BHALCHANDRA GOVIND

A driven and accomplished educator, I possess a fervent dedication to ongoing learning and the pursuit of innovative approaches. With a robust background in providing high-level administrative support as a Board Secretary, I am adept at navigating complex organizational dynamics with efficiency and precision. In my role as President of the Marathi Sahitya Parishad, Mauritius, I champion initiatives aimed at advancing Marathi literature, language, and cultural heritage. My forward-thinking approach guides strategic decisions that contribute to the growth and prominence of our organization within the community.

Through these roles, I continuously strive to foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and lifelong learning, making meaningful contributions to both education and cultural preservation initiatives.

• Hosted the Round Table Programme on MBC TV for Ganesh Chaturthi Celebration 2019, facilitating discussions on cultural and community significance.
• Served as a Guest Speaker on historical and cultural topics on MBC TV for Maharashtra & Shivaji Day from 2018 to 2023, promoting awareness and understanding.
• Actively participated in Marathi Radio Programmes including Gudhi Padva, Maharashtra and Shivaji Day celebrations, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Marathi Paul Padte Pudhe, contributing insights and perspectives.
• Engaged consistently with the Mauritius Marathi Mandal Federation, Marathi Speaking Union, Ministry of Arts and Culture, and other esteemed institutions to promote cultural exchange and community initiatives.
• Passionate advocate for Emotional Intelligence, fostering understanding and interpersonal skills within diverse community settings.
• Member of the Rotaract Club of Ebene, actively involved in community service and leadership development initiatives.

Date of Birth: 10th June 1990

Gender: Male

Driving License: Yes

Address: 103, Morcellement Manguier Royal, Henrietta

• 2020: Founded the DNYAANMUDRAA movement to foster the exchange of knowledge on socio-cultural and historical topics relevant to the Marathi community.
• 2022: Led the consecration ceremony at Chamouny Marathi Vishwanath Mandir and Black River Ganesh Pawan Mandir, overseeing the installation of new deities in accordance with Hindu rituals alongside the Shri Sadguru Seva Mandal Mauritius.
• 2023: Created and presented a ballet on the life of Sambhaji Maharaj during the Regional Celebrations of Maharashtra & Shivaji Day 2023 in collaboration with Shivaji Ashram, Forest Side, and other Curepipe associations, aiming to raise awareness about his legacy.
• 2023: Pioneered the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Fort Maquette Making Competition in Mauritius in partnership with the Marathi Sahitya Parishad, Mauritius, promoting the historical significance of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj among youth.
• 2023: Organized a workshop on Shaadu Maati Ganpati Murti making techniques to nurture traditional sculpting skills within the community, especially among the younger generation, ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
• 2023: Initiated Annadaan Ganeshotsav, a food collection program benefiting underprivileged children during the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
• 2023: Established the Rangoli Making Competition to showcase community members' creative talents and promote the cultural significance of Rangoli art.
• 2024: Introduced the Toran Making Competition to encourage the community to create eco-friendly decorations for cultural events.
• 2024: Revived the traditional Rally for Maharashtra & Shivaji Day during the Regional Celebrations of Maharashtra and Shivaji Day 2024, organized by the Municipal Council of Vacoas-Phoenix in collaboration with the Marathi Sahitya Parishad, Mauritius, and local associations of Vacoas-Phoenix.

• Currently serving as President of the Marathi Sahitya Parishad, Mauritius, an institution dedicated to promoting Marathi literature, language, and culture in Mauritius.
• Previously held the role of Secretary for the Marathi Sahitya Parishad, Mauritius from 2018 to 2023.
• Actively involved as Secretary and Board Member of the Marathi Speaking Union, operating under the Ministry of Arts and Cultural Heritage.
• Dedicated member of the Shri Sadguru Seva Mandal, Mauritius, contributing to community service initiatives.
• Served as a member of the adjudicating panel for the National Sketch Competition 2023 organized by the Ministry of Arts and Cultural Heritage.
• Represented the Mauritius Marathi Mandali Federation as a delegate, supporting the propagation of Marathi language and culture.
• Previously held the role of Assistant Treasurer for the John Kennedy College Parent Teachers Association.
• Directed the short film "Zordi Moi Demin Toa" on drug addiction for the Intercollege Film Competition 2016 organized by the Mauritius Film Development Corporation.
• Founder member and former secretary of the student association "Mauritian Friends Circle–Pune," fostering cultural exchange and community engagement.
• Member of the World Organization of Students & Youth (WOSY), Pune Chapter, contributing to global youth initiatives and programs.

PUBLICATIONS

• Marathi Speaking Union (2023).
• Marathi Speaking Union (2023). Kaavya Sphurtee: An anthology of Marathi poems by Mauritian authors. MACH.
• Dr. Bhiwajee, S., Dr. Ladkoo, V., Govind, Bhalchandra (2018). Jopasnaa – Fostering our identity. In Press. MMCCT.
• Govind, Bhalchandra (2013). Sandyapanacha Navin Chehara – New era of communication. Vasant, Vol 129. MGI Publication.

• Mr. Asant Govind, CSK
  President – Mauritius Marathi Mandali Federation
  Contact No: 57500524
  Email Address: asantgovind@yahoo.com
• Mrs. Neeshi Heeroo Luximon
  Marathi Lecturer – Mahatma Gandhi Institute
  Vice President – Marathi Speaking Union
  Contact No: 57764928
  Email Addresses: luxneesh@gmail.com, neeshi@mgirti.ac.mu
• Dr. Dina Ragoonundun
  Ophthalmologist at Ministry of Health and Wellness, SBEH Moka
  Contact No: 59884087