Pune: NCP Corporator Harshwardhan Mankar Opposes Relocation of ‘Kalakar Katta’ in Kothrud

Kothrud, 17th February 2026: The proposed relocation of the iconic Kalakar Katta at Goodluck Chowk in Kothrud has triggered a fresh political and cultural debate, with Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) corporator Harshwardhan Deepak Mankar demanding an immediate reconsideration of the move. Describing the space as inseparable from Pune’s cultural identity, Mankar cautioned that shifting the platform could disrupt a long-standing hub for artists and art lovers.

Mankar visited Goodluck Chowk to assess ground realities, including traffic flow and spatial constraints, amid claims that congestion in the area has prompted the proposal. During his visit, he interacted with artists who frequent the venue, listened to their concerns, and reiterated strong opposition to relocating the cultural platform.

For years, Kalakar Katta has functioned as an open forum for poets, writers, painters, musicians, theatre practitioners, students, and social activists. According to Mankar, the Katta represents far more than a physical location, embodying Pune’s legacy of free artistic expression and its vibrant, participatory cultural tradition.

The initiative, he noted, was originally conceptualised by a former corporator from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). However, citing traffic congestion at Goodluck Chowk, some BJP corporators have reportedly submitted a written request to the Pune Municipal Corporation Commissioner seeking its relocation.

Responding to the proposal, Mankar stressed that no such decision should be taken without consulting local residents and members of the artistic community. “Kalakar Katta is Pune’s cultural heritage. Any decision of this magnitude must involve stakeholders and the local community,” he said.

He further announced plans to formally write to Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar, Union Minister of State Murlidhar Mohol, and PMC Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram, urging them to review and reconsider the relocation proposal.

The controversy has now opened a wider conversation in the city on how urban traffic management can be balanced with the preservation of cultural spaces, as artists and civic representatives call for solutions that protect Pune’s creative heritage without compromising civic order.