Our final stop in Avid Learning’s Uncovering Urban Legacies – Stories of Bombay’s Precincts took us to the iconic district of Colaba, where the city’s rich history meets its vibrant present. Colaba has constantly evolved, its landscape shaped by waves of settlers—from local fishing communities to colonial administrators, and later, a cosmopolitan mix of residents and businesses.

Once a separate island, Colaba has transformed from a quiet outpost into the heart of Mumbai’s cultural and commercial life. Its streets showcase a stunning blend of architectural styles, each reflecting the city’s dynamic journey.

Our panellists—Arjun Bahl, co-founder, Start India Foundation;  Gauri Devidayal, co-founder, the Food matters group; Shabnam Minawalla, Author; Raëll Padamsee, CEO & MD, ACE Productions & Numero Uno Productions; Vice Admiral (Retd.) IC Rao, founder, Apli Mumbai & member, Mumbai Maritime Museum Society and Architect & Restorer Nikhil Mahashur, founder, Nikhil Mahashur & Associates and Walkitecture—shared their fascinating insights on the precinct, enriching our understanding of Colaba’s unique heritage.