U.S. President Donald Trump said on Saturday (May 23, 2026) a deal with Iran had been “largely negotiated,” with the proposal including opening the crucial
World

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Saturday (May 23, 2026) a deal with Iran had been “largely negotiated,” with the proposal including opening the crucial Strait of Hormuz, though the agreement was “subject to finalisation.” “An Agreement has been largely negotiated

A person who approached a White House security checkpoint and began firing at officers has died, according to federal officials. The U.S
World

A person who approached a White House security checkpoint and began firing at officers has died, according to federal officials. The U.S. Secret Service said in a statement late on Saturday (May 23, 2026) that, according to a preliminary investigation

<h4>Pakistani woman says corporate culture makes employees feel guilty for taking leave: ‘Rest needs justification’</h4><h4>A Pakistani
Latest News

Pakistani woman says corporate culture makes employees feel guilty for taking leave: ‘Rest needs justification’A Pakistani woman said corporate jobs made employees feel guilty for taking paid leaves they were allowed to use. Published on: May 24

<h4>This crunchy veggie rice paper pancake is the perfect quick-fix snack for sudden hunger cravings at home: Full recipe</h4><h4>From crispy
Life Style

This crunchy veggie rice paper pancake is the perfect quick-fix snack for sudden hunger cravings at home: Full recipeFrom crispy edges to flavour-packed bites, try this veggie rice paper pancake recipe for an ultimate comfort snack for lazy evenings. Updated on: May 24

<h4>Amazon techie earning ₹11 lakh/month has 1 house in US, 4 properties in India, Range Rover — but no emergency fund</h4><h4>An Amazon
Latest News

Amazon techie earning ₹11 lakh/month has 1 house in US, 4 properties in India, Range Rover — but no emergency fundAn Amazon employee earning close to $300,000 feels financially insecure despite significant savings and investments. Published on: May 24

Empowered and Traditional: Mumbai women take the lead in Gudi Padwa celebrations

Posted By: Hari Ram Posted On: Mar 20, 2026Share Article
Empowered and Traditional
Empowered and Traditional: Mumbai women take the lead in Gudi Padwa celebrations

Empowered and Traditional: Mumbai women take the lead in Gudi Padwa celebrations

Empowered and Traditional: Mumbai women take the lead in Gudi Padwa celebrations

From women donning Nauvari sarees to participating in bike rallies and traditional performances, take a look at how Mumbai women took lead this Gudi Padwa

Published on: Mar 20, 2026 6:03 PM IST By HT Correspondent Share via Copy link The Gudi Padwa celebrations in Mumbai yesterday were marked by vibrant Shobha Yatras, featuring traditional dhol-tasha, lezim performances and saffron flags. With major events occurring across Girgaon, Dadar (Shivaji Park), Goregaon and more, the celebrations became a grand showcase of women’s spirit and communal harmony. Empowered and Traditional: Mumbai women take the lead in Gudi Padwa celebrations Thousands of women dominated the streets, not just in sarees but as active leaders in the thunderous dhwaja pathaks (flag processions), lezim dance performance and bike rallies. From young girls to seasoned homemakers, their active participation in the Nav Varsh Swagat Yatra brought colour, grace and energy to the festivities, proving that Maharashtrian women are the heart of the New Year celebration. lezim dance performance Samrajya Dhol Tasha Pathak led by Rajat Umesh and Prathamesh Mahadik, performed for the very first time for the Nav Varsh Swagat Yatra in Girgaon. Rajat Umesh takes pride in being a part of a co-ed group. “Every woman has been told that ‘you won’t be able to do it’ . They always have certain restrictions from their family. To prove these allegations wrong, we have women from young students to working women in my Pathak. There are also senior ladies who guide them. I wanted this female participation as a nudge to the gender inequality women have to face. It represents women empowerment. I hope this cultural legacy will continue to embrace the traditions,” he says. Gauravi Khadye, who plays dholak in Samrajya Dhol Tasha Pathak says, “I got inspired by seeing other girls participate in Dhol Pathaks. I have a total of over eight years of experience here now. As Gudi Padwa is a Maharashtrian festival. wearing a Nauvari Saree speaks a lot for our culture and tradition. And we just want to show that we, women, can be side-by-side with male performers as well.” women parade A new member in the troupe, Prajakta Mestry, adds, “If boys could play it then why can’t I? That’s how my interest developed. This was my first year at Girgaon Shobha Yatra for Gudi Padwa. The traditional Nauvari Saree would represent a spark to my Maharashtrian side and an elegant look to my culture. I hope the younger generation gets inspired to be a part of this wonderful tradition.” Gouresh Kadam, founder of the Vaarasaa Pathak performed with his group at a housing complex in Bhandup. He shares, “I feel younger girls should take more interest as it is about our culture, traditions and unity as Maharashtrians.” Siddhi Mane, who works as an interior designer apart from being a part of the troupe, adds. “As time passed by, women started to dominate male dominated fields. Dhol Pathak comes from Maharashtrian culture and nauvari saree is a tribute to the culture. I wish the new generation should be a part of this culture not by watching this from the sides, but actually by joining in to keep the tradition alive.” Amruta Mane, founder and director of Women on Wheels, speaks about her experience of being a part of the bike rally, led by women. “For me, this rally is deeply personal because I am a proud Maharashtrian. Gudi Padwa is not just a festival, it’s an emotion, a celebration of new beginnings, resilience, and strength. Through this rally, I represent the spirit of Maharashtra and, more importantly, the strength of its women. I stand for every woman who is stepping out, taking control of her life, and choosing her own direction especially on two wheels,” she says. Amruta Mane, founder and director of Women on Wheels Talking about riding the bike while wearing a saree, Amruta adds, “It comes very naturally to me. The Nauvari saree is a powerful symbol of our culture; it reflects strength, grace, and history. At the same time, the motorcycle represents independence and breaking barriers. When I bring them together, it feels like I am telling a story that a woman can stay connected to her roots while still moving forward fearlessly.” She further insists, “Riding a bike in a Nauvari saree is a strong visual, but for me, the deeper message is about possibility. To every young girl watching, you don’t have to fit into one definition of who you should be. You can be traditional and bold, rooted and independent. And most importantly, I want more women to come onto motorcycles, not just for a moment like this, but as a way of life. Because when a woman rides, she doesn’t just move forward on the road, she moves forward in life.” By Shourya Avankhedkar Gudi Padwa Motorcycle News / Htcity / Leisure / Empowered And Traditional: Mumbai Women Take The Lead In Gudi Padwa Celebrations See Less News / Htcity / Leisure / Empowered And Traditional: Mumbai Women Take The Lead In Gudi Padwa Celebrations

The Gudi Padwa celebrations in Mumbai yesterday were marked by vibrant Shobha Yatras, featuring traditional dhol-tasha, lezim performances and saffron flags. With major events occurring across Girgaon, Dadar (Shivaji Park), Goregaon and more, the celebrations became a grand showcase of women’s spirit and communal harmony.

Thousands of women dominated the streets, not just in sarees but as active leaders in the thunderous dhwaja pathaks (flag processions), lezim dance performance and bike rallies. From young girls to seasoned homemakers, their active participation in the Nav Varsh Swagat Yatra brought colour, grace and energy to the festivities, proving that Maharashtrian women are the heart of the New Year celebration.

Samrajya Dhol Tasha Pathak led by Rajat Umesh and Prathamesh Mahadik, performed for the very first time for the Nav Varsh Swagat Yatra in Girgaon. Rajat Umesh takes pride in being a part of a co-ed group. “Every woman has been told that ‘you won’t be able to do it’ . They always have certain restrictions from their family. To prove these allegations wrong, we have women from young students to working women in my Pathak. There are also senior ladies who guide them. I wanted this female participation as a nudge to the gender inequality women have to face. It represents women empowerment. I hope this cultural legacy will continue to embrace the traditions,” he says.

Gauravi Khadye, who plays dholak in Samrajya Dhol Tasha Pathak says, “I got inspired by seeing other girls participate in Dhol Pathaks. I have a total of over eight years of experience here now. As Gudi Padwa is a Maharashtrian festival. wearing a Nauvari Saree speaks a lot for our culture and tradition. And we just want to show that we, women, can be side-by-side with male performers as well.”

A new member in the troupe, Prajakta Mestry, adds, “If boys could play it then why can’t I? That’s how my interest developed. This was my first year at Girgaon Shobha Yatra for Gudi Padwa. The traditional Nauvari Saree would represent a spark to my Maharashtrian side and an elegant look to my culture. I hope the younger generation gets inspired to be a part of this wonderful tradition.”

Gouresh Kadam, founder of the Vaarasaa Pathak performed with his group at a housing complex in Bhandup. He shares, “I feel younger girls should take more interest as it is about our culture, traditions and unity as Maharashtrians.” Siddhi Mane, who works as an interior designer apart from being a part of the troupe, adds. “As time passed by, women started to dominate male dominated fields. Dhol Pathak comes from Maharashtrian culture and nauvari saree is a tribute to the culture. I wish the new generation should be a part of this culture not by watching this from the sides, but actually by joining in to keep the tradition alive.”

Amruta Mane, founder and director of Women on Wheels, speaks about her experience of being a part of the bike rally, led by women. “For me, this rally is deeply personal because I am a proud Maharashtrian. Gudi Padwa is not just a festival, it’s an emotion, a celebration of new beginnings, resilience, and strength. Through this rally, I represent the spirit of Maharashtra and, more importantly, the strength of its women. I stand for every woman who is stepping out, taking control of her life, and choosing her own direction especially on two wheels,” she says.

Talking about riding the bike while wearing a saree, Amruta adds, “It comes very naturally to me. The Nauvari saree is a powerful symbol of our culture; it reflects strength, grace, and history. At the same time, the motorcycle represents independence and breaking barriers. When I bring them together, it feels like I am telling a story that a woman can stay connected to her roots while still moving forward fearlessly.”

She further insists, “Riding a bike in a Nauvari saree is a strong visual, but for me, the deeper message is about possibility. To every young girl watching, you don’t have to fit into one definition of who you should be. You can be traditional and bold, rooted and independent. And most importantly, I want more women to come onto motorcycles, not just for a moment like this, but as a way of life. Because when a woman rides, she doesn’t just move forward on the road, she moves forward in life.”

Comment on Post

Leave a comment

If you have a News Orbit 360 user account, your address will be used to display your profile picture.


With big-budget spectacles and larger-than-life action becoming the norm, one upcoming Hindi film is now aiming for something Indian cinema has rarely explored
Entertainment
Akshay Kumar Steps Into Alien Horror With Sci-Fi Thriller Samuk

With big-budget spectacles and larger-than-life action becoming the norm, one upcoming Hindi film is now aiming for something Indian cinema has rarely explored in a full-fledged way… alien horror. Actor Akshay Kumar is set to headline Samuk, a sci-fi thriller centred around extraterrestrial

1 days ago

<h4>Kara OTT release: Dhanush's ₹50 crore heist film gets digital release in less than a month; when and where to watch</h4><h4>Kara OTT
Entertainment
Kara OTT release

Kara OTT release: Dhanush's ₹50 crore heist film gets digital release in less than a month; when and where to watchKara OTT release: Vignesh Raja's Tamil film starring Dhanush and Mamitha Baiju was released in theatres on April 30. Know when and where to stream it online. May 24, 2026

1 days ago

The Supreme Court on Saturday registered a suo motu case in connection with the death of a woman in Madhya Pradesh, whose family has alleged that her in-laws
World
Supreme Court registers suo motu case in alleged Madhya Pradesh dowry death

The Supreme Court on Saturday registered a suo motu case in connection with the death of a woman in Madhya Pradesh, whose family has alleged that her in-laws harassed her for dowry, reported The Hindu. Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul Pancholi will hear the case on

1 days ago

<h4>Rare lung transplant at Apollo saves a life; spotlight on India's organ donor shortage</h4><h4>Rare lung transplant at Apollo saves a
Latest News
Rare lung transplant at Apollo saves a life

Rare lung transplant at Apollo saves a life; spotlight on India's organ donor shortageRare lung transplant at Apollo saves a life; spotlight on India's organ donor shortage Published on: May 24, 2026 10:33 AM IST PTI Share via Copy link New Delhi, A year ago, every breath felt borrowed

1 days ago

Editorial independence is core to our work. Some links may earn us a commission, without influencing our opinions.<h4>These countertop organisers
Life Style
Give your kitchen a Pinteresty spin with these organisers

Editorial independence is core to our work. Some links may earn us a commission, without influencing our opinions.These countertop organisers, crockery pick and jars can give your kitchen a Pinteresty spin by keeping the clutter awayTurn your kitchen into a photo-ready space with stylish organisers

1 days ago

Indian athletics witnessed a historic evening in Ranchi as Tejaswin Shankar became the first Indian ever to breach the 8000-point barrier in decathlon at the
Sports
Tejaswin Shankar Scripts History

Indian athletics witnessed a historic evening in Ranchi as Tejaswin Shankar became the first Indian ever to breach the 8000-point barrier in decathlon at the Federation Cup on Saturday. The 27-year-old produced a sensational all-round performance to finish with 8057 points

1 days ago

The Centre released draft rules for the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025 for public consultation
Latest News
VB-G RAM G draft rules published for public consultation ahead of its implementation from July 1

The Centre released draft rules for the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025 for public consultation. The rules focus on governance, grievance redressal, and transitioning from MGNREGA to the new rural employment scheme

1 days ago

The National Threat Analytics Unit of the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) has warned of a sophisticated phishing campaign impersonating Apple tech
Technology
I4C warns of phishing scam targeting iPhone users via fake Apple support messages

The National Threat Analytics Unit of the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) has warned of a sophisticated phishing campaign impersonating Apple tech support to target whose devices have been lost or stolen, officials said on Saturday.The I4C, which functions under the Union Home Ministry

1 days ago

Sachin Tendulkar praised his son Arjun's IPL debut for Lucknow Super Giants. Arjun Tendulkar showed patience and skill in his first match
Sports
Arjun Tendulkar get thumbs up from father Sachin Tendulkar after decent debut for LSG

Sachin Tendulkar praised his son Arjun's IPL debut for Lucknow Super Giants. Arjun Tendulkar showed patience and skill in his first match. He bowled well and took a wicket. Sachin Tendulkar expressed pride in his son's performance and attitude

1 days ago

<h4>White House shooting suspect claimed to be ‘real’ Osama bin Laden, threatened Trump online: Report</h4><h4>Osama bin Laden was the
World
White House shooter claimed to be ‘real’ Osama

White House shooting suspect claimed to be ‘real’ Osama bin Laden, threatened Trump online: ReportOsama bin Laden was the founder and leader of the terror group Al-Qaeda, which was reportedly responsible the 9/11 attacks. Updated on: May 24, 2026 11:02 AM IST By Anita Goswami Share via Copy

1 days ago

<h4>May 24, Birthday Horoscope: Here's what the tarot cards have in store for you</h4><h4>If your birthday falls on May 24
Horoscope
May 24, Birthday Horoscope

May 24, Birthday Horoscope: Here's what the tarot cards have in store for youIf your birthday falls on May 24, here’s what your year ahead looks like, as per Tarot. Published on: May 24, 2026 11:00 AM IST By Kishori Sud Share via Copy link If you were born on May 24

1 days ago

George Russell may have delivered the perfect answer to mounting pressure at Mercedes. After a fiery sprint race clash with championship-leading teammate Kimi
Sports
George Russell Strikes Back

George Russell may have delivered the perfect answer to mounting pressure at Mercedes. After a fiery sprint race clash with championship-leading teammate Kimi Antonelli earlier on Saturday, the Briton bounced back in style to grab pole position for Sunday’s Canadian Grand Prix — edging the

1 days ago

BJP candidate Debangshu Panda is leading significantly in the Falta assembly constituency repoll. After five rounds of counting, Panda has secured a lead of
Politics
Falta repoll results

BJP candidate Debangshu Panda is leading significantly in the Falta assembly constituency repoll. After five rounds of counting, Panda has secured a lead of over 14,000 votes against his CPI(M) rival. The repoll followed allegations of EVM tampering and irregularities during the initial polling

1 days ago

The suspect in a shooting near the White House was killed in an exchange of fire with Secret Service agents on Saturday evening, officials have confirmed
World
Suspect killed after opening fire on Secret Service near White House

The suspect in a shooting near the White House was killed in an exchange of fire with Secret Service agents on Saturday evening, officials have confirmed. BBC's US media partner CBS has named the suspect as Nasire Best, a 21-year-old man who was known to the Secret Service and had a documented

1 days ago

<h4>CPI(M) MP raises concerns over CBSE's digital evaluation, seeks intervention</h4><h4>CPI(M) MP raises concerns over CBSE's digital
Education
CPI(M) MP raises concerns over CBSE's digital evaluation

CPI(M) MP raises concerns over CBSE's digital evaluation, seeks interventionCPI(M) MP raises concerns over CBSE's digital evaluation, seeks intervention Published on: May 23, 2026 5:22 PM IST PTI Share via Copy link New Delhi, The Rajya Sabha leader of the CPI, John Brittas

1 days ago

Imagine enjoying a decadent, fudge‑like treat that also supports your hormones, libido, and menstrual rhythm, all while being packed with collagen, magnesium
Life Style
These Seed Balls Are Chocolatey

Imagine enjoying a decadent, fudge‑like treat that also supports your hormones, libido, and menstrual rhythm, all while being packed with collagen, magnesium, adaptogens, and lignan‑rich omega‑3s. These Seed Cycling Hormone Bliss Balls are designed around the simple yet powerful practice of

1 days ago

<h4>Weekly Love Horoscope for May 24-30, 2026: The stars brings positive energies for these zodiac signs</h4><h4>Weekly Love Horoscope for
Weekly Love Horoscope for May 24-30

Weekly Love Horoscope for May 24-30, 2026: The stars brings positive energies for these zodiac signsWeekly Love Horoscope for May 24-30, 2026: This week asks for patience, trust, and emotional resilience. Published on: May 24, 2026 7:30 AM IST By Kishori Sud Share via Copy link Aries Love feels

1 days ago

From a darkly comic tale of revenge to a beautiful contemplation on friendship, here are the year's most acclaimed works of fiction so far.</b>
10 of the best books of 2026 so far

From a darkly comic tale of revenge to a beautiful contemplation on friendship, here are the year's most acclaimed works of fiction so far. "Daring, deranged, cleverly written," is how Vogue describes the buzzy debut by Caro Claire Burke. In this satirical thriller

1 days ago

<h4>Overnight fires in Delhi: Shops, homes gutted in four blazes</h4><h4>A fire department officer was injured after the tin shed of one of
Overnight fires in Delhi

Overnight fires in Delhi: Shops, homes gutted in four blazesA fire department officer was injured after the tin shed of one of the shops he was standing on during the firefighting operation collapsed. Updated on: May 24, 2026 7:37 AM IST By Karn Pratap Singh Share via Copy link Four separate fire

1 days ago

As per the government, the new rules enable families living in Delhi to submit applications if their annual household income is within the newly prescribed
Delhi opens new ration card applications after 13 years

As per the government, the new rules enable families living in Delhi to submit applications if their annual household income is within the newly prescribed limit. New Delhi: The Delhi government has reopened the process of issuing fresh ration cards under changed eligibility criteria after a gap of

1 days ago

The reported disruption of AI-animated film Critterz after OpenAI allegedly shut down Sora has sparked a larger conversation around one major issue in tech and
Seven times creators lost out after depending on tech platforms

The reported disruption of AI-animated film Critterz after OpenAI allegedly shut down Sora has sparked a larger conversation around one major issue in tech and entertainment: what happens when creators build entire projects on platforms they do not control?The reported disruption of AI-animated

1 days ago

<h4>Ex-Meta employee says non-Chinese workers were targeted for layoffs</h4><h4>A laid-off Meta engineer has alleged that he was routinely
Ex-Meta employee says non-Chinese workers were targeted for layoffs

Ex-Meta employee says non-Chinese workers were targeted for layoffsA laid-off Meta engineer has alleged that he was routinely excluded and ostracised by his Chinese colleagues at the company. Updated on: May 24, 2026 7:01 AM IST By Sanya Jain Share via Copy link A laid-off Meta engineer has alleged

1 days ago

<h4>Mackenzie Shirilla wanted Kim Kardashian's help; here's why it's not happening</h4><h4>Mackenzie Shirilla sought Kim Kardashian's legal
Mackenzie Shirilla wanted Kim Kardashian's help

Mackenzie Shirilla wanted Kim Kardashian's help; here's why it's not happeningMackenzie Shirilla sought Kim Kardashian's legal support following the release of The Crash documentary, but Kardashian reportedly has no plans to get involved. May 24, 2026

1 days ago

<h4>X warns founder against reuploading White House shooting video: 'Revenue reduced by 90%'</h4><h4>Nikita Bier of X warned a user against
X warns founder against reuploading White House shooting video

X warns founder against reuploading White House shooting video: 'Revenue reduced by 90%'Nikita Bier of X warned a user against reuploading the White House shooting video, asking him to ‘Quote’ or ‘Video Reshare’ instead. Updated on: May 24, 2026 6:14 AM IST By Sanya Jain Share via Copy link

1 days ago

<h4>Sonam Wangchuk says Article 371 talks for Ladakh still ‘work in progress’; backs Cockroach Janta Party</h4><h4>Sonam Wangchuk hoped
Wangchuk says Article 371 talks for Ladakh still ‘work in progress’

Sonam Wangchuk says Article 371 talks for Ladakh still ‘work in progress’; backs Cockroach Janta PartySonam Wangchuk hoped constitutional safeguards will be granted to Ladakh after recent talks between Ladakh groups and the Centre. Updated on: May 24

1 days ago

Talking about international partnerships, PM Modi said India’s growing ties with global companies and countries would create new opportunities for young
World excited about India’s youth

Talking about international partnerships, PM Modi said India’s growing ties with global companies and countries would create new opportunities for young people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed more than 51,000 appointment letters to newly recruited candidates during the 19th Rozgar Mela

1 days ago

<h4>Dipika Kakar’s father-in-law in ICU after suffering stroke, Shoaib Ibrahim seeks prayers: ‘24 hrs are crucial’</h4><h4>Shoaib
Dipika Kakar’s father-in-law in ICU after stroke

Dipika Kakar’s father-in-law in ICU after suffering stroke, Shoaib Ibrahim seeks prayers: ‘24 hrs are crucial’Shoaib Ibrahim took to Instagram to inform fans that his father has been hospitalised once again after suffering another stroke. May 24, 2026

1 days ago


Sing Up