A controversy has erupted over the issue of increasing the rent paid by those operating stalls outside the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount during the Bandra fair. Stall owners on Sunday morning protested against a proposal to hike the rent tenfold this year. The church, however, clarified that this is a way to recover the costs of improving infrastructure.

Preparations are in full swing for the 300-year-old Bandra fair which will be held for a week from September 8. The fair attracts visitors from all religions and stalls selling candles, flowers, food, toys and artificial jewellery along with sweets and homemade cakes are also among the major attractions.