Meet Mumbai’s Traffic Granny: Anuradha Kulkarni, 74, Who’s Been Volunteering With the Police for Over 30 Years

From chasing thieves to easing traffic, she proves age is no bar to service

In the bustling lanes of Mumbai’s Santacruz and Juhu, one figure stands out, not in uniform, but in spirit. Anuradha Kulkarni, 74, lovingly known as Mumbai’s traffic granny, has been voluntarily assisting the Mumbai Police for over three decades. Her story is one of quiet determination, fearless service, and unwavering civic responsibility.

A Journey That Began With One Whistle

It all started over 30 years ago near Podar School, where Kulkarni spotted bikers dangerously entering the wrong lane. She reported the issue and began stopping bikers herself. Impressed, a traffic officer suggested she join as a volunteer. That moment sparked a lifelong commitment to the city.

Today, she’s rarely seen without her 30-year-old whistle, actively managing traffic at key points:

• Juhu Aeroplane Garden Junction
• Captain Vinayak Gore Road, Vile Parle West
• Podar School Lane
• Near St. Lawrence School, Santacruz West

Despite struggling with back pain, she continues to help children cross roads, guide ambulances, and smoothen daily traffic chaos, all without accepting a single rupee.

A Crime-Fighter on Wheels

Kulkarni’s courage doesn’t end at traffic signals. In March, she played a crucial role in catching a thief who had snatched ₹5,000 from a person at an ATM near Bandra Circle. Without hesitation, she joined the victim in the chase on her two-wheeler. Knowing the thief had entered Tata Colony—a locality with only one exit—she quickly informed Bandra Police and waited at the gate. An hour later, the accused was caught and the money recovered.

In another case six months ago, when a watchman’s phone was stolen, Santacruz police turned to her for help. With sharp eyes and a strong sense of the local area, she identified the suspect, a sweeper in Juhu and passed on the tip. The accused was later arrested and the phone retrieved.

Respected by Citizens and the Police Alike

Although not an official warden, her work is widely appreciated. A senior Juhu traffic division officer shared, “She even alerts us about wrongly parked vehicles that block traffic. Her help is invaluable.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, she went a step further—helping the BMC deliver food to SARS-CoV-2-positive patients in quarantine.

Honoured but Humble

In 2014, Anupam Kher honoured her for her outstanding voluntary service. Yet, she remains humble. For Kulkarni, this isn’t about medals or fame. “Helping ambulances and managing traffic is every citizen’s duty,” she says.

Locals echo her impact: “I’ve seen this granny alone in the middle of the road, fearlessly handling traffic. She’s an inspiration. Many times, I’ve even given her water. She never stops.”

Anuradha Kulkarni’s story is a reminder that courage, service, and love for one’s city need no badge, just heart.