Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai
The Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai is a vibrant “living heritage” site in Mumbai’s Oval Maidan Heritage Precinct. Spanning an array of public outdoors spaces and government, residential, and educational buildings that have remained in continuous use for over two centuries, the site stands as a testament to the transition in architectural styles, materials, and technologies, while reflecting the city’s rich, migratory culture. Maintaining their vitality as part of Mumbai's bustling urban fabric. The coastline of the city with the unique ‘tetrapods’ at Marine Drive hugs the western edge of the ensemble. Thousands of people – daily commuters, residents, tourists, school children, navigate the area using different modes of transportation – railway, buses, cars and cabs, on foot. With such high pedestrian and vehicular traffic, the overall historic integrity and authenticity of the site is continually under pressure. However, this “living heritage” faces significant pressures from rapid urban growth, high pedestrian and vehicular traffic, and climate change impacts such as flooding, extreme heat, and sea storms. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative approach to conservation that embraces climate-responsive strategies to protect this heritage for future generations.
Meet the Site Custodians
Apoorva Iyengar
