Mumbai witnessed a lively milestone as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, visited and inaugurated 98.3 Mirchi Mumbai’s newly upgraded, state-of-the-art Kalina studio. The CM arrived with his signature warmth and charisma, adding a special spark to the momentous occasion.
The new Kalina studio represents Mirchi’s continued evolution in entertainment and audio innovation. Designed with cutting-edge technology and modern production capabilities, the space aims to elevate the listener experience and expand Mirchi’s creative footprint in India’s media landscape.
During his visit, Shri Fadnavis interacted with the Mirchi Mumbai team, appreciating their contribution to the state’s vibrant entertainment ecosystem. His presence brought an added note of enthusiasm and pride to the Mirchi family, who celebrated this new chapter with energy befitting the brand’s identity.
The inauguration marks a key milestone as Mirchi reinforces its position as one of India’s leading audio and entertainment platforms, ready to bring even fresher, bolder content to its audiences.
On the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, Goa’s Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte paid a visit to the residence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis, joining the festive celebrations and extending warm greetings.
The meeting underscored the deep cultural and social ties between Goa and Maharashtra, two states that share history, traditions, and devotion to Lord Ganesha. Such moments of festive unity reinforce the bonds of friendship and cooperation across regions.
During the visit, Minister Khaunte offered prayers to Lord Ganesha and shared wishes for prosperity, peace, and well-being. The presence of dignitaries, along with the warm hospitality of CM Fadnavis and his family, added to the significance of the occasion.
Both states celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi with grandeur and devotion. In Goa, the festival is deeply rooted in family traditions, rituals, and community celebrations, while in Maharashtra, Ganpati celebrations transform into a large-scale cultural and spiritual movement.
Highlighting Goa’s focus on cultural and regenerative tourism, Minister Khaunte emphasized how festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi not only preserve traditions but also attract visitors from across India and abroad.
The meeting between Rohan Khaunte and Devendra Fadnavis during Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations was more than a symbolic gesture. It represented the festive bond between two neighboring states and their shared commitment to heritage, culture, and unity.
👉 Stay tuned to allycaral.com for more updates on cultural events and leadership news.
Mumbai’s lifeline – its local train network – is all set to get a futuristic overhaul.
At a recent event held by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) at Bandra Kurla Complex, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis unveiled a transformational project that will bring 238 new air-conditioned (AC) local trains to the city over the next three years.
Described as metro-style in both appearance and functionality, these new local trains are expected to significantly elevate the daily commuting experience.
What’s New for Mumbai’s Commuters?
Cushioned Seats: Say goodbye to cold steel seats. The new coaches will be equipped with cushioned seating for added comfort.
Closed Doors: Just like metro trains, these locals will have sealed, automated doors to enhance safety and comfort.
Infotainment Sets: Travel will no longer be dull – screens will offer entertainment and information.
Mobile Charging Points: Every seat will have a dedicated charging point.
Faster Speeds: These trains will be capable of running at 130 kmph, the first of their kind in India’s EMU segment.
One Continuous Vestibule: Each train will have 12 interconnected coaches, unlike the current 6-vestibule setup, making room for future 15-car upgrades.
A ₹19,293 Crore Game-Changer
This initiative is part of MUTP-3 and MUTP-3A, with Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC) overseeing the execution. The estimated project cost stands at ₹19,293 crore. Tenders for 2,856 coaches will be floated shortly.
Key Infrastructure Support
Two new EMU car sheds will be constructed – Bhivpuri on the Central Railway and Vangaon on the Western line. These trains will be operated by the private manufacturers under a long-term agreement.
A Request for Affordability
CM Fadnavis stated during the event that he has requested Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to ensure that no fare hike is imposed for these upgraded AC local trains, keeping accessibility at the forefront.
What’s Next?
Once tenders are awarded, it will take:
3–6 months to finalize the contractor
2 years to produce a prototype
Followed by trials and full production rollout
Mumbai’s Commute, Reimagined
With increased speed, modern amenities, and enhanced safety, these new AC locals mark a paradigm shift in public transport in India’s busiest city. It’s not just about faster trains – it’s about transforming the commuter experience to match that of global urban metros.
In a major development following a Supreme Court ruling and widespread public demonstrations, Reliance Group’s animal rescue initiative Vantara has issued a detailed statement offering full support for the return of 36-year-old elephant Madhuri, also known as Mahadevi, to her spiritual home at Nandani Math in Kolhapur.
Madhuri, revered by the local Jain community, was relocated to Vantara’s wildlife care facility in Jamnagar, Gujarat, following orders from the Bombay High Court and upheld by the Supreme Court of India. The relocation stemmed from a PETA petition that highlighted years of neglect, chaining, and a 2017 incident where Madhuri tragically killed the Math’s priest.
Despite the legal mandates, public sentiment in Kolhapur erupted. Over 30,000 people joined a 45-kilometre silent march. The protests also triggered a telecom boycott, with more than 1.5 lakh users switching from Jio in protest.
📜 Vantara’s Statement
Led by Anant Ambani, Vantara clarified that the organisation:
Acted strictly in compliance with court directions
Did not request or initiate Madhuri’s relocation
Acknowledges the deep cultural and religious significance of the elephant to Kolhapur’s Jain Matha
“We acted only as per judicial direction. If our involvement has caused any distress, we sincerely regret it. Michhami Dukkadam — we seek forgiveness,” the statement read.
🛖 A New Proposal: Satellite Rehabilitation Centre in Kolhapur
Vantara has offered to establish a satellite rehabilitation facility for Madhuri, in collaboration with the Jain Matha and the Government of Maharashtra.
Proposed Features:
🐘 Hydrotherapy Pond for joint pain relief
🌊 Swimming Waterbody for exercise
💡 Laser Therapy for rehabilitation
🛌 Covered Night Shelters for comfort
🌿 Lush Open Spaces (chain-free environment)
🏖️ Sand Pits for enrichment & stress reduction
🏥 24×7 Veterinary Clinic
🪵 Rubberised Platforms & Resting Mounds for arthritis and foot rot recovery
“We do not seek credit. This is not a condition, only a recommendation aligned with best welfare practices,” clarified the Vantara team.
🔁 The Road Ahead
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has stated the government will approach the court again. Vantara has committed to fully supporting any application filed by the Jain Matha and the State.
The land for the facility is to be identified in consultation with all stakeholders. Subject to approvals, Vantara is ready to begin technical and veterinary implementation immediately.
📣 Community Reaction & Closing Note
The Vantara statement has received mixed reactions online, with some praising its balanced approach and others still demanding immediate return of the elephant. The sensitive issue now rests in the hands of the Supreme Court, which will decide on the final course of action.
