MUMBAI: The Western Railway headquarters building at Churchgate is completing 125 years of construction in January. To mark this historic occasion, WR has planned a month-long celebration in January 2024 which will include various events such as exhibitions, heritage walks, release of Coffee Table Book, cultural programmes, etc.
WR chief spokesperson Sumit Thakur said the work of construction of the headquarters building at Churchgate was started in 1894 and was completed in January 1899.“And since then, this magnificent building has borne witness to various developments, standing tall to the test of time. It served as the Headquarters of the erstwhile Bombay Baroda & Central India (BB&CI) Railway and thereafter as the HQ of Western Railway, since the formation of WR in 1951 after independence.”
He further informed that the building has been restored with great emphasis to retain its old heritage charm and beauty. The precincts and surroundings have been beautifully enhanced, with landscaping and soothing illumination. “The Heritage Gallery has been also renovated aesthetically which will add nostalgia & transport the viewers to the yesteryears,” he added.
Various events have been planned to make this occasion a grand success. An exhibition will be held at the HQ Lawns from January 7 to 9, highlighting the rich past of this grand building and history of WR. This exhibition will be open for general public wherein they can witness the architectural beauty of this marvelous building and can also purchase souvenirs to cherish this historic occasion, he said. The exhibition will be open from 10 am to 7 pm.
In addition to this, there will be Light & Sound show, Heritage Walks, release of Coffee Table Book and a Mega Cultural Event, which will be by ‘Invite Only’ and attended by well known dignitaries. Other events include Drawing/Painting/Sketch & Quiz Competitions for Railway employees & their relatives. Nukkad Nataks and display of photos by Railfans, etc.
WR chief spokesperson Sumit Thakur said the work of construction of the headquarters building at Churchgate was started in 1894 and was completed in January 1899.“And since then, this magnificent building has borne witness to various developments, standing tall to the test of time. It served as the Headquarters of the erstwhile Bombay Baroda & Central India (BB&CI) Railway and thereafter as the HQ of Western Railway, since the formation of WR in 1951 after independence.”
He further informed that the building has been restored with great emphasis to retain its old heritage charm and beauty. The precincts and surroundings have been beautifully enhanced, with landscaping and soothing illumination. “The Heritage Gallery has been also renovated aesthetically which will add nostalgia & transport the viewers to the yesteryears,” he added.
Various events have been planned to make this occasion a grand success. An exhibition will be held at the HQ Lawns from January 7 to 9, highlighting the rich past of this grand building and history of WR. This exhibition will be open for general public wherein they can witness the architectural beauty of this marvelous building and can also purchase souvenirs to cherish this historic occasion, he said. The exhibition will be open from 10 am to 7 pm.
In addition to this, there will be Light & Sound show, Heritage Walks, release of Coffee Table Book and a Mega Cultural Event, which will be by ‘Invite Only’ and attended by well known dignitaries. Other events include Drawing/Painting/Sketch & Quiz Competitions for Railway employees & their relatives. Nukkad Nataks and display of photos by Railfans, etc.