Aarey Mahotsav sends out message: You can’t replace a forest

MUMBAI: The Aarey Milk Colony witnessed a hustle and bustle, a novelty in this heritage area, for quite some time. Many people gathered at Chhota Kashmir Garden to lend support to the Save Aarey campaign.
Organized by the Save Aarey Conservation Group, the Aarey Mahotsav was celebrated with much pomp to make people realize the “essentiality” that it holds.
The day began with a nature trail, where people were taken on an adventure trip to major attractions of the area. The actual celebrations and fanfare commenced in the evening. Nothing short of a grand fair, there were ample activities for people from all age groups to take part in. From games and rides to photo exhibitions, Warli painting workshops, juggling, street plays, dance performances, drawing competitions and pottery… the event was conducted to ensure that each and everyone would remember this Sunday for a very long time. “The last time I came to Aarey was during my school days. Coming here today after a long time was a different experience. It isn’t something that we would normally do on a Sunday. My daughter has come here for the first time and now insists on coming again,” said Sophia Pillai, a bank manager. The Mahotsav was to connect people with Aarey and bring them closer to its rich biodiversity.
Aarey Colony has made the headlines in recent times due to the growing threat of urbanization; be it plans for the proposed construction of the Metro III car-shed or that on account of the civic draft development plan 2034. The event saw enthusiastic support from thousands, who wished the area to be left pristine. “Aarey has for long been neglected. There was a time when a visit to Mumbai was incomplete without a trip to Aarey. It holds unimaginable potential for ecotourism and thus we are celebrating its natural heritage,” said Stalin Dayanand, project director, Vanshakti, a driving force behind the campaign.
The day saw people from all walks of life taking some time off their schedules to enjoy the beautiful offerings. “I have been coming to Aarey for 20 years, be it for a walk or for cycling. We are very privileged to have a forest with such easy access. We should leave it as it is. Everything else like buildings can be relocated, but you cannot replace a forest,” said Rama Bishnoi, a marketing professional.