Revitalizing Heritage: 300-Year-Old Bandra Village Set for Facelift

Mumbai, often defined by its soaring skyscrapers, is set to breathe new life into its historic Bandra village, Ranwar, a 300-year-old community that has managed to retain its cultural essence amidst urban expansion. This East Indian-majority village, with its narrow streets and charming old bungalows, offers a glimpse into a simpler time, complete with jazz music wafting through the air.

While Bandra has evolved into a hub for Bollywood celebrities and vibrant street shopping, residents of Ranwar have preserved their traditional homes. However, this coexistence has not come without challenges, as increased traffic and crowding have become significant issues. To address this, plans are underway to enhance the village while honoring its rich past.

Johan Dharmai, BJP secretary and East Indian community member, emphasized the locals' desire to maintain their heritage. One of the key proposals in the facelift plan includes restricting vehicle access to create walkable pathways, allowing visitors to enjoy the unique architecture and ambiance.

Despite the ongoing redevelopment of many homes in the area, Veronica Street has retained much of its historical charm, featuring a square established in 1866. However, the street often becomes congested with traffic, as it serves as a shortcut to other parts of Bandra. Long-time residents fondly recall encounters with Bollywood legends like Helen and Zeenat Aman, underscoring the area’s nostalgic appeal.

A comprehensive beautification and restoration project is being initiated to enhance safety, manage traffic, and raise awareness about the village’s heritage. Mumbai BJP president and Bandra West MLA Ashish Shelar recently convened with locals to discuss project advancements. He noted, “The beauty of Bandra West lies in its gaothans. We need to protect and showcase this heritage.” Plans are in motion to secure funding from the District Planning Development Committee for necessary infrastructure improvements, including roads, CCTV installations, street lighting, and a parking and traffic management plan developed in collaboration with local residents and architects.

Architect Samir D'Monte, who has been involved with the Ranwar Veronica Street Residents' Association since 2009, highlighted various challenges the area faces. His team has worked on enhancing open spaces, improving drainage systems, and restoring individual houses while implementing a modern fire safety system.

Residents, primarily senior citizens, express a desire for a peaceful living environment, free from the disturbances caused by traffic. Kaevan Umrigar of Khaki Tours, who advocates for Mumbai’s heritage, explained that Bandra once included 23 gaothans, home to diverse communities including fisherfolk and farmers. As urban development encroached, many of these villages have disappeared, leaving only 10 to 15 still standing.

the challenges of preserving heritage amidst modern demands, explaining that strict heritage guidelines can complicate home upgrades and hinder residents' ability to lead contemporary lives. He believes there is significant potential to enhance tourism in these historic areas, making them more attractive while maintaining their cultural integrity.

As efforts to revitalize Ranwar move forward, the involvement of the Mumbai suburban district collector and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation underscores the commitment to balancing heritage preservation with the realities of urban living. However, land scarcity remains a pressing concern, as only about 100 gaothans survive in the city. The ongoing tension between heritage conservation and development poses a continual challenge, highlighting the need for thoughtful solutions that respect both history and modern needs.