Marathi-language giant Lokmat has celebrated the start of its centenary year with the launch of a print edition for New Delhi.

The two events were marked by a stellar gathering at which guests included Indian vice president Venkaiah Naidu, who stressed the importance of families communicating in their regional language. Also at the function on December 14, were former prime minister Manmohan Singh, MP, and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal,

home affairs minister Rajnath Singh, Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, and road transport, highways and shipping, and Ganga rejuvenation, Nitin Gadkari.

Lokmat Media Group chairman Vijay Darda said the newspaper had always meaningfully engaged with its readers and opinion makers: "With 11 editions, 45 sub-editions, and a widespread reporter network, we are truly the 'Voice of Maharashtra'.

"Our benchmarked journalism, rooted in nationalism, and core values has helped us create newer approaches and stay relevant to our readers standing tall amidst the onslaught of new age media."