Shivaji Park in Mumbai was built and established in the year 1925 by the Bombay Municipal Corporation and remains the largest park in City. 1925 was also a time when the British had a stronghold in the port of Mumbai, which makes this park an establishment of great historical significance as well. In fact, it served as a centre for a large number of social as well as political gatherings which took place in the park, both in the pre-Independence and post-independence era.
Later named after Chhatrapati Shivaji, the park was originally called the Mahim Park and during the British rule, it served as a hub for freedom fighters to gather and hold meetings. In the 1960s, Shivaji Park in Mumbai became the locus for the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement which ultimately led to the formation of the current state of Maharashtra as we know it today.
Apart from its great historical and social value, Shivaji Park Mumbai is also well known for hosting a residency of 8 renowned and prestigious cricket clubs from which several national cricketers and stalwarts of the sport have emerged. Celebrities like, Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, Ramakant Desai and others have trained and practised in this park, and are now considered legends of the sport.
Today, Shivaji Park is an open park for all who wish to spend time in the park and bask in its nostalgic history. It is now equipped with a modern gym alongside a Ganesh temple and a well-equipped children’s park. The Shivaji Park Mumbai remains a relevant and well-loved member of the past and future of Mumbai, with political rallies and speeches being held there even today.
