Top Dussehra Melas to Visit in Mumbai 2025: Locations, Attractions, and Travel Guide

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by

Himanshu
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Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most significant festivals in India, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. In Mumbai, Dussehra is celebrated with grandeur, featuring vibrant melas (fairs), cultural performances, and the iconic Ravan Dahan (effigy burning). The year 2025 promises an even more spectacular celebration, with various events and attractions lined up across the city.

1. Shivaji Park, Dadar: The Heart of Political and Cultural Celebrations

Location:
Shivaji Park, Dadar West, Mumbai

Special Attraction in 2025:
The Shiv Sena (UBT) faction has been granted permission by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to hold its annual Dussehra rally at Shivaji Park. This rally is a significant political event, drawing thousands of supporters and featuring speeches by party leaders. The rally is expected to begin at 10:00 AM and conclude by 12:00 PM.

Previous Year’s Highlights:
In 2023, the rally was marked by a massive turnout, with attendees waving party flags and chanting slogans. The event featured speeches by prominent leaders, emphasizing unity and political strength.

2. Azad Maidan, Fort: A Venue for Political Gatherings

Location:
Azad Maidan, Fort, Mumbai

Special Attraction in 2025:
The Shiv Sena faction led by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is expected to continue holding its rally at Azad Maidan, avoiding a venue clash with the Shivaji Park rally. The event is anticipated to feature speeches focusing on governance and development.

Previous Year’s Highlights:
In 2023, the rally at Azad Maidan was characterized by a strong presence of party workers and supporters, with leaders addressing the crowd on various political issues.

3. Girgaon Chowpatty: Traditional Ravan Dahan and Cultural Performances

Location:
Girgaon Chowpatty, Mumbai

Special Attraction in 2025:
Girgaon Chowpatty is renowned for its traditional Ravan Dahan, where a massive effigy of Ravan is set ablaze, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The event is accompanied by cultural performances, including traditional dances and music.

Previous Year’s Highlights:
The 2024 Ravan Dahan at Girgaon Chowpatty attracted thousands of spectators, with the effigy towering over 100 feet. The cultural performances added to the festive atmosphere, making it a memorable experience for attendees.

4. Andheri Sports Complex: A Family-Friendly Mela

Location:
Andheri Sports Complex, Andheri West, Mumbai

Special Attraction in 2025:
The Andheri Sports Complex hosts a family-friendly Dussehra Mela featuring amusement rides, food stalls, and cultural performances. The highlight of the event is the Ravan Dahan, which is conducted with safety measures in place for families.

Previous Year’s Highlights:
In 2024, the mela featured a variety of activities for children and adults alike, including magic shows, puppet performances, and traditional dance performances. The evening concluded with the Ravan Dahan, followed by a spectacular fireworks display.

5. Borivali National Park: Eco-Friendly Celebrations

Location:
Borivali National Park, Borivali East, Mumbai

Special Attraction in 2025:
Borivali National Park offers an eco-friendly Dussehra celebration, focusing on environmental awareness and sustainability. The event includes nature walks, tree plantation drives, and a symbolic Ravan Dahan using eco-friendly materials.

Previous Year’s Highlights:
The 2024 celebration at Borivali National Park emphasized the importance of preserving nature, with participants engaging in various eco-friendly activities. The symbolic Ravan Dahan was conducted using biodegradable materials, promoting environmental consciousness.

6. Versova Beach: Coastal Celebrations with a Twist

Location:
Versova Beach, Andheri West, Mumbai

Special Attraction in 2025:
Versova Beach hosts a unique Dussehra celebration, combining traditional rituals with modern entertainment. The event features live music performances, beachside food stalls, and a Ravan Dahan conducted with a coastal theme.

Previous Year’s Highlights:
The 2024 celebration at Versova Beach was marked by a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements, with attendees enjoying live music performances and beachside activities. The Ravan Dahan was conducted with a coastal theme, incorporating elements of marine life.

Travel and Route Planning for Dussehra Melas in Mumbai

To make the most of your Dussehra celebrations in Mumbai, it’s essential to plan your travel and routes in advance. Here’s a suggested plan:

Morning:

  • 8:00 AM: Depart for Shivaji Park, Dadar to attend the Shiv Sena (UBT) rally.
  • 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Participate in the rally at Shivaji Park.

Afternoon:

  • 12:30 PM: Head to Azad Maidan, Fort to attend the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) rally.
  • 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Attend the rally at Azad Maidan.

Evening:

  • 5:00 PM: Proceed to Girgaon Chowpatty for the traditional Ravan Dahan.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy cultural performances and the Ravan Dahan at Girgaon Chowpatty.

Night:

  • 9:00 PM: Visit Andheri Sports Complex for the family-friendly Dussehra Mela.
  • 11:00 PM: Conclude the evening with the Ravan Dahan and fireworks display at Andheri Sports Complex.

Note: Ensure to check for any road closures or traffic diversions on the day of the event to avoid delays.

Table: Dussehra Melas in Mumbai 2025

VenueSpecial AttractionTimingPrevious Year’s Highlights
Shivaji Park, DadarPolitical rally by Shiv Sena (UBT)10:00 AM – 12:00 PMMassive turnout, speeches by leaders
Azad Maidan, FortPolitical rally by Shiv Sena (Shinde faction)2:00 PM – 4:00 PMStrong presence of party workers
Girgaon ChowpattyTraditional Ravan Dahan and cultural performances5:00 PM – 7:00 PM100+ feet effigy, cultural performances
Andheri Sports ComplexFamily-friendly mela with Ravan Dahan9:00 PM – 11:00 PMAmusement rides, magic shows, fireworks
Borivali National ParkEco-friendly celebrationsAll dayNature walks, tree plantation, biodegradable Ravan Dahan
Versova BeachCoastal-themed Ravan Dahan and live musicAll dayBeachside activities, marine-themed Ravan Dahan

Conclusion

Mumbai’s Dussehra celebrations in 2025 offer a blend of traditional rituals, cultural performances, and modern entertainment. Whether you’re interested in political rallies, family-friendly melas, or eco-friendly celebrations, there’s something for everyone. Plan your visit to these vibrant melas and immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Dussehra.

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is based on available sources and may be subject to change. Event timings and attractions are tentative and should be confirmed with the respective organizers before planning your visit.