1. A Language:
* Marathi is an Indo-Aryan language primarily spoken in the Indian state of Maharashtra.
* It's the official language of Maharashtra and is also spoken in parts of Goa, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat.
* With over 83 million speakers, it's the 19th most spoken language in the world.
* Marathi is known for its rich literary tradition and its melodious sound.
2. A Culture:
* Marathi language and culture are deeply intertwined.
* Marathi culture is characterized by its strong traditions, vibrant festivals, and rich history.
* Some notable aspects of Marathi culture include:
* Festivals: Diwali, Ganesh Chaturthi, Holi, Gudi Padwa, etc.
* Cuisine: Vada Pav, Misal Pav, Puran Poli, Modak, etc.
* Art and Literature: Works by poets like Tukaram, Dnyaneshwar, and saints like Eknath and Ramdas.
* Music and Dance: Lavani, Tamasha, Natya, etc.
* Cinema: The Marathi film industry, known as 'Marathi cinema,' has a strong presence in India.
In short, Marathi is a vibrant language and culture with a rich history and a strong presence in India. It's a language known for its beauty, and a culture rich in traditions and artistic expressions.