NewKerala.com

164 Maharashtrians Stranded in Dubai to Return on Special Flights

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced the arrangement of two special flights to bring back 164 stranded Maharashtrians from Dubai, with their safe return to Mumbai expected by evening. He made the announcement while extending festive greetings for Dhulivandan and Rangpanchami, paying tribute to Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray and Dharmaveer Anand Dighe. Shinde noted that this year's Holi celebrations would be subdued due to the recent passing of former Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and tragedies affecting some party workers. He also appealed to citizens to use natural colours during the festivities, praising the public's positive response to avoiding chemical-based alternatives.

Key Points: Special Flights Bring 164 Stranded Maharashtrians Home from Dubai

  • Emergency repatriation from Dubai
  • Festive greetings on Dhulivandan
  • Tribute to Balasaheb Thackeray
  • Appeal for natural colours
  • Modest celebrations due to bereavements
2 min read

2 special flights arranged to bring back 164 Maharashtrians stranded in Dubai: Dy CM Eknath Shinde

Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde arranges 2 special flights to repatriate 164 stranded citizens from Dubai, ensuring their safe return to Mumbai.

"two special flights have been urgently arranged to safely bring back 164 tourists and citizens - Eknath Shinde"

Thane, March 3

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde informed that two special flights have been urgently arranged to safely bring back 164 tourists and citizens from Maharashtra who are stranded in Dubai.

All of them are expected to return safely to Mumbai by evening. He announced this while speaking on the occasion of Dhulivandan and extended festive greetings to the people of the state.

Extending wishes to the people of Maharashtra on the occasion of Dhulivandan and Rangpanchami, Shinde said he prayed at the feet of Goddess Jagdamba for health, happiness, and a shower of vibrant colours in everyone's lives. He expressed his wish that farmers (Baliraja), workers, labourers, beloved brothers and sisters, and senior citizens -- every individual -- be blessed with joy.

On this occasion, he paid tribute to Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray and Dharmaveer Anand Dighe.

While visiting Anand Ashram of Anand Dighe, he described Thane as the "Pandhari (holy land) of festivals". He noted that Anand Dighe played a major role in establishing and spreading the traditions of festivals like Ganeshotsav, Navratri, Govinda, Holi, and Dhulivandan in Thane and across Maharashtra.

He said that although these festivals are celebrated every year with enthusiasm and grandeur, this year's Holi-Dhulivandan is overshadowed by the sad demise of former Deputy Chief Minister Ajitdada Pawar. Additionally, tragic incidents in the families of some close Shiv Sena workers have led to a decision to avoid grand celebrations and instead focus on preserving traditions in a simple manner. He clarified that the decision has been taken to celebrate the festival modestly while preserving cultural values.

He appealed to citizens to use natural colours while celebrating Dhulivandan and Rangpanchami. He added that the government's appeal to avoid chemical-mixed colours has received a positive response from the public, and the use of chemical colours has significantly reduced.

Speaking about the citizens stranded in Dubai, Shinde said that over the past two days, they had contacted authorities seeking help. He personally spoke to them over the phone to reassure them.

Sanjeev Paithankar in Dubai, office bearers of Maharashtra Mandal, and Yuva Sena's Rahul Kanal were in constant touch with tourists and students there. The sudden cancellation of flight services had created serious difficulties for passengers.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While I appreciate the effort, why were they stranded in the first place? Flight cancellations are happening too often. The authorities need to work with airlines for better contingency plans. Still, bringing them home before Holi is a great gesture.
A
Aman W
Good news for the families! Can't imagine the stress of being stuck in a foreign country. Shinde Sir also giving the message for natural colours is important. Let's celebrate a safe and eco-friendly Holi. 🎨
S
Sarah B
It's heartening to see the community support from the Maharashtra Mandal and Yuva Sena members in Dubai. In times of crisis, it's these local networks that provide immediate relief. Well done to all involved.
V
Vikram M
The part about celebrating festivals simply due to the recent sad events shows sensitivity. It's a good mix of administrative action and cultural responsibility. Hope the stranded people have a safe journey back to Mumbai.
K
Kavya N
As someone from Thane, I appreciate the mention of Anand Dighe Sir and the traditions of our city. The 'Pandhari of festivals' is a perfect description! Glad our leaders are working to help people and preserve our culture simultaneously.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50