The MV Kavya Dhara and Bal Katta 2026 event on Saturday, March 7, 2026, was a resounding success, beautifully showcasing a shared passion for the Marathi language. The audience was treated to confident Marathi poem recitations from 29 enthusiastic children, alongside original storytelling by three talented young writers during the Bal Katta segment. Two of our youngest presenters, both under the age of five, bravely came forward, took the microphone, and recited their poems. We can’t wait to see them as official participants in the near future.

The participants, ranging from 5 to 16 years old, delivered outstanding performances across a vibrant array of themes including Balgeet, Chandoba, Idli, Aai-Baba, Ghar, Life, Saraswati Devi, and Bharat Mata. Heartfelt appreciation goes to the parents for their dedicated guidance in preparing these young talents for the stage. Furthermore, it was inspiring to see so many creative parents continue the wonderful tradition of penning beautiful, original Marathi poems for their children to perform.

The Kavya Dhara 2026 competition was expertly evaluated by independent judges Neeta Purav and Rajeshree Kulkarni, who lent their extensive background in Marathi literature, acting, and drama to the multi-criteria judging process.

The event was seamlessly organized by MV board members Vrushali Bhawtankar and Ajinkya Pawar, with vital support from fellow board members Mandar Kelkar, Dipti Karkhanis, Trushna Thakur, and Priya Godbole-Chouthai. To celebrate their hard work, every participant received a certificate and a thoughtful token gift selected by board member Roopali Gune.

The smooth execution of the day was made possible by the dedicated efforts of volunteers Mangesh Bhawtankar, Shailesh Karkhanis, Anuj Thakur, and Nutan Bagul. Following the performances, attendees enjoyed a light lunch and shared overwhelmingly positive feedback about the experience. The community also took a moment to honor International Women’s Day with a celebratory cake-cutting ceremony alongside the many wonderful women and girls in attendance.

Heartiest Congratulations to the MV Kavya Dhara 2026 winners!

Grade K – 3 

First Place: Myra Kulkarni

Second Place: Eeshan Patwardhan and Maitreyi Sane

Third Place: Yukta Auti and Isha Jambotkar

Grade 4 – 7 

First Place: Prisha Deogaonkar

Second Place: Varad Nanivadekar and Anay Ghanekar

Grade 8 -10 

First Place: Ananya Nanivadekar

Event photos Link: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18VHkT7rcp/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Thanks,

Marathi Vishwa Committee