August 28, 2025: In a bid to preserve the cultural identity of residents affected by the Bandra Government Colony redevelopment, the Public Works Department (PWD) has approved the allocation of dedicated space for a community hub. The move follows the consistent efforts of Cabinet Minister Shivendraraje Bhosale, who has championed the initiative to safeguard the area’s cultural and social heritage.
Under the plan, a 400 sq. metre plot within the redeveloped colony has been earmarked for the establishment of the Pragya Cultural Centre. The facility will include a Buddha Vihar and a public library, designed to serve as a space for intellectual, spiritual and cultural engagement.
According to the lease agreement, the centre will operate from the allotted site for 30 years at a nominal rent. While the ownership of the land will remain with the PWD, the designated reservation of the plot as a Samaj Mandir (community temple) will continue.
“Redevelopment may change physical structures, but preserving the culture and social identity of the locality is even more important. This centre will safeguard the cultural heritage of Bandra’s residents,” said Cabinet Minister Shivendraraje Bhosale.
The Pragya Cultural Centre is expected to play a key role in strengthening social ties and encouraging community participation. With facilities such as a library to promote reading habits and a Buddha Vihar to support spiritual activities, the centre aims to ensure that the cultural heartbeat of the colony remains intact even after redevelopment.
Officials believe the initiative will not only provide residents with a social gathering point but also foster inclusivity and continuity in the midst of rapid urban change.
Source: The Free Press Journal
