The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has floated a tender for a ₹189 crore multipurpose community centre in Juhu, behind Mithibai College. This new public space, seated in a 7-storey building, will feature a theatre, gymkhana, and extensive parking facilities as well as function as a civic centre.
However, the announcement has ignited a debate on cultural representation. Mumbai’s original inhabitants, the East Indian and Koli communities, are seeking equal recognition and land for their cultural centre.
Features of the community centre
Originally, BMC had planned an underground parking facility at Juhu’s Pushpa Narsee Park but public opposition led to its scrapping. As a result, a new plot was proposed in the area, and the parking project was expanded into a multipurpose community centre initiative.
All facilities will be built per international standards and made available to citizens at BMC rates, making it an inclusive space for Mumbai’s residents. Highlights include:
-
250-car parking lot
-
10,000 sq. ft. banquet hall
-
800-seat auditorium
-
Exhibition Gallery
-
Food Court
-
Gymnasium
East Indian and Koli Communities seek equal rights
The announcement has sparked a debate about cultural representation. The East Indian and Koli communities, Mumbai’s original inhabitants, are calling for equal recognition through land allotment for their own cultural centre.
Godfrey Pimenta of the Watchdog Foundation has written to government officials, highlighting the historical contributions of these communities, especially in the area. He mentioned that the land where Mumbai Airport currently stands was originally owned by the East Indians, the area’s first inhabitants. Simultaneously, Kolis have given up substantial portions of their native lands for the development of the city.
Thus, Pimenta has urged for a dedicated East Indian and Koli Bhavan to preserve their rich heritage and legacy. Advocate Vivian D’Souza echoed these sentiments, emphasising the need for a dedicated space to honour the communities’ cultural legacy, which largely remains underrepresented. The Watchdog Foundation has warned of further actions if their demands are not addressed.
