SAN JOSE, Calif. (Diya TV)— In a proud moment for the global Marathi-speaking community, Indian American Congressman Shri Thanedar this week honored the North American Film Association (NAFA) on the U.S. House floor. Thanedar recognized NAFA’s role in promoting Marathi cinema and preserving cultural heritage across North America.

The congressman praised the nonprofit’s efforts to make Marathi films more accessible to wider audiences. He noted that NAFA’s mission helps preserve Maharashtra’s rich cultural identity while bridging cultural boundaries. Thanedar is the first Marathi-speaking member of the U.S. Congress.

“By making Marathi cinema more accessible, NAFA aims to preserve Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage, bridge cultural boundaries, and create a more diverse arts and culture space,” he said in his address.

Founded by filmmaker and philanthropist Abhi Gholap, NAFA supports independent and culturally important filmmaking in the United States and Canada. Its programs include fiscal sponsorships, educational masterclasses, and film festivals.

NAFA’s flagship event, the Marathi International Film Festival, will take place from July 25 to 27, 2025, at the historic California Theatre in San Jose. The festival will showcase a diverse lineup of Marathi feature films, short films, student projects, and web series. All entries will include English subtitles to welcome a broader, global audience.

The event is expected to attract filmmakers, actors, producers, and fans from across the U.S., India, and beyond. Organizers say the festival will serve as a major platform to elevate regional Indian cinema and connect cultural voices across continents.

In his speech, Thanedar also commended Gholap’s philanthropic work through the Jiji-Bhau Cancer Foundation. The foundation helps children with leukemia in rural India access critical treatment and care. Thanedar called the work “inspiring” and praised its impact on vulnerable communities.

“Best wishes to NAFA from this Marathi-speaking Congressman,” he said, before concluding in Marathi: “Tumchya Marathi bolnarya Congresssadaashyakadun uttam shubhechha,” meaning “Best wishes from your Marathi-speaking Congressman.”

NAFA’s mission aligns with the growing international interest in regional Indian cinema. As films in languages like Marathi, Tamil, and Malayalam gain popularity worldwide, organizations like NAFA are creating bridges between cultures.

The nonprofit aims to give a voice to regional Indian storytellers and connect them with international audiences. Its events and programs serve both emerging and established filmmakers, helping them share their stories across language and cultural barriers.

Gholap, who leads NAFA, said the group remains committed to “fostering artistic excellence and meaningful cross-cultural dialogue.” He noted that the upcoming film festival in San Jose will offer audiences a chance to experience the richness and diversity of Marathi storytelling.

For many in the Marathi-speaking diaspora, NAFA has become a symbol of pride and connection. By hosting film festivals and cultural events in North America, the organization allows people of Maharashtrian origin to stay connected to their roots.

NAFA’s work also introduces Marathi culture to new audiences, including second-generation Indian Americans and non-Indian viewers. Through accessible screenings and community engagement, the group fosters appreciation for the language, history, and art of Maharashtra.

As regional Indian cinema continues to break barriers and win global acclaim, NAFA’s role in the cultural ecosystem is more important than ever. With growing support from leaders like Thanedar and strong community backing, the organization is poised to expand its impact in the years ahead.

For more information about the Marathi International Film Festival and other NAFA initiatives, visit the organization’s official website.