July 9, 2025: Navi Mumbai is poised to establish its own dedicated art gallery, following an appeal by acclaimed calligrapher and Padma Shri awardee Achyut Palav. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has reportedly instructed the Navi Mumbai Municipal Commissioner to take prompt action toward setting up the cultural facility.
The announcement came during a civic felicitation ceremony held at the Euro School auditorium in Sector 19, Airoli, organised by the Navi Mumbai branch of the Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Natya Parishad. Hosted by executive committee member Vijay Chougule, the event honoured veteran actor Ashok Saraf and Achyut Palav, both Padma Shri recipients.
While addressing the gathering, Palav highlighted the difficulties faced by emerging artists due to the long waiting periods at Mumbai’s Jehangir Art Gallery. He stressed the urgent need for a similar facility in Navi Mumbai to promote and nurture regional artistic talent. In response, Shinde assured immediate action, directing municipal officials to initiate planning for an art gallery within the city.
Actor Prashant Damle, also present at the event, raised concerns regarding housing for backstage artists. Deputy CM Shinde responded by pledging government support for the welfare of behind-the-scenes contributors to the theatre industry.
Additionally, Vijay Chougule brought attention to the delayed completion of the Airoli theatre project, which remains unfinished nearly seven years after its inauguration. Shinde acknowledged the concern and instructed the Municipal Commissioner to expedite the remaining work.
These developments have generated renewed optimism among Navi Mumbai’s artistic and theatre communities, who have long called for better infrastructure and institutional support. The proposed gallery and revived theatre project are seen as essential steps towards fostering a vibrant local cultural ecosystem and offering a dedicated platform for creative expression in the city.
Source: The Free Press Journal
