Priyadarshini Park

THROUGH THE YEARS

From a lunar pit to a people's park, trace the story of Priyadarshini Park & Sports Complex through over 4 decades.

1970s

Solid foundations
A People's Movement begins

A People's Movement begins

The Government of Maharashtra proposed to reclaim 100 acres of land and convert Malabar Hill into another Nariman Point. This project was opposed by a People's Movement, spearheaded by the Save Mumbai Committee and Save Breach Candy Committee and leaders like Shri Rajani Patel, Shri R K Karnjia, Shri Kishan Mehta, Shri Ajit Kamlani, Dr R H Dastur, Shri Murli Deora, Dr L H Hiranandani and Shri B A Desai. The movement was successful and the reclamation was stopped.

In the meantime, substantial land was reclaimed both at Nepean Sea Road and Bhulabhai Desai Road. At the insistence of the MLA BA Desai and Vinod Chandra Shah, the said land was handed over to BMC. The Government then reserved it from builders. There was also a Government resolution to stop the reclamation and for the reclaimed land to be allotted to the Municipality for a playground, park and sports facilities.

1980s

A place for nature, a centre for sport

1990s

More than a park, a way of life

More than a park, a way of life

In December 1990, the Sports Complex was inaugurated by Chhagan Bhujbal. Over the next few years, the entire infrastructure including a synthetic track, tennis courts, changings rooms, a viewing gallery and more was completed.

The Fitness Centre, Tennis Court, Yoga & Aerobics section – all started out in the year 1994. Over the decade, pre-Olympic tournaments like relays became the norm. Competent coaches lifted the fitness quotient of the park to a never-before level.

Moving beyond sport, Priyadarshini Park grew to become a community and youth centre. Slowly but steadily, it became a place for the people, a way of life. And a kind of philosophy evolved:

“Priyadarshini Park is not a formal garden.
It is a park with a rural ambience.
It blends sports with nature, including sea.
It is an effort to feel calm and feel the presence
of God, through nature.”

2000s

Growing greener, feeling younger

2010s

Striding into the future

Striding into the future

Sea Walk: Our latest, most exciting development is, permission for the development of a Sea Walk from PDP to Amarsons Park in Breach Candy.

Sports Excellence: A Children's Park, a Basketball Court and Futsal are ongoing developments. The park also includes facilities for ages 5 years and above.

As Priyadarshini Park grows from strength to strength, it continues to inspire the support of countless citizens. Powered by the people, the park aims to become more than ever – a place blossoming with culture, creativity and community.