Bridging Clubs, Building Bonds – My Journey as Assistant Governor (2025–26)
Sometime in November last year, DGE Santosh Marathe called me to his office and offered me the responsibility of Assistant Governor for the Rotary year 2025–26. It was a moment of great honour and humility for me to accept this prestigious role. One that truly serves as a vital bridge between the District leadership and the clubs entrusted to me.
In due course, I was assigned five clubs, and my real journey as an AG began. Each club had its own unique culture, working style and priorities. Engaging with this diversity was both interesting and at times, challenging. My initial impressions about some clubs evolved significantly as I began attending their programs and interacting closely with their members. One common thread, however, was unmistakable. Every club extended immense warmth, respect and affection to me and my wife, Sunita. The regard shown to the office of the Assistant Governor was deeply touching and at times, even overwhelming.
The Yuva Club pleasantly surprised me with their exceptional passion for sports. Their Box Cricket Tournament, featuring 16 teams, and the Chess Tournament involving 350 students were organized with remarkable professionalism and precision. Truly commendable efforts that reflected strong planning and youthful energy.
The Diwali Pahat program of the Rotary Club of Nanded City was nothing short of phenomenal. Witnessing a gathering of over 2,500 people at 6:00 a.m. was inspiring. The club members, along with their spouses, demonstrated exemplary teamwork, discipline, and execution of the highest order. Managing such a large open-ground event was certainly not an easy task, yet it was handled seamlessly.
My interaction with the Rotary Club of Pune Sinhagad was equally enriching. Having secured second position in the district last year, this seasoned club with many experienced and talented members continues to set high standards. Their OCV this year was uniquely hosted at Kelkar Museum, where the entire program followed a historic theme — from ambience to dress code — creating a memorable and distinctive experience.
The Rotary Club of Bhor Rajgarh, which bagged five awards at the last District Awards Ceremony, continued its commendable community service this year despite medical challenges faced by the serving President. Their resilience and commitment to Rotary’s ideals are truly praiseworthy.
Among all the experiences, the highlight of the year for me was the Rotary Marathi Sahitya Sammelan superbly organized Rotary club of Heritage. In its second year, the event stood out as a magnificent showcase of planning, teamwork, innovation, and flawless execution. It was truly an unparalleled event in our district and a proud moment for Rotary.
On the personal front, my wife Sunita thoroughly enjoyed building friendships across the clubs. For both of us, this journey has been a rich learning experience filled with meaningful connections and cherished memories.
I give full credit to DG Santosh Marathe and First Lady Dr. Tanuja Marathe for their constant encouragement, trust, and the complete freedom they extended while I carried out my responsibilities as Assistant Governor.
I would also like to express my sincere thanks to District Officers Unmesh and Hemant, who were always readily available for guidance, clarification, and support whenever required. Thanks to all my AG colleagues who were always supportive to me.
Serving as Assistant Governor has been a deeply fulfilling journey of learning, leadership, and lasting relationships. I remain grateful for the trust placed in me and look forward to continuing to serve Rotary with the same passion and commitment.
Rtn. Ujwal Kele
Assistant Governor, RI District 3131 (2025–26)
