Mumbai: Tension Flares During Gudi Padwa Procession in Malad : Two Youths with Saffron Flags Assaulted During Shobha Yatra

On the evening of Gudi Padwa, tension erupted during the Kalash Yatra in Malad East as a clash broke out between two groups. Two youths carrying saffron flags were allegedly assaulted after a heated argument during the Shobha Yatra from Pimpri Pada. The incident occurred when the youths, holding saffron flags, were traveling in an auto rickshaw through Pathanwadi. Some individuals from another group stopped them, leading to an argument. The situation escalated quickly, and a large crowd gathered, resulting in the youths being attacked. Following the incident, four people have been arrested. The area remains tense, with increased police presence to maintain order. In the aftermath, Hindu nationalist groups, including Bajrang Dal and Vishva Hindu Parishad, have reacted strongly. Gautam Rawria from Bajrang Dal stated, “The people responsible for this attack on the Hindu community must face strict legal action. When Hindu youths carry saffron flags, some individuals with Aurangzeb-like tendencies cannot tolerate it, which led to this assault. The accused should be arrested immediately.”

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BJP MLA Pravin Darekar also condemned the incident, saying, “The Malad incident is serious. If such behavior continues during Hindu festivals, it’s necessary to curb this mindset. Everyone should be able to celebrate their festivals peacefully without interference or violence. The Chief Minister and the Home Department will take strict action against the culprits.” During the Gudi Padwa Shobha Yatra, two young men were traveling in an auto rickshaw in Pathanwadi, holding saffron flags. They were stopped by a group of individuals, leading to a heated argument. As the situation escalated, a large crowd gathered, and the youths were assaulted.A video of the incident went viral, prompting Hindu organizations to approach the police. Kurar Police have registered a case, and there are calls to charge the accused with mob lynching and arrest them immediately.

Sunday marked Gudi Padwa, which is celebrated across Maharashtra as the Marathi New Year. The Shobha Yatra is known for its vibrant road shows. The word yatra means a journey. In the event, they highlight the culture of Maharashtra and the festivals that are celebrated in the state, such as Ganesh Chaturthi, and also the festival across the country.The event is filled with lively activities, including a bike rally, traditional dances, vibrant rangolis on the streets, and the famous dhol-tasha beats. The celebrations are carried out in a special, festive way, with people dressing in unique outfits and joining in the joyous spirit of the occasion.Along with the bike rally, the dhol-tasha, a traditional musical performance, fills the air, making the celebration even more lively and exciting. This event brings together people from all walks of life, as they unite to celebrate the Marathi New Year specially and unforgettably.