Mann Deshi Mahotsav 2025 - A Celebration of Rural Entrepreneurship, Crafts, and Culture

 

Mumbai: The ‘Mann Deshi Foundation’ is set to host the “Mann Deshi Mahotsav 2025” from February 5th to 9th, 2025 at Nare Park, Parel, Mumbai. This grand, five-day festival is dedicated to celebrating rural entrepreneurship, traditional crafts, and indigenous culture from rural Maharashtra, Silvassa, and Karnataka. It promises to be an immersive and exciting experience, showcasing the creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of the women entrepreneurs supported by the Mann Deshi Foundation.

Highlights of the Mann Deshi Mahotsav 2025:

• Live Food Stalls: Visitors can savor authentic rural Maharashtra flavors, including Gavran Mutton & Bhakri, Thalipeeth, Kolhapuri Misal, Maaswadi, and Silvassa's traditional Dangi dish.
• Crafts in Action: Experience live demonstrations of rural artisans creating Jen and Ghonghdi (traditional jewelry), Kolhapuri chappals, and pottery. Attendees can engage in pottery-making sessions, perfect for visitors of all ages.
• Interactive Workshops: Learn traditional crafts such as Warli painting and jewelry-making directly from Mann Deshi's artisans in hands-on workshops, offering a deep dive into the cultural heritage of rural Maharashtra.
• Cultural Performances: Celebrate the lively rural culture with performances like the Gajji dance, wrestling matches by girl athletes, and a live performance by singer Avadhoot Gupte.
• Farmers’ Produce Market: Explore fresh and organic products directly sourced from Mann Deshi’s farmers, such as goat ghee, forest honey, palm date jaggery, pomegranates, and strawberries.
• Immersive Rural Culture: Experience the essence of rural India through interactive cultural elements, including the Nandi Bail (bull), Pingala (traditional dance), and selfie points to capture the vibrant rural lifestyle.
• Celebrating 1 Million Women Entrepreneurs: The Mahotsav honors the achievements of over 1 million rural women entrepreneurs across Maharashtra, Silvassa, and Karnataka, empowering them through financial inclusion and business support.

About Mann Deshi Foundation:
Founded by Ms. Chetna Sinha in 1996, the Mann Deshi Foundation works to empower rural women by providing access to financial resources, training, and business support. Through its partnership with Mann Deshi Bank, the Foundation has enabled thousands of women to start and scale successful businesses, driving positive change in their communities.

The Mann Deshi Mahotsav is not just an event, but a powerful tribute to the strength, creativity, and resilience of rural women entrepreneurs. It offers an incredible opportunity for visitors to connect with rural India, learn about its culture, and support the transformative work of these inspiring women.

Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of rural Maharashtra and support the women of Mann Deshi Foundation. Join us at Nare Park, Parel, Mumbai from February 5th to 9th, 2025 for a truly unforgettable experience!

About Chetna Sinha:
Ms. Chetna Sinha is a pioneering social entrepreneur who founded the Mann Deshi Foundation and Mann Deshi Bank, which provides microfinance services to rural women. Her vision has empowered thousands of women, helping them achieve financial independence and build successful businesses.