The special gesture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards NCP-SP chief Sharad Pawar helping to take his seat and offering a glass of water at the inauguration of the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sammelan on Friday has won applause from the audience.
While starting the function and lighting the ceremonial lamp, PM Modi invited Pawar, the chairman of the reception committee of the event, to join him in performing the honours, as per a PTI report.
#WATCH | Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and NCP chief Sharad Pawar at the inauguration of the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan.
(Source: DD News) pic.twitter.com/W2TJpqyeqv
— ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2025
Later, as Pawar finished his speech and returned to his seat beside Modi, the Prime Minister assisted him in taking his seat and even offered him a glass of water. This warm exchange between the two leaders was well received by the audience.
As Modi began his address, he acknowledged Pawar’s role in his participation, stating, “Today, at the invitation of Sharad Pawarji, I have got this opportunity to join this proud tradition,” he said.
Throughout the event, Modi and Pawar were seen engaging in a friendly conversation, highlighting their mutual respect despite political differences.
Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sammelan Celebrates Marathi Literature
The three-day event of the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sammelan, running from February 21 to 23, celebrates Marathi literature’s rich heritage and its advancing role in contemporary discourse.
During the inaugural ceremony along with PM Modi, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, renowned Marathi writer Tara Bhawalkar, and Sammelan president Usha Tambe were also present.
The Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sammelan was first organised in 1878, with renowned scholar and social reformer Mahadev Govind Ranade presiding over the event. Since 1926, it has been held almost annually, bringing together scholars, critics, and literary figures to discuss various topics, including the evolving significance of the Marathi language in changing times.
This year, the conference is led by Tara Bhawalkar, a distinguished expert in Marathi folk literature, culture, traditions, and theatre. The last time the conference was hosted in Delhi was in 1954, with celebrated lexicographer Tarkatirtha Laxmanshastri Joshi serving as its president. The event was inaugurated by the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
ALSO READ | YSRCP Chief Jagan Reddy Stops Convoy To Meet Crying Child, Gesture Wins Hearts In Vijayawada — Video
