After months of meticulous research, The Heritage Project’s research grant culminated in an enriching showcase on 13th November 2024. The grant brought together 47 students from the top colleges across the city and comprised two distinct programs. The first one, Koliwadas of Mumbai offered a fascinating insight into the lives of the city’s original inhabitants, the Koli community. Similarly, Mapping the Lesser Known, engaged architectural students in analysing culturally significant precincts. Together, they documented the city’s rich history and diversity.
Findings
The Koliwadas share a strong connection to the sea, rich cultural festivals, and devotion to local deities, weaving a vibrant tapestry of Mumbai’s history and traditions. Students of history visited, researched and documented 18 Koliwadas of Mumbai. This pointed at many similarities like celebrating Narali Purnima, marking the fishing season, and the presence of key temples and deities like Shitladevi, Ekvira Aai, and Jakhmata. It showcased how the people emphasize their ties to fishing and community festivals, preserving their maritime traditions amid the city’s growth. Some Koliwadas stand out: Versova is known for its Hingladevi deity and the Our Lady of Health Church, while Mahim Koliwada holds historical significance with Mahim Fort and Peer Makhdoom Ali Mahimi’s tomb. We eventually aim to make these treasure troves of culture accessible to the public through signages and other interventions.
‘Mapping The Lesser Known’ facilitated research by students from architecture colleges on uncharted areas of significance. Parsi Baugs in Mumbai serve as excellent examples of architecturally significant typologies, offering valuable inspiration for future design projects. A precinct like Ranwar Village which is dominated by Portuguese and Colonial architecture, is a vibrant blend of history and art, featuring graffiti walls, traditional bakeries, and cafes, embodying the vibrant cultural contrasts that define Mumbai. A Grade I Heritage Site like Jogeshwari Caves lies in shambles and along with the once bustling Byculla Market is under threat due to rapid urbanisation. Such sites necessitate interventions, and the research also aimed to provide solutions.
The Showcase
The students from Wilson College, SIES College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, University of Mumbai, Bhavan’s College School of Environment & Architecture, Aditya College of Architecture, IES College of Architecture, Ramniranjan Jhunjhunwala College, Sathaye College Rizvi College of Architecture were invited to RPG House which was also graced by the presence of their faculty members. Their hard work concluded with presentations of their findings through captivating documentaries and in-depth reports.
The vibrant traditions of Mumbai’s Koli communities, their food, music or clothing, and detailed architectural analyses of significant precincts, all reflected the city’s unique blend of history and culture. Each project revealed layers of Mumbai that often go unnoticed in the hustle of daily life. The students brought forth narratives that celebrated the resilience, creativity, and heritage of the city’s communities. Their passion for conservation and storytelling resonated with all who attended, offering a fresh perspective on Mumbai’s cultural landscape.
The Next Generation of Conservationists
The grant not only unearthed Mumbai’s hidden stories but also nurtured a new generation of storytellers and heritage enthusiasts. These young minds demonstrated how research and storytelling can play a pivotal role in preserving cultural narratives and amplifying lesser-heard voices. Their findings will play a major part in identifying areas of intervention as well as bringing meaningful change.
