Ranwar Village: A Glimpse Into Mumbai’s Heritage
Located in the heart of Bandra, Mumbai, Ranwar village stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and heritage. In a rapidly developing urban landscape dominated by highrises and modern structures, Ranwar has managed to preserve its 300-year-old legacy. The village, primarily inhabited by the East Indian community, exudes a charm of old-world bungalows, narrow streets, and crosses adorning homes. As one strolls through the quaint lanes of Ranwar, the ambiance transports them to a simpler time, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Preservation Efforts and Facelift Plans
While Bandra has evolved into a bustling hub for Bollywood celebrities and street shoppers, Ranwar has held on to its traditional architecture and lifestyle. However, this coexistence has led to challenges such as traffic congestion and overcrowding in the area. To address these issues and revitalize the village while maintaining its historical significance, plans are underway for a facelift.
Johan Dharmai, a member of the East Indian community and BJP secretary, expressed the locals’ desire to preserve Ranwar’s heritage. One of the proposed steps in the facelift plan includes closing vehicle movement within the village and constructing a pedestrian walkway for visitors to explore and appreciate the architectural marvels of Ranwar. This initiative aims to enhance the village’s charm while ensuring the safety and convenience of residents and tourists alike.
Collaborative Efforts for Restoration
Architect Samir D’Monte has been actively involved in collaborating with the Ranwar Veronica Street Residents’ Association since 2009 to address the various challenges faced by the village. Through a comprehensive approach, improvements have been made to open spaces, roads, sewage and drainage systems, street signage, lighting, and traffic management. Additionally, individual houses have undergone restoration efforts, and a modern fire safety system has been implemented to enhance the overall infrastructure of the village.
Mumbai BJP president and Bandra West MLA Ashish Shelar has been instrumental in spearheading the efforts to preserve and showcase the heritage of Bandra’s ‘gaothans.’ With plans to allocate funds for the development of Ranwar village through the District Planning Development Committee, Shelar aims to enhance the infrastructure by improving roads, installing CCTV cameras, enhancing street lighting, and implementing a comprehensive parking and traffic management plan in collaboration with local residents and architects.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Kaevan Umrigar of Khaki Tours sheds light on the historical significance of ‘gaothans’ in Mumbai, emphasizing their role as urban villages that house the city’s original inhabitants. With only a handful of ‘gaothans’ remaining in the city, the preservation of heritage faces challenges due to land scarcity and conflicting interests between development and conservation. Umrigar underscores the importance of making heritage sites attractive for tourism to ensure their sustainability and relevance in a rapidly evolving urban landscape.
As Ranwar village embarks on a journey towards revitalization and restoration, the collaboration between local communities, government authorities, and heritage conservationists plays a crucial role in preserving Mumbai’s cultural heritage. By striking a balance between development and conservation, Ranwar aims to showcase its unique charm and historical significance while adapting to the evolving needs of its residents and visitors.
