A group of Marathi mothers in the US organized a cultural gathering in California’s Bay Area to celebrate the Hindu festival of Makar Sankranti. The event, hosted by MAI (Marathi Aai Initiative), featured Indian film actor Ashvini Bhave as the guest of honor. More than 100 women attended the Haldi-Kunku celebration on January 11, focusing on cultural identity and motherhood in the Indian diaspora.
Organizers welcomed attendees with traditional haldi-kunku rituals and a ceremonial vaan from India, creating a setting reminiscent of a Marathi courtyard. The highlight of the evening was an informal conversation with Bhave, where she discussed motherhood and the importance of preserving Marathi values while raising children in different cultures. The event also included a fashion showcase featuring community members in black sarees, showcasing cultural pride and confidence among mothers in the US.
The program aimed to foster a sense of community and cultural continuity among Marathi-raised mothers in the American diaspora. Co-founder Sayli Natu praised Bhave for bringing grace and warmth to the event, emphasizing the genuine connections formed among attendees. Kshitija Karmarkar, another co-founder, highlighted the organization’s focus on shared experiences to sustain cultural values across generations.
MAI, a national nonprofit organization, works to connect Marathi-raised mothers through cultural events and dialogues, supporting families in the American diaspora while preserving their cultural heritage.
