The 300-year-old Mount Mary Festival, popularly known as the Bandra Fair, began on Sunday with more than 17,000 devotees gathering to offer prayers. Celebrated for over 300 years, the festival is deeply rooted in Mumbai’s cultural and spiritual fabric. Thousands continue to flock to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, where strict security measures have been deployed. (Pic/Ashish Raje)

As people get ready to celebrate Independence Day on August 15, immerse in the festivities by feeling the same way most people did on the first day (Story by Junisha Dama)