WNAI 2023-2025 Committee

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Megha Barpande

Born and brought up in Mumbai, I've been a Wellington, NZ resident for the last 21 years. I've 2 children - son (19 years) and a daughter (12 years). 

I come from a priest family and my husband is lovingly called "Gurujee". I love my rich Marathi culture and celebrate our festivals and traditions with great enthusiasm.  

I'm excited to become WMAI's 1st Female President and looking forward to working with my fantastic and diverse team to bring some wonderful events in the next 2 years. 

Deepika Joshi-Thatte

I moved to New Zealand 15 years ago and live here with my husband, two girls and my fur baby. Even though I am originally from Garhwal, at heart I believe I’m a Garhwali Maharashtrian. I enjoy traditions and love to celebrate all festivals. I am inquisitive about culture and history. Being multicultural allows me to enjoy both the cultures. I’m excited to be part of the committee and contributing to this awesome community.

Rewa Dixit

Vishal Tandon

I arrived in Wellington 4 years ago. Born and brought up in Pune, I have a close association and impressions of the Marathi culture. I live here with my wife and 2 boys. 

I feel fortunate to have been part of sort of an extravaganza with Ganesh Miravnooks at Laxmi Road while in Pune.

Talk to me about Pu La and I'm all ears :)

Sayali Narawade 

 I was born and brought up in Pune with Marathi culture embedded tightly. During teenage years I got to explore Tanzania and then in the adolescent life I explored London. I always ensured to be part of Marathi mandals across these cities. Now in Wellington for nearly 12 years and have always been enthusiastically participating in various cultural programs. I love to be artistic and listening to various types of music. 

Jitendra Hushare 

Educated in a Marathi-medium school, I always enjoyed Marathi festivals, culture, drama and movies. I aspire to strengthen this Marathi bond and pass on this great tradition to the next generation. Fond of reading Marathi books and inculcating Marathi spiritual teaching into our daily lives.

Chinmay Gathoo 

Namaskar & Kia Ora, I came to Auckland in 2019 for my higher education. Originally from Mumbai and now based in Wellington since 2022. I have trained in Hindustani classical music for a few years and have also indulged in canvas painting. In my spare time, i enjoy going on hikes and outdoor sports, visit cafes and watch movies.

I am proud to join WMAI and contribute to our small close-knit Marathi community.

Madhurika Kulkarni

Resigned from the commitee.

Smita Shangarpawar 

Resigned from the committee