Mahalaxmi Temple: A Divine Haven in the Heart of Mumbai

Mahalaxmi Temple, nestled on Bhulabhai Desai Road in the Mahalaxmi area, stands as one of Mumbai's revered landmarks. Erected in 1831 by Hindu merchant Dhakji Dadaji, this sacred space pays homage to Mahalakshmi, the central deity of Devi Mahatmyam. The temple's spiritual aura is accentuated by intricate images of the Tridevi goddesses – Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati.

During the 1784-85 period, Mahalaxmi resided with her sisters, Mahakali and Mahasaraswati. The creation of the Mumbai and Worli bunds by British Governor John Hornby marked a significant chapter. The legendary tale of Ramji Shivaji's dream, leading to the discovery of the goddess statues in the sea, adds a mystical touch to Mahalaxmi Temple's origins.

In this dream, Mahalaxmi revealed that she and her sisters were situated at the bottom of the sea. She instructed Ramji to retrieve them, promising that upon their recovery, the construction of the dam would be completed. Taking this divine vision seriously, Ramji Shivaji approached British Governor John Hornby with the details of his dream. Hornby, driven by the determination to complete the dam despite challenges, allowed Ramji to search for the goddess statues in the sea. In a remarkable turn of events, with the help of local fishermen and smaller boats, Ramji Shivaji successfully located three grand idols of Mahalakshmi, Mahasaraswati, and Mahakali in the sea. This extraordinary discovery not only fulfilled Ramji's vision but also paved the way for the completion of the dam and the subsequent construction of the Mahalaxmi Temple.

Front View of Mahalaxmi Temple, Mumbai

Mumbai's Mahalaxmi Temple Street View

The temple's surroundings host prominent personalities, including the renowned Pandit Hridaynath in 'Prabhukunj' on Peddar Road and actress Jayshree Gadkar in the 'Shiv Tirtha' building. Mahalaxmi's benevolence extends to the neighboring areas of Breach Candy, Carmichael Road, and Peddar Road, influencing the lives of the business elite.

As the Mahalaxmi Temple was bustling with visitors, and we were scheduled to visit our next destinations, Shree Siddhivinayak Temple and the Nehru Science Center – both of which typically require a couple of hours to explore – time became a crucial factor. It was 1:30 PM when we were at Mahalaxmi Temple, and considering that the Nehru Science Center closes by 5:30 PM, we found ourselves in a rush. Consequently, we decided to forgo the darshan at Mahalaxmi Temple and opted to reserve it for our next visit to Mumbai, along with a visit to the Haji Ali Dargah.

Charms of Mumbai's Hanging Gardens

The Hanging Gardens, also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, are perched on the western side of Malabar Hill and provide a tranquil escape in the midst of Mumbai. These terraced gardens, located opposite to Kamala Nehru Park, not only offer stunning sunset views of the Arabian Sea, but they also have artistically carved hedges depicting various animal shapes. The Hanging Gardens, which were created by Ulhas Ghapokar over Bombay's major reservoir in 1881, have a unique history.

Some speculate that the park was created to protect the water from potential contamination near the Towers of Silence. A beautiful overhead view shows the Hanging Gardens Path carefully spelling the initials PMG (Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens) in cursive.

Entrance of Hanging Garden

Interior of Hanging Garden

That's it from Hanging Garden at Mumbai. We head towards Shree Mahalaxmi temple.

Kamala Nehru Park's Iconic Boot House

Kamala Nehru Park, named after Jawaharlal Nehru's wife, has long held a special place in our hearts, preserving cherished childhood memories.

Inspired by the nursery rhyme 'There was an Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe,' adding a touch of whimsy to the familiar structure. The park also feature nursery rhymes like Ba Ba Black Sheep, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Macchli Jal Ki Rani Hai, and Ye Re Ye Re Pavasa.

As the iconic Boot House subtly evolves, Kamala Nehru Park continues to be a beacon of nostalgia. The park, with its Ashok Stambha, viewing gallery facing Marine Drive, grill fencing near the amphitheater, and fountain, remains a testament to the enduring charm of Mumbai's green spaces.

Kamala Nehru Park Front View

Boot House

Ashok Stambha at Kamala Nehru Park

Viewing Gallery Facing Marine Drive

Lilly Pond

Digital Map of Kamala Nehru Park Featuring Nursery Rhymes - Identified During Our Visit

Our exploration of Kamala Nehru Park in Mumbai concludes as we now make our way to Hanging Gardens, conveniently located just opposite Kamala Nehru Park.

A Glance at Mumbai's Marine Drive

Mumbai's Marine Drive, also known as the Queen's Necklace, is a captivating stretch along Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road. During my visit, we spent an hour strolling the sidewalks, captivated by the scenic blend of city life and the Arabian Sea.

Afternoon view of Marine Drive, Mumbai

Marine Drive, has a fascinating history rooted in a failed reclamation project. Originally envisioned in the 1860s as part of British administration's efforts to extend Mumbai's land, the Backbay Reclamation Scheme of 1919 aimed to create a promenade connecting Nariman Point with Malabar Hill. Private investors, including philanthropists Bhagojisheth Keer and Pallonji Mistry, invested in the ambitious project that was meant to feature posh residential and commercial real estate. However, due to engineering challenges and shortcomings, only 17 acres out of the planned 1500 were reclaimed. The result was the creation of the beautiful Marine Drive promenade, known for its stunning views and Art Deco architecture.

C-shape picture of Marine Drive, Mumbai

Mumbaikars affectionately refer to Marine Drive by three distinctive names: 

1. Queen's Necklace, owing to its shimmering lights resembling a string of pearls 
2. Art Deco architecture, highlighting its iconic design, and 
3. North / Marine Chowpatty, symbolizing the vibrant beachfront. 

That's it from Marine Drive at Mumbai. We head towards Boot House.