Sangli (Maharashtra), Jan 19: President Pratibha Patil will inaugurate the 81st Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan here today.

After the outgoing President Arun Sadhu’s reported displeasure at the time-slot allottment, two different inaugural sessions are scheduled to take place at the Sammelan.

President Patil will address the first inaugural session for 20 minutes, which will be attended by Maharashtra Governor S M Krishna, Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilas Rao Deshmukh as well as the present and past presidents of the Sammelan.

Noted literary critic and President of the 81st Sammelan M D Hatkangalekar would address the second session after President Patil’s departure.

Hundreds of writer delegates are expected to take part in the Sammelan. A series of literary events, Kavi sammelans and symposiums will be organised at the three-day meet.

"Granth Dindis" (books' processions) were taken out on Friday in the city streets in which students and literary enthusiasts joined in big numbers.

Marathi Sahitya Mahamandal organise the event annually, which holds a special place in the State’s cultural calender. (ANI)