New Dawn, New Learnings: World's First Marathi University Opens In Amravati's Riddhapur
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The event marked a significant cultural and academic development for Maharashtra and the broader Marathi-speaking community. Dr Avinash Awalgaonkar assumed office as the university's first vice-chancellor felicitated by Mahant Karanjekar Baba, the newly elected Akhil Bharatiya Mahanubhav Parishad president.
"The establishment of this university comes at a time when Marathi has been granted classical language status — a recognition of its ancient literary tradition, rich legacy of classical works, and historical significance," Dr Awalgaonkar told TOI.
"The university's mission is to channelise this cultural heritage into contemporary higher education, making Marathi not merely a subject of study but a medium through which diverse disciplines are taught and explored.
Our vision is to make higher education accessible and prestigious in one's mother tongue. We want students to excel in modern careers without having to forgo their linguistic and cultural identity," he added.
Blending Tradition and Modernity
Officials emphasised that the curriculum extends beyond traditional language studies. "These courses are designed to open professional opportunities, from environmental management to tourism, all through Marathi as the primary medium of learning," explained senior faculty member Dr Sunita Sangole. Eligibility for diploma courses requires students to have passed Class 12 in any language medium.
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The online admission process aims to attract aspirants from across Maharashtra and beyond.
Riddhapur: A Symbolic Home For The University
Riddhapur was selected as the university's location due to its significance. Situated approximately 40km from Amravati city, Riddhapur is a sacred site for followers of Mahanubhav Panth, a major spiritual movement in Maharashtra. The village is known for its tranquillity and cultural heritage,
offering an inspiring setting for a university dedicated to preserving and promoting Marathi
Local leaders anticipate that the institution will transform the region's educational and socio-economic landscape.
"It's historic. Vidarbha will finally be seen as a knowledge hub for Marathi, and Riddhapur will shine brightly on the educational map of India," said Yashpal Gulde, a university official and local resident.
As classes prepare to begin, the university stands as a tribute to Marathi's classical past and a bridge to its future. For millions of Marathi speakers, it signifies that their language is not only a cultural treasure but also a powerful medium for modern learning and global engagement.
Vidarbha now has 3 language universities
Vidarbha now hosts three language universities, a unique distinction within Maharashtra. Ramtek is home to Kavikulaguru Kalidas Sanskrit University, established to promote Sanskrit studies and research. Wardha houses the Mahatma Gandhi Antarrashtriya Hindi Vishwavidyalaya, an institution of national importance for Hindi language and literature. Riddhapur in Amravati district has become the proud seat of the world's first Marathi Language University.
Courses offered
- BA Marathi (language and script)
- German, Russian, and English
- BPA (Drama and Theatre)
- BPA (Music)
- BTTM (Tourism and Travel Management)
- BEM (Environmental Management)
Postgraduate programmes include MA Marathi (sociolinguistics and dialectology), Classical Marathi Language and Literature, Psychology, Geography and Natural Resources, Environmental Studies, and MPA (Music).
Eligibility Criteria
- Passed Class 12 (HSC) or equivalent exam for degree courses
- Graduation in relevant subject required for postgraduate courses
Admission Process
- Online Registration: July 1 to 11, 2025
- Application forms available online at: https://openform.in/public/link/1/
- Online or offline submission possible
- Email: marathibhashauni@gmail.com
- Contact numbers: 0721-2990186, 9146382765
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