In a place where land costs can break records, a 2024 survey by the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) revealed that roughly 20% of Mumbai’s land is controlled by just 9 private entities. Of the 34,000 acres of land deemed livable, nearly 7,000 acres are in the hands of these few. Some of these estates have been passed down for generations, forming a legacy of wealth that shapes Mumbai’s real estate landscape to this day.
1. The Godrej Empire – Over 3,400 Acres
At the top of the list is the Godrej family, a name known as much for its soaps and furniture as for its vast land holdings. With over 3,400 acres in the Vikhroli area, right by the Eastern Express Highway, Godrej Properties sits atop Mumbai’s private landholding hierarchy. Recently, the Godrej family split its corporate empire, with Adi and Nadir Godrej retaining Godrej Industries, while Jamshyd and Smita Godrej inherited Godrej & Boyce and key land assets.
2. FE Dinshaw Trust – 683 Acres in Malad
Coming in second is the FE Dinshaw Trust, which owns 683 acres in and around Malad. The trust was founded by EF Dinshaw, a prominent Parsi lawyer and landlord who passed away in 1936.
3. Pratapsinh Vallabhdas Shoorji Family – 647 Acres in Bhandup
This family ranks third, with 647 acres in Bhandup and nearby areas. Their holdings have reportedly been part of the family inheritance for generations.
4. Jijibhoy Ardeshir Trust – 508 Acres in Chembur
This trust holds a significant 508 acres of land in Chembur, further contributing to the concentrated land ownership in the city.
5. AH Wadia Trust – 361 Acres in Kurla
Next is the AH Wadia Trust, with 361 acres of land spread across Kurla, a neighborhood that has seen increasing development interest.
6. Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Group – 269 Acres and a Legacy Deal
Finally, the Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Group controls 269 acres across Mumbai. Their legacy dates back to 1830, when Sir Byramjee Jeejeebhoy was granted 12,000 acres by the East India Company—a gift that seeded one of Mumbai’s oldest land dynasties.