movement. With its unforgettable music, emotional depth, and powerful message, Upkar became a national phenomenon. The song Mere Desh Ki Dharti became an anthem of patriotism, and Manoj Kumar became ‘Bharat Kumar’, the face of national pride in cinema.
Following Upkar, Manoj Kumar continued to use cinema as a medium to awaken the nation. In Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, he tackled the tough questions of poverty, unemployment, and dignity questioning,' What good is freedom if a man still struggles for food, clothing, and shelter?'
With Kranti, he brought to life India’s freedom struggle, re-igniting the spirit of independence among viewers, especially during a time when the memories of colonial rule were beginning to fade.
And most importantly there was Purab Aur Paschim, a bold assertion of Indian values and cultural pride in the face of westernization. It reminded us that while India not only gave the digit Zero to the world but also held infinite wisdom and rich culture.
"Hai preet jahaan ki reet sada
Main geet wahaan ke gaata hoon
Bharat ka rehne waala hoon
Bharat ki baat sunata hoon".
India was once known as the sone ki chidiya, the golden bird, not just for its material wealth, but for its spiritual, cultural, and intellectual richness. While colonizers plundered and tried to  divide us, they couldn’t break our spirit.
Today, a new Bharat is rising rooted in tradition, yet forward-looking. We have the gold. We have the brains. And most importantly, we have the will.
From space technology to sustainable farming, from classical music to cutting-edge innovation as seen in start ups, India is reclaiming her glory, not just in history books, but in real-time.
Manoj Kumar’s legacy is not just about films, it is about values. He showed us that love for the nation is not outdated, and that pride in one’s culture is not regressive. His cinema didn’t preach, it inspired.
As we build the new Viksit Bharat, vibrant, inclusive, and self-reliant, let us carry his torch forward into Amrit Kaal as envisioned by our Honourable Prime Minister, Shri. Narendra Modi. Let us honour not just his memory, but his mission.
Bharat has always been more than a name, it is a feeling in many ways similar to how Manoj Kumar made us feel it. 
He may have left us for his heavenly abode, but he will forever shine like a star, one that continuously inspires patriotism in every generation.

Gudhi Padwa: A Celebration of Tradition, Joy, and Togetherness at Maharashtra Sadan

Gudhi Padwa: A Celebration of Tradition, Joy, and Togetherness at Maharashtra Sadan
It has been a month since I joined Maharashtra Sadan as the Resident Commissioner of Government of Maharashtra in Delhi. I had heard that festivals are celebrated in a special way at Sadan, so I was excited and looked forward to the fast approaching Gudhi Padwa. And it became a memorable celebration indeed.
The morning sun bathed old Maharashtra Sadan in golden hues and the air was abuzz with excitement and devotion. It was Gudhi Padwa, the festival of new beginnings, a day that carried the promise of prosperity and joy. This year was extra special as the Gudhi was to be hoisted not just at the old Maharashtra Sadan, but for the very first time at the new Sadan as well.
As we gathered in the courtyard of the Old Sadan, the Gudhi, a magnificent sight, stood tall—draped in shimmering silk, adorned with neem leaves, sugar garlands, and crowned with an inverted Kalash. This was no ordinary flag; it was a symbol of victory, resilience, and hope. The vibrant colors of the silk cloth fluttered in the gentle breeze, whispering tales of Maharashtra’s glorious past, while the inverted Kalash on top  radiated divine blessings.
Legend has it that on this very day, Lord Brahma created the universe, marking the dawn of time itself. It is also believed to commemorate the victorious return of King Shalivahana, a symbol of strength and courage. The festival is more than just a celebration, it is a reminder to embrace new beginnings, to rise after every fall and to march forward with unwavering faith.
A cherished tradition of the day is the consumption of Kadu Limba (Neem leaves) mixed with jaggery.  It is a perfect metaphor for life being bitter-sweet and accepting challenges with grace, knowing that sweetness always follows bitterness. The medicinal properties of neem also made it a time-honoured practice, ensuring health and well-being as the seasons changed.
For years, the Gudhi had only been hoisted at the old Maharashtra Sadan. But this year, in a moment of pride and continuity, we extended this age-old tradition to the new Sadan.

Here too, the Gudhi, adorned with bright yellow silk, sugar garlands, and neem leaves, swayed proudly in the breeze, blessing us with positivity for the year ahead.

The festivities were not just about rituals but also about camaraderie.
As the Gudhi was raised and hoisted next to the majestic statue of the revered Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the New Maharashtra Sadan cheers filled the air, blending with the soulful prayers for well being and prosperity. 

Officers, seniors, friends, and staff stood together, their faces lit with the joy of shared culture and community.
What made the celebration even more special was the presence of family, our extended support system, without whom these moments would not be complete. Watching everyone, dressed in their festive best, exchanging heartfelt wishes, and embracing the spirit of the occasion, made it clear that festivals are truly about togetherness.
The delicious food comprising of hot Puran Polis with saajuk toop, (ghee ), crispy Bhajis, delicious Batata Wadas, Sambhar Wadas, Jalebis and the fragrant Masale Bhaat  with Kadhi added to our joy. Each bite felt like home, comforting, familiar and full of love. The flavours carried the essence of tradition, reminding us that food is more than just sustenance, it is a celebration in itself.
As the day came to an end, the warmth of the festivities lingered. This was more than just an event; it was a homecoming, a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate our roots. The joy of celebrating with colleagues, staff, seniors, and family made the occasion all the more special. The laughter, the shared meals and the collective prayers made it a memory to be cherished for years to come.
As we step into the new Marathi Samvat, let’s carry forward the spirit of Gudhi Padwa, embracing new beginnings with optimism, standing tall in the face of challenges and cherishing the traditions that bind us together.

Empowering Rural Maharashtra: My Journey with the Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board

Empowering Rural Maharashtra: My Journey with the Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board


The Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board (MSKVIB) is a pivotal organization dedicated to promoting Khadi, small-scale industries, Beekeeping and sustainable rural livelihoods across Maharashtra. Established to empower artisans, entrepreneurs, and traditional craftspeople, the board plays a crucial role in enhancing socio-economic development in rural areas.
Serving as the Chief Executive Officer of the Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board was a deeply fulfilling chapter in my professional journey. During my tenure, I had the opportunity to actively promote Khadi, support small-scale industries, and foster the growth of beekeeping, facilitate easy carpentry for making bee-boxes,  propogate quality Madhuban Honey in the market, an experience that was both challenging and fulfilling.
The Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board has been a pillar of support for more than 10,000 small-scale units across the state. Through financial assistance, skill development, and guidance, these enterprises were given the foundation to set up units and thrive under  Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme PMEGP and
Chief Minister's Employment Generation Programme CMEGP.
While some units flourished, others face struggle often due to limited marketing support or a lack of resources yet MSMEs are effectively contributing  about 25%  to the state's GDP. 
Khadi, our national fabric, which holds immense cultural and historical significance is the soul of the Board. Yet it's legacy faces numerous challenges today.
This is mainly because Khadi is looked at as a  rough piece of cloth worn by leaders. People and specially youth are still unaware of the new varieties and possibilities with Khadi. A visit to the Khadi Gramodyog Centre at Connaught Place in Delhi will surprise you with it's variety.
Our Honourable Prime Minister has been the best ambassador with his slogan, Khadi for Nation, Khadi for Fashion. There is therefore a great need to present Khadi in a unique way. One of the easiest ways of incorporating the use of Khadi in our lives is by using products of daily use like towels, kerchiefs, bed sheets, night suits etc made of khadi.
Another reason why Khadi is langusihing is because it has to be hand woven and hand spun. This is not only time consuming but is also a costly process. Being manual, the quantity of cloth produced is not proportional to the effort put in and this affects the costing of the product and labour charges.  Khadi can therefore flourish only  when subsidies are effective. States like Gujarat, Tamilnadu and Rajasthan are giving good subsidies to Khadi in their states and so  it is still flourishing there. The khadi units in Maharashtra have dwindled due to the stoppage of subsidies.  

Another aspect is the lack of markets for the products being manufactured. Recognizing this, I worked tirelessly to rejuvenate Khadi’s appeal — organizing exhibitions, engaging with artisans, and creating new platforms to connect producers with consumers. The Khadi Kala Srishti Mela remains one of the most memorable milestones from my tenure, a grand showcase of Maharashtra’s finest Khadi artisans and their craftsmanship at BKC, the central business district of Maharashtra. 
One of the most enriching aspects of my role was championing beekeeping, a sector that holds immense potential for enhancing both agriculture and rural incomes. Beekeeping is not just about honey; it plays a vital role in improving crop yields through pollination. For rural families, particularly women, it offers a valuable source of supplementary income.
The Directorate of Beekeeping at Mahabaleshwar is a true gem — a beautiful learning space where visitors can witness the magic of honey production firsthand. It’s a place where the story of bees, flowers, and golden nectar comes alive, and I encourage everyone to visit and experience it.  Among its key initiatives the Directorate offers training programs on advanced beekeeping techniques, distributes modern beekeeping equipment at concessional rates and  facilitates the marketing of pure honey under recognized labels through a buy back scheme. Establishing of Honey Villages, 'Madhacha Gaav' was another beautiful concept wherein the whole village is trained and funded to undertake beekeeping activities. After setting up 3 villages at Manghar, Patgaon and Gholvad,  the Board has planned setting up of 16 more. 
With this in mind, I worked passionately to promote beekeeping initiatives, emphasizing the importance of pure, high-quality honey. The Madhuban Honey brand became a symbol of this effort, a testament to our commitment to quality and authenticity. Organizing the Honey Festival was a highlight, where consumers could directly connect with beekeepers and experience the richness of pure honey. Inviting super chef Vishnu Manohar to share recipes with honey was an added attraction. 
Convergence of government schemes is the new mantra so with the support of BARTI, Babasaheb Ambedkar Research and Training Institute in Pune more than thousand women were trained in entrepreneurship and  set up small business. Organisations like KVIC,  MSSIDC, SIDBI, Women and Child Development Department, Skill Development Department have always encouraged our units.
My year-long journey with the Board was full of promise, challenges, and meaningful impact.The journey doesn’t end here for it’s a path of sustained efforts, collective support, and an unwavering belief in the potential of rural entrepreneurship.
While the larger efforts through events like the Khadi Kala Srishti Mela and the Honey Festival left a significant mark, I continue to carry my passion for these causes forward in my everyday life. A small yet heartfelt gesture I have adopted is gifting honey instead of bouquets,  a simple act that reflects my belief in promoting pure honey and supporting the hardworking beekeepers behind it.
As we celebrate the Foundation Day of the Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board, I reflect on the unwavering dedication of artisans, beekeepers, and entrepreneurs who drive this mission forward. Their work not only preserves tradition but also empowers countless families across Maharashtra. With continued efforts, I believe Khadi can regain its rightful place in every Indian wardrobe, and honey, nature’s superfood can become a staple in households, celebrated for its purity and health benefits.

Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat: Celebrating Unity in Diversity...

Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat: Celebrating Unity in Diversity...

India's rich cultural heritage is a vibrant blend of traditions, folk lore and lively legends. The recent cultural exchange program, " Lok Sanskruticha Lok Ursav " organised by the Cultural Affairs Department, Government of Maharashtra, and Maharashtra Information Centre  under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative brought this beautifully to life.
Hosted at the Maharashtra Sadan in New Delhi, the event showcased the cultural richness of Maharashtra and Odisha, two states with distinct identities yet deeply connected by shared traditions and values.
The evening unfolded with Odisha’s mesmerizing Baja Saala performance. This captivating dance, traditionally performed during weddings in Kalahandi, is a vibrant expression of love and desire. As energetic drummers presented a  powerful rhythm, dancers adorned in colourful costumes performed with precision and grace. The synchronized beats and expressive footwork left the audience spellbound.
Following this was Maharashtra’s powerful Dhol Nach Bohara dance from the tribal heartland of Mokhada in Palghar district. The dancers synchronized movements, paired with the pulsating beats of the dhol, showcased the resilience and strength of Maharashtra's tribal communities. The 'ghungroos' or metallic bells on their feet chimed in unison sprinkling joy. Dressed in traditional attire, the performers moved in perfect harmony, bringing their stories to life with unwavering energy.
The Baja Saala dance reflects  Odisha’s vibrant marital traditions, where instrumentalists fill pre-wedding gatherings with rhythmic beats. The performance, which blends love, attraction, and youthful energy, becomes an unforgettable part of the celebration. The dancers often lose track of time when they get engrossed in this energetic dance form.
Similarly, Maharashtra’s Dhol Nach Bohara performance from Mokhada’s tribal belt captured the spirit of community and devotion. The dancers, moving in circular formations to the deep beats of the dhol, payed homage to nature including the Sun God,  Holy cows, Mother earth and other deities.  Through their songs and movements, they narrated tales of cattle, tigers, and mountains — echoing their respect for Mother Earth. Maintaining the fast beat and tempo they indulged in making beautiful human pyramids saluting mother earth and Devi Shakti which  displayed their strength, precison and deftness.
Despite their distinct customs, Maharashtra and Odisha share many cultural similarities. Be it the intricate textiles like Paithani and Himroo from Maharashtra or the iconic Sambalpuri weaves from Odisha — each fabric tells a story of craftsmanship passed down through generations. Even their cuisines find common ground with staple food like fish and rice.
On a spiritual level, Maharashtra’s devotion to Shri Vithoba of Pandharpur and Odisha’s reverence for Shri Jagannath from Puri reflect profound traditions of faith, community, and cultural pride — reinforcing that the heart of Indian culture beats with unity.
Maharashtra’s spirited  dance from Mokhada had participants, ranging from young children to elderly villagers, showcased how tradition bridges generations. Their infectious energy was a reminder that cultural heritage thrives when passed down with pride and love.
But the true highlight was an electrifying ‘Tiger’ performance. Two dynamic dancers captivated the audience with their raw energy, embodying the very spirit of celebration and togetherness.
This unforgettable event highlighted the true essence of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat — a vision where cultural exchanges foster understanding, empathy, and pride in our shared heritage. By immersing ourselves in each other's traditions, we celebrate the diversity that makes India truly extraordinary.
As Maharashtra and Odisha danced, drummed, and dined together, they reminded us that while our cultures may differ, the universal spirit of joy, connection, and creativity unites us all.

R. Vimala, IAS

Compassionate Bureaucrat & PhD Scholar at IIT Bombay