The Role of Mumbai’s Real Estate in Supporting Local Arts and Crafts

Mumbai is considered the financial capital of India, and one of the most populous cities in the world. It is known for its fast-paced lifestyle, vibrant night scene, and beautiful seaside promenade. But Mumbai also has a rich history of arts and crafts, dating back to the colonial era when it was a hub for international trade and commerce.

Today, Mumbai continues to support local arts and crafts through its real estate sector. Many developers and builders have made it a priority to integrate traditional Indian craftsmanship into their properties, providing a platform for local artisans to showcase their work and reach a wider audience.

One such example is the Mahalaxmi Racecourse, an iconic landmark in the city that has been recently transformed into a luxurious residential complex. The developers behind the project, The Royal Western India Turf Club, partnered with local artisans to create bespoke interiors and furnishings that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Mumbai. Visitors to the site can see intricate hand-carved wooden doors, hand-woven rugs, and hand-painted murals that showcase the best of traditional Indian craftsmanship.

Similarly, the Lodha Group, one of Mumbai’s largest residential developers, has made a commitment to promoting local arts and crafts in their projects. Their flagship project, The World One, is a 117-story skyscraper that features a dedicated art gallery showcasing works by local artists and artisans. The group also works with local NGOs to provide skills training and employment opportunities for underprivileged youth, supporting the local community while preserving traditional arts and crafts.

Other developers have taken a more subtle approach, integrating local materials and design elements into their projects to create a sense of place and identity. For example, Hiranandani Developers’ Hiranandani Gardens complex in Powai features landscaped gardens with waterfalls and artificial lakes, inspired by the natural beauty of the region. The use of local stone and terracotta tiles in the buildings’ facades also adds to the overall sense of place, connecting residents to the history and culture of Mumbai.

The role of real estate in supporting local arts and crafts goes beyond aesthetics. It also provides economic opportunities for local artisans and craftsmen, who might otherwise struggle to find a market for their work. By partnering with developers and builders, they gain access to a captive audience of potential buyers and clients, helping to sustain their businesses and preserve traditional craftsmanship for future generations.

In a country where many traditional arts and crafts are under threat from modernization and globalization, Mumbai’s real estate sector has a vital role to play in preserving and promoting these valuable cultural assets. Through partnerships and collaborations with local artisans, developers and builders are helping to create a city that is not only modern and cosmopolitan but also grounded in its rich cultural heritage. By supporting local arts and crafts, Mumbai is enriching the lives of its residents and visitors, and ensuring that these precious traditions endure for years to come.