This glittering function was organised at Ramkrishna More auditorium in Chinchwad. The function was graced with presence of noted writer Ramdas Kamat and Ulhas Pawar. These dignitaries were felicitated with state level Kalagaurav Puraskar. Ramdas and Aparna Padhye, Lyricist Guru Thakur, film director Rajiv Patil were also felicitated.

Those who received special recognition were Shahir Namdeo Viaragkar, Yogesh Dalvi, Shankar Athare, Vijayanti Bhaleroa, Mohan Landge and Satish Diwan. The function was coordinated by Pratishan’s president Amit Gorkhe along with Shailesh Lele, Ram Riana.

Pawar asked government to extend its financial help to those artistes who have provided their services for entertainment.

Berde was jubilant as this was her first award in her 23 years of cinematic career. Inamdar expressed that Marathi language is “lagging behind” in Maharashtra. “This award is like climbing fort, it gives me immense pleasure,” said Gunaji.