Pune, 18 September 2025: A controversy has erupted over the parking facility at Pune’s Bal Gandharva Rangmandir after a nearby hotel allegedly took control of the space meant for theatre visitors and cultural event audiences.
The theatre’s parking lot, which once operated free of charge, was recently handed over to a private contractor by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) for paid parking services.
However, citizens have complained that the space is now being used to accommodate cars of a hotel located on Ghole Road. Even when no performances are scheduled, the parking area remains filled with vehicles, leaving little room for visitors during major cultural, social, and political events.
A video circulating on social media shows a hotel employee moving cars inside the lot and rudely claiming that the hotel has “purchased” the parking rights. When questioned by citizens, the staffer reportedly asked them to visit the hotel for any documents to prove ownership. Some theatre-goers have also alleged that during shows, their vehicles were asked to be moved to make space for hotel customers.
PMC Deputy Commissioner of Cultural Affairs Sunil Ballal confirmed the issue, stating that the contractor has been served a notice. “If the contractor’s explanation is not satisfactory, the contract will be cancelled,” he said.
This incident has sparked criticism from citizens, who insist that the Bal Gandharva Rangmandir parking should remain strictly for theatre patrons and performers, not private businesses.