PM Modi to Inaugurate 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan in Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan on February 21, 2025, at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi. This prestigious literary festival, which celebrates the richness of Marathi literature, is making a historic return to the national capital after 71 years. The event will officially commence at 4:30 PM, with PM Modi addressing a distinguished audience comprising scholars, poets, authors, and literature enthusiasts.

A Grand Celebration of Marathi Literature

The three-day Sammelan, scheduled from February 21 to 23, 2025, will bring together renowned literary figures, scholars, and book lovers from across India. The festival aims to explore the evolution of Marathi literature, its influence on contemporary discourse, and its timeless significance in India’s cultural landscape.

This gathering will serve as a platform for thought-provoking discussions, book launches, and cultural exchanges, strengthening Marathi literature’s role in modern storytelling and academic research.

Key Highlights of the Literary Festival

The 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan will feature a variety of engaging activities, including:

• Panel discussions on literature, language preservation, and translation

• Book exhibitions showcasing a vast collection of Marathi literature

• Cultural performances celebrating Maharashtra’s literary and artistic heritage

• Interactive sessions with eminent writers, poets, and critics

• Workshops on the impact of digitalization on literature and storytelling

With an expected participation of thousands of literature enthusiasts, the event is set to be one of the largest Marathi literary congregations in recent years.

Pune to Delhi Literary Journey: A Symbol of Unity

One of the most unique aspects of this Sammelan is the special literary train journey from Pune to Delhi, carrying 1,200 participants. This journey is designed to symbolize the unifying power of literature, fostering discussions and camaraderie among writers, poets, and readers. The initiative reflects the deep-rooted literary traditions of Maharashtra and its contribution to India's cultural and linguistic diversity.

Poetry Submissions, Book Launches, and Literary Showcases

The Sammelan is set to be a hub of literary creativity, featuring:

• Over 2,600 poetry submissions from emerging and established poets

• 50 book launches, introducing fresh literary works to a wide audience

• 100 bookstalls, offering a diverse range of Marathi literature, from classics to contemporary bestsellers

This extensive participation underscores the continued passion for Marathi literature and its enduring legacy.

Highlighting Marathi’s Classical Language Status

A significant focus of this year’s Sammelan will be the government’s recent recognition of Marathi as a classical language. This landmark decision acknowledges the historical depth, linguistic richness, and literary excellence of Marathi, further strengthening its place in India’s diverse linguistic heritage.

The announcement has been widely celebrated by scholars and literary figures, as it paves the way for greater research, preservation, and promotion of Marathi literature on national and international platforms.

A Confluence of Literature and Cultural Heritage

The 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan promises to be a remarkable celebration of language, literature, and cultural identity. By bringing together diverse literary voices, it will emphasize the relevance of Marathi literature in the digital age while honoring its deep-rooted traditions.

As PM Modi inaugurates this significant event, the festival will not only mark a new chapter in Marathi literary history but also inspire future generations to cherish and contribute to its rich legacy.