Bhuleshwar Range

Bhuleshwar (Old spelling Bholeśvar) is a historic neighborhood in South Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. Known for its vibrant markets, temples, and traditional architecture, Bhuleshwar is one of Mumbai’s oldest commercial and residential districts. The area is densely populated and serves as a hub for textile, jewelry, and wholesale businesses.

It is situated in South Mumbai and to the north of the Fort area. It is known for being home to over 100 temples including Mumba Devi Temple of Mumbai, the patron goddess of the city of Mumbai and Swaminarayan Mandir. The area is also known for the Bhuleshwar Market for fruit and vegetable and is surrounded a number of old markets, like the Crawford Market for fruits and vegetables, Mangaldas Market for silk and cloth, Zaveri Bazaar, the famous jewellery and diamond market and Chor Bazaar, a noted market for antiques and furniture.

Geography and Location

Bhuleshwar is located in South Mumbai, bordered by Kalbadevi, Zaveri Bazaar, and Girgaon. It lies in close proximity to key landmarks such as Crawford Market and Marine Drive. The neighborhood is well-connected by road and railway, making it a prime location for commerce and trade.

History

Bhuleshwar has a rich historical legacy dating back to the colonial era. Initially developed as a residential area for traders and merchants, it grew into a bustling commercial center over time. The neighborhood is named after the Bhuleshwar Mahadev Temple, a historic Shiva temple that remains a significant religious site. Over the centuries, Bhuleshwar has evolved into a thriving business hub, particularly for the textile and jewelry industries.

Markets of Bhuleshwar

Bhuleshwar is renowned for its vibrant markets, which attract shoppers from all over Mumbai. The area is home to several specialized bazaars catering to different needs:

* Crawford Market (Nearby): One of Mumbai’s oldest and most famous markets, known for fresh produce, imported goods, and household items.
* Zaveri Bazaar: India’s largest jewelry market, famous for gold, silver, and diamond ornaments.
* Mangaldas Market: A wholesale textile market offering a wide range of fabrics, sarees, and dress materials at competitive prices.
* Mulji Jetha Market: One of the largest textile trading hubs in Mumbai, known for traditional Indian fabrics and garments.
* Flower Market: A bustling early-morning market where fresh flowers are sold in bulk for religious and decorative purposes.
* Chinch Bunder Market: Named after the Marathi word for Tamarind, this market is known for dry fruits, spices, and Ayurvedic products.

These markets contribute to Bhuleshwar’s status as a major commercial center and a key part of Mumbai’s economy.

Culture and Lifestyle

Bhuleshwar is home to a diverse population, primarily consisting of Gujarati, Marwari, and Jain communities. The neighborhood is characterized by its narrow lanes, old residential buildings, and vibrant street life. Several temples, including the Bhuleshwar Mahadev Temple and Mumbadevi Temple, add to the area’s religious significance.

Notable Landmarks

* Bhuleshwar Mahadev Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
* Mumbadevi Temple: A historic temple dedicated to Mumbadevi, the patron goddess of Mumbai.
* Swaminarayan Mandir: A well-known Hindu temple attracting devotees from across the city.
* Zaveri Bazaar: A key jewelry market in India.
* Mangaldas Market: A historic textile trading hub.

Transportation

Bhuleshwar enjoys excellent connectivity with the rest of Mumbai:

* Railways: The nearest railway stations are Charni Road in Girgaon, Marine Lines on marine dr, and Churchgate on the Western Line.
* Roadways: Major roads such as JSS Road and Kalbadevi Road pass through Bhuleshwar, linking it to various parts of the city.
* Public Transport: Mumbai’s BEST buses, taxis provide convenient travel options.

Economy and Commerce

Bhuleshwar plays a crucial role in Mumbai’s economy due to its wholesale markets and retail businesses. The textile and jewelry industries are the backbone of the area, with many traders and manufacturers operating from small-scale units. The neighborhood also has a strong presence of banking and financial institutions supporting business activities.

Challenges and Development

Due to its high population density and narrow lanes, Bhuleshwar faces challenges such as congestion, lack of parking space, and infrastructure strain. Redevelopment projects are underway to modernize residential and commercial spaces while preserving the area’s historic character.

See Also

* Mumbai
* Kalbadevi
* Zaveri Bazaar
* Crawford Market
* Mumbadevi Temple

References

* ''Alice in Bhuleshwar: Navigating a Mumbai Neighbourhood'', by Kaiwan Mehta. Yoda Press, 2009. .

Neighbourhoods in Mumbai
Tourist attractions in Mumbai

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