Irina Glushkova to be ambassador of state culture and tourism

Russian indologist Irina Glushkova has been nominated as the Ambassador of Maharashtra tourism and culture by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in Russia recently. The Chief Minister, who held an interaction with the noted scholar after reaching Ekaterinburg (Russia), said, “Dr Irina Glushkova’s dedication to pursue the research works on Maratha kings and language and culture of Maharashtra is well known. Today, personally interacting with her was great inspiration.” The state government feels proud to nominate her as ambassador of Maharashtra’s tourism and culture in Russia, he added. The Hon. Chief Minister also handed over an official letter from Principal Secretary Tourism & Culture to Dr. Irina on nominating her as the Honorary Ambassador for Maharashtra in Russia. She will assist Tourism department in organising road shows and other events to spread awareness on Maharashtra. She is scheduled to visit Maharashtra in October when further discussions will be held.

Irina is working as an indologist and Marathi language expert at the Centre for Indian Studies, Institute of Oriental Studies, Russia Academy of Sciences. Irina’s pursuit of Maharashtra’s language, history, culture and tradition brought her to Pune during 1970s, where she learnt the Marathi language as part of her effort to get into the finer details and legacy of the Maratha rulers. She is also well versed with the studies on “Dynaneshwari and Varkari culture”. The Russian indologist has edited books titled, “Death in Maharashtra: Imagination, Perception, Expression” and “Home, Family and Kinship in Maharashtra”.