Rajabai clock tower

Nestled between the Supreme Court and is an 85 meter tall tower on the Fort campus of the University of Mumbai. Rajabai clock tower was designed by British architect, Sir George Gilbert Scott, its design is based on the model of Big Ben - clock tower in United Kingdom. It is interesting that due to this fact, the tower is humorously called the Big Ben of Mumbai.

The first foundation stone of the tower was laid on March 1, 1869, and construction of the tower was completed in November 1878. All construction costs were covered by Premchand Roychand - a wealthy broker and also is the founder of the Bombay Stock Exchange. His only condition was that the tower be named after his mother Rajabai. Mrs. Rajabai was blind and was a strict follower of Jainism. According to Jain traditions and customs, she usually eats dinner before sunset. The evening bell of the tower helped her tell the time without anyone's assistance.

The architecture of Rajabai Tower is astounding as it offers viewers a wonderful blend of Venetian and Gothic architectural styles. The main material used in its construction was white Kurla stone, which was very common in Mumbai at that time. The stained glass windows make the Rajabai Clock Tower considered one of the most beautiful pieces of stained glass in Mumbai. The ground floor of the tower has two rooms and a winding staircase. The shape of the tower is square from the ground to the top of the first floor, where a gallery is located. The tower also has 24 small statues, depicting the life of ordinary people during the British rule. The tower clock plays melodies at fixed intervals.

The Tower is still in operation today despite being closed to the public as it became a popular spot for people contemplating suicide.

Opening hours: 09:00 – 22:45