A nip in the winter air, twinkling stars overhead, and the sound of carols echoing through narrow gullies, Mumbai’s Christmas spirit came alive on two wheels during a recent Christmas Night Ride through Bandra. The ride, led by creative consultant and digital strategist Vipin Arumugham, brought together 51 cyclists who journeyed from Worli Sea Face into Bandra’s historic heart. As the traffic thinned, the city opened up into quiet lanes adorned with handmade decorations, glowing lamps and traditional Christmas stars, especially around Ranwar Village and Agna Square.
“Our Christmassy night ride was about soaking in the festive spirit while exploring Bandra’s beautifully lit bylanes,” said Vipin. “Agna Square became a favourite stop, buzzing with photo sessions, selfies and warm local interactions. Rum and plum cakes, arranged for the cyclists, vanished quickly amid laughter and group pictures,” he added.
Media consultant Amrit Rajkhowa highlighted why Bandra was the natural choice. “Bandra’s Christian history dates back to the Portuguese arrival in 1534. On Christmas Eve, its lanes tell stories of culture, pride and community,” he said. Cyclists found themselves welcomed by open doors, music-filled streets and residents keen to preserve and share their traditions.
For Edward Pinheiro, a cyclist from Mira Road, the night felt cinematic. As cyclists rolled through the glowing streets, locals didn’t just wave, they broke into carols. “The barrier between cyclists and residents vanished,” he said. “We got off our bikes, sang, danced, and the street turned into one big celebration.” Fitness enthusiast Durgesh Kumar from Marol described the ride beautifully. “It felt like entering a living fairy tale, where every corner sparkled with festive magic. The highlight was the heartwarming welcome in the Bandra village, where residents serenaded us with carols and shared cakes, reminding us that the true spirit of Christmas lies in community and joy.” Retired teacher and passionate cyclist Mangala Pai, enjoyed riding through misty lanes with fellow cyclists dressed in Christmas colours, spreading cheer along the way. “It was amazing! Christmas night ride in Bandra’s bylanes with glimmering soft lights and distant carols; and we cyclists weaving through the misty lanes lined with festive decorations… It was great to ride with so many cyclist friends dressed up in Christmas colours spreading cheer on the way,” she said. Akshay Singh, a senior data engineer from Malad West, summed up the experience best: “Christmas in Mumbai, feels different when pedalled slowly, through glowing gullies, shared songs and moments that turn strangers into family.”
