In the bustling neighbourhood of Bandra, where high-rises jostle with colonial-era bungalows and the pulse of the city never quite slows, there stands a beacon of quietude. Perched 262 feet above the sea, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, more commonly known as Mount Mary Church, is more than just a place of worship. It is a historical sentinel, an architectural marvel, and a testament to Mumbai’s layered spiritual fabric.
Overlooking the Arabian Sea, Mount Mary Church offers a panoramic view of Mumbai’s ever-changing skyline, a contrast to the centuries-old traditions it upholds. While today’s visitors—pilgrims and tourists alike—are drawn to its serenity, the church’s origins tell a story of survival, resilience, and devotion that dates back nearly 500 years.
From Humble Beginnings to a Revered Landmark
Mount Mary’s history stretches back to the late 16th century, when Jesuit priests, working under Portuguese patronage, established a modest chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary. By 1640, as the congregation grew, the chapel evolved into a more structured place of worship. But Mumbai’s history, like that of Mount Mary, is one of turbulence.
During the 18th century, Arab pirates from Muscat, who often raided Mumbai’s coastline, attacked the church, damaging its structure and defacing the revered statue of the Virgin Mary. For years, a temporary replacement stood in her place. In 1761, the original statue was restored, though not without a transformation—the severed hand was never fully repaired. Instead, a baby Jesus figurine was added in its place, a poignant reminder that faith, like history, adapts and endures.
A Masterpiece in Stone and Spirit
Mount Mary Church is as much an architectural treasure as it is a spiritual sanctuary. Built in the semi-Gothic style, its pointed arches, intricate stained-glass windows, and wooden trusses create a striking interplay of grandeur and solemnity. The interiors are adorned with fiberglass murals, delicately illustrating the life of Mother Mary.
At the heart of the church stands a seven-step altar, where the venerated statue of Mary and baby Jesus commands silent reverence. Below, a marble plaque depicting The Last Supper anchors the sacred space, drawing parallels between faith and artistry.
But the church is not simply a relic of the past. Every September, during the annual Mount Mary Fair—locally known as the Bandra Fair—thousands gather here, a tradition that has withstood the test of time, mirroring the resilience of both Mumbai and its people.
A Symbol of Faith and Unity
Mumbai is a city of contrasts—of soaring ambition and deep-rooted traditions, of chaos and calm. In this vast metropolis, Mount Mary Church remains an oasis of tranquility. It is a place where Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and people of all faiths light candles, whisper prayers, and find solace in its enduring presence.
Beyond its religious significance, the church has become an emblem of unity and resilience, standing tall against the backdrop of modern Mumbai. In a city that constantly reinvents itself, Mount Mary Church endures—not just in stone, but in spirit.
About SILA
SILA is one of the leading real estate consulting companies in Mumbai with a tech-driven approach, offering facility management services and real estate advisory services. Our expertise as a south Mumbai real estate developer ensures that our projects are maintained to the highest standards, providing residents with an unparalleled living experience. We are committed to delivering excellence, making us one of the top real estate companies in Mumbai.
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FAQs
1. What types of properties do you offer?
We specialize in residential real estate in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and are currently constructing over 750,000 sq. ft. across our projects.
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You can contact us via phone, email, or through the contact form on our website. We are available to assist you with any queries or concerns you may have.
3. Are the properties RERA registered?
Yes, all our projects are registered under the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) to ensure complete transparency and compliance with government regulations.
4.What are the benefits of buying a property from SILA?
We provide high-quality construction, timely delivery, transparent dealings, and excellent after-sales service. Our properties are also located in prime areas with modern amenities.
About Author -
Alysha Vazirally
Alysha is a dynamic and results-driven professional with over 15 years of experience, currently serving as Assistant Vice President, Sales & Marketing at SILA. In this role, she spearheads the sales and marketing team, driving innovative growth strategies in the Real Estate sector. Alysha’s expertise in optimizing price, quality, and delivery, combined with her strategic approach to risk management, ensures that SILA consistently meets and exceeds its sales targets. Her leadership in sales and marketing fosters strong client relationships and propels the company’s market presence, making her an invaluable asset to the real estate industry.
