Massive Turnout Expected for Marathi Unity Rally in Mumbai; Traffic Snarls Likely on Pune-Mumbai Expressway
Massive Turnout Expected for Marathi Unity Rally in Mumbai; Traffic Snarls Likely on Pune-Mumbai Expressway
A major show of Marathi unity is set to unfold in Mumbai today as thousands of supporters from across western Maharashtra converge for the much-anticipated ‘Marathi Vijay Melava’ – a rally being jointly hosted by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and Shiv Sena (UBT) at the NSCI Dome in Worli.
The rally, which kicks off at 10 AM, is being held to celebrate the Maharashtra government’s decision to revoke controversial resolutions (GRs) that would have made Hindi a compulsory third language from Standard I in state schools. The proposal had triggered sharp backlash from pro-Marathi groups and regional parties, prompting a U-turn by the administration.
In what’s being described as a “cultural celebration” rather than a political gathering, over 8,000 political workers and supporters—including 3,000 from Pune and 5,000 from other parts of western Maharashtra—are making their way to Mumbai. Although the organisers have not formally mobilised crowds, enthusiasm among the cadre appears to be soaring.
“Despite limited space inside the NSCI Dome, people are heading out early, many using their own vehicles. It’s about Marathi pride and standing up for our language,” said Ajay Shinde, a local MNS leader. His sentiments were echoed by Gajanan Thirkude of Shiv Sena (UBT), who added that many attendees were eager to hear Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray address the gathering.
In a rare visual, posters for the rally have featured both Uddhav and Raj together—fueling speculation about a thaw in relations between the Thackeray cousins. While the event is not being promoted as a political alliance launch, insiders suggest that backchannel talks are already in progress for a joint front in the upcoming BMC elections.
“This rally is not about political gains but about reaffirming our cultural and linguistic identity,” said Anil Parab, Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC. “The government had to bow down to public pressure. This event belongs to the Marathi manoos, not to any single party.”
A full-dress rehearsal for the rally was conducted on Friday, and Mumbai Police—along with officials from the Wadgaon Maval Police Station—have ramped up security and monitoring efforts along the Pune-Mumbai Expressway, also known as the Yashwantrao Chavan Expressway. Assistant Police Inspector Shivprasad Pawar confirmed that additional patrolling teams are being deployed to keep traffic flowing and prevent bottlenecks.
Given that most supporters are travelling by personal vehicles instead of group buses, heavy congestion is expected on key approach roads to Mumbai, especially from the Pune side. Authorities have urged commuters to plan their travel accordingly.
Adding to the political weight of the event, while Sharad Pawar of the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) won’t be attending due to other commitments, Jayant Patil may represent the party. The participation—or at least the invitation—of leaders from various parties has raised eyebrows, particularly considering the rally’s non-political branding.
Bala Nandgaonkar of MNS, who helped oversee preparations, emphasized the larger vision behind the event. “This is not just about opposing a language policy. It’s about reminding everyone of the strength and solidarity of Maharashtra’s linguistic heritage.”
Interestingly, in contrast to other big-ticket events like the Dussehra Melava or Gudi Padwa gatherings, no special transport arrangements have been made this time. Instead, organisers are relying on spontaneous turnout, despite the monsoon season. The rally was deliberately moved indoors to avoid weather disruptions, with an overflow plan in place for attendees who may not get inside the venue.
