Need to Provide Platforms for Women’s Achievements: Minister Ashish Shelar

Inauguration of Mahila Kala Mahotsav 2026

Mumbai, March 2026 : Maharashtra’s Minister for Cultural Affairs, Advocate Ashish Shelar, emphasised the need to provide meaningful platforms for women to showcase their creativity, talent, and achievements. He stated that women’s artistic abilities and accomplishments must be recognised with greater awareness and encouragement in society.

The minister was speaking at the inauguration of the Mahila Kala Mahotsav 2026 (Women’s Art Festival 2026), held at the Pu. La. Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy in Mumbai. The event witnessed the presence of several distinguished personalities from the fields of art, literature, and culture.

Among those present on the occasion were Member Secretary of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women Nandini Awade, renowned classical singer and Padma Shri awardee Ashwini Bhide-Deshpande, Rajashree Kulkarni, classical dancer Sonia Parchure, editor of Pudhari Multimedia Mrinalini Nanivdekar, and Director of Pu. La. Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy Meenal Joglekar. A large number of artists, writers, and art enthusiasts also attended the program.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Shelar highlighted the remarkable transformation of the Pu. La. Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy after its recent renovation. He noted that within just one year of the refurbishment, more than one thousand cultural programs have been organised at the venue. According to him, the academy has become a vibrant centre for artistic expression where artists from different disciplines have the opportunity to present their talents and connect with audiences.

Shelar described the academy as a “grand platform of artistic expression” that enables both emerging and established artists to present their work. He added that such cultural spaces play a vital role in preserving and promoting art, literature, music, dance, and other creative forms.

Referring to the upcoming International Women’s Day, the minister said that the day should not be limited to exchanging greetings but must serve as an occasion to recognise the achievements of women and encourage them to move forward in various fields. He appealed to society to acknowledge the capabilities and talents of women within homes, families, and communities, and to create opportunities for them to grow and excel.

Highlighting the theme of International Women’s Day 2026, which focuses on women’s rights, equality, and empowerment, Shelar stressed that empowering women requires a positive and supportive approach from every section of society. He said that encouraging women’s participation in arts and culture not only strengthens the creative landscape but also contributes to broader social development.

During the event, Nandini Awade, Member Secretary of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women, also addressed the gathering. She pointed out that while the number of complaints received from women has been increasing, addressing their concerns through legal measures alone is not sufficient. According to her, it is equally important to instill confidence and a sense of empowerment among women.

Awade emphasised the importance of awareness initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s empowerment. She noted that cultural programs organised with the support of the Directorate of Cultural Affairs help highlight the struggles, achievements, and inspirational stories of women. Such initiatives, she said, play a key role in building awareness and boosting confidence among women across society.

Director of Pu. La. Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy, Meenal Joglekar, delivered the introductory address and outlined the structure and schedule of the Mahila Kala Mahotsav 2026. She informed the audience that the festival will continue until March 7, 2026, featuring a wide range of cultural performances and artistic presentations by women artists.

Joglekar invited artists, cultural enthusiasts, and the general public to participate in the festival and support women artists by attending the various programs scheduled during the event. She expressed confidence that the festival would serve as an inspiring platform for women to showcase their artistic excellence and creative spirit.