Jeshtha mohotsav

🌸 Prarambh Kala Academy 🌸

Mother’s & Father’s Day – A Family Celebration

By Alka Wadhavkar

Senior Member, Prarambh

10 May 2026

The beautiful evening of Sunday, 10th May 2026, brought with it a unique and uplifting energy into the temple of Goddess Saraswati. The occasion was the Mother’s and Father’s Day Celebration organized by Prarambh Kala Academy, Thane.

Through various activities and competitions, 110 senior members associated with Prarambh were invited to this special gathering. These elders are like parents to all of us, and with the noble intention of seeking their blessings and guidance in Prarambh’s journey, this warm family celebration was organized. The innovative idea conceived by Arundhati and her team deserves immense appreciation.

The welcome of the senior guests with fragrant champa flowers filled the entire atmosphere with warmth and positivity. Arundhati Bhalerao gave a brief introductory speech, after which the elders were traditionally welcomed with मंत्रोच्चार (Vedic chants), ceremonial aukshan, and a shower of rose petals. We were deeply moved by this heartfelt gesture.

We showered Arundhati and her entire team with blessings and good wishes.

Respected dignitaries including Professor Shashikant Thombre (Arundhati’s father), D. K. Soman, Ashok Chitnis Sir, Mrs. Shubha Chitnis, Surendra Dighe from Jignyasa Trust, and Meera Korde from Saraswati Vidyamandir Trust shared their thoughts and reflected upon the values and teachings given by their parents.

Renowned orthopedic specialist Dr. Subodh Mehta and Shraddha Pendse, daughter of Professor Ashok Chitnis, also expressed their heartfelt thoughts about their parents. From among the audience, Vidyadhar Apashankar, Chandrakant Parab, and Lohkare Aaji shared touching memories of their mothers and fathers.

Well-known writer Pratibha Tai Saraf delivered a wonderful speech with references to her poetry.

This unique Mother’s and Father’s Day celebration was graced by many distinguished guests, reflecting the love and affection people hold for Prarambh. Author Bharati Mehta, Sachin Pendse, and Sheela Wagle from Atre Katta were also present for the event.

Prarambh not only gifted us thoughtful presents and refreshments but also presented us with a deeply touching letter written by Prarambh Trustee Vaishali Kulkarni — a heartfelt letter beautifully scented with mogra flowers.

Arundhati, along with the Prarambh family, will always have the blessings, support, and inspiration of these countless parents standing beside them.

The event was gracefully anchored by Neha Bagwe, a member of Prarambh. Mansi Joshi, Manoj Joshi, Kishore and Vaishali Parad, Vilas and Vaishali Kulkarni, Manish Yadav, and senior advisor Manisha Shitut worked tirelessly to make the event successful.

This celebration of affection, warmth, and relationships became truly unforgettable — almost like a grand celebration of gratitude itself.

Warm regards,

Alka Wadhavkar

Senior Member, Prarambh