Our heritage is what we have inherited from history to value and enjoy in the present and to save and pass on to future generations. All our tangible, intangible, and natural heritage are interconnected that enable us to communicate on a deep level with each other and to express ourselves in a unique way to the outside world. Overlook the length and breadth of India, you are bound to notice that this country is a trove of gigantic forts. Once serving as a line of defense for several countries, the forts of Mumbai are nothing less than an architectural enigma. In all, there are 11 forts in Mumbai, which guarded the various creeks and the ocean routes leading to the megacity. Built on Worli hilltop, overlooking Mahim Bay, is one similar stronghold known as Worli Fort.
History of the Fort
Founded by the Portuguese and built-in 1675 by the British, the Worli Fort was erected to keep a check on enemy ships and pirates. Locally known as the Worli Killa, it is located in the G-South ward and is in the governance of the State Directorate of Archaeology and Galleries, Maharashtra. The fort explores a British-fabricated style of construction with wide sea views from the top of its walls.
Worli Fort has an arched gateway at its entrance and then leads to a tunnel. The tunnel further directs towards the beautiful innards of the fort. It is well designed as the innards of the fort lead to two levels. There is a built-in well, a temple, and plenty of space to soak in the views of the city. The Batteri Tip Jetty near the Fort is used to dock smaller fishing boats and the open areas are used as fish drying grounds. A sense of revelation is created at each level and the focal and extensive corridor adds to the magnificence and significance of the Worli Fort.
The Fort as a center of cultural heritage
Over two thousand years ago, Mumbai was an archipelago of seven islands, inhabited by the Kolis. These tribal fisherfolk still live here in tightly knit communities that the passing centuries have scarcely touched. The best place to see them is in the 600-year-old Worli Fishing Village (Koliwada) which stands on a sliver of land jutting into the sea. These Kolis were the first inhabitants of the seven islands of Mumbai. It is an aboriginal fishing village with narrow lanes and crowded houses. Plunge into one of its winding gullies and you will instantly be assailed by the smell of drying fish, and colorful Koli women, their dark skins offset by chunky tribal jewelry. At the end of the village is the Worli Fort with remnants of an old armory, soldiers’ barracks, and thick ramparts.
Early mornings at the gaothan begin with fishing activities, Cleveland jetty being one of the most active spots at this time. Flower sellers, chaiwallahs, and vegetable vendors also unlock their day’s wares, the streets are bustling with energy, and the periphery becomes a hub for community gatherings and non-fishing activities. All these activities bring character to the Worli village, which further enfolds leading a path to the Worli Fort.
A display of Koli Art, history, literature, urban design and architecture, culinary skills, dance, storytelling, and many other street cultures adorn the pathway to the Fort. Many festivals and jatra are held for the Goddess of the fishing community where every member of the village contributes and participates in the procession. The cultural significance of such activities adds to the historical importance of the Fort where there is a continuous evolution of community living.
The Impact of the structure on the urban fabric of the city
The Worli Fort is an iconic landmark representing the Worli Koliwada’s heritage and relationship with the ocean. Over the years, the city has evolved in its form, texture, and culture with changing levels of tide. The structure showcases in essence, the architecture of the era gone by, that it has experienced and stands proof as a living example of dynamic shifts in architecture. It still stands tall as a preserved monument relaying its past and witnessing the present changes all at the same time.
Once a symbol of strength and power has now transformed into a crucial element of the urban fabric serving a completely different purpose, yet preserving the identity of the past and combining it with the present. The architectural and socio-cultural experience of the structure and its surrounding creates a greater impact on society in understanding the importance of local heritage structures.
Whereas, it also holds a position in forming a cultural language in the city with a portrayal of distinct identities juxtaposed together as a structure.
Enhancing local heritage has the potential to re-energize neglected areas and provide opportunities for local people to re-view, re-engage with and re-interpret their heritage. A greater sense of pride and belonging in the local area can be generated through increased participation. Crucially, maintaining and enhancing our heritage provides a basis for local economic development and innovation in tourism, agriculture, entertainment, education, and business generally.
References:
What is Heritage?. The Heritage Council. [online]. Available at: https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/what-is-heritage [Accessed 19 August 2023].
Worli Fort – DOT-Maharashtra Tourism – Maharashtra Tourism. DOT-Maharashtra Tourism. [online]. Available at: https://www.maharashtratourism.gov.in/-/worli-fort [Accessed 20 August 2023].
Worli Fort (2013). Architecture et Développement. [online]. (Last updated 31 March 2013). Available at: https://www.archidev.org/spip.php?article257&lang=en [Accessed 20 August 2023].
Worli Koliwada 360º(2022). G5A. [online]. (Last updated 09 March 2022). Available at: https://g5afoundation.org/citylab/site-g-south-ward/worli-koliwada-360o/ [Accessed 20 August 2023].
