Matunga residents chill out on the road with fun for all
MUMBAI: What could have been a normal Sunday for the residents of Matunga turned out to be a day of fun and frolic that would be etched on their memory for days to come. After a gap of six years, beset by the pandemic and personal engagements, the One Matunga programme returned to the area with more than 100 activities for all age groups.
The event, held on Dr Ambedkar Road in Matunga East, is a joint effort by a group of 15 residents who also obtained permission from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation.
“We started this back in 2014, when I had the idea to reinvigorate the lives of children with the games from our childhood, taking them away from screens,” said Achal Sarawal, also known as Chintu. “I approached many people from the area, and thus we formed a core group, supported by our better halves and volunteers. For this year’s event, we started preparing late in February.”
And it was a clear success, with over 8,000 participants. Featuring zip lining on the road (tried by 450 participants), rock climbing, jumping castles, board games, tug-of-war on skates, puzzles, sensory games, and much more, the event was primarily geared towards children. Some performances entertained the adults, while a separate corner was for senior citizens to play, enjoy some karaoke and socialise. All activities were free of cost.
“We also had desi games like kho kho, lagori and sakhi, which children today are not familiar with. There was also a mock post box made, and the kids could drop postcards with messages to a friend or family, and this was the first time many of them did it,” Sarawal said.
Explaining the thought process of holding the programme on the road, with one arm cordoned off for vehicles, Sarawal said, “Our area does not have buildings with a lot of open compound space. That is why we went ahead with the idea of having it on the road and also utilising the space under the flyover. After connecting with the schools and buildings, we could spread news of the event. My daughter is in Class XII, and despite having exams, many from her class joined in.”
The event also featured stalls by the police, raising awareness of cybercrimes; by the Election Commission, guiding people to get their voter IDS in order before the election; and even the Aadhaar department, helping update the card. The programme had many funders - from businesses to local builders.
Over 20 doctors stood guard, offering free check-ups, tests and consultations. “My mother got a physiotherapy check-up done, and was told to do some exercises at home,” said Yash Sanghvi, who went to the programme with his entire family, including his children aged five and two.