Mumbai: Over 200 dogs parade in costumes at Chembur Festival

People walk their furry friends at the parade. Pics courtesy/Chembur citizens welfare association

What happens when over 200 dogs take over a city street? At the Chembur Festival, an annual parade does exactly that. For nearly 11 years, Central Avenue Road has transformed into a lively, tail-wagging routine that creates awareness as dogs dress up in playful costumes. This year, the theme is mythology.

Organised as a free public event by Chembur Citizens Welfare, the parade invites pet parents to walk alongside their dogs, with crowds expected to line both sides of the road as 200 to 250 dogs across breeds pass by. The main aim of the initiative seeks to shift the negative public perception that people might have about dogs, and encourage responsible pet ownership. In a city where many encounters with dogs are linked with fear, this seems like a positive approach.

Apurva Padgaonkar

"When you spot friendly dogs, the inclination is to pet them. You can click pictures with them and because of this interaction, the fear does minimise to an extent," says organiser Apurva Padgaonkar, emphasising the value of direct interaction. "And because of this, they become more acquainted with the culture of having a pet at home, and how friendly it can truly be," he adds.

All shapes and sizes are welcome, with a wide range of breeds - from desi indies, Pitbulls, Yorkshire Terriers, to Mastiffs and Shih Tzus - participating in large numbers in the parade.

Pet dogs at last year's parade

With no entry fee, the event remains accessible while maintaining a strong focus on animal welfare, comfort and responsible participation throughout the walk. A handful of commercial stalls selling pet accessories and food will be present, alongside small start-ups distributing trial packs of their
homemade dog food.

Ultimately, the parade aims to replace hesitation with familiarity, creating a shared public space where adults and children can engage with well-socialised pets and reconsider their relationship with dogs.

ON Today; 4 pm onwards
AT Centre Avenue Road, Chembur.
CALL 9594700666 or 9920717902 (registrations)
ENTRY Free

Play by the rules

1 Dogs must be above five months of age, vaccinated and dewormed
2 A prior veterinary health check-up is required
3 Dogs with heart ailments may not participate
4 Keep the leash short if the dog has an unpredictable temperament
5 For brachycephalic breeds (e.g. Pugs, Shih Tzus, Boxers), pause if there is excessive panting
6 Clean up after your pet to keep streets clean