Pune Festival Trust Elects New Leadership; Krishnakumar Goyal Named President, Meera Kalmadi Chairperson
Pune Festival Trust Elects New Leadership; Krishnakumar Goyal Named President, Meera Kalmadi Chairperson
Pune, July 21, 2026: The Pune Festival Trust has announced its new office bearers following the demise of its Founder-President and former Member of Parliament, Late Suresh Kalmadi, who led the festival for nearly four decades.
At a meeting of the Trust held on Tuesday, the trustees paid tribute to Kalmadi’s visionary leadership and acknowledged his pivotal role in transforming the Pune Festival into one of India’s premier cultural celebrations, helping establish Pune as a prominent destination on the global tourism map.
By unanimous consensus, the trustees elected Krishnakumar Goyal as the President of the Pune Festival Trust, Meera Kalmadi as Chairperson, and Dr. Satish Desai as Secretary.
The Trust also confirmed that Hema Malini, renowned actress, classical dancer and Member of Parliament, will continue as the Patron of the Pune Festival.
In addition, Subhash Sanas has been reappointed as Vice President, while Adv. Abhay Chhajed will continue as Chief Coordinator. Dr. Satish Desai will also retain his additional responsibility as Chief Coordinator – Cultural Programmes, alongside his role as Secretary.
The trustees reaffirmed their commitment to preserving and strengthening the legacy created by Late Suresh Kalmadi, under whose leadership the Pune Festival was celebrated with grandeur for the past 37 years during the Ganesh Festival. The event has played a significant role in promoting Pune’s rich cultural heritage and attracting national and international visitors.
Expressing confidence in the newly elected leadership, the trustees said they would continue working together with committee members and volunteers to uphold the festival’s traditions and ensure that its founder’s vision continues to inspire future editions.
The 38th Pune Festival is scheduled to be held from September 14 to September 25, 2026, coinciding with the Ganesh Festival celebrations in Pune.
