``It is an opportunity to exchange notes and see how Maharashtrians in Holland and elsewhere in Europe have adapted themselves to a foreign culture even while retaining their unique cultural identity,'' says Jui Bhagwat, one of the girls who has been selected.

The Holland-based Dutch Marathi Mitra Mandal, under the leadership of Dr Anand Pandav, is organising the three-day conference in the Dutch city of Dordrecht, near Rotterdam. Among the cultural programmes which include dance, music, poetry reading and discussions, is a fashion show organised by city-based choreographer Ketaki Deorukhkar-Terse involving six models, five of them from Pune. These young models, most of whom are still in college, have walked the ramp at many events in and around Pune. ``We are all very excited about it,'' says Preeti Salvi who, besides modelling, also dabbles in choreography. The others Deepali Kulkarni (Miss Pune '97), Geeta Bhandarkar (model of the week for TV serial Khubsoorat in '96), Jui Bhagwat, Smita Gondkar and Jamna Inamdar (Miss Thane, '97) were also selected by Ketaki for their modelling experience.

``The idea behind the venture is to showcase Maharashtrian culture and the fashion show is part of it. There are to be five sequences in all - two sari sequences, a salwar kameez round, a ghagra choli round and a casual dress segment. The last sequence will incorporate a fusion ensemble - Western outfits in fabrics that are Maharashtrian in essence, like Paithani or Chanderi,'' says Deepali. The music has been composed by Ravi Vedant, and it, too, promises to be different, combining Indian and Western music.

Artistes who are slated to perform at the conference include singer Shruti Sadolikar, actress Nishigandha Wad, who is to present poems, and Shrikant Moghe, who will perform in a one-man show. A discussion on issues that concern the youth are also on the cards.

Interestingly, also accompanying the Pune contingent are a group of eight mentally handicapped children from the Pune Matimand Vikas Mandal who will put up a cultural show including lezim, folk and tribal dance. There are a reported 100 Puneites who are to attend the conference.