It was the annual Koli Mahotsav, organized by Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena for the last four years. Bollywood’s dabanng hero Salman Khan was there to inaugurate it as the chief guest. Any other celeb would have come, done the ribbon cutting and made a quick exit. Trust superstar Khan to turn around the event to disclose his emotional connect with Mahim. The event was held in a ground at Mahim causeway. Mahim is one of the seven islands of Mumbai which houses a prominent fishing village.
Salman recalled the fact that his mother Salma Khan used to visit the famous Mahim church for Novena (a special nine day prayer) to ask God for success in his career while his father visited the Bandra Masjid. “I am standing here today in front of all of you because of their love and prayers.”
Salman further emphasized his long, yesteryear connection with Mahim and the Koli community. “The milk in my home during my childhood days used to arrive from Mahim. My nana (maternal grandfather) used to get garma-garam jalebis for us from Mahim daily. My mom-dad’s romance started by sharing the famous falooda kulfi from Mahim.”
The actor added, “I used to indulge in fishing in Mahim area during my childhood and my friend Prakash used to take care of my jet ski boats which used to be parked over here. I have had many a meals over here on many nights. Yahaan ke khaane ka taste mujhe pata hai. My mother cooks the same kind of food and I have found tremendous love in that food.”
When it was Raj Thackeray’s turn to speak he said although Salman was abroad when he made the call to ask him if he would be able to come for this festival, he immediately confirmed his presence. Thackeray added, “Not only did he arrive a day earlier from abroad, he also arrived much before time for this function. So I don’t believe those stories which say that Salman arrives late on a film set.”
The MNS leader further added, “I got to know Salman much later. I have known his father (senior scriptwriter) Salim Khan much before that. Just as you guys are die-hard Salman fans, I am a die-hard fan of his father Salim Khan. Through life’s many ups-and-downs, his father has guided me like a father and teacher on many occasions.”
Film producer Sajid Nadiadwala and glamour photographer Avinash Gowariker also attended the event.
