In the olden days, Mumbai was known as Salette Island. In the mid-18th century, Salsette was captured by the Marathas and was later reoccupied by the British. The original seven islands were then merged by land reclamation to from the city of Mumbai. During the late 18th century, the Hornby Vellard Project joined all the seven islands of Mumbai.
Byculla, Once upon a time…
Way back in the 18th century, Byculla was a low-lying area inundated during the high tide through the great breach at Mahalaxmi. Byculla finally became habitable and soon went on to become home to the first residents of Mumbai. Byculla offered unrestricted views of the arabian Sea and Eastern Harbour. The city’s green lung was Jijamata Udyaan, then known as Victoria Gardens. A stroll around this garden was enough to rejuvenate one’s spirit. Byculla then was also home to two important landmarks the Byculla Hotel and Byculla Club both of which hosted many famous dignilaries and local residents.