Over 9,000 runners including differently-abled athletes took to the slopes of Panvel in a historic display of grit and community.

The Marathon

Long before dawn broke over Navi Mumbai, the quiet paths of Central Park transformed into a surging sea of thousands of eager runners. At 4:30 AM, as the opening flag dropped, over 9,000 participants set off in the inaugural Kharghar Mayor Hill Marathon, making history in Panvel.

Billed as India’s first 42-kilometer hill marathon, the event earned prestigious international recognition from AIMS, drawing seasoned elite athletes alongside casual weekend joggers. Celebrated Marathi actor Ankush Chaudhari, alongside Mayor Nitin Patil and civic leaders, cheered on the massive crowd as they conquered the challenging terrain.

Beyond the competitive thrill, the day was defined by spirit and inclusion. More than 100 differently-abled runners took to the course, proving that endurance knows no physical bounds.

In the grueling 42-kilometer main event, Nilesh Dagdu Arsekar claimed victory in the men’s category with a time of 2 hours, 54 minutes, while Shivani Chaurasia dominated the women’s division, finishing in 3 hours, 28 minutes.

From hydration points to drone monitoring and dedicated medical response teams, civic volunteers ensured a safe, seamless experience. As the finish line celebrations swept through Kharghar, the marathon left behind more than just broken records it cemented Panvel’s place on the national endurance sports map.

Residents raise safety and noise concerns, urge government to reject licence.

The Rally

Residents of Sector 17, Sanpada, have come together to oppose the proposed opening of an orchestra bar at The Affairs CHS, saying the location is unsuitable for such an establishment.

The proposed bar has sparked concern among nearby residents, particularly because it is located close to Advance Eye Hospital, Jaipuriar School and a public jogging track. Residents fear that the establishment could lead to increased noise, traffic and safety concerns in an area regularly used by families, students and senior citizens.

More than 500 residents and several housing societies have reportedly submitted written objections against the proposal. Corporator Nishant Bhagat has also taken up the matter with the government. He met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and submitted a memorandum requesting that permission for the orchestra bar be rejected.

Nishant Bhagat reportedly referred to a July 27, 2026 government circular, which he said discourages the granting of new orchestra-bar licences and the renewal of existing ones. For residents, the issue is not simply about opposing a business. They say they want to preserve the peaceful character of their neighbourhood and ensure that public spaces remain comfortable and safe for families.

Residents are now awaiting the government’s decision on the proposed licence, while continuing to press for their objections to be considered.

Specially-abled Govindas break barriers as the annual festival rallies Navi Mumbai’s youth against addiction.

The Drugs Campaign

The Ramleela Maidan in Nerul echoed with festive cheers this year, but the ‘Makhan Chor Dahi Handi 2026’ stood out for a cause much bigger than its towering human pyramids. Spearheaded by Yuva Sena’s Giten Patil, the vibrant event carried a powerful, urgent rallying cry for the city’s youth: “Say No to Drugs.”

In a deeply moving start to the festivities, the honor of the first salami (salute to the Handi) was awarded to the specially-abled Govindas of the Pallavit Foundation. This heartwarming gesture set the tone for the day, replacing the usual fierce competition with a profound message of social equality, respect, and inclusivity.

Kalyan Rural MLA Rajesh More inaugurated the event, lauding Patil’s four-year dedication to blending celebration with social responsibility. “This youth of ours works hard to take this program to the people,” More noted, emphasizing the importance of community service over mere politics.

Amidst the lively rhythm of traditional Agri-Koli music, the core mission never faded. Organizer Giten Patil delivered an earnest plea to the young crowd: celebrate safely, support one another, and most importantly, stay away from addiction. It wasn’t just about breaking the Handi this year; it was about breaking barriers and bad habits, proving that true festive spirit lies in uplifting the entire community.