Berlin, Germany – The ancient Indian art of Mallakhamb is set to grace the streets of Berlin once again, nearly nine decades after its demonstration at the 1936 Olympics. Ramanbaug Yuva Manch Germany e.V., a non-profit organization fostering Maharashtrian folk culture in Berlin, has joined forces with the Mallakhamb Federation USA to present a spectacular Mallakhamb performance at the renowned Carnival of Cultures parade (Karneval der Kulturen) on May 19th, 2024.
The Carnival of Cultures, a vibrant tradition since 1996, celebrates diversity and community spirit in Berlin. This year, Mallakhamb will take center stage, captivating audiences with its breathtaking displays of strength, agility, and grace.
A Global Collaboration Takes Flight
The Mallakhamb Federation USA has assembled a diverse team of 14 talented athletes from India, Nepal, Japan, Germany, and the USA to showcase their skills. Led by Indian Mallakhamb expert Arvind Karandikar, this international collaboration marks a historic first for the sport.
Innovation Meets Tradition
Adding another layer of intrigue, this performance will feature a specially designed, manually pushed float, allowing the athletes to seamlessly showcase their artistry within the moving parade. This unique approach signifies a first for Mallakhamb outside of India.
A Legacy in the Making
The Mallakhamb performance at the Carnival of Cultures promises to be a pivotal moment for the sport. It not only marks the return of Mallakhamb to Berlin after a long absence, but also paves the way for its wider recognition and growth in Europe. Inspired by this event, a group of enthusiastic engineers of Indian origin, led by Veena Rasal Pawar, are establishing a non-profit organization to promote Mallakhamb across the European Union.