Shiv Sena Veteran Bharati Pednekar Steps Into BMC Election Fray
Mumbai witnessed a significant political moment last Friday. Bharati Pednekar, a 58-year-old Shiv Sena worker, finally received her chance to contest the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. This opportunity came after thirty-five years of dedicated grassroots service within the party.
A Campaign Through Parel's Mill Heartland
Pednekar, who holds the position of local shakha vibhag sanghatak, walked through the historic mill areas of Parel. She campaigns there as a Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate. Her two sons and several party workers accompanied her during this door-to-door outreach.
"This time, asking for votes for myself feels completely different," Pednekar shared. "I have walked these same lanes with every Shiv Sena candidate since 1992." For her, this election marks a personal milestone after decades of supporting others.
Parallel Lives of Service and Struggle
Her political journey intertwines with a life of personal challenges. Pednekar is a mother of two. She started a tiffin service twenty years ago. This business became necessary after her husband lost his job at Morarjee Mill. A devastating fire had shut down the mill.
That tiffin service did more than provide income. It helped Pednekar expand her local network and deepen her community connections. "I was born here and also married into a family in the same area," she explained. "I know every corner of this locality. I truly believe I deserve this chance to be elected."
Confidence in a Shiv Sena Stronghold
Pednekar expresses strong confidence in her electoral prospects. She points out that the mill belt has remained a loyal Shiv Sena base for many years. Her ward includes the extensive KEM Hospital complex. Improving citizen access to basic services at this civic hospital stands high on her priority list.
"Even today, people struggle to get the services they come here for," Pednekar noted. She aims to make the hospital more user-friendly and efficient for residents.
Support from Family and Party Workers
Campaigning alongside Pednekar, party worker Pramila Adsul voiced strong optimism about their ward's outcome. "People here have seen our party's work," Adsul stated. "We are sure they will ensure our candidate wins." She contrasted Pednekar's long-term presence with other candidates who have recently appeared.
Prathamesh, Pednekar's eldest son, helps manage campaign logistics. He reflected on his mother's long wait for this moment. "My mother has worked for the party with no expectations," he said. "The party's decision to place faith in her this time means everything to our family."
Bharati Pednekar's story highlights the persistence of grassroots political workers in Mumbai. Her campaign in Parel represents both a personal achievement and a test of Shiv Sena's enduring local influence.
