Pune, Sep 1 (PTI) A lively performance depicting Ganesh Vandana by danseuse Sharvari Jamenis and cine actor Mrunmayi Deshpande marked the inauguration of the Pune Festival, an annual cultural extravaganza that is held as part of the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. A brain child of former Congress MP from Pune Suresh Kalmadi, the festival, a blend of vocal and instrumental music, dance, drama, sports and culture, entered its 29th edition this year. Kalmadi, in his speech, thanked the people of Pune for robust response to the event for 29 years. "Taking inspiration from the Pune Festival, several festivals commenced in the city," the former Union minister said. On the occasion, Suman, Bhave and IT expert Anand Khandekar were conferred with the Pune Festival Awards.

Source: India Today September 01, 2017 18:00 UTC