Routes to Roots (R2R)
Your Gateway to Maharashtra’s
Opportunities and Heritage!
Program Overview
Routes to Roots (R2R) is a pioneering career development program conceptualized and promoted by Bruhan Maharashtra Mandal and Authentica for BMM members. The program creates a vibrant network of professionals committed to maintaining cultural ties while advancing global careers. Beyond enriching individual experiences, R2R strengthens connections between the Indian diaspora and Maharashtra, creating a lasting impact for participants, their communities, and their professional trajectories.
Routes to Roots (R2R) is a transformative 8-week program that connects youth from North America with their cultural heritage while developing valuable professional skills in Maharashtra, India. Through carefully matched internships with leading organizations across sectors including IT, Healthcare, Manufacturing, and NGOs, participants gain hands-on experience while immersing in different parts of Maharashtra.
The program balances professional growth with cultural reconnection through sector-specific internships, immersive cultural experiences, and meaningful networking opportunities.
- Duration
8 Weeks
- Cohort 1: June 7 to August 2, 2025
- Cohort 2: June 28 to August 23, 2025
- Apply By
April 30, 2025
- Location
Pune and Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Eligibility
College students (sophomores and above)
- Suitable Disciplines
Multidisciplinary
Benefits of Joining Routes to Roots
- Core Learning Areas
- Hands-on professional experience in leading Indian organizations
- Cross-cultural communication and adaptation skills
- Understanding of Maharashtra’s business environment and practices
- Marathi language and cultural heritage appreciation
- Global networking and relationship-building competencies
- Practical Opportunities
- Sector-specific internship placement matching your career goals
- Real-world project experience with measurable outcomes
- Professional portfolio development with international credentials
- Personal development plan integrating cultural and professional growth
- Optional academic transcript from Florida A&M University
- Interactive Program Components
- Three guided excursions including to Mumbai, coastal and central Maharashtra
- Professional workshops and networking events
- Urban and rural cultural immersion experiences
- Industry-specific site visits and expert interactions
- Community engagement with local organizations
- Program Impact & Value
- Enhanced resume with international work experience
- Deepened connection to Maharashtrian heritage and identity
- Expanded professional network spanning North America and India
- Improved adaptability and cross-cultural competence
- Lifelong alumni community for continued growth and support
Key Program Elements
Professional Development
- Tailored Internship Placements: Work directly with leading organizations in IT, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Media, NGOs, and more
- Real-World Project Experience: Gain practical skills through hands-on projects relevant to your field of study
- Industry Networking: Build meaningful connections with professionals in your sector through organized events and mentorship opportunities
- Skills Enhancement: Develop both technical and soft skills through structured workshops and on-the-job learning
Cultural Immersion
- Urban Exploration: Experience the dynamic energy of Pune and Mumbai through guided experiences
- Rural Connection: Discover Maharashtra beyond the cities with excursions to places with historical and cultural importance
- Heritage Engagement: Participate in workshops centered on Maharashtrian culture, arts, cuisine, and traditions
- Community Interaction: Engage with local communities for authentic insights into contemporary Maharashtrian life
Personal Growth
- Global Perspective: Develop a nuanced understanding of India’s role in the global landscape
- Identity Exploration: Reconnect with and deepen your understanding of your Maharashtrian heritage
- Independence: Navigate daily life in India, building confidence and adaptability
- Peer Network: Form lasting bonds with fellow participants who share similar backgrounds and aspirations
Program Cost & Accommodation Type
Option | Cost Per Person (Twin-sharing) | Single Supplement (for own room) |
|---|---|---|
Homestay | USD $4,480 | NA |
3-Star Hotel
(Oakwood Hotel or similar) | USD $5,210 | USD $1,320 |
4-Star Serviced Apartment (Golden Suites or similar) | USD $5,960 | USD $2,070 |
Accommodation on Own | USD $3,890 | NA |
Additional expenses for meals and local transportation
• $750 to $1250 for meals and transport for 2 months (if staying in hotel)
• $400 to $600 if staying in homestay
Program Snapshot
- Location
Pune and Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Suitable Disciplines
Multidisciplinary
- Apply By
April 30, 2025
- Cost
- USD $4,480: Homestay
- USD $5,210: 3-Star Hotel
- USD $5,960: 4-Star Hotel
- USD $3,890: Accommodation on Own
- Duration
8 Weeks
- Cohort 1: June 7 to August 2, 2025
- Cohort 2: June 28 to August 23, 2025
- Eligibility
College students (sophomores and above)
Cultural Experiences
Janjira Fort and Murud Beach
Ajanta-Ellora Caves
Sinhagad Fort
Mumbai City Tour
Kelkar Museum
Cooking Class
Dance Class
Theatre Experience
Program Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
Internship placement with leading organizations
Expert-led sessions for reflections and networking
Community engagement activities and cultural immersion
Workshops on Maharashtrian culture
Meals at hotel: Breakfasts
Meals at homestay: Breakfasts and dinners on weekdays and all meals on weekends
Meals during cultural excursions, including welcome and farewell dinners
Arrival Airport transfer
Optional: Airport transfers after program completion
All applicable taxes
Exclusions
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Health Insurance
- Personal expenses
- Non-Excursion Meals except above
Sample Program Itinerary
Week 1
- Arrival in Mumbai
- Mumbai City Tour
- Dharavi Tour
- Bollywood Dance Class & Welcome Dinner
Week 2
- Internship
- Pune City Tour
- History Session
- Visit to NGO
Week 3
- Internship
- Language Session
- Ajanta Ellora Caves
- Daulatabad Fort or City Tour
Week 4
- Internship
- Cooking Class
- Visit to Janjira Fort
- Visit to Murud Beach
Week 5
- Internship
- Music Experience/Workshop
- Sinhagad Trek
Week 6
- Internship
- Dance Experience
- Workshops
- Optional Weekend Excursions
Week 7
- Internship
- Theatre Experience
Week 8
- Internship
- Reflection Session
- Farewell Dinner
- Departure
FAQs About the Program
The program is open to Indian-origin college students and recent graduates from North America, age 18 and above.
No prior internship experience is required. However, having relevant skills related to your preferred industry will strengthen your application and enhance your internship experience.
The application deadline is April 30, 2025.
Yes, all participants who successfully complete the program will receive an official internship certificate, which can be included in your resume and professional portfolio.
We have established partnerships across diverse sectors including Information Technology, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Media, Non-Governmental Organizations, and several other industries.
The internships are unpaid. The program is designed to provide valuable hands-on experience, professional mentorship, and networking opportunities to enhance your future career prospects.
We offer three accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets:
- Homestay with a local family
- 3-Star Hotel accommodation
- 4-Star Service Apartments
Meals depend on the selected stay option:
- Hotel stay: Breakfasts are included.
- Homestay: Breakfasts and dinners are provided on weekdays, and all meals are included on weekends.
Authentica will also provide meals during excursions.
Authentica will provide pick up from airport and transportation for planned excursions. Daily commute from stay location to work will have to be borne by participants
The safety of our participants is our top priority. We provide comprehensive safety briefings, 24/7 emergency support, and ensure accommodations and activities adhere to high safety standards. The program group will be accompanied by the Authentica team member(s), who will be available 24×7 during the program. They have also been certified by the Red Cross in first-aid emergency training. In case of an emergency, measures will be taken in real-time. You can refer to our Health & Safety Policy for more details.
Program fees vary based on your accommodation choice:
- Homestay: $4,480 [Includes daily breakfast & dinners on weekdays and all meals on weekends]
- 3-Star Hotel (twin-sharing): $5,210 [Includes daily breakfast]
- 4-Star Service Apartment (twin-sharing): $5,960 [Includes daily breakfast]
Yes, participants may arrange their own accommodation. You will receive a fee reduction based on the accommodation option you choose to opt out of.
Refunds are based on the cancellation date.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
- Up to 90 days before the start date: No cancellation fee.
- 61 to 90 days before the start date: 15% cancellation fee.
- 31 to 60 days before the start date: 30% cancellation fee.
- 30 days before until one week after the program starts: 90% cancellation fee.
- 7 days after the program starts: no refund (100% cancellation fee).
Yes, Authentica holds a General Liability Insurance Policy with Liberty, providing global coverage of US$2M. Additionally, Authentica has an Errors and Omissions Insurance Policy with coverage exceeding US$1M.
Ready To Take Action?
If you’re ready to take the next step, fill out the details in the “Apply Now” form, and we will get in touch with you shortly.