Marathi Vishwa, NJ, celebrated one of its first major events of 2026 — Makar Sankrant on February 8, 2026 at the Ukrainian Cultural Center, Somerset. Despite the postponement of the event due to a fierce snowstorm on January 25th, and despite severe cold on the day of the event, the turnout of nearly 400 attendees made it a lively and memorable celebration. Adults, children, and even infants arrived decked up in festive attire, beautiful sarees, kurtas, and colorful outfits.

Marathi Vishwa takes pride in coming up with creative themed ideas in event decorations and this year’s concept, ‘Bhondalyacha Halata Dekhawa,’ had long been envisioned. Artistic volunteer Mrs. Sushama Godha beautifully brought it to life using paper dolls dressed in Jari scrap fabric, set on a rotating base to depict Bhondla. The décor also featured Sankrant symbols such as Sugad, Halwa, seasonal vegetables, kites, flowers, grains, and green bangles representing prosperity, with a festive backdrop that doubled as a photo booth.

‘Sakhya’ dance group from Bridgewater, NJ, dazzled in their specially sourced rich velvet Navwari sarees, adorned with traditional Maharashtrian jewelry, as they opened the event with energetic dance moves on the famous song, ‘Pinga’. The adorable ‘BorNahan’ ritual followed, with 20+ kids under six showered with festive treats such as green peas, halwa, and churmure, while dressed in traditional black and colorful attire.

While the lunch was being savored by our parents, grandparents, and children alike, the grand stage was being set for a short play, Ekankika – ‘Unsuitably Yours’. This play showcased the local artists and directors, and a witty story that was enjoyed by the audience.

We tried an age-old game of Gaanyachya Bhendya or Antakshari for the first time as a new segment. While the two teams were made up of the audience itself, we came up with unique rounds such as a mandatory first round starting from श्री ग णे शा य न म ह: and continuing with the innovative rounds like, buzzer round with old Hindi-Marathi instrumental tunes, theme round consisting of monsoon songs, friendship songs, patriotic songs, motivational songs, Guess the Iconic dialogues round, Lawani round, and ending with blissful Abhang songs. Audiences really enjoyed this segment and we made sure that the kids were engaged in playing hand-made table games while the parents were enjoying Gaanyachya Bhendya.

Marathi Vishwa has always had some creative competitions in this event year after year and this year we introduced two unique competitions, ‘Phulanchi Paradi’ decoration with a mandatory use of Halwa, and ‘Sankrantiche Tabak’ decoration. We received beautiful and creative entries. The judges of the competition were Mrs. Meera Deshpande, Mrs. Aparna Deshpande, and Mrs. Sonia Potnis.  

The event concluded with masala tea and the traditional Haldi-Kunku ceremony,  and a thoughtful Waan. 

Sankrant event was led by the event leads Vrushali Bhawtankar, Priya Godbole, and Mandar Kelkar with support from other board members, Salil Parkar, Anirudha Niwargi,  Trushna Thakur, Kanchan Joshi and Dipti Karkhanis. Marathi Vishwa is a die-hard fan of our volunteers and MV Teens and always takes pride in their selfless helping hand. Last but not least, this event would not have been possible without the support of you, our members, and their trust in us in delivering a fabulous program.

Enjoy Sankrant 2026 pictures: https://photos.app.goo.gl/EoypbRCUk7QjKiNK7

We are happy to announce the winners of both these competitions: 

Decorate Phulanchi Paradi

First Place: Anuja Kedar, Second Place: Sushma Godha

Decorate Sankrantiche Tabak

First Place: Rashmi Pandare, Second Place: Dr. Nutan Nadkarni

Marathi Vishwa Committee