“Will Work to Strengthen Pune’s Cultural Identity” – Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol Assures at Bal Gandharva Event

Pune | June 21, 2025 –
Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation, Murlidhar Mohol, has pledged to take dedicated steps to further reinforce Pune’s identity as the cultural capital of Maharashtra. He made this assurance during an open conversation titled “Murli Anna Beyond Politics” held as part of the 57th Foundation Day of Bal Gandharva Rangmandir, hosted by the Bal Gandharva Parivar Trust.

The interaction was moderated by senior journalist Milind Kulkarni, who explored Minister Mohol’s life beyond politics and his deeper connection with Pune’s cultural roots.

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Pune’s Cultural Infrastructure Needs Urgent Attention

Mohol reflected on Pune’s rapid urban expansion over recent years, stating that the growth in population and city boundaries hasn’t been matched with the creation of new cultural spaces.
“Today, the existing theatres in Pune are falling short to meet growing demand,” he said.

Revisiting his tenure as Pune’s Mayor, Mohol shared that he had proposed an expansion plan for Bal Gandharva Rangmandir, which included building dedicated auditoriums within the premises for children’s theatre, folk arts, and experimental performances. Unfortunately, the project was stalled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, Mohol reaffirmed his commitment to reviving this initiative. “We will work on creating new theatres in suburban areas and expanding existing ones like Bal Gandharva where feasible,” he assured.

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A Journey of Humble Beginnings and Strong Values

In a heartfelt account of his early life, Mohol shared details from his childhood in Mutha village, located in the Mulshi taluka of Pune district. His family later relocated to Pune for his and his siblings’ education.

Before joining politics, Mohol worked in various roles, including delivering sugarcane juice glasses and helping run a small sugarcane press. Despite limited financial resources, his father harbored a dream of seeing his son become a wrestler.

Driven by this aspiration, Mohol was sent to Kolhapur—a city renowned for wrestling—to train while pursuing his college education. He trained at Shahupuri Talim and the Government Wrestling Centre in Kasba Bawda, even participating in national-level wrestling competitions during his college years.

He credits wrestling for instilling in him discipline, sportsmanship, and resilience, qualities that have served him well in his public life.

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“Politics is Unpredictable, But I Will Always Be a Ganeshotsav Volunteer”

Calling politics the most uncertain profession, Mohol said that one can never predict where the journey will lead. But through all roles and responsibilities, “I will always remain a Ganeshotsav volunteer at heart,” he said.
It was from his Ganeshotsav involvement that he transitioned into public life, eventually rising to the post of Union Minister.

“Whether in politics or public service, if one acts with patience, clarity of thought, and a sense of responsibility, success follows sooner or later,” Mohol said.

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Balancing Personal Life with Public Responsibility

Mohol candidly admitted that since assuming ministerial responsibilities, his personal life has undergone a complete transformation. “I hardly find time to spend with my family and friends, and while it is painful at times, it also presents an opportunity to serve on a bigger stage,” he said.

Expressing heartfelt gratitude, he said, “My parents made sacrifices and endured hardships so I could have a better future. Their efforts have made many things in life easier for me.”