Anuradha Kulkarni, 74, has aided Mumbai Police for over 30 years, managing traffic and fighting crime.
From chasing thieves to guiding ambulances, her service redefines civic duty.
In Mumbai’s chaotic Santacruz and Juhu streets, Anuradha Kulkarni, a 74-year-old volunteer, has been a steadfast presence for over three decades. Known as “Traffic Granny,” she began assisting Mumbai Police after noticing bikers entering wrong lanes near Podar School over 30 years ago. Reporting the issue, she started stopping violators herself, earning an invitation to volunteer as a traffic warden, sparking her lifelong commitment.
Despite a slight back issue, Kulkarni fearlessly manages traffic, helps ambulances navigate, and ensures schoolchildren’s safety, carrying her original whistle as a symbol of duty. In March 2025, she aided Bandra Police in catching a thief by chasing him on her bike, helping recover ₹5,000 stolen from an ATM user. She also clarified a fatal accident two months ago, preventing an innocent truck driver from mob backlash.
Her service, recognized by Anupam Kher in 2014, extends beyond traffic. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she distributed food to patients for the BMC. X posts, like @thecsrjournal’s with 2,000 views, call her “Mumbai’s civilian spine,” with #MumbaiSpirit trending. Locals admire her, with one offering water during her traffic duties.
With 1,400 road accidents in Mumbai in 2024, per police data, Kulkarni’s efforts highlight the value of citizen involvement. At 74, her dedication inspires, proving age is no barrier to civic responsibility.
