Former MLA Sada Sarvankar Reconnects with Raj Thackeray at Gymkhana Event

Former Shiv Sena MLA Sada Sarvankar met with Raj Thackeray, the leader of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), during the reopening of the Shivaji Park Gymkhana on September 22, 2023. This event marked the gymkhana’s first public appearance following a significant renovation that lasted approximately one and a half years. The meeting between Sarvankar and Thackeray comes amidst a backdrop of political rivalry, as both had previously contested for the Mahim Assembly seat in the 2024 elections, where they were defeated by Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Mahesh Sawant.

Sarvankar described his encounter with Thackeray as positive, telling reporters, “I took the blessings of Raj Thackeray. He even patted me on the back. Our relationship with Raj saheb goes way back. We share a deep bond, and we can’t forget those ties. Today, I’m even his neighbour.” Despite the tensions stemming from the recent election, Sarvankar emphasized the importance of their longstanding connection, noting that “elections are a different matter. We had different responsibilities at the time.”

Shivaji Park Gymkhana Reopens with New Facilities

The reopening of the Shivaji Park Gymkhana has been celebrated by its management, who likened the moment to a batsman hitting a perfect shot. Sunil Ramchandran, assistant secretary, highlighted the gymkhana’s new look, which features colors reminiscent of the famed Wimbledon courts. The management expressed a commitment to enhancing gender opportunities, improving facilities, and expanding the member base.

The gymkhana received its Occupation Certificate on September 19, 2023, just three days before the official reopening. Sanjeev Khanolkar, honorary general secretary of the gymkhana, stated, “We understand that people are excited and eager, especially our approximately 3,000 member families.”

The renovations included a refurbished gymnasium and two terraces that overlook Shivaji Park. The challenges faced during the renovation were significant, particularly concerning space limitations. Parveen Amre, president of the gymkhana, noted, “We had to give better facilities within the existing area of the ground, plus the first floor.”

Community and Political Engagement

The reopening event also featured local MP Anil Desai and MLA Mahesh Sawant, reinforcing the gymkhana’s role as a community hub. The presence of political figures highlights the intertwined nature of local governance and community engagement in the region.

Sarvankar’s meeting with Thackeray, set against the backdrop of the gymkhana’s revival, suggests a potential thawing of relations, even as the political landscape remains competitive. As community members rally around the gymkhana’s new facilities, the event serves as a reminder of the cultural significance of such institutions within Mumbai’s social fabric.

The Shivaji Park Gymkhana has long been a focal point for sports and social activities in the area, and its reopening represents not only a physical transformation but also an opportunity for renewed community engagement.