Mumbai is the city of dreams, and is a place filled with cultures, hopes, and everyone has a unique story to tell. There is a hidden side to the city that is much quieter than the busy streets and the tales told within the buildings. The city's old and modern architecture explains their history, telling the tale of colonial grandeur and art deco. Contrary to popular belief, the infrastructure of this melting pot is not just a mix of bricks and cement, it is an embodiment of history, culture, and most importantly, resilience.
Mumbai's romance with architectural narrative began with the onset of the colonial period. The British left the country after marking its territory on the nation's landscape by erecting some of the most imposing and detailed buildings. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), also popularly known as Victoria Terminus, recently got its name during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the famed king of India. The gigantic structure can be used as a case study for the extensive use of Gothic Revival Style architecture, with soaring glass windows, domed towers, and intricately carved gargoyles adorning its church-like structure.
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Mumbai is home to the world's second largest collection of Art Deco buildings. This style gained immense popularity in the 1930s and 40s as a representation of modernity. While taking a stroll along Oval Maidan one can spot the sleek buildings with geometric designs, rounded balconies, and sunburst motifs.
These structures portray the culture of pre-independent India when the nation was hoping to achieve global superpower status. The vibrant colors and clean lines of the buildings also represent a departure from colonial rule towards a more cosmopolitan society.
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As much as Mumbai is associated with colonial and Art Deco styles, it also possesses charming features in its vernacular architecture. The chawls, which are a form of housing for the working class, are one example of such features. Constructed during the industrial revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries, chawls enabled mill workers and other migrants to economically settle in the city.
There are a lot of people living in chawls as they are suited for community living. They have shared kitchens, corridors, and lively streets. With the passage of time, these places have become well-known symbols of unity in diversity which represents the spirit of Mumbai.
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The last few decades have seen a sharp rise in the number of skyscrapers in Mumbai. Buildings like the Imperial Towers and Antillia, Mukesh Ambani's house, showcase the steadily growing global outlook of the city. These buildings fully utilize modern designs with glass exteriors, eco-friendly construction, and ample luxury space.
On the other hand, the rapid construction of new skyscrapers is creating economical problems for Mumbai. These high-end buildings stand in full contrast to low-income informal settlements such as Dhari, which show the growing economic gap within the city. The contemporary skyline serves as a reminder for both setting targets and making efforts towards affordable city planning.
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In the midst of the Khotachiwadi village, a heritage enclave located in South Mumbai, its beautiful Portuguese style bungalows and serene narrow lanes act as a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai. Other quirky bungalow works like the Banganga Tank and Madh Fort stand as remnants of the old times, before Colonial rule.
These sites may be neglected, but capture the essence of the city in representing that there is more to Mumbai apart from its modernized architecture, it also has an emotional and spiritual side to it.
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As time goes by, the city is continuously developing which leads to the change in the city's primary architectural style. Green Buildings, Sustainable Designs and Urban Redevelopment Projects tell a new and advanced chapter of the city. However, along with this growth it is important to keep in mind the challenge of heritage preservation amidst increasing modernization.
City organizations, such as the Mumbai Heritage Conservation Committee (MHCC), strive to keep the city's rich heritage intact, even amidst development.
Mumbai's architecture is not merely an assortment of structures, but rather a living repository of the city's history. Every piece has a significant story to tell, from the colonial history structure, Art Deco buildings, the local architecture, to contemporary skyscrapers. Understanding this city's code provides a greater sense of belonging and pride towards the capital.
Therefore, listen closely the next time you stroll through the streets of Mumbai. There is a great story to be unveiled in the city's architecture; all you need to do is keep an open heart.