The Western Railway is set to launch the heritage-themed Bandra station mahotsav on the occasion of the station’s 165th anniversary this July. The celebrations promise a rich lineup of events from a light and sound show to art competitions, a vlog race, the release of a commemorative stamp, and cultural programmes featuring local talent.
Bandra railway station, a Western Railway illustration by Ramdas Nivelkar
Railway Board has directed the celebration of centenary events for heritage stations across Indian Railways. Two stations under the Western Railway (WR) have been selected for this celebration — Bandra suburban station building, inaugurated on November 28, 1864, and Ratlam station building, inaugurated on March 1923. While the Bandra mahotsav will kick off on June 20 and continue through July 2025, the Ratlam mahotsav will be held in October 2025,” said Western Railway Chief PRO Vineet Abhishek.
Divisional Railway Manager Pankaj Singh (in grey trousers), during the Shramdaan event on June 14. Pic/By Special Arrangement
On Saturday, Divisional Railway Manager of Mumbai Central Division, Pankaj Singh, along with others, participated in a Shramdaan (voluntary cleaning) drive at Bandra Station. This initiative was part of the Bandra station mahotsav Heritage Function and focused on promoting cleanliness, hygiene, and passenger safety. “Monitoring and reporting unauthorised parking in station premises to maintain cleanliness and uphold the heritage pride of Bandra station will also be emphasised,” Abhishek added.
Bandra mahotsav timeline of events
June 10: Beautification and upgradation of Bandra station
June 14: “Shramdaan”, a cleanliness drive at and around Bandra station
June 20: Inauguration of the centenary celebration
July 5-6: Light & sound show with photo exhibition depicting the rich heritage of Bandra station
July 13: Art & craft competition open to school and college students
July 27: Making of a badge of Bandra commemorating the occasion with a symbolic emblem and prize distribution ceremony
Details of the event
How can commuters participate?
Western Railway has invited commuters to join in the celebrations through various competitions and events.
Theme: All submissions must relate to Bandra Station — its heritage, culture, people, or transformation.
b Art & craft competition (artwork/drawing/painting/digital art/clay modelling, etc)
Vlog making competition (short video based on the theme)
Purani Yaadein: Share old memories — photos, videos, or audio clips related to Bandra station
Participation: Open to all
How to register: Fill out the Google form
Hashtags for tagging: #StationMahotsav #BandraStation #HeritageMahotsav
Last date for submission: June 30
Display: Selected entries will be showcased at Bandra station on July 13 and featured on Western Railway’s social media platforms