Celebrating a Century of Mumbai's Art Deco Marvels

Sun Nov 23 2025 10:58:02 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As Mumbai marks 100 years of its Art Deco legacy, we delve into how this architectural style shapes the city's identity and its ongoing fight for preservation amidst rapid urban development.

The Art Deco style, introduced to Mumbai during colonial times, has flourished over the last century, spawning an architectural movement that is as much about local culture as it is about modernity. Despite its significant historical value and aesthetic appeal, many Art Deco buildings are at risk due to contemporary urban development pressures. Mumbai's unique adaptation of Art Deco reflects a blend of local aesthetics with global influence, making it a vital part of the city's architectural heritage.

Celebrating 100 years since the Art Deco movement erupted at a landmark architecture exhibition in Paris, Mumbai showcases a vibrant legacy that blends modernity with local aesthetics. This architectural style, characterized by unique patterns and forms, initially emerged amidst economic transformation and has since become ingrained in the city's cultural fabric.

The glamour of Art Deco becomes evident when strolling the iconic Marine Drive, where Mumbai boasts the largest documented collection of such buildings worldwide. With soaring structures adorned with step towers, sweeping curves, and distinctive nautical designs, these edifices not only represent architectural innovation but also a historical narrative of hope and optimism.

However, this rich heritage faces significant threats as urban development encroaches on historical sites. With authorities prioritizing modern constructions, many architectural gems risk being overshadowed or demolished. Organizations like the Art Deco Mumbai Trust are leading efforts in raising awareness and providing resources for restoration, ensuring that the value of these structures remains recognized by both owners and the broader public.

As part of the centenary celebration, exhibitions highlighting the influence of Art Deco on everything from cinemas to furniture design remind residents of the style's impact. Although Mumbai's Art Deco buildings may often be hidden in plain sight, their legacy continues to shape the city’s identity, inviting both locals and visitors to appreciate this architectural style as a vital part of Mumbai's narrative.