Pune (thestates.news) : “India’s artistic and cultural heritage is not merely history; it forms the foundation of our progressive future,” said Dr Mukesh Sharma, former director general of Films Division, at the valedictory ceremony of #Heritage Yatra 2026, held at Pu La Deshpande Kalagram.
Organised jointly by the Pune Municipal Corporation and MIT Art, Design and Technology (ADT) University, the festival witnessed enthusiastic participation from citizens and students alike. MIT ADT provost Prof Dr Saylee Gankar, pro vice-chancellor Dr Nachiket Thakur, dean Dr Madhavi Godbole, Dr Priya Singh and Dr Ashwini Pethe were present on the occasion.
The event received an overwhelming response this year, with around 2,000 visitors registering daily. Students from 22 schools actively took part in various competitions, including reel-making, debates, essay writing and shloka recitation.
Hands-on workshops on traditional brick wall construction, Warli painting and clay art offered students insights into India’s rich artistic traditions. A creatively designed Heritage Playland enabled children to explore history through interactive activities such as ‘Mahamistree’, ‘Dart and Discover’ and designing a custom currency for Maharashtra.
Addressing the gathering in Hindi, Dr Sharma urged youngsters to understand the value of India’s heritage and preserve it for future generations.
Outstanding performers from various competitions were felicitated during the ceremony. Vishwakarma Junior College continued its winning streak for the second consecutive year, bagging six awards.
In individual events, Sarthak Bharekar (Vishwakarma Junior College) topped the debate competition, while Sanvi Mishra from MIT VGS, Loni Kalbhor, won the poetry recitation. Abhishek Ramkishan Jat, Sonali Rahul Kaske and Yash Rahul Deshmukh from Vishwakarma Junior College secured top positions in the essay competition. Bhargavi Birajdar (Vishwakarma) won the shloka recitation, while Renuka Kulkarni from Ahilyadevi High School emerged winner in shloka writing.
