Mumbai, June 18 (UNI) Western Railway will launch a month-long "Station Mahotsav" to celebrate the 160th anniversary of Bandra's iconic suburban station, recognised as a Grade I heritage structure for its distinctive 19th-century architecture.

The historic station, which opened on November 28, 1864, earned its "Queen of the Suburbs" moniker through Bandra's unique blend of old-world charm and modernity. Its current building, completed in 1888, showcases an acclaimed fusion of Victorian Gothic and Vernacular styles and remains a prominent landmark.

Designated as a protected heritage site under Maharashtra's 1995 regulations, the station features a signature cascaded roofline.

Festivities will commence on June 20 with the release of a commemorative postal stamp and cultural performances. Western Railway CPRO Vineet Abhishek announced extensive community engagement initiatives, including station beautification and four public competitions on art & craft, the station's legacy, badge design and creating symbolic emblems honouring the station

The authorities will also invite nostalgic photos, videos, and voice clips of personal connections

Key events for the commemoration include a special Light & Sound show and Photo Exhibition detailing the station's history on July 5-6, plus interviews with eminent personalities sharing their Bandra Station experiences. The festival concludes on July 27 with an awards ceremony honouring competition winners.

The celebration aims to highlight the station's architectural significance, its evolution across 16 decades, and its enduring role in Mumbai's suburban fabric. UNI AAA SSP