Who blocked my sea view?

Updated On: 17 June, 2024 06:51 AM IST | Mumbai | Fiona Fernandez

As another mega infrastructure project nears completion, it reignites the much-debated issue of how zero thought is given to aesthetics, in this case by permanently destroying iconic views within our ‘sea-facing’ metropolis

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Mahalaxmi temple’s calming view of the sea has been changed forever with the Coastal Road project. Pic/Rane Ashish

Fiona Fernandez Five years ago, work had led me to a gem by the sea. Ma Hajiani Dargah near Worli Sea Face, was a sanctuary, going well beyond being a religious place of worship; it was a haven for members across faiths, particularly for women. The shrine displayed splendid architectural influences, and that’s how the trustee that runs the dargah wished that it remained. This seafaring family from the city paid homage to a female saint by supporting the restoration of the over centuries-old dargah that skirted the Arabian Sea. Located on a rocky promontory that faces its more popular counterpart, Haji Ali Dargah, on sunset evenings, you would be forgiven for imagining that both these glittering landmarks were engaged in a magical conversation. Spending many peaceful hours with the sound of lashing waves from below for company, remains a precious memory in a chaotic city. As you can see, I have gotten carried away as I reminisce about this oasis of calm.