Image Source: MSN
Thousands of Maratha community members have turned Mumbai’s iconic heritage zone around Azad Maidan into a lively protest campsite, marking an intense and colorful agitation for quota reservations. The protest, marked by an array of activities including bathing in the open, cooking on roads, and traditional dancing, has brought large parts of south Mumbai to a standstill, reflecting the community’s deep resolve and cultural vibrancy.
Key Highlights of the Maratha Protest
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The protest site covers Azad Maidan and extends to nearby landmarks including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) buildings, where thousands have congregated.
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On Saturday, many participants were observed dancing to the beats of the traditional halgi drum, bringing energy and cultural expression to the streets.
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Due to the protesters camping out, roads have been blocked, with parked vehicles lining both sides, and traffic has come to a halt in the area.
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Some protesters bathed openly using water tankers arranged by organizers or municipal authorities, with a group bathing from a fountain near the BMC building.
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The community members were dressed predominantly in saffron scarves, symbolizing their unity and cultural identity.
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Food arrangements ranged from cooking on the roadside on the first night to distribution of ready-cooked meals such as khichdi on the following day.
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The protest has drawn a massive crowd, with police estimating about 45,000 arriving on Friday and around 30,000 staying overnight from across Maharashtra, especially regions like Marathwada.
Detailed Aspects of the Protest
Open Camping and Cultural Displays
The protesters have effectively converted the heritage-rich zone of Mumbai into an extended campsite. Besides resting and sleeping on-site, they have engaged in day-to-day activities openly—bathing using tanker water, cooking meals in the open air, and expressing cultural solidarity through dance and music. The dancing on the road by young participants to the rhythmic beats of traditional drums exemplifies the community’s spirited identity amidst the agitation.
Impact on Local Traffic and Area
The protest has caused severe traffic jams and disruptions in a significant part of south Mumbai. Roads around the Azad Maidan, CSMT, and adjacent areas remain closed, with vehicle movement restricted to facilitate the protest activities. Authorities have attempted to manage the situation by diverting heavy vehicles and addressing protesters’ complaints regarding shelter, water, and sanitation, although some dissatisfaction remains, as seen in road blockades by groups dissatisfied with arrangements.
Protest Demands and Leader's Role
Central to the protest is the demand for the Maratha community's inclusion in reservation quotas for government jobs and education. Activist Manoj Jarange has been spearheading an indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan, symbolizing the determination of the movement. Jarange has called for the recognition of Marathas as Other Backward Classes (OBCs) specifically Kunbis, asserting that the agitation will persist until the government fulfills these demands.
Community Dynamics and Incidents
The gathering is marked by a sense of solidarity but also occasional tension, such as an incident in Navi Mumbai where a group reportedly heckled a young couple, prompting them to leave. The diverse protesters visit local landmarks like the Gateway of India and interact with local businesses, integrating their presence deeply into the fabric of the city.
Conclusion
The ongoing protest by the Maratha community in Mumbai’s heritage zone is a powerful demonstration of cultural pride, collective resolve, and political advocacy. The transformation of the area into a functional campsite with everyday activities such as bathing, cooking, and dancing underscores the protesters’ commitment and resilience. As the agitation continues, it remains a focal point of public and governmental attention.
Source: The Tribune
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