Annabhau Sathe Jayanti: Grand ‘Ekta Misal’ Unites People Across Communities in Pune
Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Shukrawar Peth, 1st August 2026: The Mahapurush Abhivadan Kruti Samiti organised the fourth edition of the Grand ‘Ekta Misal’ (Season 4) near the statue of Lokshahir Sahityaratna Annabhau Sathe at Dadawadi, Shukrawar Peth, near Saras Baug, on the occasion of Annabhau Sathe Jayanti. The initiative paid tribute to the legendary writer, folk artist, and social reformer while promoting the values of social harmony, equality, and brotherhood.
Around 10,000 kg of misal was specially prepared for the event, with thousands of devotees, citizens, and visitors participating in the community feast. The large-scale preparation reflected the growing popularity of the ‘Ekta Misal’ initiative and its message of social harmony and brotherhood
The programme was organised under the leadership of former MLA Deepakji Paigude, Founder-President of the Mahapurush Abhivadan Kruti Samiti, with the support of Jogeshwari Misal, Kesnand. The annual initiative brought together people from diverse communities, who participated in large numbers and shared a meal as a symbol of unity, equality, and social inclusion.
Former Minister of State for Home Ramesh Bagwe, former Standing Committee Chairman Shrinath Bhimale, and MLA Sunil Kamble attended the event as chief guests. They paid floral tributes to Annabhau Sathe and appreciated the organisers for carrying forward his ideals of equality, social justice, and communal harmony through this unique initiative.
Several dignitaries and social workers, including Pralhad Gawli, Mahendra Marne, Vilas Kasbe, Sarang Saraf, Shridhar Chavan, Nandatai Santosh Pandit, Ravindra Gudmeti, Ramesh Kathawate, Sandesh Kathawate, Snehal Palwe, Jayesh Kasbe, Dilip Waghmare, and Ashok Bagewadi, were also present.
Members of Lokseva Pratishthan, including Ganesh Kamble, Jitendra Khandagale, and Narhari Patil, along with representatives of Netaji Subhash Chandra Sainik School, Pulgaon, and their families, actively participated in the programme and extended their support to the initiative.
Speaking on the occasion, the organisers said that the Grand Ekta Misal is held every year to spread Annabhau Sathe’s message of equality, fraternity, and social justice. They said the programme is not merely about sharing a meal but about bringing people together beyond barriers of caste, religion, and social differences, reflecting the progressive ideals championed by the Lokshahir.
A participant at the event said, “Annabhau Sathe’s teachings of equality and social justice continue to inspire people even today. The Ekta Misal is a meaningful initiative that brings people from different communities together and strengthens the spirit of brotherhood.”
Another participant said, “Sharing a meal without any discrimination reflects the true message of unity. Such initiatives help preserve Annabhau Sathe’s legacy and encourage people to build a more inclusive and harmonious society.”
The programme concluded with citizens paying homage to Lokshahir Sahityaratna Annabhau Sathe and participating in the Ekta Misal, reaffirming their commitment to social harmony, equality, and mutual respect. The organisers thanked all participants for making the fourth edition of the initiative a success and appealed to citizens to continue supporting activities that uphold the values and vision of Annabhau Sathe.
