Auckland Marathi Association’s event Jallosh – literally meaning celebrating with the community - had fun, music and celebrations galore, leaving the participants and the organisers super enthusiastic over the last weekend.
More than 300 Marathi people, mostly the members of the Auckland-based Association, but some also travelling from Hamilton and the Bay of Plenty, came together on Saturday, July 30, at the Diversity Centre building, Papatoetoe, to enjoy a special night adorned with various facets of Marathi culture.
Soon after the official opening ceremony, the attendees were allowed to immerse in various fun activities, including games and dancing to popular Marathi music played out by a live DJ.
Expressing rejoice on the success of the event, Neha Nalawade, President of Auckland Marathi Association (AMAI), said, “This was the first event conducted by the new committee of Auckland Marathi Association and was a great success in bringing together Maharashtrian people on one platform to enjoy live DJ with Marathi music, fun games and amazing food catered for everyone.”
Recently there was a change in the executive leadership team of the Association on June 11, with Nalawade taking over as the new President and Likhil Landge being elected as the new Vice President.
Sharing more details about the new executive committee and their upcoming plans, Nalawade said, “Our tenure will be for two years, and we plan to host around five events every year, with Jallosh being the first one and Ganapati Mahotsava on September 17, and Diwali festival on October 29, next in line.”
“This year, we have a great mix of youth and experience within our executive committee, which will be reflected in our array of events planned for the remaining year.
“We will be organising AMAI cricket league, Maharashtra day and some sports events like badminton and carrom later this year,” Nalawade said.
“We strive to bring together all Marathi people on a common platform so as to not only allow them bonding based on mutually shared language and common heritage but also allow our kids and youngsters, particularly those born overseas, to remain connected with their cultural roots,” Nalawade said.
