MUMBAI: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’s wife and well-known socio-cultural icon Amruta Fadnavis recently led a ‘Say No to Drugs’ campaign and really by Mumbai’s noted social organisation Ekata Manch.Led by founder – president Ajay Kaul,Ekta Manch, in association with Nashabandi Mandal, Maharashtra State, organized the ‘Drugs Awareness Rally’ to create awareness and drive urgent dialogue around substance abuse. The rally witnessed an overwhelming turnout from common citizens, dignitaries, and Bollywood celebrities, all echoing one powerful message — Say No to Drugs.The rally commenced from Chacha Nehru Park, Model Town, near Versova Metro Station and concluded at Orchid The International School, Yari Road, Andheri West. More than 5000 participants marched holding placards, slogans and playing music, spreading the message of a drug-free neighbourhood.The Drugs Awareness Rally stood out not just for its star-studded presence and political participation, but also for the incredible unity shown by communities and sections of society cutting across caste, creed and gender. From local citizens to political leaders, the streets of Lokhandwala, Versova and Andheri were filled with people marching with one voice: No to drug abuse.Various associations, social organizations, and youth groups actively participated in the rally. Members from the Koli community, transgender groups, students, senior citizens and local housing societies all joined in, creating a vibrant and united front against drug abuse.This diverse representation added power and credibility to the message that drug addiction affects everyone.The rally route also featured striking artistic depictions, including street art, placards, posters and performances that conveyed strong message about the dangers of substance abuse. These visual elements turned the march into a moving exhibition of activism and awareness, drawing attention from bystanders and media alike.Ajay Kaul, the force behind the rally, emphasized the urgent need to combat the rising drug menace, particularly among youth.“The initiative was born out of growing concern over the normalization of substance use, including casual cannabis smoking and party drugs, especially among teenagers and college youth. Many young individuals today see these substances as harmless source of recreation, unaware of the long-term impact on physical health, mental well-being, academic performance,and overall life prospects,” said Kaul.He added that the rally aimed to spotlight how drug use, peer pressure, and accessibility are silently pushing an entire generation into danger. It sought to educate, empower, and encourage open conversations — across homes, campuses, and communities. “This rally is not just a march, it’s a movement,” he declared.From emotional speeches to engaging youth performances with a special song on No Drugs, the event highlighted the collective will to create a healthier, addiction-free society.Amruta Fadnavis, the chief guest, said: “I want to thank Ekata Manch for the incredible work they’ve done to bring this cause to the forefront. Today, we are standing together to fight something that is spreading like a pest — destroying the minds, health, and futures of our youth. From anxiety to isolation, addiction is silently eating into the lives of so many. Reports show crores of people in India are using drugs, and the most vulnerable are those between the ages of 10 to 24 — our school and college students.Calling upon the people to declare a war against drug abuse, she said: ‘We must create a wave — a ‘sailab’ of awareness — across the city to protect our children. Drug nahi, zindagi chuno. Every step we take today can save a life tomorrow.”Yogesh Kadam, minister of state for home, said:”I cancelled two other events today because this cause demands urgent attention. Substance abuse is no longer just a personal problem — it has national and global implications, from narco-terrorism to synthetic drug networks. Mumbai Police has recently cracked down on illegal imports of new synthetic drugs like hydroganja, which may be legal in some foreign countries, but are banned here. The government is taking strict action under MCOCA and other laws, even against officials if found complicit. But unless the public stands with us — unless every household, every neighbourhood is alert and cooperative — our efforts won’t reach full impact. We need zero tolerance from every corner of society.”Sameer Wankhede, IRS officer, known for his anti-narcotics efforts, said: “I thank Mr. Ajay Kaul and Ekata Manch for organizing this timely rally. Areas like Lokhandwala, Versova and Andheri have unfortunately become ground zero for a surge in drug-related activities — from peddlers to seizures of charas and ganja. But this isn’t just a health issue; it’s also a matter of national security. Narco-terrorism is real, and drug-linked crimes are growing. With stricter implementation of laws like MCOCA and increased public vigilance, we can and will bring these numbers down. Awareness drives like today’s play a key role in making that happen.”Ravindra Waikar, Member of Parliament, observed: “Awareness is the first weapon in our fight against drugs. And when I see people from all walks of life come together — leaders, celebrities, social workers, and students — I truly believe change is possible. Campaigns like this help shift the narrative.”Arbaaz Khan, Bollywood actor, said: “We often use our voice in films to entertain, but today, I am proud to lend my voice to something real. Every young person educated today is one life potentially saved. I applaud Ekata Manch’s leadership in driving this mission.”Chunky Pandey, another Bollywood actor, said:“There is a famous dialogue of my movie, I’m just joking – similarly, I would urge the citizens to not joke with their lives. Drug abuse doesn’t just affect users; it shatters families.”“I stand here not as a celebrity, but as a concerned citizen. We all have a role to play, in awareness, prevention and healing,” he added.Meanwhile, well-known social activist Mohammed Patel has appealed for a Padmashree Award to Ajay Kaul for his long, dedicated works in the field of education and social services.
