Girgaum will pay tribute to state tourism on Gudi Padwa

The bylanes of Girgaum are exuding the spirit of Maharashtra, what with preparations under way to celebrate Gudi Padwa on Sunday. And a civic message to destigmatise menstruation is part of the festivities. 

“Many people come together to celebrate the festival. This year, through the festivities, we will be making people aware of sanitary disposal machines and explain to them how to use it,” said Gaurav Sagwekar of Aamhi Girgaonkar.

Another festival organiser has come up with the theme,  Maharashtra Tourism, which will be showcased through various floats. Preparation are going on at full pelt to create arund 50 floats. The floats will be taken through the lanes of Giragum, to the beats of dhol by various groups.

About the theme, Tejas Lokhande, of Swami Vivekanand Yuva Prathisthan, said, “This year we wanted to highlight Maharashtra’s popular tourism destinations. We will display some historic tourist like Elephanta Caves’ three-headed Shiva. The float of Shivaji Maharaja as a warrior which was showcased in New Delhi during the Republic Day parade will also be part of the procession.”

Girgaum, home to most of the Marathi-speaking population in South Mumbai, sees thousands of residents come out on the streets in traditional outfits on the day. Women and young girls wear navari saris and organise a parade on Bullet bikes.