Anupam Kher Opens Up About Mumbai Struggles and Soul of the City at ‘Solar in Full Bloom’ Inauguration
Veteran actor Anupam Kher turned the spotlight from cinema to civic beauty as he attended the inauguration of a new public art installation titled Solar in Full Bloom in Mumbai. The event, held on June 19, 2026, at Juhu Garden on Juhu Tara Road in Santacruz West, was jointly inaugurated by Kher and Cabinet Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar, with artist Sangeeta Babani presenting a unique blend of art and sustainability.
The installation stands out not just as a visual attraction but as a thoughtful experiment in combining creativity with environmental awareness. Designed to promote the idea of renewable energy, the artwork integrates solar technology into its structure, making it both symbolic and functional. The initiative aims to encourage citizens to reflect on sustainability while experiencing public art in everyday urban spaces.
Speaking at the event, Anupam Kher highlighted how meaningful contributions to a city go beyond aesthetics and touch something deeper. Reflecting on the importance of such installations, he said, “Not just for the eyes, but for the soul as well. You see, we live in an atmosphere where we need to feel good deep down, and what a beautiful installation this is—including the solar aspect.” His words underlined the idea that urban spaces should inspire emotional well-being, not just visual appreciation.
The actor also shared a deeply personal reflection on his long association with Mumbai, recalling the many phases of his journey in the city. He revealed how he has lived across several neighborhoods during his early struggles, including Juhu, Bandra, Kherwadi, Shastri Nagar, and the Juhu-Linking Road extension area. In a striking memory from his difficult days, he said, “I lived in different places during the various phases of my struggle; I even lived at the railway station—I stayed there for 27 days.” The candid admission drew attention to the resilience behind his eventual success.
Beyond nostalgia, Kher emphasized the importance of public spaces that uplift the spirit of citizens. His remarks highlighted how beautification projects can transform everyday environments into places of comfort and reflection. By blending art with solar innovation, the installation serves as a reminder that cities can evolve into more thoughtful and emotionally engaging spaces.
The presence of Ashish Shelar and Sangeeta Babani added further significance to the event, which brought together art, governance, and civic imagination. The initiative was widely appreciated as a step toward making Mumbai not just visually appealing but also environmentally conscious and emotionally enriching.
With Solar in Full Bloom, Mumbai adds yet another creative landmark to its landscape—one that carries both a message of sustainability and a reminder of the human stories that shape the city. For Anupam Kher, it was not just an inauguration, but a moment of reflection on how far he and the city have come together.