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Thane civic body backs naming new railway station after Anand Dighe

The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) on Thursday unanimously approved a resolution supporting the naming of the upcoming railway station between Thane and Mulund after Anand Dighe. As per an official statement, the resolution was passed during the general body meeting held on Wednesday, endorsing the proposal for the new station being constructed by Central Railway to ease congestion on the busy suburban corridor. The new station is being developed to address the growing passenger load between Thane and Mulund and is expected to significantly reduce pressure on the existing Thane Railway Station, offering much-needed relief to daily commuters. Originally, the project was estimated to cost over Rs 250 crore and was to be funded by the civic body under the Smart City initiative, with the Railways executing the construction. However, delays in approvals led to cost escalation, prompting repeated demands from the railways for additional funding from TMC. As per the officials, following sustained efforts by leaders, including Shrikant Shinde and Naresh Mhaske, the matter was escalated to Ashwini Vaishnaw.  Discussions were also held by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, urging the Railways to take on the full financial burden, especially in light of Thane Municipal Corporation’s strained finances post the COVID-19 pandemic. Demand to name station after Anand Dighe was raised in Parliament by Naresh Mhaske  Subsequently, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw agreed that the Railways would bear the entire cost of the project and informed the state leadership that a formal proposal had been sent to the Railway Board for approval. The general body also passed a separate resolution congratulating Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vaishnaw, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and MPs Shrikant Shinde and Mhaske for their roles in securing relief for the civic body. The demand to name the station after Dighe—popularly known as ‘Dharmveer’—was earlier raised in Parliament by Mhaske and later brought before the TMC general body for approval. Civic officials noted that Dighe’s contributions to Thane’s social and political landscape made the proposal a matter of pride for residents. The move has been welcomed across the Thane–Mulund region, with citizens expressing hope that the new station will enhance connectivity and streamline suburban rail travel.

20 March,2026 03:03 AM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondent
Representational pic/iStock

Horoscope today, March 20: Check astrological predictions for all zodiac signs

Do you know what the stars hold for you in terms of love life, career, business and personal wellness today? Well, read on to know your astrological predictions as per your zodiac sign for March 20. Aries  March 21 – April 20Try and complete all work required to be finished today, staying in late at the office if needed. Cosmic tip: Think about what kind of changes are required when dealing with the team/people. TaurusApril 21 – May 20A junior at work gravitates towards you when help with a project is needed. Those in a relationship meet their future in-laws.Cosmic tip: Know when to stop talking very frankly. Be true but diplomatic. GeminiMay 21 – June 21A work-related trip is not looked forward to because of the weather, but you can’t refuse either. The new diet is already showing positive results.Cosmic tip: Be grateful for an intensely happy life. Cancer June 22 – July 23It’s best to side-step a legal situation by talking it over, arriving at a mutually happy compromise. Making past positive karma pays off.Cosmic tip: Be grateful for the financial God smiling on you.  Leo July 24 - Aug 23Usually clear to the point of being blunt; this time you have to think before speaking. Try not taking the easy way out of a situation.Cosmic tip: State valid points if asked for an explanation. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Making lifestyle changes is a positive way forward, as long as there’s serious commitment. It’s best to walk away from situations that seem to be meandering aimlessly.Cosmic tip: Continue with regular exercises as advised. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Those about to get married seek blessings from elders for happiness and good fortune in every way. Cosmic tip: Be willing to learn from your experiences or someone else’s whom you trust. Scorpio  Oct 23 – Nov 22A new project/ assignment is a little complicated and takes about two days to understand every small, but important point. Cosmic tip: Be loyal and supportive towards that special person. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22These doubts and criticisms you face while introspecting are just karmic debts to be cleared. Cosmic tip: Be tolerant about a situation that seems never ending, but was a choice taken by you.  Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20It’s good to have positive self-worth, as long as it doesn’t stop you from understanding another’s point of view.Cosmic tip: Resolve a matter step by step without trying to cut corners. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19Consistent new work/ business comes in, beginning a phase of hard work, bringing in immediate results. A change of residence is an option; as is selling property.Cosmic tip: Maintain this calmer mind. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Being attached to a mindset of black or white may also create too many unnecessary questions in your own mind, drawing in confusion. Health is good.Cosmic tip: Seek a simple solution.

20 March,2026 02:49 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley Bose
Mayor Rajiv Patil accepts proposal for emergency medical coach in Western Railway AC locals from Corporator Aashish Vartak. PIC/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Vasai-Virar Mayor seeks dedicated emergency medical coach in WR trains

With the Vasai-Virar region witnessing rapid population growth and rising healthcare demands in Palghar district, Vasai-Virar City Municipal Corporation (VVCMC) Mayor Rajiv Patil has raised a demand for a dedicated emergency medical coach in the forthcoming air-conditioned local trains on Western Railway. The proposal, forwarded through Corporator Aashish Vartak, highlights the life-threatening delays faced by patients needing urgent transfer to Mumbai hospitals. “In cases of sudden serious illness or accidents, people from Vasai-Virar and Palghar often face delays of around two-three hours due to heavy traffic on highways,” the mayor’s office stated, adding, “Such delays have, in some unfortunate cases, led to loss of life.” The suggested emergency medical coach would be equipped with basic life-saving facilities, trained medical staff, and arrangements for on-board treatment, enabling faster and safer transport to Mumbai’s major hospitals. Patil has already held preliminary discussions with senior Western Railway officials, along with Deputy Mayor Marshal Loppes, at VVCMC headquarters. The proposal also seeks coordination with the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) and the Maharashtra government to make the facility operational. Mayor pushes for medical coach to tackle road congestion risks The demand draws inspiration from the successful 108 ambulance service run by the BVG Group under the state government. Officials noted that most railway stations now have lift facilities on every platform, making it easier to move patients on stretchers during emergencies. If implemented, the medical coach could prove to be a significant step in saving lives in the Vasai-Virar-Palghar belt, where road congestion frequently hampers timely medical access. Mayor Patil has urged the state government and railway authorities to take up the matter urgently. “This is a matter of public health and safety. We hope a positive decision is taken soon after discussions with all stakeholders,” he said. Western Railway is yet to respond officially to the proposal, but the idea has gained support among local citizens and elected representatives in the region.

19 March,2026 11:27 PM IST | Mumbai | Samiullah Khan
MNS chief while addressing a gathering at Shivaji Park on Gudi Padwa. (Pic/Ashish Raje)

Raj Thackeray slams Modi government for not backing Iran amid West Asia conflict

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray came down heavily on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Centre, criticising the Indian government for not openly supporting Iran amid the ongoing conflict. Questioning India’s stance, at his annual Gudi Padwa 2026 rally at Shivaji Park Ground, Mumbai, on Thursday, Thackeray asked why the country appears silent despite Iran being a long-standing ally, and suggested that such restraint does not reflect the historical ties and goodwill shared between the two nations. ‘Will prove costly in the future’ Speaking at the rally, Thackeray said that Iran has supported India on crucial issues such as Jammu and Kashmir in the past, yet India has not stood firmly by Iran in its time of crisis.  “Not a single statement has come from the Prime Minister on the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has also extended economic support by supplying oil through a rupee-based mechanism. This will certainly pose a problem for us in the future,” he added. ‘Coastal roads for outsiders’ Slamming the coastal road projects, he said, “While Marathi people are praising the coastal road, it is not meant for you. The road is for others to come in and Marathi people to go out.” ‘Despite the loan waiver, highest farmer suicides reported’ “Loan waivers for farmers have been announced thrice until now. But the highest number of farmer suicides is being reported in Maharashtra,” said the MNS chief. Marathi pride He also stated that the Marathi people are losing their pride.  “Once the situation goes out of control, it will be difficult to make a comeback,” he warned. Rising debt concerns  According to Thackeray, when Prithviraj Chavan was the chief minister, Maharashtra had a debt of Rs 2 lakh crore. “Now it is Rs 11 lakh crore,” he said, slamming the state government. Traffic congestion Taking a dig at the administration for poor roads and infrastructure, Thackeray said that if one orders pizza, it reaches within 10 minutes, but when citizens step out, they cannot reach anywhere in the same time. ‘Missing children a concern’ “Thousands of children, especially girls, are missing from Maharashtra and Mumbai. What kind of a state and city is it?” Thackeray said in a swipe at Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who heads the home department.  MNS chief urges citizens to give up Instagram Thackeray claimed that keeping people engaged on mobile phones is part of a ploy to keep citizens busy.“Mobile has become indispensable in human life. People are so involved that they are not aware of what's happening outside. They need to come out of Instagram,” the MNS chief appealed.  ‘One day, we will come to power’ Stating that MNS stands for Maharashtra, he is confident of coming to rule in the state. “One day, we will come to power. I am pretty sure about it,” Thackeray added. Why this year’s rally was closely watched Twenty years after Thackeray founded MNS, the party’s annual Gudi Padwa rally this year carries added political significance as it marks his first such address following an alliance with his cousin and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray.  After quitting the Shiv Sena in 2005, Thackeray floated his own party, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), on March 9, 2006. Ten days later, on March 19, 2006, he held the first rally at Shivaji Park. MNS chief pays tribute to Bal Thackeray, praises Sharad Pawar MNS chief Raj Thackeray said that the late Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray was among the first leaders to mobilise people around the idea of Hindutva and instil a sense of pride in Marathi identity, making locals realise their collective strength. He also praised Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, noting that the sight of people selling fruits on roads today is a result of Pawar’s policies and sustained push to support fruit farmers in the state. Marathi print on RSS Speaking about the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Thackeray claimed that of the six RSS chiefs, four were Marathi. “In fact, the organisation was founded by the Marathi only,” he reflected. ‘Maharashtra Next’ platform to connect citizens with government Thackeray also announced the launch of a new website, inviting people to participate and share their ideas and vision for the state. He said the platform, titled ‘Maharashtra Next’, will be open to all citizens to contribute suggestions and innovative thoughts aimed at shaping the future of Maharashtra. “This will first go to the committee of experts. Once approved, it will go to the government. This is a bridge between the citizens and the government,” added Thackeray.

19 March,2026 10:49 PM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev Shivadekar
Around 794 Naxalites have surrendered in Gadchiroli. Representational pic

Eleven Naxalites with Rs 68-lakh bounty surrender in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli

Eleven Naxalites, including five senior operatives, with a total bounty of Rs 68 lakh on their heads surrendered before the police and CRPF in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district on Thursday, news agency PTI reported, quoting an officer. The 11 include a divisional commander (DVCM), an area committee secretary, one people's party committee member (PPCM), a commander and an area committee member, a release from the office of the Gadchiroli Superintendent of Police said. "The Maharashtra government had announced a cumulative reward of Rs 68 lakh on them. Since 2025, a total of 123 armed Maoists have surrendered in Gadchiroli. Left Wing Extremism in the district has almost come to an end. Once active in all 10 sub divisions of Gadchiroli, it is now confined to border areas of Bhamragad sub-division," the release added. Till date, a total of 794 Naxalites have surrendered in Gadchiroli, it said. Gadchiroli Police set up new assistance centre in remote Bangadi village to curb Maoist activities In a major push to strengthen security and accelerate development in Maoist-affected regions of Maharashtra, the Gadchiroli Police on Thursday established a new police assistance centre at Bangadi. As per an official statement, this is an extremely remote village in the Bhamragad sub-division; therefore, the police assistance centre will help make the situation under control. Located just 8 km from Laheri Sub-Police Station and barely 2 km from the Chhattisgarh border, the newly set-up centre is expected to play a crucial role in curbing Maoist activities while improving access to government services in the region. The facility was constructed within 24 hours using a workforce of over 1,000 personnel, the statement further said. The operation involved C-60 commandos, Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) teams, newly recruited police personnel, 500 special police officers, and private contractors, supported by heavy machinery including JCBs, excavators, trailers, and trucks. The newly built centre is equipped with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi connectivity, portacabins, a generator shed, an RO water plant, a mobile tower, and sanitation facilities. Robust security arrangements have also been put in place, including deployment of Gadchiroli Police personnel, SRPF units, CRPF forces, and special operations squads, along with fortified bunkers and perimeter defences. Marking the occasion, a Jan Jagran Mela (public awareness drive) was organised, during which essential items such as sarees, dhotis, blankets, utensils, school supplies, and sports equipment were distributed to local residents.

19 March,2026 09:56 PM IST | Gadchiroli | mid-day online correspondent
Deputy CM Eknath Shinde leads the festive procession to welcome Marathi New Year Gudi Padwa in Thane on Thursday. PIC/X

Deputy CM Eknath Shinde leads vibrant ‘Swagat Yatra’ in Thane on Gudi Padwa

In an atmosphere filled with enthusiasm and cultural fervour, the annual ‘Navvarsh Swagat Yatra’ was held in Thane on Thursday to mark Gudi Padwa, the Maharashtrian New Year. The procession was jointly organised by Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) and Kopineshwar Sanskrutik Nyas. The yatra began at 7 am from Kopineshwar Temple after Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde performed the traditional ‘puja’ of the ‘palakhi (palanquin)’. Swagat Yatra chairperson Dr Dhanashree Lele was present during the inauguration. Among the prominent attendees were Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, Member of Parliament (MP) Naresh Mhaske, legislator Sanjay Kelkar, Mayor Sharmila Pimpalkar, Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao, Deputy Mayor Krishna Patil, House Leader Hanmant Jagdale, additional commissioners Sandeep Malvi and Prashant Rode, along with several corporators including Pawan Kadam, Sanjay Waghule, Narayan Pawar, Mrunal Pendse, Namrata Koli, and Madhuri Metange. Office-bearers of Kopineshwar Sanskrutik Nyas and a large number of citizens also joined in large numbers. The procession featured a colourful display of folk arts, innovative tableaux conveying social messages, dhol-tasha beats, aerial silk performances, mallakhamb, gymnastics demonstrations, traditional attire cycle rallies, group walks by various organisations, and a women's bike rally. Participants dressed in traditional clothing created an unprecedented crowd. The palkhi passed through rangoli-decorated pathways from Jambhli Naka to Dagdi School, where tableaux joined the procession. Floral showers (pushpavrushti) were offered on the palakhi at three locations: Chintamani Chowk, Hariniwas Circle, and Gokhale Road. This year marked a notable participation by the transgender community, who conveyed a message of equality through their involvement. Karnataka Sanskrutik Manch presented a cultural showcase, while tableaux from Bhagini Nivedita (on environmental messages) and TJSB Bank drew attention as highlights. Gudi Padwa 2026: Cultural performances, social themes tableaux highlight unity and awareness Vanavasi Kalyan Ashram presented Tarpa dance, Eklavya Krida Mandal from Yeoor showcased a blend of Warkari and Dharkari performances, Man:Shakti Kendra highlighted intellectual pollution, the transgender community featured an electric pink rickshaw, and Thane Netrarogya Association raised awareness on glaucoma through a tableau. Thane Municipal Corporation's water supply, gardens and tree authority, solid waste management, public health, and education departments and Rajiv Gandhi Medical College also participated with thematic tableaux. The event reflected the spirit of unity, tradition, and social awareness, bringing together diverse sections of society to celebrate the beginning of the new year with joy and cultural pride.

19 March,2026 07:30 PM IST | Thane
Around 72 per cent of tickets for Lines 2A and 7 are booked digitally. Representational pic

You can now get 50 per cent discount on Mumbai Metro Lines 2A and 7; here’s how

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Limited (MMMOCL) have enabled booking of quick response (QR)-code-based tickets for Metro Lines 2A (Dahisar East and Andheri West) and 7 (Dahisar East and Andheri East) directly on Uber app, using the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). The integration was announced on Wednesday by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Commuters can purchase tickets using the app and receive an instant 50 per cent discount, capped at Rs 10. Lines 2A and 7 currently serve over 3.5 lakh passengers every day. Metro ticketing through ONDC is already accessible on various platforms, including Yatri, Ixigo, Navi, EMT, Tummoc, Tripozo, One Ticket, Autope, Magicpin, Chalo, RedBus, Highway Delite, Pelocal, ConfirmTkt, EaseMyTrip, RedRail, Vodafone Idea, and WhatsApp (via Pelocal). The addition of Uber provides users with one more option to book via a familiar app. Mumbai's digital mobility options include the Mumbai One App, which combines suburban railway, metro, bus, and monorail services; the Mumbai One Card (National Common Mobility Card); and WhatsApp-based ticketing. Around 72 per cent of tickets for Lines 2A and 7 are booked digitally. Mumbai Metro integration drive gains pace; last-mile connectivity, new lines in focus Efforts to improve last-mile connectivity continue through enhanced Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) bus services, foot overbridges, and parking facilities at metro stations. Lines 2B and 9 are slated to become operational soon, with similar digital ticketing features expected to be extended. Chief Minister Fadnavis stated that the initiative supports integrated, accessible public transport and strengthens digital infrastructure in Maharashtra. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Chairman of MMRDA, noted its role in bridging metro stations to final destinations and increasing public transport use. Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Sanjay Mukherjee called it a milestone for a unified multimodal ecosystem. MMMOCL Managing Director Rubal Agarwal said such integrations leverage technology for better planning and connectivity as the network expands. The feature is currently limited to Lines 2A and 7, with future inclusion of additional routes planned. MMRDA said it continues to focus on a commuter-centric, sustainable transport system for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

19 March,2026 06:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
The Gateway of India area sees heavy passenger traffic, leading to frequent congestion. Representational Pic/File/Atul Kamble

Maharashtra plans modern jetty at Gateway of India to manage tourist footfall

The Maharashtra government is planning to develop a modern jetty at the Gateway of India to manage heavy tourist footfall and improve passenger movement, reported the PTI. State Ports Development Minister Nitesh Rane informed the state legislative assembly during the ongoing Maharashtra Budget Session 2026 regarding the modern jetty on Wednesday. He was replying to a calling attention notice raised by member Ashok Patil. Legislators Varun Sardesai and Prakash Surve participated in the discussion. Rane said the government aims to develop Mumbai into an international-standard tourism and maritime hub by strengthening jetty management, introducing modern boats, and building marinas and passenger amenities. Noting that the Gateway of India area witnesses heavy congestion due to high passenger movement, he said new jetty infrastructure is being planned to ease crowding and improve safety. The initiative is part of a broader plan to transform Mumbai into an international-standard tourism and maritime hub. Addressing congestion at the waterfront As part of the plan, the Maharashtra government aims to improve jetty management, introduce modern boats and develop marinas and passenger amenities, according to the PTI. These steps are expected to enhance both tourist experience and safety at the busy waterfront. The Gateway of India area sees heavy passenger traffic, leading to frequent congestion. Currently, there are five jetties - - Jetties 1 to 4 are used by general passengers and managed by Mumbai Port Trust - Jetty No. 5 is proposed for private and larger yachts, which could reduce crowding at other jetties The new infrastructure is expected to streamline operations and ease pressure on existing facilities. Tariff and policy concerns Rane also highlighted concerns over the revenue-sharing model at Jetty No. 5, where a significant share goes to a private operator, according to the PTI. The state government has written to the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways seeking a review of tariffs, permissions, and safety norms. Support for fishermen and boat operators To improve livelihoods, the government is encouraging - - Transition from traditional wooden boats to modern vessels - Access to bank loans for upgrades - Adoption of electric boats These measures aim to boost efficiency while promoting sustainable practices, officials said, the news agency reported.

19 March,2026 03:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
An analytical report stated that the construction materials have seen price rise in recent time. Pic/illustration included in the report

Strait of Hormuz disruption pushing south Mumbai real estate cost: Report

The ongoing disruption around the Strait of Hormuz amid the West Asia war is beginning to impact real estate sector in parts of the world including India's financial capital in Mumbai, the industry experts say. According to a research, the developers are facing delays of 10-20 days for shipments of construction materials, as vessels are being rerouted via longer routes. This has increased shipping costs by Rs 1.5-3.5 lakh per container, adding pressure on ongoing and upcoming projects. Key construction materials have seen sharp price increases In an analytical report, Dr. Prashant Thakur, Executive Director & Head - Research & Advisory, ANAROCK Group, stated that the construction materials have seen price rise in recent time. These include - - Steel prices have risen by around 20 per cent to Rs 72,000 per tonne - Marine fuel costs have surged to Rs 1 lakh per tonne - Aluminium prices have climbed to approximately Rs 3.5 lakh per tonne These increases are pushing up construction costs, with estimates suggesting an additional Rs 50 per sq ft for high-rise buildings. Cities dependent on vertical development, including Mumbai and Delhi, are expected to feel the impact most, the report stated. Luxury housing faces direct impact It stated that high-end housing markets, especially in areas such as South Mumbai, Worli, and Bandra-Kurla Complex, are likely to see the strongest effects. Mumbai remains India’s leading market for ultra-luxury homes priced above Rs 40 crore, accounting for nearly 88 per cent of such sales in 2024. Premium materials like imported marble and fittings have become more expensive due to increased freight and insurance costs. However, experts believe that luxury buyers may absorb price hikes, with developers expected to increase prices by over 5 per cent. NRI buyers and market dynamics Non-resident Indians (NRIs), who contribute significantly to luxury housing demand, may also be affected. Travel disruptions linked to the Gulf situation could delay property visits and purchase decisions, the report stated. NRIs typically account for 15-22 per cent of high-end housing sales, and up to 30 per cent of total sales value in premium projects, making them a crucial segment. Wider economic impact The crisis has also pushed up fuel prices, influencing construction logistics and labour costs. Over the past four years, construction costs in major cities have already risen by nearly 39 per cent, further tightening margins for developers. Even if the situation improves quickly, experts warn that cost pressures will remain for at least 1-3 months, as shipping backlogs clear and supply chains stabilise. Outlook for 2026 According to the report, while the disruption may not significantly dent luxury home demand, it is expected to: - Delay project timelines - Increase overall construction costs - Put pressure on mid-range housing affordability The situation has highlighted the need for stronger domestic supply chains and reduced reliance on imports for critical construction materials.

19 March,2026 03:36 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
The highlight of the celebrations was the lively procession that moved through key parts of Girgaon. PIC/ ATUL KAMBLE

Gudi Padwa 2026: Girgaon comes alive with vibrant processions, dhol-tasha beat

Gudi Padwa, the Marathi New Year, was on Thursday celebrated with great enthusiasm in Girgaon, one of Mumbai’s most culturally vibrant neighbourhoods. The area came alive with traditional fervour as residents gathered to take part in colourful processions, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of dhol-tasha. Dhol-tasha troupes playing during the Shoba Yatra. PIC/ ATUL KAMBLE The highlight of the celebrations was the lively procession that moved through key parts of Girgaon. Participants carried Gudis, decorated with bright cloth, neem leaves, garlands, and an inverted kalash, symbolising victory, prosperity, and good fortune. The sight of Gudis fluttering atop homes and along the procession route added a distinctly festive visual to the neighbourhood. Lady performing during the procession in Girgoan. PIC/ ATUL KAMBLE Dhol-tasha troupes played a central role, drawing large crowds as their synchronised beats set the tempo for the celebrations. Youngsters and children actively participated, dancing to the traditional rhythms and showcasing their enthusiasm. Cultural groups also performed folk dances, further enriching the festive spirit. Local residents said the celebrations reflect the deep-rooted traditions and unity of the community.  The festivities also included the decoration of homes and streets, with rangolis adorning entrances and marigold garlands enhancing the festive decor. Sweets and traditional delicacies were shared among families and neighbours, strengthening the sense of togetherness. As the day progresses, Girgaon continues to resonate with joy and cultural pride, offering a glimpse into Mumbai’s rich traditions. The Gudi Padwa celebrations once again highlight the city’s spirit of unity, as people from all walks of life come together to welcome the new year with hope, positivity, and vibrant celebrations. Meanwhile, from early morning, streets in Mahim as well witnessed a festive transformation, with people dressed in traditional attire joining the celebrations. Women adorned in nauvari sarees and men wearing kurta-pyjamas and saffron turbans added to the cultural charm of the occasion. Gudi Padwa celebrations in Mahim. PIC/ SATEJ SHINDE People took part in the Malad Shobha Yatra 2026, organised by the Navvarsh Swagat Samiti of the Malad Devasthan Trust, marking its 25th year, at Swami Vivekananda Road in Malad (West), Mumbai today. This year’s theme was “Goddesses of Mumbai.” PIC/ SATEJ SHINDE The sound of drums and cymbals echoed through the lanes, creating an energetic and celebratory atmosphere.

19 March,2026 03:13 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
A fire-fighting operation was underway, officials said. Pic/videograb

Massive fire breaks out at furniture warehouse in Chamunda Complex of Bhiwandi

A massive fire broke out at a furniture warehouse in Chamunda Complex of Bhiwandi area in Maharashtra, officials said, adding that the fire-fighting operations were launched following the blaze. According to the Regional Disaster Management Cell (RDMC), the incident took place at around 11:30 am on Thursday. The fire was reported at a furniture warehouse in the Chamunda Complex, located near the Kasheli Bridge in Bhiwandi. The blaze has largely affected a warehouse storing furniture, according to officials. Operations launched Firefighters from fire Department arrived at the scene with two fire engines, while Thane Fire Department sent one jumbo water tanker to assist in controlling the fire, officials said. Officials said that so far no injuries have been reported in the incident. The Bhiwandi Fire Control Centre reported that firefighting teams are actively working to bring the fire under control. Further details were awaited.

19 March,2026 01:21 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondent
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