The harsh summer has made an unwelcome comeback this October. At Filter Pada in Powai, more so. Rutuja Latke, who is making her way through an overzealous crowd of women flaunting saffron caps and sashes, is reeling under the strain of the hot afternoon sun. She halts briefly to sip some water, while a female party worker wipes off the smudged red tikka that’s bleeding in her sweat. In a matter of minutes, a large group encircles her. Standing on the periphery is a Congress karyakarta who has the palm of a hand printed on her sash. She holds up a flaming torch, crying out: “Mashaal, mashaal, mashaal. Garibo ki nishaani mashaal.” The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance is playing out on field.

Latke takes a moment to get her bearings together, before turning back to face the crowd. She straightens her dupatta, folds her hands, and smiles. “Don’t let [Ramesh] Latke sahebachi good work go waste. Give your blessings to his wife, Rutuja tai… Remember you have to come out and vote on November 3. Your support is important,” a party worker appeals in Marathi, the loudspeaker carrying his voice to a distance.