Mumbai’s annual Pushp Utsav, organized by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), turned into a star-studded affair with Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar making a special appearance. The event, held at Pushpak Nursery Park, drew notable figures including Mumbai BJP president and MLA Amit Satam, BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, and filmmaker Ashok Pandit.
Taking the stage, Akshay captivated the audience with a heartfelt plea to safeguard nature. ‘Just as you protect your phone, treat nature with the same care,’ he emphasized, drawing a relatable analogy to everyday habits. In a bustling city like Mumbai, where deadlines loom and schedules clash, the actor highlighted the festival’s role in fostering moments of pause.
‘You all love IPL; let’s call this MCL – Mumbai Clean League,’ Akshay quipped, injecting humor into his speech. He advocated for hosting the flower show twice a year, arguing that amid the chaos of meetings, shoots, and family commitments, such events provide essential breathing space. ‘These flowers remind us that peace and tranquility are vital in life,’ he added.
Akshay shared personal insights into balancing a hectic career with well-being. Despite his rigorous work ethic, he switches to ‘rest mode’ after 6 PM every evening. ‘Health trumps everything else,’ he asserted, urging attendees to prioritize relaxation amid mounting stress.
The festival’s revival owes much to BMC and local efforts. Filmmaker Ashok Pandit recounted how Pushpak Nursery Park, once overrun by anti-social elements, was transformed into a family-friendly haven. Today, it boasts vibrant displays of diverse flowers, celebrating nature’s beauty and Mumbai’s commitment to cleanliness.
Akshay’s message resonated deeply, reinforcing that nature, much like our lives, only gives without expectation. As the flower fest continues, it serves as a timely reminder to nurture our environment with the devotion we reserve for our gadgets.