Mumbai: Goddess’s blessings split between Sena factions in Mulund

The two Navratri pandals in close proximity have been set up on M G Road, Mulund by the two factions of Shiv Sena

For the last 23 years, the Goddess who was worshipped during Navratri on M G Road, Mulund West, a bustling suburb of Mumbai, literally lorded over the street. However, with the division of Shiv Sena, not only have her ardent devotees also got divided, she now has competition.

M G Road and its Goddess seem to be bearing the brunt of Shiv Sena's break-up as both factions have set up Navratri pandals in close proximity. Fed-up residents are complaining of double encroachments on the road and pavements.

Nirmal Thakker, a local social activist, said, "Traffic congestion on M G Road, one of the major roads of Mulund, is definitely going to affect the entire Mulund. What I suggest is that both factions work together to celebrate Navratri by building just one pandal instead of the two pandals.

This will definitely help in easing up the traffic in Mulund and also help in reducing noise pollution."

"Yes, probably having one huge pandal will be good, instead of two. The area is already congested and two pandals are making it worse, especially during the rush hours and footpaths are also blocked," another resident said.

Sanjay Sawant, a local office-bearer of Shiv Sena (UBT), spoke of their commitment in celebrating Navratri at the same spot for 23 years. He said, "Even after the split, during festival celebrations, we ensure that local residents are not troubled by political tensions. During festivities we organize free medical camps, blood donation camps, etc. Even in times of traffic congestion, workers (karyakarte) from both sides work in unison to clear out the congestion."

Pramod Kamble, a local office-bearer of Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde), emphasized their consideration for local residents during festivals. He said, "When it comes to festivals, we ensure that local residents are not inconvenienced. No garba is played during the nine days as doing so may lead to traffic congestion."

Rajesh Patil, a local shopkeeper said, "As shopkeepers in the heart of Mulund, we have witnessed the remarkable coexistence of the two Shiv Sena factions during the Navratri celebrations on M G Road. It's a testament to the resilience and unity of our city that transcends political divisions.

The presence of both pandals in close proximity has not only added a vibrant cultural atmosphere to our neighbourhood but also allowed us to do business without disruption."

23
Years Sena has been celebrating Navratri on M G Road