Mumbai: This station master’s ‘thoughts’ are a hit with commuters

Sandhurst Road Station Manager Vinayak Shewale stands next to his now-famous message board at Sandhurst Road station, a daily stop for many Mumbai commuters. Pic/Sayyed Sameer Abedi

When Sandhurst Road Station Manager Vinayak Shewale leaves his Parel home each morning for work, he's already thinking about what his next "thought of the day" will be, just like he used to in school. For the past two years, Shewale has been diligently updating a green board inside the station with a fresh thought or slogan every single day.

What started as a personal initiative has now become a daily ritual for many Mumbai commuters, who eagerly read and even share the board's messages on their social media before heading to work. The quotes aren't lofty philosophical musings, but practical, meaningful messages - public service slogans, motivational lines, and reminders on civic duties. What has won hearts is the consistency and sincerity behind it.

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With quiet focus, Shewale writes out the day's thought , a habit that has turned into a heartfelt ritual for Mumbai's rail users

Asked what inspired the idea, Shewale says it stemmed from his daily experiences as a station master. "We are often the first to reach the site in case of accidents or mishaps. I've seen victims in pain, broken limbs, and traumatised passengers. It made me want to communicate, to counsel in some way. These messages became my way of doing that. It also helps maintain the distinct identity of Sandhurst Road station," Shewale told mid-day.

He admits he never imagined it would catch on. "Mumbai commuters are always in a rush. I thought nobody would stop to read it. In the beginning, very few did. But then we added some visual art to the board and kept at it. Over time, people started noticing. Now, if we ever miss updating it, regulars come and ask why. That's when I realised it had truly become part of their routine."

Some of the messages on the board. Pics/Sayyed Sameer Abedi

The topics range from women's safety, water conservation, and environmental awareness to reminders about fuel-saving and national observances. Sachin Nalawade, a commuter from Lalbaug, said, "I read his board every day and share it in my WhatsApp groups. He even sends updates about weekend mega blocks - always a day in advance - which is incredibly helpful."

Central Railway's Chief Public Relations Officer Dr Swapnil Nila, lauded the initiative: "It's a great way to promote public service messages. All our staff are encouraged to stay connected with passengers and build goodwill wherever possible."