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- Written by Anchal B Chaudhary
Colaba
Colaba is the southernmost tip of the Mumbai peninsula. The region which is known as Colaba today is actually two islands together, Colaba and Little Colaba (Old Woman’s Island), of the seven islands which were gifted by the Portuguese to the British Prince Charles II in dowry.
The two islands today, are connected by the arterial road called Colaba Causeway and are collectively known as Colaba. The causeway was constructed by British East India Company and Colaba hence was developed as a Cantonment. Later, it became a popular trade centre after the construction of Cotton exchange.
Officially known as Shahid Bhagat Singh Road, Colaba Causeway is a commercial area with walkways lined by a number of shops selling jewellery, clothes and leather goods etc.
Today the area is popularly known as Cultural Square of Mumbai with various art galleries, age-old landmarks and historical monuments all around.
There are a number of eating joints from elite restaurants and cafes to roadside eateries, which spice up the outing.
Little Colaba
Originally called Al Omani’s Island, Little Colaba forms the southernmost tip of Mumbai and today it’s so well merged with Colaba by causeway that many locals don’t even know about little Colaba. This little island was renamed to Old Woman’s Island by the British.
Colaba today
When around one can check out Regal Theatre built during British rule in 1930s. Closeby is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalya, earlier known as Prince of Wales Museum. CSMVS is the main museum in Mumbai. Built in early 20th century to commemorate the visit of the then Prince of Wales, the museum was located in the prime area close to the Gateway of India.
In Little Colaba is an Afghan Church, St John the Evangelist Church, which pays tribute to the British soldiers who died in Sind and Afghanistan campaigns. One can also visit Sassoon Dock known for its fish auctions.
Further ahead on the road from Prince of Wales Museum is Kala ghoda, an area which got its name from the statue, of King Edward VII on a black horse, which once stood here. Though the statue is long gone, the area has retained the name.
Kala Ghoda Festival
Every year in January or February, Mumbai hosts a grand cultural festival called Kala Ghoda festival. Kala Ghoda Festival is held with pomp and gaiety pulling lakhs of visitors from all around.
The festival displays a kaleidoscope of music, dance, drama and literature and organises heritage walks, film screenings and workshops for children as well as adults.
Funds raised from the festival are used for the maintenance of the heritage buildings in the area.
